#really having to resist stepping in that pond though....

[enbysiriusblack]

got to my uni half an hour early and ive ended up lost in the woods.. found a pond though!!

#am i zoro??? /j #ive got a coffee and 20 minutes till my lecture so im honestly fine being lost in the woods- #really having to resist stepping in that pond though.... #uni shit

[andguesswhat]

Timmy said he swam in chocolate....

Not much time to think, not much time to write, so if you are not satisfied, please complain to @zuzla33! 😜 She somehow managed to coerce me into it. And maybe to @Valgal78 and @gatoenlaciudad, too 😂😘 Oh yes and the butthole anon may also be somewhat to blame 🙈

Not beta-read. But I hope you can enjoy it nonetheless. If there are stupid mistakes in it, please let me know.

Drenched

*

Timmy turns the key and pushes the heavy iron door open.

"I wonder what they're doing with all that choc- " Armie is about to ask when Timmy interrupts him in a panic.

"Shhht!"

"What?" asks Armie in still relatively normal volume as they step into the hall. "It's in the middle of the night. No one is here, right? You made sure of that, remember?"

Timmy rolls his eyes. "Can you please be quiet anyway? I'm getting scared. You never know!"

"Yeah, you never know!" Armie imitates Timmy with a grin and then adds in an exaggeratedwhisper, "Okay, I’ll whisper but only if I get to choose the music and the volume on the way back because seriously my ears are still ringing and that might be the reason that I talk so loud, I can’t hear anything.”

Timmy rolls his eyes again, this time apparently at Armie's stuffiness, but can't help a little smile.

The hall is dimly lit, only emergency lighting everywhere. Armie considers asking if they could turn the lights on, just to annoy Timmy a little more, but of course there is something about it, this mood of an abandoned movie set in the middle of the night.

He follows Timmy down the hall. He's been able to see a bit of the set while he's here in London with him, but the set in this hall had only been finished at the last minute before the shoot.

And then they're standing in front of the river. The chocolate river. All around is lawn with lots of green plants and colorful flowers and it really looks pretty awesome actually.

Timmy grins enthusiastically at Armie.

It's not at all clear what they're exactly doing here. Or will do.

Timmy had sent him some photos of the shoot in the chocolate river in the morning, his clothing covered in chocolate, his face smeared with chocolate, and Armie hadn't been able to resist sending a few raunchy comments.

Although he didn't even know if the chocolate was edible.

Yes it is, Timmy had written. Just chocolate, milk and honey.

And that's how it smells now. Very pleasantly sweet.

Timmy had glamoured the security of the hall. He knows how to do these things. He's nice to everyone, and when he wants something, he's even nicer. And then a few bills, of course, to keep quiet.

Timmy's request didn't sound that strange though. Armie is used to much stranger things from celebrities. Timmy had told the security guard that he had heard that chocolate baths are the latest shit and oh, so healthy, and it would be a shame not to use all this, right? So he wondered if he couldn't take a quick bath tonight?

"You weird Americans,” the very British security guy had replied, shaking his head. “But don't you dare do anything ugly that gets me in trouble, or I'll have you drowned in that river and then you won't be able to smile so nicely anymore."

Armie hasn't met that security man yet, but likes his humor already.

"And what if this guy has a crush on you and shows up here too?" he wonders.

"Don't give me that shit! You better take your clothes off!" Timmy answers while starting to undress himself.

"Me? I'm not going in there."

"What?"

"I said I'd be happy to help you lick it off, but I can't imagine -"

Timmy's t-shirt hits him square in the face. "Pussy!"

"What?" Armie's voice is way too high. "Well, I really don't know if that necessarily has anything to do with being a pussy, if-"

"Oh fuck you!" laughs Timmy as he takes off the rest of his clothes and finally stands stark naked in front of him.

"Okay..." Timmy looks kind of nervously excited at the chocolate pond and Armie feels way too many feelings for his man again.

How he now stands there so skeptically with his beautiful slender figure, indecisively crosses his arms in front of his chest and finally carefully dips a toe into the chocolate river, looking like some modern version of Botticelli's Venus.

"I don't know... So completely naked now it's something else..."

Armie laughs. "But making me look stupid. Come on! Go for it."

"I thought we were doing this together! You could have said something about not going in!"

"But I didn't say I was going in either!"

"But so alone now... feels kind of stupid!"

"You know, we can stand here and argue... or - "

And then he pushes Timmy unceremoniously into the chocolate.

Blutsh!

That fall alone is a sight he will never forget.

How the chocolate sloshes around Timmy in huge waves and coats his body with the liquid chocolate.

Epic!

And Timmy squeals happily. What more could you want.

"Oh god, this is so good!"

Armie lies down contentedly on the grass, one arm propped on his elbow, watching his man move happily in the chocolate pond.

"Please come in. It's so much more awesome when you feel it on your bare skin..."

"I'll take your word for it, but thanks, no."

Because he wants to watch Timmy experience this, explore this. It’s just so adorable. How he's fascinated sliding his arms through the chocolate, making ripples, and then doing some steps, bending his knees a bit and realizing in amazement, "God... it feels so good…” he wrinkles his nose, “Especially in certain places…"

And when Timmy then curiously lets his hands disappear behind his back in the liquid chocolate and everything looks like he's pulling his butt cheeks apart, plus his facial expression suddenly becoming all sensual, including a slight opening of his mouth, a little excited gasp... Armie involuntarily has to swallow. And is suddenly horny as hell.

With Timmy, the switch is apparently also flipped, as he puts one arm somewhere in front of him, and yes, he certainly is touching his cock and definitely liking what he feels.

That little sexy bastard. Armie gets hard just from watching him.

He wonders if he will have to get into the chocolate now after all, but then Timmy looks at him so darkly, wades towards him through the chocolate, crawls out of the chocolate, and Armie can’t think straight anymore.

Timmy’s whole body is covered in this sweet, wet chocolate, some of his curls are drenched, too, the chocolate is dripping, dripping from his curls, from his body, and fucking dripping from his already hard cock…

Who wouldn’t find that extremely delicious?

Even more delicious when Timmy crawls over Armie; it’s dripping everywhere, and then he already has Timmy's chocolate smeared hands on his cheeks and Timmy's chocolate smeared lips on his mouth and he can't say that's bad, quite the opposite. It’s fucking luscious.

Chocolate, milk and honey. Everything smells so good, tastes so good.

He lets Timmy kiss him, enjoys the moment, enjoys the literally sweetest man imaginable kissing him, tastes the chocolate on Timmy's lips, on his thumb sliding into Armie's mouth and running over his tongue, sucks on it, and then he can't stop himself, he has to slide his hand over Timmy's smeared neck, has to lick the chocolate off his lips, off his chin and god, off his neck. And Timmy moans with satisfaction.

Armie feels like he is in heaven. His naked man smeared with chocolate, looking so sexy and apparently feeling so sexy, all that smearing and licking… it is just so fucking hot. Plus the sweet smell, the sweet taste, and he wonders why didn't they think of this before?

Armie runs his hands over Timmy’s chest, smearing the chocolate as he licks Timmy's neck, licks it clean, inch by inch, wants to taste Timmy’s chocolate nipples, sucks at them, and licks them clean, too. All the while Timmy's eyes darken with lust, low moans coming out of his mouth.

And that's why Armie then grabs Timmy's cock too, is about to pump the already hard chocolate dripping dick, when Timmy suddenly whispers, "I can't do this here. I'm shooting a movie here! I can't do this."

What?

Armie tries to stay calm because he wants his man way too much right now and is afraid that if he says something wrong he won't get him, but he has to at least comment on the obvious."You already are totally naked and you already have a boner."

"Yeah, but making out like that is another thing from actually doing it!"

"Timmy!" Armie takes a deep breath. He'd like to say, ´you can't get me all hot and bothered here right now and then say, nah, you don’t get me`, but he knows he won't get anywhere with that line of reasoning, so he says softly,

"God, Timmy, you look so fucking hot, you smell so fucking good, taste so fucking good, I want you so bad, baby" because this is so fucking true and he kisses him, on the lips, on the cheek. "And besides, what are you going to say to the car rental company when you smear the chocolate all over the car seat, I kind of need to lick you clean first, don’t you think?” More soft kisses. “And that’s what you want, too, isn’t it?” He whispers into Timmy’s ear before he licks on Timmy’s neck again.”You want me to lick you clean, right? Like everywhere. You love that, don’t you, baby?" Timmy’s breathing is getting heavier, so Armie dares to carefully put his hand back on Timmy's cock, starting massaging it lightly, with all the slick chocolate around, and smiles contently when he sees Timmy's eyes flutter shut.

"God, you're so fucking hot, baby. Can we please go on a little more?"

"Okay..." answers Timmy, breathing heavily.

"Really okay?" asks Armie just in case.

"Yeah..." and a small smile flits across Timmy's face before the lust takes over again.

His man is horny as fuck and that is good because he is horny as fuck as well.

Quickly Armie undresses himself, everything has to go, shirt, shoes, pants, shorts, while Timmy lies in the grass on his back, looking at him darkly and running his hands over his slick body. God, he loves it when Timmy does this.

Finally, he squats down and once again takes in his beautiful, chocolate-soaked man before leaning forward and beginning to lick him from toes to head.

Of course he lingers for quite a while in the middle section, the inner thighs deserve a lot of attention, and the way Timmy moans he seems to think so too. Especially the hollow between leg and hip needs a lot of thoroughly licking, there is really a lot of chocolate accumulated. And then of course there is Timmy's beautiful chocolate covered cock. First he licks the balls, then the shaft, then the tip. Armie licks it and sucks it while Timmy moans and groans and buries his fingers in Armie's hair.

At one point then, Timmy whispers, "You need some chocolate too," before he bites his lip and bends to the river, dips his hand in the chocolate flow, pulls it back out, the chocolate dripping, and reaches for Armie's cock, rubbing the chocolate over it and Armie can't help it, the squishy, slippery feeling is too much, he has to moan out loud.

“Fuck!”

Timmy giggles.

"Can I taste it? I want to taste it so badly" he whispers and without waiting for an answer he starts licking Armie's shaft.

Fuck, this feels good! Timmy swirling his tongue around his cock, licking it. And fuck, this looks so hot when Timmy lets Armie's cock slide deep into his mouth, the chocolate spilling over his lips left and right.

Timmy is sucking him devotedly until he can't get any harder and Armie would like to come into his mouth so badly but he knows he definitely needs his boner for what is yet to come.

Timmy knows this too, because when he lets the cock slide out of his mouth satisfied, he asks "Wanna see what my hole looks like?"

And god yes, since Timmy has pulled his butt cheeks apart in the chocolate pond, he desperately wants to see this.

Timmy flips over onto his stomach. Timmy's backside isn't quite as darkly smeared with chocolate anymore because he was lying in the grass, but that makes the dark wet spots leading between his butt cheeks all the more appealing. And so it is, Armie spreads Timmy's cheeks with his hands and his mouth gets dry involuntarily when he sees Timmy's butthole completely drenched in liquid chocolate. This is only topped when his entrance twitches.

Armie can't stand it a second longer, he puts his lips to it, sucking out the chocolate, greedily running his tongue around and finally over the luscious wet chocolate hole.

Not that he doesn't love eating out Timmy otherwise, but tasting the sweet liquid chocolate out of Timmy’s ass while Timmy squirms with moans beneath him is something he won't soon forget.

He could do this forever; every time he has licked him clean, he spreads some more chocolate over his hole, when Timmy suddenly desperately pants, "Fuck me, Armie…Please!"

Timmy is already a wreck, Armie can feel it. All the licking was teasing enough, and that's why Armie doesn't make him wait any longer. He quickly stretches him by the most necessary with his fingers, puts his cock at Timmy's entrance, pushes it inside him inch by inch and starts fucking him.

“Yes”, Timmy groans in relief.

Armie has to grip hard because the chocolate skin is so slippery, ramming his cock into Timmy again and again, who cries out in ecstasy with every thrust.

He is just considering increasing the speed when Timmy pushes his butt back and breathlessly says, "I wanna ride you."

He gets on top of Armie, lowers himself on Armie’s cock, rides Armie, rides himself further into ecstasy, milking Armie's cock with his tight hole, writhing his body, moaning loudly and Armie has to concentrate not to cum at the sight.

Timmy's sexuality is like no other. He can lose himself completely in it.

Moreover Timmy knows exactly what he wants. "Oh God, fuck me, Armie, I'm so close," he gasps and quickly lies on his back and spreads his legs and just as quickly Armie bends over him and sinks his cock back inside him to fuck him again.

They've had sex in places where Armie had to put his hand over Timmy's mouth so Timmy's moans wouldn't give them away, but here, here, when Timmy's unrestrained moans echo through the hall, it brings him close to the edge.

Timmy’s thick cock is lying heavy on his stomach and Armie grabs it with one hand to pump it while he keeps thrusting into Timmy’s hot hole.

“I’m coming, Armie..!!” Timmy pants and just one more thrust and Timmy spurts his load on his belly, his cum mingling with the chocolate, and just the thought of tasting this brings Armie over the edge.

A deep and loud groan and he comes in Timmy, and then…. only panting.

God, fuck, this was good.

When Armie has caught his breath again, he leans forward and licks the white cum with the brown chocolate off Timmy’s raising and lowering belly, licks his way up until he finally gets to Timmy’s face and kisses him tenderly on the lips.

They lie there for a few minutes clinging and snuggled together before they slowly get up, completely exhausted, and collect their clothes.

With their T-shirts they scrub the lawn a bit to make the chocolate disappear, but they only do it half-heartedly because Timmy thinks they won't shoot in the corner anyway.

On the way back they listen to Barry White at a moderate volume, which is important if only because Armie can then better hear Timmy singing along softly.

In their hotel room they take a shower. There are still remnants of chocolate on their bodies and Armie loves to wash every inch of Timmy's body with the sponge.

Afterwards they lie down in bed and look at each other dreamily. They both have a smile on their lips. How could they not, with what they just did.

Timmy still smells of chocolate and Armie involuntarily takes his hand, smells it and kisses it.

And then all of a sudden reality-Timmy stops by, he does that sometimes, not often, but sometimes, and for a second Timmy's whole body tenses, his look a picture of pure horror as if just in that second he realizes what had happened and shouts startled,

"What the fuck did I do?"

As if he hadn't even begun to think about reality in the last few hours, but was just in his own world. Not even when he said he couldn't do it was about reality, but was just an unconscious way to make Armie beg and make everything that much more intense.

"Maybe there were cameras?" He looks at Armie with the biggest terrified eyes and Armie can’t help himself, he has to laugh out loud at this.

Oh man, life without Timmy would be so boring.

And after he kisses Timmy softly on the mouth, he says, “Well I would say, make sure to get a copy of that footage. You have a good connection to the security guard, haven't you?”

*

#charmie fanfic #charmie #charmie fic #armie x timmy #timmy x armie #armie hammer

[underground-monarch]

maybe a ficlet based on this? hehe

Jimmy’s hands balled into fists as he glared at the latest surprise addition to Tumble Town. It was unquestionably another gift from that big-headed mightier-than-thou “god”, attempting to damage the Sheriff’s reputation.

He wouldn’t put up with it any longer. He’d had enough of being the punch bag, the joke of the empires. He’d had enough of attempting to stand up to the other leaders, only for them to laugh him aside as though he had all the intimidation of a cooked noodle.

He tried to be a diplomat, a cool calm and collected face of the Law. But now the time had come to prove to them, to all of them, that the Sheriff could be a real threat to those who disrespected him.

And where better to strike first than at the heart of the resistance?

Pausing only to grab the entire remaining stock out of his wagon and a flint and steel from one of his chests, Jimmy launched himself into the sky with a burst of sparks, his shadowed eyes glinting as red as the TNT in his inventory.

When Stratos came into view though, every single thought of revenge was dropped from his mind into the rushing wind of his flight path behind him, and his jaw fell open in awe.

The quartz shone pure white in the early-evening light, its pristine purity combining with the Upper Kingdom’s gravity-defying posture to give it a truly ethereal sense of wonder. The gold accents glinted in the sun, beautifully complimented by the teal. The very air itself around the whole empire seemed to hum with mystical energy, a song of love and joy and glory.

Jimmy had never looked at it like this before. He had only ever seen it as the lair of his nemesis, tainted by the mocking presence of the Toy Barn, an ego-boost for a man who already thought everything of himself.

Reluctantly, Jimmy finally realised that maybe Joel deserved his pride in his empire.

The Sheriff’s hands unclenched around the explosives.

Jimmy landed on one of the floating walkways, stumbling a little as his neck craned upwards to admire the nearest buildings. He stepped up to the banister, leaning over to admire the view of the golden-hour light bathing the village below.

Stratos really did feel like the home of a god.

“Hey, toy boy!”

The Sheriff’s hackles instinctively raised at the sound of Joel’s taunting voice, but he forced himself to relax. He wasn’t here on a hostile mission. Not anymore. He quickly tucked the TNT from his hand away in his inventory, hiding it just in time as the God of Stratos glided in on angelic wings and landed beside him with a subtle but nonetheless intimidating shake of the floating walkway.

“What are you doing so far from Toy Town, eh?” Joel leaned casually on the banister next to Jimmy, a smug smirk on his face.

“I’m not here for mocking comments, Joel.” Jimmy gritted his teeth and took a short calming breath before turning to look at the god. Even regardless of the height of the man before him and the surrounding buildings scaled to match, Jimmy suddenly felt like a very small fish in a very big pond. He glanced around at the view again. “You’ve done a really good job on this place, you know.”

Something in Joel’s expression changed at that: while his smirk didn’t move, his eyebrows furrowed slightly, betraying his suspicion at Jimmy’s compliment.

“Uh, yeah, I know!” Joel gestured to himself, “I’m so sexy and awesome and good at everything, obviously!”

Jimmy closed his eyes in exasperation at Joel’s pathetic self-aggrandising in what he was trying to make a sincere moment despite the tension of their rivalry. “I’m serious, Joel. Stratos genuinely looks incredible, you’re really good at building.”

For a second, Joel didn’t react. Jimmy could feel the god analysing his expression, searching for any hint of mockery or deception, but Jimmy kept his face relaxed and soft.

Eventually Joel moved. He twisted away from leaning on the banister and having to look at Jimmy, one hand rising to rub at the back of his neck. “Um… thanks, I guess.” He paused, unsure. “Y’know, I’m… I try.” He glanced back at Jimmy. “D’you really mean that?” he asked, a faint accusatory defensive tone in his voice.

“I really mean it.” And he did.

Joel nodded once, jerkily, avoiding eye contact again. “Well… yeah. Thanks.”

The two men stood in silence for a few minutes, the tension of their rivalry between them slowly dissolving.

“So, um… was there anything you needed from Stratos?” Joel asked, his voice unusually amicable to Jimmy’s ears.

The TNT weighed a little heavier in his inventory.

“… No, I don’t need anything. I was just passing through.”

“Ok. Well, um… see ya, then.” Joel spread his wings and hurriedly launched himself into the air, flying off towards the centre of Upper Stratos.

Jimmy watched him go, and then quickly flew back to Tumble Town.

When he stepped outside the next morning, he was surprised to see his empire looking remarkably normal: all the Toy Story pranks had been removed overnight, and when he opened the chest that had appeared on his porch it contained a single diamond surrounded by gold blocks.

Jimmy grinned, glancing up at the sky to see a distant hovering figure of an oversized humanoid, who promptly disappeared from view over the mesa mountain ridge in the direction of the sky kingdom.

sorry for taking so long to get to this, but I finally had an idea for how this concept could play out so here ya go at last :] also putting it up on ao3

#omg what #ky's actually answering prompts from nocir ask box #maybe someday i'll get back to those scenery painting prompts that have been in there for like 6 months or something as well #empires smp #empires smp s2 #jimmy solidarity #joel smallishbeans #empires smp fanfic

[bellafragolina]

Ice Skating Date

A late Christmas gift for the lovely @astererer !! Hope you enjoy!!

🍓🍓🍓

Skating isn’t really anything new to Aster. She tends to rollerskate around when she’s going somewhere nearby, or whenever she wants to have some fun, and surprisingly ice skating really isn’t that different. She adjusts her balance, gliding over the frozen pond as others sail by. Couples, families, kids, friends, all of them working their way around the ice, hand in hand.

The only person not skating about is Aster’s date. For a man with such presence back in his subway, Ingo seems particularly small out on the rink. Perhaps it’s because he’s curled up, knees touching as he struggles to maintain balance and an upright position on his skates.

Aster carefully stops before him. “Can. . . you not skate?”

Ingo, already rosy from the cold, turns a dangerous red, nearing the same color as his Excadrill beanie. “W-well! I, er, don’t partake in the hobby, but I’ve. . . skated before.” Aster squints, not sure if she believes him. “I don’t do it often, but I heard how wonderful this place was for couples wanting to go on a winter themed date, and I wanted to treat you to a nice day out, and I didn’t realize I’d be so rusty, so. . .”

“So that’s a no.” Aster replies. She chuckles at Ingo’s embarrassed whine, but skates forward, offering her hands to him. Ingo glances at the railing he’s curled around, detaching himself slowly, one hand at a time. “Come on. I’ll show ya.”

Ingo’s grip is tight, cold fingers wrapped around her wrists in a death clench. His feet don’t really move as Aster skates backwards, pulling him along. He stares at her feet, watching them move, brows furrowed as his brain works out the physics of ice skating. Aster snickers to herself, practically able to see the calculations and diagrams floating in and out of his pink ears.

Slowly, Ingo puts more weight onto his skates, carefully leaning into the wobbling steps he makes. Aster moves a little faster to accommodate him, and also to avoid the reach of his longer legs. However, despite Ingo’s planning and careful attempts, he misjudges where most of his weight should lie, and his foot gives out underneath him.

With a scream, he tackles Aster, knocking her onto her back as his face smacks into her chest. The pair slide across the ice, sprayed in the frost of other skaters jerking to avoid them. However, their jerky movements only end up in them also falling over, and then others, until practically the entire rink has collapsed to their butts.

Aster blinks up at the street lights illuminating the rink.

Ingo, horribly embarrassed, pushes himself up. He gazes down at Aster, eyes wide and wet, voice wavering as he tries to apologize. But before he can manage the first word, however, Aster cuts him off with a hearty guffaw. Despite his numbed ears delighting at the sweet  sound, Ingo only blushes harder.

“If you wanted closer, you just had to ask.” She teases. Ingo tries to protest, but Aster just slings her arms around his neck, and he chokes as he realizes their position. “I don’t mind a little cuddling. Though I’d prefer to do it off the ice.”

“Aster. . .” Ingo whines, though he doesn’t resist her tugging.

The cold melts away with the simple press of their lips together. Ice and snow have never existed in the little world the two create for themselves with every kiss they share. They curl together, arms pulling one another ever closer, as the heat of their faces meld into steam caught between their shared smiles.

“Scuse me.” Someone says, popping the warm bubble. Ingo jerks back, dragging Aster up with him, and boggles the man standing over them. “Y’all two wanna. . . get up anytime soon?”

With swiveling heads, the pair see most everyone who had also fallen has stood up again, all waiting for them to rise so they can continue their skating.

Ingo loudly apologizes to everyone, mortified, and Aster can only laugh. Despite what Ingo may lament about later, she thinks this is a wonderful date, one she’ll definitely remember forever.

#oc aster #aster x ingo

[krsive-writes]

Rickorty Week 2023: Any Which Way

Title: Don't You Dare Fool ME

Author: krsive

Rating: T

Tags/Warnings: High School AU

Rick should never have listened to Tammy, but she was Brandon’s girlfriend now and his best friend was so pussy-whipped that he had lost his damn mind. He was always telling Rick she wasn’t so bad, that they should just let her have her way, that he needed to loosen up. Who the hell had ever told Rick to loosen up?! Ridiculous. She was a megabitch, but Brandon couldn’t see it and Sam was too high all the time to really make much of an ally. So when Tammy sprang the dare on him in the popular kids’ group text, Rick had found himself quite alone in objecting.

Fine. They had bribed him eventually with some molly and so tonight he had found himself picking up Morty Smith to be his date to homecoming.

It didn’t go the way Rick had expected at all. Morty was cute, now that Rick actually stopped to look, and his company felt like a warm glow, like a fire in the hearth in the deep midwinter. He was almost too shy to look at Rick at all, but he laughed at his jokes with such sincerity. He was clearly nervous about showing up to the dance with a boy, and Rick had sympathy for his fretting; coming out wasn't easy. Everyone knew that Rick was a shameless pansexual slut, but rumors about Morty's sexuality had been pure speculation. That was why, Tammy had explained, this was going to be so epic.

Halfway through the first slow dance, Rick had started to doubt his mission. It felt so nice to hold the other boy in his arms. There was something about their connection that was so electric. Rick hadn't ever felt this way about a date before. No crush had ever had his heart in his throat like this.

As the dance progressed he had grown even more jittery. Now was supposed to be the time.    Rick had driven them to the park near his house to sit on the picnic tables and watch the stars twinkle. He took belts from his flask, hoping to fortify himself and just get the stupid dare over with. He chain smoked, too, lighting each new one with the glowing cherry of the previous as they chatted nervously.

''H-Hey, Rick?" Morty, eyes cast down, picked at a loose thread on his cuff.

"Yeah?"

''I had s-such a good time," he said. He spoke slowly, like he was navigating a minefield one step at a time.

"Good." Was it, though? Maybe this would be easier if Morty had already been disillusioned. ''That was the point, right?''

''I guess. But..." He glanced up at Rick and back down.

Rick gave him some time to go on, but the air remained still. "But what?" he prompted.

"But why did you ask me out?" There was a thickness to his voice now. "You don't know me. You're probably the most popular guy in school a-a-and I'm just the kid who gets shoved in lockers."

''That's, uh..." Rick flicked his cigarette away; it didn't taste so good anymore. "That's pretty insightful, there."

"Everyone thinks I'm so s-stupid, so I guess you thought I wouldn't notice it was weird."

"Yeah…I guess you're not so dumb, after all."

Rick had a sudden need to not be there, so he stood abruptly and walked down the slope to the bank of the pond. He picked up a stone and sent it skipping over the calm waters. Morty wasn't far behind, but at least on his feet Rick felt a little less trapped.

"So why?" Morty demanded. ''What's the deal? Wh-Why are you even hanging out with me?"

"Mysterious popular guy reasons." With a sharp throw, Rick skipped another stone.

"It's not funny.''

"I'm not laughing.''

"I just wished i-it could be real." Morty was definitely crying now. Rick resisted the urge to look. "You did everything so romantic. And w-w-we slow danced and everything. I guess I really am stupid."

A third stone went flying over the dark water. "I had a good time, too. I had a great time."

"Liar."

"Sure, I'm a liar. But I mean this one."

"You know I'm just unpopular and ugly and stupid, s-so just take me home, Rick!"

"You're not ugly. You're kind of infuriatingly cute."

"Stop it." Pathetic, Morty sniffled wetly.

Finally, Rick turned to face the other boy. He reached out and took his hand, and he held it though Morty tried to jerk away. Rick pulled him close and slipped his arm around him. They both breathed unevenly, frozen in the moonlight.

"I'm gonna kiss you, now," said Rick, slow and even like Morty was a frightened horse.

''R-Really?"

Morty's rose petal lips tasted like his salt tears, but that felt somehow so perfect, It was like he could taste the intensity of the moment. The spark Rick felt as soon as they touched nearly took his legs from under him. He clutched tighter, pulling Morty's tiny body against his own. Everything else fell away, all the sludge of Rick's misery sloughed off to leave this perfect moment unsullied. Morty's mouth opened for his tongue so eagerly. This kiss was different from any Rick had ever felt. It was like their hearts had synced up with the press of their lips. Morty moaned into his mouth.

When Rick pulled away, Morty clutched at his shirt and bounced up on his toes to try and chase the kiss. He had lost all control, crying so hard now. Rick brushed tears from his cheeks. He felt such a strong need to protect this boy. Self hatred coiled in wait at the edge of his mind, waiting to punish him for what he had meant to do to this sweet angel.

"Be my novio," he said, surprising both of them. Yet as soon as the words took form, he felt the true desire in them.

"What?"

"Boyfriend. Be my boyfriend."

Morty, still crying, studied Rick's face. "Wh-Why did you ask me to the dance?"

"Come on, Morty. I-I don't want to talk about that."

"Why? I need to know the truth."

"It doesn't matter anymore, ok? I like you now. I want us to be together."

"I can't do it i-i-if you can just lie to me." Morty was shaking so hard he could barely keep his feet, so Rick scooped him up in his arms to carry him back to the picnic tables.

"It was a dare," he said, looking anywhere but Morty's face.     

“I knew it.” Morty's voice echoed up out of a pit of misery.

"I was supposed to try and get a picture of your dick and show it to those assholes."

Morty only cried harder. He tried to speak but nothing came out right.

Rick placed him gently on the tabletop. "It's not like that any more."

"I wanna go h-home."

"Will you just listen to me? I want you to be my boyfriend. I don't want you to cry anymore.” Rick clasped Morty's hand in his own. "I've never been someone's boyfriend and I—I just know I’m gonna be a fuckup but you make me feel things, Morty, and I want to try for you, so please?"

"Your friends will make fun of you if you really mean it."

"Then they're dicks and I don't wanna be like that anymore. I'd rather lose all of them than do this stupid bet to you"

"If you don't care about your reputation then why do you care about my reputation?”

"Because I deserve it and you don't." Rick placed a tender kiss on Morty’s forehead. "I can take it. Fuck anyone who wants to keep us apart. You..." Rick grit his teeth, breathed through his nose. "Please, Morty?"

Morty buried his face against Rick's chest. A light breeze ruffled Rick's hair, tickling his ear. For a long time, it was quiet between them.

''O-Ok. Yes.” Morty’s lip was trembling when he looked up at Rick. “I want that. I want it so bad."

Rick crushed Morty’s body against his own. He didn't know what to say. A thrill shook him and left him exhausted in its wake. They found each other's lips again, and there was fire between them now. Rick swallowed Morty's sobs right off of his tongue.

The heat faded gradually, and Rick slipped his phone from his pocket. He broke away from Morty's sweet kisses just long enough to open the camera app and get the two of them in frame. Arm looped around Morty's neck, Rick took a picture of himself kissing Morty on the corner of his mouth, flipping off the camera all the while. Morty even giggled when he was done. Rick felt his heart brighten, lighting him up from within. This was going to be the best adventure, he could just feel it.

Later that night, after makeouts and mosquito bites and the inevitable fight with his dad after missing curfew, Rick sat in his room smiling at the photographic evidence of his good fortune. He sent the photo to the group text, along with a caption.

>> Joke's on you guys, I fell in love.

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

And that's Day 1! So far, so fun!

You guys can find my collection on AO3 at this link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/47972983

#rickorty #rickortyweek2023 #high school au #fake date #rick sanchez #morty smith #teen rick #fluff #rickorty fanfiction

[secretlysheikah]

Close and Far

Well hello again. Long time and no see and all of that. I wanted to thank you for baring with me while I went on a little break. I can’t guarantee that there will be a flood of updates but there should be a bit more than nothing! 

I wanted to also thank you for also putting up with my sheikah OC brainrot, I love her and I am having a lot of fun writing her story and sharing with you guys. Anyways... 

Here is the next chapter of Hide and Seek! It has been a long time and I hope you guys enjoy. 

TW: Swearing (this is a Legend chapter) 

Start Here:

Magic swirled around Legend like a welcoming friend as he traveled through the crack. It was like being squashed and stretched and normally he would ride it out until Lorule but now he struggled. He could feel the pull but he resisted it and stopped his journey even though everything was screaming at him not to. He stopped the flow of magic with a sheer force of will and to his massive relief, instead of dying on the spot he found himself tumbling out of a tree of all things. 

He laid spread eagle on the ground for a minute, letting his senses return to him as he did a mental once over. Nothing seemed to be missing, he had all his fingers and he guessed all his toes. They felt like they were there when he wiggled them anyway.  He dared to let a smile spread across his face as he laid there. It worked, it really worked. He stood up slowly and dusted himself off as he looked around at the new landscape. There was no sound, that was the first thing that caught his attention besides the strange inverted colors. The more he stood there the more it made his skin prickle. There was no breeze either even though he could see it moving the grass. It was unnerving and it made him jittery. To think that Wild and Sky were somewhere here only made his jitters worse.

“Oh yeah, fuck this place,” He muttered to himself as he looked around, trying to figure out just where the Hell he needed to go. Nothing looked familiar, it was like some strange mess of different forests that were just shoved together in a vague approximation of Sky’s Hyrule. He swore he could see a fully grown tree growing sideways out of a rock face like it was the ground. 

He put his hands on his hips and looked around and paused when he saw something distinctly man made in the distance. He smiled, kicked his heels into the dirt and sped off towards the strange structure. It was much farther than he expected and he grumbled to himself in annoyance. Out of all the things he had to deal with up to this point he was petty enough to blame Dark for living in such a strange Hell hole. It was like the damn place was growing even as he ran and he cursed, that was until he hit a suddenly large pond. Well it was more of a lake, but a very shallow one. It reflected his face as he looked down. “What the fuck? Why?” He asked no one as he frowned at the mud caking his shoes. “What an asshole,” He snarled, he knew Dark probably didn’t have a choice but fuck it, it’s his fault he’s here. He continued to grumble as he looked around and tried to get his bearings in the sudden scene change. The forest or whatever it was, was way far away, off into the distance. What laid before him now was the giant puddle and… He squinted, was that a fucking dead tree? His breath caught, remembering what Time had described. A creepy looking tree in the center of a lake. 

“Holy shit, this is it,” He whispered to himself, excitement started to bubble in him. He couldn’t believe it. He looked around, the castle in the distance as far off still but it was a place to start at any rate. He ran over to it intent on examining it closer, it was a dead tree alright. It’s limbs twisted and dried even as it was surrounded by water. He hummed and started to walk around it and startled when he walked behind the tree to the other side and suddenly the castle that was so far off in the distance was right in front of him. Legend stopped dead, looked at the tree and slowly retraced his steps. When he got back to the opposite side the castle was once again out in the far distance. He repeated the same action a few times. It was curious, he wondered if he tried to run at the castle from the side where it was still far off would it continue to stay in the distance. He hated to admit it, but it was clever. If he had been more of one track mind he would have been running forever. “Clever, but not clever enough,” He said and made to step closer to the castle only to have it shoot back into the distance when he moved away from the tree. He stopped quietly, impressed.  

“Well you little shit,” He muttered and stepped back towards the tree making the castle appear in front of him yet again. He took a few experimental steps forward, testing how far he could go without it disappearing. By his guess it was about five feet before the castle leapt away from him. He tilted his head, considering his options of which were few. If he had his claw shot he could just clamp onto the damn thing and probably make it. As it was though he had his boots, a sword, and a long run up. He looked behind himself and sighed. Time for some trial and error. 

As it was, it took way more errors than he cared to admit. First the run up was too short and the castle leapt away before he got close. The second and third attempts had him sprinting too long and once again missing that illusive sweet spot he needed. In truth he didn’t know if his crazy plan would even work, but it was all he got and given his most recent track record it couldn’t hurt to try. At least it was on theme. 

What was even more frustrating was that even when he felt his fingers brush against the walls of the castle it still shot back out of reach, neglecting to take him with. He had stopped then, out of breath and angry at the new turn of events. Proximity wasn’t enough. Because of course not, why would that work. He let out a groan, hands on his knees and thought. 

“I swear to Hylia I am never leaving my shit behind again,” he muttered to himself and straightened. It was like the tacky facade of the castle was laughing at him, taunting. Bastard. He cracked his neck, and leaned against the tree once again considering. He started scanning the walls, eyes flicking from vines to metal accents and back again. 

He tried for the vines first, they were going to be the easiest things to get to and there were a lot to choose from. The first few attempts were disappointing. Either he missed or misjudged the jump. When he finally did grab one and felt himself being pulled with the castle but it broke off and he tumbled into the water. 

“I fucking hate, I hate this place, I hate this castle, I hate these fucking vines,” He raged as he got back up, now completely soaked and fingers raw. He threw the vine away and pressed his fists to his eyes. The temptation to stop was strong, and he almost considered it on his long trek back to the tree. He could always go back to the others, tell him what he had found and hoped the old man would let him gear up and come back. But even as he thought it he knew it would never happen. He knew they wouldn’t let him out of their sight and he knew it would just be throwing all his progress out the window. There were other, hopefully sturdier options he had yet to try. Metal brackets that held torches failed, as well as other smaller and easier to grab bars that lined some of the smaller windows. Each failure had him raging more and more and he had to stop himself from having a meltdown. It was useless, utterly foolish and useless and he hated the idea that this whole thing had been for nothing. Blocked by a stupid ward that would have been easier if he just had his damn tools. 

He took a deep breath, slumped against the tree once again and glowered. Puzzles, damn puzzles and no way to solve it. Brute force was his only option and even that was failing. 

“When I get in there, I am going to break every curtain rod I find.” He said to no one. The thought made him chuckle. “Good luck replacing those, I bet you have loads of options in this fucking Hell,” He said the chuckle was turning into a laugh and he felt himself feeling better. Petty revenge, what a better balm for the frustrated soul, he thought as he pulled himself away from the twisted tree. His eyes searched for more hand holds on the lower level that he was aiming for but found nothing promising. His eyes drifted up and spotted a barred window. It looked fairly sturdy with the way they were sunk into the wall, if a bit higher than what he wanted.   

“Gonna break all the pots too, I know you have some in there,” He said as he started to back away. The castle disappeared, but he kept moving, keeping his eye trained on where the window would be. When he thought he was far enough away he took a deep breath, hopped from foot to foot and shook out his hands. Worse comes to worse it wouldn’t work and he could just try yet again. “Say goodbye to your curtain rods,” He muttered and kicked off. His boot whirred to life and he pushed as much magic as he dared into his boots. The tree quickly approached and he threw out his hands and leapt. He soared through the air, the castle appeared and loomed ahead of him and he slammed into the window and held fast. There was a pull, a jerk, and he felt like he was being stretched thin from the force of the movement. He clamped down as hard as he could, felt his stomach hit his boots even as his head swirled with the magic that battered around him. It was like it was trying to shake him off, but still he held on until finally the castle came to a sudden halt. He slammed hard into the hard stone. So hard he swore he felt his insides slam into his spine. He groaned, dazed and felt himself fall away from the window and back into the water. The cold water helped. It cleared his vision somewhat at the very least, though he still took his time to breathe and sit up. He felt like one big bruise, but other than that he was mostly intact. He slowly, painfully got to his feet, staggering and had to put his hand on the castle to steady himself. “Yep, gonna break all your things, and then kick your ass,” He wheezed  and straightened the best he could and looked back. He couldn’t see the tree any more, couldn’t see anything actually. It was all just… Water… Water as far as his eyes could see. He hummed a bit, not sure what that could mean for him, let alone Sky and Wild. He turned his attention back to the new problem at hand, getting inside. He slowly made his way around the front of the massive beast of the castle walls. It wasn’t long until he found pay dirt in the form of a gap. It was too thin for him to squeeze through but not too thin for a painting. 

He cracked his knuckles and carefully funneled some magic into his bracelet. He could feel it hum to life and he pressed his hand to the wall. Just like back in the glade he felt himself compress flat, felt his breath leave him in a rush. He made his way through the crack and appeared on the inside of the castle, popping out from the wall and took a shuddering breath, careful to keep it quiet just in case something was lurking around.  

If the outside looked massive it didn’t hold a candle to what the inside looked like. He was in a large room with hallways that spread out in a maze. How anyone was supposed to find their way in this place he had no idea. Though he supposes that is the point. 

“How irritating,” he muttered unhappily and looked down each hallway. Each one was made in a different style. He recognized what looked like the main hall from his own time and he started down it. It was as good a place as any to start.  

He didn’t know how long he wandered down seemingly endless corridor after corridor, taking great pains to stick close to walls and shadows as he went. He didn’t know why Dark hadn’ noticed him yet, it seemed like something that should have happened long before now.  He tested doors as he went but found all of them locked. That is until he turned down a particularly eerie looking hallway and a very interesting black stone door. He didn’t expect the door knob to turn, none of the others had so his breath caught in his chest when to his amazement there was a click. He slowly poked his head into the door and grimaced at the sparse room. It was all black on the inside, a strange stone that shimmered menacingly. But what really caught his attention was the oversized bed in the center, and what looked like a person lying on the overly stuffed cushioning. “Sky?” The word passed by his lips before he remembered to stay silent. He moved into the room properly, closing the door silently behind him and padded over to the bed. Sky looked as pale as a ghost against the red sheets and his now black tunic. He went to reach out a hand, brush his fingers through Sky’s hair as he slept, if only to prove that he was actually here. Sky let out a groan before his hand could make contact and Legend was acutely aware that he might very well still be under Dark’s control. His eyes were struggling to open and he looked around frantically for a place to hide. He didn’t want to be seen, not yet, or at all if he could help it. He scrambled quickly under the monstrous bed, keeping his breathing as quiet as possible. He could hear Sky above him starting to shift, settle for a moment only to start moving again. His heart clenched when he heard a sharp intake of breath and a whimper. He was hurt.  Legend felt his fingers curl on the floor in front of him and he grit his teeth, forcing himself to stay where he was. There was more movement albeit slower, clearly pained and struggling. The springs on the bed creaked and he heard a breathless gasping.

“Come on Sky, you gotta get moving, you can do this,” He heard Sky whisper, clearly struggling just to move. He couldn’t stay under the bed, it was too much, he had to do something. He dug in his cloak, pulling out the tin and as quickly and quietly as he could pulled himself out from under the bed and placed it on the table with a soft clink. He dropped back down to the floor, shoving himself back under the bed and waited, breathless. 

All sound stopped, the air went heavy and for a moment he swore he had been caught. Slow movement, a suppressed sound of pain and he could see Sky’s hand appear over the side of the bed and grabbed at the tin. Another pause and he swore Sky could hear his heart beating, Legend was sure of it. Then the sound of the lid of the tin being pulled away, followed by another tense pause.  “Hello? What is this… What on Earth… How?” Sky’s voice was just barely above a whisper, but even that was enough to have him nearly shooting out from underneath the bed just from the stress alone. He took a few calming breaths, or at least he tried given his want of being unseen. As it was he felt like he could barely draw any breath to keep his head from spinning. Just hearing Sky’s voice after what felt like ages made him want to forgo his plans of simply observing but he already knew he was pushing his luck. There was another pause, shorter this time but still long enough to have him squirming. 

“Am I about to be struck by lightning or something?” Sky said and the pure confusion and bafflement in his voice coupled with the insane question almost forced a snort out of Legend. He clamped a hand around his mouth to stifle any noise and continued to wait. He severely hoped Sky could get the damn bottle out of the tin, it had been a very tight squeeze and from what he heard from above him it sounded like he was struggling just to sit up. 

What proceeded was a lot of frustrated noises and the sound of his tin being battled to release the bottle. He would have laughed if he wasn’t on the edge of his seat. He heard the tin give a final muffled groan and pop. Sky must have gotten the bottle out of the tin, that was good. There was a long pause as Legend assumed that he drank the potion judging by the sigh of relief he heard. 

After a moment he heard a soft click as the tin was replaced delicately on the side table before a hand reached down and grabbed boots off of the floor. He felt his breath catch at just how close Sky’s hand had gotten to him. Not too long after he was graced with those same boots hitting the floor just in front of his face. It was almost painful to see how hesitant he was to move away from his place by the bed. Even worse when Sky finally reached the door and opened it. He seemed surprised and Legend felt himself boiling. He knew logically that Dark must have had him locked away at some point, but still it angered him. 

As soon as Sky left the room he was scrambling his way out from under the bed and grabbing his tin back from the side table. He was about to leave when he paused and looked behind him at the gigantic bed. He grabbed his sword with a smile and in a few deft movements slashed the curtains to shreds and sliced the various poles in half. His petty revenge done for now he stowed his sword away and padded quietly after Sky, keeping to the shadows as he did so. He just managed to see a flash of his black tunic round a corner and he followed quickly, not wanting to lose him in the mess of halls. 

Turn after endless turn had him grinding his teeth in frustration at how large this damn castle was. It was endlessly frustrating and he struggled to stay quiet and keep his patience as he followed. He rounded one turn and cursed coming way too close to Sky for his comfort. Sky was stopped at what looked like a giant set of doors. Curiosity beat out his caution and he moved closer to see what had Sky’s full attention. Carefully, still shrouded in shadow he looked through the crack at the door’s edge and saw... Well he didn’t know what exactly besides roiling coils of shadows and a fancy looking table with chairs around it. There was food on the table, he shot a glance at Sky and moved just a bit closer. Then he could see it, what had Sky so enraptured, it was Wild sitting in one of the chairs that lined the table. Something large with glowing eyes loomed over top of him, it had large lamp like eyes and he could see shadows curling up and around him, twisting through his golden hair, keeping his head tilted back. Legend watched in horror as Wild gave a jerk in his seat and from the corner of his eye he saw Sky recoil and grab what looked like a small knife from his boot. 

He bit his lip, no he wouldn’t be that foolish. He was proven otherwise however as he saw a determined look cross Sky’s face. Nope, he couldn’t let Sky do something this stupid, he could see that he was about to rush in, knife swinging and more than likely get beat down by whatever the fuck that thing was. He made his way from around the door as Sky tossed the knife in the air and caught it and started in the room. Before he could think better on it he grabbed Sky’s arm and yanked him back before he could do something stupid and possibly get them both caught. He heard Sky suck in a breath and he clamped his hand around his mouth as he moved them back into the hallway. Sky started to lash out with his knife and Legend struggled to avoid being sliced as they moved. He cursed a quiet streak and bent down to get closer to Sky’s ear. “Fucking stop, stop you bird brain,” He hissed and it was like he cast a spell. Sky’s knife wielding hand froze and he stumbled along with him as he moved them further down the hall and hopefully out of ear shot of whatever the fuck that thing was. “Legend?” Sky breathed once he let go of him. Sky’s eyes were wide and obviously confused but to Legend’s massive relief it seemed it was only Sky in his eyes, nothing of the dark magic that had controlled him back at the spring. He rubbed his face and paced around a bit, this was not what he had planned at all when he came in here.

“We have to go save Wild, Dark is torturing him!” Sky said and he made to turn to run back but Legend grabbed his arm and hauled him back. “Don’t be stupid, there isn’t anything we can do,” He said, hating how true it was.

“But we can’t,” Sky started but Legend only shook his head harder, refusing to let him go. 

“We have to, I don’t like it either but it’s just us and we are basically powerless here. I have next to no weapons, you drank my red potion, and I don’t know if you realize this but you are also still a wild card.” He said and had to look away from the scornful look Sky gave him. “It was a huge risk showing myself to you Sky, I don’t know when or if you are going to…” He trailed off, finally letting go of Sky and pacing away. Saying all of it out loud only proved to him how far up shit’s creek he actually was. “Why and how are you even here?” Sky hissed, still clearly angry but Legend wasn’t sure if he was angry at him or at the current situation. He turned back to face Sky and raised his wrist showing off his bracelet that glinted in the torch light. 

“I got here using this, I can slip through the cracks between worlds with it and that is how I got here,” He said simply and watched as Sky eyed his bracelet with curiosity. 

“As for why, I needed to do something. I couldn’t just sit at camp twiddling my thumbs, I was going mad. We have been taking too many hits, being toyed with too much. We need information, we need you two back but, I don’t know how to do that,” He admitted sourly and let his arm drop to his side. Sky was eerily silent through his whole tirade and Legend watched as he looked at the floor, considering. “You’re right that you can’t trust me. But for now I am on your side and I want to help.” He started and Legend gave him a soft sigh. “Thanks, to be honest I don’t know what this place is, it is clearly Dark’s world but I would have thought he would have been… I don’t know, more aware that I was here,” Legend said, putting his hands on his hips and looking around the dark corridor. Sky nodded along with him as he too looked around. “I agree, normally he knows everything that I am doing. Or failing that he shoves me a locked room or this last time chained me up with no way to get free. I definitely would have been feeling his slimy thoughts pressing on me at the very least, but nothing.” He said and started to walk around. Legend raised an eyebrow. “Maybe he is spreading himself too thin? He can’t fuck with us and keep you under control and do whatever he is doing to Wild at the same time, it must be too much to focus on,” Legend said and shot a look down the hall from where they had just come. “So then what does that mean for us?” Sky asked and Legend looked at him. “I say it’s time for some recon, look for weapons, information maybe even a way out of this hell hole,” He said with a smile. “But I don’t even know where anything is, I haven’t seen much of anything since I’ve been here. Most of my time was either in a dark room or hunting Wild,” Sky said softly and Legend could hear the guilt in his voice. “Hey, none of that is your fault okay?” He said walking over to Sky and grasping his shoulder with his calloused hand. Sky gave him a small nod and winced. 

“What’s wrong?” he asked and Sky held up a finger, his eyes closing as he breathed through his nose. 

“Headache, I think whatever Dark is doing with Wild is coming to an end for the day,” He said and gave Legend a terrified look. “I don’t want to be a puppet anymore Legend, please,” He begged and Legend could only bite his lip. His heart broke seeing Sky like this. Sky made another pained noise and gripped his head and shivered. Legend looked around desperately for, hell he didn’t know what but he looked anyway. “Fucking hell,” He cursed and grabbed Sky’s shoulders forcing his eyes to meet his own. They looked panicked and scared, but he toughened his resolve and he gave the best smile he could manage. 

“Listen to me Sky, you are going to be alright. I will be here even if you can’t see me and with any luck since Dark doesn’t know I’m here I shouldn’t be caught,” He said quickly and looked down the hallway once again. “But he can see my thoughts, Legend,” He groaned and that had Legend biting his lip. “But he won’t be looking for any signs of me, it will be okay,” He said and he hoped by the grace of the Goddess that he was correct. Sky let out a little moan and sank to his knees and Legend followed him down, keeping close. Something like a determined growl left Sky and Legend watched as he dug in one of his pouches and pulled out what looked like a bracelet with a strange looking beetle attached to it. He was shoving it onto Legend’s hands before he knew what was happening and gave him a stern look. “This is my beetle, it can scout things out for you if you can’t leave the shadows and grab things you wouldn’t normally be able to reach,” Sky said and groaned as he clutched his head. Legend barely had time to stow it away in one of his pockets before Sky was getting to his feet. Gone was the panic and pain and in its place was a steely determination. Legend scrambled to his feet as well and looked to Sky who was looking down the hall and to the hallway behind him, already considering the shadows to hide in. “Do not try to interfere Legend, please. No matter what you see okay?” Sky said without looking at him and he started his way back towards the dining hall. Legend didn’t respond but he already knew that was going to be a tough ask. He found himself grinding his teeth but he followed behind as close as he dared. He studied Sky’s ridged form as he walked, something about it was odd to him and it wasn’t until they rounded the corner that he understood why. Sky didn’t have his sail cloth. It made him angry in a way he hadn’t expected. He knew it was Dark’s doing, but he didn’t know what he had done with it, maybe he could get it back. But that would have to wait, he could see shadows boiling out from the doors of the dining hall and he could feel his palms starting to sweat. 

He pressed closer to the wall and moved so he was partially covered by a door.  Sky looked at the shadows with a dull expression, his arm hung down at his side and he looked as docile as a cat. The shadows pooled like a chuchu outside of the door and slowly pulled itself upwards and formed into a familiar shape. “Oh I think I’m going to have a lot of fun with that one,” Dark said as he tilted his head and cracked his neck. He put his hands on his hips, and that simple motion somehow looked like an eerie parody. “I see you are… Having fun,” Sky said and Legend could hear the strain in his voice. There was a very obvious hesitance as well, like he didn’t know what he could say that wouldn’t set off the fiend in front of him. Dark only hummed, his shadows licking around his feet as he cast his eyes back towards the dining hall. “I would have had more fun if the bastard would have opened that damn slate of his,” He grumbled and Legend felt his blood boiling. The tone was entirely too casual, it was like the fucker was discussing the weather. He watched as Sky’s hands gave a twitch and felt as his eyes passed over him as he scanned the hall lazily. 

“Not as easy as you thought huh?” Sky said and Legend felt as though he were poking the bear on purpose. He didn’t understand why though, why would he want to get himself into trouble? “Someone is feeling defiant again,” Dark sighed and stepped forwards menacingly. Legend had to stuff his angry growl down and practically cling to the wall to keep himself out of view. When Dark got close enough to Sky he eyed him up and down considering. 

“You know, maybe it’s not defiance I’m seeing,” He purred and Sky still looked unfazed. His eyes were distant and his breathing was disconcertingly slow and deep. Legend wondered if he were in some sort of trance.

“I know, you must be jealous. Maybe even a bit lonely. You poor thing,” Dark said and that got Sky’s jaw to tighten. Legend was right behind him, he wanted nothing more than to just strike the thing down now. Suddenly Sky let out a cry of agony and crumpled to the ground, his hands covering his ears as if there was a loud noise. Legend felt himself judder forwards, ready to leap in but remembered his earlier promise. Biting down hard on his lip he stayed his hand. 

“I say we get you some friends then. How about that?” He asked in a sing-song voice and Sky curled tighter on himself. Legend could just make out a low groan of misery and his hand clawed at the ground in front of him. 

“I know a couple of them aren’t doing well right now,” Dark continued to muse as he walked around Sky. Every now and then he would click his fingers and pull another howl out of Sky as he writhed on the ground. 

“The traveler would be fun. He is barely alive as it is so it wouldn’t be hard.” He paused in his musings and added, “it would also piss off that foolish veteran, and that is endlessly entertaining.” He said with a laugh and Legend swore he saw red. He didn’t know how he kept himself still, how he didn’t say a word at the taunt. He knew he promised but he would be damned if he didn’t want to kill Dark now and call it done. 

“But you know the Wolf would be even better, our little Wild child in there adores that one,” He said, his voice high and excited like he was discussing what kind of dessert he wanted. 

“You know what, you can come with me!” Dark said and clapped his hands in excitement. 

“You could pick and then we can laugh and make it a party, how does that sound?” He asked and knelt down next to Sky. Whatever he had been doing to him had finally let up and Sky was left curled on his side, one hand clamped down over his ear while the other was clawed in the carpet. “I hate… You” Sky breathed out and Dark shook his head and patted his shoulder. 

“That was mean, but you know what I forgive you,” Dark said as he stood up straight and kicked out. His foot connected with Sky’s shoulder, sending him flipping onto his stomach. 

“Get to your feet sky child, or do I have to spend more time with your little friend?” He asked and Legend wanted nothing more than step in. Sky sucked in a shuddering breath and pulled himself on to his feet. 

“That’s what I thought.” He said and moved in closer. Dark’s hand fisted in Sky’s tunic. He tried to squirm but a hissed threat that Legend couldn’t exactly make out had him stop his feeble struggling. 

“Let’s go and get some friends huh?” Dark asked and with a sickly sweet voice that made Legend’s skin crawl. Sky didn’t make a sound, but Legend could see that he wanted to in the set of shoulders. Dark took that as a confirmation and he snapped his fingers. Legend could feel a sickly magic pour over him. It made his stomach flip and churn and he nearly toppled over with how powerful it was. There was a sound of a chime or maybe a bell and just as quickly as it started it stopped. He felt like the air had been punched out of him and he leaned against the wall to catch his breath. 

“Holy sweet Hylia” He breathed when he finally got his breath back, and he looked around the door. They were gone and he really didn’t know how Sky could stand the feeling of being suddenly portaled away. He remembered what it was like when he had traveled with Wild’s sheikah slate and somehow he knew that whatever Dark was doing had to be much worse. 

He shook himself from his thoughts and darted out from behind the door. He was alone for now and it was time to take full advantage. He poked his head in the dining hall and looked around before he deemed it safe enough to go inside. He looked over and saw what must be Wild slumped forward in one of the chairs and he made his way over to him, careful not to touch anything as he did so.

Wild was breathing very heavily like he just got done fighting a horde of monsters and Legend could see that he was shaking as well. Legend lifted his head and looked over Wild’s shoulder and spotted Wild’s own sheikah slate sitting in front of him. He took another step closer and looked down to see that Wild was bound to the chair with what looked like vines, but they were carved out of wood. Wild’s arms and hands were freed however but he kept his fingers clamped around the arms of the chair. He was scared to look at Wild’s face. If he was awake and Wild saw him he wouldn’t know what that could do to Wild’s psyche. Especially since he wouldn’t be able to release him, not if he wanted to stay in the shadows and observe and not tip off Dark that he was here. 

He felt thoroughly stuck. His feet felt rooted to the floor with indecision. He looked to the doors once again, more than tempted to slip out unseen. Content with the knowledge that Wild was still breathing but a hitching breath stole away his own. His eyes snapped back to Wild and he heard him continue to draw in more half choked breaths. 

“A family,” Wild whispered and Legend heard the half choked sob that was there. Wild continued to take in weak and shuddering breaths and Legend realized that he was trying to soothe himself. He felt his hand reach out, horror and the blind need to comfort making him want to act. 

Wild let out a strangled cry and swiped his arm across the table, sending his slate flying off of the table to clatter onto the floor in front of him. He looked down at it for a moment before letting his hand drop. He couldn’t even pick up the slate, knowing full well that Dark would realize something was amiss. He wanted to rage, so close but still too far to do anything of use except watch. Wild seemed to calm though, or something close to it. He settled back against the high back of the chair and simply went still. Legend sorely wished he could walk around and see him, check on him but as it was he wasn’t sure what would happen. It was clear that Dark had been doing something involving memories. No. The risk was too big, if Dark could show old memories then there was an equal opportunity that he could search through new ones. He made a promise to Wild that he would be back, to keep him safe the best he could.  He sighed and looked back to the doors before heading back out into the halls to look around and hopefully find a crack that he could use to get back to the others. This whole situation was simply too big for him to do alone and basically weaponless. 

“I’ll get you out of this kid,” he muttered and felt a new purpose enter his step as he started down the hall.

#the sheikah writes #hide and seek #linked universe #linked universe fanfic #legend linked universe #im back! #long time no update #sorry for the long wait #sky linked universe

[yourlocalzombie]

(I really need to title this)

Cleo arrived at the location at dusk. Bright enough to see, dark enough to not bother her eyes.

She spotted etho sitting on the edge and well... she had forgotten there were two people waiting for her. The other being grian.

The pair heard cleo moving through the grass and turned. Though grian's head turn was much more uncanny, moving beyond normal human range of motion.

Cleo stood there, trying to keep her composure. Reminding themself where they are.

They have no reason to kill her now...right?

Cleo stepped forward, standing across from the avian-esk watcher and the white haired, scarred man.

Grian spoke up, "we wanted to apologize, about the life ga...mes...."

Grian trailed off as he looked at cleo.

The zombie was standing there, staring blankly. Eyes glazed over and her breathing almost stopped entirely.

Grian looked at etho, who seemed terrified. Like he had seen her like this before.

And he had.

It was much too similar to Cleo in the second life game: last life.

Cleo stood there in ominous silence, as if trying to resist whatever was happening.

Blood dripped onto the grass, though grian and etho didn't know where it came from.

Eventually cleo snapped to. In a sense, anyway. Her eyes went ruby red, and her skin almost gray. She lunged forward at grian, who narrowly evaded.

"What the!-" Grian exclaimed, as etho scrambled to get out of the way.

Cleo said something, and while it was in a language, they didn't know what it was. Let alone how to understand or speak it.

Etho had made it behind cleo, and had quickly understood where the blood had come from.

It came from her back, which opener itself up. Past stab wounds and chunks destroyed by tnt had revealed themselves with cleo's ravenous rage.

Cleo quickly gave up on trying to grab the pesky parrot and turned her attention onto etho, who was still much faster than she was in her half-present state.

This went on for a few minutes. Etho and grian dodging whatever cleo did, and realizing in part what had set this off.

They knew cleo wasn't malicious by nature. Sarcastic and snarky, sure, but never something like this.

But those wounds represented more than just pain and lost blood. It was failure. It was betrayal. It was ostracization.

All things cleo could never forget, no matter how hard she tried or how much they wanted to.

Eventually cleo wore herself out, falling to the ground and passing out from blood loss and exhaustion.

Grian and etho didn't really know what to do.

Odds are, there was nothing they could do but wait.

So they waited.

They waited and protected the poor creature as the night had settled in. They stitched up her wounds best they could. They made her as comfortable as possible.

Eventually, the pair was able to light up the area, and decided it best to sleep.

It had been several hours, and cleo had yet to awaken.

....

When cleo awoke, she only had hazy memories of violence from before.

She saw a bruised grian and etho sleeping beside her, and torches strewn around the area.

The sun had begun to rise, and cleo made haste to flee before the other two woke up.

She didn't know everything that happened.

She didn't want to know.

They wandered the forest and happened upon a clearing with a small pond. They took the time to clean up, but something was bothering them.

As they redressed themself they finally reached the flower crown gem had made.

She inspected it.

The crown held its beauty and life and brightness.

She wondered how a crown such as this could be put on the head of someone-

No, something.

That could never even hope to be so perfect.

Something that was so ugly, something that was endlessly stuck in undeath, something that was hopelessly dull.

Cleo put the flower crown down before the pond and continued to walk.

They didn't deserve such a gift.

#zombiecleo #grian #ethoslab #etho #hermitcraft #ahaha get angsted #blood #attempted murder

[wisteria-blooms]

long hair & tattoos (bill weasley & reader) (1/15)

CHAPTER DIRECTORY

TAGLIST: @inpraizeof

Summary: You, (Y/N) Malfoy, despise your family’s views on blood purity. Unlike your little brother Draco, you won’t be roped into marrying for status. However, when your father, Lucius, puts down an ultimatum, you’re forced to find a lover for next week’s dinner. With his long hair, tattoos, piercings, and your father’s worst nightmare reincarnated in a man, who better to bring than a much older Bill Weasley?

What should’ve been one night of deceit turns to a battle of charades and wits. Just who will crumble first: your family, Bill, or you?

Tags: romance, faking dating, no-Voldemort-AU (the Malfoys are still awful though).

Warnings: age gap, pureblood politics

CHAPTER 1: 23, CRAZY

You and your brother, Draco Malfoy, were definitely not cut from the same cloth.

Narcissa and Lucius really should’ve known from the moment you first opened your eyes. Known when they first ran their hands through tufts of hair that skipped the trademark Malfoy gene: platinum blonde hair. No, you didn’t quite look like your family. If Draco’s eyes were the sky, yours were murky pond water. If his hair were the summer sun, yours resembled dried barley from the fields. Despite these differences, Lucius did his best to instill familial values in you from a young age: you were a Malfoy, you had pureblood, you were superior.

You would roll your eyes and blabber over him when he tried. Draco, being the cunning toddler he was, saw an opportunity to be the favourite child. He listened eagerly to his father’s teachings and practiced them at every opportunity. ‘And turned out the bad apple he is,’ you thought.

When you went off to Hogwarts, the rift between you and your parents deepened. You fell into step with the Weasley twins. For once, your rebellious streak was understood and appreciated. You felt heard and for the first time, loved. And not only were they great friends, your parents hated them which delighted you even more.

But you could care less of what your parents thought of you. You knew deep down that they’d been praying for Draco. Certainly, if he were the first child, they would’ve stopped trying for another. Even though they didn’t express their favouritism outright, you just knew. He was the son that would inherit the estate and carry on the Malfoy last name because of dumb and antiquated beliefs.

“(Y/N), did you hear what your father just said?” your mother asked at the dinner table.

“Truthfully, no,” you responded.

“Then allow me to repeat,” Lucius said, irritation creeping into his tone. “Next Saturday, you’ll bring a suitable man to dinner.”

“Or what?” you asked as you forked your salmon. ‘Go on father,’ your inner voice chimed. ‘Tell me how to live my life like you do a million times a day.’

Lucius cleared his throat. “Or we’ll have an agreeable gentleman arranged for you.”

“Haven’t you tried already?” you murmured. “I’ve cast them all away. All your friends’ sons turned out to be such creeps.”

“Oh, dear, we do think it’s about time,” Narcissa said, trying to get you to agree with Lucius using a gentler approach.

“Why don’t you focus on Draco instead?” you said, attempting to redirect the conversation.

“He has Astoria,” Narcissa responded. “And he’s only twenty-one.”

“And I’m only twenty-three, that’s also plenty of time,” you responded. “For someone who works at the Ministry, father,” you resisted the urge to use air quotes, seeing how Lucius mainly just floated around the Ministry seeming important, “you should read into the trends at the Census Department. Female witches are marrying and giving birth much later because of their careers. I won’t be shackled by your archaic beliefs.”

“Draco,” Lucius said, ignoring you. “Do you reckon there are any friends of yours that you could introduce (Y/N) to?”

“Yes, father,” responded Draco. He was biting his lip to stifle a laugh which was never a good sign. “Vincent Crabbe. He’s informed me he is seeking a companion and would love to meet my sister.”

You choked on your wine but disguised it well with a cough. You couldn’t let your father or Draco get the best of you. No. Not today, not ever. You shot daggers at Draco who look quite pleased with himself for letting that line out so flawlessly. You had a feeling they’d rehearsed this conversation beforehand.

Lucius wore a satisfied smile. “Very well. Invite him for dinner next weekend if (Y/N) shows up empty-handed.”

“Crabbe?” you said a little too loudly to be feminine, throwing out years and years of etiquette lessons in the process. Your mother would surely chide you for it later. “Has he learned to read now, dear brother? Or is his head still buried in Wicked Witches Weekly?”

Narcissa quickly cleared her throat. “(Y/N), that’s quite enough from you,” she said as she set her fork down. “We’ll have no mention of such…. distasteful books at the dinner table.”

“But it’s true, mother,” you whined. “He’s revolting. You could at least find me someone I actually like.”

“There is no one that you like,” Lucius countered calmly. “If you continue being this picky, you will end up alone.”

Your face was red hot with conviction at his words. You wanted to prove your parents wrong, and more importantly, not to end up entertaining Crabbe at the table next week.

“But I do have someone!” you exclaimed. “I’ll bring him next week. There’s no need to call on Crabbe, Draco.”

Draco raised an eyebrow, now amused. Shit, shit, shit. He was reading into you with that devious smile. He knew exactly who you hung out with and knew a little more about your life than you would’ve liked. He knew you didn’t have anyone to bring and he’d caught you red-handed in your little lie.

You didn’t have a lover. It was over…

You clutched the stem of your wine glass and shut your eyes. In the darkness, two bright faces came to mind.

…or was it?

You took another look at Draco who was really enjoying your demise with a side of wine. You knew there was one thing you had that he didn’t: trusty, reliable friends. >>NEXT

&lt;<CHAPTER DIRECTORY

#bill weasley x you #bill weasley x reader #bill weasley imagine #fake dating #george weasley x reader

[dccomicsimagines]

My Business - Clark Kent x Reader

Requested by Anon -  A superman x reader imagine with the prompt: "I found your nose! It was in my business."

Requested by warblinglion0  - Hi! Could I request a Clark Kent imagine please??

***

Clark closed his eyes against the blowing snow. He flew over the city, using his super hearing to guide him. The city was quieter than normal. The snowstorm had shut almost everything down. 

He sighed, swooping down to help a woman carry home groceries. “Thank you, Superman,” she shouted once she was at her building. Clark waved at her and took off into the sky again. 

Most of his day was spent helping stranded people with the storm. He had already written his article about the impact of the storm on Metropolis’ sewer system. Perry could forgive boring content when the storm created a slow news day. Clark snorted. He bet Lois found some kind of amazing story in this weather. 

He landed on the top of the Daily Planet. The cold air felt sharp in his lungs. It reminded him of winters at home. He looked out at the snow covered city, thinking of turning in. A cup of hot chocolate while watching that documentary he felt would give him an edge in a story he was researching. He felt warm already. 

“Get lost, jerk.” Your voice hit his ears. Clark’s eyes widened in surprise. It was like he was subconsciously listening for you sometimes. Your voice always came to him in the moments he never suspected. 

He floated into the air, searching for you. You sounded too close to be at your apartment across town. 

“Stupid, country bum,” a man’s voice echoed near you. Clark heard a door slam. He flew faster before slowing when he found you trudging through the snow in the street. His stomach dropped at how underdressed you were. You didn’t even have a coat on.

He almost flew down to you, but he stopped himself. People couldn’t see Superman around you. Too risky. He quickly flew to his apartment only a block away. Changing into regular clothes, he made sure to pick up an extra coat for you before zooming back to you. 

***

You wrapped your arms around yourself and cursed your situation. Why didn’t you bring a coat? Why did you decide to go the the club during a snowstorm? You shook your head, feeling the snow settled on your head. Everything was shut down. You shivered, crossing the street to make the long walk home. 

“(Y/N)? What are you doing out here?” Clark’s voice made you jump. You spun around, seeing him run over to you. Ironically, he was dressed for the weather. Funny since he couldn’t feel the cold. “Where’s your coat?” He had an extra coat over his arm, which he quickly wrapped around you. You slipped your arms in the sleeves, noting how warm it was. 

A shaky laugh escaped you. “I found your nose. It’s in my business...again.” You tapped his nose before struggling to zip up the coat. Your fingers were already numb, burning from the cold. Clark shook his head, smiling as he zipped it for you. 

“Come on. It’s too far for you to go home now. My place is nearby.” He wrapped a strong arm around you and led you home. “Now why are you out in this weather?”

He was so warm and his big frame blocked the wind. “Well, I got invited to a club by some friends of Lucy’s.” You bit your lip. “I thought I’d go, but then one of the guys started making fun of me when I didn’t know what...” You stopped yourself from spilling the embarrassing conversation. “Never mind.” 

“You’re always getting in trouble.” Clark unlocked his building’s front door and held it open for you. You hurried inside, stomping your feet to knock off the snow. Shivers rocked your body, you could have swore ice was forming on your body. 

“And you’re always popping up to help.” You rolled your eyes. “I never would have thought my good old brother, Pete, would ask you to keep an eye on me so much. Do you two even talk that much anymore?” 

“We do.” Clark bit his lip. Pete Ross didn’t call him that much, but they always caught up when Clark went home for a visit. It was actually during one of those visits that Pete asked Clark to keep an eye on his younger sibling who got it into their head to move to Metropolis. Pete thought you were in over your head, and honestly, most of the time you were. 

You pulled Clark’s jacket closer as you both headed to the elevator. “I mean there was that time where I was in that bad roommate situation, so you helped me move. Then I wanted to rent that one place for really cheap and you stepped in to show me how bad it was. Of course, then you came in with that offer to live with Lucy Lane in a nicer part of town.” 

Clark blushed slightly. “Well, it’s the least I could do. I mean you’re practically family, (Y/N).” 

Your stomach soured slightly. You were afraid he only saw you as Pete’s little tagalong sibling. Who could blame him when you felt so helpless most of the time? “I personally think it’s because you want to make up for breaking up my mud mask business in the fifth grade.” 

He laughed hard, almost doubling over. “You were taking mud from the pond and mixing it with your mother’s perfume. It made three people break out in hives.” 

“I had a warning label on it.” You smiled at his reaction. “And it was five dollars a bottle.” 

Clark shook his head. “Ma actually bought one from you. She didn’t use it though. In fact, I think she still has it sitting in the garage.” 

“Too bad for her. Lana swore by it. Said it cleared up her acne just like that.” You snapped your fingers, chuckling along with him. The elevator doors opened and Clark led the way down the hall to his apartment. 

“In all seriousness though, you shouldn’t have went out with a storm on the way. The city shuts down during snowstorms.” Clark unlocked his apartment door and pushed it open to let you in first. 

“The club was still open.” You wandered inside, flicking on the lights to take in the bland surroundings. The only personal items were a framed newspaper article and three family pictures of the Kents. 

“Stupidly still open, yes.” Clark shut the door and locked it. “I’ll make some hot chocolate. Make yourself comfortable, (Y/N).” He took off his coat and shook it out before pulling off his shoes. You kept the coat on, still warming up. 

Clark went into the kitchen and you trailed behind him. “Were you as helpless as me when you first moved here?” you asked suddenly as you took a seat at the counter. Clark blinked, turning to look at you while he turned on the stove. 

“Yes. I had no idea what I was doing and I had a few tricky situations myself.” He smiled. “I’m glad I can help you not to make the same mistakes I did.” 

You hummed. He turned back to start warming up the milk. “Of course it was easier for you. Being Superman and all.” Clark flinched, looking at you with wide eyes. You laughed at the sight. “I know. I know. We’re not supposed to talk about it. It’s the thing we know, but never speak of.” 

Clark sighed. “I don’t think that made it easier for me.” He cleared his throat, turning back to the stove. “It was hard to hide my powers. To have some much noise around me all the time. Not to mention when I decided to become Superman.” 

You watched him, noting the tension in his shoulders. Part of you wanted to go hug him, but you resisted. You didn’t know how he would react. “I remember the first time we knew for sure that you were something special. It was during winter break one year. You, Pete, and Tommy Johnson were trying to go ice fishing at the lake. I followed you because you wouldn’t let me come and I was being stubborn.”

“You fell through the ice because you walked on the thin part.” Clark hummed, getting out the chocolate mix. 

“No one would have noticed, but you heard me scream.” You crossed your arms. The chill from the freezing water felt like a permanent scar every time you thought back on that day. “I went under the ice and I couldn’t find a way to get out.” 

“I dived in after you.” Clark mixed in the chocolate slowly. You wondered if he was remembering how cold the water was too, even though he didn’t get cold. “I had to break through the ice once I found you. Pete and Tommy ran over to help. I let them pull us out. Tommy couldn’t believe I broke through the ice, but Pete told him it was thin there too.”

“None of us said anything about it, but you did save my life that day.” You took a deep breath, slipping off your chair. Taking off his coat, you were finally warm enough. “We always knew, but never really talked about it. I remember I tried to ask Pete to ask you to lift this big rock for me and he slapped my face.” 

“He slapped you?” Clark spun to you, staring at your cheek like Pete just slapped you right this second. You chuckled and touched your cheek. It had stun a lot. You cried at the time.

“Pete was protecting you. Like I said it’s the thing we all knew, but never talked about.” Your face burned at the concern on his face. “I’m fine, Clark.” 

Clark bit his lip, turning away to grab two mugs out of the cabinet. You snorted when you saw he had a superman mug. “Ma gave this to me. She thought it was funny.” He handed you a filled mug and turned off the stove. 

“It is if you know.” You took a sip, licking your lips. “This is good.”

“Thanks, I learned from the best.” Clark took a sip of his own hot chocolate. “I was going to watch a documentary for work if you want join me? Otherwise, we can just watch regular TV, I’m not picky.” 

You headed into the living room and made yourself comfortable on his couch. “The documentary is fine. I like learning.”

“I bet Mrs. G just rolled over in her grave at that.” Clark laughed. “I remember how you made her so mad that her face turned completely red like she was going to burst into flames.” 

“Good times.” You laughed, relaxing as Clark sat down beside you. Shyly, he grabbed a blanket and covered you and himself with it. You hesitated before cuddling into his side.

Clark paused. You saw a mixed expression of emotions cross his face. “You comfortable?”

“Yep.” You took another sip from your mug. Clark relaxed and turned on the documentary. The two of you snuggled while the snowstorm raged outside.

***

The next morning, Clark was startled to hear eggs frying in the kitchen. He slowly got out of bed and was about to leave his bedroom until he remembered you. Quickly, he pulled on an old Smallville High t-shirt. No reason to scare you with his bare chest. 

You were in the kitchen. Clark stopped in the doorway, his breath taken away. He had forgotten he had given you a shirt of his to wear. You turned when you heard his gasp. “Good morning.” You waved innocently before turning back to the stove. “I hope you don’t mind that I made us breakfast. I figured it was the least I could do since you let me stay here last night.”

“Well, I wasn’t going to send you out into the storm.” Clark sat down at the table. His body threatened to burst into flames. Why did you look so good in his shirt?

“You could have flown me home.” Clark watched you as you made a plate for him. He almost groaned at how domestic it was. Part of him wished you could be here every morning. However, the other part of him knew you were Pete Ross’ sibling. Off limits.

Clark cleared his throat. You set the plate in front of him. “Thank you.” He dug into the food to distract himself from the racing thoughts. 

You laughed and made a plate for yourself. Clark tensed when you sat down right next to him. “So it’s still snowing outside,” you said, picking at your food.

“It is.” Clark glanced out the window at the winter wonderland outside. “I’ll have to insist you stay here.”

“Oh, you wouldn’t have to insist.” You met his eye, winking at him. “But what are we going to do all day long?”

Clark took a big bite of eggs. His heart fluttered at your wink. “I do have to write an article, but after we could...I don’t know...maybe break out that game we used to play?”

“You still have that? And you have it here?” You gasped, clapping your hands. 

“Ma sent it to me a year ago. Said I might need it.” Clark chuckled. He avoid mentioning that Ma only sent it after she found you out were moving to Metropolis. Come to think of it, Clark wondered if Ma knew something he didn’t. Then again, she always did.

You went into a story about when you all first played the game. Clark listened, remembering it himself. You, Pete, and Clark played the game for the first time in the basement of his house while there was a tornado warning. A warm fuzzy feeling came to his chest. Clark decided then and there that he would call Pete once you went home and ask him for permission to ask you out. 

#clark kent #clark kent x reader #clark kent imagine #superman #superman x reader #superman imagine #dc comics imagines #dc reader insert

[red1culous]

Oh part 1

Part 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7

Standing in front of that imposing building you felt your resolve falter slightly. It looked as though nothing had changed in years. Even the grove of trees that lined the driveway, tall and graceful, seemed to be frozen in time.

One foot in front of the other, you coax yourself. 

You suck in a laboured breath and walk into the large courtyard stopping once again as you take in your surroundings. You had hoped to be able to come and go without notice but the gravel covering the courtyard was doing a great job in announcing your arrival. 

This is new, you think to yourself slightly amused at your naivety thinking things would have stood still just because you left.

You hadn’t been back in over a decade after that little incident and if anyone had told you you would be standing where you were right now, you would have laughed in their faces before smacking them across it. 

You walk through a smaller sylvan courtyard of blooming orange trees. In its centre you see a fish pond. Smiling you look into it and search for the red and gold koi you had put there when you built the pond as a birthday present for Tony. It swims up to the surface as if it recognises you and if it weren’t for the boxes you were lugging about you might have even bent down to poke at its mouth.

For a split second you consider turning around and walking, no, running away. Screw the freshly baked muffins that were precariously balanced on you. You could just head back to the shop and sell them off at half price. You didn’t need the huge commission that the Avengers had agreed to pay for them. No you definitely didn’t need it…

…you also definitely did not need your business partner chewing off your ear about passing off said commission. 

Think of all the rich people eating your food? you can hear her clawing voice bounce about in your head. 

In truth you knew that the Avengers could easily afford a better baker. The best pastry chefs this side of the globe would happily saw off their left foot to be able to cater for them. But Pepper rings your mobile phone, claiming she meant to actually dial the shop, to place an order…a significantly large one…one she knew you would not be able to resist.

“Shit…” you mumble under your breath seeing the cause of your stress marching towards you a huge smile on her face.

“Is that how you greet an old friend?” Pepper says holding onto your upper arms and leaning in to place air kisses on your cheeks.

“No of course not…it’s just…umm…” you stutter as your heart thumps so hard it rattles its ribcage.

“I know…it’s a little weird being back” she says hands still holding you in place as if she knew you were about to bolt right out of there.

You shrug chuckling a little. “It’s stupid isn’t it?” you adopt a wide smile which had always been effective when dealing with difficult customers.

“Don’t give me that look” she swipes at your chin, “and it’s not stupid either. Just so you know, we’re all on your side.” She adds giving you a sympathetic look and you calm slightly at her words. 

“Thanks Pep.”

“Ok you head in. I’ll meet you inside in a bit, you don’t mind do you? Tony ordered a grand piano and it’s just arrived…” she trails off.

“Sure, I know my way around” you say smiling as she squeezes your arms before letting you go. Of course you knew your way around. After all, this had been your home too for over 5 years. 

5 years of bliss with her. 

You mentally chide yourself. Nope, not gonna go back there. 

As you climb the white marbled steps that led to the main door of the mansion you steal a glance at the silent looming windows glinting in the early morning light. You hesitate a little seeing a shadow pass quickly across one of them. 

Shit. 

Shaking your head, yet again, you finally reach the large oak doors. The bright and zesty scent of your lemon muffins waft into the air and as you are about to ring the doorbell the solid doors open revealing a tanned and muscled man in a shirt way too small for his body.

“STEVEN!” you shout whisper as his face splits into a wide grin.

“Y/N! Wh-what are you doing here?” he almost engulfs you in a hug stopping at the very last moment realising your arms were occupied.

“I-I…umm, muffins?” you return his grin looking down at your packages.

His eyes widen a little before taking some of the boxes from you. He balances 3 with ease in one hand as he pulls you inside. “No I mean I knew we had ordered from you…,” he says walking with you towards the kitchen, “…but I thought you said you were going to send a runner or something.”

“Well I was but our regular guy called in sick” you say gently placing the boxes onto the kitchen island.

“Well isn’t that unfortunate” he eyes you winking when you catch his gaze.

You roll your eyes at him. “No Steve, it’s the very opposite of what you mean.”

“Oh come on Y/N,” he shuffles up beside you to bump your shoulder, “it’s been so long.”

“It has...but hey! I get to see you again!” you bump his shoulder back and he pretends like it hurts him. “Ok so these need to be consumed within 3 days…”

“Woah woah woah now…” he cuts you off, “…you’re talking like you’re about to leave.”

He gives you a sad pouting face. His crisply parted hair makes him look like a choirboy albeit a very well built one. You almost feel sorry for him. 

“Steve you know I don’t belong here” you say fingering the hem of your shirt.

Your answer seems to baffle him. He straightens up and stares at you for a moment narrowing his eyes slightly. “I’m skipping my morning run just to hang out with you, so you can at least spend some time with me.”

“Steve…” you protest before he cuts you off again.

He raises a hand in your face. “Not hearing any of it” he says grabbing yours and leading you out of the kitchen, “…we’re going to take a walk and you’re going to meet some of your family.” 

You knew there was no use arguing with him. The death grip he had on you meant that you couldn’t even try to make a dash for it. “Steve if she…” you add and he cuts you off. Third one in a row. This was getting ridiculous.

“Shh!” and that was final. He leads you into the giant library where that vapid painting by Albert Ryder still hung on the wall. You hated that massive eye sore and always wandered what Tony liked about it. You’d always pegged him for the colourful extravagant type and this painting was just so out of character.

“Sam! Look who’s here?” Steve’s voice bellows out interrupting your thoughts. Your eyes trail up the curving mahogany spiral stairs that Steve is looking at and onto another floor of bookcases that were bathed in sunlight pouring in through a round skylight on the ceiling. 

“OMG Y/N?!” Sam almost shrieks as he bounds down the steps at a dangerous pace to collect you in a massive bear hug. “What are you doing here?!” he adds still crushing you in his arms.

“I came with the cupcakes…” you giggle as he picks you up and twirls you around. “Th-They brought me as their plus one.”

He puts you down to really look at you as if committing you to memory. A large smile sits on his face. “I see the sass is still there?”

“It never really left, big guy” you raise an eyebrow smirking as he hugs you one more time. 

“Pleaseee tell me you’re here for the party?” he groans wrapping an arm around your shoulders looking at you hopefully. “Parties here have been so sad since you’ve been gone.”

You hum about to answer as out of nowhere two slender arms wrap around you. It knocks the wind out of you and you instinctively hug back letting the smell of cinnamon and spice invade your senses. “Wanda!” you yelp.

“You didn’t tell me you were coming” she squeals smacking you across the arm.

You giggle at her pout. “I didn’t know I was coming, malyshka.”

She grins at your use of the word. “Ok let’s go” she says to a chorus of groans. 

“Excuse me! You are not taking her any where!” Sam blurts out grabbing your free hand.

“Sorry guys but I found her first” Steve adds standing in front of you and placing an authoritative hand on your shoulder his fingernails biting into the flesh there. 

“Guys…” you cough nervously, “how about we take a walk…together” you say quietly and sigh in relief as everyone starts smiling and pestering you with questions again. 

I guess nothing’s really changed after all.

---

Tagging: @thewidowintheweb   @natasharomanoffismywife  @imnotasuperhero  @cybeleceto  @silverwing2522  @thelastavenger-3000  @peggycarter-steverogers  @rooskaya-yelena  @blackwidowromonoff  @lesbian-x-blackwidow  @nowthisisliving27   @izalesbean  @aaron-despair  @marvelfansince08love  @rileigh519   @wannabe-fic-reader  @hcartbyheart  @marvel-randomness  @thewitchandtheassassin  @username23345  @xixxiixx  @rebeliz777  @summergeezburr  @frostedfavesmain  @higherfurther-romanova​ @sapphicluxanna​

#oh #natasha x reader #natasha romanoff #natasha romanoff x reader #black widow #black widow x reader #natasha romanoff x fem!reader #redfic

[one-real-imonkey]

New au idea (it's a little au of au.) After the kavado fiasco palpapunk gets Rex transferred to the corasant guard with the excuse that he would to unstable to be on the front lines in an attempt to make Anakin more reliant in him.

Sorry if spelled something wrong.

Yessss.

There is nothing wrong with an AU of an AU, half my Corrie Guard works are different endings post following Hound letting the information out, lmao. And don't worry about the spellings, sometimes I get things so wrong the spell checkers can't work it out.

I'd also like to clarify in advance that some of the opinions Fox has on characters or their actions will be how he perceives them etc and some of his thoughts or opinions on a character may counter what we from an outside perceptive know.

---

The news was crushing. Firstly that Rex'ika had been taken by those Zygerrian slave taking monsters, and then a ruling that his actions on the mission had been reckless so soon after the mess on Umbara and between that and his injuries he was being redeployed.

To Coruscant.

To the Guard.

Part of Fox would almost have preferred he be sent back to Kamino, almost, but not quite.

Rex'ika was coming to the Guard, his vod'ika, the little brother they'd taken into their batch so so many years ago.

He was coming to the Guard.

Fox was terrified, but he wasn't sure if it was because Rex was going to be in danger, or because he was going to learn the truth.

And then Rex would tell Cody and Wolffe and Bly and Ponds and the truth would come out and everything would get out and there would be chaos. The Guard wouldn't just be cowardly paper pushing meat droids, they'd be the weak cowardly paper pushing meat droids who couldn't defend themselves from some rich Senator who'd never held a blaster or thrown a punch.

Like being spat on and insulted wasn't enough already.

Vode an, except when you were in the Guard.

There was more to it, to Rex's joining them, he was certain of it. Rex'ika worked with Skywalker, Skywalker was close with Palpatine, Palpatine was... Fox wasn't sure what but he didn't want him near his brothers. Palpatine was the reason Skywalker hadn't been on Umbara, the reason that Krell had been allowed to play with the clones like toys, the reason so many of Rex's vode were dead... the reason for a lot of things.

Skywalker was the reason Rex was being transferred to them, at least the reason Palpatine was having him transferred. He wasn't certain why, but with how close Skywalker was to Palpatine, how he acted around them sometimes, especially after a meeting with Palpatine, that Jedi wasn't to be trusted. He was dangerous, saw himself above them whether he realised it or not, and he could have them killed if he wanted.

It they'd been sending Rex almost anywhere else, he'd have been glad his brother was getting away from Skywalker.

Getting closer to Palpatine was hardly something he wanted though.

.

.

.

Fox watched the LAAT arrive, and watched his vod’s so clearly unique blue armour appear.

He stayed to the edge of the landing pad until the LAAT had taken off again, and Captain Velt, who lead one of the Lower Level Security Teams and would be, hopefully, looking after Rex and keeping him out of the Senate Building, had introduced himself.

And then he strode over.

Velt knew what he had planned, and had in fact anticipated it, but it wasn’t often one of their vode was brought into the Guard rather than bringing in Shinies, and he knew well enough that Fox was going to be protective of his batch-mate, adopted or not. Velt stepped back as he approached, nodding to Rex and then going to his own squad.

“Rex’ika, with me.”

“What, Fox, where… shouldn’t I...?”

Rex gestured to Velt and his squad.

“No,” Fox grabbed him by the wrist and started pulling, not letting Rex resist, “you come with me, right now.”

He dragged his brother through the halls into the Command barracks, thankful that for all he was clearly annoyed about it, Rex didn’t fight him.

“What was so important, Fox? If you really wanted to catch up you couldn’t wait until I'd settled in?”

He had a meeting in 20 minutes he couldn’t miss, which meant he had no time to address the subtle barb he’d been offered, nor to sugar coat what was happening on Coruscant.

"Vod, you have a lot to learn about the Guard if you're going to survive here."

“Fox, I'm sure General Skywalker will try to get me back to the 501st soon. And I can manage a few weeks handling paperwork.”

“No, no, vod, it’s not paperwork and fun times here. Rex, it’s horrific, and I'm not letting them decommission you because you didn’t know how to protect yourself here.”

“It’ll be a few weeks...”

“Palpatine had you transferred here for a reason, I don’t know what, but I don’t trust Skywalker much better. He’s dangerous, vod.”

“I think I know my General better than you.”

“So you’ve never noticed how he acts after a meeting with the Chancellor, because last time he had one he shoved a shinie into a wall. He's dangerous, maybe not to you when he’s in a good mood, but... but that’s not what you need to know. You're here, you need to survive here. Besides, no-one leaves the Guard except in a body bag,” he left out the or worse, Rex didn’t need that yet, “Rule one...”

“Fox wait...”

“Rule one, you don’t ever, and I mean ever, fight back. Rule two, keep your armour uniform, so if you’re ever accused of anything or slated for reconditioning or decommissioning you can be swapped around. Rule three, no matter how weird or demeaning, you do what you’re ordered. Rule 4, if they call you it or clone or anything like that, don’t argue or try to impress on them your name or anything like that, just do what they say. Don’t react. Now I'm trying to get you put into one of the units that takes patrols rather than on Senate Security, but I can't make promises.”

Rex looked blown away, and a little shattered, but this was reality and he couldn’t afford to be soft on his little brother.

Not if he wanted Rex to live.

His comm buzzed a warning.

“Look, Rex’ika, I have a meeting, but the rec room and commissary are down the hall to the right, I’m sure someone can help you settle in and... I'll answer any questions you have properly tonight.”

He wondered if his voice sounded as defeated to his vod’ika as it did to him.

It didn’t matter, he slammed his buy’ce on his head and headed up to the Senate Building.

He couldn’t keep the Chancellor waiting, not even for his youngest batch mate.

———

Thanks for reading, hope you enjoyed.

Thanks for the ask, I love the idea for this AU though I’m not sure yet how or if I’ll continue from here. If anyone has ideas or wants to take it on or anything like that go nuts (obvs let me know lmao).

Like I said at the top, Anakin is nice to the 501st, but all Fox sees is someone close to Palpatine and someone who is always aggressive to them after spending time with Palpatine. He sees Skywalker as a threat and he has to focus on his siblings first. Similarly the vode don't hate the Guard and wouldn't see them as cowards, but due to Palpatine's manipulations, on both Fox's mind and the vode as a whole, these are Fox's beliefs.

Also Anakin is kinda unstable due to palpatine manipulating things, and similarly that why the Jedi can't see whats happening to the clones on Coruscant, but normally (and if/when they find out) they'd be horrified and do what they can to help.

Inbox always open. (-:

#star wars #my corrie guard au #corrie guard #rex joins the corrie guard au #au of my corrie guard au #coruscant guard #commander fox #captain rex #oc clone velt #star wars fanfiction #ask response #prompt response

[tearh0seok]

For all you c!Wilbur and c!Quackity enthusiasts/ people who just like some good old fashioned c!karlnapity angst, this ones for you. Enjoy!!

—————

My Tears Ricochet

And I still talk to you

(when I'm screaming at the sky)

And when you can't sleep at night

(you hear my stolen lullabies)

<><><><><><><><><><><><><>

The bag hits his back with a solid thump, causing him to stumble forward and grunt from the weight of it. He instinctively reaches out for the nearest wall and steadies himself. He holds his breath for a second, prepared to hear the rustling of bed sheets as someone wakes up due to the noise, before he releases it in a quiet, cynical laugh. He is, as he had been for a while now, alone. No one around for him to hold, to talk to, to wake up, to care about. As he makes his way out into the streets of Las Nevada’s, he scans the area for any sign of life. Slime and Fundy must have turned in early enough, and Foolish had long stopped working on his latest big project. He strolls through the streets quietly, humming to himself as he takes in the nation, his nation. At night, the buildings and area look like a mirror image of the man who owned them: empty, cold and alone. He shakes his head trying not to think about it too much. Now was not a time for self-pity or grief. No, now was the time for revenge. The kind of revenge that he just couldn’t drag the others into, they’d never understand. In fact, they’d all think he was insane. They’d leave him behind, all alone, just like before, with-

“Quackity?”

The voice causes Quackity to drop his bag, the thud echoing against the pristine buildings of his city. He looks up at the road ahead of him, and finds Wilbur Soot leaning against the Las Nevada’s sign, a shadow under the bright lights, with his face illuminated only by the red hot glow of his cigarette. Quackity sees his lips twitch up into a tired smirk, and it immediately makes him want to punch the other man in the face. “You’re on my land, Wilbur,” he growls, picking the bag back up, and throwing it back over his shoulder. His grip on the straps tighten as he hears Wilbur laugh quietly. “I thought we put that in the past, Big Q. You know, healthy competition and all that jazz?” Wilbur says tauntingly. Quackity barely spares him a glance as he trudges past the sign, staring straight over Wilbur’s shoulder to where he can see the glow of the burger van in the distance.

“Yeah well, we’re both closed for the day so I didn’t see a need for any of the formalities,” Quackity mutters, praying that the conversation ends there. But of course, to no avail, as soon Quackity hears footsteps behind him and has to resist the oh so demanding urge to punch this guy in the nose. “Then, off the record and completely out of curiosity, as an old friend, may I ask where we’re going?” Wilbur says, as he falls into step beside the smaller man. Quackity digs his heels into the tarmac and stops, turning to the man beside him. “ We are not going anywhere, I have some business to attend to, and you are going back to wherever you came from and forgetting you saw me,” he grunts, poking Wilbur in the middle of his chest to emphasize his point.

He continues walking, and due to the lack of footsteps he assumes the other man has taken the hint and is heading home. However, he hears the sound of shoes approaching, and suddenly Wilbur is at his side once more. “Oh but now you see, my friend,” Wilbur sighs, voice laced with amusement, “now I’m intrigued. What is this so-called business, why is it so secret, and why-“ Quackity feels a slight pull on his back as Wilbur tries to peek into the bag. He quickly whips around, face to face with Wilbur, hoping the other hadn’t seen the contents of the bag. Unfortunately, the fire dancing in Wilbur’s eyes and the wild grin that covers his face suggests otherwise.

“- Why do you have so much TNT and a flint and steel, Quackity?”

It’s said quietly, but the tone of his voice is so menacing that it causes Quackity to shudder. This is really not how tonight was supposed to go, and the more time Quackity spends here talking to Wilbur, the more time he has to contemplate and regret the decision he’s about to make. So he lets his guard down, briefly, and murmurs, “It’s personal, Will, and I’m already starting to regret it, so the last thing I need is to feel guilty about dragging someone else into this too.” And with that, he slowly turns away, head hanging, and begins mentally bracing for what he’s about to do. He just needs to clear his head, and remind himself that this isn’t his fault, it’s everyone else’s for pushing him away, pushing him to this point, and for leaving him alone, AGAIN-

“Do you need some company?”

The voice is quiet and wavering, and if they hadn’t known each other for so long, Quackity wouldn’t have recognized the unsure tone of Wilbur’s voice. He looks over his shoulder at the other man, whose face, illuminated by the moon, is covered with hesitation.

“Wilbur, I just told you, I don’t want to drag anyone else-“

“I didn’t ask if you wanted company, I asked if you needed it, Quackity.”

The words stop him in his tracks. He feels all the air rush out of his lungs and finds himself struggling to breathe. He looks down at the freshly paved road below him, willing away the hot sting of tears. No one, not even Slime, has asked him that in a very long time. The last person to ever say that to him was probably-

“Listen, I know what it’s like, carrying all of this awful stuff on your shoulders. And I have no doubt that what you’re about to do is going to be something you add to the list of things you regret, but you had to do in the moment. I’m not offering to help, as I can tell this is something you need to do for yourself.” He feels a hand on his shoulder, and looks up to see Wilbur with a grim, but soft smile. “What I’m offering is my presence, just so you don’t have to go through it alone.”

Quackity pauses for a moment, taking in the weight of Wilbur’s words, but soon realizes that if he thinks about them too much, he might break down in tears. So he takes the bag off his back and dumps it into Wilbur’s arms. The other catches it with a quiet “oof”, as Quackity grunts, “Let’s go then, we need to get this done by sunrise.”

And just like that, they head off into the night.

~~~~~~~

Wilbur soon realizes that, in hindsight, he should have known where Quackity was headed all along. Quackity didn’t have any major enemies that Wilbur knew of besides Dream and Techno, but Dream is in prison and Techno is god knows where. Quackity also doesn’t seem like the type to commit an act of violence without some sort of motivation, and Wilbur’s 90% sure he wouldn’t do it to threaten someone. Really, using that reasoning, Wilbur should have known their destination. Even as they trekked across the hills and plains, Wilbur should have noticed the direction they were going in. However, it wasn’t until they came to a clearing that opened up onto a shoreline, that he saw their target. While he knows there’s no other option it could be, he still asks the question.

“Why are we at Kinoko Kingdom?”

There it stood, across the water in all its shining glory. Though it was silent in the dead of night, the nation still looked warm and inviting, a sharp contrast to Las Nevada’s at this hour. Wilbur looked at the man at his side, hoping to gauge a reaction, but Quackity’s face was hard as he stared across at the nation like it was the bane of his existence. “I thought you were here to keep me company, not question me,” Quackity grinds out, looking like he’s holding himself back from screaming, or crying, or both. And so Wilbur just shrugs, and places the bag down. Immediately, Quackity throws it open and so the work begins.

Wilbur watches silently as Quackity takes out as much as he can carry and starts making his way around the edge of the shore to the first building he can find. He looks back briefly at Wilbur, indicating for the other man to follow. And while his face remains stony, just as he turns away Wilbur catches a glimpse of the other man’s face crumpling. He watches Quackity let out an unsteady breath, before readjusting the materials in his arms and marching into Kinoko Kingdom.

Quackity, Wilbur is learning, is quite the expert when it comes to TNT. The man is methodical, precise in his placement, ensuring that each piece is in the perfect location to do maximum damage. Although Wilbur said he wouldn’t help, he eventually can’t take the boredom of just standing around, and starts to help. He hears no objection from Quackity, and so he assumes that he is alright to continue. They work in near silence, the only sounds coming from the occasional animal or monster in the distance. Suddenly, a thought comes to Wilbur’s head, and so he stands up and walks over to where Quackity is kneeling, fixing a stick of TNT into place. “Quackity, what about Sapnap and Karl?” He asks, and immediately realizes his mistake. He watches Quackity’s entire body tense up, and the man turns to him, face thunderous.

“What about them?” He asks coldly, and for the first time in a very long time, Wilbur is fearful of the man in front of him.

“Are you just going to leave them here? To…. you know….?”

Wilbur doesn’t finish his sentence, knowing that one wrong word could lead to him having a similar fate to Kinoko Kingdom. However, Quackity relaxes, ever so slightly, and turns back to his work. “They’re not here. They went hunting this morning and I heard from Foolish that they would be gone until tomorrow,” he states, voice wavering slightly, but otherwise filled with certainty. Satisfied with Quackity’s answer, Wilbur picks up some more TNT and begins positioning it near a massive pond in the heart of the kingdom. As he’s working, he hears a small voice cut through the silence.“I couldn’t do it with them here. It’s hard enough without them around, but if they were here - it would be impossible.” Quackity has never sounded more vulnerable, his voice soft yet even, but Wilbur can tell there’s a whole world of pain built within those words. So he leaves any questions he had to the side and continues to work through the silence, with only the moon, stars and the loneliest man in the world for company.

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

When everything’s done, despite the circumstances, Quackity is weirdly proud of himself. He doesn’t take too long to admire his handy work though, as it may cause him to just take it all back and go home. He begins connecting everything together with one long line of red stone. This surprisingly doesn’t take him too long, and soon he and Wilbur are making their way out of Kinoko Kingdom and back to their perch on the other side of the shore, trailing red stone behind them. Once he’s far enough away, Quackity dares to look back, and regrets it instantly. He sees Kinoko Kingdom for all it is- a clear representation of who Sapnap and Karl are, to others, to each other ,and it’s almost as if you can see the love that lives there. And then, on top of it all, protruding and ugly, is the TNT- Quackity’s doing. Quackity’s mark on the place. That is all he represents; destruction and ruin. Quackity knew there must have been a reason they left him behind, and now he sees it; pure, unadulterated evil . He is the cause of his own pain, his own problems. He gets left behind because when people get to know him- when Sapnap and Karl, his boys, got to know him, all they could do is run in fear. From now on, he is the one calling the shots, because Quackity refuses to ever be left behind again. And if that means being alone, forever, then so be it.

He sniffs and wipes his eyes as he walks, feeling like all of the armour he had put on his heart has fallen away, his wounds have reopened and he’s bleeding out. Over the dull white nose in his ears, he hears Wilbur’s voice in the distance, asking if he’s ok. However he doesn’t pay it any attention, simply connecting the chain of red stone to a button placed on the floor in front of him. He looks up one last time, at the place the loves of his life call home. And then, he presses the button.

If you’d asked him how he wanted this to go, Quackity would’ve described it exactly like this; quick, so quick that you’d miss it if you blink, and then so, so, slowly, like you were watching the life drain from the place. That was exactly what they got. The TNT detonated almost all at once, sending earth and debris flying everywhere. It was almost mesmerizing to watch as in the blink of an eye, something so beautiful was completely maimed. Then came the fire, spreading ever so slowly through what remained of the godforsaken place. As Quackity watched the flames grow, he felt a laugh bubble up in his chest. He let out a light chuckle, until soon he was gasping for breath as he cackled, all the while tears rolled down his face. Soon his laughter mixed with heavy sobs, and he felt Wilbur grip his shoulder, pulling him to face the other man. Wilbur’s face was glowing orange, almost as if it was ablaze along with the city they had just destroyed.

“QUACKITY! Pull yourself together!” He shouted sternly, shaking Quackity by the shoulders harshly. Quackity shoved him off, pushing him away with such force that Wilbur fell back into the sand.

“NO! You know what, fuck you Wilbur!” He spits, pointing down at the man beneath him, “ you don’t get to fucking tell me what to do, when you did the exact same fucking thing not too long ago. Remember that? You did it too, so fuck you. Fuck you for being here, for helping, for listening to me, and fuck you for all the shit you did in the past.” With that, Quackity whips himself around to face the destroyed kingdom in front of him.

“And fuck you!” He screams, not caring who hears or how much his voice wants to give out, “Fuck you and your perfect little kingdom, and your perfect little life. Fuck you guys for telling me you loved me.” His voice cracks at the end of the sentence and slowly his screams turn into heart-wrenching sobs. “Fuck you for pretending you cared. Fuck you for promising me that you’d stay .”

He rips both rings off of his left ring finger and throws them into the water, with such a force that he stumbles forward. He collapses to the ground, the weight of his own heartbreak too much to bear. He feels Wilbur drag him up into his lap, cradling him like a child. When he looks up at Wilbur, the other man gently brings a hand to his face, and wipes the tears from his cheeks. It’s been so long since Quackity has been held like this, that it just makes him cry even harder. He buries his head into Wilbur’s shoulder, crying hysterically into the rough fabric of his coat. His last sentence comes out as nothing more than a whisper, broken and defeated by the pain in his heart.

“F-fuck you guys for promising you would never leave me, a-and then doing it anyway.”

~~~~~~~~~

Wilbur sits in silence as Quackity continues to sob into his chest. He watches the last of what was once Kinoko Kingdom burn and crumble, until there is nothing left but smoldering rubble. The sight was almost soothing, like the quiet that comes after a hurricane. He watches as the sun rises, the night turning into a pale, eerie dawn, sky almost grey, and the tide lapping gently against the shore. The only sound for a long time is Quackity’s uneven breathing, along with the occasional hiccup, until he hears voices in the distance. “Quackity, be quiet,” Wilbur hushes him. Quackity looks up, about to say something when the voices get louder in the distance. They both pause and look over at the remains of Kinoko Kingdom, just as Sapnap and Karl emerge from the tree line. Wilbur hears Quackity suck in a breath as they watch the couple’s faces fall in horror. Karl immediately runs forward, and even from this distance, Wilbur hears him gasp and say, “Oh my god, what happened?”. Meanwhile, Sapnap remains silent, shock plastered across his face as he takes in the rubble. Karl turns back to his fiancé, and Wilbur sees the moment Karl’s shoulders sag and his head drops. “It’s all gone, Sapnap,” he hears him say, and then Sapnap is running forward to catch Karl as he collapses into his arms, crying quietly. Sapnap just bundles his lover up into his arms, tears streaming silently down his own face. After a moment, Sapnap begins to lead them back into the forest, presumably headed for a place to stay near everyone else.

Only when the pair have gone, does Wilbur notice the whimpering. He looks down and finds that Quackity is crying again, quietly this time, and is already staring up at Wilbur. He clutches Wilbur’s jacket and stares at him, eyes pleading for an answer.

“W-why don’t I feel better, Wilbur? Why did that make me feel so much worse?”

And because he doesn’t have an answer, Wilbur just embraces him once more, holding the man close to his chest as he cries.

~~~~~~~~~

“Hello Quackity of Las Nevadas, where have you been?”

If Slime notices Quackity’s puffy eyes, he doesn’t say anything. Wilbur had left him in the same place they began their journey, by the sign at the entrance to the nation. Quackity had been hoping to sneak back in undetected, but of course the innocent creature had been waiting for him at the base of the tower. At least it wasn’t someone like Foolish or Fundy, who would’ve been able to see right through him in his current state. Quackity runs a hand through his hair, and stuffs his hands in his pockets.

“Sorry Slime, I went out for a walk early this morning.”

Slime simply tilts his head, curiosity written all over his face.

“Where did you go?”

Quackity sighs, racking his brain for an excuse. It’s too early, and he’s too tired to be doing this. He gives up on trying to lie.

“It doesn’t matter.”

He starts making his way back to his tower, ready to fall into bed, when Slimes pipes up once more.

“It doesn’t matter? Why? Is it because you’re home now?”

Quackity stops.

He takes a breath, willing the tears down.

He turns around, eyes shining and gives his friend, his true friend, a small, sad smile.

“Yeah Slime. I’m home.”

~~~~~~~~~~~

Sapnap kicks a stone out of his way absentmindedly, strolling through what’s left of his kingdom. He came back to see what he could salvage from the wreckage, after dropping Karl off at Bad’s house to rest. As he strolls by the beach, he stops to pick up a piece of wood lying in the sand. As he does so, he spots something shiny lying just on the edge of the water. He crouches down, and picks it up, only to find 2 engagement rings, each with an initial engraved on them.

S

K

He clenches his fist around the rings, heart breaking all over again. He’d recognize those rings anywhere, and he knows what it means, finding them here. He brings his fist up to his lips, pressing a kiss against it, hoping, in vain, that his other love will feel it. He looks out at the water, tears flowing, and prays that someday, they can be what they once were. For now, he places the rings in his pocket carefully, thumbing them over slowly. Before he leaves, he turns back to look at his kingdom once more, and whispers,

“I’m sorry.”

And with that, he heads back to Karl, his fiancé, his home .

<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>

I didn't have it in myself to go with grace

'Cause when I'd fight, you used to tell me I was brave

And if I'm dead to you, why are you at the wake?

Cursing my name, wishing I stayed

Look at how my tears ricochet

#dreamwastaken #dream smp #quackity #wilbur dream smp #quackbur #karlnapity #karlnap my beloved #karlnap fanfic #tnt duo #dream team #sapnap #karl jacobs #wilbur soot #fanfic #dreamxd #tommy dream smp #mcyt #minecraft #youtube #ranboo #ranboo and tubbo #tubbo #georgenotfound #dreamnotnap #dreamnotfound #dreamnap

[riversofmars]

Prompt: 13 and River babysit Anthony Williams (Amy and Rory’s adopted son)

This is such a cute prompt! I combined it with a similar one and hope this works for you, enjoy! <3

Rating: G

Word Count: 1800

Read on AO3 or below

All in the Family

“And you’re sure you’re up for this?“ Amy turned to River one more time, halfway out of the door of their flat in 1940s New York.

“Of course, why wouldn’t I be?“ River crossed her arms in front of her chest challengingly.

“You’re not exactly the most responsible adult.“ Rory couldn’t help pointing out and glanced to his wife to find out whether they were going to change their minds at the last minute.

“I'll take that as a compliment.“ River smirked. “Remember this was your idea.“

“Yes but only because we don’t know many people here yet!“ Rory admitted.

“And having your baby stolen once, you don’t want to trust strangers, I get it.“ River gave her parents a kind smile. She was very happy for them. They deserved to have the calm family life that they had missed out on with her. Adopting baby Anthony had been a wonderful idea.

“It’s just been such a long time since we’ve been able to go out.“ Amy explained. “I just didn’t understand how hard raising a child would be!“ She sighed, running her hand through her hair. She was more exhausted than she ever had been while travelling with the Doctor. “We just really need to have an evening just for us.“

“Say no more and get yourself going before I change my mind.“ River ushered them out the door.

“You are a godsend, River.“ Amy kissed her daughter’s cheek. “Don’t get up to anything stupid.“ She wagged her finger at her.

“What, me? Stupid? Perish the thought.“ River feigned hurt but laughed.

“Just make sure Anthony is okay.“ Amy implored her and gave a little wave to the toddler that was just coming up behind River and wrapping his arms around her leg.

“You can count on me. We’ll have a brilliant time, won’t we, brother dearest?“ River smiled down at the child and patted his head.

“Ri-ver.“ The toddler nuzzled into her thigh.

“See, fast friends already.“ River chuckled and lifted him up.

“Does she… do you know anything about toddlers?“ Rory asked, insecure for a moment.

“I am married to the Doctor, does that count?“ River countered and the Ponds laughed:

“Fair point…“

“Relax, we will be fine, it’s just for a few hours.“ River kissed the forehead of her adoptive brother who was giving her a koala bear hug. “Tea, books, bed. I got this.“

“See you both later, look after each other.“ Amy smiled and kissed Anthony’s head, as did Rory.

“This is a bad idea…“ Rory hummed to his wife as they waved their goodbyes and made their way down the corridor.

“It’s a brilliant idea.“ Amy waved off his concerns.

“Right Anthony, there is someone I would like you to meet.“ River smiled at her little brother as she closed the door.

“Meet?“ Anthony echoed as River carried him back into the living room.

“Someone very special: Your brother-in-law. Well, I say brother… sister-in-law? Alien-in-law?“ River grinned,and as if on cue the TARDIS became visible in the lounge.

“I don’t know why you wouldn’t let me see them!“ The Doctor stuck her head out, having waited patiently for the Ponds to depart.

“Because they never would have left and they could do with a break.“ River explained with a chuckle as her wife skipped out of the TARDIS and towards them.

“Hello Anthony Pond!“ She grinned, ruffling the toddler’s curls who just giggled in response. He appeared fascinated by the sudden appearance of the blue box and pulled away from River, seemingly wanting to be set down.

“Williams…“ River corrected the Doctor as she sat her brother down who rushed to the TARDIS, circling around it in wonder.

“What shall we play with, Anthony?“ The Doctor ignored her wife and dropped to her knees in the middle of a pile of toys. “See, we’re gonna have the best time!“ She pulled her screwdriver from her coat and sonic-ed the toys. All of a sudden, cars and toy robots started moving on their own accord. Anthony giggled in delight and rushed over to the Doctor, the TARDIS no longer the most interesting thing around here.

“Guess that means I’m making tea?“ River chuckled as Anthony threw himself at the Doctor.

“Would you want either one of us close to a hob?“ The Doctor retorted, hugging the child tightly.

“Fair point.“ River chuckled.

——

“I don’t know why I asked you here, it’s like babysitting two toddlers.“ River was cleaning up the kitchen after tea had turned into a food fight.

“'Cause this is the closest thing you and I have to a family.“ The Doctor answered with surprising candour. Anthony was jawing, leaning against her.

“As much as I try to, I don’t really feel like part of them…“ River answered thoughtfully.

“Our lives are more complicated than that…“ The Doctor couldn’t help but agree. Neither one of them was suited to regular family dynamics.

“Would it be so bad though? Settling down for a time?“ River mused, looking from Anthony to her wife.

“Maybe at some point.“ The Doctor gave her a soft smile. This River hadn’t done Darillium yet. She had all of that to come and the Doctor missed their time there more than she would care to admit.

“Bed time?“ She asked, seeing as Anthony was virtually falling asleep next to her.

“I think so.“ River agreed with a smile and walked over to them. “Come here Anthony…“ She scooped him up. “Let’s get you into your PJs…“

Both the Doctor and River had presumed bedtime would be easy, considering how tired Anthony was, but they had thought wrong.

“Stop turning the light on and off!“ River pleaded, picking him up again to finally put him in his bed. Anthony appeared to have saved up his energy just for this.

“Still want kids?“ The Doctor tried her best to keep a straight face as she watched her wife struggle with the toddler.

“You know all of a sudden, being a big sister seems perfectly adequate.“ River retorted.

“I’ll get him a bottle of milk.“ The Doctor suggested, just as Anthony got up again and raced past River to the light switch.

“Stop it with the light switch!“ River groaned and scooped him up again. “Please, will you just stay in bed now?�� She tugged him in.

“Well well well, isn’t this a lovely sight.“ A voice sounded from the doorway that made River’s blood run cold. She whipped around, standing protectively in front of the bed.

“Madame Kovarian, how did you…“ She stared at the woman in the doorway.

“I knew I would find you eventually.“ Madame Kovarian smirked, walking further into the room. “And who is this little man? Tell me, am I a grandmother?“

“How dare you show your face here!“ River growled, regretting immediately that she left her gun in the TARDIS. She hadn’t anticipated needing it for babysitting duties.

“I believe you and I have some unfinished business.“ Kovarian retorted. “How is motherhood treating you, Melody? Where is the husband? Leaving you to do all the child care?“

“Right behind you!“ The Doctor called from the doorway, armed with nothing but a bottle of milk. She quickly accessed the situation in front of her, glaring at the unwelcome guest.

“Oh well, not your child then, is it?“ Kovarian retorted with a cruel smirk. “Now then, I think it’s time for some good old fashioned revenge…“ She pulled a gun on them.

Suddenly the light flicked off! Anthony had snuck out from behind River and gone for his favourite game again. River jumped at the opportunity. She flung herself at Kovarian and disarmed her quickly. The moment the light came back on, Kovarian was on the floor and River held her gun to her head.

“Never underestimate a Pond!“ The Doctor grinned and scooped up the child into a tight hug.

“You little monster!“ Kovarian spat.

“If anyone is a monster here, Madame Kovarian, it’s you.“ River retorted icily.

--

“Surprisingly quiet in here… maybe River managed to get him to sleep alright after all…“ Rory mused as he opened the door to the flat and they walked inside. It had been a lovely evening, just what they needed.

“What the…“ Amy stopped dead in her tracks as they stepped into the living room.

“Amelia Pond! And Rory the Roman!“ The Doctor exclaimed and ran towards them, pulling them into bone crushing hugs.

“River?!“ Amy exclaimed, needing an explanation. Who was this woman? What was she doing in their flat? Why did she know who they were? And why was Madame Kovarian tied to a chair in the middle of their lounge?!

“What can I say… Mum, Dad… when my husband regenerated into a hot blonde I started batting for the other team, hope that’s alright with you.“ River answered, gesturing to the Doctor who grinned widely, barely able to contain her excitement.

“What?!“ Amy and Rory exclaimed in unison.

“She didn’t want to tell you I was here cause she thought you’d be worried we’d set the place on fire…“ River explained a little bit more apologetically.

“Instead you have a tied up Madame Kovarian in our living room?!“ Amy gestured to the unwelcome guest.

“Ouch!“ Kovarian groaned when Anthony chucked a building block at her.

“Good shot, mate!“ The Doctor grinned and gave him a high five. Of course, Anthony had refused to go to bed after the excitement.

“Sorry, just got to finish building this transdimensional teleport. Teaching Anthony the basics of temporal engineering as we go. One way trip to Stormcage.“ River explained, gesturing to a circle of electrical components that had been erected around Kovarian. Long cables connected it to the TARDIS. “Unless I get the coordinates wrong… might end up in a sun instead…“ She mused.

“Melody, don’t do it, I…“ Kovarian pleaded.

“You have threatened my family for the last time. This is goodbye, Madame Kovarian, for the last time.“ River finished attaching the cables.

“Good riddance!“ Rory mumbled in agreement.

“Anthony!“ Amy called when the toddler skipped forward and hit a big red button on the contraption. Something no child would be able to resist. Kovarian disappeared in a flash of light!

“Was the teleport even calibrated?!“ The Doctor looked to River who gave a little shrug.

“I’ll check up on her when I’m in Stormcage next… she may have ended up in the cantina rather than an actual cell… but never mind.“ She looked to her parents. “So, how was your date?“

“Certainly less eventful than this.“ Amy shook her head in disbelief.

“Come on, mate, let’s get you to bed.“ The Doctor scooped Anthony up who nuzzled into her neck.

“Doc-tor.“

#Doctor who #thirteen #thirteenth doctor #river song #spaces wives #amy pond #rory williams #madame kovarian #fluff #femslash #family #river x the doctor #river x thirteen #thirteen/river #yowzah #fanfiction #prompt #dw #anthony williams

[ikeromantic]

Summertime Swim

Written for @cinnamon-hoe as part of my 500 follower celebration

Arthur, Riches, Something Borrowed, and Surprise Me!

Approx. 1900 words - spicy NSFW!

It was a hot afternoon in Paris. The pavement shimmered in the heat and the air felt thick against the skin, too heavy to breathe. Arthur had shed his gentleman’s coat hours ago, and his vest soon after. His shirt was undone, and his tie hung loose at his collar.

Sweat beaded over his chest, the drops swelling until they ran down his slick belly. He couldn’t remember a day in which he wanted to be naked more than this one. Clothes, any clothes, felt unbearably heavy.

Arthur glanced at the woman beside him. She was pink-cheeked from the heat and fanning herself with her hand. He could see how damp her collar was, and imagined she was even more uncomfortable than he in all those layers of clothing.

They were on their way back to the mansion with a wrapped set of books Arthur had borrowed from one of le Comte’s friends in town, and a few items for Sebastian. The errand seemed like a good idea but now that they were halfway through, he was regretting the choice.

“I suppose we might have been cooler at the mansion. Sorry luv.” He squeezed her free hand lightly. “I didn’t realize it would get quite so hot.”

“It’s alright. It will just make us appreciate the cooler air outside the city more.” She smiled over at him.

Arthur shook his head. “Always so cheerful, aren’t you? Even when you look like you’re about to melt.” He leaned close and kissed the tip of her ear. “If you melted, I would have to eat you up.”

“Only if I melt?” She raised an eyebrow.

“I never said only!” Arthur leaned close and flicked his tongue across the skin just below her ear. He smiled at the way she shivered. “I’d eat you any time.”

She poked him. “When you say it like that, I can’t even think straight.”

“And that is half the point. The other half is seeing how much you want me.” He nipped her earlobe.

“Hey! It’s entirely too hot for you to be doing that. You’re just making it worse.” She smacked his arm and pretended to pout.

Arthur took a step back. She was right, of course, but he couldn’t help it. He wanted to touch her, kiss her, taste her . . . even when it was so hot they were both dripping. What he needed was a way to cool down so he could heat things up in a more pleasant way. And being his smug self, he knew exactly how to do it.

They were better than half way home, with the sweltering Paris streets behind them. In the countryside, the breeze was sweeter and a little cooler, though the fields still shimmered under the bright, afternoon sun. In the haze, just past a field of waist-high wheat, Arthur spotted his only hope. A blue ripple in the golden brown afternoon. It was a small lake, rimmed on the far side by trees.

He tugged his lover’s hand. “Come on, let’s take a little break before we walk the rest of the way.”

“What? But why? Don’t you want to -” her eyes found the lagoon and she stopped mid-sentence. “Oh! Yes, I think a little break would be great. We can splash our feet in the water and enjoy the shade.”

Arthur grinned. “Spot on. You read my mind.”

The lagoon was a perfect spot for a picnic, a rowboat trip, or an afternoon swim. And since it was outside the city, few people ever came this way to enjoy it. The two lovers walked around the water to the far side where the trees were tall and the shade was deep.

Arthur set down the bundle of books and began shrugging off his coat, vest, and shirt.

“Ah, A-arthur? You . . . I think you’ve lost your shirt?” She covered her mouth with her hand and he couldn’t tell if she was serious or just teasing.

“I’m about to lose a lot more than that,” he grinned. And undid his belt.

“Wait! But . . . I thought we’d . . . just put our feet in.” She was blushing now, and Arthur knew this sudden shyness was genuine.

He let his belt drop to the ground and slid his pants off. He was gloriously bare underneath and gods but the air felt good on the bits and pieces. Arthur nearly sighed with the sheer pleasure of the breeze. “Oh, come now, my pretty little skirt. You didn’t really think I was going to sneak you off to a secluded pond just to splash our feet in the shallows, hm?”

“But someone will see!”

“Oh yes, there are crowds hiding in the wheat,” he chuckled. Then he took a step toward her. “Don’t you want to take a swim, luv? Aren’t you achingly hot?” He ran his hand up her arm, tracing the droplets of sweat with his fingertips.

“I . . . I can get cool enough . . .”

Arthur tugged at her skirt with his other hand, pulling it up and up until the fabric rested at her hip. “Doesn’t the air feel good on your skin? Now imagine the water . . . look at it. It’s cool and blue and perfect.” He smiled as her eyelids closed and she took a long, slow breath.

“I’ll take that as a yes,” he grinned. His skillful fingers found the buttons of her gown and he popped them open one after another. With each little bit of exposed skin, he found himself more and more excited. He’d seen her nude so many times before that he expected the novelty to wear off, but with her . . . it never did. Just seeing the curve of her breast, the lines of her bare shoulder - it was hard to go slow. To be patient.

“W-what if there are snakes or - or -”

Arthur laughed. “Luv, the only snake here is the trouser variety.”

“You’re so wicked,” she giggled, and peeked at him from one half-opened eye. “I can’t believe you just stripped down like that!”

“I don’t know how you can even tell, with your eyes shut. Why don’t you open them and see if you enjoy the view?”

She blushed a deep crimson, but her eyes fluttered open. They traveled from his damp brow and messy hair to his eyes, and his lip. Past his shoulders to his bare chest. A pearl of sweat trickled past his nipple to the dimple of his bellybutton. She licked her lips.

“Ah, Arthur, oh . . . you . . .” she coughed. “You -”

“Now you see what you’ve done to me, hm? Naughty girl.” He popped another button open, revealing even more of the inner curve of her breast.

“You can’t blame that on me,” she said breathily.

“I can. I do.” The last few buttons came loose. He pushed her top open. “Come on luv. Come swim with me.”

The last bit of resistance in her broke as the cool breeze sighed across her breasts. She slid her clothes to the ground.

“Mmmm, that’s the way.” He lifted her up, sweat slicked-skin to skin, and carried her into the water. The pond’s bottom was soft and he stirred the silt with each step as he walked them deep enough to be covered to the shoulder. Then he let her down.

“I hate it when you’re right,” she sighed.

Arthur laughed. “Is that so?”

“It is!” She splashed him. The water drops fell in a splatter over his face and shoulders.

He sent a little wave of water at her in revenge. In seconds they were shouting and laughing, turning the lagoon into a warzone of water weapons. It was all fun and games until Arthur went under. He swam out past her and then turned. She was watching for him to surface, but that wasn’t the plan.

Instead, he moved slowly until he was close enough to touch. And pinched her. Just a light one, enough to startle.

She let out a shriek and leapt up, half out of the water like a startled mermaid.

Arthur surfaced, laughing so hard he was almost in tears.

“That isn’t funny!”

“It is,” he grinned.

She crossed her arms. “I thought for a second that something bit me!” Her lips were set in a frown, half annoyed and half amused.

Arthur sidled close. “But luv, something did bite you . . .” He lowered his head to her neck and kissed her. His teeth grazed her skin lightly, enough to pull a sigh of longing from her lips.

Her legs wrapped around his hips, and her arms went around his shoulders. “You’re an awful tease.”

“Pot, kettle,” he muttered. With her snug against him like this, his need became a physical ache. No more play. No games. He just wanted her.

She smiled. “I never said I wasn’t . . .” She leaned down and bit his neck where at the join with his shoulder. Her little teeth were sharp for a human, but what made him gasp was the way she suckled at the bite, and licked the skin.

“Wicked,” he gasped. His wit was nowhere to be found. Gone along with all sense. He could hear the pulse of her blood. It matched his own heartbeat. Fast. Desperate.

Her smooth fingers circled his shaft under the water. Playful fingertips danced along that so-sensitive skin from root to tip and he felt - he felt as if he might burst just from that light caress. “Mmm, I guess I am . . .”

Arthur felt helpless in her grip. The water and the way she’d entwined him . . . “Is this payback,” he asked hoarsely.

“For all the times you teased me? Absolutely.” Her laugh was crystal chimes and silver bells. Sweet and saucy. “But especially for that pinch!”

She laid bare his need with her soft hands, taunted him with her lips. She used him, rubbing the head of his cock against her hard little pearl until she climaxed. And worse, slid just the tip - the tip - inside to let him feel her heat, and the shuddering pleasure he brought her.

Arthur was almost begging to be released. Every brush of her skin on his was torture, bliss, a fire in his heart and his groin. “L-luv . . . I’m . . . please . . .” He gasped as she let his shaft slide against her clit again.

She drew back and for a moment, he thought she would only tease him again but this time she sank onto him. A slow descent. The cool water replaced by her searing, tight heat.

He might have tried to draw it out, but he was savage with need. Arthur grabbed her hips and plunged deep into her, again and again. It was heaven. The silken slide of their flesh, the gasps and sighs and shivered cries, the way her nails dug into the skin on his back.

Arthur felt himself almost peak. He lowered his head to her neck and bit. The sound she made pushed him over the edge, and he knew he’d brought her there too - again. He came hard, with the sweet-copper taste of her on his lips. He would give all the riches in the world to stretch this moment into forever. Their breath mingled, joined at heart and hip, and the pure ecstasy of making love.

They got back to the mansion near dark. Hair dripping wet, both smelling of pond-water and sex. Sebastian didn’t ask any questions. Just pointed them to the baths. Arthur set his borrowed books down along with Sebastian’s bag of sundries. There would be time for reading later. Right now, he was ready for some payback of his own in the shower.

#ikemen vampire #ikevamp arthur #otome guys #otome #fanfiction #fanfic #follower celebration #smut and fluff #ikevamp smut

[zintranslations]

Kaleidoscope of Death, Extra 7

Kaleidoscope of Death by Xi Zixu Link to Chinese / Novel Updates

Extra: Bai Ming and Zhang Yiqing

After Bai Ming and Zhang Yiqing met, Zhang Yiqing once asked Bai Ming a question. He asked him: "What are your dreams?"

When he heard this question Bai Ming immediately beamed. He met Zhang Yiqing’s eyes and answered earnestly and solemnly, "my dream is you."

At this, Zhang Yiqing was momentarily taken aback.

"I'm seriously asking."

Bai Ming, "and I'm seriously answering."

Bai Ming indeed was serious. Before encountering the doors, he'd already been a fan of Zhang Yiqing, obsessively devoted to that handsome man onscreen.

Bai Ming collected Zhang Yiqing's every movie, every drama, and every commercial. And when he found out that Zhang Yiqing was quitting the silver screen to direct behind-the-scenes instead, Bai Ming went crazy for a good long while.

During that while, nobody in their organization dared to go through doors with him. They all knew Bai Ming was the sort of person capable of doing anything on a bad mood.

Back then, Bai Ming had not yet been the boss of their organization. He had just been a plain and simple door-crosser, though the potential he emanated often gave his fellow door-crossers the sense that he was no small-pond creature.

Bai Ming's family situation was more complicated. He'd lived at an orphanage since youth, and had only been found and brought back home after he turned twelve. Only then did he learn that his father was actually a rich man, and the reason his father brought him back had nothing to do with paternal devotion, but rather because his brother needed a healthy liver.

This sort of bloody melodrama was what befell Bai Ming.

The truth was, prior to actually meeting Zhang Yiqing, the two of them had seen each other once before.

It was at a cocktail party hosted by the Bai family. Bai Ming had stood in a corner, small and thin, and watched as a smiling Zhang Yiqing chatted with his father. Zhang Yiqing had been young back then, and had just recently snagged Best Actor—there was still a touch of youth in his appearance, but the unparalleled splendor of his later years could already be seen.

Bai Ming had stared at him for a long time, many thoughts flashing through his mind. At this point he was already a fan of Zhang Yiqing's movies, but was too nervous to just walk up and start talking to him. He could only gaze from afar.

And later, Bai Ming met the doors, so he'd thought that there was only ever to be the one encounter between he and Zhang Yiqing.

But fate was always an extraordinary thing. After many years of hard work, Bai Ming had staked out quite a position for himself in the world of the doors. One day, a good friend suddenly asked him: "Bai Ming, you like Zhang Yiqing, right?"

Lit cigarette hanging between his lips, Bai Ming vocalized a lazy, "mh."

"He's started entering doors too," his friend told him. "Want to consider taking him on?"

Bai Ming's head twisted to stare at his friend.

"What did you say?"

Looking innocently back at him, his friend repeated himself.

Bai Ming extinguished the cigarette and laughed, "this isn't a joke, is it?"

Of course it wasn't a joke. The moment he saw Zhang Yiqing again, Bai Ming knew that his dream was about to come true.

Zhang Yiqing, who had retreated behind the scenes, was no longer as tender as he'd been in his youth. He was no less handsome, however. Like an aged bottle of wine, he and his charms had not faded with time, in fact had begun to emanate a unique fragrance of maturity.

All competent people have arrogance, and Zhang Yiqing was a proud standout in his industry. He'd taken the laurels for Best Actor four times, not to mention countless other awards, both large and small. The year he turned to directing, the country had even nominated him for Best Director.

The only shame was that after encountering the doors, his fate was forced to take a sharp turn.

"Hello, I'm Bai Ming." The two sat face-to-face, and Bai Ming held a hand out to Zhang Yiqing with a smile. His smile was sincere, and paired with that harmless-looking face, there really was no visible aura of an apex predator about him. "It's a pleasure to meet you."

Naturally, Zhang Yiqing was fooled by Bai Ming. He took Bai Ming's hand and said, "it's a pleasure to meet you. I'm Zhang Yiqing."

"Oh," Bai Ming nodded. "I've seen your movies."

Zhang Yiqing smiled politely. He likely thought Bai Ming was just a normal fan, or perhaps not even that—Bai Ming may just be an audience who had seen his movies in passing. But much later, when Zhang Yiqing saw that room stacked full of his own works, he would finally realize that Bai Ming was nowhere as harmless as he made himself look.

Of course, at this point, Zhang Yiqing was not aware of anything. He saw the headful of natural curls, the unsophisticated grin, and really took Bai Ming for a gentle-natured young man…

At this point Zhang Yiqing even failed to understand why everybody in Bai Ming's organization was so scared of him, to the point where Zhang Yiqing thought there really must be a misunderstanding…

Inside and outside the doors, Bai Ming did not change much. His personality stayed genial. When confronted with malicious words or even malicious people, he was never even vicious in return.

Sometimes, Zhang Yiqing even thought Bai Ming was being too nice, and would step up to protect Bai Ming.

"You're too well-tempered," was something Zhang Yiqing once said. "Nice people get taken advantage of. Harbor no intent to hurt, but preserve all instinct to caution!"[1]

Bai Ming listened to Zhang Yiqing's reprimand and said, beaming, "Zhang-ge's right to scold me."

Zhang Yiqing didn’t know what went through his head then, but seeing Bai Ming's well-behaved smile, he reached out and gave that head a pat. Only after touching Bai Ming did he realize the gesture didn't seem quite right, and so he coughed once, before explaining, "it just looks good to touch."

Bai Ming just blinked his eyes noncommittally.

Bai Ming's hair was extremely fluffy and truly peak touch quality. Just seeing it made people want to pet it. But there really weren't that many people who’d dare to pet a tiger—Zhang Yiqing was one of few, though at that time, he had yet to discover the fact that Bai Ming was a ferocious beast, and not some adorable kitten.

But fake was fake in the end—Zhang Yiqing was no idiot either. By the time he became aware of the incongruities about Bai Ming's person, the two of them had already grown closer.

Zhang Yiqing had noticed the oddity and even joked about it, saying, "Bai Ming, how come I've discovered that anyone who crosses you gets struck with misfortune?"

Bai Ming batted his eyes at this.

"Don't they deserve it?"

At his smile, Zhang Yiqing froze. Zhang Yiqing had only been joking, but after careful thought, a layer of cold sweat began to dot his back. Because as far as he could remember, ever since he and Bai Ming started entering doors together, those who had wronged Bai Ming were not simply "unfortunate," they were all…dead.

That's right, dead. Dead via various odd accidents. Some things may seem accidental on the surface, but—upon multiple occurrences—could no longer be mere coincidence.

Incidental became inescapable after a certain point.

Having realized something, Zhang Yiqing looked once more to Bai Ming, and found that the young man who was once so easy to read now seemed something of a stranger.

The good thing was, that feeling only lasted for a moment, because Bai Ming grinned and scooted closer again.

"Zhang-ge, come get hotpot with me tonight?"

"Sure," Zhang Yiqing agreed.

The relationship between the two of them was still ambiguous at this moment, but one could die at any time inside the doors. Zhang Yiqing saw clearly Bai Ming's devotion to protecting him, and so the two got closer and closer—until one day, when Zhang Yiqing went to a party.

As a heavy hitter in the entertainment industry, there were naturally many people lined up to take a ride on his coattails. That was why that day, a coworker introduced him to a beautiful young woman.

Though Zhang Yiqing rejected her immediately, Bai Ming, who'd come along for fun, still saw everything.

Oddly enough, against Bai Ming's gaze, Zhang Yiqing felt a sense of guilt. The party hadn’t even been over when Bai Ming pulled Zhang Yiqing alone into a break room. Zhang Yiqing wanted to resist at first, but discovered that he wasn't at all Bai Ming's opponent—he was picked up and brought along as if he were a sack of rice.

"Does Zhang-ge have someone he likes?" was what Bai Ming asked him.

Zhang Yiqing said, "no."

"No?" Bai Ming said. "Then what's the deal with her?"

Watching Bai Ming's expression, Zhang Yiqing had the thought that the person before him seemed a bit drunk. He licked his lips, and spoke hoarsely: "I don't like her."

"You don't like her, but you'll still have her?" Bai Ming asked.

Zhang Yiqing opened his mouth, wanting to explain. But when the words got to his lips, the pride in his bones was for some reason set off by Bai Ming's accusatory tone. He lifted his chin and, with a cool expression, forced down the anxiety deep in his chest.

"So what if I will?"

Bai Ming pressed a hand to his lips, got closer, and hummed, "but I'll get angry."

Zhang Yiqing's brow furrowed.

Bai Ming, "I'll get very…very…angry."

Zhang Yiqing was just about to ask and so what if you get angry when Bai Ming shoved him onto the break room sofa. Bai Ming's fingers picked apart the first button on his shirt, and the man looked down at Zhang Yiqing from high above. His voice when he spoke was colder than anything Zhang Yiqing had heard from him.

"I don't want to wait anymore."

Zhang Yiqing's eyes went wide. This was the first time he became aware that Bai Ming and that harmless youth he thought he knew were two completely different people.

"Zhang-ge," Bai Ming said. "I like you. Do you like me?"

Zhang Yiqing swallowed, and he didn't answer Bai Ming's question. He only said, "calm down a second…"

Bai Ming watched him. "You also like me, right? You just don't want to admit it…But even if you don't admit it, that’s alright." He smiled, as handsome as an incubus. "It's fine as long as I like you."

Everything that happened after that was unspeakable.

By the time Zhang Yiqing once again regained consciousness, he was limp all over. Bai Ming had him wrapped up in blanket and was placing him into the car. Seeing him wake, Zhang Yiqing beamed.

"Zhang-ge, you're up? We're headed home now."

Zhang Yiqing wanted to speak, but found his voice nearly gone. He recalled something, and a smudge of red appeared over his cheeks as he grated out: "Animal."

Bai Ming batted his eyes. "Zhang-ge, are you calling me big?"

Zhang Yiqing, "…" He surrendered.

Bai Ming, "no worries, it's only 3AM. There's still plenty of time when we get back."

Zhang Yiqing wanted to retort, so Bai Ming caught him by the lips. Bai Ming's kiss was rough enough to turn his mouth an evocative red.

Zhang Yiqing went dizzy with the kiss. It was only then that he had the faint realization that he…seemed to have caught the attention of someone incredible.

Translator’s Notes:

害人之心不可有，防人之心不可無; idiom that literally means, “you can’t have intent to hurt people, but you can’t not be guarded against people.” The two phrases have parallel rhythms Chinese (note the four middle characters are identical), so coming up with a translation that mirrors that to some degree is both fun and difficult.

[Extra: Twin Lives, Twin Deaths(3)] | [Extra: Tan Zaozao]

#kaleidoscope of death #xi zixu #cnovel #chinese translation #死亡萬花筒 #ugh sorry i got so fucking busy #disregard the tags on my last post TTT #tzz coming next chapter #we'll end as god (xzx) intended #i'm sooooo intrigued by BM and LQS's friendship

[stufftippywrote]

perfect

Cicadas sing a sharp song in the trees. The heat blisters the pavement. It’s a miserable summer afternoon for most people, which is why Wei Ying loves it. It’s nothing compared to sticky, swampy Yunmeng summers. In dry heat like this, the sun feels good and the trees are brilliant green and Wei Ying loves being alive.

He doesn’t love being in class, but at least everyone is miserable along with him in this heat. Lots of mopping brows, lots of unsatisfied murmurs. Is there any relief to be found in Gusu on such a day? Some have heard there’s a lake a bit further up in the mountains, big enough for swimming. But they’re not allowed to go up there; it’s off limits to everyone but Lan inner disciples. Only Wei Ying knows for a fact that it’s there; that’s because he’s been sneaking off up there every night since summer school started.

Lan Qiren enters and the room falls silent. The frantic wiping of sweat of brows continues, a current of activity in the quiet classroom. Lan Qiren surveys them silently and frowns. He’s sweating, too.

“Due to the excessive heat,” he says, coughing, “the upper grounds of Cloud Recesses will be opened to students for the duration of the day. That includes the lake. The back hills and the waterfall are still off limits.” Nobody picks up this last bit, because the minute Lan Qiren says “lake,” the room starts to buzz with whispers.

Not even Lan Qiren can quell them; there’s a torrent of nervous energy in this room, and it won’t survive an entire lesson. Sure enough, about twenty minutes before the end of the class students start gathering their things as though they’re ready to bolt. Wei Ying knows they’re only waiting for one of them to take the lead, and they’ll all start filing out with or without Lan Qiren’s say-so. Well, that’s a position he’s always happy to fill. He stretches out, grabs his backpack, and leaves the room without a word or a look back.

He heads up the stone stairs carved into the mountain, backpack slung loosely over one arm, whistling to himself. The other students will have some time catching up to him; he knows the way to the lake, and they don’t; besides, they have to go change, and Wei Ying always keeps his swimsuit in his backpack, just in case. So he climbs the stairs solo and pushes through the line of vegetation that lies between the path and the lake.

He’s about to emerge from the trees when a splash draws his attention. Quickly, he hides and peers over at the lake.

Someone’s already there and swimming. Wei Ying sees dark hair, pulled into a neat topknot, and the lines of what looks like a fairly strong body, blurred by the moving water. Some student has beat him to it. Which is a little surprising, because Wei Ying’s the only one with the chutzpah to sneak off in this direction when they’re supposed to be somewhere else. He watches in kind of dumb fascination as the swimmer moves to the near edge of the pond and surfaces.

Oh. Oh, that explains it.

It’s Lan Qiren’s annoyingly perfect nephew, Lan Zhan. Lan Zhan, who is too good to attend classes with students his own age. Lan Zhan who, rather than making friends with such students, serves as a sort of disciplinarian, regularly snapping unruly students back into line with nothing more than a cold glance from his admittedly perfect face. Lan Zhan, who Wei Ying had to learn to avoid early in the summer, because he kept catching him trying to sneak out or tiptoe into forbidden places. That Lan Zhan.

Wei Ying steels himself to be utterly annoyed by whatever happens next.

Lan Zhan lingers for a time, head and shoulders above water. Then he approaches a large rock where his things sit in a neat white bundle. In one fluid movement, he lifts himself up with both hands on the rock and swings into a sitting position, his toes in the water.

It all happens like slow motion. Wei Ying’s brain sputters, then lurches, then goes completely on the fritz.

He’s—he’s—he’s actually perfect.

Wei Ying knew he was perfect, but that was an annoyance like everything. The beauty of his face was a mockery of everything Wei Ying stands for. He could find words to speak when faced with that stern face, but his words have dried up now, because Lan Zhan’s body is – Lan Zhan’s muscles are –

He has no idea Wei Ying is watching him. His face is serene, his body relaxed, and the sun beats on him like a spotlight, turning the edges of his skin to gold. Wei Ying is gobsmacked. How dare he. How dare he sit there with that expression, not knowing that he’s turning Wei Ying’s insides into molten lava just by being there … with thighs like that .. and a bare chest like a sculpted statue … and good god his arms, and his shoulders, and he already has an annoyingly perfect face, only now it’s matched up with that --- that body, and Wei Ying has never wanted to close his mouth around a drop of water the way he does now, as water trickles down Lan Zhan’s chest.

Oh, and he’s wearing a fucking Speedo.

It’s common knowledge that a Speedo looks stupid on like 95 percent of guys, and yet Lan Zhan looks as though it was created solely to fit him. And nothing is left to the imagination. Holy fuck, that knowledge is going to burn though him until he’s cinders. He struggles to concentrate on something – anything but that.

It’s going to be a very different experience the next time Lan Zhan disciplines him.

Oh. Oh, now his mind is up and running again, but the direction it’s going is dangerous. Lan Zhan angry with him, Lan Zhan throwing him against a wall, Lan Zhan tossing him to the grass. Standing over him. Kneeling over him. Those powerful thighs and well-muscled arms. A hard hand on his wrists, unyielding no matter how much Wei Ying resists. Lan Zhan forcing Wei Ying to his knees. Lan Zhan between Wei Ying’s legs, edging forward, pinning him down as…

“Fuck,” he swears, suddenly and far too loudly. Lan Zhan looks up. Eyes suddenly sharp, he leaps to his feet and scans the tree line. Wei Ying has no choice. He just hopes Lan Zhan doesn’t glance between his legs when he shows himself.

He steps forward from the trees, waving a halfhearted hand. “Hi, Lan Zhan,” he says with a grin. “Fancy meeting you here.”

Lan Zhan’s brows knit. “You’re not supposed to be here.”

“Oh, but I am!” Wei Ying keeps moving forward, despite his best intentions. Lan Zhan’s body is like a gravity well, drawing him closer. “They lifted the restriction so we could all come up and swim today. It’s brutal out,” he says, squinting and raising against the sun although he’s actually perfectly comfortable.

“Oh.” Lan Zhan looks at him warily. “So others are coming?”

He says it evenly, but Wei Ying wonders if there isn’t some trepidation there. He’s perturbed enough that Wei Ying’s entered his space; what are twenty-some classmates going to do to him? “They’re changing,” he says. “They’ll be here in a few minutes.” He grins. “Just you and me for the time being.”

He thinks the look in Lan Zhan’s eyes is anger, but he doesn’t know for sure. “How do you know this place?” he asks, sounding unsure and not at all like his usual gentlemanly self.

“Oh, your uncle explained how to get here when he gave us the notice this morning,” Wei Ying lies. “I just didn’t have to go back and change like the others, so I got here faster.” He taps his backpack. “Swimsuit’s in here.”

Lan Zhan’s eyes widen. “You’re going to change … here?”

“Why not? Ain’t nobody here but us boys,” Wei Ying says, and winks. He’s suddenly terrified of showing Lan Zhan his naked skin, but he can’t afford to show it. He strips off his T-shirt.

Lan Zhan turns as though offended by the sight. Well, sure he would be, since no one else can measure up to him, Wei Ying thinks. “Hey Lan Zhan, is this what you do while the rest of us are suffering in class?” he asks breezily, stripping off his shorts and boxers. Lan Zhan’s back remains resolutely turned. “Just swimming out here like a fish all day long? I bet I could beat you in a race.”

“There’s not … room here to race,” Lan Zhan says. He still won’t look.

“We’ll go down to Biling Lake next time,” Wei Ying challenges. “You can look at me now. The swimsuit’s on. I won’t offend your sensibilities.”

“I’m not offend—” Lan Zhan turns, and then something clips the edge of his word. He stares at Wei Ying like he’s got three heads.

“Oh, well, glad to hear, then.” Wei Ying sits down on the rock where Lan Zhan had been. “So. Mind if I take a dip?”

The coolness returns to Lan Zhan’s voice. “Suit yourself.” But he’s still staring at Wei Ying.

For just one moment, Wei Ying remembers all those earlier fantasies. That’s exactly the look he imagined on Lan Zhan’s face in those moments. The look where he can’t quite keep his anger in check. The look that says Wei Ying’s getting to him. Wei Ying has no idea how he is gettingto Lan Zhan in this moment, just sitting on a rock. Unless…

Nah, couldn’t be.

The next moment, Lan Zhan’s diving into the water. His body is an arc of movement, a single curved line, and Wei Ying loses his breath again. Apparently he needed to be reminded that Lan Zhan’s body is a flawless machine. His brain is pinging madly and he wants with all his heart to just drop into the water and swim for Lan Zhan like a shark. That would probably be a bad idea. He knows he probably has an advantage in an underwater tussle, but somehow, he doesn’t really want to win anymore.

Lan Zhan has emerged, in a shallow portion of the lake, his head and half his chest visible above the water line. He has eyes on Wei Ying. “Well?” he asks, something curiously hesitant in his voice.

“Well, what?” Wei Ying feels like he should be holding his breath. He’s careful to keep his voice casual.

Lan Zhan looks down, then to the side, then to him again. It’s a very un-Lan-like action. After a short silence, he ventures in what is almost – not quite -- a tentative voice, “Are you coming in?”

Wei Ying stares down at him. The silence that follows is pregnant with possibility.

“Wei-xiong!”

Nie Huaisang bursts first through the treeline, then, following him, the rest of the students in noisy gaggles. “Wei-xiong, how did you find this place so quickly? We all got turned around looking for it—”

Splashes sound here and there as the students find their way into the lake. Soon, the whole place is echoing with the sound of laughter and chatter. Wei Ying’s gaze finds Lan Zhan, through an increasingly dense thicket of people. Lan Zhan is looking at him with eyes that are almost sad. A moment later, he turns away.

It’s disappointing. Wei Ying had thought – perhaps imagined? – that there was something starting to happen there, something thawing in the relationship between them. He considers giving chase. But Lan Zhan is striding through the trees and disappearing before he can say a thing. So much for that.

Still, Wei Ying has an image he didn’t have before. Lan Zhan, dipped in gold, his body bare and his chin uplifted toward the sun. It’s printed in indelible ink on his mind now, along with a memory of Lan Zhan’s gaze, softer perhaps than Wei Ying has ever seen it. He closes his eyes and savors both the picture and the memory for a moment. Then, grinning, he rejoins his friends.

#notenoughgatorade #mdzs #mdzs fic #mdzs ficlet #wangxian #modern au #summer school au #cql #cql fic #cql ficlet #stuff tippy wrote