#so he very easily gets wrapped up in the obsession for being the champion | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

tsubasagirl · 1 year

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All Yours (NSFW! Gladion x afab!Reader)

18+!!! MINORS DO NOT INTERACT!!! Gladion and reader are aged-up 18 year olds (unlike the canon ages where Gladion is 13-16 and the protagonist is 11), therefore they are consenting adults. I don’t intend to write anything illegal here… Also this is my first time writing actual smut, and I’ve been imagining/fantasising about this one-shot(?) for a long time now. There is another smutty Gladion x afab!Reader (possibly a sequel to this one) that I’ve also had in mind for a while, but I guess we’ll see how this one goes first. Enjoy this whopping 4.3k word long, bitter-sweet/angsty, first time [uh-oh word] one-shot(?)…

Oh and a bonus sketch dump at the end, altho it doesn’t exactly relate to the story and it was drawn over 2 years ago (it’s very self-indulgent; I felt too ashamed and kinda afraid to share it anywhere, especially there being the controversial opinions on self-inserts and all… probably gonna be a tumblr-exclusive art post ahehe…) Of course, there’s just naughty stuff and swearing in here, but nothing extreme to leave a warning about (Also again, as I’ve said with my previous fanfics, feel free to give me any constructive feedback :))

It’s been around a year since I became the champion of Alola, and a year since Gladion became the Aether Foundation president. We also started dating shortly after we claimed our respective roles. We were both often busy doing our own thing, but every once in a while, we would meet up to spend quality time together. Otherwise, we would try our best to get in contact with each other during the little free time we had.

However, from the past few months, Gladion has gotten much busier with his duties as president, so our brief catch-ups via text and phone calls became less frequent, up to a few weeks ago where he stopped contacting me all together. Of course, I’m also busy with my own duties as champion, but as time passes with zero response from him, my mind has been getting more clouded with his absence. It’s for the best if I don’t nag him and let him focus on his work. I’ve also been refraining myself from going to Aether Foundation to check up on him in person, although occasionally, I’ve been asking Wicke on how things have been with him. It was always something like “He’s had to deal with several different responsibilities everyday.” I would also tell her that I trust her to look after him in the meantime, but even so, knowing how reckless and dedicated Gladion is when it comes to accomplishing his goals, I bet he hasn’t been eating or sleeping much…

It’s been almost three months since I’ve last seen him in person. I’m normally content with just texting or calling him regularly, but not being able to play with his soft blonde hair, not being able to stare deeply into his eyes, not being able to melt into his touch — I miss it all so much. I miss him so goddamn much. Whether you wanna see it as deep love or borderline obsession, it’s almost impossible for me to live on normally without it lingering in my mind 24/7.

I mostly have it all together, but it doesn’t help that I’m ultimately just a teenager who tends to get very emotional, sometimes feeling a certain fiery sensation that can’t easily be put out. Every once in a while, when I’m all alone in my room, my mind is completely cluttered with Gladion — I can only visualise his sharp emerald orbs, hungrily eating me up from head to toe, his rasp voice uttering my name with delight, his warm arms wrapped around my form as I immerse into his scent, knowing that he is mine and that I am his — I lose myself in my fantasies of him. Caressing my breasts and fondling their peaks, letting my essence almost soak my bed, massaging my pearl and sliding digits into my folds. It would be sensual at first, but the pace would soon hasten as I think about him more, imagining that it’s him playing with my body, fucking me with his fingers, teasing me with his tongue, satisfying me with his shaft. I want him. I want all of him. I would cry out for him, longing for his love and yearning for his attention.

Now, it’s come to the point where I have a day all to myself… except I have no idea on what to do... How did I end up here? Not mentally but physically standing here in front of the route 8 motel… I’m a mess. I probably look like a fool, having no proper business here, only in sandals, board shorts and a loose tank.

This is where I first met him outside of battle. I just barged in, only to be scolded to get out. What did I even expect back then? Everyone can agree that Gladion comes off as intimidating, and yeah, I was a little frightened when he scolded me, but I also can’t help but chuckle at the memory of that brief encounter. Remembering that moment where you looked miserable after Guzma defeated you, and you muttering how lonely you were… I wish I had met you sooner.

I… didn’t think much into visiting here, huh…? Don’t really have anything else to do… My Pokémon are resting back at home for all their hard work, so it’s just me here at the moment. I hesitantly step into the motel lobby.

I’m greeted by the owner with a gentle smile. “Welco— Oh! Champion [y/n]! What brings you here today?” I nod and smile weakly at her. “Hi. I… just wanted to check something in one of your motel rooms. Do… do you remember the blonde boy who had stayed here up until a year ago?” I stand kinda awkwardly as she thinks for a moment. What am I doing? “Oh, him! The boy who stayed here for two years? My, he sure was a mysterious one. Do you know him?” She looks at me curiously. I stammer, “Y-yes. I don’t know if you know, but from when he left, he’s been really busy taking care of his family business elsewhere, and… he also happens to be my boyfriend, ahehe…” The woman’s face lights up and slightly blushes. “Awww young love! I’m happy for you two.” I scratch the back of my head shyly and blush at the statement. “Thank you, I-I guess… Since he’s been so busy… he… he asked me to come here to find s… something for him… something that he may have accidentally left behind when he was staying here.” What kind of stupid request is this? “Is that so?” She asks with slight confusion. “I don’t recall any lost objects in his room after he left, unless I didn’t check properly.”

She offers the key for the room to me. “No one is staying in there at the moment, so you can take a look in there. I trust that you won’t make a mess in there haha!” I grab the key from her hand and nod, “thank you kindly.” Just as I’m about to turn around and walk out, she suddenly says, “um also, you… don’t look too well. Are you feeling okay?” I pause for a moment, a little caught off guard. Before I put any thought into it, I retort, “I… I’m fine, thank you. Just a bit tired from all the matches I’ve been having lately. It’s… also quite hot today so I probably look a little sweaty haha…” Her concerned expression remains unchanged but she replies, “o… okay… I hope you find the lost thing for your boyfriend. Say hi to him for me.” I only nod in response with a weaker smile. Jeez what is wrong with me?

As soon as I close the door behind me, I stumble my way hastily to Gladion’s former room a little too quickly, fumbling the door handle to unlock it, and bust inside before anyone else sees how much of a mess I am right now. The room is silent and empty. Of course it is. I look around slowly yet frantically, feeling slightly light-headed. Is it the heat, or am I just really tired? What… what am I doing here again? My eyes find a mirror to the right of the room, reflecting my pathetic, slouched posture. God I really do look awful.

My head whips to the bed in front of me. My body automatically flops upon it, slightly bouncing, face first. I groan loudly. I’m such an idiot. I peak one eye to lazily look around the room again. Looks slightly dusty in here. Seems like no one has been here for a while, yet I kinda feel at home. I’m already engulfed by the scent of the bed. Is it just me, or does it smell like him? Am I going crazy? He hasn’t been here it’s been a year of course it’s clean and not fresh with his scent.

I feel a bit more calm as the scent throws me into a trance. I unconsciously release a moan as my hands grip the sheets tightly. It’s like his scent has fully enraptured me. God, I’m hopeless. I tear up, kicking my sandals off my feet and bringing my legs close to me. I don’t care that I’m messing up the sheets at this point. I miss him so fucking much. Before I know it, one of my hands is deep under my shorts and underwear, feeling myself. Not only am I wet with tears but squirming out of horniness. His scent is intensifying the sensation. “Fuck,” I whimper, picking up the pace with my rubbing, “G-Gladion…”

I continue to play with my clit for a few minutes, when I hear creaking from a few rooms down outside. I jolt up and quickly rub my hand dry on my shirt. Crap, my shorts look slightly damp. Hope it just looks like sweat. The door creaks ajar as an oh-too-familiar face peaks from behind it. I briefly freeze in place, gawking at the surprise visitor. He opens the door slowly as he stumbles inside with slight hesitation and possibly shame in his eyes. I suddenly bolt towards him, almost tackling him against the wall as I throw my arms around him in the tightest embrace.

“GLADION! WHAT THE FUCK!” I cry out, sobbing into his shirt. He has one hand rubbing my back and the other caressing my head. He mumbles into my hair, “I’m so sorry, [y/n]. I… don’t think I can give you a good enough of an explanation for being away from you for so long…” I look up at him, feeling like a complete mess but finally whole again, my vision blurry with my overflowing tears. I fight the urge to slap him for making me feel this way, feeling internally destroyed to see how guilty and tired his own face looks. I dig my fingers into his scalp and grumble, “I’m… sorry too… for overreacting like this…” I shove my face into his chest again, engulfing his actual scent this time, “I… I just missed you so fucking much.” He embraces me tighter, stuttering, “you have every right to react this way. I decided to stay away from you so I could focus on my work, yet somehow we still found our way to each other again.”

I pull away and grab his hands, looking up at him again. “Why… why are you here…?” He grasps my hands tenderly and replies, “Wicke forced me to take a day off, and I found myself not knowing what to do, so my only idea was… to come back to where I kinda first started… dunno if that sounds weird…” His thumb rubs onto mind, looking a bit off to the side nervously. I stare blankly for a moment, then giggle, “hehe, funny enough… me too actually… I also have the day off today and didn’t know what to do. Next thing I knew, I found myself wandering here in hopes I could… see you?” Gladion stares back, wide-eyed for another moment, then chuckles, “well… what a turn of events.” We both laugh nervously but happily, and embrace each other once more. It feels like it’s been such a long time since either of us have been this happy, despite how stupid this situation is.

I tug his hand as I guide him to sit beside me on the bed. We stare at each other in awe, feeling kinda refreshed for the first time in what seems like in ages. “So… how’s everything at the foundation?” I ask, slightly swinging my legs back and forth. “Things have been really busy and strenuous, of course. However, I think I’ve gotten kind of a good hang of operations now,” Gladion explains as he briefly looks off into the distance, “and better news — from what I heard from Lillie, she’s only been getting much stronger as a trainer, and mother’s recovery has been going really well,” he rambles with excitement in his eyes, which I can only adore helplessly. “I’m glad things are getter better for you,” I say with a smile. He looks back at me, “…how about you?”

My body gets fluttery all over from the sight of his cute face. God how I missed seeing it, it drives me crazy in love sometimes. “Still going strong as champion!” I smile widely as I playfully flex one of my arms, “there’ve been some tough battles, sure, but I’m still the best! Although, I’m curious if you’ve thought up of some new battle tactics yourself, President Gladion.” His face flushes but he can’t help but beam proudly for me and remarks, “[y/n], you know that I don’t like to be called president… but that’s my champion. As expected of you to remain undefeated.” We’re both grinning from ear to ear as we intertwine our fingers. His face suddenly drops as he looks down and lifts our hands off the bed. “Why is it… slightly damp here…?”

Shit. I quickly retract my hand in a panic. My face heats up more. “Um… um you know how miserable I was b-before? Yea, yea, I was… laying here, sobbing like a baby f-from how much I was missing… you…” Gladion stares at me in confusion, retorting, “but… you were sitting right here, and… wouldn’t your head have been on the pillow…?” More panic. My eyes constantly dart between his face and my knees as I ball my hands upon my legs. I can’t think of any other explanation…

“You… you know as teenagers, w-we start feeling particular emotions w-we didn’t feel as kids? Y-you know, puberty and hormones and s-s-stuff…” I stutter uncontrollably. It clicks in his mind almost immediately, evident as his eyes widen and the red in his face deepens. We both look away, equally as embarrassed. God just kill me already. I avoid eye contact with him as we sit in silence for what feels like an eternity. Eventually, I stand up and start making my way to the door. “It was really stupid of me to have come here in the first place I’m so sor—“

Gladion grabs my wrist. I look back, slightly teared up with shame. He has a serious look in his eyes, staring deeply into mine but still blushing furiously. “Are… those feelings still there…?” His rasp voice huffs. My face couldn’t be any hotter. He couldn’t look any hotter. Fuck. I only slightly nod in response. His voice hitches, “d-do… do you want… me… to relieve those feelings for you…?” My face gets hotter. We stand there for another moment in silence. I nibble my lower lip and nod again.

He pulls me slowly onto his lap as we both sit on the bed again. His hot breath tickles my skin as I look down into his emerald orbs. “You… aren’t the only one who’s been feeling these sorts of feelings, you know…” He caresses my face with one hand and grabs my ass with the other, “I also touch myself when I can’t get you out of my head.” My mouth slightly waters and my heart starts to race tenfold. “And now that we’re together for the first time in ages, I feel like this is the only chance I can have you all to myself.” The fiery sensation overwhelms my whole body again, and I purr, “I’m all yours, President.”

Our mouths latch upon each other, where neither of us hold back any of the hunger that’s been stirring up from the past few months. Our tongues claim every inch of each other’s caverns while our hands slither tenderly yet clamber desperately along each other’s forms. My straddling core shifts rhythmically upon his hardening member, making him grunt and making me moan, soon pulling away to gasp for air. Our hot breaths mix as a thin string of saliva drips on his chin. One of my hands is tangled in his bangs, while the other is raked in his scalp. Our chests heave heavily, foreheads touching. My vision is hazy but I’m still entranced with his orbs.

I sit up to lay on the bed upon my back, dragging him down with me. My hands fall back on both sides of my head, and my legs lay flat with my knees tight together. His aroused expression becomes more nervous and embarrassed, but still huffing with hunger. He hastily slips his shoes off, then pins his hands by my head, legs apart while kneeling with my legs between them. A different kind of tension overcomes the room.

“Um… this… is my first time,” Gladion mumbles, eyes slightly shaky. I bite my lower lip, stammering, “m-me too. I t-trust you with all my heart though. Just… be gentle…” His throat swallows with a big gulp. Slouched over me, he slowly tugs the straps of my top down over my shoulders, revealing my bra. I almost bring my hands inward to cover myself, suddenly feeling ten times more self-conscious. He slightly retracts his hands, also self-conscious about what he’s doing. Fuck my heart is beating like crazy! I take in a deep breath before I awkwardly reach behind me with both of my hands to unlatch my bra strap. His hands lower again to slowly shift the bra up to reveal my bare breasts. I swear, our faces couldn’t be any redder at this point. His hands cramp up, and we freeze for another moment. My breath hitches to break the silence, murmuring, “y-you can do a-a-anything to them…”

Gladion takes in another big gulp, and leans down slowly. His clammy hand hovers over one breast for a moment, then grabs it as gently as possible. A small squeal escapes my lips, making us both jolt in place. I suddenly stutter, “It’s ok! They’re really sensitive, b-but you can keep going.” He briefly sucks in his lips and nods, before proceeding to massage it. Oh my god this feels completely different from when I touch myself holy shit! I attempt to muffle my audible delight as he plays with it more, fascinated by its soft touch. He soon grazes a thumb over my stiff peak, making me release another squeal. With curiosity in his gaze, he starts fondling it, and his other hand grabs my other breast with more enthusiasm. My hips squirm more, as I fail to repress a gasp. My skin is tingling from his hot breath, burning as his eyes examine my hard buds as his fingers fondle them more roughly.

He finally takes it into his mouth, sending a whole new, electrifying sensation throughout my body. FUCK! He sucks it rhythmically, picking up the pacing with his other hand. My whole body is a squirming mess, and I stop trying to hold my moans in. My hand holds the back of his head as he licks my bud frantically. “Yes, yes! That’s it! G-Gladion!!” I gasp with delight. He quickly switches to my other breast to eat it up like there’s no tomorrow, other hand crazily playing with the freshly sucked breast. I’m practically hyperventilating, as my grip tightens in his scalp. In between licks and sucks, he sloppily growls, “I fucking love how you say my name!”

Without a warning, my lower back arches violently as my essence leaks from my shorts. Gladion pulls away, as I quiver and pant uncontrollably, my vision hazy again. “I… I… I j-just came,” I whimper, “b-but… I want you… inside of me.” He’s speechless, now less red with a new sense of confidence written in his face, but still nervous as hell. I push myself up to remove my top and bra, as he sits there, still in a daze. “But first,” I mutter, tugging his shirt as I eat him with my eyes, “I also want to see you… undressed…”

Gladion’s face suddenly drains, looking down to the floor for a moment. “Uh… okay… j-just for you… but just so you know,” he looks back at me hesitantly, “my body isn’t a-anything impres—“ “I don’t care about how you look!” I retort, grabbing his shoulders with reassurance. “I love you, no matter how vulnerable you may feel. No one is perfect. As I said, I trust you with all my heart. I… just hope you return those feelings…” He cups my face to kiss my forehead, then mutters, “O-of course I do… I’m… just nervous…”

Trying not to hesitate, he slowly pulls his shirt over his head and tosses it to the floor, revealing his lean form. I stare in awe. I know that he’s a bit self-conscious about how pale he is… but he’s brave for doing this… He looks into my eyes again, mumbling, “now that I’ve seen your breasts, you… probably want to see my… dick… right?” I nod almost way too enthusiastically, feeling my face flush and my heart racing again. “J-just to see and… maybe t-touch… I can s-s-suck it another time…” I stammer, hands tightening into fists on my knees.

His eyes widen, and an unexpectedly huge smile spreads upon his face as he suddenly pulls me into a tight hug. “Fuck! Stop being so cute my heart can’t take it!” My whole body goes limp as I watch him swing his legs off the bed to unfasten his pants. Pulling them off, only in his underwear now, it was now visibly obvious how hard he is. I quickly cover my mouth with the back of my hand. “Fuck” is all I mutter. I’m already hard again. With hunger in his eyes, he remarks, “make it quick so I can get inside of you.” Before I can even process how hot he sounded, he finally pulls off his underwear, his member springing out with a slight bounce, with a few droplets of pre-cum dripping from its head.

Now I’m the once who’s fascinated. Although I can’t see Gladion’s face as I take a closer look at it, I can sense him burning up from this sudden exposure. He reaches over to the dresser next to the bed as I stroke it, making him shudder. I snap out of my entrancement when I hear him tearing a packet open. The serious fire from earlier is in his eyes again as he stammers, “y-you can’t play with it today, but you can put this on f-for me.” I can only gawk as he hands the condom to me and stands his boner upwards. Not at what he’s holding, but just over the situation we’re about to get into…

I take a deep gulp as I place the condom on top and roll it on. I lay on the bed again, nodding to invite him to remove my shorts for me, which he does with ease. He desperately removes my soaked underwear and spreads my legs open, briefly examining my lips as I part them with my fingers. I gasp, unable to hold back my excitement. No more foreplay — I want to feel you inside me right now. He positions his member and slowly sinks it into my entrance. We both moan loudly, then he mutters, “fuck it’s so tight and hot! I’m already so close!” I pant heavily, “me too…” I intertwine my fingers with his on both sides of my head, “you… can start slow… then pick up the pace when you can’t hold it in anymore.”

Gladion nods and starts to thrust very slowly. I’m struggling to keep my eyes open while the fire in my core consumes me, but now I can truly see how his eyelashes flicker shut, his lips parted while huskily breathing, sweating but flushing with passion — my fantasies of him pale in comparison to his actual aroused expression. As he huffs heavily, I moan melodically, “holy shit you feel so good!” The pace of his thrusting gradually picks up, increasing the volume of my moans, and our clammy hands grip even tighter. “I love you so fucking much, [y/n]!” He growls into my ear, sending sensations from my face to my bucking groin. “Keep saying my name, I fucking love it!!” I gasp monstrously, wrapping my legs around his hips as the other end of his cock frantically rams into my ass. The euphoric ecstasy reaches its highest peak as he slams into me for the last time, making us scream each other’s names almost simultaneously. I feel it spasm inside me as he almost collapses upon me. We gasp loudly for air, my eyes scrunched with only stars in my vision. Holy… shit…

After Gladion collects his breath, he slowly pulls out and turns us both over to lay on our sides. The bed is soaked in sweat, and our lower areas are drenched with my essence, but neither of us care. He stares at me dreamily and whispers with a smirk, “well… did I relieve your feelings…?” I sloppily link my arm with his and giggle, “no shit you did hehe… you being here was enough but you really brought it all… must be a new tactic you came up with.” He chuckles and brushes stray hairs from my sweaty face, seemingly satisfied with his work.

Other than the sexual tension we had, it seems like neither of us can take the actual heat anymore as we roll on our backs away from each other, laughing. We lay in silence for yet another moment, when I’m struck with another dumb idea. “What if… we stayed here for the night…?” I suggest, turning my head to look back at Gladion. He pouts as he thinks about it, then turns his head to me and says, “fuck it why not? Who’s gonna stop the most powerful people of Alola?” We laugh again.

Eventually, we both get up clumsily to clean ourselves off in the bathroom. We then decided to hang out until evening, and have our first sleep together without a care in the world. We can deal with the mess we made in the morning anyway…

As the bottom right text says, Forgive my horny ass idk whether to be proud (of these drawings) or ashamed (fucking a fictional character)

#gladion #pokemon sun and moon #gladion x reader #gladion headcanons #smut #my text #buronzuwyngzu doots

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stephspurs · 3 years

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A Family Affair | Euro 2020 Football Fanfiction

hi guys and gals! Part 7 sees friendship strengthened, decisions being made and love ultimately hurting. As always, please enjoy the next part and let me know what you think is going to happen in part eight! I actually love hearing from you all so please don't be too shy to reach out and message me - I love a good chat LOL Love always, Steph xx

Part 7 | settima parte

warnings; love sucks man. word count; 1850 writing tools; third person until dashed line, first person thereafter. next update; Monday 09/08 5pm AEST. Updates are three times/week (Monday, Wednesday & Friday)! Tags (as requested by users); @footballffbarbiex @obsesseds-world @abysshaven link to fic masterlist here

“bella amelia, cosa ho fatto per meritarmi questa telefonata?” (beautiful amelia, what did i do to deserve this phone call?) Jorginho spoke his second-native tongue down the line to the British girl, calling him way past her self-appointed bedtime of 9pm.

“Jorgi, ho bisogno del consiglio di un amico” (Jorgi, i need the advice of a friend). Amelia, almost desperately, pleaded down the line to the boy who became her therapist.

It had been a few days since Amelia & Jack’s facetime where they sat and listened to the countless offers the successful girl had waiting in her voice message inbox. Being the person that she is, Amelia needed to distract herself from obsessing over the messages so she threw herself into her job. Spending too many hours over her paid allocation at Juventus training ground, getting administrative work done for the season ahead.

Was this her way of nesting? Or empty-nesting? Was she subconsciously preparing the club and her boys for life without her? Getting them ready with a season's worth of set pieces and tactical plays that would secure them an outstanding 37th victory? On the flip side, was she preparing for her new role in England which she had yet to accept. There was no harm in her taking her intellectual property back over to the motherland. The two clubs did not compete in the same tournaments, perhaps only the Champions league - but who's to say that whatever club she does pick will make the Champions League? There was no doubt Juve would be there - all of her preparation would ensure they would be. Whoever took over her role simply just had to show up and keep the boys in line.

“ok tesoro, parlami.” (Ok darling, speak to me). The Italian settled onto his couch, espresso in hand, waiting to hear the younger girl's problem.

“So I've spoken with Kyle & Jack now, and have told them of my predicament. They both are very heavily favouring one side - but I need a voice of reason. If you happen to express the same sentiments that they both did, then maybe that's all of the reassurance I need to make this final decision.” Amelia switched back to her native tongue.

After spending the better part of an hour discussing in great depth the offers that she was receiving from the 5 english clubs, Amelia felt just as confused as she did before calling the Chelsea boy. No surprise that Jorgi was team Come to the Prem & Join Chelsea, but the italian midfield maestro had also brought her back down to earth from cloud nine and reminded her of what, or who, she was leaving behind.

“Now I don't like telling you what to do, but you need to discuss this with Fede, Amelia. He doesn’t deserve a lot of things, but this is something he does.”

So that's where Amelia found herself the next morning. Sunday’s in Italy were reserved for espresso and long walks in the sun. This particular Sunday must have been reflective of the internal turmoil she was facing, uncommon for the season, the sky above her was overcast and a light drizzle had started to set in on her walk to the charming Italian’s townhouse.

______________________________________________________________

“pensavo fosse un mito che gli inglesi portino con sé il tempo the” (i thought it was a myth that british people bring the weather with them) Fede said as he opened the door, and his arms, while looking down the two steps at me.

“Very funny” I said as I gave him a hug. He always was so good at hugs. I’m going to miss them. Snap out of it Amelia - you don’t even know if you’re going to go yet. Oh she knows she's going. She also knows what club she's going to. No she doesn't, you be quiet. I’m here rooting for her Italian romance. If I had an angel and devil on each shoulder, their conversation would speak my internal monologue as such.

Walking through to his kitchen, putting on a coffee and saying hello to his dogs, Fede stood in the doorway and watched me move around his kitchen as though it was my own.

“I’m convinced you got British bulldogs because you just can’t help but love the English” I cheekily smiled up at him from my crouched position in the middle of his kitchen, giving the two bullys the best head rubs.

“Sure, you keep thinking that Amelia” Oh, the way he says your name Amelia, so foreign, so romantic. He says it the same way any other Italian would say it, he’s nothing special. Be quiet, let them have their moment.

“Lets go and enjoy these out in the courtyard, is your sun shade still up? It should hold out the rain right?” Amelia spoke rushedly as she poured two espresso cups and walked towards his back door.

“Tesoro, why are you so unsteady today? Is something troubling you?” Fede spoke worriedly, noticing my little nervous habits coming out to play and speaking faster than my mind could comprehend. Better to just get this over with i think, for once we agree on something.

“Ok i need to tell you something, and i need you to let me get it all out before interrupting me. Can you do that? This is something i’ve been working up the courage to speak out loud, let alone speak it to you”

Fede took a sip of his espresso, holding my eye contact, before putting his cup back on its saucer and leaning forward, elbows on his knees. He thought he was ready for what i was about to say, expecting it to be yet another long winded speech as to why i want to put a label on our situationship. Oh boy, how wrong he was.

“After the success of the european tournament, i have received a lot of praise and recognition for my skills”

“And you deserve every bit of it amore, every bit and even more” Oh dear, could my heart hurt anymore?

“Fede, I asked you not to interrupt me…”

“Ok ok, sorry, continue”

“So, I have received a lot of recognition both here in Italy as well as from my home country of England. In saying that, I have received a few offers from clubs in the premier league that want me to bring my approach, the italian approach, to the english game. It's a real step up in my career and it's something I am seriously considering. I’ve spoken with some of the boys back home and also Jorgi, they all think that this is the next step for me. I’m far too comfortable here, I can't grow in my comfort zone. I think I'm ready for a new challenge.”

I held eye contact with the 27 year old, I wasn’t about to let him know just how vulnerable I was feeling here in front of him. Something Fede could always do was read me, and read my emotions. If he knew how exposed I felt, how easily I could be swayed over this decision, then he would make it his life's mission to do so. I had made my mind up that I was going, but there was also a part of me that decided if he was to give me what I was after I would be open to the possibility of staying.

“So it seems that you have asked for the opinion of everyone else in your life, and made your decision, before even considering mine.” He slumped back in his chair, and rubbed two fingers over his lips while looking off into the small courtyard garden.

“Fede, I have made my decision. But I wanted to talk to you about it, I owe that to you. You have made my time here so memorable, so fantastic, so filled with love that I wouldn't even consider not including you in this.”

“Is there anything I can do to make you stay? Do you want me to ask you to be my girlfriend? To tell you I love you? To move in with me? Let me know what you need from me to reconsider this decision” He began to get frustrated with me, pulling the cap off of his head and running his fingers through his hair.

“That’s exactly it Fede! I don’t want to ask you to do that, you should ask me to be your girlfriend on your own! I don't want you to tell me you love me if you think that's what I want to hear - I want you to feel like you love me! I don’t need anyone to tell me what I want to hear, what I want to hear is what you truly feel. And if there is something i have learnt about you in the last few years is that you can’t hold back your feelings with anything! If you were in love with me it would have burst from you a long time ago. I think that you do love me Fede, but as someone to come home to instead of no one at all.”

“You know Fede, i don’t have any regrets over this. You mean just as much to me now as you did the very first time we crossed that boundary and blurred the lines. You’re just my type, you only call me late at night, you can’t decide if you’ll be your own man or mine. I hate to say it, but you really are just my type. This decision has nothing to do with you, it’s something i have come to make all on my own.”

I had stood up now, looking down at the 27 year old. I needed him to understand exactly what I was saying, how serious I was. This was the moment I could get it all off my chest, instead of just letting the relationship play out on his terms.

“I leave on Friday, I let the club know this morning. There's nothing that can be done now Fede, this is my decision. Please respect it, and me”

He stood up, his almost 6’1” frame towering over me. Looking down, face of steel, I could see everything I needed behind his eyes.

“hai ragione ti amo Solo non nel modo in cui meriti di essere amato” (you're right, i do love you. Just not in the way you deserve to be loved). He pulled me into his chest, both arms wrapping around the back of my shoulders, left hand holding my head in the crook of his neck. My arms wrapped around his back from below his arms, holding him tight enough that they crossed over and I could grab the sides of his rib cage. This was the closure I needed.

“I’ll give Jorginho a call and make sure he looks out for you”

“How do you know what club I'm going to?”

“I saw the way your eyes sparkled when you mentioned its name, it was the same sparkle that used to come out when you said mine…”

Part 8. | parte otto

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silentprincess17 · 3 years

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Sometimes Things Have To Get Worse Before They Get Better

This is essentially a darker, heavier alternate take on Memory #7 - Blades of the Yiga. I wanted to write a fic with a competent Yiga Clan. (Yes you read that right). It is very angsty in the beginning and then becomes fluffy (hence the title!)

Summary: Link and Zelda have returned from Vah Naboris with Urbosa and have spent the night in Kara Kara Bazaar Inn. Link wakes up and finds her missing.

Cue the angst.

This story is complete and I will post each chapter daily on here but you can read the whole thing on AO3

Rating: Mature (Graphic descriptions of violence) Pairing: Link/Zelda (Zelink) Characters: Link, Zelda, The Yiga Clan, Master Kohga

Chapter 1: Everything goes wrong when you don't have breakfast

Link was having a bad morning. He’d missed breakfast, a cardinal sin, and now he was anxiously darting around the Bazaar, weaving between the trees, in an attempt to see if he could spot a glimmer of blonde hair or a flash of a blue shirt.

She just had to run away. Again.

He sighed. It wasn’t that hard to understand why she constantly gave him the slip, even if he wished she didn’t. He knew it wasn’t fair of him to think such things, especially when he knew it wasn’t really him, she was running from, rather it the sword that was strapped to his back. It wasn’t him she was frustrated with, it was herself. And the sword symbolised how he was apparently fulfilling his destiny and his side of things, whilst she struggled endless with the stone-cold Hylia and had nothing to show for it. Essentially, the sword meant destiny and fate had already set out a predetermined plan for her, and she was currently set for failure. So yes, he could understand why she felt the need to escape what was surely a suffocating sight every day- the boy with the sword that has it all sorted, geared and ready to go, whilst she stumbled in the dark, Hylia’s Divine Blessing evading her.

If only she knew how much he struggled too. He didn’t just pull a sword out a rocky pedestal and boom morphed into Hyrule’s Saviour. He’d trained long and hard too. And frankly, he had felt compelled to draw the sword, it hadn’t been something that was in his control- if he had a choice, then he would also choose to just leave it be in the Lost Woods. It sounded naive and foolish now, but he hadn’t anticipated what the consequences would be when twelve-year-old Link had jumped up and wrapped his hands around that cursed mauve handle. Mostly, the thing he regretted the most about pulling the sword was that he’d effectively doomed them all. Did he want to be the one to basically foreshadow what was now surely coming? No. Another was that it had put a timer on the Princess to find her powers, and he didn’t want to cause her such anguish at being unable to unlock supposed birth-right sealing powers that she clearly didn’t have and didn’t know how to obtain. But… there had been a hidden consequence, one that he couldn’t for the life of him have predicted- when he released the sword from the pedestal, it didn’t just end with him now possessing the mythical legendary blade, oh no. He’d also obtained a whole wealth of memories, memories of past lives, past successes, past failures, and he’d lost whatever childish innocence he’d had then. And it crushed him, having this soul that apparently was doomed in this endless fight, and now he had to live up to them. He had to live up to these past Heroes and by Farore he had no idea if he’d be able to.

Every word that had come out of the Princess’s mouth at his blessing ceremony had cleaved him in two. All those past disastrous events that happened in Hyrule, and all the lengths his predecessors had gone to save the country… Adrift in time indeed. IN TIME. How was he supposed to do the same? And it made him fearful. And he was not easily frightened. He liked to think he was a little bit brave, he would run headfirst into any sort of challenge, be that eating rocks, defeating hordes of monsters, including Lynels, or even redirecting errant guardian laser beams but when he thought about what those Heroes had gone through… He certainty didn’t feel very brave when it came to imagining what exactly he’d have to do, what trials he would have to face, in line with theirs.

He finally finished strapping the sword properly to his back, he’d ran out as soon as he realised she was missing, and he tried to find any distinguishing patterns of her boots nearby. It was a useless venture, because sand shifted, constantly, and as a result any tracks were lost pretty much as soon as they formed. He sighed, deciding to do another very quick run through the Bazaar in case anyone else had spotted her, or she had come back from the baths maybe. He was clutching at straws, he knew it, and he felt that familiar churning feeling in his gut that something was wrong, but he decided to keep calm and check again just in case he’d missed something.

He sighed, even before Urbosa told him how the Princess’s behaviour was in fact coloured by the sword, he could have guessed. One of the biggest signs was that she always looked at it, instead of him. He only wished to tell her that he was just as lost as she was, because yeah sure, everyone Impa stated that he had the Sword that Seals The Darkness. Okay, but how did it do that? How does one go about killing darkness? Monsters he knew. Monsters he’d trained for. But darkness? And the thing that frightened him the most was that most of the past Heroes had fought a man. A power-obsessed, strong-willed and formidable opponent, but still, fundamentally, a man. None of them had fought this… Calamity equivalent that he seemed to be up against. Hence why he was uncertain, and fearful even, if the sword would be enough.

Not to mention how much it pained him that the arrogant idiot bird had managed to find his greatest insecurity, but that was neither here nor there.

But in truth, every time someone mentioned how he was their savour he wanted to cry. Perhaps she didn’t realise that whilst everyone had pinned her as a hopeless case and a lost cause, he’d been saddled with double the expectations to succeed. So much pressure, so many eyes, that he’d all but gone silent. Every word spoken could be misconstrued in some shape or form. Nothing he said was ever safe from scrutiny, so to continue to play the perfect, composed Hero that he was supposed to be, he decided to stop talking. What he wouldn’t give to explain to her that these praises that were lavished on him made him feel sick. Made him feel suffocated. Made him like a liar. Because really, he felt like a failure too- he had no plan other than maybe try and hit the darkness with the sword and hope that works. And the foreboding feeling he had that he hadn’t yet faced the supposedly impending huge trial that most of the other Heroes had, and they had all done said trial well before they obtained the Master Sword. He felt unworthy of it, somehow. All he’d done was train hard, fight and try to eradicate the plague of monsters in the land. He hadn’t travelled through time, he hadn’t transformed into a wolf, he hadn’t lost his sister, or his best friend. Hence why he was dreading meeting Ganon. There was a catch somewhere. He could feel it.

He exhaled heavily, sweat starting to build on his brow. This was why he wanted to tell Zelda that she wasn’t alone. That he knew what she was going through. They were a pair in destiny, fate… even souls after all. But she hated him, his very being, and probably wished he didn’t exist- no correction- she wished the sword didn’t exist, then he wouldn’t have pulled it and wouldn’t have become a direct comparator for her success. It all felt futile sometimes, and he wondered why exactly he was in such a melancholy mood this morning. Probably something to do with not eating.

She wasn’t in the Bazaar. He’d now checked over every stall twice. And Link felt rising trepidation. Of all the places for her to run away, she’d chosen the desert. She’d chosen where the main dissenters of the Royal Family lived. She chosen the one place where it was highly probable that there would be an assassination attempt on her. And he wasn’t there to protect her. Link could freely admit to himself he was scared. What if he didn’t find her in time, what if – No. He had to think positively. And then his eyes fell to his Champion’s tunic, embroidered, as it was, by her hand. Goddesses above, how would he present himself back the Castle if he’d actually lost her this time? And in such a worrisome place too. A stone settled in Link’s gut, as he desperately racked his brains, replaying last night’s events trying to remember if she’d dropped any hints as to where she was going.

He drew a big fat blank.

In the name of Din, where else could she have gone? She had been silent on the way back from Vah Naboris, probably reproachful that he’d managed to find her, yet again. And he had, admittedly, found it suspicious that she’d remained mum, accepted going to the Bazaar, and sleeping in the Inn, and leaving to head to Goron City the next day without a single word of dissent. He should have known that she was planning something.

And now, it was starting to get hot, as he quickly ran off towards the path, wondering if she’d gone back to Gerudo Town. But she’d already said her goodbyes to Urbosa last night... Link sighed, the heat already causing his tunic to stick to his back. It was a desert after all, one couldn’t expect it to get cold during the day, and he hadn’t had time to fill in their canteens, and oh for the love of Farore could he at least get a single sign as to where Her Highness had deigned to grace her presence at. He didn’t want to be beheaded for incompetence so soon.

He saw a small cloud of sand rise in the distance. At this point, it could be a mirage and he was seeing something that his mind had conjured in desperation at trying to find the missing Princess.

And then he saw a flash of red.

And his blood ran cold, despite the heat.

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wrestlingisfake · 3 years

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Hard to Kill preview

Kenny Omega & Doc Gallows & Karl Anderson vs. Rich Swann & Chris Sabin & Moose - When Kenny Omega won the AEW men’s world title on December 2, he completed a long-simmering heel turn by forming an alliance with Impact Wrestling executive Don Callis. Omega and Callis began showing up on both Impact and AEW programming acting like Omega is “the real world champion,” which irritated Impact world champion Rich Swann. Omega also reunited with Impact’s men’s tag team champions, Gallows and Anderson, who had already been having issues with former champs Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley.

This match was originally booked as Omega/Gallows/Anderson vs. Swann/Sabin/Shelley, but the day before the show Impact announced that “unavoidable circumstances” prevented Shelley from traveling to the show in Nashville. Shelley’s last-minute replacement is Moose, who has recently been feuding with Swann. For over eight months, Moose has been calling himself the “TNA world champion,” presumably to set up a “who’s the real champion?” match with the Impact world champion. But that seems kind of silly now that Omega and Swann are kind of doing the same thing, but with more credibility. So I was hoping they’d get Swann vs. Moose wrapped up before Swann vs. Omega got going. I certainly wasn’t expecting Moose to be involved in this match.

Because of Omega and the AEW interpromotional angle, this may well be the biggest show Impact has run in years. So Impact is motivated to deliver the best they can for whatever new audience this match will attract. The big question is whether AEW is invested enough to send a few of their guys to appear on this show for a hot angle. Any unadvertised AEW wrestler causing any kind of ruckus on this show will get people talking. But AEW and Impact seem to be taking their time with this storyline, and they may not think now is the time to drop the next bombshell plot point.

To me, the likeliest finishes are a) Omega’s team dominates and wins to get more heat, or b) Swann scores the winning fall to set up an Omega vs. Swann singles match. The best setup for that match would be Swann pinning Omega, but I don’t see that happening anytime soon. But if they sell it like Omega’s team are the heavy favorites, and that Omega’s ego is bruised by an upset even if he didn’t lose the fall, then that can still work. But then again, that was my gut feeling before Moose was added to the match. Now it feels far more likely that Moose will turn on his partners or walk out on them, which could change the entire complexion of the match. That uncertainty has me pretty interested in how things unfold.

Eddie Edwards vs. Sami Callihan - This is billed as a “barbed wire massacre” match, so the ring ropes will be replaced with barbed wire, and objects wrapped in barbed wire will be provided at ringside to use as weapons. Obviously, in this sort of match nobody is going to be disqualified or counted out.

I can’t say I understand the storyline leading up to this. Edwards and Callihan had a vicous feud following a 2018 incident where Callihan botched a spot and hit Edwards in the face with a baseball bat. Then they seemed to go down separate paths, and then recently Sami and Ken Shamrock started picking on Edwards and his wife for some reason. The idea now appears to be that these two will never be able to settle it, except that they both clearly put it all aside for the better part of a year. In any case, they’ve run out of hardcore stips to use in their matches, so here we are.

I believe this is the fourth “barbed wire massacre” match Impact has booked. The first two were on pay-per-view in 2005 and 2008. The third was taped for television in 2018, but was only streamed on Twitch because it was “too violent for TV.” I remember watching the first one (Abyss vs. Sabu) in 2005 and being too squeamish to enjoy the performance. In matches like this you have to hope the wrestlers know what they’re doing and don’t go too far just to create a “moment.” But with Callihan and Edwards, that doesn’t apply, so I just have to hope the match was taped in advance, so that if one of them was gravely injured we’d have seen reports about it by now.

Both of these guys are pushed as top acts in Impact, but Callihan always seems to come up short in big matches like this. I can’t see either guy accepting defeat and letting the feud end. But if this is really the final chapter, then I think Edwards needs the last laugh more than Sami does.

Deonna Purrazzo vs. Taya Valkyrie - Purrazzo is defending the Impact women’s championship. Valkyrie held the title from January 2019 to January 2020--the longest single reign in the title’s history--but after losing the belt she spent 2020 preoccupied in comedy stuff with Rosemary and John E. Bravo. So Taya’s doing the whole “you’ve only done so well as champion because I haven’t gotten around to facing you” bit.

I haven’t been able to get into Impact’s women’s division. I suppose it’s because so many of the characters seem superficial and unserious. Like, Purrazzo is presented as a solid in-ring performer, but outside the ring she’s the kind of self-absorbed chicken heel who plots with her sidekick to devise ways to duck upcoming challengers. Impact is full of characters like that, but the women’s division in particular has almost nothing else. Hell, Taya was playing that role when she was the heel champion. So I can’t say I’m very motivated to see these two fight. I also don’t really believe we’re going to get a title change at this point.

Manik vs. Chris Bey vs. Rohit Raju - This is a three-way match for the X division championship, so whoever scores the first fall over any opponent will win Manik’s title. This story started with Bey as champion and Raju as his crony, but Raju was the one henchman in wrestling history who managed to manipulate his boss to his advantage, so Raju won the title from Bey in a three-way with TJP. Raju was so worried about losing his belt to TJP that he arranged a stipulation where TJP could no longer challenge him. Then Raju issued an open challenge answered by Manik...the masked man character originally played by TJP. So now Manik is the champion and definitely not TJP, but Raju and Bey aren’t buying it.

I don’t really care who wins this. Every time they do a multi-man match for the X title, they demonstrate that multi-man matches don’t settle anything, because there’s always somebody who’s like “Well I wasn’t pinned, so I should get another match!” So if, for example, Bey pins Raju, you know it’s just going to lead to Bey vs. TJP and/or Manik later. Except Raju is going to weasel his way into the situation, for another three-way. (Unless Crazzy Steve is free that weekend, and it’ll be a four-way.) There’s no direction here. The best thing that could happen to the X title (aside from retiring it as an obsolete relic) is if some AEW guys came in to fight for it. And I don’t expect that to happen soon.

Havok & Neveah vs. Tasha Steelz & Kiera Hogan - This match is the tournament final to decide which team will be awarded the Impact women’s tag team championship. The title was originally introduced in 2009, but a lack of interest in booking it properly led to ODB teaming with Eric Young to win the belts in March 2012. The last title defense I can find was in May 2012, although it took over a year for Impact to officially abandon the championship.

I can see why Impact was motivated to bring the title back, since throughout 2020 most of their women’s roster was paired off in various alliances: Taya Valkyrie & Rosemary, Deonna Purrazzo & Kimber Lee, Kylie Rae & Susie, etc. But just because most of the women on the roster have a natural partner doesn’t mean there are enough women to fill out a tag team division. I suspect these two teams are going to end up rematching a lot for the tag belts, while the teams they eliminated in the tournament go back to focusing on singles action. If just having women’s tag titles automatically meant expanding the women’s roster and pushing more women, then that would be great. But we’ve seen that it doesn’t work that way, not only in WWE, but also the last time Impact tried it.

My gut feeling is that Steelz and Hogan have more future potential, so I’d probably prefer to put the title on them. But Havok and Neveah have the edge in size and meanness, and I could easily see Impact wanting them to dominate as the champions a la the Road Warriors.

Eric Young & Cody Deaner & Joe Doering vs. Cousin Jake & Rhino & Tommy Dreamer - This is being called an “old school rules” match, which is Impact’s way of saying “ex-ECW guys are in this so we want to say ‘extreme rules’ but WWE trademarked that.” Basically there are no count-outs or disqualifications. Cody and Jake were a tag team until Deaner became obsessed with proving himself against Young; when he failed, he turned on Jake and joined Young’s group. Rhino tried to help Jake out, but it wasn’t until Tommy Dreamer got involved that they were able to even the odds. I’m pretty sure Young’s faction is just getting started and they are going to destroy the babyfaces here.

Ethan Page vs. The Karate Man - Page is one half of The North, which spent most of 2019-2020 dominating the men’s tag team division. Karate Man is the alter ego of...Ethan Page. So he’s fighting himself. That’s always fun.

The backstory here is that the North struggled to recover from losing the tag title earlier this year, and Page grew increasingly desperate to convince Josh Alexander that they could regroup. The tipping point was when Alexander was wrestling Brian Myers and Karate Man interfered, causing Josh to get disqualified. Page did a skit where he tried to get therapy from Karate Man, before they decided to fight instead.

The bigger story behind all this is that Page’s contract with Impact Wrestling reportedly expired at the end of 2020, so he’s technically not even with the promotion anymore. Reportedly, this “match” was taped weeks ago. Just because Page is a free agent doesn’t mean he won’t simply re-sign with Impact at any moment. But this looks to be his swan song before he moves on...or the pivotal angle that sets up how he’s staying.

Obviously this is going to have to be pre-taped with Patty Duke Show special effects. I’m not sure if that means it’ll be a ~*~cinematic match~*~ though. They could do a weird brawl in a weird location like the Boneyard Match or Stadium Stampede, or they could just do it on the normal set in a normal ring and not do anything weird except the split screen effects. I honestly don’t know what to expect.

Rosemary & Crazzy Steve vs. Tenille Dashwood & Kaleb with a K - Rosemary and Steve used to be in The Decay together years ago, and occasionally Impact remembers that and has them interact. Tenille is formerly Emma from WWE, playing a stuck-up Instagram influencer gimmick with Kaleb as her personal assistant. Rosemary already beat Dashwood in the setup to this match, and I don’t think Kaleb is going to last long against Steve, so I guess the weirdo babyfaces will triumph.

Josh Alexander vs. Brian Myers - This is scheduled for the pre-show. As noted above, Alexander and Ethan Page had some issues that came to a head when Page caused Alexander to lose a match to Myers. So Josh wants to avenge that loss. It’s kinda funny to me that the serious match about wins and losses and professionalism is on the pre-show while the “Ethan Page beats himself up” comedy is on the main show. But anyway, it seems like Alexander is headed for a singles push, so he might as well get that started with a win.

#impact wrestling #aew #hard to kill #kenny omega #luke gallows #karl anderson #rich swann #moose #chris sabin

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ashleyswrittenwords · 4 years

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The Queen’s Tournament III

A ZeLink Fanfiction (Part Three of Three)

(Art by the wonderful @ramibriidge)

Summary: Princess Zelda is ready for her coronation. Her court, however, is not. In an effort for a King, the ministers pressure the crown princess into agreeing to marry whoever champions in a tournament any man in the kingdom can participate in.

Note: I’m so crazy happy that this little story gained so much traction! You all are so nice and I’m truly indebted to you all. In the future, I’ll have a bunch of other cute little fics like this one - so please follow! I also am continuing How to be a Queen, my very long ZeLink fic. She’s my baby.

The Queen’s Tournament

The sun was just as relentless as it had been the days prior. This time, however, there wasn’t a cloud in the sky to give momentary reprieve. Zelda wondered if the masking spells also staved off the sun’s assault. The princess was never the one to tan, but she hadn’t had an issue up until now. The present problem was the excessive sweat already dripping from Yoland’s forehead as the announcer rattled off rules that her attention span couldn’t afford.

There were three others in the open space. Lord Ganondorf was sizing up his decided opponent across from him, a man whose name slipped her mind. He was a sword smith for the castle armory, she remembered vaguely. She tried to recall where else she had seen his face, but the blue eyes from across the way burned holes through her. In an attempt to release nervous energy, she thumbed at the cuff of her sleeve and diverted her gaze to the ground.

Yoland hadn’t had the opportunity of speaking with Link this morning. Each contender was escorted to opposite entrances of the theater and ever since the awkward reintroductions were being said, the hero hadn’t stopped glaring at her. Even from so far away, the energy he directed at Yoland was beyond unwelcoming – it was borderline obsessive. Zelda racked her brain for reasons why but came up short. There was some semblance of camaraderie yesterday when Link took the liberty of distracting Ganondorf. Even their brief exchange was amiable. Link had even smiled!

And a different encounter the night before… well, it hadn’t stopped plaguing her mind. The memory had slipped its way under her skin and to the very depths of her mind. Each time she closed her eyes to sleep that night she could only see the way he looked at her – wanting, needing, but unable to verbalize it.

But now it was as if that hadn’t occurred.

Dark brows drew towards each other. Maybe it was a guy thing? Something that Zelda couldn’t understand despite looking like one. That only worried her more.

Her attention drew to the choice of weapons that were laid in the center of the arena. She had already made up her mind of what to choose: The thin longsword in the middle. It looked light enough for her build, but long enough for a decent reach. It was also a weapon she had the most experience with. Lord Ganondorf would probably pick the Desert Saber – a long curved blade with a thick guard at the base. The blacksmith would probably choose a similar weapon with his stature being just as bulky as the lord.

“Gentlemen!” A deep yell echoed off the walls, “Thirty seconds!”

The unsuspected announcement jolted Zelda and her heart pounded in her chest as a group of women shouted her alias behind her. Then, the voice counted from ten.

Seven…

Five…

Three…

Two…

One…

Yoland lept off his back foot and sprinted forward. Wind rushed past his ears and the only sounds were of his heart and the dull yells from the stands. Sweat meshed with the leather gloves as a hand wrapped around the handle of the chosen blade. Yet, the sword wouldn’t rise from the clay. For a short moment, Zelda peered upward to see why she was suddenly shaded from the sun. Then, an elbow collided to the side of her head.

It happened in a split second, and the motion of her jerking brought the blade loose from under Link’s boot. She stumbled to her feet and struggled to steady her gaze. Link was parrying an onslaught from the Gerudo politician and to her left the blacksmith was making his way to her. The events caught up to her and she readied her stance, parting her feet evenly on the ground.

Before the man reached her, Ganondorf rushed him and barely gave Yoland a second glance. Rushed footsteps sounded off towards her and Yoland raised his blade just as Link crashed his own down. The sudden pressure on the thin metal made the smaller man sway, but he rebounded quickly.

Link moved wordlessly, but vigilant. It barely gave Zelda space to collect her thoughts because she was so preoccupied with watching his feet. With each step and slide, she flashbacked to their training and used his actions against him. The hero slowly grew frustrated with the little show of progress and bared harder into a slash towards Yoland who gritted his teeth in surprise. The tip of the blade cut into the navy fabric of the tunic and Zelda knew she needed distance. Link could easily overpower her with such a heavy-weighted sword in this proximity. All he needed was to corner her.

Therefore, she took the moment to double back.

A cry rang out and the stands were shouting something that she couldn’t make out. It had apparently drew Link in as well as he lowered his weapon slightly to look over at the other two fighters.

Ganondorf had cut deeply into the arm of the blacksmith, who had dropped his weapon in pain. Blood ran down his arm and he screamed out again at the sight. Zelda looked between Link and the man for a moment, question invading her features. The only way for someone to drop out of the sparring was to admit surrender.

The lord was looking annoyed and stepped towards him. With the butt of his guard he brought it sharply upon the blacksmith’s crown and the man crumbled like a corpse. Yoland gasped involuntarily.

With dark eyes wide with alarm, Yoland turned towards his opponent, “He’s going to kill him.”

Link had almost turned his head to negate the statement, but as the Lord picked up the man’s head by his hair with the sword in his grasp there was a shout.

“Ganondorf, stop!” It was Link. His brow was creased and his defensive body language towards Yoland dropped to face the Gerudo man who was now looking irritated at the interruption. “You’re not to kill him!”

“And what’s to stop me?” The man grimaced.

This time, Yoland spoke. “He has obviously surrendered.”

Ganondorf tilted his head to the side. As a taunting motion, he leaned down to the blacksmith as if he were listening intently. “I’m afraid he has nothing to say!”

Link looked at Yoland, a glint in his eye. In that short moment, an unspoken agreement was made. They’d take care of their business with each other after this immediate threat was dealt with. Yoland gave a short nod before addressing the aristocrat again, “I won’t let you harm him again.”

The Gerudo snorted, “You? The hero wannabe I could understand, but you? Pathetic.” Yoland winced as the unconscious body of the blacksmith crashed into the ground once more. He approached slowly, wiping the thick blood from the peak of the blade. Lord Ganondorf was a large man in both stature and demeanor. Even the few armored men that stood at the entrance closest to them waited idly. Again, Link met his eyes and he motioned towards the group. If they could disarm or incapacitate Ganondorf, they’ll interfere. But until then…

Ganondorf sauntered over, leering at the two smaller men. His yellow eyes intensified under the sun and Yoland narrowed his eyes. “Don’t look so fearful. Aren’t you the man that could cross realms? How has life been like since giving up that Master Sword for the cozy retirement life of being the princess’s lapdog?”

Link was the first to make a move. His sword harshly met the politician’s own which knocked him off balance. Before the Gerudo could react to the aggression, Yoland went to slash at the wrist that supported the blade. A fist collided into Yoland’s stomach, air fled from his lungs and his body crashed to the floor. The raven-haired man gaped for air. The aristocrat’s boot kicked into Yoland’s midsection, robbing him of recovery. A wounded wheeze escaped him.

A pair of boots appeared before him and Ganondorf was forced back. There were short exchanges as Yoland came to his knees.

“Always in the way, aren’t you Hero?” The Gerudo spat.

Link held his own, “Only yours. No need to get jealous.”

“It doesn’t matter what they call you,” the lord grunted as Link brought his blade down, “You’ll always be a peasant worthy of only pity in her eyes. This won’t change anything.”

Yoland stood now, breathing shallowly. Internally, he hoped the aches were temporary. Ganondorf had his back to him now, facing Link instead. The latter doing a show of enrapturing the large man in conversation. With a gulp, Yoland left his weapon in the dust and ran forward. He wrapped a forearm around the man’s neck and tightened the hold with the opposite arm. He yelled out Link’s name with hurry in his voice.

As the arms tightened, the politician raised his blade with the inability to shout. Link reacted by hitting the blunt of his sword into Ganondorf’s dominant hand. The weapon fell, and hands swiped at Yoland who felt the world turn sideways.

The guards that previously hung to the side approached now, prying the oversized man off with handcuffs in their grasp. Too busy choking, Ganondorf spat curses and shouts. Just past the disarray, Zelda sighed in relief at seeing the assaulted blacksmith coming to.

“That was unpleasant,” Yoland said, dusting off his trousers. Link didn’t reply and Yoland saw why. The glint in his eye was gone, replaced with distaste once more. With eyebrows raised in alarm, he fumbled for his weapon as Link came towards him. Zelda within was beside herself. The ally she saw in him wasn’t in front of her anymore and his expression was jarring, but she couldn’t linger on it for long. It wasn’t time for Zelda, she needed Yoland to be present.

He searched the opposite man’s face, “Can’t we breathe for a moment?”

“Why were you in the garden?” Link snarled, lunging towards him.

Yoland deflected the attempted blow. Surprise met his features and his heart pounded adrenaline. It had occurred to Zelda that it was Link that made a noise in the garden this morning. Her heart lurched in her chest, but by his demeanor he hadn’t seen her until after casting the spell. If she had waited any longer he would have known. Yoland didn’t display Zelda’s worries, instead he grinned. “Private matters.”

Staying spry on his feet, Yoland watched Link’s footwork and matched it. It was clear Link wanted answers because he was being easy on her, like when they trained. The only difference being that he meant to injure instead of teach. Speaking of Link, he looked beyond irritated, “What does that mean? Why were you outside Zelda’s terrace?”

She didn’t mean to laugh, but it came out anyway. It was easy to voice what one could gather from the awkward predicament. “What’s it to you? Maybe we have a thing going on.”

The look on his face confirmed what he had been thinking prior. Zelda regretted her words, but it was too late. Whatever preconceived notion he had conjured was confirmed. He lowered his sword for a moment, his head tilted in disbelief. “I don’t believe you.”

“You probably shouldn’t,” Yoland took the opportunity to aim his own blade at Link who blocked it at the last second. They were caught in a stalemate. “You never told me why you were here,” Yoland grunted out, struggling against Link’s added pressure.

“Do you really want to know? Or are you just trying to distract me?” Link said as his opponent side-stepped out of the stalemate and Link slashed his blade through the air. The move reminded him of something he couldn’t pinpoint.

Zelda knew she couldn’t beat him in strength. Again, she had to find distance and escape somehow, “Humor me.” She crouched to kick at his feet. Perhaps if he trips, she could disarm him. The action didn’t follow through and he dove to the side.

He stood straight, breathing heavily. Courage stirred in Zelda to see that she had kept him going for this long. Link shook his head in exasperation, “I just want to give her a choice.”

Yoland guarded himself, but his brow furrowed in confusion. “What?”

“When I win,” Link cracked a grin, “I’ll ask her what she wants.”

Their blades clashed again. Yoland blinked as if his statement didn’t register. “What if she says no?”

He didn’t unlock his eyes from his opponent. The blond hair stuck to his forehead now and his breath came in short pants, “I’ll leave. Or whatever she wants me to do. I thought about faking my death to get out of this place. Would be nice to see the mountains this time of year.”

A bitter laugh came from the black-haired man, “You’re bluffing.”

But he wasn’t and Yoland’s laughter settled to silence. “You’re joking, right?”

“No. I thought about it for a long time,” Link plainly said. As if it were nothing. Zelda felt nauseous. Her face felt like fire and the heat wasn’t helping.

“S-so,” Yoland fumbled backward, their blades parted as Zelda scrambled to get a grasp of what he was saying. He didn’t really want to marry her? With surprised eyes, Yoland ducked at a sudden slash towards him. Eventually, she found her voice, “What if she said yes? What would you do, Hero?”

Link frowned. He acted as if he didn’t understand. Reason fought through her flustered mind and she narrowed in on her advantageous situation. Yoland kept eye contact but bared down on his left foot and swung with all his might near the hilt of his sword. Link hadn’t expected it because his blade flew out of his hand. Yoland’s foot hit him squarely on the chest and kicked him backward, the man toppled over.

Yoland cleared his throat, breathing heavily now as he looked down at the bewildered hero. “What would you do?”

“I’m not stupid,” Link coughed, but reacted by grabbing the ankle of the unsuspecting man. “I’d marry her if she wanted me.”

Zelda yelped as her back hit the ground. Reflex brought her right arm inward along with the sword. It ended up below Link’s neck who looked precariously between it and Yoland’s eyes. He slowly backed up and Yoland didn’t move to stop him. It was Zelda’s head that was spinning.

She stood and met him as he retrieved his weapon. They were both out of breath. Link froze for a moment. He took a step closer and stared.

“What?” Zelda breathed out, turning to see what was behind her. There was nothing but open air. “What?” She repeated. With an arm raised she attacked where he parried lamely. The sword fell to the dirt.

His expression was indescribable, then he grinned.

“Link,” she was getting frustrated, “This isn’t funny.”

Link was laughing now. “You win.”

Zelda cocked her head to the side, “What are you- Stop it!” She stomped her foot on the ground, but it didn’t stop him.

The man looked towards the tower where the announcer was and shouted, “I forfeit!”

Then, Zelda noticed the quietness in the stands. With a glance at her hands, she understood why. Her masking spell had slipped. Her hands were no longer had the tan callousness of a man. They were pale and the only imperfections were the scrapes and bruises of today. She dropped her weapon and reached back to grab her braid. The locks were blonde.

“The…” the announcer seemed to step away and was speaking to another person, “The winner of the Queen’s Tournament is… Princess Zelda?”

The crowd irrupted in mayhem.

“Ridiculous.”

“It’s for show, Zelda. He’ll be used as an example. He won’t be convicted.”

Zelda pointed at the one of the fabric pieces a maid held out. They were the same hues of blue, but evidently to the designer they were not. With a shake of her head she spun around to Impa, “How was he supposed to know and why wasn’t I told?”

“For your protection. Your coronation is a week away and-”

The princess sputtered, “My protection? He’s supposed to be the one helping to protect me!” She stomped around the advisor with fire in her eyes, angrily picking out goblets for the celebration.

“They put Link Forester behind bars for threatening me with a weapon,” her eyes were wide with disbelief and Zelda spoke breathlessly. “How am I supposed to put up with that? I am the acting queen and they went over my head.”

Impa sighed, exhausted. “They aren’t thrilled with your… display. You know that. We are down to days before a proper crowned monarch ascends to the throne after two years of absence. The ministry will pull every trick to disgruntle you before they no longer can.”

A deep flush crept up Zelda’s neck. It was born from a sudden frustration and the thought of Link. She hadn’t seen him since the tournament. They were barely able to speak a sentence until she was dragged away to be assessed for injury. Zelda had never been opposed to marriage, if anything she was annoyed with the idea of match making made on other’s part. She wanted to be in control of her life and if that meant wanting a man in it, then it will happen. Being of royalty, she learned early on that the criticisms and judgements of others had to be isolated from her own or else she’d be a vessel others controlled.

She cleared her voice, turning back to her mentor. “Where is he?”

“The holding cells,” Impa said before realizing her mistake, but it was too late and the princess had already brushed by her.

‘You know,’ Link thought, ‘It could be worse.’

Sure, the floor was cold and the only place to sleep was on a wool blanket with a myriad of holes. And the bathroom wasn’t the cleanest, but the soldiers he did know brought a generous amount of food for his meals and sometimes a maid came by with extra blankets. So yes, Link supposed it could be worse.

Link heard from rumors that they tried to have Zelda abdicate after the tournament, but once it went public there were protests in the streets. Borderline riots, from what he heard from one stationed guard. “Good,” was all he had replied. Because it was. There was no one’s approval Zelda cared more about than her peoples’. Link knew she felt bolstered by that and no doubt her attitude towards the house of ministers worsened. Now, they were saying her coronation was next week.

The tournament itself was two weeks ago now. He tried to say something to Zelda before they parted, but there was nothing that could prepare him for her presence. When her blade was touching his throat, he had watched her eyes change from dark to light. It was, to say the least, a shocking moment. It was no wonder how Yoland matched his footwork so well, but it was also obvious that she had practiced beyond what he had seen. Link was proud and maybe a little embarrassed by the things he had said to her throughout the tournament.

They had arrested him only a couple days ago under the pretense of attempted treason, which confused him to no end. He was actually on his way to pack for an escape, but there wasn’t much he could do about several armed castle guards storming into his room in the middle of the night. So, here he was waiting for a trial, which could take weeks if the court wanted it that way.

Link looked up from his place on the floor towards the stairs that led to the holding cells. There sounded like an argument occurring outside. The door opened and more shouting. His ears twitched up at the voice.

“Do you know who I am?” There was a clanking that rattled down the stairs and a sword landed at the foot. Another clinking was heard being wrestled with.

“Your Grace, please! I can’t allow you-”

Light steps bounded down the stairs and a form appeared, her colorful skirts were hiked up above her ankles and her head was turned to interrupt.

“You can’t allow me to what? See my own subjects? Remind me, sir, who did you swear your allegiance to?”

Zelda had the same effect on him as she always has. She stole his breath away and her casual beauty forever enraptured him. The princess didn’t have her crown on today, meaning there weren’t any public appearances. Her blonde hair spilled down her shoulders and she was impossibly perfect. Now, she was muttering her grievances and taking care to step over the fallen blade. She scanned the cells until her eyes rested on him. Zelda paused in her steps.

Link found his voice, “What are you doing here?”

She walked over slowly with a ring of steel keys in her grasp. Zelda looked thrown off, as if she was shocked to see him. “I- What are you doing here?”

“Well, I am incarcerated for harming the crown,” he jested. Zelda’s frown deepened and she fiddled with the keys, beginning to test them in the lock that separated them.

Link came to his feet and met her at the door. Concern flooded his mind, “What are you trying to do, Zelda?”

“I’m trying to get you out. This is stupid.”

He reached his hands through the bars and stopped her own. Their eyes met and he watched her brow crease in confusion. “You’re getting into trouble and you’re not even queen yet.”

“I’d rather be in trouble then leave you in here under false pretenses,” she said, looking up at him with an annoyed expression. But behind her eyes was a tinge of sadness. He smiled softly at her, “If you wait a week, you can pardon me yourself.”

“No! I… I want you there.”

Link looked thrown off by her comment. “That’s nice, Zel, but-”

“Were you telling the truth at the tournament?” She searched his eyes desperately. Her cheeks were reddening. He blinked in confusion, she was talking fast, and he could barely keep up, “What?”

“Two weeks ago. After Lord Ganondorf was dragged off the field. Were you telling the truth?”

Her hands grasped around his and Link felt his heart jump in his chest. Her head was just barely resting on the bars and he wanted nothing but to make whatever was causing her distress to go away.

“What part?” His lips quirked upward ever so slightly. “I only remember talking to a man with a peculiar name.”

“Link!” He heard her stomp her foot like she did then. “I’m serious!”

Link’s forehead touched to cold bars as he watched her frantic eyes and he wondered briefly why. Now the comparisons between the untrustworthy man and Zelda made sense. It was a wonder to him that he hadn’t figured it out, but if Link were honest with himself, he was never the type of man to draw logical conclusions with someone like Zelda involved. She was horribly intoxicating. With a heavy breath he spoke, “About why I was there?”

She nodded slowly and he felt like he couldn’t breathe with such big eyes on him. He didn’t feel like this against Zant. Sure, he was nervous. But Zelda was different. She was beautiful, strong, and unbelievably stubborn. “You’d been dragging your feet for the days and weeks leading up to it. Sadness and anger don’t suit you well, Zelda. Of course I was telling the truth,” Link smiled softly.

Her breath caught and Link thought he had said something wrong. Before he went to apologize, Zelda spoke up, “Marriage. W-what about being married? To me?”

“Marriage?” He leaned back to get a full look at her. Zelda’s face was blotched in red and she watched his reaction with wide eyes, “I’m sorry! I didn’t… I didn’t mean to…”

“Being married to you?” Link said again, his smile wavered, “Zelda, a man wouldn’t be a man if he didn’t dream about being with the most beautiful woman in Hyrule at least once.”

She looked expectant, but nervous. Her voice was uneven and her eyes never straying. “Even you?”

Link had to steady himself from doing anything rash. Her lips were so close and he thanked the goddesses for the bars separating them, though if she leaned closer…

“Yes,” his voice dipped low, “Especially me.”

He leaned down, watching her reaction as he did. She didn’t move and he couldn’t control his composure without her pushing him away. A part of Link wanted her to do just that, tell him no, or move back to give him some indication that what he was doing was wrong. But despite his silent rationale slipping away, she did none of those things. Instead, she waited for him with eyes flickering to his lips. Without a moment longer, Link eagerly pressed his lips onto hers and they were softer than he ever fantasized about. Her hands traveled upwards to his forearms until they were stopped by the bars. She breathed deeper into the kiss and Link was convinced she was a drug he’d forever be addicted to.

Far too soon, she pulled away and without catching her breath she spoke breathlessly, “I love you. Marry me.”

Between being dazed by her kiss and her words, he felt light-headed. The world passed by him as he stared dizzily at the woman who waited timorously. “I love you- wait, what?” He felt like passing out.

“Marry me?”

“But what about your coronation?”

She shook her head, “I don’t care.”

“Your cabinet, the ministers, the people?”

Again, she shook her head fervently as Link stared bewildered at the woman before him.

“I don’t care about them. I know what I want and I want you.”

He couldn’t stop the beating in his chest and the smile that painted across his lips. Despite the whirlwind of weight being dropped onto him and slowly coming to the fact that this may be the single most important moment in his life, doubt gnawed at him. His eyes searched the ground and his palms grew sweaty. “Zelda, are you sure you want me? I… Everything Ganondorf said wasn’t all false.”

“I’ve never been surer about anything than I am right now,” she spoke with a steady voice. Even had he lied to himself and refused her hand, there wasn’t a power in this world to keep Zelda’s stubbornness from winning. “Though I wish it were under better circumstances.”

“You do have the keys, love.”

She stared at him for a moment. “I thought that meant getting in trouble, Link.”

“I believe we’ve surpassed trouble at this point.”

“Fair point,” she nodded, laughing lightly until she managed to shove a key into the lock. The rusty hinges creaked as the door opened. Link brushed a hand through his hair, “You know the implications of me marrying you, right?”

“I know, and frankly I think you’ll do fine,” she smiled as he brushed a strand of hair behind her ear.

“I’m just a goat herder from South Hyrule. I can’t offer much. I don’t even have a ring,” Link beamed at her with pure adoration in his eyes.

Zelda hummed, “I don’t mind.” Her smile dropped, “You never said yes.”

Link grinned wryly, his lips already itching for another kiss. “Yes. Yes one-hundred times over to marry you.”

#fanfiction #legend of zelda #loz au #zelink #zelink fanfiction #link #zelda #link x zelda #zelda x link #the queens tournament

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wondereads · 3 years

Text

Personal Recommendation (05/09/21)

Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

Why am I recommending this book?

It's kind of a classic. It doesn't have the cultural impact of Pride and Prejudice or Harry Potter, but are you really a YA fan if you haven't read a Sarah J. Maas book? I've already read this one, but I only read the first two, and I wanted to refresh my memory so I could finish the series. I thought I'd share my thoughts along the way.

Want something quick and short? Check out my tiktok

Plot 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Celaena Sardothien, the vicious killer known as Adarlan's Assassin, is taken from the slave camp of Endovier by Crown Prince Dorian Havilliard to compete in a competition. The winner will become the champion of the current king of Adarlan, a bloodthirsty conqueror. Celaena agrees for the chance to earn her freedom again, but the competition gains some much higher stakes when champions start turning up dead.

A deadly competition is a pretty basic YA plot idea. However, the added obstacles in the physical sense (the dying champions) and the moral sense (serving a tyrant) make it more interesting. There is absolutely no doubt from the beginning that Celaena will win the competition, so adding the other things help keep the reader from getting bored. Maas was also able to incorporate the bigger plot lines (Elena, Nehemia, the king's conquest, the rings, etc.) without giving too much away. It starts out as a competition, but by the end of the book, you understand that something much bigger is just getting started.

The twist was pretty easy to predict. You probably catch on about halfway through that it's going to be them. Luckily, the more important mysteries are nowhere close to being solved so it's easy to stay engaged, but I do wish things had been a little more unpredictable. For example, giving Celaena an easily exploitable weakness might leave the result of the final duel up in the air.

Characters 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

I'll be honest. Celaena is a bit of a Mary Sue. She's a trained killer. She can shoot and throw daggers with deadly accuracy. She knows her poisons. She's beautiful. She can play the pianoforte. She has some sort of magic in her blood. And she's only eighteen. Then you get into the issues of her conflicting personality. She's outspoken and hotheaded, but she knows when to hold back. She's a ruthless assassin, but she's kind and sympathetic. She was just too good. Luckily, I didn't hate her. She's definitely overpowered, but she isn't annoying. I just think her backstory and skill set do not match her personality. There isn't really much to say about her character development because there was none. She was already perfect. There is no point where Celaena makes a decision and must deal with the consequences; everything in the plot is just happened to her, not because of her. In my opinion, she's a lens for the audience, not a character.

Dorian was okay. He is very nice and righteous, but he's also kinda dumb. I really don't have much to say about him. Chaol, on the other hand, was great. He bonds with Celaena over training, so I felt like their relationship was much more realistic. Their banter was also more interesting to read. His conflicts between his duty, morals, and feelings are absolutely delicious, and he felt much more compelling than the other characters. Honestly, he was the only character I genuinely enjoyed reading from the perspective of.

Nehemia, my queen! (Yes, I know what happens, please do not remind me.) Absolutely the best character in the book, she's a princess from a rebel nation there to develop diplomacy on behalf of her people (or is she...). The reveal with her is great, and I think that acted as a good red herring. Her friendship with Celaena is amazing, especially since the only other female character, Kaltain, is obsessed with Dorian and power-hungry. I would 100% read a book from her perspective.

Writing Style 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Ok, despite the cliche plot and bland main character, Maas is a masterful writer. Her descriptions are insane, and she writes some incredible analogies. I mean, and actual quote is: “The occasional solo of the whip added to the symphony of brutality Adarlan had created for its greatest criminals, poorest citizens, and lasted conquests.” That’s crazy! In one sentence, Maas establishes the setting, implies that inequality is rampant, and reveals that some form of empire-building or imperialism is occurring, all while tying it into a beautiful metaphor. I think she is a very good author, but I also think she's trying too hard to cater to the YA audience and that's why this book is so bland. I think her writing style is why I wasn't too bored by this book.

Overall 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

It's bland. Maybe it's because I read so much YA, but this book was pretty much every cliche wrapped into a story. Which isn't necessarily bad! Sometimes you're in the mood for something predictable, but I would not read this book if you're looking for anything new. Celaena is bland, but I don't hate her. I have very neutral feelings about her. In my opinion, Chaol and Nehemia are the only interesting characters. Luckily, the writing is amazing, so it's hard to get bored with this one. I would recommend this for people who like classic YA, anti-imperialist propaganda, and love triangles.

The Author

Sarah J. Maas: American, 35, also wrote A Court of Thorns and Roses and Crescent City

The Reviewer

My name is Wonderose; I try to post a review every two weeks, and I take recommendations. Check out my about me post for more!

#books #recommendations #reviews #throne of glass #sarah j maas #fantasy #ya

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yandereaffections · 5 years

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If Eddie and Venom were already together how would being a Yandere work for them? Basically just general headcanons ya feel me bro? How would they have met their s/o? How would you compare and contrast Yandere Eddie to Yandere Venom? How would this Yandere feeling start up within them and how will it eventually end for either the s/o or Eddie/Venom? How do they show affection with their s/o? How do they show anger? (Is this too much? Basically how do you perceive Yandere Eddie/Venom?)

Just a thing; the reader would be with both Eddie and Venom, it’s a poly relationship! ❤️

I feel ya bro are you feeling it now Mr.krabs

How you would meet the two of them;

You used to work with Eddie, filming his every action, every word and discovery’s. You admired him, both of you sharing deep yet rare conversations that never exactly lead anywhere

But for Eddie, it lead him to the depths of what he thinks is love.

After the situation with Venom went down Eddie became just a bit more bold

Tracking you down with venom questioning him the entire time, running up to you in public and making as much slow paced conversations as he possibly can with you

While a bit stuttery and awkward Eddie did his best to make you laugh, to make you smile or agree on his stance on things. Trying to talk while listening to Venom question him is harder than you think

While Eddie was intranced with you from the very beginning Venom took a little while

If it wasn’t for having to stick to Eddie, who usually stuck around you Venom would’ve never realized his fascination with you

Voices in Eddies head slowly agreeing with his thoughts, waking up in the morning to only ask when he’s going to see you again

Hearing every sickly in love idea Eddie might have, And Venom can’t disagree, they have the same want for you Eddie has

Venom starts to love everyway your body moves, every vibration of your pulse, your voice that speaks out your words and beautiful laughter, skin looks so soft Venom almost envies that Eddie gets to touch you and he can’t

Yandere traits;

Eddie is obsessive and clingy

He’s the type to adore you from afar, to enjoy every second he might get of you. Considers you the most beautiful person on the planet

Not the type to lock you away with him, Eddie respects you and is willing to give you space and time to warm up to him, as long as you end up with him.

Obsessive: you’ll never see a man stare at you so lovingly other than Eddie. Touching you gently even your rare hugs with him will be close and cuddly yet gentle,

Does research on every single thing about you, which his job experience helps with. Knows a little bit more about you than you would want him to know.

Will take any and every chance to get closer to you, and will go into a bit of a depressive phase if you show interest in someone else

Clingy: Eddie is everywhere you are, and from what you know he just happens to be there. Watching your every movement during his free time always a safe distance away, enough for it you were to spot him you wouldn’t think he’s following you.

Hug him please Eddie will never let you go, his arms lingering longer than they should. Any touch is lingering as well, from when he tucks a strand of your hair behind your ear to while your hands accidentally touch

Venom is obsessive and possessive

Different from Eddie, wants to see you up close at all times, wants to feel and touch you constantly

Venom will find any possible way to keep you with them, whether it’s by force, manipulation, or just by you falling in love with them

Obsessive: while venom hasn’t seen many humans or talked to many yet he finds you to be the best yet along with Eddie, so intriguing and beautiful

Best believe they’ll eat the head off of anyone who dares to upset you, and Eddie most likely wouldn’t stop him

Wants to feel the entirety of you, to wrap themselves around every inch of you including your insides, to be one with you and feel safe knowing your with them now

To hear your voice all day long would be amazing

Possesive: Venom wants you around them 24/7, every second in every night and day.

Would encourage Eddie to introduce his existence, wants to have a deep relationship with you, whether it’s with Eddie or not

Will keep you at eddies apartment for longer than needed, forcing any exit closed saying you should stay for just a little longer

Venom doesn’t believe you like other people other than Eddie and himself, won’t hesitate to scare off or attack those who gain your interest

How the relationship would be like;

The most sweet and cuddly thing you’ll ever witness in your life

Eddie will devote as much time as possible to you, sharing interest while showing Venom to all the things on earth along with concepts

The three of you goofing around on the Internet or with board games,

Venom can still play games like uno, making separate hands from Eddies body, but Venoms a champion at Monopoly and they still don’t know what they’re doing exactly

Venom switches from Eddie to you from time to time, mostly depends on the times. Once the sun comes up Venom will hang off of Eddie, preferring to stick with him until the sun starts setting or when he’s stuck at the computer typing away upon pages and pages

Clinging to you at night, watching whatever you are binging that night or trying to helping you cook food for Eddie when he’s overwhelmed with work

Sleepy time consists of you and Eddie cuddled within sheets with Venom either fitting around and inbetween the two of you, forming hands to entangle with both Eddie and your hands that aren’t already holding eachother.

Or latched onto one or the other, wrapped around their torso listening to every fading thought with their head snuggled into the persons neck

If someone hits on you, hurts you in any way you won’t be seeing Eddie or Venom that night, and when you ask where they’ve been Eddie will make a quick excuse of “it had something to do with my job,”

You’ll never see that person again

How they show their affection;

Venom and Eddie are usually connected, so they agree on cuddling you for the most part.

Eddie is better with words than physical expression, telling you how he feels about you and how much he loves you almost every day

You’ll wake up in the morning to hear mumbled praise in front of you with Eddies hands tracing over your form

Venom is the opposite, isn’t that talkative and the fact they just randomly developed the language doesn’t help, so they show their love by physical lengths

Wrapping around you and having you host them which is a true sign of trust. Forming a makeshift hand and entwining it with yours. Shapeshifting into a scarf around your neck on a cold day, or wrapping themselves around your hands

Venoms Incredibly comfortable compared to how they seem, you could drift off into the depth of sleep from just having Venom wrapped around you

The contrast on how they show their affections will prove useful when you have a breakdown, venom showing you love no other human could possibly manage while Eddie ensures that your loved with words, keeping you encouraged and determined.

How they show anger;

It really depends on what they’re angry about,

venom is most likely to be straight forward, but if it’s something that really gets to them they’ll start being passive aggressive. Silent and sticking away from either you or Eddie, whoever made them angry in the first place

Would confess to what made them mad within time but needs a bit of space. Example would be; if you called them Parasite, they would express their feelings towards it but if you don’t stop they’ll just get feed up, not wanting to hurt you in anyway Venom will just get increasingly quiet

Listen to Venom the first time, their anger will slowly spiral down into becoming just plain upset and will be down for the entire day

Eddie is stubborn, but doesn’t want to deal with more problems than he has to so he’ll try and make it up quick.

But once a problem hits a certain line he’ll actually get vocally angry, complaining with arguments, sometimes yelling but not much.

Never gets physical, loves you too much for that. Doesn’t matter what the problem is you’re more important he would never hurt you.

So basically any problem with these two could be easily solved by sitting down and talking with them. If theyre both mad at he same time for the same reason it won’t last long, things will be easily sorted out with you

Now if it’s at someone else, if someone harm you etc etc

They both have the same goal

Will take you away from them at first, if they still manage to find ways to harm you best believe they’re Venoms snack

Instantly concidered a Bad person, venom is granted all access to ripping their head off.

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beybladeimagines · 5 years

Note

Could I ask for Hiromi and what types of parent she, alongside each of the 4 bladebreaker , pulse be and what their kids would be like

HILARY: I think Hilary has always been babysitting, so raising a child feels like nothing new. She has accustomed to being this very observant and caring figure, so she’d always be watching her kid and taking them wherever she goes. She’s not exactly a helicopter mom, but she does want her child to know that she’s very invested in their development and happiness, so she wants to be as much of an active figure as possible. Hilary attends all of your child's graduations, practices, events, and recitals. She would definitely help her kid with their homework every night, read to them before bed, and help them get ready in the morning. It’s a little tough on her whenever her kid eventually grows up and becomes distant, but she knows she raised a responsible young adult, so she’s proud of all their accomplishments and who they’ve grown into.

TYSON: As seen through his interactions with Daichi, Tyson can be rather impatient with those that are younger than him. However, if he was dealing with his own kid, he’d actually be really flattered if his kid wanted to spend so much time with him or learn from him. He’d literally drop everything (and I mean everything, even a bowl of food), just to give his kid some attention. As a parent, he’s pretty laid back and it’s hard for him to implement some kind of punishment if his child did something wrong. He’d most likely try to brush it off, but someone like Hilary would constantly have to remind him that he needs to stop making excuses and take some action. He sees so much of his former self in that child, so it’s hard for him to even be angry, since it’s all a mirror of his own antics. Despite the lack of discipline, he’s still an enthusiastic and engaged dad. His child with Hilary would be exactly like him. Hilary wishes she could impose some of her standards onto the child, but Tyson was apparently a lot more interesting to mimic.

MAX: Max is honestly such an enthusiastic and supportive parent. He tries to mimic everything he learned from his mother and father, but all at once, he tries to give his kid far more attention. He’s spent a majority of his life bouncing back between his mother and father due to their separate obligations and although he appreciated the freedom and life lessons that came with that journey, he’d rather have more family time or bonding moments. Like Hilary, he’s so invested in his child’s development and wants to be there for them every step of the way. He’s constantly taking his kid to amusement parks, playgrounds, festivals, and museums on weekends and weekdays when he’s not working. When they’re small, he tries to carry his kid everywhere. I can literally see him scooping up his child and having them pretend they can fly as he runs around the house. Someone like Hilary would be panicking at the sight of their small child so many feet off the ground, but Max knows what he’s doing. A child between Hilary and Max would be very adventurous, encouraging, empathetic, and enthusiastic. Both Hilary and Max are very responsible, but the child would pick up on Max’s energy a lot more.

RAY: Ray is an amazing parent. As mentioned in previous headcanons, he picks up his partners responsibilities and makes them his own. To him, child care is never a burden. Sometimes, he even wakes himself up just so he can check on his sleeping child, and if they’re awake he’ll do all he can to settle them back down. He’s a very vocal parent. He’ll talk all the time to his child from the very moment they’re born. Ray is also the type to literally document every amazing (and small) accomplishment made by his child. If they drew the letter “Y” on the sidewalk with chalk, he’ll celebrate their success in learning their letters. And if the child is just learning to walk, he’ll talk about every time they were able to take at least two steps without falling. He is so immersed in what his child can do and what they will become. Ray is the type that would literally dress up in a tutu if his kid said they wanted to learn ballet. Like, he’ll literally take up the same hobby alongside his kid, just so they feel confident to further pursue it. That’s how invested he is. If he’s parenting with Hilary, the child will become a very observant, multi-talented, critical, and responsible individual. The child will be interested in so many hobbies, they’ll be intuitive, and they’ll analyze everything and anything before they take action.

KAI: I don’t think Kai ever saw himself as a parent. For someone so focused on being champion, having a child would actually bring him down to earth. He’d have someone worth fighting for (aside from his partner) and he’d want to make sure his kid didn’t end up like he did. In other words, Kai is aware of how easily obsessed he gets with being the best or being in control. He’s destroyed himself so much and wouldn’t want his own child to pick up on the same habits. He somehow manages to be both stern and gentle with his child, employing discipline when necessary, but not without a reason. In other words, if he grounds his kid or takes something away, he explains what they did that was wrong and what they could do to fix the situation. He just wants his child to improve, so he’s constantly describing opportunities and actions that can make the child a better person. In regards to how active he is in his child’s life, he tries to make as many appearances as possible. He’ll volunteer to read to them at night and sometimes even falls asleep beside his child. He’ll try to take his kid to work with him as well, but doesn’t want the child to get wrapped up in business (it’s way too boring). If he has a child with Hilary, the kid will most likely pick up on his father’s serious and stoic attitude, only because the child wants to act like an adult at an early age and be as well respected as dad is. But the child learns to be giving from his mother, as well as patient and empathetic.

#beyblade #beyblade imagine #hilary tachibana #hiromi tachibana #max tate #tyson granger #ray kon #kai hiwatari headcanon #Anonymous

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fanonorcanon · 5 years

Text

Sebastian & F!Hawke (Past Handers)

Una Hawke stood frozen staring at the statue of what had once been Knight-Commander Meredith. How someone could be so tyrannical, so careless of others lives she didn't know. A part of her wanted to take her staff in hand and see if the statue would shatter. But the thought of red lyrium in shards and pieces possibly being picked up, perhaps even being smuggled away was enough to stop her.

“Is everything alright, lass?”

“Oh, Sebastian. Yes, everything is fine,” Una lied easily.

“You forced her hand and made her kill her lover. I doubt that 'everything is fine’” Fenris growled.

“You of all people wanted him alive? After what he'd done?” Sebastian argued.

“All he did was kill your precious Grand Cleric. Someone would have done it eventually. How can you see the other parts of Kirkwall, all the suffering people and say that the Chantry is justified in keeping that absurd amount of wealth to themselves? I disagree with his methods certainly but something did need to change,” Fenris said.

Una wished they wouldn't argue. It'd been hard enough to just get through the day.

“That's enough now, boys,” Isabela said in a honeyed tone.

“Can't you people leave her alone?” Varric sighed. “Head on home, Hawke. We'll deal with this,” he said, waving her off.

“Thank you, Varric,” Una murmured. She gripped her staff tighter and made her way back to the estate.

The loss of Anders still stung. It had been months ago and Una had done her best; going through the motions, putting on a happy face. It seemed to satisfy most people, save for Sebastian. He'd accused her more than once of 'simply paying lip service’ when the subject of Anders’ betrayal came up. As it often did if Sebastian had anything to say about it.

Una lay back in the bath. The water had long gone cold, any bubbles dissolved. None of it bothered her. She heard a commotion downstairs but was certain that it was just Sandal having fun.

“Messere, please. The Lady does not wish to be disturbed!” Bodhan said.

Una sighed.

“Sod it, if I want to see my sister, I'm going to,” Carver spat.

Una hustled out of the bath and wrapped herself in her favorite robe. She sat at her vanity and tried to look busy, she was reaching for her hairbrush when Carver burst in.

“Brother. A pleasure as always,” Una plastered on a smile.

“Stop making that face. It's weird. You don't have to pretend, you know. Not with me.”

Una let her face relax, the frown coming easily. “Thank you, Carver,” she murmured.

“So whose head do I need to knock around?”

“No one,” Una huffed.

“Yet,” Carver said with a smirk. “That stuffy Prince still bothering you? Seems no matter how many times people argue with him he won't see reason. Bet he thinks of old Elthina when he’s wanking off.”

“Carver Aristide Hawke!” Una groaned.

“What? I wouldn't put it past him,” Carver chuckled.

“He is strangely obsessed with her.”

“You're smiling,” Carver said smugly. “All it took was insulting Starkhaven's royalty. When is he gonna fuck off right back there?”

“Not soon enough for you, clearly,” Una snorted.

“I don't like him. It wasn't right what he made you do.”

“He didn't make me do anything, Carver,” Una sighed.

“I don't believe that for a second.” Carver rolled his eyes.

“Anders forced my hand just as much as Sebastian.”

Carver passed Una his handkerchief before she even realized that she was crying. She thanked him and dried her eyes.

“Go on and blow your snotty nose with it. I know you're just dying to,” Carver teased.

Una blew her nose loudly, taking pleasure in Carver's noises of disgust.

...

Una was slumped back in her chair nursing a bottle of wine from Fenris when a visitor arrived.

“Shall I send them away, Messere?” Bodahn whispered.

“Depends, who is it?”

“His Highness of Starkhaven, my lady.”

Una polished off the rest of the bottle while Bodahn waited patiently for her answer.

“Send him in. Along with a bottle of whiskey, please. I daresay I'll need it.”

“As you say, Messere,” Bodahn nodded.

Sebastian entered the study and stood by the fire. His posture was rigid and he held his hands behind his back. If Sebastian had noticed her shabby appearance, he chose not to mention it. From the lines on her face, to the dark circles under her eyes, it spoke much to what Una Hawke had endured. After several false starts where he opened his mouth only to close it and shake his head Bodahn entered with a bottle of whiskey along with two glasses that he set down onto the side table.

“Thank you, Bodahn. Feel free to retire for the evening, you deserve some rest,” Una said.

“Thank you, Messere,” Bodahn replied, shooting Sebastian a glare on his way out.

“I don't think he likes me very much,” Sebastian said haltingly.

“Not many people do,” Una snorted.

Sebastian's cheeks went red. “I came to apologize, Hawke.”

“Whatever for?” She asked as she filled two glasses with whiskey. Una sipped from one and handed the other to Sebastian.

“I shouldn't,” he protested.

Una pressed the glass to his chest.

“Drink.” Her voice stern and brooked no argument.

He threw back a mouthful and made an expression Una couldn't quite name.

“That's Starkhaven whiskey,” he murmured.

“Is it?”

“I'm getting off track, I came to apologize. About Anders. After everything that happened, I was still so blind in my need for vengeance. I thought I'd put that behind me after the people responsible for my family's murder had paid with their lives. You deserved better than to… I have prayed on it ever since that day and though I hadn't meant to, it was manipulative. That position I put you in. I can't apologize enough, and I know that words from a foolish man mean little when you've lost a loved one-”

“Drink,” she repeated, just as sternly as before.

Sebastian gulped and nodded. He took small sips, savoring the taste that reminded him of home.

“I'm tired of thinking about it,” Una said wearily and sat back in her chair. “I've put him out of my mind. Just another chapter in 'The Tale of the Champion’, ended.”

“You can't mean that!” He yelled.

“You're not making this any easier, Sebastian. Just leave it alone. I don't want to have this conversation anymore with anyone. If that's all you came to say, you've said it and now you can leave.”

“I know better than most what burying your feelings does to a person,” Sebastian said quietly. He finished his glass and set it back on the side table. “Thank you for the whiskey. Be well, Hawke.”

She had fled the city at the behest of Varric. Under cover of darkness on a draft horse. ‘Best to hide in plain sight’ Varric had said; a wise plan. As to where she'd go, she had not decided. She felt a lot freer than she'd been in years. No obligations, no responsibilities other than the welfare of herself and the horse.

“You need a name don't you?” Una murmured to herself as she ran her fingers through the horses mane. “Suppose I do as well. How about Ruby?” The horse nuzzled into her hand. “Ruby it is. Audra for me, I believe.”

...

She'd begun traveling years ago and had wandered the furthest reaches of Thedas; beyond the uncharted lands south of the Wilds, beyond the lands north of the Anderfels. Life was simpler as ‘Audra'. She was free to roam, beholden to no one, no longer duty bound to a city beyond saving. She found herself wandering back to the Free Marches. Perhaps she missed the only family she'd had left. The friends she'd been to hell and back with. Varric was easy to find and he was able to point her towards her former companions. Her heart somehow led her to Starkhaven.

The city had a splendor Kirkwall could never hope to match; buildings crafted of marble and granite, shops were clean and bustling with lively people.

Audra settled on the outskirts of the city and found herself falling into familiar habits, albeit not her own. It started with selling potions to get by. Then it was making remedies by request. The progression to healing the sick or injured seemed natural; perhaps too natural. She dreamt of Anders every night now. His resigned and mournful expression when she'd killed him. How his fingers brushed her cheek and he thanked her even as she sunk the knife into his chest. Audra thought she'd run out of tears only to be mistaken the nights she jolted awake thinking she could undo what she'd done. A life of service seemed an inadequate penance but she would set herself on that path all the same.

Several months after settling into her clinic a member of the city guard arrived at her door, his head bloodied and eyes unfocused. She healed the man and thought that was the end of it but before the week's end she had the city magistrate knocking on her door.

"Is there something I can help you with serrah?" She tried to keep her tone polite and even, though in her heart she was stricken with panic.

"You're the healer?" He asked with a frown.

"Yes, I am," she said slowly. "Are you in need of aid?"

"Not myself, no. There's an illness in the castle. And it's spreading. If you're half as good as my son says then you'll be able to sort it out."

"Your son?"

"He's a city guard," the magistrate replied proudly. "He said you healed him. Not just his head but his leg as well. It was an old wound. He'd thought it would never be the same, but he's got a spring in his step thanks to you."

She blushed and nodded. After she gathered a few things they were off. The magistrate brought her to the servants living quarters first. They were wracked with fever, chills, coughs and sores. After thoroughly healing five of the ill servants, Audra was growing weary.

"Magistrate, serrah, I need rest," she said. 'Or lyrium' her mind supplied, though she knew better. The people of Starkhaven were distrustful of magic and very superstitious. It was enough that they had accepted her aid. There was no need to remind them of her 'abnormality' by downing potion after potion just to finish the task at hand.

"I'll alert the seneschal and he will find a room for the night. We cannot afford for the illness to spread further."

"The Prince," she found herself saying, "is he well?"

"Quite. I'll return shortly."

Audra breathed a sigh of relief. Though she and Sebastian had not parted on the best of terms she did not wish him ill. The seneschal greeted her kindly but she could see his distress.

"Are you alright, seneschal?"

"It's my wife. She's with child but she's ill like the others. The magistrate said you need rest. But as soon as you're able, please heal her. I can't bear to lose her."

His desperation was plain to see. Audra couldn't help but think of Anders; how often he had pushed himself to heal just one more person.

"Will you take me to her?" The words left her without a second thought.

"I'd greatly appreciate that. Even just assessing the condition is more than I'd hoped at this time," the seneschal said and wiped his eyes.

…

His wife's condition was worse than she'd feared. The illness was robbing the mother of the capability to nurture the growing life inside her. Audra felt sweat gather on her brow as she poured her magic into the woman. Even as she felt the room sway, she pressed on. When Audra finished the mother had color back in her complexion and the baby wriggled energetically once more. The seneschal wept and thanked her profusely.

"Do you mind if I sit down a moment?" Audra tried to even out her breathing.

"Of course, anything you need." The seneschal gestured to the divan by the wall.

Audra made it four steps before she collapsed in a heap on the floor. The seneschal hadn't even had time to catch her.

…

Prince Sebastian walked past his chambers, only a single bodyguard- Ainsley- in tow, and onto the seneschal's chambers. The seneschal's wife was unwell and though Sebastian himself could do little to help, he wished to extend the man any and all services in his employ.

He knocked on the seneschal's chamber door and waited. Graham rarely left his quarters this time of night, opting instead to be by his wife's side as much as he could. Sebastian waited several more minutes before he tried the knob.

"Seneschal Graham?" Sebastian asked. He heard a scuffle of feet and let Ainsley enter the room first.

"Did this woman harm you, seneschal?" Ainsley asked, his hand ready to draw his sword.

"Absolutely not!" The seneschal seemed cross at the simple implication. "She healed my wife but she collapsed shortly after. I haven't been able to rouse her and she's heavier than she looks."

Sebastian stepped closer to the woman. Much of her figure was obscured by the dark billowing fabric that could only generously be referred to as a dress. Sebastian tore his gaze from her attire and onto her face. If it wasn't for the woman's long mass of golden ringlets, Sebastian could have sworn the woman was Una Hawke. She was softer in the face, more scars, even a burn along the side of her neck.

"Her name, Graham?" Sebastian asked.

"Audra I believe, your majesty."

Sebastian picked up the woman and carried her to one of the guest quarters. She was at least twice as heavy as Una -or at least the Una he remembered- had been, but he'd no trouble carrying her. He sat by her bedside until he grew tired, vowing to return in the morning before his princely duties.

…

The more he thought about it, the more he was certain that the woman was Una. Sebastian had wheedled the information of her whereabouts the last time he met Varric after he'd become the Viscount of Kirkwall. All the dwarf had said was that she'd returned to the Free Marches.

He'd instructed a maidservant to watch over her and to send a runner to him if the woman woke. He'd gotten no news of Una waking throughout the day and decided to take her lyrium potions.

He dismissed the maidservant and left Ainsley by the door. As Sebastian sat at her bedside he gazed at her body. She was as beautiful as he'd remembered. He'd never told her of his infatuation; it seemed inappropriate since she had been with Anders then. The regret he still carried over his hand in Anders' fate had faded over time but looking at Hawke now it stung anew. He wanted to tell her how sorry he still was. He didn't dare hope that she'd forgive him, or even attempt to rekindle the easy friendship they'd once had. As Sebastian watched her chest rise and fall he longed to reach for her hand but resisted. He doubted she'd even want him touching her so familiarly. Instead he laced his own fingers together and waited on in silence.

Hawke began stirring in her sleep some time after midnight. She thrashed against the covers murmuring apologies. Sebastian's heart ached to see her so unsettled. He laid a hand on her shoulder.

"Hawke, rest easy," he murmured.

Her eyes opened and they had a wild look about them. "Sebastian?" Hawke asked breathlessly.

"It's nice to see you awake, Hawke. Gave us quite a fright passing out like that."

"I'd hoped we wouldn't cross paths," she admitted slowly. "Not because I didn't want to, it seems silly now. I didn't want you to see me looking this way."

Sebastian frowned. "Collapsed from healing people? How could you have known you would?"

"I'm not as fit as I used to be is all," she mumbled.

"Hawke, I hold you in high esteem regardless of your shape."

"Oh," she replied blankly.

"I um, I've brought lyrium potions. And an additional offer if you've a mind. I would do well to have a healer at court. Especially one of your talents. Would you consider coming to work at the palace?"

Hawke's eyebrows shot up.

"The lyrium potions do not hinge on your acceptance of the position!" Sebastian added hastily. "You've done a great service for my people. And not just yesterday if the rumors are true."

"Healing people… For quite some time now I've considered it a calling," she said softly.

Anders, his mind reminded him. It should have come as no surprise that the mage had had such a profound effect on her. They'd been lovers, and nearly more. Varric had sought to twist the knife in him deeper and told him that Anders had meant to wed Hawke.

And in a single-minded fit of rage Sebastian had taken it all from her. The more he'd prayed on it the more he did everything he could to invite her rage. He deserved no less. She hadn't lashed out at all and that had been so much worse. Even now he still sought penance. Though as he stood at her bedside his traitorous thoughts ran wild with the hope that maybe after all this time she'd finally forgive him.

"Sebastian?" Hawke asked.

"Yes?"

"Are you alright? You seem… unfocused."

"As you can imagine, I often have much on my mind. Starkhaven needs a deft hand to rule it," he chuckled.

"Apologies your majesty," she murmured. "I should finish healing the ill here. If they are willing."

"Why would they be unwilling?" Sebastian frowned.

"Aren't Starkhaveners distrustful of magic?"

"Who told you that?" He asked, seeming somewhere between amusement and disbelief.

"That little bastard," she huffed.

"I beg pardon?"

"Varric. He's always told me that they abhorred magic!"

"I think he may have been trying to keep you in Kirkwall, Hawke."

"Well, I really showed him, didn't I?" She smiled gently.

#sebastian vael #female hawke #knight commander meredith #dragon age #da2 #dragon age 2 #fanon writes fic

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jeremy-ken-anderson · 5 years

Text

Celestial

The following is a work of fiction.

Celestial was not like other wrestlers in the WWF. Most of the time his fighting style was fairly standard, and he suffered an early lack of popularity like a lot of wrestlers who are trying to be the “good boy” wrestler do.

But Celestial was very different from, say, Dwayne Johnson’s early “nice guy” days as a wrestler. From the very start he had the gimmick that would give him his meteoric rise to wrestling fame, and losing and even being unpopular - being ignored, was part of it. He expressed it with every fiber of his being from the first matches he was in. For those of you who aren’t obsessive WWF fans, this is Celestial’s gimmick:

Celestial was a beast, some kind of holy battling god, who used a pair of long leather gloves to bind his power so that he could have fair fights against mortals. Like many WWF gimmicks, it was campy and ridiculous. And he played it up.

If he could walk out of the ring at all, he walked out of the ring with a smile. People booing him after his fifth consecutive loss, he smiled. The idea was that he didn’t come here to win. He came here to play, and he was happy just to get to compete. And generally, he didn’t win. In his first ten matches he won two. If he hadn’t faced Ripper as his eleventh match he probably would have faded into obscurity. But Ripper was a wrestler whose gimmick was the extremely common one of being a monumental prick. Before the match, Ripper promised he wouldn’t just destroy Celestial’s body, he’d destroy his career. We now know this couldn’t have been further from the truth.

After a harrowing, one-sided battle that is honestly kind of hard to watch, Ripper, with his victory basically in the bag, pulled Celestial’s left glove off of him. And then, well...this happened.

[Footage shows Ripper starting to suplex Celestial. With the free left hand, Celestial catches the mat and pushes himself and Ripper off of the ground.]

In one move Celestial sold the story his gimmick had been merely telling the audience with words for the last ten matches. If you watched that fight you were suddenly a Celestial fan.

Because Celestial wasn’t done. Every movement, even his footwork, was eerie and inhuman while one of his hands was uncovered. His entire fighting style changed. He didn’t move like a wrestler. He moved like a cross between a kung fu master and a werewolf.

[Footage shows Celestial dodge under a grab and slam a hand into Ripper’s chest. Ripper flies across the entire length of the ring, bounces off of the ropes, falls flat, and lays still.]

Celestial had everyone in on his gimmick. I mean, just look at this closeup on the ref’s face as Celestial stalks toward the downed Ripper. He’s shouting to get back, but he looks terrified.

After Ripper, Celestial’s matches took on a new life and popularity with the WWF fanbase. Everyone watched with this tension; Would the gloves come off this time? There was never a question of whether Celestial would take them off himself. He refused absolutely. But would his opponent rip them off? Would his opponent have the hubris to face the battling god?

After another six matches for Celestial - two wins and four losses - Behemoth Jake would be the next to give it a try. Jake outweighed his opponent by nearly three hundred pounds, and it meant nothing. Just...Just look at this.

[Footage shows Behemoth Jake leaping from the corner of the ring toward Celestial, and being caught mid-air, practically impaled on Celestial’s arm. A moment later, he’s pushed back, hurled out of the ring over the corner]

For six years this would be the pattern. Celestial maintained a record of one win to every four losses as his total average - honestly kind of abysmal by WWF standards - but nobody cared about that record. In that same period he had a record of twelve and O for one-sided slaughters against all twelve of the fighters who tried to face him “unbound.”

[Footage shows short half- to two-second clips of Celestial’s uncovered silver-painted hands laying waste to wrestlers in various ways]

And then came Wrestlemania 2026. The end of Celestial’s career as a pro wrestler.

Tommy Gunn was at the top of his game and starting in on a move toward film. He was the defending champion and after Celestial took three wins in a row - two close fights with gloves on and one he’d almost lost before his opponent made what fans just called “The Mistake” - Tommy wanted to face Celestial, “No gloves no tricks,” in a cage match.

At first Celestial refused. For a while it looked like he wouldn’t be competing. Then came “leaked” footage of his manager telling him his career would be over if he just refused to fight, and no he couldn’t keep the gloves on if the champion wanted them off.

The banter leading up to the fight was weird. On one side you had Tommy, giving the usual growling performance about how he’d take his enemy down, and on the other you had Celestial, whimpering, pleading, begging his opponent to let him keep the gloves and just play.

This kept up all the way to Celestial’s entrance into the arena. He entered with the gloves still on and Tommy was furious. He was not having it. This was where he planned to break that perfect twelve-zero streak on the biggest wrestling stage and raise himself to legendary status.

You can see Celestial literally weeping - tears are running down his face - as the cage is lowered over the ring. The crowd is chanting with Tommy, “Take them off! Take them off!” And then Celestial wails. It’s this excruciating wail of pure anguish, and it silences the crowd. And then, for the very first time, Celestial takes off his own gloves. First the left, then the right.

Tommy cheers, but the crowd doesn’t. That wail got to us. There’s a feeling permeating the entire arena: This is wrong. I know because I was actually there, at Wrestlemania 2026. I felt guilty for chanting “Take them off!” But more than that, I was scared. We were in uncharted territory. I know how ridiculous this sounds but I felt a very real sense that my own life was in actual danger, cage be damned.

And, well...

[Footage shows a point where Tommy dodges desperately out of the way and Celestial’s fist bends the bars of the cage out. As the camera zooms in, we can see that the bent bars seem to be glowing red-hot]

Never in the history of wrestling has a ring been so thoroughly trashed. Tommy almost immediately realized he was outgunned but there was nowhere to go. He tried his best but, just...what the hell.

[Footage shows an attempt at a body slam. Celestial wraps his ankles through the bars of the cage and, with those as a grip, lifts Tommy off the ground and body slams him instead.]

Every time Celestial punched at Tommy there was another dodge and whatever Tommy was in front of got completely obliterated. The steel cage, the padded corner of the ring, the ring’s floor. It didn’t matter. Those fists went straight through. It was terrifying. The fight ends with this: A move that’s never been seen since, where Celestial pins Tommy’s neck basically by stapling him down. It’s a hold that can only be done because Celestial punched a hole in the floor earlier.

When the match ends, Celestial, who as always has been this eerie mix of brutal and cold ever since the gloves came off, puts the gloves back on to talk. And as always as soon as the gloves are back on he’s exhausted and mournful. He’s handed the belt and he throws it into the center of the ring.

“I didn’t earn it,” he says. “I won’t take it.”

And he walks out of the ring, and out of the arena, and out of professional wrestling. Nobody has ever done this. To quit during Wrestlemania, to refuse the trophy and leave without it? But if you were a Celestial fan, this made perfect sense. Because this was who he was. He’d always shown a bitterness, a hatred for his own overwhelming “unbound” power. This had been his character since day one. We never imagined he’d play it so completely that it would be built into how he left the industry, but that’s what’s so great about him. You can tell that from the very beginning Edward Fontaine had his story - a tragedy - written out for his character Celestial, and that the story had a beginning and a middle and, unlike so many other wrestlers, an ending. Fontaine had written out the end of his own career from the start. And I think that commitment to his story, his narrative, is the reason, possibly even more than the ridiculous stunts he was able to pull in the ring, that Celestial’s legend will never be matched. To tell this story right, Fontaine had to give up what could easily have been another ten years of wrestling career. Who does that?

Well...Celestial. And that’s why I’ll always be a fan.

#writing #fiction

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jewelwriter · 7 years

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Beyond Level 1 Presents: Pokémon Part 7 (Sun & Moon)

In this new age of Pokémon, it’s time to say Alola to the world of… a messed up family line. And a painfully long mess we get to play though in a way.

Yea… this review isn’t as clean cut as the others and I have had time to play it since Christmas (to evade being on a hype railroad and to try to understand the game where I see it) and I’m glad that I did just that, waited. My review might not be what everyone wants but then again I’m asking a lot of people to listen to me on this for the count of a few things. First, sure this is a game of beauty but visuals are objective and I’ll cover this more in flow but when some basics are lost at the expense of others, I worry. Second, I’m doing another play though to see if having someone different helps but I will say that I’ll never go for the “FIGHTING” type that we got. AND I WILL DEFEND THIS TO THE END THAT LITTEN’S FINAL EVOLUTION IS A FIGHTING TYPE! Pardon there. I kind of still don’t see how come people are willing to ignore what the context is on that Pokémon. And third I will be warning of spoilers where it is due, likely in story and bosses. Thanks in advance and I’ll let rip my review that goes beyond level 1 of the game Pokémon Sun!

Control – (Silver)

This is kind of new and yet comfy at the same time. The controls for the over world are ALL linked to the stick to give you a free spot with the D-pad to link up with HM heroes. That’s what I’m calling them. Throughout this generation I might as well call them that. You got running speed fright from the start and can even have a bit of fun. In battle either works which is a bleeping joy and touch helps speed up who needs a change or patch up. OF course a bigger problem that doesn’t come to mind is how easy it is to miss the bottom screen. Say high to the thing that ate up all the swift tap buttons to try and save time going to menus and hello to the X button which will house more than 6 but 12 options. The first is the usual stuff like your Pokedex, your Pokémon, your luggage, your Save, your options, and lastly the Passport which is your trainer ID. Then the new stuff comes up featuring Pokémon Refresh (the simplified and gutted Pokémon Amie), Pokémon Pelago (your Pokémon Daycare for those who are boxed up with nothing to do.), Festival Plaza (your interaction hub), QR scan (allowing you to SEE all Pokémon in the digital dictionary), Quick Link for local play, and Battle video…which I haven’t gotten anything yet but would go for it if I get some video recordings. I clearly enjoy how there’s a lot to take in but yet feel it stepped backwards. So sorry the Silver rating is needed for this section.

Story – (Silver/Gold)

Spoiler Warning take effect here!

A normal game of Pokémon has a story that is stolen by a crazy FAMILY! Let’s see… the first you met stolen a legendary to be and yet it was also a caring gal that would likely not to be a trainer that we’d see. And get such a taste of the new challenges of the story where we see a gang wanting to jack things up and an organization that wants to care for those that were hurt...which flipped into a rescue mission and finding out that in the saviors is a really TWISTED b!tc# and she’s the reason her son and daughter ran from the place. By the GODS what a way to push story into the spotlight! Also with how she insults the player char in a way kind of hurts for those that are dedicated to a team. It felt like she was aiming to the competitive players which I would get a laugh about so I feel it’s silly. And the final battle with the evil President is a bit annoying since her team is “BUFFED” thanks to her ultra-beast infusion though I did use a bit of a smart rear tactic of having a defense jumper up front to make it harder to fight and slow them down with Bulldozer which helps to make a strong combo when it is clear they are unable to get their first move in. And also a moment about the Gang Leader Gozma (I’ll take him down, take him down and never let up all bout town!) with the stupid wrapping of him and his crew could have did more but gods at least they were more entertaining until I found out that HE was in on the stupid plan of “perfection” and on that I am feeling like the island challenge was a roadblock to try to get to the end of the story and also reach the goal of the Pokémon league. Though the big surprise to the end is that who is the big battle is a great mix up for the final battle of the story as it can change it up... by going against more than just one obvious char. The professor, the electric trial captain, Gozma’s Poisonous gal, even a Kahuna and a KID FROM ROUTE 1 WANT YOUR CHAMPION BELT! That earned this gold barely but I’m also giving silver due to the story to get to that point.

Spoiler Warning ends at this point!

Content – (Bronze)(Metal)

As we know, things might not make it back in a new gen and this is one of them, a favorite of mine: Rotation Battles. Though this in and of itself doesn’t mean it’s at all bad. It has given us a Pokémon Pelago to allow us grind levels and raise mon how you want (I so far am happy using the egg hatching and be able to Raise happiness for Mon which really require it. I have only level 2 for the training and spa so I’m trying to earn…. 200+ Beans x2 for the last bits I got all the island updates as of Febuary.) in which is handy for those that play calmly and want to have help while playing the game. THAT being said, the mini games are entirely… nonexistent here that it makes me sad because there’s mostly NOTHING to really enjoy and Your only means of coinage gain is either by having your Pokémon explore their cave in the Pokémon Pelago or take down trainers and the daily Pukumuku flinging. It makes for a bad feeling for those that want to play something more to connect to the Pokémon world. SURE it is stream lined but it will leave someone empty. This category has BARELY escaped being classified as metal instead of Bronze but it could have EASILY been that for a veteran Pokémon gamer I’ve rethought this and went with giving this Metal instead for even a veteran trainer would get bored of all the none events in game once you did them all.

Flow – (Silver)

For once I have to talk about the graphics since they kind of bog the game down in a way. With trainers now kept on screen during battle you are likely slowing the game down and makes one groan at how some battles can take a long time and could even make you feel trouble arriving in the worst of ways: by costing someone more time to play by tournament standings. For the casual player or someone who is going into doubles/Multi/Battle Royale, it will be a nightmare. Especially when waiting likely two minutes for the turn to end. Have fun with some of that and how often the story might interrupt your exploration if you need to do an island challenge. Speaking of, I find them silly in a sense but they do mostly involve battling. Trial 1: Battle 3 locals and their totem, Trial 2: Take down a fish 3 times with the last one being a Totem fight, Trial 3: Answer and battle 3 answers with the last one being the totem, Trial 4: Find the items and defend yourself be ready for the totem Pokémon, Trial 5: Audio quizzing and fight 4 Pokémon to turn the lights on when you see the totem Pokémon, Trial 6: Photography with ghost Pokémon and you end up finding how unhealthy the Totem Pokémon is obsessed with Pikachu. And Trial 7 is actually a remix of the trial you did in the DEMO of the game. The only familiar feel of former gameplay I obtained came from the four Grand Trials, they felt like real gym leaders to me and I got to enjoy those battles. Especially when it is not an SOS Pokémon come in. With certain gamers then it’ll be a pain but for others it is a required wait to get though the game in certain manners.

Bosses – (Bronze/Silver)

Spoiler Warning take effect here!

Is it odd that I feel like the totem Pokémon, the very thing Game Freak and the Pokémon Company highlighted in the game’s advertisement were not the real boss characters? Yea, they aren’t. IF I added them they would be a brought the game down to a bronze here. The saving grace were the Grand trials, Team Skull and the large twist before you get to the last island (Poni island and no friendship isn’t magic there) and after you gotten though all the trials of Poni Island. The favorite for this gamer was the final battle of the first Elite Four. To me it felt like the REAL rival was hidden in the back and trying to be sure you reach the top to see where you stand with you and your Pokémon. And for once it will not happen often as you’ll have to defend your belt from as mentioned before your true rival who you only would fight here, various chars that you took on like Lille’s Brother, Hau, and even the former Team Skull babysitter and as said before, a current Kahuna. If one were to add those together and not the totems, you’d earn the rank of Silver solidly at the least. Well that and spanking the President’s behind while she had her team jacked up.

Spoiler Warning ends at this point!

Overall – (Bronze/Silver)

On the personal side I’d go give this a Bronze since it means that Pokémon has started to slip and in no way can I sugar it to myself. For a competitive scene I’d keep with Gen six for a while longer though happy times trying to fight in the new gen without having a big issue and I’ll be the stick in the mud to say Pokémon isn’t going onto the Switch as a mainline game but if a new handheld is revealed one can hope but it is for sure isn’t the Switch as I am using the logic that I got from watching for ages to get a good guess.

[-|-|-]

I almost can’t wait for this generation to be corrected.

#pokemon #Review #BeyondLv1 #Pokemon Gen 7 #Bl1

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aion-rsa · 4 years

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Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, and Secrets of the Pro Trading Card Games World

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When it comes to versatile gaming, nothing quite compares to a good trading card game. Anywhere, any time, as long as you each have decks and somewhere flat to lay them down, you can play. Of the many available, Magic: The Gathering and Pokémon Trading Card Game are easily among the best for beginners. One of the pillars of table-top gaming, Magic is a multi-colored blowout of intrepid sorcery and ferocious monsters, all wrapped up in nearly three decades of fantasy lore. Pokémon needs no introduction, and just as the video games have gone from strength to strength since the days of Red and Blue, so too has the spinoff card game.

Giving either of these games a go has never been easier, between the wide circulation of the packs themselves, and the digital versions one can play for free. Indeed, Magic: The Gathering Arena and Pokémon Trading Card Game Online provide a fully digital replication of the intense tit-for-tat the TCGs are known for, allowing you to build and test combinations wherever you can find good WiFi. We caught up with Autumn Burchett, a Magic: The Gathering pro, and Azul Garcia Griego, a Pokémon TCG expert, to discuss their careers in card gaming, why they love these communities so much, and what decks and cards you should be looking for if you want to be among the elite.

Meet Autumn Burchett | Magic: The Gathering

Autumn Burchett is a professional Magic: The Gathering player who, in February 2019, became the inaugural Mythic Champion. Making their Pro Tour debut in 2015, Burchett had previously achieved first place in the UK Nationals in both 2017 and 2018 before making the jump to global gold. In that time, it wasn’t just the best of the best they were up against, but revolving systems, too, as Magic restructured its competitive layout from the Pro Tour to the Mythic Championship, from which it’s changed again to this year’s Players Tour. Finding and competing against the best players in the world is an enjoyable challenge, says Burchett, but the added spotlight wasn’t easy to get used to.

“I felt a lot of pressure at first as I really didn’t want to let down the fans I gained from that victory,” they tell us. “It’s taken a lot of time to adjust to that, and to refocus myself again.”

In a typical year, Burchett would travel a dozen or more times around the world to attend Magic: The Gathering events. Around a third of their life is spent on the road in fact, between the crucial tournaments needed to be in world championship contention and other invitationals. Naturally, playing against Magic‘s top-tier is always a thrill, but getting to see and meet the people who make up the local scenes is the real reward of being a touring player.

“I love competing at the highest level events with players from so many different places attending,” they say. “That said, my favorite part of events will always be spending time with friends, and going out for food after the games are done, whether catching up with local friends who I’ve known for many years or getting to see international friends again.”

Unfortunately, for much of 2020, flying internationally has been a no-go, with even local gatherings being improbable until towards the end of the year. Thankfully, online game Magic: The Gathering Arena means pro players can still practice and compete at a high level. Since its release in 2019, the free-to-play version of the TCG has made it much easier for anyone — veterans or those just curious — to get a deck and start playing. “It has definitely widened the audience,” Burchett says. “I know a few people who have been able to have success in part due to digital Magic just inherently being more accessible.”

Burchett has been using online tournaments to stay sharp, like the Star City Games Tour Online, an Arena-centric version of the Star City Games Open Series that normally occurs throughout the year. It’s expected that Arena will be a cornerstone of pro Magic from here on out, meaning digital competitions will still be integral even when players can roam freely again. Between those and Twitch, Burchett has been able to maintain some semblance of a routine, while still interacting with their fanbase and giving the Magic audience somewhere to hang out. It’s a learning experience on both sides, all coming together for a love of these five-colored spells.

“[Arena] encourages me to try out different decks that I might not otherwise,” Burchett says. “I’ve definitely had people say that they started playing again because they enjoy my content or seeing me succeed which is always flattering and makes me happy to hear.”

For anyone looking to make their first steps into Magic: The Gathering, Burchett recommends going Mono-Red Aggro, a recurring deck type that’s all about blowing your opponent up as swiftly as possible. “Your role in any given match-up is generally pretty clear: try to kill your opponent as fast as possible,” they explain. “It can also have a lot of depth to it too though, which makes it easy to learn and hard to master.”

Although playing against random opponents in Arena is good for developing skills, and streams and YouTube videos can provide a semblance of real-life communal play, nothing compares to sitting down with a friend and going a few rounds to see what’s what.

“Find someone else who plays the game and play with or against them,” Burchett says. “The game is a lot more fun when you’re sharing the experience with a friend, or battling against them, and it’s a lot easier to learn that way too.”

Autumn’s Deck

Burchett’s favorite deck at the moment is Temur Reclamation, a Blue, Green, and Red build centered on Uro, Titan of Nature’s Wrath, a 6/6 mythic rare from Theros Beyond Death. Uro’s a blue-green elder giant that gives you three life, lets you draw a card, and play a land card from your hand when it enters the battlefield or attacks. Getting it out involves exiling cards from your graveyard in addition to its mana cost, but once it’s in play, it’s tough for any opponent. At around $45 on eBay, Uro can be expensive, but it’s easily the largest investment in the deck.

Green and Blue land Breeding Pool is the next highest price-point, coming in at about $30 per card, with Blue and Red equivalent Steam Vent costing $12 or so.

Guilds of Ravnica rare Expansion/Explosion is one of the more costly instants, a Blue and Red split card that lets you either copy a spell and select new targets, or deal X damage to any target.

Brazen Borrower, a Throne of Eldraine mythic rare, is often an accompanying creature for Uro, a flash, flying 3/1 that has an instant power of returning a non-land permanent to an opponent’s hand that’ll run about $15.

Two other enchantments, Shark Typhoon, a Blue spell that makes shark tokens from the converted mana cost of noncreature spells you play, and Wilderness Reclamation, which untaps your lands during the end phase, come in just under $5 to round out the major buys.

“I love Temur Reclamation, it has a lot of flexible play patterns and game-plans,” Burchett says. “Figuring out what role to take in any given game or match-up is a lot of fun as a result.”

Art by Aaron Miller appears in Den of Geek x eBay’s special edition trading card magazine.

Meet Azul Garcia Griego | Pokémon

Azul Garcia Griego began playing the Pokémon Trading Card Game the way many kids did—by just making up the rules so the game was more like the popular anime and video games. But after being invited to a local Pokémon League to learn how to play properly and compete, Griego became obsessed with becoming the very best, like no one ever was. Now he’s a regular international competitor, as well as a streamer and coach, showing new players the ropes as the Pokémon TCG global scene continues to expand.

“When I first started playing, you could go to one regional per season, all the regionals happened on the same weekend, so we went to one weekend,” Griego says. “Now, I’m in America, but if I wanted to go to the ones in Europe and stuff, I could go to 20-plus regionals in a year.”

The last two years, Griego’s been doing laps of this circuit, leaving his home state of Massachusetts around two dozen times, traveling as far as Berlin, London, São Paulo, and Melbourne to compete. Obviously, the playing itself is a major attraction, getting to go against the best from every country and see their approach, but it’s the friendly atmosphere that makes being a career player worthwhile.

“At this point, there are so many people to say ‘hi’ to and just to catch up with, even if just to talk about the games that we’re having today at the regional or whatever it might be,” he says. “Then, doing other stuff like playing other kinds of board games and stuff that people bring to the event to just kill time in between rounds. We’re all just hanging out until the event’s over anyway, so it’s just always a great time.”

Mirroring the Pokémon games, the current sets in standard format for the trading card game are based on 2016’s Sun and Moon and 2019’s Sword and Shield, or generations seven and eight, respectively. So far, two expansions have been released for Sword and Shield, the base set, and Rebel Clash, with a third, Darkness Ablaze, set to drop this August.

Griego doesn’t worry too much about the balancing in standard, always willing to adapt to whatever the prevailing strategies and decks are, but he does think that right now, the playing field is in a decent spot. “It’s pretty good right now, there’s around five or six decks that are contenders to win any tournament,” he explains. “Last meta there was one deck that was by far the best, nothing else was close to its power level, so the meta got played out very quickly.”

Given that traveling and socializing is limited for 2020, Pokémon Trading Card Game Online has been the backbone of competitive Pokémon. He’s been taking part in tournaments there, where he’s encountered a number of players who only play digital, inspiring him to arrange his own for his Twitch and YouTube subscribers.

“I’ve had quite a few people, through just streaming or talking to them, who are only playing in these events because they only play Pokémon TCG Online,” he says. “They don’t play with real life cards, so it gives them a way to play into the game, which is really nice.”

That’s not to say Pokémon Trading Card Game Online isn’t a gateway, but going from playing in the comfort of home, to facing your opponent eye-to-eye, can be daunting. Some of Griego’s Pokémon students actually came to him for coaching so they could build their confidence in making the leap from online to real life. “When the new season comes around, they want to attend events and be a little more refined in their skills going into that.”

While the number of fans for Pokémon TCG related content is relatively small, it’s growing, and Griego reckons that if the online version got a contemporary overhaul, it could see a real boom in interest.

“Twitch would be a great place to grow, and I’m always hopeful that one day a new, clean, fresh client comes out because Pokémon Trading Card Game Online is really old,” he says. “I think it could definitely blow up to the point, you know, of something like Magic: The Gathering Arena or Hearthstone.”

Azul’s Deck

Griego’s deck of choice is the Combo Zacian, a build that surprised him with its versatility when he sat down to play with it. The main mechanic involves cycling through Prize cards on your bench. The namesake, Zacian V from the Sword and Shield collection demands a high price, since the deck is commonly taking players to the top eight, at $74 on eBay. For that money, though, you get a strong attacker – Zacian can do 230 damage for three metal energy – and during your turn you can draw three cards, attach any metal energy to Zacian and keep the rest in your hand.

Metal Frying Pan FLI 144 is the usual companion here, a trainer that reduces the damage a metal pokémon takes by 30, and removes all weakness, for $10 or so.

Griego uses a specific variant that involves Jirachi TEU 99, who lets you search the top five cards of your deck for trainer cards, and generally costs around $14.

The Detective Pikachu version of Mr. Mime who can put your face-down Prize cards on top of your deck is also included, at a cheap $4 average price. Marnie SSH 200 is among the trainer cards, making both players put their hand to the bottom of their decks, then allowing you to draw five cards while your opponent draws four, and has a price of around $32 for a single.

Another piece of the arsenal is Boss’s Orders RCL 189, that lets you switch your opponent’s active Pokémon with a benched one, a trainer card valued at $41.

“You always put the pressure on your opponent to have to deal with you, and I would prefer to be the person in the driver’s seat as opposed to the person always trying to make the comeback,” Griego explains. “I felt like it was very hard to come back against. Once I got ahead with Combo Zacian, I was just ahead.”

The post Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, and Secrets of the Pro Trading Card Games World appeared first on Den of Geek.

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wolfleblack · 7 years

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On stage voice actor Troy Baker talks about how we all have our nerd, from those of us who love comics or Star Wars or movies to the people who are obsessed with engines or skiing or racing or anything else. Everyone, he says, is a nerd in their own way because being a nerd simply means being really obsessed with something, spending more and more time learning about it and enjoying it. And that’s the thing, isn’t it? Every person has that one thing they really love. Every person is a nerd. The only difference, muses Troy Baker, is that those of us at comic-con know we’re nerds and have embraced it.

The MCM show in Glasgow is the perfect example of this theory. It’s filled with people who passionately love comics, anime, movies, games and a bunch of other things, and all of them know they are nerds. They accept it. They are ahead of the curve. And so many of them are like me, not just in the sense that they share my passions but also in how they grew up in a time where reading comics or loving videogames or anything that wasn’t “normal” was viewed as something bad, a time when the label of nerd carried a lot of horrible stigmas with it. We were the outsiders, the forgotten, the picked on, just because of things we liked. But look how things have changed. Because of stuff like the Marvel Cinematic Universe people who had never read a comic are talking about Captain America or the Guardians of the Galaxy or Daredevil. There are still things that are generally seen with disdain, like anime, but by and large being a geek is…weirdly cool? When you live in a world where people are happily going to the cinema to watch the Suicide Squad being a geek almost means less than it once did, and yet at the same time it means so much more now.

Being in a crowd at comic-con is a unique experience. The sheer amount of people coupled with the wide variety of costumes on display makes it both claustrophobic and exciting. I don’t think you can adequately do the experience justice when attempting to tell people why it’s worth attending a convention, especially if you happen to mention the often insanely long queues or the fact that wanting to look at some merchandise can become an epic quest where you have to battle a torrent of people jostling around. And don’t dare mention the absurdly inflated prices of food. Bloody hell. But that’s like saying you shouldn’t attend a concert because the hot dogs are pricey, it’s as hot as the sun and you keep getting bumped by strangers.

So why the hell should anyone go? Simple; the people. Sure, the guests are cool and there’s some sweet loot to be picked up and maybe some awesome comics to discover, but you can get all that loot and comics on the Internet and watch guest panels on Youtube where you at least have the option of lounging around in your boxers while munching a bag of Jelly Babies, something which I discovered MCM frowns upon in their live panels. No, you should come because of the people. An entire building full of fine folk who share your passions and nerdery, who are willing to spend time and money creating elaborate costumes for themselves and others to enjoy. Stop just about anyone and you can easily strike up a conversation. For someone like me who has social anxiety and kind of sucks at being a human being, in general, getting trapped in massive crowds sounds like a stupid idea, but in truth it’s one of the best places to push past anxiety because these wonderful, wonderful people are the least judgemental folk around. How could they be, when they’re dressed up as the Joker or as a Digimon character? It’s kind of hard to poke fun at someone for being anxious when you’re dressed up as Sailor Moon, after all. No, despite the crowds comic-con is a prime place to say, “today I’m going to push myself by trying to meet new people” and at the end of the day if it goes poorly you’ll probably never seen any of them ever again.

Of course, if you are after that sweet, sweet loot and view people as little more than walking nuisances then there’s plenty of things to get your hands on. This can vary from convention to convention, but there is usually something awesome to be found if you have a rake around, from commissioned artwork from a talented pool of artists to some sweet indie comics or custom-made props. This year at Glasgow I had to admit that I was a touch disappointed as comics and comic-related merchandise felt like it had taken a back seat to anime, but that’s a personal thing and comic-cons haven’t actually been about comics in quite a long time. They’re now a celebration of comics, games, movies, TV shows and yes, anime.

Events like this tend to attract guests who come to speak to audiences, as well as sign merchandise and get photos taken with fans provided they can pay. Troy Baker was the highlight guest for me, his voice, along with Nolan North, arguably being the dominant force in videogame voice acting, He took to the stage to deliver a near hour-long panel where he managed to answer just over six questions due to the fact that every answer would detour into an entertaining and thoughtful tangent. He was funny, sincere, informative and held the audience in the palm of his hand. Sadly my own interview with him was cancelled as all his interviews were shifted to the Sunday at the very last minute, but I’m attempting to talk to him via Email instead so with any luck a Q&A with the man himself will happen. Regardless, despite his own admittance that he found doing panels scary it was also clear that he was a natural at it.

But other guests lit up the event, too, such as Manu Bennet who played Crixus in Spartacus and is currently rocking it as Deathstroke over on the Arrow TV show. There was also and Bryce Papenbrook and Trina Nishimura from Attack on Titan whose panel had the crowd nearly constantly laughing as they regaled them with behind the scenes tales and answered questions.

Still, with absolutely no disrespect intended to any of the guests who came to Glasgow’s event it is fair to say that the London show continues to attract higher-profile stars. Hopefully, as the Glasgow comic-con continues to get larger MCM might be able to persuade some of those people to come up to bonny Scotland to entertain the legions of fans who reside here.

Both the Saturday and Sunday were rounded off with the official cosplay masquerade where those in costume could come up on stage to display their efforts, while judges carefully eyed them up to pick a winner. As much fun as it is discovering amazing cosplays while walking around it’s arguably even better to see them up on stage where coloured lighting makes them look even better. Entrants can also choose backing music, and will either have a variety of poses or even a whole act. One person came out as Captain Phasma, for example, before busting out some fancy dance moves. It’s the perfect way to end the convention.

It’s amazing to think that despite how many people attend the Glasgow ‘Con is still quite young, and the organizers are still fine-tuning everything. This year guest panels and the masquerade were held in a different part of the SECC building, freeing up space in the two main halls which, along with some general restructuring of the layout, gave people a lot more room to move around compared to two years ago when there were severe cases of traffic jams. The extra space wasn’t enough to cope with the onslaught of visitors, though, as legions of fans poured in to celebrate their geekdom. The paths may have been wider, but at the ‘Cons Saturday peak it was still hard to push through the throngs. If you’re taking little children it’s fair to say that while people will do their best to avoid bumping into them there’s inevitably going to be accidents.

So, if you have an interest in comics, anime, cosplaying or a bunch of other geeky things then is it worth going to a comic-con? Yup. The crowds may mean it’s not really your cup of tea, it certainly can be exhausting, but it’s worth going at least once just for the experience of being amidst thousands of passionate people who share your love of everything nerdy and awesome.

Before we wrap this up with a bunch of pictures, though, here’s some general advice for adding comic-con or any other similar convention.

– Start planning early. When it comes to travel costs and hotel rooms booking early often means getting them cheaper, and that means you’ll have more cash to spend on stuff at the convention! In short, if you want to attend a convention the earlier you decide to do it the better.

– Check the schedule. Convention’s will typically publish a schedule well in advance of the event that will tell you when certain guests will be speaking. Read it, pick what you don’t want to miss and then consider setting some alarms on your phone so that you don’t get carried away and completely miss seeing your favourite guest panel.

– Pack light. Pack smart. This one is obvious, but try to pack light. It’s tempting to take everything, especially if you’re like me and own a pile of camera gear, but you’re going to be walking all day and the crowds don’t mix well with chunky rucksacks. Take what you need.

– Take snacks and drinks. You’ll find plenty of food at conventions which makes it tempting to save some bag room by just grabbing stuff while you’re there, but frankly the price of food and drink at these events is absurd. Now, I generally champion supporting businesses where possible, but the huge inflation of prices makes eating at a convention very, very expensive. Take a few snacks with you, and pack some water to sip on the way round because the crowds tend to make the whole place kind of hot.

– But do check if bag searches will be in operation. To put it bluntly bag searches are about as effective as airport searches when it comes to catching potential threats, which is to say they aren’t. But still, buildings hosting conventions will often employ these to help people feel safer, which also means you might get any drinks and other things confiscated on the way in. Chec before you attend to see if these searches will be happening. I got caught out no long ago when I went to 4TG and bag searching was not stated anywhere on the event site. They took my bottle of Coke away. Damn you random security guard. Damn you.

– Take out money beforehand. Many sellers at a convention will take card payment these days, but many won’t and guests doing signings will typically want cash. While there are often ATMs at a convention the queues tend to be massive, so visit a bank or ATM before the event and stock up on pennies.

– Budget. Another good reason to take out some cash before the event is that it makes it easier to limit your spending. Cards are great, but let’s face it, it’s pretty easy to get carried away with spending. By picking a limit and then putting that amount of money in your bag or wallet or pocket it’s much easier to keep your spending in check as you can visibly see your funds dwindling.

– Shop around. It’s so tempting when you see something to immediately whip our your money and start flinging it at the seller, but show some patience and have a look around. Provided the item you’ve seen isn’t one of a kind or of a very limited stock it’ll still be there later on, and that gives you time to see if anybody else at the convention is selling it for a better price. You could also consider checking online. Now, I advocate buying from the sellers at the conventions where possible, even if the prices there are a bit higher than you’d pay online, but there are times when sellers massively mark up their prices so it might be an idea to head onto the Internet and see how much cheaper it might be. If the price difference is significant, then maybe you should wait until you get home to order it. If it’s not too bad, go ahead and support a local seller.

– Buy later. Again, it’s tempting to just grab stuff as soon as you see it, but keep in mind that you might still have hours and hours of convention time left where you have to carry that item with you. That’s extra weight while you walk. Provided it’s not a limited item or one of a kind consider going back to buy it later in the day. If you are worried about it disappearing ask the seller if they’d consider keeping it back for you. I’ve done this a few times when I’ve been buying unique things, sometimes agreeing to pay half the price as a deposit or even the full amount upfront. Many sellers are happy to do this for you. Try to get something written, though, so when you come back later you’ve got some physical proof just in case.

– Haggle. Many sellers are willing to haggle price with you if you try, but this is especially true of the various people selling their own comics. They’re quite willing to do you a deal for multiple issues in most cases, so it does no harm to haggle a little.

– Take photos, but ask first. Taking photos is pretty much expected at a convention, especially since there are so many awesome costumes on display, but the general rule, as you’ll see written on most convention’s guidelines, is to ask permission before taking a picture. For cosplayers this also gives them the chance to get into a pose. Of course general shots of crowds and queues are the exception since you can’t be expected to ask for permission from hundreds, if not thousands, of people.

– Battery power! Another obvious one, but make sure any tech you’re taking is fully charged. If you’re going to be using a phone to take pictures then consider investing in a power bank to take with you so that you don’t run out of juice. This is especially important if you need to be able to call a taxi or something after the event, although generally the building’s reception is happy to help.

– Brush up on the rules. If you intend on going in costume make sure you thoroughly read the rules and regulations surrounding prop weapons, as many things simply aren’t allowed.

– Just have fun, yeah? –

Nerding It Up At MCM Glasgow Comic-Con 2017 (Plus A Guide To ‘Conning) On stage voice actor Troy Baker talks about how we all have our nerd, from those of us who love comics or Star Wars or movies to the people who are obsessed with engines or skiing or racing or anything else.

#2017 #comic-con #Glasgow #MCM Comic-con

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