#front yard décor

[lisbeth-kk]

December moments

It's finally December and the first chapter is ready for you. The prompts I used were peppermint - holiday décor - snowflake. This is what to expect today:

Not many people know how sweet Sherlock can be. The one who knows this most of all, is John, who quite often is at the receiving end of this sweetness. Like this very moment for instance. If you’ll accompany me to a certain flat in London, I’ll show you.

December 1

John is browsing the internet in search of festive holiday décor for the Yard’s Christmas party the following weekend. He chuckles. There really are some hideous things out there. 

Sherlock appears in the doorway, beckoning John to make room on the coffee table. In his hands is a tray filled with two mugs and a plate of chocolate biscuits. John places his laptop under his chair and clears the table in front of the sofa. The aromas from the goods Sherlock’s brought, are divine and John rubs his hands in anticipation. 

“I can’t believe you sometimes,” John murmurs and pulls Sherlock in for a kiss once he’s placed the tray on the table. 

“Mm. I guess I have my moments,” Sherlock retorts against John’s lips. 

The cocoa in the mugs is rich and sinful with a large amount of whipped cream on top, drizzled with cinnamon. Earlier that day, Mrs. Hudson had brought them the chocolate biscuits which are scented with peppermint. Another sinful treat. 

Now and again the two men lean in to kiss whipped cream off each other’s upper lips. It’s a blissful moment and when the season’s first snowflake lands on the window, it’s almost too much. Almost. 

Read it on AO3

@totallysilvergirl @keirgreeneyes @calaisreno @phoenix27884 @a-victorian-girl @safedistancefrombeingsmart @gregorovitchworld @topsyturvy-turtely @helloliriels @peanitbear @raina-at

#Christmas ficlet prompts #sherlock fandom #johnlock #sherlock #john watson #sherlock fanfic #bbc sherlock #ao3 fanfic #respite in december #December 1

[nelliesfics]

October in The Bunker (Dean Winchester x reader)

WARNINGS: none, this is pure, unadulterated, spooky-themed fluff. no pronouns used for reader. written with self-indulgent, romantic intent, but can be read as platonic. 400 words. A/N: hii friends! this is my first ever fanfic/one-shot and I'm really nervous about posting it lol. I've always said that I would never write fics because I feel like I have no idea how humans interact (lmao), but I need a creative outlet and I'm currently trapped in my bed with an injury, so I figured this was the perfect time to give it a shot. prompt is from this list!

"Oh, honey! I'm home!" you beamed, entering the bunker with arms full of bags. "I thought you just went out for bread," Dean responded, brows furrowed. You carefully placed the bags on the table in the center of the room, a huge grin sprawling across your face. "I did, but I may have gotten a bit sidetracked," you said as you pulled a purple Jack-O-Lantern out of one of the bags. "I wanted to decorate the bunker for Halloween. Make it feel more… homey, I guess." Dean mirrored your grin. He loves Halloween. Sam never understood it - he always says that it's no different than your everyday life. Dean was happy to finally have someone else who shared his love for the holiday, and with it being the first holiday in the bunker, you wanted to go all out. Dean excitedly started going through the bags of décor you had placed on the table. There were pumpkins, skeletons, candles, fairy lights, the whole nine yards in an array of different colors. He held up one of the neon pink skeletons you'd purchased, sporting a somewhat disgusted look. "What's this?" he inquired. "A skeleton," you stated plainly. "No, the color. Pink isn't a Halloween color!" "Who said that?" you protested. "I said that!" he retorted. "Well," you laughed, "I'm the one who bought the decorations, and I say it is a Halloween color!" Accepting his defeat, Dean continued sorting through the bags, pulling out each individual item and placing them on the table. Once he was finished, you asked him to hang the fairy lights on the railings as you placed the tabletop decorations around the other living areas. You even bought Sam his own Jack-O-Lantern for his room, despite the fact that he's not a fan of the holiday. You made your way back to the front of the bunker and were greeted with beautiful, sparkling lights in orange and purple with interwoven spider-webs. "How did I do?" Dean asked proudly from the top of the stairs. You couldn't contain your joy, squealing "It's perfect, Dean! Thanks for helping me!" He made his way back down the stairs and engulfed you in a hug. "No problem, sweetheart. But you know Sam is gonna kill you when he gets back, right?" he chuckled. "Eh," you responded, still wrapped in his warm embrace, "he's outvoted, anyway. 2 to 1, baby."

#I made a fun gif for this but tumblr won't let me post it :( sad #desktop has changed so much since I was last making elaborate posts lol idk what I'm doing anymore #and why is everything on the side instead of on top how do I fix that #anywho! #dean winchester #dean winchester fanfic #dean winchester fluff #dean winchester x reader #dean winchester one shot #dean winchester imagine #supernatural #reader insert #self insert #spn

[novacorpsrecruit]

You and Me (In the Center of the Apocalypse)

[stuck in the upside down AU, read on ao3]

“Parents suck, man,” Eddie exhaled.

“I bet they don’t even know we’re missing,” Steve mumbled. He moved forward, changing his demeanor as he knelt in front of the couch, looking expectantly at Eddie. “Let me take a look at your bandages. You soak through them?”

“I think I’m fine,” Eddie said, letting Steve pull back the blanket to eye the bandages. “Steve, you really should clean yours.”

“I’m fine, Eddie,” Steve said. “We need to save resources for you —“

“If you die on me because you get an infection, it’s gonna be fucking ironic,” Eddie said. “Look. Two trailers down, there’s gonna be like a shit ton of pink flamingoes outside. That’s Ms. Maggie’s house. She’s a nurse. She’s gonna have a shit ton of supplies there.”

“Eddie —“

“Two houses down,” Eddie said. “You’ll step on the porch and see it. Take Wayne’s gun.”

Steve snapped his head to look at Eddie. “Wayne has a gun?”

“Two. There’s a shotgun and a pistol,” Eddie said, lifting his chin gently to point. “Behind the TV stand.”

“Eddie, I can’t leave you—“

“I swear to God, Steve, if you die, I die!” Eddie gritted through his teeth. He sighed, closing his eyes as he leaned back into couch. He soften his voice, his harsh words barely louder than a whisper. “If you die, I die.”

And for a while, he couldn’t hear Steve. As if he turned into stone in the living room. Maybe Eddie was too harsh. Maybe he should apologize. Eddie went to open his mouth before he heard a rustle of clothing and heavy footsteps. Eddie opened an eye, cautiously watching as Steve approached the TV stand to find Wayne’s shotgun. He opened the barrel, ensuring it was loaded. “Just two houses down?”

Eddie nodded. “Flamingoes lining the yard.”

Steve nodded, standing in the doorway hesitating. He looked out towards the Upside Down before turning back to Eddie. “Do you got a spare key around here?”

“What?”

“A key,” Steve said. “Can I lock you in?”

“To keep me safe?” Eddie said with a soft laugh. “Stevie the bats came through the vents. A locked door isn’t going to keep them out.”

Steve nodded, pressing his lips together. He took a step towards the TV stand and retrieved the pistol. Steve nearly shoved it into Eddie’s hand, holding Eddie’s hand around the grip. “I’ll be quick. Do not fall asleep.”

“Got it, big boy.” Eddie deepened his voice, as if he was a horror film narrator. “Whatever you do, don’t fall asleep.”

Steve glared at him.

Eddie playfully winced. “Too on the nose?”

“A little,” Steve said, stepping back and towards the door. “Tell me that joke next week when we can rent Elm Street back home and maybe I’ll laugh.”

“Back home,” Eddie mumbled, resting the gun in his hand across his stomach. “Yeah. Got it. Go on, big boy. I’ll protect the castle.”

Steve pressed his lips together once more before nodding and taking off. He was so scared of leaving Eddie. He hated stepping too far into the kitchen, Eddie barely out of sight when he boiled the water. He was scared that at any moment, Eddie’s body would give up and let go. Steve could do CPR, but he didn’t have the power and the resources to keep him alive. There were no doctors or nurses in the Upside Down. Just him, Eddie, and the monsters that inhabit it.

Steve cautiously made his way over to Maggie’s trailer, gun in hand, aimed cautiously. It was too quiet in the Upside Down, the storm finally passed, but the dark clouds still loomed above. Like Eddie said, pink flamingoes lined the entrance to Maggie’s trailer. He slowly approached the door, hesitating before shoving his shoulder into the door, breaking the door and entering into the trailer.

He aimed the gun up, fully expecting something waiting to tear him apart, but was met with black vines and more flamingo décor. He mumbled to himself as he carefully stepped over the vines, and towards the bathroom. His first instinct told him to check every room to ensure it was clear before he started to search for the first aid kits. But he didn’t have time. He couldn’t, knowing Eddie was waiting on him. He set the gun down as he dug through the bathroom cabinets, finding a decent selection of bandages, topical antibiotic creams, and medication. He pulled out one of the plastic totes that held the majority of the supplies and piled the rest on. Steve wondered about getting a second container together, but if they need more, they could come back. By then, Eddie should be feeling good enough to go with Steve.

Or maybe the party would be able to retrieve them. He guessed that’s the good part about waiting near the gate. They will know as soon as they’re able to break through.

Steve picked up the supplies and his gun and went into Maggie’s kitchen, digging through her cabinets to find anything that had a strong shelf-life and required little to no prep. He piled as much as he could into her stock pot before taking the short journey back to the Munson Trailer, gun in one hand, and supplies carefully balanced in the other.

The quiet of the Upside Down made Steve’s steps sound so loud. The awful silence was welcomed, maybe the monsters died with Vecna. Steve and Eddie had nothing to worry about. All they needed to do was survive until the party comes back for them.

With the supplies balanced on one hand, he shifted the gun in his hand, holding it by the barrel as he pulled the door open —

BANG!

Steve collapsed to the floor, dropping the shotgun and the supplies. The shot still ringing through his ears. His hand immediately went to his cheek. He removed it, blood coated his fingers.

Eddie shot him.

[continue reading on ao3]

Current WC: 14,565 * Chpt 2/5(?) * Mind the tags

#steddie #steve Harrington #Eddie Munson #stranger things #steddie fic

[somediyprojects]

DIY Duvet Cover

Project by Brett Bara:

I don’t know about you, but I never cease to be shocked at the price of bedding. And nothing sets off my “I could make that myself so much cheaper and better” instincts like duvet covers. It’s just a big flat case of fabric, yet even the simplest options easily soar into the three digits—but all it takes to make your own is a bunch of fabric, a few straight seams, and a spare afternoon.

Not only will going DIY with your duvet cover save you some cash, it’ll also allow you to custom-make exactly what you are looking for. What’s better than that? Let’s go! –Brett Bara

What You’ll Need

Approximately 10 yards fabric (see below to calculate exact amount; I suggest buying extra just in case)

Yard stick, long quilter’s ruler or tape measure

Sharp scissors

Straight pins

Sewing machine

Iron and ironing board

Selecting and Preparing Fabric

I recommend machine-washable cottons or cotton-linen blends for duvet covers. Quilting shops are a great place to look for fabrics, as there are tons of choices there for cottons in tiny prints, large prints, solids and everything in between.

Here I’m working with Denise Schmidt Hope Valley Piney Woods from Free Spirit Fabrics.

Be sure to wash, dry and iron your fabric before beginning to pre-shrink it.

Fabric Tips

*If you find yourself head over heels for designer bedding, check to see if you can buy two flat sheets from the line, and use these to sew your own duvet cover. This can be much less expensive than buying the duvet cover itself, and sometimes the manufacturer uses the very same fabric for the sheets as for the duvets, so you’re really working with the exact same material.

*Consider using a different fabric for the front and back of the duvet so that the piece is reversible—two looks for the price of one, and a special bonus for the décor commitment-phobes among us.

Planning and Cutting

There aren’t strict standards for bedding sizes in the US (comforter sizes tend to vary among manufacturers), so I recommend measuring the comforter you plan to cover and using those numbers to plan your duvet cover.

Since fabric generally isn’t sold in widths wide enough for a full duvet, you’ll need to seam a few panels of fabric together to make the front and back. I suggest placing one full panel down the center of the duvet with two smaller panels to each side of it; this is generally nicer-looking than making one seam down the middle of the duvet.

NOTE: Remember that you should trim off the selvedge edges of your fabric (these are the finished edges on both sides of the fabric which are a little different in texture and/or color from the rest of the fabric) before sewing. Remember to subtract the selvedge edge from any measurements as you plan your piece.

Measure the width of your fabric without selvedge; plan to place one full panel of fabric down the center of the duvet and two smaller panels to each side of it. Simply make the side panels as large as they need to be to reach the desired width of your duvet cover, adding 1” to the width of each panel to allow for seam allowance.

So, if your center panel needs to be 40” wide and each side panel needs to be 20” wide, cut the panels 41” wide and 21” wide. Those extra inches will be consumed by the seams.

The length of your duvet is simply the desired finished length plus 2 ½” for hem and seam allowance.

*Remember that you need a front and a back, so plan all your measurements and double them to calculate the total amount of fabric you’ll need.

Here’s what your panels will look like when they’re ready to go.  (Note: I’m making a mini duvet here to make it easier to see the big picture of shape and construction.)

Sewing: French Seams

To begin, you’ll sew each side panel to its corresponding center panel, to make the front and back of the cover.

For a really nice professional-looking finished result, I recommend using French seams in this project. These seams are finished on both the inside and outside, so that no raw edges of fabric will be visible anywhere.

French seams may sound fancy, but they’re really easy! Here’s how:

Place two pieces of fabric WRONG SIDES TOGETHER. (This is the opposite of normal; usually you sew most seams right sides together.)

Sew the seam with a ¼” seam allowance.

Trim away about ½ of the seam allowance, being careful not to get too close to the stitches.

Iron the seam to one side, then fold at the seam so that right sides of the fabric are facing together, and iron the seam closed.

Pin the seam closed to avoid shifting, and sew it again with a ¼” seam allowance. Iron this seam to one side, and your French seam is done.

From the outside it looks like a regular seam, but on the inside all you see is this nice finished flap. Nice, right?!

For a nice finishing touch, you can top stitch to tack down the flap. All you do is top stitch on the right side of the duvet alongside the French seam, stitching over the folded-over flap in the back.

Iron the seam once again after top stitching to smooth and relax it.

Repeat for all center/side panels so that you have a complete front and back.

Attaching the Front and Back Together

Place the front and back together with wrong sides facing, pinning each side seam in place. Sew each side with French seams as described above (but skip the top-stitching for the sides).  After sewing the sides, sew the top closed with a french seam as well.

The inside of the duvet is now fully finished, with no raw edges visible at all. Isn’t that nice? Here is what the corners will look like on the inside.

To hem the bottom of the duvet, fold 1” of fabric to the inside and press. Fold up another 1” and press again; pin folds in place.

Stitch hem close to the exterior fold line and again close to the interior fold line.

Getting Closure

You have many options for closing up the bottom of the duvet (in each of these cases, I suggest placing a button/snap/ribbon about every 8” along the bottom):

*Buttons and buttonholes: easy to do with the buttonhole attachment that comes with most sewing machines.

*Sew-on snaps: very easy to sew on by hand, and quick to snap/unsnap when you change the duvet.

*Snap fastener kit: All you need is a hammer and the special tool that comes in this set to attach snaps without sewing for a very professional-looking result. (Check the instructions on the package.)

*Ribbon or twill tape: even easier to install. I suggest tucking 10” lengths of ribbon or tape under the folds of the hem before sewing it.

*Zippers: long zippers can be purchased online; you might consider a zipper closure along the bottom, using the same zipper-installation method as the zippered pillow cover.

That’s all there is to it! Don’t you feel so wonderfully nice and cozy with your new handmade duvet cover?!

#diy #crafts #home decor #x

[riddle-me-ri]

Jonathan Crane/Scarecrow x Reader - Haunted Past, Haunting the Present

What happens when on an ordinary Halloween night with your beloved rogue…an old possessive and aggressive flame comes back to haunt you and your new partner?

A/N: so believe it or not this idea is based on an old original Halloween story I’ve been working on and off with for the past three years rip, and I decided to try and do this one shot with just Scarecrow cause it’s his holiday lol and I wanted to practice writing for him more. This is still just my general version for now, a strange concoction of BTAS and Happy Halloween Scooby Doo! cause I adore those two. And I do have a drawing with him planned out, but not sure if I’ll have the energy to finish it in time for Halloween rip

HAPPY HALLOWEEN! Have fun but PLEASE stay safe while doing so!!

Trigger Warnings: mentions of an abusive past relationship, stalking, violence, and some language. Please if any of this may seem slightly triggering to you, please avoid! I do plan to write an alternative less triggering version of this story soon! Just hang tight!

Word Count: 2.0 k

Needless to say Halloween was you and Jonathan's holiday. Most couples went all out on Valentine's Day or Christmas, but not you two. 

Your house was filled with hay bales, fake cobwebs, various jack-o-lanterns all over, and skeletons on the front porch swing. 

The whole nine yards. 

You still giggled at the little almost life sized scarecrow figure you found that stood at the bottom of your doorsteps. It took a minute for Jonathan to roll his eyes back into his eye sockets, but you could tell he grew fond of it, eventually. 

Every night you two cuddled up and watched horror movies. You never got enough of Jonathan's smartass commentary, or how he'd go out of his way to be the one to scare you next. 

The following days, the two of you tried to restrain yourselves from adding more décor both inside and outside your home. As hard as it was at first, Jonathan found it easier to not pull any Scarecrow like antics when he found himself genuinely enjoying the festivities with you.  

As thrilling as it was to watch and test others' fears and tolerances against it…it didn't compare to the warm swelling in his chest when he heard you laugh or squeal whenever he spooked you around the house. 

While he's Fear Incarnate, you love and trust him enough to cling to him when you are at your most frightened. 

Much like tonight. 

It was finally Halloween night. 

You were dressed up and handing candy out to the kids. Meanwhile, Jonathan was mirroring his scarecrow twin on the other side of the steps. Every now and then he'd jump out and scare a group of kids, or he would tap a child on the shoulder and return back to his post like nothing happened. 

It was hard to keep a straight face whenever he heard you giggle or when you cheered him on. 

"Good job, Jonny!"

"Damn, Jonny, you scared me and I knew you were there!"

"I think you're having too much fun there, Mr. Crane." 

Jonathan bloomed with pride. This night couldn't get any better. 

It didn't. 

As the number of children started to dwindle, Jonathan decided it was time to pack up the suit for tonight. He hopped off his post but not before regarding his other partner in crime. 

"Good work tonight, my friend." He patted the hay stuffed shoulder of the fake scarecrow before heading inside. 

When he first walked in he headed toward the left where the kitchen was. He removed his hat and mask and took a refreshing breath of air. 

"Gotcha!" You jumped out and wrapped your arms around Jonathan's waist. He may deny it all he wants but you felt that sharp intake of breath he took. 

Jonathan did jump a little bit from the shock, but he immediately relaxed into your embrace, chuckling. "Seems you finally got me." 

You squeezed him with your arms. "I've always got you, but I will scare you properly one of these days! Mark my words, Jonathan Crane!" You kissed his cheek before releasing him from your arms. 

"Where are you going?" Jonathan watched as you headed outside. 

"I forgot to grab the mail." You were already out of your costume and in a Gotham University hoodie of Jonathan's and some sweatpants. 

"Darling, it's really late. I'm sure that can wait…"

"Jonny, I'll be fine." You assured. "Besides, I need you to hop in the shower…" You hummed. 

"Um, why?" He quirked his eyebrow. 

"So I can come in and join you." You winked at him, before turning the doorknob to head outside. 

Jonathan nearly tripped going up the flight of stairs as fast as possible to the bathroom.

~~~~~~~~

You were snickering to yourself as you were pretty sure Jon missed a step or two running up the stairs. 

The night was still, the fog had gotten denser. If not for the decorations and littered candy wrappers all over. You wouldn't think it was Halloween. 

You shivered, the hairs on the back of your neck stood up. It was quiet, the whistle of a soft breeze being all you heard. 

You made it to your mailbox at the other side of the sidewalk and found yourself quickly shuffling the envelopes into your arm. The squeak of the old rusted metal door to your mailbox seemed to echo down to the end of the street. 

When your feet pressed down on the wood of your footsteps you felt much safer. 

Until you felt a rough hand land on your shoulder. You knew it wasn't Jonny's, this hand was cold and calloused. 

You jumped out of your skin, falling on the steps. and dropped all the envelopes to the ground. 

"Whoa, whoa, take it easy it's just me, baby.."

"What the fuck are you doing here?!" 

You couldn't tell if you were frightened or enraged. How? What? When? Why? 

What the hell is your ex partner doing here? 

"Hey, is that anyway to treat your significant other? You really thought you got away, huh?" They asked. They held their hand out for you to take. 

"Get the fuck away from me! We're not together anymore!" 

"Aww, that's cute, that's real cute, baby. But it's okay, there's no hard feelings." They reached out and grabbed your wrist and started pulling you towards them. 

"LET GO OF ME! LET GO!" You immediately went into fight mode as you scratched and yanked your hand away from theirs and scrambled to the door. 

You could hear their feet stomping up the steps behind you. You slammed the door shut, quickly trying to lock up the door with all the locks. 

It didn't take long for your ex to start beating down the door. Calling you out, cursing you out, threatening you. 

"JONATHAN!" You began running up the stairs and headed to the bathroom. 

"Y/N? Darling, what's wrong?" Jonathan was already running down the stairs and met you halfway. He was wearing a plain shirt and boxers, he had yet to get into the shower, waiting for you.

"I-It..I-I don't even know HOW b-but…"

All his years of studying and being enthralled by the fear in people's eyes. 

He loathed this. 

He didn't ever want to see that level of fear in your eyes. He didn't want to see you quivering, whimpering, crying. 

"Y/N…Y/N, darling breathe please…please breathe. You're okay. I'm here, you're safe, sweetheart." He began walking you the rest of the way up the stairs and to your bedroom. 

"I-it's my ex…I-I don't even know how they found me…Jonathan I'm so sorry.."

"Is. Is this the ex you told me about? Who hurt you?" He asked sternly, as he set you down on the edge of the bed. 

All you could muster was a nod. "I-Im so sorry, Jon I have no idea how-"

"This isn't your fault, darl-" 

CRACK

You screamed and Jonathan's blood ran cold. A medium sized rock had been thrown through your bedroom window. 

"J-jonathan…I-I'm scared."

Jon's eyes widened. Any other time someone told him that he'd be grinning with pride, elated to achieve this terror. 

Now that it wasn't him causing it, but it was happening from an outside factor towards someone he cared more than anyone or anything in the world. 

Jonathan saw red. 

"I know, my love." He held you in his arms, rubbing his hands up and down your back. He kissed your cheek and your forehead. "Stay here, lock the door behind me. And no matter what you hear, stay here. Understand?" 

"B-but Jonathan…"

"I would say call the police but I don't trust the GCPD as far as I can throw them." 

"Jonathan, w-what are you going to do?" 

Jonathan looked over his shoulder at you as he opened the door to leave your shared bedroom. You were still shaking in the fetal position on the bed. 

"I'm going to show them true terror." 

~~~~~

"Y/N!!! Don't make me throw another damn rock! You can't hide from me forever!" You ex hollered to the new hole in your bedroom window.

"Come on, you stupid bitch! How long did you think you could stay away from me?! You can't fucking live without me!" 

"I beg to differ…"

"Hey whoa!" They jumped back and looked behind them. They started chuckling. 

"Really? You're gonna try and scare me, Y/N? Please, I thought you were more mature than that." 

They opened their mouth to say some more degrading things, but the words were caught in his throat. Almost quite literally by the scythe to their throat. 

"Trust me…you know nothing about true fear…" The Scarecrow growled into your ex partner's ear. 

"Hey, hey, who the hell are you? Cut this shit out, man! This ain't got nothin' to do with you!" 

Scarecrow brought the blade closer to their skin. "Oh, but it does…and as to my identity…" 

Scarecrow swiped his other hand up to the other side of the ex partner's neck and injected them with his signature fear elixir straight into their jugular. 

"I'm your worst nightmare…" 

~~~~~~

You were pacing back and forth upstairs. Constantly looking through the hole in your window, but due to the fog you barely made out the two figures outside your home. You couldn't tell who made it out, but you were hoping Jon was okay. 

You had no doubt Jon took on his Scarecrow persona to encounter your ex, and you couldn't deny the satisfaction it brought. Knowing that your ex was finally feeling the fear they instilled in you for so long all that time ago. 

Some time had passed, almost an hour or two, the fog had cleared some but you didn't see either your ex or Jon outside. Just when you were about to head outside…

You heard the door to the bedroom open. 

To anyone else if they saw a tall lanky scarecrow with a burlap mask in their room they would be screeching in fright. 

For you, though, you immediately ran into his arms, letting out tears of relief. 

"You're okay, I'm so glad you're okay…" You sniffled, as you rubbed your face into his chest. 

"Of course I am, my love. Why wouldn't I be? Surely you didn't doubt me?" Jon teased as he slipped the mask off and tossed it to the floor. 

"No, no I just…I tried to look, but I couldn't see what was going on…" You explained. "A-and you were both gone." 

Jon shushed you softly, he began rubbing your back like he did before. Squeezing and holding you tight. "I'm here now, it's okay, they're gone…" 

For a second you think to ask him where he took them, but you didn't want to know. If Jon said they're gone, then they're gone.

Good riddance. 

"Thank you, Jonny…" You whispered. 

"Anything for you, my love." He kissed the crown of your head.

You squeezed your arms back around him, not wanting to let him go. Sensing this, Jon lifted you up off your feet. You let out a fit of squeals and giggles as you cling to him for dear life. 

He lightly tossed you onto the bed, as you giggled and got comfortable under the quilt and sheets. Jonathan began slipping out of the rest of his costume. Going back to his plain shirt and boxer shorts. 

When he looked back to you, he couldn't help but chuckle as you reached out for him with adorable grabby hands. 

He pulled the covers back and as soon as his body made contact with the mattress you immediately entangled your limbs with his. 

You wrapped your arm around his abdomen and your legs wrapped around one of his long ones. "Took you long enough." You muttered, as you laid your head on his chest. 

Jonathan chuckled some more as he began placing his arms where they belonged around you. You resonated in his touch; warm and loving.

You propped your head up for a minute and stared into his soft brown eyes. You leaned in and gave him a sweet kiss on the lips

"I love you, my scarecrow…" You whispered almost breathlessly, you laid your head back down and started to doze off. 

Jon kissed the top of your head. "And I love you, my sweet raven."

#ahaha I liked this at 4 am this morning #now posting it..ahhh...kinda unsure #rip #hope you guys like it though! #jonathan crane x reader #the scarecrow x reader #dc the scarecrow x reader #ri writes #happy halloween!! #have fun and be safe #love you guyss

[theinternetisaweboflies]

Irony Poisoning Chapter 2 (Chapter 1)

It would have been easy to find the Addams family house even if it didn't stand out like a necrotic thumb. The gate opened for Enid, and she knew motion sensors had nothing to do with it.

The front yard was deceptively normal if a little overgrown. Most of the grounds seemed to sprawl out behind the estate, and from the glimpse Enid could see, most of that was graves.

The house itself was magnificent. It was Victorian or something like it, with arched windows that looked like gravestones themselves. Something that might have been an octopus was watching her from the widow's walk.

The doorbell made a sound like a foghorn which summoned someone who could only be Lurch. Enid barely came up to his elbow. He allowed her inside with a polite groan. She left her umbrella in a rack full of rapiers by the door.

The Entrance Hall was grand and packed with esoteric décor, most of it taxidermied. Enid tried not to let that freak her out too much.

Morticia and Gomez Addams were waiting to greet her, but Uncle Fester beat her to it.

"So you're the roommate who couldn't stand Wednesday's toxic personality, huh?" he asked.

"I built up an immunity," said Enid.

"A pleasure to meet you," said Mr. Addams, shaking her hand with both of his, even though one was enough to engulf it.

"You too, Mr. Addams."

"Gomez, please. We're not formal here. Just stiff!" He laughed at his own joke.

"Lurch, please take Enid's things to her room," said Morticia. "I'm sure you must be tired after your trip, my dear."

"I'm fine. Can I see Wednesday?"

"Oh, the energy of youth. Do you remember Gomez?"

"My love, how could I forget?" He kissed Morticia's hand, even though it was covered by her draping sleeve.

"Qui sème le vent, récolte la tempête."

"Oh, Tish, when you speak French..."

"Of course you can see her, my dear." It took Enid a moment to realize she was being addressed, because Gomez was still kissing his way up Morticia's arm. "Don't forget to wear a mask. We don't want you to get sick as well."

Without detaching her husband, Morticia gestured to a very… antique looking plague mask that was resting on one of the heads of a taxidermied tortoise. The other head was wearing a bonnet.

"Oh uh," said Enid. "Werewolves have pretty good immune systems."

"That explains it," said Uncle Fester.

"I think I'll be fine without protectio- I mean uh, a- that, but thank you, Mrs. Addams."

"Morticia, dear," she corrected gently. "As you wish. Second floor, fourth door from the right. You'll be across the hall, in Ophelia's old room. The one with the bars on the door. Dinner is at seven."

Enid made her way up the second floor. From what Wednesday and Thing (mostly Thing) had told her, the mansion contained: a living room, kitchen library, art gallery, dining room, ballroom, vaults (plural), hallways, tunnels, dungeons, ravines, bottomless pits, the "play" room, Uncle Fester's laboratory, Gomez's office, and Morticia's conservatory, in addition to the bathrooms, bedrooms and guest rooms.

She was eager to explore, but first she had to figure out exactly what Morticia meant by "under the weather." Wednesday hadn't complained after getting shot with an arrow.

Well, she had complained about literally everything else, like how Enid wouldn't let go of her, and the Sheriff kept asking repetitive questions. She hadn't complained about the arrow, or the pain, or the blood, or-

Enid took several deep breaths, making a "Shh" sound to slow down her exhalation, just like Ms. Thornhill had taught her.

Enid never would have thought Mrs. Thorn- Lauren Gates was a homicidal maniac. She looked just like everyone else. Enid used to meet her after class sometimes to discuss herbal supplements and mindfulness. She had seemed like such a nice person before she tried to kill Wednesday.

Sometimes Enid wished Eugene's bees had killed her.

"I can literally hear you breathing."

Even through the door, Wednesday sounded like her normal acerbic self, and Enid breathed easier. She knocked on the door as she pushed it open, even though that was as good an invitation as she was ever going to get from Wednesday.

Most of Wednesday's room was taken over by books, but there was also a row of dolls displayed on one of the bookshelves. Their heads were displayed on another one.

In one corner of the room was the famous steam-powered guillotine, although it looked as though it hadn't been used in a while, a cobweb caught between the blade and frame.

There was a desk, of course, and Wednesday's typewriter case, lid closed and fastened. Thing was on top of it, playing with Wednesday's new cell phone.

Wednesday was lying in a bed, but when she saw Enid, she jackknifed into a sitting position.

Enid gave a little wave and instantly regretted it. Only Thing waved back.

"What are you doing here?" Wednesday croaked. Thing skittered out of the room, whether to give them some privacy or simply avoid Wednesday's wrath, it was hard to tell.

"Oh! Oh, your mom uh, didn't tell you I was coming?"

"She invited you?"

Enid was pretty sure it was only the first word that was hissed in disgust, but she tended to catastrophize. "I could go, if you don't, you know-"

"Shut up and sit down."

Enid sat on the edge of the bed. She could feel Wednesday's knees through the waffley fabric. "Is this a hospital blanket?"

"I said shut up."

"Sorry."

"No, don't- don't be sorry. Just be quiet for a minute."

Enid bit both her lips at once, like a double decker sandwich, just to keep her words in check.

"What did my mother say to you?" Wednesday asked eventually.

"Just that you weren't feeling well and maybe I could help."

She coughed. "How?"

"I brought Nyquil."

Wednesday sat up a little straighter. "You brought… nine quills?"

"Nyquil. It's medicine. It doesn't come in gray so I got the feeling you might not have tried it yet."

Wednesday made a face, and even that looked good on her, which was just unfair.

"Close your eyes and pinch your nose," said Enid.

"Pinch my nose?" repeated Wednesday, and it wrinkled, as if on cue.

Unfair.

"It will help with the taste."

Wednesday really must have been sick, because she let Enid feed her the medicine. She made another face when she swallowed. "This had better work."

"It will totally work," said Enid. "While we're waiting, I'll read to you from my blog. Xavier has been giving me all the summer camp gossip. Apparently most Outcast camps aren't as species restrictive as the lycanthropy conversion ones, so he's been swimming with Bianca. He thinks he has another shot with her, but I think she's into Yoko."

Wednesday sighed, with great gusto and even greater congestion. "At least I won't be able to hear the typos."

"Those are so not typos. They are neologistic syntactical choices used to convey tone. English is a living language, you know."

"Then perhaps it should be put out of its misery," said Wednesday, but her voice already sounded a little better.

#addams family #the addams family #wednesday #wednesday addams #enid sinclair #wenclair #wenclair fanfic #wenclair fanfiction #wednesday fanfic #wednesday fanfiction #wednesday 2022 #wednesday netflix

[tokkias]

Being in her hometown this close to the holidays brought back unpleasant memories for Lucy. Sure, she recalled the festive trees, donned with tinsel and ornaments, the way the Christmas lights glimmered like stars against the dark night, but more than that, she recalled the loneliness she felt each year as her father spent the holidays slaving away in his office, celebrating alone while all the house staff returned to their own families for the holidays.

It was lonely time in an already isolated childhood, and being back here bought a sense of unease, even after all those years.

During those times, she found solace in sneaking out to walk along the streets of the nearest neighbourhood, something she was sure her father would be none too happy to hear about, but what he didn’t know wouldn’t hurt him. While the homes were not nearly as extravagant as her own, it was still an extremely well-off area, and each year families would complete in a rich person dick-measuring contest that involved decorating their homes with as many brilliant lights as they could muster, racking up an electricity bill that within one night could probably cover her rent for an entire month. Each house was donned with festive decorations, strings of lights lining the rooves and windows in their best attempts to look like a real-life gingerbread house. Pathways were lined with light up candy canes, surrounded by brilliant arches, beautifully lit up, covered in tinsel of every colour of the rainbow. Animatronic Santa’s and handsome looking snowmen – both real and fake – would beckon you into their front yards to admire the work some poor sod had spent days setting up, only for it to all come down at the end of the month.

Walking those streets on her own had provided Lucy with some of her dearest memories of the holidays as a child.

A crisp white envelope sat neatly in front of the snow dusted gravestone, its contents kept sealed, only for the eyes of its long-deceased recipients. It had become something of a tradition for Lucy, a final send off for the year before the holidays came about and she became too busy to share her memories of the past year with her parents. Though the place brought back less than pleasant memories for her, the company in which she shared it much it much more tolerable.

Rising from her spot kneeling in the snow, she turned to find her companions, standing only a few feet behind, waiting patiently for her to join them.

“All finished?”

With a smile, Lucy nodded, lightly jogging up to meet him before she looped her arm around his, ready to make their trek back into town.

“Bye Lucy’s mom and dad!” Happy chirped as the three of them made their exit.

“See ya Jude and Layla,” Natsu chimed in, eliciting a soft smile from Lucy.

With one last look over her shoulder, Lucy joined in her last goodbye of the year.

“Bye mom, bye dad.”

Although the hour was not particularly late, the sun had already begun its descent over the horizon, which combined with the low winter temperatures, would keep them in town for one more night before they made their way back to Magnolia.

“Anything else before we head back?” Natsu asked.

“Actually,” she mused, “there’s one more place I wanted to stop by.”

For as long as Natsu had known, the guild had always been decked out for the holidays for all of Magnolia to enjoy, but this? This was something else entirely.

His mouth was agape as he stood in awe of the lights and décor that donned every house as far as the eye could see. Happy let out a delighted cheer as he flew up above them, taking in the sight from his vantage point as Natsu was frozen in place with awe. Lucy let out a small hum of satisfaction at their reactions, joy swelling up within her heart as she watched them experience something that had been so close to her heart as a child.

“Well?” Lucy asked, holding out his hand to him

He turned to face her, and gave her a smile that was even more dazzling than any of the lights, and took her hand in his before dragging her down the street to admire even more of the sights. At the sudden tug, Lucy stumbled a little as her feet moved quickly to catch up with him, and she let out a laugh at his antics.

She was well aware of the stares they were getting from others that roamed the streets as he dragged her by the hand, her legs working desperately to keep up with him as he led her to each house he wanted to admire. At every stop she had to pause to catch her breath, clinging onto his arm as he and Happy chattered on in delight.

Their eyes were glued to the fanciful homes before them, but Lucy couldn’t tear her gaze away from Natsu, the way the glow of the lights lit him up in the darkness of the cool winter night. It didn’t take him long for him to feel her gaze on him. Turning to meet it, he flashed her a smile, that she returned with equal enthusiasm.

In that moment, nothing else really mattered to her, not the bad memories, not even the sting of the cool air hitting her skin. Her heart fluttered as he pulled her into his side, her arms not hesitating to wrap around his waist before she rested her head against his shoulder, taking in all of his warmth and love.

She had never considered herself to be Lucky Lucy, with all the sorrow and misfortune of her early years, but right now in this moment, locked arm in arm with her best friend, her partner, her one, she felt that perhaps now, the name was rather befitting.

#nalu #mya writes things #i did not write this for the winter wonderland #and i wasn't even going to post it #but idk it's vaguely befitting of todays prompt #so #nalu winter wonderland 2022

[your-local-grubdog]

Together in the Storm Chapter 5: Heart of Steel

Story Summary: Olimar is back home once again, ready to rest and recuperate from everything that had happened. Yet the universe keeps throwing unwanted surprises his way, making rest difficult. He just wants to make his (now rather large) family believe that he’ll be okay. Because he is, for he has to be.

Chapter Summary: Alph visits Olimar to fully recover the ship's AI.

I also took this chance to update the images on the AO3 posting, all images now use the files hosted on Tumblr and all images also have screen reader captions. I'm trying to do better regarding having those avaliable.

Read on AO3 here!

Alph wasn't sure what he was expecting Olimar's house to look like. He certainly didn't expect what he did find, though.

From the outside it looked huge, at least when compared to Koppaite homes anyways, especially when standing at the foot of the small hill it was built on. That fact was true for every house on the street, actually, each one a near carbon copy of each other; two stories high, built on a hill with an underground garage, a gentle slope leading from sidewalk to door, and the architecture in a style Alph didn't recognize. Probably traditional Hocotation, though. The only difference between houses were their colors or maybe some outside décor. Unsurprisingly, trees and flowers crowded Olimar's house, making it further stand out from the neatly trimmed and rather empty yards of the other houses.

"Alph?" Olimar asked, making the younger man jump a bit. "You okay?"

"Huh- oh- yeah, sorry." He ran up to the captain. "Just zoned out a bit. I've never really been to Hocotate properly before, only other visit was to drop you off. So all of this is new for me." He was shivering as he spoke, as Hocotate was also much much colder than Koppai.

Olimar nodded as he led him up the path. "Makes sense. Well, if there's anything I can do to help make you comfortable, just let me know! Always happy to help."

"Ah, you don't have to do anything special sir. I'll get used to it."

"If you say so." The captain began to unlock the front door, which was a sliding door. "I don't know if I could ever adjust to Koppai if the caves are as hot as the surface."

"They're much cooler, don't worry. But, ah, not as cold as this."

"Still, thank the gods." Olimar groaned, opening the door. "I can't stand the heat. Our fur retains it too well. Anyways - welcome!"

The first thing that hit Alph was the smell of cinnamon. It wasn't overpoweringly strong, just enough to be noticeable. It was rather pleasant, actually, but it did make for a strong first impression. The entrance room was much smaller than Alph thought it would be, given the large size of the house overall. It was also slightly lowered from the hallway that led from it. A few family photos and paintings decorated the walls. Alph didn't recognize the artist, nor could he read the signature - it was in a highly stylized Hocotation script he's never seen before. Alph watched as Olimar laid his keys and wallet on a little tray before sitting on a bench pressed against the other wall. He sat down before leaning over to take off his shoes.

"So, how's the little pikmin?" He asked through a few grunts of pain.

"Good." Alph stood there awkwardly, not sure of what he was supposed to be doing. He figured this was just some cultural disconnect he wasn't quite getting. "I just finished up helping Charlie with getting his house ready for it. It seems happy."

"Good, good..." The captain slipped on some slippers(?), still clearly pained by the process. They weren't like Koppaite slippers, they had a backing to them and so took an extra second to get on, but they looked oh so soft.

That's when Olimar's eyes went wide.

"Guest slippers! Ah, dangit - give me one moment Alph, just wait here!" And off he was, calling for his wife.

Ah, guess I'm supposed to have slippers too... Well, he could wait. He went ahead and sat on the bench as he did so. He wasn't sure if he was supposed to use the bench or if Olimar merely chose to. He decided it would probably be a safer call to just mirror the older man's movements, and pray that Hocotations didn't have traditions that were only supposed to be done by very specific people. Then again, this was Olimar - Alph didn't know him well, but he got the feeling that he would understand his bumbling perfectly fine.

Eventually Olimar returned with another pair of house slippers. "My apologies for that, people usually bring their own slippers. D-Don't worry, you don't have to buy your own! We didn't expect you to!" He had added that last bit on rather hastily, in response to Alph's drooping ears. "Uh, they may not be your size but if they're too uncomfortable we'll get you new ones. Or you could just go barefoot." He chuckled a bit. "Little casual but you're a friend so - anyways! Here!"

Alph couldn't help but chuckle a bit as he took the slippers. "Thanks, sir."

"I've told you before, you don't have to call me sir or Mister Olimar." Olimar explained as he watched Alph put the slippers on. "Just Olimar is fine."

Alph nodded. "Alright si- Olimar."

At that the Captain chuckled as well. Once Alph was done (the slippers were a little loose, but not uncomfortable) he beckoned him into the hallway. "I'm not sure how long it'll take to do what you're planning, so if it's alright with you I'd like to introduce you to my wife first."

Alph nodded. Really, it wouldn't take him long, but doing introductions first seemed like a good idea anyways. "What about the kids?"

"Ah, they're at school."

"Okay!" The hallway barely lasted two steps before they turned right into... Alph wasn't sure what to call it. It felt too open to be called a hallway as well, but it also seemed to have no use beyond leading to all of the different parts of the house. No furniture was here aside from the occasional console table, all well decorated in a manner Alph wasn't familiar with. There was a staircase leading up to the second floor, Alph thought it was placed oddly but maybe that's just how Hocotations preferred it.

"If you go past the stairs and take a left, you'll arrive at the bathroom." Olimar explained. "And over here is the living room!" He turned right through an archway. The room was well decorated, with yet more family photos and paintings, though some paintings looked slightly messier than the others. It appeared as if those had a different signature. A TV stood at one end, nestled into a cabinet of sorts, a couch and arm chairs opposite of it. Interestingly, there was also what appeared to be a small dining room table between the TV and couch, though it was rather low to the ground. Pillows surrounded it.

Sitting in one of the arm chairs and reading a book was Olimar's wife. She must've been quite absorbed in it, as it took Olimar a few tries to grab her attention. She quickly stood up, putting the book away as she bowed shallowly and awkwardly. Alph felt equally awkward, to be quite frank, unsure of how he was supposed to read the bow. "Ah, my apologies." She stood upright again. "I'm Rose. It's nice to finally meet you, Olimar talks about you three often."

"Do you, now?" Alph teased lightly, unable to help himself.

Olimar flushed and crossed his arms, looking away. "Well - you guys saved me and all- so of course I would!"

Rose began to laugh. "Anyways, you're supposed to help Olimar with a ship's AI?"

"Yes! The AI to Olimar's old ship!"

"Well," Olimar began. "It wasn't mine, just the one I was assigned to. The company owned it... Uh, did you move the AI or copy it...?"

"I moved it. No trace was left in the ship. So, technically, this is theft... You still want to do it?"

Olimar and Rose both nodded. "The company will be fine." Rose replied in a suddenly bitter tone. "They won't even notice it."

"Yeaaaah..." Olimar sighed. "Minus the fact he's angry the ship was totaled. He's heavily suggested that once I'm back at work, I'll be sent back to get the ship-"

"He what - Olimar, he's working you to the bone, you've been slee-" She looked at Alph, pausing for a second, before seemingly deciding it best to just get to her point. "Please, for once let me call your boss and talk him out of this!"

"Promise to not threaten him?"

"... Alright, I won't call him, then."

Alph shuffled in place for a moment. "If I may," he began, "Well, firstly, I think Rose should get to threaten him."

"Alph gets it." Rose teased, earning a groan out of Olimar.

"PNF-404 is not a place you just go to, you need a good reason to do so. I don't think recovering a single, mass produced ship is a good enough reason - even more so since we got everything important."

"... Yeah." Olimar quietly agreed. "But my boss isn't the one going there again, so hard to say how much he cares..." Ears pinning back now, he asked "What was the other thing?"

"Do you keep up with Koppaite news?"

Olimar shook his head as his wife answered "Not directly, but I have some friends who talk about it. They don't seem to know much, probably got it from word-of-mouth too."

Alph wasn't sure why he was surprised. This was an entirely different nation, why would they keep track of Koppaite news? He supposed he just thought that Olimar or his family would at least hear about this detail. "We mentioned you, Olimar, when telling our story. The whole planet wants to know who you are."

That made the captain stagger a bit. "H-... What?!" His eyes went wide as he stared and leaned into his wife a bit.

"What - what do they want my husband for?" Rose asked, also seeming nervous.

"Well, we saved Koppai from starvation. And we only could because of his notes on the fauna of PNF-404. We mentioned as such - but we avoided giving any personal details beyond race and first name. We didn't want anyone to bother you. Anyways, Koppai is interested now. Academics want your notes."

He wondered if Olimar was still even with them, mentally speaking. He leaned against his wife more as he stared at nothing. After a few seconds, he asked "M - my notes?"

Alph could only nod.

"What for?" Rose asked. "He's poured a lot of love and time into those, I don't want them misused."

"Just to study from." Alph answered. "PNF-404, it's special to us now. A star that has saved us. There's always going to be a few cruel people, don't get me wrong, but most Koppaites just want to understand and appreciate the planet." He then smirked. "From a distance, I think we scared away all but the daredevils and desperate from exploring the planet."

"That's - oh great gods!" Olimar suddenly stood up properly, though he hissed with pain from the effort. "This - this is a dream come true I - I always thought of it as just a dream but - Rose, Rose! My notes, they - my notes!" He was suddenly so excited, even bouncing in place from it. "This - This is amazing!"

Rose nodded as she smiled warmly, holding his hands. "It is, it really is, but Alph." She turned to the younger man now. "What does this have to do with Olimar's boss?"

"Well, nothing direct. More so his job." Alph explained. "We - my crew and I, that is - could pull some strings and get you a new job in Koppai's academic sector. It may not be perfect and will come with new issues, but it'd be so much better."

Olimar's response was immediate. "I'm not leaving Hocotate. My family and their friends are all here. I can't go to Koppai for work."

Alph was a little surprised Olimar didn't mention friends of his own, but he decided to ignore it for now. "We could find a remote job. Or generally make that a condition."

Olimar and Rose just stared at each other, eyes wide and hopeful.

When they stayed silent for a few moments, Alph added on "Just give it some time. I know this isn't something you can just jump into-" though he couldn't help but wonder if the two were desperate enough to do so anyways - "In the mean time, would you like the ship's AI set up?"

"Huh - oh, yes!" Olimar squeaked. "Yes, right this way, follow me - We'll be a bit, Rosie. Love you!"

She sighed affectionately and kissed his cheek. "Love you too, dork. And good luck with this AI thing."

Olimar let out a short chuff, choosing to urge Alph to go with him with a hand wave rather than speak, seemingly in a dreamy state from the interaction with his wife. Snickering lightly, Alph followed him back out into the hall room. He was led to a room close to the entrance with a transparent door. It looked glass, but Alph had the feeling it was made of something much sturdier. Looking in, it was obvious that this was the office.

Olimar let him inside it. It was also well furnished: bookshelves filled with books - mostly about biology from a quick glance - and a rather messy desk near the back. There was an easel with a partly finished painting that caught Alph's eye. "Does someone here paint?" He asked.

"Hm? Oh, both my wife and I. We hang our paintings around the house - though she's always hesitant to. She thinks she's not too good, so most of them are mine. I think she's a great artist, though! That one's hers."

Alph's eyes widened as he looked over the unfinished painting. "You're both good."

The captain chuffed again. "Thank you."

"Of course, now the AI-"

"OH! It's stored right here." He lifted the black external hard drive. "So, how are you going to do this?"

"Easy. You know about those home computer systems? Can just ask a question out loud and a speaker somewhere will answer for you?"

"Uh, vaguely. There's only one company that sells them here on Hocotate and they're far beyond what I could afford. But even if I could, they're kinda in legal hot water right now over breaking privacy terms."

"Oh, ouch... S-Sorry. Well, t-this one is free! And shouldn't cause problems. That's what I'm going to repurpose the ship's AI into."

At that Olimar snickered. "Ah, it'll work just like having it when I'm on a delivery run then? Joy."

Alph paused for a few moments, unsure of how to read Olimar's tone. "Do... you not want this-"

"Huh? Oh! It's fine, don't worry. It sounds helpful." He chuckled nervously. "Ah, do you uh..." He paused for a moment. "I don't mean this in a rude way, but do you struggle with sarcasm?"

"Usually, yeah." Alph admitted as he pulled a few things from his bag. He plugged the central "hub" of the home-system into the computer before searching around for files. Man, this computer feels ancient, but it's clearly powerful. Or at least powerful enough. Guess Hocotate didn't change their systems of OS design? Koppai certainly had sleeker OSs, at the very least.

"Ah, noted. My boy can struggle too sometimes, so I kinda get it. I'll keep it in mind from now on."

"Thank you, sir." A pause, then, "Which boy?"

It seemed it took Olimar a bit to realize what he was being asked. "Oh! Uh, Nova. You haven't met him, you will when he gets home though!" He chuckled a bit. "S-Sorry, we kinda only recently took Louie in. He's still absolutely like a son to me, but it takes time for certain habits to develop."

Alph's ears wiggled at that. "Really? I thought he was your biological kid?" He finally found the files he needed. Now he had to just port the AI to the "hub" and make a back up of it to the laptop. On that note, maybe he should prep the external hard-drive to serve as a frequently updated redundant back up system... As the files inside it were now, it wouldn't exactly be easy to do so.

"Oh! No, no." Olimar shook his head, laughing. "I was only eighteen or so when Louie was born. No, I just got attached to the scraggly kid my boss handed me and told me was my responsibility."

Alph snickered at the characterization, before going quiet to focus on his work. It took a while to transfer files and format everything properly and set the hub of the home system. When done Alph groaned and leaned back into the chair. "Okay, so here's how it works, at least the terms we use on Koppai. This round disk is the main computer of the entire system - we call it the hub. Keep it somewhere safe. It'll connect wirelessly to the nodes - they have speakers and mics. The hub has those too. Put them wherever you want access to the system. Just know that while it is private - it won't connect to any outside networks beyond looking stuff up online - it will still hear anything in a room unless the node is off. Keep it in mind when setting it up. I also have two back-ups of the AI, one on your computer and one on the external hard drive. Here, let me show you how to update the backups - I'd say do so around once a month, to preserve info it learns - and how to restore the system using them."

It took Alph a little while to explain it to Olimar, though it seemed the captain's main issue was just the complexity of the AI rather than any sort of computer illiteracy. Once everything was fully explained, Alph turned to the hub. "Now, to turn it on for the first time!"

He reached over and powered the hub on. After a few seconds, a monotone woman's voice came from the hub's speaker. "Powering on. Please standby..." It read off a few diagnostics checks and, after confirming everything was good to go, a different voice began to speak. More masculine and more robotic yet somehow more lively than the previous. "Louie? Is that you? Are my optical receptors offline - no, no this... Is a different machine. How did I get here?"

"Hey there." Olimar began. "Louie's n-"

"Is Louie okay?" The AI cut him off. "Last time I was online the ship... crashed."

"He's okay. Your old hull was completely totaled. Won't be easy to get it back. Uh... Alph here, he's from Koppai, he got your AI from the ship and ported it to a home system."

"A home system? So I'm not at Hocotate Freight anymore?"

"No, you're ah... At my house, if that's alright."

The ship's AI was quiet for a few moments. Then, it answered "Yes, that is okay. Thank you for coming back for me."

"Of course, of course... But really, thank Louie and Alph. I wasn't the one to go get you..."

"Well, thank you Alph. Is Louie here, too?"

"No, not right now. Whenever he visits again I'll make sure he says hi."

"Alright... Wait, so then the rest of your family is here, Captain?"

Olimar nodded, though the ship's AI couldn't see it. "Well, kiddos are at school at this moment. Rosie is here, though, if you wanna say hi."

"Isn't she the one who stabbed someone?"

That caught Alph's attention. "She what?"

"She never stabbed anyone!" Olimar insisted. "When I first met her, she basically saved me. One of the guys got cut but nothing more!"

"Uh-huh." The ship replied, unconvinced.

"Still, she cut someone-?" Alph began.

"When we were teens, and in order to save me." Olimar insisted.

"... And I suppose it's how she won you over?" the younger man asked.

"Weeelllll..." Olimar shrugged. "You know, when you see a woman in punk attire who looks like she could break you in half and who also has a bloody knife in a bloody hand... Yeah I uh, ran the first time. But we met up again later and look at us now!"

Alph just stared.

"Anyways, enough of that! I was thinking, before we - er, Louie and I - just called you ship before. But I don't think that'll work as well now. So how do you feel about a new name?"

"N-Not to be rude-" Alph intervened, shifting his weight from one foot to the other, "But the AIs don't really feel anything."

Olimar's shoulders sagged then as he sighed. "I know... I know how they work. It's just - it makes me feel better to treat them like they do. Yes it causes stress at times but... I donno, it's hard for me to describe."

Alph nodded, his voice soft. "No, I think I get it."

"... If it's any consolation, sir," the ship spoke out now, "If a machine like myself was to ever experience emotion, it would be me and be because of you. Granted, the emotion I would feel is pure annoyance, but it is emotion."

Olimar began to chuckle, though he smiled softly as he did. "Oh please, you love me too much to find me annoying."

"Yeah, yeah, keep telling yourself that. Whatever makes you feel better."

Alph couldn't help but laugh a bit as well. He usually found the AIs uncanny, as most Koppaites did. When they used them, they never used the emotion mimicry feature. But he had to admit, the "personality" this one built up was pretty funny and even enjoyable to be around.

"So what wonderful name have you chosen for me, huh?"

"Ah... Is - is Cetacea okay?"

The AI paused then, processing the information given. It then made a groan sound. "What is it with you and marine mammals, huh?"

Olimar huffed, crossing his arms. "They're cool! And fascinating! A creature that lives in water and can't survive on land but can't breathe in water either? Fascinating, I say!" He then paused, voice softening. "I could pick a different one, though."

"No, Cetacea is good. I like it. I just also want you to know that you're a complete nerd for naming me after a taxonomy category."

"Yeah, tell me something I don't know." Olimar chuckled again.

"Well..." Cetacea began to go on and on about some complicated physics thing, clearly pulling from some online data base.

After just a few seconds Olimar groaned. "Okay, okay, stop. Point made."

"Only doing as you asked, sir." It replied. Alph wondered if it was being sarcastic.

"Well, Olimar, if you want I can set up all the nodes now!" He offered.

Olimar nodded. "Yeah, sounds good to me. Then my wife can pester it too."

"Gods..." Cetacea groaned.

"You're part of the family now." The captain chuckled. "So you'll have to learn to deal with it."

======

It took a little while to set up all of the nodes, but they were able to get it done together! There were not too many of them - just the hub in the office and nodes in the kitchen, living room, first and second floor halls, and the entry way. For the first floor hall, however, finding a good spot proved difficult.

"Why can't we use the console tables in there?" Alph had asked.

Rose seemed shocked that such a question could even be asked, though Olimar just sighed and calmly explained "Those are the family shrines."

Oh, that made sense. "Ah, s-sorry."

"Don't be. Here, I can explain them a bit as we find a better spot for that."

All three of the shrines were explained one by one. The first was close to the entrance, right below a window. There were a few framed printouts of art there, alongside unlit half-used candles and a spot to light incense. A few rosaries were also present, each with a differently shaped charm attached. "General shrine for the Gods Above." Olimar explained. "We're not particularly religious, so we haven't chosen one to worship..." He sheepishly brushed some dust off of a framed picture of some abstract art. "Nor do we generally use this outside of the holidays, heh."

Alph couldn't even begin to decipher the meanings and symbolism behind the objects chosen, but he didn't want to make Olimar explain too much either. So instead he just nodded along, taking in the soft yellows and oranges and occasional pinks of the shrine.

The other two were on either side of a door that, according to Olimar, led to a currently unused "elder's room", though he didn't elaborate on that front. To the left of it was what he simply called the family shrine. It had photos of Olimar, Rose, Nova, and Luna from many different time periods, plus a few seemingly random objects such as a mouse figurine, some sort of fabric patch, a really cool rock, and a preserved lunar moth, among more. There was also an incense burner on the shrine. "We chose everything ourselves. Stuff that we find important. For example," he pointed to the rock, "Nova put that there a long time ago. His first gift from his best friend."

"Sounds like he really likes his friend," Alph teased, smirking slightly.

Though, it seemed the tone was lost on Olimar. "Yeah, he means a lot to my boy." He chuckled a bit as he walked to the last shrine. "Always makes sure his friend is okay and feels included, I've even seen Nova patch him up after some playful rough housing went a little too far by mistake. They're really great friends."

Alph raised an eyebrow at that, but decided not to push it any further.

"Anyways, this one is the extended family shrine. Rosie set it up! She has all sorts of stuff for her siblings and parents, though the meanings are personal. I don't even fully understand some of it." Again, it was decorated with family photos - seemingly Rose's parents, brother, sister, sister-in-law, and nephew - alongside many random little objects, plus an incense burner.

"Is there one for your parents?" Alph asked.

At that Olimar paused for several awkward moments. Eventually, he mumbled out "If they were represented, they'd be on this one."

Alph then felt sick. "Oh, s-sorry-"

"You're okay. Let's just find a place for the node, yeah?"

======

They eventually found a good place for the last node, and no sooner had they found a spot did some more people arrive back to back. First were Olimar and Rose's kids, who were excited to meet the Koppaite. They didn't talk much though before Louie also arrived. At that point, Olimar decided to gather everyone in the living room so that they may all have a place to sit.

"So, Alph came over today to help me with something." Olimar explained to his kids who looked up at him with wide eyes. "And so now there's someone else for you to meet!"

Nova grew even more excited while Luna seemed to become weary. "Cool! Who is it?"

Olimar just smiled and spoke out, "Cetacea, you online in here?"

The node on the coffee table then turned on. "Yes, I am. Hello, everyone."

Nova gasped. "Wait, you bought one??? I thought you said-"

Olimar shook his head. "Nope. I didn't buy anything. Alph gifted us the hardware. And the AI inside is the same one that was in my previous ship. The hull was destroyed, but we saved the personality inside of it."

"THIS WAS A SPACESHIP?" Nova practically squealed, making his sister flinch.

"That is... Mostly correct. Close enough." Cetacea answered. "You may call me Cetacea."

Olimar let a light chuff at that. "It can have an attitude, but it is very kind and helpful."

"Hey, don't start with this now. I don't have an attitude, I just have two major pains in my side. I am not above calling you an idiot infront of your family, sir."

Olimar just groaned in response while his kids began to giggle at it.

Luna, now calming down a bit, nervously asked "So can you answer questions?"

"So long as I can find it on the internet, yes."

"What about questions about the pikmin planet?" Nova then asked, making Olimar tense.

Cetacea paused for a bit while it deliberated on something. Then, "Sure. For one, I can tell you far too much about how so many of the creatures inner workings function, as your father had a rather nasty habit of dissecting beasts within my hull."

Olimar sighed with relief at the same time Nova made a face of disgust and Luna went wide eyed. "Coooooool..." She cooed.

"... Yeah, you're certainly his kid." A couple of people chuckled at that, though soon Cetacea silenced them all. "Before we get too far... How are you, Louie? The last time I saw you was before my hull was destroyed."

Louie shifted around a bit. "I'm okay. Been helping grandma. Work is... Work. And I spend time here."

"... That's good to hear. I'll have to catch up with you later."

There was an ominous tension in the air that hung between Louie and Cetacea. The last time they saw each other was during the crash landing... Cetacea probably wanted to push for information he wouldn't give in front of a group like this. Thankfully, no one else seemed to have noticed the tension (aside from maybe Rose).

Alph sighed as he stood up. "I'm glad everything worked out regarding Cetacea. But I do think I have to go now-"

"A-Already?" Olimar asked, surprised. "You can stay longer, we have a guest bed for you and some extra plates."

The Koppaite just shook his head. "Sorry, but I have a lot I need to get done. So I need to get going now. It was nice to see you again, Olimar and Louie, and to meet everyone else."

"... Alright. But feel free to visit whenever, okay?" Olimar offered a warm, if nervous smile. "You're always welcome here."

"Thank you, sir. Take care!"

They all said their good-byes as they waved. Alph headed back for the entrance area to replace his guest slippers with his own shoes. As he did so, though, Louie approached him.

"... D-Do take dad up on his offer, okay?" The tall man asked, voice quiet. "We'd lo- he'd love to talk to you more."

Alph sighed a bit as he smiled, standing up now. "Of course. I wanna hang out with everyone more, anyways. I kinda miss being able to talk to you like we did on the Drake. Right now though, I gotta focus on making sure Koppai will be okay."

Louie looked down as he rubbed his arm. "O-Okay..."

"But don't be afraid to call me either, alright? I'm always happy to talk."

Louie nodded slowly at that, a soft smile forming on his face. "Okay."

#pikmin #fan fiction #pikmin fan fiction #star touched au #pikmin star touched #captaian olimar #alph pikmin #olimar's wife #olimar's son #olimar's daughter #hocotate freight ship #borb draws #borb writes #louie pikmin

[electricbluebutterflies]

Joel/Tess + neighbours AU

Didn't expect this one to end up close to 3k but here we are. Modern AU, rather nsfw (didn't plan that either), also on ao3.

Tess needs a change of scenery, or at least the different horrors of a middle-ring suburb. Somewhere it’ll be a little harder for her tendencies to get her in trouble, or at least different trouble, and-

On paper this is a hell of a slightly early midlife crisis, but something about her sees the words “fixer-upper” and thinks she’s watched just enough renovation shows in waiting rooms to at least turn this into a good distraction for a couple years or however it long takes her to DIY her way out of this. Never mind that she has no idea what she’s doing. She’s under-stimulated at work and kinda likes the idea of living somewhere the kids outnumber the purse dogs. This’ll be fine.

Or at least it would be if her new neighbors weren’t Those People.

She understands the appeal of outdoor maintenance, despite her own black thumbs – she killed a cactus with neglect, she was just out of town for a destination wedding, those things are supposed to survive months but it didn’t last a long weekend – and lack of interest in yardwork. She gets that most of the neighborhood does things the same way she’s inclined to, keeps it all neat and maybe a hanging basket out front but not overkill. But of course she goes and moves in next to someone who clearly has compulsions or something, whose yard looks like someone actually planned it, and that’s just the part visible from the front, their backyard has what looks like a complicated vegetable-growing setup and-

Tess is prepared to hate them on sight, whoever they are, whatever kind of people they otherwise are and it’s coinflip odds on sweethearts or assholes and she’s never been lucky. She is also prepared to spend the next couple months as indoors as possible, questioning every home-décor choice ever made in the 1970s, she’s pretty sure part of the reason the house was unusually cheap is the last owner died here – in their sleep and their mid-80s, if she heard right, but still – and good grief somebody liked orange a little too much and-

How she managed to get this place instead of one of those industrial demolition companies, she’s not quite sure, but she’s going to make it work.

She’s having a moment of frustration a couple weeks in – most of a weekend down an internet rabbit hole does not make her any more confident about removing what could politely be described as a chandelier – and it occurs to her that she doesn’t actually have a ladder high enough to safely get her hands up in that thing, and it occurs to her that Those People, who she has yet to actually interact with, probably do and will probably be horrified enough by her currently apathetic appearance to let her borrow it for a few hours. And possibly, if she brings it back without damage, other fun things she might need out of their inevitably thoroughly equipped shed and/or garage. Tess is nothing if not perceptive, and she’s half surprised she hasn’t gotten a please-make-sure-your-grass-is-even note in impeccable handwriting, and-

She’s not sure what she expects when she knocks on the door, but the man who answers – scruffy, gorgeous, just older than her enough to be hot – is somehow not it. To the extent that she has a type, this is her type, and fuck she’s finally going to add intentional homewrecking to her list of accomplishments (it doesn’t count if you don’t know for fact the other person has a tiny cute wife at home, fight her) and-

“I just moved in next door,” she says before this can get weird or she can do something fabulously reckless. “And I was wondering if you had a decent ladder I could borrow?”

Normal people do this, she tries to remind herself. Normal functional people who live in mid-ring suburbs occasionally ask favors from people nearby and it’s not weird at all. She’s used to a series of apartment complexes occupied by people who acted more like feral animals, and there’s a bit of that in her by association, but-

“What do you need it for?” the man replies, more curious than judgmental if she’s hearing him right.

“Taking down… fuck, I think somebody thought it was a chandelier but…”

Tess does not do the learned-helplessness thing, but apparently it’s obvious how far she’s in over her head. “Need an extra set of hands?”

“Never had someone I don’t know want to watch me get electrocuted,” she laughs.

“So, yes.”

She’s not going to say no, and she’s not going to waste an opportunity for what she swears will stop at light eyefucking, and she does notice there’s no indent of a wedding band on his hand but she’s seen the well-equipped truck out front and that may be more of a profession-related choice than useful information and-

The garage is as full of everything possible as she’d expected, but also a little more chaotic than everything publicly visible, and she almost has questions, and-

“Compromise,” he says like he knows what she’s thinking. “The kid’s not allowed in here.”

And now Tess has more questions, and… this is not the time, she decides, not while she’s testing the limits of someone’s patience. She can feel out the details of the personal situation later, after…

Her own living space is only neat because most of her worldly possessions are still in boxes, and there’s almost nothing in what must’ve been designed as a dining room except for the goddamned light fixture and-

“I don’t do a lot of electrical, but… you flip the fuse first?”

“Yeah. At least those were labeled.”

To be fair, she’d just meant to borrow a ladder, not make this entire project someone else’s problem, but… she’s also not complaining about that, and she’s going to have to return the favor somehow and she’s pretty damn useless as a person and-

She has a type, and how apparently competent this man is just makes her more interested, and she needs to run damage control against herself before she does anything and-

“You have time for this?” she asks, figuring that’s a safe opening.

“You mean like…”

“Anybody wondering where you are right now?” Fuck, that sounds creepy now that she’s said it, like she’s going to do something violent when the worst she’s actually thinking is how to get him under her, like-

“Kid’s doing something with her friends. That’s… it.”

Oh. Well.

Tess’s surprise must register or something, and she in general is apparently more expressive than she thinks, because her silence is enough to get her new acquaintance off the ladder and looking at her with more worry than she thinks another human has directed at her in her adult life. Oh, if this is how she makes it awkward…

“Saw your yard and I thought…”

“Kid watches too much TV. Her ideas and my hands.”

“How old?”

“Sixteen. Her mom left… a while ago. We try.”

Not objectively helpful information, Tess thinks – if anything, the implications that this man has been doing the single-parent thing impeccably for a good length of time just makes him more hot – but also exactly what she wanted to know and-

“I’m sorry if I got weird earlier. I make bad first impressions and… y’know, I try to behave but I’ve got eyes and you’re-“

“It’s alright.”

“Should’ve at least introduced myself first. Tess.”

“Joel. Nice to meet you.”

“I will… if you’re determined to save me from myself here, I will pay you. I’m not-“

“Conversation with an actual adult feels like enough.”

If she counts as an actual adult, the world is probably screwed, but…

“How much does that get me?”

* * * * *

It becomes something of a routine, after that.

Tess is determined to do as much of this minor renovation herself as she can, and turns out painting walls is a good way to burn off energy after work, but occasionally there are projects that she’s either not sure how to do or legitimately needs an extra set of hands for and that’s where the nice man next door comes in. Every time, she offers to compensate for the effort; every time, he turns her down. She’s covering materials and apparently that’s enough, and-

Every time, the thoughts about what could happen between them get a little more vivid.

They’re working on bathroom tile when she decides to actually do something about it, a project that she’d feel bad about if it wasn’t such a small space. Theoretically simple like everything else she’s tried to do, but her eye for detail isn’t great and it’s turned into her new friend doing most of it while she watches and hands him things and she probably owes him a kidney for this particular adventure alone and-

“So it’s just you here?” he asks, like he can read her damn mind and honestly she wouldn’t be surprised.

“Yeah.”

They’ve avoided most of the deep personal questions, instead talking mundane stuff like favorites, filling the space between them with whatever they can. They’re compatibly damaged people, she’s figured out that much, and he’s good like she’s not sure she is, and-

“Figured, but… had to ask.”

“Me trying to flirt with you still makes you think I’ve got somebody out there?”

“Can’t rule out an open relationship…”

Tess laughs – she does that more around him than most people, something inherently stabilizing about this dynamic they’re working out. “No judgement to anyone else, but I’m way too territorial for that. What’s mine is mine.”

He’s quiet for a while, places a few more tiles absolutely perfect, lets the tension rest. It’s not awkward, exactly, but the energy is different and-

“Understood.”

“Wasn’t saying… shit, I’m not sure if I wanna ask you out or pin you to a wall or-“

“I’d let you.”

She puts that information aside for as long as it takes to finish the project, until they’re cleaning up and she’s aware she looks good in this tank top, hair already a mess but she thinks she’d break him if he ever saw what she looks like when she tries and-

“Can I kiss you now?” she asks, just a little softer than necessary.

Joel leans down and puts his mouth on hers and it’s everything she wants, scruffy and warm and just a little hesitant, and she’s going to melt and she’s going to do something that’ll ruin them and-

“That good for you too?” Adoration in his eyes, she’s not sure what to do with this, she’s not sure-

Normally she does casual and easy to disconnect from, and she is well aware that screwing her neighbor is neither of those things and will, if it ends badly, ruin her life. But what if it doesn’t, she thinks. What if this is good? What if…

“We’ve got all the major stuff done,” she murmurs, thinking out loud. “If this gets weird…”

“You have your priorities,” he replies, almost playful.

“Been thinking about you all over me since I saw you, but… yeah.”

He takes another kiss, deeper this time, and she feels what he’s not saying, that he’s been having the same thoughts for a couple months now and wasn’t sure it was a good idea but fuck it they have nothing to lose and-

“You think I’d do all this if I didn’t like you?”

“Guess this is how I’m repaying you.” She’s seen that part coming for a while, the inevitability of it, and she doesn’t mind, she doesn’t-

“Not like that.”

“A little like that.”

She moves her body against his for emphasis, and she wants, she wants-

“Not like that,” he repeats.

“Think of it however you have to,” she replies, deciding this is as good a time as any to shed her tank top.

It’s been a while since she’s been with anyone under quite these circumstances – daylight in a hallway with someone she actually knows. A dry spell since the move hasn’t helped, enough of a crush that she’s lost interest in her previously normal routines, and-

While she’s stuck in her head, he gets her against the wall and gets on his knees for her, and she’s half confused and-

“This look like you repaying me?” he asks, hands on her waistband.

“Don’t know your preferences enough to know.”

She doesn’t push him away, and he takes that for the let’s-see-what-happens consent that it is, and… most of the men she fucks don’t go down on her, and she’s pleasantly surprised that this one wants to, and-

Something about how he undoes her makes her think he’s also on the tail end of a much longer dry spell, not that she’s complaining. She’s easy to work open, and he’s apparently as good at giving head as anything else he does, and she’s going to get herself ruined, and-

“Stay with me,” he breathes against her thigh. “Keep your eyes open.”

She doesn’t, when it matters. Something about the combination of factors gets her off faster than she’s used to, and that doesn’t stop him working her through, making sure she’s properly wrecked before he stops batting her clit with his tongue. They are ridiculously compatible, and she can’t remember the last time a partner gave her that much attention, and-

“That clear enough?” he asks, back on his feet and still way too clothed for her preferences.

“You want me to return the favor?”

“Stop talkin’ like that.”

Well, if this is how she ends up pinned to a wall, she’s not complaining.

She’s usually more assertive than this, but if someone wants to make clear how much they want her, she’ll go with it. It takes some pawing to get his shirt off before he lifts her up, and it’s just as well he was so thorough with his mouth because he’s as solid between the legs as everywhere else and-

Tess is pretty sure she’s in love, and pretty sure that’s not a normal thought to have when being fucked against a wall, and pretty sure she doesn’t care about anything else right now. She hasn’t been done this well in quite some time, maybe ever, and she doesn’t get off again but she at least gets warm enough to have a good time, and-

“Shit,” he says after, after he falls apart inside her with a sharp bite to her shoulder. “You on anything?”

“Implant. Don’t trust me with anything I have to think about more often.”

“Should’ve-“

“At least you’re asking now.”

“Still.”

She’s still half pinned to the wall, and she turns it into an embrace and oh they fit right with their bodies separated too. This better work out, she thinks, this better-

“What now?”

He gets a hand back in her hair, now thoroughly messed up. “Think that shower will fit both of us?”

Like she’d know, she’s tempted to murmur, but it’d ruin the moment. “Only one real way to find out…”

* * * * *

They make it work.

Desperate-hot sex and home-improvement projects are a weird combination to start a relationship on, but Tess is pretty sure she’s never actually dated anyone before, and Joel hasn’t in years upon years, and… at least they’re useless together, at least there’s that. At least they’re winging their way forward, slowly drifting into…

She keeps her own spaces, even when things get serious. It’s a better situation for both of them.

Her yard is still, no matter what she does, even when she lets the kid (Sarah, sweetheart, decides she likes Tess surprisingly quickly) try to help, the disappointment of the block. It’s fine. Comparison helps no one anyways.

A couple years later, just as Tess is starting to think that it might be time to propose now that she’s on the other side of forty and about as domesticated as she’s likely to ever get, she gets a phone call and apparently owes someone a huge favor and ends up sharing space with a teenage girl who reminds her a lot of the purse dogs she thought she moved out here to avoid and…

It all turns out okay in the end. Somehow.

#ebf writes fic #joel x tess #queue

[askaalaska-vdeppressed]

Kids and Coffee Dates Ch:6

Masterlist

Group Chat Name: Nosy Little Brothers (And Spouses)

Y: He’s leaving now and he looks…. Decent

S: What does ‘decent’ mean?

Y: Like he’s not in stained jeans and an old college tee-shirt. He’s… presentable

Yennifer and Geralt were sat in Vesemir’s car, parked behind a few bushes. They used Vesemir’s car as it was the most common among the groups. The pair both donned sunglasses and casual graphic tees. Hoping that straying from the typical black attire would help them blend in more. Geralt’s hair was in a beanie for the same reason. The duo watched as at 4:45 Eskel’s bike rolled out of his driveway.

G: In pursuit

L: Aren’t you driving?

S: We’re stalking a man. This is no time for morals.

L: Did you seriously respond to me via the groupchat? Your in the kitchen???

Y: It’s you’re and stop it you two.

L: she started it.

Wee Lamby has been removed from the chat

Wee Lamby has been added to the chat

L: Not cool >:(

As Yen looked up from her phone they pulled into the parking lot of Ciri’s elementary school. The gates being open and the yard now filled with booths and trucks.

“I lost Eskel in the parking lot. Do you know what’s going on here?” Geralt pulled the car off to the side as he spoke.

“Yeah it’s a craft fair for some of the local artisans. We approved it at the last school board meeting before summer break. Do you know why Eskel would want to come?”

“The food?” Geralt shrugged his shoulders before thinking a moment. “That or he wants to get something for the crocheting he does in secret that he doesn’t want us to know about.”

“Eskel crochets?” Yennifer looked quizzically up at Geralt. A small staring contest ensued before Geralt broke the gaze and commented

“You didn’t hear that from me”.

“Well that would explain why he got all clammy about what was going on at the table.”

Geralt abruptly put the car into gear.

“Good mystery solved, now we can go home”

“Wait, wait aren’t we going to go find and him and see what he’s getting?” Yennifer turned in her seat to Geralt, arms crossed over her front. Geralt pulled into a spot on the far side of the lot before sagging his shoulders and letting out a sigh.

“Yen I don’t like this. This whole following Eskel business. If he wanted us to know he would tell us. “

“Says the man who knows about his secret hobbies.”

“I found out about that on accident and I just” Geralt took another deep breath before letting a hand fall down on the steering wheel. “I just feel like this is betraying his trust.”

“Well fine you don’t have to come in with me. But as far as I see it he kept the truth from us and I want to see what was so important that he felt the need to do that.” Without giving Geralt room to reply Yennifer exited the car and took a brisk pace toward the entrance.

After about 30 seconds of grumbling, and a loud—or at least loud for Geralt- “Goddamn it” aimed at no one in particular, Geralt clamored out of the car after Yennifer.

Y: Eskel’s at a craft fair at the elementary school.

L: Kingston or Willow’s Peak?

Y: Kingston.

G: We lost him in the crowd, we’ll let you know when we have eyes on him again.

S: Keep look out for anything that might be cute décor wise. The dining rooms a bit bare.

Yen and Geralt walked into the fair, trying there best to stay in the crowds. Occasionally stopping to look at, and maybe even purchase, a few items. After about half and hour they found Eskel again. Sat on a bench by himself.

G: We found him.

L: what’s he doing?

G: he just kinda sitting there.

S: What do you mean?

G: I mean he’s just sitting on a bench by himself sitting there, he’s not even look at this phone.

L: what is he looking at then?

Y: Wistfully staring off into the distance is what he’s doing.

The pair found a bench across the way, behind a vendor to sit on and watch. Having a decent view of Eskel while being mostly hidden behind people and the vendor’s set-up. Geralt was about to speak up when a nudge to his arm put his focus back on Eskel. A woman was now sat next to him. Some sort of fair food on her lap. They both picked at the paper basket as they talked. Eskel seemed very engrossed in the conversation. It wasn’t long before the food was gone and the two got up to leave. Eskel and woman taking each other’s hand before walking the opposite direction of Geralt and Yennifer. As they made off a smile was retained on Eskel’s face the entire time.

Yennifer whipped her head to look at Geralt. He responded with confused sputtering before she yanked her phone out of her pocket.

Y: Eskel is on a date. I repeat, Eskel is on a date. This is not a drill people

L: A date? Like what kind of date?

Y: Like November 2nd.  Duh dumbass like the romantic kind of date.

S: How could you tell?

G: When he was sitting there a woman sat next to him. They shared some food then got up and skipped off into the sunset holding hands.

L: Are you sure is it was like that Ger? G: You should’ve seen the look on Eskel’s face. It was DEF like that.

Geralt put his phone down and saw Yennifer gathering her things to get up.

“Where are you going” Geralt looked puzzeled.

“To go follow them.”

“Oh no we’re not. We’re going home” Geralt stood up and grabbed the bags from Yennifer’s hands.

“What are you doing? I thought we went over this.”  Geralt didn’t turn back as he walked the path toward the parking lot.

“Geralt!” Yennifer was right behind him and placed a hand on his shoulder. Geralt let out a sigh before setting the bags down and turning toward Yennifer,  bending slightly and placing his hands on her shoulders.

“Honey listen to me, you know as well as I do that Eskel hasn’t been the same since the accident. He doesn’t go out, he doesn’t talk to anyone outside the family, hell… trying to get him to go out for his own birthday is like pulling teeth.” Geralt sighed and looked down a moment for starting up again.

“Tonight on that bench has been the most alive and happy I think I’ve seen him in, well I don’t remember when. Eskel clearly doesn’t feel confident with this relationship yet or he would have told us. If us being here ruined this for him and pushed this woman away. If we ended up shaming him back into isolation. I..” Geralt let his hands fall and stood to his full height, eyes downcast.

“I could never forgive myself.”

Yennifer huffed a moment and bit her lip before sighing.

“Alright fine, but after we pick up Ciri you’re buying us ice cream.”

A small smile cracked on Geralt’s face, and he let out a small laugh.

“Deal”

#eskel x y/n #alaska writes #eskel x reader #eskel my beloved #soft eskel #geralt of rivia #geralt x yennefer #yenralt

[downtoearthmarkets]

Nothing is more synonymous with the month of October and Halloween celebrations than pumpkins. These cheerful orange globes ripen up and are ready to harvest starting around mid-September. Their growing season can last through November depending on nighttime temperatures and the arrival of the first frost. A member of the squash family, pumpkins are a plant species native to North America that is believed to have originated here approximately 9,000 years ago. They were an important crop for Native Americans who employed the pulp of the fruit in many dishes, added the blossoms to soups, turned dried pumpkin into flour, and ate the seeds as a nutritious snack. Today, pumpkin is widely consumed and enjoyed by many Americans in the form of pumpkin pie, pancakes, muffins and, of course, those ubiquitous pumpkin spice lattes (yes, Starbucks does actually include real pumpkin puree in their proprietary formula!). So, while pumpkin primetime remains underway this fall, here are some pumpkiny pursuits to peruse: Plastic free décor If you’re anything like me, you worry about the plastic footprint of your holiday decorations and try to avoid or minimize the use of plastic string lights, inflatables and other artificial pieces. The pumpkins from your farmers market are not only native and locally grown, they also offer an attractive, seasonal and plastic-free way to decorate for the fall. Simply plop a pumpkin or two outside your front door or somewhere on your porch, or make a more elaborate display using a few gourds, pots of mums and perhaps a haybale, and, boo(m), you’re ready for those hordes of Trick or Treaters and it can even last you through Thanksgiving.   Jack-o’-Lanterns The tradition of creating Jack-o’-Lanterns for Halloween originated in Ireland, where people carved ghoulish faces into turnips to frighten off a character named Stingy Jack whose soul had been left to wander the earth for eternity holding a piece of burning coal. When Irish immigrants arrived at these shores, they began to cut jack-o’-lanterns out of pumpkins which they found growing wild throughout this region. Carving pumpkins into demonic faces and other spooky designs for Halloween is always guaranteed to be a surefire hit with the kids! When purchasing a pumpkin destined for the carving block, ask the farmer to direct you to their selection of larger “carving pumpkins” versus “pie pumpkins” which are typically a fleshier, sweeter variety. Pumpkin for people and pets Pumpkins are an autumnal superfood! Every single part of a pumpkin is edible: the skin, leaves, flowers, pulp, seeds, and stems. Pumpkin is a naturally low-calorie food – it only becomes calorific when combined with the fat and sugar in many recipes like pumpkin pie. While pumpkins are made up of 92 percent water, they are an excellent nutrient-dense source of potassium, vitamin A and beta-carotene which is a powerful antioxidant. Pumpkins are also fiber powerhouses, with a single cup clocking in at seven grams of fiber which is more than two slices of whole-grain bread. Pumpkin is not only good for you, it’s also good for Fido and Felix! Cooked pumpkin can be fed to both cats and dogs to aid in weight loss, improve digestive health and supplement their diet.   A feast for wildlife Once the season has ended and pumpkins are past their prime, don’t just toss them in the trash! As long as they are not painted or coated, pumpkins can be added to your compost or food scrap recycling. Even better though is to place unadulterated pumpkins somewhere in your yard that is safely accessible to local wildlife, where they will make a tasty treat for a variety of birds and small mammals such as chipmunks and squirrels. The nutritious seeds are especially appealing to these critters who will chew through the flesh to get at the inner jackpot. But once the seeds are gone, they will also feast on and enjoy the pulpy flesh. And, presto, just like that your pumpkin will have vanished without leaving a trace or any signs of waste.

#downtoearthmkts #pumpkins #plasticfreedecor #halloween #halloween2022

[joeyrobertson8888]

ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE STEPPING STONE – Robertson Gifts

Order yours today thank have an awesome day

#gifts #robertson #smallbusiness #fashion #smallbusinessowner #homedecor #giftsforfriends #stepping stones #pavers

[thelistingteammiami]

5 Errors To Avoid When Trying To Increase Your Home’s Value

Many homeowners eagerly jump into renovations and upgrades to elevate their properties' value, expecting significant returns on their investments. However, these efforts can sometimes backfire and lead to disappointing results. Review these five errors to avoid when trying to increase your home’s value to prevent yourself from falling into these pitfalls.

Ignoring Opportunities for Curb Appeal

One error is to avoid overlooking your home's external appearance, which can influence homebuyers’ perception of the entire property. Look into ways to enhance your curb appeal, such as installing a flagpole on your lawn. You can learn how to choose the best spot for your flagpole to ensure it makes a positive impression on buyers. This is just one example, though. You could also consider adding plants to your yard, decorating your front door, and more.

Retrofitting Your Garage

While converting your garage into additional living space might be tempting, this decision can alienate potential buyers who prioritize storage or a secure place for their vehicles. Such a conversion doesn’t just reduce the space's functionality for many. It might also not comply with local building codes, causing more headaches down the line.

Completing Home Repairs Improperly

Another error to avoid when trying to increase your home’s value is completing repairs improperly. Although going the DIY route can seem like a cost-effective way to enhance your home, you should only do it if you have the necessary skills and expertise.

Attempting complex renovations or repairs without either of these can lead to shoddy work that appraisers and potential buyers will easily spot. Worse yet, it could cause long-term damage, reducing your property’s value instead of increasing it.

Not Taking Advantage of Green Upgrades

For many, a sustainable home is a valuable asset. Ignoring the opportunity to incorporate energy-efficient features into your home is a missed chance to attract a growing demographic of environmentally conscious buyers. Upgrades like solar panels, energy-efficient windows, and a smart thermostat can make your property more appealing and valuable.

Decorating Your Home Based on Your Taste

When you’re looking to sell, remember that potential buyers need to envision themselves in your space. Highly personalized décor or unconventional paint choices can make this difficult, limiting your property's appeal. Opting for neutral colors and more universally appealing decorations can make your home more attractive to a broader audience.

It’s understandable why you want to increase your property value, so pursue this goal with caution and wisdom. Avoiding these common mistakes can prevent lots of stress and earn you a much more substantial return on your investment.

[starrymused]

Peony felt like a deflated balloon. Useless. Unsatisfied.

The strange-looking, scary-looking intruder in her yard hadn't meant her any harm. He didn't even appear to consider ravishing her.

If not for the fact that he appeared as though he could be intimidating, she wouldn't have invited him into her cabin at all. Really, though, she couldn't understand it.

They were alone. In a remote area in the forest where few ever came by. She was clearly an adult, but also had no semblance of muscle or means of defending herself. Was he concerned about her Quirk, perhaps...?

In any case, he had departed with little fanfare outside of a full stomach and some dry canned goods he called supplies. No threats outside of an insistence that she had never seen him. She had been so discouraged in the moment, that she hadn't even thought to quip back and what if I did see you?

This wasn't how it was supposed to go at all. Had pornography lied to her...?

Surely not.

Still, she couldn't shake the disappointment for days. It was very unlike her to hold onto any emotion for long, outside of scorn. But this wasn't scorn. It was...despair. Like a missed, life-changing opportunity.

Which was why when she saw him in her yard once more -- awake this time, not sleeping on her begonias -- she practically threw her front door open to stare at him.

She... didn't know what to say. Except, maybe:

"You're here again."

Maybe he had come back to finish the job? At this point, she wouldn't even mind if he did try to kill her. At least she could get a little satisfaction before the end.

"You're too comfortable opening the door to strangers." Even if he'd been here before, he still considered her a stranger and she should think the same about him. But there was something off about this woman. She didn't respond to possibly dangerous situations like many would. Maybe she possessed a strong Quirk that protected her from strange people skulking about her part of the forest, but there wasn't any sign of fear in her expression. Actually, she didn't express much of anything on her face.

Like a weird little fucked up doll.

"I'm laying low here for a bit." And he shoved on by her, casual as if he belonged in her cabin now. The Pros were on high alert and had put out a broadcast for everyone to be on the lookout. They'd doubled their forces, even bringing in some of those brats from UA to try and locate them. Why grown adults felt the need to enlist the help of literal kids was beyond him. Then again, the newly appointed "Number One" was none other than the very man who'd destroyed his own son's life, so nothing surprised him anymore.

"It's not like you've got a family here that'll care if I crash here," That was safe to assume because here she was... alone again. Dabi understood the appeal of wanting to live alone, far from others. Once he did what he'd set out to do — and if he somehow survived — maybe he'd do the same. Or maybe he was destined to dive straight into hell with Endeavor's throat caught in his grip... yeah, that sounded far more appealing, actually.

"What are you, anyway? Some kind of hermit?" He strolled around the living room, taking somewhat of an interest in the décor now that he wasn't as tired and hungry as his last visit.

#lannamused #&; ( dabi ic ) #&; ( dabi answered )

[realestateinsiouxfalls]

Sell Your House Fast: Tips for a Quick Sale

Are you looking to sell your house quickly? Whether you're relocating, facing financial challenges, or simply want to move on, selling a house fast can be a priority for many homeowners. To help you achieve your goal, we've compiled a list of tips and strategies to expedite the selling process. Read details on to learn how you can sell your house fast and maximize its value.

Set the right price from the start

Pricing your house competitively from the beginning is vital for a quick sale. Research the local market and consult with real estate agents to determine a fair and attractive listing price. Overpricing your house may discourage potential buyers, while underpricing it may raise suspicions about its condition or value.

Enhance your home's curb appeal

First impressions matter, and the exterior of your house is the first thing buyers will see. Boost your home's curb appeal by ensuring the front yard is well-maintained, the entrance is welcoming, and the exterior is clean and freshly painted. Consider making small upgrades like planting flowers or adding outdoor lighting to create an inviting atmosphere.

Stage your home to showcase its potential

Staging your home can significantly impact its perceived value and help it sell faster. Clear out any clutter, rearrange furniture to create an open and spacious layout, and use neutral colors and décor to appeal to a wide range of buyers. Consider hiring a professional stager who can expertly highlight your home's key features and create an appealing ambiance.

Utilize online marketing and professional photography

In today's digital age, most home buyers start their search online. Make sure your house stands out by investing in professional photography that showcases its best features. Use high-quality images for your online listings and consider virtual tours or videos to provide a comprehensive view of your property. Maximize the exposure of your listing by utilizing various online platforms and social media to reach a broader audience.

Be flexible and responsive

Selling a house fast often requires flexibility and responsiveness. Be prepared to accommodate last-minute showings and be available to answer inquiries promptly. Responding to potential buyers in a timely and professional manner shows your commitment to selling, which can help build trust and facilitate a quicker sale. Find the best real estates services from real estate in sioux falls.

Remember, selling a house fast doesn't mean you have to compromise on its value. By setting the right price, enhancing its curb appeal, staging it effectively, utilizing online marketing strategies, and being responsive, you can increase the chances of a swift sale while maximizing your profit. Good luck! For more enlightenment on this topic, click here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real_estate.

[bethestaryouareradio]

Nature's Yuletide Jewels

“Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Everywhere we go, lights are twinkling, Christmas trees are glistening in windows and parks, and gigantic shiny balls are hanging on front yard trees.

Holiday cheer permeates the air as we hum carols and children pine for the jolly white- bearded man in the red suit to land his flying reindeer on their rooftop soon.

The most miraculous part of this festive season is how the landscape lights up with lots of colorful berries, bushes, and cones that we can use to decorate naturally. For the first time in years, my Christmas cactus is blooming in December! In the past, it bloomed at very odd times. The cascading stems and beautiful blooms create cheerful table displays. The vibrant tubular flowers arrive in shades of red, pink, and white. I’m thrilled that my pink Christmas cactus finally is on schedule.

Pine, fir, redwood, spruce, and other conifers retain their needles throughout winter. I use this time of year to do my pruning so that the cut boughs may be added to my mantels, counters, and front porch as wreaths and garlands. A big bonus is that these evergreens add that nostalgic Christmas aroma throughout the house

I also collect pinecones and magnolia cones to incorporate into my displays. The red seeds of the magnolia cones add a touch of elegance to holiday decorations. All the cones can be left natural for a rustic and sophisticated look, or they can be spray painted to match any style.

Holly is a classic Christmas plant renowned for its sharp, pointed, glossy green leaves and vibrant red berries. Adorn with shimmering lights and the yuletide symphony begins!

What about mistletoe, you ask? Doesn’t everyone want to kiss under the mistletoe? Mistletoe is a parasitic plant with green leaves and white berries that are poisonous to humans and some animals. Globally, there are 1300 species spread by the sticky seed from the berry either attaching to a bird or other mammal or consumed by them. The Anglo-Saxons witnessed that mistletoe grew where birds left their droppings. In Anglo-Saxon, “mistel” means “dung” and “tan” means “twig”, thus the name mistletoe means “dung-on-a-twig.” Not as romantic as most of us thought! For several years baskets of mistletoe flourished on my beautiful cottonwood tree until these “witches’ brooms” killed my host tree and it had to be removed. From that day forward I kissed the mistletoe goodbye!

Pomegranates and persimmons offer a departure from traditional holiday decorating, infusing a touch of nature beauty and symbolism into arrangements. The deep red color of pomegranates is associated with the merry spirit of Christmas. In many cultures, pomegranates symbolize prosperity, fertility, and abundance. The distinctive round shape and shiny crown resemble a fancy ornament, and their jewel-like seeds are delicious and nutritious as edible décor.

The warm orange tones of persimmons may seem more appropriate for Thanksgiving, yet the sweet, chewy texture of Hachiya varieties is the perfect ingredient in a Christmas pudding while the crunchy, apple-like quality of a Fuyu is fabulous in a festive salad. A bowl of persimmons is elegant as a table centerpiece with its symbolism of good luck and joy.

When it comes to Christmas cherished memories, live trees offer the biggest bang of tradition and aesthetics. While artificial trees are practical and cost-effective, the joyous experience of choosing a living tree creates a connection to nature and environmental sustainability. Purchasing a live tree supports agricultural endeavors as Christmas tree farms replant and replace trees that are harvested. These farms contribute to increased green space. Live trees are biodegradable and can be recycled into mulch and compost. Be on the lookout for the days that your tree can be placed curbside for recycling. With a live tree, there is the opportunity to select a tree that fits your preferences of type and fragrance including fir, spruce, pine, cedar, or cypress. You can also purchase a container conifer which can be moved to a patio or balcony after the holidays and redecorated the following year. If you have room in your yard, it can be planted and decorated annually in celebration of Christmas.

Walk around your landscape to discover the yuletide jewels in your garden. Nature always wears the colors of the season and the spirit.

Don’t forget that it is the season of giving so consider a donation to your favorite charity.

May Santa Claus fill your stockings with peace, health, and prosperity. Wishing you a magical Christmas.

Happy Gardening. Happy Growing.

Garden “To-do” advice before the end of December:

1. Fertilize trees, shrubs, ground cover plants.

2. Apply snail bait around plants susceptible to snail and slug damage.

3. Lower the soil pH for better color and overall appearance on acid-loving plants by applying soil sulfur.

4. Shut off irrigation systems.

5. Monitor watering needs during extended dry periods.

6. Start to rest and relax. Winter is sleepy time. Read The Lamorinda Weekly.

For more gardening advice for all seasons, check out Growing with the Goddess Gardenerat https://www.CynthiaBrian.com/books. Raised in the vineyards of Napa County, Cynthia Brian is a New York Times best-selling author, actor, radio personality, speaker, media and writing coach as well as the Founder and Executive Director of Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3. Tune into Cynthia’s StarStyle® Radio Broadcast at www.StarStyleRadio.com. Her newest children’s picture book, Family Forever, from the series, Stella Bella’s Barnyard Adventures is available now at https://www.CynthiaBrian.com/online-store. Hire Cynthia for writing projects, garden consults, and inspirational lectures. [email protected]  

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For photos vist: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/p/botanical-brilliance?

#naturesyuletidejewels #christmas #cynthiabrian #botanicalbrilliance #starstyle