#matthew dresses up as a pirate | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

hoedamn-eron · 5 months

Text

baby, please - part 15

You join Santi at Frankie's Halloween party, and you think his friends are a hoot.

Warnings: Reader is called 'Auntie' by a four year old. Heavy on the Halloween theme (obviously). Bad descriptions of a decorated house (I've never been one to celebrate Halloween, I've never really decorated my house). Lots of dialogue. Like one swear word. Slight, teeny-tiny, self-consciousness regarding future relationships for the babies/Santi/the boys/other kids. Nervousness over meeting new people. Slightly drunk Santi. Word count: 4,301 F!Reader, no use of Y/N.

Again, not a great chapter, I apologise. I tried my best and no amount of rewriting could make me love it. But at least you've met the guys now!

Part 14 ● Series Masterlist ● Part 16

“I’m actually really excited for tonight, thanks for inviting me,” Gabrielle said as she walked into your apartment, kids in tow, already dressed in their costumes, the Hulk and…Michael Myers.

Theodore looked up at you as you closed your door, and he gave a loud roar, before ‘flexing’ his arms. “Hulk smash!”

You grinned before pretending to act shocked. “Please, Mr Hulk, don’t smash up my apartment! I’m moving out soon and need it to look nice for the new owners.”

“Are you leaving?” Theodore asked, lifting his mask, and looking at you with sad eyes.

You shake your head. “No, I’m just getting a bigger house, for me and my babies.” You pat your bump.

“Okay,” Theodore said, going quiet before asking, “Can I smash your new house then?”

“No smashing of other people’s property,” Gabrielle said, putting Luna down on the floor as the two-year-old toddled off into your living room.

You look at Gabrielle with an amused look at Theodore followed his sister. “So…Michael Myers?”

Gabrielle rolled her eyes as she made her way through your apartment, bags in hand. “I don’t know where she got it from, but she refused any other costume. I asked Matthew about it, but he’s claiming ignorance. It was definitely him though, but I’m not sure when he’s had the chance to watch Halloween with our two-year-old.”

You throw your hands up. “I mean…if Luna likes it – “

“Won’t people think I’m being a bad mother letting her dress up as a serial killer from a movie?”

“No-one’s going to think you’re a bad mother, Gabs. If anything, they’ll find it funny. I know Santi will.”

Gabrielle pulled a face before shaking her head. “It’s fine. You know what, it’ll be fine. I’m overthinking it.”

“You are a little. Seriously, don’t worry about it.” You look at her bags. “What are you dressing as?”

“A pirate,” Gabrielle replied. “And I made it myself with an old shirt and pants. They haven’t fit me since before I was pregnant with Luna so I thought they might as well have one last good use.”

You nod. “Cool. I’m going as Midge, you know, the - ”

“The Barbie doll?” Gabrielle cried, her eyes widening as she laughed. “That’s genius!”

“I have a wig and everything,” you laugh with her. “I hope it’s not too niche.”

“No, it’s great! I can’t wait to see it!”

You get ready together in your small bathroom as the kids watched cartoons and ate some dinner (Luna had refused to take off her mask until Gabrielle had bought out the PB&J sandwich and banana). Gabrielle looked amazing in her home-made costume (an old stripy black and white t-shirt, and some black pants that had been strategically cut to look ripped), complete with eyepatch and red head scarf. She helped you get into your costume until you both laughed with tears in your eyes, finding yourselves absolutely hilarious. You laughed even more when you placed on your red-haired wig.

“I need a photo!” Gabrielle said, still laughing, before you posed at the bathroom door as she took the picture, a wide smile on your face as you hold your bump.

After a few more laughs, and some photos with Gabrielle and the kids, you share the photos with the group chat, where Beth and Courtney both send back images of their own Halloween plans; Courtney at home with Andy, on the couch watching horror films with a big bowl of candy they were going to hand out to the trick or treaters, and Beth and Georgia at another Halloween party with Georgia’s family, where they were both dressed in a couple’s costume of She-Go and Kim Possible.

Once you and Gabrielle were ready, and the kids had finished their sandwiches, you text Santi to let him know you were on the way to Frankie’s house. He had sent over Frankie’s address earlier that day, and it wasn’t too far from the restaurant you had your date at. You set up your GPS as Gabrielle got the kids settled in the back of your car, settled in the car seats you had borrowed from Georgia via Beth.

“Are you nervous?” Gabrielle asked as she climbed into your car and closed the door.

“About what?” you ask, looking behind you as you backed out of your parking space.

“Me meeting Santi, or Santi meeting me,” Gabrielle answered.

“No, not at all,” you answer back, pulling out onto the street. “I’m more nervous about meeting his friends. He holds them in such high regard, I’m scared I’ll disappoint them.”

“You could never,” Gabrielle says. “You’re having the guys kids, I’m sure they’ll trust his judgement.”

You give her a look.

“Not that there’s anything to judge, you’re a wonderful person, I love you,” Gabrielle quickly adds, sending you a wide smile with a small giggle.

“Thanks, really appreciate it,” you snark back good-naturedly, shaking your head as you laugh.

“Auntie?” Theodore calls you from his place in the back.

“Yes, honey?” you ask him as you stop at some lights.

“When are your babies coming?”

“Not until February,” you reply. “We have to do Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year, and my birthday, then I’ll have my babies.”

“Can we meet them when they’re born?” Theodore asks.

“Not until they’re all settled at home,” Gabrielle said. “Remember when we bought Luna home, and it was just me, you, Luna, and daddy for a while?”

“Yup,” Theodore said.

“Well that’s because we all needed to get to know Luna first, wasn’t it?” Gabrielle asked. “So your Auntie and…her…friend…”

You smirk in amusement as Gabrielle tried to explain your relationship with Santi in a child friendly way. You make a right turn, making your way onto a residential street, already with a few trick or treaters.

“Anyway, your Auntie and her friend will be with the babies for a little bit before we get to see them.”

“Who is your friend, Auntie?” Theodore asked.

“His name is Santiago,” you reply. “You’ll meet him tonight.”

Theodore is quiet for a little bit before saying, “I thought mommies and daddies had to be married to have babies?”

“Who’s excited for the party?” you asked enthusiastically, causing Luna to cheer, Theodore soon joining, causing the four-year-old to soon forget his questions.

Gabrielle grinned before quietly whispering, “Nice save, you heathen.”

“I may be a heathen, but you will have to explain to your kids why I’m pregnant without being married. We’re here!” you call, pulling up to a nice-looking house, covered in Halloween decorations. The house was covered in fake cobwebs and ‘Keep Out!’ tape was stuck on the doors and windows.

There was a large, blow-up witch by the front door, and a few fake gravestones littering the front yard, some skeletons hanging over some, and you could see fake spiders with light up eyes scattered over the yard with them. The lighting inside the house was lightly fading into different colours, like purple, red, green, and orange. Lastly, you spot Jack-o’-Lanterns gathered together by the garage and the steps leading up the small porch, and the front door.

“This looks nice,” you say, looking at all the decorations.

Gabrielle nodded, smiling. “Looks like fun! Let’s go!”

You climb out of the car, giving a small shiver at the chill of the Autumn air, before getting Luna out as Gabrielle tended to Theodore. You hold the two years old’s hand as Gabrielle comes to your side, holding Theodore’s hand and the children’s bag over her shoulder. You all make your way up to the front door, before you stop, but you stand there, nervous. The sound of laughter, chatter, and faint music spills out from it, mingling with the rustle of fallen leaves.

You look at Gabrielle. “I feel really nervous. And really stupid because I feel really nervous.”

“It’s okay to feel nervous, and you’re not stupid,” Gabrielle said. “There’s a lot of things happening tonight, and if you’re not comfortable, we can just forget this and walk around the neighbourhood with the kids.”

You take a few deep breaths, trying to calm your rapidly beating heart. Gabrielle was right, there was a lot happening tonight. One of the most important people in your life is meeting an equally as important person. And in turn, you’ll be meeting the most important people in his life. You're grateful for Gabrielle’s comforting presence of your friend, her reassuring smile helping to ease the nervous tension.

Eventually you nod at Gabrielle before turning back to the door before ringing the doorbell.

After a few moments, your heart stops as the front door opens. You’re faced with a gorgeous woman, her thick, dark hair cascading in loose waves, sat under a witch’s hat. It framed her face, where her flawless sun-kissed skin was decorated with the glitter and Halloween make-up. She looks at you all with her dark eyes before gasping, her eyes widening in excitement. She calls your name.

“Yes, that’s me,” you say, smiling nervously. You assume this is Sarah. “And this is Gabrielle, my friend. And her kids, Theodore, and Luna.”

“I’m so glad you could make it! I’m Sarah. I’ve been so excited to meet you, can’t believe Santi kept you to himself for so long. Anyway, come in, come in,” she ushers you all in, closing the door behind you. “Your costumes look fantastic! Everyone’s just in the living room, I can put your bag in the closet?” she asks Gabrielle.

“Oh, no I’m fine, thank you, I can do it,” Gabrielle said.

“It’s no problem,” Sarah said, taking the bag from Gabrielle. “Go on through!”

You and Gabrielle thank her again before you make your way through the house. It was a small corridor that lead into an open plan living room, where it was just as heavily decorated as the outside. You feel your heart beating harder as nervousness ran through your body, as you take in the people in the living room. It was a little loud, but not too loud where it was obnoxious. The kids immediately let go of yours and Gabrielle’s hands at the sight of the toys scattered around the living room, throwing themselves on the floor and immediately playing.

Your eyes widen a little as you take in the small crowd. Santi wasn’t here. And you didn’t recognise anyone other than Frankie (who hadn’t actually put on a costume), and he was stood with a good-looking blonde man and a cute redheaded woman, who was hanging off of the man’s arm. The blonde and redhead were in a couple’s costume of Daphne and Fred from Scooby-Doo. Frankie chuckled at something the pirate said, before turning and catching your eye.

“Oh hey!” Frankie called as he saw you. He excuses himself from his group and makes his way over to you. “Glad you could make it.”

“Thanks again for the invite,” you say, giving a nervous laugh before turning to Gabrielle, who smiled at him. “This is my friend, Gabrielle, and her kids Theodore and Luna, who are absolutely demolishing your daughter’s toys.”

Frankie waved a nonchalant hand. “Don’t worry about it. Nice to meet you,” Frankie says, shaking Gabrielle’s hand.

“You too. And thanks again for letting me join you,” Gabrielle replied. “My kids love Halloween.”

“It’s not a problem,” Frankie says before turning to you. “Pope just ran out, he’ll be back in a few.”

You nod, letting out a breath you didn’t realise you were holding.

“Come over, make yourselves at home,” Frankie said, leading you both over to the people who he was talking to. “These are Will and Claire, I’m sure Pope’s mentioned them to you before.”

“Hi,” you say, Gabrielle giving a small wave.

“What can I get you to drink?” Frankie asked.

“Lemonade, please, if you have it,” Gabrielle said.

Frankie nodded before looking at you.

You really wanted Diet Coke, but you’d just met these people and you felt like it would be really rude to just…ask for something they might not have. Maybe you could just have a water? No, that was a bit boring, especially at a party, but you were pregnant, so it was the healthiest choice and no-one would question if you just wanted a water. God, you’re overthinking over a drink. You wouldn’t be so on edge if Santi was here, you wouldn’t be as worried to ask anything.

“A lemonade is fine for me too, thanks,” you reply.

Frankie nodded again before claiming he’d be back soon. He disappears through to the kitchen, not before stopping to give Sarah, now carrying a little girl dressed as a fairy (who was the image of Frankie), a quick peck before disappearing into the kitchen.

“It’s nice to finally meet you,” Will says gently. You got a chill vibe from him, although he looked rough and tumble. “Pope’s told us all about you.”

“All good things, I hope,” you say with a nervous smile as Frankie leaves towards the kitchen.

“Absolutely,” said Will, smiling as he pulled Claire into his side, her hand automatically resting on his chest, her engagement ring glinting in the Halloween themed lights. “You and the kids are all he talks about nowadays.”

You hold back a grin as Gabrielle gave you a small nudge.

“It’s been nice, that he wants to stick around,” you say, your cheeks warming. “Having kids wasn’t in my plans right now, and I could only guess they definitely weren’t in his.”

“They weren’t, but Pope’s always been good at adapting. And he’s really warmed up to the idea of being a dad,” Will said, giving a nod. “He’s dedicated to ‘em already.”

“Not dedicated enough to get a fucking car, though,” said Frankie, jokingly, suddenly coming up behind you with two glasses of cloudy lemonade in his hands.

“He said he’s working on it,” you said, coming to Santi’s defence, before taking a glass from Frankie and thanking him.

Gabrielle thanked Frankie for the other lemonade before looking between you all. “Is he fond of the truck?”

Frankie snorted, now nursing his own beer bottle. “He’d marry the truck if he could. He bought it when we came back from our first mission. Surprised it still runs.”

“Whose kid is Michael Myers?” a deep voice asked from behind you.

You turn to see a tall, blonde man, dressed – ironically – as a pirate. His eyes were the same colour at Will’s, and they looked similar, so you had to assume this was Benny. He was carrying a pack of beer in one arm, an open can in the other hand. He looks at everyone with a furrowed brow, confused about you and Gabrielle – obviously because you were unfamiliar.

“She’s mine,” Gabrielle said, rolling her eyes. “Don’t ask.”

“Holy shit, we match!” Benny cried, his grin widening as he motioned to their outfits. “Here I thought I was being clever being a pirate!”

Gabrielle gave a small, amused laugh. “Your costume is better than mine, I just threw this together.”

“Nah, you look great!” Benny said, and you could tell he meant it. He reminded you a little of a Golden Retriever; a dumb, loving, Golden Retriever.

“Well…thanks,” Gabrielle said, blushing a little as she took a sip of her lemonade.

Benny’s eyes landed on you, before smirking. “Been looking forward to meeting you.”

“Be nice,” Frankie said, giving Benny a pointed look.

“He bothering you, cariño?”

You turn so suddenly, you’re surprised you didn’t give yourself whiplash. Your breath catches. Santi's dressed as a charming vampire, complete with the fake-bloodied holes on his neck, a black cape and fake fangs that glint as he grins at you. As if they feel their father near (or, you know, the sudden acceleration of your heartbeat), you feel a few kicks from within, a reminder of the two lives quietly developing beneath the surface.

Realising you may have taken too long to answer, you shake your head. “No, no. He isn’t bothering me.”

Santi gives a small laugh of amusement before he holds up a case of Diet Coke cans. “Had to get these, since Frankie isn’t accommodating for new guests.”

“Hey, hermano, I would have gotten them if I’d known,” Frankie says, with mock offence, before giving Santi a pointed look. “Don’t blame me for your bad planning!”

Santi throws him the bird before pulling a can from the pack. “Might be a bit warm, I can put the rest in the fridge. Unless you want to wait?”

Oh, you love this man. You want to marry this man.

“I’ll finish my lemonade first, thank you,” you say, smiling softly. “I’ll have a Coke later.”

Santi nods before putting the can back in the pack before he glares at Benny. “Don’t be an ass.”

“I wasn’t!” he called as Santi walked off into the kitchen. He turned to look at you. “I wasn’t going to be an ass, I swear.”

“I believe you,” you say, nodding as you sip at your lemonade.

“Go and put your beer in the fridge,” said Will, laughing.

Benny rolled his eyes, muttering something you couldn’t quite hear, before he turned and followed Santi through to the kitchen, calling for him.

“So uh…that’s Santi?” Gabrielle asks you quietly.

You sigh lightly, giving her a look. “Yup.”

“Cute. Nice hair. And a nice smile…I assume, he’s got fangs in.”

“He does have a nice smile,” you say, before smirking. “Nice ass, too.”

You both snort a laugh in amusement before going quiet when Santi and Benny come back, talking animatedly about something that you couldn’t quite keep up with, beers in their hands. You avert your gaze, looking at Gabrielle, who smirked back at you as she sipped at her lemonade. You shake your head as Santi stands next to you, Benny next to him.

“What have I missed?” he asked, looking at the group.

“Introductions, mostly,” you say, motioning to Gabrielle. “This is Gabrielle. Gabs, this is Santi.”

Gabrielle and Santi shake hands. “Nice to meet you,” Gabrielle says.

“You too,” Santi says. He nods to Theodore and Luna, who were still sat playing with the toys. “I’m assuming Michael Myers and the Hulk are yours?”

“They are,” Gabrielle says, letting out a small laugh. “Theodore and Luna. She insisted on being Michael Myers.”

“Girl’s got taste, it’s my favourite horror film,” Benny said, laughing.

As the night goes on, more and more guests show up, and the house is soon full of people. Sarah’s brothers and sister had turned up with their kids, and Theodore and Luna soon integrated themselves with the other children, who ranged from aged 6 months old to 9 years old. Sofía had even joined after a while, although she played mostly on her own, beside Luna, who still had yet to take off her mask.

Sarah had set up some Halloween activities in the back yard; she’d set up a table with some pumpkins of various sizes and some carving sets, mostly for the older kids, but you and Gabrielle helped Theodore and Luna make their own pumpkins. Sarah had also set up a large box filled with water and apples for bobbing, something you opted out of, but howled with laughter when you watched the Miller brothers almost try to drown each other in order to win. Santi was by your side throughout.

You talked to so many people; mostly about work, how your pregnancy was going, if you were enjoying the party. You had to admit, you were having fun, and it was nice to see Santi interacting with his friends. He was…different. But in a good way. He seemed more laidback, chatted a little more, and you got to see him interact with Sofía. He loved that little girl. She was just learning to walk, and she would always find herself toddling over to Santi and reach up for him.

There was never a lull in conversation as he picked her up, it was almost as if it was instinctive for him. It made your heart swell.

The guys didn’t let you down in telling you embarrassing stories about Santi.

You started wondering what it would be like with your kids. Would he take them to Halloween parties like this? Would your children and Sofía grow up together and become friends? Would Frankie, Will, and Benny be as involved as they were with Sofía? You suppose it would be harder, with you and Santi not being an actual couple. They would only see the twins on whichever schedule you and Santi eventually decide between yourselves, and even then, that might not be every time Santi has them.

You look around the living room, holding your long empty Diet Coke can. Benny and Gabrielle were standing with the kids, talking about whatever they were talking about (something to do with boxing…you remember Benny had done some cage fighting), and Frankie and Sarah were putting Sofía to bed. Santi and Will were talking with Claire about wedding planning; but it did look like Claire was doing most of the talking. It was cute, you looked forward to hearing more about it.

You took the opportunity to sneak away to the kitchen, grabbing a moment of peace and quiet. You toss your empty can into the recycling before opening the fridge to grab another.

“You okay, corazón?”

You give a small smile as you look at Santi, who had joined you in the kitchen, beer bottle in his hand. His eyes were a little unfocused, and he was giving you a little dopey smile, probably from the few beers he’d had. You close the fridge. “Yeah, I’m okay. Just grabbing another drink. Thanks for getting these, by the way.”

Santi nodded, leaning against one of the counters. “Not a problem. It was my fault Frankie didn’t have any, I did forget to tell him.”

You shake your head at him. “I would have gone without, you didn’t need to go to the store.”

“Benny was going anyway,” Santi said. “And I wanted to. They didn’t have any Sourpatch Kids though, you might have to steal some from the Trick or Treat bowl.”

You shake your head, grinning. “I’ve already looked, they’re not the watermelon ones.”

“Damn, you just can’t get the staff nowadays,” Santi joked.

You laugh as you open the can. You hold it out to him in a silent offer, and he shakes his head at you, finishing the beer he had with him.

You nod, then you both go silent, and you take a sip of your drink. Something felt…weird. You couldn’t put your finger on it. It wasn’t an awkward feeling, not at all. But now, in this moment, there was an unfamiliar tension in the air. You’d been alone together plenty of times before. Maybe it was because you’d really integrated in each other’s lives; his apartment had a fully furnished nursery, which you picked yourselves, you were both meeting each other’s friends, and you even had your own designated snack drawer in his kitchen for your favourite foods whenever you found yourself at his place.

Maybe that was it. A lot had happened in the last few days and it was getting to you.

“You okay?”

You blink at his question before giving him a closed lipped smile and nodding. “Yeah. Just tired.”

“You can go home if you want, no-one will mind,” Santi said, coming off the counter.

“No, no, I’m okay. Gabs and the kids are having a good time.”

“You sure?” he asks, coming closer to you. “I don’t want you uncomfortable. You’re carrying my kids in there.”

You give a small snort of amusement before nodding. “Yeah…yeah, I’m sure.”

He doesn’t say anything, just takes a few more steps closer to you. Your breath hitches, as you stare at him. The sounds of the party in just the next room seem to fade away, and all you can hear is the thumping of your heartbeat in your ears.

The atmosphere is charged with anticipation as you and Santi share a moment of connection. He’s so close, you feel your back hit the fridge, your noses touching. He smells faintly of the beer he’s been drinking, but mostly of the pumpkins he helped carve for Sofía, and the cologne he always wears, and something that was just plain Santiago. It was mouth-watering. His eyes flash to your lips before meeting yours. Your lips inch closer, teasing the promise of a sweet, stolen kiss in his best friend’s kitchen.

“What are you doing?” you whisper.

There’s a pause before he whispers back. “I don’t know.”

You lean in, your lips barely meeting when the spell is abruptly broken as the kitchen door opens.

Santi jumps apart from you as you gasp at the sudden movement, and before you know it, he’s across the other side of the kitchen, throwing away his empty beer.

Gabrielle walks into the kitchen, looking between the two of you, obviously reading the room. “Sorry. Didn’t mean to interrupt.”

You open your mouth to reply but Santiago shakes his head, a light blush on his cheeks as he grins at her. “No, we were just talking. Nothing going on.”

You freeze. No, that’s not what he meant. Don’t overthink this. He’s a little drunk and you’re having his kids. It’s understandable that he might be feeling a little friendly.

You give a shaky smile to Gabrielle. “Yeah, just talking.”

Gabrielle nodded as Santi mumbled something about re-joining the party and leaving the kitchen. You both watch him leave before you shake your head, trying to calm your breathing and your heart.

“What was that?” Gabrielle whispered, her eyes wide at you.

You shook your head. “I…nothing. It was nothing.”

Tagged - @khonsulockley, @bluenredndeath, @superficialfeelings, @othersideoftheparadise, @beezusvreeland

#triple frontier #santiago garcia x reader #santiago x reader #santiago garcia #oscar isaac #pregnant!reader #santiago garcia x f!reader #frankie morales #william miller #benny miller

66 notes · View notes

twiixr4kidz · 5 months

Note

Ik most of the asks/request u get are x readers but... do u have any hcs for matthew x ramona...

yeah ofc!!

assuming they tried again after dating in middle school.........

ramona rekindled their friendship and all of a sudden, they couldn't get out of each other's heads

it's very "us against the world" and they're both a little codependent

matthew is slightly more so because of how ramona left him out of nowhere the first time

he's still healing from it, even though it was so long ago

ramona definitely tries to make up for it

they take things very slow at first

the farthest they go in the first month is holding hands, that's how slow they wanna take it

it still feels like it's them against the world

matthew is still evil and ramona gets roped into his plans more often than not

she humors him because she thinks its cute

they're both changed and they're much more mature now so the nature of their relationship is obviously different

and i won't lie, it's pretty rocky at the beginning

ramona starts dressing more alternatively not because she wants matthew to like her more but because his fashion sense inspires her

she loves his whole pirate thing too

#ramona flowers #matthew patel #ramona flowers x matthew patel #matthew patel x ramona flowers #scott pilgrim #scott pilgrim vs the world #scott pilgrim takes off #spvtw #spto #i hope i did this justice lol

44 notes · View notes

mitskisfan2 · 5 months

Text

matthew patel hcs!

• always dressed up as a pirate for halloween

• if you point a lazer at the wall he will follow it like a cat

• tried making a demon hipster chick look like ramona

• besties with the twins :3

• honestly saw gideon as a father figure

• loves makin paper crowns n stuff

• was a scene kid

#matthew patel #hes so silly #sorry for short post 😭 i add more.#scott pilgrim

24 notes · View notes

twistedtummies2 · 4 months

Text

The Scarlet Pirate - Chapter 3

This is the third of a six-part "Chapter Story" for my OC for Twisted Wonderland, James Killian - based on Captain Hook from Disney's Peter Pan. (Also featured are Smitty McCarthy, based on Smee, and Matthew Satyr, based on Peter himself...oh, and Nakoda - my Kaa OC - also has a role here.) The basic premise of this story has been in my mind for almost as long as James has, but for numerous reasons, it wasn't till just within the past few weeks I finally got a chance to develop and write it out.

The result is, I think, the single longest "Chapter Story" for any of my OCs for TW I've created so far. Take that information however you will. So long as this tale, that it went from a planned three-parter, to a planned five-parter, to now being a six-parter, standing at approximately 150 pages in total! Hopefully, all the work and length will be for the best. XD

As is typical for my Chapter Stories, I will be posting this one chapter at a time per day over the course of this week. For future reference, you can find the previous chapter here.

You can find the next chapter here.

WARNING: While this story, throughout all six parts, does not FOCUS on my kinks, there are instances of very mild stuffing/belching related content sprinkled throughout, as well as various instances of implied or near vore situations. If you're into these things, good on ya. If you aren't, just be warned they will show up here and there, although not with any degree of spectacle.

With that said...I hope you enjoy.

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

Once you and your friends decided to join in the skirmish, the ambush at the Dwarf’s Cottage became a real battle. Azul raced to Sebek’s side, the octopus and the crocodile holding out their Magic Pens like wands. The Royal Sword students had their own magical equipment at the ready. Two of them - one dressed in a rabbit-skin hood, the other in a similar garment resembling a red fox - stepped forward, and thrust out their Pens, sending sparkling white shots of Cosmic energy at the Night Raven pair. Azul and Sebek swiped their pens through the air, summoning protective barriers to parried the shots, then each thrust out their own magic conduits. From Azul’s side, a pillar of water suddenly burst out of the ground, soaking the Fox and knocking the sputtering RSA member over. He floundered as he loosened his grip on his Magic Pen; it fell to the ground as he toppled, drenched to bone. He began scrambling in the mud to try and find it…only to yelp sharply and begin to “dance” as Azul began to send icy darts shooting his way, aiming at his feet with a sinister smile. Meanwhile, Sebek used Leaf Shot, over and over again, launching bundles of floral power towards his enemy. The Rabbit, however, guarded against each shot, and then raised their own Pen, summoning a bolt of light energy to try and strike Zigvolt down. The crocodile-fairy, however, was quick to dodge the strike, leaping to the side. He smirked as he twirled his pen tauntingly. “Is that how you want to play?” he grinned with a sort of eager growl. “Then let me show you THE TRUE POWER OF DIASOMNIA!” What looked like a stormcloud formed over Sebek’s head; the Rabbit stepped back worriedly as vibrant green sparks of electrical power seemed to surround the half-fae. Sebek’s eyes began to glow brighter, till they were pools of neon-green light, as he crouched into an almost predatory stance.“Strike through the stormy heavens, O Lightning!” Sebek intoned, in a strange incantation, then roared with victorious intensity: “LIVING BOLT!” ZOOM! Sebek darted forward, his whole body shrouded in electricity, and slammed into the Rabbit. The RSA student yelped and flew backwards from the mixture of speed and strength combined. Another pair of RSA students saw the attack on their compatriot - the ones dressed as a Bear and a Skunk, respectively - and hurried to their aid, Pens at the ready. They hardly had time to even think up a spell, however, before Sebek thrust out his hands and sent volleys of lightning shooting towards them. The pair yowled as they were shocked violently, then fell to the ground, knocked unconscious by the power of the spell. Sebek snarled and cracked his neck, his eyes returning to normal as he breathed heavily, letting his power die down. Azul had paused in his torment of the Fox, clearly quite startled. “Goodness me,” he murmured, and slowly smiled. “Most impressive, Sebek, I must confess! I can see why you’re so proud of your abilities!” Sebek smirked over his shoulder. “Ha!” he barked out, jabbing a thumb at himself. “Such ability pales in comparison to the Great Malleus, but no proper guardsman of his worth should have any less skill!”

“Indeed!” Azul agreed, a hint of greed in his eyes (which Sebek did not catch). “You know, perhaps there’s another way to use your power, provided the expenditure of energy isn’t too great. There ARE a lot of people worried about overusing electrical-” “ASHENGROTTO, BEWARE!” Sebek suddenly shouted in warning, pointing towards the Fox. Azul had barely enough time to whip around before the Fox pounced on him bodily, knocking the octopus-man’s Magic Pen out of his hand as he tackled him to the ground.Sebek worriedly shuffled as he watched the pair roll about on the forest floor, kicking up dust; the Fox had spotted the edge of the paper clue in Azul’s pocket, and was trying to snag hold of it, while Azul was trying to keep him from doing that. Sebek knew he should do something…but with the pair tousling around the way he were, he was afraid any offense or defense offered might affect Azul instead of his opponent.

While the crocodile and the octopus were dealing with those four, Smitty McCarthy was not idle. He’d tried to slip away from the direct line of combat…but he hadn’t gone far before a golden spark suddenly flashed in his face, nearly blinding him. The spark was a yellow pixie. She hovered in front of Smitty’s face and blew a raspberry at him, tauntingly twitching her wings. “K-Kes!” squeaked McCarthy, and suddenly frowned as he clapped his palms together to try and catch her. “C-Come here, you little…!” Kes thankfully darted out of the way. Smitty, not fully realizing this, opened his palm to see if he’d gotten her. Which gave Kes a chance to shoot forward and force the cap over Smitty’s eyes. The small man squealed and blindly staggered around, trying to grab hold of the pixie, who easily avoided his grabbing fingers. Finally, Smitty gained better balance, and tore the hat off his head and away from his eyes. “Hey!” he snapped. “That’s not very nice!” Smitty swung his red cap around and around his head as he tried to catch Kes inside of it. The sprite (being, appropriately, spritely) darted about his head with astonishing speed, swifter than any buzzing insect as she flitted about, jingling her pixie bells teasingly. She swooped down between Smitty’s legs, and as he tried to catch her, he twisted himself about and yelped as he caused himself to trip over his own feet and fall onto his bunce. Kes came swooping back again…but Smitty - now QUITE irritated - successfully swept his hat up and caught her inside it. “Gotcha!” he grinned…but his amusement was short lived as, suddenly, Kes jerked inside the hat and - WHAP! - ended up smacking Smitty in the face with his own headgear as she flew about inside the small cloth prison. Smitty yipped and yapped like a puppy, stumbling and staggering as his own headgear seemed to cartoonishly attack him, the pixie dragging him around with uncommon strength for a creature so small. “S-Stop moving!” yelped Smitty. “Come on, Kes, I’ve already…YIKES!” The pixie dragged Smitty clean off his feet and into the bushes nearby, where he tripped a second time, and went rolling down a small incline on the other side. As he lay at the bottom - clothes dusty, glasses askew, empty hat in his lap. Kes zipped into the air with a smug smile, crossing her arms boldly as she looked down at him. Smitty just pouted and fixed his glasses. “Kes,” he said, with darkness that would have sounded threatening if ANYONE who WASN’T Smitty McCarthy had used it, “This means war.” Kes giggled in reply, and zoomed away, with Smitty scrambling to his feet, slapping his hat back onto his head as he gave chase. Of course, yourself and Grim could not be left out of the picture. You weren’t sure what you could do on your own terms, in magical combat…but you hadn’t gotten this far by being totally helpless. You still had your wits, for a start. You hurried to stand beside Grim. The cat-like creature hissed, fur rustling and bristling, as the Twin Raccoons approached you both, wielding their Magic Pens. “Aim for the one on the right,” you suggested. “Nya! On it!” grinned Grim, and took a deep breath before sending a jet of cerulean flame in their direction.

The First Raccoon wasted no time, and jumped into the air, flipping over his twin as they swapped places. The Second then somersaulted towards you, decreasing the distance; as he landed on his feet, he aimed his pen, and shot a bolt of cosmic light your way. You ducked the attack, while Grim yelped and bounced out of the way of a similar strike from the First Twin. The pair of Royal Sword students giggled mischievously, and - seemingly just to show off, they both cartwheeled in opposite directions, passing each other in parallel patterns and then bouncing off the trees, flying through the air as they shot at the same time, each aiming for one of you. Once again, you both only barely managed to sidestep the magic shots. “Wh-where do I aim now?!” Grim exclaimed, rather puzzled by the movements. “Keep your aim on the right,” you said through your teeth, as you both backed up, the pair of Twins nimbly landing and beginning to creep towards you. “It doesn’t matter which one is which; what matters is beating them. Don’t fire till I tell you to.” Grim nodded to show he understood. Moments later, the Twins in the Raccoon hoods threw themselves back to back. They each aimed again and fired once more. Once again, you and your feline-esque friend managed to dodge the magical strikes…and the pair began to somersault, one spinning so that they somersaulted at the same time, with one’s legs in the air each time the other’s made contact with the ground. “Nya! Now they’re both together!” whined Grim. “That’s perfect!” you insisted, and pointed, perhaps more dramatically than you meant to. “FIRE NOW!” Grim grinned and once again breathed out a jet of blue flame. The one in the air at that moment yowled, as sparks of fire ignited the seat of their pants. Alarmed, their Twin stalled; knees buckled and they both tumbled to the ground, the one with their pants on fire rolling to try and put out the flame. “Hit the other one!” you shouted. “Right!” yapped Grim, and sent a second volley of fire towards the untouched Twin…who soon was left in the exact same position as his brother, the pair comically rolling about about in the dirt. You and Grim smirked at each other, and the little demon jumped up as you gave each other a high-five.

All the while, as this was going on, Matthew Satyr and James Killian continued to duel. Thrick-thrack-thrick-thrack! The cane and the metal baton clipped against one another in quick, precise motions from either side. Satyr grinned all the while, while James glared back, his own expression damnably serious. Finally, Satyr swiped at Killian…but instead of blocking or parrying, the man in red skipped back, before thrusting in a powerful lunge.

Nakoda Spivak watched all of this action, unsure of what to do. It seemed like everyone else was managing quite well without him. He looked up towards one of the nearby trees and smirked…perhaps there was still a way he could contribute. Hissing in his usual snickering way to himself (or perhaps snickering in his usual hissing way, take your pick), the naga ran over to the tree and began to climb. Matthew - who was still hovering a small way above the ground, having not touched down once at all - flew up higher into the air, and flipped over James’ head. He spun back to face Killian, just in time, as James whirled about and swung at him harshly with his chosen staff. Satyr ducked out of the way, and as he came up, swung his baton in an uppercutting motion. James blocked it readily, and the two weapons scraped against each other as each backed up and circled the other. “Sure you don’t wanna throw in the towel, James?” teased Matthew. “Not today, Satyr,” sneered his opponent. “I awoke this morning with a tune in my soul: ‘Yo-Ho, Yo-Ho, I’m going to win today!’” “Nicely sung! Shame it’s a lie,” giggled Matthew. James just narrowed his eyes. “Your tongue is as unimpressive as your abilities, half-fairy,” he responded. “My victory is inevitable. If I were you, I’d just give up.” “If you were me, James, I’d need a haircut.” “BAH!” exclaimed James, and whipped out his cane again. Satyr blocked the strike, and then another as James spun around and swiped in a wide arc with his “blade.” The crimson battler then swung the weapon in a low arc, as if to try and smack against Satyr’s knees. Matthew, however, lifted his legs, and hovered upside-down in mid-air, before parrying another strike. Seemingly surprised by this skillful defense, James stepped back, hesitating for just a moment… …And at the same time that hesitation took place - “AHA!” - a shrill cry came from the Fox, who leapt off of Azul, holding up the rolled-up piece of paper in one hand as Azul tried to scramble to his feet. “MATTHEW!” the Royal Sword Student called out. “I’VE GOT IT! I’VE GOT IT!”

All froze and looked towards the source of the sound. The fallen RSA students sat up, alerted and awakened. You and Grim halted your cheers, while Kes and Smitty - who had been running around in circles - paused in their merry little chase. All were focused on the boy in the Rabbit’s hood, holding the paper aloft. Only James and Sebek moved. Sebek lifted his Magic Pen, ready to attack the Rabbit. At the same time, with Matthew’s back to him, James finally saw a chance, and prepared to hammer the heavy end of his cane - the golden topper - onto Satyr’s skull, intending to conk him out. Matthew Satyr must have sensed something, though, because he rocketed out of the way. James spun around clumsily, thrown off-balance by his own momentum. Satyr then shot forward and reached for his ally. “Grab hold!” he called out, and the fellow in the Rabbit hood reached up and took hold of his captain’s arms. Matthew managed to pull Rabbit out of the way and into the air…at the exact same time Sebek sent a ball of fire flying forwards. FWOOSH! “WHA-A-AGH!” screamed James, as he wound up getting hit by the fireball instead. When the flames finally stopped pulsing, James stood there, clothes and face humorously blackened and scorched. He coughed out smoke, eyes crossed… “S-Smitty…” he wheezed out…and promptly collapsed flat on his back. “AH! JAMES!” Smitty yelped, and jogged over to see to his friend. At the same time, Matthew set Rabbit down, and made a gesture to his team. The RSA students all went scampering into the woods, disappearing from view. Satyr grinned and tauntingly waved the clue around in the air like a flag, well over all of your heads. “Looks like the game’s gonna go to me!” he teased. “Anybody wanna try and stop me?” “Ssspeaking.” WHAPP! Matthew Satyr cried out in surprise as, without warning, what looked like the end of a large, fat snake’s tail wrapped around one of his legs. He looked to see Nakoda Spivak - in his true form - finally make his presence known. He grinned smugly at Satyr, even as the Royal Sword captain tried to kick free. “H-Hey! HEY! LET ME GO!” Matthew yelled. “Sss-sss-sss-sss! I sssussspected you might try to essscape through the air!” taunted Nakoda, and then looked down. “Sssomebody, quick! Take a shot!”

Sebek responded to Nako’s call by reeling back, ready to send another spell towards Satyr. James, however, was sitting up at that moment - Smitty had cast a spell to mend his outfit and clean him up - and when he saw what Sebek was doing, an almost feral look came to his eyes. “LEAVE HIM, YOU CURSED CROCODILE!” he roared at the top of his lungs, and suddenly sprang to his feet and charged forward. “HE’S MINE!” Sebek let out a grunting snarl of confusion, as James crashed into him shoulder-first. The attack wasn’t enough to knock Sebek over, but it did throw off his aim. A shot of dark magical energy went flying from his Pen, not towards Satyr…but right into Nakoda’s face. “SSSYAGH!” screeched Nako, clutching said face as the energy exploded against him. “MY EYES!” Matthew took the initiative to whip out his baton once more. Using it and Nako’s distracted state to his advantage, he managed to not only work his ankle free of the snake’s grasp, but knocked the end of Nako’s thick tail off the tree entirely. Thrown off by all of this, Nakoda suddenly let out a scream as his whole body lost control, and he went falling, tail-first, from the tree. He was sent spinning around the a thick branch some of his sales rested upon, then smacked his face against another on the way down, before finally collapsing into a bundled heap of coils on the ground, his humanoid form laying senseless atop the pile. “Oooooogh,” groaned Nakoda, his eyes spinning not with hypnotic power, but with pure dizziness. Matthew laughed so hard he had to clutch his stomach, then winked down at James. “Thanks for the help, old pal!” he taunted, and saluted with the hand that held the paper. “See ya when we get the chest!” So saying, Satyr let out a shrill crowing sound - like a rooster’s call - and flew off, disappearing into the treetops. “Nako!” you cried out, and ran over to check on the naga. “Are you alright?” “Not even the ssslightessst amount,” moaned Nakoda, slowly unwinding himself and massaging his jaw where he’d struck one of the branches. “Ssso much for that plan…” The naga began to unwind himself…and suddenly blinked as he heard Grim giggling at your side. “And what is ssso funny, pray tell?” he sniffed. “You've got a knot in your tail!” Grim answered, and pointed it out. Sure enough, somehow or other, during the fall, the end of the naga’s thick, fat tail had gotten twisted into what looked like a figure-eight knot. Nako glared, baring his fangs. “‘Oh, ha ha ha, you’ve got a knot in your tail!’” he babbled, mocking Grim’s words and voice. He then sighed before returning to his usual tone as he worked to try and tug the knot open again. “Urgh…keep sssniggering at that, and I’ll make you PART of my tail, ya sssilly little…!” “BUFFOON!”

Sebek’s shout startled you and Grim, making you turn around. You saw James and Smitty backing away as Sebek advanced on them both angrily. “I HAD A CLEAR SHOT! THE SERPENT HAD HIM IN HIS GRIP!” roared Zigvolt. “WE JUST LOST OUR BEST CHANCE AT THE TREASURE THANKS TO YOU!” “L-Leave him alone!” Smitty squeaked, trying to block his way. Sebek snorted and shoved him aside, before grabbing hold of James by his lapels. James gulped nervously, eyes very side, as Sebek’s fanged teeth were now dangerously close to him. “Give me one good reason not to eat you alive right now!” snarled the crocodile. James opened his mouth and closed it a few times, taken aback and unsure of what to say. His face was red again, this time you knew not with anger. “S-Smitty!” he finally coughed out. “Do something intelligent!” Smitty responded by running in a circle, like a chicken with its head cut off…before rather humorously trying to pull on Sebek’s coat in a vain attempt to pry him off. “S-Stop! Hey!” Smitty exclaimed. “Let him go!” Both Sebek and James watched this sorry sight before looking at each other with matching, bland expressions. “You need to get better friends,” Sebek droned. “I don’t have friends!” James spat back, angrily. “You won’t have much of anything soon enough,” Sebek said darkly, licking his lips with a vicious sort of smile. Before Sebek could - if he even planned to - make good on his threat, Smitty stopped tugging at his coattails. This was due to approaching footsteps, which, in turn, heralded a hand falling onto Sebek’s shoulder. Zigvolt looked back and slightly downward, soon spotting the rather stern face of Azul Ashengrotto. “That’s quite enough,” the octopus said to the crocodile. “Let me handle this, Sebek. I’m the team captain.” Sebek narrowed his eyes…but obliged, releasing James and stepping back to give Azul the proverbial floor. Smitty stepped aside in turn, even removing his cap and bowing his head.

Azul smirked, seemingly pleased with these shows of obligatory supplication, then frowned anew, hands on his hips as he looked at James with one eyebrow arched. “Well?” was all he said. James looked at Azul for a few moments. His expression had become blank. Finally, he bowed in his usual over-the-top, particularly courtly and elegant fashion, so low that his nose practically seemed ready to touch his toes. “A thousand pardons, Captain,” he apologized, in an effusive sort of tone. “I allowed my emotions to get the better of me. It will not happen again.” Azul huffed through his nostrils, tilting his head down and adjusting his spectacles in a way he frequently did when he was displeased. “Is that all you have to say for yourself?” he demanded to know. “I am afraid so,” admitted James, rather morosely. There was an awkward pause. The two looked into each other’s eyes…then Azul’s expression softened. He sighed through his nose. “Under other circumstances,” he said, at last. “I’d have you sitting out the rest of this hunt. As it stands, you’re lucky, James.” “How?” Nakoda asked, as he returned to his human form, coils reverting to legs, scales and claws receding as he dusted off his magically-reformed trousers. “Those Royal Sssword morons have the clue!” “Of course they do,” snorted Azul. “Then why are we lucky?” you asked, as you and Grim approached curiously, your whole team gathering in a semi-circle around Azul and James. “Because they aren’t the only ones,” replied Azul, and smirked, tapping his temple with two fingers. “I hope none of you were so foolish as to think I wouldn’t have MEMORIZED what was on the paper.” “Nya-ha! Then we still have a chance!” Grim exclaimed. “A very good chance,” Azul nodded, then looked up towards the sky, peering through the treetops above. “But for now, I think we’d better call it a day. That battle has already exhausted us all, I’m sure, and I’m pretty certain the Royal Sword students are feeling the same. There won’t be much more hunting today. Our best option is to find a place to camp, and then work from there.” “Can’t we just camp out here?” suggested Nakoda, indicating the cottage. “If we could, we would, but I suspect that would come to bite us in our proverbial rears later,” snorted Azul. “The point of this is to outmatch the opponent and prove one’s survival techniques. I don’t want to be the one Coach Vargas punishes for utilizing the cottage as a presumed loophole.” Everyone shuddered in agreement.

“We’ll need to find a place to set up, then we’ll split our group up,” Azul went on. He then turned towards James. “As for you…be on your best behavior, James. I can only be so lenient after something like that.” James bowed his head. “Me ears shall remain eternally open to thy admonition, sirrah.” Azul narrowed his eyes. “Remember who you are talking to, James,” he warned, somewhat darkly. “Don’t sell me anything. Just say yes or no.” James seemed to twitch before finally uttering a drab sort of, “Yes.” Azul smirked and nodded, then beckoned for you all to follow him. Nakoda and Sebek stepped into line quickly behind him. Grim soon trotted after them on all fours. You were about to follow, but paused when you noticed James and Smitty lingering behind. James was looking down towards the ground, his expression grim and sour. Smitty stood beside him and gave him a nudge. When James looked his way, the smaller man gave him an encouraging smile and a thumbs-up. James smirked for a moment, but the smile didn’t quite meet his eyes. You approached. “Hey,” you said, catching Killian’s attention as you gave him an encouraging look as well. “Don’t be too hard on yourself. And…just remember, it’s only a game, alright?” James chuckled in a sort of humorless fashion. “A trite sort of sentiment,” he replied, then smiled back in a benevolent, grateful sort of way. “Thank you, all the same.” “No problem,” you nodded, and then gave Smitty a smile. “You take care of him, okay?” “I always do,” giggled Smitty. You smiled wider, and then turned to catch up with the others. You had no idea, as you turned away, the way both Smitty and James’ expressions turned cold as frostbite itself. “They’re upset with us now, James,” Smitty observed. “Indeed. Normally, I would be bothered by that,” James nodded. “This time, however, I suspect it will prove most fortuitous.” “Then the plan is still going the way it should?” “Oh, most assuredly, Smitty. If things tonight go the way I hope, then all these hiccups will be minor bumps in the road.” “I don’t think I like it, James…” “Nobody is asking you to like it, Smitty. Just do what you’re told. When we split up, you know what to do, don’t you?” “Aye, James. That I do.” “Good boy, Smitty. Then let’s get moving…we’re not getting any younger, you know…”

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

Night had fallen over Sage’s Island. You stepped out of the tent you’d made for yourself and Grim, one of four made at your team’s site. All but one tent was meant to house two students at the same time, the odd one out being Nakoda’s. He preferred to sleep in his naga form, which meant, under the circumstances, there wouldn’t be much room for anybody else. “Unlessssss,” he had suggested flirtatiously, “Anybody wantsss to join me in my coils tonight.” No one had been either desperate or foolish enough to agree…but you’d come close to saying yes, you were almost ashamed to admit. Your group had selected one of the open areas of the forest typically used for Camp Vargas events. It was familiar to all of you, and close in proximity to both the cottage and the mines, which seemed to make it a wise choice. You looked around at the site briefly. Sebek, Nakoda, and Grim were seated around the campfire, all toasting marshmallows and munching on s’mores. Azul you could see seated on a tree stump nearby, holding a piece of paper: he’d taken some time to write down the clue from his memory earlier, and was trying to puzzle it out. You approached Ashengrotto and knelt down beside him. “Need some help?” you offered. Azul smiled at you, the firelight glittering off of his glasses. “Ah, good evening, Prefect,” he greeted warmly, then tilted the paper. “I still haven’t figured this mess out. Can you make heads or tails of it?” You peered closely at the coded message. At least, you presumed it was a code. Otherwise what you read aloud was total nonsense… “Up the Yours…Two Tens in Three Feet…Stay Left…Ten Fours Increasing. No, sorry. I don’t have any idea.” “Neither do I,” admitted Azul. “I have many skills, but secret codes aren’t typically among them.” “Well, look on the bright side,” you said, patting Azul’s shoulder. “At least the Royal Sword team probably doesn’t know, either.” “We can only hope,” Azul replied with a slight sigh. GRRRLLLB… Azul winced as his stomach suddenly let out a deep, whining gurgle. He flushed with embarrassment as you chuckled. “Trying to solve it on an empty stomach won’t help,” you teased. “I ate enough earlier,” Ashengrotto lied. “Your belly says otherwise,” you teased.

Just then, chortling laughter and the sound of music caught both of your attentions. James and Smitty had just sat down beside the campfire. Smitty was holding a mandolin, strumming on it as he and James led the others in a song… “Hey! We’ll heave ‘im up and away we’ll go! ‘Way me Susianah! Aye, we’ll heave ‘im up and away we’ll go! We’re all bound o’er the mountain…!” You smiled and stood up, offering a hand to Azul. “Come on,” you said, tossing your head towards the rest of the group. “Let’s get something in your stomach. Take a break.” “I’ve had more than enough calories and carbs for the day,” insisted Azul, looking a little more flushed. You rolled your eyes. An appetite three times bigger than any human being’s, and yet Azul was one of the few at NRC who even CONSIDERED curbing that hunger. Criminy, you said! “Come on!” you urged again, not taking no for an answer, and forced the cecaelia-in-disguise onto his feet. He stumbled slightly before walking with you as you led him towards the campfire. “No one’s out here to judge you.” “Except for our other classmates,” grumbled Azul, adjusting his spectacles, as they nearly fell off his face from your forceful ministrations. “Our classmates,” you reminded him, “Include Sebek, Nakoda, and Grim. You really think any of THEM are gonna make fun of you if you eat a little more than usual?” Azul gave a weak smile and chuckled. “Touche,” he returned with a nod, then frowned. “But if I need new pants when this Event is done, I’m blaming you.” “You know better than to threaten me with a good time,” you returned crisply. Azul gave a sly smile in return. “Ah! Prefect!” James greeted, waving a hand theatrically through the air as the two of you approached. “And Azul! Please, sit down by the fire!” “That’s exactly what we plan to do,” you said, and the two of you took a spot beside James. Earlier, while setting up, you’d all brought four large, hollow logs and arranged them like makeshift benches around the fire in a vaguely diamond-shaped pattern. The arrangement of seating, in clockwise order from your point, was the following: yourself, Azul, James, Smitty, Sebek, Grim, Nakoda. “Mmmmm…didn’t think the sssnacks ssserved around thisss camp would be good eye candy, too,” teased Nakoda, his expression typically sultry as he addressed you once you sidled beside him. You blushed and just nudged his side with a grumble. He answered with his usual snicker.

“Where have you two been?” you asked James and Smitty. “We saw you both leave camp a while ago.” “Oh, I was out practicing my fencing, in case of another attack,” said James, then looked at his partner. “Smitty? What about you?” “What? M-Me?” Smitty squeaked and laughed a bit nervously. “I-I was just, um…looking to make sure we weren’t anywhere near the other team’s campsite. I-I didn’t want things to get messy, y’know? I was r-really happy when I saw the s’mores!” “Indeed!” said James, munching on one himself. “A simple but forever attractive staple of campground feasting!” “Well, aside from indulging in sugary confections, what else are you all up to?” Azul ventured to inquire, addressing the entire camp. “We heard music.” “Oh!” Grim chirruped, between bites of his s’more, “Smitty was teachin’ us a few scene chantings!” Azul blinked. “...Scene chantings?” he repeated, greatly puzzled. “Sea shanties,” giggled Smitty in correction, fiddling with his spectacles before showing off his mandolin. “They’re old songs that sailors used to sing when out on the open ocean. Kind of helped them to have something to sing when they were either working or out for long, long periods with not much to do.” “Smitty and I grew up along the docks in our hometown,” James said. “His father is a fisherman, and my father was a merchant sailor. So we both learned a few, as a result.” “Hmph. I hate to admit it, but the one you were just sharing was quite catchy,” huffed Sebek, and stuffed a s’more into his mouth. He chewed it up and swallowed it, before thumping his chest and belching thickly. “UUURRRP! Oof…I had no idea so many humans were so musical.” You blushed. He hadn’t even excused himself… “Rude crocodile,” you heard James mumble, but when you looked towards him, you suddenly noticed that, for the fifty-millionth time in the time you’d known him, his face had turned almost as red as your own. “Oh, that one was nothing!” grinned Smitty, who seemingly noticed neither of your reactions to Sebek’s eructation. “Here, this one’s sort of spooky, but it’s got a nice beat, listen…” So saying, Smitty took a breath, then strummed a few opening strings on the mandolin, before beginning to play it in earnest. His voice turned playfully “rough” as he began to sing the song…

“Dark and quiet are the devils in the deep! So slow and silent, so you’re swallowed in your sleep! With a tail and a tooth, an’ I’m tellin’ ye the truth: you’ll be boilin’ in the belly of Behemooth!” As Smitty paused to see how the rest were liking, his eager smile fell as he noticed how Nako, Azul, and Grim were all grinning in your direction. “Uh…what’s going on?” he asked, innocently. “N-Nothing,” you peeped, trying to avoid looking any of the teasing, grinning fellows in the face. “Is there more?” Grim asked, innocently. You gave the cat-like critter a look of pure betrayal. “Oh, a bit more,” nodded Smitty, and played his mandolin before singing again: “Ship set sail with their sights abroad! Suddenly, the suction of a cephalopod has ye thinkin’ twice! Well, take my advice: a mutineer should also fear a firin’ squad!” “Goodness, that’s a dark one,” you laughed nervously, noticing that not a single person present had looked away from you once. In fact, at the mention of the word “cephalopod,” Azul was licking his lips. “Well, that IS a catchy one,” Ashengrotto practically purred. “Hmph. I don’t see what all of you are giving the Prefect so much attention for,” harrumphed Sebek. “Their fear is to be expected with such topics, there’s no need to mock them for it.” “It’s not fear they’re mocking me for,” you mumbled under your breath, but you were secretly somewhat glad Sebek was perhaps a bit too meatheaded to realize your flustered, blushing, heavy-breathing, heart-racing reactions were NOT due to deep terror. “If you think their reaction is worth noting,” Sebek went on with a smirk, and gestured towards James. “You should see how the Codfish is reacting.” Eyes now turned away from you towards James, who was blushing more than ever, and suddenly seemed very interested in the light of the fire in front of him. “I don’t know what you’re talking about,” he said, in a shaky sort of way. “Awww, come now, James,” crooned Azul, and scooted closer. “There’s no need to be embarrassed. Why don’t you tell us YOUR thoughts on that shanty?” “My thoughts are that we should hear a different one,” was the bland reply. “Okay!” Smitty said cheerfully. “Let me see, I could try-” “No, no, one more time!” Azul insisted. “Yesss,” agreed Nakoda, a gleam in his golden eyes as he grinned till his face seemed to split. “In fact, why don’t we sssing it all together?”

James went from bright red to pale as a sheet. “Oh, please, no,” he almost seemed to whimper. “Ha! Thy cowardice only gives incentive to me, human!” boomed Sebek, with a vengeful smirk. “McCarthy, strike the tune again!” Smitty seemed a bit befuddled, but shrugged and obligingly began to play the same song again. This time, everybody began to sing…everybody except yourself and James, that was… …But as the singing went on, so did other things. Nakoda Spivak suddenly slung his arm around your shoulders, and tugged you closer to him. “Dark and quiet are the devils in the deep…” He turned your face towards his own, causing you to freeze up. He was so close, you could kiss him, if you wanted. “So slow and silent, so you’re swallowed in your sleep…” You nudged him back with a very faint “meep” sound, and he just laughed between lyrics, rising to his feet as he did so, swinging his hips to the beat of the music as he began to slink his way around you. “With a tail and a tooth, and I’m tellin’ you the truth…” He bumped you with his hip. “...You’ll be boilin’ in the belly of a Behemooth!” You let out a louder meep from that, nearly toppling off the log and headlong into the fire…then stiffened as Nakoda pulled you back with his arms, hugging you from behind, and thus preventing you from falling into the flames. You looked at his face nervously as he nestled himself into the crook of your neck with a serpentine sort of nuzzle, and an equally slippery, supercilious smile. Hoping to pry your attention away from the sensual serpent, you checked on James’ reactions. Azul was being no less coy with him. The octopus had picked up a pre-made s’more and was inspecting it as he sang… “Ship set sail with their sights abroad…” He popped the s’more into his mouth, and swallowed the entire thing whole in a single gulp. His fingers flashed across his neck, tracing the lump in his throat as it went down. “Suddenly the suction of a cephalopod…” Azul smirked in a sideline sort of way towards James. The crimson-coated cavalier had been watching everything with rapt attention, his eyes following the path of the s’more as it fell into Azul’s trim belly, behind his costume. “Has ye thinkin’ twice. Well, take my advice…” Azul patted his stomach and licked his lips, winking at James behind his glasses. “A mutineer should also fear a firin’ squad.”

You weren’t sure what part of this whole exchange you’d witnessed impressed you most: the look of James almost sputtering and steaming, clearly flustered beyond belief; seeing Azul being so uncharacteristically seductive with his own appetite; the fact that nearly everyone else seemed oblivious… …Or the fact you could somehow focus on that with Nakoda nuzzling your neck and holding you close and tight in his arms. “S-Smitty!” James finally squeaked out, in a voice that cracked more than a Nutcracker. “Please, PLEASE play a different tune!” “Oh! Okay, James,” Smitty said, spritely, and tuned up his mandolin. “How about…‘The Song of Captain Sham’? Oh, I guess he shouldn’t have oughter, but he threw her in the water! And then a flounder downed her; that’s why they never found her!” “No! No, d-different than that!” eeped James, who was looking into Azul’s unblinking eyes, his face increasingly rosy while Azul’s was increasingly sly. “Um…alright, then let’s try ‘Fish in the Sea,’ eh?” suggested Smitty. “Then up jumps the shark, with his fine rows of teeth! He says, ‘You eat the dough, boys, and I’ll eat the beef…!’” “I would like to say not that one either!” you piped up, whimpering a little as Nakoda licked his own fine teeth. Smitty looked disappointed…then grinned broadly. “Oh! I know! ‘Ode to the Falling!’ That’s one of James’ favorites: And as we suggested, you’re slowly digested…!” “NO!” both you and James yelped at the same time. Smitty squeaked and jolted back. “Uh…s-sorry,” he peeped in apology, looking a little hurt at the shout. You and James sighed, while Azul, Nakoda, and Grim all sniggered. Sebek just rolled his eyes. “You humans are scared of the strangest things,” he mumbled, eternally oblivious. You and James gave him equally dry looks. “I think I’m going to take a walk to clear my head,” said James at last, easing himself away from Azul as he stood up. “Do be back in time for dessert,” crooned the half-cephalopod, with a slightly sinister smile that quirked his beauty mark. James gave him a sort of blushing, bashful look, and then marched away. You watched him go, and felt a sudden urge to follow. “I’m, uh…I’m gonna join him,” you said to the others. You started to stand…only to sit down again as Nakoda kept a grip on you. “Ah…Nako, could you please let go?” you asked, quite nervously. Nakoda’s smile was truly ravenous. “What if I want you to ssstay?” he teased. “Serpent!” snapped Sebek. “The human may be weak and feeble, but they have the right to go and stretch their legs if they so wish!”

“Your respect for me is touching,” you drawled, sarcastically. “Oh, you’re welcome!” grinned Sebek, clearly not picking up on said sarcasm. Nakoda pouted. “Aww…but I don’t think those sss’mores were enough to sssatisssfy me,” he keened, and grinned anew. “Perhapsss you could help there, hmmm?” “Nako,” Azul spoke up, strictly. “None of us will be eating the Prefect tonight. We need them, for a start.” “Nya! I know I need my minion!” Grim meowed. “Who else is gonna buy me tuna cans?” “I continue to be astounded by how much my classmates care for me,” you droned. Nakoda pouted more…but finally sighed and relented, releasing you from his grip. “Ssspoilsssportsss,” he hissed, in a long, languid, languorous sort of way, emphasizing each ‘s’ most deliberately. You blushed and stood up quickly, straightening up your clothes before you began to walk away from the campsite. You paused just a moment to look back. “Will you four make sure Azul actually eats enough tonight?” you asked the others. “Can’t have our captain leading without proper nutrition.” The other three all agreed (much to Azul’s embarrassment), and with that little victory assured, you followed the same path James had taken.You could hear Smitty striking up another song behind you, but you didn’t stick around to pay much attention to the lyrics. James Killian did not go far from the campsite. He paused just a few yards out of proper earshot from the rest of the party, the light from the fire visible like a beacon through the darkened greenery. He removed his bandana as he sighed, leaning back against a tree. He fanned his flushed face, sweat beading on his brow, as he pressed his free hand to his chest. A quiver went through him from how fast his heart was beating… “Odds, Bobs, Hammer and Tongs,” he muttered to himself, and shivered as he seemed to hear some of the lyrics echoing in his mind…as, even with his eyes closed, he could recall the looks and the actions. “They’ll be the death of me…” “I’m pretty sure, someday, one way or another, someone in this school will be the death of me, too.” James opened one eye at your greeting. When he saw you approach, he stepped away from the tree. You could see his fingers trembling slightly as he put his bandana back on. “Prefect…did I worry you?” he asked. “I-I assure you, coming after me was…hardly necessary, I…I just…” “Needed to get away from gorgeous guys who could swallow you in just a few bites and turn you into part of their hips, if they REALLY wanted to?” you guessed. James looked at you. He seemed simply stunned, as if you had tapped upon some long-hidden, dark, diabolical secret. “You didn’t make it that hard to figure out,” you chuckled, and offered a bashful look of your own, similar to the one he’d shown to Azul. “I…feel the same way. A lot.” James’ expression shifted. He laughed nervously, hands fiddling with the frills of his shirt. “Heh heh…I…suppose I CAN be…quite obvious, c-can’t I?” he conceded. “It’s a weakness, but…I suppose it’s my only weakness…” You decided not to comment on that, instead cocking your head to the side.

“Is that why they call you ‘Codfish’?” you checked. James blushed more and nodded. “I…supposedly taste quite similar,” he admitted, mumbling with embarrassment. He coughed, clearing his throat. “I imagine that I hardly have to tell you this, but…I’d prefer to keep this matter to myself as much as possible. Not everyone at the school knows…yet…” “Well, most people know about MY, ah…interests,” you chuckled. “Trust me, it’s not gonna take long.” “Oh, joy,” James drawled sarcastically. His tone made you giggle. A moment later, and he was chuckling alongside you. Then it was his turn to tilt his head. “Is this the only reason you came after me?” he asked. “Not exactly, but it was a big part of it. I wanted to be sure my observations were correct,” you confessed. You paused, then added: “It’s…honestly comforting.” “Comforting? What is?” “To know I have a friend who shares these…fascinations,” you said. “For a long time I felt like a lone sheep among wolves. It’s…kind of neat to know I’m not alone now.” James’ expression shifted. His blush began to recede slightly. He looked you up and down. “Is that so?” he murmured, then spoke aloud: “In that event, could I trouble you for a favor, as a kindred spirit?” “That depends on what you have in mind,” you shrugged. James paused, then took a deep breath, and spoke frankly. “I know where the treasure is.” You gaped. “What?” “I saw the clue, and I figured it out,” said James. “The secret to the code is that you have to be looking at the opposite in every other line, and to use simple replacements in the lines between and after.” That sounded very confusing, and your face must have shown it, because James laughed. “Honestly, it’s much easier than it sounds.” “I think you’d better explain, anyway.”

“Well, first of all, ‘Up the Yours.’ That almost sounds like an insult…” “Take out ‘the’ and it IS an insult…” “Right. But it’s not, it’s a code: what is the opposite of up?” “Well…down, right?” “Right. And what is the opposite of yours?” “Mine,” you said, then your eyes widened as it clicked in your head. ‘“Down the Mine!’ They’ve hidden the money chest somewhere in the mines!” “That’s it! Good form, Prefect!” James congratulated. “The next line is one where I mentioned math and replacements: ‘Two Tens in Three Feet.’” “Two Tens equals twenty,” you said. “But what does it mean by Three Feet?” “How much is three feet?” “A yard,” you said, then realized it with a snap of your fingers: “We have to walk twenty yards! That’s so simple!” James nodded, clearly pleased you were getting it. “Now you’re catching on!” he winked. “Okay, so, two lines left… ‘Stay Left.’ The opposite of ‘Stay’ is ‘Go,’ so we Go Left.” “Correct.” “And Ten Fours Increasing…that’s Forty More!” “Correct again!” “So, if you put it all together, the clue means: ‘Go twenty yards down the mine, turn left, and in forty more yards you’ll find the treasure!” “Exactly!” James said, with a sharp clap of his hands. “Bravo, my dear Prefect!” “James, that’s genius! I’m amazed you figured it out so simply!” you laughed, then your smile began to fade. “But…wait…what does this have to do with a favor? And why haven’t you told Azul?”

“Because after today’s fiasco, I think Azul may be hesitant to listen to me on this treasure hunt,” said James, honestly. His eyes turned soulful as he approached you. “I need someone he WILL listen to, who will give him the answer. And I know Smitty well enough to know he’ll bungle the riddle and give a wrong direction somewhere.” “That’s fair enough,” you murmured, and narrowed your eyes. “But…are you sure? I mean…I hate to take credit for you solving this, and I’m sure Azul would listen if you really had valuable info…” “I’d rather not take the chance,” said James, holding up his left hand placatingly. He then placed it upon your shoulder, looking at you closely. “Prefect. Can I trust you to keep my findings secret and give Azul the answer tomorrow? I think for now we should all rest.” You looked James up and down…then nodded. “If you’re sure, I’ll tell him. Every word you told me,” you promised. “But I have to check once more: you really don’t want any credit at all?” “Credit is nothing,” James said, seriously. “I’ve already caused enough trouble through my ego. The least I can do is make sure my team - my crew - wins in the end.” You smiled slightly. “That’s…a surprising amount of humility, James,” you praised. “Alright. I’ll do what you say.” James grinned back, gratefully, and patted your shoulder. “Thank you, my friend,” he said softly. “You’ve been most helpful.” “Oh, so now I’m your friend?” you teased. “And I thought you said friendship was an illusion.” “We all make mistakes,” James shrugged. You laughed, and brushed James’ hand away. “Whatever. I’m gonna head back to camp. Don’t stay out here too long,” you suggested. James answered with a salute, and watched as you marched back towards the glow of the campfire. Once again, you had no idea of the menacing, cruel look that suddenly fell across his face once you’d turned around. He looked at his left hand - the hand that had touched your shoulder - and chuckled sadistically to himself. “So easy,” James Killian cackled to himself.

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

Sometime later, James returned to camp. The fire had been put out, and nearly everyone at camp was asleep. The only light still shining came from the tent he and Smitty shared. James crept into the same tent. He found Smitty McCarthy already asleep, snoring in an almost musical way in the sleeping bag he had set up. The light came from a lantern in the corner of the tent. James nudged Smitty with his boot. “Wake up,” he grunted. Smitty mumbled - “Five more minutes, Mom…” - and James sighed, nudging him a little harder. “Smitty, wake up!” he snapped. Smitty snorted in the midst of a cough and finally opened his eyes. He fished his glasses out from somewhere and put them on, then smiled widely. “James! You’re back!” he cheered exuberantly. “I was getting a little-MPH?!” James glared coldly as he clapped his right hand over Smitty’s mouth. “If you yell so loudly again,” he warned, “I’ll use my left.” He lifted it, indicating the tattoo upon it. “You don’t want that, do you, Smitty?” Smitty paled and shook his head. “Good man,” James chuckled, and removed his palm before turning serious. “Did you find them, when the others were out looking for food and firewood?” “Aye, James,” said Smitty McCarthy. “That I did.” “And did you achieve your other goal, earlier this evening? Before we all gathered at the fire?” “Aye, James,” Smitty said again, this time almost sounding sad. “I…I took her, and…and I left a message, like you said. They were all asleep already. They never saw me. I-I guess the Royal Sword guys go to sleep sooner than we do…” James just bit his lip, holding back his excitement. “Where is she?” he asked, like a small child. Smitty seemed to hesitate, conflicted. Then sighed and pointed towards the lantern. “She’s been watching this whole time,” he admitted, very quietly. James looked at the lantern, squinted…then his face lit up with evil glee. He lifted the lamp and peered into it with a greedy, eager sort of expression. “Perfect,” he almost growled to himself. “Hello, my little lady. I think you’re going to be of great use to me very soon…” James Killian had to hold back his laughter as Kes the pixie desperately banged at the walls of the lantern, face pleading and bells muted by the soundproof glass. Smitty McCarthy watched the scene with great worry, eyes flitting between the pair. He wasn’t sure whom he felt worse for.

To Be Continued in Part 4…

8 notes · View notes

newtonsheffield · 2 years

Note

Just curious could we sometimes see Anthony in bruises visiting Somerset and hanging out with Mary, Edwina and Matthew (and maybe his family) and meeting Daffodil?

Bold of you to assume Mary's still alive.

But sure, let's take a look at a small portion of Anthony's first trip to Somerset.

Anthony had been nervous from the moment they'd left Kent, watching their farmhouse disappear with a mixture of sadness and anxiety, his fingers already drumming on his knee nervously.

"I should have ridden beside the carriage." Anthony had said quietly, staring out at the countryside as it passed, the children chattering away on the other seat.

"Oh but then Neddy would have missed his Papa." Kate cooed gently, staring down at the baby in her arms who was giggling delightedly, his little hand reaching up towards her.

"You cannot use our son against me always." Anthony had huffed, trying to push down the intense swell of pride he felt whenever he looked upon Kate and their child. Tiny Edmund, named for his father and hers, so full of joy already giggling happily as Nelson snuffled against his forehead curiously. This is my little foal.

"I can and I will." Kate sighed, kissing his cheek, "Neddy give your Papa a cuddle, he's feeling nervous."

Anthony had had his arms out instantly, waiting for Kate to pass him their tiny baby, something aching in his chest when Edmund smiled up at him the minute she was placed in his arms. Glad that he felt safe and happy in Anthony's arms.

"You needn't be, you know."

He knew exactly what Kate was talking about. Of course she knew, Kate noticed everything.

"Will we...? Do you think we'll see Matthew's family? The- The Baronet?"

Kate nodded, "It's likely, yes, but... Sir Andrew is a lovely man, you've no need to be nervous in his company. And you know Edwina and Matthew."

"And you'll be there."

Her smile softened as she pushed his hair back from his eyes. "And I'll be there."

"Kate! Do you think we could go looking for Pirate ships when we get to Somerset?" Hyacinth's little voice caught her attention. "Do you think Mr Matthew has a telescope I could borrow?"

"We'll have to find out, won't we?"

It had mostly been fine, Matthew had boomed his greeting when they'd stepped out of the carriage, greeting the children before he slapped Anthony on the shoulder enthusiastically while Edwina, the swell of her stomach just visible in her dress, had darted forward to greet her sister and her Nephew. They'd settled into their visit, the children off exploring while Matthew asked Anthony his opinion in any number of things, asking him to visit the Auction yard with him to find a new horse.

It had been a little awkward when they'd first arrived, Even in his finer clothes Anthony had stood out with his thick accent and his rough manners. But Anthony had occupied himself inspecting the horses, asking questions of the breeders before he'd nodded towards a roan shire horse.

"That's your pick."

"Excellent! Of course, we wouldn't be here if you'd let me have Nelson's foal." Matthew nudged him good naturedly.

"Matthew, you'd be more than welcome to any other foal on my farm but that foal is out of the question."

"Bagwell!" A loud voice had boomed through the yard.

"Armitage!" Matthew had greeted him merrily as the man approached him.

"I didn't know you had a new man of business." Armitage had eyed Anthony a little curiously and he'd forced himself to stand with his shoulders straight, forced himself not to flush.

But Matthew didn't give him any time to respond, his kind laughter ringing out. "Gad, you're right I've been awfully rude. This is Mrs Bagwell's Brother in law, Mr Anthony Bridgerton. You must remember his wife, Mrs Kate Bridgerton, formerly Miss Sharma."

Armitage startled, his eyes widening as he held his hand out. "My pleasure, Mr Bridgerton. You're rather a legend in these parts. Something of a mythical hero, How did you entice Miss Sharma into matrimony? I asked her to dance once at a festival and she looked at me as though I'd taken leave of my senses and declined."

Anthony chuckled a little even as something smug prickled down his spine. "I'm a very lucky husband, it's true. And recently a father as well."

"My congratulations then, to you and Mrs Bridgerton as well."

It had helped him relax, that tiny encounter with a gentleman who'd known Kate, known who he was and hadn't looked down on him for a moment. But this night he had been dreading since they arrived.

They'd been invited to the baronet's for dinner, Edwina had said casually while she exasperatedly tore the newspaper she'd been trying to read from between Daffodil's teeth as the cow's tail swished, unbothered.

"Oh." Anthony had said quietly, trying not to react. "Well that'll be- that'll be lovely."

He as sweating through his good shirt already in the tails and waistcoat Benedict had made for him, dabbing desperately at his forehead with a handkerchief as Kate dressed quietly in front of him, the maid quickly buttoning the dress behind her.

"You look very handsome, darling."

Anthony let out a strangled laugh, "That's not helping my nerves."

Kate thanked the maid quietly who left the room, tucking herself neatly against his chest. "You've no need to be nervous, You'll see. You're my husband and they see you as family."

But Anthony doubted it. doubted it right up until the moment the carriage let them out and he stood in the entrance of the biggest house he'd ever been in and Sir Andrew Bagwell greeted him with a smile just as kind as his son.

"And you must be Mr Bridgerton! Excellent! My Son's been telling me you've been helping him with his land, I wondered if you'd do me a favour and have a look at my crops, they've been very sad these past few years."

"I'd- I'd be happy to, Sir."

"Excellent!" The man boomed, slapping his shoulder before he sighed. "Gad man, take off your neckcloth, you look as though you might faint, and we've only family tonight."

Family.

#you might have some bruises #kathony #anthony x kate #kate sharma #kate sheffield #anthony bridgerton #molly’s asks and answers

101 notes · View notes

that-one-enby-ranger · 10 months

Text

My Fictional Crushes

So like a lot of people I, of course, have quite a lot of fictional crushes. And by quite a lot I mean 106. I made a list yesterday and felt like sharing it because why the actual fuck not. I'm not gonna put any tags though because it's gonna take too long and I honestly don't care if people see this or not it's more just for fun. There are a few questionable ones on here (serial killers) that might need a bit of an explanation so I shall try and provide. These aren't in any particular order they just got put on when I remembered them.

Halt O'Carrick - Rangers Apprentice (Number 1 boy)

Gilan Davidson - Rangers Apprentice

Will Treaty - Rangers Apprentice

Horace Altman - Rangers Apprentice

Crowley Meratyn - Rangers Apprentice

Rayla - The Dragon Prince

Callum - The Dragon Prince

Amaya - The Dragon Prince

Runaan - The Dragon Prince

Ethari - The Dragon Prince

Sweeney Todd (He's too amazing for me not to be in love with him. He had motives people.)

Edward Scissorhands (Just look at that adorable confused little bean.)

Adam Maitland - Beetlejuice

Lydia Deetz - Beetlejuice

Antony J. Crowley - Good Omens

Aziraphale - Good Omens

Newton Pulsifier - Good Omens

Victor Van Dort - Corpse Bride

Jack Skellington - Nightmare Before Christmas

Thorn Hammerhand - Brotherband Chronicles

Yondu Udonta - MARVEL

Hank Pym - MARVEL

Tony Stark - MARVEL

Bucky Barnes - MARVEL

Dr. Stephen Strange - MARVEL

Natasha Romanoff - MARVEL

Will Turner - Pirates of the Carribean

Minho - Maze Runner

Newt - Maze Runner

Thomas - Maze Runner

Morgarath - Rangers Apprentice (I know he's horrible but too be fair, he's a tall, pale, black dressed evil villain who sits gayly. He's cool.)

Vaggie - Hazbin Hotel

Millie - Helluva Boss

Blitzo (The O is silent) - Helluva Boss

Stolas - Helluva Boss

Jedediah - Night at the Museum

Ahkmenrah - Night at the Museum

Shrek (He's a fucking legend)

Barnabas Collins - Dark Shadows

Victoria Winters - Dark Shadows

Arthur Kirkland (England) - Axis Powers Hetalia

Francis Bonnefoy (France) - Axis Power Hetalia (I probably spelt his name wrong sorry)

Jareth - Labyrinth

Karl Heisenberg - Resident Evil: Village

Lady Dimetrescu - Resident Evil: Village (I may also have spelt her name wrong. Tall vampire lady)

Stig Olafson - Brotherband Chronicles

Hal Mikkelson - Brotherband Chronicles

Sodapop Curtis - The Outsiders

Dallas Winston - The Outsiders

Darry Curtis - The Outsiders

Steve Randell - The Outsiders

Two-Bit Matthews - The Outsiders

Johnny Cade - The Outsiders

Bill Fucking Cipher - Gravity Falls (He's cool. Everyone loves him.)

Egon Spengler - Ghostbusters

Peter Venkman - Ghostbusters

Austin Powers (I know he's pretty much a sex machine but he's also really kind and caring)

Kenickie Murdoch - Grease

Danny Zuko - Grease

Frenchie - Grease

Betty Rizzo - Grease

Jenny Dalby - Rangers Apprentice

Haymitch - Hunger Games

Lucifer Morningstar - The Netflix show Lucifer

Beelzebub - Good Omens

Mikkel - Brotherband Chronicles (I know he wasn't even really in it but he seemed cool and really nice)

Karina - Brotherband Chronicles (Sweetest mother ever)

The Other Mother - Coraline (Shut the fuck up I like her)

Sir Keren - Rangers Apprentice (He was actually a really cool and interesting villain with actual morals and he did regret his actions.)

Cruella de Vil - 101 Dalmations but I like her more in the movie Cruella

Jafar - Aladdin

Captin Hook - Literally any of the versions of him

Hades - Hercules but just him in general

Dionysus - He's a cool god.

Yzma - Emperors New Groove

Dr Facilier - Princess and the Frog

Queen of Hearts - Alice in Wonderland

Monolo Sanchez - Book of Life

Hector - Coco

Jasper - Cruella

Arty - Cruella

Artemis - Ready Player One

Robin Hood - Any of them apart from the fucking fox. I like Men in Tights version.

Wezley - Princess Bride

Inigo Montoya - Princess Bride

Sheriff Woody - Toy Story (I know its weird and a little bit fucked up but I like him.)

Elsa - Frozen

Merida - Brave

Bo Peep - Toy Story

Kuzco - Emperors New Groove (He's funny)

Flynn Rider - Tangled

Willy Wonka - Johnny Depp's version

Ruv - Friday Night Funkin' Midfight Masses

Sam - Assasins Blade

Michael Afton - FNaF

John - FNaF Novel Trilogy

Barbarossa - Ned's Circus of Marvels (Yes he is a villain. Yes he ia pirate butcher. Yes he is horrible. But he's cool and a pirate and a butcher and I like villains like that.)

Bennissimo - Ned's Circus of Marvels

Loki - MARVEL

Jacob Coote - Looking For Alibrandi

Ryder Dagon - He's a character I made up for a book series I was going to write but gave up on. He's my character. No one else knows him apart from my sibling.

Chloe Decker - Lucifer

Arnold J. Rimmer - Red Dwarf

Alexander Lemtov - Eurovision: The Story of Fire Saga

Rosalina - Mario

Four - Divergent

There are a lot more I just can't think of any at the moment. If you want to y'all can show me a list of your fictional crushes. I won't judge.

11 notes · View notes

fantasyinvader · 5 months

Text

I was starting to feel bad for Scott Pilgrim Takes Off seemingly overwriting the timeline of the original books, but as I've been watching the show I've noticed elements that have been changed from the books and movie. Like Ramona delivering Netflix DVDs rather than stuff from Amazon (admittedly, this makes sense to the streaming platform), how Crash and the Boys weren't at the first show, and most glaringly of all Kim recounting Scott's version of events about how they got together. I looked into such changes, and people said that in Older Scott's memories he's not shown fighting NegaScott. There's an argument that because Scott never fought the manifestation of the stuff he didn't like about himself and repressed, ultimately coming to accept the NegaScott which in turn drives his final bit of character development, it starts making sense why Scott fell back into his old ways.

This wouldn't be the first time the franchise has done this. Scott doesn't accept the NegaScott in the game, just beats the crap out of him. No assimilation or anything while Scott's ending, despite the game being about how he needed to beat the Evil Exes to date Ramona, sees them breaking up while Scott has a harem with his three exes.

So, creating a timeline where Scott never had to fight the NegaScott because his version of him and Kim hooking up was actually accurate makes sense. He didn't have to repress that memory and create a fake one, which in turn would imply he was a bit better than his other incarnations despite still dating a high schooler. This really is an alternate universe to the books, movie and game, and those timelines are left intact. And this change still fits with the theme of the original series. People say it's about not selling out, I found it was more accepting yourself rather than trying to reinventing who you are. Matthew Patel started dressing like a pirate because pirates are "in," Lucas is implied to be different before he became a total dudebro, Todd fakes being vegan, Envy went from that slightly nerdy GF we all dreamed about having to… I dunno, Lady Gaga? And now we even have Gideon having reinvented himself from Gordon Goose from North Bay Ontario (which… yeah, I've been to North Bay and that tracks). Meanwhile, Scott was scum but because of his self-serving memory he thought he was a total nice guy while Ramona just kept running and reinventing herself whenever things got too serious. There's also Stephen coming out as gay. So taking out a key part of Scott's development and instead focusing on Ramona growing up in his stead, it's a nice flip of the script that keeps the spirit of the original.

Needs more Wallace though

3 notes · View notes

rinayeas · 6 months

Text

Watched the fnaf movie w my lil bro here r some thoughts:

We called vanessa being an afton halfway thru but its like, so weird

Movie continuity is so weird but i kinda like it

If youre a fnaf fan u will have a blast but if you dont know anything abt fnaf then.... good luck cowboy....

Its a messy ass movie, like, if you dont know the lore behind springtrap and afton the reveal comes out of fucking nowhere and its very confusing and weird

It would have been funny if the animatronics had voices, i just wanted to hear foxy w a pirate voice

MATPAT. i was the only one excited 😭😭

Balloon boy fucking got me thrice alr

The post credits??? Find me??? Did it say that??? Was it a reference to the find them minigame???

Matthew lillard was sooo underused. Like, my man, he is william afton, make him do something fun....

It wasnt perfect but i had fun and i dressed up as purple guy even though im 20 and i was the oldest bitch in that cinema :)

#fnaf

2 notes · View notes

lulupen2023 · 1 year

Text

My very first BellDom Fic 22/23

After what happened at Atlanta, lol, I just needed to post something BellDom ^^

Summary:

Do you want to meet a Matthew who sees conspiracy everywhere (oh wait, this is not big news!) and is so fond of his trolley that he treats it like a sort of puppy? Do you want to meet a Dominic in love with… himself (and with Matt, too, of course!)? And do you want to meet a Chris who wants to prove to the world he's the most masculine guy ever… but is unavoidably attracted by every… female hobby? This is what you'll find in this story, among lots of BellDom and… craziness!

Summary of the chapter: Let's let the cat out of the bag! Chapter XXI: You don't know that...

"So don't' think, not even for a moment, that you can take flight again and elope who knows where, you, lovey-dovey couple. I promised that tonight you're gonna stay, so you gotta stay!" Chris summons his friends, as they are taking a more than deserved break from the sound-check of the afternoon.

"I promise, no more flings." Matt assures, with his best angelic attitude.

Chris is about to say something, but, almost as if the topic was too delicate to face it, he desists, but he's always wavering about it. The others two notice that.

"Wassup, Chris?" Matthew asks him.

"Err... could you let me see them?"

"See what?" Dominic narrows his eyes.

"Well, you know... your compromising tattoos." Chris clarifies, a little bit embarrassed. "It's just that I'm curious... " he adds, as if he wanted to justify himself.

Matt stares at him stunned, just like Dom does.

"No bloody way, buddy!" the first states.

"Chris, what's this sudden, worrying, but mostly insane desire to see our asses?" the second asks him.

"Ah! So, now it's me the one with sick desires! Do I have to remind you what you did last night, you, Mr. 1.000-ways-to-use-whipped-cream?" Chris addresses to the blonde.

Dominic turns pale instantly.

"But... but, how do you..."

"You should know better than me, Matt is such a chatterbox!" Chris comments as Matt is ready to clear off.

"Don't you dare to run!" Dom summons him, stepping in the way and closing the door of the rehearsal room. "Damn you and your damn mouth!" he curses, immediately after.

"Well, yesterday you didn't have to complain much about my mouth, especially when it took off the cream from your body and..." Matt justifies, with a silky voice in the last part.

"Please, guys, stop it! You're crossing the bounds of how much I'm disposed to hear about this kind of topics!" Chris warns them, cooling down their ardour and, for good measure, it's just Chris who incites his friends to resume playing.

Twenty minutes after they're done with the last song on their set-list, but although the others have already put their instruments into their cases, Dom is still bent on the drums, but not for playing.

"Dom, what the hell are you doing?" Chris asks him when he sees him all engrossed staring at a cymbal.

"It looks obvious to me. I'm looking at myself!" the blond replies with a shrug, as he keeps examining his face, very accurately.

"Even in a cymbal?" Chris asks him in disbelief.

"I don't think that there's a surface Dom wouldn't manage to look at himself in!" Matt replies for the drummer.

"Dammit! This black-eye doesn't seem to get any better. People will see it in the spotlight!" Dominic complains.

"So, what's the problem? You dress up like Spiderman every now and then, so you can dress up like a panda. It would draw lots of attention, plus that would justify the black-eye." Chris suggests.

"No way, a panda is too goofy, it doesn't suit me!" he grumbles, insulted, as he crosses his arms on his chest.

"So, you could use a bandage.... You could be a pirate, like Captain Hook!" Chris strikes back.

"Uhmm...nope, I don't picture myself as Captain Hook, but I would be just perfect as Peter Pan, I already have my acid green pants, a green t-shirt, a green beret and I would be ready!" the blond already plans everything, daydreaming, as he has totally forgotten that the dressing up is supposed to help him hide his beaten eye.

"Yeeesss! If you play Peter Pan, I could play... Tinker Bell!" Matt exclaims, overexcited.

"Tinker Bell?!" his friends question him, astonished and puzzled.

"Oh, please, don't stare at me like that! A pair of fake wings and a magic wand shaped microphone would suit me so impeccably. Plus, I'm * Bells*, so there could never be someone more perfect than me to play Tinker *Bell*!" he insists.

"Well, don't worry, Bells, it's not that Dom is contending with me for that role, you can keep it!" Chris warns him, as Dom jumps to an important conclusion.

"So, buddy, you'll just have to play Captain Hook!" the blond decides.

"Why just Captain Hook?" Chris narrows his eyes.

"No offence intended, dude, but I just can't picture you as a Lost Boy of NeverLand!" Matt makes fun of him.

"But... how am I supposed to play with a hook?" the bassist made them notice.

"We'll use a symbolic hook, maybe a sticker on one of your basses!" Matt explains.

"Firstly, I don't think that there are stickers like that. Secondly, no... I don't think that Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte and Samantha would like it if I put stickers on them..." the bassist grumbles.

"What? Did I hear it right? Did you really give your basses women's names?" Matt questions him.

"This is not correct: Chris, did you really name your basses like the four protagonists of 'Sex and the City'?" Dom points out.

As Matt and Dom burst out laughing madly, Chris wishes he had kept silent.

<Lucky for me I didn't tell them that I named my other basses like the main characters of 'Desperate Housewives' and 'The bold and the beautiful'!> he ponders.

Anyway, he knows very well how to make them shut up.

"You shouldn't even talk about that! You, Matt, named your trolley, for God's sake! And you, Dom, you're the worst, since you named even your own reflection!" he strikes back, pungent.

The way Matt is looking at Dominic doesn't need any questions to be asked.

"No, that's not true, I have never named Jamie... oh, shit!" Dom betrayals himself.

"Jamie?!" the frontman repeats, very amused.

"Hey! We were talking about my black-eye, weren't we?" the drummer tries to change topic.

"Right. By the way, forget about the concert in disguise, we'll never do such a silly thing!" Chris disenchants them.

"Dommy, I guess the only solution is to rely on a good concealer, a lot of it!" Matt suggests to his boyfriend, as he leans closer to reach his ear. "Can't wait to have another wild meeting in our bed with you... and Jamie!" he winks at him, before leaving the rehearsal room, as Chris follow him.

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

The concert was great, just like the short meeting with the fans, to take some pictures together, sign stuff and chat a little bit.

It seems that Matthew and Dominic kept their word.

Although they have nothing to do on the day after, except from the flight to take on early evening, Matt and Dom's rest is interrupted by a sudden phone call, at early morning.

Dominic is still trying to convince his body to get up from the bed, as Matthew has already made this effort, so it takes him only five rings, before he realizes which the source of that unbearable noise is and makes it end.

"'llo?" he slurs.

"Guys, come in my room. Tom called, he will be here in a few minutes!" Chris warns them, trying his best not to slur, due to the numbness that still overwhelms him.

This is enough to wake the two lovers up properly and they get ready as fast as they can, in order to face their manager.

Tom makes his entrance, carrying his trolley with him and showing such a tan that he could make a surfer envious.

"Hello guys, how are you?" he cheers, leaving his trolley on the floor and approaching to his friends.

"We are happy to see you and everything, but... what the hell are you doing here?" Dominic asks him, puzzled, as he sits on the bed, next to Matt.

"Well, a proper manager has to verify how his band is going with the shows and stuff like that."

"We tried our best in every single show we performed, the crowd seems to appreciate us a lot, so I guess we are being successful." Chris informs him as he stands in front of the window, taking a glimpse of the view outside, absently.

"What about the collaboration with My Chemical Romance? Did things improve between you and them?" Tom wonders.

"I haven't killed them yet, that's all you need to know about that!" Matt snorts, bored.

Tom is about to say something, but then he changes his mind, hearing a ring from the mobile inside the pocket of his trolley.

"Hey, Tom, look, your mobile is ringing." Chris warns him at the second ring.

"Uh? Are you sure? Uh! That's right, it's ringing." the manager replies with fake nonchalance, in a cold sweat, as he hopes that whoever is calling him will quit it, but at the fifth ring he begins to think he won't be that lucky.

"Wassup? Why don't you answer to the call?" Dom exhorts him, when the rings become seven.

"Well, it's not that important. Whoever it is, he/she will recall. Now I'm talking with you and..." he justifies, more and more agitated, realizing too late that Matthew has already opened the pocket of his trolley, taking possession of his mobile.

"No, Matt, what the hell are you doing?" Tom asks him, turning scarily pale, no matters how tanned he is.

"If you don't wanna answer, I'm gonna do it for you." the frontman decides, as he presses the key to answer, before the tenth ring.

"Hallo? It's... "

"I don't give a fuck to who the hell it is! All I know is that you have a mobile that doesn't belong to you, dammit, you, fucking, ugly, bastard, twat, asshole, stupid, moron, son of a ..." someone who Matthew already recognized roars from the other side, before Matthew moves the mobile away, as the speaker keeps cursing.

Matt looks at Tom in awe.

"Tom, just a little inquiry of mine, could you explain to me why *Brian Molko* is barking at me?" he asks him, as Chris did the wisest thing ever, i.e. he presses the key to end that call and, for good measures, he also turns the mobile off.

"Well, because I happen to have his manager's mobile." Tom explains, very innocently.

"And why the hell do you have her mob..." Dominic wonders, before Chris, Matt and he jump to the right conclusions.

"A girl with your same job..." Chris ponders loudly.

"The two bands who'd better never ever find the truth..." Matt recalls.

"That's who you were with: Placebo's manager!" Dom figures out.

"It's just outrageous! You're such an awful betrayer!" Matthew accuses him, with the most hurt expression he can show to him, but it's nothing compared to the hurt expression on Chris' face.

"I can't believe it... you didn't confess that to me! You always tell me everything." the bassist grumbles, deeply disappointed.

"You're right, Chris, but truth is that Gossip is your second name! You wouldn't be able to keep that secret, not even for one hour!" Tom strikes back.

"That's not true, when I try really hard there are secrets that I can keep very well." the other justifies, as he exchange an understanding look with Matt and Dom who confine themselves just to nod.

"Anyway, am I the only one to find that a very beautiful thing? I mean... this is soooo romantic! It reminds me to that little fairytale of 'Romeo and Juliet'. Who knows? Maybe with their forbidden love they will bring peace between the two factions, making them get along with each other." the blonde sighs with a daydreaming attitude, but it takes his soulmate less than half a second to disenchant him.

"Firstly, gee, Dommie, you're really obsessed over 'Romeo and Juliet' . Secondly, I'm sorry for disappointing you, but no-fucking-one will bring peace any-fucking-where, we'll keep merrily hating each other, cause things are perfect the way they are!" the singer swears. "And, thirdly, Dom, I don't think that Mr. Shakespeare would be happy to hear someone call one of his most famous and majestic tragedies ... fairytale!" he concludes, with a hint of reproach in his tone.

"Oh, c'mon! A boy and a girl flirt, hidden from everyone, in order to make a fool of their parents. A bunch of rhymes, some fights here and there and... ok, there's not a happy ending, but it's a nice fairytale, anyway!" Dom insists.

"Yeah, sure. So, let me see if I got it right: you probably think that Hamlet is only a guy who suffers from a big indecision and holds a skull in his hand, just because he thinks it's cool?" Chris asks him, sarcastically.

"Why, is it not so?" the blonde shrugs, looking kinda bored.

"Oh, God! Dom, you really need a good revision of Shakespearian literature." Matt rolls his eyes.

"Well, if you offer to be my private teacher, *very private*, I'll take the lessons more than willingly." Dominic replies mischievously, winking at Matthew.

Tom looks at them kind of dumbfounded, but lets it fly.

Matt takes a glimpse of Tom's look and that brings him back to the main reason why they start discussing.

"Don't think that I forgot it, you, shameful, abominable traitor!" he accuses him, once again.

"Actually, guys, we didn't even give him the time to explain. " Chris makes them notice and then he points at Tom. "Maybe it's not what we think, maybe it's just one of his shrewd plans to beguile their manager, getting precious information and then stealing her mobile, in order to prevent her from being in contact with her band." Chris presumes, knowing very well that 'conspiracy' is the keyword to be in tune with Matthew.

"Tom, did you really do such a thing?" the frontman asks him, as his eyes sparkle with hope.

"No, no, fucking no! We just decided to buy two identical mobiles, because we thought it would be something nice, but less binding than a ring. Anyway, I don't care, you just have to accept that, because I care about her, she cares about me and we are more than intentioned to turn this story into something serious." Tom warns them.

"So, you're not a simple traitor, you're a persistent traitor!" Matt snaps.

"Just quit it, Bells! It's not about you, it's not even about Placebo, it's just something between Alex and I" Tom states, intransigent. "Plus, you keep calling me a traitor, but you don't know what Chris did once..." he goes on, as the bassist glares at him with a 'Don't you dare!' look, dreading that he already knows what he's about to say.

"What do you mean?" Matt frowns.

"Do you remember your so beloved golden hat? Well, truth is that you didn't lost it, but it was Chris who stole it from you and got rid of it."

"You what?!" Matt exclaims, astonished, looking at Chris like he had stabbed him in the back.

"Damn you, Chris! Why did you do that? Do you have the slightest idea of how many stores I went to, before finding its perfect twin?" Dom intervenes.

"Oh, c'mon, Bells! Firstly, that hat was horrible. Secondly, just like Dom said, you have another one, now, so why should you complain?" Chris justifies.

"I just know that I' m gonna keep it in a strongbox, like a jewel, far away from you and your bloody clutches!" Matt perjures.

Chris looks at Tom with a hurt expression, once again.

"How could you blurt that to him? And to think that I even tried to help you, before..."

"Well, you gave me such a great help, after all!" Tom strikes back, sarcastically. "Anyway, Chris, nothing personal, really, but it's such a hard struggle for survival." he justifies.

"Okay, if it's so... well, Matt, you don't know that... Dom is a very big fan of My Chemical Romance!" Chris reveals.

"WHAAAAAAAAAAAAT?! Oh, God, I'm surrounded by traitors!" the frontman gets alarmed.

"Honey, please, try to understand, those guys are not so bad, after all, they have powerful guitars, a proper drummer and... damn, Matt, as catastrophic as you are, I just don't understand why you haven't fallen in love with the lyrics of their songs, yet!" Dom strikes back, as Tom can't help noticing that 'honey' the blond addressed to Matt with.

"Anyway, even if I don't agree, I'll let you free to sabotage them as much as you please!" the drummer adds, making his partner smile again.

Anyway, Dominic is too engrossed glaring at Chris, to notice that.

"Chris, I didn't mean to come to saying that, but you just deserve it, so ... Tom, Matt, maybe you don't know that... he likes crocheting!" Dom strikes, unmercifully.

His listeners immediately burst out laughing madly.

"But... no... Dom, what the hell are you blathering about?" Chris replies, panic-stricken.

"I saw you once, so don't you dare deny that!"

"But, no... it's just that I was using it as a weapon!" he tries to justify, unsuccessfully.

"Yeah, sure! And what did you exactly plan to do with it? To knit a sweater to your potential attacker?" Matt makes fun of him.

"Okay, guys, you just asked for that. Tom, you don't know that... Matt and Dom are together!" Chris reveals.

Everyone shuts up, but after some seconds it's Tom who breaks the silence.

"Together like the fact that you are one next to the other... right?" Tom asks them, wavering.

"Well, mostly one upon the other, or one behind the other... and vice versa!" the blond removes all doubt.

"Damn you, Dom!" Matt reproaches him.

"What? What did I do so wrong? After all, we'll have to tell him, sooner or later, so let's do it now! And we must thank Chris for that." Dominic explains.

"So, now I guess that you need explanations, right?" Matt wonders, turning to Tom.

"Explanation ... and a very alcoholic drink!" he replies.

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

"And that's how we came to this." Matthew concludes, as, taking turns, they all have informed Tom about the vicissitudes of the latest months.

"Oh." is all Tom manages to say, probably still too shocked to speak.

"So, you will keep being our manager, won't you?" Dominic asks him, with a hint of uncertainty.

"Of course, I will, you are and you'll always be my friends, independently of your... errr... sexual preferences!" Tom reassures them, a little bit embarrassed.

"Anyway, we're not going to spread the word about this. Chris and you, Tom, are the only ones who know... well, except from Gaia and Jessica, but I don't think they care about spreading this news." Matthew comments.

"But if somehow the truth came out, on the musical level it wouldn't change anything, we're still the Muse and if some of our fans won't accept that, well, they're not real fans, so we'd better lose them." Dominic goes on.

"Guys, don't cross your bridges before coming to them. If it doesn't happen it's better, but if it should happen, we'll know how to face everything." their manager heartens them. "So, now can we talk about something that it's not my sentimental situation, Chris' hobbies or your mutual love?" he exhorts them.

"Sure! We have such a big, epic event to face. I already have lots of ideas for it. You know, I was thinking about an advertising campaign with reverse psychology system." Matthew suggests, very excited.

"Such as?" Tom looks at him, in disbelief.

"You know, something like 'Hey, people, don't come to see our show at Wembley, it's nothing special, after all, it's not such a nice place, there won't be any cool bands, even our playlist will be kind of insignificant, and...'" he attempts to explain, before Chris and Dom promptly silence him up, wrapping their hand around his mouth.

"Damn you, Bells, didn't you cause enough damage with your fucking, bloody, sodding reverse psychology?" Dom snaps.

"Please, Tom, don't mind what Matt said." Chris advises him, as his listener rolls his eyes, exasperated.

"Don't worry, Chris, I've quit doing that a long time ago!"

TBC

So, are you ready for the (100% BellDom) epilogue?

Just a little note: in 'Try Something New' I started writing about Tom and Alex (the Placebo's manager) getting along, a lot... so I ended up falling in love with this pairing and I keep using it whenever I got the chance... hope you won't mind.

The most funny thing is that I've never seen Alex, but I like picturing her like a petite blonde, very pushy! ^^

Hope you'll still like it and have fun with this story, pleeeease let me know! ;P

2 notes · View notes

the-heaminator · 1 year

Text

2.2k of useless fluff between Australia, New Zealand and Germany in the 1890s, and a brief reunion 60 or so years later. This came out of some deep dark crevice of my mind and I do not know how to feel about that.

Dresden, 1890s

The summer warmth and smog had settled itself over Europe quite resolutely now, the stifling heat doing nothing to aid Ludwig nor Eleanor in their endeavours of trying to do anything at all, too warm and sunny to do anything but play inside away from the hustle and bustle of the house and far far away from the fraying tempers that had collected in the dining room, though not for eating just yet.

That did not stop Jack, who aunt Brighid always said was made of sunlight itself, from going outside and picking at various creepy crawlies and from hiding in trees and playing with sticks, the other two, set to keep watch on the sunshine child by both England and Prussia had to contend with the shelter of the veranda and ate Creamed Ice, sweetened with honey and finely chopped nuts. While they watched Jack do what he did, Ludwig was overheating far far worse than Elanor, she had the pleasure of wearing a relatively loose summer dress, mainly because England was not the most well-versed in what to make a girl wear, so he seemed to go for practicality unless it was a formal function.

Which to be fair this was, but they had no need to be here, they had just pestered him often enough and there was nobody to look after them, he would never trust any of the housemaids enough to entrust them to her, Matthew was in Canada now, Uncle Rhys and Uncle Alisdair were in America dealing with something or the other, Jack probably would never forget the incident of when he was still physically about the size of a toddler and accidentally got passed around one too many times in the great exhibition and ended up with Alfred who recognised him as one of England's quicker than Jack could say "Bloody fuckin fast!"

He always had a filthy mouth, not that he had no reason to, Ludwig had heard Prussia say, on multiple occasions, that England should at least to attempt to clear up his speech, which was more than once met with a tirade of enough curse words both nautical and not, that he could feel his ears shrivel up and he didn't even know what half of them meant?

Jack may have been a lizard, with lack of a better way to put it, but Ludwig must certainly was not, he was wearing rather stuffy grey wool over a shirt that didn't cover his forearms, Eleanor asked if he wanted heatstroke, but he really just didn't like showing his forearms to anybody, apparently they were far too thin and boney, with many bruises that weren't inflicted by anyone hand, but by the nation as a whole, it seemed as of they didn't understand this very well, they had seen it happen to their father and his siblings, but they never seemed to get them themselves unless something markedly severe was happening, apparently, it usually affected their father more than it affected them, supposedly because they were colonial holdings and England held jurisdiction of them.

They were stewing in silence for a while, Ludwig had started to nod off, it being far too hot to deal with right now, so that he didn't realise that Eleanor had started to draw in the hard dry earth in the flowerbeds with a twig.

She drew the magnificent Carracks that sailed the seas in the 1500s by the Spaniards, well according to what her sailing book said, she had heard that her father had been a pirate at some point but she found that incredibly hard to believe, but whatever, she drew the Barques that were used to get to her lonely island, that fared through storms and whatnot.

They weren't the most detailed, how could you make drawing in the dirt all that detailed, but in the still, sultry air, they seemed to be by far the most appealing thing in the garden just about now, her doodling even managed to attract the notoriously flighty attention of her dearest brother, and he squat near the flowerbed, in the full sun, clearly unperturbed the sun beating the back of his neck and frying what few braincells he seemed to resolutely own, he started adding his details as well, doodling in the dirt as Ludwig stayed asleep, but this is jack, he would never particularly let anybody sleep especially not in such weather, he would get heatstroke really goddamn fast, especially if he stayed in what he was wearing, honestly who would wear a woollen jumper in such weather?

Plus he was already borning, in Jack's eyes he already acted like an old man, despite being physically about the same age as him and as a nation he was quite a bit younger, but he already acted painfully stuffy, he sat with the same almost military-like posture that both their Father and Prussia tended to sit in, he was touchy, especially about seeing his arms unclothed, quite like how Uncle Rhys was sometimes, and he genuinely seemed to have a stick up his ass already, no one seemed to ever treat him like a child and well, Jack knew that getting treated like a child too much felt terrible, but also never being treated like one, especially if, physically at least, he still was one, he never seemed to experience the pure awe or interest that Jack did, happier to sit on the side passively and watching then to ever take part in anything, he was quite boring usually; but sometimes he could see that underneath all that, he was still very young, when Jack pointed out different bird species a while ago he seemed to copy all Jack had to say down with uncharacteristic zeal, copying everything down almost word for word in the flowy cursive that Jack associated with old men and Matt; not something that one would expect from a 14 year old for sure, Zee joined in the conversation and that was one of the few times they saw him looking like an actual child, it was odd.

"Jack, what are you thinking of?"

"What?"

Jack had been squatting on the soil, not moving, seemingly deep in thought.

"You know, he acts like an old man sometimes," He said pointing at Germany, who was quite fast asleep in the shade, the heat clearly having got the better of him "But I want to think that he isn't and throw mud at him, but if I did I don't even know how he would react."

"Jack that is way too specific, but you have a point."

At that he had an idea, half-baked as it was, it was an idea nonetheless, it was to start with him being awoken, Zee would do that and hopefully, he did not have a particularly strong reaction to physical touch, he was particularly young even for their kind so he shouldn't, but Ludwig seemed to break more than a few long-established rules of nationdom, so who knows.

Zee had her reservations, she always did, being the voice of reason amongst the two, sometimes seeming to be the voice of reason in their entire family despite being one of the youngest, but Jack very much did not, and unfurled himself from his crouch to full height, ruddy face smiling like rays of the sun itself, before he poked Ludwig on the shoulder, once, then again, achieving only a sleepy grumble which caused him to move his head, which therefore caused him to lose his very carefully made position, and he fell onto the hard soil, quite sufficiently waking him up.

The look on his face caused Jack to fall into an absolute fit of laughter, and even Zee who generally prided herself on not doing that started to giggle at his expense, Ludwig picked himself up quickly and dusted himself off, grumbling all the while, the language was quite bland, especially considering his company and their vibrant vernacular of curses, but if Gilbert had heard him he would have surely got his mouth washed out with soap.

He returned himself to his perch on the veranda, well in the shade as Jack sat down next to him, looking markedly more scruffy than before he dozed off, how long had it been anyways?

They all sat in silence for a few moments before Ludwig enquired what the drawing in the soil was of.

"Don't tell me you've never heard of a carrack?

"Or a galleon?"

"Or a schooner?"

Ludwig knew that they were boats, he had read about them, but had never actually seen one, they were quite before his time, really before all of their times, but Arthur had a fondness of the sea that Gilbert most certainly did not possess, he had only seen the sea a few times, and it was steely grey the few times he did see it, the waves choppy and the air cold with a cloying smell of dead fish and other wonderful nautical scents, like alcohol as well as the smoke of the coal ships making it difficult to breathe if he stood too close.

"They are boats no?"

"Of course, they are boats, banana face, but do you know what type of boat it is?"

Ludwig searched his mental inventory for the type of boat, it seemed to not fit into any of the well defined categories and that annoyed him very much, outwardly he looked mildly constipated and the both of them looked on in interest.

"Is it a...collier?"

The two looked impressed "Not exactly, but that was the point, it is a barque, which is basically where all the boats that do not fit any other categories are lumped together, and that does look like a collier quite so."

Jack absolutely lit up and started to go on about the ocean, specifically the ocean at botany bay, the slick rocks that he used to climb over and hunt for mussels and crabs, and try not to fall into any of the rock pools, lest Aunt Bridghid had to fish him out and he would get a good smack upside the head for it, about how many birds nested there and how he knew where all the nests were, the blue-green water that had so many fish in it despite being close to the coast, he started to talk about how blue the sky was, the smell of salt in the air as he walked alongside Aunt Bri.

He started to spin elaborate tales about the birds and their migratory journeys, creating epic-like sagas and whatnot before finally stopping, beaming at the rapt attention of his audience of two.

"What about you Ludwig, have you ever seen the ocean?"

Ludwig seemed to take a moment before saying "It was nothing like yours, there was a lot of grey, a lot of smoke and noise, pebbles that hurt to fall on," he scrunched up his nose "It smelt like rotting fish, tobacco alcohol and sadness."

Jack made a face "That sounds fucking depressing, like the limey coast!" He thought "Were there crabs."

"There were no crabs, not that I looked."

Zee continued to watch, she liked seeing those two talk, unstoppable force meets an immovable object and all that, they bounced off each other really very well.

"I want to see the ocean like yours." Said in such a childlike manner that for a moment you could believe the voice actually did belong to a teenage boy, forced to grow up too fast and not the tired middle-aged man he already seemed to be acting like, and it was nice for the three of them.

Sydney 1950s

They were older now, two men of admirable height, no longer an oddly proportioned German and an Australian who always had mud on his knees, Jack watched as Ludwig just looked out upon Botany bay, sure it wasn't as it was 300 years prior, but enough of what Jack said stood the test of time, the rocks were slimy and Ludwig was terrible at climbing over them, the rock pools with the mussels and crabs remained, Jack showed him different types of crab while they squatted in the sun, Ludwig wearing a coat of sunscreen because he absolutely burned in the sun.

The green-blue sea and the birds that preened themselves haughtily when they passed, the sky far more blue than he had ever seen it at home, the smell of salt tickling his nose most pleasurably, such a far cry from the first time he saw the sea

They were both quite worse for wear after the wars, it was difficult to imagine that that conversation happened not 70 years prior, but that was besides the point, Jack may have not been small enough to fall into rock pools and Ludwig was not small enough to cry after tripping over rocks, but they were young, younger than most really, Ludwig had barely been around for 80 years, a blip in time for older nations, but at least now, after all the years had thrown at them, they could enjoy.

"Come mate imma teach ya to surf!"

#Hws australia #Hws New Zealand #Hws germany #Historical hetalia #The heam writes #*slaps the hood of this fic* This baby can fit so much infodumping #I dont even know just read it ok #Theres a lot of boat information for some reason

6 notes · View notes