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the-regal-warrior · 4 years

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Olympic Dreams Chapter Three

It’s here - it’s finally here!! And I’m so excited to share it with you. Huge shoutouts to @highqueenofelfhame and @nalgenewhore for putting up with my whining and getting me through this chapter.

This is the last of what I like to refer to as the “intro chapters.”

Summary: Join all of our favorite characters from Throne of Glass as they take on the Olympics. And by everyone, I mean everyone. I literally have 14 main characters to work with. I might be in a little over my head. Watch as our characters experience life and relationships with the Olympic Games as their stage.

Warnings: Language and smut, lovelies - you all know me by now.

Lorcan:

Flopping down on the ground next to his bag, Lorcan pulled his phone out of the front pocket of his duffel. Upon flipping it so he could see the screen, he saw that Elide hadn’t answered his last text yet. She’d texted him last night once they’d both gotten back to their rooms, and they’d both been up later than they’d planned, just talking about nothing and getting to know one another.

He’d fallen asleep in the middle of their conversation about his first Olympic Games, and he’d never been happier to wake up in the morning than he was when he saw a message from her just waiting for him. They’d picked up their train of thought like there hadn’t even been an interruption, and he was pretty impressed with himself. He didn’t exactly make friends easily - partially because he was fairly stoic and partially because he had what his teammates referred to as “resting bitch face” - so he was surprised at the ease with which the two of them were able to converse.

They’d talked as they both got ready for their day - apparently Lys had conditioning to do and Elide, as her coach, had to go with her to actually be a coach - and now he was sitting on the side of the field, slowly stretching out his legs while he waited for the rest of the team to show up. He had a habit of always being early because he liked the silence of the field and the stadium before everyone showed up and crowded him.

Glancing up at the sound of a loud “whoop” echoing from the locker rooms, he saw that Fenrys and Connall were walking toward him. He barely had time to wave at them before his phone buzzed against his thigh. Looking at the screen, he had to bite the inside of his lip to keep from smiling when he saw it was Elide.

>> I can’t believe you were starry-eyed about your Olympic teammates during your first games. I wish I could have been there to see that.

<< Oh, it’s true - the other guys never let me forget it.

<< I’m sorry you couldn’t compete four years ago - I know that had to be hard for you.

>> It basically broke my heart, but I did what I had to.

Lorcan was debating how to respond to that since he knew that her injury was a sensitive subject - it had come up briefly the night before but she’d quickly changed the subject - but she sent him another text before he came up with anything.

>> How’s practice going so far?

<< We haven’t started yet - most of the team isn’t even here. But thing one and thing two just walked in, so my peace and quiet is gone.

>> Fenrys and Connall, then?

The sound of two duffel bags flopping onto the ground next to him pulled him out of his reverie just in time for him to realize he was smiling like an idiot at his phone. He tried to school his expression into a more neutral one before either of them noticed, but it appeared luck wasn’t on his side when he felt one of them ruffling his hair.

Tilting his head back, he saw Fenrys smirking down at him. “Well, well,” he started, flicking the tip of Lorcan’s nose, “someone certainly seems chipper this morning.”

“He certainly does,” Connall chimed in, throwing himself on the ground next to Lorcan and resting his head on his outstretched legs. “I think I even saw him smile.”

Fenrys chuckled, plopping down next to his brother. “You know, I think I saw that, too.”

“Both of you can fuck off,” Lorcan grumbled, leaning back until he was stretched out on his back. His teammates were his best friends, but he was still a fairly private person and he didn’t want to be bothered by all of their teasing just yet.

The two of them continued to grumble quietly where they were sprawled on top of him - somehow Fenrys had spun himself around so he could rest his head on Lorcan’s legs as well - but he just closed his eyes and tuned them out, letting the early morning sun warm his face.

He didn’t get to bask in the sun for long, however, before a shadow fell over his face. Cracking one eye open, he saw Vaughan staring down at him. He heard a rustling sound off to his left, and he turned his head to see Gavriel sitting himself down next to Fenrys, and giving him a questioning look as he just kept grumbling.

Shifting his attention back to Vaughan, he saw that he too was giving the twins a confused look. “What’s with them?” he finally asked, folding himself to the ground by Lorcan’s chest.

“They’re being ridiculous,” Lorcan replied, huffing a breath when Vaughan leaned forward and dropped his head on his chest. Glancing down, he saw both Fenrys and Connall flipping him off.

“Lor here,” Fenrys mumbled, “was very smiley when we got here this morning.”

Connall added, “yeah, smiley - towards his phone - and he won’t tell us why.”

“Is that so?” Gavriel chimed in, turning his questioning looks to Lorcan. “Not in a sharing mood?”

Vaughan nodded as best as he could with his chin resting against Lorcan’s sternum. “Yeah, Lor,” he whined, poking him in the side for emphasis. “Tell us what was so interesting about your phone that it made you smile.”

A new voice chimed in from behind him, and Lorcan groaned when he realized it was Rowan. “Ooo, a smiling Lorcan?” he questioned. “Could this have anything to do with a certain dark-haired diving coach?”

That caught Fen’s attention. “That’s right! You and Elide did seem very cozy in the pool last night.”

A chorus of “oooo” rang out from the other guys around him, and it took everything in him not to groan out loud. He’d forgotten that he’d had an audience when he was spending so much time with her last night, and he had a sinking suspicion that Rowan knew he’d given Elide his phone number.

“I think you’re losing it boys,” he finally settled on. They continued speculating and grumbling good-naturedly, but he tried to ignore them.

“Come on, Lor.” That was Rowan, leaning down and hauling him into a sitting position by grabbing his shoulders, effectively toppling Vaughan onto the ground next to him. Lorcan felt fingers in his hair, and he realized that Rowan had started braiding his hair. It was a common sight among the six of them - they all had long hair, and they’d quickly found that braids were better for keeping it up for the duration of their games - and they used it as a bonding tool now. “Don’t you wanna tell us all about your pretty little lady friend?”

They all gave him expectant looks, and he shook his head at them when he felt Rowan secure his hair into a bun on the crown of his head. “Look boys, I don’t know what the fuck y’all are talking about. There’s nothing going on with Elide and me - nothing.”

Apparently Aedion had walked in while they were all focused on Lorcan, and now he was voicing his opinion on the matter. “That’s not what I saw last night.”

Lorcan heaved a sigh, already dreading the coming practice. It was going to be a long fucking day.

Chaol:

Rapping his knuckles against his best friend’s door, he lifted the bottom of his sleeveless t-shirt to wipe the lingering sweat from his forehead. He’d spent the morning in the weight room, although it had been a relatively easy workout. Since it was the day of the Opening Ceremonies, he and his coach, Brullo, had decided that it was a good day for a lighter workout. Even though the Ceremonies didn’t officially start until that evening, the athletes representing the teams had to show up later in the afternoon to get ready to support their countries when they were announced.

“Hey, man,” Dorian greeted after he opened the door, ushering Chaol inside with a nod of his head. “Tough workout this morning?”

Shaking his head, Chaol flopped on his back on the bed. “Nah, it wasn’t too bad - took it easy since we have Opening Ceremonies later.”

“Will you get your sweaty ass off my bed?” Dorian chucked a pillow at him, laughing when it hit him square in the face. “I don’t care how easy your workout was, I don’t need you sweating all over my sheets.”

Chaol grumbled good-naturedly, but he did climb off the bed. “Fine, fine. Guess I’ll just sit on the floor.”

“Yeah, I guess you will.” Dorian gestured to the drawstring bag his friend had dropped just inside the door. “Or, better yet, you could just go shower, since I know you don’t plan on going to the Ceremonies like that.”

“Gods, we’ve been friends for too long.” Though he shot Dorian a withering glare, he did grab his bag and head for the bathroom. “Yrene’s on her way - try not to flirt with my girlfriend if she gets here before I’m done.” He had a habit of flirting without even knowing it, though he knew Dorian would never flirt with a girl who had a boyfriend. Not to mention whatever was going on between him and Manon…

Chaol had just shut the door to the bathroom when he heard Dorian yell, “no promises!”

~*^*~

He’d just climbed out of the shower when he heard Dorian chuckling from outside the door. “What’s so funny out there?”

“Erm��” Dorian seemed to pause before he responded. “Nothing, really. I was just texting Aelin about her schedule and stuff.”

He could hear the hesitation in his voice, and Chaol knew it was because he was talking about Aelin. He’d dated her soon after the last games four years ago. Actually, they’d met during the Olympics, when she was seventeen and he was twenty. Their relationship had lasted for about nine months, and even though it hadn’t exactly ended well, it was a long time ago.

“Chill, man,” he finally responded. “We broke up a long time ago - we were different people then. Besides, we’re sort of friends now.”

“When the hell did that happen?”

Chaol chuckled. “Officially? About two days ago. But honestly, I’m not really sure. I’d gotten over our break up long before I started dating Yrene, and then I actually ran into her two days ago when I was out on a run. We talked, and it was awkward, and then it… wasn’t? I don’t know, it was like before we started dating, when we were just friends. It was… a nice change.”

He heard Dorian’s low whistle even through the door. “That’s a nice change.”

He’d finished getting dressed by then, and he was just getting ready to respond when he heard a knock on the door. Running the towel over his hair to get rid of any water droplets that were still clinging to the short strands, he heard his girlfriend’s familiar laugh echoing from the other side of the door.

Tossing his towel on the rack, he pulled the door open just in time to see Dorian set Yrene back on her feet and release her from a hug - he always picked her up and spun her around whenever he saw her, and it never failed to make her laugh.

“Hey, baby,” he greeted, his lips pulling into a smile when she collapsed into a chair and groaned. “Sounds like someone had a rough morning.”

Yrene just rolled her eyes and shook her head at him. “Nah, just a boring one. The soccer team had practice this morning, which I was watching just to make sure nothing went wrong, but then I had to leave halfway through to go check on swim team practice.” Even though she grumbled, he knew she was ecstatic to be here. He and Dorian had both competed four years ago, but this was her first time at the Olympics.

“Well,” he finally said, walking over and sprawling across her lap, which pulled a muffled grunt from her even as she wrapped her arms around him. “You came to the right place.” He kissed her forehead gently, smiling when he felt her relax against him.

“Indeed you did,” Dorian chimed in. “If you two can be bothered to remove yourselves from one another, the three of us can get lunch before the Ceremonies.”

“Which you’re going to love, by the way.” Chaol climbed off her lap and grabbed her hands, pulling her to her feet and wrapping an arm around her shoulders. “So, what do you say? Lunch and then more firsts for your Olympic journey?”

Laughing when she saw Dorian was nodding along with everything Chaol was saying, she nodded and let her boyfriend lead her out the door, linking her arm with Dorian’s. “Sounds like a plan, boys.”

Lysandra:

“This is amazing!” Lysandra knew she sounded like a little kid on Christmas morning, but she couldn’t help herself. Though this was her second Olympic Games, it was her first Opening Ceremonies. The diving preliminaries had been the day after them during the last games, so she hadn’t been able to go because she had her final round of training before the competition officially started.

A massive smile stretching over her face, she bounced on her toes as she waited for Erilea to be announced. They were slowly making their way toward the entrance to the stadium where the Ceremonies were held, and she kept drumming on Aedion’s arm in excitement. “It’s almost time!” she squealed, tapping out a happy beat on his forearm before bouncing again.

Unfortunately, her bouncing was a little too enthusiastic, and she stumbled into Aedion just as he grabbed her hands to keep her from using him as her own personal drum kit. His grip was the only thing that kept her from toppling over when she rebounded off his chest, and he just shook his head at her. “It’s a good thing you’re so cute when you’re so excited.”

“Oh, you hush,” Lysandra chided, settling into him when he tucked her against his side. “Aelin told me all about how excited you were during the last Games.”

Chuckling at the glare she was giving him, he just knocked his forehead against hers briefly before gesturing to the entrance. “Yeah, well, you haven’t seen anything yet - get ready.”

She barely had time to blink before they were walking into the stadium, the announcer’s voice echoing through the massive structure. “And here come the athletes from Erilea!”

Lysandra giggled in excitement and clapped her hands together before following the example of her teammates and waving to the crowd. She couldn’t believe how many people were there, and she saw Erilean flags waving everywhere she looked. Letting out a soft “whoo” when she heard cheering from a group of fans on her right, she turned to face Aedion with a gleeful expression on her face. “This is… so much better than I ever thought.”

“Isn’t it?” he replied, gesturing to the smiling faces of all the athletes around them. “Being asked to represent your country at the Olympics is an honor, but this is still my favorite part. Getting to see the joy on everyone's faces as it all sinks in that they’re really here, that they’re representing their country on an international scale? Nothing beats that feeling.”

“It’s an awe-inspiring feeling,” Lysandra agreed, catching Elide’s smiling face out of the corner of her eye. “I forgot! It’s Elide’s first Olympics - I’ll be right back.” Weaving her way through the other members of the diving team, she quickly made her way to Elide’s side and wrapped an arm around the other girl’s shoulders. “Welcome to the Olympics, El,” she murmured.

“Oh, Lys!” she cried, turning to her with a happy expression and tear-filled eyes. “This is everything I’ve dreamed of. Being here… I never thought this would happen. Even though I’m not competing, I’m still representing my country… I’m representing Erilea at the Olympics!”

Lys couldn’t help the giggle that escaped her at the other girl’s tone, and pulled her into a hug even as they kept walking. She knew how much Elide had been looking forward to being able to compete before the injury, and she knew how crushed she was when that dream was shattered. But she was glad that Elide finally found her way to the Games, even more so because she’d get to share her journey.

The two of them talked about how amazing it all was for a couple minutes before Lysandra noticed that Elide seemed to be limping slightly. She figured it was a combination of diving the day before and the way she’d tripped coming out of the pool. Though she knew Elide was more than capable of looking after herself, she still worried about her irritating her injury.

Just as she was about to ask if she was okay, she took notice of someone walking on Elide’s other side. Turning to see who it was, Lysandra had to stifle her gasp of surprise when she realized it was Lorcan.

Elide noticed him at the same time that Lysandra did, and the smile on her face seemed to grow even bigger, if that was possible. “Hey, Lorcan!” she greeted, bumping her hip against his.

“Hey,” he rumbled, his low voice someone still audible with all the noise. “Are you alright?”

Elide gave him a confused look, but when she saw that his gaze was directed at her ankle, she just nodded. “I’m okay. It’s just a little sore from getting so much use, and from diving and tripping yesterday.”

Lorcan just nodded, and looked like he wanted to say more when his teammates started calling for him. Elide gave her a look, and Lysandra nodded and gestured over her shoulder. “Go on - I’m gonna go find Aelin!”

As the two of them walked off, Lysandra noticed that Lorcan had wrapped his arm around her shoulders, and Elide was leaning into him, grateful for the support. Deciding to wonder what that was all about later, she just turned and skipped to Aelin’s side, where she was surrounded by the rest of the gymnasts.

The two of them waved to the crowds together for a few moments, taking pictures and videos to document the moment, but eventually they split, Aelin going in search of Rowan and Lys looking for Aedion again.

It only took her a handful of seconds to find him - he was with the Bane (the soccer team he played for in Erilea and most of his Olympic teammates), and they were a fairly difficult group of people to miss. Walking over to him, she wrapped an arm around his waist, curling into his side as he grinned down at her. She couldn’t help the way her heart fluttered every time she saw his grin. Though she had been the one to insist on a friends with benefits relationship, she was beginning to develop feelings for someone she had quickly found to be a best friend… and she didn’t know what to do about it. As conflicted as her emotions were, she still relished in getting to share this experience with him.

She spent the rest of the walk around the stadium like that, his arm a comforting weight on her shoulders. As they rounded the final bend in the track, she caught a glimpse of Lorcan and Elide - and felt her mouth drop open. He was carrying her on his back, and Elide didn’t seem to mind the help at all. In fact, both of them were smiling, and Lorcan was nodding along as she talked into his ear.

Interesting.

Lysandra shook off the part of her that wanted to know more right away, knowing that there would be time for that later. For the moment, she’d just take in the experience with Aedion by her side.

Rowan:

Rowan walked out of the bathroom to see his girlfriend bending down to touch her toes - in nothing but a sports bra and thong. The sight of her stretching before bed wasn’t uncommon - in fact, it was probably one of the most expected things in his daily life. As a gymnast, she was constantly stretching and doing whatever she could to keep her joints and muscles loose. He’d learned early on in their relationship that she did an evening cool down - be it stretches or simple yoga poses - every night before bed.

However, she usually had on more than just her matching black undergarments.

She must have heard the way his breath hitched in his throat, because she stood and looked at him over her shoulder. “It was too hot for clothes,” she stated, her lips twisting into a smirk.

“Aelin,” he breathed, eyes caught on the way the thin fabric of her thong disappeared between the very firm cheeks of her ass. “I think you just like to watch me suffer.”

“Maybe,” she murmured, reaching her arms over her head and stretching onto her toes, the added curve in her back pushing her ass even closer to him. “But if you’re going to give me a show, I figured you deserved one too.” She gestured to him for emphasis.

Though it was hard, he managed to tear his gaze from her tantalizing curves to glance down at himself. They’d come back from the Opening Ceremonies, both of them agreeing that it was time for bed. The day of the Ceremonies tended to be both exhilarating and exhausting for the athletes, and they both had full schedules for the Games. He’d gone into the bathroom, since he liked to shower before bed. It was something that helped calm his muscles at the end of the day - Aelin had her stretching and he had his warm showers.

He’d walked into the room clad in only a pair of sweats that were slung low on his hips - standard sleeping attire for him - and it seemed his girlfriend was fascinated with his bare chest. “Well, I suppose fair is fair, love.”

She merely nodded, talking several steps in his direction until she was standing right in front of him. “I need you to help me stretch my legs,” she whispered, brushing her lips over his jaw.

“Is that so?” Rowan responded, his hands settling on her waist. “Well, your wish is my command, Fireheart.”

“You do love pleasing me, buzzard.” Pushing his shoulders until he started moving backward, she didn’t stop until his back was resting against the wall. “I just need you to stay right here,” she murmured, pulling herself out of his grasp.

Rowan watched her as she took a step back from him, her gaze fixed on his left shoulder. She stared at him for a moment, and he was just about to ask what she was doing when she moved. Kicking her right leg just to his left, she lifted it until her ankle was hovering just over his shoulder.

Aelin lowered her foot gently until it was resting against him - and then she leaned into the stretch.

He groaned as her damp, barely covered folds came in contact with his quickly hardening length. Though he was trying to control himself - after all, if she truly wanted to stretch, he had no qualms helping her - but that went out the door when she began grinding against him.

“Seems like someone is in a teasing mood,” he all but growled, one hand coming to rest on her calf as it rested just below his shoulder.

Aelin tried to play coy. “I don’t think I know what you’re talking about.”

He merely raised a brow at her - two could play at that game. Still gripping her leg with one hand, he worked the other between their bodies, sliding it down her stomach until he was cupping her slick heat. “That’s odd, because your wet little pussy sure seems to know what I’m talking about.” Leaning in until his lips were just brushing hers, Rowan pushed her thong aside and slid two fingers inside of her.

Gasping against his lips, Aelin couldn’t seem to help the way her hips rolled against his hand. He captured the moans that escaped her in a soul-shattering kiss, all teeth and tongues and gasping breaths, his fingers never stopped as he worked her toward what he decided then and there would be her first of many orgasms that night.

It seemed, however, that Aelin didn’t want to be the only one falling apart. As distracted as he was with watching the looks of pleasure shifting across her face when he wasn’t kissing her like her lips were the oxygen he needed to survive, he barely noticed her hand sliding down his chest. He only really felt it because she was scratching her nails over the defined muscles of his abdomen.

Rowan had just started to work a third finger into her dripping walls when her hand dipped below the waistband of his sweats and wrapped around his hard, aching cock. “Is this all because of me, baby?” she teased, though her voice, needy and breathy as it was, fell just shy of that teasing tone.

He just groaned and rocked his hips against her hand, thrusting his fingers against that spot inside of her for every pump of her hand along his length. And every time she swiped her thumb over the head of his cock, teasing the slit with just the lightest of touches, he pressed his thumb against her clit.

The room was filled with the sound of their groans, and he found that he was getting dangerously close to that edge. He could tell Aelin was getting close too, and though he wanted nothing more than to focus only on the feeling of her hand on him, he wanted to bring her over that edge with him before he took her to bed and worshipped her for as long as she wanted him to.

Yes, it certainly seemed that using their hands to bring each other into blissful oblivion was only the start to their night.

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rosierocks30 · 3 years

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Hidden: Ch.9

Chapter 9: Love, Passion, and Desire

Somewhere in Paradis Isle, Eren had been writing a letter to his older brother, Zeke since they both decided to be separate so neither of them got caught.

For many months, the Titan shifter couldn’t get over the rejection of Queen Historia. At first, he thought; what does she see in Captain Levi? Eren had a lot of respect for his former captain, but it confused him how these two end up being together? They have so many differences. He can guess, Historia was probably into older men. After all, didn’t she tell him that her mother was around her age when she was seeing Lord Reiss? Historia’s father was twice older than her mother yet they had Historia.

The younger Jaeger finished his letter then tucked it into an envelope to be ready to send soon. They were preparing for the war coming soon. Eren was ready to unleash The Rumbling that Ymir Fritz showed him through the Path.

He had been thinking about what his brother said before they split up into different directions.

(Flashback)

“What’s your backing up plan if we can’t access The Rumbling?” Zeke sat on a tree trunk while drinking a canteen of water.

Eren was already contemplating the question. “If we can’t do it soon then we’ll wait, until it’s the right time.” He sighed and glanced at his brother. “I had a dream last night. There were people screaming and running from some weird light destroying their city. It looked too advanced. Then it shifted to two figures running and jumping on some glass-like surface to climb up in a strange building to see a group of humans working on metals and fire wielding tools to melt the metals into shapes. A woman appeared to explain to me this was what humans were before the collapse of an ancient civilization used to exist.”

Zeke was concerned about what Eren had dreamt. “What ancient civilization do you refer to? This dream of yours is getting bizarre. Maybe we need to get rid of that strange sphere object that you found in the ruins of Reiss’s chapel. All it does is make you crazy and I need you to be focused.” he scolded Eren.

“No! We can’t get rid of it. This object holds the key to humanity and our freedom.” Eren glared at his brother while holding the sphere possessively.

Zeke rubbed his temple spots from frustration of his little brother’s behavior. “Eren, that thing is causing you nothing but trouble. You kept mumbling in your sleep about finding your Eve. Who is this Eve?” He asked.

Eren keeps thinking about what he dreamt last night. All he can think of is the woman with a strange dress. She said her name was Minerva. So what does Minerva want him to find this Eve? He had contacted Ymir through the Path, but she doesn’t know anything what his dream meant. All she said was that Minerva is ancient. The origin of humanity is not what it seems.

“I don’t know. I just know I need to find her.” Eren said with determination.

(End of Flashback)

The green-eyed man stared down at the sphere. The Apple of Eden. This object had given him other dreams or should he say visions. These visions were the past that humanity had forgotten through thousands of years.

Eren puts the object back into the drawer of the night stand next to the bed. He walked out of his room that was checked in from an inn. As the titan shifter keeps walking on the streets, he accidentally bumps into a stranger.

“Oh sorry for bumping you.” He looks up at the stranger to see they’re steel grey.

“No, I’m sorry. I didn’t see where I was going.” This stranger is a woman. Her accent is not from here nor Marleyan. The way she spoke Eldian was not obviously her first language. She does seem foreigner. Where is she from? This woman does look cute.

Eren rubbed his brown hair shyly. Why was he blushing over some stranger he just literally met. She is very attractive, don’t get him wrong, but he still has strong feelings for Historia. Well, he wants to believe his feelings are real. Zeke told him it was his craziness from the object that made him think they were real. Eren doesn’t know anymore what’s real or not.

“It’s fine. It was an accident. You don’t seem like you're here? Are you a foreigner?” He said.

The woman was caught off guard. Maybe she’s some spy? The unknown woman stepped back. “Yeah...what of it? Can this foreigner enjoy her vacation.” She said in a defensive tone.

He uses his hands to make a surrender gesture to her. “No no you can enjoy your vacation. Sorry, it’s just...your accent gave away.” He resumes observing the woman in the front of him. Her brown hair flows as the light breeze passes by between them. Her skin tone was a bit tan with yellow undertone. As his eyes lower further down, he likes what he sees. Her body toned well, probably from working out. Her clothes were unique but it looked good on her. The trouser pants were tight and the blouse was black with two thin straps on her shoulders. Is this woman trying to get men’s attention or she’s not aware her choice of clothing can get her in serious trouble.

“Hey buddy, I know I’m hot, but my eyes are up here.” Her voice snapped his trance back to reality. Well shit, he’s embarrassed.

“You know what your wearing can give a man the wrong message.” He warned her.

Her brow raised up. Seriously this woman kind of reminds him of someone he used to idolize as a kid during his Scouts years.

“And what message do I seem to give? You are a man, so what is that message I am giving to you?” Her lips form into a smirk. Eren doesn’t know how to respond to that. This woman is bold but mysterious too.

“Well um...I-I…” Eren’s face was flushed from still struggling to respond. He took off his trench coat and put it on the woman. “Just be careful ok. You’re lucky, you bumped into me and not some creep.”

The brown haired woman was a bit startled by his gentlemanly actions. She let him put her on his coat. “Thanks.”

Eren nodded then walked away. Before he vanished from the woman’s view, she stopped him. “Wait! Where do you live so I can give it back to you?” She asked.

His head turned around to glance at her. “You can drop it off at the inn in front of you. Just say you’re looking for Eren.” He thought about giving away his full name, but since he is a wanted man, it’s smart not to give away his true identity.

“So your name is Eren? Nice to meet you. You can call me...Eve.” She said.

This caught his attention. Eve? He took a glimpse one more time to see her already gone through the crowds. He remembered what Minerva in his dreams said. Find your Eve. He resumed walking to his destination thinking about the bold woman he just met.

(Somewhere in the capitol)

The sunlight hits through the balcony to warm up the skins of two figures enjoying their afternoon activity. The sound of the bed squeaking loud along the moans.

“Oh my Lord! Nathaniel.” Gilbert moans from the ecstasy of the orgasm he received.

“My beautiful Gilly, your moans are heaven to me.” He showered his lover with praises.

“As long I pleased you, I am satisfied.” Gilbert blushed.

“You always have pleased me especially the assassination of Premier Zackely that you succeed.” The templar smiled.

“But now Dot Pixis is the new Premier. It should have been one of our men.” Gilly frowned from the result of his mission.

“Don’t be upset. Darius Zackely was a dangerous man. He was so closed to figure out my connections with The Templars and planning to dethrone that Whore. Who would ever thought, both the queen and the captain are expecting soon.” He growled in anger from all his hard work that was about to be revealed. Luckily, silencing Zackely made it possible to continue his work.

“Will you still try to marry her?” The thought of his lover marrying someone else still hurts him.

“In order to be King, yes I must.” Nathaniel cups his hands on Gilbert’s cheek. “Listen Gilbert, she’s just going to be my queen for temporary until she gives me a proper heir.”

“What about the current unborn child she is carrying?” Gilbert said.

“With Ackerman blood running in its veins, the unborn baby will be just a personal bodyguard or will be groomed to be a templar.” Nathan was not cruel enough to end a child’s life whether they were threatening to be on the throne.

“Soon our plan is about to be executed and this island will be ours.” Nathan smiled while kissing Gilbert’s neck softly. The both lovers continue their lovemaking which they pre-celebrated their plan will be achieved soon.

(Military base in Marley)

Reiner was heading to visit his family before leaving for the coastline where you can see The Devil’s Island or Paradise Isle.

He missed his mother’s cooking. Already his cousin, Gabi arrived at his mother’s home probably helping out making dinner.

A shadow passed by him to get into a dark alley. This caught his eye as he turned to the left. Reiner couldn’t see who it was, but the figure was covered in an odd thick white sweater with a hood attached to it. The figure was a bit smaller than him. So the Armored Titan runs after this figure. If he caught this spy, Reiner would get more praised as a Warrior and they won’t keep doubting him of his loyalty to his country.

The figure began to climb up the wooden storage boxes to get on the rooftop without an effort.

“Hey, stop there spy!” He shouted while getting up to the rooftop.

The figure stopped but it was several feet away from him. Reiner could see a glimpse of black long hair stick out as the breeze made the locks float along. The face was still hidden half way, but Reiner could see the person’s pink lips and creamy skin tone.

This spy would be a female. The blond man started to run after her. The “spy” quickly paced away. When she reaches the edge of the roof, Reiner grins as he is so close to capture.

“You can’t escape.” He said.

The figure glanced across to estimate the other rooftop building was enough for her to make a jump. Then she ran to leap on the other roof. Her body rolls smoothly to the surface. Reiner frowned that she managed to make it. He decided to also make a leap to catch up to the woman. He will not let this spy escape.

Once he gained enough speed to make a jump from the edge of the rooftop, he landed and rolled down with minor scratches. He gets up to resume his chase.

As the mysterious figure reaches another “deadend”, she stops to calculate where to escape next. Shit, remember what one of the Assassin Masters said in her training. When she was about to make another leap, Reiner tackled her down which they fell off the roof to a pile of empty carton boxes in another alley.

“I got you, spy.” Reiner glared down as he removed the hood.

He was shocked to see those dark eyes. “Mikasa Ackerman? What are your intentions here in Marley?”

Mikasa growls at him while kneeling him to the diaphragm hard. He lost his breathing pattern as he began to cough. Mikasa rolls to get up, but Reiner reaches quick of her ankle to make her trip.

“Oh no, you’re not escaping.” He pinned her to make sure she does try to wiggle her way out.

“Oh fuck you traitor! Like I would tell you why I’m here.” She gives off her infamous Ackerman glare.

“If you answered my questions maybe I will let you go.” He said. A part of him wants to let her go since she was a former comrade of his. He held so much respect for the raven haired woman. The Eldian-Marleyan soldier had an inter battle with himself.

“Like you would keep your promise?” She chuckled sarcastically.

“You are an enemy. I’m just a fellow who follows the rules.” He said.

Mikasa was thinking of a way to escape. Well, fuck she’s screw. He knows she’s here in Marley. There’s a chance Reiner will report to his superiors and will send a group of soldiers after her. Her mission is about to be ruined.

“Aren’t you a good little soldier.” Her eyes roll at him.

“I see you still haven’t answered any of my questions, Ackerman.” He grinned down his teeth in annoyance.

“And I see you’re still pinning me down but we both can’t get what we want right now.” She said.

She thought about to headbutt him then stab him with her hidden blade, but Mikasa doesn’t have the guts to seriously harm a former friend. Her memories with Reiner in Cadet years were good enough not wanting to kill him. Yes, he done stupid shit like kidnaping Eren in the past along with Bertholdt and Ymir. The newly assassin noticed that Reiner had grown well into a fine man. That was a disturbing thought.

“You were never the type with sarcasm.” He pointed out.

“Things had changed since you and Bertholdt had betrayed us.” Mikasa said.

She had a crazy idea that could help her get out of his grasp. Mikasa stared into him. Before Reiner continues talking, she leans towards him to catch him off guard to press her lips on his. Of course, like she predicted, Reiner was shocked by Mikasa’s bold action. What the raven haired beauty didn’t predict is the way she is kissing him. His lips were soft but firm.

Reiner becomes lost in the way her pink soft lips move so well adjusted against his own. He deepens the kiss to win by dominating the kiss. Of course, she won’t let that happen easily. Mikasa licks his bottom lip to have them open enough to stick her tongue and explore.

Oh fuck, he taste so good and forbidden-wait what? What is she saying?! Being lost from the tasting Reiner, the newly assassin snapped back into reality. Mikasa surprised Reiner by kneeing him with force into his gut with her knee then knocked him off of her with a high kick to the head. The titan shifter rolled a few feet away from her. The dark haired beauty Ackerman gets up to finally escape before he regains that hard kick to his head.

While she vanished from his view, Reiner was overwhelmed with mixed emotions of what just had happened right now. Did she and him just kiss? Reiner Braun was not the ladies man as his comrades like to think. His mind was always about the missions and duties for his motherland country. Distraction was out of the question. The blonde bulky man touched his lips that’s still warm and tingling from the spontaneous kiss with Mikasa Ackerman, his supposed enemy.

(Survey Corps Headquarter in Mitras)

William Miles was in the court yard where Scouts soldiers spar or work out. Since he had been residing here, his assassins also reside here to plan and spar each other or with other soldiers. His grandson’s squad are quick to pick up moves during their training as new recruits. With the deal he and Levi made, this gives the team the opportunity to head on into battle when war comes. Bill had finally met the queen one on one in the months early. He was pleased his granddaughter in law was the perfect image of what most assassin's want in a spouse. She encouraged Levi to train under him. Levi was too stubborn, but he will listen to his wife or Hange or his comrades. Since yesterday, both family members finally had that closure they needed. His son, Jacob wanted his girlfriend and son to live in a better place. Of course, it was too late when he died to be able to fulfill that promise to Kuchel. She died without knowing what had happened to his son. The poor girl. He had helped dig up her grave with Levi to take her remains to at least buried her along with his son. Maybe this will bring peace for the mother of his first grandchild.

The mentor assassin had another shocking news. One his assassins residing in New Your City found out his younger son, Desmond had a child too. Seriously, what the fuck were his sons were thinking? Didn’t they ever carry a damn condom ever? Don’t get him wrong. He is happy finding out he has another grandson, but the poor boy isn’t lucky from being hostage under Abstergo, the templars main corporation to try to dominate the world.

This made the elder man furious that these scums dared to make this baby another of their “subjects”. For fuck’s sake, it’s a god damn infant. They are taking way too far for collecting his bloodline’s data. What are they exactly looking for? Adam and Eve? He chuckled sarcastically at that thought.

For months, he was getting updates on his infant grandson, Elijah. He put the same assassin undercover as a staff in that company to make sure nothing dangerous happened to his other grandchild. He needs time to make a risky plan to get the baby out of the templars’ grasp. Levi was in rage when he also found out about his infant cousin. He was ready to go there and wipe out anyone there.

(Flashback)

“Are you fucking shitty me?! I don’t know who’s the worst, the sickos in Underground City or the Templars? ‘Cause to me both are at the same level in harming little babies.” Levi ranted while his blood boiled in rage for finding out about his little cousin. This world is a cruel place even without Titans involved.

“Levi, I am enraged as much as you are, but we need to be level headed. We’ll make a careful calculated plan to rescue the baby. He deserves to be here with us, his family. I already sent one of my assassins to keep an eye on him. I just want to tell you because he’s your baby cousin.” Miles said with a calm tone. Levi has every right to be furious, but to get into blood rage won’t end well for anyone.

“But after the war, we’ll get him or I’ll go myself.” Levi said.

“We’ll save him together...don’t worry, I promise.” Bill was already behind Levi as his hand placed on his grandson’s shoulder to comfort him.

(Flashback ends)

William Miles was in front of Commander Hange’s office door then knocked softly to let her know it’s him.

“Come in.” Her tone seemed to be distracted when a knock was heard.

He opened the door to see Hange absorb into her own side projects. Bill closed the door then sat on the chair in front of the desk. “Did I come in at a bad time?”

“Hm? Oh no, you’re fine. I was just doing light reading before I called it a day. So what can I do for you, Bill?” Hange closed her book on Astro-Phycis Theories. Bill raised his eyebrow to notice that her book doesn’t seem light to him.

“You are a very strange woman if you consider that light reading.” He said.

Hange laughed at his comment. She adjusts her glasses. “I hope that’s a good thing.”

“Oh trust me. It’s definitely a good thing, Zoe.” Bill grinned and got up to go towards where she’s sitting. The commander was confused when she felt his warm lips on hers. This is a surprising turn for Zoe. Both Miles and Hange had been flirting but never had the made. Some of the Scout soldiers and assassins laid a bet on who would make the move or how long will happen? This finally made Levi confront his grandfather about Hange in the morning.

(Flashback)

“Oi old man. When will you have the balls to make a move on Four Eyes? Because I don’t need a distracting Commander every time you two get flirty but don’t do shit. And trust me, she rarely gets distracted unless it’s a new science like Titan related or something.” Levi barged into his old room since he let his grandfather have it.

“Well good morning you to my dear grandson.” He sat up from the bed and yawned.

“Tch. Why are you still in bed anyways? Do you know what time it is?” Levi scolded at Bill.

The mentor glanced at his cellphone to see the time. “Damn it Levi, it’s 6 am. Why do you have to wake me up that early?” He rubbed his eyes.

“What the hell do you mean early? Everyone had been awake since 4 am.” The raven haired soldier rolled his eyes.

“I stood up most of the night to help Zoe on the security measures on the coastline close to Marley.” He yawned again.

“And yet I’m surprised both of you didn’t jump on each other. You and Four Eyes are like shy teenagers that are too afraid to make a move.” Levi mumbled while running his finger on the hard surface of the furniture. His fingers gather dust which his expression becomes disguised and annoyed. “You should clean this room. It’s filthy.”

The older man flopped on the mattress and groaned in annoyance. Seriously, this boy has OCD or something. “Levi, can we talk about this later when I’m fully awake.”

On Levi’s other hand, he holds his cup of tea as he sips. “Tch, just giving you advice, Hange is not the type to make the first move since she loves to analyze anything including then men she starts to have feelings with. So don’t take long to do or you’ll miss your chance.”

Bill was silent but absorbed what his grandson had said. He has also been distracted too whenever he secretly ogles at messy brown haired beauty. Maybe he should consider what Levi said. Bill can’t believe he’s being given advice by his own grandson on making a move.

(Flashback end)

Bill moans from the kiss as he can feel Zoe’s arms wrapped around his neck and pressed against each other. The mentor assassin already had the commander on her desk sitting while he slowly made her laid on the hard surface. Most of the stuff was on the floor since Hange quickly swept off to clear the desk after the first surprise kiss from Bill.

She blushed from the way his eyes were clouded with lust. It’s been a long time since she has been with a man. The first time meeting William was filled with curiosity. As a few months had passed they flirted here and there, but neither one didn’t make a move. It could be a culture boundary or age gap issue, but Commander Zoe Hange never had attempted to make a move in her life. She may not be shy in general but when it comes to her love life, she becomes lost that not even science can’t help her.

For an old man, he looks younger than his age. He could pass in his 50s, but then again Levi looks younger than what he is. Must be in the family.

All her thoughts were gone when Bill kissed down her neck to the valley of her breasts. Huh? She didn’t feel his hands undo her white blouse. Her ponytail was undone too.

Hange moaning softly from his tongue running on top of her breasts. She quickly let the blouse slide off of her and her bra is now on display for him to see.

Bill stopped to admire how flushed her face was and her hair was spread out on her desk. Her chest rose up and down from breathing heavily. To him, she already looks magnificently beautiful.

“Well, this is not what I expect but I’m not complaining.” She chuckled while playfully undoing his shirt.

“Good, I wanted you ever since we met.” He took off his shirt when she undo his buttons. William begins to grind on her. Zoe aggressively kisses his neck while pulling his hair.

“I wanted you as well. It had been frustrating getting off from thinking of you instead feeling your touch.” Hange mumbling as Miles takes off her pants. His warm hand caressing from her ankle to her inner thigh. Her breath panting harder. Her panties start to get soak from the wetness she has been producing from his kisses and touches.

“Ah, you have been thinking of me? Show me when you do when you think of me.” Bill leans to her ear to whisper.

The commander slowly let her fingers travel down her body then stopped to rub the hem of her panties. She can tell how William’s eyes become darker while following the movement of her fingers going further below. Zoe smirks as her finger hooks on the hem to carefully pull down the fabric garment to teasingly reveal her dark small pubic hairs. The way Bill’s tongue licks on his lips made her moan erotically. Oh fuck, how hot he looks the way he stares at her like a starve animal.

She continues to pull down until it's off from her legs. Her finger presses on her clit to start rotating gently as a wave of pleasure spreads out on her body. Hange moaning low his name which he stops her to resume by him instead.

“You’re beautiful, Zoe. Don’t forget that.” His lips kissed her neck again.

“Am I?” She has mixed feelings of being called beautiful. Most of her life, she never considers herself to try to be pretty. What’s the point when she has a brain to make her standout from everyone? The first time someone looked at her as a woman and called her beautiful was her former lover. He died an honorable hero for leading the retake of Shiganshina. That was long ago. Erwin would tell her everyday so she would one day accept that she always has beauty too in her unique way.

“Yes.” Bill glanced at her with a soft but determined look. He was still fingering her deep which arched her back of the ecstasy of pleasure.

Her eyes get watery then growls with desire to have him pounding her. Her hands make way to his pants to undo them roughly. “Fuck me now please..”

He chuckled and let her undo his pants. “Someone is eager.” He teased her.

“Of course, for months I have to use my imagination of your dick pounding me, unless with your old age; you’re impotent to keep up my stamina.” Her tone was playfully as she looked into his eyes.

“Oh my genius Zoe. I may be old, but I can still fuck your brains out. You forget that I’m an assassin. My stamina will not be an issue.” He smirks wickedly. Hange couldn’t help feel the excitement of what Bill will do to her.

“Guess you have to remind me.” The Commander of the Survey Corps grins while whispering. A loud gasp came out from her lips when she felt his manhood entering her.

“I certainly will.” He moans while adjusting himself inside her. His dark eyes stared into her honey brown eyes.

As the rhythmic of their bodies move as one, the new lovers keep embracing the passion that ignites from the months of pining for each other.

Meanwhile on the other side of the Commander’s door, three figures walking pass by until they heard moans.

“Connie, do you hear that?” Jean stops to listen where that noise is coming from.

“Yeah, probably it’s a ghost or something.” Connie shrugs.

Then a louder noise was heard. “Oh harder! Harder, harder!” A feminine voice made erotic noise.

“That’s one horny ghost all right.” Mario, one of William’s assassins grin as he has an idea where the noise came from. Both Survey Corps soldiers finally get what their new friend was saying and blushes while all three walk away from the noise.

A/N: Hello guys! Sorry this chapter took so long. It’s been another busy week for me and I tried to get it done before Christmas. Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas! Also, Sorry this chapter is a bit shorter than the last one. I hope this chapter will do for you all until the next one. See you guys later until next time with Ch.10. Love you all!

#rivahisu #levihisu #reikasa #male oc x male oc #hange x william #levi ackerman #historia reiss #reiner braun #mikasa ackerman #zoe hange #william miles #fanfic crossover #snk #aot #attack on titan #assassin's creed

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ficdirectory · 6 years

Text

The Crossing (Disuphere series #3) Chapter 10

Scene IV: Out There

On Sunday afternoon, Dominique finally has no excuse left. She’s eaten all eight of Jesus’s cookies in four days. She’s washed his Tupperware. It’s officially time to woman up and knock on his door to return the thing.

She takes a deep breath. Knocks. Waits. Knocks again.

Finally, the door opens. “Hey. Just returning this,” she greets, ready to turn around and leave.

“Wait. Wanna come in?”

Dominique stays where she is. “Anybody ever tell you you come on strong?”

“Not really. No. Can I ask why you’re blue? Like literally?”

“I’m Sadness. Deal with it.”

“Okay…” (Count Jesus in the 1% of people who have never seen Inside Out.)

The silence keeps growing and Dominique can’t help it. She has to fill it. “Listen. Sorry if it was weird yesterday or whatever with the cookie. I didn’t mean to like make light of your stuff...or whatever.”

“I didn’t take it that way.”

“Oh.”

“I have a cat. By the way. I’m so sorry. I babble when I’m nervous.”

“Why would you be nervous?”

She shrugs, not ready to admit she knows him - kind of.

“Okay, well...see ya, I guess…”

“Yeah. I guess,” she manages.

“Honey, if you’re nervous about hanging out with him somewhere that’s not public, try somewhere that is,” Mom suggests. It’s Sunday night, and she and Dad are over for belated traumaversary lemon cake.

It’s one thing in her life that’s going right. This cake right here. Her parents, still coming through after all, not thinking she’d suddenly be 100% fine on her own.

“Mmm… This cake, Michael…” Mom moans.

“I consider it one of many skills, my mastery of boxed cake mixes and bundt pans…” he offers dryly.

Dominique cracks a smile.

“Ooh, got a smile out of Sadness!” Dad exclaims, like his day is made.

“I don’t know. I don’t really want it to seem like I’m too eager or something.” She drops her voice. “You guys know he’s Jesus from the news, right?” she asks.

“The little boy from 2007, kidnapped right off of Villa Mariposa? No, I did not know that,” Mom breathes. “It’s good to be cautious, all right? It is. But I think it’s not a bad idea, if he’s got a good head on his shoulders --”

“--Like you,” Dad interjects.

Dominique nails him with a skeptical look.

“What? You’re smart. I can say that, can’t I?”

“If it’s true…” Dominique ventures, soft.

“It definitely is,” Dad says. He’s quiet, too, but confident.

“Right. If he’s got a good head on his shoulders - like you - I don’t think it’s a bad idea to maybe wanna be his friend. You two might find some common ground.”

“We have common ground - he lives right across the hall.” Dominique quips, raw still, from the time of year, and everything it means.

That night, she texts Mom privately after they both leave:

How come you and Dad never talk about it?

Mom:

We do.

Dominique:

I mean, to me.

Mom takes a long time responding, but Dominique’s got nothing but time:

Mom:

We were advised not to, by a therapist, after you got home. Not to bring it up unless you did. We didn’t want to make things harder on you.

Dominique:

You bake a cake but you won’t talk about it.

Mom:

Maybe, in his own way, Dad is talking about it when he bakes the cake.

Dominique:

And what way are you talking about it?

Mom:

I’m sorry.

Dominique turns down the volume on her phone and plugs it in away from her so she doesn’t have to see it.

After an intense week of work, Dominique finally has time to breathe. She’s left a message with Lena, to let her know not to come in, because she’s got other plans today. She takes her phone, and her journal to the quiet little park near their building and snaps a few pictures of the nature.

It’s pretty. It’s a break from the four walls of a hospital and all the memories inside it. On one hand, she feels okay there. Known. Seen. People there have seen her at her absolute worst. On the other hand, though, she remembers everything that happened there. And that truth is so heavy, she could easily drown in it.

She needs to focus on something good for a while.

It’s been a while since she’s written any poetry. It comes in bursts. Some in stanza, some stuck together like stream of consciousness writing. She thinks about hope. About light. She starts:

Night becoming day. Sun streaking across a deeply shadowed, sleeping sky. Colors streaking, waking, being. Sun rising. I am rising. Because I have lived to see this new day. This new moment. This fresh glory. Because it exists and I exist in the light it throws out. Because the name I keep secret means light. So I know, that is what I am to be. It’s why Daylight and me, we have a kinship. A deep connection. The light is the thing I strive every day to be. To light up shadows. To show secrets. Yet how can I do that, be that, believe that, when so much of who I really am is, in fact, a secret? Light gives me hope, but do I give hope to those around me? Can I be something I only rarely feel. For seconds when the daylight creeps over the horizon?

Next, she catches sight of her Hunger Games jersey, and the braid over one shoulder. Remembers that today she is Katniss (without bows and arrows). She continues, thinking about fantasy; about what it means to her:

There is safety

Within these castle walls

Within these sheep skins

And borrowed sins.

Envelop me

In tulle

And myriad tools

Appear.

It takes her the better part of an hour, but after she writes, Dominique does feel better. Lighter. She breathes and glances around. Checks her phone. Lena had texted and Dominique let her know it was fine to go into the apartment and clean a little if she really wanted.

From behind her, a throat clears and she looks over her shoulder.

Jesus.

He raises his eyebrows slightly at the empty side of the picnic bench.

Dominique nods, carefully, thinking of what Mom said. He sits down with his own pad of paper and she finds she can’t concentrate on writing a thing. So she looks through her pictures instead. Checks for Dudley, who’s found shade under the table.

“Can I take your picture, Dudley?” she whispers.

He glances her way, and she takes it.

It’s perfect.

Dominique swallows, feeling eyes on her. Jesus, who had been busy with a pencil and what looks like a sketchbook, isn’t drawing anymore. He’s gathering his stuff to leave.

“Hey, whoa. What just happened?” she asks.

“I’m not great with pictures on the DL,” he admits. “So, I’m just gonna go.”

“Listen, I took one of Dudley. Not of you. I swear. And I asked him first. He turned and even smiled for it. Look.” Dominique holds out her phone as proof. “You can look at them. I don’t photograph people. I do nature. And animals.”

Jesus has warily accepted her phone and is flipping through her pics. “Is this your cat?” he asks, a little breathless.

“It is. That’s Roberta. She’s a diva.”

“She looks...intimidating,” Jesus admits.

“Well, Dudley’s kinda imposing, too. Like, he could eat Roberta in three bites, but I’m not judging him, am I?” Dominique asks lightly.

“True.” He hands the phone back and Dominique sets it on the table.

“You can sit back down if you want. Over there,” she nods to his side. “I’ll leave my phone there.”

Dudley comes out from under the table and stands next to Jesus until Jesus can walk back to the table and sit.

“Can I see what you’re drawing?”

He turns the book and slides it toward her. She takes it in. A dark room. A single, small window, high up on a wall, with light streaking through it.

“I like this.”

“It’s nothing.” he dismisses.

“No, I like the window.”

“I always wanted one,” he comments softly, before he blinks and seems to realize he’s spoken aloud. Questions and panic are on his face.

“I know,” she finally says, acknowledging. “We’re the same age. Both grew up here. Hard not to see the news,” she offers, apologetic. “Sorry.”

“So, truth time?” he asks.

“Sure,” she agrees. She doesn’t know what truth time entails, but honesty sounds good to her.

“Are you cool with me now ‘cause you figured out who I am?”

“I’ve known who you were since well before we rode the elevator together, and I was a jerk to you several times since then,” she points out.

“So, what changed? You used to not want anything to do with me, and you do now? I don’t get it.”

“We’re in public,” she admits.

“Oh.”

“I’m Dominique Williams,” she says.

“Jesus Foster,” he returns, looking her in the eye.

#fic: the crossing

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havekiddoswilltravel · 6 years

Photo

Finally getting around to watching Black Panther! Wow! So excited to wear my dress representing the women of Bangui Central African Republic. 🙅🏾‍♀️ (Who’s working on a closed fist Wakanda emoji?)

My Random Observations Regarding the Black Panther Film

#Wakandaforever

Marvel Studios/Disney via AP

I’m married to a Marvel enthusiast husband and am raising and educating a son who’s obsessed with all things Marvel and literally reads a Marvel encyclopedia. As his mother, I try to educate myself on the things that interest and inspire him. My husband took the two oldest kids to see Black Panther on opening day and I knew that it was driving them crazy not be able to discuss the film with me. On Monday afternoon, my husband came home early and insisted that we go watch the film. I felt like adventurous rebels by dropping everything and going on an adult date on a Monday night. I had already gone through my closet and dug out my Bangui dress that my sister had custom made for me years ago in the Central African Republic. Having watched every single Marvel film with my husband and son, I thought I was ready for what was to come as we entered into the #wakanda experience and boy was I in for an intellectual treat.

This waterfall scene took my breath away. All of it, the costumes, the music, the dancing, the reverence, the culture was a moment that captured the beauty of a fill done correctly.

Black Panther was filled with one liners that got my mind going and my heart moving. Shuri [to T’challa] Just because something works, doesn’t mean it can’t be improved. Let me start with this line because Shuri was my favorite character in the film. There’s so much to love about a 16 year old African girl, who’s brilliant, poised, brave and ready to do just about anything for her kingdom. What? The world needs more Shuris.

Marvel Studios/Disney via AP

If you want to find out why Shuri says the following line, make sure to do what all Marvel fans do and stay until the end of the second credits.

[after Everett Ross is wheeled in Wakandan facilities to be healed]

Shuri: Yay, another white boy to fix.

Travel is my escape. I have found myself longing more and more for adventure and trips to places where I don’t know the people, culture or food. I’m itching for adventure in ways that I have not before. The following lines left me pondering and analyzing my need to learn and experience life outside of the perceived comforts of The United States. My kids and I have spent our time discussing and sharing our feelings, thoughts and experiences as they related to these dialogues.

Marvel Studios/Disney via AP.

Okoye: Guns… so primitive!

T'Challa: Wakanda will no longer watch from the shadows. We can not. We must not. We will work to be an example of how we, as brothers and sisters on this earth, should treat each other. Now, more than ever, the illusions of division threaten our very existence. We all know the truth: more connects us than separates us. But in times of crisis the wise build bridges, while the foolish build barriers. We must find a way to look after one another, as if we were one single tribe.

Given the current climate in our country, I could spend hours thinking about the implication of these two scenes to my life in CT and also how my children will be raised and ultimately what their legacy will be.

I knew going into the film that I would connect with the women, but what surprised me the most was my understanding of and empathy toward Killmonger. His character was a perfect representation of what happens when we let rage be the prime motivator in our lives. His anger was justified, but his focus and actions were destructive not only to self, but also to those around him. His character was also the one that portrayed uncontrolled rage and violence.

Erik Killmonger: Y’all sitting up here comfortable. Must feel good. Meanwhile, there are about 2 billion people all over the world that looks like us. But their lives are a lot harder. Wakanda has the tools to liberate them all.

The final scene in this film left me breathless and analyzing the consequences of colonization, slavery and Jim Crow laws on African Americans. My heart literally hurt as I heard this line:

Killmonger: Nah, bury me in the ocean with my ancestors that jumped from the ships. Because they knew death was better than bondage.

My 12 year old daughter’s reflections on her Wakanda experience

It was the best Marvel movie that I’ve ever seen. I loved that there were funny parts, but also many deep and thought provoking ones.

My favorite line:

Okoye: Don’t freeze!

T'Challa: I never freeze.

Shuri: Did he freeze?

Okoye: Like an antelope in headlights.

My favorite character was Shuri because she was funny, smart, brave and strong. I loved her interactions with her brother (Black Panther), as I think it reflects my relationship with my brother. They were protective of each other and their skills complimented one another for the best interest of Wakanda. I left the movie feeling inspired.

My 9 year old’s son’s reflections on his Wakanda experience

My favorite character was M’Baku because he’s funny. My favorite lines are:

M'Baku: If you say one more word, I’ll feed you to my children!

[Ross shuts up, beat]

M'Baku: I’m kidding. We’re vegetarians.

I also saw myself in Erik Killmonger, as he was black boy growing up in America. He loved basketball, fighting (sparring) and his father.

Did you know that you can experience Black Panther at Disney California Adventure Park?

Marvel Studios/Disney via AP

Educational Resources for Black Panther

- Check out the history of Black Panther in Marvel Comic Books.

- Video: Ron Clark Academy Travels to Wakanda

- Disney’s Black Panther Activity Packet.

- This is a wonderful resource for High School or College students who are ready to analyze and better understand Killmonger’s rage.

- Teacher resources for maximizing the Black Panther momentum and merging it into lesson plans.

- Christians who are trying to figure out why they should watch this film, should read this. This is a direct quote from the write-up. “At the end of the film – it’s actually in a post-credits scene – T’Challa says his country must start building bridges instead of barriers. It’s not exactly a subtle moment, politically speaking, but considering what’s come prior it’s an earned one. Black Panther is a radical film in that it looks at our country racially, culturally, politically, dares to find empathy in both sides, but ultimately insists you can’t ever truly be great if you’re not first good.It’s a point Christians would do well to consider.”

- Check out this Teachers Pay Teachers Unit Study about the movie.

- Why Black Panther is more than a movie, it’s a revolution.

- A White Guy’s Reflections on Black Panther.

Author: Ruth Mendes of Have Kiddos will Travel

About Ruth: I am a wife, mami of 4 active and globe-trotting kiddos. I’ve always loved a good adventure and truly believe that it’s possible to travel with kids. Join me, as I share our adventures and inspire you to get out of the house with your kiddos. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a road trip or a trip of a lifetime to an exotic destination, I’ll share insights, trip reports and information that will inspire you. Check back often to stay up to date on things to do with kids at your next travel destination.

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