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#maybe it's just that 14 talks much less than 10

cressthebest · 2 days

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Crimson Rivers thoughts pt. 22

chapter 38:

1. “"Right, so, your stylist?" Marlene asks, settling in as they continue to sway. "The one who looks like a fucking goddess? Yeah, so get this, she says we're friends…"”

james and marlene gossip sesh <3333333

2. 😧 MCGONNAGAL??????????

3. wait i think mcgonnagal is good. i’m pretty sure she’s from the phoenix. i’m not sure. i’m hopeful. i’m so hopeful

4. aww huey is kinda sweet. i like that’s he’s reg’s breath of fresh air when it comes to talking to the hallows

5. reg, i understand your anger, but please don’t make one of the only good sponsors feel bad

6. jealous james >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

7. “"I like your tea," James offers. "Maybe I'm biased, but it tastes better than anyone else's. What do you do to it?"

Regulus hums and lightly says, "I spit in it."

Without missing a beat, James replies, "Ah, that explains it."”

😭😭😭😭😭

8. “"Would you—" Regulus chokes on another relentless giggle, gasping a little. "Wait, would you actually drink my tea if I spit in it, James?"

"Love, I would let you spit directly into my mouth," James announces with absolutely no shame in his tone whatsoever.”

😭😭😭😭 james i love you

9. awww i love that barty is the most consistent part of reg’s life. i love barty

10. 😬 riddle is unconvinced in their love story. i- yikes

11. okay, right, mcgonnagal is good. thank god

12. dorcas wants to keep marlene out of the war, but only one of them has had a pov so far, so i’m not hopeful

13. oh shit marlene sounds hot

14. also, to add in, i’m so fucking glad there’s like no homophobia (that we know of) in this world

15. i do NOT want dorlene to be a tragedy in this universe

16. 😟 she gave back the ring. AHHHH

17. oh no. shit shit shit shit shit what did riddle do

18. “Riddle didn't even grant the liberty of leaving bodies behind for them to bury.” 😟😧

(but also, orion and walburga were dicks, so like, i’m not sad, just scared)

chapter 39:

1. aww regulus finally invites james in for tea

2. “On the day he accidentally kills a bee while tending to his flowers, he goes through the five stages of grief in less than an hour, which has nothing to do with the bee and everything to do with Vanity.” STOP! THE VANITY MENTION HURTS TOO MUCH

3. “When Regulus wants more time with him, he adds bagels, which James has now unconsciously been Pavloved into thinking of as his favorite food for that very reason.” STOP THATS SO GAY

4. sirius being dramatic about james and reg liking each other is TOP TIER in this fic, in the most realistic, aggravated, obnoxious, and completely loving way

5. BWAHAHAHHAHA JAMES GETTING A PIGGY BACK RIDE FROM SIRIUS IS GOLD

6. oh shit, (i’m not the best comprehensive reader, but i should have figured this out sooner), but from sirius’ perspective, he has to do the back and forth with remus his whole life. he doesn’t have the knowledge that i do, that a war is coming and they’ll finally get a chance to live together. he thinks he only gets to see remus once a year for two weeks at a time. this- this shit is heartbreaking yall

7. “”I watched him stand to his feet and tip himself into a river of blood in an act so tender that I'll never again be able to look at him with anything less than pure love. Every other member of the Black family, including you, fought and clawed their way home to their family, oftentimes to a family that never truly made them feel loved at all. Regulus? He fought and clawed through that arena, the entire time, for James. He's far more gentle than anyone gives him credit for."”

y’all, i’m crying over this. this is so lovely. effie is right, and i’m crying over how right she is

8. 😒 i know what’s coming. riddles a bitch. a right bitch. he’s gonna announce that previous victors are competing and i’m PISSED

9. so far, all three potters offered reggie food. they’re so hospitable, i love them

10. “He hasn't forgotten what it is to long for James. He still knows what it is to want him so badly that he'd be willing to kneel at the altar of James Potter and beg; he'd drop down on his hands and knees and crawl if that's what it took, if that would prove his devotion. He is the manifestation of longing built up with nowhere to go, and he craves, he yearns, he covets.”

both of them are so down bad

11. omg reg is so horny. his inner monologue is literally only like “”””“rip my clothes off please, read my mind and rip my clothes off”””””

12.AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH I KNEW IT WAS COMING! BUT IM SO MAD!!! FUCK RIDDLE

13. effie is a queen. she is a godsend. and i’m so upset right now

14. not effie making them promise not to volunteer, and immediately james and sirius arguing over who’s gonna volunteer for her

15. i’m seething. i’m pissed beyond belief. i’m so angry it’s indescribable. my babies are going back into that arena. honestly, fuck riddle

#marauders #regulus black #james potter #fanfic #jegulus #sirius black #effie potter #euphemia potter #sunseeker #starchaser #dorcas x marlene #dorcas meadowes #marlene mckinnon #crimson rivers

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symp4nat · 4 months

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"Even Aphrodite envies you."

clarisse la rue x fem!reader

authors note: post 10 pm cry write guys i need to pee, this is a vent fic. also, headcanon that you call clarisse "risse" pronouned Reese bc awwwwwww

summary - you talk about ur body negatively

warnings - talk about body image, over excercizing, not eating/skipping meals, descriptions of body, flashbacks, itty bitty mentions of praying to not greek gods

Thud.

I wasn't enough.

Thwap.

"You need to work out, you're getting too big, and you're only 14," my mother said. I gulped and sat down. "Can we just... pray," I asked. "You need to fix it, usually, girls your age are body conscious.... haven't you seen [friend's name]? That was such a transformation," my dad said.

Thump.

"She lost so much weight, Y/N/N, why don't you do the same? Most people will do things when they see their friends are doing it," my mother said.

Thomp. My mother put her hand on my shoulder-

I went to punch the person who put their hand on me. They caught my hand and I sighed as I saw it was my girlfriend. Clarisse grabbed both of my hands and rubbed my knuckles. "How about we take a break, hm?"

I shook my head. I had to do this.

"Please, no more boxing for the day, you've been overworking yourself," she continued. "Risse, I'm fine.. I've got this," I reassured her.

"Just please, you've been boxing for at least two hours, maybe take a break, okay," she squeezed my hands and walked off. I sighed and went to the archery range.

I grabbed a fairly sized bow and then a set of arrows. I began to shoot around, not necessarily being good at it.

Thwip.

"Y/n, why'd you get new clothes, your old ones were cute," my friends exclaimed. I shrugged. "No need for old clothes..."

Thwap.

"Why don't we all go for a run, some of us need it," my friends said. I looked down and said, "We aren't all wearing tennis shoes."

Shhhk!

They never necessarily spoke much about my own weight, but they all weighed less than me and called themselves fat. They all were skinny or at least average.

"Y/n/n? Please, go rest, I bet you're tired," Clarisse sighed as she noticed me at the archery range. "I'm fine," I defended. "Go get some lunch, or I'll get some for you," she said. I shook my head. "I got it. Thanks, babe," I said.

"C'mon, angel, wanna sit on my lap, maybe take a nap," Clarisse asked. I laughed and shook my head, "You rhymed. And, no, it's... alright.."

Clarisse's eyes became sympathetic. "Baby, is it because this," she asked as you placed her hands on what she called my "love handles" and my hip dips. I looked down and shrugged.

"Baby, that isn't a big deal, you're truly beautiful... do- do you not believe me," Clarisse asked. She pulled me onto her lap and I looked down at my hands. "Hey, eyes on me," she said.

My eyes darted back up to hers and she said, "Would you like to know something really cool?" I nodded and she continued, "I think.. no- I know... That even Aphrodite would be jealous of your beauty."

My eyes began to fill with tears as I buried my head into her neck. "I love you, I don't deserve you," I said as tears stained her shirt. "I love you most, and yes you do, okay? You absolutely do, pretty girl," she said gently to me as her hands relaxed on my hips.

She leaned back on the bed and pulled me back so I could lay on top of her. "I doubt you wanna talk about it later... but how about we nap for now? And just... please... never... over exercise or over work yourself, angel," I nodded as she spoke and closed my eyes. There wasn't anything I could have done to have just to have someone as caring and supporting her.

#clarisse la rue x y/n #clarisse pjo #clarisse la rue x reader #clarisse x reader #clarisse la rue fluff #clarisse la rue #percy jackson #percy jackon and the olympians #pjo

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sparklingchim · 1 year

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long way home 26 | jjk

pairing: jungkook x reader

word count: 4.9k

genre: dilf!jungkook, friends to lovers, angst

warnings: ... emotions 🫡

summary: the one where decisions are made.

a/n: i can't believe m actually typing this out but we're at the end of lwh !!! thank u to everyone reading this series <3 i love uuuu <3

chapters: 01 | 02 | 03 | 04 | 05 | 06 | 07 | 08 | 09 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 |

masterlist | long way home masterlist

⭒☆━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━☆⭒

The coffee shop is eerily tranquil today. There aren’t many customers.

Only a few people linger at the tables near the windows and a single person stands in line.

The only loud noise comes from your phone pressed to your ear as Seulgi screams and yells at you.

You definitely should have waited until you entered the break room, because you’re afraid Seulgi’s voice is loud enough to hear.

“You promised me you would talk to him!”

You close the door with a push of your palm.

“I know, I’m going to.” You sigh and sit down at the table. “I just don’t know when exactly.” You sound sheepish, a worried crease appearing between your brows.

"Did he text you at all?”

“No. Why would he? I literally kicked him out of my place.”

Seulgi groans at your reminder. “Tell me why you did that again?”

“Seulgi,” you whine. You need her advice. She had already done the scolding part days ago.

“I know, I know – I'm sorry,” she replies, softer now – less accusing.

You fidget with your fingers. “Should I text him?”

“No, that’s not a good approach,” she dismisses.

“At least it’s something,” you retort. You could send him a short message. Though you’re not sure what it would contain. Hi, I'm sorry for making you leave, can we pls pls pls talk I miss you. You grimace. Maybe a call would be more suitable.

“Y/n,” Seulgi says, snapping you out of your thoughts. “You know what’s more important than figuring out how to approach a conversation?” She pauses, but you stay silent. “Being ready to tell him the truth.”

You told Seulgi of your feelings for Jungkook the day after he confessed to you. She sat on your couch and watched you intently after you announced in a flustered tone I have to tell you something, right after you had talked about what had happened the day before.

You waited for a reaction, but none came. She had a vacant expression. “I know,” she said then, shrugging nonchalantly. “You think you were being secretive about it?” A puzzled look spread across her face.

You felt your cheeks grow hot.

“Are you?” Seulgi presses.

“Yes. I think I am.”

“Good, because this isn’t gonna fix itself,” she says. “Not unless you finally have the courage to be honest with him.”

She’s right. And even though it’s scary, you have nothing to lose. You have already lost your two favourite people in the world.

“And now go and talk to him.”

“What?” Seulgi can’t possibly mean that.

"Go to his place and have a conversation with him.” As if it were that easy.

“I’m at work, Seulgi.”

“You’re taking a break right now,” she counters.

“Yeah, but-”

“No buts,” she interjects. “Just go and get your friend back. Or future boyfriend, whatever.” Seulgi is unwavering. But your doubts and hesitations slowly start to fade. “I can’t keep watching you be sad. It breaks my heart,” she adds, in a much smaller voice.

“Seulgi,” you pout. She has seen you at your lowest points, and of course you know that she is compassionate, but when you hear her voice, your throat tightens.

“You’re gonna leave now?” she asks.

It’s a bit hectic and far too spontaneous, but her words have planted determination in your mind. But maybe that is exactly what you need. This way you don’t have time to overthink and come up with possible scenarios that make you doubt everything and give you sleepless nights.

“I am.” You take a look at the clock. You still have time left, but it’s definitely not nearly enough for walking to Jungkook’s apartment and talking to him. You have to do this now. If you postpone it to later, you’re not certain if you still have the bravery to do it.

“The next time you call it better be to tell me that Jungkook is your boyfie.”

You ignore her. “I’m gonna hang up now, I don’t have time. And thank you, really, without you I’d probably never do this.”

“That’s what friends are for,” she says warmly. You wish you could hug her.

After the call you leave the break room. There still aren’t a lot of customers and you’re thankful for that.

“Jimin.” You walk up to him. He’s loading cakes into the display case. He gives you a sweet smile.

“Hey, uh – I kinda have something quick to do,” you start, gauging his reaction. “Do you think you could – It’s just something really important and I don’t know if I can do it later and-”

“It’s okay, y/n,” he interrupts, the smile still on display. “I’ll cover for you, no problem. Do what you have to do, there is no rush.”

He doesn’t ask for a reason. He doesn’t ask how long you’ll be away. He doesn’t ask any questions. You would pull him into a hug if you weren’t in such a hurry.

You tug at the tie of your apron at your back and pull it off your body. Jimin reaches out to you and you hand him your black apron.

“Thank you. I promise I’ll be back soon!”

You don’t know the outcome of this, but you will take the initiative and at least try to make things better than they have been the last couple weeks.

You’re a little hopeful, and you have yet to find out if you are foolish for that.

With your heart pounding in your ears, you rush out of the coffee shop.

The walk from the coffee shop to Jungkook’s apartment isn’t that long, but it gives you time to question your choice.

You stand in the elevator of Jungkook’s apartment building, wondering whether you should press the button that will take you back down.

Earlier, a guy walked out of the building when you were about to ring Jungkook’s doorbell. You were able to slip into the building without announcing your presence to Jungkook. You feel more comfortable this way, though your hands start feeling clammy.

The elevator stops at Jungkook’s floor. The steps that lead you to his apartment door are uncertain, ready to turn and sprint down the stairs.

But you didn’t come here just to run away. You want things to be good between Jungkook and you.

You take a deep breath and press the doorbell.

A few seconds pass. Then, the door opens.

Jungkook stands in front of you. His long, dark hair is a fluffy and wavy mess on top of his head, adorned with little wispy flyaways around his face. He’s in casual clothes – black sweatpants combined with an oversized white pullover.

He seems startled to see you.

“Hi,” you say, a little breathless.

“Hi.” His usual mellow lilt carries a rare hesitancy.

“Do you have time to talk?” A lump forms in your throat and you swallow it down.

“Yeah, sure.” He makes room for you to enter and closes the door behind you. You change into a pair of slippers and follow Jungkook to the living room.

“Is Nabi sleeping?” You can’t help but ask. You kind of hoped to see her. You missed her and maybe she could’ve eased your nervousness a little.

“I put her down for a nap a while ago.” Jungkook sits down next to you on the couch, a considerable distance between you. He glances at the clock hanging on the wall. “She should be up soon, though.”

When his eyes draw back to you, you feel a little helpless. You remind yourself of what Seulgi told you. This isn’t gonna fix itself.

After sorting the chaos in your head, you say, “I wanted to apologise for being so selfish all the time.”

Jungkook parts his lips to speak, but you continue before he can say anything. “I’ve never fully tried to look at things from your perspective and narrowed my mind to what I thought was the best solution.” You pull your sleeves over your hands. “It shouldn’t have been that way.”

“It’s okay,” Jungkook replies, flashing you a tiny smile that disappears soon after. “It doesn’t matter anymore.”

“I shouldn’t have made you leave. That was heedless and inconsiderate of me,” you admit, biting your lip in guilt. “You opened up to me and I didn’t know what to do. There was a lot in my mind, and I just needed some space for a moment – I'm sorry, truly.” You avert your gaze to the carpet. “I honestly didn’t prepare what to say, I just – I left work because I needed to talk to you.”

“Why do you sacrifice so much for me?”

He insinuates more than leaving work in the middle of your shift.

A string tugs at your heart. Jungkook was honest with you, it’s time to be honest with him too – and maybe to yourself as well. It’s time to acknowledge the feelings you hold for him in a hidden little niche of your heart.

It’s difficult to bare that part of you when you’re so used to hiding it.

“Because I love you.”

You said it. And you mean it. Wholeheartedly so.

You can’t foreshadow his response and what will happen, but you’re glad you said it. The relief that courses through you was worth it.

Jungkook’s stare is intense. You don’t know if it’s the intensity of his stare or what you’ve just confessed, but every single bone inside of you feels ignited. You’re burning from the inside with sheer anxiety darting through you, while Jungkook remains silent.

Your words hang in the air, so simple and yet so daunting.

Jungkook’s pierced eyebrow twitches. He opens his mouth but not a single sound passes his lips.

You don’t blame him. Three days ago you shooed him away after he told you the exact same thing. In retrospect, you deeply regret that decision. But at that moment, you were overwhelmed and needed to be alone. Sort your thoughts. And then talk to him again.

You shift in your seat. “Jungkook.” It’s a soft murmur of his name, a trace of pity and urge creeping in your voice.

The spark leaves Jungkook’s eyes and he casts his gaze away. “It doesn’t change that you made me leave. You still don’t want anything to do with me. Right?”

You shake your head vehemently. But he is still not looking at you, so you say, “That’s not true.” You sit closer to him, fingers curling against the fabric of his sweater on his elbow. “That night was overwhelming for me. I made a mistake when I told you to leave, but I didn’t know what else to do.” Doe eyes lock with yours. You realise how much you missed his glimmering eyes that hold the night sky within them. “I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t want you back in my life, Jungkook.” His sweater crumples into a tiny ball in your palm. “I missed you.”

His answer is immediate. “I missed you too.”

Your chest feels light. A giddy warmth encloses you like a blanket.

“I’m sorry. For the way I acted,” you say.

“It’s okay. You’ve already apologised.” He looks down at your hand grasping his sweater. You should let go, but even the smallest hint of physical touch feels reassuring.

“I know but I just – I just think we’re equally as responsible for how things have turned out.”

Jungkook nods. “Yeah, definitely.” With a sigh he leans back. His tatted fingers vanish in his dark hair as he cascades through them.

“I really wanna try this. I want to be with you.”

He unclasps your fingers from his sweater and holds your hand. It’s an innocent, small gesture and still, your skin buzzes with delight.

“Y/n.” The way he whispers your name, tender and careful, as if not to break you. “Don’t you realise how much more you deserve?”

Your brows furrow. “But...” You squeeze his hand. “You’re all I’ve ever wanted.” His thumb strokes the back of your hand.

“I promised myself to get over you after we graduated high school,” you tell. “But that clearly never happened.” Looking at both your hands you feel silly for ever thinking you could suppress your feelings for Jungkook.

“High school?” he inquires.

You feel small beneath his sharp gaze. “Well, yeah.” You shrug. “You’re like. Really pretty.” Heat crawls up into your cheek. “And we hung out like 24/7. It was not that hard to fall for you.”

“I mean, same.” The corner of Jungkook’s mouth tilts upwards.

Your lips form a tiny ‘o’. He has feelings for you since high school? It doesn’t make sense. “But you never shut up about how we’re such good friends,” you accuse him. All these years. And you didn’t know.

“Oh, yeah. That was...” He trails off.

“That was what?” You level him with a raised brow.

You see the struggle in Jungkook’s eyes. You don’t want to push him, but there are no more lies between you, no more secrets and untruths. You want only total honesty from now on.

“I thought I wasn’t good enough. That you deserved more.”

You shake your head in denial. “Why would you ever think that?” The years you spent with him as a teenager are full of happy memories. There were no big fights, and you don’t think you ever said or did something that made him feel that way. He’s been your best friend for so long. You love him just the way he is. “Did I ever make you feel like that?”

“Your father once told me not to try to pursue anything more than friends with you,” he explains hesitantly. “That’s why I’ve always talked about being such good friends.”

“He said what.” You’re stunned. What was your dad thinking?

Jungkook pulls your hands to his lap. “He only meant the best for you at the time.” He remains calm but little bubbles of anger prick at your skin.

“I don’t care what he was thinking.” You scowl, lips drawn into an angry pout. “So you’re telling me that if my dad hadn’t said anything, we would’ve-”

“Don’t get mad now,” he interrupts, an amused smile playing at his lips as he tucks an errant strand of hair behind you ear. “Your dad didn’t have any ill intend. I know we could’ve saved us a lot of time and misunderstandings but looks at us. Years later and we’re still in love. It doesn’t matter if in high school or now. It’s the same love. Just - “Jungkook flashes you a cute smile. “I think the only thing that has changed is that I love you even more.”

You bite down your lip. This. This is all you’ve ever wanted.

“Being apart from you was terrible,” you say, scooting closer to him. “I spent so much time thinking about you, you know that?”

He chuckles. “I think I do. You never leave my mind, y/n.” His hand around yours feels strong, protective.

“Never?” You ask tentatively. Looking at him through your lashes.

“No,” he confirms, a subtle, gentle shake of his head. “Never.”

You’re not even that close to him, but your entire body prickles at the proximity of Jungkook. The weeks without him have made you forget how it feels when you’re with him and now your body reacts to it like anticipating the last book of a fantasy series.

You need him closer than this. And it’s almost as if Jungkook can hear your thoughts, because he lets go of your hand and instead pulls you by your waist into his side. His hand lingers at your waist. And you might just feel like your skin is on fire.

“I like this better.” Jungkook’s voice is low, and so so close, it sends shivers down your spine.

“Me too,” you mumble. You have your chin propped up against his arm, looking at him with a small smile. You grow shy beneath his gaze, and you don’t even know why. “I’ve always wanted this.” You clasp your hands around his arm.

“Good,” Jungkook agrees, voice an octave deeper. Oh. More goose bumps. “Because I’ve always dreamt of this too.”

His other hand comes up to your face. He cups your cheek so delicately, the warmth of his palm is a soothing distraction from your racing heart.

Jungkook’s eyes dart between your eyes and lips, a question floating in the air that he is too afraid to ask.

“Jungkook.” It’s a plea, a request a yes, please kiss me and make me forget the world for just a moment.

Jungkook bends down. Your heart thumps against your chest and when you feel the softest hint of his mouth against yours, it stops beating.

The kiss is brief, gentle. A mere brush of your lips. Your eyes flutter open when Jungkook pulls back again, just the tiniest bit. He gives your waist a squeeze. His lips left a glimmer of tingles on your lips, and you ache for more.

“I spent so long waiting for this moment I was worried fate might never let me have you,” he whispers against your lips.

“You have me, Jungkook.” It leaves your mouth like a promise. “I’m here.”

Your hands loop around his neck and you surge forward, pulling Jungkook into another kiss. He moves his lips against yours in a practiced manner, as though you did that every single day of your lives. Like he is the missing piece of your heart to make you whole again.

Jungkook tugs you closer to him. You raise to your knees and throw a leg over Jungkook’s thigh. He follows your movements with his mouth, the softness in the beginning switching into a frantic, messy kiss.

You sit on his thigh, hands diving into his fluffy hair. You pull at some strands when he bites down your lip, moan into his mouth when he pushes you closer at your lower back and you graze over his thigh. With every sweep of his lips, another broken bone of your body mends.

You never want this moment to end.

You didn’t know you needed this so desperately, but now that you’re in Jungkook’s embrace you never want to let him go. Just you two, forever.

But then a sudden cry blares through the apartment.

Jungkook draws back. His forehead is against yours.

You two need a second to come back to the real world. The afterglow clouds your rational thoughts like the night setting after a beautiful summer day.

Your breathing is laboured, so is Jungkook’s. Your hands slide down to his neck and down to his shoulders.

“Nabi woke up from her nap.” His nose scrunches at Nabi’s wailing. He plants a tiny smooch on your lips, lingering close for a chaste moment before he gets you off his thigh.

You think about waiting until he returns with Nabi, but you can’t wait to see her tiny, bubbly form after so long.

Before Jungkook leaves the room, you scramble to your feet and reach for his hand. “I missed her,” you whine and Jungkook leads you to the nursery with a promising squeeze of his hand.

When you follow Jungkook into Nabi’s room, you take tentative steps towards her crib. Nabi is curled up in her little blankets, her round doe eyes shimmering with tears. Instinctually, you coo at her sight. Your heart softens.

“Wanna hold her?” Jungkook asks. His eyes never left you since you entered the room.

You nod – way too animatedly – and you think you see a smile spreading across Jungkook’s face out of the corner of your eye.

Ever so gently, you swoop Nabi into your embrace. Her little sobs ring throughout the room and nip straight at your heart. “My baby,” you murmur. You rock her in your arms. “I missed you so, so much.” She is wearing her baby bear romper, the material a fuzzy brown with two little bear ears attached to the hood.

Nabi is a small, fluffy bear and you’ve missed this tiny human so enormously.

Her doe eyes – an exact replication of her dad’s – stare up at you. The cries subside into whimpers, her puffy lips trembling.

“Nabi.” Her name bubbles past your lips in a whisper. You brush your knuckle against her doughy cheek. “Do you remember me?” She blinks through her thin, wet eye lashes. Having her in your arms unfolds a gloomy feeling in your chest. Yes, you are happy to see her again, but how were you able to spend more than two weeks without her?

“Are you crying?” Jungkook suddenly asks, stepping forward.

It’s only then you discern the tears pricking your eyes. “No,” you deny, sniffing a little.

A soft chuckle springs from his chest. Jungkook stands behind you, nuzzling his head to the side of your face. His burly arms envelop your waist. “Don’t cry,” he mutters. He faintly nudges your cheek with his nose. “You’ll never be separated from her again.”

“I wouldn’t survive that.” Your lower lip juts out as you’re in awe with Nabi’s cuteness. She has your heart.

“She wouldn’t either,” Jungkook retorts. His hushed timbre so close to your ear is drawing you back to him. You slowly rest your head against his chest. His voice. You could listen to him talk for hours with no end. “Nabi wouldn’t settle for sleep if she didn’t have some of your clothes in her bed.”

With a quick tilt of your head, you glance up at him. And then your eyes travel to Nabi’s crib. You see something in a lavender colour peeking from underneath Nabi’s blanket. A top you must have left here.

You thought you had successfully managed to restrain your tears, but here you are again, with new tears stinging your eyes.

“You can't just say that.” Dolour cloaks your voice. “It’s gonna make me cry.”

“Sweetheart.” He pecks the crown of your head. “It’s okay now.” There’s a hint of amusement swirling in his tone. But his touches on your body are soft, soothing.

Nabi has gone completely silent in your grasp. You boop her nose. A smile unfurls on your face. So little. A broad smile blossoms on Nabi as a reaction, pudgy cheeks scrunching her twinkling eyes. The absolute sweetest giggle sparks from her. Your heart clenches at the sound.

But then your eyes spot her reddened gums and the faint white outlines of her teeth.

You gasp. “She is growing teeth already?” With a swift whirl of your head, you stare at Jungkook, eyes wide.

“Yeah, and she’s been really fussy about it.”

“Oh my God,” you utter, looking at the little baby in your arms who’s growing up too fast. A subliminal melancholy sets in your tummy. “She was just a tiny baby and now she has teeth?” You ask, appalled.

“Not yet,” Jungkook says. “But it doesn’t matter how fast she grows – she will be my little baby forever.” Nabi’s eyes are drawn to Jungkook as he speaks. “Isn’t that right? Hm?” He leans over your shoulder, squishing her doughy cheek with his fingers. Nabi squeals, another smile displayed on her mouth.

You give Jungkook a kiss on his cheek. His eyes are sparkling just like Nabi’s. Jungkook turns his face to you. “And you,” – his lips brush over the corner of your mouth – “You will be my baby forever too.”

You laugh against his mouth.

“What.” He raises his brows, a pleased expression on his face.

“You’re silly.”

“No, I’m not.” He pulls you closer to him. Your back is flush against his lean body.

“I’m just saying the truth.”

“Oh, yeah?” Playfulness flashes in your eyes.

He gives you a firm nod. “Yeah.” Jungkook gently strokes your hair over your shoulder. Your skin tingles when his digits unintendedly skim over your neck.

“Tell me another then.”

“I love you.” He didn’t let a second pass before answering. “I’m so incredibly in love with you.”

Your heart flutters in your chest. “I love you.”

His loving eyes bore into your soul. No one has ever looked at you the way Jungkook does. Like you are beautiful, a work of art.

A deep warmth of domesticity floats in the air. It’s a vast contrast to how you have been feeling in the past days.

You share a sweet kiss with him, but it gets quickly disrupted by demanding babbling from beneath you.

"Yes, I love you too, missy,” Jungkook says, brushing her thin hair from her forehead. Her brows are deeply furrowed. He gives her a kiss there. Nabi’s trembling pout changes into a beam. “Always needy of attention, huh?”

“Just like her daddy,” you tease, grinning at Jungkook, before you leave the nursery with Nabi.

Jungkook catches your waist in the hallway. “You’re right,” he admits, a smirk curving his lips. He pulls you into his side as he walks you to the kitchen. “That’s why I don’t wanna spent any second of my life apart from you anymore.” Jungkook pecks your forehead.

A shy smile sets on your mouth. You sir down at the dining table and watch Jungkook opening a cupboard with Nabi’s food.

Nabi has found interest in playing with your hair, occasionally tugging at it.

“Not a single second?” you ask mindlessly, eyes focused on Nabi.

“I’m being serious.” He pops open a jar. “Y’know what.” Jungkook turns around to you. “You should move in with me.”

Your head snaps to him.

You search for a hint that tells you that he doesn’t actually mean it, but Jungkook doesn’t budge.

“I mean it,” he confirms.

“I can’t just move out of my apartment like that,” you reason.

Jungkook shrugs. “Just stay with me.”

It sounds so simple from his lips. And maybe it is. Seulgi has already taught you today the simplicity of just acting without overthinking too much beforehand.

“That way Minjun can’t bother you anymore.” Something flashes in Jungkook’s eyes. “Next time I see him I’m gonna break his neck.”

You ponder for a second. “I mean, I spent most of my time here anyway,” you say. “But lets not rush anything.” You don’t want this to be ruined before it has even properly started.

“Of course, baby.” He turns to the counter again. “Only if you want.”

You watch from behind as he prepares Nabi’s food. The contours of his shoulder muscles flexing with his movements conjure butterflies in your tummy. Hm. Maybe you should consider moving in if this is what you’ll get to see every day.

“Waking up next to you for the rest of my life sounds like a dream, honestly,” Jungkook flirts. You don’t have to see him to know he’s grinning annoyingly.

You’re glad he doesn’t see the way your teeth involuntarily sink into your bottom lip at his teasing voice.

“Your daddy can be insufferable sometimes,” you whisper conspiratorially, looking down at Nabi. She babbles something in return. You giggle and Nabi squeals in delight.

“What are my girls talking about?” Jungkook asks.

“None of your concern.”

You hear him huff. Suddenly, you remember that you left work during your shift. And that you promised Jimin to be back as soon as possible.

“Jungkook,” you gasp. He immediately turns to you. “I have to go back to work. Jimin is covering for me, but I've left him for way too long. I-”

“It’s okay, I’ll drive you back.” Jungkook’s calm voice works like a miracle cure for your panic. “I’ll just feed Nabi real quick and then we can leave.”

“You don’t have to. I can walk back.”

“I want to,” Jungkook says. “Besides, we can eat our cookies again. It’s been so long since I’ve eaten one.”

“I haven’t eaten one in so long as well.” The last time was together with Jungkook.

Jungkook blinks perplexed. “How have you survived until now?” He closes the distance between you, the back of his hand against your forehead. “Are you sure you’re okay?”

You roll your eyes and swat his arm. “I’m perfectly fine.”

“Why are you on a cookie diet?”

“Reminded me too much of you,” you mumble.

“Baby,” Jungkook coos. His knuckles trace the skin of your cheek. “I’m sorry. I’ll buy you as many as you want.”

You grin mischievously. “For the rest of my life?”

“Of course.”

“Daaa,” Nabi gurgles.

“Yes, I’ll buy you as many cookies you want too, once you grow your teeth.”

“That’s gonna be so soon.” You pout.

“We’ll always have time to make a second b-”

“Jungkook hurry.” You push him away. “Poor Jimin is covering for me, and Nabi is gonna starve.”

“Okay, okay,” he replies, though he doesn’t go back until he traps your mouth in a tender kiss. It’s a short kiss, but it messes with every coherent thought in your brain.

You wait for Jungkook to bring Nabi’s warm food. He opens the cutlery drawer and fishes out her tiny, pink spoon.

You smile when you think about the phone call you’re gonna have with Seulgi later. The next time you call it better be to tell me that Jungkook is your boyfie.

The ambiance is cosy – Nabi snuggled up in your arms, Jungkook sending cute smiles your way as he gets her food ready – a feeling of utter contentment that has your whole body at peace.

It’s been a long way to get here, but you finally feel at home.

#jeon jungkook #dilf jungkook #jungkook #jungkook angst #jungkook f2l #jungkook fic #jungkook imagines #bts angst #bts imagines #bts x reader #bts scenarios

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clockwayswrites · 1 year

Text

Like Betta Fish Do - Part 14

Masterpost of ao3 link and all parts.

WC: 2650 (Ch 11 when on ao3) cw: post pit rage effects, talks of violence, blood, unreliable narrator

Jason came back to himself with dried blood on his knuckles and dread pooling in his stomach.

It was still sluggish to try and focus on the world around him. At least he was still in his apartment and the blood seemed contained to his hands and a smear on his shirt. Small blessings.

(His front door had seen better days.)

Stumbling, he dragged himself to his feet and out from the corner he had tucked himself into. It took him a moment to balance himself against the wall before he could stagger his way to slump onto the couch. Every part of him hurt— joints burned with a muted fire. Great, flair of his chronic pain on top of the Pit Rage. He must have missed a dose. Which made sense. It had gotten dark out. Or had gotten dark again. He wasn’t sure how long had passed. His body ached like it had been at least a day, but he had less fog than multiple days in the Rage would have brought.

The way his phone flashed missed notifications at him made him hesitate to check the time.

He had scared Danny. He had almost hit Danny. He hadn’t— he managed not to do that. No, he’d just threatened him by punching the door next to him.

Fuck, the other was never going to want to be near him again.

And he’d be right not to.

It was a fucking miracle that Jason’s family even tolerated him, after everything he had done to Tim and Dick and even Bruce. After everything he’d done to other people. He’d been dangerous.

He was dangerous.

So much for the ectoshot fixing anything. He’d had a few good weeks and now was back to this? Maybe it wasn’t about his infectious core. Maybe it was just him. Maybe he was rotten to the core with or without the Pit Madness.

Maybe there was no fixing him.

Jason’s hands shook so badly as he picked up his phone that he almost dropped it.

A meme from Dick that Jason didn’t understand. An invite to lunch with him and Tim in text and then a missed call. Eight texts from Danny.

Danny Thur 3:24 PM:

I’m so sorry

What… what on earth was Danny sorry about?

Danny Thur 3:53 PM:

I should have left when you told me to

Let me know when you’re okay?

Danny 9:10 AM:

I don’t know how long these last?

Pls let me know when you’re alright.

Just whenever you can.

Danny 2:38 PM:

Jason?

Danny 2:39 PM:

I’m sorry

Jason stared down at his phone, not comprehending Danny’s messages. Why was Danny sorry? All he had done was show up and try to help. Jason was the one who was a monster responded badly.

He cradled his phone, typing mangled messages with trembling fingers that he deleted again and again and again. Ignorant of his cheek hitting the send button, Jason pressed the heels of his palms hard against this eyes to try and keep the tears back. He wasn’t going to cry, damn it.

Except that he was.

Everything from all the the last few years had been building up and up and up and then finally— finally! There had been hope that maybe he wouldn’t have to fight back his own mind all the time. And he’d ruined it.

And he had hurt Danny.

Couldn’t he at least stop hurting people he cared about?

His phone range, suddenly and loud where it was pressed against his cheek. He fumbled it as he jerked it away from his sensitive ears.

A small voice, tinny in the phone’s speaker from where he held it as far away as possible, called out. “Jason?”

Fuck.

“Jason? Are… are you there?”

Jason opened his mouth to reply only for the words not to come out. He cleared his throat and tried again as he thumbed the phone onto speaker. It was easier than having that noise pressed up against his ear right then. “Danny.”

“Oh thank the Ancients,” Danny exhaled. “Are you okay? Shit, sorry, that’s probably a stupid question. Is there anything that I can do for you?”

“What?” Jason croaked.

“I— look, I promise not to come over without your permission or try to come inside if you don’t want me there, but I can, I don’t know… I can bring food? I can leave it outside your door. Are you hungry? Or do you need bandages or I don’t know, something comforting?” Danny asked. Danny pleaded. His voice sounded thick with emotions.

“What?” Jason was confused. He was trying to follow, but he just didn’t get it.

“Please, I’m sorry Jason. I just want to help you. And you can tell me to just fuck off! And I will. But if you need anything—”

“What… what are you apologizing for? I’m the one who…”

“Don’t, Jason—”

“I almost hit you!” Jason keened, his breath stuttering.

“But you didn’t Jason. You didn’t,” Danny said. Again, Danny pleaded. “You tried to get me to leave. I’m the one that fucked up. You knew you weren’t in control. You told me to leave and I didn’t. I was trying to be… your savior or something instead of being your friend, and I’m sorry. I know how annoying that is. There were times when I needed my sister and all I got was a therapist. I should have known better than to pull the same stuff. I should have left when you asked. You were just trying to protect me. It doesn’t matter that you wouldn’t have been able to hurt me, not long term.”

“I don’t want to even hurt you for a moment, fish,” Jason admitted honestly, maybe too honestly. He couldn’t tear his eyes away from the bloody spot on his door.

“I know. And this time, next time, any time going forward I’ll listen when you tell me to leave, Jason. I promise. I’ll let you keep me safe. But I… just, fuck, Jason. Let me keep you safe too?”

Jason bit down on his lip to keep in the whine that wanted to escape. His head felt like it was split in two and he just wanted… he just….

He just wanted Danny there.

He wanted Danny there with his cool touch and laughter and care.

“Promise,” Jason said, despite himself. “Promise again.”

“I promise Jason,” Danny answered instantly. “The instant you tell me to leave again, I’m gone. You can keep me safe. Just please—”

“Okay. Okay… I… you’d come over?”

“Already putting on my shoes. Do you want me to get food?”

“Something warm. Pho?”

“Pho I can do. I’ll get some Cha Gio too,” Danny said, as if it was just any other visit between them.

Maybe it could still be okay.

“Okay.”

“Okay. I’ll see you soon, Jason.”

“Sure, fish.” Jason said.

Please, Jason just wanted it to be okay.

He should get up and clean. Jason knew that. There were shards of a coffee cup scattered over his floor, tea long soaked into the rug. He felt the itch of dried blood and cuts on the bottom of his feet.

The dried blood on his knuckles flaked off as he rubbed at it.

He should get up and clean.

Instead, he let his head fall back against the back of his couch and focused on breathing.

Once it had come out— entirely against his will— that he would still have bouts of pain that lingered from his death, the family had insisted that Jason seek help. It hadn’t gone over well. He didn’t talk to them for almost a month.

It might have all been easier if he hadn’t blurted out the fact during yet another argument about his attitude. Damian had been picking at him again. And of course Dick had been nervously fretting off to the side, worrying over making the fight worse… or maybe just worrying over making Damian worse. And Bruce had been judging him for snapping back (he’s just a child, Jason) and Tim had all but disappeared to hide in the shadows where Cass was silently watching. Damian scoffed (and no one scoffed like Damian) that nothing had even gone wrong that night and Jason had just gone off.

He had shouted that nothing needed to go wrong when he could feel the aches in his bones from where the crowbar had shattered him. That he hadn’t even wanted to go on patrol that night— that he had said no. But then Dick had pried at him about needing to be there for the family so he had come. And the case was over why wouldn’t they just let him go home and stop with the stupid debrief. He hurt and he just wanted to go home.

And home wasn’t the manor.

As always, it was Dick that pulled him back to the family after giving him room to cool off. Conservation had been stilted and strained, Jason walking away from it more than once to flee the pitying looks of his family, but they’d finally gotten through talking and the piles of research that Tim had done (because of course he had). Bruce had even spoken about his own lingering pain from old injuries. All the effort by his family resulted in Jason speaking with a Justice League physician.

It didn’t give a lot of answers— not for someone revived from the dead and then dipped in Lazarus Pits— but he had medication to take, preventative and emergency, and techniques to help with the pain.

It was rarely enough, but it was something.

He had just finished pushing himself through gentle stretches of his arms when there was a knock at his door. Jason felt himself tense, undoing all the work he’d just done. It was effort to remember to breath.

Danny insisted on coming over. Danny didn’t hate him.

“Come in.”

In the reverse of the other night, Danny stepped through the door like it was nothing. He cradled a loaded plastic bag to his chest, almost curled around it, and a messenger bag hung off his back. He seemed to sag further when their eyes met.

“Oh Jason,” Danny breathed.

Jason wanted to say something, but he just couldn’t find the words. Instead, he watched helplessly as Danny skirted the shards of ceramic and made his way over. The food was abandoned on the coffee table as Danny sat down next to it.

Without a moment of hesitation, Danny reached out to brush Jason’s hair back, and Jason practically crumpled into the touch.

“I’m sorry—” Jason tried to say.

“Stop apologizing.”

“No. I tried to hit you.”

“You didn’t,” Danny insisted. He ran his hands through Jason’s hair again, making Jason shudder slightly. “We both know if you tried to hit me you would have actually hit me. You tried to scare me because I wasn’t listening to you and you were scared. You didn’t try to hit me, Jason. You didn’t hurt me and you didn’t try to hurt me. You’ve done worse when we were sparing. I’ve done worse when we were sparing, or have you forgotten I bit you?”

Jason let his eyes close at another brush through his hair. “Course not. It’s when I realized you were insane.”

“Really? Not until then? Damn, I would have thought my very first note would have gotten me there.”

He almost felt like laughing. Had he ever laughed to soon after a Pit episode? “Fine, correction: it’s when I realized you were feral.”

“That sounds more like it,” Danny agreed. He still hadn’t stopped running his fingers through Jason’s hair. They slid down a little to scratch lightly at Jason’s scalp.

Fuck that felt nice.

“So here’s what we’re going to do,” Danny said. “I’m going to check over your foot and hand, then you’re going to shower, then we’ll bandage up anything that needs it, and then we’ll eat. And we’re not going to apologize anymore. You’re sorry, I’m sorry, we’ve both said it. We’re just going to focus on getting you well. Got it?”

“Got it,” Jason rasped.

It turned out, Jason had ceramic shards stuck him his foot. That explained the itching at least. Danny was surprisingly competent and picking the chunks out with the tweezers before declaring that nothing needed stitches. By the time that Jason had run through the shower, dressed in the softest clothing he had, and taken both his regular and emergency medication, Danny had cleaned up the mess on the floor.

‘Pride and Prejudice’ was paused on the TV screen, Danny’s laptop set up close by to stream it.

The smell of lemon grass and broth was rich in the air.

“Sit so I can put the ointment on your cuts,” Danny said, motioning to the couch.

“They’ll be—”

“Sit.”

Jason sat.

Danny tucked a blanket around him that Jason was pretty certain wasn’t his, and grabbed a foot before Jason could protest again. Jason wisely kept his mouth shut and let Danny tend to the cuts and split knuckles. “Do you need anything for the pain.”

“Took something already,” Jason said. His voice was still an uncomfortable rasp.

Danny glanced at him, as if trying to see if that was true, before nodding. “Good. Do you have lap trays or anything to eat on?”

“Over behind the trunk under the windows.”

Danny nodded and got up to wash his hands. “I’m staying here tonight.”

“Danny—”

“If you really want me to leave, you tell me and I will. But otherwise I’m staying here tonight because I want to know you’re alright.”

Danny was worried. Now that he could think past himself, Jason could notice the tension in Danny’s thin frame. Jason swallowed thickly and gave a jerky nod. “Okay.”

“And when you’re up to it— tomorrow or the next day or later this week— we’re going to go somewhere and spar.

Jason felt confused. “We’ve spared.”

“We’ve tussled like humans. We’re going to spar and I’m going to show you that you don’t need to treat me like I’m breakable. That doesn’t change my promise. If next time this happens you tell me to go, I’ll still go, but you need to know that I’m capable of protecting myself from a lot worse than what you can do.”

“I’m dangerous.”

“You are,” Danny agreed easily as he grabbed the lap trays. “But with the powers I have in my ghost form, you’re no match for me.”

He set them down on the coffee table and paused. Jason could practically see Danny searching for the words to say. It took him until all the food had been placed on the two trays for Danny to find them.

“I know you’re strong, Jason. I’m going to assume you know how to use the weapons you’ve got on display too. When you get your core and your powers I’ve got no doubt you’ll be a powerhouse. Maybe you can rival me someday, who knows. Halfas are weird,” Danny said with a twitch of a shrug. “But I’ve been fighting ghosts and winning since I was fourteen. When I was sixteen my friend Tucker ran the numbers— he was pretty sure I could beat Superman. I’ve only gotten stronger.”

Something dark flashed across Danny’s face before it was gone again. “I’ll never be as strong as I could be, I refuse to take those steps, but I’m just going to get stronger as I my powers continue to grow. And they will— I’m still getting used to the ring and the crown. Which I guess it what it really comes down to. It always sorta fucking does these days.

“You’re not going to hurt me, not in any lasting way— not when I’m the ghost’s King.”

-----

AN: Danny you dramatic little fuck, that was NOT how this chapter was supposed to end! This was not the moment for your reveal. But noooooo. Sigh. The second half of this chapter took on a real life of its own. The pain talk wasn’t planned either. Oh boys. Guess next chapter they’ll have to talk about that bombshell!

Anywho. Recovery isn’t linear, and I wanted to show that with these last two chapters. Sorry(?) for the angst! Stay delightful, darlings.

Tag list of doom:

@fisticuffsatapplebees @thegatorsgoose @wolfeyedwitch @lazy-bouqet @confusedandghostly @glomsk @kailithiel @bahfev @d4ydr34min9 @claudiashq @someonebored0100 @pastalavistamf @samgirl98 @angelheartgamer @lehana37 @spiteismymiddlename @rosecinnamonbun @demon-cat-goes-woof @violet-catsarelife @avelnfear @undead-essence @basilf1res @amillionandonefandoms @stealingyourbones @sarcastic-yami @bun-fish @aconitewolfsbane @dontfightmecauseillcry @omgnectarina @vehan-tikkun-olam-and-stuff @the-blind-one-speaks @mimilikey @wolfe-marvin @learning-to-fly-on-my-own @multplelifes @yurijay @bae-graphomaniac @fan4rt1st @weirdestarrow @wolfjackle @allulily @onyxlightdragon @zotinha456 @wwwwyamd @river9noble @starscreamlover @michealawithana @robinmedea @spideypoolalways @jesus-camp-the-sequel @persephoneblackrose @f4nd0m-fun @mady-is-ace-trash @ascetic-orange @renwilson @ace-aro-as-shit @rangerhorsetug @thatrandomsarahchick @holygoldfish @mlpizza @chrysanthemum9484 @justwannaseesomebrozawa @newgraywolf @crazylittlemunchkin @fire-glass @autumnrosnor @the-nerdy-fangirl @faithblob-says-things @a-star-with-a-human-name @winged-scaly-attic-dweller @mistermetalmaker @apersond @mustachebatschaos @joaniejustwokeup @that-dumbass-on-a-horse @plainly-colorful @blackcatsandhaunteddolls @booklover223 @alice-hazelwood @answrs @enbydemirainbowbigfoot @felicityroth @wanderingrutabaga @seraphinedemort @write-it-right-2 @my-mom-calls-me-rat @01101010-01100001-01111001 @arc-777 @crystalice067 @phoenixdemonqueen @icedbluesoul @itsparadoxlacuna @wisp-wishes @spikedlynx @redhoneysugarorange @russetfur1128 @mutable-manifestation @stargirl1331 @chaoticchange @living-on-borrowed-time @orshie @britcision @littlefeather345 @sunflowershine03 @aro-acedumbass @thefanficcup @shibanoh @icefirecrystal @thatonejumbledmess @cy-ella @kobol1 @metal-sporks @tired-yet-awaken @currant-owo @firegirl108 @stupidlovepurplepeace @drowningroane @imagineshazamlokimight @immakittybear @justalittletotheleftofnormal @chrysanthemum9484 @kawaiikenna @imaginationmademanifest @a-salty-sal @mentalcarebear @mj-arts-n-stuff @xysidhe @cottonscrambles @manapeer @yjfk @ryisc @666deaddash999 @nutcase8691 @idontgetpaidenoughforthisshit @dr-syko-pharm-4 @i-have-opinions @ballzfrog-blog @mysoulspiralbound @istillhavenosociallife-blog @gin2212 @annabethchase0 @basementloser @plotwholls @minnowmarsh @neverlandingbird @rootsmudge @fandom-reblog-central @serasvictoria02 @mnemovoid @taniaundertaleau @kirineo-kiki @ironicvixen @violetfox2 @redhoneysugarorange @phantom-dc @naluforever3 @horribly-lost-and-gay @nutcase8691 @babblingbat @frostedthroughghost @kyrianclawraith @caspertheloudassghost @the-forgotten-dragon-anankos @lyra689 @v-inari @terzatheunderscorerima @fallenangle67 @aarinisreading @job-ross-the-second

#dp x dc #dead on main #dead on main ship #danny fenton/jason todd #like betta fish do

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whoishotteranimepolls · 10 days

Text

Poll analysis part 3

Well I haven't done one of these in a while because I've been focusing on the nicknames and funny tags post But we are definitely due for another one because I've definitely noticed a change and behavior. Plus we've had a lot more and fandoms requested so that might be a contributing factor.

Let's start with the unhinged trio. Think we're due for a lineup change there. It used to be JJK, Black Butler and Dorohedoro. However the latter two only go crazy over a certain character.

Jujutsu Kaisen definitely still deserves its spot There's a reason I picked them to be the first fandom to get a Nicknames and funny tags post in fact they need an update Desperately because you guys are still up to your same old unhinged antics. I've just been busy with other fandoms (one piece) that say even more outrageous crap in the comments

Now One Piece I think you guys took that nickname and funny tag post as a challenge to be as unhinged and creative with your tags as possible because every time I think you all can't possibly get any worse. Someone puts a tag that's even crazier and now I have to update that post with more tags and new characters again.

Now the third spot of the unhinged trio should probably go to Trigun because you guys can't stop talking about Wolfwood's slutty Catholic titties and Vash's snatched little slutty waist. Plus someone has sent a match up request of their weapons no less than three times even though the rules plainly state no weapons so I think we definitely qualify for unhedged trio territory.

My Hero Academia You guys only showed up for the bunny girl and I get it. She's hot. Or to crap on endeavor, that's about it.

Attack on Titan. I finally have found proof of life. The fandom might be in a coma, but at least there's a pulse I thought that fandom was dead but someone or group of people is sending in quite a few requests for that fandom.

And now on to Naruto my problem child fandom. I am not kidding You're the fandom that refuses us to send in photos, but will throw a tantrum if it's not the photo from the correct era of the anime even though I have no clue what you're talking about. Normally when people don't like the photo with any other fandom a dozen better photos of the character will randomly appear in my inbox. Not with the Naruto fandom. I get 10 hate messages saying it's from the wrong era of the anime and I should know that. But does anyone send me a better photo from the correct era of the anime? No. Well actually that's not entirely true the a few times this fandom has sent in replacement photos it's from when in the anime I know the characters are still 14 I've done way too much research into when in canon characters turn 16 and what particular character design/outfit marks that in the timeline for this particular show because of how much I feel like I can't trust this particular fandom as a whole to follow rules. So, remember people I can't read your mind and you are the only fandom that wants to throw a fit over photos like this. Plus the few times I have tried to address the issues with the photos and try to fix the problem you guys want to get combative and very aggressive in the comments. Plus I swear you all are allergic to rules because at least 70% to 80% of requests relating to your fandom have some sort of issue. Whether it's trying to bend the rules or just outright breaking them to massive formatting problems. No other fandom causes me this many headaches. So please for the sake of my sanity do better

Sorry about that. I needed to rant about my problem child fandom maybe now they will start behaving.

When it comes to formatting there is a group of about three people that made requests either everyday or every 2 to 3 days and it was the max amount of request/matchups they could do in a single day according to the rules. They did this the entire time the box was open so they had their formatting down to a science. So basically any fandom that these people requested a lot of had really good track records for formatting and not trying to blatantly break the rules. So One Piece, JoJo's, Attack on Titan and Avatar/Korra all have very good track records right now

But with most fandoms they do a pretty good job of following the rules. No one is as bad as Naruto. Now there are some common issues and major incidents I've had so I'll go ahead and list them below

The common issues are just forgetting to put the name of the show or spelling, but Google can normally figure that out so that's not a major problem or people submitting a character that is video game only and not part of the anime adaptation. Persona, pokémon and Tekken are The worst offenders when it comes to this. Other major issues that come up frequently are with character ages? But it's normally with characters that look like they're adults. So I really don't hold that against people. I'm just guessing that people didn't realize they're actually teenagers but hopefully that will not be as much of a problem but since I dropped the age down to 16.

Now recent issues I've had to address were formatting issues where it was bad enough that I couldn't make it out due to dyslexia. Trigun has tried to submit weapons no less than three times even though that is blatantly against the rules. Like I mentioned earlier Naruto likes to submit photos from when the characters are 12 to 14 that doesn't fit the rules especially when photos are available from the correct age range that do follow the rules. So those are the ones I use no matter how many times they throw temper tantrums. Dungeon Meshi has submitted a 14-year-old and Soul Eater submitted a 13-year-old and said they were 16 in the request. So they lied. Luckily someone told me so I was able to delete those polls quite quickly, but now I can't trust anyone. So if you ever wonder why it takes so long for me to empty out the request box this is why

Oh but good news, no one has submitted a request since I've closed the box I basically consider that a miracle because the last two times there have been people that have not cared that the box is closed. So let's keep it that way please. I don't mind questions, just no requests. The box is closed I still have like 150 more individual messages that have multiple poll requests on them to get through before I open it again

Well that's going to be all for this post again. And I hope at least someone found this entertaining or informative or at least something. There will probably be another one of these in the future

#poll analysis #fandom trends #not a poll

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rorywritesjunk · 24 days

Text

I can’t tell where the journey will end But I know where to start

Prequel to my Kid Buggy fic, set about 11-ish years before that story.

Buggy meets you by chance when he needs his buttons sewn back onto his jacket. He’s young, up and coming, and he thinks everyone should cower before him wherever he goes, but all you do is smile at him.

Rating: PG-13ish just for some swearing. Warning: Buggy’s in his early 20s. I also gave him some anxiety and stuff because while he’s in love he doesn’t believe someone could love him back. He just has a lot of uncertainty with romance. Mawwiage happens. Alcohol is mentioned. Everyone’s having a good time. A/N: The epilogue! Enjoy. I am not done with these two in the sense I'll do more one-shots and the likes for them as well as AUs with Buggy's older sister and The Wives. Thank you to everyone who's been reading this! Enjoy!

Title comes from “Wake Me Up” by Avicii.

TAGLIST: @lostfirefly @ane5e @kingofthemfingpirates @the-angriest-angel @tiredemomama @valen-yamyam16 @i-reblog-fics-i-like @plethora-of-fickleness @uhnanix

Chapter 1 + Chapter 2 + Chapter 3 + Chapter 4 + Chapter 5 + Chapter 6 + Chapter 7 + Chapter 8 + Chapter 9 + Chapter 10 + Chapter 11 + Chapter 12 + Chapter 13 + Chapter 14 + Chapter 15 + Chapter 16 + Chapter 17 + Chapter 18 + Epilogue

Epilogue

The marriage was far from perfect.

Your first actual fight showed Buggy you were capable of not speaking to him for an entire week. It was regarding one of Mohji’s animals, a bear that fell ill and passed away. You had been upset for both the loss of the animal and Mohji; the boy loved that bear so much. All Buggy suggested was that you not… cry so much over it. That was it, suck it up and move on. It was just a bear.

He was on his knees begging for your forgiveness by the end of the week.

Then there was the time you accidentally cut up his favorite shirt. He had left it for days on the scrap fabric pile you collected in the bedroom and asked him many times if he was sure that shirt needed to be there. He had insisted it was, but a week after you cut it up into scraps to patch some of the crew’s clothes, Buggy asked about it. You both needed to work on more than verbal communication.

And a few years into the marriage, Buggy was feeling less like you were going to leave him for every person who talked to you that he was pretty relaxed - a little too relaxed because for your birthday he took you to a pub, got a little drunk, and made a comment about how hot the barmaid was. You weren’t mad, more amused by it, but when you reminded him the next day when he sobered up what he said, he was mortified.

You were leaving him for sure for that, he was certain of it.

On his birthday you disappeared for a day on an island you begged to be dropped off at. Buggy caved, wanting to do anything for you in hopes you would forget how he acted like an ass on your birthday again. Maybe you just needed a break from him, even if it was on his birthday.

You came back after meeting up with Kuro and oh, oh the divorce was inevitable now. You had told him a few days after your birthday when he had a meltdown over how he acted and he begged for you to tell him if there was any man or pirate alive that you would have been with other than him and… that fucking cat pirate was the one you chose. Oh, he was handsome and he dressed so sharply, and you felt you had bragging rights over how well he dressed because he was your first true customer that you had repeated business with.

It was a dagger to Buggy’s heart, over and over and over again.

“What’s got you so upset?” You asked when he stopped responding, slumped on the floor with an almost empty bottle of rum beside him. You moved the bottle and knelt beside him, touching his shoulder. “You feel okay, honey?”

“Are you leaving me for Kuro?” He whimpered, refusing to look at you because he just knew the answer. You’d be happier with a better dressed pirate than with Buggy. It was startling when you chuckled and kissed him on the cheek.

“No, no. I’m not leaving you for cat-boy.” You told him as you tried to coax him to look at you. “I was getting your birthday present, Buggy, to show you how much I love you.”

He sniffled, lifting his head to see you taking your shirt off. A look of confusion crossed his face as you turned yourself to show him your arm, revealing a tattoo of his jolly roger.

“This isn’t your only present, y’know, I’m gonna make you a feast.” You said as he sat up quickly, trying to get a closer look, but the alcohol was hitting him and he slumped against you, looking up with large, watery eyes as you stroked his cheek gently. “I love you, Buggy, and I’m never leaving you.”

That… that helped. He felt better after that, though still had doubts.

The conversation about kids was… not what he anticipated. He thought you’d want kids right away, he saw how you were around children, how your eyes lit up at the family gatherings each year when you got to see all the kids(he loved the look of horror each year on your aunt’s face when the two of you showed up, she didn’t expect the marriage to last). He watched you pick up your cousin’s baby - he was two years younger than you and his wife just had their first kid. Your eyes lit up and Buggy watched your face soften with a smile he hadn’t seen before.

He waited until you two were alone to ask. To his surprise you snorted at his question and gave him a kiss. “Not just no, but hell no.”

“Wait, what?”

“Buggy, I like what we have now. Maybe someday we can have cute little kids but not right now.” You told him as you patted his cheeks gently. “And I don’t think we’re ready at all. Kids can be a discussion in a few years, okay?”

“Oh thank God.” Buggy sighed as he slumped against you, wrapping his arms around you and tightening them around you. “I can’t deal with that right now.”

You laughed softly and kissed him again, wrapping your arms around his neck as you leaned against him. “Neither can I, honey.” You smiled and looked up at him, pulling him down and bumping your forehead against his gently before kissing the tip of his nose. “I love you, Buggy. Thank you for talking to me about this.”

He blushed but didn’t look away as he hugged you. “Love you too, babe.”

It was a yearly thing for him to drink and reminisce about the good ol’ days as an apprentice on Roger’s crew. It was always the anniversary of his former captain’s execution. The first time you witnessed it he didn’t explain it to you, just grabbed bottles and bottles of alcohol to drink with the crew while you waited for an explanation on why this was happening. It wasn’t until you wrangled him to bed after he was strutting around the ship, saying he was still a great swimmer even though he was a Devil Fruit power. Before he could jump over the ship to demonstrate this, you grabbed him by the back of the pants and dragged him to the bedroom for him to sober up and explain.

Buggy slumped on the bed, not bothering to take his shoes off so you helped him. He giggled, face lighting up as you helped get him comfortable for the night.

“I got the best wifey.”

“And I have the best hubby.” You chuckled as you glanced up at him. “Can you tell me now what the drinking is for?”

“I drink to my captain!” Buggy told you excitedly, pumping his fist up to the air. “H-He was executed on this day eight years ago! I drink in his honor and to hi-his memory!”

“Oh.”

You didn’t question him further, just made sure he was comfortable that night. The years going forward, you made sure he was safe, had a reasonable amount of alcohol, and put him to bed. He never talked about it the next day, either because he didn’t want to or didn’t remember, you weren’t sure but you figured if he wanted to talk he would.

You were eleven years into this marriage. It… it was fine. It wasn’t too exciting, nor was it incredibly boring. It was just fine for you. Buggy let you take on certain roles on the ship, mostly just making sure everyone looked their best in their clothes so long as he was the best dressed. He trusted you weren’t leaving him any longer, which made it easier for you to slip out of bed in the morning to start breakfast for the two of you.

It was just right.

This morning was no different. He had his fill of alcohol the night before at the local pub with some of the crew, leaving you on the ship for a peaceful night. Buggy managed to stumble his drunken self back to the ship without falling into the water. He was sleeping off the alcohol, head under the covers as he laid curled up next to you. You woke up with him in your arms, but you managed to slip away from him. You were going to wait to start breakfast, wanting to run out to the shops first to pick up some goods before the crowds started.

Buggy stirred, peeking out from under the blankets with a grumpy expression as you got dressed. He lifted his head up just a bit before letting it fall back on the pillows. “What’re you doing?”

“Getting dressed.” You told him, keeping your voice soft as you pulled your shirt on. “I’m going to get some things. Any special requests?”

Buggy nodded, mumbling something under the blankets. You walked over and pulled them back just enough for him to mutter it to you, asking for some apples and peanut butter. He finished the last jar a week ago and had been wanting it. You rolled your eyes and kissed him on the forehead. You needed to buy two and hide them from him, apparently the last jar wasn’t hidden well enough.

“I’ll grab that for you. Anything else?”

“D’you hafta go?” He whined softly. “I want cuddles.”

“I’ll be back, honey.” You assured him as you made sure the blankets were keeping him covered. “I’ll have breakfast ready for you when you wake up, okay?”

“Promise?”

“Promise I’ll have breakfast-”

“Promise you’ll be back?” He lifted his head again, pouting up at you.

“Oh, of course I’ll be back.” You chuckled softly as you kissed his forehead. “I’ll be gone for a few hours, honey, but I’ll be back.”

He frowned sleepily but nodded, settling back down under the blankets. You gave his shoulder a squeeze and tucked the blankets around him once more before you grabbed your wallet and headed out. It shouldn’t take too long to collect what you needed, but you were excited to be at this village. You hadn’t been there in over twenty years and you wondered if there had been any changes to it.

And you enjoyed walking around as you collected your goods, putting them in your bags and basket as you chatted with the vendors about what they were selling, how the weather had been lately, just little things that weren’t related to piracy. You loved your life but having a conversation that wasn’t about what Richie had eaten the night before to upset his stomach was nice.

Your last stop was for peanut butter which you found in a little shop near the docks. It was a cute little place, selling all kinds of tasty ingredients and foods, but you only bought the peanut butter, knowing you could easily go broke buying all the fancy ingredients in the shop. Maybe if Buggy ever became incredibly rich and had lots of treasure you could think of something like that.

You bid farewell to the shopkeep as you stepped out of the shop, not watching where you were going. Something bumped into you, startling you, and when you turned to apologize, your voice caught in your throat. As far as you were aware, you were very sober so what was this you were seeing in front of you?

“Hey, watch it!” The kid in front of you snapped, glaring daggers up at you. His blue hair and bright red nose was very familiar to you.

Oh, oh no, what was going on?

#buggy the clown #sunny x buggy #buggy the clown x you #buggy the clown x reader #buggy the clown x oc #opla buggy the clown #opla buggy #opla buggy the clown x reader #opla buggy the clown x oc #opla buggy the clown x you #buggy x reader #buggy x you #buggy x oc #opla buggy x reader #opla buggy x you #opla buggy x oc

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shinjisdone · 1 year

Text

To Soften a Warrior's Heart (Vinland Saga; Thorfinn; Part 3)

In which you have joined Askeladd's band...and grow closer to the Son of Thors. Though it is more difficult than anyone can could ever imagine...

[Headcanons of how it would be like to meet and crawl your way into Thorfinn's heart (based on season 1; both platonic and romantic)]

Part 1 is here - meeting Thorfinn at the age of 14 and how he is at that age

Part 2 is here - meeting Thorfinn at the age of 16/17 + headcanons of growing closer (slightly following s1 story)

Part 4 is here - Thorfinn unwittingly opening his heart as he realizes he does not want you to die

Part 5.1 is here - sweet things Thorfinn would do for you (headcanons)

Part 5.2 is here - other sweet things Thorfinn would do for you (headcanons)

Part 6 is here - Becoming Canute's guard while Thorfinn accepts your relationship and bond

Part 7 is here - Canute grieving over Ragnar and Thorkell catching up; Thorfinn leaves you alone for revenge

Part 8 is here - Thorfinn wins against Thorkell; Questioning your bond with Thorfinn

Part 9 is here - Meeting Leif and Thorfinn dueling Askeladd; Losing while Askeladd told him the truth of his constant losses

Part 10 is here - Thorfinn and you bound by heart; Promises of Vinland broken and abandoned

[Mentions of murder, death, war, slave trade, harrasment against women and whatever awful things happened in the viking era. Only mentioned and used as examples. Mostly gender-neutral examples but female-leaning ones are there, too.]

[This part will specifically mention: You and Thorfinn used as bait, surviving and injured while no one cares about your well-being, nightmares]

You are no warrior...

That cold spring night had long passed yet Thorfinn realized something that night.

You were different.

You weren't like the other men, or Askeladd nor were you like him.

During your conversation you seemed so...normal.

It was difficult to explain to even himself but he could feel it. You give off a normalcy that isn't present with any of the other men. It made you stand out like a sour thump.

Not that you had never stood out with your age. Maybe you even had talents and skills that were unseen but useful on the sea but it was your aura that changed that night.

You were smiling, you seemed like a normal person.

Unwittingly, it made Thorfinn seek out your company.

Thorfinn is...very much suffering from tunnel vision with the only target his eye can see being Askeladd's neck. He is too deep in his quest for revenge that he truly doesn't note the shift of his daily routine.

Ever since you brought him some food on that lonely boat, you end up eating dinner with him instead of the others. It came naturally to you as well, though it is hard to tell if you are aware of this budding friendship or not (unlike Thorfinn).

You sit in close proximity, on boat and camp and simply talk. Conversations are usually not as deep and personal as it was that night but there were certainly a few times. Perhaps you mentioned your own family or your home, a trinket you had or held dear. The blonde might show you his dagger but he doesn't go any further than that. He does listen to you though.

Since you eat dinner together, it just makes sense you hunt together. Or at least, someone gathers a few mushrooms and the other kills a bunny, the one who is better at cooking, cooks, etc.... It's less about team work and more about saving time and resources, doing the logical thing. Neither of you can complain though when preparing dinner like this means you won't starve.

Simple things like getting a bucket of water for the other to wash your face with or leading both of your horses (which the band stole) out of the barn are done wordlessly. There is no need to discuss about this or exchange thanks, the both of you simply....started doing these things. Nobody even knows if you and Thorfinn are aware of your actions and their meanings.

Askeladd raises a brow and keeps a close eye on you two. For one, Thorfinn isn't dedicating all his time on revenge even as it still stays as his priority. It always will. That's how stupid the boy is.

The man decides to sit back and watch this...bond unravel from a distance. He won't make a comment, not even a peep about it. It's too subtle and there's too little of it anyway for the others to even notice and say something themselves.

Askeladd has a certain talent. There's something that makes it easy for him to see right through Thorfinn - the boy is so obliviously predictable, too - and while he may not know all the thoughts running through his thick head, the leader can tell the reason why the blonde may be flocking to you. You talk about mundane things, every day things, you take in the sea's salty scent, you silently enjoy the rare sun's rays by yourself if one were to pay attention to you and not for your usefulness for once .

You are the constant calm while the band is the raging storm in this viking life.

You keep on clinging on normalcy. You are still young after all.

Of course anyone would be staying close to you, then.

He'll just sit back and watch...and learn...

Of course, constanct normalcy in the life of a mercenary is almost non-existent.

Just try to deny it, but your coldheartedness on the battlefield and within the band is what kept you alive.

Hence why there is no hesitation in your movements as you cut down one man after another.

Conquering the London Bridge is insane but Askeladd has always been a risk taker - and the only ones who might truly lose anything are either you and Thorfinn or Thorkell.

Knowing how your prowess doesn't compare to Thorfinn's, you were only tasked to get rid of the "flies" - any soldier who gets too close to Thorfinn, while he focuses on taking out Thorkell the Tall.

The enemy will most likely be startled that they are head-on attacked by kids. You would have to endure their surprise and mockery first- especially if the kids are one dual-wielding dwarf and the other a young woman (not even a shield maid!). Nevertheless, enemy is enemy. Someone has to fall.

Quickly you find out though that the infamous Thorkell the Tall has no interest in you and instead demands a one-on-one fight with Thorfinn. You snap your gaze around as the soldiers step back to give the two space and basically stopped attacking in general.

You watch further back, peeking between the blades as Thorkell absolutely destroys Thorfinn. No one dares to support the giant as he throws the boy around like a rag doll. You contemplate whether or not to help but it's already too late. You're too weak to fight a monster like that, surrounded by capable soldiers who obey his ridicilous whims - and before you can bat an eye, the band is leaving.

"Shit, they're leaving us behind!" Your yell snapped a few men back into reality and, as quickly as you could, you stabbed an archer through the chest, took his crossbow and aimed at Thorkell's arm, which was holding onto a limp Thorfinn. With a surprised noise the man easily caught it in other hand, the metal barely piercing his thick skin.

He could barely take in your glare before arrows were raining down after you as you jumped into the sea. You couldn't look back to the blonde as you swam for your life.

As pointless as your attack seemed, it distracted the viking long enough for Thorfinn to cut through his iron grip and swim right after you. He only focused on not swallowing any water as Thorkell yelled out a promise of reunion - the blonde couldn't care less.

The mushy riverbank seemed like heaven as you clung on mud.

Spitting out the sludge you trotted out of the water and were able to recognize the familiar bandmates marching on the dry road. Thorfinn closely trailed after.

The laughter and chatter of the men was hard to ignore and Thorfinn could even make out Askeladd watching you two. They marched on without you.

Coughing, you stumbled. You could hear the blonde reseting his dislocated shoulder with a grunt, sucking in a deep breath. Wordlessly he trotted to you as you watched, preplexed and beside yourself.

He leaned down and you finally understood why you were so slow. An arrow hit the side of your upper thigh and he was in the middle of taking it out. With no hesitation, he pulled it swiftly and bandaged it rather poorly with all the (already) ripped clothes he could find on himself and you.

Trying to surpress the pain, you and him hobbled as you followed the band. You heard Thorfinn let out profanities as he glared at Askeladd, but that was all that there was to it.

That day felt empty. Emptier than others, even as you felt nothing but anger at Askeladd for letting this happen and at you, for going through with it. Thorfinn doesn't even realize he's being used as a tool.

Even so...through these empty, excruciating days, you still had each other.

The scenes that I used to dream of...

The daily battles and duels for revenge were the same...even as Askeladd's plans change. Now he was eager to 'rescue' the prince of Denmark.

Even still through all of that, you were the only one who cared enough to help Thorfinn out of trouble. Usually lethal ones. He had long given up to ask what your goal is and has accepted your aid.

It seems...like this is just how you are.

No matter what your reason might be, you help him. Maybe...even see an equal in him, a friend...

These thoughts only started to enter his head once he dreamed of his father again. And he was talking about you.

Again, the place was not Iceland but the people he saw there were his home. Helga, Ylva, Thors and the rest of the villagers are living their daily, humble lives as Thorfinn sits on his father's shoulders as a child. The conversations were different for once, however.

"One can count themeself lucky when they have people who care for them."

Thorfinn, with an exaggerated, childish sigh, would agree and boldly let out that, yes, he knows his mother and sister love him. And he cares for them too.

Thors' smile lasted briefly. "I know you do," he turns away and frowns, "But that knowledge alone cannot help a man on the battlefield. Even as you have to endure everything, my son, appreciate the small things you have now."

As always, the dream quickly ended and turned into a nightmare.

As the days stayed still and monotone, there were only a few things that changed in Thorfinn's daily life. His blooming companionship with you and his dreams.

Both of you were probably healed by now and maybe you even let Askeladd know of his deadly haughtiness, saying how it could have costed your and Thorfinn's life while he wouldn't have gained anything. The rage in your vocie subsided as it turned soft when you thanked the blonde boy for patching you up that day. You even told him to take it easy until you will 'save' that prince.

You were not in high spirits after the clash with Thorkell the Tall but that did not affect your behavior towards him. That is something even he noticed.

Oddly enough, his dream picked up where it left. Or maybe his father was not done yet.

With a pout, young six-year-old Thorfinn grumpily asks him what he means. All he needs is his family here.

Thors agrees and adds that there is not a need for anything else, including revenge. He should learn to let it go, especially when he isn't alone now. "You shouldn't have to endure this in the first place, Thorfinn. But don't you think it all is easier now, now that you have a friend?"

Yet again, Thorfinn wakes up.

Friend?

What on earth is his father talking about?

Since waking up, Thorfinn feels beside himself. His dreams always left him like this but it was truly perplexing why...his father, his father would ever talk about something like this. About someone like you, who he doesn't even know...

The march towards the rescue of the prince went on without any trouble. Unfortunely for you and your mood, the royalty had been captured by Thorkell and you dislike remembering the meeting (anyone would really). It doesn't help that Askeladd is only doing this to win the king's favor while you keep on risking your life...it makes you wonder what you're fighting for.

Thorfinn is next to you as you tell him of your troubles, eerily quiet. He keeps on glancing to you but doesnt speak. You wonder if you angered him.

"Hey, Thorfinn, how do you feel about this? You got hurt the most back then." You ask curiously and the blonde paused.

He glanced at you again. "If I have to fight him to get a duel with the bastard, I will. It's that easy. What do you think?" He scoffed at the last part, thinking how stupid of a question that is and tells you so. Haven't you been watching his duels with Askeladd the past months, the past year?

In return you sternly tell him that his decision is stupid and thats going to get him killed. His eyes snap open as his father's words echoed in his mind as you glared at him and he went quiet once again.

Night approached and it was time to rest. Once again, Thorfinn and you are eating the dinner you hunted together. The both of you are quietly doing so until you speak up - and Thorfinn could not help but finally let out what he's been wondering ever since his dream.

You could be complimenting him for the catch or that the meat tastes better than usual. Perhaps you point out how tired he seems and that he can go ahead and sleep - you'll keep watch.

Thorfinn stops in his tracks and stares at you wide-eyed.

"Why...are you doing this?"

You halt and question what he's talking about. This isn't the first time you've said something like that but it seems this one was one too many for Thorfinn.

"Why are you doing this for me? What are you doing here?"

He thought he'd long given up on asking you that question but this...is bothering him. He's not upset nor suspects you of anything, he is simply confused. Why are you like this? Not like the others?

Your wide eyes soften so much they narrow. You return to eating your rabbit. "...Why should I be any different. I don't want to get used to this...not at all. You see it too, don't you? Everyone else here...are monsters. But I don't know what I am doing here, not really I think..."

Turning back to him, you look at him sternly yet your eyes seemed...vulnerable. That's a first for him too...or maybe you've always been hiding it.

"And out of everyone, I guess I can do these things for you...I don't want to end up like Askeladd, like the band, enjoying the killing and the raiding and the stealing...and you've been doing things for me too, so I suppose you aren't bad yourself, Thorfinn."

If the blonde doesn't believe you, you point out his deeds. He saves you, patches you up, he hunts for the both of you even though he doesn't have to do any of this. He never had to. Thorfinn could have easily ignored all the 'favors he owed you' and simply used you. But he didn't and he continues not to do so.

"If it's you and you keep on being like this...then I guess I don't mind doing any of these things for you."

Thorfinn stares at you as his shocked face morphed back to his usual pout. He isn't upset though, you can tell.

"You're really strange."

As he says this, you chuckle and quickly add all his negative traits too. He's quick to anger, always pouts, acts smarter than he is...

Thorfinn's classic scoff returns and he hushes you with a playful 'shut up.'

I don't need their choice or voice to judge me...

As much as he cannot believe it, Thorfinn is thankful that he started to dream less and less.

He respected his father, loved him dearly. The man was full of wisdom and candidness that it hurt. Thorfinn is too childish and too stubborn to listen to the truth. He does not learn from his mistakes.

When sleep would take over him he would not dream of a single thing and only see empty darkness until he was greeted by the rising sun or the star's shine. In these brief moments, you were there too.

You are strange for sticking around and so was he for letting it all happen and seeking you out. He acts and talks with you as if you have known each other forever - or at least, know what kind of person the other really is.

Letting the injured one lean on the other, joke about the other men who you deplore behind their back (and snicker when they look over their shoulder and not get what you are talking about - peak teenage behaviour) and share the same sleeping spot, either on camp or in an abandoned barn. Neither of you feel comfortable around the others. Only around each other.

Yes, only you two seemed to hold any kind of values, any kind of honor even if you are still part of a band that murders, steals and raids. Monsters that destroy people's lives. Thorfinn is sure of that when he first stares at you and then glances at the other bandmates. None of them compare to what you two are.

But just like how the strong kill the weak has always been the way of the world, Thorfinn's dreams come back to haunt him tenfold.

It was as if Thors himself came to punish him for ignoring his advices.

A nightmare so vivid and brutal it left him sweating in his sleep. He'd twist and turn in the hay, panting and whimpering - and in one brisk motion, body drenched in ice-cold sweat, Thorfinn shot up his arm in an attempt to save his father from the raining arrows.

Brown eyes snapped open and he heard a clasp. Slowly his vision cleared and he finally saw you.

Your worried face looked down on him as he laid there, you kneeling beside him with your hand clasping his outstretched one. You almost looked disturbed by the things you heard and saw him do in his sleep.

"...Thorfinn."

The boy took deep breaths as his lips gingerly parted. He struggled with something, you noted.

"...Father...?"

Your face fell and your eyes widened. With an unreadable expression you slowly helped the blonde sit up. However, like a father, you spoke softly to him.

It was just a dream, you were dreaming, you said. You're here, Thorfinn and nowhere else.

He blinked and ran a calloused hand through his hair. This was the old barn reeking of manure he fell asleep in with you. Thorfinn is quiet as he glances around. You ever so carefully ask what happened.

He shakes his head. Grumbling under his breath he hides his face behind his palms as if trying to recall the nightmare. You are quiet yourself as you hesitate.

You try to reason with him to go back to sleep if possible. Nudge him to remember that he yet again earned a duel with Askeladd which he'll have tomorrow. The boy growls, talking about how he can't stand to see him right now. Was he dreaming about him?

Lost in his own thoughts and memories, he would let out with utter vile; "I will kill him."

Watching this young man shake in rage as he woke up with such fear just a moment ago, you asked without much thought:

"Why?"

He first started in small mumbles.

Even as he was still drowning in his emotions, telling you all that he knows like he's hypnotized, you stay and listen.

Well, not everything. There's no need to talk or even think about Helga, Ylva and Iceland anymore...

The fact that Thorfinn shares anything about him with you is shocking enough - and as disturbing as the details of his past were, everything made sense now.

"I'm sorry, Thorfinn..." You whisper after a good and deadly silent minute - which felt like an eternity for the both of you anyway. You sit next to him as his face is still buried in his hands. He doesn't respond. Instead, both of you are quiet.

As you go back to your sleeping spot you still wish him a goodnight and hope he can rest up until tomorrow. He lays down as well.

"...It sounds like your father was a great man." Thorfinn glances at you as you almost fall asleep yourself, eyes narrowed and jaded. You didnt even know how much truth you spoke.

His eyes flutter close and his voice stayed so unusually quiet, quieter than a baby's breath. It's the first time you've heard him sound so...vulnerable.

"...He was..." The blonde could barely answer. It was both due to the exhaustion, the fear of dreaming again and the feeling of his heart sinking to his stomach when recalling his father.

"...Thanks..."

Everything just left his lips effortlessly. He almost unwittingly spilled out his heart then and there in front of you, to you and Thorfinn knew you wouldn't think of laughing, mocking or even ignoring him at this late and cold hour - and his predictions were correct.

You're strange. You're different.

Even in the morning he did not question himself why he told you anything. It wasn't even much, just about enough as the bandmates knew as they were witnesses. Although, he let you know a bit more of how he felt about it.

It wasn't much. All he did was talk and all you did was sit and listen yet it was calming, he noted.

[edited a few posts of this series. This one feels more like actual headcanons now haha. The next one is already WIP, that's how much VS has a chokehold one me haha help :) ]

#vinland saga #vinland saga x reader #thorfinn #thorfinn karlsefni #thorfinn x reader #vinland saga headcanons #thorfinn headcanons #thorfinn karlsefni x reader #gender neutral imagine #vinland saga imagine #thorfinn imagine #thorfinn x you

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slightly-gay-pogohammer · 1 month

Note

I don't know if you've ever been asked this question, but I was wondering:

Did you learn to draw somewhere, or were you self-taught? Maybe you have some tips or hints for beginners? What was your favourite thing about drawing?

Sorry if this ask is too personal, but I really like your drawing style and wanted to ask some advice :D Have a good day! 🌸

it's a mix of both, really! i grew up loving art from the very beginning, like. im talking about making teletubbies fanarts and asking my dad to make me learn to draw characters from w.i.t.c.h. and tomb raider fandsndfs, according to my parents i had a pencil in my hands before i even started talking -- and that's what led me to actually learn to draw "properly", first in a art-centered high school (that. did less than good to me tbf but it was a matter of 90% of the art-related teachers being garbage) and the comics academy in torino where i think i started to truly "understand" what i wanted from my art style

if i may give some advices other than the good ol' "keep practicing and try to at least doodle something once a day", i could go with:

don't compare yourself to other artists negatively, especially those younger than you. it's probably the hardest part, but you need to "force yourself" to be positive. if you find yourself thinking "this 14 years old draws better eyes than me", go with "i love how they draw eyes, let's see if i can learn from it"

copy copy copy copyyyyy!!!!! copy from references, copy from photos, copy from comics, copy from movies. of course don't plagiarize people and then present that stuff as your own, but try to make a pose yours and learn to take pictures of your own hands, feet, face or ask people to pose if you can't find the right position

your art will look like shit to you, a LOT of times, but know that at one point you're going to quit. if you don't like what you're drawing, either quit there or restart, don't try to "fix" it because you'll just end up noticing more and more issues with it - issues that, most of the times, aren't even issues to begin with. letting go of perfectionism is very difficult, but at some point you'll have to do that--

and about perfectionism, a VERY good exercise we did in comics school was being forced to "draw fast". this isn't me telling you you NEED to draw as quick as possible, but it's an exercise that forces you to learn quickly where certain body parts go, to prioritize specific details rather than others. we had a model, and at first we had to sit there for an hour drawing her, then the hour became 30 minutes, then 10, then 5, and at the end 1. it took us a few lessons to do that, but at the end the super sketchy 1 minute copy went from ???? to a stylized human figure!!!

learn to draw realistic anatomy, and then make it your own style.

for the love of god learn prespective it's a bore it's a chore but as soon as you learn that everything becomes SO much easier

for shading, just. put a point in the canvas where the light source is and go from there!! if the light is on the right, the shades will be on the left

if you're coloring, play with the shades' colors. a good idea is to use the opposite color you use for the lights - if the light is yellow, the shades look great in purples, for example just don't use pure black unless you wanna go for a more dark/noir aesthetic oh my god

professional comic artists retrace a lot of their backgrounds. i'm js. use this as you wish :)

learn to draw different body shapes!!!! like getting out of the anime phase of "fat people are just like thin people but with a huge belly" can be difficult, but it's very satisfying

go out of your comfort zone. if you have problems drawing horses, spend a few days learning to draw horses. take some pics and try to understand them.

body proportions are so fun once you realize how so many things are the same. generally speaking, your spread hand is as long as your face, your feet and half the size of your arm; the outer corner of your eye is at the same level of your ear, and the inner corner is perpendicular to your nose and the corner of your mouth; if you leave your arm on your side, your elbow is at the same level of your bellybutton, and your fingers reach halfway your thighs. it's so fun

and yea, i can't stress it enough. it'll take time. art is painful, art is stressful, art can be discouraging. take a step at the time, accept some failures and celebrate any good thing - even the smaller ones. you learned to draw hands today, and you should be proud. i tried to draw a cat for the first time and it looks wonky, but the cat you will draw tomorrow will look better. i believe in you

#gio replies

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ramspatula · 1 month

Text

Arrowheads | Nya Smith x reader

I believe that there are things out there that want to hurt me. Will hurt me. That’s a thought I can’t get to ever leave my head. But she calms them. Only her.

Next part

I had never been to Ninjago city. Cole said it was too unsafe. I was a musician. Well a songwriter. A ghostwriter to be specific. I get paid to not leave my room and write lyrics for some big artist or little artist to take credit for. I wanted to be a singer. I wanted to perform but stages weren’t a place for me to be. The world scared me. People scared me. It requires so much effort to live in the world. Especially as a girl. I needed to look perfect, act perfect, be perfect. And I wasn’t. I had too many flaws to count. My wardrobe doesn’t have a new outfit for everyday. I own more pyjamas than clothes. I talk better in rhyming words on paper than I do to people.

I wasn’t always like this. I wasn’t scared. I’m not now. But too many ghosts walk around outside for me to be comfortable. Not literally. That was years ago. And in stixx. And that was the last time I saw my brother. Granted, he was older. But after mom died and Dad drank himself into sobbing onto his music sheets, I thought we were closer. I understand he raised me. Not a job for a grieving 14 year old boy. Not a job for any teenager to be raising a horribly paranoid 8 year old. I was almost 9. Nether less, Children shouldn’t be raising children. I never got over that paranoia. It grew. It grows inside me even now. After the second round of snakes. Not the serpentine. The one who had fire powers. I covered my apartment windows in newspaper and bought 3 locks for my door. I called Cole in tears for over 4 hours. He didn’t pick up once. After all that, I got a message 4 days later, asking me if everything was okay. We called for 10 minutes before he had to go. He sounded tired and exhausted the whole time. Maybe I was too much. I had grown use to the thought he might resent me. That he wasted the rest of his youth raising me and comforting me through everything before Dad sent me to a programme in Jamankai for young music protégés after he had mailed in my notebook of lyrics and video recording of me playing various instruments and singing. All lessons he made me take. I was 11, almost 12. Cole was 18 and never came home after I left. The programme led to me getting in to a songwriting degree at 16. And last year I graduated. On the day of that snake attack. The fire one. Cole promised to be at my graduation just outside ninjago city. He lived there. He was the only reason I went. He promised to come on the stage with me if I needed him to. He didn’t turn up. Answered none of my calls. Until 4 days later with his infamous everything okay message. Later I got an ‘I’m sorry’. So a year later, I decided I’m tired. I would go to ninjago city. Talk to him myself. That’s what I was doing right now. I decided writing songs about reuniting and rebuilding relationships was not the therapeutic release I needed. It was to see my brother, now 28, as an adult, 21. I deserved to know why he treated me this way, I deserved to not be caged in my room. To see the world I feared so much. Even if the thought of the train ceiling collapsing in on me was the only thought I had right now. Luckily, the train wasn’t too busy but barely anyone lived in Jamankai these days. I might even see a ninja in ninjago. Or a dragon. I hope at least. As long as I am far away from wherever they are headed. I had his address, and I would be there, tonight! Maybe this afternoon if I sped walk.

I hate myself. This was an awful idea. He can hate me. I don’t care. I see a dragon and a ninja. And robots trying to kill me. Why did I do this? They may be on TV but that was close? Right? Ninjago city isn’t that big.

“Don’t look too worried darling, that was yesterday’s highlights. And about 50 minutes away from here.”

“Oh.” I said and walked away. I am utterly embarrassed. Why did I leave my room? Was he trying to be funny?

“Miss do you need a ride anywhere?” I looked back at him and continued walking. “No! It’s not like that! I’m Chen! I own a cab company- here’s my card-! There’s my company car-! I was just trying to do my job! I’m gay!”

“Oh, me too king.” I said and he nodded, with a smile.

“Actually?”

“Unfortunately.”

“Okay, well, front or back?” He asked and I looked at him weirdly before I realised he was talking about the car and not a weird way of asking me if I was a top or bottom.

“Front. I don’t like the back.” I said and he went to take my bag and I didn’t let him. The ratty bunny teddy I had since I was 2 was in clear view if I moved my jacket off the top and I couldn’t handle anyone seeing it. He nodded and just opened the passenger door for me.

“Where are you going?” Chen asked and I paused before telling him.

“Here.” I said and showed the address in my notes, he frowned before nodding.

“That’ll only cost a 20.” He said with a smile but I didn’t share it. Any money out was money I wouldn’t see again for a month. And I hadn’t paid my water yet.

We sat in silence whilst he played a long playlist of purely Azealia banks. I recognised some songs. And some lyrics. Although I’m sure I hadn’t wrote for her.

“Not much of a talker?” He said and I looked up at him.

“This is the first time I’ve left the house in 3 months.” I said and he nodded, surprisingly understanding.

“My mom had agoraphobia. I get it. I’m proud of you for even getting out at all. She hasn’t left the house in 4 years. The great devourer swallowed her coworkers in front of her and then when the time twins happened she got jumped by all those mini snakes and almost strangled to death so… I should not be telling you this!” I stared at him wide eyed.

“I think I might have agoraphobia…” I said and he nodded.

“Well… uhm. Just stay away from the main part of the city. It’s still pretty levelled from the sons of Garmadon but it’s every new villains favourite part. I’m taking you well out to the outskirts so… actually I’m surprised you even got a train into the city. It’s basically just forests and one blocked off area where a boarding school used to be but crumbled after the stone warriors.” Chen said and I nodded.

“So nothing that can kill me?” I said and he nodded.

“Nothing ever happens there. People don’t even call it part of ninjago city with how barren it is.” My nerves slowly calmed. Emphasis on slowly.

We parked in an empty car park with 3 beat, old cars and one truck that lucked equally beat. We both got out and Chen looked around calmly. Like he hadn’t been here in ages. I immediately called Cole. 1 ring. 2 rings. 3 rings. 4 rings. 5 rings. Voicemail. I sighed. Chen looked at me worriedly. Why would Cole give me a fake address? I sighed before debating to myself. I scrolled down. Well I didn’t have to. I only had 5 contacts. And two were my landlord and the building maintenance man. I tapped on the ‘Pearl (Cole’s girlfriend)’ contact. Were they even still together? I rung anyway. 1 ring, 2 rings, 3 wings…

“Hello?” She didn’t sound too happy.

“Uhm- hi… I’m uh-“ how the hell did I speak.

“Who is this?” She asked and I stuttered before getting my words out.

“I’m Y/n Brookstone. I’m Cole’s sister, he said he lives here but, I’m staring at an empty parking lot-“

“-Wait- Cole’s sister?!” She asked and I nodded.

“Yes, Y/n Brookstone, is this Pearl?” I asked and she took a moment before responding.

“Yes. What- sorry I didn’t catch your name, what was that?” She asked and I repeated myself again.

“Y/n Brookstone.” I said and I heard her sigh.

“That’s not Cole’s sister’s name.” She said and I froze. Yes it was?

“No, that’s my name- I have ID! I can prove it-!” I immediately defended.

“I don’t know what sick prank call this is- I get that his family are upset we didn’t invite them to the our wedding but this is- this is weird.” Pearl said and I froze.

“Cole’s married?” I asked and she sounded even more annoyed.

“Yes! To me! And if you were his sister you’d know my actual name and not just ‘Pearl’- anyone can know that!” She exclaimed and my insides tensed up. I didn’t want to argue with my brother’s apparent wife!

“That’s what he called you- he gave me your number! I have 5 contacts- I’ve tried calling him but he’s not answering-! Please! Is he there?!” I pleaded and she ignored me.

“5 contacts? That just gives burner phone! I don’t know you are- Cole’s sister’s name isn’t Y/n. And I’m not giving it to you! I’m going to block you.” She said and I let out an actual sob.

“No, please! I will send you my location! I am his sister! I don’t know what he said my name was but I wouldn’t have this address if it wasn’t me! He’s really big on privacy and security- you’d know that- but- please just let me talk to him. Is he there?!” I begged and I heard her scoff.

“No. I’m coming outside, and if you’re in that fucking parking lot-“ there was some commotion on the other line, “no it’s just some girl with a fake name, claiming to be Cole’s sister! She’s literally in the parking lot-!”

“End the call then.” It was another girl’s voice. She sounded very unbothered.

“No, please-! I’ve tried calling Cole- I wouldn’t bother you if I didn’t have to.” I said and she ignored me again.

“I’ll tell him you called.” She said.

“Just come outside- I can prove it-“ the line went dead. I stared at my phone in shock. Pearl already hated me and I hadn’t even met her yet. She made Cole so happy. And the one thing that makes him happy, hates me.

“Hey… do you have anywhere to stay?” Chen asked and I turned around quickly, I didn’t know he was still here. “I didn’t want to leave until I knew you were safe.” He said and I sobbed. He quickly hugged me and I held onto him. I had just met him and he was already comforting me.

“No…” i practically whispered.

“Are… are you- what happened? If you don’t mind me asking.” He asked and I had to look up to try and stop the tears.

“She hates me.” I said and he frowned.

“Who hates you?” He asked.

“My brother’s wife! And she makes him so happy- and I-“ he cut me off and separated from the hug.

“Well she sounds like an asshole then. C’mon, it’s starting to rain.” Chen said and we got back in the car.

Volume: ■■■■■□□□

The monastery was unusually quiet. With the monks doing outdoors training, Wu’s barking orders couldn’t be heard. The monastery was, for once, all girls. And it was quiet. Misako was sat turning pages of her ancient scripture, Peach was nursing a headache that came from teaching over excited 6 year olds how to stay still for an hour, Cherry was busying herself trying to perfect her own nails. She had to give up getting her nails done after going into ninja-witness protections. Snowdrops was lingering somewhere in her own world of systems. Pixal was sentinel, probably with Snow in their world of digital beings. Pearl was stress-cooking, she had been thinking of the phone call since it had happened. And how she had been so rude and how the girl was so distressed.

“Try meditating, watching you stress like this is not helping my head.” Peach said, mug of some kind of tea pressed to her head.

“I’m sorry…” Pearl said but only stilled for a moment before pacing again. The curry she was making didn’t even get to bubble before it was being stirred again.

It went back to how it was, Peach had took to laying on the counter in this time. She still found it hard to sleep without Lloyd. Her dragon crooned lowly outside and she looked to the window where the eye of the dragon was visible. She smiled and the dragon raised its head again. Peace was nice. Quiet was nice. It was what everyone needed. But it never lasts long. Not in this home. To be a ninja was to be quieter than silence herself but to be a part of this family, was to be on the same volume level as a foghorn:

The bangs and clatter of ninjas coming home was undoubtedly recognisable. It was the same everytime. Groaning, complaining, whining, that all came from the men as they made their way to the living area. Pixal sprung to life again. Making Cherry jump and curse as she smudged her nails. Peach whined as she turned on her side. Pearl sighed as the familiar arms wrapped around her. She could almost ignore the grime and oder that came from the ninja when they had been on a three-week stake out. A kiss was placed on her temple and she smiled before the smell became too much and she pushed the large man off her.

“Smells good.” Cole said and she frowned.

“You don’t.” Pearl said which was backed up by Peach who made a noise of agreement.

“I’m talking about the food, you too.” He said and she smiled.

“It’s not done yet.” She said and smacked his hand that was reaching for the ladle. He laughed and put his hands up. Jay and Nya were next to come in. The recently separated fiancés were better than ever. Both relishing in not having to suffer their deteriorating relationship anymore and Nya’s confession. She wasn’t into men. Not anymore at least. She was ashamed it took her this long to realise that men were not it for her at all. Jay didn’t hold it against her. He took it better than anyone could. He loved Nya but even he could admit that their love for each other had changed. They were friends and they cared for each other. But not in the way they once had. It was refreshing to see both of them so free and happy even after a 3-week stake out.

“Who wants patrol tonight?” Cole asked to which the ninjas in the room groaned. “No one takes it, Lloyd will decide.” He added to which another groan followed.

“I’ll take it. I wasn’t really involved in that last fight.” Nya said to which they both thanked her.

“Did I just hear I don’t have to do patrol?” Kai asked, Zane in tow. Snowdrops physical form appeared to hug Zane in a way that no one was sure was possible with her form. Somehow physical but not?

“I don’t care as long as I’m not moving tonight.” Peach said.

“Well, you’re in luck! Lloyd stayed behind to check everything was still running smoothly! Won’t be back till tomorrow!” Cole said and Peach sighed.

“Perfect.” She said, unamused.

“Anything happen whilst we were gone?” Jay asked.

“Pearl’s been getting prank calls.” Peach said to which Pearl stiffened.

“What?” Cole laughed. Cherry swerved a kiss from Kai in his grimy state to which Kai reacted in outrage.

“You haven’t seen me in three weeks-“

“It was one, and some girl claiming to be your sister- she was outside and all. Used a fake name too-“ Pearl ranted and Cole froze.

“What-?” He said and Pearl nodded.

“I know-! But her name wasn’t Papita! It was some Y- thing, I can’t remember exactly-“ She said and Cole grabbed her, gently, by the shoulder.

“When was this?!” He questioned, alarm in his eyes.

“A couple hours ago- Cole!” He rushed out the room and the monastery. Pearl turned in shock.

“What just happened?!” Jay asked and Peach sighed.

“I think Pearl may have just left Cole’s sister out in the rain in a city she doesn’t live in.” Peach said, still unmoving.

“What?! Why would you do that?!” Jay asked.

“I didn’t know-! It wasn’t the name I was told-! Her name wasn’t Papita!” Pearl tried to defend herself.

“Oh my god- Papita is a nickname!” Jay said to which Pearl became speechless. “Her actual name is- uhm… Kai?!” Jay asked and Kai sighed.

“I met her a few years ago, it’s Y/n.” Kai said and Pearl’s hand found its way to her mouth, fast.

“Who’s Y/n?” Cherry asked.

“Cole’s sister.” Kai told her and she nodded.

“Where could she have gone?!” Pearl asked and turned immediately to Snowdrop and Zane.

“Her in-phone tracker says that she is in ninjago city.” Zane said and Pearl nodded, trying to process everything. How could she leave her sister-in-law out in the cold? What a great first impression.

“We have to find her!” Pearl said to which Peach finally sat up.

“This is bad.” Peach said and slid off the counter. “Let me know what happens.” She said, walking off and turning to the side to let Cole rush past on her out.

“My phone! Where’s my phone?!” Cole questioned.

“Bedside table!” Pearl said and followed him.

“I’m so sorry-! I didn’t know-“ Pearl apologised, frantically. Cole cursed at the dead phone and immediately put it on charge.

“She’s out there, all alone, in a city she doesn’t know-! This is all my fault! I should have been here.” Cole said, more to himself.

“You were on a mission-!” Pearl tried to justify but Cole ignored her.

“We were planning on coming home early- if I just hadn’t agreed to check out the east side-!” He cursed himself as he waited for the phone to have enough charge to turn back on.

“It’s my fault- I should’ve gone out there! I should’ve heard her out-!” Pearl said and Cole turned to her.

“Why didn’t you?” He asked.

“I don’t know- I just- with everything I thought it was what to do! I didn’t want to risk anything!” She said and Cole shook his head.

“How do you not know your sister-in-law’s name!” Cole asked and Pearl stumbled for an answer.

“You always call her Papita, I thought it was her name! I haven’t heard your call her anything else.” Pearl said and Cole sighed.

“It’s a nickname! It means little potato!” Cole said and Pearl shook her head.

“I’m sorry, I thought I was doing what’s right. Clearly, I wasn’t.” Pearl said and Cole sighed again. The phone lit up and he immediately unlocked it and scrolled to his contacts. Hitting one specific contact.

Volume: ■■■■■□□□

Chen took me to some diner. It was near here and we were the only two there. He had ordered us some water and had been speaking with the man behind the bar for a very long time. I couldn’t believe what had happened. Giving me a fake address? His wife yelling at me? He’s clearly been hiding a lot from me. I wondered if Dad knew. Pearl said that his family knew but I didn’t? I was part of that family. I might have to call Dad.

I tried not to jump when the drinks got sat down in front of me. Chen smiles and I had only just noticed the man had followed.

“This is my boyfriend, Reece!” Chen said and I smiled.

“I’m Y/n.” I said and the man smiled.

“Nice to meet you.” He said, politely. I nodded.

“Anyway, we were just wondering if you had any plans tonight, anywhere to go?” Chen asked and I shook my head.

“I don’t have a ticket back to Jamankai for another couple days.” I said and they nodded.

“Want to stay at ours? Until then, hotels around here are quite expensive.” Reece asked and I looked at both of them before nodding.

“Please…” I said and they smiled.

“Our apartment is above the diner so, you can put your stuff up there if you want?” Chen asked and I took a moment to consider how dangerous this is. They were strangers. Gay. But still strangers. They could kill me. We’ve been here for 20 minutes and no one has come in the diner since we sat down.

“Okay…” I said and Reece smiled before leading me to a door around the side of the kitchen which just led to a case of stairs. Reece unlocked the door and let me go through first.

“It’s not much but we don’t have much.” Reece said and I nodded. “The guest bedroom is this way!” He said, cheerily. He held the door open again for me and I looked around the room. There was a bed and a discarded vinyl player with some vinyls.

“There’s so many…” I said, not touching them, scared to get fingerprints on them.

“Oh yeah, Chen had a phase of being really into Jazz. Can you tell he was a theatre kid? Anyway-! We keep them in here because we don’t really use it anymore.” Reece explained and I nodded before the Vinyl next to the player caught my attention.

‘Lou Brookstone’s classics’

I smiled. I hadn’t seen any of my Dad’s albums in a long time. I used to love them. When Cole left and I came home for a few years, my Dad and I bonded over music and his stories of his band and his few classical hits. That life had since been forgotten and now he was a vocalist trainer and a piano teacher. I’d never seen my Dad look so proud and happy as I did when I told him what I had chosen to do my degree in. Those years were still rough. Especially without Cole. Dad had finally started sobering more and had joined Alcoholics Anonymous. I went with him sometimes. He said I reminded him of my mother. One night he slipped and got drunk again, he called me Lilly. That was my mother’s name. I was gone the next day. I went to stay in the college dorms. I should call him. He wasn’t a bad father. At least, he never had bad intent and he tries now. He sends me random musician’s biographies with notes and tags all over it for me to read and maybe gain inspiration.

“I’m going to call my Dad.” I said and Reece nodded.

“Was he a big fan of Jazz too?” He asked and I smiled.

“He’s Lou Brookstone.” I said and he gasped before nodding and walking away.

1 ring- line connected.

“Hello mon chou, it’s lovely to hear from you. Is everything alright?” His words were sincere.

“Hey… I’m in ninjago city.” I said and he made a noise of concern.

“Oh, that’s rather spontaneous.” He said and I nodded, even though I knew he couldn’t see it.

“I know… I came to see Cole.” I said.

“Ah, I see. How is he? I haven’t heard from him since he told me he married that girlfriend of his. Pearl. Very fierce woman, have you met her?” Dad asked and I paused for a moment. “Mon chou?”

“Uhm, not officially. He wasn’t home and I only spoke to Pearl over the phone… I’m at a friend’s house.” I said and he made a teasing noise.

“A girl friend’s house?” He asked and I felt my cheeks heat up.

“No… they’re guys. And gay.” I added quickly before he freaked.

“Okay… is everything alright? You don’t usually call me like this.” Dad pointed out and I sighed.

“I didn’t know Cole was married… and Pearl didn’t know who I was.” I said and he went silent.

“Your brother didn’t tell you? He- he said you and Pearl were going to meet a long time ago. At your graduation?” He pointed out and I tried not to cry.

“Cole didn’t come to my graduation. Neither did Pearl… you had food poisoning from that salmon place.” I said and he sighed.

“I’m sure your brother didn’t leave you for no reason… his job requires him to be on call at all times, you know that.” Dad told me and I shook my head.

“I don’t even know what Cole does other than security.” I said and he sighed.

“I see… well, I’m sure your brother will contact you soon. He’s not one to leave you worrying.” Dad said and I nodded.

“Okay, love you.” I said and I heard Dad chuckle.

“I love you too, mon chou.” The phone line disconnected and I sighed. I stared out the window for a while until a blue, massive dragon flew past it and made me scream. On the back of it, sat the water ninja. 4 more dragons followed and I couldn’t help the way my breathing sped up. I thought the ninja would be more in the main part of the city? I pulled out my headphones quickly and shut the door that had no lock. I wedged my bag between the door and the wardrobe so no one would be able to get in. I put my headphones in quickly before laying back down.

Volume: ■■■■■□□□

My phone buzzing made me open my eyes and freeze. I slowly raised my phone to look at the contact. Cole. I debated answering it. I really did. But then I remembered why I had came here in the first place.

“Hello?” I said and I heard a sigh of relief.

“Hey, it’s me. I’m- I was at work! I didn’t have my phone on me- are you okay?!” He asked and I paused.

“Yes.” I said, simply.

“Okay that’s good, where are you?! Ninjago city really isn’t the safest place, Papita.” Cole said and I took a deep breath in. Clearly.

“I’m at a friend’s.” I said and he went silent.

“Friend, what friend?” Cole asked and I paused.

“Chen and Reece.” I said and he didn’t sound happy.

“I’ve never heard of them- you’ve never told me anything about them.” Cole said and I looked out the window.

“I met them today.” I said and he made a noise of distress.

“Today?! And you’re staying there?!” He asked and I hummed in agreement. “Y/n, this is… that’s not safe. I’ll pick you up, see if we can find a hotel or I can see if I can clean up a room here- just-“

“I’m okay here. They’re nice.” I said and he started to sound annoyed.

“It doesn’t matter if they’re nice, you don’t know them!” He exclaimed and I laid back down. “They could be hiding anything from you!”

“Why didn’t you tell me you got married?” I asked and he went silent. “I’m not a kid anymore, Cole. You don’t have to protect me anymore. You don’t have to hide anything from me.” I said and he sighed.

“It’s not like that… I honestly forgot. It wasn’t like a ceremony or anything, we exchanged rings, we haven’t signed any papers yet! Just in traditional terms, we are married.” He said and I sighed.

“This is the first time I’ve left the house in 3 months.” I admitted and I heard his breath hitch.

“You don’t call, you don’t message and if I get a reply sometimes it’s not for months.” I said and he sounded even more stressed.

“It’s my job-! Sometimes I’m gone for months! I don’t mean to-! I’d love to see you again! See you more even!” He said and I looked to the street outside. That noodle stand looked really good.

“I haven’t seen you for 4 years. You’re like a ghost, Cole.” I said and Cole sighed.

“Can I please come and pick you up?” He asked but I ignored him.

“Why would you give me a fake address?” I asked.

“It wasn’t fake-! You have to go into the forest-!”

“Why didn’t Pearl know my actual name? Why don’t I know hers?” I questioned.

“I don’t know- I thought you both knew! I was wrong, okay! I want you both to meet. I want to see you. I want to know you’re safe. Let me pick you up.” He pleaded.

“I’ll message you my address tomorrow. If you’re not there, I’m going home and not my house! I’m moving back in with Dad.” I said and I heard the way Cole took a sharp breath in.

“Okay, fair enough. Send me it tonight and I’ll be there by 9am latest.” He said and I nodded.

“Fine…” it went awkwardly silent.

“Love you, Flump.”

“Bye.” I hated that nickname. I hung up the phone and rubbed my temples. I could smell that noodle stand. I’m getting it. With the last of my confidence, I will get it.

The noodle stand was actually further than it looked. And I chose a horrible time to go. It was getting dark, really dark, and the line was going down very slowly. Finally it was my turn.

“You’ll have to wait 10 minute, the next batch of noodles isn’t ready yet.” I nodded and sat on a bench. Directly under a street lamp. It was really dark now. And slowly getting colder. I looked up to see the man still stirring noodles and sighed. I looked up again to see him making a container for me and I shot up and watched as he put the sauce on top.

“4.65” He told me and I nodded.

“I’ll have what she’s having, it smells really good Pablo. I bet you can rival Chen’s noodles now.” That was a woman. I handed him the money and stepped to the side for her to move in. He put her noodles together quicker than I’d seen him server anyone. It wasn’t until I looked up did I notice that the woman was actually a ninja. She reached into one of the pouches on her gi.

“No! No! You know you don’t pay.” Pablo said and she shook her head.

“C’mon, I’ve been away for 3 weeks and I’m missing out on Pink’s curry which it really good. Let me pay.” She said and the guy shook his head.

“No. Payment comes in saving all our lives and the city.” He said and I didn’t want to interrupt them to tell them I had no chopsticks. So I decided to turn away and walk back home. Except I was more or less walking to the bench again. I wasn’t expecting her to sit next to me a couple moments later. I looked up in shock. This was a real life ninja. I met her eyes before she handed me a pair of chopsticks. I smiled in thanks.

“So what’s a pretty girl like you doing wandering the streets at night like this? Fella done you wrong? Or just hunger?” She asked, enthusiastically and I took a moment to respond. Perplexed that one- a woman was talking to me, two- a ninja was talking to me.

“Hunger… Fellas aren’t really my thing.” I said and she nodded.

“Me either. Well, not anymore.” She said and held her noddles up to cheers mine and I did it, awkwardly, but we did it. She chuckled. Before pulling her mask up and over mouth, I looked away quickly. She laughed. “Don’t worry, you won’t know who I am just from my mouth.”

“Okay… feels weird.” I said and she smiled. “Did you really call me pretty?” I asked, not sure what she had said as I was more in shock.

“Yes, or no- did it weird you out?” She asked and I smiled, shaking my head.

“No, it was nice.” I said the water ninja smiled.

“Then yes. And I’m serious.” She whispered the last part and I smiled harder.

“You’ve got pretty lips…” I said, hoping it didn’t sound weird or suggestive.

“Really? You from around here?” Fuck. It did sound suggestive.

“I’ve never been to ninjago before, I saw your dragon earlier… it was cool. Really scary- but cool.” I said and she smiled.

“Her name is Tidal. I can introduce you two if you want?” She asked and I shook my head.

“No, I don’t think I can handle meeting a dragon right now. Sorry” I said and she chuckled.

“No hard feelings. Dragons are intimidating, especially Peach’s dragon. Her dragon is massive! And powerful. Took down half an army of onis on her own with him.” She said and I nodded.

“I forgot about the Onis.” I said and the water ninja nodded.

“That was a tough fight.” She admitted. “Were you affected by them?” She asked and I shook my head.

“No, I live in Jamankai but I do have 3 locks on my door.” I said and she nodded.

“Not a bad idea.” She told me and I looked up at her. “I’m not going to lie to you, you should head home. Tonight’s quiet but this city is so unpredictable and I don’t think I’d be able to console myself if I heard that your pretty face got hurt.” She said and I flushed, warmth spread across my face and I just hoped she couldn’t tell how flustered I was as she pulled the bottom of her mask back down.

“I’m nearly done.” I said and she frowned.

“Wow, I should call you nibbles. You almost ate that quicker than me.” She joked and I smiled.

“I don’t think nibbles suits me then.” I said she tilted her head in thought.

“No, but dustbin isn’t as cute.” She said and I laughed, actually laughed.

“Okay, what can I call you then?” There was something so easy about talking to someone in a mask.

“Anything but squirt. My brother still calls me that and he’s almost 30.” She told me and I laughed.

“My brother calls me little potato and little cabbage.” I said and she laughed.

“What?!” She asked, amused.

“I refused to eat cabbage when I was younger so he started calling me that to spite me.” I said and she laughed again.

“My brother- fire- just calls every kid that. He still calls Green it.” She told me and I nodded.

“I’m done.” I announced and put my box in the bin.

“Hey, can I walk you home? It’d just make me feel more comfortable knowing you got home safe.” She said and I nodded.

“I’m staying right there!” I told her to which she frowned.

“The diner?” She asked.

“My friends own it, they live above it.” I said and she nodded.

We mainly walked in comfortable silence until we stopped outside the diner. The walk seemed longer, like we were both trying to stretch the moment.

“I guess I’ll see you around then, Nibbles.” The water ninja said to me and I smiled.

“See you later, squirter.” I said and she laughed.

“Squirter?!” She asked, dumbfounded.

“Because of the whole water thing…” I tried to explain before it hit me what is sounded like. “Oh no- not like that…” I tried to defend myself but she waved me off. “I’m sorry.”

“No, it’s okay. Just took me by surprise. Anyway, thank you for turning a boring patrol into a good night. I’ll be thinking of you and your cute face tonight.” She said and I smiled.

“Not that I could see your face, but you have a pretty mouth and eyes.” I said and she met my eyes. She looked smug. She winked and my face fell. This was real.

“Thank you, no one has ever said that before.” She said before disappearing into the dark alleys. Was that flirting? Did we flirt? Were we in love now? Why do I have the urge to ask her what we are?

“Did you just pull the water ninja?!” I heard a voice yell and I looked up to the see Reece and Chen, leaning out the window.

“Oh my god…” I said and rushed inside.

Volume: ■■■■■□□□

It wasn’t unusual for Nya not to talk to anyone after patrol. It wasn’t unusual for most the ninja to be catching up on sleep at this time. However, it wasn’t usual for her to bump into Jay around the monastery. He was sat on the counter, bowl of cheerios in his hands. The box itself had a cartoon ninja on. She smiled as she went in pouring a bowl for herself.

“Long patrol?” He asked and she shook her head.

“No, quiet actually. Almost boring.” She said and he laughed.

“Almost?” Jay asked, hinting something in his voice.

“Do you think it’s too soon? I mean… we were together for so long. Do you think it’s too early to even think about moving on?” Nya asked and Jay shook his head.

“No, I think it’s good.” He admitted, to her surprise. “I loved you, I really did Nya and not to say that I don’t still love you but it’s different. When we were good, we were great but… you were never as into me as I was to you, and now we know why. I don’t hold it against you. You shouldn’t hold it against yourself. You shouldn’t hold it against me.” He told her and she sighed.

“I don’t know why I feel so guilty, I was never taught what I am is wrong.” Nya told him and he nodded.

“Buts it’s not what you expect, think of for yourself. You’ve never looked at me the way you look at a girl and thats okay. We can still love each other without having a romantic aspect of our relationship. We’re family here, let’s just be family.” Jay said and Nya smiled.

“You’d be alright if started seeing someone?” Nya asked and Jay smiled.

“What if I’m already seeing someone? Would you be okay?” He asked and she laughed.

“Really?” Jay shrugged.

“I might be.” He said and she smiled.

“What’s her name?” Nya asked and Jay shook his head.

“No! No I’m not doing this! Because once you know, Kai knows and then Cherry knows and if Cherry knows, everyone knows!” Jay exclaimed and Nya nodded.

“Okay, okay, I’m sorry, I won’t ask again.” She said and Jay smiled.

“I think these cheerios are expired.”

“Yeah, me too.”

Volume: ■■■■■□□□

“Okay I have to pick Y/n up in like 20 minutes, Papita, in case you don’t know her actual name.” Cole announced to the team and Pearl rolled her eyes. “When she gets here, we’ve gotta act normal.” He announced and everyone protested.

“She doesn’t know you’re a ninja?!” Peach’s voice came out on top.

“No, and I don’t plan on telling her today.” Cole said.

“Not telling someone you love you’re a ninja? That always ends well.” Cherry commented to which Kai frowned.

“Even if we all act normal, how’d you suppose we hide the prophecies engraved in the walls? The frames of all of us in our gi? The senseis? The monks? The weapons? My dragon?!” Peach asked to which the dragon himself growled from outside.

“Lloyd was right about not keeping a dragon that can’t disappear by the way.” Kai said.

“Apologise, he saved your life.” Peach said.

“I’m not apologising to a dragon!” Kai argued.

“Apologise!” Peach demanded.

“No!” Kai protested.

“Apologise or I’m not talking to you.” Peach said and Kai shrugged.

“Don’t then!” Peach crossed her arms and faced away. “You’re not serious.” He said but she ignored him.

“I’ll be back in half an hour.” Cole said and kissed Pearl’s cheek before leaving.

Volume: ■■■■■□□□

“Thank you for letting me stay.” I said, turning go to both men as a battered truck, the one from the car park, parked itself outside.

“Anytime.” Chen said with a smile.

“Let us know if you need anything.” Reece said and I nodded before heading outside. I hadn’t seen him in years. Would he be mad? Upset? Annoyed that I even came here? I didn’t tell him, is that a problem?

Cole rushed out the truck and before I could even get a word out he pulled me into a tight hug, I returned it awkwardly before he looked me up and down.

“Have you grown or is it just me?” He asked to which I shrugged.

“I don’t think so.” He took my bag and smiled. I didn’t return it and just got in the car with him.

“I’ve uh- Pearl told me everything- Dad also rang me. She’s really sorry and he’s- he sounds good.” Cole said and I nodded.

“Are you?” I asked, he nodded.

“I was going to ask you that, are you serious about moving back in with Dad?” Cole asked and I shrugged.

“I can’t live alone anymore.” I admitted. “It’s getting worse.” I told him and he sighed.

“I’m sorry I can’t be closer.” He said and I nodded. But were you?

“Why… why can’t you?” I had to think about whether I wanted to know the answer.

“It’s… complicated. If that word even sums it up. My job is unconventional and- I’ll explain everything! -but it’s just hard to find the time to come back.” He said and I nodded.

“What is your job?” I asked as we stopped at a traffic light. He turned to look at me.

“To protect those who can’t protect themselves.” He told me and I paused. What the hell did that mean?

“What?” I asked and he laughed. “Are you a police officer?” I asked.

“No!” He laughed. “I’ll explain everything when we’re inside. The others have made it extremely clear that they won’t cover for me.” Cole said and I frowned.

“Cover what?” I asked.

“You’ll see.” He pulled into the abandoned parking lot where I had been the day before. When we got out he gestured for me to follow him into the forest.

A monastery. There was a monastery inside the forest. There were bald people outside doing chores. Monks. This place was massive. I followed Cole inside as the monks called him ‘master Cole’. It was an upgrade from McCole. Which was his nickname during his teenage years due to the fact he ordered McDonald’s almost everyday. He opened the door for me and let me walk beside him as we went down the long hallway. There were paintings on the wall and ceiling, massive paintings and it took seeing the painting of a gold figure fighting a black dragon with smoke coming off it to realise that they were paintings of the ninja and famous battles. They were murals not paintings. I looked down, not wanting to admit what might be happening here. We stopped at an archway. I looked up to see a small kitchen and then to the side and the bottom of the room was a massive living area with couches, a TV, a gaming console and many people. There was a couple on the couch, a brunette with very well styled hair and a very pretty girl whose own hair looked like it is being taken better care of than a newborn baby. There was another boy and girl on the couch although they were sat well apart with the ginger playing with a controller whilst the other girl, hair tied up high on her head as her bangs fell in front of her face, framing it perfectly. She wore a loose vest, showing off her sculpted arms and scattered tattoos. Mainly in the ancient language. That was hot. Reluctantly, I looked away from her to the two girls in the kitchen. One was eating a bowl of cereal whilst the other pulled out a tray of cookies from the other. The first girl had few scars lingering her bare arms and what looked to be a burn on her forearm and a scar on her exposed neck that looked like a bite mark. She might be a ninja. Somehow, her face remained untouched. The other girl slammed the tray down, making me jump and focus on her again. She was more dressed up than the others, well I think the girl with very nice hair was actually wearing a juicy tracksuit but she made it look like loungewear rather than an expensive tracksuit.

“How do you not burn them?!” The cookie girl complained.

“It’s only burnt on the corners.” The scarred girl said.

“You’d know all about being burnt.” The cookie girl insulted, the scarred girl hit her on the head lightly with her spoon. “Did you just get milk in my hair?!”

“I raised a dragon, what’s your excuse?” Scarred girl clapped back and Cole cleared his throat. Gaining everyone’s attention. Did she just say she raised a dragon?!

“This is Y/n, or Papita, as you may know her as.” I noticed how Cookie girl’s eyes hardened at Cole. The room went silent.

“Hi.” I said, awkwardly.

“Hey.” Scar girl said. Putting her bowl down and coming near me. “Nice to meet you.” She said.

“You too, what’s your name?” I asked. Was this Pearl? What would she do if she knew I called her scar girl in my head?!

“Everyone calls me Peach, nice to meet you Papita.” She said and I nodded.

“Y/n’s fine.” I said and she smiled.

“That’s Cherry, thats Pearl ,who you may know, and Snowdrops is around somewhere. She’s always around. You’ll catch on soon enough.” Peach winked but I didn’t catch on. Not yet at least. Was that not their actual names?

“So what’s your actual name?” I asked and she smiled, I heard Cole stifle his laugh.

“Wouldn’t you like to know?” She said and walked away. The man with very good hair spoke up and I turned to them. Cherry was the one with really good hair. I knew good hair guy. I had met him before.

“Kai, if you don’t remember. Blabber mouth here is Jay and that’s Nya, my sister. Zane is around somewhere and Pixal is out right now. Lloyd should be home soon.” Kai filled me in and I nodded.

“Hi.” I said again, trying to avoid Nya’s eyes. She was staring hard at me. I turned to face Cole again who smiled.

“As you can tell, we all live together and work together. Lloyd’s the leader, Peach is his wife-“ I looked to Peach and watched as she disappeared in a pink, purple and peach haze that I had only seen on the news before and with the peach ninja. She appeared on the counter again, no bowl in hand this time. “-she’s special.” Cole said and glared, my own mouth hung in shock.

“Don’t be mad because I showed my party trick.” She said and Pearl smiled in amusement. It started to click. It shouldn’t have took a blonde man practically shoving past us clad in green to be my final push to realise everything. He stunk and had dried blood and mud on him and in his hair, the green clothing had been torn in places. He had a dual katana holster strapped to his back with actual katanas sheathed in. The walls looked like they were coming closer. He needed that many weapons for a reason? Was there a threat?

He apologised as he slid past, not noticing my impending panic. He dapped up Cole and leaned in to kiss Peach who didn’t look pleased after. She actually frowned in disgust.

“I’ve missed you too.” He said at her face.

“When was the last time you brushed your teeth?” She asked.

“I don’t want to talk about it- who’s this?!” He asked, pointing to me. Oh my god. This isn’t happening.

“Lloyd, meet Papita, my sister.” Cole said and Lloyd nodded.

“Nice to meet you, sorry I’m all dirty and everything. 3 week stake out.” Lloyd said like I was supposed to know what that meant. “Being a ninja is a lot less cleaner than you’d think.” He tried to joke but I’m pretty sure I had the thousand yard stare right now. Suddenly the green costume with katanas made sense. It wasn’t a costume. It was gi. A green gi.

“I can smell you from over here.” Cherry commented.

“You’re the green ninja?” I asked, well more stated.

“Who would’ve thought? Lloyd Garmadon.” Peach said and Lloyd rolled his eyes.

“You’re all ninja?!” I exclaimed. I looked back at Cole in alarm who looked away from me. Then I looked back at the others and Cherry looked at them all before breaking the silence.

“I’m not! But they all are.” She confirmed, she then hit Kai’s chest.

“Fire.” Kai raised his hand like it was an ice breaker game.

“Lightning.” Jay raised his hand next.

“I don’t need to say, do I?” Lloyd said, eating some multicoloured cereal with his bare hands out the box.

“Peach.” Peach and shrugged. Like it was obvious. I looked back to Cole.

“Earth.” He admitted, my eyes watered. What the hell was going on. Everyone looked towards Pearl.

“Pink. Who else would I be?” Pearl asked.

“Y/n, are you okay?” Cole asked. I felt ill. And my heart was racing. What the fuck was happening?

“Nya! You haven’t-“ Kai’s words distorted in my head as another person walked into the room. Well, what I thought was a person.

“Can someone please check my internal hatch, I believe there is something stuck in there I cannot see.” A tall, metal man said as he walked in the room and proceeded to open his stomach open like it was nothing. Only to reveal a bunch of wires and a few boxes that wires were coming in and out of. Safe to say, I passed out.

I am never leaving my house again.

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michaeljoncarter · 8 months

Text

NEW KRYPTON SAGA READING ORDER

because the new krypton tpb only collects one of the several books this story ran across after the initial crossover arc ends, and i haven't been able to find a reading guide anywhere that actually includes all the comics from this era, which is a shame! this story was fun and is (imo!!) a pretty good place to start with the superfam (... though i may just be biased because it's where i started)

so here, for posterity, to maybe help somebody not have to struggle their way through this on context clues and prayer:

first and foremost, a bit of leadup so you know how we got here, who these people are, and wtf they're talking about

first, Superman: Last Son for the introduction of the new, post-infinite crisis version of general zod (& christopher kent):

Action Comics #844 - 846, #851, Annual #11

Action Comics Annual #10 is not usually considered an actual part of this arc, as far as i can tell, but i HIGHLY recommend reading it specifically for the 2nd (Who Is Clark Kent's Big Brother?) and 4th (The Criminals of Krypton) stories, which are the post-infinite crisis origins of mon-el & general zod, respectively. they're both major players in the New Krypton saga, and their backgrounds will be referenced quite a lot

then, Superman: Brainiac for the introduction of post-infinite crisis brainiac, kandor, and all the setup:

Action Comics #866 - 870

much less crucially, we also have the Coming of Atlas arc in Superman #677 - 680. it introduces atlas, a way less important villain who kicks around for the first little bit. he's... generic. you can read these issues if you want. they are technically leadup to New Krypton, but you really won't be missing much if you just skip straight to the action

and now on to the main event:

Superman's Pal, Jimmy Olsen Special #1

Superman: New Krypton Special

Superman #681

Action Comics #871

Adventure Comics Special Featuring the Guardian

Supergirl (2005) #35

Superman #682

Action Comics #872

Supergirl (2005) #36

Superman #683

Action Comics #873

Superman #684

Action Comics #874

Superman #685

from here, everybody kinda splits off and does their own thing for a while. and i personally find it much less confusing & annoying to read each character's little arc in its own chunk rather than bounce between the issues in the order they were published, SO:

Superman: World of New Krypton #1 - 5

Action Comics #875 - 879, Annual #12

Superman #686 - 690, Superman Secret Files 2009, Annual #14

Supergirl (2005) #37 - 43, Annual #1

the Codename: Patriot crossover:

Superman: World of New Krypton #6

Action Comics #880

Supergirl (2005) #44

Superman #691

Superman's Pal, Jimmy Olsen Special #2

and then back to individual arcs:

Superman #692 - 695

Superman: World of New Krypton #7 - 12

Adventure Comics (2009) #1 - 3, #5 - 6 (kon joins the fray. #4 is a superboy prime/legion-only issue, and #7 is a Blackest Night tie-in. you can ofc read them you want, but they are both unrelated to everything going on here. also, in #5, kon's story is the SECOND feature instead of the first. feel free to skip straight to it if you're not interested in the continuation of the superboy prime story)

the Hunt for Reactron crossover:

Action Comics #881

Supergirl (2005) #45

Action Comics #882

Supergirl (2005) #46

kara goes off and does her own thing, and the action comics & superman titles enter their own little crossover:

Supergirl (2005) #47 - 50

Action Comics #883 - 885

Superman #696 - 697

Action Comics #886 - 889

World's Finest (2009) also fits in here… somewhere. i can't figure out exactly where, but it's definitely before everything that comes after this, so... we're just gonna put it here and hope for the best

and from that, on to the finale:

Adventure Comics (2009) #8

Superman: Last Stand of New Krypton #1

Supergirl (2005) #51

Superman #698

Adventure Comics (2009) #9

Superman: Last Stand of New Krypton #2

Adventure Comics (2009) #10

Supergirl (2005) #52

Superman #699

Superman: Last Stand of New Krypton #3

Adventure Comics (2009) #11

Superman: War of the Supermen #0 - 4

after this, Superman #700 serves as a sort of epilogue, and that's it! you're done! you survived New Krypton! congrats 🎉

#comic recs #superfam #long post #i think i got everything in the right order??#but let me know if you find anything off #because i am nothing if not dyslexic

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to-the-stars8 · 2 years

Text

Learning to Love Slowly

Parings; Jason Todd x Reader 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 A/N; I am saying this now with full confidence, but I completely, wholeheartedly, believe Bruce Wayne can be a good father it's just that DC is too much of a bitch to make him one in the comics. Very controversial, I know. Lol, but on a less serious note, I'm just saying this bc of some things I wrote further in the story.

18- Honeybee Girl and Nightwing

Showing up unannounced at his brother’s apartment, Nightwing sighed loudly, thinking that Jason was somewhere in another room doing something. Dick groaned before throwing down his mask on the coffee table and then dropping himself on the couch in the most dramatic way possible. He whined to his brother about Bruce’s assholeishness, knowing that, of all people, Jason knew best of what he was talking about. When there wasn’t a response, Dick called out his brother’s name.

“Jason had to go somewhere, but he’ll be back in a few,” A sweet voice that wasn’t his brother’s answered.

Sitting up on pure vigilante instinct, he saw you standing in the doorway between the kitchen and living room. Standing up in case you were a threat, Dick narrowed his eyes on you, instantly suspicious then he realized exactly who you were. Jason’s girlfriend, the Honeybee girl. He kicked himself for not remembering your name. Dick did note that you were certainly pretty and your smile was kind, too.

“Oh, uh,” He mumbled, thinking back on how dumb he must have sounded just then. Holding out his hand, he tried to salvage his pride. “I’m Jason’s brother, Richard. Everyone calls me Dick, though.”

You told him your name, and it was weird how soft your voice was. Maybe Dick expected you to be loud and smart-mouthed, someone to match his brother’s energy.

“Are you thirsty, Dick? I can get you something to drink if you like,” You offered, pointing to the kitchen. And you were polite? Alfred would lose his mind at the hospitality. After a moment of awkward silence, you asked again, and he sheepishly nodded.

Retreating into the kitchen you returned with a water bottle, handing it off to him before sitting on the opposite side of the couch. You smiled kindly at him again which made Dick even more confused.

“Where--where did Jason go?” Was the only thing he could think to ask.

“He went to pick up some take-out down the street,” You stated in a matter-of-fact tone. “Is everything okay?”

Dick was a bit thrown off by your question, and you must have been able to tell by the look on his face. You explained about what you had heard earlier sounded terrible, which caused you to ask if that’s how Bruce treated all of his kids.

Dick gestured to himself as he spoke, “No, no! Bruce is, well, he’s a helicopter parent. With some good reason as you can see.”

“Good. I was worried there. I’ve heard a lot of things about him,” You admitted, then quickly realized that you were talking to one of Bruce Wayne’s sons. “I mean, not from Jason! Rumors and stuff.”

Dick nodded, thinking about all the trashy news articles talking about how his father abused his kids. In reality, Burce never raised a hand to any of them in anger or used force to scare them. He was a good father, just an overbearing one. More or less.

“I have a question,” You said, tone serious now. “What is Bruce like?”

That was a loaded question if Dick ever heard one, but he was positive that you didn’t have any malice behind it. It seemed like you were genuinely curious, so he didn’t hesitate in his answer.

Bruce was a good father who tried his best, that much he could say. He was kind to his children, albeit, hard on them as well. Bruce did that to keep them safe, especially since Jason’s death. God, Dick could still hear the sobs the guilt of his brother’s death ripped from his father. And sure, they argued, but, at the end of the day, they knew Bruce would love and protect them no matter what. They always came first, he had heard his father say that on more than one occasion.

“Oh,” You said after his long-winded explanation. “I’m glad to hear it. Jason never talks much about him.”

“Jason isn’t very open with his feelings, especially with Bruce,” Dick said like you hadn’t met the man who was also your boyfriend.

You thinned your lips, thinking, before saying, “I believe Jason isn’t fully aware of how Bruce feels.”

Huh. Dick never thought of it like that. Somehow, seeing and meeting you along with those few words, it was like he was learning who his brother was all over again. Just as you were about to ask about Dick’s experience as a vigilante, the front door sprung open.

A smile instantly crossed your face at the sight of Jason coming in and he leaned forward as you reached up to wrap your arms around his neck. It was a brief hug, Dick observed, but it seemed to mean the world to Jay. His face flushed and he had a genuine smile that reached his eyes.

“I’ll take this stuff to the kitchen,” You said, removing your arms. Just as you did that Jason finally seemed to notice Dick. When their eyes met it was like looking at someone new. He seemed lighter, even happy, as opposed to the casual, stoic coolness he possessed. Finally, Dick realized maybe he didn’t know Jason as well as he thought he did.

“Hey,” He said, motioning Dick to the kitchen. “Come get something to eat. There’s plenty.”

Never one to say no to food, he followed. You were setting out three plates at the small table in the corner of the kitchen, humming a tune to yourself. Jason came up behind you, gently placing a hand on your waist, then pulling it away to pull out a chair for Dick.

Dick sat, watching the two of you interact quietly, and decided that you two were like those couples that acted like they had been married for fifty years.

“So, how much shit were you guys talkin’ before I got here,” Jason said, voice low like when he had the mask on.

You smirked, eyes meeting Nightwings’, “Oh, ya know, a whole lot. Right, Dick?”

“Oh, uh, yeah!” Dick wasn’t sure if that was the right answer.

There was a glint of mischief in your eyes. “Yup, Dickie here told me all about your old Red Hood outfit.”

Dickie. You had to have heard his brother mention that nickname because it had the same sarcastic tone he used. Giving Dick a side eye, Jason let a smile flicker on his lips for a second as pulled out a chair for you before taking a seat himself.

“I think Dickie left out when he used to wear an open-chested, disco outfit when he first started as Nightwing,” You guffawed at the remake, quickly muffling the sound with your hand. “Was that before or after the mullet? Can’t remember.”

“Open disco outfit with a mullet? Dick, no!” You teasingly lamented. “A dark time for Gotham, indeed.”

Dick laughed, liking how carefree you seemed. “Yeah, not a great outfit choice. Now I got a scar on my chest.”

“Whatcha get for wearing shit like that being a bat,” Jason remarked before munching down on an egg roll.

You shook your head and stated, “Alfred said you two had the weirdest outfit choices when you first started.”

Holy shit, Dick thought, you knew Alfred, too? Hell, he wondered why you and Jason haven’t married already. Since it seemed you already had Alfred’s approval. He knew he would have to double back and get the latest scoop on your and his brother.

Dick asked about how you knew Alfred and how the two of you met. You wasted no time telling him. It was a long explanation, especially with Jason inputting with his commentary, but Dick didn’t mind.

By the end of the night, Dick decided that he liked you. You made Jason happy and even showed him a new side of his brother he had been blind to before. Not to mention you had great taste in take-out, too.

#jason fluff #jason todd x you #dc robin #romance #jason todd x reader #jason todd fanfiction #robin jason todd #jason todd #red hood x reader #red hood fanfiction #red hood #nightwing #alfred pennyworth #bruce wayne

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we-stan-fiction · 10 months

Text

Dialogue prompts:

(Please note that I came with them at very random times so please ignore anything that doesn't make sense or is just plain weird)

1. "Why are your feet naked?" "It's called barefoot, you weirdo."

2. "What! I panicked...I followed my instincts!" "Your instincts are ridiciously wrong!!"

3. "You surrendered to a dog?!"

4. "Why is he bleeding?" "You said keep him alive. You never said anything about shooting." "It goes without saying." "Hey! I tried but he was being annoying!"

5. "What? From where I was standing, it was a good idea." "You were out of earshot!"

6. "Are you okay?" "I was just impaled by someone's grandmother, what do you think?!"

7. "Look at you, been here for less than a week and you already blackmailed 2 guys, kidnapped someone and even stole a burrito."

8. "I leave you with the guy I kidnapped for an hour ,and you untie him and give him tea and cake?!"

9. "Did you really have to traumatise the cat?"

10. "Damn you, moral compass!"

11. "The question is, how did you know?.. oh, no. You didn't, and I just told you everything, didn't I? I really need to get better at this interrogation thing."

12. "I'm here to save your sad little ass." "Hey! My ass isn't little. It's.... average size."

13. “The world needs more people like you.”

14. "Will you act your age!”

15. "Do it or die trying!"

16. "So That's where you draw the line?!"

17. "The phrase 'Ignore it and it'll go away' doesn't apply to bullet wounds!"

18. "You are very kidnappable." "Thanks... I guess?"

19. "When this is all over, remind me to block your number." "You don't have my number." "Then give it to me so I can block it later."

20. "She's one of my best agents." "The one who flung herself off the roof?" "I don't know what the hell that was, she's usually not that stupid!"

21. "Oh, Thank God you're alive! Now I can stay mad at you."

22. "Fine? You can't even walk in a straight line!" "I can, I just... choose not to."

23. "What are you gonna do? Whisk me to death?"

24. "At last, we meet again, my nemises." "You are talking to a straw." "Stay out of this."

25. "You are unusually kind today, it's unsettling."

26. "Not all those who wander are lost, but not me. I'm definitely lost and going around in circles."

27. "That is waaay above my pay grade." "I don't think they'll be paying you again anyway, you're pretty much getting fired once they find you."

28. "Where are you?" "Walking your goat." "I don't have a goat?!" "Then what's on the leash?!"

29. "And you. This isn't over, I'll mess with you later."

30. "He'd never kill someone just because, there's definitely a good explanation. He's not a shitty person" "nope, I'm just a shitty person."

31. "For the last time, we don't kill people unless it's absloutely necessary. You better have a good reason why you did it." "I do-" "spite isn't a good reason." "Then I don't"

32. "What did you do?" "Nothing you can't get me out of jail for!" "Not again!"

33. "There will be hell to pay! But I'm really busy these days so maybe next month."

34. "What are you doing?" "I'm done being kidnapped."

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tamurilofrivendell · 1 year

Text

Beauty and the Beast | Chapter 26

Previous Chapters [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25] Read on AO3 [x]

Pairing: Thranduil/Fem. Reader Summary: A Beauty and the Beast inspired tale with Thranduil the Elvenking and a human reader from a nearby village Taglist: @captainchrisstan, @rebleforkicks, @yjrevolution, @majahu, @honey-wine, @accio-boys, @achromaticerebus, @solomonssimp, @tired-ass-show-girl, @dreamlessnight, @daddy-long-legolas, @sleepyamygdala, @coopsgirl @penguinlovestowrite

The long carven tables were piled with trays upon trays of food and drink. Fruit, meat, cakes, a few things you could not even name. The kitchens must have worked overtime for this festival but given the amount of elves there were currently seated in this hall, it was hardly surprising. The entire room was buzzing with conversation and laughter. Everybody was drinking merrily. The hall itself had turned out to be completely open-topped, the clear winter sky shining down upon the merriment below. As the time passed, soon enough you would all be feasting and drinking beneath the stars. Feast Beneath a Winter Sky, indeed.

You ate and drank and enjoyed the atmosphere of the room. You talked with those at the table with you, mostly Legolas as Thranduil’s attentions seemed to be rather consistently monopolised by those around him. It didn’t bother you, of course, you understood that he was the king and he had a great deal of duties, even during an event such as this. You had watched him stand to give a speech not too long ago that had officially started the entire festival and he seemed to keep getting caught in conversation with council members and staff or visitors from other realms who had travelled for the festival.

To anyone simply passing, Thranduil was as smooth as ever as he entertained his guests and drank copious amounts of his favourite wine. His frustrations, however, were mildly rising in a secret place within him because it seemed that every time he turned his attention on you, to engage you in conversation, he was pulled in several other different directions that he simply could not ignore. At least you seemed to be having a good enough time talking to Legolas and enjoying the food and drink that had been prepared but he would have liked just a moments peace to include himself into that equation.

It came soon enough, of course, when the music the minstrels were playing changed into something different. A more upbeat, jovial tune intended to get everybody up onto their feet and dancing. It was quite a popular elven song, though you would not have heard it before, and many elves were eager to begin dancing and singing along.

Your gaze followed groups of elves as they rose from their tables and turned towards the dancefloor. You watched their bodies move with the music, fascinated. They danced alone, in pairs, or little groups though this was mostly the much younger ones. They moved more gracefully than you could have ever hoped to achieve but you didn’t care as you were suddenly overcome with the desire to join in with them. The joy in the air was palpable and it was like it was pulling you in.

You turned your head to look at Thranduil, finding him already watching you, and you couldn’t hold back the bright smile on your face as you reached out to him. Your hands found his arm and you clutched at the sleeve of his tunic with an excitement he found difficult to ignore. “Come and dance with me!” You glanced towards the floor again before turning back to him. “Please.”

Legolas looked up from his plate and spoke your name, drawing your attention. “Alas, my father is not much for dancing at these events, I am afraid.” He thought it was better if he got in ahead and told you, rather than his father having to actually say the words and let you down, considering how Legolas had seen you looking at him lately. Maybe it would sting just a little less coming from somebody else. “I may not be quite up to standard but I should be more than happy to spare you a dance or two in his stead, my friend.”

“Actually, Legolas.” Thranduil cut in smoothly, still looking at you even as his son had briefly drawn your attention from him. The slightest hint of disappointment had started to bleed into your enthusiasm, your shoulders dropping just barely. “I think I can quite manage one dance.” He said simply, moving to stand. He extended his arm towards you, watching you rise up from your chair with another smile as you reached out to take his offered hand. He turned and led you towards the floor, leaving his son blinking in his wake.

When Legolas was able to pull himself away from staring in at his father’s back as he led you away, he turned to look at Galion, whose eyebrows were practically touching the heavens. Galion met Legolas’ eyes and then the two of them started laughing.

“Well, my Prince, that is quite the development.” Galion muttered, plucking a goblet of wine off the table and draining the contents in one swift gulp.

“Indeed it is, Galion...” Legolas replied, his expression turning thoughtful as he suddenly stood and turned to move quickly around the outskirts of the room.

The crowd parted like an ocean as the king made his way across the dancefloor, a wide space opening up in the very middle. Thranduil led you to the centre of the room and turned to you, inclining his head slightly. You smiled up at him before you gathered the skirts of your dress and bowed low before him. You lifted your head after a moment, looking up at him. Thranduil was smiling affectionately down at you as he offered you his hand again. You took it, returning his smile, and he pulled you gracefully back upright and, not breaking eye contact, pressed a soft kiss to the back of your hand.

A soft murmur broke out around the room.

Just as Thranduil seemed to be about to begin to move, the tune changed, and something much slower started to ring out across the hall. It seemed to switch out mid song but you didn’t have much time to focus on analysing that as Thranduil suddenly pulled you close, needing no such time to recover, his other hand dropping to your waist as he pulled you in.

Your breath hitched as you blinked up at him, all too aware of his closeness. “I--I don’t really...” Know how to dance like this.

He simply smiled and shook his head, seemingly aware of what you were trying to say. “Just follow my lead.” He murmured as he began to gently pull you with him across the floor.

The watchful eyes of many curious and stunned elves fixed upon the near inconceivable sight of a strange little human dancing with their detached king seemed to go unnoticed. Everything else seemed almost as thought it had melted away completely as all you and Thranduil seemed able to look at was each other. Even Legolas, standing by the minstrels after sneaking over and getting them to change the song to something slower that would force you two closer together, went unseen as Thranduil twirled you around the floor.

#thranduil x reader #thranduil x you #thranduil fanfic #thranduil fanfiction #lotr x reader #beauty and the beast

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sadiewayne · 4 months

Text

i want to preface this with a few things

dick grayson is my favourite character. i am not here to slander him or talk bad about those who like him

fanon is what got me into dc. i have grown since and now have a substantial comic collection (at least for the few months i've been collecting). i still enjoy fanon but i am a canon person

with all of that said...

a pointless rant about dick grayson in fanon

sources listed at the bottom

this discourse surrounding dc, the batfam in particular, has really been irking my lately. i don't know why, it just has. i see so much around these characters and the way fans interact with each other here on hellsite and on tiktok (i avoid twitter like middle-aged cis white british dads avoid talking about their feelings) and i just wanna scream about it

the erasure of dick grayson's character

dick grayson isn't a himbo

this is particularly common in fanfictions given that the barrier of entry is non-existent but the idea that dick is a silly, ditzy, idiot that can't cook is arguably the complete opposite of his character

i have a feeling this idea stems from the nature of dick as nightwing, the cracking jokes whilst fighting, the appearance of not taking things seriously (when he in fact does, just not as outwardly as the likes of batman). this in and of itself is ridiculous given that a similar character, peter parker aka spider-man, also crack jokes and honestly is very similar to dick in the way he is as a hero, and yet, for the most part, is still taken seriously and isn't diminished to the same level that dick is

which could come down to public knowledge of the character

let's be honest, the majority of the public could tell you who peter parker is, have probably seen at least one live action iteration of the character, if not all 3 iconic versions (maguire, garfield, holland) most (and please forgive me for using generations) millenials and gen z can define their teen years based on which spider-man was coming out. which they went to the cinema to see. all live-action appearances are:

the amazing spider-man ('77-'79) played by nicholas hammond

spider-man (also japanese spider-man) ('78-'79) played by Shinji Tōdō

spider-man (1, 2, 3)('02, '04, '07) played by tobey maguire

the amazing spider-man (1, 2)('12, '14) played by andrew garfield

spider-man (homecoming, far from home, no way home)('17, '19, '21) played by tom holland

given that dick has just as many live action appearances, stretching back to before spider-man had even debuted in the comics:

the batman serial ('43) played by douglas croft

the batman and robin serial ('49) played by jonny duncan

batman ('66-'68) played by burt ward

batman forever ('95) and Batman & Robin ('97) played by chris o'donnell

titans ('18-'23) played by brenton thwaites

EDIT: in my excitement i never included the first comic appearances of either character. dick debuted on the 6th march 1940 in detective comics #38, peter debuted on 5th june 1962 in amazing fantasy #15

(i am not talking about animated appearances as for both peter and dick they are much less known to the general public than live action)

i'd say i was surprised to see the same number of appearances, but by comparing when the show/movie came out, you can see a clear difference

every live action spider-man project listed has occurred within the past 50 years, with the movies being in relatively consistent from 2002 onwards. dick grayson is more sporadic, 2 appearances in the 40s, again in the 60s, again in the 90s, and finally in the late 10s. no wonder he's less well known when you have to go back to the 90s for a movie version and even then it isn't really dick grayson (in terms of characterisation)

most people can tell you there's batman and robin, and maybe just maybe they can tell you robin is dick grayson, but that's about it. mention nightwing and they blank. and don't even try to tell someone that there's been more that one robin, it won't end well

i can hear people yelling "but dick is a sidekick and peter isn't"

yes, that is true, but dick hasn't been a sidekick since the early 80s, after he'd been around for over 4 decades. that's a pretty old sidekick. but yes, this does hold some merit but given that dick is a lot older it's interesting. and with the most recent live action appearance being titans, a show that spends the first 2 seasons exploring dick's journey from sidekick to standalone hero, it does pose some questions

that was a long tangent to basically say that an equivalent character in personality isn't erased so much in fanfiction because they have more recent and bigger exposure (probably)

also, random, but in my research i came across this list of best teen heroes and look

fig 1. image showing spider-man and dick grayson in positions 1 and 2 relatively in a fan voted list of best teen heroes, spider-man having 3446 votes and dick grayson having 3191 votes

anyway, back to the rant

a wayne family adventures (WFA) tangent

i see people blaming WFA for this but i really don't think that is the case. he may not be the same as his comic counterpart but he is not out of character. everything he does is still very much him. examples include:

comforting duke after ana broke up with him (ep. 10)

helping damian make a friend (ep. 24)

being torn between his brothers (ep. 27-28)

teasing bruce after zatanna made him superman (ep. 54)

teasing helena into swapping weapons (ep. 63) i just like this one

organising everyone back to the manor when he realised alfred was left on his own during thanksgiving (ep. 68)

picking the rainbow suit for bruce (ep. 77)

talking to a little girl who just lost her parents (ep. 80-81)

annoying wally (ep. 84) birdflash time

helping duke with the kidnapping threat (ep. 99) also like this one

competing with jason over lian and roy (ep. 108)

making tim do all the work in his apartment (ep. 111) + haley

comforting and helping damian when he doubts himself (ep. 113) arguably my favourite episode

ok that was most of them BUT seriously WFA is not the problem here

there's no "fix" for this, i just wanted to tell people to stop blaming WFA for everything wrong with new comic fans; you can enjoy WFA and enjoy the comics, the aren't mutually exclusive

WFA doesn't erase him, they just choose what to show in the limited time you get with him. the only thing i remember being "wrong" is that dick can't cook (ep. 17 - top chef)

and yeah, WFA does play into the golden retriever vibes fanon dick has... in one episode, specifically the haley episode (ep. 111) see below. if it takes 111 episodes to fall on a fanon trope, i think that is fine. if you want to include ep. 17, that's 2 episodes out of 116! that's pretty good going. even the comics have more ooc moments (see the current nightwing run)

fig. 2 screenshot from wayne family adventures showing dick grayson smiling and saying "thank you" whilst a tail wags in the background

fanfiction

unsurprisingly, fanfiction is probably to blame but don't think i'm blaming authors (i kinda am but stick with me here)

i don't think writing a comic canon charatcer should be required, but i do think writers should disclose when they haven't read the comics. from experience, i get not annoyed, but have a "ugh" moment when i read a fic and the character is ooc, but if the author has stated in the notes that they haven't read a comic and the character is probably ooc, i am still going to read the fic

ooc or not, if a fic has a decent plot, at least 6th grade (UK year 7) level writing, and not "want to punch them in the face" characters, i'll enjoy it. throw in a popular trope and it'll be a favourite

and if you tell people "hey, this is probably ooc from the comic canon" they can't get mad or blame authors... just saying

i mean the whole reason this is "the problem" is that people get mad over ooc in fan works. like i'm sorry, have you read gotham war?!?!? the current nightwing run?!?!? lots of ooc in the comics themselves

tl;dr

fanfiction is the root of all evil

no, but seriously, dick's, mis-characterisation is a product of his prevalence in media, the material people have, and a lack of disclaiming ooc in fanfics. the last point could be a solution, but honestly expecting fanfic authors to do that is ridiculous

this rant was for nothing, hope you enjoyed wasting your time

i did tell you it was pointless

(i should've called this section a conclusion bc the word count is 1559 and that is insane. it's literally longer than the essay i have due in next week that i'm only half way through)

(also, this was supposed to be the first part of a longer post about how dick is over-sexualised but at that word count i'm splitting it up)

sources

list of live action dick grayson

list of live action spider-man actors

used for dates of spider-man films in the correct order

wayne family adventures