#third eya

[kozuemori]

今年は12月に入っ���も、まだバラが花を咲かせてくれています。通常は休眠期に入る頃ですが、花弁が多く色も鮮やかで、まるで春の一番花のように十分に栄養を蓄えた姿でびっくりしています。新調したクリスマスツリーに、先日のクリスマスマーケットで買ったくるみ割り人形のオーナメントをクララの隣に飾りました。そろそろプレゼントのラッピングも始めたいと思います。

今週は明日と明後日に開催するワークショップの準備に明け暮れていました。今回も実習の資料を加えた33枚のスライドショーが完成しました。資料はワークショップ終了後にデータでお渡ししますので、後からゆっくりと見返していただけます。

昨日は「Sitting in the Power」の録音をしました。「Sitting in the Power」とは、イギリスの名門、アーサー・フィンドレイ・カレッジでも行われている実習のひとつで、イギリス人の講師曰く「瞑想とは異なるエネルギーのチューニング方法」です。サイキックやミディアムシップを行う前に自らのエネルギーを外に向け、霊界に近づくためのアチューンメントで、今回は霊視に特化した内容でお届けします。

このワークショップは初心者から上級者まで楽しみながら参加していただけるようになっています。午前中の２時間はレクチャー、昼休みを挟んで午後からはバラエティに富んだクレアヴォヤンスに特化した内容の実習を行います。今回もきっとあっという間の６時間になる事でしょう。

霊視や霊視能力に興味がある方、霊界との繋がりを第３の目を使ったヴィジョンで確認したい、ヴィジュアライゼーション能力を伸ばしたい、瞑想中のヴィジョンをより鮮明に受け取りたい方は、ぜひご参加ください！

こちらからお申込いただけます。

Clairvoyance   A to Z  〜霊視能力の目覚め〜

12月8日（日）10:00～17:00（１時間のお昼休憩あり）

12月9日（月）10:00～17:00（１時間のお昼休憩あり）

料金：１回 8,000円（アイイス会員・税込）・10,000円（非会員・税込）

両日共に同じ内容です

どなたでもご参加いただけます

最少催行人数：３名

日常生活において、私たちは主に目、視覚からさまざまな情報を得ています。

その比率は80～90パーセントとも言われています。

私たちはそれぞれ独自の経験や能力を最大限に活かしながら霊性を伸ばしていますが、霊的能力の中で最も使われているのも霊視能力、クレアヴォヤンスです。

霊的な視点を持つことは、自らの霊性を育むだけでなく、日常生活においてもさまざまな気づきに繋がります。

私たちの周りには、既に色鮮やかな美しい世界が広がっているのにも関わらず、固定概念や先入観、偏見というフィルターを自ら無意識にかけているため、真理を見ていないのです。

霊性が育まれると、今まで見えなかったものが見え始めます。

愛や笑顔、真心や思いやり、善や良心という光のヴィジョンに出���えるようになります。

霊性が育まれると、自分の本当の姿を思い出し始めます。

本当のあなたは、肉体ではないこと

本当のあなたは、唯一無二だということ

本当のあなたは、完全だということ

本当のあなたは、全てに繋がっていること

このワークショップでは、クレアヴォヤンスについて学び、実践していただきながら、霊的な視力を伸ばすことを目的としています。

あなたの挑戦を喜び、励まし、支えてくれるスピリットの存在と一緒に、光の時間を過ごしませんか。

主なレクチャー内容

・クレアヴォヤンス、クレアヴォヤントとは

・クレアヴォヤンスが現れる時

・クレアヴォヤンスの歴史と背景

・クレアヴォヤント６つのスタイル

・肉眼とサードアイの違い

・クレアヴォヤンスが構成される仕組み

・クレアヴォヤンスとチャクラ・オーラとの関係

・ヴィジュアライゼーションの方法

主な実習内容

・クレアヴォヤンス  Sitting in the Power

・ヴィジュアライゼーションエクササイズ

・サインに気づき、分析する

・クレアヴォヤンス トランス

・クレアヴォヤンス ヒーリング

・オーリック、サイキック、ミディアミスティック各種リーディング

このワークショップは以下のような方に向いています

 ・クレアヴォヤンスに関する理解を深めたい

 ・霊視の練習、経験をしてみたい

 ・ヴィジュアライゼーションの方法を試したい

 ・指導霊との繋がりを深めたい

 ・本当の自分の人生の目的を探りたい

 ・自分自身の可能性や能力を探りたい

 ・霊性開花を通して人の役に立ちたい、社会に���献したい

2025年1月開講の春学期クラスへのお申し込みを受付中です。春はフレッシュスタートにピッタリな季節です。一年の目標を立てたり、気持ちを切り変えたり、新たな想いを胸に抱きながら、一緒に自分の内側にある光について学んでみませんか？皆さまのご参加をお待ちしています！

また、マントラ入門クラスを２学期制から３学期制に変更しました。

クラスの詳細はこちらのページをご覧ください。

継続受講の方は直接ショップからお申し込みください。

・・・・・・・・・・

アウェアネス・ベーシック後期 Zoomクラス   

土曜日：19：00～21：00 日程：1/11、1/25、2/8、2/22、3/8

・・・

アウェアネス・ベーシック通信クラス

開催日程：全6回　お申し込み締め切り：1/14

・・・

アウェアネス・オールレベルZoomクラス

火曜日：19：00～21：00  日程：1/14、1/28、2/11、2/25、3/11

木曜日：10:00〜12:00 日程：1/9、1/23、2/6、2/20、3/6

・・・

アウェアネス・マスターZoom クラス

月曜日：19:00〜21:00　　NEW! 日程：1/6、1/20、2/3、2/17、3/3

火曜日：19:00〜21:00 日程：1/7、1/21、2/4、2/18、3/4

金曜日：19:00〜21:00 日程：1/17、1/31、2/14、2/28、3/14

・・・

サイキックアートZoomクラス

日曜日：17：00～19：00  日程：1/12、1/26、2/9、2/23、3/9 水曜日：16：00～18：00  日程：1/8、1/22、2/5、2/19、3/5

・・・

インナージャーニー 〜瞑想と内観〜 Zoomクラス  

木曜日：19:00～20:00   NEW! 日程：1/9、1/23、2/6、2/20、3/6

土曜日：10:00～11:00　 開催時間変更 日程：1/11、1/25、2/8、2/22、3/8

・・・

マントラ入門 Zoomクラス  

New! ２学期制から３学期制になりました！

金曜日：10:00～12:00　 NEW! 日程：1/17、1/31、2/14、2/28、3/14

土曜日：13:00～15:00 日程：1/18、2/1、2/15、3/1、3/15

・・・

トランスZoomクラス

木曜日：10:00～12:00 　開催曜日変更 日程：1/16、1/30、2/13、2/27、3/13

土曜日：19:00～21:00  日程：1/18、2/1、2/15、3/1、3/15

・・・

サンスクリット・般若心経 Zoomクラス 

水曜日：19:00～21:00    日程：1/8、1/22、2/5、2/19、3/5

金曜日：13:00～15:00  　開催曜日変更 日程：1/10、1/24、2/7、2/21、3/7

・・・・・

クリスマス・サービス

12月22日（日）13:00〜15:00

参加ミディアム：開堂 慈寛・森 梢・澤輪 燕・亜笠 未來

ご参加は無料ですが、一口500円からの寄付金をお願いしています。

12:50　クリスマスソング 13:00　開会の祈り 13:03　遠隔ヒーリング 13:10　サーモン 13:17　サーモン 13:25　霊界通信のデモンストレーション 　森ミディアム　13:25～13:40 トータル・サイキックアート 　新見習いミディアム　13:40～13:50 トータル 　亜笠ミディアム　13:50～14:05 トータル 　澤輪ミディアム　14:05～14:20 トータル 　開堂ミディアム　14:20～14:35 トータル 14:35　クリスマス瞑想 14:45　もらって嬉しいクリスマスプレゼントメッセージ 14:57　閉会の祈り 15:00　閉会

当日は以下のリンクよりご参加ください。

・・・・・

スピリット・コミュニケーション・トゥワイス　NEW!

2月2日（日）20:00〜21:00　会員限定・参加費2,500円

出演ミディアム：恵子・森 梢

詳細とお申し込みはこちらからどうぞ

・・・・・

サンデー・サービス（日曜 12:30〜14:00）詳細はこちらから。

2月16日（日）12:30〜14:00　担当ミディアム：本村・森

3月16日（日）12:30〜14:00　担当ミディアム：亜笠・森

ご参加は無料ですが、一口500円からの寄付金をお願いしています。

2月・3月へのご参加は以下のリンクよりどうぞ。

・・・・・

ドロップイン・ナイト　

1月16日（木）19:00〜20:00　会員限定・参加費2,500円

3月13日（木）19:00〜20:00　会員限定・参加費2,500円

指導霊（スピリット・ガイド）のサイキックアート

詳細とお申し込みはこちらからどうぞ。

過去の開催の様子はこちらからご覧ください。

[laursdomain]

Hey🫶🏽 can I request a Bodhi x oc one shot where they don’t really know each other yet but they both wander around Riorson House at night because they can’t sleep/had nightmares and then see each other and talk about their feelings/start deep talking?

nightmares & memories

pairing: bodhi durran x oc

OC: raelyn griffin

genre: angst

synopsis: Having to adjust to Riorson House may be the hardest thing Raelyn Griffin has to do. In an effort to try to sleep, she ventures out into the confusing halls to attempt to find a snack. When she comes across Bodhi Durran, the two strangers can’t help but find comfort and solace within one another with the looming war and traumatic events they’ve endured.

warnings: mentions of death, talk of nightmares, minor description of death, bodhi is vulnerable in this, eya haunts the narrative in a good way, happy ending!

w/c: 2.6k

a/n: sorry it took so long to get this out!! i'm slowly getting through my asks </3

ྀིbodhi durran masterlist

❝ ❞ ✧ ೃ༄

Raelyn tossed for what felt like the millionth time in her bed. She groaned, trying to push the back of her head further into the pillow. Raelyn glanced over to the executive officer of third wing, Isla, envying her peaceful sleep. As if on cue, her stomach growled, begging for some sort of nourishment. It was two in the morning, and all she wanted to do was sleep before formation. Alas, her mind kept her awake because it wasn’t used to it’s new area, Riorson House. 

A quick snack won’t hurt.

Raelyn slide out of her bed, opting for her boots as she shrugged on her beige robe, quietly leaving the room as to not wake her roommate. The halls of Riorson House were confusing, to say the least. On the bright side, it’s smaller than Basgiath. On the other hand, she still managed to get lost. Out of nervousness, she began running her fingers through the ends of her red hair, a habit she has yet to kick. She hated getting lost. 

“Why are you out past curfew?” A deep voice came behind her, startling her. 

Raelyn spun around, eyes widened as she made out the figure of who was speaking to her. They took a couple steps forward, revealing themselves. Raelyn squinted her eyes, realizing it was Bodhi Durran, Xaden Riorson’s younger cousin. They were in the same year, and they were in the same section until he got moved in the beginning of the year. 

“I was…hungry,” Raelyn admitted as she fiddled with her hands.

Bodhi tilts his head at her, a confused expression written on his face. “Well, you’re going the wrong way.”

Raelyn’s shoulders slumped, “yeah, that keeps happening to me.”

Bodhi chuckles, finding the girls predicament amusing. “Come, I’ll show you.”

Raelyn quickly caught up with Bodhi’s strides, allowing silence to engulf them. She didn’t mind the silence, but this was one of the only times she has spoken to him. The only other time she can recall is when they were paired up for challenges during their first year. Gods, that was so long ago. After many hallways and corners, Raelyn was incredibly dizzy, but they had made it to the kitchens. 

She marveled at the spacious room, taking in the amount of machines, counters, stoves, and ovens that littered the room. 

“What do you want to eat?” Bodhi’s voice drags her out of her admiration, forcing her to look at him. 

She was under the impression that he would leave once he showed her the way. I guess not. Raelyn thought for a moment, “grilled cheese?”

Bodhi gave a look, a look that said he liked the idea of grilled cheese, before nodding and turning towards the refrigerator, taking out fresh cheese and butter before grabbing four slices of bread. Raelyn occupied herself by taking a seat atop of the counter behind Bodhi, watching him cook for her. 

He took out the pan, igniting the stove before putting a generous amount of butter on the pan to melt. While it melted, he placed butter on one side of two slices of bread, placing one, two, three slices of cheese on the other sides before meticulously placing them on the pan. While the two slices grilled, he prepared the remaining slices of bread by spreading butter on them as well. Once he felt the slices were ready to be flipped, he placed the un-grilled slices atop of the grilled slices, using a spatula to skillfully flip the sandwiches. After a couple more minutes, he deemed the sandwiches ready as he placed them on their own plates. 

Bodhi turned to Raelyn, offering her plate like a peace treaty. She gingerly took the plate, offering a small smile as silence still wrapped around them like a blanket. 

“I’m trying to figure out where I recognize you from,” Bodhi finally asks, not looking up from his plate.

“Challenges?” Raelyn offered, referring to when she beat him during their first year.

“No,” Bodhi shakes his head. “I remember that, it was a different time.”

Raelyn shrugged her shoulders in response. Sure, she’d seen the boy around, who wouldn’t? She wouldn’t be lying if she said Bodhi Durran was one of the most attractive boys in her wing, let alone her year. Unlike other girls, she constantly noticed him in the gym, at formation, during flight maneuvers, and even at battle brief. Typically other girls were preoccupied with the sight of Xaden Riorson and Garrick Tavis.

Bodhi snaps his fingers, as if he just had an epiphany. “You were close with Eya, right?”

The mention of your late friend almost brought tears to your eyes. The two of you were in the same year and the same squad, she was even Raelyn’s executive officer when she was squad leader in their second year.

Raelyn sadly smiled, “yeah, I was.”

“She was a good person,” Bodhi admitted. 

“She was,” Raelyn let out a chuckle as she remembered her fond memories with the girl. 

“Can I tell you something?” Bodhi finally looks at Raelyn, who nods in response. “She was the only one who would listen.”

“Listen to what?”

Bodhi sheepishly smiles, “my nightmares.”

“She was kind like that. She did the same for me,” Raelyn added, enjoying the moment of remembering the good things about Eya. “She would never judge when I’d be knocking at her door, crying, from a stupid nightmare that bothered me too much.”

“That sounds like her. While Imogen and Quinn would leave the table, Eya would risk being late just to let me finish talking about my nightmare.”

A beat of silence fills the air before Raelyn asks a burning question. “Did you have one tonight?” Silently and very subtly, Bodhi nodded. Raelyn noticed how small he felt, despite that not physically being true. “Do you want to talk about it?”

Bodhi snaps his head up, cocking a brow at her. “You barely know me.”

“Eya did,” she offered, “that’s enough for me.”

Bodhi stares into her eyes, debating if he should tell her. It was nothing that would get him in trouble for, just childhood memories that bothered him too much. Too much to the point that he refused to tell Xaden. He releases a sigh, clearing his head as he collects his words, not wishing to stumble over his words or any events.

“It starts here, at Riorson House,” Bodhi begins, refusing to meet the ginger’s eyes. “I’m a child in these nightmares. The same age, eight. The rebellion was beginning, but Navarre didn’t know about it yet.”

Bodhi gulps, recollecting his memory to the best of his ability. Raelyn didn’t speak, she simply looked at the taller boy in front of her, who nervously leaned against the counter opposite of her.

“Xaden and I are secretly leaning against a door—it’s the door to the room where our parents and Garrick’s would have their meetings to plan.” A small smile grazes Bodhi’s lips at the memory, that part of the nightmare was real. Himself, Xaden, and Garrick took great pride in trying to eavesdrop on their parents. Though, Garrick was notably absent during the memory. Bodhi couldn’t remember why. 

“Out of nowhere, the door opened, showing my Uncle Fen. He was not happy with us, and dragged Xaden away. When I turn around I see—“

Bodhi stops, needing a moment to collect himself. Raelyn notices this, and patiently waits until he’s ready. “Take your time,” she offers, and he smiles in gratitude to her.

“I turn around and suddenly I’m at the grounds when our parents were burnt. But, I’m not sixteen in the nightmare, I’m still a child. And instead of burning—“ Bodhi wills the tears away, refusing to cry in front of a girl he barely knows. “Instead of burning, General Sorrengail is, um, brutally murdering my mother in front of my eyes. The look on her face—well, it’s enough to make me not want to go to sleep.”

Bodhi refuses to meet the girls eyes, but he can imagine the sheer horror on her face. Raelyn couldn’t imagine how he could let that nightmare torture him. She hadn’t really thought how bad the nightmares could be for the marked ones, especially since they watched their parents die. Raelyn could never imagine watching her father or mother dying in front of her. 

Without a word, Raelyn quietly slides off the counter, taking two steps to stand in front of Bodhi. She wraps her arms around his torso, giving him a hug he needed more than he realized. Bodhi hadn’t noticed she had even moved, and instinctively jerked back when he felt her embrace him. A beat later, he wrapped his arms around her shoulders, hiding his face in her shoulder as he softly cried. 

He hadn’t realized how much he needed to cry, and he didn’t fully understand why he felt comfortable enough doing so with Raelyn. Despite this, he accepted it with open arms because he would never take it to Xaden, he had enough to deal with. Garrick would eventually tell Xaden, and again, he didn’t want to bother his cousin. Imogen wasn’t the best at comforting people, and loathed physical touch. So, he resorted to nobody. But now, he supposed he had Raelyn. And he didn’t understand why he liked that.

After a couple of minutes, Bodhi’s cries died down as Raelyn’s hand that was rubbing circles into his back calmed him down. It was comforting, being able to be completely vulnerable in front of someone. Bodhi loosened his hold on her, pulling back as she mimicked his move. Her arms dropped, but she didn’t move.

“Thank you,” Bodhi wiped his face, weakly trying to rid the residue of his tears.

“You’re welcome,” she whispers back. “We all need a hug sometimes.”

“That’s something Eya would say,” Bodhi whispered back, unsure why they were whispering when they were alone.

She giggled, and Bodhi found his heart skipping at the sound. “It is, isn’t it?”

“What about you?” Bodhi questions, “why are you up this late?”

Raelyn steps back, leaning against the counter again, giving some space to herself. “I haven’t been able to sleep since we got here.”

Bodhi furrows his brows, tilting his head, “why?”

Raelyn sheepishly smiles, “I don’t think my body is used to being in a new area like this. It reminds me of when we were in the barracks and I was scared someone was going to kill me in my sleep.”

Bodhi amusingly looks at her, “you think someone is going to kill you in your sleep?”

“No!” She retorts, her cheeks warming. Bodhi found it adorable how her cheeks started to share a similar pigmentation to her hair. “I just—I don’t know. My body isn’t accustomed to the change yet.”

“Someone once told me change is a good thing,” Bodhi mutters, and Raelyn instantly recognizes the words. The words that always came out of Eya’s mouth whenever Raelyn complained about doing something different. 

Raelyn can’t help but smile, “Eya did say that.”

Bodhi laughs, “I think it was her favorite thing to say. Xaden would always roll his eyes whenever she said that.”

The pair laughs, the sound filling the dark kitchen. Raelyn can’t help but feel comfortable around Bodhi, loving the sound of his laugh and the way his eyes twinkle when he does. For someone she barely knows and practically just met, she felt that she would trust the world to him. 

She smiled at Bodhi, their laughs dying down as they just stared at each other. She made him nervous, and suddenly their silence was no longer comfortable. Bodhi clears his throat, cheeks warming from her staring.

“We should probably leave before Xaden catches us,” he reaches for her plate, quickly washing them before setting them out to dry with the pan and spatula he used. “Are you tired?”

Raelyn sighed out, “no. Though I am full, so thank you for the meal.”

Without hesitating, or thinking—really, “do you want to keep talking in my room? I’m not tired either.”

Bodhi can’t help but love the way her eyes light up, a small smile grazing her lips. “I’d love that.” 

The two walked back to Bodhi’s room, though it felt like Bodhi was leading the two since Raelyn would surely get them lost. He practically knew the place like the back of his own hand, why not take advantage of that? The two mindlessly shared stories of their fun times at Basgiath, with Eya, and as children. Bodhi intently listened as she shared stories of her mother, who’s a scribe, the boy intrigued by her mother’s own stories. 

It felt nice to share his nightmare with someone, suddenly his shoulders felt lighter, and he had the urge to tell her every secret he had. He refrained himself from doing so, not liking the idea of getting scolded and potentially punched by his cousin. Instead, he listened to her own stories, her voice washed away any stress that he had from his own burdening thoughts and responsibilities. 

The two settled into hushed storytelling, lying on Bodhi’s unmade bed as they stared at the ceiling. When it was Bodhi’s turn to tell stories, though, Raelyn had a hard time staying awake. His voice was so soothing, and she felt sleep begging her to give in. As much as she felt bad, she gave in, his voice being a lullaby as she finally fell asleep. 

Once the boy noticed, he wasn’t mad, instead, he smiled at the girl before placing one of his spare blankets over her frame before moving her to the other side of his bed. He got in next to her, giving her space as he fell asleep next to her. Bodhi’s heart tugged and melted at the thought that she felt safe enough to fall asleep next to him. 

This time, no nightmares plagued Bodhi’s mind, Raelyn’s presence soothing his mind. Instead, he dreamed of memories of his friends, Eya included. Bodhi enjoyed seeing Raelyn in his dream, giggling next to Eya as her red hair looked like fire with the sun behind her. She looked angelic, but Bodhi ignored that lingering thought. In the morning, Raelyn felt too comfortable, and she became acutely aware as to why. 

Raelyn eyed his large arm around her waist, acting like a weighted pillow. She enjoyed the comfort, finding herself nuzzling closer to his sleeping frame. His face was inches away from hers, and she took the opportunity with the morning light to observe his features. He may look nearly identical to Xaden, but he was softer, and that was evident when he was sleeping. His cloud of curls fell on the pillows, a mess from sleeping. His usual hardened stare was relaxed, his expression looking boyish. Raelyn refrained from reaching a hand out to run her hand through his curls, though she suspected they were as soft as silk.

Raelyn would be lying if she said she didn’t enjoy it. In fact, she allowed herself to enjoy the comfort of his touch for a couple of minutes before she slid out of his bed, adjusting the blanket on him before slipping out the door and into her own room. She didn’t tell him of that fact, but he knew. Only because Cuir teased him for it. Bodhi worried it would make things awkward between himself and the new friend he made. Raelyn quickly washed away any of those thoughts when she softly smiled and waved at him before she got into formation, that simple action making Bodhi giddy with feelings.

Today will be a good day, he thought, simply because she smiled at him.

❝ ❞ ✧ ೃ༄

[yams-77]

The Underpants Heist Ch 16

Read Now on AO3

Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 | Chapter 4 | Chapter 5 | Chapter 6 | Chapter 7 | Chapter 8 | Chapter 9 | Chapter 10 | Chapter 11 | Chapter 12 | Chapter 13 | Chapter 14 | Chapter 15 | Chapter 16

Word Count: 9,563/175,754

Fic Summary: Following War Games and the events at Resson, Bodhi is overwhlemed by grief, the rebellion, and his new position as Flame Sectionleader and finds himself turning to Liam's squadmate Ridoc for solace as the two scheme an elaborate plan to steal Commandant Panchek's underpants. And somehow, much to his surprise, Bodhi finds himself falling for the larger-than-life rider.

Note: This fic is an Iron Flame retelling from Bodhi & Ridoc’s POV.

Summary: High off the thrill of the heist, Bodhi is dealt a devastating blow and struggles through his grief.

Content Warning: This chapter contains themes that you may find triggering including canon consistent major character death, depression, alcohol abuse, alcoholism, rejection, doom spiraling, and suicidal ideation and actions.

I'm sorry for the wait on the chapter, this is the most difficult thing I've ever had to write. I had to make sure I was in the right headspace whenever I worked on it. I've put so much of myself and my struggles in Bodhi for this one and the other chapters in this arc. I hope the reading experience is as meaningful and cathartic as writing was.

Excerpt

“Wait, what?” Bodhi’s own brows contorted in confusion. None of what Dain was saying made any sense. “Where is Eya?” Aetos’s expression faltered. “Burned.” “Burned,” Bodhi echoed. The words finally sunk in. Horror seeped through his body, icing his veins. Slowly his knees bent, and the next thing Bodhi knew, he was sitting on the ground, wishing he’d taken Aetos’s earlier offer. “She’s gone?”

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[dan-reads]

Record of a Spaceborn Few

by Becky Chambers, (Wayfarers, #3)

Record of a Spaceborn Few, just like the first two of The Wayfarers series, has encapsulated humanity within its under 400 pages. The universe that this series takes place in feels pre-established, as if it existed before the first novel and will exist long after the last, and Becky Chambers in this series merely gives us snapshots of the lives of people in this world. In this third book in particular, we really do get a record of a space-born few, investigating the everyday life of a handful of characters with their own lives, who are flawed but perfect and unique but so similar. 

There is a specific connection to humanity that had me weeping in this novel that I can’t quite articulate without explaining some of the plot and providing a personal story.

Around halfway through the book, two of our protagonists meet: Sawyer and Eyas. Upon meeting, Eyas gives Sawyer some advice as he embarks on his new life aboard the homesteader ship that Eyas has lived and worked on her entire life. They part ways and the story progresses. Around two-thirds of the way through, Sawyer finally gets a job and sends Eyas a message thanking her for the advice. But this moment is bittersweet, as Sawyer dies while on this job. Around three-quarters of the way, Eyas, as this world’s version of a mortician, is set in charge of overseeing Sawyer’s funeral arrangements. But when Eyas sees Sawyer’s corpse, she instantly has a full physical and emotional reaction. In her profession, she regularly sees corpses of people she knew and didn’t know. This reaction is out of the ordinary for her. 

I read this moment and instantly wept. As Eyas circled what ifs in her mind, as she wept holding his belongings, I felt myself mourning with her. Though the two of them only spoke briefly, that momentary connection was enough to break down barriers and create something beautiful. That one meeting between them was enough to cause such immense grief and mourning, and Eyas couldn’t place why. This is one of the only moments in any book, series, movie, anything, that I have felt such a deep sense of humanity and such an understanding for the character.

A few years ago when I was in university, there was a networking session for my department, where students could meet faculty and researchers. I had the privilege to meet one of the post-doctoral fellows at this session and we hit it off. Though we only met the once, we chatted back and forth about sci-fi novels via email several times. When the conversations tapered off and nothing new had come up, there was a lull in our communications. A few months after this, they passed away suddenly. I wept and cried and repeatedly pondered “what if I had reached out again”, “what if we had more time to talk”, “what if…”. Though we only had that momentary connection, like Eyas and Sawyer, there was a level to that connection that went deeper than the surface. It dug its claws into the sheer fabric of our humanity and held on tighter than we could.

So when Eyas ran through her what ifs, when she broke down and cried over this person she met once, I was right there with her. Because of this bizarre quirk of humanity, we have the capacity to meet someone once and connect with them so purely that it lays us bare, all cards on the table. It is painful, and powerful and raw and unique and so so beautiful. It hurts like a bitch and I wouldn’t give it up for anything.

I hope you’re reading sci-fi in the afterlife, space cowboy 🤍

[b3anieperson]

THE LETTER - An Epilouge To Fourth Wing - Part 1 - Part 2 -

Xaden's letter is marked with the same seal I've seen the last three years, a blue wax seal with a rising dragon. I snap open the seal, the wax breaking quietly.

Dear Sloane,

I'm so, so sorry.

My gaze shifts at the letter, sorry for what? As I pay attention to the paper, trying not to read ahead, the corner of one letter is torn, and slight dark spots appear on the paper, like tear stains.

Liam stands with Malek now.

My heart shatters, as I read.

We were attacked by Gryphons, while we were going to save a nearby village. Deigh died, and we didn't have long to say goodbye to Liam before we had to fight.

I am so sorry, I tried, he died in mine and Violet's arms- and so did Soleil.

I'm used to reading through the lines at this point, its how most words to me look. 'Gryphons" always the same, and yet, never Gryphons, Venin.

I barely remember Soleil, her mother was a lieutenant under my mother, and I maybe met her once- but Liam? He was my brother. I'm alone now, no family, no mom, no dad, no Liam. I continue reading, letting the tears spill onto the page as I try not to cry out in pain.

I wish I could be there, I'm leaving in a few days, as soon as we get back to Basgiath, we're currently waiting for Violet to wake up, we're in-

The next word is scribbled out, but I know what he means, they're in Aretia. Letting the one who lived- Violet Sorrengail- heal, while Liam is in a burn pit with his dragon and Soleil.

I don't bother reading the rest, I throw the letter across my bed and reach for Garrick's. This one is sealed with brown wax- I rip it open, and worry my lip as more tears fall.

Sloane,

I wish I could bring you good news.

Please don't be stupid- do something stupid more importantly.

I'll give you what the report says, but I'm sure you've already read Xaden's letter, or Eya's.

Included in his letter is his own personal report, since there were no scribes to write it down.

Name: Garrick Tavis

Rank: Third Year Flame Section Leader, Fourth Wing

Location: Athbyne

Beyond Wards Y/N: Yes.

Commanding Officer: Xaden Riorson

Riders Available: Masen Sandborne, Eya Wrenwrought, Garrick Tavis, Liam Mairi, Soleil Telery, Violet Sorrengail, Ciaran Jun, Bodhi Durran, Imogen Cardulo

Incident Report: June 24, 633 AU

War Games 633 of Basgiath War College, Gaurd and Riot of Wing Leader Xaden Riorson was set down at a lake 20 minutes out from Athbyne.

10 minutes in on break a scream was heard from the west side of the lake, in the woods.

A drift of Six Gryphons attacked and killed Deighabron-- a Red Daggertail belonging to Liam Mairi, saving Violet Sorrengail from impailment.

Soleil and Fuilinstrogh were killed in action by suprise attack.

In action Violet Sorrengail and Xaden Riorson took out two Gryphons as well as rider. Violet was then impailed by poisoned dagger (awaiting condition updates), and incapacitated.

Eya Wrenwrought, Imogen Cardulo and Bodhi Durran fought the remaining Gryphons.

-INCIDENT END-

Injuries sustained:

Bodhi Durran: Broken Arm

Garrick Tavis: Six Inch Cut from Temple to Jaw

Eya Wrenwrought: Twisted Ankle

Violet Sorrengail: Stab Wound (poison)

Imogen Cardulo: Several Fleshed and Treated Knife wounds, (unpoisoned)

Liam Mairi: Deceased

Soleil Telery: Deceased

I don't bother to read the rest of the report. I throw it aside and ravage through Imogen and Eya's letters. All I can focus on is that he died for Violet, saved her, and she still got stabbed and might even die. He died for fucking nothing.

My heart pounds in my chest as I rip at a rouge peice of paper. Tears fall down my cheeks, and make my face sticky with grief.

When Helena walks in, towel wrapped around her head, I'm hugging myself, looking at my sheets instead of the letters. Her face drops as she sits next to me, an arm wrapped lightly around my shoulder as she consoles quietly.

When I think I've cried out every tear that ever existed in my body. Helena asks me quietly what's wrong.

"H-he's gone." I whimper out, my voice breaking.

"Fuck," I hear from another voice, I glance up. Fynn stands there, against my bedpost, and his hair is slicked back with sweat.

"Liam?" Helena asks quietly and Fynn and I nod simultaneously. A gasp escapes her mouth, and she tries not to shudder.

When Emek sticks his head in through door, Fynn shakes his head and waves him out.

"I'm sorry Sloane." Fynn whispers, but I begin to shut everything out. I haven't done this since- since I watched my mother be incinerated- six years ago.

My heart sits in the bottom of my stomach, and I find myself shrugging away from Helena's touch.

When others walk in, they sit adjacent to the bed, or like Fynn; against the bedpost. They ask hushed questions, "What happened?", "Why is Sloane-", "Is she going-". I shut my eyes closed, and just scream.

The room quiets. Nobody speaks. No one moves, then quietly, a hand clasps my shoulder. "Out." He whispers.

I don't bother looking up at Emek, I know it's him. Everyone leaves, and I slowly collapse in on myself, crying again. He shushes quietly, sitting down on the bed, running his fingers through my hair.

His hand passes in front of my vision, and he picks up a letter. He let's out a breath, and sets it down, no doubt reading what Eya had wrote.

Dear Sloane,

We lost Liam two days ago.

We were in a battle at Resson.

I'm not going to sugarcoat this, you know that's not my thing, and I guarantee you've read Xaden's letter.

You know what took him out. We tried, I couldn't get there in time. I will see you at Parapet. I'll be on the other side, you know I will be.

Just remember: You are strong, and you will get through this, you have gotten through worse, and you are amazing.

I love you kid.

-Eya Wrenwrought, Second Wing, Claw Section, Second Squad.

Emek takes my hand, "I know." I shake my head, a few tears falling.

"Y-you don't." I whisper, even though I know his older sister fell at Gauntlet two years ago. "Emma fell at Gauntlet. Liam was eviscerated with his fucking dragon. Emma died before her threshing. Liam did not."

Emek sighs. "Mom died by Venin, if you remember." He says, not trying to guilt-trip me, but informing. Pain flares in the back of my mind, a headache swirling. I fall back on Emek, and he catches me.

"I- I'm sorry." I let out.

"Don't be, we all know the sacrifices that are made."

And I know, from all experiences, it never gets better.

"I'm sorry Sloane."

[crisalidaseason]

A retelling of Iron Flame p. 1

Chapter 5 - Facts, apologies and promises

Summary:

Liam has a heart to heart with Xaden and Violet. He makes a choice

Previous chapter

As soon as formation was dismissed, the newly turned second and third years gathered in the common hall to return their previous uniforms. The line was slow, considering the new lieutenants were a priority on the matter and they had a lot of things to return. Xaden and Garrick’s height were enough for them to stand out on the line, the sight a painful reminder for Liam. As pathetic as it sounded, he did not want to part ways with Xaden and Garrick so soon, not after finally reuniting. Would they ever be a family again? Could he entertain the idea of them living in Aretia, just like old times?

He knew the answer.

“Liam?” Violet whispered beside him. Her inquisitive eyes traced a path to his hands, which were whitening with the forceful grip on his first-year uniforms.

He relaxed his fingers, noticing how the joints ached with the effort. “It’s okay”

Violet did not say anything else in return, but her eyes lingered on him for a few seconds longer before finally nodding and returning her attention forwards. Liam noticed as her eyes also lingered on Xaden, a sorrowful shadow falling on her features, though he knew her feelings were caused by something far different, that her eyes held betrayal in all levels and senses. He was hyper aware that Xaden was not the only one she was angry at, Liam had to properly apologize, or at least try to.

“Can we talk later?” he whispered, trying not to gather the attention of their chatting squadmates.

Violet looked at him again, exhaustion and hurt painted all over her frame. “What’s there to be said?”

“An apology” he muttered “and a promise”

She read him in the same analytic way of their first interaction and he felt like a stranger all over again. As the shadow, not the friend.

“Later”

***

Thankfully, Xaden was still inside his room when Liam knocked on the door.

“Took you long enough” his brother commented, allowing him to enter.

“They took forever to move the line” he groaned “and I still have to pack things and move quarters”

Liam looked at the empty wingleader room, with not a trace of Xaden left. He felt his chest tighten again at the sight, the reminder. Countless nights Liam spent there playing cards, having late night conversations, intruding in meetings with his unsolicited remarks. If the walls could speak, they would most likely be dead with all the important things they had discussed in there.

“How does it feel” Liam asked “to graduate this disgrace of a quadrant?”

Xaden did not reply at first, instead he simply closed the door and signed with his hand, the air trembling as the sound shield covered them like a bubble. Both of them stood on their spot, looking at each other with too many memories.

“I used to think I would gladly leave giving them the finger” Xaden shrugged “now I only feel dread. For all of us who remain here”

“They will not rest until we’re dead”

Xaden nodded “We won the battle today, but do not let your guard down. We will be persecuted more than usual”

And now Violet was inside that mess.

“What now?” Liam asked.

Liam saw as his brother’s mask slipped, eyes widening and muscles locking tight “Survive your second year”

Like fuck he was going to do nothing “What about the weapon drops? You had me on those!”

“Bodhi and Imogen will do so, alongside Eya when necessary” his brother countered.

“And I do nothing?” Liam narrowed his eyes “everyone risks their lives but I am simply to survive my second year?”

“Exactly” he said “second year is one of the toughest ones, you’ll need to concentrate. Strengthen your shields, specially with Aetos still in your squad”

Liam snickered, crossing his arms and shaking his head “You think I can’t do it”

“Liam” Xaden warned.

“Don’t ‘Liam’ me!” his tone shifted, louder than he would ever dare “I can’t just stand by do nothing”

“I’m not saying you can’t do anything” Xaden kept his tone calm “But I-”

His brother paused, closing his eyes and rolling his shoulders to alleviate the tension. Xaden was visibly tired, all of them were considering the long hours of flight and the busy day of packing. Liam almost felt bad about having this conversation, but they had unfinished words to one another and gods knew when this opportunity would come again.

“Last time I ordered you to do something, I almost lost you”

Silence stretched between them. Guilt was no stranger to Xaden, he knew that, but that was one of the few instances he externalized the feeling.

“What difference does it make? I would have risked my life anyway so your argument is fucking useless here. Let me do something! Let me help, like you asked me months ago”

“Is it too much to ask my brother not to risk his life unnecessarily?” Xaden argued, but his tone held a deep sorrow “to lay low for a while, to actually focus on surviving the torture this place is going to put him through?”

Liam pursed his lips “you did not ask this from Imogen or Bodhi”

“I didn’t see both of them on the verge of death” his brother’s tone was somber “You may not remember, Liam, but we were all-”

Xaden approached slowly, clasping Liam’s shoulder firmly “We were all uncertain if you and Violet would survive. You didn’t see how pale and limp you were, how weak Deigh looked or the amount of blood pooling around his wound while Glane tried to burn it”

“So you’re gonna shield me from the world because of that? You can’t coddle me, or her, Xaden. We are bound to die tragic deaths one day, all of us”

And to think Xaden was always the one to tell him that, to reinforce that life was shit and shit was bound to happen. Him - who had never been a coddling person - was doing the exact thing he hated most.

“I can’t stop you from doing things, but can we reach an agreement?” His brother sighed and a small smile pulled the corner of his mouth “You strengthen your shields, survive RSC and then I can involve you in more complex stuff. Just give me that, please”

“What about Violet?” he asked.

“I’m never going to order you to look after her, Liam. But as a friend I suppose you’ll protect her anyways. Just have someone watch your back too”

“She’ll watch my back, like she has done countless times before, and I will also keep her safe” Liam guaranteed “but I actually meant something else”

Xade furrowed his brows for a moment, but soon his face changed into the mask of stoicness he always sported “No”

Liam felt the rush of the anger go from simmering to boiling in seconds, causing him to feel whiplash at the change.

“No?! You have to be fucking kidding me!” he yelled “have you learned nothing from that shit show in Resson?”

His brother groaned, fingers combing through the dark curls, turning his back on Liam “You really want to fight about this? Now?”

“I said we were going to fight if we lived through the day and I recall you telling me you wouldn’t run away” he argued “you’re making the same mistake, keeping her out of the loop was exactly what almost killed her. We could have handled that differently in so many ways-”

“I know, Liam! I think about it every waking minute since Resson. I know that me keeping the truth from her was detrimental, I fucking know! But things are different now. Leadership has their eyes on her like a hawk and Aetos will do everything in his power to steal her memories. Our lives are in danger, hers included”

Liam collapsed on the chair, cradling his head in his hands. The worst part of it all was that his brother was right. Their past actions brought them to that dilemma.

“I’m also a danger to us then, more than she is considering I know too much about…home” Liam countered “besides, from what we’ve seen today, I don’t think Violet is open to Aetos anymore, she can handle him”

“It’s not that simple, brother” Xaden kneeled beside him, tapping at Liam’s relic “she doesn’t have this. We both know Violence well, her sense of justice. The second that woman learns something, she will try to help and when leadership finds out what she’s up to… we are all dead”

“You want me to lie to her again, then?” Liam felt miserable.

“You’re not lying-”

“Omission is lying” Liam argued, standing up “Violet is smart. She knows what’s at stake here and I trust her to be careful with what she already knows, what she deserves to know”

His brother was still kneeling, not a single emotion passing through his mask.

“I can’t lie to her again, Xaden” he said “She trusted me blindly, she saved my life multiple times, I owe her”

“I also owe her my life, Liam. We all do” his brother’s voice was tired “You don’t need to lie - I don’t want to lie to her anymore - but there are things we cannot share with her now. We have to wait”

Liam chuckled darkly. As if all the dangerous information wasn’t already of her knowledge. Aretia, the dark wielders, the weapon drops, her brother, the revolution. She already knew all that could get them killed.

“I said this to you before and I’m saying it again” Liam finally said “this will end up badly”

***

The evening was warm - a bit uncomfortably so - while riders parties everywhere. In the corner of the gathering hall, there was a group of Lucerish riders singing a popular ode rather loudly. Some squads, just like their own, were simply drinking together and chatting.

“Chantara?” Rhiannon inquired “out of every privilege that comes with being a second-year, that’s what you’re looking forward to? It’s only a rumor”

“I’m just saying I heard they might lift the ban finally, and we’ve been stuck with this dating pool for the last year” Ridoc explained “So even the possibility of getting leave to spend a few hours in Chantara every week is definitely what I’m looking forward to the most”

“Hear, hear. It is getting a little…” Nadine agreed, clinking her glass with Ridoc’s “Familiar around here. I bet by third year it will feel downright incestuous”

Same. Though Liam was not close to Nadine, he could not help but agree with her. He had exhausted his dating pool quickly.

“You do know that trips to Chantara are for worship only, cadet” Rhiannon mocked Commandant Pancheck’s voice.

Liam chuckled at the playfulness. And to think he had almost left his world, almost missed this rare moment of peace with his squad.

“Hey, I never said I wouldn’t stop by the temple of Zihnal to pay the God of Luck my respects” Ridoc defended himself.

“And not because you’re praying to get a little lucky while the other cadets are in town” Sawyer commented.

“I’m changing my answer” Ridoc gave up “Being able to fraternize with other quadrants anywhere in our downtime is what I’m looking forward to”

Violet snorted “What is this downtime you speak of?”

“We have weekends now, and I’ll take whatever time we get”

“Like you’ll be using every second you can get with a certain Lieutenant Riorson” Rhiannon teased Violet.

Liam grimaced at the same time she blushed

“I’m not-”

The reaction from the table was quick and synchronized.

“Pretty much everyone saw you show up to formation in his flight jacket before War Games” Nadine accused “And after this morning’s display? Please”

Liam cleared his throat “Younger brother here”

As much as he joked his two friends needed to fuck, that was not the moment to discuss what was clearly a broken relationship. He pleaded with Rhiannon with his eyes and - thankfully - she picked up his silent message.

“Personally, I’m looking forward to letters. It’s been way too long since I’ve been able to talk to my family”

“No chore duty!” Sawyer complemented “I will never scrub another breakfast dish again”

“I’m going with his answer” Nadine agreed, offering the alcohol pitcher to Imogen and Quinn.

Imogen sent him a discreet look, a clear ask on his well-being for those who knew how to read her. He blinked at her affectionately.

“Second year is the best” Quinn chimed in “All the privileges and only some of the responsibility of the third-years”

Except for the torture class, but Liam avoided ruinging what was a rare moment of fun their squad had.

“But fraternizing between quadrants is definitely the best perk” Imogen added.

“That’s what I said!” Ridoc exclaimed.

“Did your lip get split while you guys…” Nadine asked, motioning for Imogen’s wounded lips.

The table went quiet and Liam tensed, Violet beside him slumped a little. So much for keeping the fun.

“Yeah” Imogen replied, looking at him and at Violet, trying to hide her discomfort.

“I still can’t believe you guys saw action” Ridoc said, serious “Not War Games—which were already scary as shit with Aetos stepping in for Riorson—but real, actual gryphons”

It wasn’t gryphons and they had no fucking idea.

“What was it like?” Nadine asked “If you guys don’t mind us asking?”

They did.

“I always knew gryphon talons were sharp, but to take down a dragon…” Sawyer commented.

Soleil and Fuil’s withering form flashed in front of his eyes. The wyvern colliding against Deigh, the screams of the civilians, Violet’s gray tinted skin as she undergoes the sleep of the dead. Liam felt his fingers tremble and he hid them below the table, while trying to calm his breathing. He felt someone’s feet press on his shin, probably Imogen but he could not look at her or Violet to confirm it.

“Guys, maybe now isn’t-” Rhiannon began.

“It fucking sucked” Imogen replied, drinking her ale in one gulp “You want the truth? If it wasn’t for Riorson and Sorrengail, we’d all be dead”

Liam did not need to look at the woman to know that there was a deep respect in her voice.

“And as much as I wish none of it had happened, at least those of us who were there truly know the horror of what we’re up against”

He took the courage to glance at Violet, who was gripping her lemonade glass too forcefully, the air around him feeling funny and lifting the hairs of his arms.

“To Soleil” Liam announced, looking at Imogen “we should remember her, part of our squad or not”

“To Soleil” Violet said with a strained voice.

His heart warmed as the rest of their squad did the same.

***

Liam had organized the last of his weapons on the small rack and was about to stash his letters into a drawer when she knocked on the door. He opened it quietly and observed as his friend - were they still friends? - leaned on the frame, eyes on the ground. He motioned for her to come in, not needing to pull her over any wards considering neither Bodhi or Xaden were able to weave it for him yet.

“Right beside my room” she commented, taking in the display of his new quarters.

“Habit, I guess” Liam chuckled “also, the walls are thin and you don’t snore”

His attempt at humor fell flat as Violet kept her stern face, amber eyes focused on his.

“You said an apology and a promise”

Straight to the point. At least her blunt honesty had not changed. Still, there was a clear void - or a wall - forming between them.

“I’m sorry” he began “I’m not entitled to your forgiveness, it’s yours to do what you please with it. But I am deeply sorry for what I’ve done”

She stared at him for a few moments, her face slowly falling into exhaustion. He motioned for her to sit on his new chair, which she did hesitantly.

“It’s difficult to stay angry when you’ve always been the most sensible one” her voice was barely a whisper and a bitter smile spread through her face “but as much as I’m thankful for your apology, you still broke my trust”

“I know” he replied “I lied to you when you never lied to me. Your anger is justified”

She shook her head “No, it’s not. Not at you. You were following orders. Riorson is your brother and I was merely someone you needed to protect to keep him alive. You had no choice”

Riorson sounded strange in her voice. Not even during their initial interactions had she called his brother by surname. Things were really fucked up between all of them. He approached her, leaning on his table and minding his stack of letters still balanced on the corner.

“I could have insisted, given Xaden an ultimatum of sorts, hinted at things more obviously” he paused “I could have done many things differently to value the trust you gave me”

“But you didn’t” Violet said, though her voice held no bite “and there is nothing we can do about it now. You chose to remain loyal to your brother and you did so. I am just a girl you were forced to mingle with and he is your brother. They are your family”

Violet covered her face with her hands and sighed. He wanted to tell her she was family too, something between a friend and a sister - Liam was not sure of what they could be classified as, just that they were intertwined somehow - but that would not be fair. Pulling on her heartstrings when he had broken her trust was vile. Manipulative even. He would have to earn her trust again before telling her that.

“Besides, I get it” she mumbled “The little information he told me almost got us all killed. I get your fear of telling me things...I just can’t help feeling like this”

“Because it still doesn’t justify, Violet” he told her “like I said, we could have done things differently. Which reminds me I owe you a promise”

She looked at him through wet lashes and he never felt more terrible, his own eyes burning.

“What promise?”

He put his hand inside his pocket, holding the dragon figurine he had spent months carving to perfection. Pulling it out, Liam held it firmly in his hand.

“I won’t lie to you anymore” he finally said “I made this mistake once and I’m not going to do it again. I won’t have you almost die due to lack of information ever again”

Violet gasped slightly, a line forming between her brows.

“I just beg you to consider there are personal secrets that are not mine to tell” he complemented “but every piece of useful knowledge I know, things you deserve to know, I will not hide it”

“No, Liam” she stood up “you can’t!”

He furrowed his brows at her. Not at all what he expected and his confusion probably showed through his face. She sat down again and took a long breath.

“I deeply appreciate you wanting to tell me the truth” she explained “but I am a walking danger to the rev- to everything and everyone”

“I don’t want to lie to you, Vi”

“It’s not a permanent thing. Once I can shield properly then you can tell me” she smiled weakly at him “I want to keep you safe and I can’t do this by knowing too much right now”

He did not need his farsight to see the determination on her face. The compassion she was known for and that he appreciated deeply.

“If you say so” he said “just know that I really want to right my wrongdoings with you. To have the honor to be called your friend again”

Violet’s face fell at his last few words, her pale eyes falling upon the ground “that might take a while, Liam”

“I know, Violet. It’s okay”

He opened his palm, finally offering her the carving of Andarna.

****

Next chapter

[ginhawatranslations]

The Story of Unit 24-C - Chapter 6

Read the previous chapters here.

MULA NGAYON BY CARL BELEY

A week before the start of the second semester, I joined Valeen and Jaypee to apply for the scholarship. We’re hoping to get it in time for the second semester, but it’s still fine if they grant it during our second year in college. What matters most right now is to get a scholarship so I can help ease my mom’s financial burden.

“Did you bring the documents I mentioned? A xerox of your ID, grades, and birth certificate?” Valeen asked us.

I checked the folder I was holding to make sure all the required documents were inside.

“If they ask why you need a scholarship, just say you’re an average Filipino citizen,” she advised. She even told me not to mention that we own a hotel in El Nido. I should say we have a small business and that we earn just enough to get by each day. She said that if they find out we’re well-off, I’d get disqualified right away.

Valeen seemed really experienced with this stuff based on the number of tips she gave us.

While waiting in line, we chatted about random things - especially the highlights of our vacation in El Nido.

“You know, it’s been almost six months of us hanging out, but we've never even chilled at your condo, Kelvin,” Jaypee said to me.

“It’s messy,” My short reply. “And I’m kind of embarrassed because of my roommate.”

“How’s your roommate anyway? Maybe he’s handsome! Introduce me!” Valeen joked.

“Why would I care if he’s handsome or not?” I laughed. “We just share a room; we’re not friends.”

“Wow, a cold war when you’ve been living together for a while?” Valeen commented. “So, how is he as a roommate?”

I paused for a moment. If only they knew what I put up with because of that guy. Sometimes he doesn’t even wash his dishes, and I end up doing it after getting home in the afternoon. He also leaves food under the couch. His stuff’s all over the place - like he thinks he’s living alone.

If he pisses me off enough, I swear I’ll post on social media about how disgusting their beloved basketball player is as a roommate.

“He’s alright. We just have different personalities and schedules, so we’re not close,” I explained. I didn’t want to ruin his reputation - he still has one in school, after all.

The line was long, and we didn’t finish until around two in the afternoon. After applying for the scholarship, I headed to the College of Home Economics building to help Miss Cheska. She had a lot to take care of too, especially with the start of classes.

**********

The second semester started and as usual, professors don’t really teach much on their first week. But most of them already gave us a heads-up that we’d be cooking more often, so we should prepare for this semester to be expensive.

Good thing I managed to save up a bit from doing side work as Miss Cheska’s student assistant.

“There are so many PE options this sem! Why volleyball!?” Valeen complained as we walked to the gym. I don’t really mind having volleyball as our PE, but it’s summer now and the heat index is insane. It’s exhausting doing such a physically demanding activity in this weather.

Last semester, our PE was just Zumba. Our professor barely taught, so we passed easily.

When we got to the gym, we saw the Golden Bears practicing on the other side of the court.

I watched Noah play. He’s actually really good, just like Valeen said. She says he has a lot of potential even though he’s only a freshman. I just can’t appreciate him that much after all our bad first encounters.

It’s like there was an instant wall between us from day one. I mean, during our first meeting, he ignored me and just threw his duffle bag on the bed and left. The second time, he puked on me. I swear, I can still remember the smell. The third time, well...he redeemed himself by telling me Eya was already in a relationship. I didn’t get to thank him though - I got too shy, especially since her boyfriend was his teammate.

After making a shot, Noah did a quick high-five with his teammate. He looked over at our group walking near the bleachers - me included. Our eyes met, but I quickly looked away. He’s a stranger. Act like you don't know each other.

Coach Romeo, our PE professor, arrived. Luckily, he didn’t make us play today. Instead, he gave us a brief history of volleyball in the Philippines and assigned us to research player positions.

**********

When the day ended, I went straight back to unit 24-C. The heat in the Philippines during summer is brutal! I can’t stand going out in this weather. I’d rather lie down and enjoy the air conditioning. Our second semester at Ardano runs from February to June.

And to think it’s only February…what more when we get into April and May? Lord, have mercy on me.

I was lying on the couch watching this Netflix series I just discovered - The 100. Actually, it wasn’t a real discovery; it’s on the top of the recommendation list.

I was chilling on the couch with a bottle of Mogu-Mogu on the table and a bag of Nova chips. The door opened and Noah walked in, which surprised me. He just passed me by and went into the bedroom. I followed him with my eyes.

“Wow, a miracle! The idiot's home early,” I mumbled, grabbing another chip and turning back to my show.

The bedroom door opened again. He had a towel over his shoulder. He headed towards the shower.

I didn’t pay much attention. But then my phone rang - Valeen was calling.

“Hello?”

“Hey Kelvs! Sorry for the call, but I just wanted to ask if you have my notebook? It’s not in my bag. I feel like I handed it to you earlier. Can you check please?”

I paused my show and got up to check my bag. “Hold on, madam, I'm checking,” I joked.

When I found her pink notebook, I let her know right away. “Yup, I have it. I probably forgot to give it back. I’ll just return it tomorrow, or do you need it now? I could have it delivered if you want.”

“Idiot! It’s just a notebook, no need for Lalamove. I’ll get it tomorrow. No important assignments anyway. I just feel better knowing you have it. Bye! I’m at SM right now. Damn it’s hot!” I laughed at her complaint - we share the same sentiment today.

She hung up. I was about to return to the couch when the door opened again, and Noah was just about to enter the room. We startled each other, but I was the one more surprised!

The idiot just came out of the bathroom, wearing only a towel around his waist. His hair was still wet, and water was dripping onto the floor.

“Sorry,” I said, stepping aside so he could enter before I left the room.

I sat on the couch and sighed. I mean, it’s normal to see shirtless guys - I grew up in El Nido - but this was the first time it happened up close, and with just the two of us in the unit.

I took a sip of Mogu-Mogu and tried to snap myself back to my senses.

About five minutes into my show, Noah came out of the room again. He was now wearing a red striped t-shirt and shorts. What a miracle - he's not heading out tonight. He usually gets home really late.

I didn’t bother asking and focused on the show.

“Kelvin,” he suddenly called out. He was leaning on the door frame.

How did he know my name?

“Kelvin, right? I saw your name in the group chat with Therese.” Oh, that made sense. Speaking of that group chat, I haven’t checked it in months - no one really talk there anyway.

I kept my cool. “Why, is there a problem?”

“Well, I informed Ate Therese about this, and it would be rude if I didn’t ask your permission,” I raised an eyebrow and paused the show. “My cousin from the province is watching a concert at MOA, and instead of renting an Airbnb, he’ll be staying here.”

Damn. This idiot only informs me now? He didn’t even ask for permission beforehand.

I sat up straight. “And you’re just telling me this now?”

“Sorry, my cousin only told me last night too. Instead of him wasting money, I offered the unit. Just this weekend. But if you’re uncomfortable, I can tell him my roommate refused.”

“Are you dumb? So I’ll look like the bad guy to your cousin?” I sighed and ate another chip. “How many days?”

“Just next weekend. Around 2–3 days max.” If it’s just that long, I don’t mind. I could probably crash at Uncle Vince’s place so they can have the unit to themselves.

“If that’s all, then fine,” I said. I saw Noah smile at my response. “But make sure your cousin doesn’t get handsy. He can only sleep on the couch. He’s not allowed near my loft bed or my study table. Clear?”

“Got it. Thanks, roommate,” he said and returned to the bedroom.

**********

On Wednesday, I came back to the unit early because of the heat. I also had assignments in Ethics and NSTP to do. I had a plastic of gummy bears beside me for snacks, and honestly, if I get lazy, that’s my dinner too.

I quietly reviewed my notes while having some jazz music to help me focus. I have the unit to myself today since it looks like Noah will be coming home late again. I passed by the school gym earlier and saw them practicing.

My study session was interrupted by a knock on the door. Damn, those knocks give me trauma. The last time someone knocked persistently, I got puked on.

“Hold on! Are you in a rush to poop again!?” I shouted, sure that it was Noah. Why does he always forget his key? What if I wasn’t home?

I finished writing the sentence for my essay and walked to the door. I unlocked everything and opened it wide.

“Next time, stop forgetting your-”

I didn’t finish. It wasn’t Noah at the door. A lean guy in a black dry-fit shirt and loose pants smiled and waved at me.

“Hi,” he greeted.

“Hello?” I replied, confused. Who the hell is this? I looked around. “I think you have the wrong unit.”

“Oh shit.” He checked his phone and looked above the door. “24-C. This is the unit Noah sent me.”

Then I remembered Noah the moron's request for his cousin to crash here.

“You’re Noah’s cousin?” I asked.

“Yup,” he smiled again, showing a dimple on his left cheek. “My name’s Darius.”

“You’re the one watching the concert?” He nodded, and I opened the door wider to let him in.

Wasn’t he supposed to arrive Friday? What day is it today? It's only Wednesday!

I sighed. Looks like I’ll have to endure a few days with both Darius and Noah around. Seriously, that moron only brings me nothing but stress.

Translator's Notes

The song title in English means "from now on". This is in connection to Kelvin's premonition that his relationship with Noah is about to change.

In the original, the author said Valeen introduced the scholarship to Kelvin, but in the previous chapter it was Jaypee who shared it. (Author missed that part, sorry!) We decided to remove that part as it's not really relevant for the paragraph.

Filipinos often call photocopy machines Xerox after a popular brand of copiers. It's so prevalent that the trademark owner threatened lawsuits against businesses appropriating it for their photocopying services.

Most universities require physical education (PE) a.k.a. gym classes. More often than not, students have no choice which activity they're assigned to for the semester.

The Philippines is located in the tropics, so it's technically summer here all year. April to June are the hottest months, with temperatures ranging from 25-40°C (77-104°F).

Mogu-Mogu is a drink made of fruit juice mixed with bits of nata de coco (coconut gel).

Nova is a brand of chips made of various grains such as wheat, oat and rice. It's often marketed towards health-conscious people.

Lalamove is an app that offers same-day delivery services.

SM is the largest shopping mall operator in the Philippines, with more than 80 malls as of 2024. (It seems like Valeen went to SM San Lazaro, referred to in a previous chapter.)

NSTP (National Service Training Program) is offered as an civilian alternative to the one-year military training requirement for college students.

Kelvin used the word mokong, one of many Tagalog profanities that's similar to the word idiot.

[jaskierswolf]

For @damnbert who wanted some Lambert hurt/comfort! I went for Lambert/Aiden 🥰

CW: Canon-typical violence and injury.

_

The life of a witcher was exhausting. It was just a never-ending cycle of pain and potions and prejudice. This was the third contact in a row where he’d barely made enough money to cover the cost of the repairs to his armour, let alone some of the rarer potion ingredients he needed to buy. His side was bleeding heavily despite downing a bottle of Swallow, and he was fucking furious. It just wasn’t fair. These stupid idiots would be dead without him, and yet they couldn’t even give him the three hundred orens that they had agreed upon.

It fucking sucked.

Luckily, Aiden had stayed behind to fix up his own armour and keep guard of their camp. They had both foolishly assumed the hunt would be easy, but, as always, the humans had downplayed the danger. Although, if that meant Aiden was safe, Lambert didn’t mind. Not only was Aiden not bleeding out, he’d also made dinner and set up the fire ready for what was supposed to be a lazy evening together. Instead, Lambert limped into the clearing, his hand still pressed to his side as he tried to staunch the bleeding as best he could. It was a mess.

“Shit!” Aiden hissed, his eyes wide as he dropped his needle and thread on the ground. “What happened, wolf?”

“Second nest in the next field,” he grumbled, staggering over to the fire and falling into Aiden’s arms.

“Fucking bullshit,” Aiden growled, pulling the ribbon from his wrist and pulling his hair back off his face. “Sit down, let me look at it. No, wolf, don’t pull that face at me, I’m stitching it up. You have the talent of a rock troll.”

“Eskel would say that’s a good thing,” Lambert smirked, a weak laugh escaping his lips as he remembered their drinking game over winter. “Ow!”

Whilst he’d been distracted, Aiden had cut through the remaining shreds of his armour, and the useless garment had fallen away from the open wound in his side. It looked worse now, dirt and monster guts caking the area, and Lambert knew it would sting like a bitch to clean it out. If anyone other than Aiden tried, he would probably bite their head off, but as it was he just cursed the camp down whilst Aiden washed it out.

“Fucking… whoreson!”

Aiden just tutted and cupped his cheek. “So dramatic, darling.”

“It hurts,” he whined, pouting at his boyfriend.

“Sit still, I need to stitch it up, and then you can spend the whole evening sulking whilst I look after you, I’ll even let you brush my hair.” The words were soft and soothing, and Lambert let Aiden’s lilting accent wash over him, more of a balm to his hurt than any salve. He couldn’t help the purr that rumbled in his chest as Aiden leant forward to kiss his forehead.

“Fuck you,” he grumbled half-heartedly, and then cursed again as Aiden started the first stitch.

Yeah, Life of a witcher was the fucking worst… but at least he wasn’t alone anymore.

_

Taglist: @geraltrogerericduhautebellegarde, @comfyswitcherblanketfort, @fontegagrilledcheese, @dani-dandelino, @dapandapod @damnbert @officerjennie @feraljaskier @geralt-of-riviass @kueble @gilberik @llamasdumpsterfire @trickstermoose67 @alllthequeenshorses @skai6 @karolincki @eya-trying-to-function @stonedstargazer666 @aurelia-which-means-sunrise @contemplativepancakes, @marvagon, @slythnerd

[vilonnie-arts]

my favorite part of teakettle demon was when millie said IT’S MILLIE TIME and millie’d all over those guys

[ID: Black and white traditional pen sketches of my original character Millie Eya. He is an Asian teenage boy with short, straight hair, and slightly pointed ears. He wears a headband with crooked ribbons, a sweater vest, and a smiley face pendant. In the first sketch, he’s shocked. His eyes are wide and his shoulders are raised, and his hair and ribbons are spiking up. In the second sketch, he’s smiling and winking with his tongue sticking out. He also flashes a peace sign. In the third, he is exasperated. His brows are furrowed, there are heavy bags under his eyes, he is grimacing and sweating, and his ribbons are drooping. End ID]

[fluffywings13]

Fulfilling Needs

Midoriya doesn’t take well to Hawks having to leave for an undetermined amount of time, he mopes, the entire time, which is considerably understandable, the hero and their classmate are basically attached at the hip, where their friend was, the number three hero wasn’t far behind. They were equally attached to each other. No one was sure if it was a healthy attachment or not, but it made them both happy, and everyone wanted them to be happy.

So, that being said, no one bats an eye when the door’s slammed open and Hawks is just suddenly there, grinning like a madman, and they turn to watch Midoriya, half way down the stairs, pause, eyes wide, like a deer in headlights. “Eyas,” their friend backs up a step. “I have needs!”

The teen’s eyes widen ever so slightly, a bit more, and he turns on his heel. “Oh shit!”

They turn to watch the hero, who laughs maniacally, as he chases after their classmate.

Then they turn back to what they’d been doing.

…

Izuku shrieks when he’s snagged up around the waist, Keigo laughs at his vain attempt at escape, and steps into his dorm room, kicking the door closed behind them. He kicks his boots off and carries him over to his bed before tossing him down and flopping down on top of him, making the teen groan dramatically, and the hero huff in indignation.

“I’ve been thinking about this all week long!” The greenette squeaks when arms curl around his head and his face is smooshed into the man’s chest. “I missed you!”

His voice is muffled by the man’s chest. “I missed you too, Kei.”

He can feel the man’s grin. “You know what I’m gonna do to you now?”

“Umm,” please god let the man be in a merciful mood. “Get off me?”

“Nope!” Sometimes Izuku wonders who’s the adult and who’s the kid in this relationship and smiles when the man leans in close to his ear, whispering softly. “I’m gonna work my way from top to bottom.”

“Kehehei!” Okay, he’s giggling now, he knows what’s about to happen. “Plehehease Nohoho!”

The hero rises to his elbows, grinning down at him a grin that’s an indication of nothing good, and shrieks with giggles when something sharp, pointed, scratches lightly behind his ears, shaking his head frantically. “I’m gonna start with these ears and slowly but surely make my way down.”

Izuku shrieks, not having the time to spare to feel embarrassed about the high pitched shrieky giggles he’s producing, not that he’d need to, Keigo’s heard them frequently in the past. “Eehehehehheehe nohohohoho! Kehehehehei nohohoho! Pleheheheheease!” He presses his chin to his chest, shrieking softly, when the man moves down to scratch his talons under his chin.

“Look at this adorable giggly hatchling, just look at’em! Ain’t he a cutie! Just listen to those adorable giggles!” The teen raises his shoulders and shrieks when the man scratches all five talons over the sides of his neck lightly. “Let me hear’em, give me those adorable giggles, give’em to me!”

“Kehehehehheei Kehehehehheei stohohohop! Ihihihi cahahahaan’t tahahahahake ihihihiit! Ihihihit’s sohohoho bahahhahahad!”

He knows he made a mistake when the hero grins down at him. “You know what’s so much worse?”

The teenager shrieks and shakes his head frantically. “Nohoho! Keheehehhei nohohohoo! Plehehehehehease nohhohohoho! Nohohohot thahahahahat!” The hero slowly leans over and he curls up his shoulder, shrieking when Keigo pulls it down, shaking his head frantically when the man hovers just over the side of his neck and blows lightly. “Kehehehehei pleheheheheease! Nohhohohoho! Pleehehehehheheease! Kehehehehheheei nohhohohoho!”

Keigo chuckles softly. “Kei, yes.” And buries his face in the side of the teen’s neck.

Izuku squeals brightly, trying to scrunch up even with the man burrowing in the side of his neck, not taking into consideration the fact that he’s only trapping him there. He inhales when the man inhales and shakes his head as best as he can. “Kei! No! Nononono!” Screaming when he blows a long hard raspberry and shrieks when he takes another deep breath. “Kehehehei nohhohohoho!” And squeals when he blows another long hard raspberry. “Eeeieiaeiaaiahahahahahahhahahaa Kehehehehhehei nohohohot thohohohose!” He screams, finally reaching up to push at the man’s chest, his brain somewhat starting to work, when he takes another deep breath. “Keheheheheei nohohohoo! Hohohohold iihihihihit! Dohohohon’t!” The teen squeals loudly when he blows a third long hard raspberry into the side of his neck, scrunching up, he hisses and laughs when he starts pressing in kisses.

Had he known the man was this torturous, he probably wouldn’t have sought him out, but on the other hand, Keigo did provide amazing cuddles, he was strong and warm and his wings were so soft when he wrapped them around you, okay, he would have, he digresses. He’d put up with his sadistic torturous side for the cuddles, even trade off, even so, it was kind of fun too.

He breaths a giggly sigh of relief when the hero finally pulls away from his neck, but knew it was too premature, when he leaned over to the other side. “We can’t forget this side, can we?”

Izuku shakes his head and scrunches his shoulder up tightly, blocking the access to his neck, he’ll fight back as much as he can in this precarious position, even if the hero is bigger and stronger, that doesn’t mean he won’t go out fighting. A soft fond chuckle reverberates next to his ear. “Open up, nestling, it’s gonna happen.” The teen shakes his head again, giggling breathy giggles, he’s not moving his shoulder for the life of him. “Open up, I’m coming in one way or another, make this easier on yourself.” He shakes his head again, looking to the side with bright emerald eyes, staring at the torturous hero silently, save for his giggling, of course. He shrieks when a finger worms it’s way up under his arm and wiggles in, throwing his arm back down to protect that spot, he opens his neck up, by the time he realizes his mistake, there’s a face burrowing inside. The light stubble on the hero’s face rubs in agonizingly against his neck, he shrieks when teeth nibble at the side of his neck, shaking his head, tilting his head over to the side as much as he can, shrieking again when Keigo growls playfully and shakes his head, nibbling at his neck again. “Pfff baaahahhahahahahahahhahahaaa! Kehehehehehei stohohohop! STOP! Stohohhohohop ihihihihit! Ihihihihit tihihihickles! Ihihihit tihihihihickles!”

“I know it does, little hatchling, that’s why I’m doing it.”

He shrieks and squeals when he nibbles on his neck playfully, rubbing the stubble on his chin into his ticklish neck, and then he takes a deep breath and blows the first raspberry. Izuku screams, it echoes in the man’s ear slightly, scrunching his shoulder up as much as he can with someone buried in his neck. “EIEIEIAAIAHHAHAHAHHAHAHAA!” He tilts his head away from him as much as he can, leaning to the side, and jumps back when fingers reach down to wiggle in his side. “Come back here you, I’m not done with you yet.” The teen jumps back into place, the hero blows another raspberry into the side of his neck, and he squeals.

Keigo pulls away and he immediately raises his shoulder, scrunching back up, protecting his neck, just in case, the man is a wild card, you never know what he’s going to do, and giggles wildly at the remaining tingles running over the side of his neck. “I think you blew my eardrum out, hatchling.”

“You were being an asshole! You deserved it!”

“Oh really,” he wiggles a single finger in both of the nestling’s sides, and the boy giggles brightly, squirming slightly from side to side, but the fingers follow, he’s not managing to get away. “I deserved to have my eardrum blown out by a hatchlings, admittedly, adorable squeal?” Izuku nods, swiping at his fingers, he goes undeterred and drills his thumbs into the slight chub on his lower sides, the hero student shrieks and arches his back. “I was gonna let you go, because I was kind of an asshole on your neck there, but then you said I deserved having my eardrum blown out, so now you’re reallyin for it, no more Mr. Nice Guy for you. You want me to be an asshole, oh, fledgling, I’ll be an asshole.” He reaches over to spider ten fingers up the greenette’s right side, and he shrieks, arching to the left, and the fingers jump over to the left side, and they repeat the process time and time again, until he’s laughing brightly and bouncing from side to side, it’s amusing the hero immensely.

Keigo’s a sadist like that.

He will never say that out loud to his face. Ever.

The hero holds his one side stead as he spiders his fingers up and down the other side, it drives the teen crazy, his laughter picking up, shrieking at the steady torture. “How’s this for you, how’d you like that, that’s right, laugh it up baby bird, let me hear it.” He switches sides and laughs softly when the teen tries to jump away and finds himself trapped by the arm on his other side. Izuku shakes his head as he arches his back. “Noohohohohoo! Ihihihihihi tahahahahahake ihihihiit baahahahahahahack! Yohohohou’re nohohohot ahahahahan ahahahahhaasshole! Ihihihit tihihihickles! Keehehehehehei ihihihit tihihihickles!”

“It tickles, huh, if you think this is bad, just wait until I get to that tummy, I got lots in store for it.” Izuku shrieks at the promise, and when the hero slowly slides down to hover over his aforementioned tummy, tapping his fingers over it lightly. “Speaking of which, I think it’s time, don’t you?”

“Nohoho! Nohhohohot thehehehehere! Nohohohot thehehehehehe beheheheheelly! Plehehehehease!”

“Ohohoho.” Keigo shakes his head lightly. “You know I can’t not get the tummy, that’s like, the worst sin of all sins.” Izuku shakes his head when the hero slowly pushes his shirt up. “I need access to the tummy to enact my revenge for you blowing my eardrum out.” He stares when the man holds up a finger. “All I need is a finger to break you, just one, you’re stuck at my mercy, have I ever been truly merciful?” The teen shakes his head, because no, the hero is not merciful, he knows from first hand experience. “Watch what I can do with just a single finger.” He pokes his finger in the greenette’s belly button, and the young teen squeals, brighter and louder then before, twisting from side to side, squealing with laughter at the finger wiggling in his belly button. “That’s right, I could stay here for as long as I want, and there’s absolutely nothing you could do to stop me, is there, no there’s not. You take your punishment, nestling, and hope I have mercy on you eventually.”

Izuku’s eyes widen when the man grins, and he knows, he just knows what he’s gonna say. “Let’s play a game.” The hero pulls his finger out of his belly button. “You wanna play a game?”

He shakes his head frantically. “N—Nohoho! I dohoho not!”

“Well, it’s a good thing it was a metaphorical question, because we’re gonna play a game.” Keigo reaches back for a feather. “As a pro, it’s my job to help teach and guide the young little baby heroes in training, and as your honorary best big brother slash daddy figure, it’s my job to help teach you personally, so we’re gonna work on your endurance training.” Izuku’s not phased, he calls it endurance training, but it’s really just an excuse to tickle torture his belly because it’s his worst spot and the man knows that it is. “I’m gonna do everything and anything I want to this tummy, bar raspberries, and if you suck in your tummy, I’m gonna blow two raspberries over your belly button.”

The teen giggles at the thought of it, they’ve done this before, he knows how cruel the hero can be. “What do I get if I win?”

“Hmm,” Keigo hums thoughtfully. “So, I have a new limited edition converse line coming out, hasn’t been released yet, not intended to until the end of next month, if you succeed in not sucking your tummy in until I’m done with it, I’ll let you pick which ones you want before they’re released.”

Izuku thinks it over, he usually gets Keigo’s merch before it’s released in stores, they’re close like that, and he’ll undoubtedly get the hightops either way, again, Keigo loves him just that much and strives to make him happy.

In turn he provides the man unlimited cuddles, win-win, in his book.

The cuddles are an added bonus too, he’s not gonna lie.

He’s also seen the designs for the converse sneakers he’s talking about and knows which ones he’d like to get his hands on, despite also knowing he’s going to get them either way, for free, Keigo gives him merch when he wants it, especially if it’s his own, and hasn’t been released yet, so in all reality he doesn’t have to agree to this game.

But, on the same hand, Keigo’s been busy with new sidekicks and missions and they haven’t really gotten to be together in a little over a month and a half, and, despite how brutal the man was to his belly when it came to this game, it was fun to play.

So, he grins and nods. “Deal.”

“Awesome.” The man smiles down at his belly. “I’ve been waiting to get my fingers on this tummy for the longest time.” He giggles as the hero hovers his wiggling fingers over his bare belly. “Is this tummy ready?” The hero asks playfully, smiling at the wild giggles that echo around the room, the young teenager watching his fingers with apt attention. “I’ve got lost time to make up for, so I hope this belly is prepared, it’s really in for it.”

“Keehehehehehei!” Izuku feels a tad bit regretful now, the teasing makes it so much worse, Keigo knows this, he knows this, and he knows the man knows he knows this. “Nohohohoho!”

Sometimes he says no, but he doesn’t really mean it, he’d never admit it out loud to a single living soul, but sometimes he likes playing these games, especially with his hero, he knows Keigo knows it too, he doesn’t have to say it, the signs are easily picked up on, so they have a word, when he’s really had enough, he says the word, and the hero stops, the winged man is torturous, but he’s not cruel, he knows the boundaries and he respect’s them.

Izuku giggles harder when the wiggling fingers dip down towards his belly, resisting the urge to throw his hands down with great difficulty, kicking his feet as best as he can. “I’m gonna give this tummy all the love it missed out on during my time away.”

His fingers pause in their wiggling, and the heroling’s bright green eyes flit up to meet his, and he smiles playfully. “Let’s get started.” Izuku squeals when those fingers suddenly dig into his belly, wiggling circles of tickles around and around, painting a path of playful destruction in their wake. He shrieks with laughter, throwing his hands down, and the hero laughs. “Remember, you suck in your tummy, you get two raspberries over that little button.” He shakes his head, Keigo knows how to play this game, and he knows how to play it well. “Do you remember the raspberries?” He leans over him slightly, resting his fingers along his sides. “Do you need me to remind you about them?”

“No! Nohohoo! I reheheheemember!”

Keigo grins. “I think I should show you.”

“Youhuhu dohohon’t neheheheed tohohoho!”

“Well,” he smiles lightly. “Let’s just as this tummy what it thinks.” The hero leans over him, looking down at his belly, hovering just above his belly button. “Tummy, do you need a demonstration on the matter that is raspberries?” He turns his head slightly, pressing his ear over the kid’s belly, humming as though words were being exchanged. “I see, I do, I would be delighted to.” He pulls away slightly, turning to look him in the eyes, that playful light gleams in the hero's eyes, he missed that light. "Your belly seems to think it needs reminded."

"It's lyhyhying!"

"Tummies never lie."

"It ihihis! It is!"

"Now, nestling, I think I would know if tummies lie." He looms back out over his belly. "Let me oblige this tummy’s wishes."

"No! No, Kei! Stay away! Not those! Not berries! Don't do it! Dohohon't dohohoho ihihihit!"

The hero takes a deep breath, bending over him, and lowers his head down, pressing his lips over his belly button, and rests there. The boy squeals softly, kicking his legs again, sucking in his belly as much as he can. Keigo chuckles, releasing his big breath, and rubs his nose over the small belly button. "You just really want those berries, don't you?"

"Nohoho! Nohohot beheheherries! Hahahahhahahaahahahaha! Plehehehhehease!"

He takes another deep breath and presses in deeper than before, this time he knows it's coming, and Izuku tries to prepare himself for it.

He can't.

"EEIEIAIAHAAHHAHAHAHAHHA AHAHAHAHAHAHAHHHAHA! NO! NOHOHOHO EEIEIIAAAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHA AHAHAHHAHAHAHAAHA! KEI KEHEHEHEEI EEAIAIAIAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHA NOT THOSE EEIEIAIAAHAAHAHAHAHA AHAHAHHAHAHAHAHA! NO MORE AHAHAHAHAHEEIEEIEIAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHHAA NOHOHO MOOHHOHOHOORE! EEIIEIEAHAHAHHAHHAHA AHAHHAHAAHAHHA HOLD IT HOHOHOHOLD IIIEIEIEIIEEHAHHAHAHAHAHAHHAHHAHA HAHHAHAHAHHAHAHAA!"

"Do you remember what berries are now, little tummy?" He laughs freely as the hero presses his ear back over his belly, nodding along mockingly, and gives a soft hum. "Of course, I can show you one more time."

"No! NO! Kei! Get away! Not those! Not berries! Please!"

"I'm sorry, Zu, I'm only doing what this tummy wants."

"Nohhohoho!" Izuku tenses when he feels the hero press his lips back over his belly button, holding onto a massive breath. "EIEIEIAAIAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHA KEI NO EEIEIEIIEAIAHAHAHAHAHAHAH! IT KNOWS IT KNOWS EEEIEIEIIEAAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHA HAHHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAA EIEIIEAIHAAHAHHAHAHAHA AHAHAHAHAHHAHAHHAHA IT KNOWS!"

"Are you sure?"

"I'M SURE! I'M REALLY SURE!"

"Alright, if you're sure." Keigo sits back up again and smiles down at him. "I just wanted to be sure, I mean, your tummy did ask me to show it again." He holds two fingers out over his belly. "Now, remember, you suck in that tummy, you get two raspberries."

The young hero in training nods quickly, vowing not to suck in his belly, no matter what sort of torture may be laid upon him.

"Good boy." He pokes his two fingers all over his belly, in random places, there is no way for him to map out any sort of pattern. "You're doing better than I thought you would." He does giggle too, shimmying from side to side, as much as his binds will allow, watching those two fingers closely with his bright violet eyes. "Now, for the true test." He raises a single finger for him to see, and he stares at it intently, watching as that finger turns, pointing down at him, and slowly begins to lower. He falls still when the finger pokes into his belly button, standing there, the hero staring up at him as though waiting for his reaction.

He shrieks when the finger starts to wiggle, and he can't help it, he tells himself not to, he orders himself to hold it back, but it happens, and he sucks in his belly.

"Oh, ho, ho, I knew that would work!" Keigo leans over him, resting his hand on his other side, curling his fingers around his side to keep him from squirming away. "Time for your berries."

"No!"

"Yes!" He takes a deep breath and rushes down, pressing his face into his belly, and blows a massive raspberry over his belly button.

Izuku throws his head back with a bright squeal of laughter. "EEIIEIAIAAAHHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAA I'M SORRY EEEIEIIEAIIAAHIAHAHAHHAHAHHAHHAHAHA IT WAS A MISTAKE EEIEIAIAHAHAHAHAHHAHAA HAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAA! WAIT WAIT EEIEIIEAIAIHAAHHAHAHAHAHHAHAA YOU ONLY SAID TWO EEIIEIEAIAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHHA! KEIII EEIEIEIAIAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHHA YOU SAID TWO EEIEIEIAAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHA!"

"I know," Keigo straightens, poking him playfully in the side, smiling as he giggles breathlessly. "But, you're just so darn cute, I can't help myself."

"I'm cuhuhute?"

He nods, smiling when the teen giggles, as he wiggles his index fingers on either side of his belly button. "Adorable."

[songbird-sunrise]

Hey Eyas,

I hope you're doing well. I know you were here not long ago but I still wanted to reach out to see how you're doing. You're taking care of the cat and all that..?

Take care of yourself, eyas. Try to eat some things that aren't just burgers and chocolate. Some fruits and veggies will do well for you. You're welcome back whenever you want to visit. Use the hot springs if you want to relax :) Treat yourself to something nice, and I hope your view of the stars is a clear one. I know that you like stargazing quite a bit..

Love you, m8. Stay safe,

- @angelxxreaper

Phil your message is very nice however I am a little preoccupied with tending to my third degree burns I got from trying to make fries

[crisalidaseason]

A retelling of Iron Flame p. 1

Chapter 10 - Agreement

Summary:

Liam wants to help despite Xaden's advice, he tries to find out why Violet is isolating and makes a discovery

Previous chapter

****

It felt as if Bodhi and Imogen sensed Liam somehow with how avoidant they were being. Imogen would barely speak with them during breakfast, usually chatting away with Quinn, Bodhi - despite being their section leader - vanished into thin air whenever they crossed paths. When they were available, they were brief and quick to not let Liam speak much. He tried his best not to be too inconvenient but desperate measures were necessary.

“What the fuck Liam!” the shout echoed around the bathing chamber in multiple bursts. Bodhi retreated with his dagger firmly clasped into his hand “are you fucking insane? I could have killed you!”

Liam raised his hand while grimacing at the pain on his shoulder, a result from slamming it on the doorway with the startle of Bodhi’s reaction “I wanted to talk! Wasn’t expecting you to try and gut me open”

“You could talk to me like a normal fucking person!” Bodhi grumbled “not sneaking up one me like a creep”

“Oh because you’re so easy to reach” Liam scoffed “and I didn’t sneak up on you”

“Following someone to the bathing chambers without making a sound is the definition of sneaking around”

Bodhi’s left eye was quivering and Liam could almost see Xaden reflected on the similar features, but said nothing considering the two cousins were never really fond of the comparison.

“Semantics” Liam shrugged “I need to talk to you”

“Alright, we’ll speak in my room though-”

“Right now!” Liam demanded “or you’re just going to run away from me”

They stared at each other for a few seconds too long, Bodhi visibly irritated and Liam making sure to not yield. He was going to be heard!

“Fine” his friend huffed “let me at least take a piss”

Liam nodded “I’ll be waiting right here, by the door”

Bodhi rolled his eyes and shook his head in annoyance “at least keep watch so nobody tries to stab me for the third fucking time”

At that, Liam’s jaw dropped and he followed his friend inside the bathing chamber, where the man disappeared into one of the stalls “Wait, what the fuck do you mean third time?”

“Two motherfuckers tried to kill me while I was but naked this week”

His stomach dropped at that and he felt the strange burning and heavy weight sensation settle into the cavity.

“I handled them just fine, Mairi” Bodhi complained “cleaning up was a mess though and do you know how annoying it is to dress while you’re dripping wet?”

But Liam could only worry. At that point, Violet and Bodhi were actively targeted. Their fears had become a set reality and it would not be long before all the others were also attacked. A shiver ran through his spine at the uncertainty of who was next.

“You can’t be walking around alone, Bodhi. It only takes one tiny distraction for them to get us”

Bodhi left the stall, looking at Liam briefly before turning to wash his hands with the terrible soap Basgiath offered. As if his revelation meant nothing.

“Eya’s been keeping me some company ever since” his friend explained “and focus on yourself, Liam”

Easy for him to say that. All Liam could focus on was how everyone he loved and cared for could die more easily than ever before.

“Come on” his friend said grabbing him by the shoulder and directing him to the door “we have a few minutes to talk before lunch”

Bodhi’s room was more spacious than his, but not as much as Xaden’s was. Still, it had enough space for a larger wardrobe and a modest table. Liam could see a lot of drawings scattered around the table, rough sketches of gears and what seemed to be a crossbolt study.

“So, what do you want to talk about so much?” his friend reminded.

Liam turned to face him and pursed his lips “I want to help. You, Imogen and Eya can’t be doing this alone”

Bodhi let his head fall backwards and sighed in exhaustion “You and Sorrengail are either restless or actually plotting to get me murdered by Xaden”

“He said I would be on weapon drops before all that shit in Resson happened. Bodhi, nothing changed! I can help, please”

“Xaden was explicit when-”

“Xaden is acting on overprotection and we both know it” Liam interrupted “He let me help in stealing the daggers last year just fine. His concern for my ‘shields’ is just an excuse, you know I shield just fine ever since he put me on Aetos’ squad”

“Look” Bodhi pursed his lips “I’m not going to deny Xaden’s been a little hypocritical but he is not wrong about you focusing on surviving right now”

“You and Imogen were-”

“Me and Imogen were not on some Colonel’s hit list last year. You and Sorrengail will go through a brutal second year because of what happened in Resson. They’re going to be more vigilant about the two of you and don’t think for a second they won’t use Aetos’ signet to gather information”

“I can shield him”

“But can Sorrengail?” Bodhi asked “because I know you will involve her in this. I remember what you said by the lake that night”

It was Liam’s turn to sigh. Of course he was going to involve her. After that entire revelation by the lake, seeing the betrayal in the eyes of a friend for something he could have changed or at least tried a little harder…Liam had promised himself there would be no lies between them anymore, no secrets that would hinder their autonomy. Liam wanted to help and also do it beside her, knowing well his friend was now an important figure in their cause.

Violet was a smart woman and could be an asset for their cause if they just let her in. Shields were something they could practice, she was practicing with whatever weird mind thing Xaden and her shared. In fact, Liam thought that it was a mistake not to let her help, considering last time Violet was kept in the dark they found out the hard way how her knowledge could have helped them prepare or perhaps even avoid what happened in that village.

“You lose yourself in possibilities that are no longer possible. It is time to let the mourning of past mistakes go and focus on surviving, boy” Deigh chimed.

“I can’t sit around doing nothing. I can’t just look while everyone I care for risks their lives”

“None of you need to do this alone” Liam said, voice as exhausted as he felt “and if you’re not going to have me on weapon drops at least give me something to do”

Bodhi walked towards him, stopping by Liam’s side and leaning on the table “Survive and make sure Sorrengail doesn’t run straight to death. Once you’re past the interrogation classes, we could use your help”

“Xaden said the same”

“Is he so wrong for being cautious? Specially now that danger is triple what it was before?” Bodhi’s words made a familiar thought cross Liam’s mind, something he had been pondering on for a while.

He knew that it was wise to wait for the RSC torture classes to pass, but he could not shake the feeling that his brother was acting in something far from simply preservation and caution. Liam wasn’t opposed to protecting Violet - he would protect her out of loyalty anytime - but a part of him wondered if Xaden was prohibiting him from helping more to keep an eye on Violet than simply survival.

“He may be stunted” Bodhi continued “but Xaden was extremely affected by how close to death you and Sorrengail were. It snapped something inside him, a part of him that is desperately afraid of seeing you and her hurt”

But no protective measure would erase the dangers. No amount of delaying Liam’s help or keeping Violet out of the loop would change that in six months there would be venin sucking his home dry, or that their life in the quadrant was currently unsustainable.

It was too late for protection, they needed to act.

****

He dismounted Deigh with a weird painful sensation on his right ankle, but tried his best to hide the discomfort from the other cadets walking out of the flight field. The running landing classes were taking a toll on many people, with many sporting limps and even some deaths happening in other wings.

“You good?” Ridoc asked, approaching from the left “I was right behind you, that was a nasty landing”

Liam huffed but felt his face warm in shame “Lost balance last minute”

He never had a hard time performing physical demands, it was a little frustrating to be having a hard time with running landings.

“You’ll get it” his squadmate said.

“You seem to be really good at it though, I’m proud” Liam complimented, patting his friend’s shoulder.

“Fucking finally” he exclaimed jokingly “something I do better than you and Rhi”

Liam snorted and waited as the rest of their squad approached. He watched Violet attentively, but she seemed fine overall, no strange weight distribution on sight.

“We should hurry” Rhiannon called towards Sawyer, who nodded and began walking towards the Gauntlet’s steps “See you all later!”

“Later!” Ridoc replied “we’ll be in commons until dinnertime”

Liam waved at their leaders before mumbling to their shortened group “Just the three of us then?”

He almost said four before bitterly remembering Nadine was not with them anymore.

“I have to pack my things and finish something for Jesinia” Violet said for the first time since joining “but I’ll stop by for dinner. I promise!”

At that, Liam furrowed his brows “Jesinia?”

“Yeah, I’ve been reading a few things, finding some information. Helping her”

“At this rate you’re going to be graduating as a rider and scribe, Vi” Ridoc commented while they descended the stairs “why don’t you bring it to commons? We could help somehow”

Liam noticed as Violet tensed beside him, briefly. He also noticed how she avoided both their eyes by descending faster.

“I’ll have to ask for permission. The research is not for me, you know?”

Ridoc shared a look with Liam, short but meaningful. Both sharing a recognition that something was amiss with her words. Nothing was said until they insistently walked Violet to her room.

“Please, tell me you noticed it too” Ridoc commented when they began their path to the academic wing.

“Yeah” Liam mumbled “I did”

“I’m worried. We all are. I get it that what happened in War Games must have been terrifying for both of you, but I think there’s something else in the way she’s acting. This whole reading books for Jesinia’s research seems…off”

And not true at all. Liam had spent every waking moment with her for nine months, spoke to her more than he did his own brother. He knew a lying Violet when he saw one.

“And there’s this whole skipping dinner almost every night, she almost never speaks when joining us and have you seen the way she watches her back like someone might kill her anytime? Something is really really wrong, Liam”

“To be fair, someone did try to kill her” Liam commented “I guess not having Riorson here encouraged people to act”

They crossed the rotunda, entering the academic wing. A few cadets passed around them and Liam constantly made sure to observe each one attentively. If they had tried to kill Bodhi twice already, he could only expect the worst.

“I guess so, people tried to kill Vi many many times, but this year seems different, don’t you think? I can’t be seeing things” Ridoc seemed to reflect.

Liam pursed his lips. He may have vouched not lying to Violet again, but there was this painful reminder that he was lying to his own squad too. None of them knew what happened and there was this voice in his head that constantly reminded him of failures of his past. But Deigh was right. It was too late to mourn and wallow in the mistakes that can’t be fixed.

He thought about the ‘what ifs’ with Violet for too long. It was time to actually act on it.

“You’re not seeing things. Something is wrong. Not just with Violet, but everything else, too. The mass burning during Conscription, the locked infirmary. Something is happening”

Ridoc flailed his hand in the air “I knew it! Rhiannon and Sawyer also think so. I just hope it’s not a war or something”

They entered the commons quarters and Liam decided that it was too much of a dangerous conversation to continue. He could only hope Ridoc and the others would catch on more inconsistencies. If war was to come in six months or less, then silence and secrets were detrimental. The more his squad knew, the better mentally prepared they could be.

“You play a dangerous game, boy”

“I have to do something, Deigh. I can’t make the same mistake again”

Liam failed Violet once, he was not going to fail with the others.

“Back to the subject, what do we do about Vi?” Ridoc unknowingly interrupted the mind conversation.

“I’ll handle it”

Ridoc laughed as both of them sat down on a table “and how is Liam Mairi going to convince our very stubborn and terrified-of-asking-for-help friend to say something?”

“You’ll see”

****

He was by Violet’s door as soon as the clock marked half an hour before dinner. Ridoc wanted to join, but Liam assured him that he needed to speak with her alone at first. The last thing he wanted was for her to panic and isolate even more if their entire squad decided to corner her by the door.

He knocked on the door, feeling as the wards complained about his presence. There was no response.

“Vi?”

No response. He felt panic rising on his throat.

“Uh, Deigh?”

“Message relayed” his dragon grumbled “Is this what I am reduced to? a messenger bird?”

“Thank you! You could always viciously slaughter goats later”

“I do prefer bulls” his dragon mumbled.

The door opened, revealing Violet “Sorry, I got distracted”

He offered his hand, feet tapping on the ground “Can we talk?”

Violet pulled a face “About?”

“Stuff” he smiled at her “like, really important”

She pulled him by the hand and was surprised at the sight of her room. Violet was never a very neat person regarding her clothes or accessories, the few times he entered her room were always marked by wrappings all over the place, boots in the middle of the ground, hairpins everywhere. But one thing she always kept organized to a millimetric amount was her books and notes. Which was very in contrast with the current state of her room. There were a bunch of books on her table, haphazardly stacked with parchment partially hidden under them.

If it wasn’t for the abnormality of the situation, he would not have noticed how none of the books had their titles visible. In fact, the covers were concealed and the spines facing away from view.

“What is Jesinia asking of you exactly?” he blurted “It’s okay to help her, but this is a bit much”

“You had something important to say” Violet said, approaching her table and leaning on it “what happened?”

He tilted his head to the side, her quick response a confirmation that she was indeed hiding something. Liam couldn’t help but feel upset about it, she had always been bluntly honest with him, sometimes overly honest. The feeling of shame resurfaced as he thought about how their friendship used to be in comparison to the polite interactions and acknowledgment of their dangerous situation. He didn’t see her in the early mornings, they did not walk together to breakfast anymore, there were no conversations while waiting on their squad, no more chatting while resting on the gym benches and watching their squadmates train. They hadn’t spoken one on one for almost two weeks at that point.

“What’s happening?” was all he asked.

Her eyebrows raised “I should be asking that. You’re the one who came looking for me”

“Because you’re avoiding us”

She narrowed her eyes “I’m not-”

“Yes you are, don’t deny it” he warned her “and you know everyone is noticing because your excuses are becoming ridiculous by the day”

“Now it’s really not the time, Liam” she mumbled, closing her eyes “I have a lot of things to do, I still have to pack”

“When is the time then, Violet? Because between your strange ‘research’” he bent his fingers in quotation “and avoidance, I can never get a hold of you. And I thought you valued communication, so let’s settle this matter like two adults”

“So you can report everything to your brother?” she snapped “no, thank you. Your bodyguard duties are done”

He was taken aback by her statement and tone. He was no stranger to Violet’s irritation, but it was odd to have it directed at him. Despite her initial dislike for his companionship in the early days of their interaction, Violet was never blatantly rude.

“I wasn’t going to”

“Because he’s at Samara?”

“Because you don’t like it” he reiterated “and I told you I was trying to correct past mistakes. I’m just worried, we all are”

Violet sighed audibly, rubbing her temples with her fingers and dragging them to the bridge of her nose, almost in prayer. The motion reminded him of Aisereigh.

“Can you tell me what’s happening?” he tried “we’re in this together, you know?”

Violet leaned back on the table and looked at him for a long minute, a line between her brows indicating, analyzing. He felt guilt start to bubble up again before storing it away. Forget past mistakes, move forward.

“You can’t tell Xaden, you can’t tell anyone” she whispered “if you do Liam, I’ll never fucking trust you again”

He raised his hands “I won’t, I won’t! I promise”

Liam hesitated for a few seconds, remembering the last time they had a similar conversation. He still remembered how panicked he felt learning she was going to challenge Barlowe, how he wanted to run to Xaden and tell everything. Whatever came out of her lips would be probably way more dangerous, something Xaden would hate.

But Liam had made a promise. Past mistakes. Move forward.

“I promise on my mother, Vi. I won’t tell him”

Her smile was ingenuine as she turned to the desk and took one of the books with her, holding it tight before offering to Liam.

“It’s not research for Jesinia” she whispered.

The Gift of the First Six. He opened the book, skimming the preface “A book about the first riders?”

She nodded, looking at him expectantly. Liam wasn’t sure what to think of it. He never paid much mind to Violet's choice of reading, from poisons to politics and then folklore, he learned she had a varied taste. But for her actions to be so vigilant, there was something more than simply curiosity or leisure.

“What are you looking for?”

“You tell me” she asked seriously “What do you think I’m looking for with a book about the first six riders?”

He skimmed on the preface once more, finding nothing that could be useful that his friend did not already know “Have you found anything useful?”

“No” her reply was more sour than she probably intended “but expected since Navarre edited every single book in the archives”

He looked at her and his eyes narrowed in warning “Violet. I know you well enough, what wicked idea is bubbling in your head?”

“I’m reading on wards” she admitted, words followed by a pointed look.

They kept staring at each other, his brain trying to make sense of anything they were talking about. Why would she be so worried about Xaden learning of her reading on wards?

“You really don’t know or you’re just really good at pretending?” her voice sounded impatient.

At that he took offense “Excuse me?”

Violet groaned and took two steps towards him, whispering as if afraid the walls could hear them “I’m trying to learn how wards are raised”

Realization hit him right in the face.

He blinked a few times in surprise at her words. He knew of the wardstone, briefly hearing about it in its youth.At that point, nobody had any sort of hope it would be used unless they broke the kingdom apart - which their apostasy was never able to do and it seemed that the revolution wouldn’t either. Raising wards was dead knowledge, some said. Others believed that Navarre kept it a well secured secret, which Liam believed more than the previous theory.

“Violet…” his voice felt strangled “you’re fucking mad!”

At that she huffed “I knew you were going to say that, which is why-”

“I’m in!”

It was Violet’s turn to be stunned, staring at him with wide eyes “What?”

“I’m in. Count me in” he repeated, smiling wildly, practically bursting out laughing.

“Liam, this is very very dangerous” she sounded panicked “If it wasn’t for Jesinia’s help I’d be dead already! Leadership is keeping an eye on everyone’s requests. I can’t risk you or any of the others”

“Is this why you’re so distant from us?”

Her face contorted into something he knew well. Guilt.

“I can’t stand lying to them, putting them in danger. And specially you! You almost died multiple times because of me” a slight shudder passed through her “I can’t go through this again”

He scoffed, dropping the book on her table “We’re already fucked, Violet. What’s one more action of treason?”

“Do you want to risk Rhi, Ridoc and Sawyer too?”

He pursed his lips at her words. Of course he didn’t. The last thing he wanted was to endanger his squad. But Liam knew that it would just be a matter of time for everyone to find out, the secret becoming increasingly more dangerous to hide as the dark wielders approached.

“Vi…” he started “we can’t do to them what was done to you”

“And we can’t risk the truth too” she said bitterly, sitting on her desk in defeat “Xaden was right after all. I was a liability then and they would be one now”

“They wouldn’t turn on us” Liam sat on the floor in order to face her “you know that, right?”

“But they’d want to act, just like you do” she whispered, leaning forward “I can’t handle someone dying because of me, Liam. I can’t”

He felt her voice on the verge of panic and Liam felt miserable. It was too much, this was all too much. He could feel the mental exhaustion just like she probably was. The strain of a decision that had no positive result. All things he had dealt with before.

“I understand. Really” he said “But they are already worried and…I think they know we lied about Resson already. We don’t need to tell them anything right away, but you can’t keep isolating yourself like that”

She didn’t respond, instead her gaze was firmly on the ground. He wondered if she was also feeling overwhelmed by the amount of problems piling up on their lives, if the strange sensation of being pulled apart also plagued her at night.

“Listen” he suggested “let’s focus on your research together, just you and me. We can deal with the other issues later”

Violet stared at him again, acceptance settling on her face “I can’t convince you not to do this, can I?”

He stood up, offering her a hand “I’m afraid you can’t”

****

Next chapter

[weirdfishy]

tagged by @samoangerman <3 !

love me some tag games from my friends that tumblr doesn't want to let me know about

Fav color: (dude, ea your fav colors are the pan flag?? nice) I like dark cool colors I guess? sparkly dark cool colors I like even better tho

Last song: Queen of White Lies by The Orion Experience right before I got my wires tightened (my hygienist was talking about anime the whole time y'all, it was great)

Last movie: mmm mayyybe Pretty Woman??? like a month ago?? - that first outfit she wears is so much better than the rest of her outfits tbh

Last show: :) I'm on a rewatch of Leverage bc I am absolutely vibing with this show and the ideas I am getting from it and it's just. a good show imo

Currently reading: Sorcerer's Bane by BeautifulFiction bc Merlin Magic Reveals and do not get old for me ever & i'm snooping around the leverage fics on ao3 (where I found the great idea that Hardison and Garcia are friends; crossover babey)

Tea or Coffee: Tea all day every day; herbal especially. coffee only if someone else is paying and it's iced lol

Sweet, spicy, or savory? Savory. I can't handle too much sweet and whenever I make desserts, my brother always tells me it's not sweet enough to poke fun at me

Currently working on: if we're talking writing, then a Leverage reader insert where you're a forger - a really good one too - who got to the Dagger of Aqu'abi before the team (I gave myself the shenanigans. they definitely took too long in that little competition, so none of them have it now :) life-wise? senior year

tag people I want to get to know better?

@shire-bard @the-third-fish @eya-trying-to-function @unremarkablegirl @supermutantprince @alllthequeenshorses @astralalmighty :))

[flow2024]

Beloved neon, I just read "Sono qui da un secolo" and first of all ouch, second of all who gave you the right??? and the third of all that was delightful and it made me feel so many emotions I just 🥺🥺🥺🥺 I have many thoughts but no words in English seem to do them justice

hi eya!!! apologies for the emotions but thank you i'm glad you enjoyed it!!!!

[angelxxreaper]

They land on the same hand Phil extends, tail feathers flapping happily. They peck excitedly at the new friend.

The older three giggle at the youngers, cuddling into each other and staring happy at the sight.

Grandpa files to Philza's shoulder, offering a tiny affectionate head peck.

More like what we can do for you, Sir! Go ahead eyas', Give him the gift. I know it may not be much, but us birds can only do so much, hm?

The youngers seem to brighten at the command. The third of the oldest flies and drops a small bag of 3 diamond bits for Phil, While the fledglings pull out the main event.

I know it's not much, but we hope you enjoy it...!

The tiniest of them all says anxiously, finally stepping away to reveal a hand crafted bone whistle. w

Wither skeletons bone, and Twine make it efficient and sturdy. Perfect as they could make it. It is only a bit crudely done, but it's a finished work. The back had an ingravement of a wing in the back. A tiny touch of the flocks work.

W..what do you think, Mr! You help Grandpa with food so much, he even has enough to bring back..! Wanted to do nice for the human Christmas...!

They wait, anxious but eager, and enthralled in trying to do good by you. The Grandpa can barely hold back tiny affectionate trills. Such a happy flock.

-Grandpa🦴Bird

Ooh..!!!

[He turns over the diamond bits in his hand with a smile, giving an appreciative chirp. But the whistle catches his eye, with the material and the nice carvings.]

This looks really nice..! The engraving is very impressive here. Good job, mate. Thanks so much :)

[Phil pulls off his hat and pulls out some trinkets, little hardcore heart badges should they want them, of various colors.] I know it isn’t much, and I still have fruit left over, but I do have these necklaces if you’d want them. If not, I have plenty of pretty shinies.

[dumb-ology]

Of Gods and Men (Series)

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Notes:

This is a fantasy one-shot. The story forms part of a group of short stories set in my fictional world of Iabis, a world I hope someday will be finished and be good enough to publish.

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Summary:

When he first had been brought before them, the young prince could not say that he was impressed with the ways of the people of Ker... . Or at least that was what he wanted to believe as he silently sipped from his chalice in an attempt to calm the erratic beatings of his heart, distracted as he was under the shameless scrutiny of his betrothed.

Of the Moon-borned and their Barbarians

When he first had been brought before them, the young prince could not say that he was impressed with the ways of the people of Ker. They looked intimidating, too powerful for his own comfort, with strange markings and an even stranger language. They bowed to no man or woman when they entered the halls of his house, and they knew nothing of the manners of his people nor seemed to care.

But as night came, and the stars above them shone brightly against the vast darkness of the sky, his fascination only seemed to outgrow his fears and reservations.

Instruments for which his people had no names began to sound throughout the halls. Exotic and foreign-sounding, hypnotizing in their primal origins, inciting all those who listened to jump and twirl and laugh. And so did the people – crying vibrantly into the night in a mixture of two completely different languages, two completely different cultures. And by the gods did Baekhyun joined them right away in their merriment.

Fire breathers were in action, their flames reaching the night skies as if they were dragons. Delicacies came and go from the kitchens to the tables – skewers, soups, sweet and juicy fruits, spicy meats of mouthwatering smells, vegetables that even he had not seen before – They had all been prepared for the celebration of the new found alliance between the Ker and the Huemor. The gods of the skies and their spirits had at long last blessed both their peoples, and now the Horse Lords and the Riukae sat together and shared the same bread – and yet, for as many Huemor those danced and drinked with the Ker, there were many others that did not looked pleased with this new reality.

But the Matriarchs had been firm. They had insisted at length and multiple times that the end of an era of war was to begin through an era of love, through the union of blood under the blessings and the ever-watching protection of the gods. The Matriarchs made their will known through their most faithful spiritual guides, and although reluctantly, it was becoming more and more obvious throughout Telandis that the proposal to these unions was being accepted by the people – either by fear to the gods, because of love or in order to avoid any more bloodshed, the young prince could only speculate.

And so, their old traditions and their way of life had begun to change.

The Ker respected the ways of the Huemor at first, married their sons and their daughters according to their sacred laws and under the blessings of the All-Seeing, but it was no surprise that once the relations with the Empire began to be more cordial, that they brought with them their own – insisting much to the surprise of a few incredulous, and ill-mannered Huemor, that the marriages amongst the Ker were held between equals. Their ways were to be respected, just as they respected theirs.

Baekhyun’s people called their most popular courting tradition the Reaping – A witty name that some bard in a lively tavern had attributed to the event, and that since, had become its official term. It was a simple tradition, one that required the consent of both participants in the courtship, and while at first frowned upon and misunderstood, Baekhyun knew of only a few participants that had not been… satisfied with the aftermaths: During a night of celebration, the Huemor partner was to be locked in their chambers, awake and ready to defend themselves alongside their family as they waited for their Ker betrothed to break into their rooms in order to take them as their partner.

It was a strange thing in the beginning.

The Reaping sometimes didn’t even happened at night, taking place in broad daylight and in very public places, with men and women alike coming into the markets without any type of ceremony or warning, only to choose their selected partners and slung them over their shoulders, running away from the city while being cheered on by their clan members.

It was a strange thing, but not without reason, as Baekhyun had come to find – The deserts and the steppes that the Ker lived in were dangerous places, life was rough and so they had to adapt to it, and marriage, as many other of their traditions and rituals that were of great importance, took a deep meaning that sometimes the Huemor seemed to have forgotten. The Ker saw themselves forever bonded with another, gifted with the responsibility of another’s life, with the responsibility of another’s clan’s safety, and so strength and bravery was demanded of their own and of their partners.

A Ker that failed to reap its partner was considered weak, and a partner that didn’t put up a fight was shamed as well. It was expected of both to be able to defend themselves, to defend their families and if possible, their future children. The survival of their clan demanded it.

Now however, as the Ker held no wars against the Empire or the Nomads, the Reaping had almost become symbolic amongst the clans from these lands. More reminder than a need to prove their strength in the eyes of their brethren – and as the Huemor started to see the importance of said traditions and saw the appeal of being, as Baekhyun’s sisters fantasized, ravished by a stripling and attractive Horse Lord, the Reaping had become romanticized, desired, and many were the Huemor interested in learning more of the Ker’s culture be it in search of passion or raw curiosity – it was no secret that as ravenous in its search for new knowledge as the Empire was famed for, the Riukae were also known for their depravity and decadency, and the courtship of one from a different culture was a way of satisfying both interests.

Baekhyun however, was tying his destiny with a Ker as it was his duty.

An alliance was needed to set an example, to afford protection for his sisters, for warfare as the second-born children of his Imperial majesty was their trade and their curse. Marrying one of the so-called Horse Lords could avoid tying his sisters onto a life of living by the sword. Or at least that was what he wanted to believe as he silently sipped from his chalice in an attempt to calm the erratic beatings of his heart, distracted as he was under the shameless scrutiny of his betrothed.

The man had been watching him all night, almost like he was studying him. Golden eyes that had lingered in the curves of his body and in the free expanses of flesh that his fusatan could not cover. Long hair that had grown darker as the night had closed in covered in a golden halo of jewelry that had crowned him in the same fashion as the paintings of the Gods he used to marvel at in the temples when he was but an Eyas.

The man held himself proudly, almost like he was exposing himself for his eyes, His posture screamed of a man who knew of war and action.

Through the transparency of his clothes, Baekhyun caught a glimpse of his muscular chest. His arms were marked with strange signs of pale red and brown that seemed to extend around his exposed skin like wildfire. The man was attractive, that much was true, in a wat that he could not explain but appealing to the eyes nonetheless.

Sharing his bed with him was not going to be an unpleasant experience.

Almost as if he had been reading his mind, the rider offered him nothing but a slight quirk of his lips upwards as he stood up and walked towards him, and for a moment Baekhyun felt as if all noise fell silent. It was as if for a moment, he was again a child, hiding himself against the strong legs of his Third Mother, swallowing hard and blinking fast in an attempt to hide his embarrassment.

“If it weren’t for the dark colors of your robes and your breathtaking beauty I wouldn’t have noticed the difference between your Highness and a member of the Sun-borned” He simply said in a thick Ker accent. A shiver ran down Baekhyun’s spine at his words, but it was far from unpleasant. “But then again, beautiful things in the desert tend to be murderous… Say Saikhan, do you bite?”

Baekhyun’s breath hitched slightly as his words, hoping that the fire surrounding them could hide the color painting his cheeks. Oh, I could bite, he thought, you need only ask. By the gods, he was such a horny bastard.

“I am honored to meet you at last, Bey Jongdae”

The man seemed amicable, smiling broadly at his poor intent of addressing him in his language, moving to the next topic of conversation gracefully.

“Other Clans have taken Huemor brides and grooms, and in doing so, they have brought the prosperity of our Gods to their lands. I offer you and your house the protection of my clan and my Golden Army. They are strong and their devotion to me will extend to your people, this I swear to you”

Baekhyun hid his surprise as best he could. He hadn’t expected for negotiations to come to this point so quickly, but he stood beside him, tall and regal. “I swear to you that your battles will be ours, as well as your struggles. We will share feasts and your people will be welcomed as if they were our own, the colors of our houses seen as one.” – Anything for his people. With joy, anything they asked of him.

Jongdae laughed, throwing his head back and allowing his hair to fly out of his face. He was beautiful, with lips forming a sly smirk as he composed himself, and a sharp jaw that hid the tiniest of scars. “Your people are so formal, so serious. Fear not, I am aware of what I was promised, I have only come here to introduce myself and make my intentions for tonight very clear…”

Jongdae smirked and stepped closer to him, daring to see how close the young prince would allow him into his personal space. He had been told of the Huemor’s courtships, of the gradual desire that was supposed to grow in between them, but as his eyes roamed Baekhyun’s body in fascination he found the entire thing absurd.

The prince was painfully breathtaking, adorned in silver and shimmering blue fabrics that had move through the crowd with the delicacy of one born amongst royalty. Alluring eyes painted with kohl that had lingered on his own tentatively, allowing him in, inviting him to drink down his face as if it were water and Jongdae hadn’t had a taste for it in weeks.

He was no fool, much to Minseok’s disagreement.

He was aware of his husband-to-be’s beauty since it was his face that had kept him sane during the long waits in the desert. Baekhyun’s fair features, more boy than man, barely an adult when he first saw his lilac eyes. A tease, he learned after, a reminder from Baekhyun’s father for the long nights, small snippets of caresses that only piled up and burned him when he aroused alone at night and realized that his dreams were not tangible.

But standing now, chest to chest as they were, he realized that not even the most lucid of his dreams could ever do him justice.

“Intentions?”

“Yes. I needed to tell you that I have never seen hands as delicate and slender as yours. They are beautiful, and I long to become familiar with their touch and warmth”

“Wha-what?”

The Ker reached out to take a hold of his right hand, and Baekhyun couldn’t help but blush as he took a step back. Enough to give himself some breathing room as his eyes wandered to the thick and strong hands of the Bey, covered in small scars and calluses on his palms.

Better that, than the desire on the eyes of the man.

“My Gods would be displeased if I didn’t tell you how handsome I find you, how smart and capable I know you to be… How brave, how cunning” Baekhyun gasped and felt his blush deepen as the rider’s right hand tentatively descended towards his hips, asking for permission to touch him as he desperately seeked to keep his body pressed against his.

He smelled like leather under the aromatic oils he was bathed in, and he could feel the hot, hard press of his cock against him. Baekhyun bit his lip and looked into his eyes, only to be met with the intensity of a predator considering prey. He made him feel small, overwhelmed, two things that Baekhyun was not used to as he was never the one at the receiving end of such bold compliments.

But they were to be married, and that meant that two could play this game.

“Your charms can only help you so much”, Jongdae’s breath halted when he felt Baekhyun’s hand brush over his member. He stood still, and when he opened his eyes again they were shining with an expression that the prince understood perfectly. “We aren’t even married yet, and already you are behaving like a bitch in heat. How shameful”

“Baekhyun” The rider purred. The skin his golden rings touched felt like it was tingling. For a moment Baekhyun swore he could smell humidity in the air, as if there was an incoming storm nearby. No one had said his name like that ever before, and he liked the way it had fallen from his lips.

It was different, very different, but he found that he could enjoy hearing it being said like that daily, and also in other more… intimate circumstances.

“You have sharp eyes”, he whispered. Jongdae smiled softly a swift rise of his left eyebrow answer enough for him to continue. “We believe that the eyes tell much of a person. Yours are sharp, much like a cat’s; it means you’re cunning, smart… I eagerly await to see how you will try and steal me.”

He was quick to push Jongdae’s hands away from his waist as soon as his words loosened his grip over him. He stepped back, away from the rider and into the crowds, a blush setting his cheeks and neck on fire. Nervously he reached up to press his hand against his chest, hiding amongst the dancing and the drinking, everything to get away from Jongdae as his mind was awhirl with the things he wanted to do to him, his cock itching inside his pants.

All-Seeing curse him, he was already a mess.

----

Sleep, like a mischievous lover, was escaping Baekhyun’s mind.

Any other time, he would have been sleeping heavily, exhausted after a long night of feasting and dancing, assured that all in the palace was calm and that the loyal guards of his family were watching out for their safety. But this was no ordinary night. He was to be stolen, and the excitement of the act kept him awake, his heart hammering fast against his chest.

He was dressed in one of his best attires, a long pastel blue tunic thin and soft to the touch, decorated with silver threads intertwined in the hem and sleeves, slightly transparent in the right places. An outfit designed more for the aesthetic than practicality. But tonight, practicality mattered not.

Even if he was lulled by the sound of the fountains coming from the gardens outside his window, he felt the air shifting, a tension rising through the night. He saw how the curtains surrounding his bed swayed just the slightest bit, righting themselves almost immediately.

Baekhyun’s heart pounded faster. This was it, he thought, he has bested them all. He was careful as to not move, he was prepared.

The locks to his doors jiggled and gave, but once more, only the sound of flowing water blanketed his rooms.

So far, he believed, his stealing was going remarkably well. Suppressing a grin, he pulled his blankets higher up on his shoulders, grasping the small blade hidden amongst his pillows, and waited for the door to open.

And he waited.

And waited.

And wait-

A pair of strong hands grabbed his ankles and pulled him out of the security of his blankets. As fast as he could, he reached up into the abundant pillows and grabbed his blade. The grip of Jongdae’s hands was tight, but Baekhyun knew how to fight as well, and as he was being pulled out in a stunningly fluid movement, he maneuvered himself to rose up on his two feet bringing Jongdae down in between his legs. His heart was pounding wildly in his chest, and he couldn’t help but to get momentarily lost in the golden eyes that were flashing under the moon light.

He smirked triumphantly as he pressed the tip of his blade dangerously close to the skin of Jongdae’s neck, before grabbing him by his hair and tilting his head backwards.

The Ker panted when he felt Baekhyun’s lips bite onto his neck, and he felt his member coming to life rapidly. The touches and kisses that the prince peppered in all the skin his lips were able to find were only adding to the fire that was rapidly growing between them. Tentatively he allowed his hands to rest against his rear, and Baekhyun felt as if fire was searing his skin as Jongdae’s fingers fidgeted with his tunic.

Magic hummed around them when Jongdae decided to attack his lips. A tiny bolt of electricity making them separate to catch their breath, the Ker gasping in delight as Baekhyun looked down at him with a smirk.

“I told you that your charms could only help you so much”, He whispered, before taking the chance to flee away from him. The chase was on.

Some people awoke at the commotion, jeering and hollering as they saw the Ker chasing after his husband. Some of the soldiers of Jongdae’s famed Golden Army were amongst the people, marveling at the strength and agility of the young prince, joining in the reverie and going so far as to offer lewd suggestions on what exactly their Bey should do as soon as he had his feisty little Huemor husband tamed in his rooms.

Baekhyun laughed loudly as he was being chased around the palace, dancing out of his reach, and laughing again as he felt Jongdae get close. He allowed him to reach him, coming again and again tantalizingly close to grabbing him, but every time the prince would just turn a different direction, managing to pull far enough for him to not be able to do anything to him anymore. Jongdae knew that he was playing Baekhyun’s game, and the realization was driving him mad with want.

He was going to be his. His and only his to ruin.

They soon entered the gardens and their magnificent pools, and it was here where the chase was cut short.

Baekhyun miss-stepped – purposefully or not, he didn’t know – But he was quick to take advantage of this mistake, reaching out to grab him by his wrists and submit him into the soft grass. Baekhyun tried to keep him away, swinging his blade to try and cut him until his back soon hit the cold floor. Soon he was pinned in by Jongdae’s arms and legs, pinning him on either side of his waist and taking control of his wrists, his blade thrown out of his reach.

The prince was breathing heavily while Jongdae loomed over him, his face barren of any emotion before throwing him over his shoulders to move them both to one of the chaise-lounge of the gardens left for resting under the sun.

Baekhyun was a work of art, splayed only for his eyes to see on the soft cushions and in the most seductive of poses, kicking and squirming as he tried to get away. But the prince didn’t fought back as Jongdae’s hands found his hips and moved to squeeze the skin of his butt, forcing him to rub himself against his member, still painfully trapped inside his pants. They kissed ardently, moaning when Jongdae stopped, hovering again over his body and taking in the view of his disheveled hair and pouty lips.

A whimpering, moaning and breathless mess with a beautiful erection that needed to be tended to. All his. His to touch and to take. He licked his lips when lilac eyes met his. Baekhyun’s expression was far from soft, as it was rather defiant, wanting as his cheeks flushed and perspiration covered his forehead.

“Did I say you could stop kissing me?” He whimpered, and Jongdae felt like he might have come right then and there. “Do not force me to flip you and ride you harder than you have ridden your mare in years”

His brattiness’ disappeared once Jongdae’s lips took over the tender skin of his thigs. His breath catched itself inside his throat, words dying to be replaced by whines as he felt the warmth of his hands sliding around his legs, a warm wet tongue darting quickly to lick up his shaft. He let out a choked moan, eyes shutting tight.

“Such a sharp tongue, little prince” Jongdae tsked, parting Baekhyun’s thighs again as he stood up and pressed his body against his, kissing his chest and creating a path of sloppy kisses down to his belly. Baekhyun was burning up, tangled up as they were, the heat of Jongdae’s skin providing comfort from the soft refreshing air of the night. The rider had slathered his fingers with abundant saliva, cupping one of his butt cheeks as he circled the skin that lay hidden within them.

“Ple-please…”

Jongdae obliged him by sliding a finger knuckle-deep, earning a long, deep breath from the man underneath him. He massaged in, quickly adding fingers as he found the spot that took Baekhyun’s breath away. He felt and saw the thick thigs of the prince begin to tremble in the pale light of the moon, sweat pouring out of him as he moaned lowly and untamed.

Jongdae kissed him and his hair covered the both of them as his hands ripped the cotton undergarments of the prince and freed his hardness from where it had been previously trapped. His cock hung low and thick, twitching as he took one more look at the man under him, thighs spread wide and his hole prepared.

He was going to fuck him properly, like a Ker was supposed to get fucked.

Baekhyun grabbed ahold of his shoulders when he felt the head of his cock against his entrance. He pushed inside him and he couldn’t hold the sigh that escaped his lips when he felt Jongdae’s cock stretching him and moving deep inside. His legs were trembling in the most delicious of ways, one that he had been craving the entire night, but then again, he had to remember that Jongdae hadn’t started to move yet.

The rider pressed his forehead against his, and he waited in silence for Baekhyun’s breathing to calm down. He kissed his neck, his chest, gently taking his hands and licking his fingers. Baekhyun kept looking up at him, too eager for his own good, and his hands found themselves sliding up to his black hair. His expression soft as Jongdae removed the ties from his hair, running his fingers through them until his braids broke loose and his hair was set free.

“You said you wanted to ride me” Jongdae murmured, and in a swift movement, he allowed Baekhyun to be on top as a cry of pleasure from his lips was drowned by sudden surprise. “Then ride me”

Baekhyun’s hole clamped around his cock, one of his hands curling around his neck delicately. Jongdae found himself smothered, suffocating, but he enjoyed the sensation far more than words could explain at the moment. His fingers dug into Baekhyun’s hips and he closed his eyes when he felt his inner walls clamping down around his cock as the prince rode him in a rhythm that only he seemed to know. He opened them again, and they locked in the way his cock moved inside Baekhyun. The pulling out only to swiftly ease back inside. The image was such that he had to concentrate himself to not lose control so soon. He grabbed his hips roughly and kneaded into them, rolling his hips in an attempt to meet his bounces. Baekhyun started to ride him with abandon, taking his hands and placing them over his chest for support.

He rides him. Deep and hard movements that rock him as well as the chaise. Baekhyun moves roughly, lost in the feeling growing in his member, lost by the desire and the power he feels as he sees Jongdae digging into the skin of his hips. Their voices are mingling together under the stars, Jongdae’s deep gravelly moans and Baekhyun’s song-like whimpers.

“Ma’ar, Ma’ar!” Baekhyun screams, as Jongdae’s rough hand takes care of his member while his hips worked their magic. “I’m close-“

Warm liquid cascaded between Jongdae’s fingers as Baekhyun’s back arched, his grip on Jongdae increasing as he loose his breath. Jongdae’s voice is choked off as he grunts and whimpers. His cock throbbing inside him as Baekhyun burns him in the most pleasurable of ways, squeezing around him as he releases himself over Jongdae’s stomach.

Baekhyun hears a loud grunt escaping the Ker’s lips soon after, and he cries out, panting and twitching too as he feels every pulse and shudder of Jongdae’s release. His seed is thick and hot, and he savors the sensation of feeling full once again, of having him so deep inside him, a small convulsion of pleasure causing small tears of absolute satisfaction to escape from his eyes, now stained with silver-colored kohl.

Baekhyun’s thighs and stomach feel wet as he drops exhausted against the cushions. He can see how his essence spills down Jongdae’s legs, staining the chaise underneath them, and feeling pity for whoever would have to clean up after their mess, he rolls and lies down, leaving his ass exposed to the air, breathing deeply as his eyes find his husband’s.

“I can’t feel my legs…” He licks his lips “I think I want more… After some rest”

Jongdae closes the distance between them, biting his lower lip while looking at him. His hair falls like a sheet of black silk over his neck and shoulders. “Good.”

Baekhyun scoffs happily, but the sound gets caught on his throat when he feels Jongdae propping up on his elbows, placing soft kisses on the skin of his back, fingers softly sliding through his hair. “My intentions were honest before” He begins, kissing and stroking the exposed skin before his eyes. “Every one of my soldiers and their swords is at your command. I will only think of you, live through another day only for you. This is what I am swearing to you, not to your father or anyone else, but you”

Jongdae shuts himself up and Baekhyun’s heart beats harder as he closes his eyes when Jongdae’s lips kiss the skin behind his ears, biting and licking the skin of his neck soon after. “I understand”, he whimpers, still sensitive as Jongdae’s hands find themselves wrapped around his reddish member.

“Good.” The rider smirks. “Because I plan on having you bedridden by the time I am done with you…”

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All Right Reserved

Copyright: ‘Of Gods and Men (Series)’ including all its associated content is COPYRIGHTED. All rights reserved by the owner and creator of this work, Liss (Dumb-ology) and any authorized copying, broadcasting, manipulation, distribution, or selling of this work constitutes as an infringement of copyright. Any infringement of copyright is punishable by law.

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