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jadekitty777 · 4 years

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Puppy Love

Bit of a weird entry and a challenge to write - but it only seemed right with a prompt like this, to write from the perspective of one of Tai and Qrow's "children".

Day 4: As Parents @taiqrowweek

Rating: T

Words: 5,300

Summary: Every dog in the shelter dreams of the day they'll be set free of their metal prisons to join a pack all their own. Despite being so inadequate he wasn't even honored a name, he dreams just as hard; though, with each adoption, that place he wishes to be seems to be getting further and further away.

And then, one word changes everything.

"Puppy?"

Ao3 Link: Puppy Love

The best day of his life happened exactly eight weeks and four days after he was born.

It had started out as usual. He woke up to the sound of the rest of the kennel-bound dogs starting up a ruckus as the keepers of their metal prisons walked down the line, cleaning cages and checking water and food bowls. After that, the big dogs were let out in small packs so they could play in the field. He never got to go; he was too small. Instead, he stuck his tiny head between the bars and said hello as they passed.

Most of them paid him little mind. Hades and Zeus, the Doberman twins, jeered his way. Roxie stuck up her nose, sassy as ever. She told him once her poodle pedigree made it impossible for her to converse with peasants. Whatever that meant. He made sure to duck his head back in if Captain was with them – the coonhound liked to snap at him.

Still, there were a select few that always took the time to say hello. Like old Benji, always limping over to give him a sniff. Or the energetic husky, Skystorm, hunkering down on his forepaws as if they might actually get a chance to play. Or the motherly Lady Lucy, who would fuss over him like he was one of her long-gone pups. She never tired of telling him how much he reminded her of her ‘clever little Dodger’.

“Why he could even get cats to work for him!” She told him today as she passed. “Cats, can you imagine?”

Polite as always, he said, “No ma’am. It sounds incredible though.”

“You’re gonna fill his head full of air with stories like that Lucy.” Benji laughed.

“Nonsense! Stories build character. Who will he ever know who to aspire to be like otherwise?”

The dog in the lead of their pack growled out, “You wasting your breath on that orphan.”

“Hunter, don’t be so rude. He’s just a pup!” Lady Lucy cried.

“Oh sorry, am I not coddling him enough?” Hunter swung his head around. He only had one eye, the other lost in a fight, but the single red orb seemed to freeze him in place. “You’ll have to get used to it, brat. No human’s gonna take a stubby runt like you.”

“You’re just nasty because no one’ll ever adopt you.” Skystorm barely dodged fast enough to avoid the rather vicious bite the alpha tried to deliver.

He heard the argument continue well down the hall until he could no longer make out the words. Not that he wanted to anymore. He pulled his head back in, walking to the back of his cage and laying on his bed of rags, intending on settling in for his after-breakfast nap. But he couldn’t get Hunter’s words out of his head.

As young as he was, even he had heard the talk about how great a home was. Some of the dogs here even came from one themselves – and those who hadn’t had tales from something they’d heard. A motley mesh of things like ‘leftovers’ given underneath the dinner table that left everyone slobbering just thinking about it. Of playtime chasing all sorts of fun toys. Of walks to the beach where he could dig to his heart’s content. Of endless belly scratches and ear rubs.

He’d dreamed of it all at least a dozen times. Imagined how soft his own bed would be or how large a yard he’d have to run in. But most of all, dreamed of the family that would take him in and never let go. He wanted it more than anything!

But, was Hunter right? He had never been treated like the other dogs here. They all had names and skills. He wasn’t a working dog. He couldn’t retrieve and he couldn’t herd. He wasn’t a fancy one either, like Roxy, who was convinced she’d have a life again as a show dog. He didn’t have a Doberman’s ferocity or a husky’s vigor or a pit bull’s strength. If he couldn’t provide for his pack in any way… then why would they want him at all?

He buried his nose into his paws, but it was a long time before he fell asleep.

When humans came, it was time to perform.

A lot of dogs barked and yowled and produced up a racket for attention, but his voice wasn’t powerful enough. So, instead, he stuck his head between the bars and let his tongue loll out, entire body shaking as he wagged as hard and excited as he could whenever the people passed on by. It often earned him a pet.

Today it was a big family of seven, and the nice, stout woman who had long nails gave him such a good scratch behind his ears, it left his hind leg shaking.

“Oh aren’t you precious?” She cooed. “You would look just great in my purse.”

“Gale, we’re not here for a lap dog.” One of the men of her pack chastised.

“It doesn’t hurt to look!”

His ears fell flat as she breezed on by.

They were there for some time, looking from cage to cage. They even had the caretakers take a few out, to do a “walk test”. Roxy was prim as ever, trotting like she was putting on a show. Skystorm raced them. Zeus kept trying to bump Hades aside. No one came back to his cage.

And, worse yet, they chose the best of them all.

He couldn’t help but whine as Lady Lucy was led out with her papers all signed. The setter’s long ears raised up, looking to him. “Now none of that. You keep that tail up little one! I’m certain you’ll find your way soon.”

He tried to find strength in that encouragement, but all he discovered was the breaking of his heart as the door down the way slammed closed. He turned away, padding back to his rags and flopping over.

This day couldn’t possibly get any worse.

“Puppy!”

…What?

He lifted his head, looking back.

Standing there, in a bright, pleated dress, was one of the smallest humans he’d ever seen. Even when he stood up and walked towards her, she didn’t tower over him like most humans did. She was his size.

Her eyes went wide, a huge grin spreading on her face. “Hi puppy!” She giggled and, when he came close enough, she didn’t even wait for his trick, instead sticking her hand through the bars. She gave him a few uncoordinated, slightly rough, pats to his head. “Good boy!”

“Ruby!” A shout echoed down the hall as a man sprinted into view. He was overly tall, with legs that were spindly like a bird’s. He snatched the girl up into his arms, lifting her well out of reach. “What did I say about running off like that, pipsqueak?”

The newcomer was almost immediately joined by two more.

“You found her? Oh thank gods!” The other male of the pack said. He was almost as tall as the first, but wider built all around. It was like looking at a Labrador standing next to a greyhound. Alongside him, being held by her hand, was another young girl with wild hair. It reminded him of Benji – the briard’s fur was always in his eyes too.

“Daddy, lookie!” It was hard to tell who Ruby was speaking to, as both the men looked down at him at the same time.

It was the bigger one’s whose eyes lit up. “Oh, what a precious little guy!” He knelt down, clicking his tongue, holding his fingers out. “Come here Yang, just like this.”

The other little girl, bold as can be, pressed her fist against the bars.

Right. Tail up. Time to act.

He bounded forward, wiggled low and stuck his head right through, lifting it upwards until he could feel their fingers against his snout.

Yang giggled immediately, rubbing her knuckles along his skull. “He’s funny!”

“He sure is. Be gentle now.”

“No. No way.” The bird man groaned. “We agreed on a dog. And we don’t even know how big this one is gonna get.”

The other man got that spot behind his ear. Oh yeah, that was the stuff. “He’s a corgi. They’re about the same size as a beagle, only chubbier.”

“Yeah well, he’s still a puppy. You really want to deal with pee puddles all over the house?” He asked as he set Ruby down.

The littlest one stomped her foot. “But I like this one!”

“But Rubes, they’re a lot of work and I’m sure there’s a lot of – now don’t give me those doe eyes kiddo. Tai, help me out here!”

Tai, in all his wisdom, turned to his pup and said, “Want to pet him Ruby?”

“Yeah!” She toddled on over, where he showed her how to do the really good scratches.

This was the life.

Leaving the girls to it, Tai rose to his full height, winding an arm around the bird man’s shoulders and tucking him against his side. “It’ll be fine Qrow.”

“You’re such a traitor.” Qrow grumbled.

“I know, I’m the worst.” He conceded, pressing his lips against his temple.

There was a long, slow sigh. “I guess then we’re getting-” He squinted at the paperwork that hung from his cage. “Puppy Two? What kind of name is that?”

“Maybe he goes number 2 a lot!” The older of the girls said.

Ruby’s nose wrinkled up. “Eeeew Yang!”

“You know,” Tai started thoughtfully, “If there’s a puppy one we could get him a friend and- mghpfa!”

Qrow cut him off by shoving his hand in his face. “Just go sign the paperwork already!”

Even when the door came open, and he was lifted up out of the cage, he wasn’t quite sure it was real until he was being taken out of the facility altogether and the big, wide world was in his eyes. Then it was speeding past his eyes, as the large machine he had been placed in moved at speeds he couldn’t comprehend.

“Oh wow! What was that? Oh, and that! Did you see that?” He asks the girls as he hopped between their laps, trying to look out the window.

“Yang, try to keep hold of him!” Tai called from the front seat of the contraption. “He’ll get hurt if he falls.”

“’Kaaay.”

Suddenly, a grip stronger than a choke chain was around his middle and he found himself firmly pinned down. He wiggled about, but there was no give.

Ruby pat his backside. “He’s got a funny butt.”

Well now, that was just rude.

There was a guffaw from Qrow. “Speaking of Mr. Funny Butt, s’pose we better name him.”

His ears perked. A name? Just like the other dogs had? He wouldn’t have to be known as mutt or pup or orphan anymore? He wagged his clipped tail excitedly.

“Oh, oh! I was thinking Cerberus.” Tai offered. “Doesn’t that sound intimidating?”

“Dad, that sounds dumb.” Yang was wiggling her fingers along his side, prompting him to roll over and – oh, tummy rubs really were everything the other dogs said they were.

“Ouch. Well little missy, you got a suggestion?”

“Uppercut!”

From his upside-down position, he saw the way the man looked back, then to the bird man sitting beside him.

Qrow glanced up from the lit-up square he was holding. “Don’t look at me! I’m not the one teaching her.”

“I wanna name him Strawberry!” Ruby cut in. She had grabbed hold of one of his paws and was squishing down the pads. It felt kind of weird.

Tai turned back to the window. “That’s a good one. We’ll think about that one sweetheart.”

Yang started to flap his ears around, which made it a little hard to hear Qrow when he spoke up again. “How about Dos?”

“Dos?” Tai echoed. “Like dose of medicine?”

He stuck out his tongue. Most of the choices had gone right over his head. But he did know what medicine was. The sickly dogs told him to beware if a human ever used that term, because that meant they were going to force feed him something gross.

“No. D-O-S. It’s an old Valian language. It means two.”

“Alright well, uncle Qrow has decided to be unhelpful, so keep ‘em coming girls.”

Similar to the way the anticipation would overwhelm the shelter whenever a human walked in, his new pack seemed to have the same habit of yapping over one another.

“Blackie!” Ruby called.

Then, Qrow. “Don’t like that one? How about Ni?”

Tai, snipping back, “We are not naming him knee!”

“At least call him roundhouse.” Yang’s voice was getting a little shrill.

“No! No martial arts moves!”

Ruby, again: “Palm strike!”

“Yeah sis!” The slap of the girls’ hands made him jump a little.

“Okay you two are banned too. We’re naming him Cerberus.”

“Noooo!”

Oh, he knew this cry! He pulled his head back, howling with them.

In the wake of the noise, silence followed, all eyes on him. He looked around, confused. Why had they stopped?

Then, all at once, the four of them started to laugh. He knew it was the human’s way of wagging their tails, since they lacked them and all. So, he wiggled and yipped, feeling more like he belonged then he ever thought possible.

Eventually, Qrow’s game won out. The name, his name, was chosen just as the contraption rolled to a stop.

“Hey, how about this one? Zwei.”

Tai drummed his fingers along the circle he was holding onto, looking up with a frown. “I hate how much I like that.”

“Hah! See, and you were making fun of me.” He twisted around, looking back at them. “What do you think rugrats? Is Zwei a keeper?”

“Yes!” Ruby chimed in.

Yang gave it more thought. “Zwei as in…” She smooshed his face, tapping their noses together, “Zwei’re you so cute?”

“…I regret everything.” Qrow looked like someone just stole his nest. Beside him, Tai doubled over, barking with more laughter.

From that day on, he was part of the pack.

Four months and eight days after his adoption, any lingering doubts he had left about his place among his newfound pack were completely abolished.

“Come on Zwei,” Ruby whispered to him as she opened up the back door, giggling behind her hand. He’d come to learn that was a sign that they were going out to play.

So he rushed around her feet and into the backyard, paws immediately sinking into the muddy trail that had been caused by a passing storm. It was still rather dreary overhead and he could scent the petrichor coming from the surrounding flora. His packmate ran past him, heading around the shed with the same sense of purpose she got when she was stealing treats out of the cupboard for the two of them. Were there some back there too?

“Wait for me!” He called, bounding after her in excitement. As he came around the back, he found what had captured Ruby’s attention so. Behind the shed was a lake-sized puddle, caused by the way the land dipped ever so slightly. She was already ankle deep in the water, gathering up globs of mud and setting it on the grass in a pile.

When he approached, she told him, “I’m making mud pies!”

Oh, that was a type of food! Tai had made it before. It had been something really sweet smelling that he wasn’t allowed to have.

He hears Ruby’s giggles when he practically sticks his nose right in, taking a deep breath. Just as quickly, he pulls away with a huff of displeasure. Definitely not for eating.

“Mud Pie Zwei!”

He perked up at his name, only to hunker down as the next handful of mud is deposited on his back. When Ruby dips her hands back in, he hurries away before she can load on more. He could feel the thick of it weighing down his fur and the wet of it sliding down his haunches. It wasn’t pleasant at all, so he shook himself to fling most of it off.

“That was gross!” He barks, which only seemed to increase her laughter.

Well. Two can play it that game.

He leaps with as much distance his little legs can provide, landing in the puddle with a big splash.

“Zwei!” Ruby shrieks, her dress now covered in wet spots and mud.

He wades towards her, taunting back, “What are you gonna do now?”

If he didn’t know better, he would have thought she truly understood him what with the way she responded by scooping her hands in the water and throwing it at him. In retaliation, he races around her, little waves kicking up in his wake. At the edge he pauses, lowering down on his forepaws until his chin brushes the water, waiting to see what his packmate would do next.

“Oh, it is ON!” She hollers, charging for him.

“Bring it!” He challenged right back, darting to the side and ducking around her when she tries to make a grab for him.

It begins a game of chase; one he’d already grown quite familiar with and one he was certain to lose. Ruby was bigger and faster than him, spirited like Skystorm had been. The rest of their pack didn’t appreciate that level of liveliness like he could. He was always happy to engage her, finding new, creative ways to escape her clutches before she ultimately snatched him up. Today he was trying to zig-zag the same way he saw that little black snake move in the garden; until his pack alpha crushed it into black smoke under his boot, that is.

It seemed his new trick was his best yet, because Ruby was having to scramble after him. “Hah, can’t catch me!” He called back at her, dashing for the tree line.

“Zwei don’t go in the – ah!”

He heard a yelp and the feet coming after him abruptly stopped.

Then, a more terrifying noise boomed over his senses, “Zwei! Come!”

He slid to a stop so fast, he somersaulted over his paws, landing on his back hard enough to make the air in his lungs whoosh out. He tilted his head back, looking at the upside-down view of his secondary alpha, his near permanent frown more pronounced than usual. He hadn’t even heard him approach! What kind of hunting skill was that?

“What were you thinking?” Qrow demanded of the young pup he had under his arm. “I’ve told you a thousand times not to go into the forest!”

Ruby wiggled valiantly in his grasp to no avail. “We weren’t gonna!”

“Ain’t gonna believe that when you already broke the ‘no going outside today’ rule.” He looked up, then pointed down aggressively. “Zwei, I said come!”

Obediently, he rolled over, slinking forward with a pitiful whine that sometimes got him out of trouble. “We were just having fun, honest.”

Qrow had never been quite as movable as his other alpha though, only scooping him up under his other arm and storming back for the house. “Gods you’re both a mess. I’m throwing you in the tub.”

“Nooooo!” He howled with Ruby.

Beyond a gripe about ‘thinking more before they go running into mud’, the alpha largely ignored them, hauling them upstairs. He paused only long enough to peek into one of the bedrooms. A little lump of blankets on one of the beds trembled every now and again and a loud hacking started up.

Some of the tension on his scary face finally melted, his voice a gentle timbre when he speaks, “How you doing firecracker?”

“M’okay.” She snuffled back from her hiding place.

“Okay. I got to get these escape artists into the bath – but holler if you need anything alright?”

“I will.”

Zwei’s ears dropped when her hacking started up anew. It had been just a small thing this morning, but now she sounded worse than some of the dogs back at the shelter when they got plagued by kennel cough.

He didn’t have long to dwell on it, as Qrow continued on his way, kicking the bathroom door shut with his foot before setting them on the bathroom rug. “Alright, clothes off.”

Rather than listen, Ruby crossed her arms and sat down stubbornly. He walked the few steps it took to join her, plopping down as well.

Their alpha sighed, stepping over them to get the water started. “Kiddo, work with me here.”

“No!”

An agitated hand ruffled through his hair until it seemed more like a puffed-up cat tail. “How about for a scoop of strawberry ice cream?” Rather than answer, she held up two fingers. “…Who taught you this level of swindling? Fine! Two it is. But no telling your dad.”

“Deal!” She hopped up, throwing off one of her layers and dropping it with a wet plop on the ground.

“Hey wait!” Zwei stomped over to Qrow. “What do I get?”

Apparently it was to be picked up and dropped into the tub. The water was just enough to cover his paws. He scrambled for the edge of the basin, too small to actually make it over. He wasn’t left alone for long, Ruby eventually climbing in beside him, all her normal, colorful furs gone. The water eventually rose up until it touched his chin, and he had to paddle a bit to get around – not that there was anywhere to go.

Zwei didn’t really like baths. The water was warm, but the ground underneath his feet was hard to stand on, causing him to slip and sometimes water would go up his nose when that happened. Then there was the shampoo. It was some really awful smelling, awful tasting stuff that would get lathered into his fur. The stink of it would overwhelm him, his own, better scent being cancelled out by the gunk. Even when he rolled it out into the grass, it persistently clung to him for days.

So no, he didn’t like baths. He especially didn’t like Qrow’s version. He was too rough. His fingers would score through his fur like he was trying to rip it away and he’d push the undercoat in all the wrong ways until it left everything kind of hurting. Today was no different.

“Ow, ow, ow!” He wailed. “That’s too hard!”

The scrubbing, if possible, got worse. “Quit bellyaching, we’re almost done.”

“He’s kind of a baby, isn’t he?” Ruby asked from her side of the tub, trying to turn her bubbly head fur into sticks just like a porcupine.

“I am not a baby!”

“Oi, don’t jump Zwei!”

“You know, this is a lot of racket for a bath.” The final voice was new, but familiar.

His tail started to wag immediately, slipping out of Qrow’s grip so he could hop and get a look at his other alpha. “Welcome home! I missed you!”

“Hi daddy!” Ruby greeted.

“Hey there.” Tai said, stepping into the bathroom. He peered down at his mate inquisitively. “Need help?”

“Please.”

The response was a jovial laugh as the man rolled up his sleeves and settled down beside him. Zwei felt a little jealous when he attended to Ruby. “Were you causing trouble for your uncle?”

“Nuh-huh. I behaved!”

Qrow snorted, resuming his torture. Ignoring Zwei’s calls of displeasure, he instead spoke to his mate. “You find the medicine?”

“Yeah. Gave it to Yang before coming in here. Tip your head back honey.” Tai poured a small pitcher full of water down Ruby’s head, using his hand as a shield to keep any from falling into her eyes. As he scooped up more of the bathwater to douse her again, he continued, “We’ll have to keep an eye on her fever. We might want to let her sleep with us tonight.”

“No fair! I wanna sleep with you guys!”

As his chin was lifted up, Zwei huffed out, “Me too.”

“Tell you what Rubes,” Qrow said as he took the pitcher that was handed over to him, going through the motions with him now. “Why don’t you and I have a little sleepover of our own? We can set up a fort in the guest room and everything.”

Her face lit up. “Really?”

Zwei’s ears fell. Of course the alpha would do that – Ruby was so obviously his favorite pup. Looks like he was stuck downstairs. Alone. Again.

“Yeah. We can even bring the little scamp here.”

He blinked back as Qrow looked down at him. Wait… did he mean…?

“Just don’t have an accident and make me regret it, you got that mutt?”

He did. He did! His whole body practically vibrated with the force of his excitement, jumping out of his grasp so he could lick his hand. “I’ll be good, I promise!”

Qrow drew his hand back immediately. “Ack gross!”

Tai’s boisterous laughter echoed, before he reached out for his pup. “Come on Ruby. You’re done.” He lifted her up and out of the tub, wrapping her up in a towel and walking out of the room. “You want me to help you pick out an outfit?”

“I want my combat skirt!”

“Alright, alright…”

It wasn’t long before Zwei followed her out, draped in a towel of his own and brought downstairs. A fire was made in the hearth to combat the chill settling in as the day waned on. Eventually, that’s where he found himself stretched out in front of for his midday-play nap, stirring only when his pack moved about.

Nothing managed to rouse him completely until a commotion started up in the next room and he awoke to a day much darker than before. Ruby and Yang were on the couch, the latter curled up in a miserable ball as they watched their colorful moving pictures on the television.

He got to his feet, stretching out with a long yawn, before he trotted over to the kitchen. His alpha pair were both there. Qrow was sitting on the counter by the sink, sipping an amber liquid in a short glass and watching his mate as he fussed about the stove. Whatever Tai was making smelt absolutely delicious, like chicken and rice kibble but more refined and fresher. Mouth watering, Zwei slunk underneath the dining table chairs and emerged just into their sight. He sat himself down at the edge of the rug, making sure not even a claw touched into the ‘Never Ever Cross While Alpha is Cooking’ section of the kitchen.

“Can I have some?” He beseeched lowly.

Tai looked over his shoulder, smiling brightly. “There’s my good boy! Up!”

He sat up on his hind legs, snatching the morsel that was tossed to him in his jaws. He savored the scrap of chicken slowly, licking his chops once he’d swallowed it.

“Good catch!” His alpha praised him, before turning back to his work. When Qrow started to shift off the counter, he pointed a knife towards him. “And where are you going? We weren’t done.”

It seemed his mate thought they were, with the way he scoffed. “Look, if you want to ground her so bad, you do it.”

Zwei had come to realize that breeding pairs were very strange. Or perhaps maybe just his were; he certainly couldn’t make heads or tails of their lack of pheromonal compatibility. More critically was in how little they ran the pack like a unit. It made for a rather confusing predicament when Tai would let him nestle on the armchair – but Qrow would absolutely not tolerate it. He had to wonder if his other packmates ever felt the same.

Tai’s sigh was tinged with a rarely heard frustration. “It’s not about the punishment, it’s about who’s giving it. I can’t keep punishing the girls for rules you lay down.”

“Why not? You’re the dad here.”

“You really think Ruby hasn’t figured out that when you’re the only one home, she can get away with whatever she wants?”

Qrow snorted, downing his drink and setting it on the counter he’d vacated. “She’s six Tai. Not exactly in her prime to be a master manipulator.”

“No.” He set down the knife, turning to him fully. “But that doesn’t mean she’s dumb.”

Coming to the conclusion no other treats were coming his way, Zwei laid down on the rug, head between his paws, mostly tuning them out as they carried on. Maybe he should just take his post-nap nap. He was just starting to drift, when one particularly loud shout had him jolting out of his daze.

“Oh so I just don’t care, is that it?”

“I didn’t say that! And keep your voice down.” Tai shushed. “I know you love them, Qrow. I just… don’t understand why you want to turn them against me.”

His mate jerked back a bit, as if struck. “What in Gods’ name are you talking about?”

“Can you really not see where this will eventually go?”

With a long exhale, Zwei settled again, listening to them with only half an ear. This wasn’t the first growling match they’d partaken in, but he wasn’t worried by it. For the outcome was as certain as the sun would be rising tomorrow.

“I don’t see what the big deal is.” Right on time, Qrow’s tone shifted as did his body. Away. Vulnerable. If he had a tail, he was positive it would be tucked between his legs. “It’s not like you have anything to lose.”

Tai tilted his head, as if trying to figure if the words truly came from him. “Okay, what are you talking about?”

“Nothing. It doesn’t matter.” He tried to retreat, only to be stalled by a hand suddenly on his shoulder.

“No. Come on don’t-” A sigh. “Do you really think the girls will just cast you aside just ‘cause you have to be tough on them sometimes?”

The answer was so soft, even Zwei had to strain to hear. “Been thrown out for less.”

“Oh Qrow.” Before the thinner man knew it, Tai was pulling him into what Zwei could only describe as a ‘standing snuggle’. It looked warm and inviting. “There is nothing in this world you could do to make us stop loving you.”

“You don’t know that.”

“I do know that.” And then Tai said something Zwei would never forget: “Family isn’t a competition where the prize is love. Love just is. You don’t earn it by performing your best, you’re just given it from being here and caring about us just as much as we care about you.”

There were a few more things that were spoken, but the fight was over for sure when the mating pair started licking each other’s mouths. Overzealously, as usual.

But the call for peace, joyful as it was, did not impact Zwei as much as his pack leader’s words. For they washed over him with a great ferocity, reaching in and cleansing him from the inside where Hunter’s dark words still resided in his heart. The fear that had footed there that he would not be wanted finally came loose, strand by strand, until it was hanging by nothing but a thread.

It wasn’t until that night, with Ruby’s head nestled into his back and his nose tucked against the welcome warmth of Qrow’s side, that the final root broke as the words finally hit home.

There may be a lot he lacked, but no amount of skills compared to the simple act of just being there. The one thing he knew with absolute certainty was that love was something he could give this family without end.

So no, he wasn’t fierce like a Doberman. Or noble like a shepherd. Or even charming like a poodle.

He was just Zwei. And that’s all he needed to be.

#zwei #taiyang xiao long #qrow branwen #taiqrow #taiqrowweek #ruby rose #yang xiao long #rwby #fanfiction #Chase Firekitten's Tale #...These tags sure are odd this time around xD

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liminal-storage · 4 years

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#18: Panglossian

(Because @houserosaire and @hiraethwyl both made me wanna write about chocobos.)

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It was only the call of the empty stable in the agency’s overgrown yard, as well as her own extensive traveling that got Okuni to admit that a chocobo of her own might not be a bad idea.

Not knowing much about the birds as far as pedigrees and the like went, and not really having the patience to learn about it, she figured a bird from Bentbranch would do her just fine no matter its origin. It didn’t need to be fancy in any way, just something to get her from point A to point B. And perhaps she could admit to some slight jealousy at the close bonds many birds seemed to have with their riders.

That was not to say she had any intent of being neglectful of the bird.

Even if it wouldn’t be something like a battle companion, she was going to do this right. She’d read enough information, spoken to chocobo owners, heard enough idle chatter to know what types of feed and bedding she’d need, along with other aspects of the birds’ care. It seemed a lot, but she already had a cat and the little silver dasher Calla who’d decided to make itself right at home already. She could easily apply the knowledge of avian care she’d learned from the tinier bird to a chocobo, just on a larger scale, and any gaps in her knowledge could easily be filled by pestering the Baron Rosaire, she was sure.

She was amused, however, when the man at the stables pointed her in the direction of an adorable, petite bird with a stunning set of bright coral-colored feathers.

“I’m becoming like Teagan,” she thought. “Amassing animals left and right.”

Well, that was perhaps the only manner in which she and the sunshine girl were similar. She was certainly nowhere near as panglossian in outlook as the young woman, but she did have a good feeling about the bird.

Even when she got her home and discovered that her name was given to her in a case of extreme irony.

In the days to come, she discovered that the bird named Wallflower was anything but her namesake. No, the bird was an unholy terror. Originally bred as racing stock, she seemed too unruly to handle at first. There were bites, kicks, and very loud and indignant ‘warks’ thrown her way in the first few days. She had an air of haughtiness to her as well, as if knowing full well that she was small, but woe to you if you told her as much.

Any time another bird came near that happened to measure even a hand higher, Wallflower tried to square up against them, strutting back and forth with her tail feathers puffed and fanned out. If another bird took so much as a single step in front of her, Wallflower saw fit to remind them of what she’d been bred for, speeding off at a breakneck sprint regardless of where she was. She was an agile little bird, though, weaving through the thick underbrush of the Shroud as if dancing, and eliminating any worry her rider may have had about being caught by anything which might see fit to chase her vibrant coral bird.

Learning to ride the speed demon was quite a feat, and Okuni found herself thrown from the bird more times than she cared to admit. But oddly, Wallflower always circled back for her, as if confused and concerned for her strange scaly rider. It seemed oddly...compassionate. Patient, where the bird otherwise would not be.

So maybe she started to spoil the bird a little after that. Either way, she couldn’t complain much about the choice of the competitive, proud, sometimes mean little Wallflower, loved immediately by her owner.

#ffxivwrite2020 #ffxivwrite #my writing #okuni tomioka #[The Silkmoth]

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halfhumanscribe · 4 years

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Hollow Out

Synopsis: Hex, Sia, and Novan (a door mouse, garden skink, and a mosquito) must infiltrate one of the temples of the silhouettes, to find something for an eccentric client. It doesn’t go well. RATING: T (Teen) ORIGINAL PUBLISHING DATE: 2020

WORD COUNT: 4777

Forgive any formatting issues. Reviews and critiques are appreciated.

Hollow Out by Inganno

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In a hollowed-out tree, among the stumps and greenery of the woods by the stream, there was a bulletin board. Much as every board scattered around the surface of the kingdom, it contained the usual mishmash by the citizens of the surrounding areas: recipes for families, news from the neighboring lands, warnings of the black silhouettes, as well as requests.

Requests usually came in the acquisition of food, usually by a family with no scavenging skills or those taking care of the ill. Hoarders happily took these requests, sometimes auctioning their services to those who needed them. Once a request was taken, it was usually completed within the day, culminating with the exchange of goods and currency.

Hex, Sia, and Novan were desperate for both. Too many jobs gone south had emptied their coffers and given them a bad reputation. This was a shame, considering Hex’s rather well-known pedigree.

“Shit!” he snapped, kicking at the towering wooden door for what felt like the twentieth time the past hour. The door-mouse knew it wouldn’t do anything, but it at least got some of his frustration out.

He, nor the others were expecting the door to have a small silhouette installed lock. Sneaking into the temple and making it to their destination seemed easy enough, until they snuck into the high up storage room only to find the door lock tight behind them.

“At least we know why the door was cracked open already,” Sia groaned as they leaned against a large cylindrical container of corn. “They were probably expecting us.”

Hex looked over at the mosquito, trying to give them a sour expression, but it was difficult to see considering how little light was coming.

“I doubt it,” Hex tried to argue. “These locks are to protect the small silhouette’s from getting in. Don’t know why though, considering they can’t even reach this far up.”

He chocked it up to overprotectiveness – something silhouettes seemed to have for their young, at least the one’s he observed.

He sat down and scooched himself against the wall. His frustration was keeping him from thinking soundly, and without a level head, he knew none of them would get out. He observed Sia, being the ever-peppy ray of cynicism, just standing there in near stillness. Meanwhile, Novan paced back and forth – a nervous habit the garden skink had when she was too deep in thought. Hex hated watching it, but it usually meant she was trying to think up a plan.

What Novan was doing was retracing their steps. Afterall, having a grasp of the situation meant having to understand how one got there. That was how she saw it. And the first conclusion she made was that if their reputation hadn’t gone to shit, then they wouldn’t have gotten into that mess.

Hoarders with bad rep tended to have trouble getting requests and were usually dismissed from any bidding wars. True, they could have easily done some requests pro bono, but that didn’t put food on the table or pay the rent. No, Hoarders who lost their reputation usually had to take higher value requests – the ones that nobody wanted to take.

These requests were usually put out by those with more than they needed: larger animals, usually higher on the food chain that could simply take what they couldn’t have, including other living creatures. They were still susceptible to boredom, however, and were quick to post on the local bulletin boards in order to alleviate it. It wasn’t about trying to survive to them; it’s was about entertainment.

Requests from them were usually very vague and confusing. The only things that were spelled out, clear as day, was the amount of Hoarders necessary and the time allotted to complete the task. The ambiguous nature of these requests usually put many Hoarders off. But those with bad rep tended to be more desperate than others. Aside from the need for a job, helping someone much higher up socially could also be a big boon for them… if they survived.

Candis Hollif: a blue jay of rather known regard during the Spring months, had put out the request the three had decided to take on. A stoutly and puffed out avian, his wealth was only matched by his peculiarly tastes, treating the opposite gender as little more than playthings in his bid to keep himself from going mad from boredom. In his youth, he was seen as something of a playboy among the women of flight. But as he aged, his tastes had began to branch outside of genus and species. Though this wasn’t anything uncommon within animal society, it was his penchant for smaller, “weaker” creatures that had many raising an eyebrow.

Novan remembered having to take in a deep breath, clenching her fists, as the blue jay’s tail feathers playfully danced along her tail. She was the only one who had the displeasure of being uncomfortably circled by the giant.

“100 seed, 400 currency, and your names dropped into the Oubliette Newsletter, which I have connections with,” he boasted, passing Novan to present himself to all three. “That should give you a month or two of income and food, and enough time for your name to get out there again. Do we have a deal?”

Hex stood there nursing a glass of brown booze – a drink even the most prestigious of animals couldn’t afford. It spoke volumes the amount of wealth Hollif possessed and made the three Hoarders uncomfortable just being close to him.

Novan and Sia couldn’t stand to be there either. They were only there because Hex had convinced them to be. Sia was sure they could find someone who would allow them to take their request. Novan, while agreeing somewhat, thought it better to move to one of the neighboring towns. It wasn’t like the digs they lived in were any good either. The threat of the stream flooding over to their home was always a possibility during the Spring months.

“Look, it’s not that we don’t trust you,” Sia lied, “but we can’t agree to anything if you don’t tell us what the job is, you know?”

Candis had been as playfully vague with the details as his bulletin board request had been.

“Not one to enjoy the mystery, are we?” he chuckled, perching himself onto a nest made of cotton wool and dried grass. “Alright then, I’ll be straight to the point. I assume everyone knows what green is?”

Color blindness, double vision, as well as a malady of other sight issues were common among the animals. Hex was the former, only able to decipher certain shades in bright light, and Sia could see bright colors too well, often becoming enamored by them. Novan was the only one of the bunch to see colors clearly without a handicap.

“I can point it out,” she explained.

“Good. You’ll probably need to work with your team then to find it,” Candis continued. “The job I want you to do will be a scavenger trip into a silhouette temple – nothing I’m sure you all aren’t used to.”

Fairly common jobs, but coming from someone like Candis, there must have been a catch.

“In one of the storage rooms of the temple, there’s a green object, maybe about as big as a sugar cube. I need you three to go in and retrieve a piece of that for me. That is all.”

In most cases, the group would agree to the conditions, requesting the location of the temple and moving on from there. But again, this was one of those eccentrics that so often loved to play with anyone who even fancied a glance toward the bulletin boards.

“It can’t be that simple,” Sia spoke up.

Hex nodded in agreement, adding, “What’s so special about this green cube?”

“It’s not of your concern,” Candis pointed out. “I’ve explained as much of the job as you need to know. It’s up to you if you’d like to take it. What do you say?”

They wanted more info. Candis wouldn’t budge though, outside of the temple location and the general direction of where the green object was. They all sensed trouble, but they also sensed poverty if they didn’t take the job.

They agreed to his terms of three days, signing their hands onto the contract that he had written up, as per animal law. He handed it to them to be turned into the closest local Hoarder representative. Once they had finished with the paperwork, they were on their way.

Silhouettes resided in large, shadowing temples that connected to each other. Each temple was self-contained and housed a different group of silhouettes inside, adorned with various artifacts and trinkets. Some silhouettes were by themselves, and others lived together. Sometimes they would come out of their temples too, which made the element of stealth very important. Sometimes they would have guards: cats and dogs who often times would attack first before asking any questions.

Their job was at a temple that housed about four silhouettes, and two small dogs. That usually spelled suicide mission, even when they had decided to go at night. However, the silhouettes and their guards had disappeared, going on holiday to somewhere, as Candis had put it. This meant that the temple was empty and rife for the pickings.

Finding a tear in the screen of a window that had been left open just slightly, they entered the temple.

“I guess I can see it,” Sia sighed looking around their dimly lit prison.

“See what?” Hex asked.

“We call these things storage rooms, but I guess to a silhouette, they’d be something like a pantry, you know?”

“And what brought this up?”

Sia shrugged their wings. “I don’t know. Bored and thirsty I guess.”

They had been trapped inside that room for about day. Light poured in through the cracks more gracefully during the day, giving them a better chance to get a look at their surroundings. Canned goods mostly, at least on that level. Most storage rooms were made up of two or three floors.

“Well, keep it to yourself unless you have something to contribute, okay?” Hex chastised. He wasn’t in the best of moods. His attention was focused on a slightly larger crack between the door and the second floor.

He was trying to formulate some sort of plan to get up there. From the cracks in the door, he could see the shadow of something just outside the second floor of the storage room. He assumed that maybe it was the lock. Perhaps they could get up there and unlock it?

“Sia or I could probably get up there better than you,” Novan informed him when he put the plan past them. She had a point.

Novan could climb on most surfaces with relative ease, and Sia could fly, if a bit erratically. However, both of them missed a very important detail. One detail that guaranteed a rodent of some sort on every Hoarding team.

Hex held up his claws. Claws that gave him the ability to grip and hold objects tightly. Something that Sia couldn’t do with anything that wasn’t a solid surface, and that Novan could only do with a limited number of objects. If there was indeed a lock up there, Hex would be the better choice to undo it.

Neither Sia or Novan were strong enough to lift him or help him climb, so they had to think of something else. After some minor arguments, they decided what was best was to move some of the canned goods over to the door and go from there. They worked with what they got, spending the rest of the day pushing what they could to create enough of a staircase for Hex to get high enough to scuttle along the wood of the door. It worked well enough, and he was able to just barely squeeze through.

“So is it, or isn’t it?” Novan asked from the first floor. “I can be right up if you need help.” Honestly, why she didn’t stop check the area out first was beyond her. Probably because of the hunger that was eating away at her belly, making sound judgment difficult.

“I think it is!” Hex yelled down. “My claws can just barely reach it though. But I think if I can get my hand underneath this little bump…”

There was a crash, a yelp, and suddenly, the light from the cracks was almost completely gone.

Sia flew up, checking to see if they could squeeze in to check on their friend. Sadly, what little opening was there originally was gone.

“Hex! Are you okay, what happened?”

“I’m fine, I’m fine! But I think the lock was caught on something. I think I ended up loosening it or something. Is everything alright down there?”

Of course, everything wasn’t alright. They had less light than before, and the door was locked even tighter. What words could be said?

“This has been a real shit job, you know?” Sia groaned. “Can you see anything up there?”

“Not really. I might have to feel around for a little bit. There isn’t as much light coming in now.”

“We can see that!” Sia called backed.

There wasn’t going to be much light soon regardless. The sun was setting, and they were trapped worse than before. Thirst was quickly catching up to them too, and if they couldn’t figure something out, they’d likely die of dehydration within the next day. Sia was able to manage, at least.

“Just take a little, okay?” Novan winced as the barb like mouth pierced her leg.

Sia drank only a couple of sips. Enough to get them through the following day. At the very least, if the door somehow miraculously opened again, Sia could get out. Novan and Hex’s fates were up in the air.

“You doing alright up there Hex?” Novan called out above her.

“As well as ever. There’s a lot of soft things up here, but I can’t quite break through them with my teeth. I hate these thick storage bags!”

Silhouettes weren’t dumb. They took precautions to protect their cache of food and wealth.

“I’m so hungry!” Hex bellowed, sounding like a pouting child.

“Then get this door open!” Sia yelled.

The loss of blood was quickly catching up to Novan as she leaned against a large cylinder of sealed food. She didn’t feel like sticking around to listen to the two of them argue anyways. She was just about to doze off when…

“Holy crap, I found something to eat!”

That shot her awake, at least enough to listen. Sia had already flown up to the ceiling to get more info.

“What did you find!?” they yelled. “Can you pass any of it down to us?”

“I don’t know,” Hex replied as he felt around his surroundings. “I still can’t see very well! I think it’s some sort of chunk that fell out of its bag. It’s kind of sweet? It’s hard to break a piece off though.”

“Well, hurry up and try! Novan needs some of the good stuff down here!”

“I’m trying! I’m trying!”

“Try harder!”

Novan would have added some commentary, but felt like there wasn’t anything to add. Sleep felt like the better use of her time, so she drifted off to sleep, and tried to let her dreams calm her nerves. Sadly, neither her hunger nor her thirst would let her have a full night.

She rustled a bit as her eyes slowly opened, her body quickly reminding her of its needs. On top of that, she really needed to relieve herself.

Finding her balance, she looked around, noticing the tiniest of glows coming in through the little cracks of the door. Dawn perhaps? Sia was perched right there, her outline just barely visible.

“Morning,” Novan yawned. “I hope I didn’t miss much while I was out.”

Sia said nothing, looking out into the cracks of the door.

After finding a back corner to take care of business, Novan found herself wide awake, though in considerable abdominal pain. She approached the door and rested next to Sia.

“So, what was the food he found?” she asked.

“Shut up,” Sia snapped quietly.

Rude.

“Rude, but not surprising,” Novan chuckled.

“Novan, just shut up for a second.”

Their voice was low and serious. Novan complied, trying to see what it was that Sia was so curious about. And then Novan heard them.

Footsteps. Large, hulking footsteps. The footsteps of a behemoth.

“Okay, Novan, I need you to listen to me,” Sia began as they grabbed the lizard and got close to them. “I’m gonna make as much sound as I possibly can and try to attract the silhouettes. When they open the door, I need you to run. Don’t ask questions. Just run and get back home.”

Something was wrong; more wrong than what was already happening. True, they were already trapped, and getting out of there was top priority, but there was something else in Sia’s voice. It was serious, yes, but also dry, hoarse, and above all else, desperate. Something else was going on.

Novan then realized that they were missing a voice in their escape plan.

“Hex?” Novan yelled up.

Sia quick grabbed her head and brought it back to attention.

“Focus on me right now, Novan. I’m going to get you out of here, and you’re going to go home. Okay?”

You and you’re. Not we or us.

What was happening? Where was this panic and desperation coming from? And where was Hex? He was usually the first one to volunteer for these gung-ho sort of missions. All of a sudden, he was quiet. Was he going to be doing something else?

“Sia, you’re scaring me.”

“Good. I need you to be scared so you can get out of here. When the doors open, run like hell. Just run and don’t stop until you get home. Okay?”

“Sia, please.”

Sia took in a deep breath, letting it out slowly to keep themselves calm.

“I really had a lot of fun working with you two.”

They let go of Novan and took flight, beating their wings as hard as they could, sending a ghastly buzzing sound all around the room. Novan winced at the velocity of it, watching Sia fly around the cracks to try and attract the silhouettes attention.

A moment later, the light disappeared. Something had appeared to block it out. For a moment, there was only total darkness all around them. Then came a click, and the door swung open with ease.

It all happened so quickly. Time must have slowed down for Novan just for a second. But within that second, a ragdoll fell from the floor above them. It must have been leaning against the door the whole time. But it only took Novan a moment to recognize that tiny, limp thing. It fell right in front of her, disappearing onto the countertop below, hitting it with a thud that spilled the tiniest amount of red that had already been dripping from its lip.

“Hex!” Novan screamed.

“Get going!” Sia demanded before rushing for the silhouette’s face.

So much suddenly happened. Novan’s mind froze, but her arms and legs began to pump nonstop, not giving into panic for a moment. Another silhouette had yelped from behind the bigger one, jumping back in surprise and pointing to Hex’s body. It then pointed to Novan, who had crawled over Hex, as if to make sure she wasn’t dreaming.

The door-mouse was dead. Bits of red trickled out of his mouth, while bit of green clung to his teeth. In his hands, he clutched a sizeable chunk of a green rock. Novan didn’t need to guess what happened. Hex had succeeded in finding what they were looking for, and all the pieces had begun to come together in Novan’s mind.

“Don’t lick! Don’t swallow!” she told herself as she grabbed the piece of green with her mouth and sprinted toward the tear in the screen.

The sheer insanity of it all allowed her to get there without any problem, squeezing herself and their objective through without any damage. Once on the other side, she turned back toward the madness.

Sia did everything in their power to annoy and distract the behemoth. They buzzed, they hissed, they stabbed. But alas, it wasn’t enough. In a split second, they felt the lashing hand of the silhouette slam into them, with so much strength, it knocked the air clean out of them. They soared. A wing fell off. They hit the side of something, and everything went black. Their body fell between the counter and the humming cold tower the silhouettes used to keep some food things in.

Once the body had vanished from sight, Novan made a mad dash away from that terrible place, still keeping the green safe in her mouth, making sure not to lick and not to swallow. Eventually, she disappeared quietly into the brush of the forest.

The world passed by her in a blur as her head filled with hideous images of her friends meeting their ends. She zoomed past other animals, pushing her way into the hollowed-out stump of a tree, passing the bulletin board and taking a left when a fork in the road came up. Going right would have taken her home. But something else was calling her amongst the angry noises that deafened and blinded her.

“Please, madam, drink this!”

A small bowl was placed in front of her by one of Candis’ servants. She quickly lapped up the entire dish of water as her heart continued to beat a mile a minute. Once she had been hydrated, her body went limp and she shut down, allowing her a moment to calm herself.

Candis’ servant rushed out of the room to get her more water and something to eat, bringing along a torn piece of cloth in case she began to feel cold or anything. They stayed with Novan as her breathing slowed to a crawl, before she passed out.

“Yes, sir, I can confirm she brought some sort of green block back.”

The servant looked down, trying not to meet eye contact with his employer. There was something in his eyes they didn’t like. This suited Candis just fine. He barely paid attention to the staff as it was. He was happy to listen this time though, returning home to good news a few hours after Novan had arrived in her state.

“You’re dismissed,” he happily said to the roach. “Please collect the pouch of goods I left in my secret hideaway for Ms. Novan. We won’t be long. You did say she was awake, yes?”

“About a half an hour ago, yes.”

“Happy to hear it. Now then. Off you go!”

The servant made his way out of the blue jay’s home, toward an unmarked area some few trees away. Candis waited till they were gone before going into his study to meet with the sole survivor. He found her awake, sipping on brown booze in a bowl.

“I hope you don’t mind,” Novan rasped as she noticed Candis enter the room. The tiny thimble of liquor that Candis kept up high for special occasions was out.

It was difficult to come about that booze, but he wouldn’t deny it was a time for celebration.

“I see you’ve started the party without the host,” he chuckled. “I’ll let it pass though. A lovely woman such as yourself deserves to enjoy the finer things, after all.”

She shivered. This man really thought himself something special, didn’t he? Hex was a far more attractive and far more charismatic individual, and Hex was, admittedly, bad at both those things. Still, the small time the two were together was a cherished memory, even when they decided to remain friends.

But now Hex was dead.

“So, where is it?” Candis asked, wanting to get to the point.

She nudged her head over to a small table on the far end of the room. The blue jay trotted over in elation, looking happily upon the small chunk of green. Though, it was less than what he had hoped for.

“Couldn’t you have procured more?” he asked, sounding slightly indignant.

“My partners died just so I could get whatever that stuff is back to you,” she snapped unhappily, lapping at the booze.

“My condolences,” he said, sounding less sympathetic than Novan expected.

“What is that stuff anyways?” she followed up, wanting to move away from the subject of her friends.

Candis chuckled and shook his head.

“Sadly, that is for me to know, my sweet. Your moment in this little story has come and gone. When my servant returns with your reward, we will have to say our goodbyes.” He pauses to see the utter annoyance and anger stretched across her face. “I hope you don’t blame me for the death of your teammates.”

She did, but that was beyond the point.

“I’d rather not talk about them right now, if you don’t mind. I’m still processing everything.”

“Completely understandable!” he replied. “It’s a terrible thing. May I join you in a drink? We can toast your fallen comrades together.”

Sure, why not? She had lost most of the will to live, so why not enjoy a drink with a filthy lecher who sent her and her friends off to suffer. Bring on the booze!

Candis happily poured himself a bowl of the brown booze from the thimble and sipped on it, trying in vain to start some sort of conversation with Novan. She ignored his advances and waited.

Meanwhile, the roach servant had hid a minor roadblock on the way there. A pesky thief had made their way into Candis’ secret area, where our intrepid servant had to come face to face with them. Only to stop and hear a harrowing tale.

“This belongs to us,” the thief informed the servant.

The roach refused to confront them, instead inviting them back to his employer’s humble abode. They informed the thief that they would find all the answers they were looking for there. The thief begrudgingly went along, limping behind, readying themselves in case things took a turn for the worse. But the servant promised them that they would not tell Candis that they had tried to steal a bag of seed and currency.

In fact, upon hearing the thief’s tale, the servant was elated. He couldn’t think of a better way to end this story. It may not have been the perfect fairytale ending, but stories such as those were rarer than gold.

The two entered the home, making their way to the study, to which the servant and the thief had privy knowledge of how to get there. They opened the door, expecting a joyful reunion. Instead, they stopped to find the freshly poisoned corpse of Candis Hollif, having only departed the mortal coil only ten minutes prior.

Novan just sat there, looking at his corpse, unaware of the visitors in the room.

It didn’t take a genius to know what the green chunks were. If Hex’s corpse wasn’t enough of a clue, the numbness in her mouth and general pain in parts of her body were. She hadn’t swallowed any when she had transported it there, but bits of dust and crust still manage to dislodge themselves. She would survive though.

Candis would not.

She grinded a small portion of the chunk into as fine a powder as she could with the bottom of the thimble, before pouring herself a bowl of brown booze, and putting the poison in the remainder of the thimble. If he hadn’t asked to join her in a drink, she would have offered. And if he refused, then at some point, he would have drank it, probably after dismissing whomever it was he had the intent on using the poison on.

Feeling a small sense of ease come over her, she walked over to the thimble, and pushed it back into the high up pantry, closing the wooden doors behind it.

Would anyone mourn Candis’ passing, she wondered? No one was sure to mourn Hex or Sia. Or maybe it was just Hex they would mourn, together.

“Novan?” Sia the thief muttered, catching the lizard’s attention.

They voice felt like a warm bath, making her wonder if the skink was losing her mind. She turned to see the wounded mosquito, limping with one less leg and one less wing. They looked like utter hell.

Novan smiled, unsurprised. Mosquitos don’t die so easily.

#ing's stories #fiction #short story #writing

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sodalitefully · 5 years

Text

well, I feel like now that I alluded to this fic (among others) in a vague textpost about my writing struggle and my penchant for weird AUs, I have to post it. That’s how it works right? that and it was already written out and all so

Anyway, here’s a catboy!Slash au, sluff, sfw, very fluffy, please don’t judge 😂

They sit like that for a while, Duff lightly combing his fingers through Slash’s thick curls, occasionally brushing against his soft ears, and feeling the warm puff of Slash’s steady, relaxed breaths on his shoulder.

*now revised & updated as a fic! check my masterlist or ao3 for parts 2 – 5*

((As far as expensive housepets go, catpets are pretty popular. They tend to have pretty faces and slight figures, and of course ears and a tail. Well-bred pets are docile and affectionate by nature, they make excellent companions, and (unlike regular cats or dogs) they often contribute to their adoptive household. However, since their lifespan is comparable to a human's, adopting is a big decision. Regulations are in place to ensure that all pets are properly cared for. Pedigrees and exotics are more expensive and higher maintenance, usually found in only wealthy households.))

=^^=

It had been a couple years now since he left home and Duff was just getting by in LA, working a day job and playing with a band that has potential. He was on his way to work – walking, because he never had any gas money – when he first saw Slash for the first time through the window of the local pet shelter and immediately fell in love.

It's not that Duff was thinking of getting a pet – he was living off of ramen packets and renting a glorified closet, are you kidding? But he saw that catboy lying in a sunny spot by the window, kicking his legs as he flipped through a comic book, and before he knew it Duff was stepping through the shelter's glass doors.

As it turns out, the cat was a panther mix, taller than your average domestic breed with a long, fluffy, black tail and rounded ears poking out through curly hair. Such an exotic pet was uncommon in this part of town, but the caretakers at the adoption center explained to Duff that he was taken in off the street. He hadn’t shared much about his background, only that he went by the name Slash.

Duff asked to meet him and the caretakers warned that Slash was very shy and his behavior could range from aloof to hostile, particularly with strangers. But Duff was undeterred, so they let him into the meet-and-greet room and told him to wait while they asked Slash if he wanted to come out.

When the caretaker walked back into the room with Slash trailing behind, Duff felt like he was on a first date, all nervous smiles and shuffling feet. The caretaker stood by the doorway to offer them some semblance of privacy, and Slash perched himself on the couch across from Duff and watched him with a schooled expression – or at least Duff thought Slash was watching him, it was hard to tell with his fluffy bangs hiding his eyes.

“Why don’t you tell Slash a bit about yourself?” the caretaker prompted Duff, who glanced sheepishly down at his feet before looking back at Slash wearing what he hoped was a friendly grin.

“Hi, I’m Duff, it’s really nice to meet you! Right, uh, I’m originally from Seattle but I moved down here to play music. Right now I’m the bass player for a band called Guns N’ Roses and that's going really well, which is cool. I, um, also work at a restaurant a few blocks away, I was actually heading to work when I, uh…”

Damnit, Duff, can’t you think of anything more impressive to say? This is one fancy cat, he probably grew up in some Beverly Hills mansion, he’s not gonna want to live with a broke punk rocker…

A quiet voice interrupted Duff’s thoughts. “The New York Dolls…” Slash said, almost to himself. Duff startled, and realized that Slash’s gaze had dropped to the words on his worn-out t-shirt.

“Yes! Johnny Thunders is a hero of mine,” Duff said, pointing to Johnny on his shirt because it sounded like Slash knew what he was talking about but you never really know with pets – some of them were kept very sheltered. “I love punk music, and I also listen to lots of rock and some other stuff, everything really – the band I’m in now is very rock n roll.” A pointed tooth peeked out of Slash’s mouth, and Duff worried that he might have upset him somehow until he realized that Slash was biting down on a tiny smile.

The caretaker must have noticed as well, because she cautiously asked: “Slash, would you like to go over at sit with Duff for a while?”

Slash didn’t move for a moment, gnawing his lip as he considered and flicking his eyes between the caretaker and Duff, who was on the edge of his seat.

Just when Duff opened his mouth to reassure Slash that he didn’t have to if he didn’t want, Slash slid off his couch and tiptoed over to Duff. He settled on the seat cushion and curled his legs protectively in front of him, then tentatively leaned in until his head was lightly resting against Duff’s arm along the back of the couch.

Duff let out the breath he didn’t realize he was holding and turned to the caretaker with a look of amazement. If her expression was anything to go by, she hadn’t expected Slash to go for it either, but she gave Duff an encouraging smile regardless. Duff reached his other hand up slowly, and gently brushed Slash’s hair away from his face. Slash's cheeks were dark red, but he let Duff look at him without turning away.

They sat like that for a while, Duff lightly combing his fingers through Slash’s thick curls, occasionally brushing against his soft ears, and feeling the warm puff of Slash’s steady, relaxed breaths on his shoulder. It was peaceful, and hopeful, and time seemed to slow down – until Duff glanced at the wall clock and nearly jumped out of his seat.

“Shit.”

Slash looked up at him inquiringly.

“I have a shift in fifteen minutes, I need to go.” Duff couldn’t hide the disappointment in his voice. “But, uh, I’d like to come back tomorrow, if that – that is, if you want me to –”

Slash cut off his stuttering with a decisive nod, and a grin of relief lit up Duff’s face as he picked himself up off the couch. He spun around when he reached the door to wave goodbye. Slash returned the gesture with a wiggle of his fingers and a real smile that made Duff flush pink as he ducked into the hallway.

“So, is there any way you could put me on an interested list or something? I promise I’ll be back tomorrow and I just don’t want to… I don’t want to miss my chance, y’know?” Duff asked the caretaker on the way out.

“I’ll be straight with you, Duff, it might be tough for you to get through the approval process given your current employment. Honestly, we were planning to move Slash to a different location soon, in an area where people are more likely to adopt a luxury pet, so to speak. But, in the week I’ve know him, I haven’t seen Slash react so warmly to anyone, and you obviously have your heart set on him… so just come back tomorrow and I’ll see what I can do for you two.”

=^^=

pet adoption as meet-cute? idk man. but yes, there’s more of this au.

(also I will never stop making fun of Duff for his crush on johnny thunders)

#honestly don't know how i feel about this #sluff #slash #duff mckagan #gnr #saul hudson #guns n roses #guns and roses #gnr fanfic #mine #sodafics

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yjsacha · 5 years

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TASK 003. // CHILDHOOD

“I let you down, wayward and wild, but I'm somebody else's, somebody else's child.”

001. ⟩ where did your muse grow up? how did they like living there then, and how do they feel about it now?

sacha grew up in st. petersburg. he was born there, and even when he traveled for school and hockey, he always felt it was his home. sacha had a complicated relationship with the city. more often than not he was locked away on his family’s property- a sprawling manor with an army of staff to take care of everything he needed. his childhood was a snowy property, a glassy, frozen lake, and a driveway so long he couldn’t even see the gate of his property’s entrance from inside his house. when he was young he used to play make believe that he was a prince, and when he was finally old enough they’d open the gates and let him ride off on an adventure to slay a dragon or defeat an evil wizard. it was a lonely place, so sacha filled up the empty halls with his imagination.

002. ⟩ did they have any childhood pets? if not, did they want some?

sacha had exactly one pet he considered his own growing up. his mother always loved keeping cats around the house, the fancy ones with a pedigree certificate and a monthly trip to the groomers. one of their cats was knocked up by a stray, and had a small litter of ugly, flat-faced kittens. sacha begged and begged, until he got to keep one. she had long, frizzy brown hair and muddy green eyes, traits picked up from her stray father. and sacha loved her, because she was sweeter and odder than any of the prissy felines his mother kept. he named her zhaba after the wide, muddy toads that lived by the lake in the summer. she was ugly like a toad, and her squeaky voice sounded closer to a croak than it did a meow. when he went off to boarding school when he was twelve, he wasn’t able to bring her with him. the day before he flew to germany was the last time he saw her.

003. ⟩ what type of education did they receive growing up? what type of student were they? did it change over time?

when sacha was young, his education came in the form of home tutoring. the only time he ever left the manor was when his mother wanted to bring him shopping with her, or take him to dinner at the manors of other wealthy russian businessmen. his day was divided between learning and hockey, with breaks only for meals. he liked his tutors, and was a bright boy when he was younger. he picked up lessons quickly. when sacha was twelve, he received a scholarship to a prestigious boarding school in germany for hockey. he spent the rest of his education there, and his once bright and curious mind seemed to dim. he could never pick up on the language as he had picked up on russian and korean. plus, his teachers all treated him like an athlete. he was there to win them trophies, not learn. so they gave him b’s without making him do any actual work. so sacha became a lazy student, doing the bare minimum and drifting off in class. if the teachers had given up on him, what was the point?

004. ⟩ what were some of their favorite childhood activities?

there was only one activity for sacha. his obsession with hockey started young, at four years old with tiny baby blades tied to his feet and his tutor pulling him across the thick ice of his property’s lake. he would beg his mother or his nanny to bring him into the city to the big outdoor rink, where couples and families all glided around together. he was then gifted his first hockey stick when he was five, tiny and bright green. from there it spiraled, where he’d spend any free second on the ice. then he began joining teams, and he was good. good enough to be scouted to the best of the best, where you would be on the ice from six am to eight pm day after day. his favorite activity was also his lifeblood, his career from before he could count to a hundred.

005. ⟩ do they have siblings? what is their relationship like? if they were an only child, did they want siblings? did they have someone close to them that they considered a sibling?

sacha was, of course, an only child. unless you counted his own mother, who he never actually got to meet because she died on the table almost as soon as he was brought into this world. with his grandparents raising him, he never really considered the possibility of siblings. he was already a mistake, one that was burdened on his family. he was lucky enough they took care of him, he would never be selfish enough to ask for another child in the house. more than anything he wanted a friend. he had his teammates, sure, but he spent his youth either getting tutored at home or sent to a country where he couldn’t speak the language, so had a hard time forging friendships. maybe a sibling would’ve cured the lonely ache that’s always resided in his chest.

006. ⟩ what did they wanna become when they grew up? how did those aspirations pan out?

if you ask anyone who has ever met sacha at any point in his life, they would tell you the same thing: sacha is a hockey player. there’s no room for interpretation there. he could skate as soon as he could walk, and use a stick like it was an extension of himself. and he achieved his dreams. he had trophies at home, a shiny gold junior olympic medal, and so many framed jerseys with ‘babichev’ on the back that he could start a museum. but how did it pan out? he’s professional, his dream, but not at the level he always thought he would be at. but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. he’s playing for a new team, one where he can build himself into the history of. make a legacy for himself. all while finally allowing himself to live a life outside of the sport.

007. ⟩ what does their childhood room look like?

his room was not built for a child. it was a guest room, with ornate furniture, a large canopy bed, and expensive artwork hanging on the wall. he was always too guilty to touch anything, simply using the room to change and to sleep. he had a separate room, a play room as his family called it, that truly reflected his tastes. it was a shrine to his favorite hockey teams, had worn couches for jumping and rolling. there was a toy chest, one from a retail store and not a vintage collection. it was where he spent most of his time when he wasn’t at practice or tutoring he would be in that room.

008. ⟩ where was your muse’s favorite space as a child? is it still the same place, or has it altered? do they have more than one favorite space?

despite the loneliness the manor brought, it was always sacha’s home. especially the sprawling property with the tall trees lining the back yard, and of course the lake. how could it not be his favorite spot? in the cold months he would live on it, hat secure on his head and a puffy jacket zipped up to his chin as he zipped around the expansive surface. a private rink, just for him, out in the fresh air with the sounds of lively nature around him. when he went off to boarding school, he didn’t really have that kind of favorite space. usually the place he felt most comfortable was in felix’s bedroom, though that had more to do with the company than the space itself.

009. ⟩ what was the most important lesson they learned as a kid, and how did they learn it?

the most important lesson sacha learned as a child was independence. it’s a cruel, cruel world out there, and the only one who will truly look out for you is yourself. his parents were there, sure, but he knew they didn’t love him in the way parents should love their child. his coaches saw him as a tool for winning, not a kid. the staff were nice to him because he was the heir of their bosses, not something that truly bred loyalty. he learned that if he created his own happiness, forged his own path, that was the only way to get what he truly wanted and to not be disappointed by those around him. you just can’t rely on those who can leave you at the drop of a hat.

010. ⟩ did your muse have both parents around growing up? if they weren’t raised by their parents, who was their guardian? and what was their relationship like with them?

sacha’s family tree is a complicated one. dead grandparents on his birth mother’s side, so she was adopted by the business partner of his deceased grandfather. his mother was the first kim to babichev. then his birth mother got knocked up by a man in seoul that sacha will never know. then his mother passed during child birth, so the people who adopted his mother then adopted him. his adoptive grandparents turned adoptive parents loved his mother, so when she passed they grieved hard. it was a barrier that was forged between them and sacha, where they couldn’t truly open up to another child, especially one that was the cause of their sweet daughter’s demise. they raised him in honor of his dead mother, but he could tell that was the only reason they kept him around.

011. ⟩ what was their first crush like?

his first crush was forged in a tiny boarding school bedroom. he was the comfort of a common language, of teasing words and shy touches. he was a best friend, the person sacha relied on the most. he was glittering dark eyes and a pretty pouty mouth and canines so sharp sacha swore he couldn’t be human. not a boy so pretty, a boy so dangerous. he was first kisses and first heartbreaks an reconciliation. he was a crush that changed how sacha saw love, how he saw himself. he was an innocence that sacha soon lost, and a pain he still feels to this day. he was ahn felix, the kind of boy who comes into your life and never lets you forget.

012. ⟩ does your muse have any items from their childhood that they hold onto for sentimental reasons?

he has a snow globe of the st. petersburg’s cathedral that he purchased from a touristy cart in the center of the square when he was young. it doubles as a music box, where if you wind the little key it plays a tinkling rendition of the nutcracker. it used to sit on his dresser, the only decoration in his bedroom that was his own choice. he brought it with him to germany as a reminder of his home, and then again to korea. the little plastic snowflakes are dingy, and some of the water has evaporated, and the sound of the music has gone flat, but it’s his most cherished possession.

013. ⟩ what was your character’s favorite homecooked meal as a kid? is it still the same today? if so, how often do they have it?

homecooked meals were different for sacha than most kids. they were always gormet, prepared by a private chef, who changed the menu frequently. their chef studied french cuisine, so often their plates were filled with tiny, decorative portions of duck or pork. on special occasions, though, they took sacha out to the high-end korean restaurant in the city. it was always important to his adoptive parents that sacha always had knowledge of his korean roots, from the food to the language to the country itself. he liked the fancy skewers he would get, with succulent beef and fire roasted vegetables. today he finds himself craving more traditional russian food, the kind that reminds him of his sweet maids who would prepare his snacks for him. korean food doesn’t hold the same novelty when he lives there.

BONUS QUESTION. ⟩ if available, add a few baby pictures of your character or pictures from their childhood in general!

#yj:taskthree #( task. )#these are so repetitive #but im off hiatus!!

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yoursoki-blog · 5 years

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Best Cat Toys

Our star luxury purchase for the discerning cat has to be the Roach Cat Toy from Mungo & Maud (£25, mungoandmaud.com). Dangle the catnip-filled felt cockroach from the hand-dipped wooden stick and your cat will be in vermin-catching heaven. From the catnip-filled to tunnels and food mazes and traditional cat posts, you'll find the best cat toy to delight your pet for hours and hours here, whatever your budget. This catnip filled felt roach toy might give you a fright first thing in the morning, but it'll keep your cat entertained and happy.No matter how domesticated your cat is, you won't be able to change the fact that cats are natural hunters. Nurture this aspect of their personality with this squeaking cat toy with a catnip filled moused tucked away inside.Great for cats who can't stop moving about, this caterpillar toy has a catnip stored in both the head and tail that is released slowly while your cat is playing.Encourage curiosity in your cat with this cat tunnel toy. The tunnel has a peep hole and a hanging toy, and can double up as both a playhouse and shelter.This paw shaped puzzle has 12 hidden caves for you to place food in, testing your cats intelligence if it wants to enjoy a treat.

Best Overall: Trixie Cat Toy

The Trixie Cat Toy is a toy with pedigree. Developed by author Helena Dbalý, who literally wrote the book on feline play, it’s tailor-made to keep cats entertained for hours. Just stick a few pieces of kibble inside, and watch your kitty swat, paw, and strategize their way to a tasty treat. It’s a great bet for food-driven cats who need to slow their roll, and its multi-tiered peg-and-tunnel design can be reconfigured to keep things interesting. It’s this multifaceted design (along with its attractive price) that makes it our pick for best overall cat toy to occupy lonely cats.Owners mention that it’s well-constructed and surprisingly heavy, keeping cats from dragging it around when they play. Others add that it’s been indispensable when it comes to keeping their feline friends from gulping down their food too quickly.

Best Budget: Easyology Pets Amazing Cat Roller Toy

This Easyology toy is practically a steal for all that you’re getting. Watch as your cats bat around the colorful balls that fill this three-level tower, eagerly following their movement. The smart design also means that it can be enjoyed by multiple cats at once, making it an especially good deal for multi-cat homes.Owners say that the balls can be easily popped in and out of the tracks, and that it’s a joy to watch cats bop away with abandon. Some do add that the construction is fairly lightweight and moves around a bit during play, but it also includes non-skid pads to ensure it doesn’t topple.

Best Food Motivator: PetSafe FUNKitty Egg Cersizer Interactive Toy

If your cat’s the kind of pet that eats their food way too quickly — to the point that they’re uncomfortable or choking — then this toy from PetSafe is perfect for them. It’s pretty straightforward: Fill the plastic egg with some kibble, and your cat will move it around as it tries to get food out of one of its tiny holes. It’s a great tool for slowing down rapid eaters, and can even provide a little exercise for overweight kitties.Owners praise the simple-but-effective design, and appreciate that the size of the holes is adjustable —adding an extra challenge when Fluffy gets wise to the idea. If your cat needs to work a little bit for its food (and enjoy every minute of it), the PetSafe Egg Cersizer is a sure bet for your home.

Best Scratcher: YOUTHINK Collapsible Cardboard Scratcher Toy

Ah, the scratcher — a perpetual mainstay in the world of cat toys, and an absolute essential if you’re worried about your furniture staying intact. This scratcher from YOUTHINK takes a step beyond the standard approach. In addition to functioning as a simple scratcher, its ringed design means that it doubles as a fancy lounger for your kitty. Meanwhile, a ball toy (included) serves to make things even more entertaining while you’re away.The collapsible honeycomb paper lets owners customize the shape for multiple modes of play, and ensure it breaks down for easy storage. Owners say the material is stronger than expected, with minimal debris— although, some add, their cats like sleeping on it just as much as they enjoy getting their scratching fix out.

Best Battery Operated: Pawaboo Electronic Cat Toy

Need a little extra oomph to keep your cat interested? Try out this high-tech toy from Pawaboo, which features a battery-powered mouse that darts in and out of holes as your cat tries to chase it down. It’s supremely amusing (for cats and their resident humans alike, it must be said), and an adjustable speed keeps things from getting old when your cat hones its paw-eye coordination.Owners say the internal motor is fairly quiet, and love that it keeps cats preoccupied for long spans of time. Bear in mind that the toy does tend to drain batteries quickly, some say, but overall the Pawaboo is an easy pick for the best battery-operated cat toy for your money.

Best Splurge: munchiecat Sushi Cat Toys

Perhaps a bit more than you want to spend, the Sushi Cat doesn’t come cheap. But it’s so adorable that we think it’s definitely worth the splurge. There’s just something about the combination of cats and sushi that’s meant to be — and don’t worry, we’re talking about a plush toy, not actual seafood. The set comes in a mock-bento box, and features eight pieces of lovingly detailed, hand-sewn “sushi.” It’s so cute that it even looks great as a piece of decor (at least when your cat’s not cuddling away).Each piece of sushi is filled with either catnip or tiny bells to guarantee your cat stays entertained; owners say that the latter aren’t too loud or distracting, and that the overall set is attractive and well-made.

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twopoppies · 6 years

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Do you know any larry fanfics on either ao3 or wattpad with 20+ chapters?

Hey there. So, I actually don’t read anything on Wattpad, and I don’t often read fics with that many chapters because I worry that they’re so long because they need a lot of editing and that drives me a bit bonkers. Having said all of that...here are some that I’ve really liked that I hope fit your request:

Long Fics

Night Out and Saving Symphony Hall by @helloamhere (Symphony Hall Series: 4 chapters and 19 chapters –– 137K total)

Night Out

Symphony hall was the first place Louis had felt at home in this city, and he always had the box to himself. Until tonight.

Saving Symphony Hall

“I think I have an idea,” Louis said. Slowly, and reluctantly, but with a growing sense of the inevitable. “God damnit, I think I have a really good idea.”

“Oh christ, that's the problem-solving face,” Babs said. “Last time we saw that face, he sold a company.”

“Wait, what?” Zayn asked.

“Right place, right time,” Louis said. “Also, fuck my life,”

“What?” Zayn repeated. Niall patted his hand.

“I usually just roll with whatever Louis is about to do,” he said. “It’s better for us all.”

“That’s the attitude,” said Louis, “I’ll tell you tomorrow. Tonight, I need to do some research. Zayn, give me your number. I’m gonna save our symphony.”

Yellow by 13ways / @13ways-of-looking (19 chapters –– I’m cheating because this one is amazing)

The city of Gotham turns blood red with a new, mysterious criminal element, a beautiful woman named the Blind Cupid.

She threatens to tear the fabric of the city apart, aided by her deadly protégé, the Cat.

Can Batman stop them?

Will he resist the bewitching allures of the Cat?

A Batman/ Catwoman AU

No One Does It Better by nodibs (22 chapters)

Harry's an alcoholic and Louis is a bartender. The first time they meet isn't the first time they've met.

This got longer than I expected so the rest in under the cut

Victorian Boy by DonnaHaywardsHead (29 chapters)

Victorian AU. Harry the virgin Duke of Somerset knows little of love, while Louis the sly Duke of Warwick knows too much. When the two dukes come together for the Bilsdale fox hunt in York, Harry finds himself drawn into Louis' bed. But when secrets from Louis' dark past come to light, Harry fears that the fox isn't the only one being hunted.

Young & Beautiful by velvetoscar (34 chapters)

Louis, to his horror, attends an elitist university in which the name Zayn Malik means something, Niall Horan doesn't stop talking, there are pianos everywhere, and Harry Styles, only son of a drug-addled, clinically insane ex-rocker, has a perfect smile and empty eyes.

Gods & Monsters by velvetoscar (20 chapters)

The instructions were simple: seduce and destroy Harry Styles. Not once did they discuss the option of Louis actually falling in love. So, naturally, that's exactly what he did.

These are some I really like that don’t have a lot of chapters but have a really high word count, so you might like them as well.

Domestic Monsters by @g-uttertrash (9-part series - 234K total )

Part 1: come on, jump out at me

Harry is a witch from a long line of power, an ancient line that’s one of the strongest left alive in their hemisphere. He can cast spells without a word if need be, fly on a broomstick, and has a black cat (a kitten, really) named Felix that is his animal familiar. He can shape galaxies in his cupped hands and can destroy them just as easily. He can choose exactly how to use his power, for encouragement and support, or for more nefarious causes if he wishes to.

And as fate would have it, he’s scared of haunted houses.

(Harry is a witch who carries around a stuffed pumpkin, Louis is a vampire with too much time on his hands, and their best mates Zayn & Niall aren't exactly what they seem...

Never Never Never Stop for Anyone (Sheylinsonverse) by aimmyarrowshigh spibsy (Lucy and Ramona) (430K over 10 chapters –– read the tags on this. It’s polyamory/BDSM)

Part 1: The World, It’s Turning Inside Out

The night before the first live show of X Factor's ninth series, George meets Harry and Louis in a nightclub.

Lightening Strikes Twice by dinosaursmate / @catfishau (104K)

“Louis Tomlinson,” Harry said slowly, shaking his head and betraying a slight grin. “What the fuck are the odds?”“Small world,” Louis said lightly, shrugging and holding his hand out to Harry, smirk playing on his lips. “Wasn’t sure you’d remember me.”“Haha! Please.”Harry slid his palm into Louis’, grasping and shaking it. It must’ve been… what? Thirty years?---Two tales, one story. One: a tale of a rock star taking a shine to a fan who is different from all the others, and two: a tale of an older, washed up rock star, who - on the brink of resigning himself to a life of loneliness - finds fate intervening.

For Reasons Wretched and Divine by @indiaalphawhiskey (94K)

Ten years ago, Harry Styles was just a nerdy kid with one friend and a debilitating crush on the captain of his school’s football team. He thought the stars were smiling down on him the day he and Louis Tomlinson were paired for their end-of-term Literature project. But because Harry’s life is decidedly not a fairytale, the budding friendship quickly leads to the least happy ending of all time.

Now, Harry Styles is a household name. Barely twenty-seven with two Grammy nominations to his name, the singer-songwriter is poised to take the music industry by storm with his highly anticipated third album. So, what happens when the best producer in the business is also the only person Harry’s vowed never to speak to again?

An AU in two parts. Two boys, two stories, and hopefully, two chances at love.

(Take Me Home) Country Roads by Awriterwrites / @a-writerwrites (86K)

“Sir, I can help you. Just let me — “ He tried moving closer but the eldest child blocked his way. He backed off, putting his hands out in a passive gesture. “I’m a physician. I can help,” he tried again.

The man shook his head vehemently, passing the cup back to his grandchild. “Tol’ ya. Don’t need ya.” All of the fire had gone out of his voice, leaving behind a frail, sick old man with barely any breath to talk.

“I have medicines...I could make you comfortable…” Louis’ voice was still small, but pleading.

“Mountain Mama cares for wha’s ailin’ me. Don’t need no fancy city doctors.”

Louis blinked at the man, still shaking from the coughing spell. Mountain — well, fuck. That backwoods, uneducated scam artist…

“Of course he is,” Louis said curtly.*****OR a Northern Exposure AU featuring Louis as the big city doctor, Harry as a natural healer, Niall as a secretive barkeep, Liam and Zayn head over heels for each other but they don't know it and a lot of hurt, comfort and moonshine in between.

Atlas At Last by @louisandthealien (84K)

He doesn’t know what he had been expecting out of the road trip itself besides burping contests and too much shitty gas station food with Oli and Stan, but in the brief moment before Harry ambles up his driveway, Louis idly wonders if this is about to become some sort of Gay Coming of Age story.

Maine to California in ten days. In which Zayn’s an open-shirt hippie they meet somewhere in Ohio, Liam’s the pastor’s son running away from home, and Niall’s the number they call on the bathroom wall.

It’s 1978. Harry and Louis are just trying to get to San Fran in time for the Queen concert.

Take My Breath Away by @realitybetterthanfiction (153K)

There is a prestigious school in the British Royal Navy classified as Premier Delta - or as it is known by its flyers, 1D. These select pilots are an elite set of Naval lieutenants who are trained in the skill of aggressive aerial combat. They are instruments of war, trained in times of peace. They are dogfighters, relentless and fearless in their mission to protect their beloved country. From their lofty vantage, they are always watching, waiting, and ready to lay it all on the line.

Lt. Harry Styles, call sign Sparrow, is a prodigy when it comes to flying. The owner of an unrivaled Naval pedigree, being a pilot was always written in the stars for Harry. With his trusty RIO, Lt. Niall Horan, Harry has made an unprecedented ascension in the ranks of the Naval aerial combat elite, and has been recruited to the esteemed Premier Delta flight school, carrying on his family’s legacy. What he finds there are unexpected friendships, perilous challenges, and something beyond what he ever thought possible. Because as his father had always told him, before the great Captain Styles went tragically missing in combat, you don’t fall in love with the sky, you fall in love with what keeps you on the ground.

I hope that gives you some fics you haven’t read before! Enjoy!

#mine #larry fic rec #my fic rec #long fics #Anonymous

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jlhynde-insanitybrilliance · 7 years

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MYSME Headcannon: Unicorn MCxElizabeth III ‘Send a ship’

A/N: I’ll be accepting more asks similar to this. Just send in a ship, minor characters included. And I’ll answer the following questions.This is about my Unicorn MC Au & Elizabeth III.

Gives nose/forehead kisses

Both, but more often it’s MC.

MC loves cuddling w/ Elizabeth III & she always tries to kiss her head. Which Ellie is not a big fan of & has led to a couple scratches on MC’s face.

Ellie only gives MC ‘kisses’ early in the morning as a way of waking her up. Which MC is not a big fan of. (She is not a morning person.)

Gets jealous the most

Elizabeth III hands down.

But Ellie gets jealous of MC when she’s around Jumin. If MC & Jumin are cuddling on the couch or sleeping in the bed, Ellie always jumps inbetween them & snuggles into Jumins arms.

However, if Jumin is not there, Ellie gets jealous of anything that takes MC’s attention away from her. (i.e. laptop, phone, book, any of the other RFA members...) & she will forcefully put herself between MC & the offending object/person, if that’s not possible Ellie will meow until MC has to notice her.

Picks the other up from the bar when they’re too drunk to drive

Considering that Elizabeth III is a cat & therefore cannot drive a car & obviously cannot drink (Although Jumin is trying to invent a wine for cats.), this doesn’t apply to either of them.

However, on the times that MC has gotten particularly wasted, Ellie has always been there acting as a warm, fluffy, purring pillow to soothe MC’s hangover.

Takes care of on sick days

It’s actually Jumin. You can bet that if either MC or Elizabeth III gets sick, Jumin is going to bail on the company & take care of his two favorite people.

When MC is sick, Ellie is around for emotional support.

When Elizabeth III is sick... all f*cking hell breaks loose. For real. Jumin & MC are overprotective cat parents & no feline is more pampered than Ellie when she’s sick.

Drags the other person out into the water on a beach day

The only person cruel enough to do this is Seven. (the sadist.)

It’s well-known that cats hate water. So why the tomato-head hacker thinks it’s a good idea to throw a cat into the ocean is beyond any ones comprehension.

Jumin is furious.

MC is horrified, as only a cat-mom could be. & you can bet that she sprinted across the beach & dove into those waves to rescue her & Jumin’s baby kitty from the surf.

She scolded Seven until she was red in the face. & it was mutually decided after that the RFA was to keep Seven away from Elizabeth III for MC’s health.

Gives unprompted massages

MC. She’s always petting Ellie & rubbing her under her chin.

Drives/rides shotgun

MC drives. She. Always. Drives. Even if Jumin has Driver Kim to chauffeur her around, MC insists on driving herself.

“Come on, Jumin. I’m a grown-ass woman. I can drive myself to the store.”

Sometimes she even takes Elizabeth III in the car w/ her, letting her sit not in the passenger seat. But right on her lap as she’s driving.

Is it illegal? Probably. But if MC ever gets pulled over, Ellie is supposed to jump into the passenger seat.

Brings the other lunch at work

Does dinner count?

MC has her own job working as a barista. So she can’t always get home for lunch. But she goes & picks up some special cat treats for dinner.

Has the better parental relationship

Elizabeth III.

She comes from a long line of pedigree show cats. (Not a surprise considering how much of a diva she is.)

Her mother was a very loving cat that fed and sheltered her for the first three weeks of her life. & they ended things on good terms.

Unlike MC’s parents who’ve been freezing her out for a good decade.

Tries to start role-playing in bed

Cat-Human relations don’t end well. There is no role-playing.

(MC does mimic Ellie’s meow some times though, which Jumin finds cute.)

Embarrassingly drunk dancer

MC.

When MC gets drunk. SHE GETS F*CKING SMASHED.

This leads to a lot of embarrassing things, including drunk karaoke & drunk stripteases.

Still cries watching the Titanic

Neither. MC doesn’t like the Titanic & Elizabeth III can’t cry. (Not that MC knows of.)

Firmly believes in couples costumes

MC.

“Aww... Jumin look at this! It’s an r2-d2 costume for cats. I’m gonna buy it for Elizabeth & her & I can be matching for Halloween since I have that c3-po costume.”

One problem, however, Ellie hates these costumes. & it takes tremendous effort to get her into one. MC has to wear oven mits b/c Ellie tries to claw the f*ck out of her arm.

Breaks the expensive gift rule during Christmas

MC & Jumin.

Like I said before these two are proud cat parents, so they spoil their kitty rotten. (cat treats, toys, diamond collars, & fancy food.) Christmas is basically a ‘SHOWER ELLE W/ GIFTS DAY’.

Ellie’s gift consist of a hairball in MC’s favorite heels. (But hey, at least she knows quality.)

Makes the other eat breakfast

MC makes breakfast of Elizabeth III. Usually in the mornings Jumin has to rush off to the office. So MC likes to take care of Ellie so he doesn’t have to worry.

A standard breakfast for Ellie consists of: one can of high-end wet cat food, one fillet of fresh salmon, a small bowl of goats milk, & a sprinkle of silvervine.

Remembers anniversaries

It’s always MC.

She loves Jumin & by extension Elizabeth III. So she surprises both of them w/ gifts on the anniversary that she & Jumin started dating & again on their wedding anniversary when MC officially became Ellie’s cat-mom.

Brings up having kids

MC has offhandedly joked about it to Jumin. Like “do you think Ellie ever wants to have kittens.” or “ wouldn’t it be fun to have a bunch of little Elizabeth IIIs running around.”

However, over time these ‘little Ellies’ become ‘little MCs & little Jumins’. & the joking turns into a serious conversation about starting family.

#mysme headcannon #mysme #unicorn mc #elizabeth iii #jumin han #jumin x unicorn mc #jumin x mc #elizabeth iii x mc #mystic messenger #send a ship #shit cats do

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purrcraze · 5 years

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How Much Do Siamese Cats Cost?

Siamese cats are a unique breed, with long, slim legs and enchanting blue eyes. Though they make for loyal companions, there are quite a few costs associated with this beautiful cat breed.

So, how much do Siamese cats cost? A Siamese kitten can cost you anywhere from around $250 to $1000, whereas an adult purebred Siamese cat will cost you more than $1000.

A number of factors play a part in the cost of a Siamese cat. Adopting one from the shelter may cost you a little less, but when purchasing a purebred, the cost can vary widely. Pedigree purebred cats may just burn a hole in your pocket, with the price ranging from 400 to over 1000 dollars.

The question about the cost of a Siamese cat is really a trick question because there is not just the cost of buying the feline, but also the expenses that you will incur once you have her in your home.

Cost for a Siamese Kitten

Some people prefer Siamese kittens over the Siamese adults since they like the feeling of nurturing a baby to adulthood.

Adopting a Siamese kitten from a shelter may not be a big purchase, but when you are looking forward to purchasing it from a cat breeder, you can expect a price ranging from $250 to $400.

If you are a pet enthusiast, you may be eyeing for a purebred kitten, which can cost you significantly more.

Cost for an Adult Siamese Cat

The cost of a Siamese adult cat significantly varies with their distinctive point markings. Although most Siamese cats have similar characteristics like dark faces and pale bodies, they can be differentiated by the color of their coat. The four types include:

Seal Point Siamese Cats

Lilac Point Siamese Cats

Chocolate Point Siamese Cats

Blue Point Siamese Costs

You may be able to find other potential colors in Siamese cats, but the above four types are the ones most likely to be found and approved by the CFA.

Nevertheless, with their silky, soft glossy coat, you cannot resist buying a Siamese, but the price may force you to take a step back.

As mentioned earlier, the price of a Siamese cat may vary between $250 and $800, but if you are looking to buy a show-quality Siamese, the price can quickly climb the triple-digit ladder.

Basic Costs Associated with the Ownership of a Siamese Cat

Now that you have finally decided to purchase a Siamese cat and are willing to pay the price tag, you should know that it is not just the cost of buying the cat you will have to bear, but also the numerous expenses that come along with it. These include:

Spaying and Neutering

Most cat owners confuse neutering as only associated with male cats. However, the term is used for both sexes. Looking into just any shelter may give you the estimate of $40 to $50 for health and exam shots, while spaying and neutering can cost you between $100 and $300.

Spaying a female cat may cost you slightly more than neutering your male Siamese since the process associated with the former is more invasive.

Standardized and reliable animal shelters may also require you to sterilize the feline and the process will be less expensive as compared to the one you have to pay for if you opt for a private veterinary clinic.

For your knowledge:

Neutering can help reduce your Siamese’s desire to fight, roam or mark territory.

Spaying can help prevent heat cycles and urine marking, and also reduce the chances of mammary cancer, if done earlier.

Pet Supplies

Bringing a cat home and allowing it to roam around freely will only trouble you in the long term. Siamese cats are especially affectionate and tend to attach to their human friends more strongly.

Unless you arrange proper supplies for them, you can expect them to climb in bed with you every night.

Moreover, they are famed for their distinctive and frequent noises so you can also expect them to be incredibly vocal if they are not treated the way they should be.

Here are some pet supplies that you should consider buying before you bring your new pet friend home:

Litter Box ($7 to $85)

A hooded litter box will cost you between $15 to $20

A specialty litter box will set you back between $20 to $150

If you are into designer supplies, you can expect a price range of $100 to $500.

A disposable litter box is not a bad idea either. Have a look at that here – it´s awesome!

Cat litter – A 20-pound large box will cost you around $7.

Cat food – This is the cheapest you will find out there (But you should never go for the cheapest) – A $.50 per small can and $6 to $9 for a 5-pound bag of premium nuggets (dry).

Toys

Most Cats flip for a “feather on a stick” and they provide a great opportunity for your kitten or cat to exercise, in just $3.

A yarn ball is one of the oldest toys that cats like to play with so even the cheapest toy will not let your Siamese down.

Regular Health Checkups

Siamese cats are known to be healthy felines in general for a pedigree breed and do not have a list of known conditions or illnesses. It is best for cat owners to not worry about long-term medical costs.

There are some potential but not common conditions that may be affecting the health of a Siamese cat. These include:

Respiratory Problems

Heart Disease (Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, an incurable disorder, especially in Siamese)

PRA blindness (Risk has been reduced significantly due to better health screening by breeders)

Pancreatitis and Liver Disease

Siamese cat Cancer

Siamese cat Squints (reduced significantly through better breeding practices)

Looking out for your pet friend is not a bad idea either. Regular health checkups for your Siamese may cost you between $70 and $400 on an annual basis. However, this figure widely varies depending on your choice of veterinary clinic.

Regular health checkups and other costs include:

Vaccinations

Health Exams

Dental checkups

Flea control

Pet insurance (VPI, Purina Care and ASPCA)

An insurance base premium may cost you between $70 and $150.

Other Fancy Items

Since Siamese are easy-to-train and obedient and have a laid back personality in general, you will find them to be really comfortable when on the road.

However, it would not hurt to get a cat carrier because it will not just keep your car free of cat litter, but also keep your seats fur-free. The cheapest one you can buy off Amazon will just cost you 20 bucks. Get it here!

To sum it all up, the cost of a Siamese cost depends on the breed as well as the costs associated with the upkeep of your new pet friend. Here are the approximate monthly costs you will have to bear for keeping a Siamese cat or kitten:

Cat Litter: $10

Food: $16.50

Flea Control & Grooming: $10

Vet Visit: $15 (Based on an annual cost of $180, however, as mentioned earlier, Siamese cats are generally healthy cats so you may need to visit the Vet only once a year for regular health checkups and vaccines)

An Average Total of $51.50 – which is far cheaper than cable TV and way more entertaining!

Now that you are fully aware of the budget you need to have when adopting a Siamese cat, you can drive to the shelter or a pet store with confidence and bring a cuddly and affectionate 4-legged friend home.

Just keep in mind that all costs are close estimates and may vary by breed, quality, brand, and country.