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nahimjustfeelingit-writes · 3 months ago

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Off The Beaten Path.

Part One

Summary: Nivea Douglas takes Terry Richmond into her home after he saves her. Terry doesn’t want to be a burden, but Nivea insists.

Author’s Note: back with another story for Terry! This one will be short chapters. It’s just easier to write. Hope you enjoy!

Warnings: Obession, Smut, Primal Kink.

Silently, he prowled through the forest, crushing grass and twigs alike beneath his unsteady stride. His unseeing eyes flicked across the trees that passed in a blurry mix of greens and browns, searching mindlessly for his next victim.

He was only sixteen.

The evening sun had already started to set, casting the quiet forest in a haze of blood red hues. The forest was dead silent. His heavy steps were enough warning to send its usual inhabitants scurrying away to their hiding places. Even birds dared not to frequent the sky above his path, well aware of what consequences would await them. Instead, the forest remained hushed, as if every living thing was watching with bated breath as he trudged a path through the rich amber oak trees that shifted lightly in the crisp evening breeze.

He welcomed the numbing sensation in his sore, aching limbs when the crisp, winter air had grown colder and stronger.

Though he refused to look, he knew that bruises already painted the majority of his wretched flesh. Most of the pain had faded to haunting memories, however, his most recent mark still burned. Gritting his teeth against the pain, he continued on his path. One leg moved after the other in a steady rhythm. What little control he had left was slowly removed as the curse flowed through his bloodstream, igniting the beast.

There was nothing he could do now but watch the creature inside of him surface, taking full control to do it’s bidding.

Suddenly, he heard something.

A light, airy laugh rang out throughout the clearing. It was a jarring sound, bright, beautiful, and full of life, unlike anything he’d ever heard. Momentarily, he could feel himself surface, gaining control to savor the enchanting sound. However, the moment came and passed in a breath and the beast came forward, regaining control of his body and forcing him back to become a prisoner in his mind once more…

———

Present Day:

Nivea could almost taste victory as she sprinted along a winding dirt path towards the finish line. Her bohemian locs swept up into a ponytail oscillated across her upper back and the forest green GymShark matching set she wore felt more compressed from the amount of sweat that seeped from her pores. Heart pounding, ragged breaths unheard because of her AirPods, Nivea charged ahead, ignoring the burning in her glutes and thighs.

Beyoncé– America Has A Problem pounded her eardrums pleasantly. Her pink and green HOKA running shoes cushioned her size eight feet from the gravel and twigs. Running along Moon Seed Loop was an early morning ritual for Nivea. She’d been doing it faithfully since moving into her new Victorian style home with a wrap around porch.

Acadiana Park is a jewel in Upper Lafayette. It’s a beautiful place to wander with your kids, family and friends. An afternoon along the trails is more than just exciting—it’s an easy way to work in some exercise and learn a thing or two about the Park’s rich, natural landscape. Expect to see countless varieties of trees, fish and birds along the trails and beautiful waterways.

Nivea was hired as the sole Veterinarian for a pet clinic not too far from her home after moving to Louisiana from Phoenix, Arizona. She started out at The University of Arizona and after graduating she moved to the UK to study abroad and later received her doctorate. It granted her opportunities to spend time in Australia, South Africa, The Caribbean, and New Zealand. She’s in her early forties now, never been married, dated here and there, only having one long term relationship with a guy she knew from high school.

To be daring is to be bold, adventurous, and a little nervy. It’s a quality possessed by people who tend to take risks. Nivea had an audacious approach to life. Leaping off cliffs, skydiving, mountain climbing, swimming with sharks, even the little things like getting a tattoo or racing a motorcycle and even crowd surfing. Reckless and venturesome. Athletic and beautiful. She’d gotten those qualities from her late father. He was a veteran haunted by memories of the war.

Her mother, a free–spirited woman born in Trinidad and raised in New York, took a chance and moved to Phoenix where she’d met Nivea’s father who at the time still served in The Military. Nivea didn’t stay in one place for too long, a military brat who embraced a new scenery. Like her mother, Nivea didn’t have a problem with change. She embraced it.

Just like she embraced the burning in her lungs and the way her muscles ached. At the end of her run, Nivea slowed down and began smiling in victory. She placed her hands on her hips to catch her breath before pausing her music. Cracking her neck, Nivea perched her back against an old oak tree to settle her nerves before making the trip back to her car.

She licked her full, bottom lip, tasting the saltiness of her sweat. The sheen along her honeyed-skin gave her a glow similar to gold. The sun's rays tickled her melanin skin as she pushed her toned legs to the end of the forest and toward her parked vehicle. She dusted her edges with her fingers, reminding herself that she was in need of a hair appointment since it had been some months since her last one.

Her Toyota 4Runner in a desert sand color came to life with a click of a button on her key fob. Beyoncé’s mezzo–soprano voice could be heard from the speakers since her Bluetooth had connected. Nivea removed her fanny pack and opened her driver’s side door, flinging it in the passenger seat before taking a generous swig of water from her navy–blue Yeti cup. Keys in the ignition, Nivea didn’t waste time driving off, leaving her tire tracks and dirt dust behind.

_________

Sitting in his pitch black Dually, a sudden early fall rain showering it, his iridescent eyes were unwavering and intense beyond the boldness of his thick lashes as he watched his new obsession sprint through the forest. Like clockwork every morning, he waited to see her, an overwhelming sensation growing within his chest cavity so strong. Large, calloused hands grip his steering wheel firmly and his nostrils flare.

The first time he saw her, his heart fell. The second time he saw her, his heart fell. The third time, fourth time, fifth time, and every time since, his heart had fallen. He stared at her, and each time a sudden, overwhelming, and involuntary feeling of deep connection and devotion would consume him. It was immediate and intense. She’d thrown a wrench into his routine. Couturie Forest was one of the few areas he could escape and not feel as if he’d run into trouble.

She is the most beautiful woman he’d ever seen. Her hair, her eyes, her lips, her body that she worked so hard on, the way she walked, the way she smiled and laughed and the way her cheeks dropped when she’s mad or upset. The way she dragged her feet when she was tired after a long shift. Every single thing about her is beautiful.

He stared at her, tracking her with his eyes, taking in every detail even from the distance between them. When he sees her the world stops. It stops and all that exists for him is her and his eyes staring at her. There’s nothing else. No noise, no other people, no thoughts or worries, no yesterday, no tomorrow. The world just stops and it is a beautiful place and there is only her. Just her, and his eyes never leaving her.

He stared. He traced with his eyes that flicker between a kaleidoscope of colors, sparkling with longing and his stomach tightening because of the powerful, almost gravitational pull that feels inescapable. She’d trapped him and he hadn’t even smelled her yet. Licked her. Traced his fingers along her skin. Filled her.

When she’s gone, the world starts again, and he doesn't like it as much. He can live in it, but he doesn't like it. He’d just walk around in it and wait to see her again and wait for it to stop again. He loved when it stopped. It’s the best fucking thing he’d ever known or ever felt, the best thing, and that, beautiful woman is why he can’t ever just leave.

A part of him wished he knew how to quit her. The strong sense of loyalty and dedication to her made it nearly impossible. Quite frankly, it is impossible. Once it happens…it happens. This wasn’t fate. Fated mates are predetermined or destined partners. No…this was sudden. Sparked immediately. An unbreakable connection that awakened his protective instincts. It was so instantaneous. He’s far from that. He needed to be in control at all times.

Turning the key in the ignition, his truck rumbled to life and suddenly his tires began to move him beyond the damp soil and onto the roadway. Jaw clenched, the sun began to peek out, his eyes appearing to have golden flecks in a sea of green. He tapped the brake pedal with his boot–covered foot until her 4Runner came into view. As soon as it came into view, his heart fell again. He waited and then he was off, trailing behind her.

The ride lasted twenty minutes and he found himself staring at her beautiful body swaying up the steps and toward her front door. He stroked his bottom lip with his thumb, staring at the home. He couldn’t get too close because she had surveillance. It wouldn’t look good showing up uninvited. He had to settle for watching her. Hoping that he would introduce himself to her. It’s been a long two weeks.

_________

Nivea took off her shoes within the foyer of her home. Her Great Dane with its square jaw and imposing size galloped up to her and stood on its hind legs to greet her. Nivea giggled at her dog, rubbing it before walking away. Before taking a much needed shower, Nivea made a quick stop into her uniquely decorated kitchen with its vintage appliances and greenery. She opened her Big Chill Retro Fridge in a canary-yellow color and grabbed a pitcher of filtered water.

Nivea proceeded to pour the water into a tea kettle on the front left burner of her 1950’s vintage oven. Flames ignited the pot and Nivea took that time to prepare her ceramic mug with some organic lavender tea. She scooped some tea herbs from a mason jar into the mug and retrieved her tea spoon. Coco, Nivea’s large yet gentile dog, followed her towards the kitchen table, earning a few scratches behind her ears.

Staring out of the large window overlooking her garden, Nivea thought about her date that evening. She’d agreed to go to dinner with a man named Ian who’s German shepherd she’d taken care of. Nivea was wary about Ian for a while, because he’s recently divorced. The man was persistent in asking her out, even when his legal troubles were ongoing. That charming smile and carob skin distracted her and she couldn’t help but smile whenever he’d come in with his dog. Ian with his salt and pepper locs, well–muscled frame, and charisma.

The whistle of the kettle had Nivea standing from her seat. She turned off the stove top and poured the water into her mug. Nivea allowed it to steep for five minutes before taking a small sip of the hot tea, shutting her eyes as the immediate calming and therapeutic effects wash over her. With her tea, Nivea left her kitchen and made her way up the stairs to her bedroom. On the second floor landing, she paused to sip her tea again.

What was she going to wear? A dress? Jeans and a cute blouse? Heels? Flats? The sound of the shower beyond the master bathroom filled her spacious bedroom as she combed through racks of clothes within her narrow walk–in closet. Multiple dresses were left discarded as she tossed them to the side. She still had hours to go before her date, but the thought of entering the dating scene again sparked her anxiety tremendously.

While nervousness is expected when meeting a new person, dating anxiety is more intense and long lasting. Nivea’s long term relationship caused her emotional and physical pain. Her ex fiance had been controlling and manipulative for years, one of the reasons why she’d left Arizona behind. While he moved on as if nothing happened, Nivea lived in fear of meeting someone new.

Nivea settled on a ruffled halter mini dress in red with a black moto jacket and distressed black heeled boots. She pinned her locs up and undressed herself, tossing her dirty athletic attire into her bin. She entered her bathroom and stepped into the shower. Nivea took her time cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing. Back in her room, she slipped on a thin, graphic T-shirt and loose sleep shorts with fuzzy socks. Locs in a messy bun, Nivea left her room with her mug in hand to enter her office for a bit of light reading.

Entering her office, she opened her window to allow a breeze in. The smell of rain and grass filled her nose as she curled up on her reading chair. Opening her smut book to where she left off, Nivea pursed her full lips to fight the urge to smile. She couldn’t wait to finish where she’d left off. Meanwhile, the black truck out front hadn’t made an effort to leave.

___________

“Table for two, please.”

The cool evening air transitioned into toasty coziness as they entered a semi–crowded Steak House. Pleasant, savory smells and the clatter of utensils against plates teased their senses. Nivea clung onto Ian’s bicep as her eyes swept over the restaurant in anticipation. The hostess, a pleasant Asian girl with long, shiny black hair and a pointy face, gathered two menus before leading them away from the booth and towards a table shrouded in a low ambiance.

“Thank you…”

Ian worked to pull out Nivea’s chair. She smiled at him with her ruby-red lips. Ian pushed her in closer before taking his place across from her. They locked eyes for a brief moment before staring down at the menus before them.

“I know I’ve said it before, but…you look beautiful.”

Nivea smiled, “Thank you, Ian. You look very handsome.”

Ian wore a black Lacoste polo shirt and khaki pants with black dress shoes. He had a fresh retwist, locs falling over his broad shoulders.

“Did you work today?” Ian asked.

Their waiter made his way over, a tall, white male with sandy brown hair and dark blue eyes that reminded Nivea of the Pacific Ocean. His name is Ben. Ben filled their water glasses and vowed to return shortly to take their orders.

“I had an off day. Went for my morning run in the forest and spent the remaining day inside. Something I cherish when I can since my schedule is full most of the time. You?”

“Detective work never dies. Working this case that’s taking a toll on me…”

Ian released a stressful sigh.

“…do you want to talk about it?” Nivea questioned cautiously.

“Nah. I don’t want to unsettle what’s supposed to be a romantic evening,” Ian smiled faintly, “Tell me a little more about you, Nivea. What does a Veterinarian do for fun?”

Nivea chuckled, “I make the most of life. I love to travel, I’m an adrenaline junkie…yes, yes. While I do love a good time, I have my moments where being alone with my Coco is enough. Reading, meditating, gardening…I do a little bit of everything.”

“Kickboxing? Let’s not forget that.” Ian mentioned with a smirk.

“Oh yeah, how can I overlook that,” Nivea replied sarcastically, “Didn’t mean to startle you with my high kick.”

“That leg is lethal,” Ian laughs, “I mean, seriously. We could use you on our team.”

Nivea giggled behind her hand, “How would I be of use to you? What would a kick do to take down an armed killer?”

“You’d be surprised.” Ian quipped.

“Sure,” Nivea’s dimpled smile increased, “Tell me about the case.”

“Eager, are you?”

“Let’s just say…I’m a true crime lover. It fascinates me.”

Ben made his way back over. Ian ordered a bottle of red wine and oysters.

“This case isn’t for the faint hearted, Nivea.”

“My heart isn’t a home for cowardice,” Nivea replied.

Ian looked upon her with a deep stare that seemed intrigued and surprised by her words. Nivea simply smiled, one brow arched.

“Okay. I’m sure you’ve heard about the missing hikers from Monroe?”

“I have. The two couples…”

“Yeah…well…they’ve been found. And…all four are dead. Bodies mutilated and buried beneath a slashed tent on Palmetto Island Campground.”

“Goodness…mutilated?”

“Disfigured. Large slash marks and bludgeoned.”

“You don’t think an animal had something to do with it?”

Ian shook his head, “We’ve looked into that. There’s no way. Their wallets and other personal belongings are missing as well. Someone did this. No eye witnesses.”

“Jesus,” Nivea accepted her filled glass of wine from Ben, “Any signs of a struggle? Defensive wounds?”

“Yes. You could tell they tried to escape. Two bodies were found away from the campsite. They received the worst possible attacks.”

“Scary…”

Ian nodded his head in agreement, “Shaken up?”

Nivea glanced over at him with a tiny hint of a smile, “A little. Maybe I should be careful running alone in the forest while a killer is at large in Lafayette.”

“Maybe you should run on a treadmill for a while instead.”

Nivea giggled.

“I’m serious, Nivea.” Ian said.

“I’ll be fine, Ian. I run along the Moon Seed Loop trail.”

“What difference does it make? You’d be better off in a gym.”

Nivea shifted in her seat. Ian sensed her unease.

“Sorry. I just…I want you to be safe.”

“I appreciate it. Really. I know it’s in your nature to worry. But I’ll be fine.”

Ian took a sip of his wine. Their oysters arrived and Nivea ordered red snapper.

“Fish at a steakhouse?” Ian teases.

“I’m pescatarian.”

“Oh–I didn’t know—”

“It’s okay. I used to love red meat at one point. That was ten years ago.”

“Next time, I’ll take you to my favorite seafood place.” Ian vowed.

Nivea smirked beautifully, “Next time?”

“Absolutely. I’m going to do whatever it takes to win your heart.” Ian confessed.

“Woah there, tiger,” Nivea said, “Still have to get through date number one.”

“I have a lot of work to do then.”

“Damn right,” Nivea replied.

“It’s worth it. You’re worth the trouble.” Ian said.

“Good trouble.” Nivea replied with a tilt of her glass.

They shared a look. One filled with excitement and anticipation.

“Why Lafayette? Phoenix is a great city.” Ian asked.

“Got tired of the desert.”

Ian laughs, “Seriously. Why the sudden change?”

Nivea shrugged a single shoulder, “I wanted a fresh start. My love life was at its end. They offered me a hefty salary here. I’ve always loved Louisiana. Didn’t see why not.”

“Ex boyfriend?”

“Ex fiancée,” Nivea dramatically enunciated.

“Oh? You were engaged?”

“To a narcissist. One of which scarred me for life. One I kept going back to even after he’d proven to me time and time again I meant nothing to him.”

Nivea drank some of her wine to conceal the tightness in her throat. So long ago yet so fresh.

“I’m sorry, Nivea. I know what it’s like.”

Nivea cleared her throat, “Your ex wife?”

“Shannon. We built a life together. Had two children. She had an affair with her personal trainer. Threw away almost twenty years of marriage.”

Nivea didn’t know what to say. She’d been cheated on in the past, but in the same breath, she’d done the cheating herself. New dick to numb the pain. That ‘we shouldn’t be doing this’ rump. She could recall how good it had felt to have another man make her cum on his dick and take his cum down her throat. Going back home to her ex fiance with the stench of another man on her.

“The divorce was amicable I guess?” Nivea asked after a long, awkward pause.

“It was. However, it left its mark on the kids. My daughter is taking it the hardest.”

“She’ll come around I’m sure.”

“I hope.” Ian responded in a solemn tone.

Nivea perked up, grabbed her glass of wine, and raised it.

“Let’s toast to new beginnings.”

Ian lifted his glass high and both of them clinked them. Ian watched Nivea down her wine in one sip. He chuckled into his glass.

“More?”

“Hell yeahhh! Whoops—”

Embarrassed by her outburst, Nivea giggled into her hands. Ian simply laughed.

“Sorry, I’m a bit of a wine–o.”

“No worries. I love when you let that side of you show.”

Nivea’s tawny–brown skin tinted beneath his gaze as she fought the urge to smile.

________

A Week Later:

Sitting in anticipation of seeing her again left him feeling anxious. It’s been too long since she’d entered his life without any real connection. He’d heard her voice through a window and as she was leaving work, but he hadn’t smelled her. Touched her. All of which he longed for. He occupied his usual parked spot hidden from view, dressed in a black T-shirt and Wrangler Jeans. One elbow propped up against the open window of his truck while his other hand gripped the steering wheel.

Checking the time, he should have expected to see her pass beyond the trees. However, an uneasiness settled in the pit of his stomach. She’d never missed a trail run. It was a part of her meticulous routine. Had she overslept? Did she decide to skip a run? Why would she alter her routine? Frustration and worry coursed through his body as he contemplated leaving his truck behind to search for her.

He kept a distance because he knew what it looked like stalking her. She’d be afraid, call the police, and he couldn’t have that. Not when he needed her so badly. Stroking his bottom lip with his thumb, his ever–changing eyes moved about, hoping to spot her. Minutes stretched on and so did his patience. His mind drifted to the worst possible scenario. One he was all too familiar with. Begrudgingly, he opened the door to his truck and climbed out. His heart hammered away behind his mended ribs as he walked along the gravel leading into the trees.

He made his way onto a trail, pausing his steps. Eyes searching from one end of the forest trail to the other, he allowed his sensitive sense of smell to pick up her scent. His keen eyes paid close attention to any disturbance in the forest before him. Trampled vegetation. Disturbed soil. As these can leave behind unique scent profiles.

He was far away from his truck now, the smell of lemon peel, oak moss, and mint burned his nose. A metallic smell made his muscles tighten and his tongue tingle. He picked up into a run, trailing off the beaten path, away from what her usual route would be. As he ventured into the wilderness, the metallic–like scent grew stronger, enough to make him lose sight of his destination. His footsteps paused a few feet away from a man-made ditch, and as his eyes peered into it, there, he’d found his latest obsession.

She was unconscious, filthy, and bleeding from a laceration on her head. He frantically jumped down into the ditch and scooped her into his arms. His nose crinkled as the smell of blood seeped in. He pressed two fingers against her neck, faintly making out a pulse. She’s alive. Relief washed over him. Standing, he cradled her limp body in his arms. He hoisted her up and onto the ground carefully before hopping out of the deep darkness of the ditch.

He couldn’t leave her there, she needed to go to the hospital immediately. As he made his way over to her, he caught a whiff of something unfamiliar. Something unwelcome. His eyes searched around him, fists tightly clenched. The trees lashed and crashed against each other like drumsticks in the hands of a giant. It was eerily quiet. He could sense something watching. A painful groan from her captured his ears and he immediately focused all of his attention on her.

She stirred on the ground, face frowned and her eyes moving beneath her closed lids. Terry held his breath as he crouched down to look at her. He placed one hand beneath her head for protection, his eyes staring down into her beautiful face. When she opened them slightly, his lips parted to speak.

Her soft locs in his calloused hands he adored. Her tawny skin was a work of art with her arms covered in tattoos. Lips plump and soft. She’s a goddess. Pools of brown peered up at his face with difficulty. She furrowed her brows, trying to make out who this stranger was as the sun above made him less distinguishable. She parted her lips to utter a few words, but it required energy she didn’t currently possess.

“It’s okay…you’re safe now. I’m gonna take you to the ER.” He spoke softly as her consciousness began to fade again, “Just hang in there…I got you.”

Her head lulled as he picked her up. Quickly and carefully, he made his way back to his truck. Once there, he flung his back door open and placed her on her side with her head reclined on a wrinkled flannel shirt of his. He slammed the door shut and rushed to the driver’s seat. Truck rolled to life and he took off with a quick burst of speed so fast he almost collided with a tree.

The nearest emergency room wasn’t too far of a drive. What would have been twenty minutes on back roads took him ten minutes or less on the I–10. As he drove, weaving his way through traffic, he would look back to check on her, making sure she was okay and not bleeding out. As his truck screeched to a stop in the visitor parking lot of the emergency room at Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center, He quickly left his car to grab her.

Bystanders watched as he carried her through the automatic doors. Medical staff rushed over, surprising him with how diligent they were with getting her to a room. His heart thumped as he watched them place her on a gurney and secure the safety rails. Sweat doused his body from head to toe. The adrenaline was running through his body. He could make out someone trying to speak to him, but his eyes were glued to her distant figure as she traveled down the EMS corridor and towards the resuscitation area.

“Excuse me, Sir?!”

A woman in teal green scrubs shouted for his attention from the reception area. He allowed his eyes to sweep over her and then the reality of where he was and what he needed to do hit him. He took long strides towards the desk, bracing himself there as he tried to calm his nerves.

“Can you tell us what happened? Who it is you brought in and what’s your name and relationship to the patient?”

Another woman with ceil–blue scrubs and a scrub jacket with little faces of children printed on it sat typing away at a registration computer.

“Uh, yes…I’m not sure what her name is. I…I found her…”

His eyes glanced around him warily.

“Found her where, sir?”

“Unconscious. In a ditch. She’d fallen in.”

The two women shared a glance with each other, one that told him they weren’t very trusting of him.

“Where was this?—”

“Moon Seed Loop.” He replied abruptly with a deep voice.

“The trail?”

“Yes,” he stroked a large hand down the front of his hair, “I don’t know her. I just saw her laying there and rushed to bring her in.”

The woman asking questions seemed to relax after those words but still kept an eye on him.

“Did you try performing CPR?”

“No. She’d woken up at some point before going back out.”

“Okay, and what’s your name to put on file?”

“Terry Richmond.”

“Contact? Unless you wish to stick around.”

“I’ll stick around.”

Terry peered into the waiting area, not too thrilled with sitting amongst a bunch of people. But he refused to leave without making sure she was okay.

“Alright. We’ll keep you posted.”

“Thank you.”

Hands in his pockets, he made his way towards the waiting area filled with sick patients.

__________

Plain walls.

The beeping of a monitor.

Fluorescent lighting.

A whiteboard listing her information.

The name of the nurse taking care of her and the physician.

Metal side rails caging her in.

Stark white linens and pillows beneath her head while she lay in Fowler's position.

A hep–lock was placed in her arm and connected to an IV secured with tegaderm. She’s still wearing the GymShark pale blue set but it was covered in dirt stains. Her head pounded from an intense migraine as she tried turning her head.

The pulse–ox on her finger beeped as she moved. Suddenly her curtain had been pulled back and an older white woman with ginger hair and a freckled face appeared. She wore navy blue scrubs with a name badge that read Leslie.

“Hello, Miss. Douglas. I’m nurse Leslie. Glad to see you awake.”

Nurse Leslie sauntered over to check her vitals. Nivea touched the back of her head over a tender spot and felt staples.

“A pretty gnarly lac ya’ had there. Thank goodness the young man that brought ya’ in found ya’.”

Slightly disoriented, Nivea sat up completely in her hospital bed, “Young man?”

“Yes ma’am. Now, can you confirm some things with me, Miss Douglas? Dr. Laphaun would like for me to give you some Tylenol. Just tell me your name and date of birth please.”

She groaned In discomfort, “Nivea Douglas. March twenty first. Nineteen eighty two.”

“Thank you. Here’s your Tylenol and some water…”

Nivea accepted the medicine and washed it down with the water. Her mouth was so dry from dehydration.

“Fluids are nearly done.”

“Leslie,” Nivea placed her cup down and reclined back, “is the young man a detective?”

“I don’t think so. Doesn’t look it. Looks more like a handy man. Tall, muscles, pretty eyes…ring a bell?”

“No—where did he find me? I was out for my morning run and—”

It was cold. She felt her pulse accelerate as her sneaker–clad feet imprinted the dry grounds of Mount Seed Loop. The air thickened around her as she ran faster. Paramore kept her going as she mouthed the words Hayley Williams sang. As she crossed a bridge, an intense wind picked up, causing her to sway slightly. Nivea slowed to a stop, bracing herself along the bridge. Her dark brown eyes focused ahead, and there, staring her in the eyes, was a wolf. Its piercing amber eyes didn’t waver. Nivea took two steps back, and the wolf took two steps forward. A low growl sounded from its muzzle and all sense of animal awareness left her body and was replaced with a fight or flight response.

Nivea ran, leaving the trail and entering beyond the trees. It was behind her, darting between the trees after her to attack. She didn’t know where she was going or why she thought running into the forest was a good idea, but soon, the wolf stopped chasing her, possibly finding something else more interesting. Nivea tried to stop running, but she tripped over an uproot and fell into what appeared to be a perfectly concealed ditch. Nivea gasped, too startled to comprehend what was happening. Her head collided with a sharp stone and her world went black…

“Almost ready for discharge, Miss Douglas. Dr. Laphaun will be in again to check on you before we release you. I’m assuming the young man waiting is your ride home? If not, we can call you an Uber.”

Bemused, Nivea tried to recall if she could remember the man that saved her from an almost fatal accident. Visions of a figure looking down at her flashed across her eyes, and words she couldn’t discern before.

“It’s okay…you’re safe now…”

A man’s voice. A voice of resonant quality. Gruff and husky.

“Can I see this man?”

“Sure! I’ll go grab him for you…”

Nurse Leslie exited the room and Nivea watched her turn down a hall. The distant sound of voices and a ringing phone could be heard. Nivea didn’t know what to expect when that curtain opened. But whoever this man is, she’s forever grateful for his kindness.

A knock to the frame separating her room from the outside startled her.

“Miss. Douglas. It’s Dr. Laphaun. May I come in?”

“Yes,” Nivea sat up, “You can come in.”

The curtain opened to reveal a white male with a bald head and tired eyes. He approached her left side.

“Just doing one final check. Your vitals are stable. Let’s take a look at your head again…excellent. So, I see you’re a veterinarian! How exciting.”

“Yeah,” Nivea gave him a small smile, “Neurological exam good? MRI results?”

“All good. You’re a lucky woman. As I’m sure you know, rest is a crucial part of concussion recovery. Once your symptoms improve, a gradual return to normal activities is recommended. I suggest taking at least a week off from exercise. Maybe your practice as well to be sure.”

“I have a lot of appointments this week, Dr. Laphaun—”

“All that I’m sure can be postponed, Dr. Douglas. The dogs and cats would be grateful to have a competent provider taking care of them.”

“Okay,” Nivea replied with a sigh, “Tylenol, elevate the head, cold compresses if swelling occurs…anything worsens I’ll be back.”

“All the above.” Dr. Laphaun said.

Another knock brought Nivea’s attention to the curtain. A nervous tickle in her stomach.

“Looks like your knight in faded jeans arrived!” Dr. Laphaun jokes.

The curtain opened to reveal a man standing at 6’3 with a body mass index that took up most of the entryway. His eyes are indeed pretty. Hypnotizing. An array of colors that seemed to change whenever the light hit. Sculpted jawline, generous lips, tattoo–covered arms, skin a toasted brown from the intense sun of Louisiana. His black T-shirt stretched over what had to be a well–sculpted torso and the faded jeans Dr. Laphaun was referring to fitting his lower half snug in all the right places. He had a rugged look to him with dark, almost black hair that stood out boldly. Thick, dark lashes and brows with hair that Nivea could tell grew out of control if he didn’t keep it cut low.

Nurse Leslie worked to remove Nivea’s hep–lock. Dr. Laphaun made his exit after shaking the Adonis’s hand. Nurse Leslie informed Nivea where her things were and asked if she needed help out of bed and into a wheelchair.

“I’ll be back with a chair.”

Nurse Leslie left the two of them alone. Nivea locked eyes with the man who was staring back at her unblinking. She broke her eyes away as she tried to swing her legs over the edge. Immediately, the man was by her side, one hand on her back and the other reaching out for her hand.

“Woah, woah. Careful…”

Nivea cast him a wary glance.

“I’m Terry.” He finally introduced himself.

“Nivea.”

Silence stretched on as they locked eyes. Nivea didn’t know what came over her, but she leaped into his arms, circling his neck with her arms in a choking embrace. Terry quickly secured her waist with his hands so she wouldn’t fall. Nivea cried against his neck, the smell of his scent crowding her nose. It was earthy and warm.

“Thank you, Terry! You saved my life!”

Terry was rigid against her.

“Okay, oh!–I’m so sorry—”

Leslie turned beet red. Nivea moved away from Terry with a sheepish smile while rubbing tears from her eyes and snot from her nose.

“Giving Terry here a proper thank you for saving me.” Nivea giggled softly.

“What a lovely young man,” Leslie patted him on the back, “Think you’ll be okay to wheel her out to ya’ truck? If you want ya can pull up and I’ll take her out.”

“Good idea,” Terry patted his back pocket, retrieving his keys, “I’ll be out front.”

Leaping into action, he hurried out of the room. Nivea’s eyes never left his brawny back until he was out of sight. Leslie helped Nivea into the wheelchair and with all her things, they left the room and towards the emergency room exit. Terry’s pitch black dually truck sat high off of the ground. Leslie stuck around to make sure Nivea could be safely transferred.

Terry lifted her up into his arms and placed her on the seat. Leslie smiled before waving goodbye to Terry and Nivea, turning to enter the emergency room. Nivea kept an eye on Terry as he fastened her in. He shut her door and made his way around. Nivea did a quick sweep of his truck, finding it pristine and cozy. It smelled of Royal Pine. He entered the truck and started the ignition. Terry placed his cell phone on a magnetic phone mount, keying in his passcode and pulling up the GPS. Suddenly, he picked up his phone.

“Sorry,” he gave her an apologetic nod before placing his phone back on the mount, “Where to?”

Nivea elevated a brow at him in wonder.

“536 Sterling Grove, 70503.”

“Got it. Let’s get you home.” Terry said.

@theereinawrites @bombshellbre95 @planetblaque @trippyscotch @megamindsecretlair @thesweetestdrug @theblulife @blackerthings @deja-r @kanafunee @kaylabuggggg06 @skyesthebomb @blyffe @gwenda-fav @beenathembo @dremmmm @novaniskye @melaninhawtie @urfavblackbimbo @avoidthings @rose-bliss @xo-goldengirl @kinginwithbreezy-blog @mysecertdiaryofableedingheart @sirenmouths @kokokonako @creartivefairy @soulfulbeauty19 @therealmrsrhodes @hrlzy @nayaesworld @playgurlxoxo @gg-trini @brattyfics @flydotty @writingsbytee @shiania @browngirldominion @notapradagurl7 @kismet83 @aristasworld @sl33p-deprived-princess @erynnnn @itssbrie @melaninangel @withoutmusiclifewouldbflat @sweettea-and-honeybutter

#terry richmond #rebel ridge #nahimjustfeelingit-writes #aaron pierre x black!oc

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raewritesfiction · 27 days ago

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Backseat Heat [Daryl Dixon]

A/N: thank you @dixondisease for tagging me in this idea! I hope you like what I’ve done with it!

Plot: Daryl and female reader have fun in the back of a broken down car that Daryl is trying to fix up. Semi-established situationship - they meet up for stress relief but they aren’t an item.

Pairing: F!Reader X Daryl Dixon

Warnings: Smut - fingering, oral (M receiving), unsafe sex (use a condom!!

[[ Lemme know if you wanna be added or removed from tags; no questions asked ♥️ likes are amazing however I really appreciate Reblogs to help spread my writing further! Thank you 🌈😘]]

Tag List: @jaseminedenisephotography @iraniq @snewsome756 @vikkikrash @amelia-in-w0nderland @pandaliciouz @crispyimagines17 @marie-is-blogging @bonniebird @nutinanutshell @louise-buchan @differentcatcat @madsadgenius @sycochick @rossieburrow @kcthescreamqueen @phoenix-is-closer-to-the-edge @charlottewatkinsblog @atyourmomshouse01

—

You’d been watching Daryl from your spot under a large tree for a while now; the sun was hot in the sky as he worked relentlessly on a car that had been brought back to the prison. Rick wanted it fixed as soon as possible and so Daryl had been devoting his time to sorting it out. Things seemed to be going well so far but you could tell by Daryl’s strong language that the engine just wasn’t doing what he wanted or needed.

Daryl kicked a bench as the car, once again, didn’t start. You didn’t know cars well enough to be able to figure out what was wrong with it but you knew the sweaty, dirty covered man was getting to the end of his rope.

Looking around, you note that there’s few people outside right now and you get up, heading over to the makeshift garage where Daryl grumbled angrily about the “fuckin piece of junk”.

You don’t speak but instead just run your hands around his waist from behind. Daryl doesn’t jump and turns his head with a smirk “wha’ you think you’re doin’ woman?” You smile “you looked stressed… can’t be having that.”

Daryl huffs and shakes his head a little before sighing “dunno wha’s fuckin’ wrong with this thing.. replaced ever’thin with what we can find that works an’ still nothin’..”

You nod against the back of his shoulder and listen as he lists off everything he’s replaced or fixed, as if he’s trying to figure out if there’s something he’s missed but at the end of it he turns in your arms, pins you against the side of the rusty vehicle and kisses you passionately.

“Maybe some stress relief will help clear my head..” he smirks and opens the back door for you to get in, then climbs in after you.

The man kisses you like nobody has ever kissed you before; he knows how to take your breath away and get you worked up without putting his hands anywhere south of the border and this time is no different to the last or the first.

Everyone in the prison knew you two were hooking up as often as possible, but nobody said anything because they were probably hooking up with each other too. You find comfort anyway and anywhere you can in this apocalypse. You were surprised when Merle bit his tongue and didn’t say anything after he had walked in on Daryl railing you in the library - you and Daryl were expecting the worst from him but he’d never said anything to you and if he’d said anything to Daryl it was in private.

Daryl’s hands were up under your tee, groping over your skin and leaving oily marks when someone started yelling his name from outside.

“For fuck…” Daryl grumbles and looks out the broken window to see Andrew calling for him. “I’ll be right back… stay here…”

You huff and nod as Daryl clambers out the car and calls over “Wussup?”

You listen from the back seat as Andrew starts going off about how his small group are being treated by some of Rick’s group, you hear him ask Daryl to talk to his friend about it and see if he can sort it out. There’s other stuff that seems less important and you can tell by Daryl’s short replies that he just wants Andrew to leave so he gives the answers the man wants to hear and assures him when he sees Rick he’ll talk to him and no it’s absolutely unfair, we’re all in the same position and yes of course we’re a team now and we need to be able to trust one another.

It seems to take forever before Andrew walks off, happy with his discussion outcome. As soon as he’s out of sight Daryl crawls back into the back seat and kisses you again. You don’t care about what Andrew wanted so you don’t ask.

“I’m really not finished with you yet..” Daryl grins and quickly unbuttons your pants, pushing them down your legs while his hand slips between your legs to tease over your already soaking core.

The way he kissed and touched you was the biggest turn on you’d ever had and he loved to tease you about it.

“Already so wet… just from kissin’?” He sucks on your neck as his fingers work over you. “You always been this easy to work up?”

You swallow thickly and shake your head, “only by you..” Daryl chuckles low and pushes two fingers inside you, curling them as he thrusts into you. You rock and lift your hips to his fingers as he speeds them up the sound of your arousal fills the car making Daryl growl low. It never took him long to get you where you needed to be and as his thumb barely brushes your clit you arch and grip his biceps as you cum on his fingers, letting out a silent scream of pleasure.

“Good girl..” he whispers and watches you “you gon’ be a real good girl and take care of me?”

You nod and kiss him as you both awkwardly switch positions in the small space afforded to you. Your hands quickly unzip his pants and pull the material down, Daryl’s semi hard cock already straining against his boxers.

“If i’dda known this would happen… I wouldn’ta worn any..” he grins as you pull them down to free his length.

You waste no time and easily take him in your mouth; Daryl was still insanely proud that he had been the one to teach you how to give head and enjoyed praising how much of a fast learner you are.

You bob your head and swirl your tongue around his cock as you suck him fully, your hand massaging his balls firmly as you work on him. Daryl’s breathing is rough as you tease the head of his cock with your tongue.

“Woman…. Not yet! Stop…!” He gasps and pants as you pull away. “Get on me…”

You move and crawl over him, positioning yourself over his member and guiding him inside you. You both let out moans and start moving to one another causing the car to rock and creak. Daryl wraps an arm around you and helps you move your hips to him, his other hand moves to the back of your hair and tugs lightly as he kisses you.

Moans are swallowed as you speed up your hips, switching up your technique to keep him guessing as to what would come next.

“Woman I swear t’ god…” he grunts and moves his feet so he can thrust up into you. As his hips piston you can only hold onto him and whine his name close to his ear. Your eyes shut tightly and the way he pants, grunts, moans and whispers in your ear makes everything all too much.

“You gonna cum? You gonna cum that fast? You want it so bad you can’t hold back?”

You call out against his neck, your hips grinding down onto him as the waves of pleasure wash over you.

“I’m close..” Daryl grunts “move….”

You climb off him and lean down, taking him in your mouth again and sucking hard. His hips buck up into you and the hand in your hair grips tighter, holding your head in place as he grunts roughly with his release - his head falls back against the seat rest and he groans as he relaxes.

Daryl watches you swallow his load and smirks as you wipe the corners of your mouth. “Thassa good girl…”

You wink and both of you redress before climbing out the car and looking around; if anyone had seen or heard they hadn’t come looking.

Daryl looks at the driver’s seat and slides in, trying the ignition again and sitting surprised as it starts on the first try.

“Maybe it needed a good bang..” you remark, making Daryl huff out a laugh.

#Daryl Dixon #Daryl Dixon Imagine #daryl dixon x reader #daryl dixon x female reader #daryl dixon fanfiction #twd daryl #the walking dead #the walking dead Daryl #prison era TWD #Norman Reedus #Daryl Dixon smut

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esoteric-chaos · 1 year ago

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Spring Equinox Masterpost- Spoonie Witch Friendly

Art Credit: Anastasia Catris

The Spring Equinox, also called the Vernal Equinox or Ostara, is usually celebrated between the 21st of March in the Northern Hemisphere (In the Southern Hemisphere around September 20th or 21st)

In 2024, Ostara and the Spring Equinox land in the Northern Hemisphere on Monday, March 19th.

The Spring Equinox celebrates the arrival of spring. Celebrating balance, growth, and new beginnings as Winter has finally ended.

Spring Equinox Correspondances

Colours

Light Green

Lavender

Sunny Yellow

Light Blue

Pastel Pink

White

Herbal

Lemongrass

Daffodils

Tulips

Violets

Apple Tree

Cherry Blossom

Primrose

Birch tree

Hyacinths

Dandelion

Garlic

Ash tree

Jasmine

Edibles

Honey

Salad greens

Spring veggies

Fresh berries

Mead

Herbs

Eggs

Seeds

Bread

Edible flowers

Quiches

Custards

Maple

Animals

Hares

Baby Chicks

Snakes

Robins

Bees

Butterflies

Phoenix

Ram

Crystals

Fluorite

Moonstone

Silver

Aquamarine

Clear Quartz

Amazonite

Symbols

Bonfires

Flowers

Rabbits

Eggs

Seeds

Baskets

Flowering or Tree Buds

Lambs

Birds

Spiritual meanings

Purification

Cleansing (removal of stagnant energy)

Growth

Transition

Motivation

Balance

Birth

Good fortune

Kindness

Joy

Fertility

Scents

Coconut

Citrus

Floral scents (rose, lilac, jasmine, etc)

Herbal scents (rosemary, basil, mint, etc)

Gods / Goddesses / Spirits

Eostre – (Anglo-Saxon)

Aphrodite - (Greek)

Gaia - (Celtic)

Gaea - (Greek)

Venus - (Roman)

Athena - (Greek)

Aurora - (Roman)

Eos - (Greek)

Isis – (Egyptian)

Freya - (Norse)

Persephone - (greek)

Cybele - (Roman)

The Green Man - (Celtic)

Odin – (Norse)

Osiris – (Egyptian)

Pan – (Greek)

Thoth – (Egyptian)

Adonis – (Greek)

Apollon – (Greek)

Apollo - (Roman)

Need some suggestions to celebrate? I've got you covered.

High energy celebrations and ritual

Deep cleaning of the hearth and home

Nature hikes

Visiting farmers markets

Making preserves

Create a fae garden

Create a seasonal altar

Abundance/Prosperity ritual

New beginnings ritual

Low energy celebrations

Wear pastels

Create flower crowns

Light a candle with scent correspondence

No spoon celebrations

Opening a window

Journaling Prompts

Keeping hydrated

Drink floral tea

Rest

How you celebrate the holiday does not matter. You can choose to do any activity that feels right. These are only suggestions and remember that you're enough no matter what.

Also please note some stuff is UPG. A great book is Year of the Witch by Temperance Alden for honouring the celebrations and if you wanted to work more seasonally. It's not Wiccan-based and has plenty of resources for every witch.

Feel free to post how you celebrate in the comments or reblogs!

Want to see more of my posts? Check out my Wheel of the Year Masterpost or my Main Masterpost.

#witchcraft #witch #electic witch #witchblr #paganism #spoonie witch #spoonie magic #ostara #wheel of the year #witchy #spring equinox #seasonal magic #ostara masterpost #ostara correspondences #spring equinox masterpost #spring equinox correspondances #spoonie #chronic illness magic #chronic illness

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theladybrownstarot · 1 year ago

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Pick-A-Card: Describing Your Vibes according to people's pov also urs ~

𐙚˚ Here's my masterlist for more !

𐙚˚ Make sure you like/follow/Comment/reblogg for more pacs like these !

Pile 1. Pile 2. Pile 3.

˖⁺‧₊˚Pile 1 .

Namaste pile 1 ! Let's get with your reading :-

𐙚˚ okay , i see that your vibes are giving like as of rise of Phoenix or wake up or glow up or the rise of great !

𐙚˚ pile 1 . people think you as someone who is now rising or we say they think and feel that it's your time now to shine and do great ! People used to think that you won't show up or have something inside you so great but now you have realized that what you have got and what do you want and need to do ;) .

𐙚˚ People think that you are kinda someone who gifts themselves a lot like such things which are your requirements only ! You keep your plans to yourself but you are open to talk to people and guide them too . You don't show a lot of facial expression plus your face gives the vibe of someone mature also . you people are grounded too~ and must have big 3s in earth sign also.

𐙚˚ People get that clear ,concise , straight forward and to the point kind of person . People feel your vibes as of someone who is fast and knows what to do and how to do now like you aren't indecisive at all ; you know how to make clear decisions and give good judgements . You see more deep , you are curious and tries to know more . People wanna approach you and ask you that how did you do it ?

𐙚˚ They think of you who doesn't rush into things and work . you take things slowly and calmly for sure and try to maintain your consistency by making little-little steps also that you must be observant and someone who is cautious just to make sure you aren't taking risks at all in your work .

𐙚˚ You people vibe as a dry to green tree . You are a home person and travels less also . Might like village areas far from city . You people are workaholics but at times you get kind a away from your path maybe because of of health issues also .

𐙚˚ you people are mysterious and have high patience and endurance of things . You might day dream a lot also . People get the vibes from you as like this person is fated to be great now ! btw get an evil eye protection charm for yourself.

𐙚˚ You people have learnt to take control on your pessimistic thoughts and life too ~ you have the blessings from your god and if you are an indian don't worry take the name of lord ganesha🙏🏼🦋 to remove obstacles. people you are clear and strong minded -it's hard to defeat you but i sense some people are still in the progress to make themselves up ! just leave your past and face your fears ~!

˖⁺‧₊˚Pile 2 .

Namaste pile 2 ! Let's get with your reading :-

𐙚˚ Hi pile no. 2 ! hru ? enjoying your life or every moment of it ?! yess ! that's what i'm getting from you my sunshine, you shine like sun ,star and moon ~

𐙚˚ you know people get that vibe of you who is jovial in nature wise, likes to enjoy every second of life or trying to enjoy the present with gratitude and happiness rather than being sad oho people you know your shine sometimes makes people jealous of you too ~ but don't mind them because you are a good person who isn't interested to take hurt and take advantage of others 🫂 knowing that in this world of harshness and darkness people struggle to come as happy individual too ~ you are a beauty with with brain , someone who is motherly , caring or your face could be motherly , who is a marriage material , dream person , a lot feminine and romantic ♡ .

𐙚˚ I sense that you spread kindness , compassion to others rather than hate and grief alas i hope people may get the shine like you people do ! also that you are someone who is a lot recognized by higher people and authorities also that you could be authoritative and strong headed . You are transparent also someone who is ready to give their hand to people to come up . I love you pile 2 . you are humanitarian! you are selfless ♡.

𐙚˚ People vibe with you with rose and sun flowers and also that you like taking pics with flowers for sure . you love flowers and like to live around nature too ~

𐙚˚ People think of you also as a prankster , someone who is bit lazy TT to take responsibilities and someone who gets blamed also mostly. People are jealous and angry because they think you aren't serious but reality is something else pile 2 . isn't it ?;)

𐙚˚ You could be in a certain community , group or club that has people like you or in the community , place or work you are mostly loved and given attention to most as you could be a lot vocal and expressive too . You people must be into law of ♡♡ manifestations a lot i see and believe in universe so much that it has helped you to take your burden off also .

˖⁺‧₊˚Pile 3.

Namaste pile 3 ! Let's get with your reading :-

𐙚˚ People think of you as someone who isn't judgmental regarding anyone . They feel comfortable around you because you are those type of people who doesn't make people feel like outsiders . You like to share your happiness with others irrespective of age , color , gender or caste vice-versa ♡ . You believe in sharing of things . People might feel that you are the center of attention and you give attention to everyone equally ! you present yourself as a good and gentle being. You people and grounded and strong - which makes people think that they can't defeat you 💪🏼.

𐙚˚ You are a person who has a lot of achievements - not especially some awards or medals but achievements of your own that you made in your life by yourself ~ You people take life in a flow not in a hurry or mess 🌬🌊. You people can even enjoy alone like you can dance at any place , you can start speaking like a politician or a debater at any place without thinking much of people >< You give yourself chance first or keep yourself as a priority like you have your own voice and opinion in things.

𐙚˚ You people might me psychics like tarot card readers , astrologers, intuitive or you can a strong 6th sense 🔮 . People think that you have the answer for everything . Some people think and vibe with you as their random guide at any point of time . Your feelings and gut are strong for sure plus i can see that you are spiritual and read a lot of text and holy books and can practicse mindfulness for sure.

𐙚˚ People might feel that until and unless they don't approach you , you won't approach them. People might vibe you with a tree - mature , silent , helpful ,selfless , knowledgeable and someone with extras , you might keep a bunch of things with you in your bag let's say i carry medicine , face wash and cucumber water when i go outside ; people think me as someone who is full and got everything that they need and wish for so goes same for you 🫂.

𐙚˚ People think that you will be a great personality in coming time or in near future because you are developing and growing yourself by hiding from the world. I think you love peace and unity among everyone .

𐙚˚ You people are a warrior like you have experienced few major events in life and a great lover too ~ You will have great options in terms of love soon . You people are perceived as someone beautiful and graceful for sure . Don't be insecure regarding your looks because what matters is the personality and inner-self ♡

#theladybrownstarot #tarot community #free tarot #tarot reading #tarotblr #pac #tarotscope #pick a pile #pick a card #pick one #artists on tumblr #astro community #astro observations #tarot and astrology #tarot witch

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supermarket-goblin · 6 months ago

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Phoenix Wright celebrates Almost Christmas. Maya helps him shape traditions. The tree always has to have one parrot ornament, an old photo depicting Miles and Phoenix as kids playing while Gregory Edgeworth keeps an eye is put up in a festive frame, some part of their day involves walking down to the lake. When Maya leaves, he tries to get Larry involved but the holiday period is a busy time and he's got his own traditions. The first person he truly gets to share it with after Maya is Trucy. He introduces her to these things as if they are normal but Trucy's Christmas tree has never had a parrot before and why does her new Daddy insist on this place specifically for their walk? She goes along, learns and performs the traditions without any understanding. When she is around ten or so, she meets Uncle Miles, who wants to spend Christmas with them. She tries to explain their traditions to him and she can tell his feelings on the subject are mixed. He rolls his eyes at the parrot on the tree, he stares fondly, with a longing, at their photo. "Why?" Miles asks Phoenix when he thinks Trucy can't hear as they take their walk around the lake. "Why do you keep revisiting these memories?" The disbarred attorney just smiled. "Because as horrible as it all was, it saved you. It helped me prove to you something I already knew, that you aren't a murderer."

Miles tried to respond at that, only to be interrupted by Trucy, asking him about his Almost Christmas traditions. He gave her a and took her hand and talked with her as they walked. After that, a new frame appeared in the Wright home every Almost Christmas, clear fold lines in the newspaper clipping of the story of Manfred Von Karma's conviction.

Apollo instantly understood what Almost Christmas meant, his hero worship of Phoenix Wright providing him with all the information he needed. It would seem like an odd thing to celebrate, until you see the way the Edgeworth and Wright look at each other.

Athena was confused by what Wright meant by "stepping Almost Christmas up a notch" after he got reinstated. She soon found the office was home to a fair few more fireworks than she had recalled. Trucy was working on a whole new parrot puppet just for the occasion. She'd met Miles Edgeworth briefly in Germany one time but here, in the anything agency office, preparing for Almost Christmas, he was almost a completely different creature. He had stepped into the office with two tote bags, placing them on Wright's desk (which he seemed not to notice or pay attention to) and removing from them a series of frames containing photos and newspaper clippings and even a doodle of a radio with the caption "It's Almost Christmas." When Apollo later filled her in on the story behind Almost Christmas, she was shocked, but she supposes for the Wright Anything Agency, wild and unimaginable shouldn't be a surprise.

#narumitsu #ace attorney #trucy wright #apollo justice #athena cykes #phoenix wright #miles edgeworth #larry butz #maya fey #manfred von karma #almost christmas

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nekohime19 · 3 months ago

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Heart behind the lie # 79 : Happy together

Wukong take Mac on a nice lil date. The monkeys are on their second stage of courting : offerings!

Wukong carefully brushed his unruly strands of fur with the tips of his fingers, making sure they were nice and shiny. He fluffied up his fur and looked at the reflection shimmering in the mirror. He looked good. Not that it was surprising, but… he looked truly good. He hummed, satisfied. He was unglamored, he felt quite confident to go out without glamors now that he showed Macaque his true self. The mere memory of the soft kisses his moon laid on his face made him shiver in delight.

Beautiful. He said he was beautiful! Wukong's tail wagged in joy. Beautiful, huh? Wukong looked at the reflection dancing on the clear surface. Red eyes. Freckled cheeks. Scarred forehead. Perhaps, he was beautiful in some ways. His eyes were cutting but brilliant. His freckles were numerous but darling. Most of all, Macaque liked them! Beautiful. The word echoed in his head. Gods, he was acting like a schoolgirl with a crush, wasn't he? Well, dignity be damned! Who said monkeys couldn't giggle and kick their feet? Whoever said this was foolish.

Wukong let his tail curl joyfully, airy giggles spilled out of his mouth, echoing in his room. Sock, who was licking her paws on Wukong's fluffy bed, looked up and mrrped at his odd chirpish mood. The golden-furred monkey looked back at her and chuckled.

“I'm handsome aren't I?” He said as he sat on the bed, Sock meowed and rolled on her back, Wukong couldn't help but pat her belly. Who could resist really? “I need to be perfect! I have a date.” He chirped, Sock closed her eyes and purred, lulled by his soft petting.

The date in itself was quite simple. He asked Macaque to wait for him outside of the water-curtain cave at midday; he wanted to take him to one of the mountain quiet spots. He prepared a basket full of fresh fruits, the best of the mountain's season, and made sure to be as handsome as he could. This wasn't their first date. They did go out in the Thousand-Wonders City, at the time named Thousand-Year City, but this one was special because it was part of his courtship. He wanted to take Macaque to a nice, shadowed spot, and offer him the earrings he made especially for him. He wondered what would Macaque reaction be?

Was he going to be surprised? Excited? Happy? The thought made Wukong giddy. He made sure that the spot he picked for their date was full of shadows, he wanted Macaque to try the earrings powers as soon as he could.

Sock moew broke him out of his musing, Wukong hopped on his feet once he saw the sun rise within the crisp sky. “It's time!” He chirped. “Thanks for reminding me.” He loudly kissed Sock on her fluffy forehead and checked himself in the mirror one last time.

For the date, he opted for simpler clothing. He removed his armor and his reddish phoenix's feathers, not wanting to bring his war regalia to his date. He picked out large golden pants embroidered with sun imagery and a sleeveless red-satin shirt. He had some discreet golden jewelry on his hips and put a shy reddish hue on his lips. He was bare-footed, as a monkey it was more comfortable this way. He didn't want to be boisterous. This date was supposed to be quiet. Relaxing. Peaceful. He picked the basket before leaving, making sure the earrings were hidden inside, before running out of his hut.

Macaque was waiting for him outside of the cave, leaning on one of the nearby trees. It seemed the warrior too opted for simpler clothing. He wasn't wearing his usual battle-worn outfit, instead he opted for something more casual. He was wearing large white pants and a loose black shirt, on top of that his shoulders and chest were wrapped in a satin purple shawl embroidered with stars and moons. He wasn't wearing his trademark red scarf, which was… odd to see, Wukong wasn't used to a scarfless Macaque, but it was refreshing. Like him, Macaque was bare-footed. The lantern was tied to his hips, and he was holding something in his hands, a wrapped scroll tied with a golden ribbon. Mn. Wukong wondered what it was.

The black-furred monkey perked up at his arrival and turned his way with a lazy smile. Wukong felt his tail wag. At this point he didn't even try to stop it. Macaque was already quite aware that he was a fool for him.

“So where are you gonna take me?” Hummed Macaque as he walked out of the tree's shade. Wukong let his eyes wander on his moon's lithe form, the shawl suited him nicely. Purple was truly his color. Macaque smirked when he caught his wandering eyes, Wukong scratched his neck with an embarrassed giggled. “Like the view?” Teased the black-furred monkey with a seductive sway of tail.

“I always do.” Proudly huffed Wukong. “And I can't tell you, it would spoil the surprise.”

Macaque rolled his eyes at his response, but he easily fell in step with Wukong, his tail swaying curiously. “What about this? What is it?” Hummed the golden-furred monkey as he pointed to Macaque's scroll.

“I can't tell you, it would spoil the surprise~” Infuriatingly repeated Macaque. Wukong raised an eyebrow, he elbowed Macaque to wipe out his lil smirk. The warrior chuckled and linked their arms together. “You look good.” Hummed Macaque.

Wukong flushed a little, he coughed to hide his embarrassment. “You too.” Smiled the golden-furred monkey. Macaque's lips twitched upward, the fool couldn't hide his joy, it made Wukong chuckle.

They both peacefully made their way to their date's location. Wukong could use his cloud, but he wanted to savor this peaceful moment. Taking a walk within the mountain's sweet scenery wasn't bad. Wukong liked feeling Macaque's arm intertwined with his, he liked to see their step synchronize, he liked to feel his moon's warmth pressed against him. A precious moment. So slow. So soft. So different from the frenzy of their everyday lives. Wukong loved it. He longed for it. Just the two of them growing old in soft greenery.

The great sage looked at his moon, at the way light was falling on his face, at the way his tail was swaying, lazily, softly, slowly. Macaque looked at peace. A knot of emotions clogged Wukong's throat, he coughed to chase it away. It was good… To see Macaque be this peaceful. After all the wars, all the blood, all the cries of vengeance, all the yells of pain. This sight, so mundane, so serene, it made his heart flutter in joy.

“You know… Just because I'm shedding my glamors doesn't mean you have to shed yours. Take all the time you need.” Mumbled Wukong, he felt like he had to say it, to make sure Macaque wasn't feeling pressured. His moon flinched, for a moment Wukong worried he stepped out of line, that he crossed a boundary he wasn't meant to, but Macaque’s hold on his arm tightened reassuringly.

“I… don't think I can shed all of them now. But maybe I can start a little.” Sighed the warrior, the glamors on his ears flickered, Macaque let it go. His six ears flared proudly. Wukong stared at them with a dreamy gaze, his eyes tracing every curve, every flutter, every color. Committing the sight to memory.

“Beautiful.” He whispered in one breath of honesty. Macaque's ears fluttered, the tips reddening.

“Flatterer.” Snorted his moon, he didn't have his scarf to hide his flustered state.

“Is it really flattery if it's the truth?” Hummed Wukong, he detached his gaze from Macaque's ears and looked ahead, he was the one leading them after all, he couldn't’ get lost. It would be embarrassing. Tearing his gaze from Macaque's ears took great efforts, he was almost breathless.

“Since when are you such a smooth-talker?” Huffed Macaque.

“Since always, I am a pro at flirting!” Proudly answered Wukong as he puffed out his chest, Macaque laughed, sweet melody.

“Are you now? A real Casanova huh?” Smirked the black-furred monkey. Macaque stopped them and raised his hand, he carefully took one of Wukong's unruly strands and tucked it back behind his ear. The act made the sage blush. “Cat got your tongue playboy?” He purred, eyes curved mischievously.

“You're unfair.” Mumbled Wukong as he turned away, cheeks red. Macaque laughed, the sound bright and loud. “Now stop being distracting or we're never gonna find the date's location!”

“Oh so it's my fault now?” Snorted the black-furred monkey.

“Yes it is, you’re too beautiful.” Smoothly answered Wukong, that got Macaque to blush. The sage counted that as a victory.

They reached their destination after a few more minutes of walking. A mellow meadow shadowed by blooming plum trees. The soft pinkish petals were dancing in the sky, drifting at the rhythm of crisp breezes. They settled in the cool shadow. The grass was tender, fresh to the touch, like a bed of soft cotton. Macaque hummed and looked around, he stretched in the fresh shadows, eyes softening contendly. Wukong smiled, ah the sight of his moon, relaxed in dancing petals, it was precious. He Engraved it in his memory. They picked fruits from Wukong's basket and began to chat about everything and nothing.

“How is your cave project going?” Curiously asked Wukong.

“It's good. I'm probably gonna build a cat tree for Sock, I think she'd like it.” Answered Macaque as he bit into a fresh plum.

Wukong chuckled. “Oh she will be delighted. This floofy ball… we spoil her.”

“Well she does deserve to be spoiled.” Snorted the warrior with an amused sway of tail. Wukong snorted. He couldn't agree more. The great sage picked one ripe peach and greedily took a bite. He saw the luxurious earrings box peeking from the fruit basket and gulped. It was time.

Wukong took a deep breath and reached for the bow, Macaque watched him curiously from the corner of his eyes. The box was simple, delicate in design. It was made of darkwood, the lines sharp yet elegant. Wukong caressed the smooth surface with his thumb before handing the bow to his moon, his tail thumping nervously.

“Will you accept my token?” He said with as much confidence as he could muster. Even if he knew Macaque loved him, courting was still so intimidating. He had never been one for romance, past or present, he never imagined it could be so daunting. Showing vulnerability took strength, he now knew that.

Macaque's eyes widened at the phrasing, he knew that was a courtship offering. “I will.” Seriously answered the black- furred monkey as he carefully took the box. He examined the simple box with curiosity before opening it, his eyes widened.

Inside the box laid six elegant earrings. One pair of glittering dark stars, sharp yet refined, almost sword-like. One pair of crescent moons, curved like a secretive smile on shy lips, soft and mystical. And one pair of dark sun, round like ripe plums, sweet and dear. Macaque eyed them intently, the tip of his finger softly brushing against them.

“They're…” He gulped, his tail swaying in excitement.

“Made right out of a Void Onyx.” Proudly stated Wukong. Macaque chirped in surprise.

“A Void Onyx!? Where did you even find that?” Macaque tail was thumping in excitement.

“I have my ways.” Chuckled Wukong, he chirped in delight at Macaque's reaction. “Want me to help you put them on?”

Macaque paused for a moment before slowly nodding. Wukong eagerly scouted closer, he took the earrings and shyly grazed his moon’s delicate ears. They fluttered under his touch, Wukong gulped. It's been so long since he was able to touch them like this. He carefully clasped the earrings in place, he made them as such that they didn't need holes to be worn. The stars on the highest pair of ears, the moons in the middle and the suns on the lowest. Wukong looked at his moon, proudly wearing the earrings he gifted, and felt his heart tighten with tenderness. He cupped his warrior's face and softly caressed the fluttering ears with his thumbs.

“You look so beautiful.” He sighed.

“You only have that word in mouth. Beautiful.” Snorted Macaque as he raised one eyebrow.

“It's true.” Wukong leaned over the ears and kissed each of them, his lips fluttering against the delicate limbs. “Absolutely beautiful.”

Macaque shuddered and closed his eyes, wisps of purrs escaping his lips at the soft kisses. Once Wukong leaned back, Macaque grabbed the scroll lying on the side.

“I have something for you too.” Hummed the warrior as he handed the scroll.

Wukong chirped curiously, he took the scroll and removed the golden ribbon. It was a painting of him. Macaque's sharp style was familiar, Wukong found it endearing. The painting was more detailed than Macaque's usual drawings, it was of Wukong smiling, unglamored. He looked sweet in this, his features softened by age, not as passionate as in his youth, yet so tender, so… serene. Most of all he looked happy. At peace. Wukong felt his eyes shine with tears.

“Thanks. I accept your token.” He mumbled as he wiped away the tears slowly gliding down his cheeks, he put away the portrait to not stain it. He will buy the prettiest frame for this drawing.

A serenade and now a portrait? Macaque was definitely doing a celestial courtship. Wukong had never been a romantic. He never dreamed of his future courtship, or what he would like to receive in a courtship. But he could easily admit that nothing could be better than this, because this… this was Macaque's. Purely and simply Macaque.

“Why the tears?” Mumbled Macaque as he cupped Wukong's face.

“I'm just… happy.” Chuckled the great sage. Macaque snorted at his answer, he put his forehead against Wukong's, gazing at him softly.

“Yeah, me too.”

Wukong smiled at his answer, they stayed like this for a moment, close, so close they could count each other's eyelashes. Wukong felt good. Safe. Serene.

“If you tell anyone I cried I'm gonna beat your ass.” Finally huffed the great sage. How embarrassing to let his emotions get the better of him.

“Your secret is safe with me.” Chuckled the black-furred monkey as he wiped the last of Wukong's tears.

They were happy. Together, at last, and happy.

Ch1 / Previous / Next

#Shadowpeach #lego monkie kid #lmk #Heart behind the lie

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pvtrimmersphx · 1 year ago

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northendcontract · 4 months ago

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williamoftyred · 2 months ago

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The Phoenix of Jerusalem

Chapters 3 and 4

Chapter Three: The Garden Before The Fall

Baldwin IV, and the ache of almost remembering.

The silence after court was its own kind of music.

Baldwin sat in his private chamber, veil removed, hands newly cleaned and dressed. The latest treatment left a faint tingle on his skin—Amira's salve, unfamiliar but gentle. Not the harsh vinegar stings of the Frankish physicians, nor the choking pitch of smoke-blown poultices. Hers was different. Thoughtful.

He rolled his shoulder, grimacing at the pull of old scars, and looked toward the window. The fig tree just outside was beginning to bud again.

He hated how it caught him off guard.

He didn't dream often anymore—fever took that from him. But lately, memories had crept in during the day, unwelcome and unspoken.

A girl's voice. Not Amira's, but similar. Lighter. Younger. Braver.

"You're holding it too tightly."

He'd heard that line yesterday—out of Amira's mouth. And it had shaken him. Not because it was unusual advice, but because it had lodged into some splintered part of him, perfectly.

He couldn't stop hearing it.

As a boy, Baldwin had spent more time in the palace gardens than in the chapel. His instructors believed him studious, but he only obeyed them because he had learned how to listen with half an ear.

He used the other half to listen for footsteps not meant to be there.

She had always arrived just before the bell for afternoon prayers, bare-footed and smirking, a smudge of ink on her sleeve from her father's study. Not a court girl. Not a servant.

She climbed fig trees like they were ladders to heaven.

What had her name been?

He could not remember it now—only that she called him "sly" and made fun of the way he pronounced Latin when he was tired. That she made him laugh once so hard he snorted and she fell out of the tree.

And that she didn't treat him like a prince.

He remembered watching her run across the stones of the courtyard, hair unbound, a book clutched to her chest.

Now he watched Amira—not that girl, he told himself—move through his chamber with the same easy grace.

This morning, she had returned to examine his hand again. She spoke little. Measured precisely. Didn't linger.

But once, while pressing the side of his thumb, she had paused. Just for a heartbeat too long.

And he'd looked at her then. Really looked.

The curve of her brow. The scar at the edge of her wrist—so faint he almost missed it.

Something about her... haunted him.

Not beauty. He had seen beautiful women. This was different.

It was familiarity. The way she tilted her head while concentrating. The way she corrected herself mid-sentence as if translating thoughts from another tongue.

He had nearly asked her—Have we met before? But kings didn't ask foolish questions. Not aloud.

Later, alone in the chapel, Baldwin stared at the stone floor where light filtered through stained glass. The warmth from the window touched only his robe.

The fig tree's shadow stretched long beside him.

He heard her voice again—not Amira's voice, but that girl's—drifting from some lost place in his memory.

"You shouldn't be down there."

He pressed his hand to his chest, fingers aching beneath the bandage.

He had forgotten the girl's name. But not the feeling of being seen. Not the sense of wholeness that had nothing to do with health or power or prayer.

She had been the last thing he'd lost before his body began to betray him.

He wondered if Amira ever climbed trees.

Chapter Four: The Weight of Flesh and Trust

When hands work side by side, the heart listens.

The boy's scream echoed through the stony corridor like a struck bell.

Baldwin froze mid-sentence, looking up from his desk. The guard at his chamber door turned, startled, before rushing out. A heartbeat later, another voice—a knight's—shouted for a physician.

"Get the woman from Damascus! The king's healer!"

Amira.

Baldwin rose slowly, body protesting, hand throbbing in time with the alarm. He moved without waiting for his attendants, stepping into the hall with an expression that brokered no delay.

By the time he reached the lower courtyard, a crowd had already gathered.

A squire lay sprawled on the stone, his leg mangled grotesquely beneath him. A horse—spooked, now restrained—stood nearby, lathered in sweat. The boy, no older than fourteen, sobbed uncontrollably, his screams fractured into hiccuping gasps. Blood pooled fast.

Amira was already there.

She knelt beside the boy, sleeves rolled high, hands moving quickly but without panic. Her satchel lay open beside her, supplies spilling like a battlefield's spoils—linen, hooks, a small iron saw. The boy thrashed.

"Hold him," she ordered. "Firmly. And do not let him see the leg."

Baldwin stepped forward before the guards could protest. "Has anyone summoned the master surgeon?"

"He'll bleed out before that man finishes praying," Amira replied coolly. "This boy has minutes, not rites."

Her tone was not defiant. Just... certain.

Baldwin knelt beside her, careful not to let his right hand brush anything. "Tell me what you need."

She didn't look surprised. "Boiled water. And strong hands."

He gestured to two knights. "You heard her."

Amira was already cutting away the boot, now soaked through. The smell was thick—iron, torn leather, and something darker, closer to rot. She murmured to the boy, voice low and rhythmic, not words so much as a pattern. A spell of steadiness.

Baldwin watched her. Not the leg, not the blood. Her.

Every movement was measured. Efficient. Kind.

He saw it then—what others might miss. The way she shielded the boy's view with her body, the way she kept her blade hidden until the last second, the way she checked her hand placement twice before making a cut. She had done this before.

Not once. Not as theory. But in war. In fear.

He knew that knowledge. It was not taught. It was earned.

The bone was cleanly broken. She worked fast, commanding the space like a general in a losing battle—focused, relentless, quiet in her power.

Baldwin fetched linen when she asked. He held the jar of wine she used for sterilization. He ignored the stares of the knights. He forgot, for one hour, that he was a king.

When it was done—when the boy's leg was bound and the bleeding slowed—Amira sat back on her heels, face pale, hands shaking just enough for him to notice.

"You've done this before," Baldwin said softly.

She didn't look at him. "I've done worse."

There was silence between them. Not awkward, but full. Honest.

He studied her profile—the curve of her jaw, the slight line between her brows. "You never asked what rank he held."

"He was in pain," she replied. "That was rank enough."

He nodded once, slowly. "Do you know how rare that is?"

Finally, she met his eyes. "Yes. That's why I do it."

That night, Baldwin wrote nothing in his journal. No reflections. No state affairs.

Instead, he sat at the window with the fig tree just visible in the moonlight, and he thought about hands.

Hands that cut. That stitched. That saved.

And how hers had steadied his.

He had trusted few in his short life. But tonight, he found himself thinking: If I must die in this city... let it be with her beside me.

Not because she was beautiful. Not because she was kind.

But because, for the first time in years, he didn't feel pitied.

He felt seen.

#king baldwin iv x oc #baldwin iv #the phoenix of jerusalem #koh #kingdom of heaven #king baldwin iv #the leper king #fanfic #fan fiction #koh fandom

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sounthmountain · 2 years ago

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worldbeyondtheworld · 6 months ago

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AU in which the Voices accidentally get separated from the Long Quiet. He and the Princess escape into the larger than canon construct, which here is a living place.

The Narrator sends them into the woods where the two are hiding and tells them the story that "the Hero was cursed into a beast, and you are here to guide him out and save him". The Long Quiet is still the same as canon and was never human, but that's difficult to sell in a location where everybody else is human and has bias.

The Voices also look like or similar to him, so the Narrator disguises and hides their appearance by shaping them with cloaks, helmets, armor, clothes, etc.

Original post plus reblog with more information here:

https://www.tumblr.com/worldbeyondtheworld/770387804645621760

I don't even have a name yet, or many ideas how the mechanics of the AU would work, or if it's a offshot from canon / something else, or the story, or the narrative structure.

I already have several scenarios and scenes haunting my mind:

Spectre makes an appearance to misdirect the adventurers / Voices. She looks alive to them, sticks her tongue out, runs behind a tree, and vanishes. As they look for her to no avail, a ghostly hand emerges from the tree and removes some of their blades from their belts. (Short blades just feel right, you know?)

The Voices only notice when they come upon a barrier of brambles between them and their goal, and find they have less blades to cut through than they thought.

Voice of the Hero loses his shit entirely at some point and tries to kill the other Voices in a panicking frenzy. He's scarily strong like this, stronger than even Smitten or Stubborn.

Voice of the Cheated leaps into the air from the excitement of getting wings. He doesn't have experience in using them yet. Before he can crash into anything, TLQ catches him in his palms. He shows him how to glide down, and Cheated lands safely.

(Version of the) Princess encounters all of the Voices without their disguises. She has a crisis because they all look like TLQ.

What's she supposed to do, surrounded by 12 of such attractive beings??? She gets so, so flustered, which flusters some of them in return.

TLQ for some reason is the one standing on the Princess' shoulders instead of the other way round to reach some fruit. And no, it's not Adversary/Adversary-adjacent. Both are puzzled when questioned why they are doing it like this.

(Warning for canon-typical topics under the cut. It's also long.)

Nobody can ever agree on what creature TLQ is supposed to be.

Things people have thought he is include: A giant bird (opinions differ on which bird, too), a black phoenix, an omen made manifest, a winged bear, a harpy, a gryphon, a dragon...

The Narrator: (Lie, because TLQ isn't cursed, but also genuinely annoyed) "What does it matter what he was cursed into?"

The Princess, craving comfort for herself and him, watches for wagons going through (but close to the edge of) or close by the woods. Whenever she can, she sneaks close and takes some food and drink.

Sometimes, people going through gift her things, perceiving her only to be a young woman living a difficult life. Which is true. After some bad experiences, she hides herself in a tattered cloak so people won't connect her to the idea of a princess or recognize her face from the Wanted Posters.

The woods are big, but still finite. She acts all over at different places, close to where bandits sometimes hide, to hide her traces. Nobody is supposed to find their shelters.

The next set of wagons is more heavily guarded. She's been miserable, no matter how much TLQ has been trying to comfort her, so she risks it. If only for the the thrill and distraction it provides. Usually in the routes, she's discovered and always flees without being seen properly.

At the start of a set of specific routes, some of the Voices are present. Hunted notices her and alerts the guards who circle her. She leaps and jumps across them, back into the safety between the trees, but losing her cloak - it was grabbed - and revealing her appearance as well as that she has some kind of supernatural agility. Hunted uses the scent from her cloak to track her down.

"Um."

He now understood what his companion meant. He stared up, and up, and UP at the Hero. His shoulders tucked in under his unwavering stare. It was so dark he couldn't see his face - only the white of his eyes - to gauge his reactions.

"You're taller than I imagined." That was what came out of his mouth??

"Thank you, I'll take that as a compliment."

????? Why did the Hero's voice sound like that of his companion???

All of the Voices feel drawn to the Princess, although they might not notice depending on her shape and the circumstances.

All of the Voices also feel drawn to the TLQ, in a different way, although they might not notice.

Several scenarios have outside groups interferring because of their own agenda and beliefs, but always because of something the Voices did.

In one, several people agitated by fearmongering, set trees and shrubbery on fire at various edges of the woods. Soon, the entire forest is burning. Depending on their actions, the Voices die alone, together, with the Princess and TLQ, in fear or in peace, or TLQ somehow throws them + Princess over the fire to safety.

In another, specific Voices can betray the location of the Princess and TLQ to some shady mercenaries to get some help. They might believe that he's under her thrall and needs to be escorted out. Or it's for power and safety. Or they want an escort for her safety.

The mercenaries lie in ambush - but not to do any of these things. No. While their exact motivations might differ, they capture TLQ for his powers, and abuse him because they don't care about him. They'd have done the same to the her if she didn't escape. No matter what choices they made before, or what they believe, the Voices as well as the Narrator feel horrible about what they've done, and what could've happened to the Princess on top of everything else.

Every iteration, the Den appears in rage before anybody can step out of the woods. She DOES not appreciate the betrayal and the abuse of her first and closest friend and companion.

At least one route is there where all Voices appear and they watch in horror at what is happening to TLQ because of them / because they couldn't stop what was happening. It could be in the above scenario.

It could be another capture scenario, only with the context that the Voices intended to capture TLQ to 'heal' him or make sure he cannot hurt anybody. He's simply too powerful. People murmur around them. They're sitting down to eat, morose, after his cries and bellows quiet, and they get handed soup with a strange flavor. Voice of the Cheated finds a black feather in his bowl after some bites and has an impending feeling of dread. Upon demand where the meat comes from, the cook laughs and says that they butchered the bird. Did you know that you can gain this bird's immense powers if you consume part of its flesh?

Scrambling, the Voices run for the cage, only to find it empty. There's blood everywhere- and there. At the edge of the camp is a stake. And on top of that stake sits a head.

Or a mob descends onto TLQ, and when they try to defend him, they get knocked down and tied up. They watch as he, miserable, is treated as nothing more than a beast as weapons are raised. They kill him. The same weapons get turned on them because they dared to defend this creature and the Princess, and they're monsters under their cloaks, too.

The Princess strangles the Voice of the Opportunist. She got almost killed and TLQ is in a cage being tortured, and Is This What You Wanted?? He was so kind to you, so considerate, and this is how you repay him??? For what, power, when everybody else will know what a backstabber you are, and do their best to topple you?

Opportunist is unable to even raise his hands to try save himself. He knows that he fucked up. He knows this is his fault. He cannot pretend that TLQ or the Princess deserve this. He didn't want this, but his wants don't matter in the face of the consequences.

And she's right. Nobody is in power forever. He can feel the ire and envy directed at him by others. He's witnessed others like him. They outnumber him, because none of the Voices will help him.

#slay the princess #slay the princess au

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