Seeing as Bro said that Team Child has a few other members than just himself, Dear and Guita, do you think the other team members are part-time? It's just a thought that ran across my mind.
Dear and Guita are perhaps more active because Bro is essentially a parent to both of them. Or at least Dear, as he's his adoptive father. Perhaps he's like that for Guita, too. Or maybe Guita's parents allow her to be with the Cleaners full time.
As for the other members of Team Child, they are perhaps powerful givers and assist whenever their Giver powers would be an asset, but otherwise, stay with their parents.
I'm just super excited and curious to see what the other members of Team Child would be like since it looks like Team Child may be the strongest team. Especially in terms of raw power and the infinite capabilities and potential a child possesses. We see with the latest episode (Ep 22) with Guita's feats and Dears Santa's powers in episode 20.
Tony first hears about Riri Williams through a buried S.H.I.E.L.D. file a fifteen-year-old who built her own suit, alone, out of scrap. She reminds him of himself, painfully so. Brilliant, self-destructive, guarded. And more than anything, alone.
Tony doesn’t show up with fanfare. He doesn’t even knock. One night, Riri’s suit crashes during a test flight, and Tony’s the one who catches her midair. "You know," he says, voice crackling through her comms, "you really oughta put a safety override in that repulsor core. Or maybe not test fly alone at 2 a.m. like a reckless little genius."
Riri is furious. Embarrassed. Intrigued.
They start working together. It’s awkward. Tense. Tony is haunted by too many failures — Peter, Afghanistan, his parents — and Riri doesn’t trust anyone. She’s used to people stealing from her, doubting her, or trying to “handle” her. But slowly, the two start healing each other. He teaches her to refine her engineering, to slow down, to live. She reminds him why he ever became Iron Man. Tony sees a mirror of his worst tendencies in Riri.
Shuriri — “Echoes in the Metal”
Set post-Wakanda Forever or in a slightly AU timeline. Shuri’s investigating how the U.S. military managed to detect vibranium traces on the ocean floor. The only tech capable of doing so was supposedly destroyed. But fragments of the design match something... familiar.
She traces it back to Chicago. To a makeshift lab. To a girl running with the crew.
Riri Williams.
Riri doesn’t trust her at first. She’s burned out trying her best to keep up with the crew. ( I'm thinking of making her a runaway) Keeping a tight lid from losing her dad and her best friend.
Shuri offers her a way out. Not as a weapon, not as a Wakandan project but as an equal.
The two clash, constantly. Riri calls Shuri out for her privilege. Shuri calls Riri out for closing off her heart. But slowly, they soften. Shuri shares her grief over T’Challa. Riri shares the story of losing her father.
Sam Wilson & Riri -" Breaking Point”
When the government pressure is trying to Riri make more tech to find more precious metals. Sam, not liking bullies, takes her before the government does. I see sam and riri on the run. I think uncle & niece dynamic.
That's pretty much it on my ideas that I am kicking around. I'll try to start writing them once I see Ironheart part 2. Tell me what you guys think.
hi mallll I’m back on a new acc It’s meyy I hope ur doing okayyy
OMG MEY!!!!! Hiii! Yes I'm fine! Life has been busy! I hope you're oure fine too! I just binged IronHeart last night and the ideas are flowing, so I'm about to come out of hibernation sooon!!!!!
It's insane I made this account at 13. 🤣🤣 I remember just saving a bunch of Numbuh 5 and KND content in the beginning. Then there was my Gangsta obsession. Then I came back for miss Letitia Wright!!!! Manning!!! Good times.
If you answered yes to these questions, come join us in running the Official Ship Blog for Shuriri!
If you already post about them on your personal blog, you can now reblog them here for more views. If you love this ship, come help us spread the love!
🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾 send a message at @pantherheart (or @palettesofrenaissance ) if you would like to join.
ALL ABORD THE PANTHERHEART TRAIN!!!
(If you have any doubt about whether or not you can run a ship blog, that's just the little devil on your shoulder trying to discourage you 👿)
Okoye leaned against the wooden fence and watched Riri tended to her rhinoceraus, Thabisa. The calf had grown quite large over the last 4 years, almost as large as its father. To combat the height disadvantage, Riri equipped herself with some stilts. Not without technologically modifying them first in ways that best suited her needs, of course.
Riri had insisted to her mother that she was capable of bathing the rhino all by her lonesome, so Okoye was forced to be a bystander. Not like she minded in the least. She spectated as Riri got herself soaked with water and soap, trying to get Thabisa as clean as she could while the animal huffed and grunted at her ministrations.
A smile blossomed over Okoye's features as Thabisa nudged Riri before giving a wet, affectionate lick to her cheek.
"Ah! Thabisa!" Riri giggled before meticulously scrubbing her horn with a toothbrush, "I should use this for your tongue next."
Okoye settled herself onto the grass but was soon accompanied by her own rhinoceraus, Efua. She placed a kiss onto the beast's thick hide before leaning against her.
She pulled her Seana Marena closer to her form as her mind went back to the conversation she had the previous night with her husband.
"Okoye, I fear Riri is not quite as fond of me as I had initially believed," Attuma started, "When I try interacting with her, she keeps communication short and goes about her way. I sense that she is uncomfortable, but I do not know how to remedy the issue."
Okoye gave Attuma her full attention as he lamented. She did in fact notice the stagnancy in the relationship between Riri and Attuma. Their interactions have been a stark contrast compared to before they had married.
Attuma officially moved in and integrated into their home three weeks ago. Initially, Okoye had chalked it up to Riri needing to adjust to the new presence being a permanent fixture. They have evolved from a family of two, into a family of three.
However, Okoye being as perceptive as she was, had noticed tension from Riri long before he brought it up. She wanted to give her child space though. She wanted to allow her to sit with her feelings and reflect before approaching the child. Though it looks like she'd have to gently prod her.
"I would like to bond more with her, but I am afraid the wall she has put up prevents me from doing so. She is like a daughter to me-no, she is my daughter, and I would love to teach her the ways of my people. But I am hurt that she avoids me. Did I perhaps do something to anger her?"
Okoye gave a gentle smile and held Attuma's hand in comfort, "No, darling. She has just had difficulty to the new addition in our home. But don't worry, I'll have a little chat with her."
Attuma brightened at Okoye's suggestion, "You will? Thank Chaac!"
Efua huffed, bringing Okoye out of her reverie. Her attention went back to Riri and Thabisa, noting that her daughter was finished with the tidying.
"You're all clean now, Superstar!" Riri cheered before taking a selfie with the rhino, "You can go ahead and eat now, girl." She patted her side and walked over to Okoye after Thabisa walked off to eat her meal.
"Come." Okoye pat her side, "Let's talk."
Efua stood up and trudged off to get her own food, leaving the mother and daughter by themselves.
Riri plopped down and rest on her head on Okoye's lap, looking up at her.
"You smell like wet Rhino, small girl." Okoye playfully scrunched her nose.
"A small price to pay in making sure my baby looks presentable at all times." The child smirked.
Okoye unravelled her Seana Marena off of her body and covered Riri with it, seeing her shiver slightly due to her damp clothes.
"Riri," Okoyes affectionately rubbed a thumb over her daughter's forehead, "Attuma wants to take you fishing tomorrow."
Riri wrinkled her nose at the statement, "I'm not a member of the River Tribe. I don't fish. Tell him I pass."
Okoye frowned slightly at Riri's dismissiveness, "But how come my love?" Before Attuma moved in with them, she was always excited to be around 'Big Blue' as she affectionately called him.
"Uh," She squeezed her eyes shut, "Because I'm a part of the Border Tribe? Duh. I don't have a need to fish." She wildly flailed her arms, gesturing to the wide open fields and cattle scattered across the landscape.
Chuckling at Riri's adamance, she gently coaxed again, "Yes, my Pebble. But Attuma would like to share a piece of him, a part of his world with you through the bonding experience of fishing. Don't you want to have a deeper understanding of your stepfather?"
Riri flinched at the title and looked at her mother, "No?"
Okoye softly cradled Riri's cheek and regarded her, "Why is that my sweet?"
Riri gave her mother an exaggerated shrug, interlocked her fingers and stretched out her arms, "I dunno."
Okoye remained patient with the child and prodded some more, "Riri, who boasts about knowing everything, claims to not know why she doesn't want to know her stepfather better? That's preposterous!"
Riri groaned loudly, "Ugh, Ma! I dunno. I guess its because it's different I guess?"
"Different how?" Okoye persisted with open-ended questions to allow room for Riri to properly express herself.
Riri shrugged again and avoided eye contact.
"It's okay to speak what's on your mind, Riri. You know I don't bite." She tickled her ribs, causing the girl to giggle.
"Okay, okay Ma! Stop! Haha!" Okoye paused her attack to allow Riri to speak.
"You promise you ain't gonna look at me funny for what I have to say?"
"You know I'd never do that, Riri. You know you can always speak your mind with me." Okoye encouraged.
Riri folded her lips as she thought of the best way to get her thoughts across, "I just feel weird with someone else in the house other than us. I guess. It was cool and everything when he came and went but I didn't realize how...WEIRD I feel. It was just me and you always..." She trailed off.
Okoye kept quiet in case Riri had anything else to say.
"And I know we had the talk. You asked me if I was comfortable with you marrying Attuma and him living with us. And I was. He's fun. He plays with me. He took me out and stuff. He told me he loves me and stuff. But it feels strange officially calling him Baba you know? Or Yuum as he says I can call him." Riri scratched her head. "I dunno if I'm making any sense to you, Ma." She took a deep breath and sighed.
"No, you're making perfect sense Riri." She stroked her daughter's cheek with a knuckle.
"I guess what I'm saying is I underestimated my ability to adjust to a male presence that is a constant in the home and I don't know how to navigate this newfound family dynamic full-time. I like Attuma, don't get me wrong. I just feel awkward. And shy, I guess." She wiggled around on the grass and rubbed the back of her head impossibly deeper into Okoye's lap.
Okoye laughed at Riri's antics, "It is alright, Riri. This is something new. You are adjusting. But the fact of the matter is, this is the same Attuma that you know. He's very excited to teach you more about his home and traditions as he sees you as his own child."
Riri blew a raspberry in response.
"He is very excited to bond, you know. Don't knock it till you try it."
"Hmm, but Ma, I'm an engineer, not a fisherman. I'm also one with the Border, in case you forgot. Not exactly a water baby here."
Okoye nodded, "That may be true but just as the Border Tribe protects Wakanda with the strength of the earth beneath their feet, Talokan draws its strength from the water. You can learn a lot from Attuma, just as he has been very eager to learn from you."
Riri took a breath "But- the-Hmm."
Okoye interrupted Riri every time she tried to make an excuse, "Ah-No-Riri." She levelled the child with a look only a mother could give.
"Just give it a chance. Go into it with an open mind. Try looking at things from his perspective. What scientist do you boast yourself to be and not having an open mind, eh?"
Riri sighed, "Fiiiinnneeeeee. I'll go." She knew once her mother made up her mind.
"But manual poles and bait and stuff? Nah, I can do better than that. Trust. I'll build some more effective gear for our bonding session." Riri nodded and stroked her chin as she began brainstorming, "Attuma's gonna have the sandals rocked off of him!"
The next day, Attuma excitedly packed his essentials into his satchel as well as everything needed for their outing into a carved wooden chest.
He planned on having a full day with Riri which was rich in knowledge and new experiences for her. He put everything outside on the porch and waited for Riri to come outside.
Okoye was with Riri as she put in the last of her gadgets into her backpack, "Be open to the experience, okay, Riri?"
She walked around her room and tugged her shorts out of the clothes hamper before putting it on, "Yea, Ma. I got it. Be open and be nice and blah blah." She laughed.
Riri picked up her bag and slipped her flip-flops on.
Mother and daughter ventured outside to meet Attuma.
"Are you ready to venture to Lake Mbasi, Riri?" Attuma asked cheerfully.
Riri smiled and nodded, "Heck yea. We're gonna catch so much fish! It's gonna be a feast!"
"That's the spirit, Tiny Shrimp!" Attuma cheered, which caused Riri to smile at his enthusiasm.
Okoye bent down and pressed a kiss to Riri's cheek, "Be good!"
She then turned and tip-toed to press a kiss to Attuma's lips after he removed his rebreather, "You be good as well."
"Of course!" He grinned and picked up his chest, "Let's go Riri."
And so, the duo set off on their trek to Lake Mbasi. It was a 45-minute walk, so they had gotten an early start to properly seize the day, as Attuma explained.
"Are you excited for the fishing experience, Riri? Because I have so much to show you."
Riri grinned and rubbed her pointer under her nose, "Yea. I'm excited. I have a few things to show off to you as well It'll blow your mind!"
Attuma paused, his tone held a tinge of hurt, "You intend to blow my head off?"
Riri looked at him, "Big Blue, you're funny sometimes. It's just a figure of speech." She jumped and spread her legs apart on the landing, then pointed up at the sky, "What I mean is you're going to be completely and utterly dumbfounded by what I have in store! I stayed up all night prepping for today. You're going to be at such a loss for words you're gonna look like this."
Riri put on an expression of awe and hung her mouth open, "Gonna be like a fish outta water. I'm saying!"
Attuma chuckled, happy that she seemingly reverted to how she used to interact with him.
They continued their walk with light conversation until they finally arrived at Lake Mbasi.
"Here we are, Riri." He carefully placed the chest on the ground as well as his satchel.
Riri did the same with her backpack and went to inspect the chest, "Woah! What are these glyphs?" She touched the markings on the wood, unable to stave off her curiosity.
"That is the glyph of Ix Chel." Attuma explained as he got on one knee, "She is our Goddes of Waters and the Moon. The glyph represents nurturing and abundance, symbolizing the balance of nature and the life-giving forces of the water."
Riri listened to Attuma and nodded in understanding, "That's pretty cool."
She went to her backpack and took out the gadgets she prepared, "Let's get to fishing!" One by one her tech lined the grass.
"I got, self casting fishing lines. A sonar to detect the fish so we don't have to wait super long for a catch, and I even brought a drone to spot schools of fish from a bird's eye view! This'll be a piece of cake!" Riri hummed and nodded her head in approval.
Attuma regarded Riri, "I know you love using your tech as it provides a more convenient and efficient way of executing tasks as you so put it, I insist we start things off in the more traditional way. I want to share with you the way my people prepare to fish."
RIri scratched her head, "Okay, show me your ways, Attuma. But you have to promise we use my gear next!"
Attuma chuckled, "Yes. You have my word." Attuma set aside his spear which was in his satchel, as well as his net.
"This fishing spear and net have been passed down for generations in Talokan, tracing back to our Mayan roots. One of many of course."
"That's cool," Riri stated as she squatted opposite the blue man.
Next, he placed a gentle hand on the unopened chest, "Fishing in Talokan is not just about catching food. It is about respecting the natural world. The waters are sacred and breathe life. In Talokan, we do not take more than what we need. That is how we maintain balance between nature and survival."
Wow. The way of the Talokan is similar to how her fellow Wakandans do things on land. Riri smiled and hugged her knees at the lesson she was getting from Attuma.
“In my culture, we believe the water has a spirit like the gods who control the rain and rivers. We don’t just fish; we give thanks. Each catch is a gift."
Attuma opened up the chest and looked at Riri, "I want to share in a ritual we do before we fish."
First, he extracted a polished shell which had intricate markings of a hammerhead shark on it. He beckoned Riri closer so she could scrutinize it properly.
"The shark represents strength and power in the ocean." He motions for Riri to hold out her hand and places the shell into her palms.
He then placed a white flower into the shell, "You may place the shell at the water's edge."
Riri wasn't expecting to participate in the ritual herself, but she was rolling with it. Quite appreciative that he was sharing this experience with her.
He removed a few more bowls, placing flowers into them as he did the first and allowed Riri to place them at different points to symbolize a circle of protection.
Next, Attuma removed a small pouch of copal from the chest. Attuma burned the incense at the water’s edge, allowing the smoke to drift over the lake. He explained to Riri that it symbolised a bridge between Talokan and the natural world. The scent would honor the sea and the spirits that dwell within it.
Next, Attuma retrieved a fishing spear made from obsidian.
"This has been passed down through generations in Talokan. This spear is not used for everyday fishing, however, it is symbolic, representing the unity between the fisherman and the sea."
He showed it off to Riri, "These carvings engraved into the spear represent Chaac, the Mayan God of rain and water."
"I shall now seek the blessing of the sea gods. This spear represents my respect for the ocean, my ancestors and the fish we seek to catch."
With great reverence, Attuma gently placed the tip of the spear in the water. As the spear touched the water, he whispered a prayer in his native tongue to the sea god Chaac, asking for balance and guidance.
Riri remained silent as Attuma went through the steps with great devotion.
Next, Attuma takes a gourd out of the chest, "This is the vessel of seawater from which I hail."
Slowly he pours it into the lake, symbolizing the union of Talokan and Wakanda.
This act represents how the two worlds—underwater and on land—are forever connected, a message not lost on Riri, who watches with curiosity.
To conclude, Attuma takes the water amulet from the chest and holds it over his heart, reflecting for a few moments in silence. He speaks the final words of the blessing, calling upon his ancestors to guide him and keep him connected to the sea. The amulet is then placed back in the chest as a final act of devotion.
"The ritual is complete." He then looked over to Riri.
"Yoo! Attuma that was so wicked!" She stood up on shaking legs and filled her lungs with several gasps of air. "I didn't realize I was holding my breath for so long! You're so devoted to your Gods and ancestors! And the ceremony was so powerful. You're making me want to learn Mayan!"
Attuma grinned at Riri's animated demeanour.
"And thank you for allowing me to participate in the ritual with you. I felt super included!"
"You are most welcome, Tiny Shrimp. That is the purpose of our bonding."
"So it's fishing time now, right?"
Attuma nodded in agreement.
"Okay! So lemme show you my stuff!" She ran and picked up her fishing pole, "This bad boy is self-casting! So all you gotta do is stick it in the ground and it'll do the work or you!"
Riri excitedly stuck the pole into the soil and clicked a button that propelled the line into the water, "Now we just gotta wait."
She put her hands on her hip, feeling proud of herself.
"That is very innovative, Riri but you don't get much interaction in the water that way." Attuma rubbed his chin.
"The tech does all the work for you." She sat next to the pole, waiting for a snag.
Attuma nodded, deciding to wait with her to see if the fishing line caught anything. But five minutes passed and nothing.
"Huh. This is boring."
Attuma sighed, "You should get into the water, Riri. You will have an easier time catching fish by understanding the rhythm in which the water behaves.
Riri scratched her head, "But the tech will do it for me."
"Come, come." Attuma ordered, "I am going to show you how to fish like a proper Talokanil.
Riri stood up and kicked off her flip flops, "Lemme get my sonar!"
Attuma shook his head, "No, I said like a proper Talokanil. We aren't using any technology."
Riri pouted and slipped her hands into her back pocket, "But I'm not from the River Tribe. I'm going to suck at this. I've never fished in my life. No connection to fishing traditions. I think you'll be wasting your time. I'm inadequate." She shrugged, not liking to admit that.
Attuma lightly nudged Riri's back and guided her to the water, "Do not fret, Shrimpy. You will be a pro when I'm done with you."
Stepping into the water until Riri was thigh-deep, Attuma began his instruction.
"Have you hunted before?"
Riri made a face, "Duh. Do you forget who my mom is? She's taken me into the forest before to catch dinner before. Meat tastes best when it's fresh as can be!"
"You have the right mentality!" He gently rubbed her shoulders, "Fishing is no different than hunting on land, besides elemental differences. Just as you hunt a boar, reading its movements, knowing the proper time to strike, so you do with fish."
Right where he stood, he took note of a large catfish swimming about, barely making ripples at the surface.
"Take note Riri. Look at how this catfish swims and has its own rhythm. To catch it you do not go against the tone it has set for itself. I cannot just splash in and expect a catch. It will get frightened and I would lose a meal."
Riri looked on as Attuma gently placed his hands in the water and trailed behind the movement of the fish. Almost as though he was one with it. Then in an instant, Attuma pulled the large fish out of the water. It flapped around in his hands, causing water to sprinkle all over Riri, making her laugh.
"See? It's easy!" He walked on land and placed the fish on the grass.
He joined Riri in the water again, "Yea. You know what. It's a piece of cake! I'll catch mine on the first try too!"
She spread her legs and looked extra hard to see if she spotted a decent-sized fish, "Aye! I see one!"
In her excitement, she dove into the water but turned up soaked and exmpty handed.
Attuma's gutteral laugh caught her attention. The Talokanil General hunched over in laughter at Riri's zealous display.
Riri smiled and wiped some hair out of her face.
"That-that was the exact opposite of what I showed you Shrimpy." Attuma coughed into his fist as tears formed in the corner of his eyes.
Riri rolled her eyes and looked into the water for another fish. This time shedunked her hands under water a little too fast which caused the fish to swim away. "Hmm!"
Attuma, still laughing came up behind her and hunched over her smaller form.
"Follow me." He placed his hands in the water and Riri did the same. Using his hands as a guide Riri slowly coursed her hands through the water, making a small current.
Seeingly attracted to the motion, a fish practically swam between her awaiting palms.
"This is your chance, Riri!"
"It's mine!!" Riri screeched before pulling her hands out of the water, "I caught you!" She looked up at her hands to see her spoils but frowned when she realized what they held in the air were her interlocked hands instead.
Attuma roared with laughter, the sheer force of his mirth knocked him backwards, splashing Riri in the process.
"It's not funny!" Riri growled while splashing him, but her tone held no rage, "I almost had it!"
Attuma held up his own clasped hands, shouting to the heavens, "I caught it!" Mocking the child.
"You know you wrong for that." Riri huffed before splashing Attuma again.
"We can try the spear if you like." Attuma offered but Riri declined, "Nah I wanna catch a fish with my bare hands like you!"
The rest of the afternoon, Riri and Attuma spent their time catching fish. Well, more of Attuma catching fish and Riri splashing herself with water in hundred of failed attempts.
Attuma was placing his latest catch next to the rest when Riri shouted for his attention.
"I caught one! Big Blue I caught one!" She splashed around in a happy danced while she remained hunched over in excitement.
Attuma, happy about the news came rushing to observe her bounty.
Riri turned around and in her possession was a tiny brightly colored fish swimming in her palms.
Attuma grinned, "I am so proud of you Riri! You did so well!"
Riri smiled at the praise, "I wanna keep this one. It's too small to eat anyway."
"Of course you can. We need something to put it in."
Riri carefully walked back to shore, "I have a water bottle in my bag!"
Attuma fetched it, filled it with some lake water and helped Riri guide the fish into the bottle.
"Hehehe." She held up the bottle to the sunlight and admired the fish's colors, "I had a bountiful day indeed."
She looked over to the piles of fish Attuma had laid out on the grass, "You too, I guess. But mines is prettier."
Attuma smiled and nodded, "I cannot argue with you there."
Riri sat down and flopped backwards, the events of the day getting to her, "Man, I'm beat." She groaned.
"You did excellent for your first time, Riri. I'm very proud of you." Attuma sat next to her and pat her soaked afro.
"Thanks..." Riri looked up at the sky and twisted her mouth.
"Thank you, Yuum."
Attuma looked over at Riri with shocked eyes. That was the first time she referred to him as such.
"Yea, I was practicing that in the mirror for like 3 weeks." She shrugged.
"Sorry if I made you feel bad for ignoring you and stuff. You becoming my stepdad felt surreal to me. It was one thing with you coming around sometimes and hanging out. But you being around 100% felt crazy to me. And I guess I felt nervous about it. Because it was more official. And I didn't know if our dynamic would have changed."
She scooted closer to the Talokanil, "I guess I was worried that you woulda switched up or something and not like me as much? Or I was maybe projecting onto you. But I'm glad you still love me like you always said you have." She scooted closer to him and rest her head on his shoulder.
Attuma's heart soared hearing that from Riri. He wrapped his arm around her and pulled her closer, "I would never change the way that I treat you, unless it was for the better. Which it always will. I am happy that you felt comfortable enough to share this with me, Riri."
"You're welcome, Yuum."
After winding down, Attuma packed up their spoils of the day and allowed Riri voyage on his back after complaining of being tired.
Riri silently pet Attuma's hair for comfort as he carried her back home.
Okoye was on the front porch when she saw her husband and daughter coming up the walkway.
"You're back!" She stood up to meet them but her eyes bulged at the sight of the amount of fish they brought back, "Did you clear the entire lake?" She joked.
"All that you see in the net is what I caught, Ma!" Riri announced.
"Really?" She took Riri off of Attuma's back and pressed a few kisses to he cheeks and forehead.
"Nah. He caught all of those. But look!" She held up her water bottle, showing off her colorful fish, "I caught this one all by myself!"
Okoye gasped, "Oh my goodness! Riri it's so beautiful!"
Riri rubbed her nose in smug satisfaction, "You can have it if you want."
Okoye smooched her cheek again, "Are you sure? I'm sure you worked hard to catch it."
"Put me down! I'll put it in a bowl for you!"
Okoye did as she was told and Riri bolted inside.
She looked over at her husband, "So, how was it?"
Attuma put down his net of fish and lifted Okoye into his arms.
Knowing what he wanted, she removed his rebreather and gave him a kiss on his lips.
"She called me Yuum! Okoye I'm so happy! She accepts me wholly." He pressed another kiss to her lips.
"Attuma that's great news!" She wrapped her arms around his neck in a hug.
"I already have another outing planned I believe she will love it."
Two of her favourite people in the world were getting along again and she couldn't be happier. She went in for another kiss but RIri interrupted with her gagging.
"Okay, guys. That's enough. Let's fry up some of that tilapia already." She snapped her fingers in haste.
"You heard the boss." Okoye smiled.
Attuma smiled and picked up the net, "I shall begin gutting the fish."
A/N: Hey hey everyone! So in my dusty Asks, I remember I had asked about what trope you wanted and a good few of you mentioned Academic Rivals/Enemies to lovers! Now here's the kicker. I distinctly remember, IIRC, @roseamongroses put in a detailed request, however, tumblr at the time deleted it? Because I never touched it. But it had been on my mind ever since and I was like yo! When I have time I must make it a reality! So in my comeback, I'm doing my best to give you guys some decent literature while dusting off my rust! Let's goo!
Pushing, shoving, crowding, loud murmurs and squeaking of shoes against tile and or hard-wood floors. All tell-tale signs of students who are eager, desperate, essentially feral to find out about their academic standing.
Sighs of relief, woeful groans and the occasional hiccup leading to wails of horror wafted through Shuri's ears.
This was not new to her, nor did the reactions of her colleagues phase her. Shuri staggered forward as another worried student fought and shoved their way to the front of the crowd in hopes to find their name at a decent rank.
Shuri had no need to fight her way to the front row, however. Her eyes automatically zoned in on the name at the top of the list.
'Shuri Udaku.' stared back at her in bold font.
That was all she needed to know. Turning away, she manoeuvred herself out of the classroom and headed down the hallway. And just like that the first semester of her second year had concluded.
The courses weren't particularly hard, yet her colleagues never posed much of a challenge to her. Their efforts were decent at best, but they were a far cry from being able to intellectually stimulate her.
For the entirety of her academic tenure thus far, she topped every class she'd been in. The lecturers praised her and certain students envied her performance. That was to be expected.
Don't get her wrong, she wasn't bragging or being boastful, nothing of the sort. She was simply unmatched.
Glancing at her watch, she decided to go get something to eat to kick off her week-long break.
Monday came quickly which meant classes had resumed. Shuri adjusted her shades as she walked through campus. Her first class was in the next five minutes so she hurried along the parking lot.
The revving of an engine caught her ears, and right as she turned around her heart nearly leaped out of her chest.
Luckily, the car braked in the nick of time, else she would have been road kill.
The driver's side of the car opened and a short girl with cornrows stepped out, "Yo! I'm so sorry! I coulda killed you just now. Thank God I didn't, right?" The girl tried to laugh it off, "I thought I fixed the braking issue but I should take a look at it later."
Shuri took a step back from the...she gave the car a once over. It was a red Ford Mustang. It looked to be in great condition. Save for the questionable mechanics.
"I'm just grateful you didn't kill me. I'd love to stay and chat, but I have a class to get to and I'd hate to be late." And with that, Shuri turned on her heel and walked off to class.
Not before looking back at the girl one last time. She was cute.
It seemed Bast herself was looking out for Shuri as she somehow made it to class with time to spare. She took out her notebook and began scribbling some notes as the teacher broke down the syllabus for the semester.
Twenty minutes later the door to the classroom opened, drawing the attention of the class.
"Sorry Teach! I was looking for a parking space but I couldn't find one. I had to improvise."
Shuri recognized the girl as her almost-murderer from earlier.
"I don't need excuses. Just find a seat so I may continue with my class."
The girl nodded and looked for the closest vacant seat. Once seeing one she made her way to it. In her short trek, she recognized Shuri and waved to her before she sat down.
Shuri gave the lecturer her utmost attention after that and once it was time to leave she packed up her things and began her departure. However, something, or rather someone still seated at one of the desks caught her eye. It was the girl who almost killed her from this morning.
She was fast asleep. Was she even paying attention after she came in? She'll miss her next class if she kept that up. Not that it was any of Shuri's business how this girl chose to spend her time.
"Hello? Excuse me?" Shuri poked the girl which caused her to rouse.
"Class is over. You should vacate the room. Unless you have another class scheduled here?"
The girl sharply inhaled and rubbed her eyes, "Oh shit. I didn't realize I knocked out. That lecturer was so boring, talking in Times New Roman font and all that." She chuckled to herself.
Shuri didn't humor her with a laugh. Clearly she doesn't have her priorities in check if she willfully fell asleep in classes as she does.
Having enough chit-chat, Shuri walked out of the room and headed to her next class, but she heard hurried footsteps following behind her.
"My name is Riri by the way! And sorry again about this morning. Is there anything I can do to make it up to you?"
Shuri looked down at the girl, "No. I'm not dead, so we can put that whole thing behind us."
"Oh, okay. By the way, I like your accent, where is it from?"
"I'm from Wakanda." Shuri simply stated.
"That's cool! But I still feel bad about this morning. Here's what, if you have trouble with any of your school work, I can tutor you, no charge."
Shuri nearly faltered at the proposition and couldn't help the smirk that formed on her face.
'She wants to tutor me? Someone who is unable to stay conscious during a class session.'
What a laughable proposition.
"I have not seen you here before. Are you new?"
Riri haughtily rubbed her pointer finger under her nose, "Yea. I just transferred here on scholarship."
"Congratulations."
"Thanks!"
Shuri stopped at the door to her next class, "This is where we part ways. I'll see you around."
"What a coincidence!" Riri pointed at the door, "This is where my next class is!"
Shuri pushed open the door, "After you."
Riri found herself a seat and Shuri opted to find one higher up the rows. She preferred a more secluded space for optimal performance.
However, as class went on, she couldn't help but stare at Riri during the duration of the class.
She didn't take notes, she looked bored and at times she had her head on the desk, which gave the impression that she was sleeping.
Was Riri just here for attendance?
It's such a shame that a scholarship was wasted on her. Granted, she didn't know her that long but just off her disposition in class, Shuri had all she needed to know about the girl.
As the weeks progressed Riri made quite the name for herself. One, she was quite loud and rowdy. Getting into it with entitled white boys. Something about them not paying their dues.
Shuri was fairly certain it was perhaps an issue with scamming. As far as she knew, Riri charges for doing other people's assignments. But as far as she's observed the girl learns nothing in class. Having not seen her take a single note since she came here.
Hm. Well, she doesn't have to be good at the work if you think about it. She is charging them to do the assignment, it doesn't have to be correct. Shuri respected the hustle. Taking advantage of lazy students to make ends meet is one way to do things.
Hopefully Riri knew what she was doing. She had everything to lose with that scholarship and everything.
Not that Shuri particularly cared. Exams will chew the poor girl up and spit her out in due time.
Midterms rolled around soon enough and a tale as old as time, Shuri was ready for them. It just so happened that Riri and her shared almost every class she was enrolled in this semester. So they saw each other quite frequently but with very little interaction.
It wasn't that Shuri was avoiding the girl but they definitely wouldn't have anything in common so it made no sense trying to interact further. Saving herself the trouble made the most logical sense.
To Shuri's surprise, though it shouldn't, Riri was the first person to leave the room after submitting her paper. That was to be expected of someone who barely paid attention in class. She gave a mental clap for her not staying and wasting her time.
It went on like that for the rest of exams as well. Within the first hour or less, she was the first out of the room. Pity.
And yet, Riri didn't look like she had a care in the world. She joked around and carried herself with that same laid-back air about herself.
It befuddled Shuri, but as the Americans say, if Riri liked it, then she loved it.
The next week rolled around as results were finally posted from midterms.
Pushing, shoving, crowding,loud murmurs and squeaking of shoes against tile and or hard-wood floors. All tell-tale signs of students who are eager, desperate, essentially feral to find out about their academic standing.
Sighs of relief, woeful groans and the occasional hiccup leading to wails of horror wafted through Shuri's ears.
This was not new to her, nor did the reactions of her colleagues phase her. Shuri staggered sideways as a worried student fought and shoved their way to the front of the crowd in hopes of finding their name at a decent rank.
Shuri had no need to fight her way to the front row, however. Her eyes automatically zoned in on the name at the top of the list.
However, her mouth hung in shock at the name in bold font.
'Riri Williams.'
Her eyes dropped to the second rank where her name was placed, 'Shuri Udaku.'
"Impossible." Shuri licked her lips in disbelief.
"Holy crap! I'm number one here too! That's 5 outta 7. " Someone said beside her.
Shuri looked to her side and regarded Riri who had a satisfied smirk on her face.
"You were this close, huh?" She looked up at Shuri, "You're a decent rival."
Shuri's eyebrow twitched behind her shades.
This...this girl who never pays attention in class, who blusters and boasts around campus like she owns the place. Never takes notes. She bested her in academics.
Clearly the lecturers were off mentally because there was no way she topped her 5 out of 7 times.
Shuri shoved her hands into the pockets of her tracksuit and walked out of the classroom. Much to her surprise and slight annoyance, Riri was by her side.
"Bet you wished you took me up on my offer in tutoring you now." Riri boasted.
Shuri scoffed, "I don't need help with tutoring."
"Says the girl that's second to me." Riri sing-songed.
Shuri stopped and turned to Riri. She raised her sunglasses to look at her properly, "I suggest you don't get too comfortable. Luck was at your side this time around."
She didn't know why she was so agitated. Yes, actually she did know. It was because Riri beat her.
"Nah, I don't believe in luck." Riri crossed her arms, "It's all skill and brains. My offer still stands, I'll tutor you free of charge. My dorm's always open."
Shuri gave her a once over before replacing her sunglasses, "You'd love that, wouldn't you?"
She has an attitude, beauty and brains. A trifecta.
Riri shrugged, not trusting herself to answer.
A few days later, after their papers were returned, Shuri sought Riri out. Luckily it didn't take long as she was munching on a sandwich under a tree.
"I want to compare grades." Shuri demanded as she plopped herself down opposite Riri.
"Well hello to you too." Riri eyed Shuri.
"Yes hello, now let me see your papers. Quickly."
Riri rolled her eyes but did as was told. Shuri removed her shades and went over each question. Her frown deepened with each paper she compared.
Riri bested her by varying percentages. Ranging between two or point five.
Shuri threw the papers on the grass and rubbed her forehead, "And here I was thinking you were an idiot and would eventually drop out."
"Excuse me?" Riri narrowed her eyes. She really didn't want to get into it with this girl.
"I want to extend my deepest apologies for judging a book by its cover. Because you never showed an interest in class up until this point, I was under the impression you would have flunked out. But your grades say otherwise."
"Uh. Thanks. It's light work for a genius, you know?"
"So I assume you knew all the material before hand?"
Riri nodded, "Yea, I went over the syllabus before each class and brushed up on what I needed to know and just show up for attendance. It's not that hard."
"At least I was right about one thing." She stretched herself out on the grass and cradled her head in her palm.
"Don't get comfortable though. That was only a one-time thing. I had gotten complacent is all."
"If you hadn't gotten complacent then you wouldn't be so tight about me pulling the rug out from under you. That sounds like a you problem."
Shuri exhaled through her nose. She was right. She shouldn't take out her frustrations on her. Clearly she was intelligent. Riri had more depth to her than Shuri gave her credit for, so it was indeed a 'her' problem.
"You look good without your shades. I mean you look good with them on too, it's just that you look better with them off."
Shuri laughed, "Thank you. I love your straightbacks."
"Thanks." She took a bite out of her sandwich, "You know I assumed you had social anxiety or something."
"Why is that?"
"You always sat to the back of the class and with your shades on too so I assumed you don't like to make eye contact. And you don't talk to anyone. Only time you did was when I initiated a conversation with you."
Shuri nodded, "I get why you may assume that. I just tend to be in my own world and nobody approaches me. I've been told I am intimidating and that I stare a lot so I wear my shades. But it's mostly because I think I look cool with them on. Don't you think? I look mysterious and all that."
Riri braced herself against the tree and wheezed in laughter, "Because you look mysterious?!"
"And cool." She clicked her tongue, winked and waved finger guns.
"You're corny as hell, Shuri."
Shuri's mouth gaped while holding a hand over her chest, "I am not!"
Riri smiled and shrugged as Shuri gathered the papers and neated them.
"Well, I'm glad you came along, you'll make things more interesting for me, seeing that I met my match and all."
Riri gave Shuri a look, "Are we still talking about academics here?"
Shuri smoothed a hand over her undercut in contemplation, "Do you want me to be talking about something else?"
"If you wanna say something, you should say it with your chest. I don't care for beating around the bush." Riri said matter-of factly.
"Okay. Seeing that I clearly don't need your tutoring I'd like an alternative offer in you making it up to me. Since my family could have been mourning my death and all that."
"Go on." Riri encouraged.
"We should go out on a date together." Shuri looked at Riri and waited on her reaction.
"Okay, sure. We can do that." RIri grinned.
Shuri fist pumped in glee, "Good how's tomorrow after our last class?"
HI MALLLLLL I AINT FORGET ABT THE ROYAL AUUU (I’m tryna be a perfectionist bc you requested it!) BUT ITS COMING ALONGGGG HOW R YOUUUU <333
OMG MEEEYYYYYY!!! OMGOMGOMG IM EXCITED!!! YOU TREAT ME GOOD ASF OMG!!!
I'm so dang tired you won't believe! I'm being run ragged with work and getting my shit together with adulting. But overall I'm awesome!!!! I hope you're good too though!!!! 💓 🤎🤎🤎🤎🤎✨️✨️🤎✨️✨️🤎✨️🤎
A/N: it’s the last day of Shuriri week omgg. That makes me kind sad but I’ll probably keep posting shuriri stuff for this event! 
@shuririweek @mal-urameshi @neptoons1998
“We’ll get them next time.” M’Baku sighs beneath his breath as he glances at the team across the field. He begins to massage his temples, something he does to control his temper. We have to go home with no trophy or celebration while they’ll have parades and praise waiting for them. The United States Versus Wakanda wasn’t going to be an easy win by any means but a loss was never on our mind. It never is, until it happens.
Truth is, I’m supposedly the best goalie on the planet. And I’ve never denied that not until today. They have a new player on their team though traded from a private club.
“Shuri, Alright. It is not your fault we lost, we did our best.” M’Baku says very matter of factly as he glares at the entirety of our opposing team. I wipe the sweat off my forehead and rub at my eyes. It’s been a long day and my adrenaline is still too high.
The entire team is celebrating but one, the new players Rianna Williams. She’s their best, scored on me during penalty kicks and somehow the ball surpassed my hands. She’s their captain as well, one of the best female soccer players there is to date. She had amazing assists, I can’t deny that.
So for someone so decorated, I wonder why she chooses not to celebrate such a win.
“She played very well.” I mention while leaning into Ayo. She nods her head in agreement as we begin to jog to the middle of the field, to begin shaking their hands as a sign of respect and sportsmanship.
“She did…young..talented…gifted.” Ayo lists off. The lights are bright, fans are roaring which makes complete sense as this is a home game for the U.S.
We begin shaking the hands of every player on the United States Team and when I finally reach Rianna Williams, a hard look fills her face, one that I can’t exactly define.
“You played well.” I murmur, still quite a bit winded from the game. She gives my hand a firm squeeze. I look down and notice that her nails are painted a deep shade of navy blue.
“So did you.”
“Then celebrate, you don’t know if you’ll win the next time we play you.” A smile makes its way to her face and I think it’s more beautiful than any goal she’s scored on me.
A/N: So I'm cheating a bit lol but I do want to really lean into this concept so figured I'd give a little angsty (Day 2) Shuribble (Day 3) to keep up my commitment to @shuririweek! Check out the synopsis here.
Mini tag-list: @mal-urameshi @roseamongroses @blacksapphhicmaddonna
"So Riri, you're the hottest new contender in this female rap game. People like to compare you to Shuri from--."
"I'ma go head and cut you off right there cuz, because there is no comparison. No competition cuz I've already won tha game, period! I write, I sing, my bars are sick, and I’ll steal your bitch." Riri unleashed into the microphone, the tension was palpable as she sensed her agent on the other side of the glass, on the brink of a meltdown. Another mention of Shuri Udaku, the Princess of Wakandan Entertainment, was tainting her moment. The incessant comparisons between her and Shuri had become exhausting, and Riri was over it.
"She’s just riding on the coattails of her brother. RIP. Now The Panther, that nigga had flow and was a beast on the beats. But this nepo baby?" Riri scoffed, "She can't hold a flame to me okay. Next subject."
"Well you heard it here folks. Final words from Riri Williams on the eve of her grammy nomination sweep! Best of luck to you mamas."
hi just stopping by to say that you’re one of my fave blogs and I hope you’re having a good day🖤💚
Awwwwww thank you so much!!! I appreciate it, especially since I've been in my lil hole and basically inactive. 🥹✨️
I'm having a bomb day!! Just getting some studying done. I hope you're doing well too, Miss Sapphic Noir!!! I wanna get back on here and chill properly. Soon, though. Maybe we can talk and get to know each other better too if ya like. 🩵✨️🩵✨️🩵✨️🩵✨️🩵✨️🩵✨️
baratheonpilled
dededos
pixelskylines
jacobvanloon
