#it Shall be interacting with sebastian. smiles

[dancing-dawn]

for the ask game. please put him under the microscope

[to all my other sskk+kuro mutuals - love ya, have a little treat from me mmmwah!]

Why, my darling loving literary versed and slightly unhinged friend, you have my eternal gratitude for blessing me with this opportunity to analyse our bastard son. This ask just brought the brightest smile upon my face, because it was so unexpected but also, oh, how my soul has been craving it without my knowledge. I shall make a fair warning here: all of this is going to be my pure and unblemished opinion, since I have read 0, and I mean 0.00 Kuroshitsuji analysis (unlike, yk, for some other cursed by fate morally gray and doomed by the narrative characters for whom I have read every single instance of meta knowledge that can be found on this blasted site). So this shall be fun! Hopefully I can do him justice with my measly understanding of the source material and longtime hyperfixation.

Favourite thing: Ok I feel the need to be very insightful here and analyse the complexity of his character and why he’s such a unique and lovable protagonist besides being an absolute insufferable little shit but, honestly, it’s his character design for me. The way he’s drawn in the manga and espeeecially in the latest volumes where Yana’s art style has grown and flourished so much - it’s magnificent. Such a simple yet striking design, with the glowing engraved with runes purple eye beneath the eyepatch and the very simple boyish blueish hair which oh thanks god he doesn't look like your typical anime protagonist with crazy hair (it also helps to drive the appearance of just a normal little boy who's driven into a world of pure madness and forced to grow up and essentially come on top of the underground “mafia” because of his heritage)

Second, his asthma. As crazy as I may sound. The connection I feel to him because of his lung problems is as limitless as the sky. I adore asthma representation in media, it’s very important for me and I feel that his was portrayed very respectfully and serves to paint the full picture of his story.

Third, all the goddamn chess metaphors to his name. I love the chess symbolism to SHREDS!! And everything related to his personality to stem from that yes.

Least favourite thing: MMmmmmm some of his earlier outfits imao, I can think of some especially atrocious ones from the anime (the colors are NOT helping). But don’t get me wrong - I also love a lot of them. Especially those from the dreamscape, yk what I'm talking about.

Favourite line: I just realised I don't have one???? Preposterous, gotta go on a deep dive gimme a sec…

“I prefer to have my nightmares with open eyes.”

Oh that's a sick one I like it! Coming back to check Ciel quotes I'm being reminded this boy has some terrific life philosophy and I love him for it.

brOTP: Ok it’s a bit weird to call it a “brotop” but in the sense of which platonic interactions I love the most of course I need to say between those of our main duo. Ciel and Sebastian have the most complex and interesting dymanic, possibly out of any characters in media outside of kuro too, I just don't feel confident enough to analyse it here because honestly it's hard even for me to put into words.

OTP: I feel like the story of Black Butler is best told without any romance, so I’m gonna say none.

nOTP: For plot and current manga development reasons, as tragic as it is, I need to say Lizzy/ Ciel (both in fact). I love Lizzy, so so much. She became very dear to my heart the second her backstory and real character was revealed in Book of the Atlantic. Her love for Ciel is tragic in many ways. It makes for a dramatic interesting story but I still feel sympathy for her.

Random headcanon: He would soon reach a point when he'd start wanting to tear himself from Sebastian's care - maybe just to spite him, maybe to prove to himself he's as physically weak as he's perceived, but he will start making his own tea or trying and failing spectacularly to make his own desserts and little things like that.

Unpopular opinion: uuuuh gonna skip this one i can't think of anything perdonami perdonami

Song I associate with them: Easy. So easy in fact that I searched for the song the second I opened this document and it’s been playing nonstop for an hour while I write this. I have so many fond memories of this song because I discovered it very early into my Kuro obsession and at first I didn’t even realise it’s not an “official” character song, it just fits so so well. I remember this song carrying me through my uni prep art courses when I was feeling so stressed and close to throwing up, I always put this on repeat to calm me. I barely even remember what the lyrics mean and yet I still feel a very intense connection to it.

Favourite picture:

I shall not and need not elaborate further thank you :3

[shall-we-die]

Shall we die together?! A question that I have never dared to ask the people closest to me (even my own older brother 🤭 ) Btw, since your request is open may i've a request for all Moriarty the patriot boys with sexy female Assassin s/o who all this time is a florist , fluff ....Oh, yes, s/o likes to tease them when they accidentally meet them😘

Fluff please...

One more thing, what way do we want to die? I want to die beautifully, is that possible?

Thank you ~ and have a nice day 💐 author - chan

╔‌‌‌‌═══════════════•⊰•°༄༚

{My dear florist}

☰[Main list]•⊰ Moriarty the Patriot

↬[A/N]•⊰ I have no problem if you want to die with me. However, I want to have a worthy death, so you will have to wait until I find a good reason to die 🕊

╚═══════════════•⊰•°༄༚‌‌‌

[William]

He would be intrigued and drawn to her mysterious and secretive nature, as well as intimidated by the fact that she's an assassin. He would visit her flower shop frequently, either to buy flowers or just to catch a glimpse of her. She would often tease and flirt with him, finding his aloof and serious personality amusing and wanting to provoke a reaction from him. He would be secretly pleased by her teasing, enjoying the way she challenges and provokes him, but trying to hide it by being stoic and unresponsive. He would find himself drawn to her playful and cheeky personality, despite his serious nature. He might secretly enjoy her banter and look forward to her teasing every time he visits the flower shop. He might also get flustered or caught off guard by her tease at times, his professional persona slipping and showing a hint of vulnerability or embarrassment.

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[Albert]

As expected, Albert wouldn't be flustered very easily. But, when he gets flustered, he can lose his composure quite quickly, and so she'd probably just tease him or keep riling him up to see him get flustered. He would most likely try and swoon her and get her to like him in return, and would also try to figure out how the hell his secret assassin love interest became a *florist*. He'd definitely try to ask her about her job. As in, how she became an assassin, how she is able to blend into normal society so well, and how she ended up as a florist, of all things. He'd probably be really, *really* interested in that. Whenever this love interest of his flirts with him, or teases him, he'd probably get an obvious blush on his face and would be very flustered. He could even be flustered to a point where he struggles to speak.

┣━━━━━━━━━━━━━┅┅┅┄┄

[Louis]

He becomes flustered and nervous whenever he sees her at the flower shop, which is odd since he is usually cool and composed. When she teases him, he gets even more embarrassed and stutters more than usual, trying to hide his reddening face. He is always pleasantly surprised by her boldness and sass. He secretly loves her wit and finds her confidence attractive. He starts frequenting the flower shop more often in hopes of seeing her. He starts to develop a routine of buying flowers on a regular basis, even when he doesn't need any, just so that he can see her and hear her voice. He tries to act cool and casual when talking to her but ends up failing miserably and only making himself look even more foolish. He finds himself smiling uncontrollably whenever she tells him a joke or teases him. He gets unusually jealous and annoyed when other people come in the shop to flirt with her.

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[Sebastian]

Sebastian often finds himself visiting the florist shop just to see her, even if he doesn't really need to buy flowers. He's a bit flustered by her teasing, not used to someone having the nerve to mess with him. It's a nice change of pace from his usual environment. Over time, he starts finding himself looking forward to their interactions, secretly enjoying the way she teases him and makes him feel like a typical, lovestruck idiot. Even though he tries to play it cool around her, Sebastian often can't help but blush slightly when she teases him. He begins to fantasize about her, imagining scenarios where he can impress her and win her over. He starts taking extra care with his appearance before going to the florist shop. He becomes jealous when he sees her chatting with the other customers, wondering if she's just as flirtatious with them as she is with him.

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[Sherlock]

He's immediately interested in her, the moment she opens her mouth and starts to tease him. He becomes a regular customer of her flower shop, and never fails to notice the playful edge to her words and actions. He finds himself thinking about her way too much, despite his best intentions. Sherlock will eventually find himself flirting and teasing right back. He's also incredibly confused by her. The contradictions in her character are both intriguing and frustrating. Despite his confusion, Sherlock can't seem to stay away. He finds himself visiting the flower shop more and more often. He becomes even more intrigued when he begins to notice that, beyond her teasing, she's actually quite mysterious. Sherlock starts to observe her, making all sorts of different observations about her, some correct and some incorrect. He gets frustrated whenever he can't figure something out about her, and it becomes increasingly harder to hide his growing curiosity and affection. OK, but I think we need another post about when he finds out she's as assassin.

[anonymousewrites]

One Hell of a Love (Book 2) Chapter Fifteen

Sebastian Michaelis x Demon! Reader

Chapter Fifteen: One Hell of a Reveal

Summary: The truth is revealed.

            “I…I can’t believe this,” gasped Arthur, staring at Sebastian in shock. To know Sebastian hadn’t died even though he’d seen the body and yet somehow also returned as Jeremy was so strange to his little human mind. “I could never have imagined that something so unreal could be true…”

            “Oh?” Sebastian raised an eyebrow. “Did you not return to the manor because you were assured of the fact?”

            “If you had just kept going home, you would have returned to a simpler, more peaceful reality,” said (Y/N). Their nose twitched. “So why return?” They smirked. “You’re trembling, too. Really, it would have been better for your health to continue home.”

            Arthur’s gaze steadied. “I-If the unease I felt turned out to be something more than simple disquiet on my part, it would become my duty to go after the Yard’s carriage at once!”

            “Ha!” Ciel laughed. “Professor, you are a most righteous man. You did write of your love for the knights of the middle ages in your work, so it’s to be expected. Did it not occur to you that you might not be bale to return home if you learn the truth?”

            Arthur’s eyes widened in fear. “Eh?!”

            Ciel chuckled. “I was only joking. Just as you surmised…Woodley is not the culprit. At least, not in this case.” Arthur’s eyes widened. “However, he belongs in that carriage.”

            “…What do you mean?” said Arthur.

            “We shouldn’t stand here talking, let’s see to preparing elevenses or some such,” said Ciel. “Sebastian, (Y/N).”

            “Yes, Young Master,” said (Y/N).

            “Yes, my Lord,” said Sebastian. He smiled at Arthur, slight and devilish. “Allow use to show you the way. You desire to know the truth, do you not?” Arthur hesitated, intelligently assessing the danger of approaching.

            (Y/N) smirked. “Have no fear. We shall not eat you. You’re not to our tastes.”

l

            “Today, I have prepared Fortnum and Mason’s Darjeeling second flush and petits fours as accompaniment,” said Sebastian as he poured the tea for Ciel and Arthur.

            The greenhouse canopy extended above them, light shining in through the glass. It was bright and lively, but the air around the group was dark and dangerous.

            Ciel took a sip. “Nothing here is poisoned, so please do help yourself. Well, how did you come to deduce this one was alive, Professor?”

            “In truth, I was not convinced he was,” said Arthur. “I just felt vaguely ill at ease all the while, and….I can’t really explain it too well, but he—How do I say this…? He was too perfect. Both the butler, Sebastian, and Vicar Jeremy made me incredibly uncomfortable.”

            Smart human. He knows when danger is about, thought (Y/N).

            “But there was no room for suspicion…They were perfection,” said Arthur. “It was all so immaculate that I, on the contrary, began to find it strange.”

            “How do you mean?” said Sebastian.

            “Well, the Phantomhive estate’s servants are clearly skilled,” said Arthur, glancing at (Y/N). “I mean, they were all impressive, but while I could accept it for a while since there were two of you, what caused me to think it strange was how you prepared for your own death. It is impossible to prepare so completely in advance of one’s death…no, one’s ‘murder.’ The food, the owl, what you said to me—it was all too perfect. That was no the work of some mere premonition.

            “And though Vicar Jeremy, who appeared after your death, was suspicious by all accounts, his alibi was flawless, and there was no reason to doubt him,” continued Arthur. “And then I saw you interact with (Y/N) with ease, just as you did as Sebastian. That’s when I started to think something was off with Jeremy. And then his parting words…

            “The moment I heard those words, I realized the truth behind the unease I had been feeling,” said Arthur, leaning forward, “and that all our deductions would be utterly overturned by one ‘unrealistic possibility.’ ”

            “An unrealistic possibility?” Ciel raised an eyebrow.

            “The possibility that the butler, Sebastian…was not dead,” said Arthur. “Once I came to that conclusion, I could no longer contain myself.”

            “For you to put all your faith into that one remark and my interactions with (Y/N) and return here…I would expect no less from one for whom the Young Master has such high hopes,” said Sebastian.

            He had known his words were a bit on the nose, but he was truly impressed by Arthur noticing his interactions with (Y/N). Sebastian drifted towards them naturally with his love, so it was no surprise that he was lenient around them. However, he thought he hid himself well. First Agni and now this man…some humans are indeed perceptive.

            “What nonsense are you jabbering on about?” huffed Ciel defensively.

            (Y/N) smirked. “Some humans are more interesting than others.”

            Ciel rolled his eyes.

            Sebastian looked at Arthur. “So, what did I do to pique you so as strange?”

            “The first instance was when Lord Siemens was murdered,” explained Arthur. “At that time, you did nothing. You simply observed us and the situation as it unfolded. You, who had responded so swiftly to the trouble that occurred at the dinner party, you understand? Now that I think about it, there must have been a reason. Moreover, you uttered not one word in the Earl’s defense when he was under suspicion of murder. For a butler to come to his master’s aid was just plain odd. Were you not aware? That the next murder would occur and dispel all suspicion from the Earl?”

            “Yes. I was indeed aware,” said Sebastain, smirking. “However, that was not my reason for failing to defend the Young Master.”

            Ciel huffed. “I bet you thought it served me right or the like, hm?”

            “Not at all,” said Sebastain. “I was just shocked that while anticipating getting caught in some kind of trap, you readily succumbed to sleep with those cares on your mind.”

            “N-Now please, just a minute!” cried Arthur. “Anticipating, you said!”

            “We knew that one of the guests was looking to cause some trouble for the Young Master at the banquet,” said (Y/N).

            “Th-That means you three had already predicted that this incident would take place?!” Arthur was astonished.

            “Yes,” said Sebastian.

            “It was likely Lord Siemens would be murdered, and then we made sure we had a contingency plan for if one of us were killed while investigating,” said (Y/N). They sighed. “I’m a little disappointed I didn’t die. I would have gotten to dress up as a man and order people around.”

            “You see, when (Y/N) and I first arrived at Lord Siemens’s room, we heard something smash before we broke in,” said Sebastian.

            “The tetrodotoxin,” said (Y/N). “And Lord Siemens’s smelled more of alcohol than any blood.”

            “Please wait!” said Arthur. “Why did you not mention that right away?! If you had, the Earl would have been spared all that suspicion.”

            “The Young Master himself appeared to be simply taking in the scene, so I followed his lead,” said Sebastian.

            “A murder occurring under those circumstances—my first thought was that it was a sham,” said Ciel. “Alive or dead, Siemens took the poison himself, as I’d expected. The rest was as the butler said. I thought I’d have time enough to make my move after I had more evidence in hand…A better grip on the culprit’s tail as it were.”

            “I see…That’s why you had Sebastian go and add coke to the fireplaces,” said Arthur. “That made me wonder as well. There was no need to stoke the fire in a room with no occupant. Yet he was murdered while the fire in that particular room.”

            “Yes, the true meaning of his command at that time was ‘take a close look at that fireplace,’ ” said Sebastian. “Still, I must say my Master is a merciless individual. For he ordered me to carry out that command, knowing I would be murdered if I went snooping around that fireplace.”

            “Well, I never imagine it would all play out exactly as I had thought up to that point,” said Ciel with a smirk.

            “As you’d thought?” asked Arthur in confusion.

            “Yes. Sebastian was killed that night,” said (Y/N). “At the hands of the one guest who came merely to torment the Young Master.” They smirked. “Earl Grey.”

            Arthur’s teacup spilled as he dropped it in shock. “N-No! So you’re saying you even knew the identity of the culprit?! And despite that, you still chose to throw away your own life?! Just because your Master commanded you to do so…?!”

            “Yes. I do not lie.” Sebastian smiled pleasantly.

            “The Young Master is a strict employer,” said (Y/N).

            “I then took care of preparations, ensuring (Y/N) prepared food, gave the Chef and gardener their orders for the next day, entrusted the maid with the owl that I had caught in the woods the day before and kept on reserve in case of an emergency, and penned a report to Young Master on the results of my fireplace examination,” explained Sebastian. “Thereafter I returned to work as the Young Master had commanded.”

            “And then I discovered his body as arranged,” said (Y/N). They smirked at Sebastian. “Though he had gotten the attack angle wrong. Stabbing yourself through the front instead of the back? Really, Sebastian.”

            Sebastian sighed. “I had so much to do for the Young Master that I rather didn’t have the time to consider.”

            “Be quiet,” muttered Ciel.

            “But Young Master, your act was truly most compelling,” said Sebastian. “Even I never expected him to go to such lengths as to strike me with his beringed hand! Furthermore, he did it at such a time when I could not afford to move. I do admire that cunning of his.” He smirked at (Y/N). “However, I am disappointed by (Y/N)’s lack of reaction.”

            “I shed tears and screamed. Did you wish for me to drape myself across your body and plead for the Heavens to bring you back?” said (Y/N) teasingly.

            “Not a terrible idea,” said Sebastian. To feel (Y/N)’s care for him was certainly an attractive idea. He'd prefer to show his affection and feel it in other ways, though.

            “But how did you act as both Jeremy and the corpse?” asked Arthur, urging the group to continue explaining.

            “Ah, yes.” Sebastian smirked. “Having obtained an alibi as a corpse as well as my freedom, I was able to execute my duties at will and apace. However…I still had the key, so when you decided to check my body, I did have to rush back from the rain.” He smiled. “But I found the most perfect creatures waiting for me, so all was not lost.”

            “You found the cats that night?” said (Y/N) in amusement.

            “The silver lining to all my tiresome work,” said Sebastian happily. He smiled. “Forgive me, I shall continue. I hid as a corpse once more, and I narrowly averted the most disastrous predicament I have faced in all my time as a butler.”

            That was the most disastrous? (Y/N)’s opinion begged to differ.

            Arthur eyes widened. That was why the corpse had been wet.

            “However,” continued Sebastian. “The awful plight of having my person be exposed to human eyes in such a humiliating state…was a first even for me despite my devilishly long life.”

            (Y/N) was of the opinion he had looked devilishly attractive.

            “Later, I retrieved the ampoule shards that Earl Grey had thrown out into the garden and tossed them into the fireplace of Mr. Woodley’s room, thereby carrying out the Young Master’s orders in fool,” said Sebastian. “I then proceeded to disguise myself and return to the manor, theatre ticket to prove my alibi and own in hand, as Vicar Jeremy.

            “Then that ticket was a sham?!” cried Arthur.

            “No, it was the real thing, purchased in London,” said Sebastian.

            “I slipped out during the party and procured it before returning,” said (Y/N). “Then I gave it to him for his alibi when needed.”

            “But that is impossible!” exclaimed Arthur.

            “You are welcome to doubt us, sir, but you can verify the ticket stub if you’d like,” said (Y/N).

            “This and the owl too were all part of his efforts to make Jeremy convincing,” said Ciel.

            “Oh, that reminds me! Tell me, what was written in that letter?” said Arthur.

            “Ah, yes, that.” Ciel made a face. “That was simply a prank of his.”

            I suspected there was nothing written, thought (Y/N).

            “As the incidents had interrupted your studies, I thought you could do with a little mental exercise, Young Master,” said Sebastian. “Thence, I took on two roles, and—”

            “Please, just a minute!” said Arthur. “But I examined your corpse alongside Mr. Jeremy, you realize?!”

            “About that…” Sebastian smirk. “I continued to arrive in each place ahead of everyone else, first allowing my body to be carried to the separate room. The real problem was Earl Grey. First, we examined Lord Siemens and then Mr. Phelps. While you headed to the third room, I took Mr. Phelps’s body and disguised it in my uniform.”

            “So that corpse was Mr. Phelps?!” cried Arthur.

            “Yes,” said Sebastian.

            “I felt feint in order to ensure that ‘Jeremy’ could look at ‘Sebastian’s’ body without anyone seeing what he was truly looking at,” said (Y/N), smirking. “Thank you for being so concerned, Professor. It helped the scene.”

            Sebastian sighed. “However, Earl Grey did double back to properly check the identity of the corpse, and I was forced to quickly change once more.” He tsked. “And he kicked me.” He smiled at Arthur. “As you are already aware, I thereafter assisted the Young Master in the guise of Vicar Jeremy. Mr. Woodley was apprehended, and the unharmed Young Master redeemed.”

            “Everything was wrapped up perfectly,” said (Y/N).

            “I don’t get it,” said Arthur. “Even after hearing you out, I still have not come to understand the incidents. No, I can’t comprehend any of it. I mean, you understand my confusion, don’t you?

            “If what you say is true, Earl Grey, Queen Victoria’s butler, is the mastermind behind all of these things. Earl Grey forced Earl Phantomhive to set the stage upon which he would commit his murders and even attempted to cast the young Earl as the culprit. Despite this, Earl Phantomhive, you went out of your way to make careful preparations with your butler, such that you alone would be cleared of suspicion,” rambled Arthur. “…And framed the innocent Mr. Woodley while knowing Earl Grey was the perpetrator. It isn’t that the case itself is all that difficult to grasp, but rather circumstances are most extraordinary.”

            “That may indeed be so,” said Ciel. “But there was nothing to be done about it. For it was all done according to Her Majesty’s wishes.”

            “Eh?!” exclaimed Arthur.

            “Siemens, our guest from Germany,” said Ciel. “His bank had made considerable investments in the domestic development of ships and vessels…and it would be no stretch to call him a central figure in the expansion and advancement of Germany’s heavy industries. With Great Britian’s position currently under threat from Germany and America, Her Majesty plotted to destroy Siemens in order to prevent the growth of Germany’ s military power.”

            “By simply killing one man?!” cried Arthur.

            “It is true that Siemens was no more than a banker,” admitted Ciel. “His influence might only have been equivalent to the flapping of a butterfly’s wings, but it had the potential to give rise to a devastating tempest that we might’ve never seen coming. The theory is known as the Buttler Effect. Her Majesty Queen Victoria, who in just fifty years built the British Empire that dominates the glove. It’s almost as if she can somehow see all the butterflies whose wings will change the world.”

            “But why did Earl Grey seek to have you take the blame?” asked Arthur.

            “Though it shames me to admit, a slight mischief of mine seems to have been discovered, you see,” said Ciel.

            Burning down Kelvin’s estate with his bodies and the vacant children within.

            “I expected some measure of punishment when my deed was brought to light, but I never thought I would be painted as a murdered…Her Majesty possesses quite the sense of humor.” Ciel smirked. “However, playing games has always been a particular talent of mine, and so I used Woodley, who I had invited to the party to be my scapegoat, as my pawn.”

            “Why would you do that to an innocent like Mr. Wood—!”

            Ciel cut Arthur off. “I told you, didn’t it? He belongs in that carriage. His public face is that of a man who runs a diamond polishing business. But behind the scenes, he is an arms dealer who sells illegal weapons obtained with his diamonds to war-torn regions on a grand scale.”

            Sebastian held up a newspaper article. “And about two weeks ago, the president of the Roze company, which mines diamonds, was murdered.”

            “Employing my own channels, I’d identified Woodley as the perpetrator of that crime,” said Ciel. “Some of the underworld using his related powers to endanger someone in outer society is a grave violation of the rules. As I’d planned to eliminate him anyway, he was just the man to be my scapegoat.”

            “Her Majesty’s concerns have been cleared, and the Young Master receives no blame for any crimes committed here. Two birds with one stone,” said (Y/N).

            “What Mr. Woodley said back then…” Arthur remembered the title Woodley had called Ciel. The Dog of the Queen… “What in the world are you?!”

            “I am he who snuffs out those who violate the commandments of the British underworld and disposes of them.” Ciel smirked. “The Guard Dog of the Queen. This latest affair was a trivial game organized by Her Majesty to reconfirm whether or not I still possess the qualifications for that role.”

            “Y-You must be lying…To begin with, if all I’ve heard is true…” Arthur wasn’t sure how to continue as he shook in shock and fear.

            “ ‘There is nothing more deceptive than an obvious fact,’ Professor,” said Ciel with a cunning smirk. “That was always right before your eyes.”

            “Yes…” Sebastian leaned over Arthur. His voice was low and reverberated in darkness. “The fact that I am not human, you see.”

            (Y/N) smirked as Arthur’s chair tipped backwards and the poor man scrambled backwards.

            “Poor thing,” they said. “He’s scared, Sebastian.” Their words dripped with shadow.

            Arthur’s eyes widened as the shadows swirled around the two servants. He knew the truth in the deepest parts of his heart—neither was human. One played the roles handed to him, and the other played innocent and lured the people in.

            Arthur lunged for the door, but Sebastian and (Y/N) stepped in front of him. Sebastian leaned towards him, eyes fuchsia. “You do understand what will become of you if you divulge this secret, do you not?”

            “A pity if anything were to happen to you,” purred (Y/N), eyes glowing fuchsia.

            “I-I’ll never tell anyone”! cried Arthur, running from them.

            Sebastian smirked. “The words that have just passed your lips…I urge you to never, ever forget them.”

            “We will be watching,” said (Y/N).

Taglist:

@technikerin23

@im-making-an-effort

@izzieg3987

@jinxxangel13

@alexpangender

@otomyoli

@neenieweenie

@nex-crowley

@anxious-chick

@bellacastiel

@v1l-ismissing

@agentdedf1sh

@iamsexytrash

@oceansfloor

@neuvilleteismybby

[sunnyrealist]

Chapter 71: Risk and Reward

The Sun, the Moon, and All Our Stars

Summary and Details…

Previous Chapter Recap/Context: Weeks ago, Sebastian was sent on a mission for the Kelpies, and it resulted in him obtaining a Time Turner for the dangerous gang. Rees Cuddy, their leader, told Sebastian that he would finally be initiated as a reward for guarding it until the Kelpies are ready to use it. Sebastian knew that he would do anything to prevent that from happening and that he had time to come up with a plan. He also decided, at that moment, not to inform the DMLE about the Time Turner, wondering if he should use it for his own purposes. In this chapter, Sebastian has a work day in the field as a double-agent for the Ministry. He is summoned to Rees Cuddy's private chambers, deep within the Kelpies base, to speak about the Time Turner again.

Pairing: 25-year-old, post-Azkaban Sebastian Sallow x 24-year-old Kate Mayflower (my OC), the assistant librarian at Hogwarts

Content warnings: In general, this story is rated 18+, so minors should not read or interact with this story. In this chapter, there is a very tense situation, worries about the safety of a loved one, fear of one's own death, thoughts about changing the past, hiding information from a loved one, etc.

The full chapter is available below the cut; it can also be found on AO3 (link is posted below). I truly appreciate any feedback.

Chapter 71: Risk and Reward

Sebastian surrenders his wand at the door, entering the innermost chamber of the Kelpies base. Rees Cuddy, the leader of the gang and the sole person in the room, gestures for him to sit down. Sebastian steels himself, unsure of the reason for his summons, and strides towards the empty plush velvet couch opposite Mr. Cuddy, who puts down his cigar to offer whiskey to his guest. Sebastian accepts it wordlessly, staring at his host. 

In his 50s, Rees is a large man, solid and muscular. His clothes are tailored to accentuate his physical prowess. Save for a hat, his head is completely bald, and he is clean shaven. Thick, dark eyebrows hover over sharp, deep brown eyes.

“Come now. Relax, Sallow,” Rees tells him. “I’m here to make an offer that will change your life - all for the better.” 

Sebastian blinks, attempting to keep a neutral face. Over the years, he has learned that, with the Kelpies, the less he opens his mouth, the better. 

“You’re a man of few words, aren’t you?” the gang leader notes.

In response, Sebastian nods, glancing at the whiskey that is now in his hand. He doesn’t drink it; instead, he places it on the table.

“I’ll get right to it, then,” Mr. Cuddy continues. “You’re the reason we have the Time Turner in our possession, and you’re the member we’ve assigned to guard it. I’d like to ask you to take it a step further. I’d like you to learn how to use it.” He leans forward. “Someone has to do it, and I believe you’re the man for the task.” He stands up, walking to the desk in the center of the room. He picks up three books, handing the stack to Sebastian. “You’ll read these tomes. Learn all you can about the theory of time, the potential mechanics of the Time Turner. And in two to three weeks’ time, we’ll begin to experiment. When it is perfected, the Kelpies will go back in time three decades and begin to infiltrate the Ministry.”

Sebastian’s heart rate increases, and he inhales sharply. He studies the face of the gang leader. “Of all of our members… why me?”

Rees smiles with sharp teeth and leans forward, his eyes narrowed, like that of an apex predator. “Several reasons. As much as we appreciate you securing the Time Turner, you’ve recently failed a mission. This shall make up for your mistake and put you back in our good graces prior to your official initiation. I suspect, provided all goes well, that that momentous occasion shall be… at the end of the summer or perhaps early autumn. You’ll make a fine stallion - I know it.”

Sebastian raises his eyebrows and leans forward, putting on his best act. “I have been waiting a long, long time for this moment.”

“I am aware,” Rees replies, nodding. “It’s been quite a journey, Sallow. You must understand our reasons. It could not happen sooner due to the circumstances of your joining us. I know you didn’t have much of a choice at the time. We had to ensure your loyalty and true belief in the cause.”

Sebastian’s mind flashes with the image of a masked gang member on a broomstick, reaching out to him in the darkness. “Join us! It’s the only way out!” the man had pointedly shouted. Screams from the nearby cells sharpened his confusion into realization - this truly was his only opportunity to successfully flee Azkaban. His dislocated ankle caused him to wince, but he extended his arm, hand outstretched. The man hoisted him onto his broom, and Sebastian held on tight as they rose, faster and faster, higher and higher, past a dementor and into the open air outside the prison. Sebastian gasped as the moonlight blinded him. High above crashing waves, they flew as quickly as they could away from the stone fortress synonymous with death, torture, and madness. If the price of his escape was investing his future and safety in an organization of Dark wizards, he would do it - he would do anything. Anything.

He grounds himself in the here and now by looking about the room. His focus begins with the golden chandelier, followed by the view into the lake outside the windows, and then the ornate wooden table upon which the whiskey and ashtray rest. 

“I’ve proven myself time and time again,” Sebastian insists with gritted teeth. 

“Yes, true. And you’ll prove yourself once more,” Mr. Cuddy says with finality. “Not only will we see you as ready to take on the role of a true Kelpie, but you’ll be able to… alter your life. Alter your past.”

Sebastian’s eyebrows shoot up in surprise. “What… What do you mean, Mr. Cuddy?”

“Come now, Sallow! I do not mean to be rude, but… there must be so much about your life you would wish to change. In assisting us in our mission, you could return to the past. You could go back to your teenage years and fix the circumstances that lead you to Azkaban Prison in the first place. You could complete your education and, thus, have a completely fresh start as an adult. Imagine the possibilities.”

I have, Sebastian thinks, keeping a straight face, trying not to give away his internal monologue.

“You could save your sister. Stop her from being cursed - and keep her alive. You could avoid all of that unfortunate business with killing your uncle. You’d just need to find a way to just stay out of trouble. Ah! Your girlfriend. You could even find her earlier in life - you could have married her straight out of school,” Rees suggests with a knowing grin. “You could easily have had children - an entire family - by now. Have a career of your choice. So many paths you could take, Sallow. And it will all be within your grasp with this next mission.” 

His mind fills with images of a perfect life - having a “chance” meeting with Kate in his fourth year, sweetly kissing her hand as she flushes breathlessly; watching Anne, in full health, compete next to him as his partner in Crossed Wands; raucously celebrating graduation with all of his friends at the Three Broomsticks; buying the cottage for Kate - the exact same one - on his own with the inheritance he had been denied; setting up his own classroom as a professor at Hogwarts; watching Kate walk down the aisle in a white dress at their wedding… and then holding her hand tightly as she gives birth to their first child…

Wait. Sebastian’s breath catches as Mr. Cuddy’s words catch up to him. Find your girlfriend earlier in life.

They know about Kate.

How do they know about Kate?

Is she… Would they ever…?

He looks directly at Rees, narrowing his eyes. They’ve followed me. They had to have followed me. They know who she is. They must know where we live. They know… they know too much. Do they know about the DMLE? Do the Kelpies truly think I’m working for them against the Ministry? Or do they not trust me? This could be an opportunity for them to… dispose of me…

Sebastian’s hand balls into a fist, but he maintains eye contact, trying to play the part of a cool and collected ally. Pretend, pretend, pretend. Worry later!

“Time travel is precarious,” Rees continues. “It is rife with risk. But with your propensity for research, you are our best choice to figure it out and use it to our - and your - advantage.”

“What are the risks?” Sebastian asks.

Rees takes a sip of his whiskey, then sighs. “I won’t sugarcoat it. Death. You could be trapped in the past… or the future… if you haven’t mastered the use of the Time Turner. If your past self sees your future self, it can supposedly cause insanity. These are the issues I understand. I’m sure you’ll discover more as you research, Sallow.”

Sebastian nods slowly and warily.

“So, will you accept this mission? Will you do what must be done so that we may change the past?” Mr. Cuddy asks in a serious tone. “If you succeed, we’ll initiate you, and you’ll be able to alter your own life for a better future.”

“I’ll do it,” Sebastian responds without hesitation.

Rees shakes his hand. “Best of luck. I will see you again in a matter of weeks, Sallow, to begin our experimentation.”

I’ll never help you, he says to Mr. Cuddy in his mind as he is escorted out of the room. I’ll never help the Kelpies. But I’ll help myself. I’ll change it all. He’s right. It’s high-risk, but… what a reward I could claim…

“Sebastian?” Kate calls from deep within the cottage, her voice flitting through an open window. “Is that you?”

Sebastian grinds his foot into the pebbled pathway leading from the road to the front door. His arms are in a spellcasting position, his wand arm aloft and the other outstretched and strained. He wills himself to ignore Kate’s calling, muttering enchantment after enchantment and waving his wand in intricate patterns. His warm brown eyes observe as a translucent dome finally appears, surrounding the little house. 

Just as he finishes the protective spells to ward their home against those who might do them harm, Kate appears, opening the door.

“Sebastian!” she shouts excitedly, rushing to meet him and pulling him into an embrace. He presses his lips to hers, a kiss of relief. She’s fine. All is well. He won’t have to worry about her safety in their cottage ever again. When they pull apart, she smiles brightly, her yellow hair illuminated by the sun. “I’m so happy you’re home.” 

“As am I, love,” he replies softly, gently taking her hand and strolling towards the door.

Just as he is about to step inside after her, he realizes he has left the books Mr. Cuddy gave him on the grass. He squeezes Kate’s hand, then trots to grab them.

“New books?” she asks.

“Yes. Just… some research for the job,” he tells her nonchalantly, catching back up to her.

He glances about the property, scanning for anything off; then, he enters the cottage, where his devoted girlfriend has dinner waiting just for him. 

[bugzbun]

That Butler p3 (last part )

As days turned into weeks, [y/n] found herself drawn to the enigmatic world that revolved around Sebastian. Their meetings became a regular thing and with each passing encounter, their connection deepened. The white rose he had given her now occupied a special place on her nightstand, now a reminder of the growing bond between them since that first night.

One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows, [y/n] arrived at their meeting spot with a flutter of anticipation in her chest. The air was crisp, She adjusted the collar of her robe and gazed at the stone bench, her heart racing with the rustling leaves.

It wasn't long before the familiar sound of footsteps reached her ears, and there he was—Sebastian, his presence as magnetic as ever. He strode towards her with his customary elegance, crimson eyes meeting hers with a warmth that sent shivers down [y/n]'s spine.

"My lady," Sebastian's velvety voice broke the silence, his bow graceful as ever. "[Y/n], you continue to honor me with your presence."

A blush painted [y/n]'s cheeks as she offered a shy smile. "Sebastian, you always know how to make a lady feel special."

Sebastian's lips curled into a charming smile. "It is my utmost pleasure."

As they both settled onto the stone bench the moon emerged from behind a cloud, casting a silvery glow over their surroundings.

The moment seemed almost magical, as if the world had paused to watch their interaction.

"I've been meaning to ask," [y/n] began, her curiosity getting the best of her. "Since you explained that you were on a case... I've been wondering, What kind of work do you and your young master do?"

Sebastian was silent for a moment, thinking it over before he leaned in, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial tone. "My young master and I, we serve in a rather unique profession. One that involves attending to tasks that others find, shall we say, difficult to handle."

"A profession shrouded in mystery," [y/n] mused, intrigue in her eyes.

Sebastian's chuckle resonated in the night air. "Indeed, It is a life filled with secrets and complexities."

As their conversation continued, [y/n] found herself entranced by Sebastian's words. He shared tales of daring escapades, elusive adversaries, and abilities that set him and his master apart. Each story he told painted a picture of a world beyond the ordinary, a world [y/n] had never imagined.

As the night wore on a gentle breeze swept through the trees, causing [y/n]'s hair to dance around her face. With a subtle movement, Sebastian reached out, tucking a loose strand behind her ear. His touch was feather-light, sending a shiver down [y/n]'s spine.

"Sebastian," [y/n] murmured, her voice soft. "You've shared your secrets with me. It's only fair that I share one with you."

Sebastian's gaze locked onto[y/n], his curiosity piqued. "I'm all ears, my lady."

As [y/n] stared into the depths of Sebastian's crimson eyes, she felt a mix of embarrassment and determination. It was time to reveal a truth she had kept hidden for years.

Taking a deep breath, [y/n] let the words tumble forth. "Sebastian," [y/n] began, her voice steady despite the nerves within her. "My secret is that I've always dreamed of becoming an accomplished artist." 

Sebastian's gaze held a mixture of surprise and interest. "An artist?" he inquired, genuine curiosity in his voice, he wasn't expecting that.

"Yes," [y/n] nodded, her fingers unconsciously tracing the hem of her robe. "Ever since I was a child, I've been captivated by the beauty of colors and shapes. I've spent countless hours sketching, painting, and experimenting with different mediums. But my family, they believe that pursuing such a path is foolish and won't lead to a respectable life."

Sebastian's brow furrowed with empathy. "So, you've hidden your passion from them?"

"Yes," [y/n] admitted, her voice held regret. "I've followed the path they've chosen for me, suppressing my art inside of me, but every stroke of a brush, every sketch I create in secret, it's a silent rebellion against the life they've planned for me."

Sebastian's gaze softened and his gloved hand reached out to cover [y/n]'s offering a reassuring squeeze. "I admire your dedication to your passion. Your dreams deserve to be pursued, not hidden away."

A tear escaped [y/n]'s eye, a mix of emotions overwhelming her. "Thank you, Sebastian. Your words mean more to me than you can imagine."

"Thank you for trusting me with your secret," Sebastian said, his voice holding a sincerity that made [y/n]'s heart skip a beat. A surge of emotion welled within [y/n]'s chest.

In that moment, under the watchful gaze of the moon, Their bond deepened that night, not only as confidantes but as friends as well. A new understanding between [y/n] and Sebastian. 

For the first time, someone had acknowledged [y/n]'s hidden dream and passion without judgment. In Sebastian's presence, [y/n] found acceptance, comfort and now a growing confidence.

Staring at the now dead and drying roses that Sebastian had given [y/n]. Thinking for a moment,[Y/n] took to her journal, pencil in hand and began sketching, face full of concentration. For the first time in a while, inspiration struck.

With a satisfied smile, [y/n] inspected her artwork before seting it aside, tonight at their next meeting [y/n] was going to give it to Sebastian. [Y/n]'s smile faltered slightly as she recalled their conversation, Sebastian was so sweet to encourage her love for art but what about himself? She didn't even ask, how rude of her! [Y/n] would ask him tonight.

•°•°•°○°•°•°•°

[Y/n] and Sebastian sat together in their usual spot but the air felt different somehow. [Y/n]'s fingers fidgeted with the small gift box in her lap, delicatly wrapped with a red ribbon before clearing her throat, not taking notice in the amused expression Sebastians face held sensing her nerves.  

"Sebastian, you really inspired me to not hide my passion for what i love and...Well.." [y/n] trailed off. A blush dusting her cheeks, fingers tightening on the gift box before handing it over to Sebastian, [y/n] refused to meet Sebastians gaze, the dusting of red on her cheeks now becoming brighter

Sebastian carefully took it with his goved hands and opened it, a smile danced on his lips as he gently took your sketch in hand and admired it.

"Why, my lady, you have such a remarkable talet. I shall keep it safe."  Sebastian gently put it back and set it aside. He was sure he had perfect frame for it back in his room. 

[Y/n] smiled happily at his words before her smile turned to a frown. "Sebastian, what about you? What aspirations do you have beyond your profession?"

Sebastian's expression changed to one of surprise then softened, a hint of nostalgia flickering in his crimson eyes.

"My lady," he began, "I am bound to a duty that extends beyond personal desires. My loyalty to my young master and the intricate web of responsibilities we navigate, leaves little room for individual aspirations."

[y/n]'s heart ached at the hint of melancholy in Sebastian's words. She sensed a deeper story hidden beneath his composed facade, a story she longed to uncover.

"Sebastian," [y/n] said earnestly, "while your duty may be demanding, every individual deserves a chance to explore their passions. Just as you've helped me embrace mine, I hope you find a moment to discover your own desires, even if it's within the cracks of your obligations."

Sebastian's gaze held a mixture of surprise, curiosity and i believe gratitude, his usual composure, for a moment, wavered. No one has said something like that to him before.

As their conversation continued, the night grew deeper, and the bond between them strengthened.

They shared stories and exchanged thoughts with an ease that you wouldnt believe in the short time they had known each other.

Only this time with the first light of dawn painting the sky in delicate colored hues, [y/n] realized that time had slipped away unnoticed.

"Sebastian," [y/n] said softly, "the night has passed so easily, I feel like we've known each other for a lifetime."

Sebastian's gaze held a mixture of fondness and regret. "Indeed, my lady."

As the morning light embraced the world with its warm light,  [y/n] and Sebastian rose from the stone bench, knowing that they would have to part ways, at least for now.

But the promise of their next meeting hung in the air, carrying the weight of unspoken words and the anticipation of shared moments yet to come.

With a final exchange of smiles,  [y/n] walked away.

[Y/n]'s words repeating in Sebastian's mind.

He did have one desire. 

...

Days soon turned into weeks and [Y/n] and Sebastian's connection continued to deepen and their meetings became a sanctuary where they could escape their lives and explore the uncharted feelings of their hearts.

One evening as they sat beneath the velvety canopy of stars, a comfortable silence settled between them. The gentle breeze carried the fragrance of blooming flowers, creating an enchanting scent around them.

Sebastian's gaze was fixed on [Y/n], his eyes tracing the contours of her profile in the dim moon light. The subtle curve of her lips and the sparkle in her [e/c] eyes held a magnetic allure.

The soft rustling of leaves and the distant chirps of crickets created a serene backdrop for their thoughts. Sebastian felt a warmth within him, a sensation unfamiliar yet quite exhilarating.

As the moon cast a silvery glow upon them, Sebastian's heart stirred with a longing he couldn't ignore any longer.  [Y/n]'s presence had become a beacon of light in his now  otherwise duty-bound existence.

"You know," Sebastian began softly, breaking the silence between them, "I've come to realize something."

[Y/n] turned her attention toward him, curiosity in her eyes. "What is it, Sebastian?"

He hesitated for a moment, his crimson eyes locked onto her [e/c] ones, his thoughts carefully woven into words. "My lady, you wondered what my desire is, and, well, my desire... it's you "

Sebastian's words hung in the air, heavy with meaning. The world seemed to hold its breath at his confession.

Surprised, [Y/n]'s heart skipped a beat, her breath catching in her throat. She searched his eyes, hoping to decipher the truth behind his confession but the vulnerability in his gaze spoke volumes.

Sebastian continued. "In all my years of existence, I've never encountered someone who has touched my heart the way you have. Your kindness, your passion, They have given me a glimpse of a life I never thought possible."

 A blush tinged [Y/n]'s cheeks as she listened to his heartfelt words. [Y/n] reached out her hand, finding his and their fingers intertwining, their touch igniting a spark.

"Sebastian," [y/n] began, her voice a whisper, "you've shown me a world of acceptance and encouragement. You've inspired me to chase my dreams and now... you've given me something even more precious."

It was true, in this confession, [y/n] now held Sebastian's heart in hand, something unexpected to both of them.

 Sebastian's gaze softened, his grip on her hand tightening. "I am bound by duty, by a loyalty that demands my attention." 

He now had raised a hand, his warm gloved fingers brushed against [y/n]s cheek, His touch spoke volumes, [y/n] could feel a depth of emotion that words couldn't capture as Sebastian continued.

"But in you, I've found a desire that surpasses all else. My heart longs for the moments we share, for your smile, for your presence." 

They sat there, for a minute, in silence, their connection deepening with each heartbeat. The night around them seemed to fade away, leaving only their shared moment.

"I've waited a long time to feel this way," Sebastian continued, his voice barely a whisper. "To feel a desire that's solely my own."

[Y/n] leaned closer, her heart racing with emotion.  "Sebastian, you deserve happiness. You deserve to follow your heart."

Sebastian's lips curved up into a gentle smile. "With you, [Y/n], I find the courage to pursue the desires of my heart."

As the night wore on, their words melted into the quiet symphony of the night. They shared a bond that transcended words, a connection that was going to reshape their futures.

As dawn broke, painting the sky in shades of gold and pink, [Y/n] and Sebastian found themselves in a moment that seemed to hang suspended in time. [Y/n] and Sebastian rose from their spot, their hands still entwined.

Sebastian turned to [Y/n], his gaze intense yet tender. "There's one more desire I have, one that I can no longer contain."

A soft smile graced [Y/n]'s lips, understanding his unspoken words as she looked into his eyes. Sebastian's gloved hand cupped [Y/n]'s cheek, his touch sending a shiver down her spine. Slowly, he leaned in, his lips hovering just inches from hers.

The world around them seemed to have faded away, leaving only the two of them and then, with a gentle press of his lips against hers, time seemed to stand still.

Their kiss was a declaration of all that they felt for each other, holding such emotion. It held the promise of a shared future, a promise to explore the uncharted territories of their hearts together.

When they finally pulled away, their foreheads rested against each other, their breaths intermingling. It felt like the world had shifted, and their bond had deepened even further. 

As they gazed into each other's eyes, a new understanding passed between them. The kiss had sealed their connection, they had one another now.

And so, hand in hand, hearts entwined, they walked away from that spot with a renewed sense of purpose. The promise of their next meeting held a different kind of magic now, the magic of a shared kiss that had ignited a fire within them.

Their path ahead might be uncertain, but with the memory of that kiss etched into their hearts, they knew they could navigate any uncharted territory, as long as they were together.

[meridien-moonquills]

You Cannot Accio on People - The Charm Class

Charms with Professor Ronen was as demanding as ever, the classroom filled with flickering wand movements and the occasional burst of accidental magic. Today’s lesson focused on mastering Accio, the summoning spell, and Depulso, which caused objects—or unfortunate opponents—to slam forcefully to be pushed away.

Vianka, having practiced the spells on a recent trip to Hogsmeade, found herself ahead of the curve, though her friends were still testing their limits.

Sebastian, always eager to make an impression, aimed his wand at a precariously stacked pile of books. With a flourish and a mischievous grin, he cast Depulso, sending away the entire pile, and additionally, he cast again, which crashed them to the floor with a resounding thud that startled half the class.

Professor Ronen turned sharply, raising an eyebrow.

“Impressive enthusiasm, Mr. Sallow,”

he said dryly.

“Though I suggest you avoid that particular display in the library. Madam Scribner might not be as forgiving.”

Vianka pressed a hand to her mouth, trying to suppress a laugh as Ominis leaned slightly toward her and muttered,

“At this rate, he’d need a lifetime ban from the library.”

----

As the class drew to a close, students began tidying their workstations, their chatter filling the air. Vianka stood by a shelf near the corner, carefully organizing her notes and reflecting on her progress. She felt confident, having mastered the day’s spellwork with precision. But as she tucked her quill into her bag, a faint tug in the air caught her off guard.

"Accio Vianka.”

Her eyes widened as she felt the magical pull—not abrupt but smooth and deliberate—drawing her gently across the classroom floor. She glided slightly, her feet barely lifting as if the spell respected her balance. Within moments, she was in front of Ominis, who caught her shoulder with perfect precision. His hands were steady, his posture confident, as if he had rehearsed the moment a thousand times.

Vianka’s cheeks flushed, though she silently thanked that Ominis couldn’t see her embarrassment.

“What a smooth technique to demonstrate, Ominis. You even avoided the usual colliding and falling. I’m impressed.”

“Perhaps you’re just lighter to summon than a book.”

Vianka opened her mouth to respond, but before she could, a voice interrupted.

“Depulso, Ominis!”

The spell shot toward Ominis, aiming to push him away from Vianka with a playful burst of magic. But it fizzled out mid-air, leaving Ominis completely unaffected. Sebastian frowned, clearly unsatisfied.

Sebastian muttering,

“Well, that’s disappointing. Let’s try again, shall we?”

He raised his wand again, this time directing it at a nearby pile of books. “Depulso books!”

The stack of books flew toward Ominis with a forceful push, and before he could react, he stumbled backward into a stack of cauldrons. The loud clanging echoed through the room as the cauldrons toppled, creating a chaotic mess.

Vianka gasping, her hand flying to her mouth, “Sebastian!”

But before she could scold him, Ominis’s voice rang out from the pile of overturned cauldrons, sharp and controlled.

“Sebastian.”,

He stood, brushing dust off his robes, his expression calm but his tone brimming with irritation.

“One day, I will repay this favor. And believe me, you’ll regret it.”

Sebastian, clearly unbothered, crossed his arms and grinned.

“I’ll take my chances. You have to admit, though—it was worth it just to see your face.”

---- “Honestly, you two.”

She trailed off, unsure whether to laugh or scold them. Instead, her thoughts wandered. Not everything—or everyone—can be summoned or repelled with spells. The magical interaction between Accio, Depulso, and their targets was puzzling, but it intrigued her.

As the trio gathered their things, Ominis shot one last glare in Sebastian’s direction, while Sebastian sauntered away with a smug grin. Vianka couldn’t help but smile. Sometimes, magic wasn’t the only thing that drew people together—or pushed them apart.

ominis pic by @legacyshenanigans (Pinterest)

[sushi-atsushilover]

Yea so I think this REALLY annoyed some people

Lol ATLEAST give me some logic, but obviously you won't will you? I mean since when did delulu people have a single briancells in their heads? They literally admit they're delusional and joke around about it to make themselves feel better. Just LOOK at this scene yeah?

Wtf. Like literally wtf.

Anne looks horrified cuz well duh there's a snake on her. And for some reason it simply HAD to slither into there out of all the places? And in the most suggestive way of all time? Like it could've curled around her neck or just stayed there until Sebastian removed it? What was the need behind this?

What's more is that doesn't this scene feel WRONG to some people? This is literally the cliche anime fanservice scene where a girl's scared and horrified in a very sexual position, then she says the classic "YAmEtE kUdAsAI!!" but of course it doesn't stop and the girl is publicly humiliated. There are multiple people present yet no one does anything until the fanservice has fully fanserviced, and it contributes nothing to the plot. Oscar said she smelled like a werewolf, this does actually move the plot forward, but couldn’t it have been done in any other way!?

What's more is that the girl was literally SA'd and it's considered comedic. But I guess what else would you expect from a fujoshi who writes yaoi? This scene isn't SA? It very much would've been if it was an actual person in Oscar's place, but please don't act like none of you know this is to satisfy fantasies of sick people. The animal doing it is the ONLY thing that stops it from being SA, what's more is that the animal is MORE than self aware. Don't act like you don't know Yana didn't just make an animal do it to get less criticism.

The girl is touched sexually without her consent by something she's PETRIFIED of, she CAN'T fight back as she fears that it could result in DEATH. And then some creepy ass demon comes over to nonchalantly pull it out, tryna act cool, and then starts smirking like the mf he is. Like WHAT are you smiling about? F*** off fr. The world would be a better place without you.

And if this really doesn't matter then lets look at the main issue shall we? The disgusting issue that continues to exist even now, a problem STILL not fixed. And also the biggest reason why I hate Yana with all my heart.

What. The. F*** is her issue with constantly fetishizing and sexualizing Ciel, a 12-13 year old boy? She's constantly making him wear strange clothing against his consent, and he and Sebastian, even if they're not in a BL, often interact in very inappropriate scenes. Let's not act like she doesn't know most of her fans are obsessed over Sebastian, and she literally writes him in that way. Doesn't this count as fanservice? She makes him have sexual scenes, and writes and shows him in a way that appeals to both Fujoshis and crazy fangirls. Like Sebastian's mere existence is fanservice, and him and Ciel are literally yaoi bait. They're obviously NOT canon, if Yana made them canon her whole career would end, so she lets out her sick fetish fantasies and writes to appeal to showerless fans by writing them subtly sexual/fetishized scenes. You can't even deny it. It's all there. The end.

Unpopular opinion: Black Butler is one if the worst animes I've ever seen. Like yk in the Emerald Witch arc?

The VERY moment I laid eyes on this character I already knew she was gonna be used for the most unnecessary fan service scene and Sebastian will be involved.

The amount of fanservice and yaoi bait in Black Butler is simply detestable. I USED to like it a lot, until I saw Ciel being forced to wear clothes he didn’t like, him getting unnecessarily groped by Sieglinde and many other shit. Like wth. Tf is wrong with Yana Toboso?

[spooky-bunnys]

Hiii can you make an Undertaker one? It’s okay if you don’t :D

It's the Undertaker! I had to do something for him! Hope you Enjoy!

When Ciel arrived at the Undetaker's funeral palor for information regarding to his current case, he wasn't expecting company. Well...live company that is. When he entered the palor he wasn't expecting to see Undertaker interacting with someone that was actually living and breathing.

When the bell rang over the entry door. The conversing duo stopped and looked at the door. Noticing the Young Earl and his faithful butler. "Oh! Sorry. I didn't know you'd be expecting guests". A male with (hair color) hair spoke standing. His eyes were a dark purple. Which immediately Sebastian noticed.

He gave a small smirk. "Hello (Name)." The male now introduced as (Name). Looked confused. Ciel was equally confused on how his butler knew the male and not him. Unless...."He isn't human?" (Name) looked surprised. "How...." (Name) took a good look at the butler and noticed Sebastian's eyes and nodded. "Demons."

Ciel looked between the two extremely confused. "How the bloody hell?" (Name) gave the Young Earl a smile and bowed. "You must be Earl Phantomhive. I've heard so much about you!" Ciel looked at the Undertaker Furious. "Why the bloody hell would you tell other supernatural creatures about me!" The Undertaker laughed loudly. That's when Sebastian cut in. "He didn't Young Master. (Name) is a Fairy. He lives in the forest surrounding the Manor."

Ciel stared at the young male. "A Fairy? Like in the fairy tales?" (Name) gave a small huff. "I hate those fucking stories." The Undertaker laughed harder hanging on the young male. "Interestly Fairys are almost completely different from those children stories. So my little (Name) here is nothing like the stories you were told." The Undertaker hugged the male close to him.

"Your little (Name)?" The sliver haired male nodded excitedly. "After so many centuries he's finally accepted my marriage proposal!" Ciel looked flabbergasted at the "Young" male. "Centuries?! Just how blood old are you?!" (Name) laughed at his reaction. "I'm only 1,900 years old. I'm actually still quiet young." ONLY 1,900!? Sebastian looked surprised."Why you are still quite young then aren't you."

Ciel turned to Sebastian Furious. "You knew about them?!" "Well of course Young Master. How do you think I was able to rebuild the Manor so many times. (Name)'s tribe is quite helpful when it comes to issues like that." Ciel whipped to the other male. "Wait! You were the one to build my Manor?" (Name) nodded with a smile. Undertaker smiled brightly. "My little Fairy is quite the worker isn't he?"

The fairy blushed and pushed the Undertaker off him and brushed the "dirt" from his clothes. "Well since you're here that must mean you need help with a case. I shall see you later Taker." (Name) gave the male a short but passionate kiss. He turned and looked at Sebastian with a raised brow. "My elders are wondering when you'll come again. Apparently you missed the last meeting."

Sebastian gave a small bow smirking as he did. "Yes, unfortunately we were caught up in a case. I shall visit as soon as my master excuses me later." (Name) nodded and gave a deep bow to the Earl. "It was nice to finally meet you Young Master. I'll see you again soon." Then (Name) was surrounded by a pale green light and disappeared. Leaving a small (Flower) in his place.

[freya-fallen]

Word count: 634

Part 1

Sebastian is, overall, an attentive yandere to the one who caught his eye. While he and Ciel don't have mortal needs, he is still a trained butler.

Moreover, his sweet pet takes care of cats. How could he ever forget his darling when she provides such an important service?

It begins after that kiss. You can't just up and leave, you see. You have cats to care for, and finding a home without leaving them on the streets would be nigh on impossible.

Besides, Sebastian lets you know before he leaves you that first night that he "has sampled your soul and could follow it anywhere."

Those words have etched fear into your marrow. You recognize a warning even when it's sweetly coded. He enjoys the chase, remember, and will hunt you down to the ends of the earth if you flee. When he catches you, it will be with whetted appetite and sharpened claws.

No, better to stay.

His visits are sporadic at first: he'll appear in the night and pass like a shadow. You wouldn't even notice if not for the demon's hums of pleasure as he interacts with your feline companions. You try to stay in bed and will yourself to sleep. Only...

Eventually he starts coming into your bedroom, too.

"I know you're awake, little human. It's so cute how you play pretend. Tell me, would you play act if I laid beside you and stroked my talons across all that vulnerable flesh?” You cannot help the shiver that passes over you where you hide beneath your blankets. He chuckles and the tap of his heels resounds in the otherwise quiet room. “It’s lovely, how you tremble at my presence.”

The bed dips and groans. Feathers flutter against the duvet and talons hook over the edge to drag it down.

“Won’t you look at me, little mortal?” The being croons breath as hot as hellfire against your ear. You shake your head. “I’ll take a safer form for you.” Sharp nails tickle beneath your chin and guide your face forward. They dig in when you stubbornly refuse to look.

Reluctantly, you bat apart your lashes. The bloody crimson of the demon’s eyes glint down at you in his handsome face. His smile is a blade and his teeth gleam white in the darkness. It’s unfair that something so unholy is so beautiful, like blaspheming god’s creation.

“There she is, my pretty human. You know, you spend far too much time at that job of yours. It limits my ability to check in on you,” he complains.

Your brows rise. “I have to work."

“Hm. No, I don’t think you do. You’ll quit.”

You can’t help the disbelieving laugh. “I need money to live.”

He waves it off. “You’ll be fine, little mortal. Trust me; I’ll take care of everything.”

“And what would you want in return?” Your voice is a whisper as you ask it; you know better than to make a deal with a devil. “My soul?”

He dips down to nuzzle your shoulder, lips soft against bare flesh and send shivers of pleasure down your spine. It mixes deliciously with your fear. “Nothing quite so nefarious. I’d be quite satisfied with the delights of your body.” Sharp black nails tear aside the layers between you and his black-clad form insinuates against your body. “After all, you are such a delightfully responsive thing. Shall I make you mine now?”

Before you can reply, his teeth sink into you like a hot knife, and you’re lost.

After this night, he will relocate you to his shared domicile, cats and all. Ciel is no longer allergic, and will have the majority of the home without felines. He willl just have to learn to accept Sebastian’s new pet and her additions.

[k-s-morgan]

Those Gentle Slopes That Lead to Hell: Snippet 1

This is the unedited version, but it’s long and I hope you enjoy it!

------------

After his lord’s terrible transgression of today, Sebastian anticipated his failure with an even hotter vigour.

“Spying on your teachers again?” he asked loudly. The boy jumped and immediately glared at him.

“Shut up,” he hissed. “Or did I return your voice to you prematurely? I’ll be more than happy to repossess it.”

Sebastian tried to imagine the threat on a more physical level: he envisioned his Master cutting into his human throat with a bloodthirsty grin and removing his larynx. How would his body function after this? Would he have to rely solely on his powers to speak? Would the language he’d use be a human one or would he only be able to speak demonic?

“Stop standing there like a giant lamp-post,” the boy snapped at him. “Get down!”

For the second time in two days, Sebastian was jerked downwards with a surprising amount of strength. He succumbed out of curiosity more than necessity, and while resentment still burned a liquid path from his chest straight to his brain, he decided to postpone feeling it.

“Which of them are you trying to catch this night?” he wondered. Whitmore had been too brainless to show restraint, but surely the others had better class? There was no possible way that they all had betrayed their secrets already. Sebastian had been keeping watch and he hadn’t noticed anything incriminating — not counting the fascinated stares Aimens kept throwing at his lord’s clothing. This was quickly getting annoying.

Young Master flashed him a mysterious smile.

“What would I gain from telling you?” he inquired. “Come up with your own conclusions.”

This could mean anything from the boy being stubbornly protective of his knowledge to him being entirely clueless and deciding to watch the sleeping house out of precaution. Sebastian couldn’t tell which option was more likely, and he knew better than to ask. No matter how he phrased it, he wouldn’t get a satisfying response.

“You have a remarkable talent for being a nuisance,” he told him instead. To his distaste, this seemed to please his Master a great deal.

“I know,” he said smugly. “You aren’t the first person to tell me this.”

Sebastian snorted.

“This does not surprise me in the least.”

“Would you like a reference?” his lord asked teasingly. His earlier sullenness was gone, replaced with glowing gleefulness. “I’m sure those people would love to exchange stories with you.”

Sebastian wasn’t certain he’d be amenable to hearing anyone speak badly of his Master, but the perspective was intriguing.  

“Are they alive to talk?” he asked. He imagined their enemies to be the ones with the tendency to insult the boy, but they were all dealt with. Unless it was about the deceased Phantomhives?  

“One of them is.” With a disdainful sniff, his Master shifted so that he could lean against Sebastian, as if he were a supporting pillow. It was odd, but Sebastian was too interested in the story to pay attention to it, so he simply wrapped his arm around the boy’s waist to support him better.

“Shall I make a guess?”

“Why not? It’s not like it would take you long. Which person in my surroundings despises my existence and spends every moment glaring at me?”

Sebastian’s mind instantly swept through each potential option before settling on one.

His Master was right, it hadn’t taken him a second.

“Your cousin?” he suggested. Lord Edward Midford was a plain young man who worked hard to imitate his strict mother. The artificial mask of nobility and self-importance was boring to observe. He wore it all the time: it only ever slipped when Midford was interacting with Young Master. Heavy dislike and suspiciousness were radiating off him in strong waves, and Sebastian never failed to find it amusing.

“Yes,” the boy wrinkled his nose. “His attempts at intimidation are pathetic. I would have forbidden his visits entirely if I didn’t know it would push Elisabeth over the edge. I don’t want to be saddled with that kind of crying mess.”

Sebastian shuddered at the thought. Lady Elisabeth could undoubtedly be loud, but in addition, her hysterics tended to upset the servants and make his Master miserable.

“Lord Edward is merely trying to play the role of a protective brother,” he said. A new thought came to his mind, and he hid a smile. “Since Lady Elisabeth is your betrothed, it is only natural for him to treat you with wariness. Preserving her chastity is his duty.”  

As he expected, his lord spluttered, an embarrassed redness flooding his face.

“Her what?!” he exclaimed. His question was loud enough to break the night silence, so even if one of the teachers had been planning to venture outside, they were bound to change their minds. Two birds with one stone — who said only his Master could be inventive with his ploys?

“Her chastity,” Sebastian repeated calmly. The blush flared brighter on his lord’s cheeks, the scent of his blood growing almost irresistibly stronger. Since it was dark and human sight was limited, Sebastian allowed himself to lean lower, stopping an inch from the boy’s soft skin and inhaling the scent off it.

Something dark and hungry stirred inside. His human teeth transformed as the tips of his fangs pierced his lips; his energy turned more feral and authentic, taking the form of a toxic cloud.

All of a sudden, his lord sagged, almost falling into him. His eyelashes fluttered and his mortified expression softened into calmness.

“That’s not it,” he retorted in a surprisingly peaceful voice. He pressed closer to Sebastian, laying his head on his chest. “Edward has other reasons for hating me. A lot of it is tied to Elisabeth, but it’s not really about— what you said. I think he’s concerned about her safety as a whole.”

“Oh?” this was delightfully intriguing. Sebastian was uncertain as to what had come over his lord, but he welcomed the opportunity to get a glimpse into a part of the history he wasn’t aware of.

The fact that such parts existed didn’t feel right. For as long as he was serving Ciel Phantomhive, he was responsible for knowing every little thing about him. That he had no idea what specific event had triggered Edward Midford’s dislike irked him — it was more bothersome that he could have anticipated.

“Edward was never my biggest admirer but he was quite fond of me,” his lord said. Since he couldn’t see him, Sebastian didn’t bother perfecting his human visage. His darkness reached out greedily, brushing against the boy’s neck with possessive eagerness, and something about it nearly made him purr in pleasure.

The boy himself didn’t appear to sense anything because he only snuggled closer, with no signs of discomfort.

“I think I was… nine? No, probably eight,” he uttered. His heart was beating evenly, the beautiful sound only rivalled by his voice. “It was Lizzy’s birthday and we were celebrating it at the manor. The adults were at the table and Edward had to watch over me and Lizzy to make sure we didn’t get into trouble. We tried to ignore him, but he was so obnoxious. He kept telling me off for every small thing. ‘Don’t run so fast, Lizzy can’t catch you. Don’t move your hands so abruptly, you might accidentally hit her. Don’t stand too close to her, it is unbecoming.’” The boy changed his voice accordingly, and Sebastian snorted with laughter. It sounded like a bad copy of Midford’s barking.

His lord half-shifted to face him, looking pleased with his reaction.

“So, he was annoying me,” he continued. “I ignored him for the most part or pretended to obey him only to do what I wanted a minute later. He went on and on, and it was driving me mad. At some point, I pulled at Lizzy’s hair just out of vindictiveness. I didn’t want to hurt her but I wanted to hurt him. And it worked,” his Master’s lips curled in an obvious resentment.

What a strange creature. The event had taken place years ago yet he still felt strongly about it. Humans could make things so needlessly complicated.        

“Edward got all red in the face. He looked downright murderous, and before I even blinked, he jumped to me and slapped my hand away from Lizzy. It wasn’t painful at all, but it was the last straw. I got so angry, I saw red,” his lord shook his head in dry amusement. “My first instinct was to hit him back, but he was taller and bigger than me, so this wouldn’t have been smart. Realistically, I couldn’t do anything to him, so I just turned and ran into the woods to compose myself.”

“How brave of you,” Sebastian mocked. The boy huffed and elbowed him in the stomach with merciless strength. It felt like a touch of a butterfly, but for someone as fragile as his Master, such force was admirable.  

“Let idiots be brave,” he said derisively. “I’d rather be safe. If you can’t gain an immediate victory, you need to retreat and plan your future triumph. Which is what I did.”

“By wandering through the woods?”

“By thinking,” the boy raised a self-important finger. “At first, I was too furious to do it rationally, but then I almost stepped into the swamp. You know the one? It’s not far from the manor.”

“I know the one,” Sebastian agreed. He’d thrown several bodies in there before they hired the servants for this kind of job. It served two goals at once by providing a convenient location for waste disposal and for his experiment. He’d heard that the bodies buried in swamps looked perfect even decades later. It was his hope to test this idea.

“Right,” his lord said. His voice became a little slurred, as if he was getting sleepy or intoxicated. For some reason, Sebastian found it endearing. “My predecessor always forbade me from going there, but naturally, I disobeyed. I always disobeyed, they just didn’t know it. I loved these woods, I knew them well, and if I hadn’t been as distracted, I would have never come so close to the swamp. I’d have been more careful. But it happened, and it got me thinking.”

“You seem to be doing nothing but thinking in your story,” Sebastian pointed out. The boy let out a sound of exasperation.

“Would you rather I pummelled Edward into the ground?” he asked indignantly. “I’m not some stupid demon. I have other skills.”

“A demon would not find themselves in this situation in the first place. They would simply employ the physical power you claim to detest.”

“I don’t detest it. I consider it a duty of those with lesser minds.”

“Physical and mental prowesses are not mutually exclusive.”    

“Well, they are in your case. Look at yourself — you’re going to lose the game you yourself have set up. It’s laughable.”

The annoyance returned more palpably this time. It threatened to dip into anger, and Sebastian directed it across his true form, letting it fuel it. It was preferable to succumbing to instincts and throttling his lord right here.

The darkness flared in response. Its toxic tongues licked the boy’s skin fervently, and this time, he appeared to notice because he made an inquisitive sound. But it reminded Sebastian of delight rather than of distress, so he stilled, confused and uncertain.

His Master was acting more oddly than usual. Was it normal for humans to react to demonic essence like this? This had never been the case in Sebastian’s experience. Perhaps he was mistaken and his lord was simply too sleepy to understand what he was sensing?  

“I devised a plan,” the boy continued, apparently satisfied with his silence. “It wasn’t all that detailed or clever — I just knew I wanted Edward to pay and now I had the means to accomplish my revenge. I threw some broken branches on top of the swamp to mask it a little; then I sat down a safe distance away and screamed his name. I don’t remember what I was saying exactly — I think I was just yelling for him to help me. I knew he would come running no matter what a nuisance he thought me to be, and, well, he did.”

“What a vengeful creature you are,” Sebastian drawled, genuinely impressed. He could see where this was going, and his previous anger cooled to brimming fascination.

He’d always thought that his Master had been a sweet and well-behaved child before his encounter with the Queen’s henchmen. This was what Madam Red, Lady Elisabeth and her parents always implied. Who knew that the boy had heard the first whispers of the darkness long before that fateful day?

“I am,” his Master agreed. He sounded smug again. “No self-respecting human should let the insult go. Edward followed the sound of my voice — when he saw me sitting on the ground, he assumed I was hurt, and like I expected, he rushed towards me without looking at where he was stepping. He got into the swamp. It was so sudden — he fell almost waist-deep in a blink of a second. It took him some time to realise that he was drowning and that he couldn’t get out, and do you know what he did then?”

“Begged for help?” Sebastian suggested condescendingly. To his curiosity, the boy shook his head.

“He shouted for me to stay away,” he said, his voice growing thoughtful. “He was under the illusion that I would try to help him and he wanted to protect me. Even when facing mortal danger, his first thought was about my safety. It was strange and I didn’t understand it — and I don’t like things that I don’t understand. So I smiled and told him that he had nothing to worry about since I wasn’t planning on helping him anyway. That’s when I think he understood what was happening.”

Sebastian hid a grin in the boy’s hair. His fangs attempted to elongate further to pierce the skin protecting the brain and absorb the images it held, and it took an effort to re-arrange his expectations.

What he wouldn’t give to be able to witness this. An eight-year-old Ciel Phantomhive, even tinier than the version Sebastian had first met, but equally resourceful and malicious. Sitting at the edge of the swamp and watching his cousin slowly drown.

A shudder of delight rolled through him, and Sebastian hissed his gleeful approval.

“That’s when he started to scream for help,” the boy sighed and shifted, transferring even more of his weight onto Sebastian. “He was so loud, it hurt my ears. I wished his mouth would disappear under the surface already, but before it happened, the adults came running. Lizzy must have alerted them after Edward answered my call. They got him out and he kept repeating that I wanted to kill him. I don’t know why, but it seemed to have shocked him profoundly. His eyes were glassy, he was dirty and trembling, and he kept saying, ‘He planned to kill me. He nearly killed me, he did it on purpose.’”

“It’s not every day that your cousin attempts to murder you in cold blood,” Sebastian noted. The boy half-shrugged.

“It’s not like we were friends,” he said. “I didn’t owe Edward anything. I was starting to worry that I’d be punished but the adults didn’t believe him. They told him that he must have imagined things because of his frightful experience. I pretended that it slipped my memory. Eventually, Edward stopped talking about it, too, but I know he never forgot it. I can see it when he looks at me.”      

[thejadedking]

Although Galeb was no expert when it came to magic, he did have some amount of knowledge, at least being able to identify it when right before his very eyes. Being able to shield them from onlookers and eavesdroppers was certainly a useful trick, one that he wouldn't mind himself at times, tired of knowing what conversations were could be overheard by younger generations and others whenever he walked among them, usually only going at the behest of the Prince. Otherwise, he preferred to keep to himself, aside from the occasional interaction with his retainers, business meetings and those who would become his specially picked meals. But being able to sit in public and discuss what they were? It was against the rules regardless of whether the spell protected him or not, though the Kindred was rather banking on Sebastian keeping it between just the two of them.

After all, neither one should be talking so casually to the other, that much Galeb knew for sure.

"Mm. A lawyer who seeks real justice and not simply the growing weight of his wallet? Quite the rarity." The creature's voice mused as he eyed him with that same wicked glint in his eyes, evidently somewhat amused, though surprised at the thought of someone actually caring about anything other than money. He was a Ventrue, after all, even if not embodying every trait of his clan to the fullest extent.

"Indeed. Though what is morality to a monster?" His smile widened to one side, fingers idly tapping against the table one at a time, the compass tattoo on the back of his hand showing. "Diamonds. Among other things." Not that he knew it, but that was one of the nickname's that some of his kind had given him, calling him 'the Diamond'. Even if he'd known, he'd probably have just rolled his eyes at it. He also wasn't about to admit that he was also the Boston Camarilla's executioner. "I have... expensive tastes, shall we say?" If not also rather picky when it came to blood.

So they both had something else in common: a natural curiosity towards intriguing characters. It was clear in Galeb’s eyes as he studied Sebas that there was some level of interest behind his eyes; it wasn’t every day that a vampire came across a mage, he figured. On one hand, the history between the Tremere and the Order of Hermes had soured whatever relationship could exist between kindred and enlightened. On the other, mages like Sebas, who belonged to said Order, were forbidden from interacting with ‘blook suckers’. It made him wonder if Galeb’s community had similar rules towards his kind.

And yet, Sebas was somehow thrilled of all the interesting things he could learn from this encounter.

“That depends,” he answered the vampire’s question with a kind voice, leaning back on his seat after he made sure the sound bubble he casted was perfectly placed to give them privacy despite their setting. “I’m known to use some of my advantages when building a case, to gather information and proof and whatnot. But never in court. Call me a romantic, but I still believe in justice.”

Perhaps it was a rather lukewarm answer, but his own pride as a lawyer wouldn’t let him influence the outcome of a trial, only the build up to it. Needless to say, using his abilities to influence a jury would be -as Galeb neatly put it- very unfair.

“I don’t think anyone in the supernatural community can be said to be playing fair. It gets quite complicated to apply regular morality systems to any of us, don’t you think?” Sebas added, making a small pause to have a sip of his coffee. “What about you? What is your business, Galeb?”

[ricciardonorrisleclercgasly]

Lose the Dress || Sebastian Vettel

Not my gif.

Part 2 to Dont Play Games with Me.

Requested: No

Pairing: Sebastian Vettel x Reader

Warnings: Oral Sex male recieving, Penetrative Sex female receiving.

EXPLICIT CONTENT UNDER 18S DO NOT INTERACT.

Find my masterlist here.

Find my prompt list here.

Requests are open.

Sebastian takes you on a date and, as promised, this time it's his turn.

You heard the knock at your front door as you were slipping your shoes on. "Who is it? You called out. "It's me" you heard Sebastian shout back.

"Come in, I'm nearly ready"

You heard the door open behind you as you applied your lipstick in the mirror.

"Wow" Sebastian mumbled as he appeared in the mirror behind you, wrapping his arms around you and planting a kiss on your cheek. "You look amazing liebling" he said holding your hand and twirling you around, making you giggle. "You don't look too bad yourself" you smirked at him. Sebastian led you out to his car, opening the passenger door for you before climbing into the drivers seat. "So where are we going?" You asked.

"I know a place" he said nonchalantly, placing his hand on your thigh as he drove. His touch drove you insane, it felt as though his fingertips were burning through your bare skin.

After a short drive you pulled into a quite carpark next to a quaint little restaurant, Sebastian hurried round to your door, opening it for you and giving you his hand whilst you stepped out of the car. You headed inside the restaurant hand in hand.

"Ah Mr Vettel!" The waiter greated him.

"I told you, call me Seb" he grinned shaking the waiters hand.

"Okay Sebastian," the waiter said, "and who is this beautiful lady with you?"

"This is Y/N, she's my date, isn't she gorgeous" Seb said wrapping his arm around you.

"Well you are a very lucky man, right this way." You blushed at the compliments as the waiter led you both into a small private room. There were candles all around and fresh cut flowers in vases. Sebastian pulled out your chair for you and kissed your cheek as you sat down, he really was the perfect gentleman. He sat opposite you and ordered a bottle of wine for the table. The waiter came back and poured you both a glass, handing over the menu's. "What would you recommend?" You asked glancing up from the menu.

"The pasta here is to die for" he smiled at you.

"Okay. I'll have the pasta then"

Sebastian ordered for you both as you sat and talked at the table.

"So I know that this is very early" you said nervously, "but I know Christian doesn't take well to his employees dating" you took a bite of your food.

"Don't worry about Christian. I will deal with him when the time comes." Sebastian said calmly reassuring you.

You ate your meal, chatting away together. Sebastian asked all about your journey to the red bull garage, you told him about your time at university and your internships, you asked about his time karting and growing up in Germany. You shared desert together, finishing off your bottle of wine.

"Shall we head back to mine? For coffee?" Sebastian asked, signalling to the waiter that you were ready for the bill.

"I would love to" you smiled. You reached for your purse to pay your part of the bill.

"Put that away, this is my treat" Sebastian said swatting your hand away from the bill. He tossed some notes on the table and lead you out of the restaurant.

When you arrived at Sebastians you were in awe. His house was beautiful and modern. He opened the door for you again and took your hand, leading you inside. "Please make yourself at home, how do you take your coffee?" Seb said showing you to the living room.

"Just milk, no sugar. I'm already sweet enough" you winked at him sitting down on the sofa. Sebastian shook his head with a smile and went off to make the coffee. You kicked of your heels and settled into the seat, scrolling through your phone as you waited for him to return. Seb came back quickly holding two cups of coffee, he placed them on the table, loosening his tie and taking off his jacket and shoes. You sipped your coffee as your eyes locked his figure, you were always in awe of Sebastian but seeing him in a suit always made you weak at the knees. "You're staring again" Sebastians voice snapped you out of you trance, you looked up at him to see a smirk on his lips. "Sorry. Sometimes I can't help myself" you mumbled looking away sheepishly. Seb now stood close, towering over you, he cupped your chin and tilted your face up towards him, "Don't be sorry Schatz" he said kissing your lips, "I can't take my eyes off you either, especially when you look like this" he sank into the chair next to you, pulling you up onto him.

You straddled his lap, knees at either side of his hips and his hands on your waist. Your forehead resting against his as your lips pressed against his, his fingertips gripping your body and pulling you agaisnt his. You opened your mouth, giving his tongue full access moaning against his lips. You rocked your hips against his, desperate to increase the friction between your thighs, Sebastian bulge growing underneath you pressing against his trousers. You kissed down his neck and jawline nipping and sucking at the skin as you went. Sebastian's moans echoed through the room, spurring you on for more. You climbed off his lap sinking to your knees in front of him and unbuttoning his trousers. He lifted his hips slightly as you wiggled them down his legs, his cock sprung out from his boxers already hard. Holding the base of his cock you slid your lips down his shaft, Seb moaned loudly running his hands through your hair and gripping tightly. You continued to suck on his length, pressing your tongue against the underside driving him crazy. He guided your head back and forth with his hand in your hair, you gave Sebastian full control as you pleasured him, spit and precum running down your chin and he pushed his cock deep down your throat making you choke. Suddenly Seb pulled you back, falling out of your mouth, "Upstairs, now" he demanded, without saying a word you rose to your feet and followed him up to the bedroom. "Lose the dress" he said kicking off his trousers and buttoning his shirt. You did as you were told and slipped out of your dress leaving you stood there in your underwear. "God damn you are so sexy" he moaned kissing your neck and pulling you close to him, you could feel his cock press against you as his hands ran over your ass. He lifted his hand and landed it back on your ass with a stinging impact, you hissed at the sensation but longed for more. Sebastian picked you up and tossed you on the bed, his lips not leaving your neck, you moaned loudly as he positioned himself between your legs pressing his rock hard erection against your core. He broke away from you for just a second to pull your underwear off your body, he took a second to look over your naked body in awe of your beauty. He lined his tip up with your entrance teasing you as he rubbed up and down through your folds, he pushed into you slowly moaning at the feeling of your walls around him. You wrapped your legs around him, pulling him in closer, Sebastian started to build up his rhythm thrusting deep inside of you. Both your moans filling the room with the room with sounds of ecstasy. Seb reached his hand down between you, his thumb started circling your clit. You dug your nails into his back as you started to reach your high, the combination of Sebastians thrust and stimulation was hitting you hard. You scratched at his back as you tipped over the edge moaning out loudly for Seb. Feeling you tightening around his cock was driving him insane, attaching his lips to your neck, Sebastian left big blue love bites over your skin. His thrusts becoming more and more erratic as he neared his orgasm, Sebastian was moaning your name loudly. Just before he reached his high he pulled out of you, finishing off with his hand and cumming all over your stomach. He grabbed a towel to clean you both up and tossed you a tshirt out his drawer. You put your panties back on and pulled the tshirt on over your head, sitting on the edge of his bed. Sebastian climbed under the covers pulling you in next to him. You laid cuddled up on his chest whilst he played with your hair. "I don't know why I waited this long" Seb laughed.

"What do you mean?" You questioned propping yourself up to look at him.

"Ever since the first day you stepped foot in that garage I wanted to get my hands on you"

"Then why'd you wait?" You said.

"Because I knew that every single guy in there wanted you and you never seemed interested"

"Yeah because I was interested in you!" You laughed tapping his chest.

"Yeah well I know that now" Sebastian said kissing you and wrapping his arm around you.

@mysticalnightenthusiast

[that-one-weird-fangirl2020]

peace | S. Sallow | Chapter Four

Sebastian Sallow x F!OC

Warnings: cursing (if you squint), mentions of death, slightly sexual content by the end.

It must have still been the early hours of the morning when Ariadne woke again. It was the smell of cinders and sandalwood that brought her to reality. She quickly untangled herself from Sebastian and got off the sofa, making her way back to her dorm. Ariadne found Imelda, Grace Pinch-Smedley, Nerida Roberts, and Arista Deadshadow all milling about and getting ready for classes.

It was Imelda who noticed Ariadne walk in, "And where were you?"

The girl walked over to her trunk and opened it, pulling out a clean uniform. A white cotton blouse, a gray skirt, a green Slytherin blazer, and her house robe.

"It's none of your concern," Ariadne answered, shedding off her nightgown and changing into her school uniform.

"You were gone when all of us woke up," Nerida, who was fixing her hair into its normal bun, said.

"My business is my own, again, it's none of your concern." She applied a bit of perfume, undoing the braid she had in her hair, and ran a brush through it before re-braiding it, tossing it over her shoulder.

"Oh come on, Ariadne, I saw you fast asleep in Sebastian Sallow's arms this morning in the common room when I went to use the girl's lavatory," Grace teased earning a half-hearted glare from Ariadne.

"He just helped calm me down after a nightmare. That's all. Nothing else happened. We're just friends." She felt like she was repeating herself. It was getting quite frustrating.

"You fancy him, don't you?" Imelda this time, not much to Ariadne's surprise.

"Why is it any concern of yours if I fancy Sebastian or not?"

"Because it's obvious," Imelda sighed, "it doesn't take a Ravenclaw to figure out that you fancy him."

"How is it obvious?" Ariadne felt her face flush as she faced the wall away from the girls.

"Sleeping in the common room together for one," Arista Deadshadow finally piped up, running a brush through her dark chocolate locks.

She was courting Amit Thakkar. Not only did she have beautiful chocolate hair, but she had tan skin to compliment it and a set of beautiful blue eyes. Arista and Amit certainly had a beautiful courtship from what Ariadne observed.

"Secondly, you and Sallow spent most of fifth year together," Nerida pointed out, "honestly, it wouldn't be a surprise if the two of you started courting."

She rolled her eyes and was done with the conversation. Ariadne grabbed her school bag and left the room, giving all her roommates an obscene gesture. She found Ominis in the common room conversing with a disheveled-looking Sebastian, who was struggling to do his school tie.

"Good morning, boys," Ariadne greeted.

"Oh, good morning, Ariadne," Ominis smiled.

"Ari," Sebastian said, still struggling with his tie.

"Bash, let me fix that for you," The girl chuckled, walking over to the brunette boy and fixing his tie for him.

"Shall we be off to breakfast?" Ominis suggested, taking his wand out and letting it guide him to the Slytherin common room entrance.

"Took the words right out of my mouth, Ominis!" Sebastian exclaimed as he followed his best friend out.

Ariadne lagged behind a little, watching the boys interact as if nothing happened between the two of them. A smile formed on her lips. She watched as they cracked jokes and exchanged smiles themselves.

As she walked behind them, listening to their conversation, Ariadne couldn't help but let her mind wander to the nightmare she had the night before.

*

She was back. Back at the final repository. Ariadne stood victorious over Ranrok. Her breathing was heavy, having just absorbed Isadora's power. A new sense of power overcame her. A new sense of pride.

She reveled in it, feeling the magic course through her veins. An apparition of Professor Fig appeared.

"Professor, this power! It's incredible. Think of all the things I can to do to help people!" She exclaimed, "How much of this I can use."

Fig's face was grim.

"You have disappointed me, my dear child," He said.

Ariadne froze, "But professor-"

"This power should not be wielded by someone so easily swayed by the dark arts..."

That sentence hit Ariadne hard. How did Fig know she was drawn to the dark arts? He couldn't possibly know what transpired in the scriptorium or the catacombs. She swore to Sebastian, Ominis, and even Anne, that this was between them.

"How-" was all she could say and she sank to her knees. An impossible guilt consuming her.

Fig turned his back to her, "I'm sorry, my child, but I believe I have failed in teaching you. After all, the magic my wife Miriam and George Osric died for, now lies in the hands of someone I fear will be most likely to fall victim to the dark arts."

And with that, Fig was gone. Ariadne dropped her wand. She failed the man she looked to as a father.

*

"Ariadne?" Sebastian's voice came.

She snapped out of her thoughts to look at the boy next to her, "Hmm?"

"Are you okay?" Ominis asked, who was sitting in front of her, his clouded gaze filled with worry.

"Oh, yes," She lied, "I'm just lost in thought."

Somehow, as she was lost in thought; they ended up at the great hall, and sat at Slytherin's table. She couldn't recall the steps she took to get there, nonetheless grabbed herself a tea cup and made herself some Earl Gray. Ariadne reached for a platter of Raspberry tarts and plucked one from the pile, putting it on her plate.

Sebastian sat next to her, his brown eyes fixed on her. She looked back at him as she took a bite of her tart.

"What?" She narrowed her eyes at him.

"I'm just worried about you," He answered, taking Ariadne's hand in his "Do you want to tell me about that nightmare you had last night?"

She shook her head, "Not at the moment. Later perhaps, where there aren't as many prying eyes and eavesdropping ears."

Sebastian nodded and returned to eating his breakfast. Ominis- who sat across from them- had a questioning look on his face but only shook his head and drank from his goblet of pumpkin juice.

The three Slytherins quietly ate their breakfast before heading off to classes. During fifth period in Defense Against The Dark Arts, Professor Hecat had brought out a Boggart cabinet.

"I know what you're all thinking,

Didn't we cover this in third year? Yes. But this does come up on your N.E.W.Ts." Hecat waved her wand and moved all the desks against the wall.

"Now, can anyone recall the spell used to get rid of Boggarts?" She turned to the class.

Ariadne was standing next to Natty and watched as both Sebastian and Coulter's hands went up. She chuckled and turned to her Gryffindor friend.

"This will be interesting," Ariadne whispered.

"Indeed," Natty agreed with a smile and amusement playing on her features.

"Mr. Sallow," Hecat waved to him to answer.

"Riddikulus," Sebastian answered confidently.

"That is correct. Now as you all know, Boggarts turn into the thing you fear the most. And as the spell implies you will turn the thing you fear very most into something funny!"

Ariadne's stomach dropped, and she felt the color drain from her face. They turn into the thing you fear the most?! She thought. Her thoughts ran wild as she started to fiddle with her fingers.

"Line up!" Hecat called.

One by one students lined up. And one by one students fears came to life before them. Natty's was her father, Coulter's was isolation, Amit's was disappointing his parents.

She watched as Sebastian went next. The Boggart shifted and moved before it finally transformed into a casket. An open casket. Ariadne saw Sebastian stiffen at the sight, his hands shaking slightly as he gripped his wand. Inside the casket lay Anne. She lay there pale and unmoving. His twin. Sebastian's worst fear was the death of his sister.

"Riddikulus!" Sebastian cast the spell and Anne's casket turned into a swarm of monarch butterflies.

He stepped back, taking a shaky breath before returning to the back of the class. Ariadne gave him a sympathetic look before returning her gaze to the cabinet that was now in front of her.

She pulled her wand out. It was beautiful, made of fir wood, eleven and three-quarter inches, reasonably supple, with a unicorn hair core. The wood was white and the handle was black with a silver botanical design spiraling around it.

As the boggart shifted and moved around, Ariadne's mind raced again. Her worst fear could be a number of things. Acromantulas to Godric knows what. A shiver went down her spine. And finally it takes form.

What Ariadne stares at is a mirror image of herself. Except this Ariadne wore black leather combat gear, her eyes were an ominous red glow, and a malicious smile graced her lips.

"Oh, Ariadne, dearest," Her doppelganger chuckled, stepping closer, "you're not scared of acromantulas. Despise them? sure. But you aren't afraid of them. You fear me."

Ariadne gulped, "What do you mean by me?"

The doppelganger smiled wickedly starting to circle her. The sound of the leather boots it wore rapped slowly against the floor.

"You know exactly what I'm talking about," it continued, "you're afraid of yourself."

A dark laugh made its way to its lips, "Well, more specifically, you're afraid to become the person you so crave to be."

"Lies," Ariadne stated, raising her wand to cast the spell.

"Are they? So, you don't desire to wield the power that Isadora Morganach left in that final repository? The very power that you now hold?"

"You're afraid that it will consume you. You're afraid that you failed Professor Fig by taking the power for yourself. What a true Slytherin you are..."

Ariadne shook her head, feeling tears prick at her eyes, "No, that's not true!"

"Its not?" The doppelganger stopped in front of her, squinting its eyes at her, "or are you afraid that it is true?"

"Riddikulus!"

And the doppelganger- boggart- turned into a niffler. She watched it- shaking- as it rolled around with a gold galleon in it's paws. Ariadne turned on her heels and ran out of the class. She didn't care if it was cowardly of her to do so, she's not in Gryffindor like Natty or Gerrath.

"Ari, wait!"

Sebastian.

Ariadne ignored him as she made her way out the DADA tower and up the stairs to the seventh-floor corridor. She entered her room of requirement, trying not to cry. She saw Deek standing in the middle of the room, taking care of the plants she had growing there since fifth year.

The house elf noticed her and smiled, "Deek was wondering when you'd be back! Deek's been taking care of the room and beasts for you!"

"Thank you, Deek, I appreciate it," Ariadne smiled, wiping the tears from her eyes.

***

Sebastian had been looking for Ariadne for hours. He searched the library, the great hall, the quidditch pitch, the Undercroft, and Hogsmeade. No such luck. He wanted to make sure she was okay. Apparently, Ariadne had skipped sixth period and hasn't been seen since according to Imelda.

Where the hell is she? He thought to himself.

Sebastian decided to look in the Astronomy tower. She had to be somewhere. As he walked down the seven-floor corridor a door appeared. He furrowed his brows. He knew what the door led to, but only read about it in a few books on Hogwarts.

The Room of Requirement.

Sebastian stepped through the door, where he was met with a room that very much reminded him of the Slytherin common room, but with a purple aesthetic and not green. Several potion stands, herbology plants, and few vivariums. The ambiance of the room was like walking into the Forbidden Forrest in the dead of night.

And there she stood, Alchemy book in one hand and gaze fixated on a boiling cauldron. Ariadne wasn't wearing her house robe and her braided hair was now tossed into a messy bun on top of her head.

"So, this is where you come to hide," Sebastian said, making the girl jump.

She turned to face him, shock is written all over her face. "How did you get in here?"

"I was just looking for you. I've been searching for hours, it's nearly curfew. I was going to look in the Astronomy tower when this door appeared. Is this what I think it is? The room of requirement?"

Ariadne shook her head a sighed deeply, "Yes, and I come here to get away from prying eyes and to focus on my studies."

"That's brilliant actually," Sebastian said as he approached her, "Do you want to talk about what happened in Defense Against The Dark Arts during fifth period?"

He heard a forced laugh come from the girl. She turned to look at him, her green eyes full of something Sebastian could see said 'really you came to ask a dumb question?'

Ariadne sighed and set her Alchemy textbook down, putting the flames out under her cauldron. She motions for him to follow her into one of the vivariums she had, the enormous one in the middle. Sebastian walked inside with her and was met with a beautiful field and an eternal sunset. It was beautiful. He saw a herd of Mooncalves, puffskeins rolling about, jobberknolls flying in the air, and Nifflers running amuck.

He watched as Ariadne picked up a teel colored Niffler and nuzzled her face against it, before pulling it to her chest. She walked over to Sebastian and held it out to him.

"This is Perry," She said, "you want to hold him?"

Sebastian hesitated before taking the little guy in his hands, "Yeah, sure. Why not?"

The niffler started to climb his arm and shoulder, snuggling into Sebastian's neck. He chuckled and he took hold of the Niffler and brought it to his chest.

"Little rascal, ain't he?" He chuckled.

"What, him? Never!" Ariadne sarcastically rolled her eyes with a laugh and smile that reached her eyes.

She walked further into the vivarium and took a seat on a nearby boulder. She patted the space next to her and Sebastian obliged, sitting next to her with Perry in hand. Ariadne took a galleon out of her pocket and gave it to the Niffler, who took it without question and shoved the shiny item into his pouch. Sebastian chuckled and scratched Perry's head.

"About Defense Against The Dark Arts," Ariadne started, taking a breath, "it also had to do with the nightmare I had last night."

Sebastian looked at her, he could see uncertainty swimming in her green eyes as she looked ahead of her. His full attention was now on her.

"You already know how much the power I wield scares me. I'm scared it'll consume me." Her gaze shifted to him. "I'm also afraid of the person I'll become if I gave into the power. I know that person isn't someone I want anyone to meet. I don't even want to meet that person."

Sebastian could sense the hesitation in Ariadne's voice. There was something else she wasn't telling him.

"And finally... Something thats been eating away at me since the beginning of summer." She gulped and looked away. She started to play with her fingers.

Sebastian furrowed his brow, "Ariadne, what is it? You can tell me."

"I believe I failed him," She choked out.

"Failed who?"

"Fig. I believe I failed him. He was the closest thing I had to a father since my father died. I let him down when I took that power for myself, and he died disappointed in me. I failed him as not only his student, but as the daughter he never had. I'm afraid that if i use the power Isadora Morganach left in the repository, I will have not only failed him, but the Keepers, the school."

She had tears running down her face at this point. She sniffled and hid her face in her hands. Sebastian put the niffler down and watched it scurry off. He turned back to Ariadne as she quietly sobbed into her palms.

He scooped her up in his arms, bringing her into his lap. She was straddling his waist as she wrapped her arms around his neck and sobbed into his shoulder for the second time.

"Ari, I didn't know Fig as well as you did, but I can tell you this. You did not fail him. You saved the school and defeated Ranrok in the process. I think he would be proud of the person you are. The Savior of Hogwarts." Sebastian explained, rubbing circles into Ariadne's back.

"I don't feel like the Savior of Hogwarts!" She pulled back to look at him. "I feel like a fucking train wreck. And it's only a matter of time before I go off the bloody rails."

The boy got an idea then, he cupped her face with one hand.

"What if I helped you learn to control this power? So you don't have to be afraid of it?"

"What? Sebastian, I could hurt you or worse... I-I, I'd have to think about it."

Sebastian used his thumb to wipe away her tears, "Don't worry, love, you don't have to give me a definite answer right now."

Ariadne nodded, "Merlin, look at me. I'm a disaster."

"If it helps, I think you still look gorgeous."

"Shut up, no I don't."

"Yes, you do."

"Bash..." Ariadne gave him a half-hearted glare.

"What? I'm not lying!" He chuckled, "you've always been gorgeous to me."

"Sebastian..." She looked at him with a serious look.

"Ariadne..." He returned the look, holding her close.

Sebastian watched as Ariadne's eyes flickered to his lips and back up. She bit her lip. He brought his other hand up to cup her face. The look she was giving him was making it very hard to control himself and the way she was straddling him. Godric, he hope she didn't notice his little.... friend.

She surged forward, pressing her lips to his. Sebastian easily returned the gesture like he had all those other times over the summer. Her lips felt soft against his rough ones. His eyes closed, letting out a low moan as Ariadne's fingers woven themselves into his hair, tugging slightly. He glided his tongue across her bottom lip, asking for permission. She obliged and Sebastian slipped his tongue into her mouth. She tasted of Earl Gray and honey.

He pulled away, looking into her eyes, "Shall we take this somewhere else?"

Ariadne nodded and got off his lap, taking Sebastian by the wrist and leading him out of the vivarium. She took him down a corridor in the room of requirement that opened up into another room.

This one also felt like the Slytherin common room with the purple aesthetic and not green. One side was a group of couches and chairs with coffee table in the middle. On the otherside was a small library of sorts and few tables with books and papers scatter on them. And back of the room was a four poster bed with lilac colored pillows and coverlet.

"I use this when I want to get away from people. Don't worry, Deek the house elf shouldn't bother us tonight." Ariadne quickly explained as she stopped a few feet from the bed.

"It's perfect," Sebastian said before capturing her lips with his in a heated kiss.

[teebarnes]

Hey:) can u do a fan fic of Chris X !wife reader and Chris and Y/N go live with their baby girl and they answer A few questions and get a personal ones🤷‍♀️

Heyo @lalablozzom :))

Thank you so much for your request, you asked and you shall receive. my apologies it took so long to get to you. I hope you enjoy it :))

Title: Live-streaming with the Evans'

Pairing: Chris Evans x wife!reader

Summary: Just another day in quarantine, you decided to do a live-stream with your daughter and husband to cure your need for social interaction.

Word Count: 1.3k

Warning(s): fluff, mentions of being drunk, you have a chiiild. (not many warnings)

A/N: Requests are currently closed until further notice, apologies to those who have requested. I was on an absolutely needed break, but I am slowly working my way back into posting.

Reminder: Please do not copy, translate or repost my work. I solely write for this account and for the people who send these requests in. 🥰

Holding your daughter on your hip, she fiddled with your necklace. Today was another day of lockdown, and you thought it would be a fun day to go live on Instagram with Chris, and your daughter. A little fun in lockdown with your family never hurt anyone.

You set up your phone in a mount on your bathroom dresser; you sat on one of the chairs you had brought in for both you and Chris to sit on. Chris was in a work meeting for one of his upcoming series being released in a few days, so he had to finish that off before he could join. However, he insisted that you could start without him, and he'd come in when he had finished.

You smiled, sitting your daughter up-right on your lap, holding her careful with both your arms hugging her small frame to make sure she would fall off. It wasn't hard to entertain your daughter. She was just like her dad; she loved exploring new things and she already had her eyes on your bracelets. You turned your live stream on having the three-second timer before you were live for over three million people.

You smiled, waving to all the incoming viewers and comments, "Well, hello there, everyone" you chuckled. "I'm glad you all could make it to our quarantine live-stream." you were patiently watching as all the comments came pouring through your feed, smiling at each of them. A minute had not even gone by, and you had over 100,000 viewers on the live stream. Your small daughter squealed as she played with your hands and rings. Watching her, you cuddled her a bit closer to you.

"Alright guys, well, thank you all for coming. I posted on my story not too long ago for you all to send in some questions for both Chris and me to answer, so I'll go through a few before Chris comes on" you smiled, grabbing Chris' phone which he left with you so you could use yours to live stream and his to go through the questions.

Holding the phone in your hand, your daughter begins to play with the screen, causing you to chuckle "hey... that's daddy's phone, don't break it, or we are going to get in trouble", the reply of incoherent mumbles was enough for you. You turned your gaze back up to the camera, smiling lightly "and we also have baby Evans with us today" your daughter giggled and did a slight wave to the camera.

you scroll to the very top of questions and start from there, "Okay, the first question, how old is Baby Evans?" you chuckle, looking down at your daughter. "How old are you love?" you asked her. Your daughter's big blue eyes looked up at you, bouncing her on your leg, you knew she wasn't going to answer, but her reactions are always the cutest. "She will be turning two in September" you smiled.

Scrolling down the list, you look for another simple one you could answer without Chris "ah, okay! how did Chris and I meet" you smile.

"well, we met through mutuals..." you laughed before continuing your story. "one of my good friends Sebastian Stan, was throwing a little birthday party, and he happened to introduce me to Chris."

You were about to continue when you heard your husband's voice behind you, "That happened almost six years ago", he smiled before coming to take his seat next to you. "Sorry I'm late, everyone", he chuckled, kissing you. "Dadda!" your daughter squealed, making grabby hands at him. Chris smiled, taking your daughter off your lap for him to hold on to his. You let a small laugh out through your nose "good memory, hon", you joked.

One of his hands held your daughter's belly so she could sit up-right and the other hand made its way around your back and to your waist, pulling you a bit closer to him. "Did you want to continue the story of how we met home?" you looked up at him and cheekily smiled. He laughed softly, shaking his head. "Alright, alright".

Your daughter was sitting on her dad's lap playing with his wedding ring, easily entertained that one. "Sebastian had rented out a villa for the weekend, so we all had our rooms. I got a little drunk on the night of his birthday and woke up sleeping on y/n's couch," you chuckled at the memory. "I don't know how I got there, but all I remember is a beautiful lady walking in handing me some pain killers along with an excellent breakfast."

You smiled as you sat there, watching the comments roll through at how sweet the story was and that Chris did score. You spoke up "then he asked me out on Sunday... the rest is history, huh?" you looked at Chris, who nods in agreement.

"Next quessstiiiooonn" Chris excitedly asked, "hmm... okay... oh", you laughed, showing Chris the question. Chris turns his head, squinting at the camera. "Yes, our daughter was very much planned." you nodded to his answer "that is true."

Crossing your leg over the other, you scrolled through, looking for more questions, "are we planning on having more kids, love?" you turned your head slightly to met your husband's eyes. "Oh definitely", he smirked before giving your ass a firm slap which caused your body to Buck up a little. "Babe", you warned him, laughing, "Yes, we do."

"Someone asked if we will ever reveal what our daughter's name is." you shrugged, "Not for a while. We want our daughter to grow up with that freedom. You all know how the media can be." Chris added, "Our daughter's name is baby Evans until further notice" he smiled, rubbing your back softly. "Did you want to look through the questions, love? Choose a few?" you asked Chris, who nodded; he took the phone from your hand gently, scrolling through.

You were watching your daughter while he took his time choosing another question; noticing she was hungry, you opened up a bag of snacks. Handing her one to eat, you adjusted the camera to show the audience what she was eating. "Yummy?" you asked to which she nodded. "Ah-ha, What is your dream job?" Chris looked at you smiling; you rested your cheek on the palm of your hand, looking at him. "I think the one I have now", you smiled, looking back to the camera.

"It's not a dream, but it used to be. If you don't know, I'm a registered psychologist. I specialise in helping children and young adolescents."

The bright smile you had upon your face, "my dream was to help the young ones who are struggling, learn from them and teach them how to overcome what they're going through." you took a deep breath. "Hence, I hope I'm doing just that", you turned to your daughter "not that it's a job but being a Mom has also been a dream for me." you chuckled.

"how about you, my love?"

You looked over to Chris, who had looked as if he had fallen in love all over again. You rested your arm on his shoulder, softly massaging his neck. "Being a dad", he looked at you ", and I have you to thank for that." he leaned in to kiss your lips softly.

The pair of you went through a few more questions on the live stream, also inviting Scott and his boyfriend into the mix. It was getting late, and your daughter had fallen asleep on her dad. You chuckled, watching your daughter sleep. Both you and Chris said your goodbyes and thanked everyone for watching.

"We will see you next time", you whispered before ending the live stream. Chris got up, cradling the pair of your daughter in his arms. You kissed her goodnight before he took her to her room.

A few moments later, Chris came back in, t-shirt off. He got into bed with you, pulling you closer so he could hug you.

"That was fun", he laughed, kissing your lips softly, to which you returned. "Very, very fun", you chuckled, turning the lights off.

"goodnight, handsome", you smiled, kissing Chris' chin.

——————————————————————————

If you would like to be removed from this taglist, feel free to message me :))

Chris Evans' Taglist: @lharrietg @buckyfan12 @afraid-to-be-me @livstilinski @morganwilliams @hiddlespiddles-blog @iwannabekilledtwice@patzammit @bbl32 @in-my-body-bag @leyannrae @valeriafelix121 @romanovaslut @hoperu14@capsiclecevanss

Future Taglist: @fairityretro @natyvwe @avengerbitch @elizabeth228 @aprilpari

[sunnyrealist]

Chapter 42: Who They Once Were

The Sun, the Moon, and All Our Stars

Summary and Details…

Previous Chapter Recap/Context: Sebastian and Kate are on an adventurous camping trip in the Scottish Highlands, during which they plan to explore the mysterious Blackfold Castle. Protective wards, set by a queen who took her own life, have kept curious treasure-hunters away for centuries. Somehow, Kate and Sebastian are able to enter the palace with very little effort. The great hall of the castle provides much information - a piece of parchment somehow interacts with them, asking them to view the memories of Queen Eilionoir through a Pensieve and promising a great reward for doing so. The memories tell the tragic story of Eilionoir Aitken and Neacal Brody, childhood friends turned lovers who planned to marry. Eilionoir's family, unfortunately, was in abject poverty, and when the prince asked for her hand, her father could not resist an annual payment, a title of nobility, and one less family member to feed. Before Eilionoir was sent off to the castle, she and Neacal met one last time and completed a ritual for reincarnation of his design so that they might reunite and have a chance at happiness in their next lives. Though neither of them voice it aloud, Kate and Sebastian begin to realize their true significance of Eilionoir's memories.

Pairing: 25-year-old, post-Azkaban Sebastian Sallow x 24-year-old Kate Mayflower (my OC), the Hogwarts assistant librarian

Content warnings: In general, this is rated 18+ - minors should not read or interact with this story. This chapter features depression, domestic abuse, a public execution, an assassination, trauma, and a mention of rape.

The full chapter is available below the cut; it can also be found on AO3 (link is posted below). Please leave some feedback if possible, especially if you like what you read! 🥰

Chapter 42: Who They Once Were

“Shall we… continue on to the next memory?” Sebastian finally says.

His gaze meets Kate’s. They hold eye contact for several moments, both of them beginning to understand the significance of Queen Eilionoir’s memories. Finally, she nods.

Sebastian uncaps the next memory and pours it into the Pensieve. 

By now, Kate is used to the feeling of entering into a memory. She no longer feels as though she is falling. Standing upright, she and Sebastian find themselves on a road, a winding one that leads into the mountains. When they notice a fancy carriage being pulled by thestrals, they jump out of the way. 

Through a glass window, they can see inside that it holds Eilionoir and her father. Their facial expressions say it all. Her father is delighted, smiling brightly and speaking to Eilionoir with animated gestures. Eilionoir maintains a blank expression as she stares out the window, resigned to her fate yet trying to conceal her utter despair.

The scene disappears, and now they appear to be in the great hall of Blackfold Castle. A colorful carpet lines the floor leading towards an officiant and Prince Luthais. The crowd of people on each side are murmuring as Eilionoir and her father appear. She is clutching her moonstone ring, attached to a long golden chain. Being pulled forward by her father, she looks ahead towards the future that awaits at the end of the aisle. It is certainly one of wealth and status but not of love.

Luthais and Eilionoir’s father shake hands, and then Eilionoir is discreetly pushed forward towards Luthais when she doesn’t immediately join him. Her eyes are downward cast almost the entire time. Luthais takes her hands as the marriage rites are performed. 

As soon as the memory evaporates completely, Sebastian rushes to grab the next one. They plunge right back in.

Eilionoir and Luthais are in an ornate bedroom, perhaps a year later. She is cowering, pulling a blanket up close to her chest for a sliver of comfort as Luthais scolds her. 

Sebastian translates. “The prince doesn’t understand why Eilionoir is unhappy. He says he has done everything he can to bring her joy. No matter how many pieces of jewelry he gifts to her, she shows him no love. She still has not…” He listens as the prince continues to rant, gesturing madly. “She still has not given him an heir or even a daughter, gods forbid.”

Kate strides towards Eilionoir, looking for something. “She’s holding the moonstone ring for dear life.”

In the next scene, Eilionoir is fully dressed in her bedroom. A brown owl taps at her window, and she leaps from her chair to grab the letter it has brought. She unfolds it quickly, reading intensely, then clutching it to her chest, as if she is dying and it contains her life essence. She sits at her desk and immediately composes a response. 

There are a couple more scenes like this - seasons pass as the letters come and go.

In the winter, the owl comes to the window again, but before Eilionoir can open it, the owl is shot with an arrow. She watches in horror as it falls to the ground, still clutching the parchment. Luthais is below, holding a bow, and he rushes to the dead owl, snatching the letter. He tears it open, reading its contents in haste. When he finishes, he looks absolutely furious. He clenches his fists and immediately apparates into the bedroom.

Luthais screams at Eilionoir.

“This is why you cannot show me affection?! How dare you defy your husband, your prince?” Sebastian translates. Luthais grabs Eilionoir’s wrist hard. “Don’t turn your back on me! You harlot! This ends now! I am your husband, and you will obey me!” 

Eilionoir tries to wrench her wrist away. She shouts back at him.

“I don’t love you! I never will!” Sebastian interprets. “You can’t force me to love you!”

“I will end this! Wait and see, you whore!” Luthais yells. “You belong to me! There will soon be no Neacal!”

Eilionoir gasps, her eyes growing wide. “No! Please, no!” She throws herself to the floor, begging, tears gushing down her face. “Please, it is all my fault! Punish me! Don’t hurt him! I promise, I’ll try harder for you! I’ll be better! Don’t hurt him!”

Luthais slaps her across the face. 

The scene ends. 

“Gods, how horrible…” Kate murmurs, as her face emerges from the Pensieve.

Sebastian’s expression is furious. His hands are shaking and fisted tightly, his knuckles white. 

Kate’s eyes are teary. She imagines being taken from the one she loves to be gifted as a prize for another. What if she and Sebastian had been in Eilionoir and Neacal’s place? What if she had been handed over like a trophy to someone like Clyde Parkinson, forced to marry, knowing that Clyde could easily have Sebastian killed?

Sebastian marches to the table, returns, and pours the next memory out. She can tell that his mind is stormy.

“Sebastian…” Kate tries to gently say. “It’s okay…”

“It’s not okay,” Sebastian snaps back quickly, though he isn’t angry at his girlfriend. He’s picturing exactly what Kate had, imagining himself helpless - unable to hold onto, love, protect, or do anything for the woman he loves. “It’s just cruel!”

“Should we… take a break?”

“No,” he replies almost immediately. “No, we have to finish. If we take a break now, I might not continue at all.”

He pours out the next memory, trying to brace himself. He knows the memories are unlikely to become happier.

Eilionoir awakens in her bed. It’s quite late or very early. Glancing beside her, she realizes Luthais is not there. Her brow furrows. Clearly, this is unusual. She sits up in bed, rubbing the sleep out of her eyes. She looks out the window, seeing a full moon still in the sky.

Suddenly, she gasps in shock. 

Kate and Sebastian move, trying to follow her gaze, to see what she does. 

On the floor, a bluish-silver raven hops around, struggling to move much more. It’s clearly a Patronus. 

“Neacal,” Eilionoir whispers. This requires no translation.

Eilionoir quickly jumps out of bed and dresses, then squats down, trying to interact with the Patronus. “Neacal,” she whispers again, this time somewhat urgently. 

The raven hops towards the door. Eilionoir follows, desperate to know where it may lead her. It is so early that no one else seems to be moving about the castle.

Soon, the Patronus begins to fly quite pitifully. 

“It’s strange,” Kate mentions to Sebastian as they follow Eilionoir and the raven. “It almost seems as though it is sick or hurt, but I’ve never heard of a Patronus injury…”

“I have a terrible feeling,” Sebastian mutters in reply. “I hope I’m wrong.”

Eilionoir travels down stairs, further and further, deep within the belly of the castle. She finally reaches an area that must be the absolute lowest level, completely underground. It’s dark, with only a few torches lighting the way. The raven lands, hops on the ground, then appears to look around the corner. It begins flapping its wings, almost as a warning. Eilionoir takes a peek. Sure enough, an armored guard stands watch. She pulls out her wand.

Watching the scene, Kate almost feels cold, even though she and Sebastian are not really there. 

Casting disillusionment, the princess considers her course of action. The charm is not strong enough for her to go unnoticed. She takes a few minutes to decide, and ultimately lifts the spell. She takes a deep breath, appearing to steel herself. Then, she rounds the corner with her head held high.

The guard immediately turns her way and appears surprised, bowing. He speaks to her, gesturing upwards

Sebastian translates. “Princess Eilionoir, what are you doing here? It is so early. No one is meant to come here, to the dungeons. Please return upstairs.” He continues interpreting as Eilionoir speaks. She sounds rather bold and bossy. “Who are you to tell me where I can and cannot go? If I wish to be in this part of the castle, I shall be. Let me through, or I shall have you dismissed or worse!” 

The guard hesitates. Eilionoir looks enraged and forcefully says, with her wand drawn, “Let me pass! Leave your post and forget you saw me here. Give me the keys.” 

At this, the man finally gives her a set of keys. He bows and begins walking away, looking back at her once more before climbing the stairs.

When she finally believes herself alone, Eilionoir breathes a sigh of relief. She searches for the raven, finding it waiting for her just ahead, the only light its silvery form. As she steps towards it, she finally encounters bars.

Sebastian visibly recoils, reminded of Azkaban. The darkness, the chill, the bars unyielding despite his misery. 

Kate takes his hand, sensing his discomfort. “We don’t have to continue,” she whispers kindly. “Really, Bash. We can stop if this is too much.”

He shakes his head, biting his cheek. 

“Eilionoir,” a male voice chokes out. Kate and Sebastian’s heads quickly turn towards it, somehow surprised that the memory has continued to play out while they talk.

Eilionoir begins to tremble. “Neacal. Neacal!”

Suddenly, Neacal is there, trying to reach through the bars to her with chained hands. “Eilionoir!”

The princess fumbles with the keys, trying desperately to open the door barring her from her beloved. After a few shaky  moments, she manages to open it. 

She throws her arms around him, finding it difficult to fully embrace him with his wrists and ankles in shackles. It appears as though the cuffs are far too tight. Both of them sob, tears streaming down their cheeks, relieved to touch each other once more, forlorn that it must be in this dank setting. Eilionoir kisses Neacal all over his face.

“He’s poorly,” Kate points out. “Do you see how thin he is? How unkempt his hair is?”

Sebastian nods, sick to his stomach as he remembers his own appearance the first time he saw himself after breaking out of Azkaban. 

“Perhaps she will help him to escape!” Kate cries, but her thought process is cut off as Eilionoir and Neacal begin speaking to each other. 

Sebastian steps in as translator, his tone conveying his continued distress at the situation and their surroundings.

“Eilionoir. I did not know if that would work. I wanted to see you. I needed to see you one last time. My dear love. I thought that if I could see you, I could die happy,” Neacal whispers as fast as he can, as though he is afraid he might run out of time. His voice is hoarse and strained. “I must tell you. I do not regret one thing. I leave this life-”

“No. What?” Eilionoir interrupts. “What… What do you mean? Leaving this life?”

Neacal stares into her eyes. “Eilionoir. You must know.” When she shakes her head, he sighs. “I have been labeled a traitor to the crown. I am set to die this morning.”

Eilionoir steps backwards, horrified. “No. That cannot be.”

“It is,” Neacal steps towards her, following. “Eilionoir, it’s true. Please, love - please, sweetest, do not make this any worse than it already is…”

Eilionoir bites her lip, trying to will herself to stop crying. 

“I have no regrets,” Neacal tells her, unwavering. “If I could live a thousand lifetimes with the same outcome, I would always love you. In every lifetime, I would love you, even if I knew the consequences. I need you to hear me. Are you listening, my Eilionoir? We may not have much time.”

Eilionoir nods, her lip bleeding.

“You have my heart and have always had my heart. You are the reason I was born. I was meant to be with you, even if we could not marry. I love you, Eilionoir. I love you more than I love my own life,” Neacal continues. “There is nothing I would not do for you. And today I shall die because I love you so very much, and that is the best reason I can think of to-”

“Don’t leave me. There must be something-” Eilionoir stammers.

“No,” Neacal cuts her off. “It’s impossible. There is no way out of this. I am so glad I was able to see you one last time. Gods, Eilionoir, you have made me happy all my life.” He pauses, then slips his moonstone ring off of his finger. “Eilionoir, you must take my ring.” He places it in her hand and closes her fingers around it. “Keep it safe for us. For our next life.”

Eilionoir nods, a tear falling from her eye.

“Neacal,” she whispers, her voice trembling. “I did not know. I did not know you were here! I was never informed. I would have come sooner…”

“Your husband… he would not want you here with me,” Neacal replies. Then, his tone becomes very serious. “You shouldn’t stay here long. It’s dangerous. Don’t allow him to know you visited me, even after I am gone. He’s… He’s a cruel man, Eilionoir. He killed my mother when we fought back.” He holds her hand in his. “Are… are you… well? Does he treat you kindly at least?” He looks so hopeful.

Eilionoir hesitates, considering her answer. She chooses to lie and to not specifically mention Luthais. “I’m well. I’m safe in the castle.”

Neacal looks at her warily. Knowing her better than anyone else, he is not quite sure he believes, but he quickly abandons that notion, choosing to spend his final moments with her without thinking of her awful husband. “I… I want you to live and be merry, Eilionoir. We are so young. You are so young. You can have a wonderful life here.” 

Eilionoir nods, her face concealing her true sadness. 

“We shall meet again, Eilionoir,” he reminds her gently, tilting her head back up to his. “Someday, we shall find each other once more. It is settled. Please, do not cry for my death. I welcome it. It means I am closer to actually being with you again, closer to the next chance for our happiness. I love you with everything I am.”

“I love you, Neacal,” Eilionoir replies, unable to stop her tears this time. “I wish… I wish…” She trails off, unable to find the words. “I love you more than anything in the world. I never stopped loving you. Never. I never will! I don’t know how… I don’t know how to live without you…”

Neacal lifts his arms around her, pulling her in to hug her properly, melting into her. “Just live, knowing this is not the end. The moment you do leave this world, I’ll be there, waiting for you with open arms. Eilionoir… Gods, I wish I could…” He takes a deep breath. “Sweetest, I want the last thing I see to be your face. Your eyes. Your smile. It is the warmest thing I have ever felt. I would leave the world satisfied.”

“I could never stand to watch you die,” Eilionoir chokes out. “I could not take it.” 

Neacal stares off, seeming to know something, debating whether to reveal it. “He will force you, Eilinoir. I am certain of it. He wants you to know definitively that I am gone.”

Eilionoir’s eyes widen, and she is thankful that he cannot see her expression. 

After a moment, Neacal finally releases her from his arms. “Eilionoir, you must go. No one can know you were here, least of all your husband.”

“No! I cannot leave you!” she protests. 

“You must, my love,” Neacal calmly tells her. “Please, let me say goodbye to you in peace. I could not bear to watch you being found here and ripped away from me. Please, Eilionoir.”

Her lips tremble. “Neacal…”

“Kiss me, my Eilionoir,” Neacal pleads. “Kiss me and say goodbye. I shall see you this morning for the last time in this life. Please, let me gaze upon your smile before I die.”

Eilionoir reaches for his face and pulls him to her, pressing her lips to his, gently at first, then desperately, wanting more and knowing at the same time that all of her fantasies of love with him are truly and completely impossible and gone.

“Someday,” she chokes out. “When we meet again, I hope we know each other right away so that we do not waste any time apart. I hope we will not face these troubles again. I hope we will live a full life together, one of peace. I love you, Neacal Brody. I love you so much. I cannot even express it. You have been the one true source of happiness in my life. I shall never love another, I swear it.”

Neacal buries his face in her hair, relishing in the scent of her perfume. “I love you, Eilionoir. The light in my life.” He pauses, trying to hold back a sob and failing. He pushes her away, despite how painful it feels. “Go, Eilionoir. Go now. It is my wish.”

Eilionoir fixes his image in her memory, staring at him through her tears. “Farewell, my love. May the gods smile upon us in the next life.”

Neacal himself musters a sad grin, trying to be brave. “Farewell, my dearest. Eilionoir. My true love.”

Eilionoir walks backward, refusing to look away as she leaves the dungeon. She casts Disillusionment on herself and disappears around the corner.

The scene ends, and a new one begins.

It is a sunny day. Eilionoir is seated outdoors next to Prince Luthais.

Across the way is a platform. Neacal is forced to walk across it. Before he kneels and offers his neck, he searches for Eilionoir, finds her, and grins. Trying to summon every ounce of courage to do as he wishes, she returns the smile to him as a man reads his crimes to a huge group of spectators.

When Neacal finally bows his head, Luthais signals to the executioner, who lifts a sword high and brings it down upon Neacal’s neck.

Eilionoir shuts her eyes tightly and covers her ears as the crowd roars.

The next memories are quite painful to watch.

Prince Luthais’ father dies. He and Eilionoir are crowned king and queen.

In another memory, Luthais screams at Eilionoir that she must try harder to have a child. She yells back at him, calling him a monster. She tells him that she will never bear his child - what he does to her isn’t lovemaking. She refuses to make a child from hate. Luthais beats and rapes her.

More memories simply show how depressed Eilionoir has become, how much she no longer cares about anything. She stares out the window lifelessly. She lays in her bed, refusing to rise. 

The next one takes a surprising turn. Eilionoir sits next to Luthais on their thrones. He is receiving subjects. Some come bearing gifts, while others have requests, complaints, or disputes to settle. Eilionoir appears to be in another world entirely, gazing far beyond the great hall. Then, suddenly, she snaps to attention when she hears a familiar voice.

It’s Neacal’s father.

Eilionoir’s mouth drops, shocked to see him. He takes a glance at her and nods, then walks forward, telling Luthais he offers a gift. Luthais smiles and gestures that he may come forward.

Mr. Brody reaches into his cloak, pulling out a wooden box. It’s the same type of wand box he once presented to Eilionoir. He slides the top of the box open, keeping a distance of a few meters, showing Luthais the beautiful wand inside. The king nods in appreciation.

Everything happens very quickly.

Mr. Brody grabs the wand, letting the box fall to the ground. He points the wand straight at Luthais and casts the killing curse. Green light shoots from the wand, and Luthais immediately slumps over, falling to the floor. His eyes are still open.

Immediately, Mr. Brody is seized by guards, and chaos erupts. Eilionoir looks at Neacal’s father in surprise. He smiles and nods, shouting something to her as he is carried away.

“He said, ‘You’re free now,’” Sebastian translates.

In the next scene, it is clear that Eilionoir has been made the ruler of this kingdom. She is still incredibly unhappy. Advisors swarm her, insisting that she take a new husband. She shakes her head and screams at them. 

A year passes. Eilionoir is gaunt and frail, despite her youthful age. She has finally had enough of the advisors. She dismisses all of them, shouting as she orders them to leave and never return. Then, she dismisses all of the castle staff. She watches from a window as people pour out of the palace, waiting until it is silent to leave her room. The scene ends.

At long last, Kate watches silently as Sebastian pours out the final memory.

Eilionoir sets up the great hall just as Kate and Sebastian found it. A large table filled with writing tools, a Pensieve behind it. When she exits the castle and walks outdoors, she smiles brightly for the first time in many memories, many years. She strolls to the middle of the bridge and begins to chant. Powerful magic pours from her wand as she waves it.

“She’s setting up the protective wards,” Sebastian shares with Kate.

The memory fades. There are no more.

“We’re actually finished,” Kate acknowledges as they emerge from the Pensieve. Sebastian nods in response.

Truthfully, they haven’t discussed much with each other in the past few hours. Both of them are lost in their own thoughts, trying to process all that they have seen and experienced through Eilionoir’s eyes.

“I suppose all we have yet to do is to write to the queen once more.” Sebastian takes Kate’s hand and brings her to the table. He picks up the quill and dips it into the ink, ready to find out what kind of reward awaits them.

The truth, however, is one that Kate and Sebastian have yet to acknowledge aloud. They both are aware that they have already received the best possible reward. 

The knowledge of who they once were.