aetherdoesthings

[aetherdoesthings]

HALLOWEEN EVENT

forethoughts: Hey guys! No, I'm not dead, I've been taking a break to work on my mental and physical health. This piece is a part of @edgeray's halloween event! Thank you for letting me join, and for the rest I hope you enjoy and have a happy halloween!

notes: goddess!arlecchino, gn!reader, reader is a child

Thunder boomed around you, the rocky terrain under your feet trembling from the shockwaves. Rain was constantly attacking your body, the heavy downpour making the climb harder to accomplish as you held onto your walking stick, keeping the potato sack close to your heart. Just a few more steps, you told yourself. Just a few more steps. What you were experiencing now was nothing like what your village was experiencing down below. You had to do this. For them. For their safety. 

A yelp was ripped out of your throat as your sandals slipped on one of the steps, your chin landing first onto the uneven, sharp surface. You grimaced in pain as your teeth sunk into your gum, the metallic taste of blood filling your mouth. Your hand clutched onto the potato sack filled with all your village’s treasures, placing it in the nook of your stomach you created from your fall. Pain trembled through your body, your muscles begging you to give up and go home. No, your mind shot back. You had to do this. You were your village’s only hope. With legs that shivered every second and wanted to collapse, you forced yourself into an awkward crawling position, pressing the potato sack next to your chest as you started your climb again. Left, right, left right, you chanted to yourself. Just a few more steps. The sound of lightning became white noise to your ears, the rain becoming a source of comfort to your sweaty and exhausted body as you got closer to the temple. Sharp pebbles found its way beyond your skin, shattered wood from other offerings penetrating your soles as you trudged up the mountain. 

Trudging your feet in front of the other, your body collapsed the moment you stepped foot inside the pristine marble temple with crimson ornate patterns, your body under the protection of the roof. No time. You don’t have time to waste. You told yourself, trekking into the center of the temple, until you faced an altar. The altar was made with the villages’ expert architects and builders, as was the whole temple; Not a single scratch nor dust covered its surfaces. The halls were covered with marble statues and extravagant art commissioned by the church of your village, displaying the images of the patron goddess to your village. 

Many had deemed your village to be cursed and unfortunate, for legend had it that your patron goddess would steal the souls of the young and take it for Herself. The legends and stories you heard about the deity was enough to make you sleep with one eye open during your entire childhood. The Goddess that had claimed your island as Hers was a just and righteous one as the church proclaimed, however the toll for safety and protection from Her omnipotence was a heavy one. Plague and disaster always found its way to your island; it was Her who kept it away, in exchange for the souls who had not seen nor explored the world. It was the souls of the pure and innocent She seeked, thus every month you’d watch as priests brought children your age up the same stairs you had gone up and never see them again. The next day the sun would shine and farmers would find bountiful harvests. 

Your mind raced with the instructions the church had given you on what to do, taking all the treasure inside the damp potato sack and laying it out on the altar, before sinking to your knees, head touching the ground and hands in front of you. You murmured the prayer the bishops had taught you, clenching your eyes shut and praying for an answer. 

“Oh, Arlecchino, patron Goddess of our village, answer my pleas!” You cried out, eyes flying to the ceiling. The temple trembled like an earthquake was shaking the mountain the temple was on, as the ground below the altar started to crack, the rocks falling down into an abyss along with all your treasure. You shuffled your body back, away from the hole in the ground that grew crimson vines on the side. 

“Mortal, why have you woken me from my slumber?” The temple shook at the blaring voice, as a dark figure emerged from the hole, two crimson crosses staring at your tiny body. Your parents had told you that the Goddess’ cruelty extended only to the elders and those who had committed atrocities towards the young; there was a soft spot for the innocent the Goddess had. But those were only fantasies you filled your head with as you faced the being that could take your life away in a blink of an eye.

You kept your head to the ground and eyes clenched shut, repeating the words the church leaders had told you. “Goddess, I plead to you, the almighty, that you remove the storm and famine that struck my village and spare everyone. Please take these precious artifacts from our village as an offering.”

Your muscles tightened, bracing yourself to have your soul erased from the world. Instead, your body was soaked in warmth and comfort, all sense of fear and trepidation losing its power over your mind. You naturally allowed yourself to sink into the comfort, reclining back on a soft surface that pulled you away from the cold and hard marble ground. The scabs and scars on your knees and foot healed itself without any traces; a light and warm feeling ignited inside your heart. 

“Child, why are you injured?” The voice spoke again, this time with a softer edge and calming tone. Your eyes locked onto the source of the voice, reality finding its way to coexist with the serenity that filled your head. You were lying down on a hand. The hand. The hand of the Goddess that killed your people and brought terror to your village. In front of you was Arlecchino Herself, the Goddess allowing you to see Her face fully. Your jaw fell at the sight of the Goddess’ features, as it was a stark difference from the descriptions of the church and the storybooks. 

“Do not be afraid.” Words flowed out of those pink lips, the crimson crosses in Her eyes softening its gleam as She observed your body. She was looking at you. You were in Her hands. Despite your mind trying to remind you that your village was in a crisis and you were their only savior, all you could feel was an overwhelming want of comfort and warmth. 

“My village…” You managed to stutter out.

“Has doomed themselves for their wrongdoings against one another and the greater good. Greed and evil has consumed your village, the wickedness filling the hearts of even those in the church. The lust for money and power has consumed your village, even though you cannot see it, my dear child. Your village has doomed itself to fall, consumed with sin. No amount of artifacts nor trinkets can save your village.”

My mind went blank, eyes staring into Hers with my mouth ajar, shoulders slumping. What? No. It can’t be. You grew up with these people. How could they be evil?

“Therefore, their fates have been determined and decided. What they are experiencing now is fated. However… yours has not.”

“...W-What?” You stammered, falling back against her fingers. Within the blink of an eye, the same surging feeling of serenity and warmth trampled your worry and fear for the people whom you grew up with.

“You do not deserve to grow up in a world consumed by evil and sin, with those proclaiming to be just but are hypocrites in the dark. I can take you to a place where no harm or bad things can happen to you, my dear, pure child. This world has been doomed, but rest assured that I will not let this world consume you.”

Your mind couldn’t protest; there was something blocking all the senses to tell your brain something wasn’t right and to stay focused on what you were sent here to do. Your body reclined itself against the palm of Arlecchino, fear and worry slipping away into nothingness. The words that poured out of those lips took away all your control of your own body, your eyes shining with curiosity and wondering, pinned to the Goddess. 

“Would you like to see what that world may be? All your friends are there. Past, present, and future.” Arlecchino asked, Her lips curling upwards as She brought you closer to her gaze.

Your lips parted, head nodding as a single breath escaped your lips. Your brain couldn’t even comprehend your surroundings and give a reaction accordingly; your mouth moved on a foreign command. In an instant, a familiar feeling of warmth flooded your body. It wasn’t uncomfortable, nor painful. Rather, it felt like the flames fueled by care and comfort, the flames that kept you warm during the harsh winters, not the flames that you saw the elders use to burn those at the stake. But the sight of seeing flesh burning alive was scorched the moment your mind conjured it, and was the other memories you had that once brought you pain.

One moment, you were scrambling up a mountain in the pouring rain and thunder with bruises and scratches on your skin. The next, you were standing in a luscious grass field, the sounds of other children your age laughing grabbing your attention, eager to join them on their fun. A house stood a few yards ahead of you, ornate with vines, the walls made with marble chiseled to perfection. All you wanted to do was play; the concept of worry and fear left your mind. 

“Ah, a new arrival.” You looked up. A woman stood before you, a kind and warm smile on her face as she bent down to your eye level. She had white hair that was tied into a ponytail behind her head, crimson crosses in her eyes that only shined with warmth. You thought you saw her before, somewhere, but you didn’t feel like thinking. 

“Fret not, nothing will harm you. You may call me Father.” Father picked you up, as you instinctively snuggled against the woman. “Welcome to the House of the Hearth. May your stay be filled with warmth and joy.”

[aetherdoesthings]

when tumblr won't let you edit your outdated masterlist

:(

[aetherdoesthings]

I LOVE FATHER FOAKJFKANFNDBS

Okay but imagine (i dont know if reader is young enough for this butttt). Child reader wants to spend time with father, but father is busy with paperwork. So reader proposes just sitting on her lap, promising they'll stay still and quiet. And reader does. And then they fall asleep in father's lap. So father carries reader to bed, kissing them on the forehead before saying good night.

I'm in love with good parent Arlecchino 🥺🥺 Is it fanon, yes, but I love her.

~EL anon

forethoughts: ignore the fact the name is still EL anon 😭 also how are you doing buddy? it's been a while. hope you're doing well! anyways, i hope this aligns with what you had requested a while back, and i hope you all enjoy Father being sweet!

notes: gn!reader but fem!reader in mind, Father being Father, NOT A SHIP/RELATIONSHIP READER IS A CHILD!!!, sweet fluff

You were the star student amongst your peers. Always did well on your exams and tests that the House of Hearth had to offer. Everyone around you was either wanting to be close friends or treat you terribly out of spite. You didn’t care about what the others said about you; you weren’t going to remember them in your future. But there was one voice and words you did care about.

Father.

The one who found you and took you in, provided a space for you to grow in your academics and life. The one who gave you a second chance when your biological parents didn’t.

You hoped that all your work and efforts one day would be able to pay Father back for the change she had given you. Of course, you also wished to hear her words of praise and approval directed at you. You knew from the teachers that Father received the grades of all children, and closely followed after each of them. Of course Father would've noticed you by now.

It had been more than two years when you joined the House of Hearth, and already ascended to the top in the academic realm. Many of the children had already isolated you, and you had closed off everyone in hopes of achieving your goal. So you spent your free time in the libraries reading while everyone else was playing in the fields. Did you feel alone at times? Yes. but you always reminded yourself that nothing else mattered other than repaying Father.

You were reading in your usual spot, on top of the shelves so the workers couldn’t find you. You ate your dinner on the wide shelves that nearly touched the ceiling, rereading a book from the library. Normal children and workers never thought about looking up. 

But Father was anything but normal.

“You’ll get a severe injury if you fall from this height.” Father’s voice rang in your ears, your entire body sitting upright, only to be reminded of the ceiling above you. You let out a wince, the pain of hitting the wooden tiles and being caught coursing through your veins. Gravity pulled on one of your sides, urging you to go back onto the ground. In your disoriented state, you listened, as your body fell from the top of the shelf. Before your mind could process anything, two strong arms wrapped around your frame, holding you tight to a warm feeling, the steady sound of a heartbeat next to your ears. When consciousness came back to you, you found yourself in a state of moving. Well, someone was moving you, while your neck was supported, your legs dangling off of an arm. 

“Father…?” You mumbled out, eyes still trying to piece the blurry puzzle together.

“Where does it hurt the most?” 

Your heart churned at the sound of Father’s voice. You cursed yourself for putting yourself in this circumstance and led Father to find you like this. If only you could talk to her in a more positive setting.

“...M-My head..” You answered, as Father’s white and black hairs came into focus. You could’ve sworn in your dazed state that you saw a flash of worry flicker in those crimson crosses that were the last thing many saw. 

Father murmured something under her breath, as she laid you down on the couch inside her office, your head resting on mountains of pillows as the sound of Father’s heels clicking across the office rang in your ears. Father sat you up, replacing one of the pillows with an ice pack. 

“Hold it against the spot that hurts, understood, Y/N?” Father ordered, her voice leaving no room for arguments. But you could sense an underlying tone of distress.

“Y-Yes, Father.” You replied, your eyes averting the gaze of those crimson crosses.

“If anything else hurts you will tell me instantly, understood?”

“Yes, Father.”

She let out a sigh once she was convinced by your simple short answers, standing up. “Since you are so adamant in isolating yourself, you will stay here until free time is over and it is time for bed.”

You swallowed, opting to not reply. From your peripherals, you could see Father resuming her work, doing what it took to run the orphanage. You chewed on your bottom lip. On one hand, this was the moment you had been dreaming of since you joined. Not being injured, but being in the same room as Father, alone, and her attention semi-focused on you. On the other hand, you were uncertain if you were on good terms with Father enough to let alone strike a conversation.

It might as well be your only chance.

“F-Father…” You stammered. The pen scratching against the paper abruptly came to a halt at your weak voice, waiting to hear the rest of your sentence.

“...m-my hand h-hurts from holding the ice pack, a-and it’s the c-couch is uncomfortable to rest on. C-Can..” you closed your eyes, “c-can I sit o-on your lap i-instead? It’ll be really c-comforting.”

It was the only way you could get closer and spend more time with the person that saved your life. You were grasping at straws, and you knew that. But your child self was craving the comfort only Father could provide. Hopefully Father still considered you young enough that she would do so. You definitely thought you were.

“I-I promise I’ll stay still. And silent.” You added, hoping that’ll tempt her.

A low noise rolled off Father’s tongue. You couldn’t tell if it was from annoyance or (you hoped) affection, as she stood up, her figure coming closer to you. You bit your lips to stop yourself from smiling like a fool as Father took the ice pack from your tiny grasp. 

“You find a way to reach the top of your classes, managing all the work on your shoulders at such a young age. That is applaudable.” Father remarked, as you settled onto her lap, one arm firmly securing your body and the hand holding the ice pack, while the other continued to fill out the paperwork. You beamed at her praise, a feeling of relief and content at the words you worked so hard to hear. 

“However, with all that intellect, you still haven't found a way to make companions.”

Your smile instantly soured at the next sentence, your mind flashing back to the memories of the interactions you had with your other peers. You knew you were smarter than the rest, and weren't scared to show it off. Perhaps that was the reason you ate on top of the shelves everyday. But you remembered the promise of staying silent.

Father noticed, let out an approved hum, seemingly expecting you to break your promise. “I commend your academic and athletic talents especially at your age, Y/N. But don’t fly too close to the sun and forget those who walk on the ground.”

It had been a few minutes since Arlecchino said her piece, knowing that you would want to hear it the most. She knew about the efforts you had made in order to make a name for yourself, and gain her attention. And you did exactly that. She would be lying if she said she wasn’t impressed by your abilities. If this continued, perhaps the Tsaritsa would offer you a job at such a ripe age. Then again, Arlecchino would try to interfere. She knew of the Fatui ins and outs, and despite training an orphanage to work under the Tsaritsa, a part of her she kept locked away felt as if she was truly the Father to all the orphans, including but not limited to you. 

She had finished half of her work when the Harbinger decided to check up on you. Unbeknownst to her, you had cuddled up against Arlecchino’s chest, the slow rise and fall of your chest bringing a warm feeling to her heart. She set her pen down, and the ice pack, taking the moment to admire your vulnerable form. It was probably one of the moments you had allowed yourself to relax after working for years to only hear words that lasted for seconds. Arlecchino placed both hands around you, her legs taking their time to be in an upright position before strolling towards your room, making sure her heels weren’t making too much noise that would disrupt you.

Arlecchino set you down in your bed, tucking you in underneath the plush blankets as she planted her lips on your forehead.

“Sweet dreams, my little star.” 

[aetherdoesthings]

kafkakafkakafkakafkakafkakafka

howdy

guess who just threw up for ten minutes straight 🤩

new fic coming soon!!

[aetherdoesthings]

me and you

forethoughts: ahhh first hsr fic!!! apologies if anything bronya and seele does doesn't match their character; i'm going off memory of the belobog quests. but nevertheless i hope you enjoy!

notes: bronya x seele, angsty, fluffy

Bronya paced around her bedroom, hand on her head as her mind raced with unpleasant thoughts about a familiar Wildfire member. Not many system hours ago did the Supreme Guardian of Belobog send out her most trusted and close friend to confirm something for her; urgent work that needed to be laid to rest.

It wasn’t when she thought of the fifteenth worst possibility of the purple haired girl’s fate when she heard her window creak, letting out a groan as it was forced open, the aforementioned girl stuffing herself through the arch and landing on the carpeted ground with a thud. Her hair was a mess, dirt and grime covering her clothes and body. 

“Seele.” Bronya rushed towards the girl, instantly recoiling at the stench that radiated from the girl. She took a deep breath, braving the smell as her eyes scanned over her body. 

“I’m fine, Bronya.” Seele brushed off with a chuckle. “Though I am in need of a shower.”

“A thorough and long one.” Bronya muttered under her breath as she dragged her official unofficial bodyguard by her wrist to her private bathroom, the one where only her maids and Seele were allowed to be in. 

“Strip.” Bronya ordered matter-of-factly, hurriedly grabbing oils and scents from cabinets, scurrying around the room to find everything she needed to treat her friend.

“Okay.” Seele shrugged, her hands on the hem of her shirt. They spent so much time together, whether it be for business or personal reasons. Every citizen of Belobog would turn their heads towards Bronya or Seele if one of them was seen without the other. That was how close they were. With the amount of times Seele had walked in on Bronya in the middle of changing or the amount of times Bronya had seen Seele sleeping with barely anything on, what difference would a few more clothing be for the two best friends?

The second Bronya turned around, a surge of heat rushed towards her cheeks, her eyes ogling at her ‘best friend’s’ figure. Her jaw fought against the will of gravity, blinking herself out of her daze before one second would be one too many. 

“Is something wrong?” Of course Seele would notice. “You appear flushed.”

“I-It’s nothing, Seele.” Bronya took a hesitant step closer, her ungloved hands meeting Seele’s wrists, squeezing her wrist twice to signal Seele to follow her. Seele obliged, letting the Supreme Guardian drag her to the tub filled with warm water and scents, drowning out the overwhelming cloud of sweat and grime surrounding Seele. As Seele descended into the tub, Bronya took the chance to glimpse at her back, a sense of dread replacing the heat as she saw the many scars and bruises that littered around the girl’s body, a sight that reminded her of the different paths they walked on. Another fresh batch of bruises replaced the healed ones, causing Bronya to grimace. 

 “You’re staring.” 

Bronya loved when Seele could sense something wrong with a business partner or a delegate with her keen eyes and senses. Bronya hated it when it was being used on her.

“...you keep getting injured.” Was all Bronya said, as her hands moved drench Seele’s purple hair. “And dirtier than the previous time you came to me.”

Bronya mumbled under her breath, her tone chastising but gentle as her hands washed away the stains left on Seele’s hands. All her actions were precise and soft, not wanting to hurt her injured friend any further.

Seele remained silent, processing every single one of the Supreme Guardian’s words. She didn’t mind Bronya’s hands gliding up and down her arm, across her back and chest, biting back any sort of wince or grimace when the spuds came in contact with her bruised skin. Seele knew she had already put the Supreme Guardian in enough turmoil always stressing about her physical state and if she’d see a purple blob stuff her way through the window into the Supreme Guardian’s bedroom everyday after hours. It wasn’t that Seele wanted to stress Bronya, nor did she intend herself to get injured. It was just how her life was. The last thing Seele ever wanted to do was build more stress on her best friend because of her own actions. No matter how many times Bronya made Seele promise her with that chastising tone with an underlying worry, Seele knew she wouldn’t come back to Bronya with her body unscathed, that she would, in the end, always break Bronya’s promises. Seele glared at the water in the tub rocking back and forth, the mounts of sud floating around without a care in the world. 

“Hey.” A sud covered finger forced Seele to look into Bronya’s eyes. Instead of the distress and worry she normally saw in those silver eyes, Bronya’s eyes radiated nothing but warmth and comfort for the Wildfire member. Seele met the Supreme Guardian’s eyes, a neutral expression on her face as she watched Bronya’s muscles relax, her eyebrows turning into horizontal lines.

“You’re not alone anymore. You don’t need to fight to quench your thirst or satisfy your hunger. Whatever you require I will provide. I want to be able to provide for you. I want to be there for you when you need a shoulder to cry on or a person to hug. If you need anything, just tell me. As the Supreme Guardian of Belobog, and your close friend, I wish to be able to provide for all citizens, whether it be from the world above or from the world below.” Bronya smiled faintly, her silver eyes gazing into those soft purple eyes. 

Seele met the Supreme Guardian’s gaze, her shoulders relaxing at her words, her heart skipping a beat when she heard the sincerity and affection in Bronya’s words. Affection. A word that would’ve never crossed Seele’s mind unless she was thinking of Bronya. Thinking of the times Bronya would give Seele her undivided attention even if she was just speaking a sentence. Thinking of the times Bronya had nursed her back to health after Natasha’s examinations. Thinking of the times when the two of them would spend the night together in Bronya’s bedroom, talking into the night without worry in her head. Without worry. That was how Seele felt. A feeling so foreign she swore she was dreaming whenever Bronya was around her. Without worry. Seele always thought it was impossible to enjoy the presence of someone from the Overworld, much less the adopted daughter of the former Supreme Guardian. But that feeling she always got when she heard the sound of joy exiting Bronya’s mouth, or how she found the young Supreme Guardian etching closer to her during conversations… she would kill to replay those moments, even if it was for seconds.

“Promise me, that if you need help, you come to me. No more doing things on your own. We’re a team. Got it? Me and you.” Bronya insisted, a glimmer of determination in her eyes, waiting for Seele’s answer. Seele liked the idea more than she’d thought she would. Her and Bronya. Her and Bronya. Nothing more, nothing less. 

“Me and you.” Seele repeated, nodding her head.

Bronya sighed, a smile on her face as she continued to clean away the grime and sweat off of Seele’s body. She could sense the tense atmosphere disappearing, replaced with the familiar feeling of comfort and affection. 

“Hey!” Bronya gasped in shock as her dress was drenched with the water inside the tub. Seele couldn’t help but let out a snicker at the Supreme Guardian’s face.

“What? How else can I convince you to join me?” Seele joked, her hands in the position to make Bronya even mad. 

“I’m not getting into that tub with your dirty, sweaty butt!” 

“Such crude language from the Supreme Guardian.”

“You-” 

The two of them stared at each other, sharing a knowing gaze before letting out a laugh. 

“If you want me to shower with you so desperately drain the water.” Bronya tutted, moving away to remove her drenched clothes. 

Seele obliged, her eyes gazing on the young Supreme Guardian’s figure, the corner of her lips curling at the sight in front of her, knowing only history would see them as comrades.

[aetherdoesthings]

would you like some cake? (pt 2)

forethoughts: if you want to read part one it's would you like some new toys :D. i'm literally going to go home in a few hours and pull for arlecchino i'm so excited so happy so on adrenaline i can't ahhhh

notes: gn!child!reader, but fem!reader in mind. NOT AN X READER, READER IS A CHILD!!!

You don’t remember when was the last time you stepped foot in the playroom again. Father said she would take you to a different playroom, away from the others. You spent every day in that new playroom with Father. Father always gave you an option to go back. The door was always wide open. Distant sounds of the other children laughing and cheering rang in your ears. 

Father said you were getting better day by day. Much more used to your new toys. Father even allowed you to bring your toys with you everywhere. One inside your boots, one strapped to your belt. Father even allowed you to bring one to your room. 

Your room. Instead of the room you shared with the others, Father had moved you. Closer to her office. You have your own room now. Father had decorated it herself, she said. The mattress felt like three of the mattresses in your old room stacked upon each other. The room made you feel tiny. Alone. But Father was always there. Father was always with you.

Father said you were almost as skilled as the guards that stood outside the orphanage. 

Father was proud.

Father was proud of you.

Father always read you bedtime stories. Tucked you in, planting a soft kiss on your forehead before turning off the lights. Father always taught you to not listen to what the other children said. That the only person you should be listening to is her and yourself. 

You don’t remember when was the last time you felt eyes casted on you and words piercing your heart when you ate your meals. You still ate your meals in the hall with the other children; Father was adamant that you would still have some interaction with the others. But you didn’t care. 

Father made sure you knew your worth. 

~

Using your chopsticks, you fished up a bundle of noodles, putting it in your spoon and then in your mouth. You chewed, and then fished up another bundle of noodles. The children behind your back were loud and rowdy as usual. Father said to pay no mind to them. This time was different.

They were talking about Father.

It was Father’s birthday tomorrow. 

Father was always secretive and didn’t reveal much about herself. They were planning on surprising her with a big party in the playroom. Of course, you weren’t part of it.

Father was always there for you, you thought. Never shy from giving you gifts and words of advice on the days you needed them. 

You stood up from your seat, carrying your empty udon bowl to the sinks, giving it a quick rinse before putting it on the racks. You walked out of the hall, letting your feet take you where your mind wanted to go.

You closed the door to your new room, taking a seat behind your desk as you took out two sheets of paper, and some crayons Father had gifted you. While the rest played and had fun, you were in your room, scribbling away as best as you could with your black crayon. With your second piece of paper, you took out more colors from the box.

Father was always there for you.

You’d be a bad kid if you didn’t do the same, right?

The other’s idea of a celebration was tricking Father to go to the playroom, then cheering and singing happy birthday to Father while they played with Father. That meant that Father was unavailable to give you your daily lessons on how to properly play with your new toys. Fortunately you were busy too.

You entered the kitchen the moment you heard everyone else chant happy birthday in all different keys, the wide empty space with high workstations and cabinets sending doubt into your head. You shook it away, closing the door behind you with two hands, before taking a small tour around the space you would work with. Seeing that dinner was just served, all the cooks were done, leaving you a window of time to carry out your plan. Using a nearby stepping stool, you climbed onto the counters, reaching the high cabinets that were attached to the roof. Just as fate intended it to be a cooking book fell onto your lap, flipped to the page you wanted to go on. You closed the cabinet door, placing the cooking book by your side as you placed your boots on the stepping stool. 

Father said you were good at looking for what you needed.

Father said you were good at doing what you wanted to do.

You prayed Father was right.

With the big book set on one counter, you scurried around the kitchen, gathering all the required ingredients and items you needed next to the book. You found two more stepping stools, allowing you to move around on each stool like different stations. 

Father said your academic level was higher than the rest; you were doing exams meant for ten year olds.

“Pour… flour… in a bowl…” You muttered, finger on each word. You did as the instructions said, scooping out some flour and dumping it into a bowl.

“Egg…Sugar…Mix… Bake…”

For the rest of the day, you buried yourself in work, making what they called a ‘batter’. You had nearly dropped your hard made batter when you had to place the mold inside the oven, a new lesson learnt the hard way. After as much time as the book said, you took the mold out, this time wearing the funny shaped gloves on top of the counter next to the oven. With all your strength, you lifted the baked circular batter into a cart, before wheeling the cart back to your workstation. As the batter was baking, you had prepared a frosting, as they called it. Using a flat rectangle shaped object that had its corners rounded out, you spread the frosting over the top of the cake, before adding a fresh cherry to the top. 

The celebration had stopped. 

You heard Father’s voice tell the children it was time for bed. You gripped onto the counter, trying not to get shaken by the earthquake created by the hoard of orphans storming up to their room. Holding your breath, you waited until you couldn’t hear Father’s footsteps anymore, before letting out a sigh. You placed your finished cake on a pretty plate, using two hands to hold each side before exiting the kitchen.

~

You let out a deep breath, looking at the gold and crimson ornate double door in front of you. With the papers in your pocket, cake in hand, you used your shoulder to turn the doorknob, stumbling into Father’s office. 

“Y/N?” Father. You turned around, facing Father. Father was behind her desk, hand moving from her forehead to her chin as she looked at you with a playful grin. Since your back was still turned to her, she couldn’t see the cake you made.

“I was worried sick about you, my dear. I didn’t see you at the celebration the others held for me.” Father chuckled. “Where were you? Not even the caretakers or workers could find you.”

You opted to not answer her question, rather hobble your way over to Father’s desk with your little legs. You placed your creation on the same place Father had set you when you got injured. Father looked at the cake, her eyebrows raised as she tried to conceal the grin that was spreading on her face. She pointed at the candle that was stabbed into the cake next to the cherry with her index finger, and the wick was instantly lit on fire. 

“U-Umm…. I overheard it was Father’s birthday… so I wanted to do something special for Father…” You mumbled, fidgeting with the hem of your sleeve as you tried to maintain eye contact with her. “I-I made you a cake. I t-tried my best. Would Father care to try my cake?”

Father let out a chuckle, looking at you with a soft and warm gaze. “You made a cake? All for me?”

“I-I wrote a c-card too…” You pulled the card and the second piece of paper out of your pocket, placing it next to the cake.

“Y/N… I…” Father chuckled, the corners of her mouth reaching her eyes. You’d never seen her look at you like this. Yes, she was always happy and cheerful. But never this much. Even as she tried to conceal it, you had spent enough time with her to know that she was feeling much more than a simple grin. 

“Of course I would love to try your cake.” Father took the fork that was placed next to the cake, digging out a portion of your creation before putting it in her mouth. You could’ve sworn you saw a glimmer in her eyes. She took another bite, nodding her head and smiling at you.

“D-Does Father like it?” You asked with a worried tone. 

“I love it, my dear.” Father hummed, forking out another chunk of your cake, putting the fork in front of your mouth. “Why don’t you try your own creation?”

“But it’s Father’s cake.”

“I insist.”

“O-Okay.” You wrapped your mouth around the fork, chewing on the cake you made. A smile crept on your face as you swallowed the bite. Thank the gods you had actually made food and not poison.

“Come here, my child.” Father patted on her laps. You walked around her desk, climbing on her laps as you looked up at her. She continued to spoon feed herself and you, wiping away any crumbs on your lips with her finger.

“H-Happy Birthday, Father.” You exclaimed.

“Thank you, my dear Y/N.” Father smiled at you, planting a soft kiss on your forehead. “I loved it, my little cook. This was the best birthday present ever.”

You could feel serotonin rush through your body. “R-Really?”

“Yes! Why would I ever lie to you, my dear?” Father hummed. “Thank you for such a wonderful birthday gift, my dear.”

~

Arlecchino sat on her chair, a sigh exiting her mouth as she looked at the card you had written, as well as the piece of paper. She had read a quick bedtime story to you, tucking you into bed before going back to her office. Arlecchino opened the letter, as the words entered her heart, fueling that flame of hers she carried and protected.

“Father,

haqqy dirthbay. I hoqe you hab a goob bay anb are haqqy. thank you for everything you bo for me. i really like my new toys.

Y/N.”

[aetherdoesthings]

a new job pt. 2

forethoughts: apologies for my long hiatus; writer's block has been draining me mentally. anyways, i started playing honkai star rail :D. no spoilers for penacony pls i wanna see this through 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

notes: fem!reader, reader working for arlecchino, arlecchino being sweet? idk

Your head throbbed as consciousness came back to you. Unlike the hard mattress you normally slept on and the nonexistent pillows, your head was supported by several, a large puffy blanket covering your body. You were even in different clothes than you remembered yourself to be in; a pair of silk pajamas buttoned up instead of the large worn out oversized shirt. The change of scenery instantly made all fatigue and drowsiness disappear, as you shot up, head spinning around, grasping at the scenery around you. You were inside a well furnished room, the windows on the side of the bed open, the Fontainian breeze entering your room. All your stuff from your flat above the shop was on the nearby desk. Your heart pounded heavily inside your chest, as you planted the balls of your feet on the soft surface underneath you, allowing yourself to explore your surroundings to a better degree. Somewhere far, you could hear the sound of children, their cheerful laughter reaching up to the room you were in. 

The doorknob twisted, stealing your attention as every nerve in your body went on high alert, your muscles tightening. The door opened, revealing a familiar figure, the sound of her heels muffled by the carpet as the woman walked towards you, those crimson eyes boring into your skull. 

“Ah. Y/N. You’re awake. Perfect.” The Fourth of the Fatui Harbingers stated with a monotone voice, her hand moving towards your face. A rush of heat shot to your cheeks as the Knave ran her darkened thumb over your lips, feeling the cracks and grooves of your chapped lips. You swore you saw her own thin lips purse ever so slightly at the touch, displeased by your physical condition. 

“W-Where am I?” You forced yourself to sputter out, in hopes of destroying the suffocating atmosphere around the two of you.

“Inside the House of Hearth. Since our last meeting, I took it upon myself to ensure you were properly settled into your job. All your belongings are on the desk.” Arlecchino said ever so matter-of-factly, as if she wasn’t fazed at all by the idea of breaking into your place while you were sleeping to move you into new territories without ever asking you if that was okay.

“If… that's alright with you. I understand for a normal human a sudden change like this is… daunting. However, this is to ensure the discreteness of the House’s location.” Arlecchino added, after noticing the shock and horror in your eyes.

You forced yourself to calm down, bottling up all your emotions now for a breakdown later as you faced the Harbinger. “I-It’s okay. I understand.”

“Excellent. I shall let you get dressed and ready for the day before giving you a tour of the House.” Arlecchino’s hand lingered on your cheek for a beat longer, her crimson eyes gazing into your dark pools. She removed her hand and departed before you could speak up, and thankfully you didn’t have to. 

Accepting your fate, you changed into the clothes inside the closet, as another sense of uneasiness bubbling in your stomach at how the clothes perfectly fit your body. You brushed your teeth and washed your face, reminding you that this was the reality you were in. Not some fantasy or dream world. Stepping outside your bedroom, you found the Knave standing idly by the door, those red crosses instantly landing on your figure the moment you opened the door. 

“You look wonderful in that.” Arlecchino mused, her lips curled upwards slightly as she beckoned for you to follow her. Looking back once to ensure you were behind her and not trying to escape, Arlecchino began her tour. You stayed by her side, listening to her explain the schematics of the House of Hearth and the history, though never delving into great details. She led you through the different halls and floors, until the two of you passed by the dining hall. 

“Are you hungry?” The Harbinger asked, no sign of malice in her voice as she looked at you.

“U-Uh..” Before you could think of a convoluted lie so the tour could move on and end sooner, your stomach answered for you.

Your stomach churned as you heard the Knave let out a chuckle, your heart thudding at the sound as Arlecchino smiled at you. “I suppose you are. Come. Allow me to fetch you some breakfast.”

No. Why were you feeling this? This feeling of… longing. Longing to hear that chuckle again. Longing to see those lips curl upwards and those eyes bore into yours, a hypnotizing gaze that told you everything would be alright. No. This was the Knave. Arlecchino was a Fatui Harbinger. She killed people. The blood on her hands was far greater than you’d ever known. 

But yet a part of you couldn’t help but keep thinking about Arlecchino possibly seeing you only in your undergarments and carrying you and tucking you in, a sense of joy and glee filling your heart. 

“What would you like?” Arlecchino brought you over to the breakfast bar, waving and greeting the children that occupied the hall.

“Do you have pancakes?”

“Pan..cakes?” Arlecchino looked at you, confusion written all over her face.

“I-I like pancakes.” You mumbled under your breath when you realized she didn’t have a clue about what you were talking about.

Arlecchino instantly shook her head, her gaze softening as she granted you a small smile, immediately making you feel better. “I will ensure that the kitchen will make these.. pancakes of yours for you. How about some fruit and yogurt as a substitute for today?”

“Sure.” 

“So, that concludes the tour.” Arlecchino cleared her throat, rummaging through the files on the cabinet behind her desk as she grabbed a piece of paper, placing it on the table in front of you. “Your employee contract. Sign it, and you will become a teacher at the House of Hearth.” Arlecchino listed several things that came along, as you sat on the plush chair reserved for the children that visited her offices. Every once in a while, she’d glance over at you, watching you eat your bowl of yogurt and fruits, your eyes following her figure pacing around. 

“Any questions?” Arlecchino turned her head towards you. Her gaze softened ever so slightly when she saw you with your knees to your chest, holding the empty bowl with both hands as you looked at her with those innocent round eyes, a smudge of yogurt on the corners of your lips.

“No.” You responded, shaking your head, setting the bowl aside. 

“Well then.” Arlecchino placed a pen next to the contract. 

Arlecchino watched you take a deep breath, picking up the pen and rereading the contents on the paper. She knew her methods of getting you here wasn’t the best, and she would be lying if she said she didn’t feel bad for taking you in your sleep and bringing you to the House without asking you. But then again, she stared at the paper, waiting for the pen to move, nails digging into her arm. Ever since that day at the flower shop, Arlecchino could not stop thinking about you. She wanted to have you close. Wanted to always see that innocent look on your face, oblivious to the world of danger she lived in. 

A sigh of relief nearly escaped Arlecchino’s throat as the pen moved across the surface, your signature on the line. She stifled it with a cough, taking the contract and gazed at the signature, as if trying to burn it into her brain. “Excellent. Take the rest of the day to adjust and get used to the surroundings. Is there… anything I can do for you?”

Arlecchino hoped you were going to say yes.

“...You don’t know what pancakes are?” You tilted your head.

Arlecchino blinked. “I beg your pardon?”

“You work at an orphanage. With children. B-But you don’t know what pancakes are. Kids like pancakes. Pancakes are good”

“Are you insinuating that you are a child, then, Y/N?” 

Your cheeks flushed, realizing the error in your sentence. Arlecchino let out a low chuckle, reaching her hand out to wipe away the stain around your mouth. “How about you show me… what this pancake is? So the children could enjoy something new, and you would be happily fed.”

[aetherdoesthings]

Hi! This is pretty random but I was wondering what arc you’re on in one piece and how you’re liking it so far?

hello!

i just finished thriller bark, which i thought was pretty neat. i watched it with my friends, and managed to convince them to watch the entirety of one piece with the show 🤩

i'm liking one piece a lot! it's definitely on my list of favorite shows to watch

thank you for the ask!

[aetherdoesthings]

Hello aether, how are ya? 😁😁😁

hello edgeray! i'm doing alright, thanks for asking buddy. got a lot happening these past weeks. i hope you're doing well too :D

apologies for my extended break from tumblr, a lot is happening but plans are being made. expect to see something soon!

[aetherdoesthings]

hiii i hope youre doing well aether! i'm not really a tumblr kind of person but these past few months i've been OBSSESSED with robin and somehow ended up here and i gotta say i really love the way you write her! there isnt NEARLY as much robin content as there should be on here but you feed me so well!! anyway, could i perhaps request robin x femreader where reader gets jealous but hides it when men (sanji and franky) flirt with robin? i'd really appreciate it, and keep up the good work!!

forethoughts: thanks for the kind words! i hope you're doing well too, anon! i haven't done robin in so long or one piece related pieces lol. i hope you enjoy this piece!

notes: fem!reader, angst? jealous!reader

Your other half. Your one and only. Her other half. Her one and only. That was the promise you made with Nico Robin ever since the night you stormed into her room bawling your heart out and confessing all the things you kept locked away in your heart. And thank whichever supernatural deity was watching over you that night, as Robin had patched up your heart and planted kisses all over to mend the ache and sorrow that gnawed at your core. Ever since that night, the Straw Hats started to notice how you were always holding hands with Robin, resting your head on her shoulder or lap, always choosing to be her buddy in the buddy system when they docked at a new island. Robin didn’t mind of course; she was always the one hooking your pinky with hers and leading you to the nearest cafe or bookstore to spend some peace and quiet alone while the world was in motion. 

You knew Robin was a literal goddess; the way she presented herself, the tone she carried, all the little things she did, it was enough to melt your mind and exert all the blood in your body out of your nose. But you knew you weren’t the only one that felt the same and reacted the same whenever Robin ever so slightly looked at you. 

“Robin-chan!” Your fingers around Robin’s hand immediately curled inwards into her delicate skin as you heard a familiar perverted chef sprint your way. You took a sharp inhale, keeping your head facing the town you would explore with Robin alone in your view only.

“Robin-chan! Would you like some of my lovely tiramisu before you go out?” Sanji held up the plate to Robin’s face, his eyes probably turning into hearts. You held back a scowl, subconsciously digging your nails into Robin’s skin to exert your anger. You and Robin had planned to visit a small cafe together; if she took the tiramisu, that meant she wouldn’t be able to eat the meal with you, and that meant you had to eat alone while Robin watched you eat. The thought alone made a low growl exit your mouth, which Robin definitely heard. 

“That’s alright, Sanji.” Robin dismissed with a light hearted laugh, her hand squeezing yours tightly, pulling you back into reality as your muscles instinctively relaxed. 

“But-”

“Come on, let’s go, Y/N.” Robin squeezed your hand again, and led you away, deeper into the heart of the city. You stayed silent during the entire walk, not wanting your girlfriend to know about your… possessive tendencies and thoughts. Why would she want to know about that anyways? You just wanted to put Robin in the center of your world and keep it like that. Only she got to feel your arms wrap around her body tightly and your head buried into the crook of her neck, the whispers of your worries only heard by her ears and her ears alone.

That wasn’t being possessive, right?

“Why the frown, dear?” Robin lightly chuckled, her hand going towards your face, tracing over your lips. “It does not look good on you at all.”

“I- Um…” Your eyes shot down to your shoes. Robin had pulled you to the side of the street, your back touching the brick wall behind you.

“It’s nothing.” You mumbled. “Let’s just go have lunch.”

Robin stared at your facial expression, taking a moment to note how your eyes were downcast, fingers fidgeting with the hem of your shirt. “Well-”

“Oi! Robin! Y/N!” Your fingers dug into Robin’s skin again, clenching your fists as Franky made his thick skull over to the two of you. You had planned to just pull Robin away so you wouldn’t have to endure another conversation, but it was too late. 

“Before you two go make out and be all lovey dovey, wanna check out something cool I made? Only for the two of you first.” Franky flashed a cheshire cat smile. How dare he assume what you and Robin did in your own free time? That perverted cyborg, only dressing those swimming shorts like he never heard of public indecency. Despite winter approaching, you sure felt like summer was still here. You didn’t notice how tight you had dug your nails into Robin’s hand until you felt a tighter grip on your own, a wave of dread and realization washing over you as your shoulders slump. 

“That’s alright, Franky.” Robin chuckled, her other actual hand coming to pat your shoulder.

“But-”

You figured Robin had shot Franky with her signature glare as the cyborg stormed off. She let out a sigh mixed with a chuckle, as you felt her eyes burn into your skull. You forced yourself to meet her eyes, a half frown half smile on your face. 

“I think there’s a ramen shop nearby. Are you interested?” Robin asked.

You blinked in surprise at her nonchalance, at the sight of her curved lips. Robin gave your hand a squeeze, pulling your attention back to reality. You already had forgotten about the cafe the two of you wanted to visit when the word ‘ramen’ left Robin’s mouth. It was your favorite food after all.

But Robin wanted to go to the cafe… but she chose to go… You bit your lip, your heart sinking at the realization of what Robin was doing. 

“S-Sure.” You mustered out, head hung low as Robin gladly led you to the shop she mentioned. Your mind was alternating between reality and your thoughts, lost in trying to piece together what was happening. Even as you ate your favorite food, listening to the girl of your dreams talk about all the things that interested her, you couldn’t help but feel a drill digging into your heart, made with your own feelings and actions. Even when Robin was asking you if you were alright, you despised yourself for regurgitating out an ‘I’m fine’, which turned out to be the only thing that came out of your mouth the entire time you were out other than grunts and mumbles. No, of course you weren’t fine; you just lied to the only person you called home and she most definitely knew. So you went through the entire day with your mouth shut, your body marinating with dread and guilt as you let Robin shop around, paying everything on your tab. It was the least you could do. Seeing your nail marks in her palm was enough to make your stomach churn and head light.

Things didn’t get better when you got on the Sunny too. You mainly stayed silent, watching Robin interact with the rest of the Straw Hats, tuning out Luffy’s screaming as you sat next to your girlfriend silently, nibbling on your dinner. Not like you had an appetite anyways. You excused yourself from the raucous group, trudging back to your room, the memories of your actions and the effects of them playing over in your head. You opened the door to your shared room with Robin, staring at the neatly made bed and the fluffed up pillows, a mug filled with your favorite drink on your nightstand. The sight made your heart ache more, as you picked up a pink flower petal from the bed, the corners of your eyes starting to burn. Even when you were acting like a child and being mean, she was still being sweet and kind. 

Robin had arrived shortly after, curtly informing you that she was to shower. Alone. Without you. You swallowed down all sense of pride and confidence you had in being a good girlfriend, watching the door to your bathroom close as the sound of the shower turned on. So you sat on the wooden chair of your desk, your knees to your chest, too afraid to touch the perfectly made bed. Robin stepped out of the bathroom, wearing a plain white t-shirt and shorts, her hair bundled up inside a towel. Once she slipped underneath the covers was when you felt comfortable to move. 

Your shoulders tensed, fear coursing through your body as you shuffled your feet over to Robin, head hung low and lips quivering, unable to make eye contact with the woman you love. How could you? You didn’t live up to her expectations. You broke the promise of being the girlfriend that would never hurt her significant other. You were… just pathetically in love with the woman that you never deserved to meet and share a bed with.

“...I’m sorry.” You croaked out, tears welling in your eyes as you trembled. “I’m sorry for hurting you and being a bad girlfriend. I never wanted to hurt you and make you give up on the chance to go to that cafe you wanted to go to just for me when I didn’t deserve it because I hurt you and I feel really bad about it and I’m sorry. I’m so sorry.” 

You looked down, hands reaching over to grab your pillow. “I’ll sleep on the couch in the library…”

“Y/N.” Robin finally said, her actual hand on your wrist, as she slipped out of the blankets, standing up. Her hands cupped your face, fingers gently wiping your tears away as you trembled and sobbed like a child whose toy just broke. “Please don’t do that. That’ll just make me more upset.”

Your eye flinched at Robin’s statement, as you looked at the ground. “I’m sorry…” you whimpered. Stupid. You couldn’t even do anything to make her happy.

“Oh, darling.” Robin pressed her lips against your forehead, her arms and more wrapping around your body, pulling you closer to her chest before you could protest or complain. “We all have our days where things don’t go as planned, or you perform an action that wasn’t that good. But we are all still human. We are prone to mistakes. And that’s okay. You just had a bad day. We all have bad days. After all, we are human.” Robin brushed a strand of your hair behind your ear. “Please don’t beat yourself up for it. Come on.”

The archaeologist scooped your body up, carrying you over to the bed. She laid your body down on top of her, your head resting against her chest as her arms trapped you from moving away. Her hand brushed your hair, rubbing small circles around your scalp. The action was enough to make you numb against her body, your mind only focused on feeling the rise of her chest and the steady thudding of her heartbeat. You nuzzled your head into Robin’s chest, allowing yourself to finally melt into her touch.

“...I promise I’ll be better next time.” Your eyes met Robin’s ocean blue ones.

Robin’s lips curled into a thin smile, chuckling to herself. “I know you will.”

[aetherdoesthings]

my big bad wolf

forethoughts: yeah the voting's clear on who's winning, so might as well 🙃. coming back home in a few days! i'm so ready for hours of no sleep and jet lag. also halfway done with thriller bark!

notes: sub!arlecchino, royal au, princess!reader, arlecchino being in love with you? idk what else to note. hint of death and murder

You were the most feared princess in your land, that one no man dared to saunter into your court and ask for your hand. Not because of your father and his power, no, but your endlessly devoted knight that protected you from evil’s harm. Everyday you sat on your throne, royal families from far away trying to convince you and your father to marry their son and set an alliance. Most of the time your father turned them down, until this time.

“Ugh. I cannot believe he said yes to that absolute scum of a prince.” You scoffed, storming to your private chambers with your knight right behind you.

“The king offered your father a large sum of money and the promise of his aid in battle.” Arlecchino responded, the knight entering your private chambers, closing the door behind her. Arlecchino was a feared warrior across all of Teyvat; no one dared challenge her or cross her path. She stood by your side at all hours of the day, guarding your chamber from any assailants trying to take her darling’s life. She made sure no men looked in your way, her crimson eyes alone enough to scare off beasts or creatures that tried to feast on you. Alone in your chambers, she couldn’t keep her eyes off of you, forever glued and stuck ogling at your figure, memorizing all of your curves and contours, the shimmer of joy and happiness in your eyes everytime you heard good news. Your smile was enough to brighten up her dark, cursed world. 

“Hmph.” You paced around in your room, a sight the Knight was already used to seeing, as she stood her ground, waiting for any other word to come out of your mouth. Arlecchino would kill anyone you ordered her to. Hell, she wouldn’t even ask for the money or any reward. Just doing your beckoning and being able to hear a single sound come out of your mouth was enough for the Knight.

A devilish grin appeared on your face as you faced your devoted soldier. “The prince was found dead at the bottom of a cliff, seemingly pushed off of it. No sign of struggle.”

The same smile appeared on Arlecchino’s face, as she dipped her head. “I will be back before dusk.” 

“Good. Your reward will be ready once the job is complete.” You said, waving your hand, dismissing Arlecchino. Arlecchino bowed, before making her leave. 

“Your Highness?” Short short long short. Arlecchino’s knock. The knight stood outside the door to the chamber, waiting for your permission to come in. Her fist was clenched, adrenaline rushing through her body, eager to see her reward. She made the effort to clean off the blood off her armor and hands before going to your chamber, making herself as presentable as possible. 

“Come in.” Once Arlecchino heard your voice, she instantly opened the door, taking a step inside your room before closing and locking it behind her. A warm feeling rushed into her lower regions as her eyes locked onto your figure, her jaw threatening to fall.

“Y-Your Highness…” All the moisture in Arlecchino’s throat evaporated, her knees starting to give out as she admired and ogled at your figure. You were lying down on your bed, completely nude, everything exposed for the Knight to see, a knowing smile on your face 

“Well? Must I do all the work?” You say with mock annoyance. “Off with those clothes.”

“Y-Yes, Your Highness.” Arlecchino’s hands flew to the buttons of her shirt, the hem of her pants, anything and everything she wore, until it was all a pile on the ground. She stumbled her way over to your body, hands and feet clambering until she was on the bed with you, her body hovering over yours. 

You grinned at the sight of Arlecchino desperate and needy, her eyes locked with yours, seeking for any sign of approval or pride with her actions. You placed a finger on her chin, gripping on her jaw. “Who’s my big bad wolf?”

“I am!” The words slipped out of Arlecchino’s mouth before her brain could even process it. 

“Are you? Are you? Did my big bad wolf finish her task?” You cooed, as if talking to a pet or baby.

Arlecchino nodded her head vigorously until she got dizzy, a wide, foolish looking grin on her face. She wanted nothing more but to take you and give you the best night of your life, to treat you the way you should be treated. “I did!”

You chuckled, which sent a shiver of pleasure down Arlecchino’s spine, her body starting to get more impatient, desperate to taste you like she hadn’t eaten for days.

“Claim your reward, then, my little wolf.” 

The words were like a password to something in her head; the second she heard your sentence she immediately begun, her lips making contact with your skin, nipping at anything she could, digging her canines into your neck until she felt blood, using her tongue to lap up any excess blood and to soothe the spot, planting kisses all over your body. Your occasional soft whimpers and moans spurred Arlecchino on, making her actions more frantic and sloppy, kissing and swirling her tongue over your hardened nipples as if she would never get the chance to do so ever again, the fear that you would suddenly cease everything driving her to take what she had now and properly savor it. Her mouth moved all across your body, painting you like a pretty canvas with purple and red from her lipsticks, hands flying to your skin to feel the softness and warmth that radiated from your body, fingers snaking around yours, a warm flutter in Arlecchino’s heart as she felt you squeeze her fingers back. She stopped her painting when she reached the spot between your legs, looking back up at you.

“May I?” She asked, head facing yours, waiting for your consent.

That familiar, approving smile on your face sent heat rushing into Arlecchino’s cheeks, her mind rising to cloud nine once she saw you nodding your head. “Go ahead, little wolf.”

The nickname fueled the heat boiling in Arlecchino’s lower regions, her hand tempted to move to her own cunt, to relieve that ache. But no. Your pleasure was far more important than hers. You came first. Literally and figuratively.

Arlecchino dipped her head until she was aligned with your perfect pussy, eyes ogling at your slick dripping out of your cunt, unable to hide her smile that her painting of your torso was enough to make you wet. Taking a deep breath, she stuck her tongue out, flattening it against the organ, licking a long strip upwards, swirling around your clit, sucking on the bud, nibbling on the hood. The languid moan that came out of your mouth drove Arlecchino further, as she licked, sucked, nibbled at your now swollen and sensitive clit. Your hands flew to Arlecchino’s hair, digging into her white locks, bringing her head closer, your legs wrapping around her neck. 

“Arlecchino… oh…” You moaned, arching your back. “Don’t stop, don’t stop, don’t stop…”

Arlecchino let out a chuckle against your clit, fingers moving towards your sopping cunt. inserting a finger without trouble, finding that spongy spot that never failed to please you. She thrusted her middle finger in and out, curling inward to hit that spot, slipping in two other fingers, making your whimpers and moans much louder and more vocal as your fingers dug into Arlecchino’s scalp. Not that she minded.

“Arlecchino, I’m s-so close… please don’t stop.. don’t stop..”

Arlecchino didn’t plan to in the first place. Her own pussy was needy and drenched, aching and begging for touch and pleasure, but she pushed her own needs aside, focusing on bringing you over the edge, adding in a fourth finger, her tongue swirling around your clit, nibbling and sucking. She could barely breathe, only able to inhale the fumes of your scent as your legs and hands kept her close to your core. Her fingers worked like a jackhammer, pumping and stretching your walls, her muscles starting to ache but she suppressed that feeling too, not until she heard-

A sharp cry was ripped out of your throat as your fingers curled into Arlecchino’s hair, threatening to rip out her hair as your legs squeezed Arlecchino’s head, muffling any sound and preventing her from getting any air. Arlecchino helped you ride out your high, fingers slowly decreasing in amount, lazily swirling her tongue over your folds and clit one last time before looking up at you, blinking twice. You received her nonverbal message, removing your legs from her neck as Arlecchino gasped, color returning to her lips and face. You pulled the Knight from below, bringing her to your eyes as you smiled, pressing a soft kiss that sent butterflies flying around in her stomach. 

“You did so good, my lovely wolf. So good… so, so, so, good. I’m so proud of you, my little wolf. You made me very very very happy.” You smiled at Arlecchino, planting a kiss on her forehead. 

Arlecchino beamed at your words, her heart filled with warmth and pride that she was the only one that could make you feel this way. “Anything for you, Your Highness.”

You chuckled, bringing your Knight’s head close to yours, as you locked lips with Arlecchino, kissing her as if it was the last time you’d have the opportunity to. Arlecchino reciprocated the same feeling in her actions, hands moving to your cheeks, cradling you tight to her, never wanting to ever let go, to ever see you go. She would follow you to the ends of the Earth, she would be your devout follower until death. 

“Please, allow me to soothe your ache inside you too.” You breathe, shoving your knee in between Arlecchino’s leg as you sat on your haunches, hands slithering down to the Knight’s waist. Arlecchino’s hands shot to your shoulders as she let out a low mewl, her hips instinctively rolling against your thigh, desperately chasing after her pleasure like an animal rutting. She panted and whimpered, while you whispered soft words of praise and comfort in her ear. Arlecchino did not stop until she came, her body freezing as her orgasm overtook her senses. Your hands found their way to her waist, helping her ride out her orgasm until the feeling subsided, the two of you falling onto the bed, a soft giggle exiting your mouth. You held the Knight close to you, her head resting in between your breasts as you petted her head, whispering words of praise and reassurance. Arlecchino laid there limp on your chest, enjoying the feeling of your chest rising and falling, hearing the sound of your steady heartbeat, an exhausted smile on her face.

“Did you enjoy your reward?” You asked, peppering kisses on the Knight’s hand, wrist, wherever skin was available.

“Very much so, Your Highness.” Arlecchino responded, eyes rolling up to look at you.

You smiled, as your fingers interlocked, holding each other tightly.

“To death do us part.” Arlecchino muttered under her breath, her eyelids closing.

“To death do us part.” You repeated, a pleased and satisfied smile on your face as your hand absentmindedly petted Arlecchino’s hair, exhaustion overwhelming you as well.

[aetherdoesthings]

hollow.

⭒ summary: arlecchino comes to your lands in hope of getting your gnosis non-violently. having hidden feelings for the harbinger, you offer a bargain, which she ends up accepting. it hurts both of you in the end.

⭑ cw: suggestive (no nsfw). angst. a lot of angst. angst no comfort (i warned you). hidden feelings. archon!reader. reader and arle both feel, and i mean feel.

⭒ wc: 3.4k.

⭑ a/n: oh wow. hi. this is like, the first fic i've written that was so long. ended up beta reading it with grammarly for two straight days. also tried improving my writing style, hope it looks like it lol. please like and reblog !!

"so, lady arlecchino," you started. your gaze remained cold but calm despite the inner hesitation you were feeling while facing the harbinger. "what business do you have in my lands?"

an unexpexted visit of the fatui delegation along with the fourth harbinger visiting her homeland was quite the news to you this morning. having no other choice than to face them, and you knew precisely why she would visit, hearing the news from the archons of other regions from last months.

it scared you, in some way. but you were expecting they would eventually reach you.

arlecchino slowly lowered herself into her own comfortable chair opposite of you before looking at you again. her face became expressionless again.

"It's a pleasure to see you too, miss [name]," she retorted in the same calm manner, despite her words clearly having a mocking undertone somewhere deep down. her eyes studied you as she continued, hearing you not reacting to her words.

you didn't change much from the last time she saw you. she didn't want you to, anyway. the same eyes, hair, accessories, manners... so on. she remembered every little detail.

"miss [name], do you really think you can rule this region on your own for the rest of eternity?" arlecchino suddenly asked, crossing her legs and arms simultaneously as she leaned back in her seat, seemingly making herself very much comfortable.

you blinked in confusion, head tilting the slightest bit. the woman had the dignity to let a corner of her lips raise upward at your reaction. she knew this "start" of the conversation wasn't what you expected.

"...i'm sorry?" you asked, not quite getting the meaning of the question.

"i'm sure you've already guessed what i'm here for. what i'm getting at is..."

arlecchino leaned forward in her chair, her eyes studying you. her face became expressionless once again, but a dark half-smile was painted on it. her voice became slightly threatening, nearly causing goosebumps to run across your skin. she knew your exterior wouldn't be cracked so easily - you're tough; much tougher than many people she's met in her life. but this was a start.

"...what do you want in exchange for your gnosis?" the question was almost a demand. she simply voiced her intentions - get your gnosis, and it wasn't an invitation of any sort.

your eyes narrowed, eyeing arlecchino. what is this? a negotiation? it does sound like one. but is that really it?

"and when did i mention something about giving up my gnosis, lady arlecchino?" you asked calmly.

"don't pretend you don't understand."

arlecchino's voice now held the slightest hint of threat to it, but her face became a little kinder and she continued in a more calm and friendly tone. or she only intended for it to sound friendly. uh, these diplomat things.

"i think we both know perfectly well what I want to hear from you; a clear answer. why don't we come to an agreeable conclusion and you'll give up your gnosis to me? certainly with no harm, you have my promise," she said, her voice getting a more expectant undertone as she spoke the last words, then looked at you in anticipation of the answer.

you leaned back in your seat, unsure of what to make of this whole 'visit'. it was suspicious, you couldn't deny it, but the pull towards the forbidden was finally getting to you, and your bottled-up for centuries-on-end feeling might be getting outside right at this moment.

this is an opportunity you have once in a life, your heart screamed at you. use it.

despite floating somewhere deep in your thoughts, you could easily feel as if arlecchino kept trying to burn a hole in you. and her eyes - especially the shape and color of her pupils - weren't helping either. she did look intimidating like this, but nonetheless, she was willing to wait. at least for now.

you weren't the type to risk, but...

so, an opportunity.

"now, what was that you said about getting something in exchange?" you inquired, exhaling a soft, quiet breath as you got out of your mind. shouldn't have entered it in the first place, you thought. too much of everything.

arlecchino smiled and her eyes gleamed a strange glint you couldn't quite decipher what meant.

"oh, it's good that you're interested," her voice became inviting again, almost soothing, but behind the façade was clearly a not-so-hidden intention. "i wouldn't want to use force against you if this escalated any more."

"of course i wouldn't just take your gnosis from you. i am a woman of honor and deal, miss [name]. if you'll give your gnosis to me i will, of course, give you something in return," she leaned back in her chair and stared straight into your eyes.

"would you like to hear what i would offer you?"

"no," you instantly replied, dismissing the woman. "i already have something i want to ask of you. but first..." you looked around the room, noticing a few fatui soldiers standing here and there. you didn't need extra ears from here anymore. "i need them to leave us alone."

arlecchino's lips curled slightly upward, resembling a smile.

"i see no problem in that. if you're planning on saying something personal, they don't need to witness this conversation."

she glanced at her soldiers and then turned her gaze back to you. the fatui left the room instantly, with no further words said.

"and now to the important part: what can i offer you in exchange for the gnosis, miss [name]?"

you kept silent for at least a minute. you licked your lips, then let your teeth bite down into her lower lip as you thought. arlecchino already seemed to notice one thing that stood out the most - you hesitated.

a deep inhale and the same deep exhale.

"my offer is..." you started slowly, eyes drawn to the table. you simply just couldn't bring yourself to look the woman in the eyes when saying what you were going to say. "we spend the night. together," you said, knowing that she clearly understands what you're talking about.

"and in the morning, i will grant you my gnosis, and we won't have any more business together after that."

silence.

this was precisely what arlecchino was hoping to hear from you.

she raised an eyebrow after a few moments of processing your words, expecting something like this, but still surprised by such a straightforward proposition. however, she quickly regained her composure, leaning back in her seat.

she knew where you were getting with this. she knew you craved this since you both ever saw each other. this was seemingly what you and her needed, but it was so much more complicated than just that.

she also knew that you would hurt so much the next morning, after giving up that gnosis, if she accepted this deal.

for the first time in a while, arlecchino felt torn by the thought of someone being hurt. surprisingly, it's you she was thinking about at that moment.

"my, my... i must admit such a proposal from you is a shock to me. so bold of you to assume that i would accept your deal so easily," she gave you a look, which held the tiniest bit of sympathy and compassion. she had mixed feelings about this.

"however, i'm indeed sure that you mean no harm, especially to me. so, i'll accept your offer on one condition."

she accepted it, immediately flashed in your mind. she accepted it almost instantly. your heart seemed to take a leap, no, a thousand of those as your eyes widened at the realization.

what was going on between the two of you?

you finally found the courage to look up at the woman. hearing no further elaboration, but wanting to hear it right now, you pried further, "that condition being..?"

arlecchino's eyes found yours, as if trying to read you from the outside, and she leaned in closer to the table separating the two of you.

"we keep this a secret," she said, eyes narrowing slightly and voice becoming nearly a whisper. "from the fatui and from everyone else."

"do we have a deal?"

you nodded. "i thought it's only logical that we keep it a secret. so, of course," you continued, eyes focusing on the woman. you didn't want to look away from her for a second, afraid she might disappear. "we have a deal."

a small smile played on arlecchino's lips as she gave a slight nod of satisfaction in response to the fact that you agreed so eagerly. her voice became slightly louder now, as if to not cause any suspicion if someone were to listen from the outside.

"very well. i accept your terms. and i give you my word to keep this... arrangement, a secret from everyone else," she said. her piercing gaze met yours, but the smile on her lips did not disappear.

"where would you like to meet, miss [name]?"

—

you didn't know how you both made it to your room, but the second the front door was closed and secured with a 'click' of the lock, arlecchino's lips crashed onto yours, as well as you found your back to quickly meet the wall.

there were lips biting one another, hands everywhere, tongues intertwining, your own heartbeat loud in your ears as you kissed, your hand shooting up to grab the back of arlecchino's neck... and you were hoping to forget about the gnosis just for this night. just for the duration of these hours.

just for one night. and then it'll all be over in her morning.

arlecchino's lips felt soft and warm as they pressed against your own. her tongue gently licked your lower lip, teeth tugging at it slightly as her hands roamed all over you. she didn't seem to want to pressure you into something, but she wanted to show you how much she wanted this, too. she then broke the kiss to catch her breath, eyes gleaming with hunger for more, despite the softness in them.

her fingers tangled in your hair as she looked deep into your eyes, "you're even more beautiful than i imagined."

with those words arlecchino pulled you closer, pressing herself against you, as her lips found their way to your neck, kissing her way down to your cleavage, before finding her way back onto your lips.

you felt like you were suffocating; suffocating in arlecchino. in her touch, lips, breath, and in your own sensations of all of the above.

"not here," you managed to whisper out breathily, already panting. you were sure your lips were already red and swollen from all of this. "left door."

arlecchino's lips came back to trailing kisses down your neck, biting softly in some places, but she seemed to obey you. her hands seemed to settle on your waist as she led you to the said left door.

"are you sure?" she whispered in your ear, her lips brushing against the skin there, and you immediately felt shivers crawling down your spine.

"are you sure you want this?"

"are you?" you asked in return, words barely a whisper, brows furrowed a small bit as if you yourself contemplated your choice.

you didn't. not for a single second.

"i am."

with that, arlecchino pulled you closer to herself again and claimed your lips once again. it was a hungry kiss, filled with passion and desire and maybe, just maybe, a little bit of longing.

"i want you," she whispered against your lips before kissing them again. the sound of your heartbeat was so loud that you were sure the woman could almost hear it in her own ears. her hands wandered over to your shoulders, pushing you through the door and into your bedroom, and she pushed the door with her leg to close it.

"all of you... i want all of you," arlecchino murmured, letting her lips detach from yours for a split second, eyes finally meeting yours, seeing all the need and yearning in yours.

she craved this a lot, but she knew you craved it more.

"then have all of me," you whispered in reply, ignoring the fact that the loud pounding of your heart in your ribcage seemed to reach the limit of its loudness, almost drowning out all other sounds. you pulled her along with you, your back falling onto the bed with a soft thud, leaving the woman to settle on your hips and watch you from above.

if arlecchino was sure, then you were also sure. you knew it wasn't how that worked, but you could let yourself forget that just for tonight.

arlecchino seemed like she was about to pounce on you, the hunger and lust in her eyes increasing rapidly as she watched the rise and fall of your chest; the way your breath would increase as she looked in your direction. her eyes wandered over your body, taking in every curve, every muscle, and every movement you made. her own breathing became slightly more ragged and she licked her lips.

"you're so beautiful," came out as a soft whisper, arlecchino's eyes now resembling a newfound tenderness that wasn't there before.

she leaned in closer, warm breath caressing your neck, her scent filling the air around you as her palms settled on your cheeks and jaw, thumbs caressing the skin mindlessly.

"may i?"

gods, she still asked for consent.

you exhaled shakily while realizing that; that she didn't want it to be just a decision in the heat of the moment. it warmed your heart, even if a little bit.

"anything."

arlecchino suddenly felt loved and wanted, and it was almost the same feeling that she always wanted to feel from no one but you.

you were giving yourself up to her for one night, and she was going to make it count.

she kissed you like it was the last kiss of her life. she kissed you deeply, heartfeltly, lovingly, and with such intensity that it was like you two were the only people in the world, and both your and her touch screamed please, don't let me go.

—

you awoke just as the sun had begun to rise, the light from it shining through the curtains and onto the bed. the woman beside you shifted, too, seemingly being already awake for a little while.

arlecchino had watched you for a little bit while you slept. it was a sight she couldn't tear her eyes from away even if she wanted to. duties and titles long forgotten, this was what she wanted to see every day.

you blinked as the light found your eyes, rubbing them for a few seconds before focusing your gaze on the woman on the other side of the bed. neither of you spoke, for now.

you sat up on the bed, having the blanket cover up your naked, marked, loved body. arlecchino followed your every move, eyes only once wandering down to your back and back up to your face.

your heart hurt at the realization that it was already morning.

the night had ended.

you didn't want it to be over so fast.

looking down at the woman, you averted your eyes, feeling the need to blink away the sting of tears threatening to find their way out. one of your hands moved up, palm facing upwards. your fingers trembled as you exhaled shakily.

you got lost in your thoughts for a few moments. what if arlecchino won't take the gnosis? was that even possible in a situation like this?

certainly not, you must be daydreaming of some kind of hope.

glowing a soft light, floating up and down over your hand was your gnosis.

you stared at it, not blinking, then stared a little more, and then your hand shifted and offered the gnosis to arlecchino.

it was over. as simple as that.

arlecchino's breath hitched as she sat up to have a look at the small, glimmering chess piece. her hand slowly reached out and she took the gnosis from your hand, her fingers closing around it. she examined it closely, as if making sure it was real. to you, she looked satisfied with your deal.

"thank you very much, miss [name]."

you immediately noticed the change in tone. it became professional in just a few moments, leaving you confused.

she then stood up from the bed and started to put on her clothes. it was the sign that the deal was over and that her mission was complete. she didn't even look back at you, you thought. oh.

"well then... i guess my work here is done."

"...i guess it is," you could only reply quietly, eyes rooted to the woman's back as she got dressed.

you noticed the change in the woman's attitude, in her voice, and your heart basically shattered. it was like there were no kisses shared between you two just hours before, no compliments whispered, no intimate connections made. like the night before never existed.

you were just another mission.

of course it would be like this, you thought. you were the first to suggest that you both will never see each other again after this, and you were the one to fall for all of this.

but it still stung.

"you never meant it," you whispered in the end, realizing those words spoken and whispered so intimately were, apparently, just in a haze of situation. how predictable. you fell for that yet again.

arlecchino paused for a moment before she picked up her remaining clothes and turned to face you. her gaze was cold and emotionless, but she hesitated, before her expression purposefully changed into a more serious expression.

she needed to make you feel like she didn't have any feelings for you. it would be better for both of you. no bonds. no strings attached. she never wanted you to pine for her, as she was certainly not the one you needed to have beside her.

an archon and a harbinger. comical.

"i was agitated," arlecchino replied, voice turning back to previous hardness and flatness, zipping up her pants.

she hated saying the next words.

"you were just a means to an end."

pause.

your chest hurt. your eyes stung.

you wished you'd never heard any of this. you weren't ready to hear any of this. but now, these words will surely be engraved into your memory.

you didn't reply, and thus, there was silence. a loud one at that.

arlecchino felt the said silence like no other. she knew she'd achieved what she wanted just by witnessing your reaction.

you didn't stop looking in the direction where the woman was getting ready. neither did you react, just blinking away the tears from her eyes, preventing them from appearing.

your chest suddenly felt hollow, and not because of the gnosis that was no longer there.

arlecchino finished getting dressed quickly, since the silence in the room was getting more and more uncomfortable. it was a sign of your defeat, and she hated the realization of that.

she wanted to say something. wanted to take it back. to hug you. to kiss you again. to make love to you again. she wanted to tell you that she had fallen in love with you and that she wished everything was different.

but she knew that she would only end up hurting you more if she did so.

"i will be taking my leave."

you bit your lip hard enough to draw blood just trying to hold back your tears. your emotions. you weren't allowed to feel, but you felt, and it was suffocating you, dragging you towards the bottom.

"good job," you could only mutter, voice barely a whisper, gaze shifting back to the blanket.

arlecchino felt so much guilt for the words she had said. she knew how much pain those words were causing you, but she couldn't take them back even if she wanted to. the hurt was necessary.

she wanted nothing more than to go over to you, pull you into her arms, comfort you, and whisper how much she loves and cares for you. she wanted to apologize to you; wanted to tell you how sorry she was for hurting you.

but she didn't. she couldn't, because no one could know about the true feelings she had for you.

not even you.

so she just got dressed in silence, the weight of your gnosis in her pocket feeling heavier with every moment that passed. it's not like she could do anything other than that.

you heard arlecchino's hand placing itself on the door handle, and the woman paused momentarily, eyed wandering over to your form on the bed, scenes of the previous night flashing in front of her eyes as she looked at you.

the door clicked open, and she took one step outside your room before speaking her last words to you.

"it was a pleasure doing business with you, miss [name]."

the door closed.

[aetherdoesthings]

You know. I get the feeling we might be seeing more arle content. Dunno why 🤔

i feel the same 🤔

[aetherdoesthings]

Do you accept ningguang request?

yes

fem!reader tho

[aetherdoesthings]

300 FOLLOWERS SPECIAL EVENT

we hit 300!!!! thank you so much for the people who enjoy and like my writings and the support along the way. i appreciate every single one of you who enjoys my works; it means the world to me.

so, since i'm still away from home, it's gonna be a while before my milestone writing comes out, but i'll let you guys decide now and choose what type of smut you want to see (for newcomers, yes, i write smut every time i hit a big number).

once again, thank you so much for the love and support, y'all are all amazing people <3

it's only going to be these characters because i know enough about their characters to write something comprehensive that makes sense.

[aetherdoesthings]

omg i would die for an arlecchino smut for a special.... anyways how's your trip going? have you been taking care of yourself? hopefully you are having lots of fun and relaxing on your trip. <3 i so feel you on the motion sickness... ew.

edgeray!!!!

my trip is going well, thanks for asking! the airbnbs are so cool and it's my first time going to them. i've been having a blast, spending time with loved ones is so great. just another week or two before i come back home!

idk may not be arlecchino this time i've been really invested in hsr these past weeks

motion sickness sucks 😔