Curate, connect, and discover
Kai Kalama | (She/They)
Burgundy red dress that falls just past their knees with a boob slit held together by simple straight gold clasps. The sides, starting just below her ribcage and reaching to her waist, have a gap with three simple gold chains attached. Overtop they wore a cropped black leather jacket that reaches just past her boobs. She chose to pair it with golden sun earrings and gold rings to bring attention to their black nails as well as black ankle strap heels.
Kai chose to take Reader to Morimoto's, a fancy and expensive sushi restaraunt that can take months to get a reservation at. It happens to be Reader's dream restaraunt to visit but they've never had a chance to go to because of the prices.
Zane Julien | (She/her)
Pale blue circle skirt with snowdrops sewn along the right side, with a white off-shoulder cardigan, paired with blue converse. Simple clay earrings made to look like snowdrops, and a simple necklace with a shard of diamond bring the entire outfit together.
Zane chose to take Reader to an Interactive Museum because of their mutual love of museums and Readers natural curiosity. It is one of the largest museums in the country of Ninjago and incredibly popular with an aquariam inside.
Cole Brookstone | (They/them)
Deep cut silk white blouse over a black, sleeveless turtleneck paired with a simple silver chain, and a singular black pearl hanging from his earlobe. They wore black jeans with it as well, a wallet chain, and black boots.
Reader decided on the Food Festival, a time when people from all over Ninjago Country gather in the streets and set up stalls, a good opportunity for Cole's first dip back into festivals.
Jay Walker | (She/Her)
Simple blue jeans with bluberry bushes sewn up the calves, tight white sleeveless turtleneck, with a baby blue cardigan that she can easily take off. She paired it with white sneakers, a blue bead anklet, and a string pearl necklace.
Reader chose to take Jay out to a Trampoline Park, the largest in Ninjago, since they both enjoy fun and it has multiple different sections that include laser tag, putt putt, and an obstacle course she hopes to challenge him in.
Lloyd Garmadon | (She/her)
Calf length, tight black turtleneck dress with golden designs along the chest and green glass beads to further bring the designs to life, and off the shoulder loose sleeves with a cuff to keep it from spilling over hands. Black kitten pumps, a gold lotus wrap bracelet, and emerald drop earrings bring the entire outfit together.
Lloyd chose to take Reader out to a fancy restaruant in one of the most expensive places to impress her, even though he doesn't need too. But she is excited to have a date with him, and has never been wined and dined before.
Morro | (She/her)
Ankle length sheer black skirt with pale pink cherry blossoms over black leggings and pale pink sneakers. A pale pink silk wrap around shirt with kimono-esque sleeves and cloud designs along the bottom of the sleeves, paired with a simple silver ring and cherry blossom earrings.
Morro chose to take Reader to a Lantern Festival being hosted in Ninjaho's National Park. The park itself is huge, and so is the Lantern Festival, but its also a little pricey so Reader never had the opportunity to go, even though she wished to.
A/n: The actual dates will be posted one by one as I hope for them to be more detailed, but hope you all enjoy this little tidbit.
Jiang Kai | Kai Kalama (She/They)
Reader was sat on the floor of her apartment, leaning back against Kai's legs as he flipped through channels on the tv. They had a new sketch due in two days, so they were hoping for inspiration.
The parameters for the project were pretty simple; primary color (red, yellow, blue), one accent color (gold or silver), and female model.
Above her, Kai suddenly leaned over them to look in their eyes, "What if you did something based of Azula? You know, from Avatar. She's got red and gold in her design doesn't she?"
Blinking, Reader turned it over in her mind before nodding. Focusing back on him, she was unsurprised to find his gaze on their lips. Doing their best to not let him know that they saw his gaze, they spoke, "That's good. She does have red, though its more maroon but I can tweak the colors a bit to fit the parameters. Thank you, Kai."
He flushed, leaning back as Reader fought to hide a wider smile. For nearly three months, since they'd begun hanging out, she'd noticed how his eyes constantly strayed to their lips or how focused he'd get whenever they spoke. It was sweet, and was defintely not helping their crush. So today, they decided to do something about it.
Later, after dinner, Kai was at the door preparing to leave. "Well, I guess I should leave a pretty person all alone in their apartment to work on their project." He winked making Reader laugh.
"Kai . . ." Reader trailed off, summoning all of their confidence. "Tell me if you don't want this."
"What–"
Cupping his face, Reader pulled him down a little as they reached up a bit to press a kiss against his lips. Their lips slotted together perfectly, fitting like puzzle pieces. The kiss only lasted for a few seconds, as Kai had frozen in shock.
"Sorry. I thought–"
Kai interrupted her this time, slamming their lips back together as he pushed her against the wall beside the door, hands falling to their hips as Reader wrapped their arms around his neck to keep him close.
Reader couldn't help but notice that he tasted like cinnamon, likely from the gum he loved to chew on all the time. Kai noticed how Reader tasted like the fruity wine they'd had with dinner and nearly moaned at the taste.
Pulling away, but not pulling apart completely, he pressed their heads together. "So, can I take you on a date?"
"Time, date, and place?"
"Next Saturaday, 7, and you'll see."
"I'll see you then, Kalama," Reader teased, seperating. Kai obediantly stepped outside, reverantly touching his lips when the doors closed.
Zane Julien (She/Her)
Zane mediatated peacefully to the quiet sounds of Reader painting, her playlist, and the soft humming. He felt at peace in the whirlwind that was her studio, eventually opening his eyes to see what she was painting.
It was the Aurora Borealis, with a wolf pack tilting their heads back to howl in unison. He was amazed by the motion you'd managed to capture in the painting.
"It looks incredible," Zane complimented, startling Reader into nearly dropping her palette.
"Oh shit!" He was quick to catch it, much to her relief. "Oh thank the dragons. Thank you for the compliment, and the catch."
"Do not thank me, it was my fault for startling you."
"You still caught it for me. So I'm going to thank you. Thank you Zane," Reader stated, smiling as she took the palette back.
Zane smiled softly, starstruck as she turned back to the painting. Standing just behind her, he remembered something Nya had said he should do, based on his feelings and how Reader acted around him.
'Ask permission to kiss her, then take her on a date. But don't push her.'
"Reader," Zane said, quickly catching her attention. She turned to him, setting her pallette down to give him her full attention. "I have a question, but I do not wish for you to feel pressured."
"I wouldn't let myself he forced into anything," Reader agreed, tilting her head.
"Of course." Zane hesitated, stepping closer, flustering her. "May I . . . May I kiss you, Reader?"
Reader seemed to freeze, soft lips parting in surprise. After waiting for nearly thirty seconds, Zane was disappointed by the lack of answer but took it in stride. "I apologize, I did not—"
"Was my asking an issue?"
"No, no!" Reader interrupted, waving her hands around. "You don't need to apologize! I was just surprised! Promise! You're not normally so outspoken, so . . ."
"Just a surprise."
"You still have not answered the question," Zane noted, tilting his head slightly. Blushing, Reader ducked her head down in emberresment.
"I-yes. Yes, you can . . . you can kiss me," Reader whispered, standing a little taller as Zane stepped into their space.
Slowly he pressed their lips together, not wanting to rush and accidentally hurt her. The kiss was soft, chaste and made Reader pleasantly cold as Zane felt his core warm in pleasure. Pulling away, he found his own smile widening when he saw Reader looking at him with a wide smile of their own.
"May I take you out? On a date?"
"Y-yes! Yes!"
"Then tomorrow? At 7?"
"Perfect."
"I shall pick you up then," Zane decided, still smiling. Giggling Reader stepped into his space to sink into a hug.
"I can't wait."
Cole Brookstone (They/Them)
The stars were bright as Reader and Cole laid in a grassy meadow Cole had taken them too. Head resting on Cole's stomach, Reader had a surprisingly good view of Cole's reaction every time he spoke lowly, in order to keep the peace of course.
Tonight was Ninjagos Festival of Stars, recently adopted from the Serpentine but neither of them were fans of large crowds and wanted to see the stars and fireworks alone. So Reader had packed a nighttime picnic, with Cole hovering over their shoulder in anticipation.
Mooncakes, Star shaped iced cookies, and multiple blackberry flavored treats. They'd also brought along their starry night themed drink, with blueberries, bananas, and kiwi syrups to make it a stunning array of colors.
Cole had, of course, nearly devoured his portion in a half hour as Reader talked about their day, and some issues they'd noticed recently, eating far slower.
"So, what made you invite me out to watch the stars? Is it just 'cause ya knew I'd bring ya food?" Reader asked, without opening their eyes.
"What, no! All of the others wanted to go to the festival and celebrate, but I wasn't in the mood to celebrate. I'd rather hang out with you," Cole admitted.
"Really? Me? Mr. Ninja wants to hang out with an uninteresting civilian?"
"Your not uninteresting, which I'm not sure is a word by the way. Your just . . . You're normal, and I need that in my life. And you're fun in a different way."
"Well, thank you for the compliment. Any specific reason you don't like festivals? Or is it private?"
Cole knew that all he had to say was that it was private and he would drop it, but he wanted to share. "My mom used to take me out to festivals all the time when I was younger. She had a piggy bank specifically for those days that I could add change too. It was my money to use to do whatever I wanted with during the festival. When she died, I stopped going. It doesn't feel the same anymore."
Reader was silent, thinking. "When I lost my parents, I no longer thought it was worth it. To live. It took me three years to truly start enjoying the world and some days its still hard." Glancing up, they met eyes. "If you ever decided you want to try, I'd be happy to take you. We could make it a date."
"A date?" Cole sat up, worrying Reader who sat up as well.
"It doesn't . . . have to be a date. Not if you don't want it to be."
"Well, what if I want it to be a date?"
Reader smiled, leaning closer as their eyes flicked towards Cole's lips. "I'd like that."
Smiling softly, Cole and Reader leaned closer together until their lips were barely a centimeter apart. "Would you be upset if I kissed you?" Cole asked, trying to hide his nerves.
"Not at all."
Grinning, Cole eagerly pressed their lips together, twisting until he was hovering over Reader. Fingers wove into his black hair, tugging him closer to them as they made out beneath the stars.
Cole eventually forced himself to pull out of their hold, lips glistening and red as he panted. Reader was not much better, shirt having ridden up at some point. "Well . . . that was not what how I thought tonight would turn out," Cole admitted with a goofy grin.
Reader laughed, eyes bright. "So, we still on for that date?"
"Absolutely."
Jay Walker (She/her)
Lightning flashed across the sky, followed closely by the crack of thunder, making Reader groan. She and Jay were both caught in the rain, having been taking a short break from working on one of his older Mechs.
"Well, this sucks," Reader grumbled, huddling beneath the glass cover of a bus station as Jay watched the lightning sparking in the sky with a strange sort of awe and reverance. Nudging him, she broke the spell cast by the bright flashes. "Everything ok, sparky?"
"Huh? Oh, yeah. Just, ehehe, get a little excited during thunderstorms," Jay explained, allowing a spark to flit through his fingers in demonstration.
"That's . . ." Reader trailed off as lightning struck again, highlighting the sharp angular, boyish features Jay had, bringing out his freckles and auburn hair. "That's pretty cool. Don't think I'll ever get used to people fighting with elements though."
"Seriously? You've hung out with Nya for years, how is it still so weird!"
"I don't know! It just is!"
"Maybe you're the weirdo."
"Huh," Reader gasped, as if truly offended. Grabbing their imaginary pearls, she draped herself across the bench. "To slay me with such cruel words, oh how I die. Must this be the way death comes for me."
Jay laughed, plopping down behind her so she could rest her head on his thighs. He smiled down at her, trying hard to keep his blush down, and failing miserably.
"You're turning pink," Reader mused, poking his cheek as her eyes sparkled with mischief. "Is it because you've fallen for my beauty?"
Jay felt his lips twitch downwards when he heard the sarcasm. He was far less oblivious than people thought and he'd realized a while back that Reader did not think themselves pretty. Just . . . Average.
"Would that . . . be bad?"
Readers smile fell as she stared up at him in shock, "Jay . . ."
"I really want to kiss you."
"Then do it."
Leaning down, she reached up, meeting him in the middle. Neither noticed how the lightning seemed to cover the sky, with barely a secons between the flashes. They were too focused on the press of their lips, on memorizing how the others face felt beneath their fingertips.
Pulling away, Reader giggled, quickly joined by Jay. Their was no real reason to laugh but she was happy and so was he.
"So when can I take you on a date, Mr. Blue Ninja?" Reader asked, laughing at the look he gave her.
"Hey! I'm supposed to ask you out!"
"Too late." He tried to sulk but another kiss had him relaxing into a giddy smile. "Fine. I'll go out on a date with you."
"I'll plan a good date, scouts honor."
"You've never been a scout!"
"Oops."
Lloyd Garmadon (She/her)
Reader was happily pressed against Lloyd's side as they walked, liking the comfort of his arm draped over her shoulder. They'd gone windowshopping in the nearby mall for her hour break and were finishing up to walk back, not that Rufus would mind all that much if she was a few minutes late.
"Ooh, look at that," Reader said, pointing to a shoe store. In the display window were Ninja-themed shoes, with Lloyd's being the most prominent.
Lloyd saw what she was looking at and groaned, cheeks flushing, "Please tell me you're not going to buy those. They're like 100$."
Reader pouted, looking up at him with puppy dog eyes, "But I thought you liked seeing me in your merch?" She'd noticed it a few weeks ago when she'd worn a green ninja shirt, seen how wide his eyes had gotten and how stuttery and blushy he'd gotten.
Just like right now.
"Wh‐well, of course, but still . . ." Lloyd trailed off, looking away to hide his face.
Giggling, Reader patted his bicep, pleased at the feel of muscle beneath the long sleeved shirt he wore. "I'm kidding, sweets. They're cute, but too expensive for my taste. Besides, I'd look better in one of the Green Ninja sweaters that one store was selling."
Somehow, Lloyd's blush darkened as he whined, "Reader."
"Lloyd," Reader cooed, delighting even further in his blush.
Suddenly, looking past him she spotted Ryker, very obviously looking around for someone. In a heartbeat their eyes met and he started towards her, making her freak out slightly.
"Lloyd."
He immediatley caught the change in her voice and followed her eyes to see where she was looking. Seeing Ryker, he cussed and pulled her towards a hallway between stores to try and hide.
"He already saw me," Reader admitted nervously. Lloyd watched the entrance, tense, as Reader tried to think up a plan.
Grabbing his shirt, she tugged him close until he was pressing her against the wall. Gaping down at her, he seemed frozen in place.
"Trust me?" Reader asked softly, eyes wide. Lloyd nodded, softening marginally.
"Of course."
Leaning up, she pressed their lips together making Lloyd freeze for only a second before he leaned into it. He gently cupped her cheek, keeping the kiss soft and slow as her own hands found their way into soft golden-blond hair.
Neither noticed when Ryker found them, nor when he realized just who was kissing Reader. Furious the man turned away and fled, stomping away as they stayed pressed together.
"So, sweets, when do you plan on taking me out?" Reader asked, breathless. Lloyd stared down at her, emerald eyes alight with awe.
"Friday, at 6. We're going somewhere fancy," Lloyd decided, smiling widely.
Reader giggled, using her grip on his head to tug him back down into a kiss, "Sounds good to me."
Morro (She/Her)
Morro was passed out on Readers couch, sleeping off the inherent exhaustion that came from his longer missions. She was curled against the side pressed against the couch, watching a movie on low so she wouldn't wake him.
Head resting on his shoulder, with his arm loosely wrapped around her side she couldn't help but blush, thinking about what people would say if they saw their position. It was intimate, even for friends. Her face had been warm the entire time they'd been cuddling, though she hoped he hadn't noticed.
Sudden movement from the hand on her hip startled her, making her glance down. Morro was rubbing at the exposed skin of her hip bone with his thumb.
"This alright?" He asked, voice a low rasp from just waking.
"Yeah," Reader mumbled, pressing her face into his chest. "Just fine. Perfect."
He chuckled, embarresing her further. They fell back into silence, though Reader's mind was running a thousand miles an hour.
"Hey, Morro?"
"Hmmm."
"Do you–" She cut herself off to sit up a bit to look him in the face. Morro's eyes were half-lidded but attentive. "Can I take you out? On-on a date?"
Morro's eyes sprang open as he gaped in shock. Fearfully, Reader began stuttering, "B-but not, not if you don't want too! Of course you don't have to agree! Just asking!" She tried to push the tears in her eyes back as Morro sat up, without saying anything.
With a gentleness few thought he was capable of, Morro rested a large hand on her cheek, forcing her to meet his dark grey-green eyes. "Can I kiss you?"
At her shocked expression, he laughed.
"Y-yeah."
Still grinning smugly, he pressed their lips together, wrapping an arm around her waist to keep her close. He barely let her come up for air before diving back in, like she was his air.
Finally he let them seperate, panting slightly, "I'm taking you out. Friday night, wear something you can walk in."
"O-okay." Eagerly she leaned back in for another kiss making his grin as he met her in the middle.
Jiang Kai | Kai Kalama
Kai impatiently tapped his foot, waiting for Reader to emerge from the doors of Ninjago City College. His amber eyes scanned every person who came out from the doors until he saw her.
They were wearing all red, which made him smirk as a blush colored his cheeks, with black heels and pants to tie the outfit together. It took Reader a second to find him across the street and for her to begin to make her way through the crowd.
"I'm surprised you actually waited," Reader mused, lips twitching upwards.
"How could I not escort such a lovely person home?" Kai asked, winking as Reader shook their head.
"Flirt."
"Only for you."
Reader did not know how true that was, did not know that Kai had completely stopped flirting with other girls even when she wasn't there.
Rolling their eyes, Reader turned and began to walk, leaving Kai to stride after her own long strides. Grinning smugly, he dropped an arm over their shoulder, eyeing them nervously from the corner of his eye to see if they were okay with it.
When his arm was left to rest upon her shoulders his smile grew as he held himself taller.
At their house, they sat with glasses of wine and chatted about their respective days.
The entire time Kai could barely keep his eyes off of her, listening intently though his mind wandered everytime he looked to her lips. Their voice was gentle, calm, the soft melody of light rain and sunshine shining through the clouds. When it was his turn to talk, Reader gave him their full attention, asking questions when things confused her.
He was falling for her. Not just her looks, but her.
Zane Julien
Zane smiled gently when he saw Reader practically bouncing towards him, satchel swinging with their movements.
"Zane!" Reader called, throwing her arms around his neck in a quick hug. When she pulled back, Zane privately wished she hadn't.
She had to tilt her head up a little bit to be able to look him in the eyes and it always set his wires alight. "It is good to see you again, Reader."
"It's good to see you too. So, where too today?"
"Well, a new exhibit opened at the museum about the prehistoric animals of Ninjago. I believed it would be something that interests you, but if not–"
"I'd love to go!" Reader blurted out, shrinking back into herself when some strangers looked at her wierdly. "Sorry. But I'd love to go. Come on."
Grabbing onto his wrist she tugged and he allowed himself to be led as she happily gave out every piece of information she had on prehistoric animals, which was a surprising amount.
While normally Zane would have cut off anyone else to remind them that he was a Nindroid, and as such, knew such things but coming from her . . . It was far more interesting hearing it from her than pulling up the information on his database. The rest of the day, Zane was hesitant to call it a date, he watched as Reader bounced around from display to display to take pictures and read the little plaque's full of information.
He adored the way her eyes lit up as her mind ran with hundreds of ideas for her art. He was falling for her, her mind, her creativity, everything.
Cole Brookstone
Cole sat at one of the tables of Fairy Tale, waiting for Reader to finish up the last little bit of organization for the next day of work. Smiling, Reader emerged, sitting across from Cole and pushing over a cup of hot cocoa for him.
In their own hands was a London Fog, their personal favorite.
"So how was the store today?" Cole asked, leaning forward a little.
"It was good. Miya's getting more confident in herself, even dealt with a customer before they could get too loud and rowdy," Reader said, waving a hand.
"I'm glad she's settling in well."
"She still can't believe that the Earth Ninja comes to visit, sometimes just to see lil' ol' me," Reader teased, voice low and pleasently husky making Cole swallow. Their gaze was lidded but focused, exhaustion showing.
"Well, I come for the cake too."
Reader barked out a laugh, shaking their head. "You should've seen her face when you devoured a full cake in less than 5 minutes. Oh, she came running back to tell me and I thought somethin' was wrong with how afraid she looked. I come out and its just you, devouring a cake in one sitting."
Cole vividly remembered that interaction and rolled his eyes affectionately as his cheeks colored.
"No need to be embarresed, Cole," Reader soothed, reaching to pat his hand. "It was funny, and not in a bad way."
Cole felt his grin grow. Reader was attentive and so direct that they rarely let misunderstandings last, and they were constantly checking on those around.
"Meh, I've had worse."
"Worse?" Reader raised an eyebrow but did not pry, though they were curious. Cole didn't mind and happily dove into one of the many stories he had.
Reader watched him so softly that he could practically feel himself melting. He was falling for the person who had no problem telling him the truth, never letting him fall into his own thoughts.
Jay Walker
Jay bounced in place as the line to the rollercoaster moved slowly forward. Reader, on the other hand, groaned, bored from having to wait in line so long when all she wanted to do was get on the rollercoaster.
"So, how'd Lloyd's new engine come out?" Jay asked, still bouncing on his toes.
Reader grinned, happy to talk about her baby, "Well, Nya came to pick it up last week so Lloyd could test it, and the video she sent . . . Dragons! It was going so fast, and the turns he made were so smooth! I was so proud of my baby!"
"Congrats! I wish I could've seen it," Jay complained, genuinly a little sad that he hadn't.
"Well, I've always got new projects and I wouldn't mind a test partner," Reader offered, grinning. Jay lit up in delight.
"You're kidding!"
"No way! Why would I kid about that?!"
"How many in your party?" The lady at the gate asked, looking bored to tears.
"Two," Jay answered, so she pointed to the first row.
Trying to hide their twin squeals of excitement they both bounded towards the front row, bouncing together as they waited for the next coaster to come in.
"Oh, this coaster is supposed to be the fastest and largest in Ninjago," Reader said, spitting out fact after fact that Jay was quick to build on.
"Yeah, they replaced the old track cause it got less popular."
Climbing in, the bar was pressed down over them until they were firmly wedged inside.
Jay happened to glance over at Reader, whose cheeks were flushed from excitement, eyes wide in anticipation, and could his heart stutter as his entire face went bright red. He didn't know he could fall for anyone again, especially after Nya.
But looking at Reader, who always let him be himself, instead of scolding him for being innapropriate at times of crisis, he knew he was falling for her. Falling for her looks, her quick wit, and her humor.
Lloyd Garmadon
Lloyd couldn't stop his eyes from flickering over Reader, whose legs were thrown into his lap as she read a comic. He'd hesitantly rested a hand on her calf but she hadn't reacted in any way, content to flick through the comic in her hands.
Unfortunately he hadn't been able to focus on his comic, too focused on how pretty Reader looked sparawled on the couch of their tiny apartment with the sun shining around them like a halo.
"You know, if you didn't want to read your comic, why'd you suggest we read," Reader teased, peering over her comic at him. He sputtered, face growing red as her smile grew bigger. Unable to keep it in any longer she busted out laughing, dropping her comic onto the coffee table. "I'm kidding, sweets."
Sweets. A nickname that she had begun using after watching him inhale a bag of gummy bears in less than 2 minutes. Everytime it rolled off her tongue, he could feel his cheeks heat up.
"Well, I didn't know what else you'd wanna do."
"Well . . ." Reader glanced to the side, pursing her lips in thought. "We could watch a scary movie."
"A scary movie? Hehe, good luck finding one that will scare me," Lloyd said, poofing out his chest. "I've seen all the spooky and scary in real life, nothing'll scare me."
The wide grin probably should have made him nervous but it just made his heart pound. Swinging her legs off the couch she headed over to her bookcase full of movies, searching for a specific dvd.
Annabelle.
An hour later when he was practically tucked into her side as he stared at the screen in fear, he couldn't even be dissapointed in himself. Reader had happily invited him to cuddle, so now she was tucked against his side, head on his shoulder as his head rested on hers.
Reader had, of course, laughed at him but her teasing had gone no further, simply offering him comfort. She'd even offered to change the movie but he didn't want to lose any more dignity than he already had.
Not that Reader would see him less. But he wanted to impress the girl who'd begun tugging at his heart just by smiling at him.
Morro
Morro quietly stepping into the bakery, finding Reader waiting for him already. Her gaze was on the same spot it always managed to fall on. The spot where Anya had been shot just over a month ago, losing her life in an effort to get away.
"Reader," Morro murmured, grabbing her by the shoulder to escort her out. Since the incident, Morro had felt indebted in a sense to at least check up on the girl who witnessed the murder of her coworker and friend, but it had grown into a friendship. Somehow.
"Sorry," She whispered, leaning into him slightly. Morro hummed, keeping an arm around her shoulders in comfort.
"How's your week been?"
"Difficult. I think I'm gonna switch to a new therapist," Reader admitted, glancing up at him.
Morro frowned, "Why?"
"He's just . . . He makes me uncomfortable and-and I know that they're going too but I can't . . ."
"If he does anything," Morro rasped, the nearby winds picking up in a quick demonstration that made Reader smile.
"I know. You'll kick his ass," Reader giggled, leaning up to press a sweet kiss against his cheek. Morro turned his head away a bit to hide the flush of his face.
Since they'd begun hanging out, Morro had learned how physically affectionate she was, something he'd never had any experience with.
"Come on," Morro grumbled, disguising the warmth he felt at the affection. "Ice cream place or bookstore?"
"Ice cream, then bookstore?"
Snorting, Morro nodded.
Giggling Reader happily picked up the pace, excited by the prospect of ice cream and books. Morro couldn't help but watch Reader softly, not even realizing how his face softened.
Since he'd gone through the Rift he'd struggled with touch of any kind unless he was fighting but when it was Reader the touch felt . . . comforting. Plus she understood bounderies and could read him surprisingly well, so she always seemed to know when she could and could not touch him.
For the past week anytime he thought of her, her snile, her laugh, her eyes, his heart would jump. It had taken him days to truly understand what he was feeling. Morro was falling for Reader, quickly and badly.
Jiang Kai | Kai Kalama
Reader rushed around the room with the other designers, placing the models clothes in their respective dressing rooms as they prepared for them to arrive. They hadn't yet been informed of their models so the room was filled with a nervous energy.
"So, who do ya think you're gonna get?" Alyssa asked, wiggling her brows teasingly.
"How am I supposed to know?" Reader retorted, bumping their hips together. Alyssa looked around conspiratorially, leaning in closer as Reader continued organizing her models chosen clothes.
"Well, from what I've heard–"
"Overheard, you mean."
"Hush. From what I've heard one of the ninja are coming to model for the company, to help raise money for that Charity you like so much."
"The Charity for Rebuilding?"
"Yeah, that one."
Before Reader could ask if she'd heard anything else they were called together.
"Alright! Listen up! Here is the list of designers and who your model is," Directin Lin announced, holding up said sheet. Alyssa leanes forward eagerly as Reader snickered at her friends eagerness. As the youngest designers it was doubtful either of them would get the higher ranking models.
Everyone surged forward to look at the paper but Alyssa and Reader held back for a moment. They both noticed how people kept glaring back at them for some reason but . . .
Shrugging it off they finally got a chance to see the list. And right beside Readers name was Kai Kalama, the Fire Ninja.
Freezing, both her and Alyssa just stared at the name. "I knew I had an effect on the ladies, but I never realized just how bad it was."
Whirling around they found Kai standing behind behind them with a smug look. And that was all it took for Reader to know how the rest of the day was going to go.
The entire session was filled with flirts and compliments that made her cheeks darken even when they didn't give him an actual response. Kai was not one to give up, but they liked his charm and hoped she'd get to see him model again.
Zane Julien
Reader sat in the shade of one of the large trees of the park, leaning back against its trunk as she sketched a rough outline of the beautiful fountain just across the way. Humming to herself she finished up for the day before carefully putting her sketchbook in her bag.
Done for the day, Reader wondered if they should have brought the car since she needed to go grocery shopping soon. As her mind wandered, she did not realize someone was heading right for her until she was slammed into and her bag ripped from her hands.
"Hey!" Reader shrieked, stumbling for a second before taking off after him. "Get back here!"
The man outpaced her but she didn't stop, her sketchbook was far too expensive for her to stop. Ice suddenly formed on the grass, and the man lost his balance tripping over his own feet and faceplanting into the ground, much to Reader's delight and shock.
Stopping before the ice, she doubled over as a stitch tugged painfully at her ribs. Another man, her age wearing a sweatervest surprisingly, came and retrieved her bag to hand to her.
"Are you alright, miss?"
"Umm, yes, thank you . . ." Reader trailed off, unsure of his name. She recognized him as one of the ninja but she'd never had any reason to remember their names.
"Zane, the White Ninja."
"Oh, well then thank you, Mr. White Ninja," Reader thanked, swinging her bag up onto her shoulder.
"I shall take him into custody and inform the police of his attempted crime. I do not believe it shall require your attention," Zane stated, turning to do so. "I hope the rest of your day is well."
"Uhh, yeah, I hope you have a good day as well," Reader said, taking a step away as Zane went to sling the man over his shoulder.
'Damn, love to watch 'em walk away,' Reader thought, before shaking her head. 'Oh my dragon, what am I thinking? That is so rude of me!'
Reader rushed away before she could become even more mortified by her thoughts, quietly hoping to see the very handsome man again one day.
Cole Brookstone
Reader smiled at the group who had just walked into their store, nodding for Miya to take their orders. The new hire gave them an anxious look, but they were not deterred. The best way to learn was through experience and this was a good start for her.
"Hello, welcome to Fairy Tale's Cakes and Stories, how can I help you?" Miya chirped, smiling through her nerves.
The group of teens was a little rowdy, but they didn't cause any trouble even when they spoke over each other, causing Miya to falter. Once she had finished up their order, the group of seven dispersed and Miya hurried back over to Reader's side.
"How did I do?"
"Really well, Miya. By next week you should be able to man the register without any issue, I just want to make sure you know how to handle any problematic customers," Reader stated, having seen Miya's face drop a little.
"Okay, thank you for this!"
"Of course. Now, why don't you go clean up some of the tables, I'll take the register till you're done."
A customer had walked in while they spoke, a young man on his own who was eagerly looking at the cake display case.
"Hello, welcome to Fairy Tale's Cakes and Stories, how can I help you?"
"Oh, uhh, what's in the Grimm Cake?"
"Its a milk chocolate base, dark chocolate glaze, orange zest buttercream, and a book made of chocolate and filled with orange cream," Reader explained, watching as the man practically salivated at the thought.
"I'll take a whole one!"
"A whole cake?" Reader asked, surprised. Most people only wanted a slice.
"Yes, please!"
"Coming right up."
When he was still there, over an hour later, Miya wondered over to Readers side.
"Is he going to sit there and eat an entire cake?"
"If thats what he wants to do," Reader answered, focused on the grocery list they were working out. The man came up to the counter where Reader was working so they paused in their writing, offering a smile. "How can I help you?"
"I just wanted to come up and say that that was really good! I don't think I've ever had a cake so good! I'll definitely be coming back!" Waving, the man headed back out the door with a bounce in his step.
"Holy shit," Miya whispered, jaw on the floor.
"Miya," Reader warned.
"Did you not recognize him? That was Cole, the Earth Ninja. One of the saviors of Ninjago."
Reader paused in their writing. They had not recognized Cole but they knew of him and his team.
"So, I just had one of the ninja in my shop?"
"Yes!"
"Huh."
They hoped he visited again, and not just because a ninja buying their cakes would boost business.
Jay Walker
Reader was heavily focused on the project Nya had shared with her, working to rebuild this engine piece for one of the ninja's vehicles. She heard Aaron talking to someone, leading them through the garage, but she ignored them for the moment.
"And this is Reader, I believe she was the one you were looking for?" Aaron asked, stopping just before her station, making her pause.
"Yep, thank you!"
Nodding, Aaron left, leaving Reader and the strange man alone. "So, is there something you need me specifically for?"
"Oh, uh, well, heh, Nya actually sent me," He said, smiling awkwardly.
"Nya did? So then you're one of the ninja," Reader realized. He lit up, striking a pose.
"The Lightning Ninja, at your service!" Jay announced proudly, making Reader giggle though she tried to hide it.
"Well then Mr. Lightning Ninja, what did Ninja send you up here for?"
"Oh, she wanted me to check up on the engine for Lloyd's new bike."
"Oh, yeah. I told I'd probably have it done by today, but I ended up having to help with some rich guys car." Reader shook her head at the memory of the rich asshole.
"She said she gave you free reign?"
"Yep. All she wanted was a fast engine for a bike, my specialty." Reader winked making Jay giggle as he went a little red. A good hour passed with them discussing the different engine choices and Jay happily lending a hand.
When he left, Reader couldn't help but miss his presence already. Very few people shared her passion, work ethic, and sense of humor, so Jay was, in her mind, a godsend. She hoped he'd come back one day so they could continue their converaation.
Lloyd Garmadon
Reader was hiding behind one of the numerous sheleves of comics as they put the comics back in their place. She'd noticed Ryker walking in the door and had hurried away to stock the sholves with the new comics.
For the past two weeks Ryker had been stalking them at her job, waiting for her to get off with the excuse that he wanted to walk them home. It was creepy and gross, and Reader wanted nothing to do with him.
"Hey Reader," Ryker said, having found them while they sorted through the massive amount of Starfarers comics to place on the shelves.
"Ryker, I'm working."
"I just wanted to say hi. You've been ignoring me, and leaving at different times. I haven't been able to walk you home," Ryker complained, his greasy voice sending shivers down her spine.
"I don't need you to walk me home, I'm just fine on my own," Reader snapped, feeling a bit like a chihuahua barking at a rottweiler.
"Oh come on, Reader." Ryker stepped closer, boxing them in, and making her heart rate pick up. "Just give me a chance. Just one date."
"I already told you, no. I'm not going on a date with you," Reader said, trying to sound stronger than she felt.
Rykers face twisted into something ugly, hand reaching out to grab them by the waist. "Really, is that really how you're going to be? A nice guys asks you out and you're gonna be a bitch!"
"Hey!" Someone grabbed Rykers wrist, the one attached to the hand squeezing Readers hip uncomfortably tight, and easily pulled him off. Now, Ryker isn't a small man, nearly 5'11 and 200lbs but the one who'd tugged him off was easily the same height but seemingly thinner. "When someone tells you to back off, you back off."
"Who the fuck are you?!" Ryker demanded, trying to tug his wrist away.
"Lloyd Garmadon, the Green Ninja."
Reader couldn't help the hot flush that spread across her face at the realization of who this was. While her personal favorite ninja had always been Jay, she liked his jokes and attitude, she did admire the Green Ninja. Ryker, on the other hand, seemed to lose all his coloring.
"That-why-what?! Why would a ninja give two shits about some ugly bitch?!"
Reader immediatley lashed out, slapping Ryker with an open palm. She felt a bit more confident with the Green Ninja right there, because what could Ryker do to them with him here. "Don't you ever call me a bitch again!"
Lloyd was a little startled, but he forced himself to not smile at the red mark slreading across his face. "Beat it. If I see you hanging around again, I'll knock you on your ass."
Snarling, Ryker retreated, a coward down to his bones.
"Thank you, for the rescue."
"Oh uh, it was no problem. Always happy to help a pretty girl in need of help." Lloyd froze, mortified by what had just slipped from his mouth. "Oh, FSM! I'm so sorry, that was–"
Reader giggled, holding a hand over their mouth to hide her smile. "No, no. It's ok. A compliment from the powerful Green Ninja. Lucky me."
A shout from the door had Lloyd wincing.
"Sorry, um, my team needs me . . ."
Smiling, Reader stepped forward to press a kiss to his cheek. "Well then you best get going, my hero." Giggling to themself, Reader sauntered away with the box of comics in hand.
Lloyd watched them walk away, bright red, jaw nearly on the floor.
Morro
Reader trembled violently as she and the other workers were lined up in front of the customer by the robber. He had barged in less than five minutes ago, an hour before they opened, barking out orders as he aimed a gun at them, with four others coming in behind him.
While Jason, the baker, might have had a chance at fighting one of them off, the rest of the morning crew couldn't. Reader could feel the tears pooling in her eyes before there was the loud crash of glass shattering as three of the ninja dove inside.
The Black, Blue, and Red ninja had broken through the front window and were taking out the first three robbers while the other two robbers reached out for hostages. Reader cried out as she was violently grabbed by her hair, just like Anya was. Both girls cried out, trying to pull away until the cold steel was pressed against their jaws.
"Please, please," Anya begged, tears pouring down her face as she sobbed. She had only been hired a week ago as a cashier, and now she was being held hostage by robbers.
Two figures came out from the shadows, the Green and Grey ninja.
"Hey, let's talk this out," Green began, holding out his hands, palm up. "You don't have to do this. Just let the girls go, and put the guns down."
"Why the hell would I listen to you!" The robber holding Reader shouted, yanking violently and ripping out some of her hair, making her shriek in pain.
"Let us go!" Anya screamed, and in a moment of brilliant, stupid bravery, she slammed a heel down on her robbers foot, and an elbow into his nose.
"Hey, wait!" Green shouted, lurching forward as Grey tensed.
"You little bitch!!" A gunshot rang out and blood splattered across Readers face, making her scream in terror.
Green lunged for the killer as Grey went for Reader. In a practiced move, he seperated them knocking the gun from the robbers hand before kicking him into one of the other ninja grasp.
Reader collapsed, no longer held up by her hair, and too afraid to stay standing. While she hadn't known Anya very well, the girl had been friendly and Reader had hoped they could be good friends but now . . . Anya would never experience anything ever again.
Sobbing into her hands, she didn't notice when the Grey ninja crouched down at her side awkwardly. "Hey, are you injured?" His voice was gruff, sharp, but Reader didn't seem to hear him, too shocked to take anything in.
Scowling behind the mask, Grey leaned forward. "Hey." Without raising his voice he managed to grab her attention. "Are you injured?"
Reader gasped for breath, scrubbing her tears away as she tried to focus. "My-uhm, my scalp. It hurts."
"Okay. Any other pain?"
"N-no."
Nodding, Grey reached out and easily lifted her to feet, startling her. Unable to stand she just collapsed against him, making him go stiff. "The-the ambulance is gonna be here in a minute to get you taken care of, alright."
"Okay." Reader was thankful when Grey didn't move, simply keeping his hands on her shoulders so she didn't slump back down to the floor. "Thank you. For saving me."
"Its what ninja do."
Once the ambulance arrived, Reader was escorted by the Grey ninja to be checked out. Tugging off his mask, he spoke in low tones to the EMT, before helping get Reader onto the ambulance.
As she was laying back on the bed, a small part of her hoped to see the nice ninja again one day. Even if she didn't know his name.
A/n: Can you tell who my favorite charactors are?
Jiang Kai | Kai Kalama
Kai is Chinese, through his mother, and Hawaiian, through his father, with a little Persian from an unknown ancestor. He is hotheaded, confident, impulsive, determined, brave, loyal, passionate, and caring.
Reader (She/They)
Reader is a fashion designer and frequent protestor for many different things. They are passionate, driven, altruistic, perfectionist, honest, quiet, and reserved towards strangers.
Zane Julien
Zane was built to look incredibly human so he looks African, like his father, with short white dreads. He is strategic, curious, logical, reserved, loyal, and calculating.
Reader (She/her)
Reader is a self-made artist who makes artwork of non-traditional things, to show off how people do not need to be traditional. Also croches and makes little animal plushes for clients. She is very charismatic, smart, curious, passionate, and finds it difficult to focus.
Cole Brookstone
Cole is Italian through both of his parents, and speaks the language fluently though he rarely uses it. He can be competitive, focused, loyal, kind, sensitive, easily annoyed but slow to anger.
Reader (They/Them)
Reader is the owner of Fairy Tale's Cakes and Stories, a café and bookstore passed down to them from their grandparents. Very decisive, organized, practical, loyal, direct, honest, and patient.
Jay Walker
Jay is Scottish Gaelic from his unknown parents. He is curious, energetic, enthusiastic, perceptive, good-natured, and positive.
Reader (She/Her)
Reader is a mechanic for a shop in Ninjago, and close friends with Nya. She is rational, curious, good-natured, energetic, and determined.
Lloyd Garmadon (INFP)
Lloyd is Norwegion with more from his Grandfather, but he does not know. He is loyal, empathetic, gernerous, energetic, adaptable, and passionate.
Reader (She/They)
Reader is an assistant at Doomsday Comix, a place that Lloyd frequents. They are reliable, passionate, altruistic, charismatic, idealistic, and curious.
Morro (ISFP)
Morro has an unknown heritage as he was an abandoned orphan living on the streets. He is unpredictable, passionate, free-spirited, hotheaded, perfectionist, and hard-working.
Reader (She/her)
Reader works as a baker at a popular wedding cake shop, famous for its beauitiful cakes, pastries, and desserts. She is reliable, positive, passionate, altruistic, calm, empathetic, and idealistic.
Chapters