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stardustizuku · 2 months

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Unfortunately I came across a very strange and misinformed video about Black Butler.

It’s not good. Don’t watch it. Unless you wanna ruin your day, in which case have fun.

Despite it all, I watched it. What left me wondering, however, was how off the mark the person who made the video was on, well, everything.

From their insistence that the Book of Circus Arc theme or point is non existent, to reading Ciel’s character so badly they genuinely thought the Green Witch Arc did nothing for his character development.

While baffled, it also made me think on how someone could read Black Butler so badly.

Sure, you can say that there’s no real way to read or interpret something “in the wrong way” but interpreting The Hunger Games as a pure battle-royale action story would make you believe it’s bad.

“Why are we focusing so much on how the capitol preps them?” Or “Why isn’t Katniss winning everything?” Or “I wanna know more about the rebellion” All questions that miss the actual point of the story - which is criticizing (not solving or ignoring) the way that media distracts us from violence via spectacle.

The same thing applies here. While there is no “right” way to consume media, there’s things that the author makes clear they wanna focus when creating a story. Things that, if you understand, make the story you’re reading actually make sense.

And in Black Butler there’s three things that you have to understand to properly get what Yana is saying.

Sebastian is the protagonist

Ciel and Sebastian’s relationship IS the story.

And that relationship is, fundamentally, a positive one.

A quicker version of it would be:

Black Butler is a love story from the POV of Sebastian, and you have to ship it to get it

- but that’s not entirely true.

You can still look at it as a complex but ultimately positive rship and get in broad strokes of what it’s conveying. It doesn’t have to be romantic. Although, it helps much more than a platonic framing.

(That said, interpreting their rship as father and son, still isn’t the best way to go about it. Mostly because by its very nature of “soul consuming” their relationship is extremely sexually charged. And hey, if you’re into that I don’t judge. However, if you’re desperately trying to interpret their rship as NOT romantic to the point you fall back on heteronormative patriarchal ideals of nuclear familiar as framing device, I don’t think this interpretation bodes with you)

Now, having all that ground work:

Why do I say these are the key components to understand BB?

Okay so, first,

1. Sebastian is the Main Character. The protagonist.

There’s a lot of people who wanna argue against it, claiming he’s either the villain or the antagonist. Both wrong.

He does not function as an antagonist. Even if, and an emphasis on if, you consider Ciel to the protagonist, Sebastian isn’t a narrative antagonist.

If you wanna go back to Creative Writing 101, be my guest. An antagonist is directly defined by the protagonist. It’s the opposing force. If the protagonist wants A, the antagonist wants to stop them from getting A.

Sebastian’s catchphrase is “Yes, my Lord”. He never opposes Ciel, in fact quite the contrary. By the mere fact they’ve created contract, it means that they’ve both agreed in the inevitable outcome.

People want to frame Sebastian as the villain, because Ciel having his soul taken by a demon, would be a BAD END in the context of their moral compass. They see Ciel as a frail victim of abuse, who’s being tricked by Sebastian, who wants Ciel’s soul.

Which is an. Interpretation. A bad one. But still one.

The narrative (and whether the narrative fits your personal moral compass and lack of critical thinking is irrelevant) treats Ciel as an agent in his own destiny. The abuse he suffered was the moment in which he had no control. It’s only after he meets Sebastian that he can rid of both his guilt and his despair, and do what he wants.

In this case though, it’s revenge.

The famous “Asthma” scene shows this. If Ciel is taken back to his past, he becomes helpless. Swarmed with pain and memories that make it so that he can’t even react. Sebastian is his saving grace. If Ciel didn’t have him, and the power he wields to rebuilt what’s broken, he would crumble once more.

If Ciel has a panic attack, because of all the pain he has, Sebastian picks him up and says “you are not a helpless child anymore, you are not a victim anymore, you have the power to do anything. So, what do you wanna do?”

Ciel’s answer is to kill them.

A proper analogy would be to say that, if Sebastian offers a gun, Ciel pulls the trigger. They are both at fault. Sebastian, strictly speaking, is not here to directly cause Ciel’s downfall, but as a tool Ciel uses to plunge into the abyss.

If, again if, you were to frame Ciel as a protagonist, Sebastian falls closer to the “Voice of reason” character. Not a literal voice of reason, but a literary one. If you have a protagonist and an antagonist exchanging ideals, the Voice of Reason serves to engage with the protagonist on their own ideals.

That said, Ciel isn’t the protagonist. The story quickly falls apart if you interpret it as such.

Things such as Ciel’s character arc being…shall I say odd?

It’s not that his character arc isn’t there, but it’s never lineal. His goals stay the same, the only thing that happens is that we start to peel back the “why”s of his goals. Throughout the series it’s never about Ciel understanding himself better, he knows who he is, he knows what he wants, he knows why he wants it. He doesn’t ever need to uncover these, but simply remember them. Because it’s always about the audience understanding Ciel.

He knows he wants revenge.

In the Circus Arc: He knows that he needs Sebastian because without him, the pain of the abuse he suffered would be too much to bear. But WE are introduced to it.

In the Book of Atlantis: He knows that with this new lease he does not want happiness and peace, he wants revenge. The one being told this is the audience.

In Green Witch Arc: He knows that their revenge isn’t for his family, the real Ciel or guilt. It’s because he wants it. He’s angry, he’s upset, and this is entirely for him. The one being told this is the audience.

Except. Not really. The one either discovering or remembering these key moments - is always Sebastian.

Sebastian is the one who reassures him that he now holds the power of a demon to override the pain. Sebastian is the one who remembers that to override that pain, Ciel wants revenge. And Sebastian is the one who discovers that that revenge isn’t built out of grief or guilt, but for himself.

We are witnessing it all, through the eyes of Sebastian.

This is why we have an extremely vague idea of who Ciel is, Sebastian does not have the whole picture.

If you haven’t been reading this manga with your eyes closed, you’ll realize we have a better grasp at Sebastian’s character than that of Ciel. We get a lot of insight on how he thinks and what he values through light hearted dialogue he has with the servants. You even see the character development in these little interactions.

Think about how when he first arrived to the mansion he magically created food with no regards to taste, but when he meets Bard he states that food is created to see whoever will eat it, smile.

That is character development, more than you will be able to see from Ciel.

Because Ciel’s character, while not static, doesn’t go from point A to point B. Mostly, cause it doesn’t need to. He went through that when he lost the real Ciel and got Sebastian. Everything we are watching is the falling out.

Now, given the fact that I’ve told you that it makes more sense for Sebastian to be the protagonist/main character, and that he 100% isn’t either a villain or antagonist in ANY of the interpretations you can get:

Do you believe me?

If you don’t, you’ll probably believe Yana herself.

This is from the first Volume, where Yana herself describes the process of making Black Butler. The primary idea behind the creation of BB was a butler as a “hero”.

If you go back to the introductory chapter, you notice that Ciel is barely mentioned. He’s simply the one to give Sebastian impossible tasks and standards that Sebastian must find how to overcome.

Ciel is properly introduced until the NEXT chapter. The second chapter has this formula too, introducing Lizzie as a problem to overcome. Although, to Sebastian the best way to “get rid of the problem” is simply to indulge her.

The issue here being that the problem isn’t as simple as a business meeting but something directly tied to Ciel and Ciel’s past. Each time that Sebastian has to solve a problem, it chips away at Ciel. While with Lizzie he shows a persona, once he’s alone with Sebastian he acknowledges the toll it took on him. It serves to build Ciel as Sebastian’s master, and how some problems aren’t as simple as discarding a tablecloth.

The third and the fourth, are a unified narrative, with a similar premise to the first chapter. Ciel gets kidnapped and Sebastian must find a way to retrieve him without raising suspicions.

If the first chapter is to set up what Sebastian must do as a butler, the third and the fourth serve to set up what he must do as a demon.

The entirety of the volume, and up to Book of Circus Arc, is about how Sebastian tries to follow the increasingly absurd orders that Ciel has - it is not about Ciel trying to solve them.

That’s how they work, we follow Sebastian for the most part, because he’s the one having to come up with the solutions.

If anything, in early Kuro, where the emphasis was more on a slice of life conflict, Ciel is the antagonist. He’s the one creating problems for Sebastian to solve.

What’s more, in the second volume, the very first chapter is one from Sebastian’s POV. So far, we hadn’t gotten an entire chapter from Ciel’s POV. In fact, I would find it hard to point to a single chapter where Ciel is the POV throughout. The reveal of real Ciel and the flashback is the closest contender.

But once we move past early Kuro, and into Book of Circus, this set up changes.

It’s fairly easy to assume that Ciel is the main character, because from this point on the conflict of the plot sorta surrounded him. We spend a lot of time with him and with his story. The enemies start being people directly tied to Ciel and Ciel’s trauma. Rarely, if at all, we get to see Sebastian before he met Ciel.The framing device for the story, is Ciel.

This is where point 2 gets intertwined.

2.- Sebastian and Ciel’s relationship IS the story.

The story begins at the point where Sebastian and Ciel met. Who Ciel was before he met Sebastian, informs why he’s the way he is when he does. You have to know all he went through to understand why he’s a brat, why he lashes out. However Sebastian’s past doesn’t matter…because Sebastian himself doesn’t care much for who he was, before he was “Sebastian”. That’s also part of the narrative.

Unlike Ciel, he doesn’t seem opposed to revealing information from before the contract. He talks about how pets from where he is from are gross, he talks about how he knows how to dance because of other places he’s been to, and alludes to the life he's lived before.

Just that, to him, they're footnotes.

He makes allusions to a very bland, uninteresting life, up to the point he meets Ciel.

That’s why we don’t know more about his past.

As for why we focus on Ciel’s story…okay maybe we need Creative Writing lessons 102

I studied Dramaturgy for about 3 to 4 years. And something you notice is how play-writing is the quintessential story telling. It’s making it work with the bare bones of a story.

Some other mediums have more finesse, more depth, or more spectacle - all amazing things that work for whatever they’re created for. But understanding a play, how and why it works, helps understand the fundamentals of any derivative story telling medium.

Particularly, conflict.

Conflict is dialogue and dialogue can take many forms. A story, in its essence, is a dialogue between two opposing ideas.

Take Batman, for example, who embodies the ideas of justice and order. On his own, he’s not a well rounded character.

If you ONLY present him, in a vaccum with nothing else, you don’t have a character. You have a list of characteristics that you’re supposed to know.

You only know who he is when you have dialogue with another character.

I say Dialogue, but it doesn’t necessarily mean spoken language at one another. Dialogue can mean fist fighting, playing tabletop games, talking to other people about the other, or even just a competition. The idea is to simply to compare and contrast both ideas.

If you want an example on how tabletop games serve as dialogue, watch the video “Well, Someone Had to Explain the Liar’s Dice Scene” by Lord Ravecraft

Another example, were we to retake Batman, you have him fight Joker. Who’s the embodiment of chaos and randomness.

In the following picture, you get far more information than the one previously shown. While the Joke fights with daggers and fake guns, Batman only uses his fists. He doesn’t use the tricks that Joker does. His serious demeanor, contrasted with Joker’s glee at the dangerous situation. The fact that Batman has a deathly grip on Joker’s shirt, while the Joker doesn’t, which shows a desperation to catch him.

You are being shown, through a dialogue, who Batman is.

It’s so much easier and much more effective to explore a character through another character.

This is the reason why Shonen has a tendency to make incredibly good gay ships. If you want to explore Naruto’s personality, and his feelings of inferiority, you HAVE to have him interact with Sasuke.

If you wanna understand Hinata’s passion for volleyball, you have him enjoy himself the most with the only other crazy motherfucker who’s as obsessed with volleyball - Kageyama.

And I think that originally, Yana had this problem.

Sebastian was the protagonist, but she had little room to develop him as a character in the confines of the manor, dealing with random enemies.

She likely tried to create Grell as someone of the same stature as Sebastian. Someone who could be this other person to engage dialogue with and show or allude to his past a bit more.

The problem being that Sebastian didn’t care for his past. Or really, engaging with anyone. He sees everyone as below him, but when confronted with Grell who isn’t below him, he doesn’t wanna talk to her.

So you’re stuck in conundrum.

How do you have dialogue with a character, that as a character trait, doesn’t really wanna have dialogue?

Well, Grell also solves the problem. Because only the moment she gets him to start any semblance of a dialogue - is questioning why he’s serving Ciel.

And this is the moment when it’s perfectly cemented that the focus of the story is their relationship.

Why is Sebastian here? Why does he stay? What did he see in Ciel that made him want this extremely convoluted contract?

THATS the dialogue.

THATS the conversation we’re having in Black Butler.

We need to know Ciel because understanding who he is, let’s us know WHY /Sebastian/ is here.

Then slowly, with the introduction with the Undertaker, we find out Sebastian’s conflict.

Which is…

He’s scared of losing Ciel. It becomes apparent with the constant imagery of the Undertaker taking away Ciel and at some point even obtaining r!Ciel’s body, that he’s worried it might happen.

But he can only be worried that Ciel might be taken away if he wants to stay near Ciel.

And that’s his character arc.

Realizing that he actually likes Ciel, cares for him and the role he plays a butler that he doesn’t want this to end.

In the first chapters, he doesn’t feel a need to protect Ciel anymore than what’s strictly necessary. Just don’t die, that’s about as deep as his involvement in chapter 4 gets.

But by the Green Witch Arc, he feels a need to protect Ciel from ANY harm.

This is why I also said

3.- Their relationship is fundamentally a positive one.

In broad strokes, Sebastian to Ciel is the person who allows him to survive. He’s not worried about giving up his soul since he’s already dead. While Ciel to Sebastian, is someone who’s making him have fun. He’s slowly becoming more and more attached to Ciel and the life he has with Ciel.

Their relationship is not that of just a predator and prey, but also of master and pet.

In the terms that Black Butler itself would call: Sebastian is a wild wolf acting like a collared dog.

Ciel is aware that the wild beast will eat him at the end of the day, but if he clings hard to leash for now, he might just be able to have Sebastian maul his abusers.

Sebastian as a dog, currently finds that he enjoys being a chained dog.

(This is demonstrated in the Green Witch arc where he quite literally says, he doesn’t wanna be a wild beast and prefers to be a butler)

And much like the actual DOG Sebastian, Ciel constantly interprets his attempts to get close and protect him, as an act of aggression.

This push and pull of Ciel’s perception of Sebastian and Sebastian’s true motives is what feeds the story.

And the briefs interludes were that isn’t the case (what other people call the “plot”, but I would refer to as the connective tissue) such as Sullivan and Wolfram, the other servant’s past, the grim reapers and the like, serve as a parallel to Ciel and Sebastian relationship. Either to signify how they care for each other, highlight their weaknesses or fears, or explore how they feel.

It’s no surprise that Sullivan and Wolfram are parallels to Ciel and Sebastian. A sheltered sickly child who seeks the protection of a cold hearted machine that only knew how to kill, but who eventually found he cared for her genuinely.

Undertaker and Claudia’s relationship being heavily paralleled with them, even though we aren’t 109% sure what they had but heavily implied it was a romantic attraction from the undead supernatural creature and a Phantomhive.

Everything is a parallel.

That’s why, like the approach of the terrible original video, is flawed.

Trying to interpret Black Butler as action scene after action scene, with mystery after mystery with the only connective tissue being the mystery of who burned down the mansion - is missing the trees for the forest.

That’s not the point.

And if you’re too much of a prude to engage with gothic horror in its gothic horror game, I see little point as to why you even bother to engage with it at all.

A lot of people, including the person who create the video, simply refuse to acknowledge Black Butler IS the story of Sebastian and Ciel as a close and positive relationship, romantically and sexually charged. The reason for it being that they’re “put off” by it.

Part of me wonders how much that is genuinely true, and how much is just performative outrage. It’s like ignoring the fact that Cersei and Jami are in an incestous relationship and try to frame it as “platonic love”, because the idea of it is THAT off putting.

But regardless of that, if you don’t like the fact that it’s as canon as canon can get, I would reccomend you don’t engage with the story at all.

As I’ve explained, the entirety of the series is about them. If you refuse to see Sebastian and Ciel as, at the very least, a duo that cares deeply for the other - you aren’t reading Black Butler.

I have no idea what you’re reading.Perhaps your own biases and subconscious stigma with British aesthetic. At that point, watch the fucking British Royalty Gossip Magazine. You’d find more substance there.

Just don’t be like the person in the video, please? Don’t play dumb. Don’t ignore the fact that Yana is a Shotacon, don’t ignore the fact Sebastian is a hero, don’t ignore the fact that the entirety of the story is based on Sebastian and Ciel’s dynamic.

Because if you do, you are ashamed. You are ashamed of what this story is about. You don’t wanna engage with the text, you want to engage with yourself. You wanna project into Ciel whatever traumas and experiences you have, for the sake a vanity project, where you come out as the morally superior.

You don’t wanna talk about Black Butler, you wanna talk about how good YOU are. How you “don’t sin” by watching it “without all the gross unholy stuff”.

Which is the exact opposite of what BB is about.

So, if you don’t want to, save us all the humiliation fetish and leave.

#Kuroshitsuji #black butler #sebaciel #essay #loli speaks

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riririnnnn · 1 month

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I tried choking myself like this and oh boy it was such an awful experience—it felt as if someone had placed a really heavy stone over my head Don't try it, not worth it at all, I promise. 0/10, wouldn't recommend.

To choke yourself to the point where saliva is pooling out of your mouth and for you to cough like an asthmatic person, your airway passage must be blocked which means that this dude was really going at it.

So, let's talk about him:

What Kaiser has for Isagi now isn't rivalry anymore, it has become a near obsession and keeping their ship aside, they actually have a pretty unique kind of relation—they both want to get ahead in the path of their soccer career and un/fortunately, they both just happen to be the best stepping stone for eachother right now.

Since the very first time Kaiser was introduced, he had made it clear that Isagi was some sort of a pawn for him to get ahead in his soccer career and that's what Ness also said here:

And Kaiser's words seemed to match Ness' words too:

And I don't blame Kaiser for choosing Isagi to be his rival.

You see, it's tough to truly understand how much impact Isagi's goal had in the BLLK universe. The investors and club owners were literally putting pressure on Noa to make Isagi play—defeating such a boy and proving that you are better than him is a perfect way for literally anyone to increase their value; it fits even well for Kaiser since they both are in the same age group too.

But, the recent chapters, especially after BM Vs Ubers match ended, confused me more. Royale Madrid/Re Al is said to be the strongest/best soccer club in the whole world in BLLK universe, so it indirectly means that Kaiser's value increased—it actually did increase though, about ¥20 millions and Ness' reaction perfectly sums what I want to say:

Kaiser achieved what he had came for in NEL to achieve.

However, we all know what his reaction was: he didn't care, all he cared was that he was inferior to Isagi.

...why?

Like, it just doesn't make sense. He got what he wanted. Besides, Kaiser has a value of ¥320M meanwhile Isagi is still behind Rin and Rin is himself behind Kaiser by ¥100M+! Further, every team has man-marked Kaiser right away! He is already perceived as some kind of threat by every opponent team, what more he wants? Is it some pride thing of boys that I don't understand?

It just feels.. weird.

If Kaiser were to be a real narcissist, then I don't think that he would've accepted so easily that Noa is better than him and that he can't compete against him.

The above statement sends me back to this again:

Chris words can be considered as something said just to provoke Kaiser which worked a bit too perfectly well. I don't know why, but the above panel seems much more important to the story, especially to his character when we glance at this panel:

Just.. what the heck is this guy's backstory!?

I must say that he is very well written and honestly, when Blue Lock Manga ends, Kaneshiro-san can literally make a spin-off of him and the Fandom will inhale it instantly. I wish Itoshi brothers had one too.

When NEL starts in the anime, I hope an official BLLKTV/BLLKTWT app gets launch. Istg it'll be a massive hit.

#blue lock #bllk #michael kaiser #雪 ranting

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rimouskis · 7 months

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could you explain more about what you view as the before era and what you view as the after? i need to learn my herstory

I think this requires a more detailed and educated/researched answer than I can give after an exhausting workday and an after-hours work event, but I'm going to do my best and also open up the floor in reblogs for people to chip in their thoughts

foremost: a DISCLAIMER that this post does not aim to shit on writers from the "before" era. there are many classic fics that I love and enjoy, even if I consider their characterizations to be "less accurate"* than the ones we have in the after era.

*aside to say: accuracy is based only off of literal media accounts we have of these men; we do not know them, we should not claim to know them, and they have had different comfort levels with the media knowing selective truths about their lives [sid out of choice, geno out of media xenophobia] than they did when these early fics were being written.

"before" fics (which I tend to refer to as "classic" fics, and had their heyday in 2012-2013 but continued up until 2016ish) tended to have more regimented roles for sid and geno. sid was usually the protagonist; geno was the love interest.

this came with a cascading set of characteristics assigned to each guy. sid was poor-little-meow-meow'd. geno was the pursuer in the relationship. sid usually bottomed. sid had the whole spacetoaster moment (he was the inspiration for the term, haha). there wasn't much a/b/o fic but sid was, like, the omega-fied one and geno was alpha-ized.

something I've been thinking about more recently is how 2012-2013 era sidgeno displayed signs of Migratory Slash Fandom. I don't think of MSF as an inherently negative/condemning thing, but I think it's a phenomenon that deserves to be mentioned/analyzed, yeah?

MSF thrives on big character differences.... like, grumpy/sunshine, sarcastic/broody, genius/empath. it's all about emphasizing disparate archetypes to create natural tension in a story. this works really well in most romance novels! I love it!

the issues arise when people try to make characters fit into these preset dynamics. and, frankly, when sidgeno first got big, we straight-up didn't know as much about sid and geno. I mean that. despite sid being EXTENSIVELY covered by media from age, like, 14, he was really tight-lipped compared to what we have now.

and geno was.... there. I don't mean that as a diss—he was INCREDIBLE, but the media totally passed him over again and again. or they helped contribute to stereotypes of him being a dumb oaf who didn't know english.

aside: ironically I think that helped in creating sidgeno and not, like.... sidflower or sidtanger. geno was so "DIFFERENT" from sid (aka: russian, characterized by media as not knowing how to speak [in comparison to sid's highly curated media soundbites]) that it meant he was the best candidate for A Ship with sid.

a lot of the really big writers who got into sidgeno were fandom veterans with lots of experience in other big fandoms. to me, that means MSF had a hand in all this. and we should be grateful, because it led to the BOOM of hockey fic, and of sidgeno fic specifically. modern hrpf wouldn't exist without it.

that being said, those template ship dynamics, plus the media's attitude then towards sid and geno in its coverage, led to those characterizations of whiny soft sensitive boy sid who needed to be rescued even though he was the best hockey player EVER, and geno as the lumbering tall strong alpha not-that-bright Love Interest Man.

this isn't to say every fic was this way, or that this is BAD. I, uh, love poor-little-meow-meow-ing sid and omegafying the hell out of him. what I'm saying is that it was a near-ubiquitous characterization across the board.

that all changed in 2016-2018. I personally wholly credit sevenfists, though I imagine it's more nuanced than that, but: my blog, I make the rules here. I don't know if sevenfists was psychic or just highly observant and absolutely excellent at reading people (and that's basically the same thing, right?), but characterization shifts began taking place in fic....

and the coolest thing happened, in that those characterizations were seemingly reinforced by more media coverage. the back to back cups brought with them TONS of interviews with and media about the team, and sid and geno in particular. the coolest part of it was that sid had loosened up a LOT and geno had gotten more comfortable (and had gotten a reporter firmly on his side).

the interviews about sid post 2016 were just SO different. so much information started coming out, and a LOT of it conflicted with Ye Olde Characterizations. as it turned out, sid was deeply one of the boys. he was funny. everyone liked him. he loved hosting. he was insanely comfortable around almost everyone, including strangers, because he's a little freak who's kind to everyone. he can make smalltalk like no one's business. he's kind of gross. he likes to giggle and be in on jokes and get into the thick of it. he isn't some blushing virgin bride sold off of mario's doorstep, yeah?

and geno, too, was finally getting the coverage he deserved. and his personality was both fortified by age and better shown to us through media. as it turns out, he isn't some happy go lucky oaf. he's mercurial and intensely aware of what others think of him (and he CARES). he's sensitive and thoughtful but also can lash out at random times. he has a wicked sense of humor that he uses as a defense mechanism and as a surefire way to get people to like him, which matters to him. and, as everyone says, he is SMART.

if you had to boil it down, I'd say that post-2016, it became clear that SID is the confident one and GENO is the insecure one. and fic caught onto that with a miraculously fast pace. also: they're more alike than they are different, but I still think romance inherently feeds off of difference and tension, so we still exaggerate things to make the stories ✨WORK✨.

I'm not going to give examples of pre- and post- era fics, because I don't want to point any fingers and say someone was doing characterization "wrong." that's not the takeaway I want anyone to have here.

fandom attitudes have changed. it's been 10 years since that first wave of fics, and while I don't think that's very long, it's a hell of a long time on the internet, and in a niche internet community. what was once the standard for fics (and what was well-read, and what people gravitated towards) was different. not worse—different.

I think it's fair to say the "after" era of fics is more "accurate" to what we know of sid and geno. it's also fair to say that this is only the case because we have a WEALTH of information, character-revealing interviews and videos and anecdotes, that Ye Old Authors could only dream of getting.

I really love the story of how everything has changed, and it's a fabulous microcosm of fandom evolution and how approaches to fanworks have changed and grown with fandom, and I think it's all so so cool.

#additions welcome!#I also feel like I've made this post before lol #gather round children it's time for granny rimouskis to spin the tale of the sidgeno evolution once more

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tpher · 4 months

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scary girl analysis !

something something the most clearly gimmicky gen 4 character we know. as your resident pahkitew island apologist, i dont care. it actually took me a bit to warm up to her and i figured id talk abt why that is

so her main thing is being creepy and sadistic for the sake of jokes. its not serious.. mostly. she does prove to actually be down to hurt others (such as when she got a hold of a jackhammer). but what about an instance where she wanted to hurt someone for actual reasons? when was that?

that was when priya went up to her to compliment her on doing a good job on the previous challenge. priya says that shes surprised by scary girl having done a good job.

scary girls response?

a very defensive "oh, it surprised you that i was good? cuz you thought id do bad?"

and thats the thesis of this post

scary girl is very insecure

backing up for a moment, in ep 2 when the teams were on ships and attacking each other, she was the one who came up with the idea of sinking the other teams ship as an idea on what to do when they were out of ammo (? iirc). but no one else heard that, just zee

then in ep 3, ripper makes her go last in the relay race thing bc he didnt want her to "blow things" for the team. she reacts by trying to bite his finger. not with a funny creepy smile, but with genuine anger to her literal bite. and then during that challenge, she infamously grabs a bear by the arm and starts beating it up while saying "thats what you get for growling at me!!!". once shes done, she goes "byeee" and goes on like nothing happened. proving that if someone wrongs her, she can easily let it go.. so long as she gets to do something back. remember this for later

and here we come back to her interaction with priya. so far, scary girl has proven herself to be a pretty alright player and she herself knows that. so the notion of someone being SURPRISED she did well?? does not sit well with her at all. but the way that she harps on the wording, even before zee steps in to make it worse, is what gets to me. it just really adds an extra layer to her character that, well. ironically surprised me! for someone who always seems to be in her own world, so unconventional, so ill-fitting with everyone else to also be insecure in some capacity?

anyway she tries to hurt priya with a spoon but gets interrupted. later on, priya is still thinking abt their encounter and feels bad so she tries to make it up to scary girl by flattering her. namely by saying that scary girls question was smart.. and priya being her awkward self, only dug herself in a hole by making it seem like that was a smart question by scary girls standards

scary girl is speechless. baffled. mad beyond words

it should be noted that scary girl looked offended when priya even started speaking. meaning that she also did not forget about their conversation that morning. she REALLY took it to heart. applying the bear logic here, had scary girl hurt her with the spoon earlier, would she be less mad? would she had considered each other even? and in that case, would this comment go over better or would it had simply restarted her need for revenge?

well. they dont interact for the rest of the episode up until the very end. after ripper used priya as a human shield, obviously injuring her

scary girl tells her that rippers a jerk and that priya didnt deserve that. so she'll be voting to get ripper out. and calls priya her "friend".

(her face and tone makes me a bit suspicious if this was genuine. but thats probably just her being her offputting self so i'll ignore it.) ok so by scary girl logic, priya deserved to have SOMETHING bad coming her way after what she said to her.

but not this.

scary girl, who came here to "make friends and watch them get really hurt", was not okay with what ripper did to priya. perhaps she thinks that only she could be allowed to hurt priya to balance things out? personally giving priya her karma, perhaps?

but now she considers priya a "friend". who likely wants to see her get hurt. but in the fun way that scary girl likely sees most other contestants as, possibly? idk.

anyway after all of that, we can see just how insecure scary girl can get over unintentionally awkward phrasing. just how deeply it hurts her feelings to be underestimated like that

season 2 spoilers ahead !!!

in season 2, we see even less of her. but there is SO much to work with

normal girl is so fascinating to me

by the time s2 starts, scary girl already has an all new look. shes trying to be "normal"

she admits in her confessional that some ppl thought she was too scary in the first season so thats why she changed her appearance and her everything. who were these ppl?

other than a dog as a joke, online forums, showing an interesting glimpse into the in-universe ""real world"" stepping into total drama. perhaps also a meta joke on the fandoms response to her but who knows. imagine unabashedly being yourself on tv and everyone is telling you to change. you are 16 and likely going through a weird phase. feeling a lot of heightened emotions already and ""knowing"" that this is who you are (at the moment). and if its not a phase? still 16 on international television getting lambasted by millions

and last but not least, her MOM??? her own mother. that just raises more questions abt how scary girl was before getting on td. was she NOT like this before? was she playing it up for the cameras? or did she just go unhinged without parental supervision? in any case the fact is that even her own mom wasnt okay with what makes her happy and how she presented herself.

so scary girls solution? to try her best to suppress anything that made her unique. to try to adhere to "societal norms", in her own words.

we dont see much of her in this ep other than her commenting on how shes normal and totally did not want to see someone get hurt. shes clearly struggling so bad. she knows that apparently what she likes isnt "right", therefore the opposite must be true, right?

she is simultaneously so immediately different that the others didnt even recognize her at first. yet still so "scary" that she cant fit in. she just doesnt know how no matter how hard she tries. if she were to stay longer, what can she do? this game is not only abt your skills in the challenges its also a social thing. how long until she snapped and went back to her old ways?

and then we get to the campfire ceremony. chef is about to call out whatever it was the she did wrong that day, but she interrupts him with a simple "no."

she cannot fathom being sent home, at least not this early. bc shes normal! she is sooo normal and she tried SO HARD to be normal! she read normal books and normal movies and studied normal people. she even taught herself to smile in a more acceptable way, which is so autistic coded to me. so she deserves to stay longer.

(getting flashbacks to my topher psychoanalysis and his entitlement being both a tragedy and his self-imposed downfall)

..but she studied "normal people" in her own not-normal way. while they werent looking. while they were sleeping. while they had no idea she was there.

so she got booted out for that. and she cannot believe it.

when she says that she "didnt even try to hurt anyone this time", she is mad. that was her ""fun"" and she managed to control it 100% only to get eliminated??? shes fed up!

but when she talks about how she taught herself how to smile in a "less-creepy" way?

she softens up and looks genuinely hurt.

she tried so hard. she saw all those horrible comments from people judging her based on like 5 episodes on a reality show. her own mother didnt accept her. her insecurity won and she aimed to change and repress everything that made her unique

and it still wasnt enough

#txt #td scary girl #td spoilers #i think parts of this sound like im seriously condoning her hurting others bc its [her] fun #and i am! scarysweep

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blorbologist · 1 year

Text

Yawns, g'morning.

I'm thinking about Vaxleth and episode 51, as. Most of us are, really. Holy shit.

And I think Vax's divine nature played a role in how Ludinus was able to set and bait this trap. I don't think we'd have gotten this outcome if Vax was still a mortal Champion, like his sister. Furthermore, Keyleth’s position as Voice of the Tempest was also critical here.

Let me explain: let's say some other half of a ship could have fulfilled this orb critera. If we pretend that any Champion could do (I think they needed the divine aspect of Vax's unlife but play along here), why not bait the trap for Vex, or Pike, or Scanlan, or Yasha?

Beyond the 'Vax is practically an angel now and has orb properties' angle, I think part of it is the sheer... everything that is mortal. If Percy was captured Vex would have any number of solutions - send Trinket in, attack at range, Rogue it up, or do the sensible thing and bring in friends. The living are variable, you can't count on them to behave as you need.

Ludinus loathes gods and their servants: of course he'd expect them to be predictable - and he'd be right! Vax is not all Vax anymore (see Dalen's Closet and Tal’Dorei Reborn), he's a deathless shepherd and servant of the Raven Queen. Why would he think this through? He has no life to lose, only Keyleth’s to save. You don’t need to consider how to use a shield, you just do. People shape their plans around the steady expectations of gods, their almost immutable domains, and Vax is divine enough for that to apply to him. They'd know he would behave exactly as he did. It could be argued living!Vax would as well, and there are several songs and historical records about him, so worst came to worst Ludinus could hope that this is maintained. But that's an uncertainty, and not fitting for a centuries-long plan.

And now the second part: it had to be Keyleth. They couldn't have used Vex to draw him out, I don’t think, as much as it pains me. Either the story of Dalen's Closet was limited to the guests and any lil kids who heard the Ballad of Derrig or it proves the Champion cannot willingly approach his sister. It took a Wish for that.

Vex has had five kids, spent thirty years protecting Whitestone, and has her fingers in the financial goings on of all Tal’Dorei. By no means does she have a small impact on the world: her smallest taxation decisions could mean poverty or wealth for thousands! But many of her biggest impacts on the future, on destiny, have already come to pass. Her adventures in Vox Machina, the children she bore, the decades of decisions she's already made (I doubt she'd be on the council for even a few years without changing much of her sphere to her liking.)

Keyleth is the Voice of the Tempest. She will, hopefully, live almost two thousand years. Imagine all the lives she will impact in that time! Directly! The Matron must be so familiar with her strand of fate because it touches so many, many others!

Even if Vax, somehow, did not remember her. Even if he was a shell of himself. This is someone the Matron cannot let die before her time (hopefully a thousand plus years from now). This is one person she would have to bend the rules for and see saved, and there's just the man for the job. She would not allow intervention for Vex, or Percy, or those nieces and nephews Vax surely watches. Not Velora, not Scanlan, not Gilmore. Keyleth, with centuries of work to do in this world, with generations to guide, is too valuable.

What I'm saying is... literally no other ship could have pulled this off. None. This was built for Vaxleth, from its very bones. You could have, say, an AU where Vex is the Champion of Ravens (wink), and this would not be certain enough for Ludinus to bank on it. Very likely, but not assured (the Matron could refuse to intervene, or they could intervene in a less 'take me instead you lil red-storm shit' way, etc.).

Evil plans bank on the inevitable. Gravity, greed, time. Their love is inevitable, a law of nature.

It could not have been anyone else

#Vaxleth is! not one of my main ships.#EXCEPT for those dozen-ish episodes where Vax is a Revenant and the angst is top tier and OH BOY DOES THIS DELICER #deliver*#cr spoilers #critical role spoilers #critical role #critrole spoilers #vaxleth #vax'ildan #keyleth #keyleth of the air ashari #cr c3e51 #c3e51 #campaign 3 #vox machina #ludinus da'leth #cr meta

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lets-try-some-writing · 7 months

Note

Okay, I just wanna say that I love ALL the fic ideas you came up with and I desperately want to read all of them but I know everyone else wants that too, so for the sake of your mental sanity, I'll pick my favorites

Also, as much as I cry/go feral over your angst works, your fluff/crack stuff does something to my brain chemistry that I need

So I really want to see more of the prompts I requested (omg, someone wanting to see more of their prompt, who would've guessed? Though which one you wanna expand on is up to you) as well as "Of all the things that could happen, did have to be this?", "Human Females Do What Once A Month?!", "Cybertrons newest younglings/sparklings"

Those are some of my personal favorites but if you aren't feeling it or wanna do angst, you do you. Love all your amazing work and thanks for listening to my rambles 🙃

Well thank you for the chance to write more fluff! I am so happy you like my work friend! I've been meaning to get to this request for a while now. But classes have been dragging me kicking and screaming through the mud.

Prompt for this request here.

━━━━━━ ⊙ ❖ ⊙ ━━━━━━━━━━━━ ⊙ ❖ ⊙

Of all the things that could happen, did it have to be this?

The battle for the Omega Lock was by far one of the most intense any of the Decepticons had ever engaged in. It was a fierce and brutal conflict that left both sides struggling. However in the end, all Autobots on Earth were captured, promptly executed, and had their bodies thrown into the Cybermatter as a taunt toward their desperate attempts to regain control of the relic. But of course, this singular act of smug retribution came with consequences.

As the bodies of the Autobots sank into the Cybermatter, the Matrix blazed and collected the sparks of the fallen within itself in an attempt to preserve them. Then, with the aid of the Cybermatter surrounding it, the Matrix did as it was made to. It remade those it was offered. Optimus it kept to itself, but the others? It molded them again granting them new life and hoping to save them from execution once more by altering how they emerged. It could not erase who they were, nor did it want to. No, it needed to preserve them and give them a chance.

With that in mind, there was no way the Decepticons, who were still reveling in their victory, could have ever predicted eight sparklings clambering out of the Omega Lock screaming and shivering. At first the gathered Decepticons were too shocked to act, but as a young Smokescreen wailed, Starscream moved without thinking. With soft murmurs and croons, the Seeker held the sparkling close to himself, soothing him with gentle touches and songs. After that, there was no stopping it. Megatron was cruel, but he was not the the kind to allow sparklings to die, no matter their origin. Thus he gathered the sparklings, brought them onto the Nemesis, and set course for Cybertron. Earth was all but forgotten amidst the chaos.

A meeting was held with all of high command as soon as the Nemesis was out of Earth's orbit. There was brief discussion of killing the sparklings considering they were formerly Autobots, however that was shut down immediately by Starscream throwing the biggest fit any on the Nemesis had the displeasure to deal with. The Seeker threw away any pretense of cowardice in order to defend the sparklings, regardless of whatever wrath Megatron might hold toward him after the fact. Thankfully for him, Knockout was quick to support his stance, even going so far as to threaten to damage the ship and tell the Vehicons about the incident if the order to kill the sparklings was given.

As such, with no other choice considering the threat of mutiny, Megatron sighed, and had the sparklings distributed until a better plan could be devised. The Nemesis continued to soar toward Cybertron, but the trip would take time and quite frankly, what interest Megatron had in Earth all but faded. Optimus was a sparkling, and without his foe fighting for the planet so viciously, the competitive desire to take the world was no longer present. Cybertron was his focus, even more so now that there were sparklings on board to fuel and raise. They had been at war for far too long, and now with the Autobot elites stuck as sparklings, it had practically been ended. Cybertron needed to be restored, and Megatron would see to it, if only to ensure he didn't lose the loyalty of his soldiers.

Of course, taking care of sparklings was far easier said than done. Each of the newly reforged Autobots seemed to have something... off about them. All were assessed by Shockwave and with his aid, assigned to the appropriate caretakers until further notice.

Smokescreen was biologically the youngest and based on the tests run, the most mentally stable. He behaved as a perfectly normal sparkling, with all the little quirks and habits of the newly emerged. In order to ensure that the sparklings with more... pressing needs were attended to, Smokescreen was given to the Vehicons, under the supervision of Starscream of course. The former Autobot rookie was perfectly tame for the most part and by all accounts, terrible friendly. He didn't care for who was tending to him and had a fantastic time with just about anyone. He only cried when he wanted something and was totally at ease for the most part. He had no sense of stranger danger whatsoever. His only notable quirk was the simple fact that whenever he got a glimpse of the other Autobots-turned-sparklings, something seemed to click in him.

In the instances where he caught sight of his former comrades, Smokescreen lost any and all self control. He would scream, kick, bite, and overall fight denta and digit to get away from whoever was taking care of him. There was an intelligence in his optics during those instances, and cunning calculation that often led to the sparkling somehow wriggling away and booking it after whoever it was he spotted. Thankfully for everyone, he would calm quite easily once allowed to interact with whoever it was he wanted to get to. He needed at least a half groon with the former comrade in question, but then he would not struggle against being removed.

Bulkhead was the second least difficult sparkling to handle. He and Wheeljack could not be separated without causing both to throw horrible fits and reject energon, and so were given to a caretaker together. Knockout ended up being the one to take both under his wing, partially due to their relation to Breakdown before their reforging, but largely because he was one of the few ground units that could be trusted with unruly sparklings. He treated them perfectly well and took great care of them. Knockout threw himself into the tending of his new charges, even going so far as to create carriers that he wore on his front and back, one for each sparkling. Both his charges were given ample entertainment and offered enough affection to be somewhat smothering. But of course, there were issues.

For an undeterminable reason, Bulkhead spent a great deal of time crying. Next to nothing Knockout did ever seemed to calm him. All that worked for the former Wrecker was being held close to Knockout at all times. Often this led Knockout to carry the sparkling around everywhere during the cycle, even while working. Bulkhead could not be left alone or he would begin to wail. Having Wheeljack with him helped, but Wheeljack had his own set of problems that made having him around a blessing and a curse. Perhaps due to his prior love of any and all things explosion related, Wheeljack was a master at eluding Knockout while he tended to his more sensitive ward. Wheeljack then proceeded to always get into something important, be it the inner workings of the Nemesis, or some wiring that inevitably led to partial blackouts. It was somewhat amusing most of the time for Knockout, up until Wheeljack started making Megatron mad.

Knockout has since kept to giving Wheeljack random broken electronic parts to mess with instead of watching his wreck havoc on the ship. Of course the pyromaniac still manages to escape the confines of Knockout's workspace here and there, but it is nothing serious... usually.

Arcee ended up with Starscream quite simply due to her rather debilitating problem. Anything that moved too quickly, she immediately did her best to attack and kill despite her small size. More specifically, anything with too much kibble for her liking ended up receiving her ire. Shockwave predicted it was due to lingering trauma from Arachnid, but whatever the case, she hurt herself and sometimes others because of her aggressive tendencies. Starscream, long used to tending to feral seeker sparklings, took her on as his own in an instant. He took every precaution tending to her despite her lack of flight capability. It had been far too long since he last saw or was even able to come near a sparkling.

Arcee was a vicious little thing, but Starscream handled her with grace none on the Nemesis knew he possessed. She quickly came to only calm around Starscream and her former Autobot companions as the seeker worked to earn her trust. It was an arduous process, but Starscream carefully cleaning her, singing to her, helping her fuel, and constantly holding her as close to himself as possible yielded results. She could not be around any of the other Decepticons without her newfound caretaker for fear of her hurting herself, but she was renown for the happy sounds she made when particularly at peace. Starscream has a whole album filled with photos of his adopted ward, which he shows off as if it were the documentation giving him ownership of Cybertron itself.

Ultra Magnus was a difficult sparkling to be placed under a caretaker. At first he was given to Knockout alongside Wheeljack and Bulkhead, but that swiftly led to numerous fights between the trio. Not to mention a startling lack of emotion from the former leader of the Wreckers and a subsequent explosion of it made handling him alongside the other two impossible. Ultra Magnus was a mess of emotions and couldn't be predicted at all for the most part... well except by one scientist. Shockwave did fight hard to not be given the position of tending to the sparkling, but Ultra Magnus needed a steady servo to guide him. He reacted to any sort of emotions that others presented with extreme prejudice. Shockwave had no facial components for Ultra Magnus to react to, nor did Shockwave have any outward emotional responses.

There were MANY concerns from Knockout and Starscream about Shockwave possibly turning Ultra Magnus into his lab rat or abusing him. However against the expectations of pretty much everyone, Shockwave was a highly dutiful caretaker once the mantle of being a parent was passed to him. He took all the necessary steps to tend to his ward, including setting up an entire section of his laboratory specifically for Ultra Magnus. In turn, Magnus was as happy as could be in a safe, controlled, and calm environment. He thrived in the stable comfort Shockwave provided and was content to remain quiet as the scientist kept careful tabs on what he needed and when. There was never a moment when Magnus wanted for anything, and in the odd instance where something set him off, Shockwave was there to hold him as he worked, waiting until Magnus calmed. Emotionally Shockwave was not particularly invested, but with Magnus's mental state, that seemed to be for the best for both of them.

Ratchet was an interesting case in that he REFUSED to be cared for by anyone. He was... odd to say the least. Being the most developed out of all the sparklings, he could easily toddle and was capable of managing basic words. What he said was concerning more often than not. He seemed to know things he really shouldn't, especially regarding death and medicine. In the end, Megatron himself ended up snatching up the former medic and becoming his overseer more so than a Sire. Ratchet had no interest in forming any real parental bonds, but he was more than accepting of tutelage despite his relative youth. That suited Megatron just fine as often he would allow Ratchet to roam with a Vehicon as an escort. In turn, Ratchet would visit with almost every one of his former compatriots and hang around with Megatron's inner circle, watching and learning without complaint.

The only times he made a fuss where when Megatron was eventually forced to come grab him from wherever he was hiding out and take him to his crib. Ratchet was NEVER pleased with that development. He got his energon from those his visited, and his assigned Vehicons tended to him when he required aid. He had no interest in being put to bed against his wishes, even if he was not exactly sure why. Once he had Ratchet secured, Megatron would fulfill his one vaguely parental task of the cycle and tuck the sparkling in, answering several questions and reading Ratchet a book of his choice before bidding him a good recharge cycle and leaving. Ratchet was a strange and oddly mature sparkling, one constantly hounding his fellows to ensure they were well. And despite the hatred Megatron once held to the former medic, he came to appreciate Ratchet's willingness to learn and was more than happy to give him classes necessary for a future leader. Ratchet didn't seem all that enthusiastic about leadership, but he took the lessons without complaint.

All the sparklings settled into some sort of situation, that is all save for Optimus and Bumblebee. Their situation was.... unique in the extreme. Before their reforging, Optimus and Bumblebee were bound as Father and Son. The Matrix, in its infinite wisdom saw this fact, and not wishing to destroy those bonds, came up with a fantastic solution. It simply... didn't give Bumblebee a proper frame. Optimus emerged from the Cybermatter screaming and ready to wage war despite being the size of Megatron's servo. But that was not the strange part about his and Bumblebee's situation. No, it was the fact that when examinations were run, it was revealed that Bumblebee's spark shared a chamber with Optimus's. Through some strange means, he yet lived, but was not yet truly developed. Optimus carried his sparkling within him alongside the resized Matrix, and based on the scans, it seemed that once Optimus was large enough, the Prime was going to likely go through the oddity that was budding.

That took almost everyone by surprise. Budding was not... unheard of. However it was so rare as to be little more than a fairy tale. Often it was the result of a set of spark twins forged from a hotspot not developing with enough protoform for both of them to have frames. In those instances, whichever sibling developed would eventually bulk up until there was enough protoform to break off and produce a frame for their sibling. Even in those extraordinarily rare cases, modern technology meant that it was often easier to artificially produce a protoform for the twin without a frame. With that in mind, there was discussion of having that done to Bumblebee, however a shriek of outrage from Optimus and a good look at the adult sized protoforms on board that that idea flying out the window. Not to mention Optimus's Sire coding was still active despite his youthful body, meaning that any attempt to take what he saw as HIS would end horribly. Bumblebee would be left alone, at least until Cybertron was stabilized.

Bumblebee's spark appeared healthy enough once they could strap the half feral Prime down long enough to get a solid look at his spark chamber. The gold and white mote of light spun happily around its far larger counterpart, pulsating as it swirled like a nebula. Optimus for his part was fiercely protective, and once released and given time to calm himself around his companions, he too revealed his oddities. Much like Ratchet, he seemed to know a bit too much and had little desire to seek out a parental unit. During the trip to Cybertron he largely avoided everyone and wandered the Nemesis, only remaining with his former comrades to receive fuel and check on them. Often he fell into recharge in dark corners, unwilling to settle down anywhere due to his parental desires. Thankfully for Knockout and Starscream's mental health, Soundwave, through bribery with energon goodies and respectful interaction, managed to acquire Optimus's trust.

While most certainly odd, Soundwave found himself with the young Prime as his ward. Optimus was perfectly content to remain quiet, muttering to himself and to the unframed spark within him as he followed Soundwave and watched. He was not a nuisance, and so the spymaster had no issue teaching the young Prime his craft and caring for him as required. Theirs was a strange relationship, one that never fully stepped into mentorship or a familial tie. They simply existed and assisted the other as much as possible. But of course their care for each other was quite clear when Soundwave would silently stalk the halls with Optimus clinging to one of his cables as he hurried to keep up.

They were processor ache inducing menaces at times, especially when Ratchet and Optimus managed to meet and be creepy together or when Wheeljack managed to get Ultra Magnus into a tizzy, but they were the former Autobots were Decepticon wards now. Most of the caretakers involved in tending to them would have it no other way, especially once the startling realization that they still required the Allspark to fully repair their world hit them all in the helms. That left them two choices.

One: Wait until Optimus was old enough to guide them to it.

Two: Try to focus on rebuilding Cybertron until Shockwave could find a way to locate it.

Either option involved time and a great deal of sparkling rearing in the meantime.

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thedirtygridd · 1 year

Text

CHARLES LECLERC’S PRE-QUALIFYING RITUAL…FEATURING YOU.

WARNINGS - 18+ , Sexual content

Summary: You stumble across Charles doing his pre-quali warmup with his football. You accidentally distract him in your tight-fit dress, so he asks you to help him warm up even more…

Charles was doing his pre-qualifying warm up behind the garages, next to the shipping crates. He always challenges himself to do as many kick-ups as possible in a row, and today he was on a roll…

“35,36,37….38!” He counted out loud as you walked past, admiring the view. You always fancied Charles, and you always had a soft spot for boys that play football, so this was a special treat.

“45…46…47” at this point, he spotted you walking past and lost his concentration. The ball fell to the floor “ah shit!” He shouted at himself. “I was on a roll until you came along!” He said to you as you were strolling past.

“Haha you can’t blame me for that! Anyway, you were doing great besides..,”

“…Great, but not amazing. I need perfection!”

You loved that about Charles, he was always striving to be perfect.

“Well considering you ruined my game, maybe you can help me out in another way - to repay the favour…” he smirked whilst asking you. “Come here” he gestured to you to walk towards him with his fingers.

You walked up to him, in your tight fitted dress. “You look good” he mentioned, while stepping back to look up and down your body. “Will you help me out?” He asked.

“Sure, what do you want me to do?” You replied.

He giggled to himself and gave you a smirk, you always found his smiles to be adorable, but there was something about this one that made you think he was being intimate with you…

“Come over here, behind this crate and get down on your knees” he said while pulling u over

While you were kneeling down onto your left leg, you noticed him lowering his race suit, it was already undone and suspended on his waist, but he reached inside and started pulling it down.

“Charles! Someone might see!” You whispered to him.

“Don’t worry, nobody will come past now, everyone’s in the garage waiting for quali. We have five minutes to ourselves.” He lowered his race suit down to his ankles, exposing just his tightly-fit red fireproof trousers. They were so tight, it didn’t leave much to the imagination…His calves and thighs poked through and you noticed a hard outline in his pants area…

“What have you got in mind this time, Charles?” You said while giggling to yourself.

He licked his lips while shoving his hands down his boxer shorts. You noticed him jerk his hands slightly while they were down there, before bringing it out…

You knelt in front of him as he stood over you, still half in his racing clothes, with his cock standing up-right, hard, in front of your face. He looked down at his hard cock, and spat on it while jerking it , he then took some time to smother his spit over it. Groaning, he then looked at you below him, kneeling to him like he was your god. “Suck it” he demanded

You took your right hand and placed it on his cock, it was sticky from where he had spit on it, and you could see some pre-cum starting to ooze out of the tip. It was very veiny - All pumped up for you…

When you slid it into your mouth you were surprised at how much it filled you, he was huge, and it also had a very warm feeling to it. You could feel his pulse through his veins pumping as your tongue slipped over him.

“We’ve got to be quick , I only have a couple minutes” he said while grabbing your head and thrusting his cock back and forth. He kept going faster and faster, deeper and deeper. Saliva was dripping out your mouth uncontrollably as he fucked your face.

“Dirty girl” he told you. “Mhm, you like that don’t you?”

You couldn’t even respond, all 7 inches of him was buried inside your mouth, sliding down your throat. You could feel him throb inside you. You started to gag on his immense power and size inside your tiny mouth.

As he thrust into you, he held the back of your head on him. He held you there for what felt like an eternity, you started gagging on him. The saliva started to drip out your mouth

You felt his dick get harder and harder, his thrusts faster and faster, until he finally released a huge “aaaahhhhhhggg” and at the same time you felt waves of cum shoot down your throat. It must’ve throbbed at least 10 times- before you lost count, each throb releasing more of his milk into you.

You didn’t even hesitate , you always swallowed for him. No question about it. He tasted too good not to.

You squeezed and sucked all the cum from his dick and his balls , for now at least. He had emptied himself inside of you and he was satisfied.

He tucked his dripping wet cock back into his race suit and zipped up his overalls. Just before he ran over to the Ferrari garage, he helped you up with his hand, gave you a kiss and said “if I get pole position, this might have to become a pre quali tradition…” he smirked at you as he jogged off.

You watched him jog off while doing up your buttons on your dress again , as they had come undone when you knelt down on the floor for him. You could still taste him in your mouth, and you could still feel him dripping in the back of your throat.

You took your hand and wiped away some cum at the side of your mouth, and took a quick lick to get it off your fingers, before carrying on to the paddock club for qualifying.

#charles leclerc #charles leclerc smut #formula one #hotguys #hot as hell #football #charles leclerc imagine

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tachibubu · 1 year

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Sincerely, from your Friend.

∆ PAIRING ; Aemond Targaryen x Lannister!Reader/OC/Self-Insert

∆ SUMMARY ; In which you, the reader, saw your best friend Aemond marry another woman while being in an unrequited love with him.

∆ WARNINGS ; angst no comfort at all, if you don’t like little dialogues then I do not suggest this fic as it only focuses on the mc’s emotions throughout the whole ordeal with few dialogues. Alys Rivers is not a bastard here in this AU, she is referred to as Alys Strong instead. OOC?

NOTE ; Inspired by love, rosie and the other woman cover of lana del rey. I Also Made A Playlist! It’s a short read but I hope you can enjoy the music as well. If you would prefer one song as you read this fanfic I suggest High Hopes by Kodaline as the song is where it is heavily and mostly based on! I really suggest listening to the playlist or that song while you read this.

I am kinda 50/50 with this fic. I ironically like writing it but I just wished I could’ve wrote it better! It was supposed to be based on Charles and Diana’s arguement at the TV series though I scratched it even if I have already wrote a whole draft of it. So I wish you can enjoy this read!

A friendship is supposed to last; that is what you keep telling yourself.

Aemond and you were two of the closest people in the castle. You two struggled through the difficult times together. There were a couple times when you two argued, such as when you didn't agree with how he claimed Vhagar, but these disagreements were quickly resolved because you two couldn't stand to be apart from one another.

Your family will always be a Lannister, and your father, Tyland Lannister, entered the small council when Lord Corlys left to embark on war, and he kept his seat warm by holding the position of Master of Ships. He was permitted to stay at Kingslanding with his family as part of the arrangement, and this was fulfilled. You first encountered Aemond as he observed the Godswood while absorbed in his thoughts. Although the prince indicated he was fine when you asked him if he was, you insisted on making him happy when his expression and actions stated otherwise.

It started out slowly, with him initially being offended by your advances and considering them to be a pity. However, you were quick to disagree and dubbed it "being closer to someone of your age." Though one occurrence altered it all, you noticed him wandering through the corridors and into an unoccupied region. You crept up behind them, curiosity lingering, until you heard a single whimper and noticed his shoulders gradually begin to rise. You hurried over to him without hesitating, and when you did, he finally gave in and embraced you while he sobbed uncontrollably.

He would acknowledge your presence when you appeared in his presence by nodding; as a result, there was a mutual connection; and soon, small talk about subjects that only the two of you could dance about would begin. You will never forget the way his eyes lit up and how his normally firm lips rose their corners in fits of laughter the very day he laughed at your humor. That was the day you discovered you weren't just intrigued by the prince by simply wishing to be his friend; you were also gradually falling in love with him.

You welcomed the concept—the possibility—of having the surname Targaryen. You adored the way it resonated, and you soon began to think that little oddities in his behavior were very endearing. You enjoyed how his eyes would enlarge when he was earnest, his obsession with honing his swordsmanship, and the way his face would light up every time he saw you at the library as you both discussed the contents of the book you had just begun.

You love it all, even his eccentricities and his lowest points. Though things typically come to an end, when Alys Strong came into the picture, yours did as well.

Your pleasant interactions with Aemond eventually drifted to him gushing about the new lady that came into the Keep. Though it was difficult to overlook her frequent appearances as you and Aemond sauntered around the castle, you initially didn't bat an eye at it.

She would engage in the bonding activities you had with the prince. You were initially ok with her interruptions as you observed how Aemond would go from a man who typically pays attention to what you have to say to someone who would start speaking about topics you had never even heard of before when Alys would join.

Although you felt stiff, you were relieved that Aemond and Alys didn't notice it. How could they when they were attracted to one another? You two, along with one of Alys' closest friends, were invited to the castle for a modest gathering—a tea party. The very first time you had seen Aemond flush and stammer aloud was when he sat down on the chair that Alys gave and the way her hands lingered on his shoulder. He had never done that before, not to you or to anybody else.

It was unfair; she was gorgeous, intelligent, and intrigued by peculiar things. All of the activities and interests that Aemond loved. You understood you were holding back their development for one another at that point. You then excused yourself out of self-pity.

"You haven't even sat down." Aemond became suspicious when he noticed that you were suddenly acting differently and said, "How are you fairing?"

You laughed nervously, shaking your head as you placed one hand over it. "Yes," you answered too hastily, though you will soon regret it, "I meant no. Apologies, my mind is foggy, and I'm not feeling good at all."

Alys frowned as she spoke, "Oh dear, take your time and rest."

You added, "Well, I apologize for this hasty departure, and I shall now excuse myself, my ladies, and my prince." You had never regarded them by their titles before, but as you ran out the doors, you were overcome by your feelings. You gulped for air; unaware that you hadn't been breathing for the entire meeting, you were relieved to receive a break. You hurried to your room to get ready for the rest of the day as your eyes started to swell up.

Everything persisted, and your excuses increased significantly in frequency. While you were away, Alys became progressively closer to Aemond, and your connection with him deteriorated. Your heart would soar when Aemond would visit, giving you the impression that he had chosen you, even if the way he spoke when Alys was around was different. He would tell about how he bonded with the lovely girl, and even though it was just a wish, you hoped he had done the same for you.

Then it happened.

You wished you hadn't seen the invitation letter, but that can only be accomplished by going back in time or being blind, which Aemond wouldn't approve of. But there it is, opened and intact, the contents in sight as your head pounded.

Tomorrow night, Aemond and Alys are scheduled to propose marriage, as stated in the letter of invitation.

Your personal maid was waiting for your notice while your dress, which Aemond constantly complimented, was placed on your bed. Your heart began to race as the following day approached so quickly. Even as handmaidens assisted you with your attire and makeup, you divulged yourself in your thoughts to soothe your racing heart. Someone knocked on the door just as you were beginning to forget the incident. The someone being the one you'd hoped to avoid spending the entire evening with.

His pleasant voice, filled with honesty, was expressing, "You look beautiful, Y/N," and you will miss hearing it. You chuckled, then looked back at him and peered into his eyes.

You returned, "You look handsome as well, my prince," and you accompanied him out through the door. "I wish you wouldn't call me that, though," he said, his face seeming rather somber as his eyes continued to watch your every movement.

You lifted an eyebrow, "Call you what?"

"My title," he continued, with pursed lips as he gave you a knowing look. Was your distance really that significant, or had it gotten out of hand? He continued after clearing his throat to get your attention when you didn't respond, "We have been friends for so long; we are comfortable with each other, are we not?"

Your breath hitched, and you felt your eyes fill. "Of course, Aemond." Aemond caught a glimpse of it and hugged you. You blame yourself for being too conceited, and you appreciated his embrace by clutching a little too firmly onto his garment around his back, "I'm going to miss you."

Aemond rested his palm on your cheek and brushed your tears away, ending the hug with a chuckle that seemed to be in bewilderment. His face was so close to yours that if someone had seen it, they may well have thought it was immoral. "There's no need to; nothing will change. We will see each other again just like usual."

"Oh," were you expecting too much? Perhaps you are, and perhaps you should stop. You took a quick breath, refocused, and then steadied yourself.

"Of course," you both approached the banquet hall as you murmured with a somber smile and your hand accepting his outstretched arm.

There were too many people for you to appreciate, and your normal seat adjacent to the man you love was warm as it had already been claimed by someone else. Your gaze never left the pair, their fits of laughter after a few too many drinks, and the way they held hands when guests attended their proposal feast. Yes, you were resentful, but could you really blame yourself? Would you not be upset if the man you have loved for a very long time chose someone else instead of you?

The feast was lavish, with many tables set across from each other to precisely frame the couple. There were several chandeliers lit up especially for the event. You chuckled as you recalled asking Aemond when you were younger how it was done and his only response being that the stars did it. The guests who crowded the room were happy, which indicated that it was warm, but your side of it remained frigid.

Truth be told, your parents only recently decided to focus on your personal engagement a mere few weeks ago, and Cregan Stark, the young Lord of House Winterfell, offered his hand to you. Your parents have put a stop to all endeavors for all these years as they have witnessed your friendship with the prince, perhaps expecting that you two would soon find comfort in one another. How stupid you were, and now that you're old enough, the letters have become fewer and farther between, but you still hold out hope that you and Aemond will mend fences and become much more. A stupid idea, really.

Even though you were present, most of the speakers and toast-raisers were people you had never met before or who made fun of your relationship with Aemond. Although this gave you time to ponder, a true friend would congratulate your friend on their engagement. Although you weren't very adept at expressing your emotions, with the help of ail, it allowed you to become the kind of good friend you would imagine yourself to be. With your glass rising and a smile on your face, you sprang up and turned to face the engaged pair.

"I also," you cleared your throat while your hand trembled at the amount of attention you had gathered by your sudden outburst. Aemond gave a comforting nod at you, you almost laughed at yourself, even at this moment of time he is always so worried and supportive of you, "want to raise a toast."

You could hear the cheers of people, beckoning you to continue. "I would like to thank the Gods for how they introduced both of this loving couple to one another," you gazed at Alys with a warm heart; although with a tinge of envy, you couldn't help but see her blooming with beauty at the current moment.

"When Alys was first introduced, I knew instantly that Aemond would love her truly," Alys chuckled, placing her head on Aemond's shoulder while she smiled warmly at you.

Your smile fell, though your composure didn't, as you continued, your gaze hardening, "Choosing the one that you want to share your entire life with is a gift, something some of us will never get to experience."

"Your friendship and love have brought many things; some would say they can even see colors when both of you unite. Something I wish I could've seen as well, though the gods play a different game," A couple of people laughed as you joined their fits though yours were grave.

"They demonstrated to us that even if you don't view something as others may, you can still perceive it that way." You shifted your eyes on Aemond as you noticed him getting tense on his seat while you gnawed your lip in fear. If he wasn't conscious of your feelings at the time, perhaps he is now.

"Because I know I love you, no matter where you are, what you were doing, or whoever you loved. I will always be there, loving you as much as I can." The room fell still as low, astonished whispers from a few people emerged.

Aemond's jaw opened and his eyes widened as his hold on Alys loosened. It appeared as though he was about to say something but restrained himself. Alys' attention flickered between you two, from confusion to acknowledgement, but you guessed it just as such because you were too exhausted to really absorb anything before realizing how awkward the environment had become.

"As a friend," you laughed uncomfortably, correcting yourself. Your other hand, which was concealed below the table, would scratch its own skin with its overgrown nails; you know it would bleed, but the embarrassment is far more frightening than a simple blood spill. Alys appeared comforted as you turned back to glance at Aemond, who was left to his own thoughts while his gaze was still focused on you.

You continued, however your nerves were still there, "Though I am not alone now, and I am grateful that she provides you with things I couldn't provide."

"So let us raise our cups once more to my favorite friends." You raised your cup higher and placed a beaming smile on your face, saying, "Congratulations on your betrothal; may your marriage flourish and never end."

"Sincerly, from your friend."

While the audience applauded in unison and some even screamed accolades at you after your speech, it didn't help that after you sat in your seat, you felt yourself continue to merge with it as your eyes began to wet a little. Though it didn't stop there, Alys stood up, raising her own cup with a beautiful smile and saying, "Thank you, my dear friend. I also want to raise a toast to you about your engagement."

No, not like this. Your eyes became wide, nearly making you desire for her to cease, though she continued. Her smile widened, though it held no sincerity. "To Cregan Stark."

Aemond and you locked gaze once again. "I wish both of you a healthy engagement as well," the female added before coyly kissing her fiance's cheek. The expression he exhibited was a complex one, but you were too busy being humiliated to understand the message behind it.

Following the ceremony, there was a dance as people chatted among themselves. You could have thought it was an opportunity to introduce yourself, but instead you stood next to a pillar and listened to a woman talk to you about things you couldn't even fixate on. Only Aemond's potential current feelings toward you—possibly disgust—can impair your judgment. Even though your little encounter was swiftly over, you noticed Aemond peeking your way amongst the joyful crowd, seemingly hoping to strike up a conversation. Before turning to face you, he had excused himself from a Lord during his short conversation with the elder.

Your lips quivered as you reflected, 'No, not this way.'

You again excused yourself before Aemond could get to you. Avoiding a potential conversation between you two is the one thing you have ever been excellent at. You abandoned your glass and walked out of the overcrowded room as the lady nodded in understanding but seemed baffled. Missing the way Aemond had called out for your attention but was dismissed by your abrupt choice of action.

Your knees gave out as you attempted to stand in front of the tree, the exact godswood where you and Aemond first met, and tears began to flow from your eyes. You begged for prayers, pleading with your wounded heart to cease whatever it was doing and demanding that it carry you far from where you stood. You have suffered for too long; you have finally realized that, and you have acknowledged that the very God you were praying to is harsh and cruel. As you cradled yourself in your sobs, you yanked at the soil with rage, your forehead meeting the tip of it, as wails could be heard throughout the entire space, not caring if someone would eavesdrop.

You thought of vows that could have been ensued if you were only tough enough to conjure and confess your feelings to him, as well as the numerous ‘what ifs’ that might have followed.

Of all the people your heart has chosen to love, it chose a man who loves another. And most of all, you wept, wishing he had chosen you instead of her.

TAGS: @maymay456 ; @kalmado ; @ml0103 ; @justsumtuffstuff ; @zverea ; @parizparis

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hugmekenobi · 8 months

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S2: The Bad Batch (11)

Chapter Eleven: Metamorphosis

Gif by @dreamswithghosts

Hunter x femaleJedi!reader

Series Summary: Some time has passed since everything that happened at Kamino and you and the Batch are trying to figure out your place in the rapidly changing Imperial galaxy. And you're having to do all this whilst figuring out where your relationship with Hunter fits into it.

Chapter Summary: A final mission from Cid sees you encountering something that you never would've expected.

Masterlist for S1

<Previous Chapter

Genre: Friends (idiots) to Lovers (we're in the lovers stage now)

Chapter Warnings: Canon-typical violence, very light angst and feelings/protectiveness, Hemlock making an appearance

Word Count: 3.6K

Author's notes: Very much just sticking to the episode, with a couple little extra scene details but it'll be a more chill read for sure! Hope you still enjoy! Excited to begin work on Ch12 and please do let me know on this post if there is a preference cause sometimes I need a little creative help lol

With you all having caught up on some sleep, it was time to get in touch with Cid and her reaction came as no surprise to any of you.

“Not sure what’s got you all twisted up in knots.”

“We were stranded on that planet, Cid. We needed you, and you left us.” Omega said hotly.

“You’re fine now, aren’t you? And you got your ship back.”

“Yeah, with no help from you.” Wrecker complained.

“Do you wanna mope or make money? Because I got a tip on a downed ship, which means cargo ripe for the taking. I’ll even give you 30% of the cut.”

You scoffed at the way she acted like she was giving you all a gift.

“That is our standard percentage.” Tech pointed out.

“All right. This one time, let’s say 35%.”

Wrecker thought that sounded okay but one glance at the rest of you told you that a better offer was expected.

“Okay, 40.” Cid said but again was met with hard stares. “Fine, 50% as a token of my goodwill, that you seem to have forgotten.” She added pointedly.

“Goodwill?” You repeated with a roll of your eyes.

Cid didn’t pay that any attention. “I’m sending you the intel now. Don’t come back unless you scavenge something valuable.”

“What makes you think we’d come back at all?” Hunter countered.

“Don’t test me, Bandana. Just get it done.” Cid snapped before she signed off.

Tech examined the intel on the datapad, “Severing ties with Cid could be problematic, considering what she knows about us. Perhaps we choose a diplomatic solution and complete this one last mission for her.” He suggested.

Hunter sat down and took the datapad from his brother. “Cid only sent coordinates. No ship transponder code or indication of what caused it to crash.”

“Limited intel. There’s a surprise.” You muttered as you stood beside Hunter’s seat.

“How hard could scavenging cargo be?” Omega offered.

“Omega, don’t ever lose that optimism.” You said affectionately before you heard a heavy breath leave Hunter’s lips and there it was again, that exhausted sigh. You placed a supportive hand on his shoulder.

Omega gasped from her room as the ship left hyperspace and entered the atmosphere, “There’s a village here.

“That would explain how the wreckage was reported so quickly.” Tech said in reply from his seat in front of the hall control panel. “The crashed vessel appears mostly intact. The cargo aboard should be in fair enough condition to transport.”

The ship landed and fully kitted up, you all left the ship, and searched for the vessel.

It didn’t take long to find.

“What kinda ship is this?” Wrecker asked as he studied the wreckage.

“Don’t know. No hull markings.” Hunter responded.

You shone your torch across it. Whatever had caused this ship to crash, it had made it crash hard. There were no signs of life and there was debris scattered all around the main crash site.

“Based on the severity of the impact and the lack of communication signals, the crew aboard most likely perished.” Tech said as he stared at his datapad.

Omega had climbed up to access the door. “We don’t know for sure. They could be trapped inside. Come on.”

“All this time with us, how has she kept this up?” You pondered as you made to follow her up.

“Couldn’t tell you.” Hunter agreed, a smile in his voice. He knew the rest of you had been hardened by war and had seen the very worst of people and it had left its mark. You all could find that hope when you really needed to, you wouldn’t have made it this far otherwise, but it didn’t come as easily as it used to, and he worried that that would start to show in Omega, but he was yet to see that. If she could keep that type of outlook and strength within her, then they’d have done something right.

The door whirred open, and Hunter and Omega shone their lights into the dark corridor, but it seemed to be clear.

Hunter led the way in.

The more you walked through the ship, the more uncomfortable you got. It was eerily silent and empty, yet you felt like you were just waiting for something to jump out from any number of the dark corners, leaving you with the sensation that you were intruding.

“Where is everyone?” Omega breathed.

Wrecker’s foot nudged something on the ground. “Oh, check it out.” He gasped eagerly as he picked it up. “High-volt electrostaff.”

You barely registered what he said, you were too busy examining the markings on the wall.

Tech followed your trail of light with his own. “Something unfortunate happened here.”

“Whatever did this wasn’t human.” You added.

“I will get the power restored and check data logs on the bridge.” Tech said.

“By yourself?” Omega whispered nervously.

“Yeah, I don’t know about that one, Tech.” You agreed.

“Your concern is not warranted. I will be fine.” Tech said dismissively.

“Famous last words of anyone whose wandered off into a creepy, dark space.” You muttered but your concern was obvious.

Tech simply shrugged. “I will rejoin you all momentarily.”

With a sigh, you split up and the four of you continued your exploration whilst Tech went to the bridge.

What the rest of you next discovered as you carried on exploring the ship was not what you were expecting. Your torch light shone on what appeared to be some sort of tank and you immediately noticed the abrupt change of temperature.

“Why is it so cold in here?” Wrecker asked.

“It’s some kind of lab.” Hunter deduced as he led the way around the room.

“This medical equipment is Kaminoan.” Omega said, her breath coming out as smoke.

“Huh. So, what’s it doing here?” Wrecker asked.

Omega looked down at a broken piece of equipment. “It’s their cloning technology but this configuration is different than anything I saw in Tipoca City.”

Hunter clicked his comm. “Tech, find anything on the bridge?”

“Not yet. Still rerouting the reserve power. Stand by. The grid should be restored momentarily.” Tech was then distracted by a loud clatter. He followed the sound to what he thought was the source which was a broken droid that was repeatedly saying ‘danger.’ “What happened? What attacked this ship?” He asked it but it simply stuttered ‘danger’ again powered down. It was then he heard the sound of something clanking above him again and he knew he needed to find his way back to the rest of you.

Wrecker examined and touched a gloopy like substance next to a section of scratched on the walls. He grunted in disgust. “These are reinforced walls. What were they keeping in here?”

There was a faint creaking sound echoing throughout the room and the hairs on the back of your neck stood up. “I don’t know, but it’s still on board.”

The sound of water dripping and something chittering about you all started to grow louder and it was then you caught sight of a creature you’d never seen before hanging upside down from the ceiling, saliva dripping form it’s jaws but there was also an electric spark coming from its mouth which reminded you of something, but you couldn’t remember what.

“Hunter, what is that?” Omega whispered.

“Back away slowly.” Hunter ordered quietly. He kept a protective arm out in front of Omega as he did so.

You all did as he said but suddenly a pipe burst and you all instinctively turned to look at it but when your attention went back to where the creature had been, you were horrified to see that it had jumped down from the ceiling and was now stalking towards you all.

You made to step out, but Hunter’s hand caught your wrist.

“You’re not going to try and connect with this.”

“Hunter-”

“This isn’t something that’s up for debate. It’s an order. You’re not going near it.” He said firmly as he pulled out his blaster.

“Hunter, this isn’t going to help.” You hissed as you reluctantly did as he said and drew your blaster.

“This thing destroyed this ship. I’m not taking any chances here.”

Wrecker attempted to stab it with the electrostaff but the creature simply snatched and swallowed it.

You, Hunter, and Wrecker let out a series of shots as the creature screeched and made to lunge for you. There wasn’t a fatal hit but luckily your actions seemed to be off putting enough as it retreated back up to the ceiling.

The four of you stayed on guard but it was then that the power came back on so at least that made seeing this thing an easier task.

Any relief at having actual light was short lived for a rattle behind you saw you all turn to see the animal again only this time it didn’t hesitate to charge at you all.

You- thanks to your Force abilities- were able to dive over it and Hunter reacted quickly enough to grab Omega and jump out of the way. Wrecker unfortunately got knocked to the side.

The four of you sent a round of blaster fire down the corridor after the creature but it was too fast and too slinky for any shot to find a weak point and it turned around the corridor out of sight.

“Tech, we’ve got a problem. Get off the ship. Now!” Hunter urged into his comm.

Tech was already running as he replied, “I suspect this is some type of research vessel.”

“We know!” You said as the four of you ran through the corridors whilst keeping an eye out for any sign of the creature.

“And whatever they were researching just got loose.” Omega added.

“And it’s headed your way.” Hunter informed him.

You all rounded the corner to be met with an incredibly bizarre sight: the creature appeared to be feeding off the electricity coming from one of the power outlets on the ship and the creature itself seemed to be using it as a way to… grow?

“Does that thing look different to you?” Wrecker asked nervously.

It did but again, something about this animal was striking some degree of familiarity in you and you were infuriated that you couldn’t think of how or why that was the case.

Tech had appeared on the opposite side of the corridor, but he came to an abrupt halt as he witnessed what this animal was doing. He was not deterred by the fact that now its attention was on him, in fact he liked that it gave him a brief moment to study it. “Fascinating.” He murmured to himself as he watched the electrical energy be absorbed by the animal.

The four of you weren’t prepared to let the creature get closer to him. You opened fire once more to distract it.

“Take cover.” Tech ordered you all as he pointed his blaster to one of the power outlets.

Wrecker picked up Omega and turned to shield her body with his own whilst Hunter did the same with you, minus the picking up part.

Tech fired the shot.

The explosion created a hole in the ship which gave the creature the chance to slip away.

You all followed it out but lost sight of it in the woods.

Tech lowered his visor and saw the fading heat signature of the animal. “The creature appears to be headed in the direction of the village.”

“We’re the ones who let it out. We have to neutralize it before it hurts anyone.” Hunter said.

“How? Our blasters our useless on it.” Wrecker countered.

“Given the fact that the crew was most likely eaten by the creature, I doubt it is currently hungry-” Tech said nonchalantly.

“It ate the crew?” Omega interrupted, backing into you with fear.

You laid a comforting hand on her shoulder. “How is that helping, Tech?” You scolded.

“It ate the crew.” Omega repeated breathlessly.

“Just stop.” You advised as you saw Tech getting ready to say something else.

“Access the lab files and find out what species we’re dealing with and how to stop it.” Hunter directed Tech.

“Mmm, I can help.” Omega offered, finding her courage again. “I know my way around Kaminoan tech.”

“Go.” Hunter said. “You two, with me.” Hunter ordered you and Wrecker and the three of you set off for the ship.

“Hunter, if we can’t take care of this thing before it hurts anyone, you need to let me at least try my way.” You said as you got into the co-pilot’s seat whilst he got the ship in the air.

“I know.” Hunter agreed. He regretted not letting you do it earlier, he’d let emotion be the ruling judgement in the heat of the moment. Balancing both his professional and personal relationship with you was something he was still finessing.

“See anything?” Wrecker called from the gun turret as he scanned the woods below.

You looked at the scopes. “Zero, two, five.”

Wrecker saw it then. It was moving fast. His shots couldn’t make a hit and it disappeared from view.

“Did you get it?” Hunter asked.

“No.” Wrecker grunted.

Tech had managed to infiltrate the lab’s files. “Look at this.” He said to Omega as he examined the information on his datapad. “These appear to be designs using the creature’s genetic material for modified armour plating. That must be why it was unaffected by our blaster fire.”

“Then how do we stop it?” Omega asked.

“Uncertain.” Tech unplugged and moved on to the next panel. “However, this confirms that the species feeds on energy, which propels its rapid growth.”

“You mean it’ll get even bigger?!”

Tech’s eyes widened as he stared at the information on the screen. “Yes. Much bigger.”

Your jaw dropped as you watched out the window as the ship past over the woods. The creature had reached a power plant and had drastically transformed and then it hit you. “Hey, I recognise it now!” You hadn’t been there the day Coruscant was attacked but you had seen the holonet reports and the images were pretty memorable.

“You recognise it?” Hunter repeated, stunned.

“I wasn’t there and I’m blanking on what it’s called but it attacked Coruscant a few years ago.” It was then that Tech’s voice came through the comms and confirmed what you were saying.

“Hunter, the creature is the same species that attacked Coruscant during the war. You must not let it get near the power grid or it will increase exponentially in size.”

Yeah, you were pretty clued into that now. “We were a bit late on that one, Tech.” You responded as the creature spotted your ship and let out a roar.

Hunter took evasive action but not before the creature’s tail collided with the side of the ship.

“Still want me to drop you off?” Hunter glanced at you as he righted the ship.

You grimaced. “Uh maybe not right now.” The animal was too aggressive now, too scared and felt to threatened. There would be no room for you to work your way into forming any kind of bond with it. If it really came down to it, you would go but it didn’t need to happen right away yet.

Hunter was quietly relieved although he knew that if things got too out of hand, you would be the only option they had left.

The best strategy you guys had come up with to protect the village was being the source of distraction. Wrecker continuously opened fire on it but it was having no effect.

“Stop it before it gets any larger.” Hunter said to Wrecker.

“I’m trying!” Wrecker shouted back.

You took a deep breath. “Hunter, you gotta put me in there.” It was the only other option you had.

Hunter’s jaw clenched but he nodded.

You moved towards the door but just as Hunter got the ship in position, the alarms went off. “We’ve got ships on our tail.” He swerved the ship out the way as they opened fire.

You stumbled backwards. “Where’d they come from?” You said as you righted yourself and Gonky before you went back to the cockpit. There was no chance of you getting down to the animal now.

“Hold on.” Hunter signalled as he kicked the ship into high gear.

“Tech, Omega, you’ve got Imperial inbound. Get out of there.” You said urgently into you comm.

Omega picked up her comm as she heard your voice. “On our way.” She replied before she looked to Tech who showed no signs of hustle as he stared at his datapad. “Tech, let’s go.”

“Not yet. I am not finished transferring all of the data.”

An explosion sounded outside, and the ship shook with the impact of it and the power went out.

“Come on.” Omega implored before she started to run.

Tech followed her but their way off the ship was tricky as it was starting to fall apart. The explosions continued to surround them. They managed to vacate it but not before a series of ships passed overhead and fired down at the wreckage.

Tech grabbed Omega and took cover from the resulting large explosion behind a larger piece of debris as the ship got completely destroyed.

You were too busy avoiding the other Imperial ships to see what exactly had been done to the creature, all you caught sight of was the power plant exploding. “They’re not killing it. They’re taking it.” You murmured as you saw the now unconscious creature being taken up into another Imperial ship. What could the Empire possibly want with something like that?

“Let’s not be next.” Hunter said, pulling you out of your thoughts.

“Hunter, they’re going to take that village.” You said quietly, unhappily, as you caught sight of some ships taking up position in front of the houses, but you knew that there was nothing you could do. You were outnumbered and Tech and Omega needed you guys to get them out.

“We can’t help them.” Hunter said regretfully. He wished they could, but they’d be no good to anyone if they were dead and if they didn’t get out of here soon, that’s how they would wind up and Tech and Omega needed out of there too.

Tech and Omega paused for breath and Tech tapped into his comm. “Hunter, we’re clear of the vessel and heading to the landing zone.”

“Copy that.” Hunter acknowledged and he got the ship in position. He didn’t let it land though, there were too many ships on their tail to do that. The best he could do was slow it down and open the main doors.

Tech leaped onto the stairs and grabbed Omega’s hand as she jumped up after him to get her secure. The two of them made their way into the ship and sat, with Tech making sure Omega’s safety support was down first before he did his own.

Hunter got the ship out of there and sent it into hyperspace.

“The crashed vessel was part of the Imperial cloning operation.” Tech informed the rest of you as he sat in front of one of the control panels in the ship corridor.

“The Empire cloned the Zillo Beast?” You echoed as you stood behind Tech’s chair and studied the information on the screen.

“Yes and no.” Tech responded. “The directive came straight from the Supreme Chancellor before he became Emperor.”

“What’s he want with it?” Wrecker asked.

“The creature’s genetic material has the potential to be weaponized in the hands of the right scientist.”

“Where were they taking the creature?” Hunter asked his brother.

“Unknown. The ship did not have a destination logged. Hunter, there is far more to this than we realised. From what I have gathered, I suspect the Empire did not destroy the cities on Kamino to end cloning.”

“They wanted to control it.” You said softly but there was a hint of anger in your voice.

“Indeed.” Tech said in agreement.

Hunter set off towards the cockpit but paused hallway and turned back to face Tech. “Send the data to Echo and Rex. See what they can find out.”

Daro

“Doctor. The creature has been recovered and is now safely secured below.”

“Good. And our other guest?”

“The shuttle is arriving now.”

The doctor set off towards the landing platform with a squad of troopers. “Did any of the villagers see the Zillo?” He asked the leader.

“Several. The locals have been detained and will be dealt with. However, one vessel escaped our assault. It was a military class shuttle.”

“Find out who it was.”

“Yes sir.”

The doctor watched on ahead as the shuttle landed. “Hello, Prime Minister.” He greeted the Kaminoan as he came off the ship. “Apologies. Former Prime Minister.”

“Why have I been brought here?”

“The cooperation of you chief scientist has not been forthcoming. Nale Se’s defiance is problematic.”

“It must be frustrating to have your resources but lack the expertise to achieve your goal. And if you fail to convince her, it won’t be long before you are in a cell like me.”

The doctor was not intimidated. “I fear you misunderstand your situation here. If you know of a way to persuade the scientist, now would be the time to mention it.”

“Indeed. In exchange for my freedom.”

“I’m listening.”

“There is a particular clone you must locate. A young girl. She is the key to controlling Nala Se.”

“How very interesting.” The doctor invited him to follow him inside. “It seems we have much to discuss.”

Next Chapter>

Tagging: @noeasyisnoisy, @fuckoffthanos, @tpwkcalli, @graciexmarvel, @arctrooper69, @nightmonkeysstuff, @brujaporfavor, @flyingkangaroo, @sunkissedclones, @ladytano420, @keep-calm-and-drink-caf, @yyourmotherr, @xxeiraxx, @dragonrider9905, @starwarsnerd111

#the bad batch #the bad batch season 2 #the bad batch s2 #hunter x reader #hunter x fem!reader #hunter x female!reader #hunter x femalejedi!reader #sergeant hunter #sergeant hunter x reader #hunter tbb #hunter the bad batch #the bad batch hunter x you #hunter x y/n #tbb hunter x reader #the bad batch fanfiction #fluff #angst #star wars #friends to lovers

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justagalwhowrites · 11 months

Text

Beskar Doll - Ch. 7: Old Friends

Secrets can only stay secret for so long. A continuation of Beskar Doll Ch. 1-6 found on Tumblr here.

Pairing: The Mandalorian/Din Djarin x Female Reader

Warnings: None but whole fic is violent and smutty so Minors DNI. 18+. No use of Y/N.

Length: 6.6k

Din was relieved that, when you emerged, you gave the girl a broad smile and asked if she wanted to play a game before leading her to the hold. He stayed out of your way, trying to watch you without showing that he was watching you. It was pointless. He knew that. In a few weeks or months he’d leave you on Dantooine to start your new life - one that would hopefully stick now that the war was done. There was no point in being your… friend.

“Let me show you some good climbing tricks,” you said to the girl, getting down on her level. “Just in case you don’t always have a jetpack on when you’re all grown up….”

You helped her maneuver onto a crate, showing her how to gauge where to grab, good footholds, how to leverage her weight to make things easier. He smiled. You looked happy - or the closest to happy he’d ever seen you. It was the first time he thought you looked your age, like you had the hope of a life that fit you. And it wasn’t one that belonged on a bounty hunter’s ship.

Layari started getting cranky and yawning earlier than Din had expected. He really wasn’t used to children, hadn’t spent much time around them and didn’t particularly want to. She ended up passing out on your lap as you read to her aloud from the data pad, one of your hands steadily running through her hair.

“Would it be OK if we put her in your bunk?” You whispered, the girl nestled against your chest. “I think she might sleep through the night there….”

Din looked at you both for a second longer and had a moment of wondering what you’d be like with a child of your own. He wondered if you’d ever even considered that as a possibility for yourself or if you’d spent so long being used by others you hadn’t thought of your own life.

“I’ll take her,” he said, gently lifting the girl from your arms. She didn’t stir, just pressed herself against his armor, smiling a little. He realized that he probably reminded her of her father. He looked down at her. It was strange, thinking his armor was a comfort to someone.

He found you in he cockpit after he put the girl to bed, in your usual place against the viewer, watching the stars blur past.

“We’ll get there tomorrow,” he said, standing next to the hatch, arms crossed. You nodded, looking away from the stars and at him.

“That’s good,” you smiled a little. “I can’t imagine what it must be like, being away from your child like that. The sooner we get her back, the better.”

He nodded slowly.

“I’m sorry,” you said, sitting up a little straighter. Din frowned below his helmet.

“For what?”

“Everything,” you shrugged. “I fucked up at the party, I could have done that cleaner. I shouldn’t have broken down then, I’m better than that. And it’s not your job to take care of me when I do…”

“No,” he shook his head, cutting you off. “But I wanted to.”

You nodded slowly.

“Does this make us friends?” You asked, watching him. He wasn’t sure why but sometimes, when you looked at him, it was like you saw past everything - the beskar and the flight suit and the silence that came from years of working alone - and he had no choice but trust you with no defenses.

“I don’t know,” he shrugged. “I don’t have many friends.”

You laughed.

“Me either.” You looked at him for a moment longer. “Got a holochess board?”

He couldn’t seem to get ahead of you in the game, the pair of you playing three and you winning each one. Your strategy was all over the map, you were unpredictable but you were effective.

After the first game, you proposed making things interesting. Every time one of you lost a major piece, you had to share a story of a time you felt like a fool and take a shot of Corellian whiskey. Din told you about the first time he tried to fight a rancor, laughing as he explained how a lucky move being the only thing that kept him from losing his head. You told him about a time you tried to sneak into an Imperial base only to get lost in a ventilation shaft.

Your laugh was contagious and grew easier with each drink, eventually gripping his arm across the table to stay upright, almost falling over in your glee.

After the third game, you fought to get your breath back, glancing over to his quarters, making sure the child was still asleep.

“You should sleep,” he said. Your hand was still on his arm. He didn’t want you to go.

“Yeah,” you nodded and smiled. “It’ll be better tomorrow… This doesn’t happen a lot but when it does… anyway, it’ll be better tomorrow.”

“It’s OK if it’s not,” Din said.

“It will be,” you smiled. “Thanks… this was nice. Being… whatever this is. It’s nice.”

He watched you go to set up your bed and he went to the cockpit, needing to put space between you before he wanted that space any less.

***

You really should have known not to drink after having one of your episodes. You felt lightheaded when you laid down, pleasantly so. The Mandalorian was different than you’d expected when all his guards were down. He still wasn’t a huge talker, but you were getting better at reading him. He was funny, a bit sarcastic and obviously smart. He was decent at holochess and you imagined he’d kick your ass if he had anyone to play with regularly. You were a bit out of practice too, though. It had been a while since you’d played with Sosha, her enjoying the game to keep sharp. You were the only one who would regularly give her a run for her money, though she won a bit more than she lost with you.

The first time you’d ever been drunk was with Sosha, too. You were 16, the only two people on a ship and you’d found a stash of Spice liquor. You were jumping, had all night, and you figured if you were going to die in a war you may as well live a little first.

It had been fun, though strange in hindsight. A bright spot in what had otherwise been a nightmare. You fell asleep remembering. So you should have known I would have turned into dreams.

They started hazy, an adult voice and words coming from 11-year-old Sosha’s lips, stormtroopers running for her and away from you as you raced to put yourself between them, them never catching her and you never catching them. Just running and running and running until everything around you swam in starlight like you were flowing through hyperspace.

Then, things shifted and you forgot where you really were. Dagres was there, giving you his cocky smile, Sosha rolling her eyes and calling him a flyboy but smiling when she noticed the two of you watching each other. Then, suddenly, he was gone, so close and yet so far and you couldn’t reach him as he fell, darkness swallowing him.

Sosha was there then, beside you and behind you, alone on a planet that barely had the right air mix to be habitable. You were always short of breath and you were hiding from the Empire, two of them searching the area around the wreckage of your ship, you trying to keep Sosha hidden and safe.

So when you felt hands on you, you fought. You pushed and screamed for Sosha to run and tried to see if you cold get your fingers around a throat or into eyes or your teeth into flesh. But all your fingers could find was fabric and metal. You tried to use your head as a battering ram, but your shoulders were forced down onto the mat below you.

“Doll!” The Mandalorian was shouting, his fingers gripping your shoulders so hard you could feel them digging into your flesh. “It’s me! You’re safe, it’s OK!”

You went limp, breathless beneath him, eyes darting around as where you were caught back up to you. Your heart was beating so hard against your chest, you were sure he could hear it and you fought to slow it down, breathing through the feeling of panic.

“You’re OK,” he said again and you were suddenly aware of his weight on you. His hands released your shoulders hesitantly before he climbed off of you.

“I’m sorry,” you gasped. “I was dreaming…”

“It’s OK,” he said, sounding breathless himself, flat on his back beside you. “Are you OK?”

“I will be,” you nodded, breaths calming. You looked over at him. “Was I screaming?”

“Not until I tried to wake you,” he turned his head to look at you. “You were thrashing, I was worried….”

You just nodded, looking back at the ceiling.

“Who’s Sosha?” He asked after both of your breaths had returned to normal.

“A friend,” you said quietly. “We worked together, too, for a time.”

“Rebellion?”

You paused.

“Rebellion-adjacent.”

You heard him shift beside you, the soft clatter of his armor on the floor.

“You miss her,” he said. Like so many other things, it wasn’t a question. For the man behind the mask, you were very easy to read.

“Yeah.”

“I could take you to her instead,” he said. “We don’t have to go to Dantooine. Assuming she’s not…”

“She’s alive,” you cut him off. “But it’s not possible. We’d both like it to be but it’s not.”

“I’m sorry.”

“Me too.”

You both lay there in silence for a while, your hand slipping along the cold metal floor of the hold until you found his. He jerked it away at first, surprised, but slowly brought his palm to yours, lacing his fingers through your own.

“Will you stay with me?” You asked quietly. “It’s better when there’s someone…”

“Yeah,” he said. “I’ll stay.”

You rolled to face him and he gently adjusted to be against you, his hand at your waist, thumb softly tracing the outline of your rib. His helmet lightly met your forehead and you curled into him. Even with the armor, he was somehow warm. You wondered how he got used to sleeping with it on, if people who slept in armor ever woke up afraid they were dying. Your hand went to his chest, rising and falling with his breaths, a constant calming force.

“Thank you,” you yawned.

“Anytime.”

The Mandalorian was gone when you woke up, but you were feeling more like yourself as you heard the small giggles of Layari from the galley. You got up and quietly found them, Mando’s back to you as he sat beside the girl. She was showing him something on the data pad with one hand, a spoon in the other as she ate breakfast. You smiled.

“Mirdala, ad’ika,” he said to her. “Jii…”

She looked up and saw you watching, her face lighting up.

“Mesh’la!” She jumped up, took your hand and dragged you to the already overcrowded table. Mando looked up at you and shook his head a bit.

“Lek,” he looked back to her. “Mesh’la. But we should speak Basic, she doesn’t speak Mando’a.”

“Don’t stop on my account,” you said, finding a ration that sounded passable. “I’ve never heard Mando’a before. It’s lovely.”

You perched on the small counter and watched as they spoke back and forth. It was clear Layari was still learning, Mando gently correcting her word order or pronunciation from time to time. You tried to see if there was some linguistic root you could recognize and to piece things together, but there wasn’t one you seemed to be familiar with.

It sounded harsh, at first, but when you just listened for a while, there was a musicality and flow to it you enjoyed. You could have been happy to listen to them speak back and forth all day.

But before too long, you sighed and went to get ready for whatever Nevarro had to offer. Layari wandered out for the galley as you were braiding your hair, sitting in front of your usual crate in the hold. She stood next to you, hands behind her back, standing just taller than you from your place on the floor.

“Yes, Darling Girl?” You smiled at her, not fully turning her way as you pinned a braid into place on your head.

“Can you do mine, too, Mesh’la?” She asked, biting her lip.

“Of course,” you smiled, scooting back and patting the floor in front of you. She plopped down, wiggling happily. “Can you braid?” She shook her head. “Here, I’ll show you.”

You demonstrated the most basic technique, getting her long hair back from her face. She smiled, watching her reflection in the mirror, toying with a finished braid, twisting it between her fingers. Mando came up behind you, arms crossed, watching.

“Ba’vodu!” She met the eye line of the helmet in his reflection, holding up the braid. “Mesh’la… What’s it called?” She looked at you.

“Braiding,” you smiled, smoothing her hair as you finished another braid.

“Mesh’la is braiding me!”

You bit back the giggle threatening to bubble out of your throat.

“Braiding your hair, ad’ika,” he said as you tied off the final braid.

“There,” you smiled, draping the four braids over her shoulders. “All done.”

She squealed before getting up and running the length of the hold, braids streaming out behind her. You watched her for a moment, awed by her resiliency. You knew better than anyone that one day, likely sooner rather than later, she’d need to reckon with what had happened to her. But, for now, she was just happy to have her hair braided.

“We’re coming up on Nevarro,” Mando said, looking away from the girl and to your reflection as you started braiding the last chunk of hair that still hung loose. “Would you like to come with us?”

You twisted to look at him instead of his reflection.

“Yeah,” you smiled a little. “I would.”

He nodded stiffly, going back to watching the girl. You finished braiding and got to your feet, brushing off the basic dress you’d put on.

“What does she keep calling me?” You asked, still watching her. “And what are you calling her and she calling you, for that matter?”

“She’s ad’ika,” he said. “It just means little one or a child that you’re close to. She’s calling me ba’vodu, which is uncle.”

You nodded slowly, watching him. He fell silent, watching her run.

“And me?” You asked eventually, laughing a little. “You won’t hurt my feelings or anything, promise.”

“Well, she’s very fond of you,” he said, hedging his words. “And most of the women she’s known are always masked…” You watched as he struggled to string the words together. Eventually, he sighed and spit it out. “Mesh’la is beautiful.”

You smiled in spite of yourself.

“Too bad her dad wants her back,” you gave him a wink. “Otherwise, I’d keep her.”

“I have a contact in Nevarro,” he said. “Layari’s father is meeting us there. He’ll also probably have more work for me but I know I need to get you to Dantooine…”

“I’m not in a hurry,” you said quickly, glancing over to him. “Feel free to do a job or two first. I… It’s fine. I don’t mind.”

He gave you a stiff nod before going to the cockpit.

Nevarro was different than other places you’d been. Maybe closest to Tatooine, a certain lawlessness to it that felt vibrant but threatening. You kept close to the girl, letting her run but not letting her out of your sight. The dress you’d chosen was nondescript but had enough pocket room in the skirts to stash your blaster and your knife. You might have been tired of killing but that wouldn’t stop you from taking the hand of anyone who touched Layari.

Mando reminded you of the rebellion soldiers you used to travel with as you walked through town. His head never just looked straight ahead, instead scanning the city, always on guard. But you made it to his contact without incident, Layari happy to just have more room to run and jump than she had in her cell or on the ship.

“Mando!” A large, broad man - though not quite as large as the Mandalorian - met you in the street, his arms wide. You instinctively tucked Layari behind you as she ran past, holding her there. You looked the man over. He was older than you - the Mandalorian, too, you thought - and seemed like the type who was out for himself and no-one else. “How’ve you been? Busy, I hope.”

“Busy enough,” Mando said. His voice was friendly, enough that he didn’t entirely distrust this man. You loosened your grip on Layari.

“Who have we here?” He asked, turning his attention you. You gave him a small, polite smile and offered him your hand when he reached for you. He took it, kissing the back of it while holding your gaze.

“Just cargo he picked up a few quarries back,” you said.

“Greef Karga. A man who got out of the game too soon if there’s cargo like you around,” he smiled, releasing your hand. Layari peeked around from behind your skirt, her fingers twisting in the fabric. He smiled and got down to her level. “And here’s the little one I’ve heard so much about! I’ve got your father inside, would you like to see him?”

You looked down just in time to catch her nodding quickly. You took her hand. The man looked up to you and the Mandalorian.

“Come on in Mando,” he said. “I believe we have other business.”

Mando kept an eye on Karga as you went inside, putting himself between the man and yourself. You kept Layari’s hand in yours all the way inside. In an office at the back of the building was a man in armor like Mando’s. For some reason, it hadn’t occurred to you before now that you wouldn’t know what to call the Mandalorian when there was more than one of them in the room. He seemed so singular you’d almost forgotten that Mando wasn’t his actual name. The two men greeted each other before Layari almost tore from your grasp and ran for her father.

“Buir!” She yelled, jumping for him before he’d had a chance to even open his arms for her. She just trusted that he would catch her. And she was right. He caught her and pulled her into his chest, clutching her to him. He almost fell to his knees he was holding her so tight, whispering things you didn’t understand in Mando’a. It was almost too intimate to watch, it felt intrusive. So you pretended to look out a nearby window, absently toying with a stand of your hair. Karga slid alongside you, putting his hand on the small of your back. You fought the urge to stiffen.

“Why don’t we leave them to get reacquainted,” he said, gesturing you to another room. You followed, door closing behind you, leaving the pleasant sound of Mando’a behind. Karga pulled out a chair for you at a table.

“Tea?” He asked.

“Please,” you replied, taking the seat. He pushed it in for you and made you both a cup of tea before sitting across from you.

“So,” he said, taking a sip and sitting back in his chair. You straightened, chin up. You knew posturing when you saw it. “I heard Mando had help getting the girl.”

“Seems like a hard thing to do alone,” you shrugged, taking a sip of tea.

“Heard it was a young woman,” he said, eyeing you. You set the cup in front of you. You wondered how close a contact this was for the Mandalorian. If he was a threat, you’d have to hurt him. Hopefully that wouldn’t hurt the only way you had off this planet, too. After you were silent for a moment, he shrugged. “Been working with Mando for a while. He usually works alone.”

“Wouldn’t know,” you said, taking another sip of tea. It was good. “I’ve only seen him handle a few quarries and even then, I stay on the ship. Just cargo.”

“Not this time you weren’t,” he replied, leaning in close now. “So tell me, cargo. What skills do you have that made our mutual friend come to you for help?”

You leaned forward, your arms on the table so your face was just inches from his.

“People skills,” you smiled. He barked a laugh before sitting back in his seat again.

“He is lacking there,” he laughed, looking you over again. “I could see how you may not be, if you’re not trying to freeze someone out. What’s your name?”

You considered him for a moment as you took another sip of tea.

“Amira,” you replied.

“Amira,” he repeated. He didn’t question it. Not as insightful as the Mandalorian, then. “Tell me, Amira. Are you looking for work?”

“Not at the moment,” you replied, though you weren’t entirely sure that was true. You were going to meet your mother’s cousin on Dantooine. You weren’t sure what you’d do after that, but you’d need to lie low for a bit. “I’m not planning to settle anywhere near here.”

“What if you weren’t planning to settle at all,” he said, twisting the tea cup in his hands. “Don’t get me wrong, I’m thrilled to have people with Mando’s skillset on the books but I have plenty of jobs that require a… lighter touch. Someone like you could make a very comfortable living. I could front you a ship, get you started…”

“Have me indebted to you in both credits and favor,” you quirked a brow at him. He laughed again.

“You don’t miss a trick, do you?” He said.

“I wouldn’t have lived through what I have if I did,” you shrugged. You considered him for a moment. “Mr. Karga…”

“Greef, please,” he said. You smiled. Just the response you were hoping for.

“Greef,” you said, leaning forward again. “I’m curious, answer something for me. Are you interested in the skills you heard a woman connected to the Mandalorian has or are you interested in a way to manipulate him?”

“Oh, you I like,” he said, giving you a half smile. He took a sip of his tea. “Honestly? Bit of both. He doesn’t… work well with others. But he always gets the job done, so what do I care? Anyone he decided to partner with is intriguing. How did you navigate that… sticky situation?”

“Talking to the right people in the right ways,” you said.

“A valuable skill indeed,” he replied. “And even after hearing that, I hadn’t expected him to arrive with you. I’ve never seen him travel with someone who wasn’t a quarry or a mission…”

“I’m cargo,” you cut him off.

“We both know you’re more than that, Amira,” he crossed one leg over the other. “He could have just left you on the ship or told you to find something to keep you busy in town while we met. Instead, he brought you here. You’re intriguing for that reason alone.” He took another sip of his tea, finishing his cup before leaning across the table, leaving his face just inches from yours again. “I’m surprised he’s left us alone this long.”

As if on cue, the door opened with a hiss and the Mandalorian strode in, one hand on his blaster, going for Karga.

***

It had been so long since Din had seen another Mandalorian, he hadn’t even noticed when Karga had taken you from the room. It was disorienting when he realized that you weren’t there and even more so when he realized that he wasn’t sure when you’d left or where you’d gone.

At first, he was afraid that you’d gone out into the city on your own. Not that you couldn’t handle yourself - you obviously could - but what if something happened to you and he didn’t know? Finding you bleeding in his hold seemed to feel worse over time, not better. Your agonized screams, the frailness of your life seemed to haunt him. Not knowing where you were scared him.

“She’s in there,” his brother Mandalorian jerked his head toward a door. “I’m sure she’s fine.”

Din grunted but didn’t wait for him to elaborate.

Luckily, you hadn’t gone far. You were sitting with Karga, the two of you leaning over a small table like you were either adversaries or lovers, eyes locked and arms crossed. Your attention flitted to him for a moment and Karga smirked, smug.

“If you have dealings with me, you can take them up with me,” he said, gently grasping your shoulder and tugging you back in the chair so he could try to put himself between you and Karga. He felt your eyes on him. “She stays out of it.”

Karga looked at you, a small smile on his face before turning his attention to the Mandalorian.

“Just getting to know your associated a bit better,” he smiled. “Interested in understanding the woman who could capture the attention of Mando…”

“I’m just cargo,” you said. He could hear the eye-roll in your voice.

“She stays out of it,” he said, ignoring you both. His hand twitched toward his blaster and Karga noticed.

“She’ll only be involved if you involve her,” he sat back from the table, smiling. “At least, when she’s here with you. If she takes me up on an offer later then…”

“How’s Layari?” You cut in before the situation got any more tense.

“With her father,” Mando replied. “He’d like to meet you.”

“In that case,” you smiled graciously at Karga. “I appreciate the tea and the insight.”

“Always a pleasure to entertain good company,” he smiled, giving you a nod. You gave Din a look as you passed, your eyes never failing to find his beneath his visor. You brushed against his arm as you went by and it was like it shocked him, acutely aware of your proximity even through his flight suit. He watched you go, eyes lingering on the door even after it closed.

“I mean it, Karga,” he said, turning back to him. “She’s not on the table.”

“I never thought she was something I could buy, Mando,” he said, watching him closely. “But you can’t blame me for trying to talk her into joining the guild. She’d do well. She’s an adult, she deserves to make her own choices.”

Mando grunted.

“You owe me four quarries,” Karga said, sitting back in his seat as he changed the subject.

“I have two,” the Mandalorian replied. “We detoured to Coruscant before I could get the other two. I still have time.”

“I’ll take the two you have now,” he replied. “And see about extending the other two if you take on one more job for me.”

Behind the helmet, his eyes narrowed.

“What job?”

Karga smiled and Mando sighed. It’d be a long one, then.

When he went to find you, he’d gotten the job and two more pucks from Karga. The job he was torn on. It wasn’t really in his wheelhouse but it would take a while and it was one that you could come along for - that it would be useful for you to be along for. It would keep you closer for longer. But that isn’t why he’d agreed to it. Or, at least, wouldn’t admit that that’s why he’d agreed to it.

You were on the floor of Karga’s office, Layari on your lap when Mando came in. Joha, Layari’s father, stood in the corner, arms crossed, watching you and the girl. She was showing you something on a data pad, babbling away while you nodded along.

“She insisted… well, she just calls her beautiful, but… she insisted on showing her every image we have of home,” Joha said in Mando’a, voice low. “She wouldn’t leave without it. Your woman is kind, though, hasn’t acted bored once.”

“Not my woman,” Din grumbled.

“Whatever she is, I owe her my life,” Joha said. “You, too. Karga said you burned the place down and killed the man who took my girl. She’s safe because of you.”

Mando tried to not look surprised. You must have gone back in to set the blaze. “Before I burn this whole fucking place to the ground.” You’d actually done it, even thinking you’d have been left there to burn with it.

“If either of you ever need anything,” Joha continued. “You need only ask.”

He turned to Din and the gripped each other’s forearms in a firm shake.

“Layari,” Joha said, changing to Basic and turning to you and the girl. You both looked up from the data pad. “Come now. We need to go home.”

Layari looked at you and you smiled at her before she threw her arms around your neck, whispering something in your hear. You smiled wider.

“I’ll miss you too,” you said softly, adding something in Bothese and giving her a tight hug. The girl went to her father, who picked her up, gave Din a nod, and left. You watched them go, a sad smile on your face, before getting to your feet. You had a mask, too, Din had learned. It was a look of calm assurance, total confidence, quiet power. It slid into place, your back straight and chin held high.

“I’ve never been to Nevarro,” you said, sounding like the princess Din had first thought you were when you’d met. “Anything to write home about?”

“You’re not missing much,” Karga said, joining you. “Besides, Mando has some work to attend to that means leaving sooner rather than later. Work you’re welcome to join him on if…”

Mando’s hand went to his blaster.

“I’ll let him discuss that with you himself,” Karga said. He watched Din as he moved to stand in front of you, your back still straight, face still composed. “But my offer still stands if you change your mind on… settling down.”

“I’ll keep that in mind,” you replied, offering him your hand. He shook it this time before both of you went back out into the city, stopping to pick up rations and other supplies.

“It’s going to be quiet,” you said as you both made your way back to the Razor Crest.

“Won’t have to watch where I’m walking quite so much,” Mando said and you looked at him, a hint of surprise on your face.

“Was that a joke, Mando?” You asked, smiling a little. He shrugged and you elbowed him playfully in the side.

“Solmé?” Someone called. Mando only noticed your reaction because he was so preoccupied with everything you did. Your head almost turned, an automatic reaction to someone calling your name, and your stride stuttered ever so slightly. But you disguised it, adjusting your neck and staring straight ahead. “Solmé, is that you?”

Your pace increased a bit and Din started looking for the person calling for you, readying to put himself between the two of you. But it was just a young man, around your age, jogging over to you from across the market, smiling and waving to catch your attention as he ran up.

““Solmé!” He smiled even bigger, putting a hand on your shoulder. “I can’t believe it’s really you…”

“I’m sorry,” you said, trying to look confused. “But I don’t know who you’re talking about.”

You carefully removed yourself from his grip and walked off. Din followed closely, but so did the other man.

“No,” he said, catching up and walking beside you. “I know it’s you, Solmé. I can’t believe you’re alive! We all thought you were dead, we found Dagres’ body and you were nowhere, we all just assumed…”

“I’m not who you’re looking for,” you cut him off. The man looked to Din, his eyebrows knitting together. He lowered his voice.

“Is this guy bothering you?” He asked. “Is he forcing you to be here? Because if he is…”

“No one is forcing me to be anywhere,” you said, keeping your voice low. “And I don’t know who you’re talking about, I’m not who you seem to think I am I just have one of those faces…”

“No,” he shook his head, taking you by the shoulders. “I know it’s you, Solmé, I’d know you anywhere. We looked for you, after the battle. Dagres asked me to look out for you if anything happened to him but no one could find you and so many bodies were torn apart we lost hope…”

You spotted an alley and grabbed him by the arm, dragging him into the shadows. The Mandalorian moved with you, a hand at his blaster, ready to fire.

“Teav,” you said quickly.

“I knew it was you,” he pulled you into a tight hug, crushing you to his body. “I never thought I’d see you again, Solmé…”

“I’m sorry,” you said, voice thick. You hugged him back.

“Is this guy…” he glared at Din, whose blaster hand twitched. “I’ll get you out…”

“No,” you said, stepping back from him. “No, he’s helping me, we’re just passing through here.”

“Let me take you home,” he said, but you shook your head.

“I can’t go home, Teav,” you said quietly.

“Yes you can,” he searched your face, like he was looking for a joke. “C’mon. With your connections? You can always come home…”

“Not safely,” you said quietly. “Not for me or anyone who knew me then. Including you and Sosha. You know some of the things I did, what that would mean for people who still know me. You have to let me go, Teav. You thought Solmé was dead because she is. She can never go back.”

“He asked me to take care of you,” he touched your shoulder gently. “And I told him I would.”

“I never needed to be taken care of,” you shook your head and gave him a half smile. “Not then and not now.”

“I know,” he nodded. “That’s why he asked me to do it. Because he wasn’t sure anyone else ever would. He wanted something good for you and I can’t…”

“It will be good,” you reached your hand to his neck and pulled his forehead to your own. “It will. The war is over, we can leave it behind. It just will take more work for me than it will for you. But it will be good.”

He closed his eyes and nodded.

“Tell no one you saw me, Teav,” you said softly. “No one. Solmé is dead and she has to stay dead. It’s what’s best for everyone.”

“But…”

“Sosha knows,” you said. He seemed taken aback. “I’m sorry if she lied to you, but you can’t tell her. No one can know where I am now, it’s not safe.”

“How could she have just let you leave?” He asked, shaking his head.

“It’s best for everyone,” you said. “I promise.”

He sighed heavily before pulling you into a hug. You waited for a moment and hugged him back.

“I’m so sorry, Solmé,” he said softly.

“Me too,” you said. He gave you a squeeze and then stepped back, giving another look at the Mandalorian.

“You’re sure you’re OK with him?” He asked.

“Teav,” you smiled and laughed a little. “Do you really think one man could get me to do anything I didn’t want? Even that one?”

He laughed.

“Suppose you’re right.”

“I don’t need you to take care of me,” you said. “Even if Dagres asked you to. But… It’s nice. Knowing that he asked, that he cared.”

“He loved you,” he said. You closed your eyes and nodded. “And Solmé? It was worth it for him. I promise you, it was.

“It was good to see you,” he said. “Even if no one can know.”

The two of you shared a hug and he left, you watching the place he’d been in front of you well after he had disappeared. Eventually, you turned to Din.

“What are the chances Karga had us followed and heard any of that?” You asked. Your mask was in place, no sign of the encounter at all. “I can’t afford to have a man like Karga know that… Solmé is alive.”

“We weren’t followed,” Din said. He tried to think of the right thing to say to you but couldn’t find it. You finally looked at him, your eyes finding his immediately.

“Let’s get off this rock,” you said, turning and heading for the ship.

You were silent until the Mandalorian started the jump, with you almost tearing out of the cockpit the second you could. He made sure everything was running smoothly before he followed you.

You weren’t in one of your hiding places this time. Instead, you’d pulled out the whiskey from the night before, sitting with your back against a crate, looking up at the ceiling with your eyes closed.

“Whiskey?” You tilted the bottle in his direction, not looking at him.

“Sure.”

He took the bottle, turning away from you and raising his helmet just enough to take a drink. He left the seal of the helmet off before sitting beside you, close enough that your leg touched his.

“Heard you burned the place down,” he said after a moment, handing you the liquor.

“Mm,” you said, looking at him, your head resting against the crate. “Seemed like the best way to keep them from trying that again for a while. That and killing enough of them.”

“That’s why you went back.”

You just took another drink. You didn’t need to respond. He knew the answer. The two of you sat in silence for a few minutes, passing the whiskey back and forth.

“I can help you,” he said eventually. “I can protect you from whatever - whoever - it is you’re running from. I can help. But I need to know.”

“I don’t need you to protect me,” you said, twisting the whiskey bottle in your fingers, watching the liquid slip around the glass before you sighed and looked at him. “But you deserve to know. I’m a risk - an even bigger one now that someone’s recognized me. I don’t think it will get back to anyone looking for me but I didn’t think I’d run into someone from my old life in a small town on a planet I’d never been to, either, so what do I know?”

“I can help,” he said again. He meant it. Even more, he wanted to help. Wanted to give you what you needed so you could rest, find some of the happiness he’d seen you capable of the two days Layari had been aboard.

You looked at him, the uncanny ability you had to find his eyes and hold his gaze on display again. It felt like you were looking right through him, past the helmet and armor and skin. You sighed, your gaze turning pleading, like you were begging for him to let you maintain the illusion. He didn’t give in, and you started at the beginning.

#fanfic #mandalorian fanfic #din djarin #enemies to friends to lovers #slow burn #the mandalorian #the mandalorian x f!reader #the mandalorian x female reader #the mandalorian x reader

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angelsparkls · 1 year

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all my favorite fics that no one asked for:

* = my absolute favorites

multiple ship fics:

All in the Cards (series)* - (haikyuu) MY FAVORITE FIC OF ALL TIME! although lengthy it is such a good read and has a lot of popular ships! the au is such a cool concept and the plot and characters are thought out so well it’s amazing and should definitely check it out

The Crystal Miracles - (kuroko no basket) based off steven universe but coming from someone who has never watched steven universe the fic was not super dependent on it and was just based around the plot of steven universe (apparently i talked about with my friend who actually watched steven universe) i thought it was cool so definitely recommend! also a bit lengthy but worth it

friends, worlds apart - (haikyuu) it’s mainly bokuaka but there’s other ships so i decided to put this fic here. tbh i don’t remember it too well but i do know it well enough to know that it was really good! it’s a pretty long hogwarts au fic and is based off basic plot points from harry potter but it’s not too similar imo so overall a good read!

Haikyuu:

Death Threats & Wine Bottles - (semishira) domestic semishira. that’s all. it’s cute. there’s nothing to not like about it.

Saltwater Room - (kuroken) i think i read this because of a recommendation and man it was funny. i enjoyed all the fun little bits of kenma and hinata just being friends but also the more serious angsty parts and having the whole conflict with kuroo and kenma’s dream. *sigh* it’s good but lengthy. worth it in my opinion but i like long fics so maybe not your cup of tea

When I Fall In Love - (semishira) i can’t really remember this fic since i read it a long time ago but i do remember liking it! the band au/pianist au concept was cool seeing it with semishira and they are so supportive of each other after they get over their annoyance! it’s not as long as the other long fics i’ve recommended but definitely give it a shot!

Cover My Thoughts In Gold - (bokuaka) some classic soulmate au because they are soulmates so why not have a fic that has them be confirmed soulmates

True Ending - (kuroken) marriage proposal in the best and cutest way possible and one that perfectly fits them 🥺

Cat’s Out of the Bag - (kuroken) it’s just some cute little scenes of kenma as a shapeshifter and kuroo not knowing. it’s quick but so so cute how they interact

Maybe, Probably - (sakuatsu) cute hogwarts au of slytherin atsumu and ravenclaw sakusa. yeah that’s basically it

Rose Gold - (semishira) ROYALTY AU SEMISHIRA AAAAAAA definitely one of my favorite considering that I actually never see a royalty au centered around them

Vibrant - (semishira) im a sucker for soulmate aus but this soulmate au especially was such a cute concept!

A Musical World Thanks To You - (semishira) soulmate au fic but you can hear songs that your soulmate is listening to! it really is such a good concept with semi asking shirabu to be in the talent show with him and perform a song and yk yk big build up to the moment hehe

Dog visits - (kyouhaba) the classic “oh he’s different than i thought what do i do now” and yahaba being soft with kyoutani’s dog is everything and kyoutani not knowing how to deal with yahaba barging into his life 😍

be my honeybee - (kyouhaba) tw: implied/referenced child ab/se if you aren’t comfortable with that please don’t read <3 but it is a good fic and addresses real issues especially with kyoutani not really having anyone to help him until yahaba came around. it’s a bit long and made me cry a little so that’s why it’s good

Curiosity killed the cat, but satisfaction brought it back - (kyouhaba) everyone has superpower abilities!! i always love aus like this so it’s not a surprise it’s one of my favorites. it also touches on mental health in the form of kyoutani doing too much for people when he doesn’t need to and always sacrificing himself for others even when it makes him unhappy. it’s so good tho if you ever decide to read it because it is a bit long

rewrite the stars - (kuroken) arranged marriage au where kenma and kageyama are going to get married but by the end they realize that they are marrying the wrong people and its so cute seeing kenma come to that realization

Kuroko No Basket:

The Frog in the Well - (midotaka) it has been a while since i read this fic but i do remember laughing about this and just thinking it was overall cute especially with the whole aspect of being a loose retelling of “The Frog-King” and i know two other people who also read this and thought it was cute so there’s that

The Witch in the Tower - (murahimu) this is from the same series and author as the previous knb fic i recommended because this fic is also based around a fairy tale and i found this really cute because they are kinda domestic in this fic since there’s just an adopted child in a tower… anyway

Feels Like Winning - (murahimu) just some soulmate au for them because murasakibara not knowing how to deal with feelings <3

Only with You - (kikasa) a cute fic for this surprisingly underrated ship! it’s not too long but encompasses these idiots’ relationship in this fic perfectly

Claws and paws - (murahimu) this shapeshifter au is so cute because like height difference 😍 and also the whole idea of like himuro being this tiny cat compared for murasakibara is funny to me. it’s kind of long but i enjoyed it!

Other Fandoms:

Boy Problems - (mirio togata x tamaki amajiki) an OG for me it’s actually one of my first bookmarks and it’s a cute little oneshot that reminds me how oblivious and stupid these idiots are

the blind leading the blind - (childe x zhongli) it’s not really focused on relationship but it really touches on the betrayal that childe feels after realizing that zhongli gave his gnosis to signora behind his back and i think this fic is so very cool for creating that scenario and executed it perfectly!

kintsugi - (teru minamoto x akane aoi) oh lord. oh god. this fic actually kinda broke me. it’s a very bittersweet fic that makes me go OMG YAY and then oh oh oh oh /neg but it does end happily. at what cost tho. it’s so so so good tho definitely recommend. a little lengthy but not too bad

Look At Me Like That - (momotarou mikoshiba x aiichirou nitori) THIS FIC SUMS UP THIS SHIP PERFECTLY! ITS SO GOOD! like the whole thingg of ai having unrequited feelings for rin but is now in love with this idiot momo is exactly how i see their relationship and having that tied up in this one fic.

#fanfic recommendation #haikyuu!!#kuroken #bokuaka #semishira #sakuatsu #kyouhaba #kuroko no basket #midotaka #murahimu #kikasa #miritama #zhongchi #terukane #momoai #original posts

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king-paimon · 2 months

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Houseki no Kuni Chapter 106 Thoughts: Bon Voyage...

Hello all. I hope these last few months have been kind to you in some way. These months have been... a lot. Some very good things happened, and some very bad. I wish we lived in a world were tragedies were just fiction, but that sadly isn't the case. I won't elaborate, but I promise, I'm okay. I just hope 2024 improves, though I know for many others, just hoping isn't enough.

I'm sorry for this late post. Once again, real life had me so distracted that I honestly forgot about Houseki no Kuni's chapter coming out this month. I only remembered when I saw activity around my older HnK posts.

Well, I finished reading the chapter and it was very beautiful and sad in different ways. I'll share more of my thoughts, though I don't think it'll be as long or detailed as my previous ones to be honest... Though I could be wrong! We'll see how it fairs. And who knows? Maybe I'll make another post to dissect this chapter further. But for now, I'll just write whatever comes to mind and try to make it as coherent as possible. I hope you like it. And as always, please feel free to share your own thoughts!

Here we go!

Thunderous Spectacle: The Final Journey

Once again, Ms. Haruko Ichikawa decided to flex her art skills by making beautiful, bombastic illustrations that encapsulates the chaos that is happening on Earth. And the ship departing looks straight out of a sci-fi movie; my mind went to Star Trek when I first saw those pages. Maybe Dune would be more appropriate; I actually don't know, I haven't read or watched Dune, though I hear it's very good.

I wish I had more to say about the visuals for this chapter, but I think they speak for themselves. I will say though...It's moments like this when I marvel... this was originally about a silly gem child trying to find their place in the world. And this is how their journey is finally coming to an end. Almost nothing is recognizable. This certainly was not how I thought this story, or specifically Phos' story, was going to unfold. I wonder if this was Haruko Ichikawa's plan from the beginning? Who can say...

Speaking of plans... Let's talk about Phos's and Eyeball's conversation.

Manipulation or Consideration: Humanity's Parting "Gift"

That was an interesting conversation Eyeball and Phos had when they were finishing up putting the little pebbles onto the ship. I think I remember stating in the last post how I thought it was odd that the Lunarians had this ship prepared for Phos. I'm glad this was somewhat addressed, but the conversation reveals that there was more behind this literal Deus ex Machina ship.

(I will never stop calling it that)

So if I'm understanding Eyeball's logic, Adamant and the Lunarians were considering Phos in the end? That after Phos fulfilled their last duties to the remnants of humanity that they'd be given the chance to leave the planet with whatever species came about before the planet died- Oh. Wait.

Wait.

Was this the thing that Adamant and Aechmea were alluding to back in chapter 96???

Oh my goodness, I think it was.

As I was typing this and going over some of the saved pages I had from the previous chapters, I saw the one with Euclase and I suddenly remembered their weird conversation with Adamant and Aechmea. I also remembered wondering what the heck they meant in the later chapters since their plan for Phos seemed to only be self serving.

HUH.

( Please let me know if I'm way off! For all I know, I could be making stuff up, but oh my goodness, when I made that connection AAaahh)

This was not how this portion was originally going to go, but there you go. I was going to talk about how twisted but not surprising how calculated everything was from the the Lunarians and the other ruminants of humanity's end. And I was also going to mention how the Doctor also fit into this since she was also calculated and manipulative in her own ways. Despite the different forms it takes, humanity didn't seem to change much in this world...

I was also going to originally say that the Deus ex machina ship feels like a backhanded "gift" for Phos, especially after everything that happened to them. And though I still feel that way, after thinking back to chapter 96, I'm now starting to see Phos's perspective of this gift. That despite everything that they put them through, Phos's former families still left this parting gift for them so they could live on elsewhere after they are long gone and when Phos was free from their duties. It's still a backhanded gift in my opinion, but it showed that they cared... at least a bit.

And the fact that their plan also included Eyeball is just wow. I do not blame his small, comedic outburst for that realization. He was manipulated too from the getgo!

At least in the end, Phos chose not to go into the ship. Phos intended to burn that bridge. Even though this thought was implanted by Sensei, Adamant, and the Lunarians, Phos still made that choice on their own and they are owning it. It's bittersweet, though, because regardless of whether or not they stayed or went, Phos's decisions were still a result of them being manipulated one way or another. Pretty much a lose-lose kind of situation, but at least the choice that Phos chose in the end still aligned with what they wanted in they end.

They are giving Eyeball and the little pebbles a chance for a fresh start while Phos can finally end the cycle... By taking humanity and himself to bitter end...

Or does he?

Goodnight, Phosphophyllite

The final farewell between Phos and Eyeball was touching. In a last minute decision to give Phos closure and in an act of true salvation, Eyeball took the last piece of Phos with him. The true remaining piece of Phosphophyllite. To me, this action felt more earnest and heartwarming than the Deus Ex Machina Ship (but that's just me).

What will happen with that piece of Phosphophyllite? Who knows? Maybe that piece will gain sentience and live a peaceful life with the pebbles? A life free of all the constraints as well as the freedoms that was intentionally and unintentionally reinforced within societies created by the former remnants of humanity? I suppose we'll have to wait and see.

As for the Phos that was left behind? The Phos that we've watch evolve from the beginning to end? They will finally rest.

They will finally, and truly be free.

(Albeit in a seemingly not so pleasant way?? Well, they weren't complaining so maybe the lava and other harsh elements isn't hurting them. I hope that's the case.)

I had the feeling that this chapter will be the last time we see Phos, or at least this version of Phos, and it would be a sad but proper send off.

But after seeing THIS at the end, I'm not so sure:

Of course Haruko Ichikawa decides to be cheeky with that little note. Ma'am. Why did you say this???

Is this her roundabout way of saying that Phos is kind of back to square 1? Of being the lonely, jobless Phos who no longer has a purpose and is left with nothing to do but "think." That's pretty funny/messed up joke if that's what she's hinting at.

But again, we'll have to wait and see.

WELP. That's all I have for you all. I hope you enjoyed my ramblings and I'd love to hear what you thought about this chapter. We're nearly at the end of this saga. We're are almost there...

Please be worth it.

#houseki no kuni #land of the lustrous #hnk #lotl #hnk spoiler #hnk spoilers #hnk manga #lotl spoilers #hnk meta #hnk phos #personal thoughts #hnk chapter 106 #hnk chapter 96 #hnk analysis #story analysis #long post #meta post

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partyanimal167 · 1 year

Note

Hi! I heard you wanted ideas to write for Law!

I have one! Terribly specific hope thats ok!

How about something along the line of a extreme fluff ? Like Reader helps to nurse the crew back to health after loosing the ship and perhaps during a separation moment ( reader stays behind to fight the marines or something? Up to you!) And then at some point the following exchange happens:

Reader: " its not goodbye, I still want to see the submarine again! "

Law, being carried away by Bepo: " I ... I will find you! I will get you back!"

Reader:" I will be back, for as long as you want me to!"

Maybe a few tears here and there?

Thanks! Hope this helps!

Hi! I appreciate your request. I'm not the best at fluffly moments, but I will try my best. Thank you so much for the details. I'll see what I can do~

See You Later- Law x GN!Reader

CW: fluff, soft moments, comfort, non-graphic action

I'lll be right back okay! Just keep going ahead!

Law would say he was confident in his ability to keep adapting as situations called for it. You have to be when dealing with the Strawhats, of course. However losing your ship, getting ambushed by Marines, and knowing your lover is fighting can cloud one's mind.

It really wasn't supposed to go this way. In a rare spur of luck, the Marines were able to track down the Polar Tang when the crew needed to restock, and the news didn't travel fast enough. Law made the ambitious call to the guys on watch to go out to sea while the rest would wait it out and call for escape when appropriate.

Everyone had been running around with their respective mini groups trying to hide in the shadows and find ways to not draw attention. Things were going well for the first two days, but then more naval reinforcements came. The group was meeting in an abandoned warehouse when the ambush occured.

You wiped a bit of blood from the corner of your lip before putting up your fists again. You scanned the building again--ready for more opponents.

"Captain! I think we're safe for now." Bepo announced aloud.

The group seemed to collectively let out a breath as they saw either knocked out soldiers on the ground or a few retreat in a haste.

Law sheathed his sword. "We need to be cautious. There's no telling when-," the man then sunk onto a knee before going into a coughing fit.

You looked over at him before gasping at the sight of blood on his shirt. "Law, your wound is reopening. We need to get you back to the ship."

Though a knowledgeable doctor, Law was still a stubborn man. He wouldn't leave without being certain that everything would be okay. "I'm fine. We just need to find a new place to hide, and-"

"There's no need to find a place to hide. We need to escape before more Marines come. We're near their base. We'll be safer at sea." you argued.

"But there's no way we're all going to make it out right now. There's too many of us." Law groaned. There was a more reasonable solution, but he wasn't going to consider it.

You, however, weren't going to allow things to drag on. You shook your head. "Some of us can stay while you go on ahead. There's enough of us to hold off our enemies while the others escape to safety."

"I'm not leaving you. As captain, I"

"As a nonmember of the Heart Pirates, I do not care what their captain has to say." you rebutted sternly. It had been one of the things you two talked about in the past. There was always the possibility of a conflict of interest with you onboard. With your life as a outlaw before joining, you knew what to expect. Yet, you couldn't let go of all your freedoms. You didn't really need a reason to bring it up before, but Law needed a reminder. You were not an underling who needed protecting. Moreso, you were looking out even for his greater good.

"Bepo," you stated while giving a strong look.

He seemed to understand what you meant and saluted. "Aye!" he paused and looked at Law, "Sorry Captain!" Law was thrown over the shoulder of his friend which shocked him before arguing.

"Wait! No! Y/n, I'm not leaving you. I'll-," Bepo started running away while a few other members followed.

You smiled gently and waved. "This isn't goodbye at all. I'll see the Tang again."

"I... I will find you! I will get you back! All of you!"

"I'll be back, for as long as you want me to!" You beamed before running out the warehouse in the opposite direction along with Shachi and the others. "Let's keep Law and the crew safe for now."

~~~

You quietly hummed a tune while wringing out a towel. You dampened it fresh hot water before placing it on your patient's forehead.

"...I'm still mad at you."

You chuckled. "I'm sure you are." you continued to redress Law's bandages. "Too bad though, I get to play nurse."

"You shouldn't have done something so reckless."

"I think you forget which one of us had a bigger bounty when we met." you teased.

"I can't lose you." you paused after hearing that confession.

It had been a stressful couple days for Law after separating from you. His group was able to get back on the Tang, but by the time they tried to reach for you, your lot was already engaged in another battle. It took awhile and periods of no communication before it was safe for you to steal a boat and meet the crew out at sea. Law was quick to get the submarine to surface and you all onboard. You were safe with minimal injuries, but it seems you underestimated how much Law worried.

You caressed his cheek and smiled. "That stress is going to put you in a grave before any battle will." you paused and sighed. "You can't get rid of me so easily, Law."

The man scoffed before closing his eyes and enjoying your touch. "You're too stubborn to give up." he joked weakly.

You chuckled, "Precisely why you love me." You then kissed his cheek. "I love you too. I won't let anything go between us."

~~~

Thank you for requesting! I liked how this turned out--simple and sweet. Please share your thoughts. I appreciate you reading this

#one piece #one piece x reader #trafalgar law #law x reader #fluff #comfort #gn reader #mine #request #anon #stewie writes #partyanimal167

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charliedawn · 3 months

Text

Defective Good

Part 2

Three days after the destruction of Hosnian Prime, JR-6025 still couldn’t get over the massacre she had witnessed…It made her sick. There hadn’t even been a scream. In the flash of an instant, they had all disappeared. She made her way to one of the space alcoves on the ship, where she knew nobody would come looking for her and she looked up at the stars. Hosnian Prime was gone. A missing piece of this blue immensity. She looked far ahead at the immensity of the universe and tried to imagine her life on each planet.

On one, she was a farmer living a pastural life surrounded by whatever animals the planet offered. She had seen some of the farmers on the green lands of Gazeia.

On another, she was an elegant lady of high society with a glass of champagne in her hand—like some of the First Order allies. She always admired their elegance and beauty.

Or, she simply imagined a life where she was free. She wondered…what it would feel like. She then let out a wishful sigh—not expecting anyone to hear her. However, she felt his presence before he even uttered a word. JR-6025 looked up to find the General standing there and stared at him for a moment in surprise before looking away promptly. She wouldn't be accused of staring too long at the man who had just killed billions of people without the blink of an eye...

"My apologies, General. I thought I was alone." She then stood up and bowed her head in respectful acknowledgement. "I will leave right now."

"At ease." He scoffed before entering the alcove and looking around curiously. "What are you doing in here, trooper ?"

...Thinking about treason.

"I came here for some quiet time." She replied instead. "I have already fulfilled my morning duties so...I thought l'd come here. But, I can leave if I am bothering you ?"

General Hux looked up to see what she was staring at and saw nothing but the vast emptiness of space. He frowned before shaking his head.

"No. You can stay." He replied and JR-6025 had no choice but to stay put. They stayed in perfect silent for a while until he broke it. "I can imagine why you’d come here. It is indeed quiet. A nice change of pace from my usual run-ins with Lord Kylo Ren. It gets especially frenetic and loud around him. I had to leave my own office due to him throwing a fit earlier."

Her eyes widened at his words and wondered if Kylo Ren had once more threatened the General’s life. But, General Hux didn’t seem that concerned. JR-6026 looked back at the big see-through panel before them in order to focus on anything else than the General's presence. She knew she shouldn't worry or even be concerned about a superior, but she couldn't help it. Kylo Ren would one day go too far and kill General Hux if it continued on. She then thought about Lord Kylo Ren and his many mood swings. If only the man had a space to unleash his anger fully…Maybe, it would create a safer work environment for everyone working on the ship ? She breathed in deeply. She was a stormtrooper and many of her colleagues had already suffered through his rough temper…

"Hypothetically speaking, I would recommend Kylo Ren to have a room to himself so he may release his tension without affecting others." As soon as the words left her mouth, she regretted them. Who was she to offer advice to the General ?! She looked away promptly and tried not to imagine the General's response to her impertinence. But he didn't seem to mind and actually considered her idea. He rubbed his forefinger against his chin in thought.

"Not a bad idea, actually." He admitted after a moment and then pondered some more. It wasn’t such a bad idea—but it was getting Ren to agree to use such a room that would prove a challenge. He could ask Supreme Leader Snoke. He would surely agree after the victory General Hux gave the First Order.

JR-6025's eyes snapped in surprise. She had imagined he would have shot her down for even suggesting it and drag her body to the compactor already...She coughed a little before nodding in agreement.

"Right."

General Hux smiled before looking up at the stars from one of the sky-view windows of the Starkiller base. And at some point, JR-6025 caught herself admiring the man's profile. She had never seen him so close before, and she had never seen anyone like him either...She had seen many different faces, but none could compete with General Hux's. Somehow, she could see the pain carved within his mind. His red hair the only proof of the bleeding wounds he had yet to close...the ones who kept him going. Neither of them moved or attempted to break the moment. They stayed perfectly still until he took the decision to speak up again.

"Tell me, soldier...Is there something in particular you are looking for up there ?"

She was surprised by the question at first, but then smiled enigmatically under her helmet before replying.

"...Aren't we all, General ? I imagine my own perfect life out there. How about you ? What do you see ?"

He looked up at the billions of stars stretching far beyond what his human eyes could possibly perceive...What did he see ?

"I see a world that will one day bend to my will. A galaxy where no being shall rise against me and no world shall offer shelter to the enemy." He replied truthfully and her eyes widened. She was thankful for the helmet covering her face—for it might have given away her true thoughts about his...plan. For a few minutes, she had succeeded in forgetting of the man's true role within the First Order. But, she was quickly brought back to reality.

General Hux was the First Order. He was its leader and its very essence was engraved in his heart. But for just a moment, she tried to imagine him as something else…someone else.

She saw the path that could have been—but never would be.

It saddened her.

General Hux took a deep breath before turning his eyes back towards her—his eyes seemed to read right through her as he asked. "How does that compare to the world you see, soldier ?"

She hesitated on whether or not she should answer. This was General Hux after all. The youngest General in the First Order and capable of detecting the faintest lie within seconds. She gulped at the thought alone. On the one hand, she was perfectly aware that if she shared her true feelings with General Hux, she would surely end up floating aimlessly into space. On the other hand, she had no choice but to answer. He had so openly confessed his goals to her, and she didn't want to sound in any kind judgmental as to his...aspirations.

"It is...quite ambitious. But, worthy of a general of your rank." She looked up at him and thought of the world she was imagining. She was ashamed to admit to herself that she didn't want the First Order in that future she saw. She did want order and peace but, once the First Order would gain control over everything...she would try to retire as soon as possible. Or, she would die before seeing the end of it. "I believe that in my own perfect world, everyone would have what they want."

In my perfect world, I would just live. She almost added, but didn’t. General Hux smiled to himself while listening to her and seemed satisfied with her response.

"A remarkable dream, soldier. I would almost call it noble." He smiled in mild amusement as he gazed down at her. "So, you would see the First Order winning ?"

She nodded in agreement.

"Yes, sir. I believe in a world without..." She was about to say fear—but realised that the First Order WAS fear. "…without disorder."

The word tasted bitter in her mouth. General Hux hummed to himself before stroking his chin pensively.

"Your vision doesn't sound all that different from mine. I too would like an end to fear and conflict. I seek a world where all are treated equally. That being said, some would call my methods extreme, would you ?" He asked with his eyes drifting back towards her—testing her. His eyes staring straight at her—ready to call her out on any negative comment she might make as to his…questionable methods.

She wanted to tell him that if he wanted to govern a galaxy, he'd better make sure the galaxy still exists for him to rule over it...but she didn't. She could smell the fly trap from here and immediately gave him the answer any good stormtrooper would.

"I do not know, sir. I am still just a soldier. I do not have an opinion as to your methods—nor am I allowed to question your judgment." She looked up at him and tried to sound nonchalant as she added. "As long as they serve the First Order."

He seemed rather disappointed by her answer, but she knew it was only because he was expecting some kind of traitor's answer. But, she didn't want to end up in a cell—or dead. She was being cautious, and General Hux could only admire her dedication. Even though, he insisted and even moved to block her path as she attempted to leave.

"You are allowed to have an opinion, soldier. In fact, I encourage it. If you have any remarks or comments to make on my methods, now is your chance to voice them. I won't get offended."

She almost scoffed. He spoke honey, but she could taste the poison hidden underneath. She wouldn't be caught and sentenced to death just because she couldn't shut her mouth...

"I have nothing to say." She replied shortly and firmly. She then looked warily at him—judging his reaction closely. Everyone knew Hux to be very opposed to any kind of criticism. Had she indirectly signed her death warrant ?

He narrowed his eyes suspiciously at her—but didn’t insist.

"Very well then. You may leave. Thank you for this very…enlightening conversation." He stepped aside to let her pass. She nodded in acknowledgement before taking a step forward towards the exit—her thumb rubbing circles on her inner wrist.

"Oh, soldier. One more thing before you go." She stopped dead in her tracks to look back at him and General Hux then told her with a thin-lipped smile. "I would like for us to speak again. Soon."

She was taken aback for a second before nodding shortly. "Yes, sir."

He nodded back courtly before turning back around to look up at the stars. She left.

——————————————————————

A few hours later in Supreme Leader Snoke’s office:

"Very well done, General." Supreme Leader Snoke praised him upon his arrival. Armitage bowed his head—restraining a proud grin. He had worked hard to get the Starkiller base operational sooner than planned. He knew that his efforts would come baring fruits after all the time and money spent...Seeing Kylo Ren so quiet beside him left him with a sweet aftertaste to his overall victory.

"Long live the First Order." General Hux greeted and Snoke nodded in acknowledgment.

"At ease, General Hux. I am most impressed by your recent accomplishment. I have hence decided to grant you a wish."

A wish ?

"It has been brought to my attention by one of my soldiers that we have suffered through a drastic loss in troops and equipment due to Lord Kylo Ren’s angry outbursts." General Hux thought about it before a smug smile drew on his lips. General Hux bowed slightly before glancing at Lord Kylo Ren and JR-6025’s words came back to him. General Hux would prefer that Ren be thrown out or his ship, but he knew that he couldn’t ask that to Supreme Leader Snoke. So, he asked for the next best thing. He then concluded. "Hence I would like to ask that multiple rooms be set for Lord Kylo Ren to...express his rage. And that he used that room for relief instead of turning this ship into a wreck. As to not damage the equipment—or any foreseeable valuable property of the First Order."

Kylo Ren froze as he heard his words and slowly turned his head towards General Hux at the outrageous request—internally seething with rage at the nerve the General was displaying by such a ridiculous suggestion. Supreme Leader Snoke himself seemed surprised by his request—especially from the General who had never seemed to care about making any such a request before. All General Hux had ever asked for when given rewards usually involved himself and additional power. But this…

"I see...Well, I shall grant you your wish, General Hux. Dismissed."

Kylo Ren was even more outraged as Snoke seemed to actually entertain the idea. The sith was about to protest, but one look from Supreme Leader Snoke and he was rendered silent. General Hux turned around to leave—a victorious smile gracing his features on his way out...knowing he had just reduced Kylo Ren's image to a toddler with no self control. He didn't think Snoke would actually agree, but it seemed by his reaction that he had been rather impressed by the suggestion.

He stepped out and smiled to himself.

The way Kylo Ren had tensed beside him when Supreme Leader Snoke had agreed had brought General Hux more joy than the destruction of Hosnian Prime. He looked back at the door when Kylo Ren was still surely being scolded by Supreme Leader Snoke and chuckled before walking away...

He then decided to send an invitation to JR-6025 to join him in his office. Once he reached his quarters, he waited for JR-6025. He didn’t have to wait for very long.

She knocked at the door and General Hux invited her to come in.

"JR-6025. I...have asked you to come to thank you personally for your advice. And to tell you that the Supreme Leader was highly pleased by your idea concerning Kylo Ren."

She seemed surprised—but nodded nonetheless.

"I am glad my idea helped you. Truly."

General Hux was stunned for a moment before he smirked and nodded. She really was a stormtrooper. She wasn't even upset by the fact that he had presented her ideas as his. She seemed genuinely glad. But, he did want her to be rewarded for her minor service.

"Tell me, JR-6025. Do you truly not wish for anything ? As a general, I could improve your life significantly. Any particular request ?"

JR-6025 thought about it for a moment before shaking her head negatively.

"No, sir. I only wish for the First Order's success." She then pondered for a moment before adding for good measure. "And yours..."

General Hux seemed taken aback by her words and smiled before sitting down in front of her.

"Don't you have anything you truly desire, trooper ?" He asked—curious now. He had already dealt with stormtroopers who had asked him for things before...Money, better accommodations, promotions...He found it hard to believe she wouldn't ask for anything.

Or, was it a trap ? Was she waiting for the opportunity to tell Supreme Leader Snoke, or take his place ? He smiled. Right. It would make sense. He would have a weakness to exploit. She would be the same as him...

However, he was unaware of her own inner turmoil.

JR-6025 couldn't possibly tell the General about her dreams...or the wish to fly away, leave the First Order and discover the stars. She wanted to escape the war.

But, she knew it was impossible.

"Whatever could help the First Order win, sir." She answered instead dutifully and he nodded understandingly. He seemed a bit disappointed by her answer, but JR-6025 knew it was only because he had hoped to have some type of leverage on her—to manipulate her. She actually admired his ingenious mind and his conversation wasn’t unpleasant either.

In another universe, maybe would have they even been friends ? She stood up and waited for him to dismiss her. But, she then hesitated before finally whispering.

"The sun."

He barely managed to catch her say those two little words and glanced up at her.

"Did you say something, soldier ?"

She immediately regretted speaking up and General Hux’s eyebrow raised in curiosity. He was offering her the chance to be honest with him. And she wanted to. But, she only shook her head and shrugged.

"No. Nothing, sir."

It wasn't important...

"Hm." He seemed to ponder for a moment before he decided to step forward towards her, standing close with his hands clasped behind his back.

He leant in towards her, as if he was speaking with someone he had come to trust.

"You may speak freely to me."

JR-6025 felt this urge to open her mouth and tell him the truth.

That she didn't believe in the First Order.

That she only wished for the peace and quiet they promised.

That she was only a child when she was found and trained to become a stormtrooper...

But instead, she answered as truthfully as she could without sounding like a complete traitor.

"My thoughts are irrelevant."

She was trying to put as much distance between the two of them and shut her emotions off. She wouldn't let the General—out of every commander on the Starkiller base—know of her most inner thoughts. So far, they had only exchanged a few useless pieces of information without going into the details. And she did wish she could trust him, but she couldn't—not the person who almost led the entire First Order army.

His next words surprised her however.

"If you do not try to share your thoughts, how will you know ?" He raised a quizzical eyebrow at her, his expression suggesting he wouldn't give up easily. She smiled weakly and tried to hide the fact that she was shaking. She opened her mouth to tell him a lie—but realized she couldn't.

"I wish to catch the sun." She finally confessed. It was odd to think that Kylo Ren could use the force to read her mind, but General Hux didn't need the force to get the truth out of her. It was almost shameful how easily he had pulled it out of her. He tilted his head quizzically at her response.

"Is that a metaphor, soldier ? Or do you really wish to catch the sun ?" He took a step back and his expression turned to mild amusement. "Because if that is the case, I am in the regret to inform you that it is not possible. Even if you could somehow land there without being burnt alive, you would have no way of returning to your ship. I wouldn't want to let a valuable soldier like yourself die in such a foolish, unnecessary way."

"It is a metaphor, sir." She confirmed and smiled. "As for its meaning ? I am not quite sure yet."

"I see…Why do you like stars so much then ?" General Hux asked and JR-6025 seemed to think about it before shrugging.

"I suppose some may have grown tired of the sight of the stars but...I haven't. They are the map of the universe." His expression softened slightly as he thought about it. It was a rather nice vision of the stars...It was true General Hux hadn't really taken the time to look at them before. Their beauty had become almost absurd to him. He had become immune to it. He had fought on many stars, destroyed them and he was well aware that they held no magic. He remembered the many nights at the Academy when he had wished for the stars to give him a good father.

The stars had remained silent.

JR-6025 looked at General Hux and for some reason, her heart felt heavy. How much did one have to sacrifice to climb as high as he had ? What was the price to remain on top ?

JR-6025 remained silent.

She remembered when a few months earlier the news of FN-2187 escaping had spread. General Hux had been dragged through the mud because of it. Actually, the whole company had. Maybe was it the reason Supreme Leader Snoke had let Lord Ren’s actions go unnoticed and unpunished for so long ? She then wondered what would be General Hux’s reaction be if she was to tell him the truth ? If she confessed that she was happy that a stormtrooper had escaped. She had smiled inwardly at the news of FN-2187's escape on the day where it was confirmed, but she had also felt sorrow at the news of his participation to the Resistance's efforts. He had had the choice the walk away, but he had decided to stay and fight with their enemy.

Didn't he understand that blood spilled on both sides ? Didn’t FN-2187 understand that staying would only make the First Order even more enraged ? Fuel the flames of war ? She shook her head before letting out a long sigh. She still hoped he was going to be alright...

"You're right, soldier. So many stars to conquer." General Hux put a hand to his chin as he stared up at the starry ceiling and tried to remember the last time he had truly enjoyed the sight of the stars. Unbeknownst to him that JR-6025 was pitying him. General Hux hadn’t surely been born with the hatred and battlelust she was now seeing. He hadn’t been born the First Order. But, he had grown up to become the First Order. She had to constantly remind herself of that fact. She had to constantly remind herself to be careful and cautious about her words and actions. She couldn’t allow herself to become a traitor in his eyes. As she knew better than anyone how traitors ended. She would be executed before long. But, she would also become another failure in General Hux’s eyes. Another soldier he failed to recognise as a failure in the system…

And that thought—for some reason—didn’t suit well with her.

"I wish to bring glory to the First Order. Even though I am rather uncertain as to the probability of that ever happening." JR-6025 said after a while—even though it was the furthest from the truth. She wanted to get away from the First Order. But, she didn’t have FN-2187’s courage. So, she would keep pretending and believing that days would get better…

"Do you really think so ?" General Hux replied before looking at the stormtrooper. "My dreams were once considered impossible too. But here, I am. At the head of the most powerful army in the galaxy."

His expression became a little softer as he looked at her. He seemed to be considering his next words carefully.

"Perhaps your dreams are less impossible than you think."

She smiled and nodded. Even though, she knew that there was no humanity left in General Hux. His face cracked into a thin smile as he offered her his hand. And she wanted to believe that he wasn’t just the monster—another victim of the First Order.

"…That world you see ahead…" General Hux said and faced her fully. "…Am I a part of it ?"

Her eyes widened at the unexpected question.

She didn’t want to lie to him.

But, how could she do otherwise ?

He offered her his hand—his dark glove a stark contrast against her white one. She stared at his hand before replying—making sure her voice wasn’t shaking.

"Of course, General Hux."

She let her hand linger a few seconds longer than necessary...his hand felt warm and almost burnt her through the gloves separating them. It was as burning hot as his eyes that she could feel drilling holes into her skull. He finally let go of her hand, and it was his time to watch her walk away—a smile still on his face. But, his smile seemed fake.

She didn't realise at that moment, but General Hux felt her hand shake uncontrollably in his. He could feel her lie through that brief moment. He understood perfectly of her true thoughts concerning the First Order and what she was referring to when talking about the sun. He had spent years separating the true First Order believers from the fake. And even though, the fact that she had so openly admitted it was almost laughable.

But, it was General Hux's decision to either report her, or make use of that information. So far, she had been useful and somehow complying. And she was afraid. The fear in her would keep her in line—or so he thought. He dismissed her and she quickly left.

The hand he had used to shake hers balled into a fist as he realised...She was defective. And now, her fate rested in the palm of his hand. He looked at it and smirked ominously. He clasped his hands behind his back once more and looked up at the stars...

If JR-6025 thought she could live in a world without the First Order ? Without him ? Then, she was highly mistaken.

He would gain her trust. He would use her. He would make her believe in this world she saw.

One way or another, they would both get there.

And once there, he would DESTROY her.

Because there was no future within the First Order for mistakes or defective goods.

#fandoms #imagine #fanfic #star wars #general hux #kylo ren

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