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[fantasies-fairytales-n-fics]

Thranduil and Josie Pt. 157- Lucky Clover

Summary: Raven, Jace and Matthew chapter of backstories and new revelations.

*Warnings* language, angst, mentions of child loss, mentions of suicide, religion discussion

Stories Stories Stories Masterlist

"No...no, get away....get away from my baby! leave me alone...no! Tauriel don't do it!! No...nooooooo!!!!"

"Raven! Wake up! Wake up, you're dreaming..." Jace firmly said as he tried to shake the distressed dhampir awake. The worried warlock had been faithfully sitting by her side as she slept, his contrasting eyes curiously studying her since they arrived at his remote refuge, trying to figure out why he was so drawn to the fiery haired and tempered dhampir.

Her eyes sprung open in panic and darted frantically all around the outlandish room that smelled of burning sage. A room that looked nothing like that of middle earth, but something of modern day living with hi-tech computerized gadgets all around, things she had only read about in futuristic novels. It also had a gothic witchy vibe, which that part she could at least relate too.

Then there was Jace, the gorgeous blue and brown eyed blonde, holding her hand as he sat beside her, which he hadn't even realized he was doing.

Raven jerked her hand away and jumped off of the simple single sized cot, adorning completely different attire than what she last remembered wearing.

"What the hell?? Where am I Jace??"

"If I tell you, I'll have to kill you." he grinned, but then instantly realized how stupid his jest was as Raven scoffed at him.

"Tell me where the fuck I am Jace...now!! Or I'll..."

"What? Set me on fire?? Burn down the only sanctuary you have? We saved you remember?? A simple thank you would be nice."

His tone was calm but cocky enough to get a retorting rise out of her.

"A thank you?? If not for me, you'd still be rotting in Jareth's dungeon. Where's my thanks for saving you?? Instead, you left me at the mercy of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. fucking Hyde!" she reeled, referring to Thranduil and his evil alter Elvenking persona, then marched over to the cathedral style window that held iron bars on the outside. "Oh, and that's just great. I lived my whole life behind these. So now I'm a prisoner again??"

"They're not to keep you in Raven. They're to help keep others out."

She glanced back at him with a softening look, then her electric blue eyes returned to the unfamiliar outside view from the top floor that displayed a dark outlying city street. The only light came from the waning gibbous moon which would soon be full for winter solstice and in the wide reaching distance was a lavish lit up world of humankind.

"Yeah well, they didn't work against Jareth when I was at LeBrat's."

"That's because you conjured him, basically leading him right to your doorstep with a welcome mat. Play with black magic, get black magic play back. Try to correctly say that fifty times in a row."

Jace's humor was sincerely playful but it was not helping, for Raven found none of it funny.

"I didn't know it would be him alright?? I didn't even know he existed. I wanted someone more like y...never mind. Can you not speak about Jar... him? As if I am not cursed enough."

Jace grinned in confidence, knowing she was going to say she wanted someone more like him.

"I never would have pegged you for the superstitious type."

"I'm not...well at least I never used to be. You know he'll find me Jace and if he don't, the dealers will.....even Thranduil."

"Hence why you are here. The elves will never come here and Jareth and Ravenna have never found me here yet. They can't find what they can't see. As far as vampires, this area is not their scene. Even they have preferences."

"Key word, yet. It won't stop the goblin king from searching all corners of the globe...and it goes to show just how much you know about vampires. We are too close. I can see the people which means if there's any dealers there, they'll sense me. People are kinda their thing, you know...food? They're always roaming the big cities, looking like any other human. Some even reside in them. Garrett told me all about it. Now, where are we??" Raven asked as her keen eyes continued to zoom in on the buffet of humans walking about in the nightlife, making her quite hungry herself.

"I know plenty about them actually. As you said, they tend to target the highly populated areas, which is why we are not in one. It's also how I have managed to stay off the radar. If you remain hidden, out of sight, like we are, they are less likely to sense you. To answer your question, we're in Manhattan, well, the suburbs of it."

"Out of sight, but not out of mind and we're in New York??? The United freaking States?? You FLEW me here, all this way?? That's like thousands of miles."

"Nine thousand to be exact and no...only part of the way. I didn't want your scent in the air for anyone to pick up our path, not to mention your dead weight of being passed out didn't exactly make for a light load, so I used a portal."

"A...portal?? Like Jareth can do?"

"Could do...but not without his ring that I saw you pick up inside the mountain when Gollum dropped it."

"Yeah, that...well, I don't even have it anymore. That bitch Tauriel took it from me and stupidly gave it to her looney tunes elf lord which has only amplified his assholiness. That's not all she took from me either." Raven reeled, still in shock over her loss that she didn't know quite how to speak about.

"Wait." she continued. "So, if you can teleport, then why didn't you just take me away before????"

"Because I didn't have my stele. As Jareth needs his ring to possess certain unique abilities, I need something as well. He had taken it upon my capture so I had to go back and retrieve it and my seraph blade too, after you had left."

"A...stele??"

"I'll show you some other time, what it is and how it works. It does so much more than just teleporting. This place? To the outside world, looks like an old abandoned church, even on the inside. When I said they can't find what they can't see, well...I meant it in the literal sense."

"Uhh, how?? It looks far from abandoned to me."

"Magic." Jace said as he now stood beside her and winked. "This is only one room. There's much more here...and there's others here like me too. We are well protected."

"So...anyone that walks in here...won't see what I see? Will they see us??"

"Well...Mudanes, or ordinary humans per se, won't and they can't just walk in. Iron bars and locks remember? Vampires etcetera, are a bit more tricky, which is obviously why you have to remain inside...Oh...and did I mention that my good friend is a vampire? Shocking eh?" Jace quipped as he folded his brawny arms over his broad chest.

Raven's head whipped to him. "No...you didn't. But...I..I remember now. There was one with you when you came for me...I...I saw him, smelled him. He reeked of some girly perfume and was wearing a pink necklace."

Jace chuckled. "Yeah, that's Matthew, but don't let the scent fool you. He's far from girly and quite dangerous when provoked, for he carries the blood rage gene. To put it simply, don't piss him off. Otherwise, he's one of the good ones. He actually resides in the civilian world of France but has personal business in the elven realm, which that's a whole 'nother story that isn't mine to tell. What I can say though, is that pink gem is no ordinary necklace. It's a runestone and is needed for what's to come. That part IS my business. It's all of ours. Anyways, you'll officially meet Matthew soon enough. He's out fetching some food for us...real food like burgers and fries, since I know you can survive on that."

Raven's throat burned with thirst for blood as he said that and her stomach also growled in hunger for a big fat medium rare double cheeseburger. Garrett used to bring her treats like that from the cities, back when he used to like her and protect her.

As she placed her hand on her grumbling stomach, she turned away from him and began to softly sob, for she couldn't hold it in any longer.

"He...they...took my baby away Jace....all to punish me for what I did to Thranduil. I am the reason he lost his family and has turned into what he is and now I have paid dearly for it...but..my baby...he or she didn't deserve that. I...I wanted to be a mom...I...I wanted to raise it to be good, unlike I was. My child...could have been the one thing to straighten me out...and someone that could have actually loved me."

Raven then broke down bawling as she lowered her head and leaned on the window sill.

"Hey...come here." Jace softly whispered and took her into his arms, cradling her head against his shoulder.

"I...I am so sorry Raven. I learned of the child after it was too late. Matthew sensed it in your blood loss. I wanted to come sooner but I knew it was too risky to attempt it alone. God, I'm so sorry for all the excuses. I...I never wanted to leave you back in the goblin realm, but I was outnumbered with Thranduil's army. He was never going to allow me to come with you and certainly not take you from him, which believe me, I wanted to so much. And...I do...I thank you so much for saving me. If only I could have saved you. Can you ever forgive me?"

Raven lifted her head and tear filled eyes to his as she sniffled and whimpered. "Why would you ever want to save someone like me?"

Jace's hand came to her cheek, his thumb gently wiping her tears. "Because I know there's good in you. I can see it. The fact that you wanted this child and to do right by him or her, proves that to me, but..I have even seen it in you long before that and I even told you so. You just want to be loved, which I know you have been deprived of and mistreated as well. I also know you have done some pretty terrible things, but you never deserved what my father had done to you or what Thranduil did to your child. Others feel differently, but there is nothing that can be done about that now, except that you can try to move forward and be a better person, which I know you can be...in fact, I think you want to be. Am I right?"

"Even if I do...I will still be hunted. Where am I going to move forward to? I have nowhere to go. I'm...alone..."

Raven lowered her head, only to have Jace's fingertips raise it by her chin and peer straight down into her sullen eyes.

"You are not alone. You have me. I'm here now and I will not leave you again unless you tell me to. I understand if you cannot forgive me or if you want to leave."

Raven was dumbfounded that he genuinely seemed to care for and respect her and she didn't exactly know how to react, for it's nothing she had ever experienced. The cynical side of her wanted to come out and tell him that he was full of shit, for she was scared to trust him again but...she couldn't do it, as his eyes and touch spoke the truth that he was real.

"Yes...I...I forgive you...and...I also thank you for what you have done for me. You...you're nothing like your father. If it weren't for your eyes, it would be quite hard to believe you're his son."

Now Jace's head lowered. "It...it must be hard for you to look at me. I am sure he is all you see in my similar eyes."

Raven's fingers now went to his chin, lifting his head up to see his ashamed eyes trying to avoid hers.

"Look at me Jace...please. I didn't mean it that way. I do not see him when I look in your eyes, for your eyes, they are beautiful and hold kindness and love within them. His are dark and full of hatred and evil. The eyes, they say, are the windows to the soul. Well, he does not have one...but you do. I see it. I see...you. I...I smell you too." she said as her brows furrowed, trying to figure out the scent. "You smell of...clover??"

He softly chuckled. "Yes. Ironic huh? That is your real name. Clover."

"Yeah...it definitely is strange. But..as you know, I do not go by that name anymore...although, I...I do like the way you say it."

Jace smiled, somewhat bashfully. "Well...Clover...I...I see you too."

A moment of mutual gazing was shared as Jace stroked her cheek and then in his bewitched state...he leaned forward. Raven softly gasped as his lips almost took hers...and then Matthew walked in, causing the two to quickly move away from each other.

He walked over and put the food on the table, then the tall, dark and handsome vamp, appearing to be in his late 30's upon rebirth and all dressed in black, approached Raven with observing sapphires and both a tantalizing and intimidating smile.

"Hello Raven. It's a pleasure to meet you."

Raven stood fidgeting with her fingers, feeling a bit anxious after Jace told her that Matthew possessed the blood rage gene. She knew what that was, for her father, Craven, possessed it. It was either a genetic illness that was carried over from their human life or it could also be passed on to them when they are reborn from a vampire carrier's bite. It also surprisingly allowed an infected vampire to create children with female humans, witches or even other vampires. The most susceptible to it were witches known as weavers, a rare breed of witch with the strongest abilities and capable of creating spells that don't exist, something you unknowingly inherited from Caroline and would pass down to Leean. But, the main reason Raven was concerned was because it carried the term blood rage for a very good reason. When ignited, due to strong emotions such as anger, fear, anxiety and extreme hunger, it became uncontrollable, although when provided with a support, hope and love, it could be manageable. Had she inherited the gene from Craven? Was that why she was a blood thirsty child and always so angry, having multiple fiery meltdowns throughout her existence? Either way, on egg shells she would now walk around the vampire that Jace told her not to piss off.

"I am very sorry for your loss. I hope someday, you will find forgiveness in your heart as you also seek it yourself. As you know, the she-elf that was ordered to carry out the devilish act, was placed in a very compromising position. It was not her wish to cause you or your child harm and she, herself, has been scarred by the loss. King Thranduil, far worse than she, for his mind has been altered by, as you know, none other than a demon warlock that needs to be stopped. Not even the Elvenking himself, in his right mind and especially without that citrine, would have carried out such evil. An evil, you...brought him to. That evil, he will now face as it has become full circle."

Raven's eyes intensely grew and began to sting with her own rage.

"Whoa...you're...defending them?????"

Jace nudged her with his elbow, his own wide eyes reminding her to watch her step.

"Defend? No...stating facts, yes. I do not find them blameless. Tauriel still had a choice. Even Thranduil did, for he still knows of right and wrong. Of course, he chose wrong... again, hence what has happened to him."

"He hates me! He hated me even before Jareth's mind fucking. He still would have done it."

"And why is it that he hates you Raven? Other than the fact you took him away from his family and set this all into motion? A... choice...you also had and chose wrong. Did you not deceive his Queen, your own sister, all out of jealousy regarding the vampire King Garrett Lee and because of your secret desires for the elf lord you also harbored?"

"What the hell? How...do you know all of this and....what is your infatuation with the elves anyways??"

"Come...sit and eat. I will tell you. I hope you like cheeseburgers, medium rare?"

Raven's mouth now gaped to match her eyes. She sat down, opposite the daunting vampire who then placed two burgers and fries in front of her and a bucket of Kentucky fried chicken at Jace's seat, which was right beside her. Of course, for Matthew, all he relished in was a bottle of red wine that he then poured for the warlock and herself.

All she could do was lightly gulp in confusion as her stunned blue eyes stared up at overly courteous vampire.

"Matty, my favorite, KFC. You rock brother...you...you got the biscuits too...right? With butter and honey?"

Matthew grinned and reached into the bag, then slid another box over to him at lightning speed, in which Jace gracefully caught, sporting a curled smirk of satisfaction.

Jace tore into his chicken in the typical hungry man way as Raven sat watching him in astonishment while Matthew sat silently, sipping his vintage while eyeing her.

Jace could feel her eyes upon him and suddenly ceased his meat ravaging to lock his eyes upon her.

"You want a piece?" the greasy chinned warlock asked with a mouth full of food, making her lightly giggle.

"I...I've never had that." she softly answered.

"What??? Sacrilege girl. Here."

Jace reached in the bucket and pulled out a chicken leg, then plopped it down on her plate. Her stomach turned as she then watched Jace suck his piece down to the bone, for it reminded her of Gollum's legs.

Raven offered a queasy smile, then unwrapped her burger instead. Moments later, she found herself indulging it just as Jace had, not realizing just how famished she really was. Hearing both the warlock and vampire chuckle at her, had her setting the sandwich down to shyly wipe her lips with a napkin, then awkwardly began nibbling on her fries.

"To answer your questions Raven, I have many gifts, sight being one of them, past, present and future, either while dreaming or during my waking hours. I know more about you than you do. The elves...well, they have been part of my future visions." Matthew explained and then continued after pouring himself another glass of wine.

"Do you believe in destiny?"

"You mean...like...love..and all?"

"Yes, that can be part of it. But just your overall future. I've seen many things. My own destination as well. It involves your sister and your niece...it even involves you."

"M...me? How am I involved in their lives? Josie hates me and will soon want to kill me even."

"That may be so, her feelings anyways."

Matthew took a hefty gulp and then sat straight up, leaning into the table.

"But...it will all change. You will be a part of her life again. I have seen it. She will need you."

He then sat back and relaxed again, returning to his wine. "With that said, the future can always change due to our actions. It all depends on you now, if you want redemption and to be a part of a family."

"Wait...you're telling me that I...will be accepted by her after what I have done to her husband? What exactly did you see??"

"I cannot tell you that, for then, you could change it's course by throwing a monkey wrench into it. It would be in your best interest if that did not happen. You see, there are some things that should not be told for various reasons. For example, I knew Thranduil was alive after a vision I received from a shooting star one night that revealed my own destiny."

"So you knew he was alive and...did not tell Josie??"

"Would you have? Knowing what her King had become, forced to despise her. What a terrible pain that would inflict upon her after all she has suffered, only to lose him all over again while he walks and breathes. Now, of course, she will soon learn the truth and with that said, another of those various reasons I mentioned would be that there are other things that need to take place until she is made aware."

"That...makes no sense. If she had known earlier, many things could have been changed??"

"It is not meant to make sense. You must trust the process., for it is all occurring for a reason. A war is coming, a storm like no other and the Thranduil before us all now is well suited for it, more than ever. The one thing we all have in common is Jareth's destruction and all the evil he will bring forth this winter's solstice that is merely two weeks away. The fact that Thranduil has the citrine in his possession, did you think that was an accident? If he had been rescued before he was, Jareth would still have it. It is one of the key items in ending him, along with the gem I wear. There are other runes that will be needed as well. Your sister...she will collect them. She also will find the biggest necessity, Ashmole, for even I cannot see it's placement, for I have spent 150 year searching for it. Only a witch can. If she had left Dowrinion to find her King, it would have thrown everything off course. With all this said...Jace, you will need to go to her, alone, for you will be needed to aid her in locating one of the last two runes."

"Yeah well, if only Thranduil had killed Jareth when he had the chance, none of this would be happening....and if you know the whereabouts of these runes, why have you not just gone and got them yourself?" Raven asked, as politely as she could in her frustration of brain overload.

Matthew sat back up to the table with a serious expression. "If Jareth could be killed, we wouldn't need the book, now would we? And I do not know the location of the gems, I have only seen them in Josephine's possession. I may have the gift of sight, but I do not know all. I am not God."

"Ok...so you're telling me that if Thranduil would have beheaded Jareth's ass, he wouldn't have died?? and....you...believe in God???"

Matthew plopped back in his chair and guzzled his glass of wine to the last drop, then heavily sighed.

"That is exactly what I am telling you. The goblin king's revival brought about by his brother Julian using the spell in that book, protects him and his body. How do you think he rose from the fiery pits of hell just recently? No sword will pierce him, no fire will burn him, no magic will destroy him unless it is from that book and those stones!!! It can temporarily weaken him, but that is it. He will just keep coming back like a stray cat if you feed it and he'll get stronger each time just as the cat will grow fatter. Thranduil knew this which is why he did not even try."

The vexed vampire poured another glass, trying to calm his emotions before he went on, while Raven sat frozen in fear as she witnessed his hand trembling while he drank.

"Now...God, you ask...I do believe in him. I was a devout catholic before I met my fate fifteen hundred years ago. I was 37 and aided the local church in a small France village, helping to restore it, for I was a carpenter. I had a wife and a son back then, both taken by a plague that wiped out most of the village, yet I never contracted it. I wanted to end my life when that happened and I tried, even believing I would go to hell for it. I jumped from the scaffolding and laid alone on the ground, broken, bloodied and still breathing. That is when I met my maker, and it wasn't God. It was my mother vampire who offered me the alternative to facing damnation and God himself by atoning for my sin through service, ridding the world of evil, much like Garrett does. She and her husband became my new family as Matthew Roydon died and Matthew De Clermont was born. Tell me, Clover...do you believe in God?"

"Somehow I think you already know my answer since you know everything about me and I've never even met you."

"Eh well, we'll be seeing plenty more of each other for you to know me better. It's time for me to go get my own dinner. Don't wait up kids...or do anything I wouldn't do. Raven...I hope you are feeling better."

Matthew winked at Jace, knocked back his remaining liquid and then headed out.

"Are you...feeling better?" Jace then asked her.

"Strangely...yes? Shouldn't I be cramping and still bleeding? At least, that's what I've read about miscarriages, although that's not exactly what happened to me."

"Matthew took care of that for you once we arrived here." he explained and continued eating his last piece of chicken.

"So...he's a healer too??"

"Yep...hey ummm, you gonna eat...that?" Jace asked as he puppy eyed her second cheeseburger.

"Uhhh...no...help yourself."

"Annnd...what about the chicken leg?"

Raven chuckled. "Take it. You don't wanna know what I think about that. Trust me or you won't be able to unsee it."

"Noted. Don't tell me." he laughed and swiped it up.

"Sooo...when are you going to go to Dorwinion? He told you to go alone...so does that mean I am going to be left here with a blood rage vampire?"

"He's not going to hurt you. He has more control than you think and you'll definitely be in good hands with him, just try and watch that spicy mouth of yours. It's really not that hard. I'll probably go in a few days after I know all is well here and..."

Jace finished the chicken and just stared at the burger as if something was bothering him.

"And??"

"And well...I have to face my sister knowing her husband is alive. Like, do I tell her? I mean...how, do I even tell her, considering what Thranduil is now? I've only met her once and...like, I love her already. I have no family but her. I guess there's still Jules, but he still isn't himself either thanks to Jareth and Harker. Speaking of Harker, he has one of the stones, the crystal. I wonder how Josie is going to get it like Matthew said?"

"I...I don't know...I..."

Raven sighed and picked at her remaining cold fries.

"Hey...what's wrong?"

"I...well...you know how Matthew said somethings shouldn't be told? I guess I am debating on one of those things....because it will hurt someone....and like you, I...I don't know how to tell them."

"Ok...well, tell me about it. Maybe I can help?"

Jace couldn't help, for he would be the one needing help. Raven knew the truth about her sister's true father and it wasn't Jareth like all were led to believe by Caroline and she knew that information would crush Jace.

"Jace....I...."

Raven grunted and threw her hands over her face, then ripped them down, releasing a hard sigh.

"Ok...Raven?? Now you're starting to worry me. What is going on? You have to tell me."

"Arrrgh!" she snapped and got up to pace. "Ok...ok...the person is you Jace."

Now he stood up and walked over to her, gently taking her arm to turn her around.

"What do you mean? There's something you know about me that will hurt me?"

"I...I should have never opened my spicy mouth!"

"Raven....tell me now. Spit it out." he flatly said.

Jace towered over her with pursed lips, peering down firmly with his brown eye darkening and his blue eye brightening, only causing her to clam up even more.

"Raven! You do NOT want my eyes to turn yellow." he shouted.

"Ok! Ok! Josie...she's not your sister....Julian is really her father after all."

"W...what??"

"My mother...she lied to Jareth all to hurt Julian for sleeping with her twin and not knowing the difference."

"How the hell do you know this???"

"Look...it came up in some conversation on our journey back to Rivendell. I sat and listened. There's this buy...Boromir...who claims his brother...some Faramir guy is Josie's twin. I guess my mother hid it from Julian and gave the boy away to these people. It's some long fucked up story."

"Hearsay...you want me to believe something you overheard with no facts??"

"Jace...It's...it's true. I...I'm sorry. That Faramir guy, he has powers now that he never had and the Boromir dude, he...he saw the truth in Galadriel's fountain, the one that shows the future...he saw Faramir, Josie and Julian together, and the guy called Julian father...if my mother had twins and Julian is his father....then he is...my sister's too...which only makes her....your cousin. But, that's still family Jace....she's still your...family. It changes nothing."

"It changes everything Raven." he flatly spoke once again and went to stare out the window. "Who's to say this guy isn't lying??? I mean, who the fuck is he anyways??"

"I don't know who he is really, just that he's a good friend of Aragorn's and...why would he lie? He traveled clear from Gondor to find my sister and tell her. He was there at Jareth's, helping to free Thranduil, only you never saw him."

"Gee, I don't know Raven. Maybe your sick and twisted mother put him up to it before she died for whatever fucked up reason. It...it can't be true...it just can't be...I...I learned about Josie when I was a teen. Jareth...he let it slip in a bout of anger one night when he and I were arguing, but I knew nothing more about her or how to find her...I..I didn't even know her name then. I was so angry that I was never told and I was so fed up with him and my mother as it was for all the evil shit they did, that I left, and never looked back. I didn't want to be like them. I wanted to be a part of a normal family, with love...and love was forbidden in my world. I had witnessed what they did to my aunt Freya, forcing her to turn dark and it all was just the last straw... So I went searching for Josie and have been ever since...all these years Raven, and I finally found her and she was everything I knew and felt she would be...good and sweet and...she loved me back. I...I can't lose that Raven....I...I just can't...."

Raven gently took his arm and made him turn to look at her. His face was full of pure anger and pain, his eyes glistening of tears, eyes that he refused to hold up to her sympathetic gaze....and her heart desperately broke for him. For once in her life, she felt love. Real love.

"Now it is my turn to comfort you. Come here."

As soon as Raven's arms pulled him in, Jace broke down crying into her neck as he held her so tight.

'I...I don't want to be alone anymore Clover..." he muttered into her cinnamon scented hair.

"You don't have to be anymore. I...I'm here. Your lucky Clover." she softly assured him as she made him look at her and then...she did something that even surprised her. The dhampir kissed the warlock.

@redeemer46

[holyguardian]

"you are losing my interest, and that’s very dangerous." - Jacob

Dialogue prompts. @only-we

Aerith sat with an iron posture on the modest wooden stool that had been provided in the tent. Her appearance was tousled, little wonder after having been transported like a sack of potatoes across the countryside.

The plate of cold wheat porridge remained untouched — the current subject of ire from the fire King, who had plenty of reasons under his belt to threaten and warn this or that.

Though his threats were restrictive. It surprised her, that a brute of his imposing size hadn't raised his hand yet. Instead he threatened to take things away. After the cot, it had been the threat to have her sleep outside in the elements. Her response had been more of that same stony silence. Nothing she said would work in her favour, her words would only make everything worse.

He leaned close, and calmly uttered his next threat. Aerith lifted her gaze to meet his eye. "Then you will have no issue with letting me go." she replied, the words of a stupid young-20. He was a Gods damned liar. His interest in her, not as a person but as a useful tool, was unwavering.

[egyptianhomelinenss]

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For those with sensitive skin or allergies, 100% cotton sheets are a lifesaver. They are naturally hypoallergenic, reducing the risk of irritation and offering a clean, healthy sleeping environment.

Types of 100% Cotton Flat Sheets

Egyptian Cotton

Renowned for its long-staple fibers, Egyptian cotton sheets are a symbol of luxury. They are exceptionally soft, smooth, and durable, offering a premium sleep experience.

Pima Cotton

Similar to Egyptian cotton, Pima cotton features long fibers that contribute to its smooth texture and resistance to pilling. It's an excellent choice for those seeking high quality at a slightly more affordable price.

Organic Cotton

For eco-conscious buyers, organic cotton flat sheets are a perfect pick. Grown without harmful pesticides or chemicals, these sheets are gentle on both your skin and the environment.

Percale Cotton

If you love crisp, cool bedding, percale cotton sheets are a fantastic option. With a tight weave and matte finish, they provide a fresh and airy feel, ideal for hot sleepers.

Sateen Cotton

For those who prefer a silky, lustrous texture, sateen cotton sheets are the go-to choice. Their slightly heavier weight gives a luxurious drape and softness.

Key Features to Look for When Buying 100% Cotton Flat Sheets

A thread count between 200 and 600 is typically ideal for cotton flat sheets. While higher thread counts often imply better quality, extremely high counts may compromise breathability.

Weave Type

The weave determines the texture and feel of your sheets. Percale offers a crisp feel, while sateen delivers a silky finish. Choose based on your personal preference.

Certification

Look for certifications like OEKO-TEX or GOTS to ensure the sheets are free from harmful chemicals and produced under ethical conditions.

Size and Fit

Ensure the sheets you select match the dimensions of your mattress. Flat sheets come in various sizes, including twin, full, queen, and king.

Caring for Your 100% Cotton Flat Sheets

Washing

Wash your cotton sheets in cold or warm water with a mild detergent to maintain their softness and color. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals that can weaken the fibers.

Drying

Use a low-heat setting when drying your sheets, or air-dry them to prevent shrinkage and maintain their shape.

Ironing

If you prefer wrinkle-free sheets, lightly iron them on a cotton setting. However, many people enjoy the natural, relaxed look of un-ironed cotton sheets.

Storage

Store your sheets in a cool, dry place to avoid mildew. Use breathable bags or containers for long-term storage to preserve their freshness.

Top Benefits of Investing in High-Quality Cotton Flat Sheets

Comfort All Year Round: Cotton’s natural breathability makes it suitable for both summer and winter use.

Sustainable Choice: Organic and responsibly sourced cotton sheets support eco-friendly practices.

Versatile Styles: Available in various colors, patterns, and weaves, cotton flat sheets can easily complement any bedroom decor.

Health Benefits: Hypoallergenic properties make them a safe choice for sensitive sleepers.

Styling Tips for Cotton Flat Sheets

Layering: Combine flat sheets with a cozy duvet and decorative pillows for a luxurious look.

Color Coordination: Use neutral tones for a minimalist appeal or vibrant shades to add a pop of color.

Seasonal Updates: Switch to lighter colors in summer and darker hues in winter to match the season's mood.

Where to Buy the Best 100% Cotton Flat Sheets

When shopping for cotton flat sheets, consider reputable brands known for their quality and craftsmanship. Online retailers, home goods stores, and specialty bedding shops often offer a wide range of options. Compare features, read reviews, and look for sales to get the best value for your money.

Conclusion

Investing in 100% cotton flat sheets is a simple yet effective way to elevate your sleeping experience. From their luxurious comfort and durability to their hypoallergenic benefits, these sheets are a timeless addition to any bedroom. By understanding the different types, features, and care tips, you can confidently choose the perfect sheets that meet your needs and preferences.

[author-morgan]

more halfdan, please? 🥺 he needs more love. could you maybe do something for Halfdan where he's traveling and meets and stays with a fem reader?

bless i am not alone in the simping. have a little fluff for Halfdan, as a treat. Halfdan x fem!Reader

THE HOUR IS late, but the storm raging outside makes it seem far later. Lightning streaks across the sky —Thor striking his hammer on anvil, the clash of iron echoing over the sky. The winds howl, and winds lash, shaking the planks and shingles of the wood and earth home. It’s been years since you’ve endured a storm such as this, and it shows no signs of stopping, having raged on since midday. It would be nearing sundown soon by your reckoning. You pity the poor souls who must endure Thor’s wrath without shelter and a warm hearth.

There’s a deceptive lull in the bedlam, the lightning and thunder subsiding though the wind and rain do not. Pausing in an attempt to tidy up after dinner, you take the moment to urge your daughter to bed. Þóra protests, with it still being so early, but there’s scarcely anything else to do on a dark and stormy evening. It takes a small bribe with half a honey cake and a tale of the gods for her to settle in, eyelids drooping shut —curling into the raised cot lined with wool and pelts. With a long sigh, you rise, having pressed a kiss to her brow.

Stripping down to your linen shift, you sit on the edge of your bed, fingers combing through the knots in your hair —watching water drip down into a bucket at the edge of the room, a leaky roof in need of fixing. You barely hear the knocking above the wailing wind, but when you crack open the door, you find a man looking up from under the hood of his oiled leather cloak. “Refuge from the storm?” The stranger asks. His stringy blond hair clings to his face —hiding part of the dark tattoos on his cheek and forehead— and his dark eyes are warm but dangerous.

Snapping from a trance, you move aside, opening the door farther for him to step into your home. “Of course,” you nod, offering a kindly smile. The gods often showed themselves as weary travelers. He steps over the threshold, untying his cloak, hanging it on an empty hook by the door. Out of the night and the storm, you recognize him as the brother to King Harald —Halfdan the Black— as he stands with water running off his sodden clothes and dripping from his hair. “I’ve some spare clothes,” you tell him, quickly moving behind one of the partitions blocking your bed from the rest of the home.

Rummaging around in the chest kept bedside, you return with a dry tunic and pair of britches in hand. Clothes you have no need of any longer but haven’t the strength to give away yet, so you keep them tucked away with part of your heart. “Please, take these” —you hold them out for Halfdan to take— “elsewise, you’ll catch your death.” He lowers his head in thanks and begins working the ties of his tunic and britches loose. Turning, as not to stare at the lithe muscle spanning his chest, you set the table with a bowl of the pot of stew still simmering over the hearth and a cup of ale. A warm meal always did the belly wonders after being soaked to the bone.

You motion for Halfdan to help himself to the stew and ale, taking his sodden clothes to string up to dry on a line spanning the low hanging rafters. “Far better than pickled fish and salted deer,” he jokes when you slide onto the bench opposite him.

“It’s been years since last I saw you and your brother,” you tell him, pouring a cup of ale for yourself and refilling his cup. You’ve rarely returned to Tamdrup in recent years, and the few times you had gone to market to trade livestock or buy fabric, Harald and Halfdan were scarcely around —too busy conquering and unifying the petty kingdoms under one crown. Once, you might have called the two brothers friends, but those days were long past, and many friendships were lost upon your marriage.

“Harald is why I am caught in this torrent,” Halfdan laments, none too happy about it. The two brothers are rarely parted from one another, but there are times when Harald only trusted one person, aside from himself, to deliver word and accept oaths of fealty. This is one of those times. It’s ill luck that his journey back to Tamdrup has been plagued by storms and exiles who unwisely mistook him for a simple vagabond.

“Well” —you reach across the table, resting your hand over his— “you are most welcome here, Halfdan.” His lips twitch upwards, his hand loosely curling around yours.

“Móðir?” A small voice calls, and then there’s the patter of small feet on the rough wooden floor.

“Þóra,” you sigh, knowing it was a fool’s hope to think she would sleep through the storm and night, especially given the arrival of an unexpected guest. She potters to the table dragging a ragged blanket behind her. Þóra stops, looking between you and Halfdan. Her wide amber eyes are glassy and still heavy with sleep.

“A little shield-maiden,” Halfdan notes, flicking his hair away from his eyes, the smallest of smiles pulling at the corner of his lips. Þóra grins, giggling, swaying on her feet. She’s been bugging you of late about training with her cousins —pointing out if she’s to become as famous as Lagertha, she needs a sword and shield. “Or maybe a princess.”

It surprises you when she goes to him, but Halfdan doesn’t hesitate to lift your daughter onto his knee. He’s not particularly versed with children or women, but he tries his best to be decent company, at least. You see the sharp flash of light through the crack under the door; a heartbeat later, the house rattles —it sounds as though Ragnarök is upon you. Þóra jumps. “It is only Thor, little one,” Halfdan reassures her.

“Is it just the two of you then?” He queries, eyes darting around the single-room home for any signs of Þóra’s father —your husband. His quick search yields nothing besides hastily made arrows, a rusty sword, and a shield with fading orpiment and hematite paint. You glance at your hands —the first wrinkles beginning to show among rough patches from years of doing the duties of both a mother and father.

“My family is not far,” you answer, meeting Halfdan’s curious stare, smiling. It’s a rare occasion when your brothers do not come for a daily visit and to help with the farm labor. Your sister and her husband make sure to come weekly too, bringing their children for Þóra to play with. It’s not always easy, but you make do. Halfdan glances down at the little girl, holding her blanket tight as her head rests on the center of his chest, almost asleep once more. He’s met with your smile, wider than the last, and a silent thank you, though you still see the question lingering in his eyes.

“My husband was killed in the raid on Paris,” you explain, remembering how you waited in the central street of Tamdrup to see your husband return, only to hear he was taken to Valhalla. It was not a day you were like to forget, especially given the little girl holding tight to your hand, waiting to meet her father for the first time.

Halfdan nods. Many women were made widows by Ragnar’s pursuits against his brother. There’s a tingle at his shoulder as he remembers the crossbow bolt that could’ve killed him and the scar it left behind. “He waits for you in Valhalla then.” The encouragement somehow lightens a weight on your chest —that one day you and your beloved will be reunited, but until then, you must care for Þóra and maybe, in time, find someone to love as you once loved your husband.

Þóra is fast asleep by the time you and Halfdan finish reminiscing about the days when you were both younger and twice as foolish. Halfdan lays your daughter down in her small bed made of wool. “Thank you,” you breathe, lightly touching his arm before kneeling to cover her with a wolf pelt and her cherished blanket, parting with a kiss upon her cheek.

“I’ll take the floor,” he offers, reaching for the wool blanket and the pelt draped across your arms —he’s slept in far worse conditions than a warm and dry home.

You shake your head, extending your hand toward the bed. He has been on the road for many days and still has at least four more before. A good night’s rest would do him well. “You are my guest, Halfdan, I insist.”

Halfdan looks between the bed and down at himself —he’s never had the same breadth as other warriors, not even the same as his brother and given the size of the lumpy mattress. There’s mirth shining in his eyes. “I do not take up that much room,” he says, shrugging his shoulders. You laugh softly, knowing this back-and-forth banter could go on the rest of the night. Instead, you fold back the blankets, sliding between them, and gesture for him to take the space next to you.

THERE’S A GLIMMER of light and a low rumble of thunder —the storm is dissipating or at least moving farther away. You stir, feeling a heavy warmth draped across your middle. It takes a moment to remember Halfdan lays next to you, occupying a space that’s been empty for years. You’ve woken him too, or he has failed to find rest. His eyes shine with the embers still glimmering in the hearth, a warm amber —like dark honey or fresh soil. “What is it?” He asks, voice rough and low, hand curling unwittingly around your hip, warm breath hitting your neck and shoulder.

Your heart leaps at the thoughts crossing your mind, but you’re quick to shake them away —it would be improper. “It’s silly,” you whisper. Halfdan raises his brow, and though it’s dark, he can see the flush on your cheeks. “I haven’t shared a bed with anyone since my husband left for Paris,” you admit, eyes flicking down, unable to hold his intense gaze. A piece of him finds it difficult to believe —if he recalls, you had a fair number of willing suitors. He imagines the number has not dwindled should you wish to remarry. Halfdan’s fingers uncurl from your hip, tracing a long line up your arm until he pauses, cupping your cheek —thumb running just under your bottom lip.

He’s so close and warm and handsome, and you can’t help the fluttering in your chest or how your stomach twists. You press your hand against the bare skin of his chest exposed by the tunic’s open neck, unwilling to back down from the newfound boldness. “Halfdan?” He moves closer as if anticipating your next words. “Will you kiss me?” His dark eyes flit down to your lips, and he does. The hand on your cheek slides back into your hair until he leans your head back and kisses you, softly at first, then with a swift increase in intensity that makes you cling to him. His lips are warm and soft, opening you to his insistent mouth, parting your shaking lips, sending wild tremors racing through your veins, and you kiss him back with the same fervor and longing.

You part with a hazy smile —it is good to know you remember how to kiss a man. He presses his forehead against yours, fingers still trailing through your hair. For a moment, you draw back, tracing the intricacies of the blue-black tattoo on his brow and down his cheek, until Halfdan pulls your hand away and draws you into his arms, repaying your kindness by taking away the deep-seated loneliness plaguing your heart, if only for the night.

HALFDAN SLIPS FROM your arms at first light and dresses in his dried clothes, laying the borrowed tunic and britches at the foot of the bed. When he turns back, Þóra is awake and staring up at him with eyes that mirror his own and blond hair to match. Is this what my children will look like? He wonders, crouching down, level with Þóra, and lifts a brow as if to question her intentions. She grins, shoving him back and off-balance, and so begins a silent tussle with kindling stacked by the hearth as swords. “Our battle cries are heard,” Halfdan proclaims from the floor, seeing you emerge from behind the partition. He sits up, brushing back his dirty-blond hair. “This one is a fighter,” he says with no uncertainty. “She should have a sword and shield.”

Þóra clambers over to you, giggling, and you scoop her up into your arms as Halfdan rises, brushing the dust from his shoulders. “We’ll have to see if one of her uncles can fashion her a sword and shield that’s her size,” you concede, seeing no use in denying her dreams. She could be both a farmer and a warrior —just as her hero, Lagertha. Þóra wraps her arms around your neck, hearing the decision.

You share a simple breakfast of smashed berries and brown bread and soft sheep’s milk cheese made in yesterday’s morning hours. And afterward, Halfdan readies to leave, buckling his sword belt and replacing the cloak on his shoulders. He musses Þóra’s hair, leaving her laughing and grinning. “Maybe another storm will bring you back,” you think aloud, leaning against the doorframe, each of you looking at the clear skies left in the wake of the gods' anger.

“Only the gods know,” Halfdan tells you, a glimmer in his dark eyes. He steps toward you, his hand extended —the backs of his fingers brushing across your cheek. It’s unspoken when you both move at the same time, closing the distance. His lips brush yours, hesitant then firmly —unwavering. You draw him closer, hand at the back of his neck, thumb following a raised scar wrapping around his neck. “Though, I do not think it will take Thor’s wrath for me to return,” he whispers upon parting. Smiling, you watch him step back, turning down the path that will lead him to his brother and Tamdrup and the same path that will lead him back to you.

[ taglist: @elizabethroestone @naaladareia @charming-merlin (because i know you like Halfdan) ]

[charul]

Beds at the lowest possible price in India

For good sleep, you need a good bed with your favorite mattress. However, picking a bed involves more considerations than just comfort and use. A bed with an unflattering design will stand out in your bedroom and disrupt the flow of your tastefully decorated space. Fortunately, you can select from a wide variety of options on Apkainterior.com.

At Apkainterior.com, all beds are available in traditional and modern styles at reasonable prices. To make the most of your limited space, pick one with built-in storage or one that you can slide boxes beneath. We have a wide variety of materials, some of which have extra space for a second person. Here are some of them:

Rosewood wooden queen-size bed

A bed made of Sheesham wood is a classy place to start when designing your bedroom. This double bed was handcrafted from hardwood and has a beautiful finish. It includes a slatted wood headboard and footboard. It is made of sturdy and long-lasting wood, so it is advised to use this designer bed with both modern and contemporary decor. Your bedroom will benefit greatly from having this double bed.

Queen-size bed cot

This furniture is expertly made for durability and longevity while fusing modern elegance with practicality. It has a seamless look because of the melamine finish and effective construction. The product is easy to put together. It is made to last to prevent fungal growth and moisture absorption and to lengthen the product's lifespan.

Storage king-size bed with a side table

It is an elegant piece of furniture in the form of this ready-to-assemble king-sized bed. It offers you enough storage for a sizable amount of bedding. Matt polish adds the finishing touch, making it look stunning while keeping it stain-free and complementing nearly any interior design scheme. It is so simple and hassle-free; all that's needed is a quick dry dusting to keep it looking brand new.

 

Teak Wood Double Bed With Mattress & Storage

This bed is made of teak wood and has a storage facility. Small decorative items can be displayed on the open shelf, while trinkets can be stored on the twin partitions. Put away anything you don't use very often in the box's storage space. Particle board that has already been laminated Products can be taken apart and put back together several times if furniture needs to be moved or moved around.

 

Oak Modern Bed In Solid Wood With Mattress

It is a contemporary bed that is made of solid wood and provides a bedroom with a contemporary feel. It is known for its stability, durability, and modern, attractive look. This bed is made of laminated board and teak wood. It has a unique design and an endearing appearance. Premium materials and maximum comfort are all qualities that this bed possesses. It has a black glass top, which adds elegance and a distinctive aspect to the wooden bed. With the help of this modern solid wood bed, you can beautifully complement your room. Hence, this is a must-have product.

King-size iron bed

The queen bed will help you keep things basic and minimal. It has many types of decor designs, modern and contemporary, with linear metal construction and basic motifs. The black metal finish can complement a variety of color schemes. You should add a cozy mattress to the bed. To improve the aesthetics of your room, put it in the center of the room or on the side closest to the window. With this chic double bed, you can improve the appearance of your room. This elegant double bed will look fantastic in your room and has storage space and a lovely headrest. Its contemporary look gives your bedroom a touch of traditional elegance.

 

Queen Size Bed With Hydraulic Storage

This furniture is made of natural materials, and it does not have flaws or variations. Upholstered beds often feature tufted or straight headboards and are covered in thin padding and fabric for a textural appeal. With our product, your design ambitions will become a reality. All this is due to the ideal fusion of your aspirations and our passion.

Apkainterior.com is a leading online retailer that provides the lowest prices for quick online comparison. As you browse a wide selection of products, you can look at photographs, read descriptions and reviews, compare prices, and share the best offers with your friends.

[yungidreamer]

Arrival

Summary: Yungi and their girl arrive in New York City for spring break! After a visit to central park they decide to have an evening in at their B&B, planning for the rest of the trip and relaxing. When their girl turns in early, the boys expend some energy together in the shower

Wordcount: 6.6k

Content warnings: a little discussion of insecurites, orals sex, face fucking, anal sex, shower sex, and lots of love as always. 

“New York, New York!” Mingi sang as they stepped off the subway at the stop closest to their bed and breakfast. Yunho gave a snicker and she laughed, hugging him around the hips. “What?”

“You’re just cute, love,” she told him with a bright smile. “I love that you do stuff like that.” Mingi grinned, turning a little pink. Yunho took one of Mingi’s hands and she hooked a finger into one of his belt loops as they headed out of the subway station and out onto the streets of the city. They paused as Yunho checked the directions on his phone, opening the map to get their bearing and gestured in the direction they needed to head. Dragging their bags the short block and a half, they found themselves in front of the iron and glass door that was their bed and breakfast. Mingi dropped Yunho’s hand and pulled the door open, holding it open for the other two to enter before following with his own bag into the small reception area.

With no one currently at the desk, they put their bags to the side near the wood paneled desk and poked their heads around the corners of the small lobby area with a couch, an armchair, a coffee table, and a little vanity that had been repurposed to hold a few welcoming decorative items. It was nice and cozy looking, a little like a living room at someones house. Mingi scootched up behind her, petting her head and touching gently along her neck. Yunho threw his arms around Mingi from behind, lifting him up off the floor and bouncing him as they all giggled.

“Uh, can I help you?” A voice came from behind the desk.

“Yeah we are here to check in, sorry,” she said coming over towards the desk. Pulling out a piece of paper and her ID.

“Are you here with your parents?” Asked the guy behind the desk as he took the papers.

“Nope just us,” Yunho replied, hanging on Mingi’s shoulder from behind him still.

“Alright, let’s see,” he said, typing into the computer behind the counter. “Hmmm, I think there might have been a mistake in your reservation.”

“Hmm?” She said, standing on her tiptoes to try and see over the counter as if it would let her see what they were looking at.

“Well it looks like you have a room with only one bed,” his mouth pressed into a line. “We do have another room with two beds or we can also send up a cot, but that would be a little extra.”

“One bed is fine, it’s a king sized right?” She followed up. 

“Yes…” he blinked at them for a second before going on with the check-in for them. “Well, here is your key. You guys are up on the third floor, room 304 towards the end of the hall.”

“Thank you,” she smiled as she took the key from him and turned to grab the handle of her bag. “Come on loves, let’s go see the room.” Yunho and Mingi followed her to the stairwell, and they walked together up the couple of flights to the third floor. They found their room at the end of the hallway to the right. She slid the plastic key into the reader and swung the door open and stepped inside. The room was a lovely space filled with a pleasing combination of bright blue and crisp white. The room wasn’t large and the space was mostly filled with the bed, but given the price and the location, it was still a very good deal. They had a window that looked out on the small side street with the entrance to the B&B, a bright tiled bathroom, an armchair, and a little desk under the TV mounted to the wall. The bed was actually a little smaller than theirs back home, but it would be fine for the days they were here over break.

Not wanting to waste time, they put their suitcases in the corner, put the key in Yunho’s wallet, and headed back downstairs. They walked out the front door and turned left to make their way down the three and a half blocks to the edge of the park. Checking Yunho’s map again, they decided to head down a block to a small entrance into the massive park. They decided to start with the area behind the Metropolitan Museum, in part because there was a chance the cherry trees might be blooming already since spring had been warm and the place called Cherry Hill seemed like a good destination for that.

They set off along the maze of paths further into the park. At first they followed the path along the back of the museum, seeing the massive extended structures that seemed to stretch so far along the edge of the park.

“Do you think we’ll be able to see everything in there in a day when we go?” Mingi asked as they walked along the modern feeling structure of glass and steel that reached into the park.

“Maybe not but I bet we can see a lot,” she commented with a smile, catching his attention by taking his hand again. He looked back at her and gave her a big smile. Yunho took her other hand, giving it a squeeze. 

“Did you see that over there?” He asked, gesturing at something that seemed to be pointing up into the sky behind the line of trees across the street that was running alongside the path they were on.

“What is it?” Mingi asked, squinting at it as they continued walking.

“It looks like an obelisk,” she stated. “Want to go see what it is?” Both of the boys nodded and they started off, first crossing the road and path and sneaking onto the broad grassy lawn. The old trees there were just starting to put out their leaves making it surprisingly easy to see further into the park as they walked. The obelisk was a large object of brown stone that seemed to be just a little out of place, rising out of nowhere in the middle of a park in the city. When they got close, they could see that it seemed to actually be an ancient object that had been installed in the park, likely related to the museum nearby.

“That’s neat,” she declared, circling the base and looking up at the hieroglyphic carvings. “I really wonder what it says.”

“Maybe something like ‘Pharaoh Ramses was here, he was cool and liked pointy things,’” Yunho jokingly suggested.

“You know,” she admitted with a grin. “There is every chance you really aren’t that far off.”

After a couple more minutes they headed down off the area that held the obelisk onto another path that circled around the broad open lawn at the center of that portion of the park, slowly making their way towards a place called the Turtle Pond. They passed a cool faux medieval bridge and a statue to some Polish king. Across from the statue was a natural looking rock outcrop that provided an amazing view over the water with some of the very tallest buildings at the south side of the park poking up to remind you that you were in one of the biggest cities in the world.

“I wonder if anyone ever swims in that,” Mingi wondered, dipping the toe of his shoe into the water where it was lapping at the edge of the rock.

“Given the color of the water,” she said, giving a little bit of a frown. “I am hoping not. I would bet there are way nicer places to swim or get wet even in the park.”

“Yeah probably,” he nodded. “The view just kind of makes it a tempting place, I think.”

“You like the idea of swimming with a view?” Yunho chuckled.

“Isn’t everything more fun with a nice setting?” Mingi shrugged.

“Yes, yes it is,” she agreed. “But I’d prefer my swimming water to have a little less algae in it.”

“Me, too,” Mingi admitted. 

“Okay, so where are we going from here,” She asked, coming up beside Yunho as he pulled out his phone at her question. They set a vague path towards through the forestry ramble and along the inner side of The Lake. The sheer scale of the park was enough to make you feel small. It was odd how, when you stepped out of the forest and could suddenly see the sky scrapers again it suddenly made the park seem both huge and closed in at the same time. 

As they exited the ramble, they found themselves on a beautiful gently curving bridge that crossed over a thin stretch between the two sides of the lake. She paused midway, leaning on the decorative cement railing to take in the view of the park and the city. Along the side of the park to the west skyscrapers added texture to the skyline, so contrastingly symmetrical and industrial. A testament to industry and innovation.

In the park, the sparse branches of the trees reached towards the sky, yet still dwarfed by the buildings unless you were under them. In the park on the other side of the lake, fruit trees were blooming in pink and white, heralding the beginning of spring. People passed, the water sparkled, and a light breeze stirred the blooms and the branches.

“Want to get a picture here?” Yunho asked when she paused there, looking out at the view.

“Sure,” she nodded. “Isn’t it such a gorgeous place? The trees and the lake and everything… just how it all makes you feel so small.”

“It’s beautiful,” Yunho agreed. “But I never feel small when I’m with you.”

“Is… is that a joke about my height?” She laughed, narrowing her eyes at him.

“No, no,” he burst into laughter, realizing that it did sound like that when he thought about it. “I meant you both make me feel important.”

“Okay, that was sweet,” she chuckled, guiding his face down for a kiss. “Mingi babe, come here, let’s get a picture here together.” Mingi happily bound over, joining them where they leaned against the concrete rail of the bridge. The boys leaned down to her level so they would all fit in the frame and smiled into the camera as she hit the button.

“One more,” Yunho urged as she started to put the camera away. She nodded and brought the camera back up for another picture. Both boys turned their faces, pressing a kiss to her cheeks from either side. A grin spread over her face as she took another couple of pictures of the three of them. This would be a moment she would want to remember for a very long time.

Before the boys could stop her, she dashed off towards Cherry Hill, going to look at the cherry blossoms fluttering in the breeze. They chased after her, laughing as they quickly caught up with her on the paved path that curved around the slight hill where many of the pink crowned trees were dotted. At a break in the benches that lined the path she guided them off the path and onto the grass to get closer to the trees.

“Isn’t it just a little amazing that they bloom even before the leaves come out?” Mingi noted as he looked at the pink blossoms against the blue of the sky. Petals fluttered off the tree and onto the grass around them, dancing like snowflakes in the air as they fell.

“They are so beautiful,” Yunho agreed. “Maybe someday we can have a cherry tree at our house.”

“Someday, when we have a house that is ours,” she nodded. “The flowers are awesome, but can you imagine if we actually got edible cherries too. I could make pies.”

“My mom used to can peaches from my grandparent’s yard back when I was a kid,” Yunho recalled. “Maybe she can teach us how to do that, then we can save them.”

“I think it’s going to be awhile before we can do that,” she said with a sigh.

“Doesn’t hurt to plan ahead,” Mingi grinned.

“Of course not,” she admitted. “It’s just…”

“What?” Yunho asked, when her pause seemed to draw out.

“Sometimes it feels so far away it doesn’t feel real,” she shrugged, deliberately looking at the trees around them.

“You mean the future?” Mingi questioned, putting a hand on her shoulder.

“Yeah,” she nodded. “A future where we have our house and our trees. Sometimes I don’t really want to think about it since it doesn’t really feel like it’s going to be real. What we have now, I’m just happy to have what we do at least.”

“When we graduate,” Yunho declared with complete confidence. “We’ll buy a house together, get a dog, just, you know, make a real home for ourselves.”

“How are we going to explain that to our parents?” She half laughed, half sighed.

“Who says we have to explain anything at that point?” Mingi declared, longing for the day when he could really not care about what his father thought.

“I don’t know,” she allowed. “I guess I sort of hope someday mom and dad will understand, you know. Come over for holidays and birthdays. I want them to be happy for me.”

“I don’t think I’ll ever have that,” Mingi said ruefully. “But I’d be so happy if you got that. Your parents have always been amazing to me even if your dad can be a little prickly sometimes. They love you, I think maybe, if they see you… or I mean us happy, I think they will come around.”

“It’s sort of funny,” Yunho sighed, putting his hand over Mingi’s where it was resting on her shoulder. “I think my mom will be relieved that we are all together. She is always so worried about me being left out; being left alone. When we tell her we are all together, I actually think it will make her happy.”

“Well, on the upside,” she said, giving Mingi a bright smile. “When we tell your dad, we will never have to see him again.”

“That is a bonus,” Mingi readily agreed. “Can… can we call him now?”

“Let’s get a couple more years of tuition out of him,” Yunho suggested.

They got back to the B&B around sunset tired and hungry from their wandering in the park. On their way home they had picked up some Thai food and donuts to eat so they would be able to stay in and relax for the rest of the evening. Tomorrow would be a full day of touristing, so they decided a little relaxation and maybe even an early night, would be ideal.

Bags of food in hand, they slipped back upstairs to their room. She was already yawning by the time they were back in their room, tired from running around and keeping up with the boys as they toured the park. They had seen quite a few cherry trees, gotten selfies in some of the more iconic spots in the park, like Belvedere Castle and Strawberry Fields. Although they had grabbed a couple of sandwiches from a convenience store at some point, they were starving by the time they actually got back. Passing around the containers of food, they each took their fill while they planned what exactly they were going to do the next day.

“Can we do the big museum tomorrow,” Mingi asked, taking a bite of a maple bacon donut. “I want to see what’s in there, and it’s pretty close.”

“Yeah of course,” she nodded, opening her mouth to accept a bite Yunho was offering her. “We can see what we can get in during a visit tomorrow. Was there something specific you wanted to see there?”

“I don’t know,” Mingi shrugged. “I just like history and it looks like it could be fun.”

“We’ll do that first then,” she nodded. “I’d kind of like to maybe see the Natural History Museum, too.”

“What about the botanical gardens?” Yunho suggested.

“Sure we can do that the day after,” she agreed. “I want to save Thursday for shopping. I wanted to get a dress and maybe some makeup for our anniversary dinner on Friday. Do you boys want to get anything done?”

“I already have a suit but I was thinking I might like a change of hair color if you guys were okay with it.” Yunho mentioned, trying to read their faces.

“You know I’d love any look you pick,” she assured him, patting his knee. 

“Yeah, of course, what were you thinking of?” Mingi asked with an excited grin. 

“What about something wild,” Yunho tested. “Like a green or blue?”

“Ooooo,” Mingi responded, giving him finger guns. “I like it.”

“Do you mind if I take my shower now?” She asked, stifling another yawn. “We don’t have to go to bed quite yet but I am tired.”

“That’s okay,” Yunho nodded. “Go ahead. It’s not like we are going to go out again anyway. Take your shower, love.”

“Thanks, I won’t be long, “ she promised, kissing each of them on the cheek as she got up. They watched her head into the bathroom, relaxing against the headboard as they finished up the last of the food.

“Do you think she’ll let us pay for her dress and stuff for the dinner?” Mingi asked.

“Mmmmm, probably not willingly, but maybe we can sort of do it sneakily,” Yunho suggested.

“I’m listening,” Mingi turned his head to look at the other boy with a grin.

“It’s pretty simple,” Yunho shrugged. “When she has picked it all out, we divide and conquer. So you take the stuff and I’ll distract her by taking her to look at something else while you slip off and pay.”

“Deal,” Mingi stuck out his hand and sealed the deal with a firm shake of their hands. They settled on watching an episode of something while they waited for her to come back out. Before too long she came out damp and wrapped in a fluffy towel. She fished out an old AC/DC t-shirt that sort of belonged to Yunho but had largely been adopted by her as a night shirt, slipping it on before she tiredly flopped onto the foot of the bed.

“Tired, baby?” Mingi asked, leaning forward and patting her head.

“‘m fine,” she said as she yawned. “Maybe a little.”

“Honey, just lie down,” Yunho looked at her and laughed, pulling her higher up into the bed. “After this episode we’ll go shower and we can just go to sleep.”

“You don’ hafta,” she muttered, cuddling down into the space between them. “I don’t want to rain on the fun we should be having.”

“It’s not a bad idea to sleep a little early today,” Yunho gave her forehead a quick kiss. “Then we can get an early start tomorrow on the actual fun we have planned.”

“Sorry I’m being no fun today,” she huffed.

“Babe, don’t be silly,” Mingi hugged her from behind, nuzzling into her damp hair. “I’m a little tired too, it would be smart to sleep early. Just get under the covers and close your eyes.”

“Fiiiiiiine,” she grumbled but let Mingi tuck her in under the blankets. As she settled down in the pile of pillows at the top of the bed Yunho motioned at Mingi that they should go ahead and go into the shower. Mingi nodded and slid off the bed to follow him into the bathroom. They stripped off their clothes near the suitcases, piling all their dirty clothes together in a heap, then headed into the bright tiled bathroom. Yunho closed the door behind them and pressed Mingi back against it, leaning in for a playful kiss. Mingi grinned against the other boy's lips as his arms snaked around his neck.

“Not feeling tired yet, huh?” Mingi teased in a quiet voice, trying to keep it from carrying into the other room.

“I kinda want you,” Yunho chuckled, bringing his hands to Mingi’s narrow hips.

“Wait, one sec,” Mingi pulled away and cracked the door open, he quietly snuck back to their bags and pulled out the bottle of lube he had packed, casting a look back to the bed where she seemed to be nearly asleep already. The sight made him smile as he quietly slipped back into the bathroom.

“Let’s see if I can’t tire you out a little.” Mingi teased, putting the bottle on the counter as he backed Yunho against it.

“Yes please,” Yunho grinned. Mingi’s lips found the soft Cupid’s bow curve of Yunho’s, enjoying the sweet softness of them pressed against his own. His tongue darted out, tasting the pink softness of Yunho’s lower lip, making him moan slightly.

“I wanted to kiss you all day,” Mingi admitted, pressing his forehead against him.

“Why didn’t you,” Yunho asked, putting his hands on the other boy’s biceps.

“I don’t know,” Mingi shrugged, shaking his head slightly. “What if someone says something? What if someone wants to start something?”

“They won’t,” Yunho soothed, running his hands up and down Mingi’s arms. “And what do I care if they did. I’m proud that I love you. I want everyone to know that you’re my boy.”

“Yeah?” Mingi gave a chuckle.

“My handsome,” Yunho kissed his cheekbone. “Sweet,” he kissed the little mole lower down near his jaw line. “Funny,” he moved to the side of his neck. “Wonderful,” his lips brushed his collarbone. “Sexy,” he smiled, looking up to meet Mingi’s eyes as he reached between them to wrap his fingers around his growing erection. “Boyfriend.”

“You wouldn’t mind if I kissed you sometimes when we were out?” Mingi questioned, feeling a blush rise on his chest and face. “You wouldn’t pull away?”

“Any time that I would be okay with getting a kiss from our girl, I would be just as happy to get a kiss from you,” Yunho promised. “I’m so happy to have you, that you love me, too.” Yunho pushed him slightly further into the bathroom and went to his knees in front of him. “I haven’t kissed you because I’m afraid, but not of what others think.” Yunho told him as he kissed the tip of his erection. “I’m afraid you’ll pull away and I don’t want to hurt you.” He took the head in his mouth, swirling his tongue around it.

“Ahhh,” Mingi groaned, gripping the towel rack with one hand and the edge of the counter with the other. “I want to say I wouldn’t but… sometimes I get scared of what people will think or how they will react.”

“I know,” Yunho nodded, working his hand up and down the length in his hand. “I want to kiss you and I want you to like it. I want it to be something you hope for, not something you fear happening. I love you too much for that.”

“I’m sorry,” Mingi said guiltily.

“It’s okay,” Yunho licked up his length. “Someday you’ll get there, and I’ll wait for you and for that day.” Taking Mingi into his mouth, he threw himself into driving him to distraction. Mingi looked down, taking in the view of Yunho bobbing as he took as much of his length in his mouth. He loved watching himself disappear in Yunho’s lips and feeling the wet cavern of his mouth move over him.

Yunho loved tasting Mingi. He loved the flavor of his skin and how he reacted to his touch. Usually it was the three of them, and he loved every moment they had together. But sometimes he thought that it made Mingi feel like he was less. That perhaps he wasn’t loved for himself, he was a secondary piece, a less important part of a whole. At the very least, less secure in how important he was and how much he was loved for himself.

Yunho licked him like he was candy, holding onto Mingi’s hips to hold them both steady. Mingi felt weak as he watched Yunho’s mouth move over him eagerly. Part of him wanted to tell him he didn’t have to do this, but he loved this feeling and seeing Yunho on him so he bit his tongue. The way his hands held his hips and his eyes looked up at him, a sparkling glow in his deep brown eyes, made his stomach tight. Catching him looking, Yunho made a show of taking as much of Mingi as he could into his mouth until he brushed the back of his throat and made his eyes water slightly.

“You—you don’t have to,” Mingi finally panted.

“But I want to,” Yunho replied, licking the saliva that was moistening his lower lip. “Do you want to come in my mouth or do you want to take me in the shower?”

“Both,” Mingi joked. “Either, as long as it’s inside you.”

“As you wish,” Yunho let one hand go to stroke himself as he took Mingi in his mouth again.

“Wait,” Mingi stopped him with a hand on his shoulder. Yunho sat back on his heels and let his hands drop from the other boy with a twinge of disappointment in his eyes. “No no, I just,” he cleared his throat as a pink blush rose on his cheeks. “Can I taste you too?”

“Do you really want to?” Yunho asked, coming to his feet to look Mingi in the face.

“I don’t have to,” Mingi shrugged, averting his eyes.

“That isn’t what I asked,” Yunho moved into his vision. “Do you want to suck my dick?”

Mingi’s eyes snapped to Yunho’s at the crude language. “Yeah,” he replied a little defiantly.

“Then do it,” Yunho prompted, pressing lightly on Mingi’s shoulders to bring him to his knees.

“Sit for me?” Mingi guided Yunho back to sit on the lid of the closed toilet. Yunho acquiesced, taking a seat on it and letting Mingi kneel down in front of him. Reaching out, Yunho ran his fingers through Mingi’s hair as he drew closer. Mingi put his hands on the thick thighs of the other boy, adjusting his position on the floor, then leaned in to lick a line up the underside of Yunho’s erection. Yunho let out a tight sigh at the feel. Mingi took the tip in his mouth sucking it and swirling his tongue around it like a lollipop.

“Ahhh, Mingi, you’re such a tease,” Yunho praised, running his fingers through his hair. Mingi hummed around him, flattening his tongue as he slid more of him into his mouth. Yunho quivered, his hand fisting lightly in the other boy’s hair as he fought the urge to guide him further down.

“Show me what you like,” Mingi said when he pulled off, putting both of Yunho’s hands on his head as he moved his mouth back on him. With a smile, Yunho gently used his hands to move the other boy along his length until he felt his tip touch the back of his throat and held him there for a few seconds before pulling him back up.

“Is that okay,” Yunho asked, keeping his grip but making it light enough to allow Mingi to pull away if he wanted. Mingi gave a light shake to his head without taking his mouth off Yunho’s length. Guiding his head down again, Yunho watched as Mingi closed his eyes, giving the other boy almost complete control of him. With slow deliberate moves Yunho moved Mingi’s mouth up and down his length as he kept his jaw slack. At the end of each slow stroke Yunho felt himself brush the softness of the back of Mingi’s throat before he pulled the other boy back.

“Love, you feel like fucking heaven,” Yunho moaned. “If we keep going much longer I’m going to come.”

“Come in my mouth, please,” Mingi said, having pulled back enough to speak as he wiped a little bit of moisture that had spilled onto his chin.

“Okay,” Yunho nodded, running his thumbs over Mingi’s cheeks as he pulled him back.

“And, please be a little more rough,” Mingi’s eyes flicked up to Yunho’s then dropped nervously.

Yunho nodded again, “Just tap out if you need to, okay?” Yunho guided Mingi’s mouth down onto him again pulling him down faster and bumping the back of his throat harder. Mingi gagged slightly, his little snaggle-tooth scraping along Yunho’s length for a second before he caught himself.

“You okay?” Yunho gritted out, enjoying the sensations. Mingi nodded, keeping his eyes closed and concentrating on keeping his jaw slack. Trusting the other boy, Yunho pulled his mouth up and down the length of him faster and going deeper. The soft, slick feel of Mingi’s mouth around him felt fantastic and the way he just trusted him and let him control the movement made it feel different. Yunho could feel his orgasm building and increased the speed at which he moved.

“Fuck, Mingi, you feel so good,” Yunho groaned. “Can you take more of me?” Mingi didn’t answer, instead he pushed himself down his length, past the point where he hit the back of his throat taking more of him until he gagged and his eyes watered. Yunho’s breath caught and he wiped away the tears from the corners of Mingi’s eyes.  Following Mingi’s guide, Yunho kept him moving, hitting that depth over and over again as his pleasure built.

A moment later his orgasm burst over him and he held Mingi’s head down against him as he felt himself twitch in his throat. He felt Mingi swallow around him, the muscles in his throat working on him. Letting go of his head, Yunho let Mingi pull away. Mingi drew in a deep breath, having been holding his breath as Yunho invaded his throat. He wiped his chin and looked up at a dazed and pleased Yunho still sitting before him, leg spread wide and his head thrown back. 

“Mingi, I love you,” Yunho panted, leaning forward to pull him into a kiss. “God you are so good to me.”

“Was that good?” Mingi asked, a happy sparkle in his eyes.

“So good,” Yunho praised. “You made me feel so good. Now how about you fuck me senseless in the shower. What do you think?”

“You still want to?” Mingi smiled up at him. 

“Please,” Yunho urged, standing up and pulling Mingi towards the shower, palming the lube as he moved. Mingi followed him, stepping in as Yunho started the water running. Mingi pushed them both under the stream of hot water, tucking his head against Yunho’s shoulder. Yunho wrapped his arms around the other boy, holding him close.

“I love you, too,” Mingi said softly. They stood in the water, letting it flow over then until their skin was pink and warm from the heat. Yunho reached for the bar of soap the hotel had provided, lathering it in his hands before reaching out to Mingi to start washing him. Mingi helped him, guiding his hands as they washed along his chest and abdomen and lower. Yunho had to kneel to reach his legs, taking the chance to place a soapy kiss to Mingi’s hip. 

Having gotten all of Mingi clean, they switched places and Mingi returned the favor, giving the boy he loved a sunny grin as he washed him. He loved touching and looking at Yunho’s lean body. It was so perfectly proportioned, soft and hard in all the right places. He pushed the slightly taller boy back under the water to rinse him before reaching for the shampoo and drizzling a little into his palm. He ran his fingers through the other boys hair until it was satisfactorily sudsy and clean. Mingi helped him lean his head back under the water and rinse it clean before Yunho did the same for him.

“You ready?” Mingi asked, running his hands over Yunho’s droplet covered body. Yunho nodded, giving him a quick kiss before he turned around, giving Mingi his back. Mingi reached for the bottle of lube where it had been left on the little shower shelf. Clicking open the top as the water from the shower beat lightly against his back, he dribbled a liberal amount of it into his hand. He slid it over himself and along the damp crevice of Yunho’s ass. He couldn’t help but admire the lovely bubbly shape of it, rinsing his hand slightly before reaching out to give the muscles a light squeeze. 

Yunho gave a low chuckle, sticking his ass out invitingly to the other boy. Mingi kissed the back of his neck and down over his shoulder blades. He ran the tip of his length between Yunho’s cheeks, testing the resistance of his body. Finding it still too tight, Mingi slipped a hand between them making slow circles around Yunho’s tight ring of muscles.

“Let me in, love,” Mingi said gently as he slid a finger inside. “I want to make love to you.”

“Yes please, I want you,” Yunho whined. Mingi worked him wider for another moment before bringing his erection back, slipping the tip of his head inside. He added more lube again, having lost some to the dribbles of water that had come over his hands and the front of his body from the shower. With gentle thrusts and withdrawals, he slipped himself inside up to the hilt.

“You feel so good,” Mingi groaned, his hands coming around to hold Yunho around the chest and splaying over his lower stomach. He pressed his lips to his shoulder as he pulled out and slid back in. They both sighed at the sensation.

“Is it good for you,” Mingi asked, looking at what he could see of Yunho’s face as he leaned against the tile wall, pressing his forehead against it. Yunho nodded, only giving a breathy moan in response besides that. “Can you come again tonight?” Mingi asked, his lower hand wandering down to touch Yunho’s half hard length.

“Dunno, but we can try,” Yunho turned his face to the side and offered the other boy a smile.

“If it’s too much just say, okay?” Mingi urged as he fondled the slightly squishy length. Yunho nodded, relaxing with one cheek pressed against the cool tile. Yunho shivered slightly at the feeling of over stimulation. He liked it but it skated on the edge of discomfort. Mingi kept touching him, keeping his movements light and gentle as he touched him and keeping the pace the same as his thrusts. Mingi buried his face in Yunho’s shoulder as he moved, taking in the scent of his clean skin and listening to his panting breaths as he brushed over his prostate from the inside.

“Faster,” Yunho breathed, eyes closed and features slack with pleasure. Mingi obliged both thrusting faster and holding him tighter. Yunho’s dick was almost hard in Mingi’s hand but still slightly soft. He could feel the pulse of blood below the skin as he touched it. He seemed to be getting close and Mingi concentrated his touch on the head, only occasionally sliding his hand down the full length.

“Can you come for me?” Mingi breathed against the shell of his ear. “Come for me one more time.” Yunho whimpered, his face scrunching as he came closer to his second orgasm. “That’s it. You look so good when you come. Let me see it.” Yunho panted, his jaw falling slack as the sensations built against whatever dam he had inside, beating against it until it broke. His orgasm shuttered through him and he stiffened in Mingi’s arms. Mingi whispered praises to him as he felt the slight dribble of cum bubble out onto his hand as he gently held him in his hand. It wasn’t much since he had already come a half an hour before, but Mingi gloried in the feel. He thrust into him, looking to follow soon after. Yunho groaned, interlacing his fingers with Mingi’s where he still held him in his hand.

“Harder,” Yunho demanded. “Fuck me, Mingi.” Mingi moved his hands to Yunho’s hips, thrusting into him to the hilt and withdrawing nearly all the way. Yunho angled his hips to help him move, propping himself up against the wall with his forearms. Mingi could feel his orgasm there, so close. With just a few more thrusts he came, his length deep inside Yunho as he threw his head back and his hands grabbed Yunho’s hips harshly.

“So good,” Mingi groaned. “You make me feel so good.” Yunho pushed away from the wall, bringing them both back under the water. Water dribbled down over their faces as Mingi finally pulled himself out, making both of them moan. Mingi smiled against the back of Yunho’s neck as his hand went between them to use the water to rinse both of them clean again. His hand reached for the soap, taking a little on his hand, and washed them both gently.

“Ready to get out and join our girl in bed?” Mingi asked with a smile.

“Yeah,” Yunho agreed with a giggle. “I think I’m gonna sleep really well now. Thanks for helping wear me out. Are you ready for bed?”

“Mm-hmm,” Mingi nodded, turning off the water behind him as he drew Yunho into a kiss. “I’ll never get tired of hearing you say that you love me.”

“I’ll try to remember to tell you more,” Yunho held Mingi’s hand against his cheek. “I’ll try to never let you forget how much I love you. Just you, for who you are.”

“Me too,” Mingi grinned shyly. “I’m sorry I’m such an idiot sometimes.”

“You’re not an idiot,” Yunho pushed his shoulder playfully. “You just need to hear it more and sometimes I forget that. Just remember, I’m always happy to get a kiss from you or hug you or hold your hand. I know you don’t always want to, and I’ll wait for you. I’ll wait for the day when you reach for me.”

“Thank you,” Mingi pulled him into a hug as they stood in the tub together, dripping in the cooling air of the bathroom. When he pulled away, Yunho grabbed a towel off the rack and rubbed himself mostly dry before stepping out of the shower and rubbing Mingi down with the same towel. They both ran the towel over their heads, drying their hair. Yunho wiped a clear area in the mirror and looked at both their faces together in the reflection.

“What would you think of me with black black hair?” Yunho asked, still looking at both of them. “Like a sort of goth look? And…” he paused, his cheeks going a little pink. “Would you be embarrassed if I tried a little make up?”

“Sounds kind of hot to me,” Mingi waggled his eyebrows at him in the mirror. “Maybe we could all share makeup. Our girl could probably help us learn to do some.”

“She’d like it too, wouldn’t she?” Yunho said with just a hint of doubt in his voice. 

“I’m sure she would,” Mingi shrugged. “But we can talk to her about it in the morning. Ready to sleep?”

“Yeah,” Yunho gave Mingi a quick kiss on his cheek. “I think I’m just gonna sleep like this. Did you want to put on a shirt or anything?”

“Nah, let’s just hop into bed,” Mingi agreed, grabbing Yunho around the waist and turning them both towards the door and waddling out. They both snickered quietly as they slipped into the bed from either side, cuddling up against their girl. She huffed and half opened her eyes as they joined her and they both shushed her, urging her to relax and close her eyes. They all entwined their limbs in the dim room, only lit by the vast city outside their window. 

Masterlist

[pullingawaythespooks]

Guide to Buying Bedroom Furniture

Up until the end of the nineteenth century, bedrooms were considered a guilty pleasure just for the rich. Be that as it may, as our general public altered and monetary conditions improved, separate bedrooms became normal in many homes and are currently quite possibly the most pivotal room. The bedroom is where outside this website concerns presently not make any difference and where you can unwind and rest simple.

The decorations of a bedroom have not changed a lot throughout the long term, continually consolidating a bed and usually a wardrobe and dressing table, but styles have gone through some extreme changes. As to styles you just need to think about the Victorians and their excellent mahogany four banner beds wrapped in blinds, with shades and cast iron itemizing to perceive how far bedroom furniture design has changed to such an extent.

Picking the Right Bed

Getting the right bed is perhaps the most pivotal and individual purchase. Everybody knows the worth of a decent night's rest. One of your first considerations ought to be the size. There are standard sizes of bed specifically single, twofold and jumbo, just as a significant selection of childrens sizes, cots and super King size in certain reaches. The single bed measures 91cm wide and 191cm long, as is suitable for more seasoned youngsters or in any event, for use in a visitor room.

The twofold is the most well-known size of bed and ordinarily measures 137cm wide and furthermore 191cm long. On the off chance that you truly prefer to extend, then, at that point, the extra large is 152cm wide and 198cm long. The super King is a further 31cm wide, for those of you who truly need unnecessary splendor and have all the room! Getting the right sleeping cushion is additionally a significant piece of safeguarding your perfect bed.

Other Bedroom Furniture

The bedroom isn't just the place for resting, yet in addition for relaxing and getting dressed. So it merits considering twinned furniture like wardrobes and dressers for capacity. There is likewise dressing tables and mirrors to make sure you look your best and even bedsides for holding a cup of tea and a decent book when you need to unwind. Things, for example, wardrobes are imperatively urgent to get right, as they take up such a major space of the room, the design you thought looked extraordinary on a little bedside bureau, may not be as you would prefer when it is increased to the size of a wardrobe.

Styles of Bedroom

Furniture Style is obviously regularly an issue of individual taste. Nonetheless, consider cautiously concerning how new furniture will coordinate with your current stylistic theme. In case you're making a pristine bedroom furniture suite, the furniture needs to make an intelligible look, so your are best encouraged to track down a coordinating with set that you think works all through the room. There are various styles to pick between, from smooth and current to warm and classical. It is additionally worth thinking about what type of wood you like best: the wealth of oak, the light and traditional feel of pine or even the bright and polished look of painted furniture.

[ot5ismyhome]

5. Crackle with Electricity

To read from beginning click here.

*****

Steve drove the car into the underground parking lot of Oheka castle. A chauffeur collected their car and the concierge greeted them. They called for the bellboy to bring their belongings but Steve waved him off saying they weren’t carrying anything. The concierge led them into the elevator. They were led to the front desk where Steve was met by a woman who resembled his now temporary assistant.

She was none other than L. T. Koenig, the eldest of the Koenig siblings. She had been Steve’s friend for a long time. When she had heard about Steve requiring an assistant, she had recommended her brother who wanted to expand his horizon. He took leave of his hotel duties to work in The Rogers Innovative temporarily. She greeted them both warmly and called the concierge to escort them to their suite.

Wanda was mesmerized by the grandeur interior designs. She loved the intricate artworks and the elegant art pieces. The stair railing was bronze; shining under the yellow glow of the chandelier. Wanda’s hand glided over the smooth metal as they ascended to the top floor. The corridors were also flushed by the same yellow lighting. The concierge opened the door to their room. To say the rooms were lovely would be an understatement. The antique designed white furniture matched well with the beige and gold wallpaper. The sitting area had a small dining table for two and a pair of sofa sets in the centre. A single plush chair overlooking the window was stationed. The wooden floor was pristine, clean and shining. The room had a pleasant aroma filling it.

Wanda crossed the sitting area to open the door to one of the bed rooms. A single king-size cot adorned the far corner near the windows. Another sofa was placed in one corner of the room, while the other was occupied by a table and a couple of chairs. Newspapers and the latest edition of various magazines littered the table. Wanda excitedly opened the other room to check it out. It was equally and beautifully matching the previous one. Wanda walked inside to open the bathroom door and stood there mesmerized. A single elegant bathtub made of culture marble, supported by the cast iron, stood in the far end. The outside was carved with small details of flowers. An ornate glass adorned the adjacent wall, above the sink. Three rods painted golden rose form the tub and supported an overhead shower. There were small yellow lights on every wall. Wanda looked up and she gasped in delight. Why the fuck is there a chandelier in bathroom she thought to herself.

Wanda returned to the sitting area to see Steve waiting for her. He saw the delight in her eyes and smiled to himself.

“So, what’s the plan for today?”

“We will be trying out personally tailored clothes in about thirty minutes” he said.

Wanda rolled her eyes, “You gotta be kidding.”

“I am not. We are going out tonight and there is a dress code.”

“Okay,” Wanda dragged.

Before she could ask Steve raised his hand silencing her. “No more questions. It’s a surprise.”

…..

“Steve, the place you told? Is two hundred years back?” Wanda asked, checking out her reflection in the mirror. “Oh wait! Are we going back to your time?”

“Ha ha, very funny.”

After getting dressed up, Steve and Wanda made their way to the Pearsall park. The lush green grass and the neatly trimmed bushes were nothing but a dark outline visible in the dim lights of the park. The gushing of water in the fountain accompanied by the chirping of crickets filled the background. The duo made their way around the park making small talks. He had yet to reveal the surprise to her. He wanted to see the happiness light up her features when she sees it. He was afraid she would find from the late 18th century clothing but Wanda was more interested in making fun of Steve’s age.

They arrived at a small unmarked door at the far corner of the park. When Steve looked around, scanning the surrounding, Wanda realised they were the only one there. The following actions piqued her interest further. Steve knocked twice promptly on the door and waited for a reply. The speakeasy grate was opened to reveal a pair of eyes.

“Password” the voice said.

“Electricity” Steve replied.

The speakeasy grate was closed and the door opened quickly letting them in. The warm inside air was a nice change to the cold winds outside. The man escorted them to the inner room. Wanda couldn’t believe what she saw with her own eyes. The room was strange and weirdly beautiful. It looked like a science fair. A science fair out of the 1940s. Everyone was dressed in clothes belonging to that period. The crackling sound of electricity was heard from time to time in the background. Wanda realised that she was standing in the middle of a science speakeasy.

“Now I get why we are dressed like this” she smiled looking at Steve who returned the smile.

“Let’s check out the inventions,” he said, pulling her to the nearest table.

All the employees were dressed as Nikola exhibiting various inventions of the great scientist. In one corner an ungodly machine was stationed. It was staged to look like it was spewing out clones of the scientist. Near it a death ray was killing off the Tesla clones as they came out. The duo was lost in this new world, as they went from stall to stall looking at the various creations. They crossed the foyer to the dining room. The man led them to a table of two. They were provided with a menu containing equally intriguing dishes. The conversation flowed easily through the dinner. Before they knew it, it was time for dessert and they were on their way back to the hotel.

As soon as they got to their room, Wanda crashed. When she woke up, it was well past noon. This has been the first time she had slept peacefully. She sleepily made her way out of her room to see Steve drinking blood from a packet.

Wanda looked at him with curiosity, “Steve, I have never seen you drink blood. And sometimes you eat human food? How does it work?”

“Well it’s like we need blood for survival and healing. We can’t go for a long period without consuming it. We need it as much as humans need food and water. We sort of eat human food to blend in. But mostly to feel the connection with our past. It helps us keep grounded. It reminds that we were once human.”

“Ohh…” she said. “I was just curious,” she added after an awkward pause.

Steve smiled as he got up to dispose of the plastic packets. “Anything else you got in your mind, kid?”

“Yeah,” Wanda dragged the word. “I have never seen you drinking from a person. I mean-”

Steve chuckled, “I just didn’t want to freak you out. But we do have volunteers now and then.”

“Oh, good vampires” Wanda laughed. “So, what’s for today old man? Which time period are we going?”

Steve was bit taken aback by the nickname but didn’t show it in his face.

“Just get ready. You will love it.”

*****

Chapter 6

[amyscascadingtabs]

all i know is i wanna be here with you from now on

One month old babies are really great at sleeping at night, said no one ever.

Jake has a vague memory of a time where their bed was the perfect size for both him and Amy, but he’ll admit said memory is growing hazier by the day.

To be fair, they weren't planning on letting their newborn sleep in their bed. They had a clear and structured plan, outlined in the first of many parenting binders, of keeping their baby in her cot right next to Amy’s side of the bed for the first few months before transferring her over to her own room.

Then they actually became parents.

To a child that at exactly one month and three days of age refuses to fall asleep anywhere but on one of her parents, prefers sleeping that way, and will - if they're lucky - sometimes accept her baby nest at night, provided it's right in the middle of the bed with one parent on each side of it.

No matter how cozy it is to have her near, Jake has been doing an awful lot of googling on the pricing and reviews of king size beds lately.

He supposes a bigger bed wouldn't help him with the other issue keeping him from sleep. It's not been more than an hour since he kissed his wife goodnight and crept underneath the covers, pressing a kiss to his daughter’s forehead and watching her yawn in reaction before closing his eyes, and he's already wide awake after Leah woke him up screaming bloody murder right in his ear twenty minutes ago.

She's eaten now - to be fair, he agrees with her that being hungry’s the worst - but instead of going straight back to sleep like she can usually do after night feeds, she just won’t sleep. They’ve burped her, changed a diaper and played the white noise music which seems to always be sounding through their home nowadays, but the only thing that’s keeping their newborn from outright screaming is one parent walking around holding her to their chest, lightly bouncing her.

It’s not their first case of nights like these in their first, intense month of parenthood, but in contrast to the previous nights, Jake goes back to work tomorrow.

“You have to sleep”, Amy protested when he offered to do the soothing of crying baby. “You can’t go back to work without having slept.”

He protested back, arguing that he’s been sleep-deprived at work plenty throughout his career - the time he made Charles pretend to be a dead body and sprayed ketchup over his friend only one of many occasions - but she wouldn’t have it. She left the room with Leah for a few minutes, coming back with a seemingly sleeping baby whom she successfully transferred to the baby nest.

That was two minutes ago, not enough time for Jake to fall asleep again but apparently enough for Amy, and when the wailing starts anew, his wife straight out groans in frustration.

“I’ll get her”, he offers then, already sitting up in bed and lifting Leah to his chest the way that has become second nature by now. Amy mumbles something inaudible, likely attempting to stop him again, but he's left the room before she has the chance to do anything but go back to the sleep she so desperately deserves.

He walks a few laps around the living room before his daughter’s desperate cries subside, hushing and stroking her back through the purple striped pajamas until her face is no longer red from exertion, until she's quietly fussing rather than screaming her little lungs out.

For a seven-and-a-half-pound person, their kid sure has a powerful voice.

“It would be a lot easier if you could talk, you know”, he whispers to her when they move from the living room to the nursery. “Tell us what’s wrong. Think you can work on that?”

The request gives him another upset cry. He reads it as a negative response.

Jake sits down with her in the comfortable combined arm and rocking chair the Santiago family gracefully gifted to them, hoping she’ll accept the slight change and taking a deep breath of relief when she does. One of her fists grab onto his t-shirt, and she’s not falling asleep, but she’s calming down.

Right now he’s ironic when he asks her to speed up growing. Though he could pee his pants with excitement over what it will be like to have a kid that walks and talks and sleeps more than two hours at once, time is swooping by at an alarming rate as is. He’s been a dad for one, short, intense month, and already Leah is an inch longer, a pound and a half heavier, a little less terrifyingly fragile in his arms. She sleeps and eats at what vaguely resembles a schedule, has mastered the art of nursing without making both Amy and herself cry and is starting to accept him feeding her with a bottle. Every day there seems to be a new noise, a new grimace, a new way to move her arms and accidentally hit herself in the face, and every day his already overpowering love for her grows.

Jake's almost about to consider his mission of calming a fussy baby successful when he notices her doing a too-sharp inhale. Barely able to brace himself for the inevitable, he listens to her cry out another time, heartbreaking and loud enough for neighbors to hear. He stands up with her again, rocking, trying to see if the combination of movement and the unicorn lovey from her crib can make her relax. He then fights the temptation to make a full-on victory gesture when it, eventually, does. There's a display of framed pictures hanging over the crib, and he stops in front of it, watching them without giving up the gentle rocking.

Two ultrasound pictures - one from the first time they got to see and hear a fluttering heartbeat on the screen, one from later on when they could see a spine and legs and arms and the cutest little nose in profile. A black and white newborn picture, Leah just hours old, in between. A selfie they took with one of the positive pregnancy tests, grinning at each other in disbelief. One picture each of them holding her, looking equally in awe of this little person that's now keeping them up at night. A piece of quote art Jake found on Etsy, saying you are the best thing that's ever been mine.

He has to get up for work in five hours, and even if he does get any sleep tonight it’s not going to be enough - yet as he hears a somewhat content sigh from Leah and sees her yawn, he can’t make himself care. Though he was well aware he’d love his kid to the moon and back, he worried and fretted about whether he could have inherited his own father’s crappy parenting skills. He’s still unsure about a lot of things, but as he sits back down in the armchair and draws up his legs so she can lay against his thighs, and she stretches out her arms over her head to then hit herself on the nose when they come back, gasping with surprise, he’s certain a lack of love is not the problem.

“I hope you know we love you”, he tells her, trying to flatten the dark hair that prefers sticking up like a mohawk. “It’s hard to know sometimes. But I really hope so.”

“I love you”, he assures her another time, her hands gripping onto both of his index fingers as he all but attacks her with kisses across her belly and face. She scrunches her nose and forehead slightly, but accepts, used to it at this point. “Your mom loves you, your grandparents, all your friends - aunt Rosa and aunt Gina, uncle Terry, your uncle Charles probably loved you before you even existed at all, grandpa Holt…” Jake smiles at the memory of his captain visiting them in the hospital their second day there, remembering how he’d been impressed by his daughter for putting an actual smile on the usually so dead-pan man’s face in mere seconds.

“You’re a very loved kid.”

Leah grunts to this. He decides to interpret it as agreement.

When she starts fussing yet another time, he sings to her. It’s mostly Taylor Swift songs, mixed with a mellow version of I Want It That Way - whatever’s playing inside his head in the middle of the night. Even with his mediocre singing voice, singing to her has become one of his favorite things to do just because he adores her reaction to it. She'll stare at him in awe, take on an expression like she's actually listening, sometimes trying to wave and kick to the melody.

Had someone told him a year ago that this is why’d he be awake at 2.30 a.m., Jake's certain he would have laughed, but now it seems the most natural thing in the world.

“Hey there.”

He's halfway through an acapella version of Long Live, Leah's eyes opening and closing like she's about to fall asleep but stopping herself from doing so, when he hears Amy's voice. She's leaning against the doorframe, wistful smile on her lips looking at them, and he wonders quietly to himself how on Earth she manages to make one month postpartum and the old oversized NYPD shirt she uses for pajamas look a million dollars. “Is she sleeping yet?”

“Nah. World’s too interesting.” He jokefully narrows his eyes at Leah, saying the next words with over-the-top enthusiasm. “But you know what happens when you don’t sleep? You get overtired! And I’m pretty sure you enjoy that even less than we do!”

She gives him a blank stare, and if she’d been a snarky teenager and not a one-month-old infant, Jake imagines she’d be saying something like yeah, so what and stomp off to slam her bedroom door.

Amy snorts before sitting down on the long-pile rug next to the armchair.  “You should go to sleep”, she coerces, squeezing his thigh. “Both of you, but especially the one who has work tomorrow. I’m serious.”

He shakes his head. “It’s fine, Ames. Really. I’ll miss her like hell tomorrow, anyway.”

“I get it.” She nods, caressing one of Leah’s fists. “But you’ll be okay. I’ll text you updates.”

“Every half hour?”

“What she’s doing, how she’s doing, pictures, film clips”, she assures him. “All of it. Plus you’ll be home early.”

“Still too long”, he mumbles.

“I know.”

Leah begins to whimper, and their focuses shift instantly back to her. Jake stands up with her, starting the rocking and bouncing anew for what feels like the twentieth time that night.

“She's going to miss you too, you know”, Amy whispers. “We both are.”

“Well, I’ll miss you two more, so I'm winning.”

She rolls her eyes, but there’s a soft affection to it. He supposes she is the one person who could tell him she loves him with an eye-roll of all things.

Leah yawns, her little hands moving again in an attempt to grip his t-shirt, and then she finds one of his arms and it's like he's being carefully hugged by a twenty-inch, not-yet-eight-pounds body. It’s the actual sweetest thing he's seen tonight.

He tears up; of course he tears up. That's pretty much what he does in life now, but it's okay, because Amy's doing the same watching them, wiping hormone-fuelled tears away with the back of her hand.

“The only thing better than her”, she says, voice hushed, “is seeing you with her. It's the best thing I know.”

“I just want to do a good job.”

“You already are.”

“I have to leave her for a full day tomorrow. ”

“You're going to be okay, Jake.”

Easy for you to say, he wants to argue. You get to stay home all day looking after our daughter and reading through study material for the lieutenant’s exam. But 2.30 a.m. is not the peak time to be jealous of their daughter’s physical dependence on Amy, so he stays quiet.

The whole room is near silent, save the white noise machine still playing from its place in the shelf, when he realizes.

“Ames, I think she's sleeping.”

Leah's eyes are closed, the fussing finally ceased, and he's scared to say the words out loud in case she’ll be screaming against the next second, but she doesn't and Amy's eyes widen in awe.

“God, you're amazing.” She stands up, kissing his cheek and giving the snoozing infant the amazed, infatuated look he's seen near daily on his wife's face for a month now. “Now let's go back to sleep before she wakes. Quick.”

Amy's out like a light soon as her head hits the pillow. He stays awake a few more minutes, watching his daughter, the way her little chest rises and falls, the way her miniature fingers twitch when she's dreaming.

Tomorrow, he's going to go do the job he's actually hired for, the job which used to be his everything at one point in time and the job he has missed, if only slightly, this month.

He's almost dreading it, this ocean of time away from the person who gave him the job title seeming much more important to him now, but he's doing it anyway.

He has to save up for that king-size bed somehow.

[ratkingkisses]

Quiet

Just a small ficlet of @frozenabattoir 's Sidestep Cerise and my Natalya... (~650 words? Ish?) //

Quiet.

You enjoy nights like this, where Los Diablos is tame, a peaceful lull over her now, compared to her usual unbridled wildness. Of course, few are up at this hour. But you cannot-- will not-- sleep. Too much rides on your shoulders. Far too important to risk relaxing now.

You glance over at Cerise, passed out on the couch. Her orange hair a mess, beanie lopsided, the credits of the movie she was watching long over. Curled up on the couch, you note how content she looks. Blissful. Your eye betrays you, as you feel it soften as you watch her. She has been through so much-- you both have. But you can handle it. You can carry the weight. Ever since you two escaped, and she looked at you with those pleading eyes, begging, 'Please don't leave me.'

And you didn't. You stayed. You swore to her that you would protect her, keep her safe. Though at times Cerise is annoyed at the prospect of having a bodyguard-- "This isn't a job, Natalya. You're allowed to relax." You find that you can't. Even the cigarette you hold in your fingers, smoke curling in the air like a dance, does little to put you at ease. Then again, you always had difficulty adjusting to the free life. You never had time to yourself before. Your hands were always busy with something; exercising, target practice, even just taking apart your rifle and putting it back together again. You wish you could explain it to her-- How this is you relaxing, but your mouth never listens. Unsuited for explanations, you were trained to watch, not talk.

Cerise mumbles something that you can't quite make out, as she rolls over. A fond smile tugs at your lips as you watch her, taking another drag from your cigarette, nearly burned down to the filter. Blowing the smoke out, you carefully get out of your chair, your shoes threatening to squeak, but mercifully they remain silent as you make your way to Cerise's tiny frame. You lift her up, gently, oh so gentle (making sure to grab her beanie as it tumbles off her head), and make your way towards the bedroom. You two share a bed, though you rarely sleep in it, allowing Cerise to claim the King sized bed all to herself. She looks quite small compared to it-- A large bed was necessary for your size, though you note that you never had a bed before; a cot was your only refuge, even if the Farm had better things for you to do than sleep.

You set her down, carefully, into the soft bed. But your efforts to keep silent are in vain, as Cerise squints her face and blinks her eyes open, mumbling and looking dazed. You can hear her confusion before she can even voice it. "Shhhh," you hush, leaning foward onto the bed to comfort her. "It's alright. It's just me." You gently brush some orange strands away from her face. "Natalya..?" She asks, her voice strained and slow from sleep. "Yes. I'm sorry for waking you. Go back to sleep." To anyone else, it would sound harsh. But Cerise knows you. As you pull away, she reaches out towards you. "Don't leave me."

Your heart threatens to crack. Damnit. When did you become this soft? Give in this easily? Ironic. She shouldn't want to sleep beside you. She knows the things you've done, the people you killed. And yet, she begs. Pleads. *'Natalya, please stay.'* You can't deny her. As hardened as your heart is, it can't resist. You hesitate for a moment, hands unsure of themselves. Then, you slowly swallow, pushing down the red flags that sprout in your mind, and climb into bed with her, holding her close. You feel her nuzzle into you, a content noise muffled by your undershirt.

Danger can wait another night.

For now, there is only her.

Only quiet.

[evora-eriu-mclaggen]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️- warrioroflondonbelow

For each “⭐️” I get, I’ll write a headcanon about our muses.

@warrioroflondonbelow

⭐️ Sleeping with someone is nothing short of uncomfortable, and Eriu absolutely resents it. If someone’d asked her to explain why, she’d encourage them to share a bed with Richard for one night to find out precisely what she means. Tossing and turning, kicking, pulling, mumbling nonsense, either stealing blankets or snuggling up so close you can hear his teeth chatter. All night. Not to mention the basics, like uncomfortable positions or bad breath in the morning. She’d have him sleep on the floor if she could, but she can’t. Ironically enough they are each other’s only other source of warmth and need to share it to have some semblance of comfort at night. An absolute nightmare for a lady used to sharing a king size bed with no one.

And yet. After months of sharing a cot, blankets, and body heat with Richard she’s grown so accustomed to his presence that she finds it difficult to sleep peacefully without his arms wrapped around her and his lips mumbling something against her shoulder. 

⭐️ Somehow whenever Richard gets snuggly, no matter the position they were initially in, Eriu ends up cradling him in her arms not unlike a mother would.

⭐️ They often read books to each other. It happened once, twice, and then it started happening regularly as they discovered that listening to each other sooths them after a trying day. They lie down together and read whatever they could find on the Market. More often than not they eventually ditch the book in favor of snuggles though.

⭐️ Once Eriu made the mistake of slapping him during an argument. A petty disagreement, and she immediately wished she didn’t do it. They ended up making out against a wall.

[naughtynecromancer]

1,2,6,9, 10, 14, 21, 25, 31, 33, 40, 44, 48

What does their bedroom look like?She is all about comfort. Huge king size bed, four poster or canopy bed, something to make her feel decadent but still functional, pretty lavender on the walls, gossamer curtains and blinds for a bit of whimsy and privacy. No television in the bed room, that’s what laptops are for. Reading nook with a large window seat, big enough for three people, a bay window overlooking a nicely maintained garden, antique reading lamp, Tiffany glass. Large dressers and walk in closet and the attached master bathroom is her private oasis with a tub sunken in and built right into the huge shower. Hidden room in her closet where she keeps her witchy paraphernalia including her pentagram on the floor and all of the constellations mapped out in crystals that she did herself on the ceiling so she can lay on the small cot and look up during meditations. Only Addie knows of this room.Do they have any daily rituals?Shower, brush her teeth, get ready for the day, she is almost always baking something, plus she is a mom (in this verse) so week days the rituals of school and on weekends time with her daughter but on the occasional free weekend where her dad takes her, she usually wants to relax or spend time with her loved ones. Even a date when someone’s not being so stubborn.Eating habits and sample daily menuSlight trust issue when it comes to home cooked meals that she is not cooking, she likes to watch things being cooked for her, partly her anxiety and partly watching people cooking. She loves fruit and vegetables and meat. No Octopus ever! Breakfast- scrambled egg breakfast bowl, bacon slices, toast/breakfast sandwich, something quick to grab on the go between getting her daughter on the bus and going to workLunch- Fooooood truckkkk! Usually Mexican Nachos all the way or occasionally a sandwich at a local eatery- usually eaten alone.Dinner- Usually family dinners so spaghetti and meatballs with cheesy garlic bread and brownies for dessert Makeup?What she is gives her a clear complexion, often a bit pale, so she loves dark red lips and eye shadows of just about any hue. Her work make up is a bit more natural.Neuroses? Do they recognize them as such?Anxiety, Depression, Abadonment issues, major authority issues. Ehhh depends on the dayPhysical abnormalities? (Both visible and not, including injuries/disabilities, long-term illnesses, food-intolerances, etc.)Scars on her right hip, round right on the bone, covered by a dark red Phoenix tattoo. Small dot on her inner right wrist where she fell on an iron nail when she was a child.Jagged lightning shaped scar under her left breast from where she was stabbed in the heart with a triple sided blade.Her hip injury still bothers her from time to time, she wears heels even though she shouldn’t. But she is short and stubborn. Iron can kill her.Turn-ons? Turn-offs?Only going to list a few there is a looooot. She loves a gentle dom honestly, someone to push her and take care of her and help her test her limits. Turn offs-anyone that treats her as property.How do they see themselves 5 years from today?She is thinking about getting her pediatricians license and opening up a little practice in town. With Addie and Eric. Most prized possession?The family grimoireConcept of home and family?Home is where the people you love the most are, where you feel the most safe and comfortable. Family are people that make you think ‘huh I am home, my heart is safe here.’Would you say that they have a superiority-complex? Inferiority-complex? Neither?She never feels like she is good enough ever.Religion?Pagan How do they express love?With her words, her actions, she will go out of her way for her people to feel loved. 

[slipsthrufingers]

So on the weekend, while procrastinating over housework and actual work I didn’t want to do, I accidentally wrote 4.5k words of a fic I’d vaguely planned out around the time of 8.01 or 2 and I was feeling really happy and enthusiastic. Then I forgot about it, and then I was rooting around my google docs and found it.

Set in an AU world where Brienne doesn’t follow Catelyn after Renly dies, but Jaime still ends up maimed. Tywin receives a letter from Tarth requesting the Crown’s aid, and he sends his son to investigate it.

So here is the first chapter/part. unedited. Thoughts welcome!

On the seventh, miserable day of his journey, the captain sent a cabin boy to wake him with word that their destination had been sighted, and that within a few hours they would be docking at Evenfall. Jaime grumbled his understanding at the boy and told him to take the vomit-filled chamberpot with him as he left.

He had never suffered from sea sickness before, not on any of the many journeys he had taken from Lannisport, or from Kingslanding, to Dorne or even Pyke. But then for every one of those trips he had been healthy, and whole, and not the maimed lion he now was. Still, daily, the stump of his arm ached badly enough that he needed a drop or two of the milk of the poppy to get him through the day, and often a full carafe of Dornish Red to get him through the night.

Jaime leaned over his narrow cot and clumsily forced open the small porthole to let the room air a little. He was sure it stank to the high seven heavens in here, though he had long gone nose blind to it. He took a deep, steadying breath of the salty air, before filling his basin with water from the jug the cabin boy had left behind. He stripped and washed as quickly as he was able, not wanting to focus much on the way his ribs could be counted now, or on the way his hip bones protruded sharply higher than the flat waste of his stomach. He dressed as quickly as he could, but had to pull on each item slowly, awkwardly, so as not to knock his right arm against anything, for fear of the pain that it would bring.

Eventually, he completed the basic task of getting dressed and inspected himself in the small looking-glass hanging on the back of the door. He could do nothing for the wine-dark bruises beneath his eyes, or the pallid grey of his skin, but his father had ordered his hair and beard trimmed before they set sail, and it still looked well enough a week later. And his red jerkin had been altered to fit this scrawny, ruined body, and as such he looked less starved and more lean.

The Lion of Lannister. He thought to himself, darkly amused, remembering the sad, emaciated beasts he and Cersei had found in the bowels of Casterly Rock. They had been tame things, starved enough that they would have easily been able to slip through the bars if they had had the spirit to try. Cersei had slipped her hand through the bars to pinch the hide of the lion within reach, but it barely flinched, and she had pouted at him in her disappointment. She had dared Jaime to pull on its mane, wanting to hear it roar, but he had been frightened, and refused.

Now I am as tame as them.

He saved his hand for last. It was a heavy thing, wrought in iron and plated in gold filigree. It was well designed, and easy enough to attach to what was left of his arm— there were straps and a buckle— but underneath the bandage the wound was still healing, and the golden hand pressed against the worst of it in a deeply uncomfortable way. Qyburn had promised that soon the pain would ease as he adjusted to the prosthetic, but had encouraged him to go without the hand as often as possible, even without the bandage, to let the scars feel the fresh air. But his father had told him, in no uncertain terms, that he was to be wearing it the moment he met Lord Selwyn. You must present the best possible face of House Lannister. He had said, looking with disgust at the absence at the end of his son’s right sleeve, as though this was something that Jaime had done to himself on purpose. As though it were obvious where the blame for his maiming lay.

Eventually he emerged from his quarters, holding on to the balustrades as he ascended the stairs and reached the main deck. All about him, the sailors were busy, moving quickly from aft to bow, some climbing the rigging, others doing something to the sails, Jaime was not quite sure what, but it was clear enough they were readying the ship to port. He turned and climbed up further to the poop deck, so he would be out of the way of the sailors and could be afforded a better view of his destination.

He could not deny that Tarth looked beautiful. It was bigger than he had expected it to be, considering its size on the map of Westeros. The island was quite mountainous, and several of the higher peaks were tall enough that Jaime would not have been surprised to see snow caps on them, were it the depths of winter. The mountains stretched all the way to the water, in places, ending in looming sandstone cliffs.

There was a small settlement directly in front of the bow. There were, perhaps, two hundred brick houses in many varied colours, winding their way up what must be a fairly steep hill, leading towards a modest looking keep sitting atop a cliff face on the northern end of the town. That must be Evenfall Hall.

At the very precipice of the cliff stood a skinny tower, taller even than the main keep itself, built of the same white marble as the keep. In the bright sunlight of the day, with the blue of the sky behind them, they almost seemed to blend into the light cloud cover.

“How long ’til we dock?” He asked the captain, who was standing at the helm, carefully directing the ship into the cove.

“Mayhaps twenty minutes, m’lord.” The man said gruffly, with the tone of one who’d prefer not to be asked questions at this particular point in time. Jaime nodded and left him to his business, choosing to stand portside as the ship was brought around, which gave him the best view of the modest town that was to be his home for the next few weeks.

They docked smoothly, and within moments the crew were jumping from the deck, securing the ship against their assigned mooring. Behind him, the captain ordered the anchor dropped, and the gangplank set out for them to disembark. Jaime was eager to set his feet on solid ground for the first time in a week, and perhaps find some relief from the rolling nausea that had beset him the entire voyage. So he did not wait for a runner to announce his arrival to the Hall, as his father had bid him do. They scarcely could have missed the grand vessel pulling into the cove with Lannister red sails and crest emblazoned on each of the sails. Jaime was sure they had been, therefore, suitably notified of his arrival. And considering what he was here for, they would be very unwise to leave him waiting now that he was here.

The dock itself was solidly made, industrial, if not ornamental like the one in King’s Landing, and for a moment he let himself feel the stability beneath his feet. But as he took a step, his knees wobbled beneath him, and for a moment he feared he would fall. By instinct, he thrust his right arm out, to brace him, but then remembered too late the pain that falling on his maimed arm would bring—

But a strong, small hand steadied his other elbow. It was the cabin boy from earlier. “Alright, Ser?” He asked, brown eyes wide with concern. He had served Jaime as something of a default squire or page boy throughout the journey, but Jaime was ashamed to realise he had not even bothered to learn the boy’s name.

“Thank you, er..” He trailed off, hoping the boy would overlook the lapse on his part and continue steadying him.

“Peck, ser.”

“Peck.” Jaime repeated, and then, silently to himself, he repeated it again, so as not to forget. Peck.

“It happens, Ser. Your knees get used to the rocking on board the ship, and then when you’re back on dry land they sometimes keep up the trick.” Peck explained, and then carefully, still staying close, he released Jaime’s elbow.

Still, Jaime felt a little dizzy, though that was more the fault of last night’s wine than the dry land, but he did not feel he would fall.

“Can you see to my things, Peck, and then join me tonight up at the keep? I’m sure the captain can spare you.”

“As you like, ser!” Peck agreed, enthusiastically. It was probably the first time the boy would be allowed within a Lord’s house, even if that house were as modest as Evenfall.

Jaime nodded, and carefully took a step or two. His knees seemed more stable now, stronger, and he set aside the fear he would fall into the water and made his way to the dock master’s residence. Hopefully someone would be there to greet him already, else he could wait there til they arrived.

[bloodsworn-marshal]

REALLY LONG CHARACTER SURVEY. RULES. repost ,   don’t  reblog  !  good  luck  !

TAGGED. @cielcrd​​ TAGGING. Anyone who would sell their souls to complete this as I have

BASICS.

FULL NAME: Pipin Tarupin

NICKNAME: Pip (Prefers None)

AGE: 25

BIRTHDAY: 19th Sun of the 4th Umbral Moon (August 19th)

ETHNIC GROUP: Dunesfolk Lalafell

NATIONALITY: Eorzean

LANGUAGE(S): Common Eorzean

SEXUAL ORIENTATION: Heterosexual/Unsure

ROMANTIC ORIENTATION: Heteroromantic/Unsure

RELATIONSHIP STATUS: Single

CLASS: Soldier / Military / Gladiator

HOMETOWN / AREA: Ul’dah / Thanalan

CURRENT HOME: Goblet

PROFESSION: Flame General / Marshal of the Immortal Flames

PHYSICAL.

HAIR: Long locks of sandy almost ash-blond hair. Typically wild and loose with a side braid.

EYES: Coal Black

NOSE: Dark and pudgy

FACE: Very round chubby cheeks

LIPS: Average, always smiling to an extent

COMPLEXION: Tan, mixtures of dark depending on amounts of sun exposure.

BLEMISHES: Slightest almost unnoticeable freckles.

SCARS: Multiple small scars and calluses.

TATTOOS: Twin dark black tattoos on either upper arm. Somewhat akin to Raubahn’s, but typically hidden.

HEIGHT: 91 cm ( 3′0 )

WEIGHT: 20 kg ( 45 lbs )

BUILD: Small and somewhat built in muscle. More than your average Lalafell.

FEATURES: Fairly average, most notable being his small stature.

ALLERGIES: None

USUAL HAIRSTYLE: Loose and free.

USUAL FACE LOOK: Deep look of concern and strictness. A burning determination that makes one think his mind is always set on what it is that he’s doing. A little too much so.

USUAL CLOTHING: Oft seen in Immortal Flames uniform whether it be his battle armor or coat for more political-sided ventures.

PSYCHOLOGY.

FEAR(S): Deep Water, Failure, Losing loved ones.

ASPIRATION(S): Cleaning up Ul’dah, picking up where his father left off.

POSITIVE TRAITS: Confident, Brave, Loyal, Honest, Fun Loving

NEGATIVE TRAITS: Impatient, Cocky, Mistrustful, Self-Conscious

ZODIAC: Leo

TEMPERAMENT: Sanguine

SOUL TYPE(S): King / Warrior

ANIMALS: Falcons

VICE  HABIT(S): Drinking / Overworking

FAITH: The Twelve / Azeyma the Warden

GHOSTS?: Yeeees

AFTERLIFE?: Yes

REINCARNATION?: Yes

ALIENS?: Um...

POLITICAL ALIGNMENT: Democratic?

ECONOMIC  PREFERENCE: He’s not too sure what this even is.

SOCIO POLITICAL POSITION: Left?? He’s not too sure about this one either.

EDUCATION LEVEL: Hardly any. Knows how to read and write at best.

FAMILY.

FATHER: Raubahn Aldynn ( adoptive father )

MOTHER: Unknown / N/A

SIBLINGS: None

EXTENDED FAMILY: None

NAME MEANING(S): Pipin/Pippin: Highly admired or very admirable person. Or an apple.

HISTORICAL CONNECTION?: Being related to Dunesfolk lineage, Pipin shares a lot of the typical characteristics such as dark skin, pupil-less eyes, neutral colored hair, and having a yearning for the desert.

FAVORITES.

BOOK: None

MOVIE: n/a

5 SONGS: n/a sort of, but he favors the little shanties sung by soldiers and sailors alike. Easy to pick up on and pass on through song.

DEITY: Azeyma

HOLIDAY: Little Lady’s Day

MONTH: September

SEASON: Fall

PLACE: Sagolii Desert

WEATHER: Clear sunny day with a breeze on the winds.

SOUND: The clank of blade hitting against blade.

SCENT(S): Spices

TASTE(S): Bitter and Savory foods.

FEEL(S): The soft cushion of his cot after a long day. The hilt of a sword in hand.

ANIMAL(S): None in particular.

NUMBER: 100

COLORS: Black and Gold

EXTRA.

TALENTS: Passioned speeches, Swordplay, Singing, Leading, Commanding, Puns

BAD AT: Cooking, Sitting still, Writing, A lot of domestic normal stuff

TURN ONS: Reciprocated love, fierce determination, displays of power, fairly vanilla

TURN OFFS: Unsure... we’ll leave it at that.

HOBBIES: Training, Exercise, Collector

TROPES: Long-Haired Pretty Boy, Pint-Sized Powerhouse, Badass Creed, Four-Star Badass, Happily Adopted

AESTHETIC TAGS: The rising sun, piercing eyes, tousled locks, thunder, coffee, natural charisma, calloused hands, a burning flame, iron and steel, weaponry, inspiring loyalty, intimidation, reckless force, to war for battle, scars, liberation, rust, the light in the dark, change, lighthearted laughter

GPOY  QUOTES: Not exactly sure what this is...!

FC INFO.

MAIN  FC(S): Himself, obviously.

ALT FC(S): n/a

OLDER FC(S): n/a

YOUNGER  FC(S): n/a

VOICE CLAIM(S): Adam Howden - English, Nobuyuki Hiyama - Japanese

GENDERBENT FC(S): n/a

MUN QUESTIONS.

Q1: IF YOU COULD WRITE YOUR CHARACTER YOUR WAY IN THEIR OWN MOVIE, WHAT WOULD IT BE CALLED, WHAT STYLE WOULD IT BE FILMED IN, AND WHAT WOULD IT BE ABOUT?:

Goodness I’m not so sure! If I were to think really hard on it, it would be something like a high action-packed movie filled with small comedy bits and epic animations to an extent. When I think of Pipin, I imagine he’d prefer his name to be known to the ends of time, that he was more than just a simple soldier. What better way than to show all of that off and be thought of as a valiant person of great strength?

Q2: WHAT WOULD THEIR SOUNDTRACK / SCORE SOUND LIKE?:

A lot of emotionally powerful songs. The kind that make your heart leap and are epic in sounding, making you feel the adrenaline of going into a battle!

Q3: WHY DID YOU START WRITING THIS CHARACTER?:

For the longest time I was too nervous to do so. Back then I didn’t have too strong of a connection with Pipin just yet and even when I began writing as him I would occasionally feel lost for words and the connection weak. But when I saw that some very few people actually cared for this character, I wanted to do him justice! And provide content to make him more known and appreciated.

Q4: WHAT FIRST ATTRACTED YOU TO THIS CHARACTER?:

Literally the very first meeting I fell in love. At the time I too played a lalafell with some similarities to Pipin-- not to mention he goes the extra mile of showing off his appearance and proudly proclaiming his connection to his father. And just... anytime you see him after that, he’s such a wonderfully emotion-driven character whom is willing to do his damndest to right all wrongs.

Q5: DESCRIBE THE BIGGEST THING YOU DISLIKE ABOUT YOUR MUSE:

His screentime really... give him more SE! Out of all the msq, Pipin is the only lalafell you’ll actually see on the battlefield and to be taken seriously too! All too oft... no one takes them seriously and its such a pleasure seeing him out there giving his all.

Q6: WHAT DO YOU HAVE IN COMMON WITH YOUR MUSE?:

What do we have in common indeed... very few things! But perhaps it would be things such as enjoying spicy foods, staying dutifully focused on our jobs and enjoying them, perhaps even the same feeling of wanting to grow stronger in a sense.

Q7: HOW DOES YOUR MUSE FEEL ABOUT YOU?:

Fairly neutral, probably! Though I do make him suffer when I can-- he probably enjoys being given a voice and having the opportunity to show a side of him that is just barely hinted on.

Q8: WHAT CHARACTERS DOES YOUR MUSE HAVE INTERESTING INTERACTIONS WITH?

One being an obvious Nanamo ul Namo, they have a rather interesting relationship that the game hardly touches on. Much of their moments have come from writing tales and mentioning the other in passing, with Stormblood finally giving a tiny peek to a degree. I have the smallest hope of something happening in 4.55, but we shall see.

And of course Raubahn. Their relationship is more than just father and son. They are also mentor and apprentice. Leader and second in command. Best friends even! Theirs is shown quite a lot in game, and even more so in depth in writing. I could go on and on about these two, but suffice it to say I love their interactions most!

Q9: WHAT GIVES YOU INSPIRATION TO WRITE YOUR MUSE?:

Ultimately it comes down to loving the character so much and wishing to see other people love him as well. The moment I have an idea for writing for instance, I want to share that bit with not only myself but to those who also could get a gleam of the character!

Q10: HOW LONG DID THIS TAKE YOU TO COMPLETE?:

A good couple days actually... good god

[screamingatanemptyroom]

A Fairy Tale Story Part 3

I continued it!!! (No title, since I’m bad at those, sorry!) Part 1 and Part 2 linked! 

Hope you guys like it! 

“We’re here.” Alston’s voice was tired, portal magic was fairly draining in general, even more so more a half-blood gnome like him.

“Hooray.” I couldn’t hold back my sarcasm, but I still found myself looking around at my surroundings with interest. It had been six years, after all. I wondered how much the fairy realm had changed while I was gone.

Not much it turned out. There was still the sparkly stone paved roads, only used by the unfortunate folk without wings. The houses of all different shapes and sizes, made of wood and decorated with flowers still stood, ready to accommodate creatures from tiny brownies to giants. Flowers were everywhere, in every color imaginable, their scent heavy on the air around us.

And floating high above it all was the Fairy Castle, made of glass and stone, a symbol of wealth, power, and control.

“This place is awesome! I can’t believe my mom never took me here! Stupid Pixie forest, not nearly as cool as this place…” Marryn looked around in every direction, comments rolling off of her in a constant stream. “Wow, what’s that?”  she stopped and pointed at the floating castle, I wanted to answer her, but the words brought memories which quickly overwhelmed me.

“WOW, what is that?!” I am four years old, still full of wide eyed wonder for the magical world I lived in. I tug rapidly on my mother’s hand when she didn’t answer immediately. She smiles, as she often does when she looks at me, but her smile is sad. “That’s the royal palace of the fairies, dear one.”

“Is that where daddy lives?” My question is innocent, her reaction explosive.

She grabs my arm tightly. “Don’t EVER call him that!” She’s shaking and pale, frightening me. “Do you understand?”

I nod my head, too scared to speak. She releases my arm and we walk home in silence.

The palace, once beautiful, now seems threatening instead.

I tried to shake myself free of the memory’s hold, but it takes a few moments. Marryn stared at me in concern, and seeing my incapacitation, Alston jumped in to explain.

“That’s the royal palace. We’ll be heading there next to meet with the king and queen.”

She grinned in response. “King and queen, huh?” She looked down at our clothing, I’m wearing a baggy t-shirt and shorts, she’s dressed in a lacy nightgown that says “bite me” on the backside.

“This should be interesting.”

I broke in. “We’re not going there first.”

“El,” Alston puts a comforting hand on my arm, “There’s no use in putting it off…”

I brushed him aside. “I’m not putting it off, I have to get my gear.

At my words his eyes widened in understanding, and he silently got out of my way.

“Wait where are we going now?” Marryn sounded exasperated. 

I grinned. “We’re headed to my place.”

I remembered the way surprisingly easily, considering how much time it had been since I last went there. It was close to the palace transport gate, but down a dark alley, tucked away out of sight.

“Not to burst your bubble hun, but how do you know that someone else isn’t living there now?” She was trying to be understanding, but I still had a flash of annoyance.

“They couldn’t even if they wanted to.” We were there. A small dark stone building with an iron door. I went up to the door, noting that the black candle recessed above it was still in place, and began focusing my energy within. “Stay back, this is the dangerous part.”

“Wha…”

I centered my magic on the black candle, the heat causing it to catch fire. A loud click could be heard within. A small part of me registered Alston pulling Marryn back out of harm’s way, but the majority of my attention was saved for the entrance. 4 spears appeared on the walls on either side of me, and a plume of flames shot from the metal door itself. I slipped into my magic, surprised at how easy it still was, and the world moved in slow motion. I caught one spear, knocking the rest out of the way, and held out one hand to absorb the fire, shooting its energy and heat out of the tip of my spear into the sky.

There was a moment of silence.

“WHAT THE HECK WAS THAT?” Marryn was not pleased. I opened the door in front of me, flipping the switch that deactivated the trap.

“That was my security system.” I motioned them forwards. “It’s safe to come in now.” I didn’t take it personally when they moved rather hesitantly.

“Do you have to do that every time you go inside your house?” Her voice was hushed as she entered the dark coolness past the iron door.

“Pretty much.” I shrugged, “Keeps unwanted people out, forces me to stay up with my training.”

“Your training for what?” Instead of answering her, I sent my energy forward, lighting the lamps in the room. My house could speak louder than me sometimes.

She stepped forward, looking around her with a slightly terrified expression. Every wall in my house was covered floor to ceiling with weapons. Bows, knives, swords, most made of silver, many poisoned. Targets and practice dummies took up residence in the far corner. On the second level, there was a simple floor cot where I slept, and piles upon piles of books. Marryn moved up the steps towards them, picking up a book curiously and dropping it in shock. It skidded down the steps, coming to a stop at my feet.

I picked it up, glancing at the title. “The Poisoning of Water Based Fae.”  With a sigh I set it down.

This place had no good memories for me.

Marryn had had enough “Alright, El. You need to start talking and fast. What is all this?”

I chuckled, but there was no humor in the sound, it just contained sadness.

“It’s exactly what it looks like, Mar. Officially I was trained to be the crown prince’s bodyguard. That was the excuse they used for all the injuries, the weapons training.” I looked over at Alston, he avoided my gaze with a regretful expression. “And I suppose that was part of my job. Protecting Ofrin was important.”

I picked up a knife off the wall, ignoring the quiet sizzle of burning flesh as the metal touched my palm. “But mostly I was their killer. The dirty little secret of the royal family, a tool to take out any who stood in their way.”

Marryn stepped forward, placing a hand on my arm.

“That doesn’t make sense. You were only sixteen when I met you in the human world. How long could you possibly have been doing this?”

I stared at the wall. It was easier to look at then her pitying expression.

“They started my training when I turned eight years old.” I ignored her gasp and moved towards my wall of weapons. “But my first kill wasn’t until I was ten.”

There was an awkward silence after that.

“We’ll need equipment.” I grabbed an assortment of throwing knives off the wall.

“Here.” I handed them to Marryn.

She was shocked. “Wait, what?”

“You’ll need to be able to protect yourself” I gestured at the blades she held. “Most of those are silver. Shouldn’t burn you since you only have a quarter pixie blood, but will damage almost anything else here. I also handed her some clothes, a simple set of forest green pants and shirts. “Sorry, it’s so big. You’ll have to roll them up a bit.” As I spoke I pulled on my normal black battle gear, and started taking more knives off of the wall, tucking them into various hidden pockets and holsters. I strapped a sword belt on, making sure each weapon was loose enough to be drawn easily.

I felt better with my weapons on. It had been a long time.

“You look awesome!” Marryn grinned, and started changing into her new clothes as well. She then motioned to Alston who stood facing the wall. “What’s up with him?”

Alston cleared his throat uncomfortably. “It would have been nice to have some warning before people just start getting undressed.”

We both laughed. “Sorry, Al. We’re done getting naked, I promise.”

He turned around with a sigh of relief, I held out a bow towards him.

“Here you go.” He backed up, silently shaking his head no.

“What’s wrong? You’re an awesome shot!” I held it out to him again, but he simply backed further away.

“I don’t do weapons anymore. I haven’t touched them. Not since…” He trailed off, not looking at me but through me, into a bloody past we both shared.

I dropped the bow at his feet. “Fine, but don’t come crying to me if you get killed.”

He grinned at me, the strain fading from his face. “Deal.”

As we got ready to leave I ran quickly up to my cot, and reached under my pillow, pulling out a silver locket from underneath my pillow. I felt for the hidden latch on the side, opening it up to two pictures within, a woman with a tired smile and a young boy with a bright, happy expression.

“What is that?” At Alston’s question, I tucked it quickly into my pocket. “It’s nothing.” I turned away, avoiding his curious look.

“Come on guys, we have a king and queen to visit who I’m sure will be delighted to see me. “

Marryn cracked her knuckles. “This is going to be fun, I can tell.”

We headed over to the portal to the palace. There was royal guard on either side, passing an arrogant glance between them once our group came into view. I felt my back muscles tense as the remembered anger and frustration of my childhood came back to haunt me.

“Halt!” The guards both leveled their golden spears at me. I paused right in front of the tips of their weapons, smiling calmly.

“Morning, gentlemen. It’s been a while.” I put my hands on my hips, trying to appear unaffected by their hostility. “You can put the toys away, children, I’m expected upstairs.”

“Half breed!” The taller guard on the left sneered, neither spear moved, “If you think for one moment a mutt like you is getting near our king…”

Marryn rolled up her sleeves, “Did he say mutt? OOH, he’s gotta death wish.” She started moving forward but was stopped by Alston’s outstretched hand.

He retrieved an official looking scroll from his pocket, passing it to the guards with a deferential bow.

The quieter of the two opened it up and read it, sighing loudly. “She’s been ordered to present herself in court.”

“Well, she still has to give up her weapons.” The ornery one looked put out.

I smiled widely. “Well that would be foolish. Why would you want to take my weapons?”

The guard motioned towards me with his spear. “I wouldn’t be surprised if you were a traitor, no way we’re letting you up there armed. You could kill someone.”

Marryn spluttered with rage behind me, but I felt a familiar coldness take over. My smile became sharper.

I pulled out a knife with each hand. “Worried about these?” Both guards tensed up, ready to attack. I chuckled. “You shouldn’t be.”

I tossed both knives into the air and in the brief millisecond they glanced up to follow the movement I jumped forward. I knocked them both on their backs, and took their weapons, a spear in each hand, the points at throats on either side.

“Your mistake is assuming I need my own weapon to kill someone, or a weapon at all for that matter.” My voice is a whisper. I don’t threaten them further. I don’t need to. They know enough of my history to take it seriously.

The more vocal of the two guards stared daggers at me, his gaze full of hatred. “Go to hell.”

I laughed, tossing the weapons behind me. “Is that any way to talk to your princess?” I started for the portal, Alston and Marryn close behind me.

He spat on the ground by my feet. “Bastard freak like you will never be royal…”

He ended on a groan as Marryn kicked him in the crotch.

“Just keep insulting my friend, buddy. Plenty more where that came from.”

I grinned at her. “Thanks.”

She shrugged, “What are friends for?”

We took the portal up, and headed out to the main throne room. No other guards tried to stop us; word must have gotten around.

“Before we talk to the fairy king and queen, which judging by how things have gone so far is SURE to be a pleasant encounter, why don’t you catch me up really quick on that whole “princess” comment.” Marryn is asking nicely, but I’m not fooled. When she wants to know something, heaven help whoever is standing in her way. I sighed loudly, but figured it would come out anyways. Especially considering who we were about to go see.

“It’s…half true, I guess.” I ran my hand through my hair uncomfortably, “Look, my mom… she was just a normal human, ran into a handsome guy and didn’t notice she had fallen into a fairy ring. Young people, full moon… you get the picture.”

Marryn shrugged, “So what’s the problem. His family didn’t like your mom?”

Alston laughed, I sent him a dirty look. “That’s putting it mildly. You see… he was engaged at the time, to the current queen.”

“Oh.”

“Yeah. Oh. He married her about a month after his little human ‘adventure’”

I glanced around, this wasn’t something I typically talked about. “They both got pregnant, I was born first, about 6 months before Ofrin. Makes for an uncomfortable situation.”

Marryn was silent for a few moments, processing the new information. “You never told me what happened to your mom.” It was a quiet statement, not a question. I could ignore it if I wanted. But she was my friend, and maybe it was better not to pretend.

“She was trapped here. She ate food in the fairy realm, and being full mortal she couldn’t go back, not without losing 100 years of life as payment.” I blinked rapidly, my eyes were moist. “She tried to be happy here. She had friends, a house… me. And for a while that was enough.”

There was an uncomfortable pause. Marryn didn’t seem willing to push further. I took a deep breath. “Until it wasn’t enough. She got it in her head that she would be fine. Snuck out in the middle of the night and returned to the human realm. She paid the price, and there was nothing I could do.”

Alston put a sympathetic hand out, but I avoided it. “You were five, El, it’s not your fault.”

I cleared my throat. “Well, there’s the whole sordid tale. Let’s move on.” I pointed at the grand door in front of us. “We have a king and queen to annoy.” With that I pushed open the doors and entered the throne room.

The hall was as grand as I remembered, with representatives from every supernatural species imaginable there in their finest clothes. Every visible inch of the room: wall, ceiling, the furniture, were covered in gold. I wanted to shudder in disgust, this room always gave me headaches, but I held back. I was under the watchful eye of the court and every movement had meaning.

Years of training in court etiquette took over, and with a long confident gait I moved in front of the thrones. The king and queen sat calmly on their respective seats, watching my approach with intent, silver eyes. They looked like a drawing from a fantasy book, with flowing white hair, decorated with flowers, delicate features and intricate royal red robes. They looked utterly in control, and for a moment, I felt sixteen again: scared, alone, betrayed. I shook it off. I had survived the worst the court could dish up. They should be scared, not me.

Alston bowed as low as he could without falling over. Appropriate for a half blood, showing the most respect possible to the king and queen. It was the bow expected of me. It’s what I would have done six years ago.

Screw that.

I bowed, but it was a slight bob of head, I kept my gaze locked on theirs the entire time. Gasps filled the room at my breach of protocol. It was a gesture made to equals. I had sent a very clear message.

I’m not under your control anymore.

“You dare.” The queen’s words were quiet, but clearly audible around the room. I should have known she would be the one to take the most offense at my little display. The king simply watched me with narrowed eyes, content to see how this would play out.

“You will kneel before the throne.” Her voice carried magical weight with it, it made me want to obey. I struggled silently for a brief few moments.

“Who’s the angry hag?” Marryn stepped forward, an eyebrow raised, ignoring the stir she caused with her words. I laugh out loud, the weight of the Queen’s magical command lifted.

If they thought I was offensive, they were nowhere near ready to meet my friends.

Before an open fight could break out, Alston stood out of his bow, although he kept his gaze respectfully low.

“Your Majesties, we have received the message of our fallen brother, the morning star’s return. We are here to promise our aid.”

The queen’s gaze cleared of its anger. “Well spoken, gnome.” She cleared her throat delicately, looking out at the whole court. “The Morning Star will return in three days, on the night of the full moon. This has been predicted by the spirits. An army of darkness will accompany him, one such as we have never faced before. We will need each and every one of you.”

“That’s all well and good, but why did you call for my return?”

My question returns her focus to me.

“We need you to retrieve the mirror sword.”

If there had been a muted grumbling at her earlier words, it quickly changed to actual yelling and fighting at this last command.

Marryn was shaking my arm trying to yell in my ear. “What’s the mirror sword?”

I could barely hear her, I saw Alston’s gaze and he looked as terrified as me.

“He can’t go alone!” I am sixteen, at the height of my training. Confident, deadly, everything they wanted me to be.

“I’ll be fine, sis.” Ofrin smiles at my concern, pushing his hair out of his eyes. I had dedicated my life to protecting him, my younger half brother. I look him over with a worried gaze. He was too thin, too much time spent in the library reading, no time on the training grounds. He knew everything, delighted in discussing obscure facts and trivia, but he could barely hold a sword, much less defend himself.

I thought it wouldn’t matter, I was good enough with a blade for both of us.

Until the King and Queen ordered him on a quest. “Find the mirror sword, in the fountain of truth.” The queen is smiling, she always smiled when speaking to her son. “Return with it, and you will have proven your worth as next in line for the throne.” I thought nothing of it, until the order came that he was to go with only Alston for company. I scream and cry and threaten, but the order stays. In the end it took Olfrin’s smile to calm me.

“Don’t worry so much. I’ll be fine. Al and I will go get this silly sword, and we’ll be back in time for the full moon. We’ll go out, have fun, I’ll even buy you some of that candy you love so much.”

I hold his hand tightly, he and Alston are all the family I have left. “Promise me you’ll be safe.”

He laughs. “I promise.”

 The next time I see him, he is trying to drive a knife through my heart.

Marryn shook my arm; it brought me back to the present. I nodded my head at her, letting her know I was ok. She looked unimpressed but released me. I looked at the queen.

“I’ll go retrieve the sword. I should have gone the first time anyways.”

She gasped. “You dare question the decision of your queen.”

My smile was tired. “I will get the sword, and I will put down your rabid dog of a son. Then I will go back to my world and you will never see me again. I am what you made me, I’ll kill for you once more. Is there anything else you wished to discuss?”

She was silent.

I winked at my father, to my surprise he grinned back. “See you later, Dad.”

I marched out as the hall was deathly silent.

“Well that was fun.” Marryn grumbled as we left the city behind us. “I’m starting to see why you never talked about your family.”

“Yeah, I like yours a lot better.”

We stopped for a moment, staring up at the mountain ahead of us.

“We have to climb THAT?” at my affirmative nod she groaned with disgust. “Remind me why I invited myself along on this little adventure? How do we even find the mirror sword anyways?”

Alston sighed. “I still remember how to get there.”

I looked over at him. “What happened when you two went up there last time?”

His face was cold. “He tried to kill me.”

I should have known. “Join the club.”

Marryn jumped in. “This place sounds absolutely delightful! Shall we?”

With that, we started our journey to retrieve the mirror sword. To kill my half brother and stop his army of darkness.

This was definitely not how I thought my week was going to go.