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Drifting- Part 5

There was an eon where Casper merely floated in the infinite dark.

The last thing he remembered before the dark was the concrete road, rushing up to greet him. He couldn't even put his hands up to stop himself as he had grabbed the other person's head with both hands, intending on either tearing it off or slam dunking it into the floor. He recalled, just as it all went blank, that he knew something bad had happened to his head and his neck in the same instance. Even now, a quick check of himself and he knew there were several problems, instinctually, like a perfect itemised list that remained constant in his mind's eye until he dismissed it. It was mainly his head, but he knew he was hurt in the stomach too.

With the destruction of his head, or at least he assumed his head was destroyed, saying he couldn't see, hear, smell or taste anything, nor could he feel anything when he reached up to touch where it should have been; he'd lost all sense of the outside world in an instant. Even if he thrashed or yelled or raged at the dark; nothing changed. His fingers felt nothing, he wasn't laying on anything. The young man couldn't even feel the sun on his skin. He was headless, in the perfect dark.

It was him and the void, all around him. He lay there and, with nothing else to do; Casper began to think.

[Am I dead?]

How does one know when they die? No one had come back to give instructions. Was this what happened? Casper thought back to Earth of all things. The planet which he'd had to flee. Where he'd left his family and many of his friends behind. He'd been on a night out, celebrating his birthday when it happened. Only one of his friends had been grabbed at the same time as him, the rest of his friends had avoided the grasping hands of the ursidains, running and jeering, throwing whatever was at hand.

Casper still didn't know if they had made it off before the end.

From the government records, he was apparently the only member of his family who made it.

Were they stuck in a void like this too?

No wonder ghosts were angry, lashing out he thought. Casper was already getting agitated, and he'd been alone in the void for... How long had he been here? Seconds? Hours? Days? How could he know? He couldn't even feel so much as his...

Then something changed.

The void didn't change, it was still dark and completely devoid of sensation, both physical and otherwise. But Casper could *sense* that he was exposed. Like the back of his neck had been flayed open, leaving his vulnerable spine exposed to danger.

Then there was a noise. A clank of a tool hitting metal beyond a door or wall. Then clattering, of claws on metal, clinking and skittering. More clanking, of something close by, mere inches away.

Then Casper was born for the second time.

Bright light blinded the man. It was so bright, cold, and harsh that he tried to cry out and shield himself with his hands, but the rebreather mask that covered his nose and mouth prevented him from forming sentences. His arms, although now freed from being crossed over his chest, refused to move with purpose; he feebly raised them, only to be shocked by the exhaustion and they collapsed onto him the moment he stopped to recuperate.

Several moving shadows blocked the light, but only for brief moments. The young man kept his eyes screwed up tight, squinting up at the creatures, he tried to prevent them from reach out to him, but all he did was ineffectually paw at them. The air was cold against his skin, and he felt sickly, as if starved and weak. Like he'd not eaten in days. He couldn't help but shiver. All the while this was happening, there was a deafening calamity that lanced pain through the man's mind, giving him a headache that crippled his thoughts. People shouting, tools slamming against metal. It was too much! Too loud!

Something cold and hard, like steel, wrapped around him and lifted him from the womb which had housed him in comfort and warmth. He cried out, but the metal claw that had grasped him between four unrelenting fingers was emotionless as it pulled him free and lowered him onto something yielding and soft.

"Get him to medical. Full check-up."

That was Wren's voice, the young man was certain of it. Her name was clear in his head, but he couldn't bring himself to open his eyes, it was still so bright he could only see the bright red of the inside of his eyelids. He didn't dare open them.

"*Where is it!? Who was the pilot?!*" Came a harsh voice that bellowed and echoed around the apparently enclosed building. Casper felt movement, but there was no wind against him, no sunlight on his skin. He wasn't outside. He raised a hand and placed it over his stomach, but it merely slid off, frictionless. He felt pressure, but the sensation was muted. His fingers couldn't feel his skin, and his skin could feel his fingers.

The harsh voice continued to argue with something or someone but dropped in volume as Casper was apparently moved away, into another room and now that the maelstrom of noise and activity was gone? Fell asleep.

== 0 ==

The next thing Casper was aware of was discomfort. He coughed and winced, there was something stuck in his throat, irritating it. As he reached up however, he found his hand was connected to something, stopping his movements.

Finally opening his eyes, a clean white room with minimal features came into focus. Inserted into the back of his hand was a canular. His wrist was bound to the bed with a cushioned cuff. Turning his head the tubing that connected to the back of his hand, was connected to a drip of some kind, but the bag had alien runes and text on it. It made no sense to him. Next thing he noticed was with the turn of his head, something pulled tight across his face and into his nose. He winced.

With two fingers, he reached up, confused, only to jump when a rumbling voice broke the silence.

"Don't touch that. That's how they're getting food in you."

Glancing round, there was a partially pulled curtain, blocking the source of the voice.

"Who's there? What happened?" He asked, voice rough, but no longer as weak or unintelligible as when he was first torn from the oblivion.

"You completed your first dive. Piloted a mech." Congratulated the voice. It was deep and rich, Casper's translators, of the sub-dermal variety, gave the voice a female inflection.

"That put me in hospital?"

A single chuckle.

"No. But you had no drift, so your brain forgot about your body. Took you a bit to remember. I bet it'll be easier next time." The voice continued with a hint of respect, maybe even admiration.

"Who are you?" Casper asked, trying to manipulate his face to set the tubes comfortably and failing. From behind the curtain, a new alien strutted out.

She was tall, with a serious face. The head was covered in short brown fur which covered a sloped face that met at a pointed nose. Atop her head, was dominated by a pair of long ears that hung down the back of her head and rested against the front of her shoulders. The sclera of her eyes were jet black instead of white, with the black of her pupil, it made her iris intense and dangerous looking.

She wore a rough jacket around her torso, which was left open. Beneath was a nerve suit, similar to the one Casper had worn, complete with open jacks for the needles that would stab into and connect a pilot. This skintight material covered her from her neck, down her body, past her hips and only ended above her ankles. Whilst the rest of her was petit, for such a tall creature, it was her hips there were larger than normal.

Then again, as Casper laid there watching her, with the interloper suffering his study of her in silence, it didn't surprise the human that she had legs for days. If he squinted, the alien looked the spitting image, of a bipedal hare.

"I'm a lopel." She explained, in a bored tone, pushing off from the wall that she'd leant on and again, began to slowly walk around Casper's bed. His head tracked her carefully. "And you're a human." She accused, glancing at him with the golden eyes again. There was something about the way she stared at him, it wasn't a causal gaze or even her studying him as Zeet had done last week. It felt like a threat.

"What do you want? Why are you in my room?" Casper asked, mildly concerned that this thing that was watching him carefully. The way she tiptoed around his bed put him on edge, the saunter was not idle. Was the medical staff nearby?

"I want to kill you." She said plainly.

Casper immediately looked for an alert or a nurse call button but found none. She continued regardless.

"You got lucky yesterday. You ruined my rig and I want my rematch." She explained, coming to a halt next to his drip bag, looming over him whilst keeping her chin up. He could only just see her golden eyes, staring down at him as he were nothing more than filth on the bottom of her shoe... if she wore shoes.

"I'm sor-ACK!" Casper tried to apologise, but the alien grabbed his throat and squeezed. 

"Shut it! Do you know what kind of damage you've done to my-" She stopped herself, on the very edge of shouting, glanced at her hand, then let go of the young man who shrank back into the bed, staring up at her. The pain ebbed, but he was still shocked as she seemingly took a breath through her nose, closed her eyes, and took a step away, down the edge of the bed.

"You've tarnished my reputation, or at least, if anyone hears about this." She began again, with a deadly calm voice.

"I can just say I lost?" The man offered, looking for an out.

"Mm, cute. Like there wasn't a hundred eyes on us. No. I'm stuck in this contract and afterwards I'm never going to get another job again because some idiot decides they're going to bellyflop on top of me. Who the hell even taught you that?" She demanded, frowning, and shaking her face, turning to him as if it was such an incredulous idea to jump on top of someone's back. Her ears cascaded with the move of her head, like two giant ponytails.

Casper recalled that he would have landed on her back if she had stopped her 'rig' or even carried on the way she was going. The young man hadn't expected her to spin on the spot and had overshot, tearing off her 'head' and unable to protect his own.

"John Cena and it was more of a draw-" He replied, truthfully, but she wasn't listening.

"I'll add him to the list as well." She replied in a dark tone. "Next question, how did you get that mech to do that? It's the most broken and glitchy of the rigs here, literally because it's the 'pilot's first rig' mech. It's a miracle it still works!"

"I just... plugged in?" He paused before adding. "I'm not lying." This seemed to amuse her as her head flew back as she barked with laughter.

"'New Guy', you couldn't lie convincingly if your life depended on it." She pointed out, her smile, which softened her features in a lovely way; dropped in an instant. Her serious demeanour returning instantly. The room fell into silence as she pinched her chin, staring at him again. He felt a heat prickle in the space between his eyes, unable to hold her intense gaze.

"Can you blink-"

"What's your drift?" She interrupted, seemingly finding something of interest.

"Eh... A fraction of a percent? Why?"

She didn't respond, only glared at him while her hand stopped moving, still touching her face.

"I'm not-" Casper started, trying to defend himself.

"Shut up. I know you're not." She stopped him, but it wasn't her words that made the impact to the young man, but her tone. She believed him. That was evident even to him, and the 'gun barrel' stare she had been giving Casper was gone. It was a night and day change and she had barely moved an inch.

Knowledge of his 'low drift' changed the landscape for her. He'd missed something... Something important. He breathed in shakily, letting her have a moment to stop him from talking, but she remained pensive.

"How... rare is a low drift?" He asked carefully.

"Very." She stated flatly. Her golden irises flicking up, then back down as her fingers began to scratch at her chin again. She seemed to come to a conclusion and folded her arms under her chest, before tilting her head back as if unbelieving of Casper's answer even before she had asked her next question.

"So, you just... don't know about full submersion controllers?" She asked accusatively. "FSBs?"

"My planet got destroyed about... a month ago? A day before that; the most we knew about aliens was what we made up." Casper retorted, a flare of annoyance igniting in his chest. "No! I don't know *anything*!" Casper snapped back, annoyed that she wasn't getting that everything that had happened was a fluke and angry that he had to bring up such a topic just to defend himself from a mentally unstable easter bunny knock off!

It was enough though. Either his passion or his words, her next sentence was calm and low. She spoke clearly and slowly, enough for him to conceptualise what she explained.

"Fine. Just listen and maybe I can fill you in on some details our 'generous hosts' have left out for you." She offered, briefly raising her hands to air quote her words. For the next forty minutes, Qik the lopel as she would introduce herself, explained about 'full submersion controllers' or 'FSCs' and their use in the wider galaxy.

Casper learnt that mechs were not the only machine that could be controlled by thought alone. Realistically, any device could be connected to a nervous system and handled in a similar matter. Granted the more complicated a system, the more strain it put on the mind. Ultimately, the more complicated the device, the greater the drift commands will suffer. Mechs or 'rigs', were second only to full stations or battleships for complexity.

The more complicated the system, the greater the drift. The higher the drift, the more commands to the machine were lost, changed, or corrupted. Too much drift and the pilot would be lost, the machine almost becoming an animal in of itself. Taking actions without order, the pilot unable to control what now controlled them.

Ursidains had the worst drift rating of all the races. But that didn't mean they couldn't use these FSCs for their equipment, only that they were limited to 'simple' caterpillar tracked vehicles and merely targeting and firing systems for the largest equipment. The most advanced and highest trained pilots of the ursidain people could just about manage the firing mechanism of a shipbound railgun. They would leave the targeting and other systems to other parts of the crew and would merely manage the weapon's heat management and ammo selection. That was enough to give those crews an edge, but the user of the FSC would become a sickly creature; losing weight and needing to be shaved just so they could have their bodies connected to the system.

It was a well-respected, but short career with a well-paid retirement and medical coverage afterwards, Qik explained. She moved onto the other races and gave examples for them too.

Ssypnos were accomplished fighter pilots, however their mass made them quite vulnerable to gravity flight and rendered them at a disadvantage almost universally when they had to take their own weight into account. Since the smaller the ssypno meant the better the pilot, Qik spared no details when she explained it was the orphans who were selected and pressed into military service on behalf of nobles that made up the vast majority of their pilots and military. They were kept cold and hungry, ensuring they remained small and effective.

Taurian females were awful for their drift, whereas their male counterparts were much better. Their natural distain for violence however, rendered them useless.

"What about your kind? I hadn't even heard of 'lopels'." The young man asked, sat up and grimacing as he felt cold nutrient paste slowly crawl up the tube before disappearing up his nose. He felt the temperature as the gross, grey looking mixture made its way down the tube that emptied out in his stomach. He winced as his stomach protested.

"Mm, no one likes to talk about the lopel in the room. We're mercenaries."

"A whole race of mercenaries? Not a single librarian or doctor?"

"You either pay for your medical or go join the GC. Nobody wants their details in the system. Money means you can travel and eat in their zone, but we wouldn't give up or anonymity."

"So why doesn't anyone talk about you guys?"

"Because we're their dirty little secret. If two of the powers get into a fight, it's public record. If a mercenary guild are brought in to win a fight, that's a private matter."

"You're privateers?"

The brown alien shrugged and scratched blunt claws against her cheek.

"Call me what you like. I'm rich, free and happy."

"So how come you're here? Besides planning on killing me."

"Geckins were about to fight the ssypno. I've already done five sorties, and the sixth one was literally due the next day. I signed, then something happened, and everyone sent all their ships to some backend of nowhere system, calling a pause to the fighting. I'm contracted for a fight, that never happened. I signed because the same thing had happened five times before over the previous five days, how could I know the war was put on pause because of a fancy new species popped up." She grumbled, frowning, and sneering at her misfortune.

"Was the new system called 'Sol'?"

The reaction was a stiffening of the body, and her golden irises flicking up and fixing him with a stare.

"Yeah, sounds about right.

"That was us. Humans. Sorry for the delay." Casper said sarcastically, blinking and laying his head back, mood darkening. From the corner of his eye, he watched the lopel tilt her head, her ears falling to the side before she pushed up off the wall and strutted over to him. In their time together, she'd yet to stay still for more than a few moments. Even so far as to peek beyond the door every so often.

"What are you guys called again?"

"Human as a single. Humans as a plural. Humanity as a species."

"You guys use FSCs where you're from?"

"A guy successfully played a computer game with a subdermal link. That count?"

"Rudimentary, but yes."

"If you're not a fluke, and 'humanity'," she said with finger quotes. "are this low on their drift scales on average? They're going to be useful to every single species out in the stars." Qik promised, turning to sit on the bed. She gave one chuckle that spasmed her body before looking over her shoulder to admit to Casper.

"Even my own company would hire someone with *that* low a drift. Even *with* zero combat experience." She turned away and leant back on her hands, considering something beyond Casper or the room they lay in.

"Okay, so what does low drift do then?" The man asked, feeling more human as time went on. "With no drift or thereabouts?"

"No drift? That rig you were in? When you're plugged in; that's your body now. It can do what you can do. No limitations, no need for stabilisers or wasting CPU on balancing things." She turned her whole body now, lifting a leg onto the bed to face him completely.

"You put in a combat role software package into a rig and stick you in? You're going to be able to identify a weak point, select a suite of methods for capitalising on it and be ready to execute those options in the blink of an eye." Casper blinked as she snapped her fingers.

"Your rig no longer needs to think about itself, your brain will do that for you. Instead, it... and you... can focus on the target." She finished, grinning wickedly, obvious excited at the concept.

"I've never been in a fight before." Casper pointed out. He had zero training and realistically no education from back home either.

"Liar." She shot back flatly, before turning away, leaning back, and gesturing with her hand.

"You fought me. Honestly I didn't bring my Grade One game, I underestimated you and didn't have my sensor suites on." She paused and growled before grinning; her front teeth were larger than the rest of her teeth.

"Make no mistake I'd wipe the floor with you the second time round. So would anyone else... So let me train you."

There was a moment's pause as Casper waited for the second half of the joke, but all the happened was a slow stare from the lopel from over her shoulder. The grin and cool gaze remained as she waited for his answer.

"What? That's stupid! I'm not a fighter! Much less a mercenary!"

"Oh what, you got a promising career elsewhere? You're stuck in the system right now, whether that's geckin or the damn GC. Draw up a contract like mine. A single combat outing, success means you're free to draw up another one, you'll own the rig *and* you'll have enough credits to whore yourself stupid to wherever the next fight is..."

Casper paused, frowning, staring at his hands. He turned over his left one, saying his right still had a needle and tube attached that he didn't want to jostle. The back of his hand had a trio of tiny holes that had scabbed over. It was bright red at the moment, but the rings around each of the dots was already discolouring. He was going to bruise. A quick check and he found similar dots all up his arms.

"I thought you said you were stuck?"

"Until the fight starts up, I take a few pot shots, blow up a bunker or break a refinery and that's the contract complete. I'm not here to wage a war, or even fight a battle. I'm a solution to a problem the geckins have. The second this fight picks back up; I'm done and gone. I can train you between now and then. We get you on a contract, do the first one cheap so they send you with me and bam! Freedom."

"Freedom?"

"Oh yes. You join my guild, my company; and we can get you all set up with your own mech, you then work off that debt. Plus it means my defeat just looks like a failed lesson with the 'New Guy'."

"This is mental."

"I'm not hearing no. I think you'd suit something mobile. Definitely having a big engine, maybe so it can power boosters?"

Him? A merc?

The idea scared him. But it did mean he would need to get back into the rig. Something about that idea stuck. Piloting the mech, just walking around; had been great. It was like a high just for existing. But what if...

"I don't want to die."

"You're not going to. Pilots are rare New Guy, no one in their right mind would kill a pilot. Mechs fire the control pod out the back during critical failure anyway so even if you took a bad hit; your survival is more important that the machine. Friendlies grab you and scoot you back to base."

He wanted to say no. To deny her such a stupid idea. He was a kid! Barely old enough to drink! How the hell was he being told to become a solider? There was silence for a few beats.

"I heard Zeet was already building you a new rig... Looks *fancy*." She drawled.

Casper's eyes glanced up at her, she was still sat there, calm, and relaxed; but grinning from ear to ear as she gazed at him with her intense eyes. She *knew* he *wanted* to get back in.

"What would the first lesson be?" He asked, biting the wiggling bait on the end of her hook.

[r/WolvensStories]

[Ko-Fi]

Suguru Geto x Kotoha like reader...

Like hear me out--

reader is born into a powerful clan, but with little or no cursed energy, her family is disappointed, but they decide that they will keep her for her beauty and that they will marry her off as soon as she is of the right age. so it was. Reader marries young to an older man. and she's not having a good time.

Whether with the Kamo or the Ze'nin, Reader constantly suffers humiliation and beatings by her husband and her in-laws, being more of a slave to the home than a wife. but at least she manages to have a healthy and strong son (for now we will call him Haruki, literally "bright light") and in a way Reader resigns herself to her life, because at least if her son would be fine.

That is until her husband threatens to hurt her son......no no no no no NOT EVEN THINK ABOUT IT-

Reader finally gains the courage and strength to be able to take her son and flee from her husband's house (probably when he is sleeping) and flees as far as possible, still hurt and with her son in her arms.

She has no idea what to do, she knows that if she goes to the higher ups they will return her to her husband, where could she go?

then, similar to Kotoha (from KNY) she ends up in Geto's cult, asking for help, that at least if he doesn't want to take her in, take in her son, she begs him. and Geto is at least intrigued by this sequence of events, reader has been on the run all night, so she doesn't even think very clearly, but she has in mind the idea of protecting her son at all costs, and Geto can see what she has ( apart from a lot of bruises) cursed energy, so he decides to let BOTH in with hospitality (much to Reader's surprise).

Reader is treated for both the bruises and the fatigue, but she refuses to let go of her son, and she begs again that please, PLEASE not take her son away from her. Geto allows it, even if now the doctors have a harder time curing her. In a way, this brings a feeling of familiarity, a pleasant feeling. After all, a mother's love is the purest thing in the world, and this could be an opportunity to have a new member in the family.

Reader recovers and begins to interact with Geto and some members of the family, mainly Mimiko and Nanako, Laurie and Manami, the twins LOVE Haruki, like, a lot, they are always playing with him, taking pictures of him, trying on cute clothes and even trying to to make him say his first words.

When this happens, Geto usually has a few moments alone with the reader, drinking tea or eating, he is interested in seeing her vision of the world and, above all, what made her flee to the cult. He probably already knows it, but he wants to hear it from Reader, and when he confirms it, seeing how Reader's face turns sad, he realizes why he is so interested in a certain way.

reader reminds him a lot of himself, when he was young in Jujutsu Tech, to be exact. when he was spiraling, not knowing what to do, but then Mimiko and Nanako appeared, and he knew exactly what he had to do.

That's what he saw in Reader, a more naive and softer version of himself, who was still finding her way. Geto comforts Reader, reassures her, he knows that she loves her son very much, so she doesn't have to worry about her "husband" hurting them ever again, not now that they have a new family that loves them. It's a very soft moment and the awake of something more...deep.

Geto himself easily falls for Haruki's charms! He is a very unruly baby, he loves to chase after everything that moves, so it is not unusual to see him chasing Geto's tunic like a duck. If Geto is sitting, Haruki will go directly to him, Geto catches him before he falls and congratulates him for making it this far.

He's so cute, just like his mom. Would he say if Reader is in the room.Normally Reader just takes it as a harmless compliment to her AND her son, but each time the comments would become a little more romantic and cute in a way.

Reader and Geto spend more time together, whether for x or y reason, Geto wants to teach Reader as many things as possible, how the cursed energy works (I highly doubt they have taught Reader any of that)? gotcha! Are you curious about how curse-seeing glasses work? He gives reader a whole class about it. How does his cursed ritual work? He explains it to her and may even pull out some harmless curses to play with Haruki, and the list goes on and on.

He also absolutely LOVES when Reader sings Haruki to sleep, she sings well, but also the lyrics she sings (even if they always change) are so full of love, he can't help but hum them when he's bored or having to put up with believers.

There was a time when Haruki fell asleep on him and Reader had to sing to them both, Geto relaxed so much that he let out a pick-up line that was more...daring than normal.

-"..sometimes I think we should get married..."-

When he processed what he said he felt much more awake and was about to say something to make himself look less of an idiot, but then reader just said with some humor (and embarrassment) that "I probably wouldn't be a good wife."

Geto blinked twice before realizing, reader didn't dislike the idea of being with him, but he had to be careful where he stepped. He had the opportunity here, he had to take advantage of it.

-"I don't think so dear, you take such good care of me and the family, Haruki is a good child...you make us happy...you make me happy"-

As he speaks, Geto carefully sets Haruki down on the Tatami as he approaches Reader, ending his statement with a promise that Reader knew was VERY real. Also, I won't let anyone hurt you as long as I live.

I only imagine a kiss after that, but if you want to imagine that something +18 happened, go ahead ¯⁠\⁠_⁠(⁠ツ⁠)⁠_⁠/⁠¯

and in a way, Reader being Geto's wife becomes somewhat pseudo-official, since he treats her much more openly affectionately, calling her by nicknames like darling, honey, sweetheart, etc. although one did stay like before, Songbird. Reader become more confident someway, even more cheerfull, No wonder, life finally smiles on her after so long, she has her son with her, she has a new "family" to protect her and even a husband that she REALLY loves.

But the thing is...Reader is very unaware of the plans of Geto for the Non-Sorcerers.

Yeah, she notices some Odd things like he call them "monkeys" sometimes or his little to nule contact with them, maybe it was the rose-colored glasses you wear when you fall in love that made me overlook all of this (which now that I thought about it was pretty questionable) but overall I think Reader was willing to turn a blind eye for love.

until a certain incident occurred.

It was in a night when everyone was doing other things for the "Cult" and Reader was alone with Suguru, but wake up in middle of the night and went to search for him after notice he was not in in there(leaving Haruki in bed).

...And Reader find out Suguru KILLING an Non-Sorcerer.

And Reader hides and tries to calm down, Suguru don't notice her, didn't he? And she feels a LOT of emotions, surpise, betrayal, but overall FEAR. She knew he has a thing with Non-Sorcerers but now...does that mean he would do something to her? To her son?

As a hasty and fearful decision, Reader takes her son and when no one sees, she RUNS from the cult, now having no idea what to do, she is very afraid of what is going to happen.

but then Suguru intercepts her, he doesn't seem angry at all, but rather very worried. Does Reader have any idea how dangerous it is for a Non-Sorcerer woman to go out on her own, alone, in the early morning, with a baby? It almost scared him to death.

but then Reader reproaches him that she already knows what he is doing... and she knows that he is a liar... she will not risk him doing something to her son.

NOW, I came up with two possible endings for this, one happy and one not so much.

The not-so-happy ending is a completely yandere ending, in which Suguru simply brings Reader and her son with him back to the cult no matter how scared Reader is, but at least keeps his promise intact that he would never harm them while he is here alive, but Reader would be much more isolated and would eventually give up because it is better to stay with a somewhat crazy but loving Geto than with her clan.

Reader can become happy in this Ending, but I wouldn't say entirely free, because Haruki (her son) would also probably learn Geto's yandere tendencies and unintentionally ends up being an accomplice, whom Reader obviously doesn't hate but would put a barrier between she and the child.

This Suguru just doesn't want to lose his Songbird:( and does everything possible to give a good life and have the family that Reader deserves(just not in the healtyiest way...)

and the happiest ending is one in which Reader simply sees that Geto really doesn't seem to have bad intentions towards her son or her (because NO ONE would pull such an elaborate trick to kill her) and decides to return on her own to the Suguru cult with him. turning a blind eye out of love to all the bad acts her husband does because Suguru is still a loving father and a very good husband to her, so she doesn't want to walk away even if she should. learn to love both the good and the bad of him, so to speak.

As i say, the happiest ending, Reader at first she could only do it out of a certain fear of the consequences of having "run away" but she soon realizes that no, Suguru REALLY cares about her and her son, without double intentions, without a plan behind, he only loves them because he sees them as part of his family.

Thanks to this, Reader can trust Suguru again more easily, although of course, she ends up unintentionally bringing up old reflections of when she was with her old husband, but she can easily overcome it. More when Geto is pampering her every step of the way.

As for Suguru, he couldn't be happier! He has his two families with him, his family with the Curse users and his family with Reader, who seems to tolerate his plan, which only makes him confirm his decision more. did the best.

Thank you for reading ❤️

Shares reglogs and comments are very welcome!

Snapetober Day 21 - Paradox

Just a wee study of the disenfranchised members of society(ies)

"You have no business going back there. I am not entirely clueless, you know - I know what's going on. Being a Slytherin… a half-blood… It's not like in my days anymore. It's dangerous."

Severus raised an eyebrow.

"Then you should have minded when I was eleven, Mother."

"You need not go back."

His nostrils flared.

"And what am I gonna do here, uh? Are you even thinking about what you're saying? What would I do?"

"You needed to learn to master your magic. There's plenty of work here."

Severus stood up brutally. He knocked his chair over.

"Is that what you want for me, Mother? To work in a factory?"

Eileen was wearing her hair in a plaid, which rendered her jaw more prominent than usual. Severus saw it tighten.

"They are looking for an assistant down at the accountant's. You could get a promotion quickly - you know how much they earn. In a few years times you could have your own agency. You are good with numbers."

Narrowing his eyes, Severus reached for his pocket and pulled out his wand. He laid it flat on the table - his mother flinched ever so slightly.

"Put it away."

"I will take the apprenticeship. It is a prestigious position. Hundreds of applicants. You should be… happy for me."

Eileen looked away. The faucet was dripping, and she took an interest in the water droplets; they were a familiar sound in the narrow kitchen. The faucet had never been fixed.

"It's not for you. Stay here, Severus."

"You cannot possibly think that this" - Severus gestured to the place around them, and certainly he meant much more than the four walls or even the house - "that this is better for me. That it is where I am meant to be."

"You are among your people here, Severus. No one looks down on us."

"So that is what this is about, right? You have deluded yourself, you think - what, that muggles have fewer prejudices than wizards? It is true, you are not a pure-blooded witch with a worthless muggle husband here - you are just no one."

Eileen closed her eyes briefly.

"And is that not better?", she whispered.

"To flee disgrace by embodying it?"

"You are fleeing from your roots just like I am, Severus. You want to make a name for yourself. You are talented - gifted. But you have no family, no money, no name. People will fear you or look down on you on principle. There is one way, only one way for you to rise… and those people will use you… and you will gladly let yourself be used, because you will be grateful they even laid eyes on you… Severus, I fell to the bottom - you were born in it. Those people will always, always see that first."

"There is no need for magical abilities to show disdain, Mother. Just cross the bridge. Or better, go to London."

Eileen shook her head. She was still looking at the faucet.

"To have no money is not the same as to be the bearer of a dishonourable name."

"How lovely. Why don't you say that to dad?"

Slowly, she turned her head, looking at him again. Her eyes were pleading - Severus looked away in disgust.

"Because his name is meaningless here", she replied carefully. "It does not mean disgrace, impurity, family shame - it means nothing."

"So I should strive to make a name for myself amongst the nameless? Is that what you propose?"

She tried to reach out to him. He had come nearer to the table - he withdrew his hand before she could touch his.

"Yes, Severus. Whatever you suffer here, it is better than delusions of grandeur. Know your place."

-

"You did good, Severus. Glory and power await you: rise, my servant."

Obediently, he stoop up, and the Dark Lord seized his harm brutally. His skin was cold - he smelled like blood, and dust. He pulled him into a tight embrace.

"And do remember, Severus", Voldemort whispered in his ear. "Know your place."

-

Dumbledore looked magnanimous, like a judge about to render his verdict. He had his back turned on him, and did not bother to turn back when he spoke.

"You forget what I have done for you, Severus. Why you are here - what you have done. You are not to question my decisions on this matter. Know your place."

Severus lowered his head.

But for a second he wondered how exactly he could have done things any differently, and he found no answer.

Patience is virtue

Pairing: Max Verstappen x reader

Summary: Jimmy and Sassy are pure saints.

Warnings: Mentions of pregnancy. Mentions of Jos Verstappen.

Word count: 2.3k

Masterlist

AN: So I got this idea because my friend's cousin isn't the most gentle with the family cat. This is my first time writing for Max Verstappen, so any feedback will be appreciated.

Also, if anyone has requests for Max Verstappen, feel free to send them to my inbox. It can be a plot idea or just a plain title.

Jimmy and Sassy were saints, you and max both knew this. Before your son was born, both cats already had experience with grabby toddlers, Max's nephews being great practice for both pets to adapt to babies inside the house. 

When you both started considering having a kid, Victoria had recommended you have a test drive with her two boys, just to test the waters. You were already Luka’s godparents, but Victoria’s offer also sounded like a way of getting both of you to babysit more, which you didn’t complain about. Luka, and now Lio adored being at their uncle’s and aunt’s house, it was a big place, great for crawling and running everywhere. 

Besides you taking care of your nephews, Jimmy and Sassy also got great practice. Luka, during his long life of almost two years and a half, adored petting both cats. This meant that Max had to teach him where to pet and how considering the toddler wasn’t great at controlling his strength. Lio, who had just mastered the subtle art of crawling and grabbing everything in sight, had a specific favorite victim: the cat’s whiskers. Poor Jimmy, during the middle of an online work meeting, barged into your room, hiding from the little terror that Lio had become. Of course, the shelter also known as your office wasn’t that great, little Godzilla crawling into the room after the cat. Lucky Jimmy, the moment his greatest fear came in, his attention went to you and decided to forget his victim for a few minutes. Lio was a cuddly baby, from the start, and you loved it. Your nephew smiled at you, and after a loud “gah”, Lio has coming as fast as he could towards your office chair. While the little monster was distracted, you saw jimmy taking the chance to silently leave, making sure Lio couldn’t notice the flee of his latest victim. Surely, Jimmy would join Sassy, who was probably in the home gym with Max and Luka, where the civilized people resided. 

You looked down at the little boy that resembled Max so much. “What were you doing, little terror?” Lio gave you a toothless drool-filled smile, meant to guise innocence. “You wouldn’t hurt a fly, right Lio?”

“Gah.”

“That’s what I thought.” You stroked his hair back, trying to tame the mess that had become his head after probably rolling around with his brother. Lio soon became distracted by something nonexistent. It sometimes surprised you, how babies could focus on a plain white wall for five minutes uninterrupted. 

After you finished your work for the day, Lio and you went in search of the rest of the family, after a failed attempt to join them at the gym. You always thought that the size of the apartment in Monaco was unnecessary, too big for the two of you. You couldn’t even picture how Max lived in it when it was just him, the maze-like place sometimes intimidating you.

You found the four missing family members in the kitchen. Max had Luka on his hip while cutting a banana into bite-sized pieces for the boy who had his arms around his neck. Sassy was purring while rubbing against your fiancè’s pant leg. Jimmy was on the counter, following every movement with its yellow eyes, looking for possible food. 

Your fiancè looked up from his work, smiling once he saw Lio and you. “Look who joined us, Luka.” The boy, once he looked up from the kitchen counter, leaned away from Max, wanting to be in your arm instead. “I see how it is, little man.”

“Auntie!” Max walked closer to the two of you so that the toddler could easily reach you. You repositioned Lio so that you could have both boys on your hips. It wasn’t the first time both of them wanted to be held by you, so you had managed a technique that both boys didn’t fall or get hurt. “Hi Lio!”

The baby had been slowly blinking, signaling that he was ready to have a nap. After his brother’s greeting, he looked annoyed at his sibling and got teary-eyed. Once you noticed, you started swaying back and forth, trying to calm Lio down, not appreciating it when one of your two favorite boys started crying.

“Honey, honey, you’re fine.” Lio looked up at you, the small tears barely nonexistent. You rubbed your nose against his’, knowing that it would distract him for a bit. You then felt a small hand tugging your ear, signaling that the owner of said chubby fingers wanted the same. “For you too, Luka.”

…

Months later, after the wedding, you found out that you and Max were expecting your first child, and the racer’s reaction couldn’t have been better.

You were both sitting on the couch, enjoying each other's company while watching some movie Daniel had recommended. Max had Jimmy on his lap, while Sassy was resting on the back of the couch, with her little head on her owner’s shoulder. Max’s other shoulder had your head on it, and his arm wrapped around your waist, stroking his fingers on your waist, the wedding band giving you chills now and then.

“Bub?”

“Schat.” You shifted your head to look at him, a small smile on your lips.

“What do you think about us having a new team member?” Max brought you closer to him and kissed your hairline. 

“We’ve spoken about this, lief. We both know Jimmy and Sassy don’t react well to dogs.” You shifted again to look at him in the eyes, a dazzling smile on your face.

“A human new team member.” Max’s eyes doubled in size, and he could only manage to let out a small chuckle.

“A baby?” You moved your head side to side.

“Preferably, I don't want to birth a fully grown adult.” Max grabbed Jimmy the same way they held Simba when he was being presented to the kingdom but facing him. Sassy, after Max’s movements, gracefully jumped into your lap, resting her head on your thigh closest to your husband.

“Jimmy, Sassy, you’re going to have a sibling, and you have to be patient with them.” Sassy raised her head from your lap, giving Max what seemed like an unamused look as if saying: We’re already patient enough with the other monsters you bring home.

Jimmy, who was more open to kids (except for Lio, that one terrified him), just looked at your partner blankly, not understanding what the fuss was about. “I need to call my mom.” Max left the cat beside you and dashed into the bedroom, where his phone had been charging.

…

During the pregnancy, as your bump grew, both cats had found enjoyment in resting on your pregnant belly. They took naps on it, or just laid there and demanded pets. When both cats managed to share the space, Max would sometimes get annoyed, saying that they got to spend more time with the baby than him. When he would say this, Jimmy would look up, yellow eyes glaring at his owner, as if defying him to repeat that. 

And once the baby came, both felines would always follow whatever adult was holding little Hugo in their arms. Both cats wanted to make sure that the baby was safe, probably just to avoid the high-pitched wails that would sometimes come out of the small chubby ball. A few times, Max and you had tripped in the middle of the night once Jimmy or Sassy had followed you into the nursery to see if the baby was okay.

“Hugo Verstappen, wat doe je?” (what are you doing?). Once the baby was old enough to recognize the things surrounding him, he showed a particular interest in the two cats that liked to move around the house. “Wat doe je?” The small boy was trying to point at Jimmy, who had followed them from the bathroom to the master bedroom, after the boy’s shower. “Is Jimmy there?” Baby Hugo was wrapped in a bull-themed towel, the small hoody resembling the head of the animal. The baby’s legs were moving back and forth from the excitement, hitting Max on his stomach and back.

The cat, after hearing Hugo’s excited squeal, decided to go into a separate room, fleeing from the loud noises. Said room is your office, which had become his designated hiding spot from whatever monstrosity was making too much noise. It was a good room, had a nice soft carpet, and it was absolutely silent, maybe some typing or an online meeting, but it was heaven if you wanted silence.

Once you heard Max talking to Hugo, and Hugo’s little excited babble, you left the kitchen, with the intent of helping your husband with getting your son ready for bed.  You found both boys in your bedroom, Hugo laying on the bed, with the towel separating his wet body from the dry bedsheets. After changing the baby, they would surely end up damp, but damp was better than soaked. Max hadn’t noticed you coming in, which you appreciated, considering you would get to see their interaction.

“Look at that Hugo, you get to wear your favorite.” Max was holding out a onesie that had dark blue race cars. Your son, being the happy baby he was, gave a happy squeal, probably just from seeing his dad’s face. “Your Papa is so glad you threw up on the other one. We don’t like red race cars, do we?” Hugo just smiled wide enough to show his papa his singular small tooth. “We prefer red bull, Ferrari drools.” The baby grabbed his foot, putting it into his mouth, drool covering his face. “Liebe jongen, you have some drool.” 

Once Hugo was dressed and ready for bed, you grabbed your son, just to have some cuddles before bedtime. Max, during the first months of dating, hadn’t shown any signs of his love language being physical touch, but once you got closer, you realized that Max was slightly touch-deprived, considering that Jos Verstappen wasn’t the most affectionate man. After three months of dating, it was as if a switch had flipped inside of your boyfriend’s mind, Max had become the number one fan of hugs, kisses, and any other form of affection based on touch. It warmed your heart to see that he was able to express love towards his son through touch and to see him live for these cuddle sessions before the baby went to sleep. 

Max kissed you before handing you Hugo, and once the baby was in his arms, he kissed the few hairs covering the baby’s head. You led both boys to the living room couch while swaying the baby up and down to get him to fall asleep. It was a trick you had found out recently, Hugo would go down in less than five minutes if you did it, and it had saved you some hours of sleep. Once sitting down, you put the yawning baby in a laying position, and gently stroked his cheeks and nose. Max was sitting beside you, lovingly looking down at you and Hugo, taking in the sight of his little family.

…

The next day, you had a small family gathering, to celebrate Victoria’s wedding anniversary. It wasn’t something that was overly celebrated, but it was a good reason to meet up the eight of you, and have lunch and spend the afternoon together. 

You went to Victoria’s place in Monaco, a small house outside of the city. It had a garden big enough to have a big table and still have room for the young boys to play around. Because of Luka’s special request, you brought Jimmy and Sassy with you, the oldest grandson wanting to play with both cats. Now, Lio was two, and Luka was three, which meant that they had more or less mastered the art of playing with both cats, but Hugo, was still learning. 

Once you had finished lunch, the five of you, Victoria and her husband, Max and Victoria’s mom, and you and Max, you had all sat around in some lounge chairs that were in the backyard. The boys were playing in a plastic house that Luka had gotten for his birthday, the two oldest coming in and out while Hugo was sitting in front of the door, laughing whenever Luka showed his face through the window. 

Jimmy was resting on Victoria’s lap, appreciating the pets the young woman was giving him. Sassy had just jumped away from Sophia’s, going to see what the young boys were doing. It didn’t take long for Sassy to come back, running in your direction. Little Hugo was crawling after the cat, making the feline jump into your lap. Once Hugo reached Max, he opened his small fist, showing his dad what he had. 

In his chubby hand, you could clearly see two whiskers, belonging to Sassy. Max grabbed them from his son’s hand and showed them to you. While your husband was explaining to Hugo that he had to treat friends gently and with love and that we didn’t hurt our friends, you stroked the poor cat, feeling bad from the pain she must have felt. 

“Patience is a virtue, sweet Sassy.” Max looked at you, bewilderment in his features. 

“We’ve created a monster.” Max then looked at Hugo, who was happily on his lap. “Klein monster, apologize to Sassy.” The small boy looked at the said cat and kicked his legs in excitement. 

“Kat!” The cheetah-like cat left your lap, deciding to hide in a better place.

Snippet Time!

I feel like I haven't posted anything in forever, and since I mentioned him on one of my polls I thought I might post this for reads and comments.

As a bit of context, Kel comes into Mortal Sparks as a detective and former companion of Nicolette's mother. He helps Nicolette and Alyss move through the big city and eventually flee the continent on a ship. Kel has been haunted through his life by the kidnapping and murder of most of his family, which he believes was tied to the exotic slave trade. Despite his efforts, the three youngest members of his family have been missing for over 20 years.

This snippet is from his childhood in the rural mountains of Clard Bute.

@thetruearchmagos @teacupsandstarlight if you're up for a bit of not-light reading?

"Happy birthday!"

Owen groaned as he was shaken so hard his head flopped off the pillow. 

"Happy birthday!" a chipper voice repeated, a soft thump landing next to his head. Owen curled tighter in his quilt. Small hands patted his cheek repeatedly.

"You think we should get the water, Pat?" Conner asked, somewhere above. 

"Gonna be late if we don't," Patty grumbled. 

Owen fumbled to his left, snagging Riley and pulling her in with a squeal. "Gonna get the baby wet," he mumbled, tickling her until she flopped off the bed, still giggling. He pulled himself up and rubbed his eyes. 

"I'll pay that price," Conner loomed over him, wielding a cup threateningly. Owen could see it was empty from the bed. He stuck his tongue out. 

"That's not how a man acts," Patty scolded from the door. She tried to pick Riley up from the floor and was promptly tickled in return. "Get up, Owen. Kel made breakfast."

"Get up, Owen," Conner mimicked. 

"Get up, Owen!" Riley added helpfully. "Up, Owen!"

"I'm going to eat," Patty sniffed. She left, and Owen pushed himself up. He pulled a shirt over his longjohns, stumbling as Riley tangled herself in his legs. 

"Can you get rid of her?" he pleaded to Conner. 

His older brother swept Riley up in a bear hug. 

"Com'on, blubberbug, breakfast's waiting." He walked her awkwardly out to the kitchen as she tried to wiggle over his shoulder. Owen pulled on his boots and shuffled after them. 

"Morning, birthday boy!" Kel crowed from the stove. Patty was already grumpily spooning oatmeal into her bowl. Owen's eyes caught on a small pile of chokecherries at Kel's elbow. Kel caught his look and grinned. 

"Ready to eat?" He held out a bowl and sprinkled the chokecherries dramatically on top. "Only the best for our new man of the house."

Owen wrinkled his nose. "I'm twelve," he complained. "'Sides, that's Noah."

"And what am I, chopped liver?" Kel teased. "I get you wains out of bed, I feed you, I clean your nasty clothes -" he paused to pull Riley's hair out of her oatmeal, twisting it into a hair-tie. "And it ain't no picnic." 

"Love you, Kel," Patty announced obediently, Owen and Conner a beat behind. Kel waved it away affectionately.

"Get on to school, now. You'll be late." Owen crammed more chokecherries in his mouth in between gulping down oatmeal. He grabbed his books, packed and ready by the door, and trooped out with Conner, Patty, and Riley. 

"Not coming, Kel?" Patty turned before the door shut. Kel shook his head.

"Gotta call Mom, you ken? She probably lost track of the days. She'll want to be here tonight." 

He said it with such easy confidence, Owen almost believed him. Conner muttered something, but shook his head when Owen leaned closer. He tugged at Patty's arm, and she let the door slam shut. 

"He's gonna be behind next time he does come," she complained as they stomped down the frosted dirt road. Owen gazed up at the lightening sky, hoping they'd have an early snow for his birthday. 

"He's not going back," Conner snapped. "He's gonna go with Noah next year, and I'll be looking after you lot. And once you get to 15, you'll be looking after Owen and Rils and I'll be working too."

Patty was silent for a moment. She stepped over the pinecone Owen kicked her way, still frowning. 

"But I like school. I want to be a nurse, you have to go to school past 15 for that."

"Yeah, and I wanted to be a printer. But someone has got to take care of the littles."

"Kel takes care of us just fine," she protested. "Why can´t he stay home? He's been doing it since Mom left."

"Daithaine ort, Pat, 'cause he's gotta work. You think Noah makes enough for 5 of us? You think we can live off berries and rabbits forever? What about our clothes, Pat? You'll be fine, you got Mom's and 'Kayla's dresses, but what about Owen?"

Owen hunched his shoulders at his name. Patty had a stubborn look on her face, like she was glaring at John Balacky all over again. Conner went on. 

"His boot were Dad's, then they were Noah's, then they were Kel's, then they were mine. You think they're gonna last much longer?"

Owen could hear Noah's words as Conner ranted. A three-room cabin was not enough space to avoid eavesdropping even on a quiet conversation. He'd seen the slump of Kel's shoulders through the door slit, heard a mumbled agreement as Noah ran his hand over his face. He had looked older than nineteen, in the lamplight. Owen had heard a different variation a few days later, as Conner tried to make his own stand. Kel had put a hand on his shoulder, but Conner shook it off and stomped into the bedroom he shared with Owen. 

Noah had gone to bed a few moments later, pausing at the door as Conner cried quietly with his face toward the wall. His footsteps moved on after a few seconds, leaving only Kel to quietly prepare the kitchen for the morning. 

 Owen had barely seen his oldest brother for the last two years, and never in daylight. He rose before the rest, second only to Kel, who got up first to warm the stove. He got back home late too, smelling like sap and cold and sweat. Kel alone waited up for him most nights, though the sound of movement sometimes stirred the younger kids to say goodnight. 

Owen blinked as Patty stomped her foot, now in a full-fledged argument with Conner. He buried his fingers deeper in his pockets, wondering if it was worth the effort to break them up. He yawned and thought better of it. They were still arguing as he pushed open the wire gate to the schoolhouse. 

Kel was waiting for them as soon as the school bell rang. He leaned on the wire fence, grinning cheekily at the older girls standing in the schoolyard. Mary Balacky in particular took notice, her face turned toward him even as she chatted with her friends. Her red bow bounced slightly on the top of her head as she nodded happily, her eyes darting to Kel. Owen wrinkled his nose as Patty snorted. John Balacky stuck his tongue out at Patty as she and Owen pushed past, half-hidden behind his sister's skirt. 

"Where'd Conner get off too?" Kel asked cheerfully, glancing at Patty and Owen before eyeing the girls again. He had a pack slung over one shoulder that was suspiciously lumpy. 

"Ms. K wanted to talk with him," Patty said snottily. 

"She said he wasn't in trouble," Owen piped up. 

"Probably she wants to give him another award for good behavior," Kel reached over and tugged at Patty's curls. "Not like little Miss Right Hook here."

"Jonny started it," Patty insisted, swatting at Kel's arm. 

"And you ended it just like I showed you, huh? Right in the kisser. Pow!" 

Patty grinned. 

"What's that?" Owen pointed to the bag. 

"Nothing for right now. Gotta wait for the celebration, alright?"

Conner stomped out of the school, glowering at the younger kids in his way. They scattered like sparrows as he reached the gate. 

"There he is," Kel greeted him. "You get another gold star?" 

Conner resettled his bag on his shoulder. "She wanted to know if this was my last year in school." He shrugged. "I told her I didn't know."

Kel grimaced, making an aborted attempt to pat Conner's shoulder. "Well," he cleared his throat, "Let's get going, wains."

A chorus of "Bye, Kel!" followed them away from the school. Kel twisted to give one last wave before settling to walk up the mountain, his arm draped over Owen's shoulder. Halfway to the house, Owen gathered the courage to speak.

"Kel?" He hesitated. 

Kel tightened his arm supportively. 

"What's the craic?" 

Owen felt his newfound courage fade. "What if…" he tried, but lapsed into silence. Kel gave him small smile. 

"What if it doesn't work?" he finished for Owen. Owen nodded, cheeks heating. 

"Well," Kel dragged the word out, "If it doesn't, we gotta feed you to the fairies, you know." 

Owen blinked at him. "The fairies?"

"Yeah, you´ve seen the ring down by the kill. You know, we used to have another brother, but it didn't work for him, so he had to go into the ring."

Owen stared up at him. Kel snorted. 

"Geez, If I told you I wrote gullible on the roof you'd look up, wouldn't you?"

"Uh," Owen muttered. 

"It's gonna work, buddy. And if it doesn't, you'll still be our annoying littlest brother. 'Sides, you don't remember your teething years. You've got some strong chompers."

Kel poked at his mouth playfully. "Open up now, let's see those sharp canines. I've still got a scar from when I got too close to your dinner."

Owen pushed him away. Kel chuckled and slung his arm back over Owen's shoulder. "You're gonna be fine, I promise. Scout's honor."

Owen nodded, but he burrowed a light tighter under Kel's arm anyway. 

At the house, he and Patty did their homework while Conner helped Riley with hers, and Kel chopped firewood behind the house until dinnertime. 

Owen looked up when the door opened, expecting to see Kel. Instead, Noah pushed his way in, dropping his knapsack in the line of bags by the door. Owen jumped out of his seat and rushed into Noah's arms. 

Noah chuckled, wrapping Owen in a bear hug. "Easy there, bud," he rumbled. Patty and Riley also joined the clump, squishing Owen between his siblings. 

"I didn't know if you were gonna be here," Owen beamed up at Noah. 

"Course I was. I wouldn't miss your birthday."

"Missed mine," Conner muttered from the table. Noah looked up, a dark expression clouding his face, but whatever he was going to say was interrupted by Kel pushing past. 

"None of that," Kel told Conner pointedly, "This is a birthday and we're gonna be happy with each other, okay?"

Conner shrugged, but followed him back out for another armful of firewood. 

With the stew ready and the shadows stretching over their cottage, Owen sat in the middle of his family as they prayed and sang and ate. As he tipped the last of the stew into his mouth, Kel stood up and fetched his bag, setting it down in front of Owen and taking his bowl. Owen pulled back the top of the bag and lifted out a pair of dark leather boots, solid and sturdy, with only a few scratches on the toe. He breathed in the smell of clean leather, with no scent of his brothers. These boots were his and his alone. He grinned up at Noah, who was watching him with a tired smile. 

"You'll need to pad them out with your socks still," he told Owen, "but we figured your old ones were about ready to kick the can. These should last you at least ten years, if you care for them right."

"I will," Owen promised. He stood and hugged Noah, then Kel. 

"You want another bowl?" Kel asked. "There's a little left." 

Owen shook his head. "Its almost time, right? We could visit Kayla and Dad, before…"

Noah got to his feet. "Good idea. Let's go visit Kayla. The bonfire is close to her anyway."

The kitchen was suddenly a bustle of activity as everyone fetched coats and boots. Kel fussed over Riley, pushing his own gloves over her mittens and wrapping a second scarf over her head. He delayed so long that even Noah rolled his eyes and pushed them all outside. 

All six followed a small path through the trees, into a small clearing. Owen blinked in the darkness of the trees, but he followed his brother's sure footsteps into the lighter area of the clearing. Puffs of air hung around their heads as the family gathered next to two headstones. Owen hung away from the second headstone. It had always made him feel weird, that there was no grave under it. It was like talking to empty air. But, the loggers never found any remains to give them. Their mother had insisted on the headstone. 

Kel cleared his throat. "Hey, Kayla. Hey, Dad. It's Owen's birthday, his twelfth birthday. We, uh, we wanted to come and all be together -  well almost all, but," He took a deep breath. "We wanted to come and remember that, we're still a family. And we always will be. You both should have been here tonight, and -"

He stumbled to a stop. Noah took over. "You aren't forgotten. You never will be. Each of us carries you in our hearts. Tonight, in this life or the next, we are together, as family."

Patty nudged Owen. "Say something," she hissed. 

"Uh, Dad, Kayla, I miss you. We miss you. But I promise, I'm gonna make you proud, and I'm gonna, uh, take my place in the family. We're looking out for each other."

They stood in silence for a long moment. Kel shifted first, gazing at the sky. 

"Moon's almost up." he said. "Let's get to the fire."

On the other end of the clearing, Kel had piled logs and branches almost up to Owen's chest. The logs had already been doused with gasoline, and a thick swath of freshly tiled dirt created a barrier between the bonfire and any dry grass or pine needles. Noah struck a match and tossed it at the base of the logs. It caught flame with a bright flare that settled into a steady, warm blaze. 

Owen fiddled under his coat, clutching his amulet. He hadn't taken it off in nearly six years. His heart was already pounding away next to the amulet, heating the red stone. Owen heard a thump as Noah shed his heavy overcoat. To his right, Kel unwrapped his own scarf and added it on top of Riley's numerous layers, followed by his own coat. Conner had already stripped to his longjohns, and Patty was pulling off her boots. 

"It's best if you get the clothes off before it starts," Noah advised him gently, pulling off his shirt. "You don't want to rip anything." 

Owen nodded nervously. He had always been like Riley until now, waiting in cast off layers for the moon to finally cast light over the clearing. He tugged at the laces of his boots, his ears attuned to the soft sounds of clothes falling to the ground around him. Owen was down to his skivvies, shivering, when a low groan made him look up. 

The moon had risen. It loomed behind the mountains, thin wisps of clouds curling around and under its glow. Full, and huge, it stretched up, up, and at last pulled free of the horizon. Kel's head dropped back to his shoulders as he groaned again. Noah fell into a crouch. Conner stretched his arms forward. Patty threw her head back and let out a high, mournful cry, that slipped into a wild howl as she shuddered and folded, her forelimbs lengthening, her hair spreading to cover her entire body in dark brown fur. She threw back her muzzle and howled again. This time, Kel joined in, his voice dark and melodic. Noah and Conner joined, Conner an octave above both his brothers. 

Owen's throat ached to join in, like he had dreamed each full moon. But he clung to the amulet, his hand like a vise. If he took it off, he'd have no excuse. He hesitated. The voices dwindled off. A cold nudge to his elbow brought him back to reality, and he looked up at Kel's amber eyes. He was a huge werewolf, larger than a pony, but even a smaller werewolf like Patty could never be confused for a true wolf. It was the eyes, and the legs, with their strangely long paws and bent limbs. Kel nudged him again, his eyes gentle. 

Swallowing, Owen pulled the amulet over his head, and tossed it into the fire. For the first time, he felt the moon steal over his skin. It itched like crazy, like his skin was crawling, moving. He scratched at thick, dark fur that coated his arms, his legs, his chest. He cried out as his fingers cracked and twitched, becoming longer, thicker, built for running and clawing. He ran his tongue around a lengthening mouth, sharpening teeth, and finally, finally, settled in a crouch and tipped his head back to the moon, letting loose a howl. 

His siblings joined in joyously, howling and yipping, their voices bouncing off the mountains and echoing back like a pack of a hundred. Owen pulled in air through his nose for the first time, marking the scent of each of his pack, his family. The fire in front of him snagged in his nostrils, sharp and acrid, but below that was the scent of the trees, clean, and the earth, and a deer, stinking of fear as it bounded away. Owen ached to chase it. 

As if he had read Owen's mind, Noah rose to all four feet, summoning his pack with a low grumble. Owen bounded up, his tail betraying his excitement. Patty and Conner panted and yipped, circling Noah impatiently. Noah held them back until Kel straightened from his crouch, Riley steady on his shoulders. 

With a huff, Noah bounded forward, Patty and Conner on his heels, Owen and Kel bringing up the rear. They raced down the mountain, the scent of the deer's panic like a flare. Owen stretched his new limbs, feeling the blood pound freely through his veins. He matched pace with Conner, their shoulders' brushing in perfect unison. Patty yipped as she broke off to the right. Conner steered Owen to the left, surrounding the deer. They were so close now, he could hear the deer's heart pound. In the distance, another voice lifted to the moon. Wilder, older, and burdened by sorrow, but still celebrating a new member of the pack. 

Natsu Harem: Fairy GET! 7/14

I haven't forgotten about this series. (人◕ω◕) We're hitting the midway point.

Brandish Mu. (人◕ω◕) Yes, we've got another enemy to reform here~...

When did they meet?

Brandish... is pretty straightforward, honestly. She's probably the last of the harem to arrive. So not a lot of history is being changed so much... Just maybe some events in Alvarez arc. (人◕ω◕)

They met on Caracole Island, when Team Natsu went to rescue Makarov, who went to Alikitasia to negotiate. (人◕ω◕) Nothing really changes in these opening parts. Why would things be different? They're a part of rival continents. And Zeref is gearing up for war. ... Not that Brandish knows that yet. She just wanted her gelatos, and the stand ended up getting destroyed. Brandish's whole day is ruined. (人◕ω◕)

She shrinks Marin to square things with the Fairy Tail wizards, who are incited about Marin attacking them... And then she shrinks the whole island and gives them the warning to not go to Alvarez, if they know what's good for them. Brandish might be lazy, but she's loyal to her home. (人◕ω◕)

Events are quick to spiral after that. They manage to save Makarov and get back home.... But Alvarez catches up pretty quick and begins invading.

When did they get closer?

It's a bit of a typical "prisoner becomes smitten by the enemy" scenario. ... Although. Well. (人◕ω◕) Brandish is still loyal to her homeland. Even after hearing about the truth of her mum's death. Even after growing close to Natsu and Lucy... Brandish refuses to fight Alvarez, but she'll at least talk to August. Try to.

Here's where I'll shake things up a bit. Cuz... Let's be honest. Mest should have never been allowed to tag along with Natsu, Happy, Lucy, and Brandish. (人◕ω◕)*** Yes, Mest. Let's use Brandish as a Trojan Horse and try killing the most powerful member of Zeref's army... I'm sure that won't come with consequences. Especially after he just said he would try hearing them out because of Brandish.

... None of that paranoia in my house, no sir. (人◕ω◕)*** Makarov was competent and kept Mest away from those negotiations, seeing how worked up Mest was. Yes, it did risk Natsu and Lucy... But Natsu has proven himself time and again, and Makarov has seen people turn themselves around for the better - Gajeel, Laxus, Sabertooth... So the Guildmaster sees no harm in giving Brandish a chance.

This gives August an opportunity to speak with not just Brandish, but Natsu as well. Now, don't get the wrong idea - much like Brandish, August holds too much loyalty to Zeref and Alvarez. He's not about to turn about-face and go against Zeref's orders. He's still rather disapproving of Brandish being hesitant in this war. ... However, August can tell the kind of person that Natsu is. Even Lucy. Yes, they're adamant of fighting until the last man, but they refuse to kill their enemies.

And it gets August thinking about who Natsu is to him... Though strange, Natsu is technically his Uncle. As well as August's father's greatest weapon, and preferred method of suicide... But with the mindset Natsu has right now, he's not about to go and fulfill Zeref's longstanding wish. August also has doubts that Natsu has the strength or wherewithal to end Acnologia... Still, he can see Natsu's spirit firsthand. Even when August oozes with killing intent to see if Natsu would back down, turn and flee... Natsu doesn't.

August finds himself in this peculiar position of wanting to keep their rather odd family together. ... Even if that wish runs counter to his father's desires. If they could find a way to deal with Acnologia, to end his father's suffering without killing him... If August could finally meet his mother... If he could keep Brandish happy for a little longer... For these reasons, August is willing to keep Fairy Tail alive long enough to "negotiate" with His Majesty... Although he highly doubts Zeref will listen in his current state. Nevertheless, his talks with Natsu, Lucy, and Brandish seem to have gone well enough, and Brandish herself has higher hopes with August's improved mood.

... Unfortunately, Universe One is still cast. The Spriggan 12 are still transported closer to Magnolia, while Fairy Tail is scattered.

Still, August does put his foot down more, as the General of the 12 stands by his decision to keep Fairy Tail alive long enough to negotiate with His Majesty. Irene believes it to be a waste of time, attempting to kill Mirajane anyway... August stops her (Brandish "heals" Mira by shrinking her wounds) and nearly gets into a clash with Irene right then and there. ... But he doesn't, forcing Irene to take them to the Guildhall instead, where the 12 reunite with Zeref. Technically the 9 of them, since Serena, Bloodman, and Wahl still died.

It goes about as August dreaded. Zeref still wants the Fairy Heart, and he is in no mood to negotiate. Irene, Invel, Dimaria, Neinhart, Jacob, Ajeel, and Larcade still wish to fight. There's not much August and Brandish can do but support them, though August assures Brandish he will do his utmost to spare Fairy Tail as much as possible...

Fairy Tail still comes to save their First Master. Natsu still beats up Neinhart, and while Brandish is annoyed at the conflict with her comrades... She gets it. If Grandpa August is going to spare Fairy Tail, then she will too. She won't bother with a ruse to get Lucy to take her out. This brings Brandish into conflict with Dimaria who's been spying on them, and they wind up taking Dimaria down together without Brandish nearly dying. (人◕ω◕)

... Natsu still ends up falling comatose again, because the Seeds are vying for control within him. Brandish tries to help him, but shrinking that "tumor" didn't seem to help, and Porlyusica confirms that for her. Due to how events shifted, Brandish is a bit more... attached to Natsu, especially after he made sure to keep Dimaria and Neinhart alive. She won't let Lucy have the all-important duty of keeping Natsu warm~... Screw the fact she barely knows the guy. If all she has to do is lay with him and keep him warm... Brandish can do that. Brandish can do the hell out of that. (人◕ω◕)(人◕ω◕)(人◕ω◕) Lucy's put out that she's not allowed to do that herself, but after Brandish threatens to shrink her down to Mari's size... Well, Lucy stopped kicking up a fuss. (人◕ω◕)

When does friendship turn to something more?

Brandish's... love... for Natsu is pretty fast-moving, surprisingly. Chalk it up to the war they're in, and the fact they technically slept together. (人◕ω◕) It wasn't just that, mind. Natsu proved the kind of valiant, honorable man he was. Grandpa August approved of him, and he's a close friend of Lucy's, who Brandish winds up wanting to start fresh with. On top of all that, Natsu has Sir Blue Fluffy. No, Brandish is not going to stop calling him that. (人◕ω◕)

... Although... (人◕ω◕);;; Brandish gets a bit moody with Lucy being close with Natsu. In any capacity. That goes for a ton of the girls in the harem. Brandish might be late to the party, but she's veeery greedy. Part of that has to do with her high rank in Alvarez, used to having things handed to her on a silver platter. If she wants Natsu, she gets him. And if Natsu wants to go out on jobs and adventures...? ... (人◕ω◕);;; Well, Brandish considers expediting the journeys and stopping by gelato stands along the way. You think she won't go along just because it's too troublesome? Shows what you know. Brandish might not like exerting effort, but that active nature is a part of Natsu, and she wouldn't change... much... about him.

... Alright, fine, maybe she'd make him a little more laidback. But honest, Brandi-chan just wants to take vacations. Very long vacations. ......... (人◕ω◕) Yes, there's much time spent in bed with hubby. Don't you judge her. (人◕ω◕)

For Natsu's part... He appreciates Brandish trying to save him several times in the war. And though she won't necessarily betray her homeland, Natsu gets it... He's glad she's loyal, even if that puts them technically at odds. Natsu understands loyalty to one's family, and August might be an intimidating guy but he's not unreasonable like some of the other Spriggans.

After Irene got taken down (not killed), August tried approaching Zeref along with Natsu and Brandish... It didn't go very well because the Curse had pretty much eroded Zeref's mind by this point. But at least August got to meet his mother, and they sort of got closure as a family when Zeref and Mavis passed on... Brandish pleaded with August to help rewrite Natsu's book so that he wouldn't die... And he did so. Because Natsu was family.

Alvarez wasn't in much shape to help defeat Acnologia, but they lent their magical power for the Fairy Sphere spell.

All of that said: there wasn't much that could keep Brandish from defecting to Ishgar (specifically to Fairy Tail). August did try putting his foot down, considering Alvarez lost so many in this war... But he couldn't say no to Brandish, not when it meant he could visit his remaining family more often. Natsu was a bit baffled why Brandish wanted to join FT after everything, but he wasn't about to object. (人◕ω◕) He's a bit too used to affectionate women at this point~... She and Happy get along, and her shrinking and expansion magic is just too fun to play around with. Guild brawls are very exciting with Brandish around. (人◕ω◕)(人◕ω◕)(人◕ω◕)

Juvia and Kagura are shifty-eyed with an "enemy" that's allowed to join up just like that (they're not the only ones)... But, well. Brandish is hardly the only reformed villain around here. The bigger problem is Natsu just allowing Brandish to date him without fuss. Just like that. Her Command T magic is so potent... And did they mention Brandish is too greedy? A real glutton for Natsu. (人◕ω◕) Alas, Natsu clearly loves Brandish deeply... Just like he loves all of them. It's not fair to cut out Brandish when they all have a chance with him... Even if they really want to veto Brandish joining the club. (人◕ω◕)

Kagura is especially grumpy... But that might have to do more with Brandish so casually playing around with Happy. ... Who Kagura also really loves. (人◕ω◕) At least Cana knows Brandish's weakness~... Just get her into a sneezing fit, and Brandish can be subdued. Yes, this is doable. (人◕ω◕)(人◕ω◕)(人◕ω◕)

Natsu is a lucky man to have such conniving, calculating girlfriends... eventual wives. (人◕ω◕)

Fanfiction idea: Lukemond vikings

part 2

When Luke opend his eyes again he was confused. Tiredly he rubbed his eyes trying to get the sleep out of them from them. He looked around, hoping for hints to where he was. He lay on a bed of hay, a sack as a pillow and a fur as a blanked.

Then his memories returned: The bell of the chruch tower had rung, an alarm for all to hear, not that they could do much and they knew it. The vikings were coming! The feared men from the storys, dreaded by all were their attacks, for none of them could stop them. Women were crying, children running and before anyone knew it the first burning arrow shot towards the village sitting the roof of a house on fire.

Luke was panicing, most children ran to their parents, fathers bushing them to their mothers who tried to hush them, told them to run away, to hid. But he had no one to go to, he had no parents or other family members, he could hardly remember ever having one, as long as he could remember he was alone. So he ran to the only place were he felt save, even knowing it would not protect him now. The chruch. Even if he died, maybe he would got to heaven if they killed him here.

He ran inside, it was empty. Screams come from outside. They were here, there was no escape now. Luke ran towards the altar, looking around for a place to hide. A small cross lay on the stone, it was beautyful, he had always loved it, prayed to it, felt like it brought him peace, a feeling of belonging. He grabbed it, held it tightly, pressed it to his chest and then drove behind the altar, pressing his back at the cold stone.

Then he prayed, prayed for mercy. He did not want to die. Tears fell down his cheeks as he heard the screams of the people. They were being slaughter. He sobbing silently, praying for their souls, since he could not save them. Suddenly he heard the door being ripped open. A sob was caught in his throat. They were here, there was no escape for him now. His breaths came in short, pained gaspes. Then he saw the viking. He looked like no man Luke had ever seen. Even covered in blood he was beautyful, long silver hair, like silk, with two braids along the sides. He wore an eyepach but his one remaining eye was a deep lilac. The stranger's face had high cheeksbones and was incredibly handsome. For a moment Luke thought that the man was an angel of death send to take him away.

But the thought disappeared when the man raised a blade to his face. He had begged then, begged the stranger to stop in a language he learned at the harbor, hoping the viking wold understand. And he did. Luke could hardly belive it when the man spared his life, even more so when Aemond as he had intuduce himself took him along.

The view of the burning village and the dead and dying people brought tears to Lukes eyes and made him want to throw up but he held it back. It was better not to give the man a reason to kill him after all. When he arrived at the docks the other men sneared and laught at him. Making coments that left no doubt of what his fade might be. He hadn't given it any thougth, it had all happened so fast. Till now it hadn't downed on him what it ment for him to be a captive to the vikings. He was Aemonds captive or slave really. Was there a diffrents? He suppost not.

He pressed his legs together without even realising it, he had never been with anyone. From time to time Luke had gotten offers, after all he was a relativly handsome boy despite how skinny and durty he was. A warm bed for the night when he himself warmed it, food, clothes but never had he accepted. He had always refused, fleed a few time when the men wouldn't take no for an answer. Luke may be home- and penyless but his innocents was still his. Even if it was the only thing that was. But know he could no longer flee, no longer refuse.

He was Aemonds captive, his survival depended on pleasing him. On the ship he clung to Aemond like a duckling, it was pathetic truely but he did not care. Whenever he saw the other viking snearing at him, he clutched the cross and he ran to Aemond, hidding behind him if could. But just being near the man seamed to keep everyone way. Once they arrived at the village he was tight up and led to the town like a prized animal. It was humiliating but he would survive.

But what happened after? The last thing he remembered was the smell of the food, the pain in his legs as he could no longer stand, the soft grass he had fallen asleep on.

But how did he get here and where was here anyway? Suddenly he heard a voice: "A good your are awake". Luke wipped his had to the door, there stood Aemond leaning against the door fraim.

"Where am I? How did I get?", he asked. "At my house" Aemond answered, "and I carried your here of course." Lukes eyes went wide and his face flushed. "Your carried me?", he asked embarrassed "Sure did", the man answered, "You weight nothing you know." Luke didn't know what to say or do. He looked down on his hands, they were still tight together cutting into his flesh. An bit confused he looked up at his captor: "Will- will you get these off?", he asked timitly. Aemond didn't answer, he just pulled out a dagger from belt and walked towards Luke, who fliched and tried to get away on pure instinct. Aemond chuckeled: "Why so paniced you asked me to be free you so stop moving, I wont hurt you."

Luke stilled, realising it would do him no good to try and escape. If Aemond wanted to hurt him, he could do it anytime. And true to his word, Aemond did not harm him, he just cute the rope. It felt good, having his hands free again, he rubbed them unconsciously. "Thank you", he mumbled silently, not meeting the mans eyes once again. Aemond didn't seem to like that one bit, he grabbed Lukes chin forcing his head up. He grinned: "For now, dear boy breakfeast."

Honestly boggles my mind a bit how much people like my huge giant Talent Swap, but I did finally assign every character a talent and while I might still do some small changes, so here's the new Trigger Happy Havoc Cast

Himiko: Ultimate Clairvoyant

Himiko while still a magician-type, now specializes in telling fortunes, an act she's very good at. She insists it's all magic, and often has strange somewhat prophetic dreams, though she's kinda bad at figuring out what they're actually prophesying

Angie: Ultimate Gambler

With Atua in her ear, Angie has yet to lose a bet. With a penchant for riskier gambling and more unique kinds of bets that often have no monetary component to them. She's just having a lot of fun.

Shuichi: Ultimate Affluent Prodigy

Born into a family who to decide the heir one of the many children must solve an incredibly complicated scenario. Shuichi half lucking into it by overhearing other competitors and half his deduction skills, solves this scenario despite being too young to actually compete, not fully realizing what it meant to solve it. So now he's very stressed always and feels like he only won out of pure luck and by stealing his sibling's work and doesn't deserve this.

Seiko: Ultimate Biker Gang Leader

I still have no good reason for this one besides gay gay homosexual I'm going to be honest. Biker girl who's kinda anxious and stops fleeing from the cops to get a cat out of a tree, I love her.

Sonosuke: Ultimate Baseball Star

Once again I don't have a good reason for this one besides the fact SOMEONE had to be the baseball star, and I felt his personality and skill with weapons could translate well to a bat.

Chiaki: Ultimate Fanfic Creator

While still a huge gamer Chiaki got noticed for writing novel long fix it fics and strange crossovers that worked perfectly. She is well known for her hurt/comfort, fluff, and sprawling worldbuilding to fill in all the gaps of whatever game got her attention. Sometimes she dabbles in horror or angst, just to experiment, but they aren't her favorite genres to write.

Fuyuhiko: Ultimate Martial Artist

While still a Yakuza member, he got scouted for his immense gift at martial arts that was discovered when he was learning self defense, because Yakuza. Fuyuhiko has always had a rather strict moral code as well, which fits well with a Martial Artist. Likely specializes in using enemies momentum against them.

Ryoma: Ultimate Soldier

Ryoma got dragged into war at a young age, as there was a gang war in his town that he got pulled into after one killed his cat, thinking it was the cat of the other gang. From there, life kept pulling him along into deeper and deeper conflicts, before eventually, he got pulled into a very literal war while on a trip. From there he vanished and went off the grid, and when he was found again, he had become the stoic Ultimate Soldier

Mahiru: Ultimate Lucky Student

I see her as having a generalized bad luck aura, but when she super focuses on something its like her luck goes into bullet time and suddenly gets super precise and rather good

Kotoko: Ultimate Idol

Drama and Idol is pretty similar I feel, Kotoko is planning to use Hope's Peak to escape her idol career that she feels trapped in. Only to find herself trapped within a death game but honestly she's kinda okay with staying here that's certainly one way to destroy her career.

Gundham: The Ultimate Writing Prodigy

With a specialization of writing animal themed fantasy adventure books, Gundham has basically taken over the YA fiction scene. He got his start from roleplaying on some animal forum, where he was encouraged to write a book because he had some very good prose. Thus launching a huge literary career.

Akane: Ultimate Swimmer

A mixture of poverty and a terrible environment pushed Akane to extremes to survive. When she noticed a river known for dangerous currents by her house had fish in it, she taught herself to swim and navigate those currents to catch the fish for her family, gathering a lot of attention.

Celeste: Ultimate Fashionista

Making her own gothic outfits, Celeste burst into the fashion scene and very quickly got a lot of attention, soon being able to launch her own brand and lead the gothic lolita scene. Very demanding and terrible to work with though.

Toko: Ultimate Programmer

When no person would be her friend let alone date her, she turned to the one thing she could make be her friend, a computer program. In her determination to program the perfect boyfriend, she devoted hours and hours to it, accidentally advancing AI research by decades as she tried to figure out why even the programs she made, refused to date her.

Sakura: Ultimate Moral Compass

Sakura always had a very strong well, moral compass, so she quickly found her place helping others with school work, and staying on top of things. Very kind and considerate, and will help you whenever there's a problem

Kirigiri: Ultimate Analyst

Let's be real she kinda already was this in a way. Her eye for detail and cause and effect was legendary and overshadowed her detective career, and now she uses that eye for detail to destroy her father's career and go deep undercover. Kept from getting bored by sheer spite for her father and a deep curiosity about the world around her.

Junko: Ultimate Detective

Junko loves despair, we been knew, and I can't think of anything more despairful then fucked up crime scenes. This girl specializes in the most fucked up cases, you find a toddlers head in a freezer? You call Junko in. She revels in the gore and despair and horror, really enjoying getting to stretch her mental muscles to figure out just how a crime scene came to be. While also taking notes on what gets people caught for her own crimes she's planning.

-BONUS-

Syo: Ultimate Cook

This is a surprise tool that will help us more next game.

Back with Sea Dragon Lucerys brainrot...

Also saw that you are calling it the salt in our blood au, haha nice.

After Jace's and possibly Joffrey's death (ur evil) I'd imagine Luke getting colder and losing his childlike innocence... almost like the restless freezing waves of the sea. Of course he would still be unhinged bc its Luke, cmon.

Considering how Jace died, these following events from f&b still happens i'd assume. "Though the attackers bypassed Dragonstone, no doubt believing that the ancient Targaryen stronghold was too strong to assault, they exacted a grievous toll on Driftmark. Spicetown was brutally sacked, the bodies of men, women, and children butchered in the streets and left as fodder for gulls and rats and carrion crows, its buildings burned. The town would never be rebuilt. High Tide was put to the torch as well. All the treasures the Sea Snake had brought back from the east were consumed by fire, his servants cut down as they tried to flee the flames. The Velaryon fleet lost almost a third of its strength. Thousands died. Yet none of these losses were felt so deeply as that of Jacaerys Velaryon, Prince of Dragonstone and heir to the Iron Throne."

So at this point Driftmark is pretty fucked, and i was thinking... maybe Lucerys and grandpa Corlys could go on an adventure together after the crown is won :D sailing around the Realm and finding treasures, discovering new cultures and learning from them, maybe surviving a few dangerous otherworldly creatures, krakens, wyrms, FUCKING SIRENS. The sirens trying to lure Luke and Corlys by mimicking their lovers' voice, and they only survive because while Corlys hears Rhaenys, Luke hears Aemond and he is taken aback. He has pushed away his feelings towards that man for the longest time (rightfully so) And when Corlys asks how Luke wasnt effected by the sirens he questions if he doesnt love Rhaena and Luke is forced to tell him his true feelings. And Corlys is like "i have already lost a son for this exact reason i am not going to lose another" and he is all supportive (and yes he does see him as his son rather than grandson bc he sees Laenor in him)

I can also imagine Aemond going "fuck it i need to find this mfs" taking vhagar and going after them thinking they died or something. Maybe he saves them from a fight or a hostage situation and both luke and corlys r all silent on vhagars back now knowing lukes feelings and aemonds like i just saved u tf is this

Then when they come back after a few months of being gone they r greeted by their family members with feasts and all that. They basically saved House Velaryon's future with the treasures they found and now they r the richest family in Westeros once again.

Maybe Aemond swears fealty to Luke as a protector bc hes enjoyed their lil adventure a bit too much and doesnt have anything better to do anyway. (he is free from baratheons bc he begged Rhaenyra to not make him marry the girl and Rhaenyra helped him get out of it) now he is just a second son of the late King Viserys' and has no inheritence. So he just tags along with the Velaryons

Hahaha thank you!

Losing Jace and Joff (I know I am but I live to hurt fictional characters and this would create delicious ✨drama✨) would absolutely have stolen the last remnants of Lucerys' innocence. For a good long while he'd fluctuate between desperate anger and cold, hard detachment.

Driftmark definitely still gets hit, and it's brutal. Lucerys' need to avenge his brother and his birthright burns very bright after that.

I also love your idea! I can see, after Rhaenyra is Queen and things are...tentatively chill once more, Corlys recognising that Lucerys (and him as well) needs time to process and heal. He'd be the one to suggest the two of them going off, for more 'practical, everyday experience' that Lucerys would need as Lord of the Tides. He'd come into his title on a wave of red, now he needs time to learn how to be a sea dragon in peace.

So the two of them, with Rhaenyra's blessing (and a bunch of conditions, like regular check-ins and having to return within a year or two), board Arrax and set off.

And I'm not sure about bringing merlings into it (I'd have to do more research into how they work in asoiaf), but the idea of Lucerys getting hit with a clue-by-four about his feelings for Aemond because of a fucking magical fish is hilarious. He'd be so offended and embarrassed that it literally took a mythical creature for him to realise what Rhaena had been hinting at all along.

But the idea of Corlys discovering and then accepting Lucerys completely and wholeheartedly because he doesn't ever want his heir to feel like Laenor had? That he never wants to drive Lucerys away, or dismiss his feelings, or call it a 'phase', as he had with his son? Pure art.

The inevitable reunion with Lucerys and Aemond would also be brilliant because Corlys just looks at Aemond for a moment then turns to Lucerys and is like "while not my first pick, I fully support your choice in partner, so long as you are happy" right in front of Aemond and Lucerys just closes his eyes in resignation because omg grandpa must you???

December Klaine Fanworks Challenge Day 2 - Bikini

Read on AO3

When Blaine Anderson’s father married Santana Lopez’s mother, he was unaware of the exact level of chaos she would bring into the Anderson household. Of course the whole affair had been chaos. He’d come home for spring break to find the whole house in a flurry and Cooper lounging on his bed. 

“Didn’t you hear?” he’d asked. “We’re gonna have a sister!”

Blaine thought his dad’s girlfriend was pregnant. He did not expect the Latina spitfire that was Santana Lopez to shake up his life.

He met Santana for the first time at the wedding as he did his best to fade into the shadows, desperate to avoid every extended family member asking if he had a girlfriend yet and how school was going, ignoring the fact that he was repeating his sophomore year because he spent most of the last one in the hospital recovering from a hate crime.

She’d quite literally run into him as she bustled around barking orders at anyone and everyone to make sure that her mother’s special day was perfect. 

“You,” she snapped, “where’s your brother?”

“I don’t know,” he said.

She rolled her eyes and mumbled something under her breath in Spanish. “Find him,” she ordered, “and give him this.” She thrust a piece of paper at him. “It’s his best man speech, and you let him know that if he even thinks of adlibbing, I will personally castrate him, comprendo?”

“C-comprendo’,” Blaine stuttered. 

She looked him up and down and gave a firm nod. “You clean up nice,” she said and left.

Blaine was, of course, not unused to chaos. He found plenty of it in the dorms at Dalton. You stick a hundred teenage boys in a building together with minimal adult supervision and there wasn’t much else you could expect. 

But his weekends spent at home in Lima were always quiet. With Cooper in LA and his dad always traveling for business, he had the house to himself most of the time. He’d been essentially an only child since he was eight, and with his parents divorced and his mother moving to Italy, he was used to being alone. He was okay with it. 

But now there were people at his house all the time. Maribel was of course around whenever she wasn’t away with his father. But Santana always had her best friend over, to the point Blaine wondered if Britney actually lived with them too. And there was a string of football players and cheerleaders running through his house every weekend to the point that Blaine had started to spend most of his off-campus days at Nick’s to avoid them all. 

But then Summer hit, and he couldn’t avoid his house for three months. 

And now, there was a boy with a mohawk wandering around his room in only swim trunks like he belonged there and he and Blaine were old friends and not complete strangers. 

Blaine stood in his doorway in shock, having just come back from the bathroom to discover the intruder. “Can I help you?” he asked, pushing himself to his full height to show he wouldn’t be intimidated. 

But he was intimidated. Very intimidated. And the show of strength was probably mitigated by the gentle tremble of his shoulders as his body shook with anxiety. 

“Oh, hey,” the boy said, looking up from where he’d been studying the pictures tucked into Blaine’s mirror. “You’re the brother, yeah?”

“No,” Blaine said dryly, “I’m the maid’s son, clearly.”

The boy frowned, “The maid’s son can afford to go to the sissy prep school?” he said, pointing to pictures of Blaine in his Dalton uniform with Nick and Jeff and some of the other Warblers. 

Blaine folded his arms across his chest to hide the way his whole body tried to flee out of his room at that moment. “Yes, I’m the brother,” he bit out, “one of them at least. And who are you?”

“I’m Puck,” he said with a grin, “one of Santana’s friends.”

“I assumed that,” Blaine said stiffly, “and what are you doing in my room?”

“Oh, just checking some intel from Santana,” he said.

Blaine’s eyes narrowed. “Intel?”

“Yeah, she said you’re gay. I’m just confirming.”

Blaine stilled, his blood running cold. He and Santana hadn’t talked much with him being at Dalton most of the time. And he’d certainly not talked to her about his sexuality, which meant either she’d heard it from someone in the family, or she’d presumed. And in any case, she thought that was information that was not only pertinent but safe to share with a boy who looked like he spent half his time in the principal's office for dumping queer kids in a dumpster.

“Puckerman,” Santana’s voice beside him made Blaine almost jump out of his skin. She had appeared beside Blaine silently, wearing a black lace coverup over her red bikini, dripping water on the hardwood floor of Blaine’s bedroom. “Stop scaring my brother and go help Finn with the meat.”

Puck grimaced. “I thought Kurt was grilling.”

Santana folded her arms and stared him down. “He was, and then Sam pulled him into the pool and now he’s angrily fixing his hair in my bathroom.”

“Fucking Evans,” Puck grumbled, “Finn can’t grill worth a damn,” but he slid past Blaine and out the door. Blaine flinched away from him, hugging himself tightly.

“Hey,” Santana said, putting a hand on his shoulder. He pulled away sharply and avoided her eyes. “Ignore Puck, he’s harmless.”

Blaine's heart was still hammering in his chest.

“You should come outside and swim,” she said with a jerk of her head, “you’re starting to look a little too much like your dad with that pallid skin.”

“No, thank you,” Blaine said tersely. He picked up a book from his desk and sat on his bed. He opened it to have something to do with his hands, but the words on the page were illegible blurs through his eyes. He blinked firmly to try and clear his tears, but all it did was force them to run down his face in rivulets. 

“Blaine,” Santana started. 

Blaine glared up at her. “What?” he snapped, and he could feel the full body shakes beginning, knew he was long past stopping this panic attack. “Are you going to apologize for outing me to your friends? For thinking there was any way I’d be comfortable with your friends knowing about me? Like people like them aren’t the reason I’m at a private school to begin with?”

“They’re not–,” she started but Blaine cut her off.

“Whatever,” he hissed. He stood quickly and crossed the room to her. “Keep your friends out of my room,” he said sharply before slamming the door in her face.

—

It wasn’t much later that Blaine heard a knock on his door. He’d just managed to make it to his bed, exhausted in the comedown from his panic attack, and was about to call Nick for an emergency extraction. 

“Go away, Santana,” he shouted.

“It’s not Santana,” a soft voice called. Blaine glanced to the side to check that he had indeed locked his door. He then looked to his window and began contemplating how difficult it would be to climb out of it if he needed to.

“Look,” the voice said, “I just wanted to check that you’re okay. I heard… well I only caught the tale end of what just happened, but you seemed pretty shaken up.”

Blaine furrowed his bed and stood up. He crossed the room to his door and opened it a crack. “Why do you care?” he asked, peeking out.

On the other side of the door was a boy not much older than him with chestnut hair and blue eyes so bright they almost took Blaine’s breath away.

“Because I know what it’s like to be scared of Noah Puckerman, and I know he forgets that not everyone knows about his secret soft side.” The boy gave him a sympathetic smile. “Can I come in?”

Blaine looked him up and down and his brow furrowed deeper. “You don’t look like a football player,” he said.

“Not anymore, last year I was the kicker, but this year I’m just in Glee.”

Blaine straightened up at that and pulled the door open wider. “You’re in the New Directions?”

The boy looked mildly surprised. “Yeah… so is Santana, and Puck, and everyone else here.”

“You’re all in Glee club? Isn’t that… aren’t you guys like the bottom of the pecking order at your school?”

He shrugged. “Pretty much. Just a bunch of misfits and losers.” 

Blaine blinked in confusion. “But Santana’s a cheerleader.”

“You two really haven’t gotten to talk much, have you?”

Blaine shook his head.

“Well,” he said, “I’m Kurt, and if you’d allow me to apologize for Noah, I’d love to introduce you to everyone else. It is kind of my fault he was up here accosting you.”

“What do you mean?” Blaine asked.

Kurt flushed, looking down. “Well, you see, I might have developed a bit of a crush on you, when Santana shared pictures from the wedding. Puck was just making sure I wasn’t going to fall in love with another straight boy. So I’m sorry.”

“Oh,” Blaine breathed. “Um… apology accepted?”

Kurt grinned. “And if you’d come downstairs, I’m sure some of my world-famous cheesecake would make you feel better.”

Blaine laughed softly. “I’d like that.”

Ruriko Midorikawa ramblings

Like this is the character I was most excited for these notes are very scattered I apologize

Where do I start with fucking Ruriko Midorikawa

Ruriko Midorikawa in the original series is a very different character. While still the daughter of the man who altered Takeshi, in the original she initially believes Takeshi killed her father and spends a decent chunk of the first “season” attempting to thwart Takeshi in addition to SHOCKER before beginning to realize they have the same enemy.

Their shared history of having their lives completely upturned by SHOCKER was an element I found infuriatingly intriguing, I felt like she had the potential to have this amazing character dynamic and turn into one of the more important cast members if it wasn’t for the limitations of 70′s sexism. So when Shin Kamen Rider was announced and Ruriko was so prominently portrayed she became the character I immediately was the most excited for

She didn’t just live up to my expectations but fucking shattered them

She’s incredible  

Ruriko at one point describes a computer program she is working on as “Hella complex”

Ruriko is a test tube baby who was born so her father could find a “practical use for Prana” with Augmentations that allow her to interface with technology, and is something of a walking database which she uses to try and dismantle SHOCKER.

While it is implied she was close to her brother, it is made abundantly clear that her relationship with her father is distant at best. When he dies she genuinely has difficulty figuring out how to feel about it

She shows more fondness for the ShOCKER AI K than her father which says all that is needed.

As the film goes on Ruriko rather blatantly comes to see Takeshi as family.

In the gif below, we end up seeing Ruriko break her stoic demeanor for the first time, after hearing Takeshi’s

“Surprisingly positive look on my father’s ego”

Before calling him a fool and sadly noting that is probably why he was chosen by Hiroshi as her “guard dog”

I have no idea how the version in the gifset ended up with such a fucked framerate but it has haunted me

Her time running from SHOCKER has left her paranoid with SEVERAL safe houses each with extensive security measures. When approached by the government’s Anti-SHOCKER Alliance she decides to “play along” for their resources.

At one point the Intelligence Operative hands her a gun to which she states that she will need another magazine

She then adds she will also need another gun

Despite her cold, clinical character she frequently shows a fucking bombastically showy side which is just a joy to watch. Like when she decides instead of just shooting KOA-1 when his virus doesn’t infect her, she will fake being infected for a very long time so she can monologue about how she countered it. This is after she gunned her through the various automatons

Due to growing up in a fascist organization she has been left with some trust issues, with many of her scenes with Hongo being her defense slowly being lowered by his traumatized swag and actually allows herself to finally truly trust someone again.

Then there is of course her dynamic with Hiromi

For the unaware Hiromi is not a name picked out of a hat. Hiromi was Ruriko’s college friend in the original show who honestly didn’t have that much memorable about her but eh 70′s children show what are you gonna do

Hiromi is reinvented as the Wasp Aug here, someone from SHOCKER Ruriko was close to before she defected. Ruriko’s stoicism does not break when meeting with her old “friend” repeatedly trying to get Hiromi to join her in leaving the Organization.  

Also this isn’t important but Hiromi frequently has the classic SHOCKER leitmotif from the original series playing which was a fucking amazing surprise as that was not on the soundtrack!

It doesn’t work and she and Takeshi flee as Hiromi makes it clear the organization’s stance on traitors. However when Ruriko is gone, Hiromi looks on wistfully at them leaving by bike.

There is a rather cute scene in which after leaving HAA-1′s base Takeshi sets up a camp for them because he simply prefers camping to staying in like a hotel, and he ends up cooking for them as Ruriko works on trying to alter the unfinished SHOCKER augs programming to simplify things later on

Takeshi states that she should savor her food more, Ruriko replies that she only really cares about the nutritional aspect. When they are approached by the brain washed townsfolk Ruriko furiously starts cramming as much of Takeshi’s food in her mouth before they go.

As they prepare to leave Takeshi states that he knows she doesn’t trust people, but he has a plan and if she won’t trust him she hopes she will trust his plan

She responds that she doesn’t trust his plan, she trusts him and I am going to begin sobbing uncontrollably at this point

She goes again to try and convince Hiromi , seemingly alone.

Hiromi yet again doesn’t bite and is surprised she felt safe enough to do this alone

Ruriko reminds her “"I told you, I'm well-prepared."

as they continue talking, just desperately trying to convince the other to come back to the other, Hiromi finally points states that Ruriko’s problem is she doesn’t trust anyone

Ruriko’s response is simple

“I don’t have faith in many things. But I believe in Masked Rider”

Takeshi destroys the plot thing view tactical fucking aerial Kick strike

Ruriko again pleads with Hiromi to join them

Hiromi responds in what is surely a healthy way of talking to your crush

“I think now I’m going to make you cry Ruri-Ruri”

as a vespid enjoyer I owe this movie my fucking life, you made a monster of the week only memorable for her horrifying death scream the coolest fucking villain in the movie

Hiromi promptly attempts to savagely kill Ruriko’s “pet” (Takeshi Hongo) in an extended and dope as fuck fight scene set to my personal favorite variation of  the SHOCKER AUG leitmotif

In the end Hiromi is spared by the “guard dog” and Ruriko again pleads with her to join her as a lovely reprise of “At the Train Tracks” plays. However Hiromi’s fate is rather tragically obvious when one has listened to the soundtrack and seen the track name

“Kill the Bee”

The government agents she earlier allied with come in and one of them (Taki) shoots Hiromi in the heart with a specially made bullet gained through Ruriko’s intel. Ruriko is understandably distraught at inadvertently leading to her “friend’s” death.

Throughout the film Takeshi and Ruriko’s bond has shown them to be, aware of the others hangups. Takeshi knows Ruriko doesn’t trust easily, and he tries to be overtly courteous to let her know where is at all time and assuage her concerns about him. 

Ruriko in turn recognizes Takeshi’s hang-ups on killing, and while initially it is partially due to not viewing him as reliable in combat, there are times where it comes across as genuine concern. She is also aware of Takeshi having issues with A, concerns over his bodily autonomy after the whole turned into a monster thing and B general social awkwardness so she also tries to be as clear as possible for what the boundaries are with them.

 She is comfortable with his presence and wants him to know when she feels safe and that she is fine with him being near her.

The two are just clear about the boundaries between each other are and the reason I am tangenting about this is because of what she says after being devastated by her only other companion before Takeshi needs that context for why it hits the way it does to be enunciated here

“May I borrow your shoulder for a moment”

As she proceeds to sob into his shoulder over her ex-girlfriend friend

The next morning at a Anti-SHOCKER safehouse Ruriko is noticeably agitated as Takeshi sits calmly.

It serves as a nice mirror to the start of the movie where Ruriko is calm in the safehouse as Takeshi is shaking in horror at what he has become and his whole murder hands thing.

The normally stoic Ruriko, crushed by her friend’s death ends up snapping at a lot of relatively minor things, like lack of shower or change of clothes only really calming down once she is able to focus on something else  like programming and changing her clothes.

Here Ruriko ends up giving Takeshi more boundaries for their relationship. She mentions that Takeshi is oddly far away as she is changing under a blanket

Takeshi responds it would rude as she is changing and Ruriko states that she trusts him and wants him to be near and elaborating the only times she would be uncomfortable.

Their relationship makes me want to explode and just the fucking

I am going to sob if I think about their friendship

Ruriko begins writing her will and unfortunately my memories of this scene are blurry but I remember finding it cute. I believe she first mentions her brother here and how she is messing with the entirely unrelated Butterfly Aug’s code

As Ruriko and Takeshi prepare to sleep, she apologizes to him for how difficult she was to deal with that day

But that it was nice to have a day where she realized how loved she is

A feeling she always felt was distant in regards to her family

 The next day they go to face the SHOCKER sub-commander of K’s division

Ichiro Midorikawa, her brother.

When she arrives they discuss Ichiro’s plan to take everyone’s Prana and put them in the “Habitat Dimension” removing the corrupt human element but retaining their soul

It is also revealed that Ruriko did the programming for this plan when she was “Naive, and unaware of the world”

which like yeah she grew up in a fascist cult that tracks.

She does a merge thing where she attempts to do something that I am going to blunt.

I don’t know this word

I cannot find a definition

I don’t know what it is meant to do

It was meant to damage the program in some way but, her Prana was insufficient in comparison to Ichiro who has done nothing but build up Prana throughout the movie, and she collapses, as Takeshi helps her down gently as she stays unconscious for a little while and Ichiro converses with Hongo trying to figure out what his deal is and why is he is so devoted to his sister

“We share a bond based upon trust”

Ichiro initially plans to allow them to retreat but they both refuse

So he sics a certain SHOCKER Rider on them who proceeds to playfully chase them and challenges Takeshi to a duel

as this goes on Ruriko begins frantically preparing a program to deprogram the Rider

After the fight concludes she manages to apply it to the Rider, Ichimonji before he can kill her buddy and he is flooded with emotion as the brainwashing is broken

As Ichimonji cries she wordlessly gives him a red scarf

Ruriko prepares to return to Hongo and begins discussing what their next step is as she suddenly inhales sharply

And K.K. aug lets go of his invisibility and rips his knife from her back

While Ichimonji kills the shit out of K.K. Aug

Takeshi frantically crawls towards Ruriko and desperately tries to stop the bleeding with the scarf she gave him

She tells Hongo deliriously that she got sloppy, but despite that she is glad it was because she felt safe with someone. She then transfers her will and soul to Takeshi Hongo’s helmet

In her will she states to Hongo

That she fully expected to die within a few weeks after defecting from SHOCKER, but now she actually sees the possibility that they might be able to continue after this

She mostly talks about her time with SHOCKER, her family and how her father loved motorcycles. And she always saw pictures of him with this red scarf and Ichiro riding with him looking so content, and safe. She was always envious that she never got to know them like that. But with Takeshi, on his motorcycle she got that bond she wished for.

“I’m glad the scarf suited you, Hongo.”

It promptly cuts to a black screen with text saying, “PS. I hope I get to say that to your face.”

She also details the plan to defeat her brother but that is left offscreen for y’know audience experience.

Takeshi ends up slamming his helmet onto Ichiro’s head and forcing him to have a conversation with his sister.

In which they discuss the death of their mother, the human condition and just how tired they are. Ruriko asks him to stay with her here, as there is room for them and Takeshi to just continue and try and fix this mess.

Her brother decides instead to follow in the footsteps of SHOCKER’s founder as Ruriko pleads with her brother to stay.

At the start Ruriko bluntly states her expectation that the two of them will likely end up dead and dissolve

She is correct and by the end of the film Takeshi and Ruriko have both died.

With only their consciousness saved to the helmet

Ruriko is just

I genuinely don’t think I have the words to explain how happy that character being given the reimagining she deserved made me.

. ⋅ ˚̣- : ✧ : – afternoon tea time - e.sn

word count : 475

content warning : arson (massive). reader is in denial.

reader's pronouns : undefined.

character : eric sohn from the boyz.

DISCLAIMERS : i do not condone such act that is implied in this drabble, nor i believe the member that i've wrote about would actually do it. this drabble is simply written for entertainment purposes and not to be taken seriously as this is only fictional; conjured with no ill intention. those who do not feel comfortable with what i have put inside the content warning are advised not to interact nor engage with this drabble. clicking the read more option means that you're responsible for what you're going to read furthermore.

. ⋅ ˚̣- : ✧ : –"my love, will you go on a date with me?"

you heard eric recite those words a couple of times just awhile ago, far too engrossed; and possibly nervous, on practicing to notice that he's been mumbling it quite loud outside your door.

your eyes glanced to his right hand. you could see a small boquet of flowers; that you believe he must've had plucked from his cranky neighbour's garden. since there's only one person in the whole village who planted your favorite flower.

whilst unfortunately your sweet eric lacks the talent on keeping plants alive.

then, you noticed something else as well.

coming from the picnic basket that eric failed to hid behind his back, the delectable aroma of his signature chocolate cake waft in the air; tempting you already with the smell.

oh. and how could you forget his innocent smile as she awaits your reply?

"my love?"

his voice pulls you from reminiscing the wonderful memory that made you smile, followed by the tepid afternoon's breeze that caressed your face.

gently, like how eric reaches to tuck the stray hair behind your ear afterwards.

wonderful.

albeit today's air felt more...dry. thankfully the parasol eric prepared for this long-awaited afternoon tea time helped to hide from the sweltering sun above.

"..you always love having tea while admiring a beautiful scenery, don't you?" he took a sip of his tea, his love-struck gaze never left your face.

"i certainly love the scenery we're having today" eric hums heartily. with a loud clink he placed his porcelain cup down to pull you closer by your waist.

your head rest on his shoulder. and with a kiss that he pressed onto your forehead, you opened your eyes.

the sound of crackling fire reaches your ears. screams erupts from the locked house and those that manages to flee out to the burning road. engulfed by the blistering fire. dark smokes covered the afternoon's brilliant blue sky above the small village.

the horrendous spectacle were a show from the vantage eric have prepared; specially for the two of you. his lips hasn't left your skin, still pressed onto your forehead before he reluctantly pulls away.

his smile looks as innocent as the one that your memory just reminds you of.

"now i'm your number one right?"

a single tear escaped, cascading down your cheek as your smile never faltered.

yes.

all of this, just because you refused to follow him to the palace. saying that you can't left the village where you're born and comes to adore. the village where you met him. where those that brought him to your family begged your parents to take care of him. to hide him.

until the time is right.

until the hidden prince of the kingdom loves you far too much to let you placed him second in your heart.

Part of the Family

Finished commission for my good friend @wertzunge​. Kawaki is acclimating to life as part of the Uzumaki family, but every now and then he feels like he might still be an outsider looking inwards at an ideal family. Thankfully, his family members don’t think the same and are all too happy to remind him how cherished he is.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

As the birds began to sing their songs to the morning skies above the hidden village of Konoha, a certain family was just barely getting started waking up...well some of them. To say things had been lively after the Hokage brought Kawaki into his home would be a bit of an understatement. But after some time had passed, the boy had started feeling like he was actually part of this family, from his brotherly bond with Boruto, Himawari warming up to him and even being asked to help with preparing dinner on occasion...it was such a shift from his years of isolation and pain. 

Honestly, Kawaki and Boruto both were normally at least able to wake up on time. The thing with today was, they had nothing to do, none of them. Naruto had gotten ahead of the curve on his work, arranging for things to be taken care of for a single day at Hinata's behest so that they could spend the day together as a family. Of course it was a shock to both boys, who had spent a lot of time the day beforehand wearing themselves out during training. Kawaki would have slept even longer had he not heard a ruckus from the floor above his sleeping space in the Hokage's home office. What the hell was Boruto doing up there?" Grumbling as he wiped the sleep from his eyes, Kawaki sleepily opened the door to call out to him but caught Himawari's look instead as she came down the stairs. "Good morning Kawaki...hehe Papa is just waking up brother. I'm gonna go help mom in the kitchen!" She said cheerfully as if she hadn't just read his mind before scampering off to the kitchen. As he blinked, it finally became clear just what he was hearing from the upstairs area of the house. That was most definitely laughter...and something like a scream? Was nobody else confused like he was?

He decided despite Himawari's casual attitude, he wanted to investigate since she did mention the Hokage was there as well. He climbed the stairs, his bare feet tapping lightly on the flooring since he didn't often need to be stealthy in this place, save for it he needed to take a leak in the wee hours of the morning. As he neared Boruto's room however, a chill ran along his spine for some reason as he began to clearly understand more words even with the door shut. "BWAHah...Old man stohop....DAD SEHEHERIOUSLY!" His caution was soon overcome by curiosity as the dark haired boy gently turned the knob and opened the door, hearing Naruto's voice through the din of his adopted borther's laughter. "Oh come on now, my first whole day home and you sleep in? How can I not wanna spend some quality time waking you up Boruto?" This was followed by more wailing and cackling from the smaller blond ninja as Kawaki saw the Hokage looming over his son, one hand holding one of his arms over his head while the other was moving quickly up and down the side of his night shirt. What was he doing? Boruto was clearly laughing and smiling, but his free hand was desperately trying to snatch his father's away in an effort to escape this strange torture. "NOOhohohoohahh ahahaAHA STAHahaphihithahah ah ahah KAHahawaki save mehehe!" Boruto called out his name, blowing his cover as the Hokage turned to look as well to see his second son halfway in the room. "Ah morning. Sorry if this guy woke you up." The blond said, chuckling as Boruto denied it. "Wha-Ihit's your fault gah! Gehet offa mehehe!" Wrenching his wrist free and rolling over, Boruto attempted to flee, only to slip on his own covers and falling to the floor. His panic seemed to escalate as Naruto reached down to scoop up his legs, dragging him back and locking both his legs with a single strong arm before beginning to move his other hand along his bare feet. This of course seemed to be even worse for the young Uzumaki as he cried out, desperately trying to claw away at the floor, reaching in vain for a still rather bewildered Kawaki.

"NAHAHa OH god no NAHahaht thaahthaha Nhoh nahat the feEEHEHETHTEHHAHAHA DAAHAHAD!" His pleas seemed to fall on deaf ears as Naruto simply continued holding a brief conversation, albeit a loud one with Kawaki. "I think Hinata wants us all to go on a picnic together today. We still have time but maybe see if she needs some help getting prepared?" Kawaki nodded, still too stunned to say much as he didn't know if he should leave or ask what this was all about. He didn't even realize he was blushing slightly as Boruto cried out with tears in his eyes. "NOHOHOTHAHaa don't touch myYHYH TOHOHESHHAHA!" Naruto was drilling his fingers between the tender valleys between his son's digits, before things finally seemed to calm down as the Hokage gave an affectionate few pats to his son's slightly reddened soles and let him go, the boy slumping for a second before quickly crawling a few feet away as his father stood up and headed out the door past Kawaki. "Haha and maybe make sure that one didn't wet himself." Naruto left just in time as a pillow was flung across the room, softly smacking against the door as Kawaki felt it prudent to close it after the older man left.

Now it was just him and Boruto, the latter panting heavily, flushed and teary eyed but very much awake. "Why...didn't you help?" He asked, earning a scowl from the raven haired teen. "I didn't think you needed it...you were laughing and smiling." Boruto gritted his teeth as he managed to get back to his feet, beginning to fix up his bed as he continued to recover. "Only because the old man was tickling me! Ugh he's done that since I was a kid whenever I oversleep and he's home. So dumb.." Despite his words, something in the young blond's tone hinted at a sort of fondness for the activity, likely since such bonding moments were more rare since his father took office.

"Tickling? So that's like...a tradition?" Kawaki asked, honestly a bit confused at Boruto's words as he moved Boruto's desk chair over and sat down. His adoptive brother turned slightly, an eyebrow raised in equal confusion at the question. "Huh? Tradition? I don't think so it's just...a thing he does sometimes...why?" Kawaki shrugged slightly, unsure why this strange feeling of jealousy was slowly building up inside him. "It just seemed like something special judging from how he was smiling when he left as well, but he wasn't even being tickled like you were. It just looked like his fingers were squeezing you a lot." At these words, Boruto began to catch on to a feeling in the air, a smile slowly returning to his features, though this one held much more mischief this time around. "Ehhh? Kawaki....do you not know what tickling feels like?" The blond finished making his bed as Kawaki blinked, trying not to show how honestly confused he felt. "I...I know what it's supposed to feel like." He insisted, hoping that answer would suffice. However, Boruto didn't seem to buy it as he walked closer, still grinning widely as he raised his hands slightly and wiggled his fingers. "Let's just make suuuuure heheh." Kawaki once more was struck by a sensation of both sudden anticipation and slight fear as those fingers got closer, his throat swallowing a lump before his brother began skittering his fingers along the raven's sides and stomach, instantly earning some unfamiliar sounds as the dark haired boy seized Boruto's wrists, yet did nothing to defend himself. "Wha-a-aahah ah whahat the heehehell is thihisheheha Hehehey Bah Bohoruto knock it ohohoff!" The blond of course only chuckled in reply, recognizing that despite his protests there was no action to actually stop this sensation from continuing. "Hahaha come ooon you like it! You're smiling and laughing right?" As the two began to wrestle, Kawaki forwent defense and instead reached out to mimic Boruto's actions on his own flanks before the two both fell onto his bed, ruining the nicely made sheets. "NHAHaha ah hahang oh naha noho stahahpha Dahahd already gohoht mehehe!" Both boy's continued to laugh, Kawaki being no exception as he cackled out loud. "KEHEHahah AHAHAH Youhuhu stohop fihihirst!"  Their legs helplessly kicked as fingers flew up and down their torsos, digging into armpits, clawing at their stomachs, all leading up to their mutual signal to stop horsing around.

"Boys if you don't get down here, Naruto is going to finish your breakfast!" At Hinata's words from downstairs, both of them stopped their antics, flushed and panting as they blinked, knowing the tone used was one of both playful urgency, but also a slightly more serious note beneath it. "We're on our way!" Boruto responded, hoping it bought them some time. He then broke away from his adopted sibling, pausing briefly before bringing up his thoughts. "So...why were you so interested in that?" He asked, earning a stammer from the other boy before being followed by an awkward silence. As Boruto began to change, Kawaki finally spoke up. "You and the fourth...have a connection strengthened through traditional acts such as this. I don't...I can't explain why I got interested in it. I guess...my own dad never..." Boruto tossed a pillow from the disheveled bedding at his brother, stopping that thought process. "Hey now come on, you're part of the family now, you're my brother! Dad wouldn't have even brought you home if he didn't see that you have a good heart ya know?" If Kawaki were more emotional, he supposed this would be one of those time he shouldfeel a bit teary eyed, but instead he could do nothing other than grip the pillow a bit tighter after it hit his chest. "Yeah...I guess you're right..." Thusly Kawaki actually helped fix the bed much quicker before they were headed downstairs. Thankfully Hinata's bluff was just that, and the two finished their breakfast quickly before helping to get things ready for that afternoon. Thankfully, there were no emergencies, no sudden meetings or crises that required Naruto's attention. The Uzumaki family was able to actually enjoy themselves, spending quality time together, playing some card games, enjoying some good food, and nurturing those bonds Kawaki was so worried over. The daylight slowly ebbing away, the orange sky signaled their time to head back home as they all gathered their things, though Naruto did have the extra baggage of a very worn out Himawari. Kawaki too felt surprisingly tired, having played more tag with her and Boruto than he would have expected. It was especially challenging once Hinata joined in, his mother figure being far more impressive than he could have anticipated. Something else he didn't notice, was how Boruto and his father hung back a bit behind, walking slower as the younger blond had something important to apparently convey to the Hokage. Kawaki stayed in the dark on this of course, helping to handle some minor cleanup at home before dressing down to his evening pants and tank top, climbing onto the sofa bed in the office as per usual to lull off to sleep, likely to wake up to a more familiar, albeit less enjoyable day tomorrow... "...waki...Kawakiiii...heh you're almost as deep a sleeper as I am." That voice...Kawaki recognized it immediately, before recognizing something else, a light and fluttery feeling that instantly had his nerves lighting up. "Eh wh-whehehah ah F-fohourththeh ah whahat the hehell haha let goho." His laughter was still somewhat tired, despite the feeling of strong fingers dancing against his bare soles playfully. He was still tired sure, but shouldn't he have been able to escape this weak hold? No...he realized Naruto had positioned himself in a way that Kawaki's ankles were trapped beneath one of his thighs, allowing two hands to wreak havok on his feet. He swiftly rubbed the sleep from his eyes, giggling the entire time as he continued helplessly trying to pull away. "PFTHEeh hah whahat tihime is ihithehe gaha youhuh haha you shouldn't behehe here!" He was getting more of his energy back, though not nearly enough to stave off the fingers attacking his toes now. "CAHAHA CAH gEHEHehehet offa mehehehe!" The Hokage simply laughed, continuing his tickles before swapping positions, pinning the young man beneath him as he began tickling up and down his sides, his blanket slipping down as those hands shoved up into his shirt to get at his bare skin. "A little bird told me youmight be feeling left out hmm?" Kawaki tried shoving at the older man, shaking his head as his forced smile was coupled with endless giggling. "HEHEhehahahAHAH ahah ah no nahaha hihi'm nahaAHAHAHt AHAHA NOT THERE!" His pits felt those fingers digging in skillfully, the trained hands of someone used to tickling a squirmy victim no doubt. "STAHa ahaha stahap ahalreadyhyhyaha AHAHA PAH PLEHEHASEHAHA! Ah....aahahah hah...gah..*cough* hah..." The tickles ceased as he wished, Kawaki wiping a tear from his eyes before looking up at a smilin blond who then ruffled his dark hair.

"Kawaki...I hope you realize you are just as much a part of this family now as anyone else. Never forget that." Those words brought another wave of unexpected emotions surging into the boy's chest, the desire to cry overwhelming him as he brushed any budding tears away, blaming them on the tickling. "Hehe and if I have to tickle you in the mornings to remind you of it, just say the word." Kawaki blushed fiercely, "N-no way!" he shouted, throwing his pillow at the man in a move reminicient of his brother as Naruto laughed brightly, blocking it with one hand as he waved goodbye before heading out to work no doubt. Kawaki took a moment to collect himself, still feeling the tingling sensations all through his body as he fixed his shirt and folded his blanket. He went to the bathroom, finding it was still rather early and he hoped he hadn't woken Himawari. But when he suddenly recalled the Hokage's words, he looked up the stairs with a different expression. "A little bird huh?" Oh Boruto was so gonna get the wake up of his lifetime.

Hi, for once you’re getting a rant about retcons that AREN’T the usual ones. In Gillen’s “Immortal X-Men” spotlight on Shaw, he depicts Shaw’s father, Jacob, as emotionally abusive towards Shaw, and as berating him as unworthy for Jacob to talk to until he has money of his own. Jacob is also depicted wearing Hellfire Club livery (frilly cuffs, etc) and they are living in a house with a chandelier and a very nice writing desk. While Jacob speaks of trying to recover the family fortune, they’re clearly not all that bad off either, at least not enough so that they’ve had to sell these things. This is a retcon that contradicts previous flashbacks and other indications that Shaw (1) had a good relationship with Jacob and (2) grew up EXTREMELY poor. Both of which are important to his character, and I much prefer for him, both because they came first and have been an established part of his history for DECADES, and because they just work BETTER than Gillen’s retcon. Unlike Duggan and many other writers for the last dozen years, Gillen does seem to “get” Shaw very well in the present, I like how he writes Shaw in general and I largely enjoy that issue, but he grievously misunderstands how his past influences who he is, and made his own version of a new past instead—one that, sadly, I find inferior to the original. Now I’ll talk about why.

The first time we learn anything about Jacob Shaw or his relationship with Sebastian is in the “X-men: Hellfire Club” four-issue miniseries written in 2000 by Ben Raab. Jacob Shaw was born in England, the son of Cornelius Shaw and younger brother of Esau Shaw. The Shaws seem wealthy, and Cornelius was a member of the London Hellfire Club. After Cornelius’s death, another member, Waltham Pierce (presumably an ancestor of Donald Pierce) approached Esau about recruiting him into the Hellfire Club to take his father’s place (Esau refused) but not Jacob. The madly jealous Jacob is approached by none other than Mr. Sinister, who grants Jacob shapeshifting abilities via a syringe. Jacob used these abilities to kill his brother Esau (while disguised as Waltham) and attempted to kill Waltham (disguised as a woman he bedded) however, the latter attempt was interrupted by Union Jack, and Jacob was forced to flee in his true form. Presumably, he ran to the US, perhaps illegally, and likely without much money, as the next time we see him, he is a wizened man dying in hospital of a mysterious blood disease (possibly a consequence of Sinister’s alteration to him) Though there is no mother in sight, he has a young adult son, Sebastian, who works in a steel mill while struggling to earn a scholarship, as they have no money for him to get out of this life any other way. The very day Shaw gets his letter informing him he’s earned a full scholarship and runs to tell his father, he arrives to find his father has died or is dying. Holding Jacob’s hand, Sebastian speaks to him with tears in his eyes, promising him how he will “make him proud” and is going to be an engineer “just like we always wanted” It’s a sad, touching scene, and does not suggest any ill feelings between the two, quite the reverse.

The next time the subject of Shaw’s father comes up, it’s in the previously mentioned story with Mr. Sinister and the Cronus machine. This story features one panel in particular that sticks out to me:

Sunspot: Your father was a nobody, you said.

Shaw: I did not say that.

Shaw is *protective* of his father here, defending him posthumously from insult. He also trusted his father enough to keep the anti-Cronus device with him his entire life on his father’s word despite having no idea what it did.

Now, could these things be true if his father actually was abusive and Shaw resented him his whole life for it, as in Gillen’s depiction? Well, yes. As with the fact that the sweet, romantic moments between Sebastian and Lourdes depicted in this miniseries could very easily coexist with the “Shaw was abusive to her” retcon that Duggan would pull 20+ years later, Shaw could easily have trusted his father and wanted to make him proud and held his hand on his deathbed and all of that while ALSO having been emotionally abused by Jacob and resenting him as Gillen depicted in his 20+ later version. Abuse dynamics are very, very complicated in real life, and it’s very rare that any abusive relationship is “all bad” all the time, in fact. That’s one of the most pervasive and frustrating myths to me about abuse and abusers, actually, so normally I *want* fiction to depict that kind of realistic nuance. But that’s not what’s going on here. What’s going on here is that Raab told one story, and then Gillen and Duggan told two completely different ones. It’s just normal comics contradiction. Like, yes, these versions COULD co-exist, but that was obviously never the intent. Raab may have only been able to show a few pages of Shaw’s relationship with Lourdes and with Jacob, and he chose to make those pages ones that indicated love. When you’re doing a comic book character’s backstory, and you only have a limited number of pages and panels to cram it all into, you’re going to pick stuff that essentially provides a “snapshot” to sum it up. So yes, if Shaw was a real person, then he could absolutely have abused Lourdes like Duggan while also having the tender moments Raab showed, and been abused by Jacob the way Gillen showed while also having the relationship aspects that Raab and the other writer (name escapes me) showed and suggested. But he’s not a real person, he’s a character in a story, and when you understand how stories work, how comics work especially, it’s pretty obvious that none of these later retcons/additions were ever intended to be the case in the original content, and in fact are intended to be the OPPOSITE of the case, given what we saw. It’s not just that Gillen and Duggan added things, they added things completely CONTRADICTORY to what the original works “snapshots” indicated about these relationships. And while I could just buckle and incorporate them into my understanding…no, I don’t think I shall. For a few reasons: - I’ve been studying Shaw since 2014, writing him since 2016. These retcons were made in the 2020s. They completely change the previous dynamics with Jacob and Lourdes that I originally understood, and accordingly change Shaw’s character. Comics change, contradictions happen, I get it, I accept it (albeit kicking and screaming) but that doesn’t mean I have to use it in my own writing. I pride myself on being MORE canon than canon because I stick with canon as it originally happened, not just what the latest writer did. - Just as I think Shaw actually being a good lover makes him a more interesting character than if he was a shitty abusive one, so too do I think a good relationship with his father adds more interest and nuance to him. The idea that Shaw has the capacity to love and to have good relationships but has destroyed that by becoming so repellant to others, as well as so paranoid due to the shitty experiences with shitty people he goes through by CHOOSING to be a member of the Hellfire Club and be a shitty person himself, is a really interesting setup. And this capacity is shown by his early relationships in life–Jacob and Lourdes—being good ones. There’s also the fact that mean parents, especially mean fathers, are just SUCH a goddamn cliche at this point. Shaw not only NOT having abusive parents, but in fact downright averting that with a GOOD relationship with his father, was different. It also added extra motive for him to want to achieve his dreams—making his dad proud by doing what they had planned together–not to mention there’s the fact that, if he loved his dad and his dad died of an illness, then it follows that if Shaw had had more money at the time, maybe he could have gotten him better medical care and Jacob might have lived. Probably not, of course, given his blood disease was likely Sinister’s work, but not knowing that, I’m sure the thought occurred to Shaw. That’s that much more motivation for his hard work and greed, the feeling of security that money brings. Gillen swaps out “wanting to make his dad proud because he loved him” for “wanting to succeed to rub it in his dead father’s face” and like…that works well, but again, why bother if the first story worked fine to begin with? Plus, it honestly just feels like a repeat of Emma’s dynamic with her own father. Maybe the idea was to draw parallels between them, but if you want to do that, you can already do it with Shaw’s original backstory—- he had a small poor family and a good relationship with his dad, she had a large rich family with a bad relationship with her dad. Despite their opposite circumstances, both were driven to succeed by their relationship with their fathers. There ya go, that’s your parallel. (See also: How Shaw and Emma respond to grief in opposite ways. Shaw committed to a worse path after Lourdes’ death, while Emma changed to a better path because of the Hellions death. Seriously you could do a lot with these two as mirrors if writers would just consider that instead of the nonsensical abuse retcons) - As I’ve mentioned before, I dislike that Shaw’s father abusing him gives an “easy” answer to why he abused Shinobi. As I also said before, what I really like about Shaw being an abusive father despite having a good dad is that it AVOIDED this trope and the easy answer. I really LIKED that Shaw doesn’t have the “well he was abused by his own father” trope going on. I like that it made me think about “well why DID he abuse Shinobi then?” and made me come up with answers that I think make a lot of sense for who he is and how he operates, and why it makes sense to me that he abuses his son but NOT his lovers, etc., - While emotional abuse can give a good characterization reason for why Shaw is awful, it fails on a thematic level. Shaw’s theme from the beginning has been corruption. When Claremont first writes the backstory of his takeover of the HFC in 1985, Shaw originally espouses a Magneto-like speech about using the Inner Circle to make mutants the victors in the world rather than the victims. But by the time he has his first conflict with the X-Men in the Dark Phoenix Saga, he’s gone right back to the original plots he had with the mutant-hating Ned Buckman to simply use the mutants as guinea pigs for profit, and spends the rest of the 80s happily peddling Sentinels to Senator Kelly. He only cares about money, this is made ABUNDANTLY clear, but he’s shown by the same writer as having started OUT as caring about more when he first became Black King. And when Claremont expands on his backstory in an early 2000s story, he has Sage recount that Shaw was actually a noble man when she first met him, a man who would have “spit on Hellfire” and that she would have served him faithfully forever if he hadn’t changed. It’s also implied via art he may have been on a humanitarian mission in Afghanistan when they met. And in Raab’s story, Lourdes cautions Shaw about the Hellfire Club, telling him that it changes people, corrupts them. She even tries to block his name for nomination (and oh look, he DOESN’T hit her for that, he isn’t even angry, DUGGAN) because she doesn’t want that to happen to HIM. And in Steve Lyon’s Legacy Quest Trilogy novels (which I cannot rec enough as a Shaw character source for me) it gets deeper detailed how the longer Shaw spends in the cloak and dagger world of the Hellfire Club, the longer he’s backstabbed by others and does backstabbing himself, the more closed-off and cruel he becomes, the more he only focuses on his wealth and power and disdains personal connections. In other words, the way Shaw is comes DIRECTLY from his own choice to engage in the Hellfire Club and to continue to do so every day he wakes up. It’s a PROGRESSION and it’s his own FAULT, his own CHOICE. He becomes like this through his own corruption and he actively makes that decision. Turning it into emotional abuse from his father firstly takes the progression/corruption aspect away, and it secondly takes Shaw’s own choice and agency out of it. Again, this could be a “well both things could be true” thing, that’s workable, but THEMATICS wise it does not. Again, these are not real people, these are characters in a story with THEMES they are meant to convey. Shaw’s theme of being corrupted by wealth, power, and the company he keeps in pursuit of that, is served much better by his original depiction. - I just don’t like it. At the end of the day, that’s really what it comes down to. Comics often gives multiple choice options for a character’s personality and past, and I’ve chosen mine. And while it’s not the one I chose, I actually think Gillen’s version isn’t bad. It’s a perfectly serviceable backstory for Shaw to explain why he is how he is. It’s just, a different perfectly good one already existed, and I like that one better. Now, on to my other problem with Gillen’s depiction of Shaw’s childhood: Gillen does not show the Shaws poor. He depicts young Sebastian as coming into Jacob’s office to excitedly tell him about something and being cruelly dismissed because he doesn’t even have a million dollars to his name to be worth Jacob talking to. Yes really. Jacob is dressed in Hellfire Club livery (which…is odd, Jacob was never an HFC member, that was his whole motive for murder) and is depicted working behind a large desk in a large room with a chandelier. This is not the home of a poor family. Jacob says he’s working to restore the family fortune, suggesting they used to be wealthier than they are now, but they clearly still have money, they haven’t been driven to selling furniture, property, etc. This is a far cry from the “poor steel mill worker” past we originally saw for Shaw, and provides a very different motive for his drive to become wealthy. In his original past, his motive was pretty cut and dry: He escaped poverty, but then became consumed by greed and ambition to rise ever higher, make more money than he could ever justifiably need, etc. And I think it’s a good motive. It’s never explored deeply, or at all really, but I think the psychological trauma of poverty is what caused this pathological greed; and it is pathological, I don’t know what else you’d call the amount of risk he takes to get more more MORE that he doesn’t need at all. It reminds me of the “food insecurity” you see in people who didn’t have enough to eat growing up, just with money instead. It also makes his decadent lifestyle make a lot of sense, he grew up with nothing so now he wants everything. In Gillen’s retcon, this is replaced by daddy issues. When Shaw makes a million bucks, he comes and dumps it on his father’s grave and burns it. Which…dude, I don’t care how many daddy issues you give him, Shaw’s not going to burn good money. But basically, pursuing money is representative to Shaw of pursuing the love of a father that he never got, and because he never got it, he can never stop. Which….I’m not going to say that it doesn’t make sense, but, as with the “Jacob was emotionally abusive” retcon, it’s just not necessary. Shaw had a good solid motive already. And I prefer that original motive for a lot of reasons. Firstly, it’s unique. Daddy issues are a dime a dozen in comics, so much so that bad dads now make me GROAN in new characters. What’s more, Shaw’s specific dynamic with his dad is pretty much exactly like what Emma and Shinobi already had—”I hate you, rich dad I’m never good enough for, but I’m gonna prove myself to you by becoming successful by your standards!” And maybe that’s intentional, to make him more of a “dark mirror” to Emma and/or indicate a cycle with Shinobi, but it comes off as lazy and uncreative, which is even worse when you consider they were replacing something that WASN’T lazy and uncreative. Secondly, it takes away the fact Shaw is a self made man. Yes, this still depicts him making his own money, but he’s clearly got a good head start, in contrast to Shaw’s classical depiction of the last 42 YEARS of being born dirt poor and becoming a multibillionaire purely through his own effort. Yes, I grant that’s about as unrealistic as getting powers from radioactive spider bites, but thematically it is ESSENTIAL to this character, what he’s about, how he sees the world. The entire THEME of Shaw is that he literally is the embodiment of the American dream—that someone with nothing can achieve everything if they work hard—but then a deconstruction thereof because it also shows how corrupt he became along the way and sacrificed his decency and relationships with others for it. This isn’t just my reading, this is literally TEXTUAL in Raab’s work, he is literally referred to as the American dream by the narrative boxes, that is the POINT. Maybe Gillen was trying to make a statement on the impossibility of this, by saying “no ACTUALLY this “self-made” billionaire was born on third base or at least second” and I get that, but Shaw’s the wrong character for it both because it goes against what’s previously established and because it messes up so much of his theme and his resultant psychology. It also takes away many of Shaw’s admirable traits. As with the Emma and Lourdes retcons, this strips things away from Shaw that were likeable, humanizing, nuanced, etc. He goes from a man that, as awful as he was, did genuinely earn his fortune through hard work and has a right to be proud of it, and can be admired for it even if he’s rightfully hated for his mentality and actions. Now? Poor little rich boy with daddy issues. It’s just…it’s so reductive, it’s so much less interesting, it’s so unnecessary, and it takes AWAY from the complexity of the character, not adds to it. And that’s the reverse of what a retcon or expansion on a character’s history should do. I don’t hate retcons for being retcons. I think some are great in terms of fixing things, adding to a character, etc. Just, every retcon around THIS character have been bad for him, also take away from other characters too imo, and don’t work as well for story, thematics, etc as the originals already did. 

My DM in my new campaign has us determine the luck factor of a lot of things like, say, guard patrol timing, or loose floor tiles, mood of someone we’re trying to bribe, etc, by asking us to roll a d6 or d12, and having chosen what the numbers will mean ahead of time.

So second meet, we go to a city where their local mine has accidentally cracked open a vein leading to the underdark, and Driders are pouring in to kill people. Locals get hired to semi suicide mission to seal up the mine cracks with magic stone making charges, knowing you’re paid a lot if you survive and your family is paid a lot if you die. Local captain of the guard isn’t a fan of this exactly and is like ‘if you can tell you’re not going to make it, just run. It’s not worth dying over.’ But he’s still stuck overseeing it. We help the locals. It’s a bloodbath. Despite our best efforts, in the like 60 seconds it takes to reach the main group when they’re attacked, all but 3 are killed. We save the rest. The forward guard rushes to close the holes and makes it, but three people fall into the underdark in the process, which is like an ‘I have been falling for six minutes’ death. My insane girl rock climbs several thousand feet because she has an ability to let her know one survived, finds him before he’s killed by the driders, and with help from the wild shaped spider Druid, gets him back up while chased by a swarm of drivers during a five minute free climb with a certain death fall, and they barely seal the hole.

Captain of the guard is super impressed with us and we get paid a lot. I come back after being paid to offer some of my cut to family of the deceased, and he refuses saying he’s already providing for them. We like him now so we ask his name. DM goes ‘uhhh’ *paper shuffle sound* ‘Okay so he was supposed to die in the mine so I didn’t name him. He’s uh. Jeff.’ Which as we all know is the most crucial mistake a DM can make.

So Jeff™️ we are now obsessed with for, largely, being named Jeff in a high fantasy setting.

We shower and rest. Spirit medium party member starts sensing a guy being tortured to death and then resurrected and tortured to death and resurrected on repeat. We haul ass. Guards ask for ID to get into the rich side of town. Jeff gave us a badge so we could collect our pay so we flash that. We find a high mage’s house and break in, find like four mages in the basement and a guard, torturing this guy. We initiate combat. Leader teleports away with prisoner, two others are killed, one by the medium, one suicide fireballs himself. We keep the last alive. The guard also lives, but my girl starts turnabout-is-fair-play very not chill beating him up to get where they took the prisoner. The guards come. We grab the last guy, kill the guard, run. I’m in the rear and fail the athletics to get out before seen by the guards by one, so he says ‘Okay so one guard sees you. Roll a d12 to see how much he cares bc-‘ other player goes ‘is it Jeff?’ Bc this is just how we are now. DM goes ‘it /really/ shouldn’t be bc he was at the mines four hours ago but okay. Roll a one and it’s-‘ I roll a natural one.

Group chat goes ballistic with shouts of “Jeff!!”

DM goes ‘Lol okay. You run by and just as you leave, Jeff enters. You lock eyes. He gives you a ‘?’ Look but gives you the benefit of the doubt and says nothing, as he saw you act very altruistically earlier.’ - I go ‘I mouth “Soooorrryy” as I go’

Us fleeing the scene as Jeff enters an active triple homicide + kidnapping active crime scene: