#the power bank and the phone were lying on the shelf

[orlissa]

It took my mom 25 minutes from waking up to make me wanna pull my hair out. I think it’s a new personal record.

#personal #I had to explain #in detail #how to connect a phone to a power bank #the power bank and the phone were lying on the shelf #cable into the whole #so fucking simple #but nooo #and that was just the tip of the iceberg

[my-emotional-self]

Surprise at Comic Con

Pairings: Chris Evans x Reader

Warnings: swearing and fluffy fluff

Request: Hi Emily!  I don’t know if you’re taking in any requests right now. But I had this idea for a while. So since ACE Comic Con just happened, could you write something where the reader is Chris’ girlfriend where they’ve been together for a year now and they’ve kept it private. They haven’t seen each other since Chris has been so busy and the reader (who’s probably a big nerd/geek like Chris) then found out about Ace Comic Con and decided to surprise him during the photo op and autograph.

Requested By: @princenyaz

You were in the spare bedroom if Chris’ house, or rather, your house now too, putting up all your Funk Pop’s onto the new shelf you had just bought.  Arranging them to your liking, you stood back and admired your hard work, giving a nod and a smile.  

The song ‘Africa’ by Toto began to play throughout the room, always causing you to chuckle.  It was your ringtone for Chris and had been since the two of you heard it for the first time together and sang loudly and crazily back and forth to each other.  

Picking it up you swiped on the green button.  “Hey baby,” you said with a bright smile.  

“Hi sweetheart,” Chris replied on the other line.  It felt so good to hear his voice as you hadn’t heard from him, at least on the phone, in two days.  He had been working on filming back in Boston for his limited series show and was so busy, the two of you managed to only get some texting in over the last few days.  

“I miss you so much Chris,” you said with sadness, sitting down on the futon in the room.

Chris sighed on the other end and you suddenly felt guilty, not wanting him to feel that way.  You knew he worked hard and the last thing you wanted was to make him feel bad.  “I miss you too Y/N.  More than you will ever know.”

There was a long pause, the two of you just sitting there together on the phone, listening to each other’s breathing.  

“What are you up to?” Chris finally managed to ask through a yawn.  

“I finally took a week off work so I could really begin to unpack my boxes.  I’m currently in my fun room,” you explained, getting comfortable on the futon that was full of Marvel decorated throw pillows.  

That got a chuckle out of Chris, making you giggle in response.  The two of you had been dating for almost a year now.  You had met him through your mother as she became close friends with Chris’ mom over the last couple of years.  Two months ago before Chris set off to Boston to start filming, he asked you to move in with him and you couldn’t say no; you had fallen head over heels for the man.  

So while he has been away in Boston, you began to move your stuff from your Los Angeles apartment and into his house.  Your relationship with him had been kept private from the media; the two of you wanting to keep things to yourselves for as long as possible before getting bombarded with the world of the media.  

“What are you thinking about?” his soft voice questioned through the speaker.  

You let yourself smile. “How big this house is when I’m all alone in it and how much I just want to fly out there and smother you with hugs and kisses.  Hell, I don’t even care if the media sees,” you chuckled the last part.  

“I agree,” Chris replied. “It is lonely in that house with nobody else.  And I wouldn’t mind you smothering me with kisses, no matter in private or not.”

The two of you talked for a bit longer, cherishing the moment.  But Chris began to yawn so much you could barely make out what he was saying. “Baby, you need to get some rest,” you urged.  

“Yeah-yeah I probably should.”

“Get back to the house and go cuddle Dodger and dream of me tonight.”

“I always dream of you.”

~~~

Another three weeks had passed and you were missing Chris more than ever.  It was coming up on nearly three months of not seeing him. You knew coming into this relationship that it would most definitely be a possibility go to this long without seeing him, but you were dealing with it the best you could.  

What sucked the most is that your one year relationship was in three days, on Saturday and Chris was going to be stuck in Seattle doing ACE Comic Con.  He had to back out of the last two he went to and he was so disappointed in himself by letting his fans down.  

Settling down with a glass of wine that night, an idea popped into your head.  Grabbing your laptop, you found the website and smiled when you saw there were still tickets available.  Ever since you had moved in with Chris, your bank account has been growing as you didn’t have to pay for your own apartment anymore.  While you fought Chris to help pay for the mortgage on this home, he refused; but he said you could help out with monthly bills.  

Knowing your work would be closed Friday and Monday for renovations, you had a long weekend and going to surprise him would be made easier.  

That night, you went to sleep with a smile and you couldn’t wait to see the look on his face when you surprised him.  

~~~

It took everything in your will power to not ask what hotel he was staying at because all you wished to do was go straight to his hotel room to see him.  It had been almost a quarter of your relationship since you’d last seen Chris.  

That Saturday, you stood in line for the photo op and you were nervous as hell.  Knowing Chris, these things sometimes stressed him out and gave him and anxiety and you hoped by surprising him, he wouldn’t become more stressed.  

The worker by the curtain opened it up and you made your way inside.  Chris was looking down at the floor and you could see he was tired; but once he lifted his head and saw you, your whole world stopped.  

“Y/N?” he gaped in shock; eyes wide and mouth hanging open.  “What are you doing here?”  Chris rushed over to you and scooped you up in his arms.  His lips crashed to yours and you stood there shocked for a second before finally melting into his touch.  

“Surprise,” you said with a bright smile as he pulled away from your lips; his arms still wrapped around your torso.  

“We’ve got to keep it moving,” one of the workers said and Chris had an annoyed look on his face.  

The two of you moved into position, facing each other with your arms wrapped around one another’s torso. You gazed lovingly into his eyes, just as he did to you as they snapped the picture.  

“I’ll see you soon,” you whispered into his ear, giving him a wink.  

~~~

You weren’t lying when you said you would see him soon as you were now standing in line for the autograph session.  It seemed a bit weird, being his girlfriend and paying for his photo and autograph but you didn’t care; the look on his face when he saw you was everything you hoped for.

Sneaking a glance at him, he saw you standing in line and gave you a quick wink.  

“Oh my god did you see that?” the person standing next to you asked excitedly to her friend.  “He just winked in this direction!  Do you think he winked at me?”

You tried not to giggle, knowing full and well he was winking at you.  It also made you feel a bit bad because he had some die-hard fans and they didn’t know that he was dating anyone; let alone you.

The worker motioned you over to the table and you set down the photo the two of you took at the photo op. “I love this picture,” he gushed with admiration as he began to write on it with his sharpie.  

Your fingers began to fidget together as he kept sneaking glances up at you.  He turned the picture back to you and you didn’t even look to see what he wrote.  “Thank you Chris,” you said, giving him your own wink and not wanting to draw any attention to yourselves.  

He gave a polite nod, thank you himself and the two of you laughed before you walked away.  Stopping just a few feet from the table, you looked down to see what he wrote.  

You are amazing

Happy 1 year anniversary baby

I love you

Xoxo Chris

Your mouth hung open, your eyes zeroing in on those three specific words.  Even though it had been a year of dating, the two of you had not said those words to each other yet.  Turning around with tears in your eyes, you saw Chris looking at you, a delightful smile on his lips.  He nodded his head, letting you know what he wrote was true as your heart raced in your chest.  

“I love you too,” you mouthed to him, wiping a tear from your eye.

Tag List: @badassbaker @guera31 @tanelle83 @xjjlex @chrisevansfanfic @princess-evans-addict @joannie95 @mrs-captain-evans @pumbibaby @patzammit @brastrangled @notyourtypicalrose @sfreeborn  @esoltis280 @poerebel @xxloki81xx @bornfortherainydays @livslookingforloki

#chris evans #chris evans fanfic #chris evans fanfiction #chris evans x reader #chris evans x you #chris evans x y/n #chris evans imagine #chris evans one-shot #chris evans request

[whyamistillwatchingtheseshows]

TayNew, Someone You Loved! MAKE ME SUFFER!!!

Tay understood growing apart. As an adult, that’s the shit you have to learn. It’s the mind-numbing pain that no one warned him about. That ache when someone who had always been there is gone, no not just that. They’ve disappeared. Tay had once said, “Time will tell.” Here’s time and what it did: That closeness changed, it became awkward. Tay didn’t like to use the fans as his source, but hell, they were an observant bunch. He and Newwie used to FaceTime for hours before. Now, it’s a text that says hey. It’s stupid small talk. Six years and a friendship could be barely salvaged. They’ve been through that dance. The will they, won’t they? Tay looked at his phone. No messages. Tay was busy doing promotion shoots for his show 3 Will Be Free, but usually, Newwie was blowing up his phone. Nothing. 

His co-star Joss appeared beside him. “What’s up?” He noticed anguish on his friend’s face.

“Nothing,” Tay took a deep breath. “Want to practice?” 

“Practice what? I’m sure we all have modeling in the bag,” Joss laughed. Tay had completely forgotten what he was doing and where he was. That’s how far his mind drifts, back to the what ifs, to a time where nothing had to be defined and they just were. Joss noticed Tay clenching his fists. “Whoa,” he placed a hand to a shoulder. “You calm buddy?” 

Tay gave him a death glare and Joss held up his hands in defense. “Okay, okay. I’ll back off.” Joss left him there. Tay felt his phone vibrate in his pocket. He excitedly looked at it. Why had he expected it to be Newwie? That guy was probably with this supposed girlfriend, with someone other than him. What’s that drowning feeling? It’s as if you’re breathing but drowning at the same time. His phone vibrated again and this time it was Newwie. 

He opened the text: Are you busy? 

Doing a photo shoot. What’s up? Keep it simple. It’s not a declaration of love. It’s not, hey, I love you. Come back to me. Tay Tawan you’re fucking 28, why are you acting like a 16-year-old? 

I was wondering if you could help me. Shit. With what? 

Sure, what is it? 

Can you come shopping me with? Oh, this is good. This is closer to the way before. 

Yeah, when? 

Sunday. I need to buy a gift for my girlfriend.

Tay almost threw his phone across the room. He hit himself on the head with it instead. 

Um, Sunday? Sorry, I’m busy that day. We’re lying. Okay, but it hurts to be near him. It hurts to be away from him, what a fucking double-edged sword. 

__

Tay appeared before New. He was surprised since he was told by his friend that he’d be busy. 

“You came anyway? Change your plans?” New asked him. 

“Yeah, I figured you either really couldn’t choose or you needed my money. Hmm,” Tay managed to joke with him. 

“I thought I was the bank to you,” New raised an eyebrow at him. 

“Eh, uh, yeah, whatever. What are you getting?” 

“Oh, she likes knick knacks. Something to put on a shelf and display. Since she likes dolphins I was thinking of something with that.”

Tay suddenly realized this was a bad idea. It was going to be endless drivel about her. It’s not that he was jealous. No, okay, maybe it’s a part of it, but Tay felt like he’d been tricked. The wool over his eyes. That’s what he gets for letting his guard down. Sure, it was unintentional and New has no clue how he truly feels...yeah, this was a bad idea. 

“Where shall we start?” Tay’s heart nearly jumped out of his chest when Newwie hooked his arm. 

“I have to go.”

“Why?” Newwie whined. “We don't hang out like this anymore. Come on,” he shook against Tay’s side. “Aren’t I still your P?” 

“You’re someone I love and I can’t help you buy gifts for someone else.” The confession spilled out of his mouth before he could stop it.

“In a mall?” New shook his head. “All right, we’ll have this talk.” 

“I want us back to the way before. Even if it was fan service, I liked how we were during the filming of our food show.”

“Not all of it was fan service.” The confession was out of New’s mouth before he could stop it.

“Don't give me hope, if there is none, New.” Tay was using his serious voice now. New chuckled. “I’m leaving,” Tay suddenly said. New didn’t know how to stop him.

__

New’s girlfriend laid against his shoulder. That made it difficult to stalk Tay on Instagram. He scoffed to himself. Wow, what a terrible boyfriend. Thinking about someone else while the other is right there. Great, good on you, New. His phone buzzed. A text from Tay. 

Can we talk? 

I’ll come over. 

New ran out of the building and to his car before his girlfriend made any objections. You really are a terrible boyfriend to her anyway.

__

“Tell me you remember Valentine’s Day?” New wasn’t expecting to be prodded with such a loaded question right from the beginning. 

“How could I forget?”

“So none of those feelings are there any more? Because this someone else crap came out of nowhere. I was getting used to us. I was getting used to the way we argued but loved each other. I was getting used to the way you got frustrated when I didn’t clean up my mess. By the way, it’s an organized mess. It just gets that way and then I-”

“Then you get pissed off and clean it up. I know,” New smiled. “You are the King of Procrastination.”

“Am I? I feel like a hardworker.”

“Who will do a lot of things last minute. Generally, everything still turns out all right.”

“Let’s go back to before. To the days where I don't feel helpless, lost and aching. Come back to me, Newwie.” 

This would be the hardest thing that New has ever done. He couldn’t believe he was doing it when it happened, but he just left. Tay stood there staring at the door. Then he banged his fists against it, choking back tears. He slumped to the floor, his head hitting the door a little too hard. He grimaced, but that pain was nothing. That was minimal compared to that feeling of going under, the numbness. The ache. Tay didn’t know, but in the hallway New had slumped to the floor against the door as well. He couldn’t face that conversation while also being with someone else. If Tay went any further, New would make a mistake. A mistake, a tempting mistake... New’s mind drifted to Valentine’s Day. Tay’s lips against his, and it was only the two of them in the world. Nothing else mattered. Where’d that go? When did he want someone else? Why did he want someone else? When did he become so afraid of his feelings for Tay? 

Tay also now understood that ache. It was the ache of wanting someone to save you. Wanting someone to hold. Wanting someone to be the cure for the pain. Tay never thought it wise to rely on someone that much, but he gave his all to Newwie. There was a time when Tay was never that outspoken or that animated. He learned to open up because of Newwie, even though, it didn’t seem as if they learned anything from each other. They’d earned the reputation of being the “Queens of Banter.” They didn’t care about the title. They owned up to it because if anyone knows Chess, the Queen is the most powerful player. Tay chuckled at his own thought. Then he heard scuffling outside the door. He jumped up and opened it. 

New fell back onto the floor. He looked up at Tay. A hand was offered to help him. New took it. Hands still being held they stood there staring at each other. Tay was going to lean in for it. He was going for it. All or nothing. New denied him by turning his face. 

“Patience,” New told him. “There’s a girlfriend I have to speak to first.” 

“Don't fuck with me because I won’t be able to handle that.” 

“I’m not fucking with you. Just give it time.” Tay didn’t like to give things time. After all, time eventually bit him in the ass. He held onto his anger a moment then let out in a deep breath. The anger shouldn’t be directed at Newwie. It really wasn’t his fault. 

“One kiss?” Tay begged before New could actually leave.

“No.”

Tay huffed. “Fine. I’ll just wallow then until you sort it out. Tonight?”

“My oh my someone needs to calm down. No, it won’t be tonight. But soon.” New wrapped his arms around Tay’s neck for a hug. Tay melted into it and New had to fight his way out of his grasp. 

Soon. One word changed everything.

#long post #taynew #my writing #man I love this fic request thing #haha #also I head canon a cursing Tay #or maybe that's just something I willingly pay to hear in English of course #hehe

[7evenkingsbts]

The Gods Eye I 02

Angst / slight smut

Jimin x Reader

Warnings: Cursing, kidnapping and violence

You finally meet Jimin

_________________________

My head hurts and my eyes are burning probably because of the lack of sleep. I rub my eyes and my head and sit up.

What time is it? The doors opens up again and this time a familiar blonde man comes in. Where have I seen him before?

He is wearing a black suit on and his hair is parted.

- Goodmorning!! I hear there was some trouble down here yesterday. The man said and sat down on the chair with a very angelic smile

I didn’t answer him I just sat quietly and looked down

- We can do this the hard way or the easy way, you give me what I want and you will stay alive and we will never harm you again or you refuse and we will harm and kill every person in your life and bring they’re dead bodies to you and lastly kill you. So what’s it going to be? He asked while smiling

How can a person look so angelic but use so scary words

- I don’t have it... I’m sorry i-i-i really don’t.. I stuttered

- Okay so we are doing this the hard way. He said and stood up

He started to walk towards the door.

thought about the consequences and then I thought of a lie that might work

- No !! Wait!!

He stopped in his tracks

- Please don’t hurt anyone... I really don’t have it... but I can make it... I said

Shit why did I lie like that!! It took my brother years!!!

- How? It’s impossible. The man said and turned around

No umhh I know how because I was there and helped my brother sometimes, I am the only one who can. I  lied again

- listen to me, if you are lying right know I swear to god it won’t end well!! He threatened me

- no no!! I promise just please. I pleaded

He smirked

What the fuck?! felt very uncomfortable and backed away from him a little bit

- yeah I am not lying, just get me the things I need and I will fix a new one for you. I said a little bit more confident this time

- how long until it’s done? He asked and raised his eyebrow

- umhh a year? I said unsure

- One year?? ?? That’s to long. He said and started to walk away again

- okey okey!! Give me 6 months !! I said

He stopped

- 6 months and if it’s isn’t done by then I will go out and murder everyone you stand close to. He said with a dark look

I looked at him with fear. Who was this man

- So what do you need? He asked

- my brothers office, some new fresh clothes to work in, and a fresh bedroom. I said

- we can get you a room here, bring your clothes and everything in your brothers office can we move here. He said

- okay. I answered

- Then we have a agreement!! The man said and smiled

- yeah.. I said unsure

- We will move everything here tomorrow. He said and walked towards the door

- oh and y/n? If you ever even think to escape I hunt you down and kill you. He said and the left

Holy shit what have I just agreed to!!

____________________

I was woken up by a loud bang and the man with mint blue hair, brown hair and black hair was in the room.

- Wake up!! We have to move you to your new room. The one with black hair said.

- can I atleast know what your name is? I asked the three men

my name is yoongi, that’s jungkook and taehyung. The one with mint hair answered

- let’s go now. Taehyung said and grabbed my arm

Jungkook opened the big metal door only to relieve stairs going upwards

We walked up the stairs and there was another metal door

- open it kook. Yoongi said

When jungkook opened the door. We walked in to a big mansion

Wow!!! This house is huge!!! I looked around and was so amazed

- You guys live here ?!?? I asked

- Nope, we all have our separate mansions . Taehyung said and walked towards a room.

- This is the biggest one, we spend most of our time here since we work all the time. Jungkook said

- Then who lives here?!?? I asked

- I do. A voice answered

I turned my head towards the voice and it was that man again.

he pressed in a code and also his thumb detector to open the room

.

- So this will be your new room. The blonde man said while smiling and walking in to the room

How can a person be so dangerous yet so Angelic looking ? i can’t get over that!!!

I looked around the room and it was so big .All the things from my brothers office were here.

- you can let her go now. He ordered

Taehyung and jungkook let me go and left the room. I was completely alone with Jimin

- I am sorry for being so unprofessional, my name is park Jimin! But you can call me Jimin. He said while smiling

Holy shit that is Jimin!!! I knew that I have seen him somewhere before!!

- and I obviously know who you are.

I just nodded my head at him while looking around the room

- We brought every possible thing you could use so you don’t feel the need to go back or escape. Jimin said and sat down on the big bed

- This is huge. I said and looked around a little more. Jimin stood up and followed me

The room have it’s own bathroom and walkin closet. I went in to the closet and all my clothes were here

- You brought all my clothes?? I asked surprised and turned around to face him

- Yup and let me say that you have a very pretty set of lingerie. Jimin said with a smirk

- you are such a creep. I said rudely

- We’ll I don’t care what you think. You are not here to like me, you are here to work and give me what I need. Jimin said a little aggressive

- Dick. I muttered

- What was that? Jimin asked

- I called you a Dick. I answered back

for some reason he didn’t scare me

Jimin was a little taken aback from my attitude

- Listen here little girl. I have thousands blood on my hands and I wouldn’t mind one more so either you keep your mouth shut or I will make sure you stay quiet. Jimin threated

I didn’t answer also i lied he was really scary when he wanted to be. Probably why he has so much power

I looked around the closet one more time and then walked out and back in to the bedroom

- We will check up on you from time to time. I will be very busy so you won’t see me for as much, one of my men will bring you food as well. Jimin said

- okay. I answered

- That’s it? No thank you? Jimin asked offended

- Thank you for what??? For kidnapping me? For threatening me? For hurting me?? That’s what you want a “ thank you for???? “ I answered angrily

Jimin didn’t say anything

- Well like it or not you are not leaving this room until I have that usb. Jimin said

i didn’t say anything, i feel like crying... i don’t wanna be here...

- I will se you around y/n. Jimin said and left me

I’m completely alone once again....

I sat down on the bed and rubbed my eyes . I rather be in this room then the one I was in before.

Well I might as well start...

I walked to the computers and sat down.

How the fuck am I supposed to start??? I don’t even know what to start with??

I sighed and rubbed my face and looked at the set of computers and something caught my eye!! OMG THE THE VAULT!! I ALWAYS THOUGHT IT WOULD pBE BIGGER !!

The code is the year of my birth multiplied with my brothers!!

I was born in 1995 and my brother in 1989

“ 3 9 8 4 “

Omg the code is “ 3 9 8 4 “ I type in the numbers and vault unlocks

Inside is a black usb

- HOLY SHIT!! AHHHH screamed

That was pretty bad idea because someone heard me and the bedroom door opens and I hid the usb in between my legs as fast as i could

Taehyung looks at me suspiciously

- is something wrong? He asked

- nope!!! Everything is just great I answered

He looked at me again with a confused look and then closes the door

I pick up the usb and look at it

Omg how can these idiots be so stupid!!

I can use this to contact namjoon and the others to help me!!!! But I should probably wait until it gets dark so they don’t walk in my room and risk finding me contacting help

I put the usb back in the little vault and bring the vault to my walk in closet, i hid it in the shelf where my shoes are

I then walk out, I should probably shower

I walk to the bathroom

I walk in to the shower, I should pretend to sleep when they come in and then when they leave I take out the usb and contact help

________________________

02:35

Okay the last time someone checked on me was 3 hours ago so I think I am good too go. I lift the covers from my body and walk towards the computers

Okay let’s do this

I open up the vault and take out the usb and inserting it to one of the computers.

It only took 1 second until all stuff popped up

I try to find my own location

Holy shit I am not even in the city !!!

“ Nos lacie “ is the area I’m in, the mansions address doesn’t show up which probably means that this house was built illegally, I look around and I see that I am 45 minutes away from the city,

okay I know my location that’s should be enough

How do I contact help now??

I enter “ Kim namjoon “ and all his resent places, phone calls and texts show up not only that but a lot of information about him and his family show up, this god eye is kind of amazing actually

I keep looking around and entering different codes until I hear moaning??

- YEEES DADDY UHH KEEP GOING!!! I hear someone moan out

WHAT THE FUUCK!!! how thin are these walls?? The moaning was heard louder from the other side of my bedroom so I walked in to the walk-in closet

Suddenly I hear grunting but it wasn’t from the woman but from Jimin.

- Ahh-ah Can you please shut up?? I hear Jimin saying

Okay now I am annoyed doesn’t he care that people might be sleeping??? On the other hand no one lives in this house besides Jimin

- I AM ALMOST THERE!! DON’T STOP!! The woman screamed

I banked on the wall

- CAN YOU GUYS SHUT THE FUCK UP?!!? I screamed

Suddenly the moaning stops and I hear nothing anymore

I walk out of the closet and walk to the bedroom door, I put my ear against it

- why did you stop all of sudden? Was is because of that banking. The woman said

- No because I got what i wanted. Jimin said

- That was faster than usual. The woman said

- do i really have to leave?? I didn’t get to finish... the woman complained

- Well I did so I am in no need of you anymore. I hear Jimin say

He such a jerk!! Poor girl, even though she was very loud I feel sorry for her

I hear a door slam really hard and then footsteps that seemed to get louder and louder

OMG HE IS COMING IN HERE!! THE COMPUTERS!!?!! THE GODS EYE

I run towards the usb and took it out and I heard him type in the code to open the door

I hid the usb in my back jeans pocket, I looked at the computers and the information about namjoon was still up !! I didn’t have time so I just pulled the cords so the computers turned off and that was exactly when Jimin came in the room

Fuck he looks so hot.... he is wearing a black Versace robe, his cheeks are red, his lips are swollen and red. His hair is all messed up and looks so soft why did he have to be a jerk!!

- stop staring. Jimin said and interrupted my thoughts

- You look wrecked. I said

- You should see the girl then. He said with a smirk and went to sit on the couch beside my bed

- Euw, it’s cool I heard enough.

- What were you doing up anyways? Jimin asked

- I couldn’t sleep.. I said

- and why is that? He asked

- Oh I don’t know maybe because I am locked up in here and I will be for 6 months, I also I have the biggest thing to make that is almost impossible!! I answered sarcastically

Jimin chuckled

- you are very funny. He said

- well good for you. I answered rudely

It’s was quiet for a moment

- have you started? Jimin asked

- Started on what? I asked

- On making the gods eye idiot. He said

- yes I have!! And the idiot here is you !!  Because instead of hiring someone else!! You kidnapped a girl and took her whole life away. I said

- You know the man with light blue hair?  Jimin asked

That was a random question all of a sudden

- yeah?yoongi, What about him? I asked

- he is one of the best hackers in the world and we tried to crack the code and find the gods eye, he even tried to make it. Jimin said and stood up from the coach

- so?? What happened. I asked

- he couldn’t, it was to hard. Jimin said

- well?? I am not a hacker so how did you think that I could make it?? I asked

- you said you could, also you are not here only for that. Jimin said and walked slowly towards me

He was right.... I said I could

- why am here? I asked and sat down on one of the chairs

- Because if you can’t make a new one after six months, we will use you to get your brother to give it to us. Jimin said and put his hand on the handrest of my chair and leaned forward

He smelled so fucking good!’ God damnit why is this man so hot but yet so disgusting!!  

- omg you can’t do that! I said

- Watch me sweetheart. Jimin said and smiled

- But why??? I asked sadly

- Because I can, also because I need this business working. If I have the      “ gods eye “ I can track down anyone who tries to take me down. Jimin said with no emotions at all

He moved away from me and walked around the room

- why are you telling me this? I asked

- why not? You aren’t going anywhere even if you wanted to you can’t  because trust me it won’t end well. Jimin said and started to fix his robe. It looked like he was taking it of so I looked away

Jimin chuckled

- don’t worry you are not exactly my type. Jimin said

Fucking dick I want to kill him!!  

- I don’t care your are not my type either!! I answered

- Oh please you wish you were her when you heard us. Jimin said confidently

- no? Euw I would never sleep with you , you are dick and a horrible person . I answered

Jimin just listened to me, he looked amused

- I want a man!! Someone who will take care of me, love me, appreciate me and someone who has his life planned out and vice versa not a fuck boy drug lord who is controlling and dangerous. I need someone who won’t try to control me but listen to me, someone who has a lot of respect I said

I actually don’t know why I told him this i think i forgot i was in the room with me

Jimin smirked

- you mean a whimp? Jimin said

- No!! I defended

- What about the sex? Jimin asked

- what about it? As long he makes me feel good and I make him feel good. Sex is nothing if the relationship is not real, or if the love is fake I said

- Sounds very boring. Jimin said

- what? I asked surprised

- keep going, talk about your dream man. Jimin said

- why ? You just said it sounded boring, why is it boring?? I asked

- Because it is boring, for example I rather fuck your brains out and not just make you feel good but make you feel amazing, I would choke you and make you cum until you beg me to stop because it feels to good, I rather have you ride my thigh in my office while I take a conference call and then after I eat you out, making “ love “ is boring all that vanilla shit. Jimin said

Oh shit did he have to be so blunt...

- what’s wrong? Cat got your tongue. Jimin asked while smirking

- Well you don’t know what I like, I could be in to all that stuff too. I said confidently

- I don’t know you don’t seem like the type that could handle that kind of stuff I do. Jimin said teasingly

- you don’t know that. I said in a defensive state

- I can see it on you honey, the way you dress show it a lot, also the way you act. Jimin said

- Appearance is not everything, you are wrong Jimin, You don’t know me, Trust me I am not as you think that I am. I said

Which was true I am not a shy, innocent little girl. I wouldn’t mind doing all the stuff he said I just prefer to do that kind of stuff with someone I am in love with

Jimin leaned back on the sofa

how about you come here and prove it, show me how wrong I am. He said and patted on this lap

Is this man for real???

- what are you waiting for? Come show daddy what you can do. Jimin said while smirking

- I don’t need to prove anything to you. I have to much pride and self respect to sleep with someone I just met Jimin. I said confidently

Jimin was surprised by my answer.

He stood up and walked towards me. He put his hands around my waist and pulled against him

- what are you doing? I asked surprised and tried to push him away but he just held me tighter

His hand rested just a little above my ass and that gave me goosebumps but then I realized that the usb is in my back pocket!!?? If he goes down further I am screwed

- Jimin.. I am not sleeping with you. I said once again and tried to push him away

- stop playing hard to get. He said quietly

- I thought i wasn’t your type? I asked

- you aren’t... I like em skinny and nice almost the model type, you are thick, bad and short you are both sexy and cute. It makes me wanna find out how bad I can make you act for me. Jimin said

I didn’t say anything just I tried to comprehend what I just heard

- you have a tiny waist, your thighs are thick and your ass is perfect so round and full, I would pound into your pussy doggy style so hard you would pass out. Jimin whispered in my ear, he kissed my jaw and then groped my ass

Please tell me he didn’t feel the usb!!! Also That’s was so fucking hot but no!!’ I need to keep my pride

- okay Jimin I think you need to go and sleep. I said and took his hand off of me.

He let go of me and smirked

- how did you like that. Jimin said

- what do you mean? I asked confused

- you were about to give in to me. Jimin said confidently

- no I wasn’t!!! I said.

- then why are you still holding on to my robe? Jimin asked while smirking

I looked down and my hands where on either side of jimins hips and my knuckles where almost white for holding on to hard I didn’t even realize I did that. I let go quickly

- What is wrong with you ?? I asked with anger

- Nothing I just like to play. Jimin said and walked towards the door

- well stop it!! It is not funny. I said in seriousness

- I think it is hilarious, specially the goosebumps you got when I groped your ass. Jimin said smirking and pushed his hair out of his face

- well I hope you enjoyed that!! Because it will never happen again!!!

I crossed my arms

- oh we will see about that, I always get what I want. Don’t worry, I don’t want you but if I did you would be in my room on my bed begging a long time ago. Jimin said confidently

Jimin opened the bedroom door and then left just like that.

What the fuck just happened

A/N: SOORRYYY FOR A LATE UPDATE!!!!!! i hope you enjoy this chapter, also sorry for any misspelled words or wrong grammar. English is not my first language. 

#bts #jimin smut #jungkook smut #bts smut #taehyung smut #bts fanfic #bts angst #yoongi smut #jin smut #namjoon smut #bts tour #bangtan fanfiction #BTS COMEBACK #bts photoshoot #jimin angst #JUNGKOOK AND JIMIN #bts park jimin

[newstfionline]

Saturday, September 25, 2021

Biden Assembles the Quad (Foreign Policy) U.S. President Joe Biden is on a mission to project an image of unity and cohesion with three of the world’s largest economies today as he hosts the leaders of Australia, India, and Japan for a meeting of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue—the Quad—at the White House. The summit, the first in-person gathering for the group since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, caps a busy few days of Asia-focused diplomacy for the White House following the agreement of the AUKUS defense pact with Australia and the United Kingdom last week. That focus is underlined by additional one-on-one meetings Biden holds today with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga. The summit is expected to conclude with the announcement of several initiatives designed to deepen relations between the four countries including student exchanges alongside plans to counter China’s domination of key industries like semiconductors and 5G networks. China’s reaction to the meeting has echoed the tone it took with AUKUS. Asked about the Quad summit last week, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian decried “exclusive ‘cliques’ targeting other countries” and said the group was “doomed to fail.”

Expensive garbage cans (Mission Local) San Francisco is years into an extremely expensive process of buying new garbage cans, with July seeing the Board of Supervisors vote to spend $427,500 on 15 prototypes for the three possible models of new trash can, with a per-trashcan price tag of $12,000 to $20,000 each. At the end of the day, San Francisco plans to buy 3,300 of the cans, and while the initial goal was to buy $1,000 cans, it’s looking like they might end up paying $5,000 a can. All told, the city will have to spend $6.6 million to $16.5 million on the misbegotten project, the brainchild of a disgraced former city official facing charges of fraud and lying to a federal agent. What’s wild is there are plenty of off-the-shelf models they could have gone with, from the $3,900 Bigbelly to New York’s $632 can, Los Angeles’ $449.51 can, D.C.’s $987 can or even Portland’s $1,851 can.

Migrant camp shrinks on US border as Haitians removed (AP) Haitian migrants waited to learn their fate at a Texas border encampment whose size was dramatically diminished from the almost 15,000 who gathered there just days ago in an effort to seek humanitarian protection in the U.S. but now face expulsion. The administration recently extended protections for more than 100,000 Haitians already in the U.S.—many of whom left their homeland after its devastating 2010 earthquake—citing security concerns and social unrest in the Western Hemisphere’s poorest country. But it doesn’t apply to new arrivals. Homeland Security said nearly 2,000 Haitians have been rapidly expelled on flights since Sunday under pandemic powers that deny people the chance to seek asylum. About 3,900 were being processed for possible return to Haiti or placement in U.S. immigration court proceedings. Others have been released in the U.S. with notices to appear in court or report to immigration authorities. Thousands have returned to Mexico. Authorities expect the camp will be empty in about two days, according to a U.S. official with direct knowledge who was not authorized to speak publicly.

Sub snub just one symptom of longtime French unease with US (AP) Liberty and Fraternity, yes. Equality, not so much. Born of a revolution fought for liberty, ties between the United States and its oldest ally, France, have long been fraternal, but they’ve also been marked by deep French unease over their equality. French concerns about being the junior partner in the relationship boiled over last week when the U.S., Britain and Australia announced a new security initiative for the Indo-Pacific, aimed at countering a rising China. The AUKUS agreement scuttled a multibillion-dollar submarine deal that France had with Australia, but, more alarmingly for the French, pointedly ignored them, reinforcing a sense of insecurity that has haunted Paris since the end of World War II. France has long bristled at what it sees as Anglo-Saxon arrogance on the global stage and has not been shy about rallying resistance to perceptions of British- and German-speaking dominance in matters ranging from commerce to conflict. Thus the latest affront, AUKUS, resulted in an explosion of ire, with the French loudly protesting and recalling their ambassadors to the U.S. and Australia while shunning the British in an overt manifestation of centuries of rivalry.

German millionaires rush assets to Switzerland ahead of election (Reuters) A potential lurch to the left in Germany’s election on Sunday is scaring millionaires into moving assets into Switzerland, bankers and tax lawyers say. If the centre-left Social Democrats (SPD), hard-left Linke and environmentalist Greens come to power, the reintroduction of a wealth tax and a tightening of inheritance tax could be on the political agenda. “For the super-rich, this is red hot,” said a German-based tax lawyer with extensive Swiss operations. “Entrepreneurial families are highly alarmed.” The move shows how many rich people still see Switzerland as an attractive place to park wealth, despite its efforts to abolish its image as a billionaires’ safe haven. No country has more offshore assets than Switzerland and inflows accelerated in 2020, to the benefit of big banks such as UBS, Credit Suisse and Julius Baer. Geopolitical tensions and fears of the COVID-19 pandemic’s economic fallout made Switzerland’s political stability attractive.

Evergrande’s missed payment (Foreign Policy) Chinese property giant Evergrande appeared to miss a deadline to pay interest on part of its mammoth debt on Thursday, prompting fears that the company could soon default, causing ripple effects across the global financial system. Writing in Wednesday’s China Brief, FP’s James Palmer outlined the tricky politics at play for Chinese authorities. “The company appears to be doomed,” Palmer writes. “The question that remains is how much of the Chinese economy it will take down with it, and whether its fate is a symptom of much bigger problems.”

Korean War peace treaty “premature” (Foreign Policy) North Korea has again rejected a call for a formal end to the Korean war, which ended with an armistice agreement in 1953. South Korean President Moon Jae-in made the overture in his address to the U.N. General Assembly on Tuesday, but on Friday, North Korea’s Vice Foreign Minister Ri Thae Son said any talk of a peace treaty would be premature so long as “the U.S. hostile policy is not shifted.” North Korea has so far ignored U.S. negotiation efforts, although Moon speculated that the country “is still weighing options while keeping the door open for talks,” citing the relatively low-level provocations Pyongyang has tried since Biden became president.

Taliban official: Strict punishment, executions will return (AP) One of the founders of the Taliban and the chief enforcer of its harsh interpretation of Islamic law when they last ruled Afghanistan said the hard-line movement will once again carry out executions and amputations of hands, though perhaps not in public. In an interview with The Associated Press, Mullah Nooruddin Turabi dismissed outrage over the Taliban’s executions in the past, which sometimes took place in front of crowds at a stadium, and he warned the world against interfering with Afghanistan’s new rulers. “Everyone criticized us for the punishments in the stadium, but we have never said anything about their laws and their punishments,” Turabi told The Associated Press, speaking in Kabul. “No one will tell us what our laws should be. We will follow Islam and we will make our laws on the Quran.” Since the Taliban overran Kabul on Aug. 15 and seized control of the country, Afghans and the world have been watching to see whether they will re-create their harsh rule of the late 1990s. Turabi’s comments pointed to how the group’s leaders remain entrenched in a deeply conservative, hard-line worldview, even if they are embracing technological changes, like video and mobile phones.

Putting a Disturbingly Low Price On Life (BBC, Guardian, National Army Museum, The Conversation) There has been renewed focus on civilian deaths in Afghanistan following the U.S. military’s admission that an August 29 drone strike, intended for ISIS-K fighters, instead killed 10 civilians, including seven children. According to data collected by Action on Armed Violence (AOAV), a London-based charity conducting research and advocacy on the incidence and impact of global armed violence, UK forces are linked to the deaths of nearly 300 Afghan civilians. Through a series of Freedom of Information requests, AOVA was able to obtain Ministry of Defense compensation logs revealing a total of £688,000 was paid out by the UK military for incidents involving 289 deaths, among them 86 children, between 2006 and 2014. The average amount paid was £2,380.      One of the most serious incidents listed in the logs is the award of £4,233.60 to a family following the deaths of four children, who were mistakenly shot and killed in December 2009. Some payments were less than a few hundred pounds. In February 2008, one family received £104.17 for a confirmed fatality and property damage in Helmand province. The author of the research said reading the files was difficult: “The banality of the language means hundreds of tragic deaths, including dozens of children, read more like an inventory.” AOAV estimates 20,390 civilians were killed or injured by international and Afghan forces during the two-decade-long conflict. This is just one-third of the number killed by the Taliban and other insurgents. 453 British soldiers died in combat operations between 2001 and October 2014. During the entire 20-year engagement from 2001 to 2021, 2,455 U.S. service members lost their lives, including the 13 killed by ISIS-K in the Kabul airport attack August 26, 2021; 20,740 American military personnel were injured.

Hezbollah flexes its muscles in Lebanon and provides free Iranian fuel (Washington Post) Lebanon’s new government got off to an inauspicious start this week. As parliamentarians gathered to approve the cabinet lineup, the electricity went out—a common occurrence these days—and the chamber was plunged into darkness. To the rescue came Hezbollah, the militant Shiite movement designated by the United States as a terrorist organization that is also a political party here. Lawmaker Ibrahim Musawi swiftly procured two generators from the organization’s offices. Eventually, the electricity came back on and the generators were no longer needed. But the episode provided a fresh opportunity for Hezbollah to remind the Lebanese who wields real power in their steadily collapsing country. Days earlier, Hezbollah had flaunted its clout by trucking Iranian diesel fuel into Lebanon to help alleviate chronic fuel shortages that have left people without public electricity sometimes for up to 24 hours a day. The amount of fuel imported—just 33,000 tons—was meager compared with Lebanon’s vast needs and was only enough to last the generator-dependent country for a few days. But Hezbollah has milked the opportunity to portray itself as a savior, making the fuel available free to hospitals, charitable institutions, emergency services, municipalities and other institutions that have had services crippled by the lack of electricity.

Jailbreak shines light on mass incarceration of Palestinians (AP) The cinematic escape of six prisoners who tunneled out of an Israeli penitentiary earlier this month shone a light on Israel’s mass incarceration of Palestinians, one of the many bitter fruits of the conflict. Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have passed through a military justice system designed for what Israel still portrays as a temporary occupation, but that is now well into its sixth decade and critics say is firmly cemented. Nearly every Palestinian has a loved one who has been locked up in that system at some point, and imprisonment is widely seen as one of the most painful aspects of life under Israeli rule. The saga of the six, who were eventually recaptured, also underscored the irreconcilable views Israelis and Palestinians hold about the prisoners and, more broadly, what constitutes legitimate resistance to occupation. Israel classifies nearly every act of opposition to its military rule as a criminal offense, while many Palestinians see those acts as resistance and those engaged in them as heroes.

#headlines #news

[argyle-s]

The Shape of Things To Come Chapter 1/?

Rating:  Mature

Read at Ao3

With the help of Sara and M’gann, Kara travels back in time to a year before she becomes Supergirl from a future where all her worst fears have come to pass, and replaces her younger self.

Update: This story has now been betaed by @ifourmindbeso.  Any remaining mistakes are entirely my own.

Pairings:  Supercat, Supercanary, Sanvers, Others

Chapter 1 - Future’s End

The City of Argo, Krypton:  May 21st, 1977

Kara jumped through the shattered window of her childhood bedroom a moment before the floor gave way, but even the increased strength from Alex’s old exoskeleton didn’t gave her enough of a push to clear the distance to the Waverider’s waiting hatch.  Fortunately, M’gann was there to catch her.  One second, Kara was falling, the next M’gann’s right arm was a thick tentacle, wrapped around her waist, and the Martian woman was hauling her into the open airlock.

“Thanks,” Kara said as M’gann sat her on the floor.  M’gann didn’t really respond.  She just nodded as she released Kara, and hit the button to close the door.  Kara tapped her ear piece.  “Get us clear,” she said.  Almost immediately, she felt the gut twisting nausea that came with a time jump.  Not trusting herself to move during a jump without her powers, she just looked up at M’gann.

The blank look on M’gann’s face hadn’t change since Harley had died nearly a week earlier.  Kara wanted desperately to do something, anything, for her oldest remaining friend, but she didn’t know what to say.  She and Harley had been the only things holding each other together for the longest time.

There was a part of her that knew it wouldn’t matter, not if their plan worked, but she couldn’t help it.  The desire to help was still there.

She waited until she felt them exit the time jump, then she stood up and headed towards the bridge.  M’gann followed along silently as they picked their way through the debris-strewn corridors of the ship to where Sara was waiting for them.

“Did you get it?” Sara asked.

Kara held up the spy beacon.

“That’s it?” she asked.  “It doesn’t look like much.”

Kara shrugged.  “It’s not much,” she said.  “Just a paired-key homing beacon.”

“How is that going to change the course of the war?” Sara asked.

“If I play my cards right, this will add twenty-nine very angry Kryptonians to our side.  It will also keep the Hope function of the Anti-Life equation from ever falling into Darkseid’s hands.  If he can’t complete the equation…”

“Then we’ll only be fighting Apokolips, not the entire galaxy,” Sara said.

Kara looked around the ruined bridge of the Waverider, then back to Sara.  “Where’s Thea?”

“She’s bundling up the care package,” Sara said.

“Good.  Where’d you set us down?”

“On top of your apartment building,” Sara said.

“Um, are you sure it will hold the weight?”

“Doesn’t have too.  I’ve got the Higgs dampeners running.  The ship weights about as much as a bicycle right now."

“Alright then.  I guess it’s time.”

Sara nodded, and stood up out of the Captain’s chair.  Before Kara could turn away, Sara reached out and slipped a hand around the back of her neck, pulling her down into a kiss.  Kara reacted immediately, slipping her arms around Sara and pulling her close, kissing her with everything she had.  It wasn’t a long kiss, but it didn’t need to be.  After so many years together, there wasn’t a lot left to say between them.  Nothing, in fact, except thank you and goodbye.

Sara pulled back, and Kara gave her a weak smile, neither of them quite able to hide the tears in their eyes.

“Let’s do this,” Sara said.

*** The walk to the Waverider’s medbay seemed both too short and too long.  Too short, because she could be about to make everything worse, and too long because she was going to see her sister again, see Cat, Winn, J’onn, and all the people she’d lost since the war started.

She just had to die to do it.

“You have it?” Thea asked as they entered the medbay.

Kara nodded and held out the spy beacon.  “Be careful,” she said.  “My sister may not be up to the same standard she was at by the time Myriad was over but she’s still a DEO field operative.”

Thea shrugged.  “Honestly, I’m more worried about the other you,” she said as she put the spy beacon in the case with the three power rings, their power batteries, the portal generator Vibe had given her after the Dominator incident, and the Kryptonian Constructor Crystals.

“I should be down there before you, even with the Velocity 12,” Kara said.

“Here’s hoping,” Thea said.  She closed the hard case, then picked it up and slid it back into the cardboard box Gideon had fabricated for them, and started taping it shut.

Kara climbed up onto one of the medical tables and lay down.  “You ready, M’Gann?”

“Yes,” was the only reply.  The Martian stepped around the table so she could place her fingers on Kara’s temple, then looked at Sara.  “Whenever you’re ready.”

“Right,” Sara said.  “Gideon, I need the telepathic booster serum.”

“Of course, Captain Lance,” the AI said as a small door opened in the wall, and a loaded injector gun was extended.

“This stuff will work, right?”  Sara asked as she picked up the gun.

“Oh course.  The serum will allow Ms. M’orzz to open a telepathic link with Ms. Zor-El’s past and present selves and merge Ms. Zor-El’s present consciousness with her past self.  However, the serum is highly toxic, and will terminate Ms. M’orzz life functions within ten minutes of injection.  There is no antidote.”

“As long as it works,” M’gann said.

Kara watched as Thea picked up a second injector, and pressed it to Kara’s neck, injecting the Velocity 12 into her carotid artery.  Thea nodded to Sara, who stepped over to M’gann and inserted the needle into her neck.

“Go,” Sara said as she pulled the trigger.  Thea vanished along with the cardboard box in a swirl of blue lightning, and at the same moment, M’gann began to pull, tearing Kara’s mind from her present body, killing her in the process, as she forced Kara’s current mind to merge with her younger one.  It was agony.  Indescribable, beyond any pain she’d felt in a life far too full of it.  Feeling her mind ripped out of her body, forced through a place infinitely too small, before being crushed together with her younger self.  Her younger self, who was living everything that happened over twelve long years in a fraction of a second.

She’d been worried about this moment.  Worried she’d wake Alex, who was sleeping on the couch, worried she’d wake the whole building.  In the end, she needn’t have.

It hurt far too much to scream.

***

Kara Danvers’ Apartment. National City. Earth 38, September 14th, 2014

Kara sat in her bed, shaking as she stared at the box left on her bed.  She wanted to reach out for it, take it, tuck it away somewhere safe, but she was paralyzed by her own fear.  She’d hoped for this moment, dreamed of it, of the chance to go back and fix so many mistakes.  But now, in the moment, there were so many doubts, so many things she was afraid of.

The first, though, was easy enough to take care of.  Her glasses were already on the nightstand, so she didn’t have to take them off to sweep the apartment.  No bugs, no cameras, no surveillance.  She knew that wouldn’t last, but she was relieved that it was the case tonight.  She couldn’t afford a confrontation with the DEO, and if they saw Thea run into her apartment, or figured out that she had three power rings and power batteries in her hands, it would be an all-out war even J’onn wouldn’t be able to stop.  Kryptonians were powerful enough to scare the government without throwing weapons that could devastate entire worlds into the mix.

Fortunately, she never intended to keep them for herself.

She forced herself to move, to act.  All the fear was still there, but time was of the essence.  For now, she had to preserve as much of the timeline as possible.  There would be changes, that was the whole point, but nothing that would tip her hand too soon.  Nothing that would stop her sister from getting on that plane.

She used a touch of super-speed to tuck the box onto a shelf in her closet.  It wasn’t perfect, but it would do until Alex was out of the apartment, at which time, she could head up to the Fortress and tuck it away among all the things Kal didn’t want other people finding.  That would do until she could get the sanctuary crystals out of her pod.

She sat back down, picked up her phone, and checked her email.  Sure enough, there was a message containing a link waiting for her.  She tapped the link, and confirmed that their little stop in 1998 before they headed to Krypton had paid off.  With a decent broadband connection, and seventeen years to work, the AI Gideon had whipped up for them had built up a bank account that would make the Prince of Dubai jealous.

She sent a couple of quick commands to the AI before locking her phone and lying back down, using a Kryptonian Meditation to calm herself.  What she really wanted to do fish the spy beacon out of the box and turn it on, but it was too soon.  If she turned it on now, it would call Astra, but it would call Non and the other Kryptonians as well.  Because Astra still thought, or at least suspected, Kara betrayed her and Kara wouldn’t be able to tell her otherwise.  Not for another year.

But she could wait, and she could hope, and in a couple of very short hours, she’d be able to hug her sister again.

#supergirl #supercat #supercanary #sanvers #fanfiction #the shape of things to come #kara danvers #alex danvers #cat grant #maggie sawyer #sara lance #j'onn j'onzz #susan vasquez #lois lane #clark kent #james olsen #winn schott jr. #future shock

[coopdigitalnewsletter]

26 Nov 2019: Microfulfilment centres. Banking IT and corporate fiction. Amazon health.

Hello, this is the Co-op Digital newsletter - it looks at what's happening in the internet/digital world and how it's relevant to the Co-op, to retail businesses, and most importantly to people, communities and society. Thank you for reading - send ideas and feedback to @rod on Twitter. Please tell a friend about it!

[Image: DC Velocity/TakeOff/Google Images]

Microfulfilment: compact distribution centres

TakeOff Technologies is like an Ocado but for smaller fulfilment centres: ecommerce automation for supermarkets in denser urban markets. Fulfilment centres in cities are closer to the customers and can be built more quickly and cheaply than a large out-of-town fulfilment centre, but they need to be small. TakeOff is building 50 small fulfilment centres for “warehouse logistics and automation solutions provider” Knapp in the US by 2020, and working with Albertsons to pilot a 900 m2 micro-fulfilment centre.

Is there a lower limit on fulfilment centre size? If they get small enough, do they look like a branch of Argos, the Post Office, or a convenience store? Or a vehicle, a cupboard or vending machine? 

Can a chain of local stores be a distributed fulfilment centre? (“Prominent sections of Amazon grocery stores are literally becoming fulfillment centers for local delivery, in addition to feeling like fulfillment centers for the customers who do enter and effectively become warehouse pickers until a numeric color-coded schema processes them through the checkout line and dumps them out on the street”.)

Related: 

Other startups in fulfilment to keep an eye on: Alert Innovations (trial with Walmart), Fabric (560 m2-sized centres in Israel), and several others who offer fulfilment services.

Good article on supermarkets using intermediary platforms like Instacart, which owns the shopper relationship but has its own challenges.

Banking IT and corporate fiction: TSB

Amazon famously has product managers draft a press release before they build anything. Writing this document is helpful because it helps a team think through why they’re going to make this new thing, what it’s for, who might want it and why, and how they’ll communicate it. 

It’s also a fiction because the new thing doesn’t exist yet. Actually, all plans are somewhat fictional: they’re predictive, speculative and hopeful. The most fictional plans are the ones that try to see furthest, orchestrate in the most detail, and plan everything in advance. Humans aren’t very good at predicting the future, because the future is cloudy and complex, and their cognitive biases get in the way. This doesn’t mean that planning is bad, but maybe there’s something good in corporate fiction that knows its fictional but can be used to find a way to a reality, and something risky in corporate fiction that confidently thinks it is a realist blueprint…

Anyway, banks like to be predictive, to plan carefully and in enormous detail to ensure that Nothing Goes Wrong. Most of the time, the careful plans work. But not always. The independent report on the TSB banking disaster of 2018 has identified a load of problems. It was obviously a highly complex situation (understatement! - the report is long). Over-confident planning, unrealistic and arbitrary milestones, too many assumptions, incomplete testing, weak governance, poor transparency and accountability… etc. Planning to make large parts of the migration happen in one big go look, in retrospect, a bit silly. Changing the targets in order to make the performance tests pass is very surprising.

That’s to say: no doubt the people on the front line worked very hard, and many of the necessary planning, testing, assuring and other activities were actually performed at some level. But somehow they didn’t add up to the organisation pulling the emergency brake as problems mounted up - maybe no-one felt able to say “Sorry, we need to delay”. There are some clear lessons about the limitations of Big Planning approaches, like: try incremental, iterative approaches with more testing (agile!). And there are bigger lessons about trust, culture, autonomy lying underneath that, though those are probably harder to see and act on.

(Interestingly, TSB itself casts some shade on its independent report, which perhaps indicates just how complex a situation it was: “Slaughter and May’s report is one of a number of reviews which have been carried out by external parties and by teams within TSB over the last eighteen months. These reports have highlighted other aspects which are not fully reflected in Slaughter and May’s report and, as a result, there are aspects of Slaughter and May’s report with which the Board does not agree.”)

Culture elsewhere: “The present 737 Max disaster can be traced back two decades—to the moment Boeing’s leadership decided to divorce itself from the firm’s own culture.”

Amazon x health

PillPack gets some “by Amazon Pharmacy” branding.

Amazon has launched its Amazon Care app - part of its plan to help its Seattle-area employees get better health care.

Pop-up department store

With Love Project, a pop-up in Manchester (perhaps a kind reader fancies visiting and reporting back to the newsletterbot about it?): “For the last four years we've been searching out brands with passion and purpose. Now, with the help of NOMA we've transformed a space in the recently refurbished Dantzic into a unique six week pop-up department store.” 

Other news

“Probably shouldn't gloat, and every little bit counts and everything... but in 3 years Co-op causes has raised £57 million for local causes, to Amazon's £2 million in ~2 years! Proud to be a small part of the Causes work that we do, and that it gets invested to local causes”.

“data and digital are a *material* for collaboration [...] building trust can sometimes be much more effectively  done (and in a much more timely way too), by giving form to the relationships, by making a *thing*” - Cassie Robinson.

Tesla launched an electric pickup truck, an angular eco-muscle truck for survivalists in a climate change world, and its retro/scifi clunky angles are designed to polarise opinion (all part of the marketing plan).

“Called Hackney Light and Power, the new company - owned, run, and managed by the local authority - will play a key role in delivering the Council’s ambitious decarbonisation targets set out in the climate emergency motion passed at Full Council in June 2019.” - London council announces details of its new energy company.

Previous newsletters:

Most opened newsletter in the last month: Club cards and membership businesses. Most clicked story: Google’s paper phone.

News 1 year ago: Googling your local shelf.

News 2 years ago: Just send back what you don’t want.

Co-op Digital news and events 

Public events, most of them at Federation House:

Is everybody happy? The challenges of measuring wellbeing - Tue 26 Nov 6.30pm.

CAST Design Hop - a “first step, or ‘hop’, into exploring the role of digital in charitable services” - Wed 27 Nov 12.30pm

Funding your tech for good - Wed 27 Nov 6.30pm

Introduction to Data Ethics and the Data Ethics Canvas - Wed 27 Nov 9am

Future of public interest news - Thu 28 Nov 6pm

Freelance Friday social - Fri 29 Nov 5pm at Common, Edge St Manchester.

How Civil Society can lead shaping the impacts of technology on our lives - Thu 5 Dec 9am

Profit, Purpose and Responsible Tech: Are They Mutually Exclusive? - Thu 5 Dec 6pm

Global AI Bootcamp - Manchester - Sat 14 Dec 8am

Mind the Product - MTP Engage - Fri 7 Feb 2020 - you can get early bird tickets now.

Internal events:

Targeted marketing and data ecosystem show & tell - Wed 27 Nov at Angel Sq 13th floor breakout.

Membership show & tell - Fri 29 Nov 3pm at Fed 6 kitchen.

Delivery community of practice - Mon 2 Dec 1.30pm at Fed house.

Funeralcare show & tell - Tue 3 Dec 1pm at Angel Sq 12th floor

Co-operate show & tell - Wed 4 Dec 3pm at Fed 6 co-operate space.

Data management show & tell - Thu 5 Dec 2.30pm at Angel Sq 13th floor breakout.

Membership show & tell - Fri 6 Dec 3pm at Fed 6 kitchen.

More events at Federation House - and you can contact the events team at  [email protected]. And TechNW has a useful calendar of events happening in the North West. 

Thank you for reading

Thank you, beloved readers and contributors. Please continue to send ideas, questions, corrections, improvements, etc to the newsletterbot’s keyboard chigi @rod on Twitter. If you have enjoyed reading, please tell a friend!

If you want to find out more about Co-op Digital, follow us @CoopDigital on Twitter and read the Co-op Digital Blog. Previous newsletters.

[anderstarblaine]

The One with the Nuisance || Seblaine

Date: February 23th, 2017

Locations: Manhattan, New York - & Sebastian’s Apartment

Who: Blaine Anderson & Sebastian Smythe

Notes: Nightflash meet again and it goes about as well as the first time. 

nui·sance /ˈn(y)o͞osəns/ noun a person, thing, or circumstance causing inconvenience or annoyance.

"an unreasonable landlord could become a nuisance"

....

Sebastian Smythe:

After the events of their shopping trip, Sebastian and Blaine seemed to fall into a steady and comfortable routine as roommates. Much to Sebastian’s chagrin, Blaine stopped auditioning for shows in favor of attending classes to get his teaching degree and working a part-time job. They had had a slight argument about that since Sebastian knew how much Blaine was destined for the spotlight, and resolving to instead split his focus for a teaching degree almost felt like Blaine was giving up.

Sebastian ended up getting an offer to write a Nightbird-related article at the New York Daily News once his superiors realized he had been on the scene and could write from first-hand experience. He was back at his boring nine-to-five job again but this time he was to devote a chunk of time to trailing Nightbird and taking pictures of the caped crusader as much as possible. His superiors wanted Sebastian to produce more photos like the ones he took at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. If Sebastian promised to continue bringing them photos of Nightbird, they agreed they would feature his articles in the paper-- possibly even something steady like a column if he did a good job. It was difficult to sneak off as his speedy alter ego with Blaine now living with him so he tended to go out when Blaine was at his classes. He kept his ring hidden most times but Blaine ended up discovering it one night; thank God he hadn’t noticed the special switch or his entire cover would’ve been blown. To anyone else, the ring was just a fashion statement and Sebastian had other rings such as his class rings from Dalton and Syracuse-- though he never wore those.

One evening on a day Sebastian and Blaine had agreed to have dinner together at home; they agreed that even though they were roommates and came home to each other, they would still keep up with their dinners as often as possible. The TV had aired a breaking news story regarding a hostage situation at a nearby bank. Apparently the alarms had been triggered just moments ago and police were already on the scene though they couldn’t act due to the hostages being held at gunpoint. A classic hostage stand-off. “Maybe Nightbird will show up,” Sebastian pointed at the TV. As if on cue, his phone rang, his boss on the other end of the line ordering him to report to the scene to get as much coverage as possible-- photos, interviews, anything. Sebastian had started his reputation of being at the right place at the right time and he wasn’t about to let that reputation die just yet. He apologized to Blaine before grabbing his camera and dashing out the door. “Duty calls,” he told Blaine before kissing him goodbye.

When he knew he was definitely out Blaine’s of view, Sebastian bolted down the streets at full speed and switched into his costume. He hid himself closeby to the bank yet out of the view, waiting for Nightbird to show up.

Blaine Anderson:

Blaine had done a great job of ignoring Kurt and getting the point across that he did not have any interest whatsoever in speaking to him or seeing him any time soon. He was detoxing himself from Kurt and settling into his brand new life with his brand new roommate/almost-boyfriend. He and Sebastian hadn’t really started discussing what they were or what they were doing. Blaine felt pretty confident that even though the conversation hadn’t been had, he and Sebastian were both on the very same sentence, on the same page, in the same book. He wasn’t too worried. He was happier living with Sebastian; he felt less suffocated and more free.

However, he did find it more difficult to sneak out for his nightly Nightbird duties now that he was living with someone who actually cared about him and wanted to spend time with him and someone who might think it weird if he were gone for hours at a time with no good excuse. Luckily for him, after not getting yet another callback, he decided to put his dreams of being a performer on the shelf for a bit and actually do something that could make him some money. He was not going to mooch off of Sebastian and treat him as some sort of sugar daddy and let him pay for everything. So, after a handful of auditions more and when they all came back with a big fat no, he sat down and talked to Sebastian and talked over his plans of possibly going back and finishing school so he could try to get a job teaching. He knew it was the right choice, even though Sebastian had some reservations. Thankfully, nothing too wrong went on in the city that a white lie about studying or doing extra credit work didn’t cover.

Blaine felt extremely guilty for lying to Sebastian but it was for his own safety. He couldn’t stand the thought of someone catching wind that Sebastian meant anything to Nightbird; he would never forgive himself if something happened to him. Sebastian was a weakness and it would be too good for the wrong person to get their hands on that information.

That particular night it looked as if it was going to be abnormally quiet for Nightbird so he was looking forward to spending some time with Sebastian alone at home since it was the night of their weekly dinner. He loved that no matter what they were doing or what their schedules were they always, always made time for their weekly dinner. That was why when he heard what was happening on the TV he sighed heavily, hearing his cellphone buzzing off in his pocket in the bedroom. Blaine moved to sit up a little on the couch when Sebastian got up to get his phone, he knew exactly who was blowing up their phones. So much for their quiet night together. With a quick kiss and a wave goodbye, Blaine dashed into the bedroom to check his phone, getting the address from Sam before he disappeared onto and up the fire escape so he could shed his clothes in the dark of the roof.

He made sure everything he needed was tucked away either in his boots or in his utility belt before taking off. Nightbird sucked in a deep breath of the cool night air as his cape flapped through the wind, letting go a little bit so he could let his senses take over. He loved the exhilarating feeling that came with putting on his mask and cape and stretching his abilities; flying through the city of New York never got old. Just a few moments after he left the apartment he landed on the front stoop of the bank. On his flight over he got the information from Sam and Santana that the bank was being held up by a group of non-mutants or non-meta-humans; They were just regular people with guns and weapons so he had to be cautious. He couldn’t just kick open the barricaded doors and barge in, so with his fast thinking he flew up to one of the higher floors and shimmied his way in through an unlocked window. Nightbird snuck his way through the hallways of the bank, giving a signal to Santana to cut the main power of the building he was in-- always thankful to have a decent computer hacker in his corner. He smiled to himself when the lights went out and he heard the concerned murmurs from the people down on the ground level. He could almost feel the confidence of the men responsible for the madness falter and it made his ego grow ever so slightly. Nightbird always loved having one up on whoever it was he was going against.

He had an advantage over them because he was stronger and faster than they could be and he could see perfectly in the dark. He used the shadows to his advantage as well, hiding in them as he scoped out the floor, eyeing the suspects to assess how many he was dealing with, getting a feel of his surroundings. He felt very confident in how he would handle the situation, expecting to be finished within minutes.

“Alright, fellas.” He started, hearing the relieved gasps of the crowd as they recognized his voice, knowing they were safe now. He stayed on his guard, however, as he could sense the suspects being startled by his deep voice as it echoed against the walls. “I think these people have had enough. What do you say we get them out of here and I escort you to your new cells?” Nightbird always started out with his overly confident act, as if he were giving them a choice in how to handle this. He saw one of the men getting closer to him in the dark, clearly following the sound of his voice. Grinning to himself he met the man halfway, grabbing him by the wrist and twisting his arm around back behind him, hearing the gun that was previously in the guy’s hand clatter to the floor. “I’m giving you the option of an easy way out- do you really want to do it the hard way?”

Sebastian Smythe:

Sebastian dashed into the bank, able to find himself a way in after doing a very quick once-around the building. Moving at super-speed, he was able to navigate his way through the bank and count the number of crooks that were holding the place up. There were a few holding guns and keeping watch along the perimeter of the interior while others kept an eye on the hostages or filling duffle bags with stacks of money.

How boring.

Though gifted, Sebastian saw no point in using his powers for evil. Robbing people and banks were just beneath him-- it was stupid. From his hiding spot, he was startled as the lights were suddenly cut and he heard the low voice of Nightbird echoing through the building. Seeing the robbers beginning to panic made Sebastian chuckle to himself. At least tonight he would get to have a little “fun” with his favorite Bird Boy. Running at full speed, Sebastian pummeled himself through the robbers until they were all on their butts, stunned. He gathered up all their weapons and unloaded their ammunition into the middle of the large room, far enough to not be within anyone’s reach.

The robbers began yelling and motioning to gather up the money, unsure how to tackle the appearance of two superhumans. One attempted to charge into Sebastian into the ground but he was easily dodged and thrown off into a different direction. The hostages all gasped in amazement, unaware of the masked man in front of them. “Who the hell are you? Another meddling hero here to save the day?” One of the robbers yelled as he revealed a hidden handgun and pointed it in Sebastian’s direction.

“Me, a hero? Please.” Sebastian laughed as he whizzed past the robber and slung an arm around him. “Ooh, Glock forty-three-- What’re you planning on doing? Shooting someone with that?” The robber pointed and immediately fired the weapon in Sebastian’s direction. At such a close range, Sebastian very narrowly avoided the bullet as the resounding sound of the gunshot echoed throughout the bank. Surely it was heard outside as well. “Oops, missed me.” The robber discharged the rest of his ammunition in Sebastian’s direction but he successfully managed to dodge them all. The hostages at this point grew very agitated and afraid for their lives. They cowered, some crawling away for cover. The robber with the now-emptied handgun looked baffled and tossed his gun aside.

“Gee, Birdie-- giving the bad guys a choice doesn’t seem very fun. We definitely have to do things the hard way. C’mon, where are you hiding?” Nightbird was very good at shrouding himself in the darkness that even Sebastian couldn’t detect him. This wouldn’t be much fun unless Nightbird made his appearance. “Come out, come out, wherever you are!” Sebastian called out with a singsong tone.

Blaine Anderson:

Before Nightbird could even think about moving again there was a flash zipping around the bank, it startled him because the streak came so fast that Nightbird didn't even sense him coming. He noted that was something he needed to keep an eye on because that could be a bad thing. He kept his stance strong and his guard up, his eyes glued to the newest intruder, only glancing away to take another note of how the fast mover made the robbers begin to panic. That was a good thing.

Everything happened so fast around him that he didn't even have a moment to consider interfering with the red streak before the gun went off, drawing gasps and cries from the terrified people who were all huddled together. That's when he let go of the man and rushed to the small group of hostages helping them to stay down and safe, trying to get them closer to the exit as the robber emptied out his gun. Part of him worried for the speedster, hoping he wasn't harmed, but he stayed focused. When he was certain there were no more shots left in the man’s gun and he heard it clatter against the tiled floor, he gave hushed words of reassurance to the terrified bunch before leaving their side to slink off into the shadows, he chuckled quietly to himself as the streak spoke to him, rolling his eyes. He was about to reply when one of the men caught his eye trying to sneak up on the speedster. He intercepted the attack with ease thanks to his reflexes and martial arts training, the man was at the zenith of natural human potential. Nightbird twisted the man’s arm behind him and threw him hard enough to the ground to knock him out long enough for him to sweep the place clean of the bad guys.

“I give them the option because I try to avoid the type of reckless behavior you just demonstrated for everyone.” He said in a clearly annoyed tone as he made the move to squat when he sensed one of the men behind him, spinning around to kick the guy’s feet out from under him before standing up straight again, getting closer to the taller masked crusader. “You could’ve gotten these people killed! I appreciate the gesture but I usually work alone.”  He didn’t waste too many moments on speaking to the other as he had a job to do. He tried to refocus himself, finding it unnerving that the other had the ability to shake him off his game even in the slightest bit. Taking a deep breath, Nightbird decided to just ignore the other’s presence and move on. He moved on to gather up all of the perpetrators that had been knocked out and tying them up together with the rope he kept inside of the gadget in his boot that Santana had ever so graciously made. He only had a couple more men to pull out of hiding before he could get the people out safely.

Sebastian Smythe:

Sebastian wasn’t very pleased that Nightbird didn’t appreciate his help. He knew saving the city was sort of “his thing” but god, couldn’t he live a little? Watching the superhero make quick work of the robbers and rounding them up was entertaining and though Nightbird didn’t have super-speed, he moved impressively quick for a human. “There you are, Nightie!” Sebastian greeted his new superhero “friend” with a wave before zipping past him and rifling through the duffle bag filled with bundles of cash. “I was making sure the bad guys weren’t shooting at anything important-- The hostages and the cash are both safe and sound.” He began pulling apart the cash, stuffing a few hundred dollar bills into his costume. He didn’t actually need the money but he knew taking it would piss the hero off.

“Hey, listen-- can we take a selfie together? I would just love to have a photo of us to commemorate our first heist together. Maybe I’ll send the photo into the newspapers under your name and the press can have a field day with it!” Sebastian ran to where he’d hidden his digital camera and quickly approached Nightbird with his speed, pulling him away from the robbers to snap a quick photo. “Smile!” The camera flashed in their faces but it was all too quick-- And he probably only caught the masked man glancing at the camera, if that, before he zipped away. Getting too close to the caped crusader put him in danger since Sebastian was only useful if he wasn’t caught. He was thankful that with his speed, he was essentially undetectable as he moved. That, plus his ability to vibrate both his vocal chords and his face helped hide his identity further.

Seeing how much he could get Nightbird off of his game made him laugh. It was amusing that he had this sort of effect on the hero. “Being reckless is like, all of the fun about this superhero business, right? Otherwise what’s even the point?” All while the two superpowered beings spoke, the robbers were either round up by Nightbird or trying to run away. Sooner or later the hostages would filter out and the police would storm the place. “And for the record, Birdie-- I have zero intention of working with the likes of you. I’m just here to have a little fun.”

Blaine Anderson:

Nightbird watched through narrowed eyes as the other man shoved some of the money in his red suit for himself. He was thoroughly irritated at this point between the way the speedster was fooling around and taking the hostage situation so lightly, it was taking entirely too long for Nightbird to get the hostages out safely. People were worried for their friends and family and he did not like taking so long to get them out. He was always very prompt when he was saving lives. Until his new fast friend decided to barge in and waste his time. He was hoping that Sebastian was still waiting around to catch a glimpse of Nightbird and not home yet wondering where he went. With a heavy sigh, Nightbird shook his head. "C'mon man, put the money back. I--"

Before he could finish his sentence the other had rushed over to ask about taking a picture together. He was moving so quickly that Nightbird didn't even have the chance to say no before there was a flash in his face. Being as he wasn't expecting any type of light to hinder his ability to save those people that night, he neglected to wear his protective mask, only donning his usual one. "Ah-” He hissed, slamming his eyes shut and turning away. The light was entirely too close and bright; it hindered his ability to see. Rubbing his eyes almost violently, he tried his best to clear his vision but he could barely make out the outline of his non-partner anymore. That was when Nightbird attempted to completely tune out the streak and finish his job to the best of his ability even though he could barely see.

He hurried to tie up the remaining bad guys, catching the few who tried to escape and adding them to the pile, shaking his head at them. “Golly, guys. You’re terrible at this, you didn’t even make it a little challenging.” He joked, teasing them and chuckling to himself. Nightbird rubbed at his eyes again, they felt heavy and dry and he still could barely make out the shapes of the people. Thankfully he could see just well enough to safely escort the hostages out before coming back to speak to the taller again. He walked right up to him, pointing at him. “Alright listen, Red, I know being super is fun. Trust me, I know that very well. But when people’s lives are at stake you can’t just be reckless!” Nightbird lectured the non-hero. “And “likes of me”? What is that supposed to mean? I help people, Speedy.”

He shook his head a little, placing his hands on his hips, figuring he should be just a bit nicer; he didn’t want to make another enemy in the city. “I’m sorry, I just, I can’t risk someone getting hurt-- including yourself-- because you want to have fun.” Nightbird sighed softly. “Just….be more careful. Please?” He asked genuinely with a slight nod. “Now I’m going to go give the police the all-clear so they can take care of these guys.”

Sebastian Smythe:

Sebastian quirked an eyebrow he knew no one could see behind his mask, as the puny superhero continued to lecture him on his behavior. What was this guy's deal?! He all but scoffed at Nightbird and crossed his arms over his chest, observing the fact that the flash from the camera had somehow severely affected the man. Maybe that was somehow the superhero's weakness? He knew every superhero in the history of ever had their shortcomings. Maybe light was Nightbird’s; it would explain why the superhero was typically only out during the night. He decided to keep this little piece of information for himself for now.

“Helping people for what, though? Gratitude? Feeling good about yourself? There’s no gain unless you take something for yourself, right?” He playfully waved one of the bills he’d stolen before tucking it back into his costume. “Y’see, ‘careful’ is not within my vocabulary. And a tip, Birdie? I heal quickly so I don’t really care if I get hurt. In fact, I’d care to say you’re too careful. We should’ve dropped them off the roof of the building and watched them scream in horror.” Even though Sebastian was only joking, it wasn’t a lie that maybe it’d be fun to see bad people get what was coming for them.

Groaning at the mention of the police, Sebastian clicked his tongue. “Always trying to get the police involved-- that really puts a cramp on my style, Birdie. We need to come up with a better solution if this little rivalry-slash-duo is going to work out; you’re gonna need to let me have my fun. Believe me, you wouldn’t want to get hurt.” Hoping that a threat might show Nightbird who was boss, Sebastian whirled his way around the hostages, causing them to scream in terror from the man. Though back in high school Sebastian had sworn off of bullying and being mean, he had to admit to himself that it was actually still a lot of fun… for him.

“Catch you later, buddy.” He laughed and escaped with ease, changing back into his civilian clothes before he blended in with the crowd outside. Now when Nightbird emerged from the bank, he would be able to get the shot he’d come for.

Blaine Anderson:

"Helping people for nothing. Helping them because it's the right thing to do." Nightbird said, rolling his eyes when the other waved the money around. "You can't just mess around with people's lives and this life isn't about throwing people off of the roof or killing them just because they're bad." He sighed, shaking his head, taking a step closer to the taller, his eyes still a little squinty and achy from the light earlier. He'd be dealing with it well into the next day and a half unfortunately. "Those people don't have the abilities we have. We can help them in ways they can't help themselves from scum like these men." He gestured to the pile of crooks he'd rounded up.

He realize very quickly that the other had no interest in listening to what he had to say so he just stopped speaking, only adding one more thing. "Well, we'll see how much you don't like being careful when you end up in a situation where I have to come and save you and believe me, with your reckless behavior, it will definitely happen."

Blaine didn't know what it was about the speedster but he was simultaneously was intrigued and aggravated by him. He got under his skin so badly but he didn’t hate it probably as much as he should and he wasn’t sure why. He crossed his arms over his own chest, raising his eyebrows and keeping his confident stance when the taller threatened him. “Excuse me, but I am not afraid of you. You’re new here- okay? This is my city.” Unfortunately his words fell on deaf ears and his cape swirled in the wind the other created as he made his exit. Nightbird closed his eyes and took a deep breath to gather himself before looking at the group of bad guys who had been silent throughout the exchange between the two super beings. “I hope you guys are happy- I have a headache thanks to you.” He huffed at them, swishing his cape around and going to the doors. Opening them up he stood up straight, eyeing the police and giving them the nod he gave when it was all clear for them to take over.

He took a moment to glance to the crowd gathered around, he could barely see because of the flash from Red’s camera, his eyes extra sensitive to the bright city lights outside. Even through the slight throbbing in his eyes, he could see just well enough to make out Sebastian’s tall frame in the crowd. He felt relieved to see he was still there and not waiting at home for him, he figured that with how many people were there he could make it home before he did even with his eyesight being horribly hindered. He made eye contact with his best friend for a moment, giving him a small smile and a wink before stepping out even further to take off and up onto the rooftop.

Sebastian Smythe:

Sebastian had been waiting in the crowd for Nightbird to emerge, no one around him the wiser about what he had just been up to. He didn’t care about anything the superhero had to say to him; he wasn’t going to let anyone-- even Nightbird-- put him in his place.

When the commotion inside had finally died down, Sebastian watched as Nightbird emerged from the bank and quickly shot as many photos as he could. Unfortunately there was certain to be photos from others of the masked man so it wouldn’t be deemed outstanding. He almost had to do a double take when Nightbird looked his way and winked at him; surely Nightbird didn’t recognize him and this was just a coincidence? Sebastian shot a few more photos before the masked man made his escape, flying away. The crowd that had gathered around the area had burst into cheers and applause for the superhero as the police began to storm the bank to apprehend the criminals and escort the hostages to safety.

Sebastian stood there, the cogs and gears in his brain working as he realized that Nightbird might’ve recognized him as a civilian. It was one thing to egg the man on as the speedster but a whole other thing to catch his attention as a civilian. Maybe there was a possibility he could even lure the superhero out of hiding and catch an interview with him. For tonight, however, the evening was more than over with and Sebastian was sure Blaine was just sitting around at home waiting for him. He quickly shot off a text to his friend before leaving the scene to head back. “Show’s over. Nightbird left and everyone’s safe. I’m on my way home. -S”

He took his time to get home so that Blaine’s suspicions wouldn’t arise if his travel time was unexplainably short. He looked through his photos and clicked his tongue. Who was the man behind the mask? Surely Nightbird had ulterior motives to helping people, Sebastian thought to himself.

When Sebastian arrived back home, Blaine was right where he had left him. “Hey, killer, you missed quite the show. Robbers, hostages, gunshots-- the whole shebang. Nightbird saves the day again.”

Blaine Anderson:

It took Nightbird longer than it should have for him to get home, he had to rely on his senses mostly to get himself home, he spent most of the flight rubbing at his eyes. He was definitely going to have to use his special mask the next time he went out. Thankfully it was only a short way home and he was home in more than enough time to get rid of his Nightbird gear and settle back onto the couch before Sebastian got home. He even had time to put in some of his eyedrops that Santana had so graciously concocted for him.

He was watching some random television show when Sebastian walked through the door, cuddled up under a blanket, wearing his pajama bottoms and one of the taller’s shirts - he had become accustomed to wearing them to sleep because they were a size too big and extremely comfortable to sleep in. The only difference is that when Blaine returned home that evening he turned off most of the lights in the apartment with the exception of a lamp here or there to keep the lights more dim. When Sebastian came through the door he smiled over at him, genuinely happy to see him after the night he’d had, he knew the taller would make him feel better. “Hey you,” He pulled the blanket back a little, patting the couch so Sebastian would sit next to him but then he stood up as he feigned surprise when the other told him about the gunshots. “Gunshots? What? Seb, are you okay?” Blaine looked concerned as he stepped closer to the taller. He was thankful that Sebastian was okay but of course he was never worried, knowing right where he was at all times. Placing his hands on Seb’s sides, he pulled him closer. “You be careful going out there and chasing those superheroes. I can’t be losing you.” He looked up at Sebastian, his eyes weren’t as wide and bright as normal as they were still sensitive even in the darkened room.

“C’mere, come tell me all about it.” Blaine said as he pulled Sebastian with him back to the couch so they could sit and he could cuddle up to the taller’s side. He felt a little insecure and slightly bothered still from his interaction Red and his camera flash; Nightbird needed to be cuddled. “Did you get any good pictures? Did you meet that Nocturnal Avenger?”

Sebastian Smythe:

When Sebastian entered, he smiled at the sight of seeing his shirt on Blaine. “You look comfy,” he teased as he hung his coat up before stepping closer to his friend. He hadn’t thought to ask why nearly all the lights were off or dimmed, too excited to tell Blaine about seeing Nightbird and show him the pictures he’d taken. “Blaine, I’m fine,” he insisted, laughing softly when the man asked if he was okay. He rubbed the other’s smaller frame up and down coaxingly, reassuring him that he was perfectly fine. He kissed the other’s forehead and even did a little spin to show Blaine he had returned unscathed.

“There were gunshots inside the bank; but we could hear it from outside and there was quite the commotion even though no one could see what was going on. But I saw him, Blaine. I saw Nightbird when he was leaving and I… I think he may have even waved at me,” Sebastian thought to be honest to Blaine about anything and everything he experienced when in his civilian clothes. He had nothing to hide when he was himself, after all-- least of all from Blaine. He pulled the camera out of his bag to show Blaine the shots of Nightbird he’d taken and he realized it was probably a little too dark to do so.

“Hey, let’s turn on a few lights in here, hm?” He suggested, leaving the couch only to turn on some brighter lights in the living room. When he returned he was about to reach for his camera when he realized Blaine was squinting-- almost painfully. “Hey, are you okay?” Sebastian asked with a worried tone, moving to turn the lights off again. With the photos and the whole Nightbird encounter forgotten, Sebastian focused his attention on his almost-boyfriend. The man put two and two together-- the dimmed lights, pajamas and cuddled up under the blankets-- “Do you have a headache or something? You feeling sick?” He rubbed Blaine’s back and brought another hand up to feel the man’s forehead for a fever. From Blaine’s behavior and the way he kept squinting his eyes, it seemed like he was almost trying to curl in on himself because he might be in pain. “Do you need me to get you some medicine or something?”

Blaine Anderson:

Blaine couldn’t help but smile at the taller as he watched him completely light up when he spoke about seeing Nightbird and how the superhero even acknowledged him. It made him feel warm and fuzzy inside to know that Sebastian loved and adored him in any form. He was so cute when he was so excited and seeing him that way made Blaine fall for him just a little bit more each time.

When the taller turned on the lights Blaine’s forehead wrinkled and he shut his eyes for a moment, whining softly as he rubbed at them. “Ugh, I’m fine.” He said, shaking his head, blinking his eyes to un-blur his vision a bit. “You know how my eyes get sometimes- they are so sensitive at the dumbest times. I think I was just watching the television for too long.” He lied, taking the remote and turning off the television.  “I already used my eyedrops, I’m okay. I promise.” Blaine smiled up at his best friend, placing his hand on Sebastian’s to give it a gentle squeeze.

“Now c’mere and show me those pictures. I wanna see.” Blaine smiled sweetly, his tone encouraging, wanting to show Sebastian that he was very interested in something he was so proud of and excited about. “Did you get to talk to Nightbird? Did he say anything to you? You said he acknowledged you, yeah?” He pressed, getting closer to Sebastian when he was back on the couch, cuddling close. “Did you see the speedy guy again? I heard he was spotted tonight..” Blaine was curious to know if Sebastian happened to hear anything more about the man in red, hoping for any new information at all without seeming to eager.

Sebastian Smythe:

Sebastian didn’t completely buy into Blaine’s story but he supposed that it was true about his eyes being sensitive. He remembered Blaine mentioning that he would get headaches under the terrible florescent lights in the science room at Dalton and he could remember on more than one occassion of the other man wearing sunglasses while complaining how bright it was outside. “I guess if you promise you’re okay…” Sebastian replied warily, though he made a mental note to check in on his friend in the morning to be certain. With the lights dimmed, Sebastian went ahead and situated himself next to Blaine, getting comfortable with the camera in his hands. He started showing Blaine the various photos he had taken just mere minutes ago, having already sent his selfie with Nightbird to his email and deleted off of his camera. “I’m going to e-mail these photos to my boss tonight so they can print them in tomorrow’s newspaper. Look--” he pointed at a particular photo of the masked man about to take off, “He’s flying without any wings! I always figured he’d have wings since his name is literally Night-bird.” Sebastian shrugged, unable to wrap his brain around how the hero’s flight capabilities worked. But he supposed there was word of other superheros around the world that could fly yet didn’t actually have wings.

“I didn’t get to talk to him… I wasn’t anywhere close enough for that. I’ve got to think of a way to corner him or get his attention so I can ask him some questions.” Sebastian huffed, annoyed that his alter ego couldn’t just ask the questions himself. Unfortunately for the speedster, any questions answered couldn’t be published under Sebastian’s name and that defeated the whole purpose. “I just want to know what’s in the guy’s head, y’know? Do you think he likes all of the attention he gets from the city? I mean, there’s a guy in Times Square that actually sells T-shirts with Nightbird’s name on it. Silly, right?”

Upon reaching the subject of the speedster, Sebastian knew he had to play dumb and lie to Blaine. He really didn’t want to but if Blaine found out about his powers and also knew what he was up to, he knew that the other man would definitely not approve. He stole a few hundred dollars from that bank tonight and that money was sitting at the bottom of his bag. In all respects, Sebastian was now a criminal. “I, uh, didn’t get any photos of the speedster again. He’s too fast for anyone to catch-- I think the best anyone got was a red blur or streak. There’s lots of eyewitness reports of the red streak, anyway. He can apparently run vertically-- like, up walls.” Sebastian sat back and crossed his arms over his chest. “But people have been talking about the streak, huh? I hadn’t really heard anything… I guess I’ve been too focused on Nightbird instead. What, uh, what have you heard about this guy? Do you think he and Bird Boy are working together or they’re mortal enemies, or what?”

Blaine Anderson:

“I do, I promise I’m fine.” Blaine grinned from ear to ear as Sebastian went on about the caped crusader he’d gotten to see that night. It made him happy to see his best friend so passionate about something that he could actually be apart of and help with even if it had to be in secret. He snuggled closer to the taller to take a look at the pictures, squinting slightly at the brightness of the camera’s screen as he leaned his head against Sebastian’s shoulder. “These are really great, Seb.” Blaine praised the other for his skills, he was truly impressed by the photos of Nightbird, Sebastian was so good at what it did that it definitely made him a bit nervous that the other might have crystal clear photographs of the superhero that he could examine close enough to figure out it was actually Blaine underneath that mask.

“Wow, Seb, these are so great.” He assured the taller, placing his hand on his knee and giving it a squeeze. He was actually a bit excited on the inside to see such good pictures of Nightbird-- he had never really gotten to see himself in action before and he thought it was extremely cool. Blaine chuckled as he told him about the other’s ability to fly, his ego inflating a little bit. He knew exactly how he could fly- he was born with the ability just like his mother. He wished that he could tell Sebastian; he knew the other would get a kick out of his real back story and he would love getting all of the scientific explanations from Santana and his mother. But even if he was dying to let the other in on his secrets, he knew his safety was the most important thing. If it got out that Sebastian meant even the slightest bit to Nightbird and if it fell into the wrong hands, he could be in great danger and even get hurt or worse. Blaine was not about to chance it.

“I dunno, I think that Nightbird doesn’t really do it for the attention even though it’s probably a nice feeling- he most likely does what he does because he’s trying to do good. There’s a lot of evil in the world and he has a way to stop that evil unlike anything you or I could ever do-- I mean, if you had super abilities.. wouldn’t you want to use it to help people that can’t help themselves in that way?” Blaine began, his tone calm at first but then it had a tiny bite to it towards the end as he remembered the infuriating conversation he’d had with the Red Speedster earlier that night. He sighed softly, shaking his head out of his annoyed feeling, giving the other a smile again. “T-shirts, huh? You love this guy so much, I bet you have one don’t you?” Blaine teased with a soft giggle.

When Sebastian answered Blaine’s question regarding Red he felt a bit disappointed, hoping to gather at least a little more information. He shook his head and settled back with the taller. “Eh, I haven’t heard much. I just know he’s fast, he wears red, and he’s not shown many signs of being evil or good.” He answered his friend’s question, giving a shrug. “He seems to show up wherever Nightbird is though...maybe they are working together.” Blaine lied, knowing there was no way he could say “Hell no, they are not working together.” without blowing his cover.

Blaine was beginning to feel itchy with the conversation, not wanting to spend the entire night dancing around his lies to the man he was rekindling a friendship with. He punctuated his last sentence with a yawn. “Mmm, so what do you wanna do? You wanna snuggle up here and maybe watch a movie?” He asked, tilting his head up to look at the taller.

Sebastian Smythe:

“I guess all superheroes have that super morality about them, hm?” Sebastian thought aloud, setting the camera aside. He shifted himself on the couch and wrapped an arm around Blaine as they spoke, slightly uncomfortable that he had to continue lying about his abilities. It seemed from the way his friend was speaking that Blaine was similar to Nightbird in the sense of doing good for others. That was the type of person Blaine was, though-- A kind-hearted individual that if possible, would rescue every living thing within his reach. He knew that if space and money permitting, Blaine would be likely to bring home a pack of dogs that were slated for death row. Blaine’s nature was very opposite from Sebastian in many senses yet that same kindness and unconditional love Blaine had for certain things and people was what Sebastian sometimes admired the most about him. Sebastian knew the man was unwavering in his morals and did his best to fulfill good deeds for the sake of fulfilling them.

Sebastian, however, was obviously very different.

“If I had superpowers, the first thing I would do is fly on over to Kurt’s apartment and leave a flaming paper bag of dog poop at his front door.” The image made Sebastian laugh and he seriously thought of possibly doing it whenever Blaine was out at his night classes. “Maybe I could become a superhero-for-hire and the police could ring me up whenever they were too out of their depth… I’d work for pizza and a low fee.” Of course he was only joking with his friend-- as far as Sebastian made it seem, neither one of them had any powers and this was all only theoretical. “Oh! You know what I would get is one of those giant spotlights with a logo, like the one they have for Batman in Gotham City.”

Though he had just gotten comfortable with Blaine on the couch, he knew better than to let his possibly-sick friend stay up and watch a movie with him. “Nuh-uh, it’s bedtime for you, killer,” Sebastian scooped his smaller friend up, having only mild difficulty carrying him--blankets and all-- down the hall and into the bedroom. “We can snuggle but if your eyes are messing with you then a movie is the last thing you need right now.” Gently depositing Blaine into bed, Sebastian undressed himself until he was down to just his boxers before he snuck under the covers. He really loved sharing a bed with Blaine even though his temptations grew stronger every night to rip through his clothes and ravish him.

With both of them in bed together, Sebastian looked longingly as his old friend. “Our trip to Westerville is right around the corner… Are you excited?” He asked, his voice quiet enough to be deemed a murmur as he rubbed Blaine’s back gently. He could feel the other man’s steady heartbeat through the thin fabric of the shirt. “I know my folks are going to be so happy to see you.”

Blaine Anderson:

Blaine chuckled softly when Sebastian declined his suggestion for a movie, sighing softly. “Fine, fine. Oh!” He giggled whenever the taller scooped him up, slipping his arms around Sebastian’s neck as he carried him to their bedroom. Blaine rested his head against the other’s shoulder, taking a soft breath and closing his eyes, squeezing them shut tightly to try and make them feel better. “You’re right- I really shouldn’t look at any type of screen or anything too bright for a bit. My eyes really are bothering me.”

His eyes fluttered open when Sebastian put him onto the bed, moving so he could get under the covers, watching as his friend got ready for bed, taking a selfish moment to appreciate his body. Blaine always found Sebastian extremely attractive, and he had definitely grown up extremely well, his body had only gotten more gorgeous as the time passed. He had grown into some muscles and his abs were a bit more defined than they were in high school. He’s even gained a few more freckles which made Blaine weak in the knees. He had always had a thing for Sebastian’s freckles. They were one of his weaknesses for the short time they were “not-together” in high school.

Blaine smiled sweetly at Sebastian when he crawled into bed, the thought of seeing the Smythe family soon made him happy. “Mmm, I am very excited.” He said, scooting closer to Sebastian, letting his legs tangle with the taller man’s just like he always loved to do, placing his hand on Sebastian’s chest. “I can’t wait to see your family. I need to be sure to get your mom some flowers and your dad something too.” He let his gaze fall to his hand that rested on the other’s chest, rubbing his thumb gently back and forth over one of his freckles. Blaine smiled to himself, letting out a gentle breath as he takes in the moment before him. It took him a moment to gather himself every time it hit him that this was his new reality. So much had changed in such a short amount of time- when he stopped to think about it it made his head spin a little bit.

Even so, he knew he was right where he was supposed to be. His honey eyes made their way up to Sebastian’s and his body filled with a warmth he hadn’t felt since they were last together in high school. “Hey,” He whispered quietly just for them to hear. “I really appreciate you.” He knew it may not have been the exact words he was feeling or thinking- or even the ones that Sebastian wanted to hear - but the emotion behind them was still there. Tilting his head up he pressed his lips gently to Sebastian’s chin, leaving a sweet kiss. “Thank you for taking me in like a lost little puppy.” Blaine crinkled his nose gently, watching his hand again as it trailed slowly down Sebastian’s chest, using his index finger to connect the dots that were his freckles. He stopped when his finger grazed an unfamiliar scar that he hadn’t seen before.

Blaine’s brow furrowed as he carefully traced the tender-looking skin, making a soft noise of concern. Before he could ask, it hit him what it could be from. “Is this...from the lightning?”

Sebastian Smythe:

Sebastian took a deep breath, holding it in before he let it all out in one big contented sigh. He loved the way having Blaine with him made his bed warmer and his life fuller. Now that he had Blaine in his grasp, there was no way in hell he would ever let go. It never occurred to him that he should feel self-conscious about his body, even after the lightning strike had left a nasty gash of a scar in the middle of his chest. Blaine never made him feel like he should be anyone but himself. So when the man ran his fingers across his chest, gingerly touching at the old wound that no longer hurt, Sebastian didn’t flinch or shy away. “Yeah, it is,” he answered honestly, looking down at his chest to see the large, slightly faded scar. Interestingly enough, his newly found powers granted him a heightened healing factor which left him virtually unscatched save for only the largest, most prominent scar on his body. “It doesn’t hurt. Now it’s just a reminder to be careful under skylights during a thunderstorm,” he joked quietly, his breathing even though his heart beat quick under Blaine’s touch. Blaine always had the skill of making him feel a certain way.

“And you don’t need to get my parents anything, B…” Sebastian chuckled and shook his head. Of course Blaine would be a sweetheart enough to want to get something for his parents. "Maybe you can help me figure out a better present for Sloane; so far I've only gotten her a Starbucks gift card and an ironic Hannah Montana birthday card."

He had half a mind to reintroduce Blaine to his family as his “boyfriend” but he wasn’t sure if Blaine would approve him jumping the gun before they had the chance to have their conversation. There was always a reason to put their conversation off and Sebastian hadn’t felt the right moment where he could say the things that were weighing heavily in his mind. In instances such as these, Sebastian found it better to leave things the way they were and leave it up to fate. Prior to meeting Blaine in that little coffee shop or getting struck by lightning and attaining super speed, Sebastian had no reason to believe in things like fate. It seemed that now fate was now the one in charge of Sebastian’s life and what kept it on the right track-- so remaining patient and playing the long game was something he didn’t mind… for now.

“I appreciate you too, Blaine. Way more than you know.” Sebastian’s chin tingled from where the other had just kissed him. “Besides, how could I not take you in when you’re so freaking adorable?”

Blaine Anderson:

Blaine smiled at the other when he parroted back the words of appreciation, sighing happily before leaning forward to press his lips against the scar, leaving a chaste kiss, as if he were trying to heal the rest of it away. He took that moment to once again thank the universe for keeping Sebastian alive. He giggled softly when Sebastian told him what he’d gotten his sister, shaking his head. “She’s going to love that. But I will definitely help with something else, too.” He promised, snuggling closer to the taller.

Nuzzling his face against Sebastian’s chest he took a deep breath, breathing him in. He loved the way Sebastian smelled- he smelled like home. It made his stomach flutter with giddy-like-happiness. “Mmm.” He hummed softly before a yawn escaped his lips, exhausted from the day and night’s activities. Blaine squeezed his eyes shut to relieve a little bit of the pain he was still feeling from the flash. “Ugh, I’m getting tired and it’s making my eyes hurt worse.” The shorter complained, yawning again, snuggling down into the covers more to get comfortable with Sebastian.

“I like sleeping with you,” He mumbled softly, letting out a content sigh before nuzzling his face up against the taller’s neck. “Makes me feel safe.” It wasn’t much longer after he muttered those words that the younger drifted off to sleep in Sebastian’s arms.

Sebastian Smythe:

Sebastian was glad to hear that Blaine was more than willing to help when it came to buying presents for his sister’s birthday. In many ways, it already felt like Blaine was part of the family. He could say with complete confidence that if he were to return home to Westerville and announce he and Blaine were getting married, the entire family would rejoice and throw an impromptu engagement party that same weekend. He loved how much Blaine just seemed to fit oh-so-perfectly into his life. He wondered to himself if this was fate’s way of paying him back after making it so Sebastian couldn’t have Blaine to himself back in high school.

With Blaine nuzzling and moving in closer, Sebastian made certain the other was completely comfortable in bed. “Sleep, killer. I’ll be here when you wake up. I’ll always be right here with you, keeping you safe.” Sebastian silently watched the other peacefully drift off to sleep, proving to him that the man had been more exhausted than he’d let on when they were still in the living room. He thought back to their earlier conversation when Blaine had asked what he would do if he had his own powers. He knew exactly what he would do and intended on doing now that he had his own powers-- he would protect Blaine with everything he had until his dying breath. The world and its citizens didn’t matter at all in comparison to the man sleeping in his bed. Maybe that was selfish but Sebastian had always considered himself a selfish individual.

Sebastian closed his eyes and fell asleep shortly afterward, smiling to himself and knowing that with his powers he would have a much easier time making sure Blaine would always come home to him, safe and sound

#Seblaine #Seblaine rp #Blaine Anderson rp #Sebastian Smythe Rp #Nightflash #para #005

[beforethefilm]

Writing paradise into existence

"The instruments of our damnation become our salvation."

Superman

How can we make this place we live beautiful, heaven perhaps? It begins with the freedom we allow ourselves to do so, without the fear of repercussion hanging over our heads. Freedom begins in our hearts and minds, disregarding the control others now have.

...

There's a lion in the meadow. He scrunches long grass beneath his paws and roams so freely without iron bars to gaze desperate and longingly through. His sharp claws might so easily enact revenge upon those who kept him caged for a time without border.

For only cowards use cages. The brave don't run. But sometimes the lion lies in wait for the jaguar to determine the fate of the captor. See, he's much quicker at uncovering hideaways, and he doesn't care for the responsibility you still today deny. He just wants blood.

...

The value of things has faded. People are the real gold. Flesh and blood and whispers of fragile and momentary poetry.

Research is abundant for cleaning every stream, lake, and waterway in the world. We put our best foot forward and with time they will all be crystal clear and drinkable once again. We know water is our life source and our priority.

Kindness began with little things - shared veggies from a garden, free train rides, words of 'how are you' waited for an honest answer, a real smile, a roof over someone's head. It was so much easier than we thought.

If one single tip of a butterfly's wings can influence the world, can you just picture what happened when six billion people stood for love. It took effort to begin, but now life has become so truly effortless.

We gave each bird it's true place of origin, and home they were which never had they once before. Those rainforests are so very colourful now, and each bird murmurs in wonder of all they now have amongst clouds and tree tips.

Wealth is measured in love, as we have cast aside those objects that once clutched to our ankles like shanks. Diamonds glitter in the rivers, and gold is merely an ornament, not a measure of power. We feel lighter than feathers.

After the revolution the scent of a jasmine flower or a sprig of lavender was the drug our noses accepted. No gleam of gold or silver or paper note could ever equal the burst of colour of an iris. To lay in the grass amongst this colour was the true taste of freedom.

I would describe our awakening, as seven billion blind people who have never seen, waking up to look into the eyes of their child, or to the most brilliant alluring sunrise ever seen, or a hundred thousand monarch butterflies dancing in the soft light of the moon.

It was with this realisation that the world began its incredible change; the people in power don't want change, and it was always up to the rest of us to rebel and revoke the hold they had over us. And just like your mum tells you to stand up to your bully non violently; we did.

Not one single person owns the right to anybody's actions, as long as they are not hurting anyone or damaging any part of this earth. I believe this is important. People are still free to choose a different path to you and I, and stand for what they believe.

We don't use photoshop to alter our bodies for magazines. Our flaws make us human. A renaissance revival has been evoked in spirit and form. Photographs and paintings seep closer to honesty. Authenticity is a word we have reclaimed. Difference is embraced in vivid colour.

Realising that we were living through troubled times because of the messages given to us in the media meant we needed to unlearn so much of what we were taught. We remind each other we are beautiful constantly, and our children are growing up without made up ideals and images.

Without money our divisions are mouse sized. While problems still arise, people have come together like never before. We don't work towards having more, we work towards uniting with people and the earth. It's not the glitter, but the living who always make us feel truly better.

Blankets scour our town's library, hung over each shelf, the fort's floor covered in a rainbow of pillows. Children and adults delve into cosy spots to read spooky stories to each other; an expedition as magical as living inside a storybook.

Tonight we find ourselves in a game of Spotlight, where we must make it back to base before being caught by torch light. The echoes of youth remain in our hearts, and we must live these reminders again and again to find true joy in each moment. But how we missed this for so long.

Our children are all taught what it is to grow a tree from a seed, so they can appreciate the importance of living, growing, breathing life. Our communities tend to gardens, bringing us closer together. We revel in the fruits of our labour. It only takes a little of our time

All over the world people unite creatively in groups to brainstorm new thoughts and ideas to fix this world in thousands of ways. When a group creates something useful and universally agreed upon, the world acts on it without hesitation, and without politics holding us back.

Cages no longer keep the birds who once only knew captivity. We showed them how to be free, & gave them back their ability to spread their wings. It is a beautiful feeling to watch a parrot that only ever knew four walls, fly sky high with the wind on their brilliant feathers.

Words & images which embolden & strengthen our spirits surround us on streets with room to breathe. Advertising has been carved away, & we are left with blue skies and the peoples’ painted voice in brilliant colour. So effortless, so true, & so once unseen, now far and wide.

Our community works with others in the world to have true democracy, where every person’s opinion is majestic. When any thing happens to in-balance this world, our voices are heard and change occurs without hesitation. Money does not talk. Equality is painted through our streets.

Summer winds blow. Life giving trees grow on the side of our streets offering sweet plums and pears to those that live nearby. As age grows on our faces and our children play free, the fruit will grow plentiful, over and above our steeped rooftops and chimneys'. Gifts' to share.

We dedicated ourselves to this expansive waters purification with new technology and worthy endeavour.  We now appreciate the ocean’s full glory and presence. Our body is our temple. The water is a living organ in our body. We treasure it as once we did a polished diamond.

Just a year ago my toes brushed the polluted body of plastic while swimming in this sea. Now my arms reach out to glide through the purest blue without interruption. The pieces that the ocean creatures carried in their stomachs no longer wander through this water.

Every living thing is intrinsically connected. When one is hurting, the rest hurt. When one is healed, the rest are healed. There is an invisible golden thread that ties every single life form together. This is my spirituality. Harmony.

Murmurations are shapes never seen before. Happiness is in their tiny hearts. It's so easy to see now how every living thing is connected. Their happiness is ours, and our happiness is theirs.

Imagine a day that everyones bank account balance is reduced to zero. Absolutely no debt, and no greed. The first day in history we looked at each other as equals.

No one goes hungry. We grow and produce enough food to feed the entire world ethically and sustainably. We work together to make this so, and the machinery and technology to do this is shared in every country.

Love was feared by those in power, for its own power was unpredictable and like a dazzling hurricane in full force. But we all forgot how this hurricane could heal anyone who let it into their heart.

People have so much more time to live, with paperwork lying forgotten on dusty desks.

I see the colour of your eyes now. Not the dark blooms of pain that were so entrenched in my life.

Dancing isn't confined to clubs and concerts. The beach is my most favourite place to give in to the music of the skies or the rhythm of a voice.

We've made so many new positive memories, and the bad ones rarely awaken in my mind anymore. When they do an understanding word or hug comforts me, and brings me back to all the beauty in living, the beauty in this moment.

Phone light, candle light; it's all some cosmic alliance of light, holding us together. An indescribable distinguishing of the dark chasms between us. Like the light within us finding its way out from our soul in order to bridge the sky that is ours.

We grow flowers and gardens and forests where once there were shopping malls and parking lots. The trees are still only small, but one day we will gaze up to them in admiration and appreciation of their presence and their ability to give us our life giving oxygen.

The ocean in the right light is like a hundred thousand unpossessed diamonds glinting at once. Just as the stars are all the light in people's hearts that cannot be put out.

Because we do not define ourselves by how much we have or own. The class system is irrelevant and titles have been demolished. We are all equal. It was always as simple as this.

Sometimes we fleetingly fly poetry or art that has been crocheted, knitted, or sewn into fabric from flag poles just to prove to ourselves that our identity cannot be claimed by a flag or nationhood. Beauty and freedom can be found in that which is not permanent.

Though our values are everlasting.

We no longer allow our differences to alienate us, but celebrate all that makes us one. Refugees have been welcomed, though there is little war now without all that we allowed to divide us. We are free to make any place our home. Ownership of all this land has been released.

Women are no longer expected anywhere in the world to cover their bodies for their perceived protection. The choice is theirs to reveal any part of themselves they choose. Skin and deeper. There is no blame on girls and women for how men choose to behave towards them. 

Womens bodies and minds are now worshipped, no longer manipulated and made to feel offensive. Love lead the way, and education altered people’s views. 

Many, many guns were destroyed in the revolution, so that another child would not die. The manufacturing of them has ended. 

The vulnerability of men and women is now accepted and embraced. The facade of strength falling away in time. We are no longer expected to be strong always, when we have known pain so well.  

Gardens and bees have flourished because harsh chemicals are no longer used on crops. The bees were dying because of the poisons we had created, but are now thriving because of the natural alternatives we sought.

I used to whisper I love you's, afraid of the very sound of the words when released from my lips. Now I have the courage to say them aloud because I know I mean them with every little piece of my heart.

I see r a i n b o w s in people's hearts. C o l o u r s we have never seen before. Seven new s h a d e s . 

If you believe enough in something wonderful, it finds its way to you no matter what overlapping obstacles or deepening distance.

I fear stagnant pools, not flowing water. Flowing water is free.

"May was beginning to wonder if it wasn't better to build a house than shout about how awful it was that people didn't have one." 

Sally Nicholls

#my creation #it will happen #paradise

[garagedoorshampshire]

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$80BUY IT IKEA Bamboo Plant Stand For 3 Pots: Mimic the natural flow of the forest, with a three-tiered stand of three different orientations. Natural and painted bamboo coalesce in a structure worthy of the most stylish living room area.

$29BUY IT IKEA Vildapel Indoor Plant Stand: A mini bamboo stand makes your miniature tree even more miniature.

$520BUY IT Modern Rectangular Planter & Stand: Designed by Joan Gaspar, these polypropylene wonders can act as both planters and dividers. House plants atop and stylish structures underneath these units resistant to heat and cold.

$80BUY IT Large IKEA Indoor/Outdoor Multi-Pot Plant Stand: 13 tiers of black or white metal allow your plant pots to bask indoors or outdoors. A handy partition, semi-living wall or addition to your patio, this reasonably-priced contraption holds whichever pots you please.

$23BUY IT Air Plant Stand: Forgo the pot altogether, with this unique take on the modern plant stand. Brass available in three shades suspends your plant in mid-air, making a perfect exhibition out of your prized succulents.

$122BUY IT IKEA Satsumas Plant Ladder For 5 Pots: Another white and bamboo IKEA creation, this mini plant ladder holds five of your most common herbs and spices. Lean it against your kitchen cupboard for easy access come dinner time.

$22BUY IT Small Succulent Planter & Ladder Stand: Even smaller and cuter, this three-tiered bamboo stand is perfect for the home office. Rest your phone upon the bottom shelf, a couple of cacti on the upper.

$121BUY IT Decorative Metal & Walnut Stand: Perforated metal and a warm walnut finish twist into geometric shapes that hold your plants. Give it a life as the perfect end table.

$160BUY IT Bullet Planter: A metal planter in a primitive shape sits your plant high or low. Place it beside a window, for maximum exposure to the sun.

$34BUY IT Small Hairpin-Style Plant Stand: Pink, lilac, orange and teal are some of the colours your plant can drape over. Contain a small tree or large fern within this low-to-the-ground, dainty frame.

$38BUY IT Copper-Finished Caged Vase Shaped Plant Stand: Available in a gold or copper finish, this metal vase resembles a pineapple. Get fruity with guests by placing it beside the front door.

$287BUY IT Metal Cage Indoor/Outdoor Plant Stand: Tired of plant stands once pretty, but now covered in soil? Find an outdoor alternative, in this metal cage draining out from its floor.

$22BUY IT Decorative Planter & Pot Set: Glean inspiration from American Indian tribes, with these painted resin pots placed on matching metal stands.

$295BUY IT Dubay Bicycle Plant Stand: Hold five plants on a snazzy set of bicycle wheels. This innovative stand is a perfect find for the hipster keen on garden herbs.

$150BUY IT Red Bicycle Planter: Don’t have the budget for a pot-laden bicycle? Try this version for half the price. With three plant holders and a natty stand, it’s a more tantalising for the bank card in Big Apple red.

$17BUY IT Black Metal Plant Stand With Wheels: Multi-layered in durable metal, this wheelable stand ensures no pot marks are left in your room’s corners.

$154BUY IT IKEA Risatorp Multi-Level Plant Stand Trolley: Part-trolley and part-stand, this steel and birch creation holds a plethora of plants in your kitchen. Its oscillating shelves offer easy access to beetroots, tomatoes, and everyday herbs.

From $12BUY IT IKEA Wall Upright Mesh Basket Vertical Wall Plant Stand: Looking for easy access, without the trolley? Look no further than this six-potted mesh stand, a display of baskets packed to the brim with plant life.

$234BUY IT Wall-Mounted Plant Stand: Take a different angle on plant hanging. This diagonal steel stand is mounted to the wall and available in either black or white.

$69BUY IT Modern Circular Hanging Plant Stand & Planter: Want your stand to make a stand of its own? This metal stand and planter draw focus, in a circular design as much a piece of art as plant hanging.

$110BUY IT Air Plant Holder & Stand: Handmade in Washington out of natural cotton twine, this three-tiered plant stand embodies hippy spirit. Hang plants, herbs or even healing crystals in its soft form.

$30BUY IT Ceramic Hanging Planter Set: Hanging from a single nail, this set of four ceramic planters look almost made of cotton. Add edge to your window ledge or seat with a row of cacti resting in its crevices.

$2,750 eachBUY IT Layered Black Planters: Cut to the height you desire, these stainless steel planters are all about art deco – and a highly-expensive price tag. Garner inspiration from their inverted forms upon a dramatic white-walled backdrop.

$262BUY IT Ancient Greek-Style Architectural Pillar Pedestal: The Greeks were the first to know how to place a vase. Use this hand-casted stone and resin piece to pay duty to your fern.

$100BUY IT Corinthian-Style Ivory Finish Plant Pedestal: Get the look of ivory without the elephant cruelty. This resin Corinthian pillar holds large plants in a finish fit for the gods.

$232BUY IT Les Filles Joyeuses Neoclassical Pedestal Plant Stand: Also known as the Three Graces, these ‘joyous girls’ are only too happy to hold your plant. Hand-casted in stone and resin, they play an elegant role in your plant-filled living room.

$227BUY IT Classical Sculptural Pedestal Plant Stand: For a more demure look, these Greco-Roman ladies have it sorted. A place in your library could house their stone-and-resin casted forms.

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from Interior Design Ideas http://www.home-designing.com/unique-decorative-indoor-outdoor-plant-stands-made-of-wood-metal-iron

#Interior Design Ideas