readercognito

[readercognito]

Can't wait for chapter 6

Wow. I hadn't actually planned one 😅... but looking at it now I think we need the ritual don't we?

[readercognito]

Palladium x Reader

A Mortal Trial Chapter 5

Masterlist

“Athos! What are you doing out-” Cerilla said cheerfully. “Oh, it's (Y/n) too.” She says seeing (Y/n) shrink further into the balcony railing. “I'm sorry, am I interrupting something?” She said, pulling closer to Athos.

Athos held up a hand. “You are, actually. (Y/n) and I have something we need to discuss. Would you mind letting everyone know we're leaving?” He says, stepping back to take (Y/n)'s hand.

Cerilla blinks her beautiful golden eyes and her surprise was clear on her face as she left without another word. Athos turns to you taking your hand.

“Let's talk, but not here.” He nods to the woods beyond the balcony.

(Y/n) is confused, “but how…? You said-” Athos hushes (Y/n) with a finger.

“Magic, let me help you.” With that Athos takes (Y/n)'s hands. 

And breathes in deep, borrowing the magic that had transferred to her to teleport them into a glen. The lights of the house just barely peeking above the tips of the trees. He doesn't let go of (Y/n)'s hands once they arrive at the clearing instead he pulls her even closer to him.

“Now, I want to hear everything.” He says, taking her face in the palm of his hand, rubbing her cheek with his thumb.

Tears well in (Y/n)'s eyes at the tender touch. And relents. Telling him about how she had been feeling these last few days. While his family had been kind, it was hard and felt like she was out of the loop. Athos listened quietly, then the second she spoke about how she felt ugly in comparison to the elves, a finger silenced her.

“(Y/n), while you may not be what my parents expected. I found you to be breathtaking from the very moment I met you. Please don't disparage yourself like that…” He says, the hand going to her other cheek. Pulling (Y/n) into a tender affectionate kiss.

And while the kiss was nice, the words he had spoken were what had brought (Y/n) to tears. The warm salty water rolling down her cheeks as she kissed him back. Her arms going around his neck pulling him even closer. But Athos didn��t stop there, because when they pulled back to breath (Y/n) manages to say,

“I’m just worried that this is all a dream, that you’ll leave me as soon as the ritual is over…”

Athos pauses, a confused expression crossing his face.

“(Y/n), what are you talking about?” He asked clearly perplexed.

“Well,” (Y/n) pauses with a blush. “After the ritual, you get all your magic back right?... I thought that after I gave your magic back….” (Y/n) trails off.

Athos’ eyes bulge “Oh, oh my…” He then puts a hand to his temple. “I thought I- Oh (Y/n)… When we complete the ritual… We are bound for eternity, our magic. Our life, is forever shared…” Athos takes her hands. “And magic or not… You'd still be my other half, the part that completes me…” He says, pull (Y/n) into his arms, a hand on her cheek.

(Y/n) can't help but laugh, hugging her Beau back tightly.

“Thank you Athos… I love you.”

Athos smiles, and answers with a kiss.

[readercognito]

Palladium x Reader

A Mortal Trial Chapter 4

Masterlist

(Y/n) had gone with Athos to his homeland as soon as she could pack and say goodbye to her friends and family. The ceremony would take three days to properly prepare, but Athos had asked (Y/n) to come and stay for a week beforehand so she could get used to his homeland. (Y/n) had readily agreed, excited to see the world her soulmate had come from. Athos had given her his guest room to stay in, so they could get used to each other before a physical relationship was formed.

(Y/n) had quickly fallen in love with the Elf Kingdom. It was beautiful and always bright and sunny, and was covered in all sorts of mind boggling flora and fauna. Athos, always happily showing and explaining bits of the nature of his homeland. It was clear that he was an avid nature lover, even more so than the rest of his race. So when he told her that he was the herbology and nature magics teacher at Alfea, (which apparently was a very prestigious fairy school), it just made sense. Even though his homeland was astonishing to (Y/n), something that she found increasingly endearing was that Athos never disparaged her, or gardenia in any fashion. Though the magic realms and the elf kingdom itself was far more exquisite than her home.

Which, despite Athos’ cheerful and kind manner, had her feeling self conscious about the whole thing. The elves matched the beauty of their homeland, breathtaking and exotic. Which made (Y/n) feel like a toad amongst lilies, making her wonder if Athos actually cared about her at all. Or if she was just a means to an end for him. Being forced to act so kind to her since she was the holder of his magic, the appearance of Cerilla hadn’t been much help in this line of thinking.

Cerilla had been friends with Athos since they were children, everyone had expected they would be fated. Or at the very least get together at some point. Athos’ friends and family had been obviously shocked when he had brought (Y/n) home, telling everyone that she was his fated other half. Let’s just say they didn’t exactly jump for joy. They were kind, but the disappointment was obvious. Which just made poor (Y/n) feel even sorrier for herself, it had been fine for the first few days. Athos had been a delightful distraction, showing her around and telling her everything he knew. He had even managed to give her a tour of the school, which was still in session for the summer programs. The students were sweet and it amazed (Y/n) the extent of things that could be done with magic, Athos even letting her try out a spell or two. It was basic, but it thrilled (Y/n) to even lift a small stone.

But day four, had brought Cerilla… The gorgeous childhood friend of Athos Palladium. It really didn’t help that the Palladiums were as close to her as he was. And the slight feeling of being left out went into a full blown isolation. And during a particularly lively little get together with the Palladiums and friends, (Y/n) had excused herself to a rather small balcony, as far away from the party as she could be without outright leaving.

As she spent a few minutes out on the balcony, she contemplated what was going to happen in the next few days. (Y/n) was worried about the ceremony, and what would happen afterwards. Would she be discarded? Thrown away after returning the magic back to Athos? So many similar questions flooded her mind. But one main worry sat at the forefront…

Did Athos love Cerilla?

They had been rather close ever since she came. Which made sense in a way that (Y/n) hated to admit. But Cerilla wasn't just a beautiful elvish woman, she was a close friend and old one at that. (Y/n) felt like a stranger when she was around them both… Telling stories, and having inside jokes that she didn't share.

But her melancholy musings were knocked out of their spiral by the opening of the balcony door. (Y/n) was tempted to hide, but she chose to stay at her place by the banister. A familiar voice made her turn.

“This feels familiar.” Athos said with a smile. But it quickly faded as he felt the energy of the room.

(Y/n) tried to hide her expression behind a smile. But her downcast demeanor wasn't lost on Athos.

His brows furrowed in confusion, he wondered what on earth could make (Y/n) feel so down. His family hadn't been the warmest yes… but that hadn't bothered her before…

“(Y/n)? What's the matter?” He says approaching her with an open and sympathetic expression.

(Y/n) sighs and shakes her head, turning back to the stars. “It's nothing really.”

(Y/n) wasn't really sure why she had said that, but a flicker of hope, and dare she say affection lit in her heart as Athos said.

“(Y/n), I can tell it's more than ‘nothing.” He gets closer, standing next to her. She leans into the warm hand he puts on her shoulder. “Talk to me (Y/n)…” He says, almost pleading.

(Y/n) takes a deep breath, it shakes as it leaves her. “I just don't know how to phrase it, it feels so silly… But I can't help but feel down…”

(Y/n) looks at Athos, seeing nothing but warmth and patience reflected in his amber eyes.

So she continues, “to be honest… I'm worried, and I feel out of place…” She trailed off. Unwilling to unload her feelings at this party.

But Athos wouldn't have any of that. That was, until someone else opened the door.

It was Cerilla.

[readercognito]

Palladium X Reader

A Mortal Trial Chapter 3

Masterlist

(Y/n) jolts at the knock on her door. Trying to keep her mind clear so that she wouldn’t accidentally spell the poor soul on the other side of that door. As she walks down the hall to her front door, she pauses for a moment. Then, steeling herself, she opens the door.

Her jaw fell open and her eyes widened. It was him!

“It’s you!” She can’t help but exclaim.

The mans green eyes widened, stepping back a bit at her shout. Making (Y/n) wince and apologize quickly.

“oh! I’m so sorry I didn’t mean to-”

The man quickly cuts her off “It’s alright, can I come in? I’m sure you have plenty of things to say… And I have some apologies of my own…”

And with that (Y/n) quickly ushers him in, making themselves comfortable on her living room couch. Athos began to explain himself, first confirming that he was in fact a magical being. But the issue came into play when he talked about his other half. And that (Y/n) is his other half since she had been taking his magic,

“Wait so you think I’m like your soulmate or something?” (Y/n) asked, clearly confused.

“Not like a soulmate, you… are.” Athos said, pausing a little before finishing his sentence, knowing how positively mad it sounded to any other race.

But to Athos’ surprise, (Y/n) was remarkably open to the whole idea.

“OK then, how do we fix this whole… magic swap?” She asked rather brightly.

Athos paused, once again a tad nervous about the whole thing. “Well, we would have to complete a certain… ritual…” He trailed off, not really wanting to explain all of it.

(Y/n) absolutely not having any of that pressed him. “Athos, what aren't you telling me?” She said, crossing her arms.

Athos felt the blush bloom across his face. (Y/n) was embarrassingly perceptive.

“Well, this ritual… would have to be completed at my home world.” (Y/n) nods.

“And we would need someone else to officiate it.” (Y/n) nods again, Athos gulps.

“And it would bind our souls and minds together for the rest of eternity.” Athos rushes that last bit out as fast as he can, bracing himself for an explosion.

.

.

.

And yet it was quiet. Athos opened his eyes slowly. And it was almost worse than (Y/n) shouting at him.

The first thing he noticed was (Y/n)'s expression. Her jaw was slack, her eyes half glazed over. Clearly in a slightly comatose state of shock.

Then something bumped into his head. Looking at the direction of his hit, he found a floating orange. Odd, but it seemed everything else was floating too. His hair getting in his face, noting the new shade of sage green it sported.

(Y/n) was so flabbergasted she lost all control, raw magic flowing put from her. Athos sprung into action, grabbing (Y/n)'s shoulders.

“(Y/n)! I know that this is a lot to process but you need to calm yourself!” Athos instructed, putting his hands on her shoulders to calm her.

This seemed to ground (Y/n), as the objects in the room dropped to the ground. Startling (Y/n), pulling her fully from her self-induced trance.

“I'm your… what was it again?” (Y/n) said, still a little dazed.

Athos was hesitant, moving his hands down to her wrists. Wanting to keep contact with her, both due to the instinctual pull, and in case she wigged out again. “My… other half. A “soulmate”... if you will…”

He looked down at their hands. (Y/n) mirrored his look, and found herself comforted by the warmth of his palms and fingers. (Y/n) thought for a moment. Contemplating what they would do next, and the whole ridiculous situation. She has apparently met her soulmate, and due to that, was in the process of draining his magic (which could very well kill him!). But in order to undo this whole thing, she would basically… What was it again? Athos once again spoke up.

“I understand if you don't want to go through with this…” Athos said with a sigh. “I won't force you into anything.” He said, taking his hands from hers. Thinking that (Y/n)'s silence was a sure sign of rejection.

(Y/n) felt the pang in her heart as his hands left hers. Instantly missing the touch, so similar to that fateful december night. She had gotten to know so much about him, even then. Looking at him, desperately trying to hide his sadness and fear. But for some reason to (Y/n) it was plain as the sun during noon. Knowing he was looking down the barrel of death, but still making sure it was her choice… it warmed her very soul. She took his hand, and when their eyes met. It was as if she had known him for centuries…

“I'll do it.” (Y/n) said with a warm, loving smile.

Athos’ eyes widened, mouth hanging open. “What?... you?”

“Yes Athos.” She said again.

Athos’ lips grew into a grin, his eyes growing misty. Pulling her into his arms, whispering desperately overjoyed. “Thank you… I love you.”

(Y/n) wrapped her arms around him in return, smiling as she nuzzle into his neck. “I think, I love you too.”

Her heart beat faster at the words she said. It felt like coming home after a long trip abroad.

[readercognito]

Palladium x Reader

A Mortal Trial Chapter 2

Master list

(and yes I gave professor Palladium a first name, it's Athos. Coming from Athena, synonymous with wisdom. I found it fitting.)

It had been a rough morning for our dear professor. It seemed his magic was draining from his body… During the middle of one of earliest lessons his spell had fizzled out as he was demonstrating it! To say the least it had been more than a little embarrassing as the teen girls got quite the kick out of Palladium's face of utter shock when his magic then repeatedly cut out. He was actually feeling rather lethargic as the morning went on. Feeling that something was horribly wrong with him he had gone to see Griselda, she had a wealth of experience with magic he wasn’t really familiar with. So he went to see her as soon as he had a free moment.

“Your magic is what?” Griselda asked in disbelief, her usual bored gruff tone somehow managed to make her sound both sarcastic and greatly concerned.

“I just don’t know!” Athos said exasperatedly, throwing his hands in the air. Then as a wave of fatigue washed over him he sits down on one of the chairs in the professors lounge. “The only way that I can describe it is as if my power is being pulled right from my body…”

Griselda sat down beside him, a worried look crept onto her face. “Athos, I’m really not much of an expert on elves and how your kinds magic works… Have you interacted with anything out of the ordinary lately?” She asked, her tone growing so strangely soft and inquisitive.

Athos thought for a moment, running a hand through his long blonde locks. Choosing to think out loud for a bit to gather his thoughts.

“Well the only thing I’ve done both outside my routine and realm was go to Gardenia. A friend of mine was having a new years celebration, and I attended…” Athos trailed off, not quite ready to divulge his meeting of the mystery woman he had met that night.

“Did anything happen there?” Griselda asked, only mildly curious. Mostly sleuthing out a means to Athos’ loss of power. 

“Well… I did meet this one woman… the experience was, as if I had known her all my life. I’ve never felt that way about anyone before…” Athos begrudged Griselda, then it seemed the answer hit them nearly the same time.

Athos flopped his head onto the table with a groan, as Griselda shouted an “ah ha!” at finding the solution.

“Athos, I believe you’ve found your lost half.” She said to him, Athos smacked his head on the table again as she confirmed his own theory. “What’s the matter? You should be thrilled that you found her! Many magical beings search for centuries to find their other half. And you just happened upon her, in Gardenia of all places…”

Athos sighed, “That's the problem Griselda… I didn’t find her.” He said forlornly, making Griselda raise an eyebrow. The only sign of her confusion.

“What are you talking about? You just said you met her at that ‘party’...” She said,

“That would be an easy solution, but I never got her name…” Athos said, a tad embarrassed that he had gone a whole night talking to someone and had never asked her name…

Griselda mumbled something about boneheaded romantics and asked, “I would try to find her fast then, because-”

“When the last bit of magic leaves my body I’ll lose it forever… Yes I know…” Athos sighed, watching Griselda leave. Thinking about how he could possibly find the woman…

~~

“Eeemmmiiiillyyy please just call her!” Jane begs her friend.

Emily sighs, finally able to get over her giggle fit. She had been going for ten minutes already, though one look at Janes flushed face and scrunched body sent her into another fit every time Emily looked at her.

“Alright, I’ll call Erika. Give me a minute.” Emily dials Erika, talking on the phone with her for a moment. Then hangs up before turning back to Jane.

“Good news, we’ve got a name…” Jane cheers “Bad news, he’s from another dimension and only Todd knows how to contact him and he’s out of town for the next week.” Jane then smacks her forehead, and Emily pats her shoulder in pity.

“So what? I just have to wait and hope he shows up? That could take–!” Then Emily interrupts Jane.

“A week at least, relax Jane. Just try not to wish for anything or something like that for now.” She gives Jane a hug. “I’ll keep the lines open with Erika, you just try to stay calm ok?”

Jane sighs and nods her head, not looking forward to the next week…

~~

Palladium decides to try Todd’s home in the slim hope that there was a way to contact her. But when he knocked on his door, Erika, his wife, was the one who answered. Athos was not to be deterred however. After being invited inside she hits him with a rather surprising question.

“Athos, did you meet someone during our new years party?” Erika asked.

Athos balked, a mixture of shock and relief dropped his shoulders and filled his voice. “Yes, I have. I actually wanted to talk to you about her…”

Erika’s eyes’ lit up and she clapped her hands “Oh, this is exciting! Jane actually wanted to meet you!” She said excitedly.

Athos was certain this was possibly the strangest and most serendipitous day of his life.

It turns out that Jane had been experiencing his magic in a raw form. Just granting her desires and whims, which for anyone unused to that kind of power. It could spell disaster, and just as when he had spoken to her that fateful december night he was impressed with her. Since it seemed the world hadn't started to end, and she hadn’t become an evil something or other given practically unlimited power…

So naturally he decides to find her as quickly as possible, which was once again a stroke of good luck. She had decided to stay home as to avoid more magical mishaps. Athos was a little nervous at the idea of dropping by the house of who was nearly a complete stranger. But Jane (he had finally learned her name, and it was like a song to him.) wasn’t realy a stranger was she? No, she wasn’t. Not after their night together, he had gotten to know so much about her! So with a mix of apprehension and excitement, he heads to the address given to him by Erika. 

[readercognito]

Palladium x Reader

A Mortal Trial Chapter 1

(credit for image is ChinetsuAnI on Deviantart)

Masterlist

It was a wintry December evening, all the leaves had gone from the trees. Replaced with glistening piles of snow. The air was crisp, but not as cold as a snowy December could be…

Athos Palladium was always a bit melancholy around this time of year, his connection to nature always felt muted around the winter and fall seasons. But still he had to come to Gardenia and admire the unique shifts in seasons. Though that wasn’t the only reason he was in Gardenia. He had made a few friends here in this nearly magicless realm. He had been invited to a celebration by Todd, one of his oldest friends here. It was for bringing in the new year? Or something along those lines, Todd hadn’t really gone into detail when Athos was invited. All he had really said was “It’s when we celebrate the old year and welcome the new one in. You’re supposed to create resolutions for what you’re going to do in the new year, but most people use it as an excuse to get completely hammered.” Athos chose not to question it any further. Afterall it had been a while since he had left Alfea, or had a break in general so a day off to fill his falling social meter wasn’t unwanted.

Athos walked along the snowy sidewalk until he reached a brightly lit cottage-style home with a red roof. Walking up to the forest green wooden door he gave it a knock. A black haired woman opened the door with a blinding smile, it was Erika. Todds’ wife.

“Athos! How are you? I’m so glad you could come!” Erika said, bringing in Athos for a brief but tight hug.

Athos returned the hug a little stiffly, he still wasn’t used to how friendly Erika was. Granted he had only recently told both Todd and Erika that he wasn’t really a human. It was so odd to him that Erika and Todd treated him no differently. Taking it perfectly in stride, it made Athos a tad nervous just waiting for the other shoe to drop. 

Erika quickly ushered Athos inside, taking his coat and putting it in their closet. As he made his way into the living room he was met with a swath of new and mostly strange faces. Todd emerging from the small crowd, capturing Athos in yet another enthusiastic hug.

“Athos! How are ya?” Todd greeted brightly.

“I’m doing rather well-” But before he could say anything else Todd interrupted him again.

“That’s great! Why don’t you come and meet a few friends of mine. I think you’ll like ‘em!” Todd said, dragging him towards a group of people that seemed vaguely familiar.

After many new greetings and introductions to various members of Todd and Erika’s ever growing friend group. Athos was finally able to get away from all the hustle and bustle of the New Year’s party. Though he did enjoy socializing, the booze was making Todd, and his many friends, a bit unbearable. Making his way into the little porch in their backyard. He was looking at the rising moon, when he heard the same glass door open again. Choosing to ignore the slight tap of footsteps until he heard a voice.

“So, not a fan of parties?” A gentle feminine voice spoke up from behind him.

Athos turned around and paused for a moment, as his eyes landed on the most beautiful woman he’s ever seen. The chilling moonlight glancing off of her hair, giving her a halo. Her eyes sparkled with the stars, but held a deep thoughtfulness. Everything about her was so like and yet alien to Gardenia.

“Not much of a talker huh?” She said again, this time a teasing grin wrinkling her brow and lifting a corner of her mouth.

“I can when I want to be.” Athos said, a playful smirk of his own crossing his lips. “Though the party chatter was becoming a bit overwhelming, I must admit.” Answering her first question with a bit of exhaustion at his friend’s antics.

“I totally get that, kinda why I stepped out here. Less good natured friend meddling. And bad drunken singing…” She then draped herself on one of the cozy outdoor plush benches that were gathered around a gas fire pit. Wincing as a shrill cry of “it’s raining men” made its way through the glass door.

Athos set himself down beside her, not really wanting to be far from this woman for some reason.

“I understand exactly what you mean…” Said Athos in an exaggerated voice of exasperation.

And with that a night of joyful and meaningful conversation commenced. Athos and the mystery woman talked well into the night, their lives, their hopes and dreams, past loves and old childhood mistakes and memories. That was until the party ended and both Athos and the woman were being ushered out the door, the woman then rushing on her own when she remembered she had an important work assignment due somewhat early tomorrow. 

Jane had had a very normal life before that new year's eve… But everything has gone weird since then. It was like everything that she wanted just happened! Like just this morning she had wanted to talk with her boyfriend overseas who had been too busy to talk to her for over a month had mysteriously video called her. They had naturally broken up over mutual loss of feelings, which was something she had wanted to do for a while now. But that wasn’t the weird part, it was how… she had just been at her computer and thinking about calling him, and bam! There he was right in front of her on skype. It was like… Magic or something…

But that hadn’t really alarmed her, she just brushed it off as a misclick or something. But she couldn’t really ignore what had happened nearly three minutes after that.

She had been getting ready for work and wanted a coffee, but she hadn’t started the pot. But just as she wished aloud “I wish a cup of coffee would just be right there on the counter.” There a fresh steaming cup of jo sat. That one hadn’t been as easy to ignore… But she had, having little things like this pop up throughout the day. After accidentally wishing a cop away who was in the middle of giving her a parking ticket she had enough. She called up Emily,

“What do you mean you have magic? I thought you had to be a fairy or something like that…” Emily said her voice crackling over the phone.

“Yeah well I’m not a fairy or anything, I don’t know what’s happening! Everything I wish for is coming true and I don’t know how to stop it!” Jane said exasperatedly.

“You say that like it’s a bad thing, I would think it’s a wish come true! eh… pardon the pun…” Emily said.

Jane groaned “Ugh, I just wish you were here so I- OH COME ON!” 

Emily stood there blinking bewilderedly in her kitchen.

“Do you see how this could be a problem!?” Jane exclaimed, waving her arms in Emily’s direction.

Emily ‘hmm’d “Yeah I can see how this can get out of hand… When did this start happening?” She asked, oddly calm about being magically transported into Jane’s kitchen.

“Just this morning, and I didn’t do anything outside of what I normally do… well except for all this magic stuff!” said Jane.

“You mean outside of the party I dragged to you last night?” Emily said. 

“That must be it! Something must have happened to me at the party! Maybe I was cursed or something!” Exclaimed Jane, jumping up from her chair at last a clue!

“Did you talk to anyone? Erika and Todd have some strange friends…” Emily said.

“Emily, come on. It’s me we're talking about here, I didn’t talk to anyone! Well…” Jane said trailing off.

Emily had that glint in her eye, much like a cat who had just trapped a mouse. “Except for that dreamy mysterious guy with blonde hair that you didn’t even get the name of.~” Said Emily.

“Yeah… Could it be him? But it’s not like I heard him cast a spell or anything… We just… talked.” Jane said, Emily smirking at the almost lovestruck tone in her voice when recalling the wonderful night.

“Ha! You’re totally smitten!” Emily laughed, having to catch herself on the kitchen counter as her mirth made her nearly topple over. 

Jane glared at her friend's mirth, as warmth started to rise in her face. She slapped Emily’s arm “Stop it! I didn’t even get his name!” She said a little frustrated and remorseful. It wasn’t that she fully regretted not asking for his name, it just wasn’t the right time. She had a boyfriend, and she had kinda crashed into the mystery mans’ alone time… But they had seemed to hit it off, and she wouldn’t mind meeting him again. But she hadn’t really done or said anything that would have caused him to curse her or something… Right?

[readercognito]

A Nearly Sleepless Night

Modern!Sherlock x Reader

(yes, it's got a truth potion plot point.)

(Y/n)’s peaceful slumber was rudely interrupted by the telltale ringing of her cell. Blindly reaching to the charging device she barely managed to get a look at the caller ID before she groggily slapped it against her ear. 

“What on earth are doing calling me at-” I lift up the phone, eyes tearing up due to how bright my screen was. “-2 A.M. John?” I mumbled into the receiver.

“It’s Sherlock, he needs you.” Johns voice crackled over the line, a worried twinge entering his voice at the last two syllables.

But I was too fogged with sleep to notice “Unless he’s dying, he doesn’t need me.”

“I’m really sorry to wake you up (Y/n). But he won't. Stop. TALKING. I'm at my wit's end! He was out on some mad errand and now he's at my home and divulging anything that's come across his mind!" Said John.

"Oh, dear." I said the claws of sleep slowly loosening it's grasp on me. "Tell me poor Mary wasn't anywhere near him…"

"No, thank God. She's asleep, but he's getting louder, and in all honesty I don't know how long this will last." John that thread of worry turning into a full blown tapestry.

I sighed, knowing just what I was going to sacrifice. Just what my dear old friend was alluding to. But I had to give a good night's rest one last try.

"John, do you love me?" I asked pitifully.

"Not that much I'm afraid." Said John, an air of relief in his teasing tone.

I huffed "Fine. Bring the twat over! You owe me a great deal for this."

And just like that, my night was sleepless.

John brought over Sherlock in less than ten minutes after the call. He was unceremoniously shoved into my home without another word, John left. That is where the fun began.

“Sit down on the couch Sherlock so I can look you over”, I commanded.

And like a puppet on strings he rather oddly walked over to my couch and sat down. I shook it off as soreness from a beating he surely had gotten.

His button up and jeans were wrinkled and dirty. Any semblance of his usual leather jacket was nowhere to be seen. He had a split lip, and what looked like a developing shiner. His hair was ruffled and looked a little burnt. All in all he looked like hell. But what really startled me is what came out of his mouth next.

"You look very pretty when you're concerned. About me that is." He blurted.

To be perfectly honest he looked as surprised as I felt. Afterwards he rather promptly (and childishly) slapped his hand over his mouth. A series of muffled mumbles following.

"Aside from that Sherlock, what on earth happened to you? I thought you weren't taking that case with the mob ties." I said, a little disappointed he went against my back for this.

"I lied, I didn't want you getting involved. I can’t stand seeing you-” And back went the hand, a slight blush painting his pale freckled face.

I was getting a little upset by all the mystery right about now. “Shirley if you don’t explain yourself I will tie your hands together behind you! Now stop muffling yourself, and speak to me clearly!”

Then Sherlock did something I really wasn't expecting…

He did exactly as I said.

Sherlock's hand shot from his mouth as if burnt by a hot coal. 

“I can’t stand it when you get hurt. Especially when it’s because of a case I’m on.” He blurted the faint pink of his cheeks starting to redden.

I was shocked to say the very least. Only able to mumble a faint “what?” In my own shock, failing to notice Sherlock desperately trying to cover his mouth. His hand only hovering in front of his mouth. Honestly with the way he treated me most of the time. Well lets just say near constant aloofness, and dismissal of one's general opinions and ideas isn’t really grounds for growing affection. But then again, more recently he’s had moments of a strange gentleness and being unusually thoughtful.

Just last week he had fixed my beloved locket when it broke. It was honestly the most thoughtful thing I had ever seen him do. Which got me thinking thoroughly of our time together, and how protective he’s gotten over the last four months. Getting less and less forthcoming with his exploits, trying to keep me out of entire cases on occasion! Which honestly is more infuriating than anything else, he did hire me to write about his exploits after all. (Since he wasn’t really fond of the paper constantly getting details wrong.) 

I looked at Sherlock, he was unusually quiet and rather fidgety. He sent an nervous glance, and though he was trying to hide it he looked very tense. But strangely still on the exact spot of the couch that he sat on when I asked him to sit on my couch.

Sherlock being the sort of person he is, usually paces or shifts from chair to chair, often room to room. Usually by this point in the conversation we would be in the kitchen or even my bathroom by this point. But here he was still as a statue, on my couch. 

“Sherlock, please don't keep secrets from me. You look like you’ve been through the ringer, and you’re acting weird... Well, weirder than usual.” I said sitting next to him. 

Sherlock winced, then spouted.

“It wasn’t just tied to the mob. It was a trap, I was so stupid! How did I not see something so obvious!” Sherlock puts his head in his hands. Looking defeated and frustrated.

I put my hand on his shoulder, in an effort to comfort him. I knew he hated feeling outdone, or worse out thought…

"Why don't you tell me what happened?" I asked softly.

It turns out that the “missing” man wasn't missing at all. He was a murder victim of The Vipers, a new and ruthless gang. The police had been trying to find the gang’s hideout but everytime they got close the Vipers moved and the police had to start from square one. Sherlock had been asked to be brought in, but refused because the case didn’t sound “exciting enough”. He thought that the mysterious murder he took up was related to the Vipers. He got more interested and even found the Vipers Current hideout. Unfortunately, that was exactly what the Vipers had wanted. After a heated scuffle, he was knocked out, and when he had come too there was the Viper leader. Gage Boyd, spent ten years in the clink for the murders of three fifteen year-old girls, though the police (and Sherlock, who had actually put him behind bars) believed there were more. 

Gage bragged about the supposed "obedience serum" saying that he would make Sherlock tell all that he knew. Which Sherlock being himself, meant an awful lot.

"Is Steven safe?" I asked, worried for our mutual friend.

"Yes, his cover is intact. I was able to make my escape before any truly important information was wrestled from me. But it seems that their 'serum' has quite a long lasting effect…" said Sherlock, his hands fidgeting with the remnants of this shirt.

"Oh, so what you said…" I trailed off.

"Yes, it was due to the serum." He said. Refusing to look me in the eye.

"Sherlock, what were you saying before about me going on cases?" I asked, sitting next to him.

The redness in his cheeks returned full force and fidgeting but seemingly unable to move from his spot on the couch. 

"W-well with what ha-happened with the last case we were on I-" He stopped for a moment, seeming to reminisce…

Ah yes the last case I was on… let's just say some nasty men got a little too close to me for comfort.

"I don't want to have you in that situation ever again. I-I don't know what I'd do with myself if you really got hurt. I lo- I love you too much for that…" he said pulling at his shirt collar, as if trying to hide the furious blush creeping down his neck.

I'm not going to lie, I was shocked. Not in a bad way mind you, because I had been harboring feelings for the scruffy detective for the last two months.

"You might not believe me Sherlock," I said then grabbed his hand, shocking him out of his crimson stupor. "But I might just love you too…"

Sherlock turned to me, a soft smile adorning his face. I nearly recoiled, this was an expression I haven’t ever seen my shrewd detective wear. But honestly it was something I could get used to. 

I then remembered what time it was, and my first "order".

"Oh Sherlock I'm so sorry! You can move however you like now… and you don't have to tell me anything you don't want to. I'm so sorry for forcing any of this on you..."

Sherlock stood slowly, as if getting used to having legs all over again. After getting used to gravity again, he turned and fixed me with the softest look I had ever seen from him.

"It's… alright. I don't blame you for any of it, you didn't-couldn't have possibly known of my condition. In all honesty, I had thought the toxin would have worn off by now…" he said that defeated tone creeping in towards the end.

"Now Sher-" I was about to say 'now Sherlock don't worry about that' but to avoid ordering him around. I said "Whatever happens we'll get through this."

And so ends a nearly sleepless night.

[readercognito]

The Trials of Confession

Luigi x Reader

It was a beautiful day in the mushroom kingdom, birds chirping, a gentle breeze, a sweet smell in the air. Not that this meant anything to Luigi, he wouldn’t have noticed if he was in the middle of a hurricane. Which he might as well be given all his swirling thoughts. He was working himself into such a state of panic that his knees were knocking together and his teeth were even chattering. His unfortunately infamous nerves running high. But, he was going to be brave today! He wasn’t going to let his fear get the best of him today! No sir! He had something important to do! And it was absolutely terrifying… He’s going to tell (Y/n) just how he feels about her! And when he’s done he’s going to kiss her right on the lips! … or maybe the cheek? Or forehead? Maybe he would just wait for her to kiss him… but… what if she doesn’t want to kiss him? Or if she doesn’t like him at all?! And she was just being nice to him as a friend?! or because of his brother… What if she says no?! Oh no, oh dear, no, no, no-

Luigi shook his head, knocking himself out of his negative spiral. He had decided to tell her how he felt, (hopefully followed by a date) this very day. He’s not gonna let his worries get in the way! It was why he was even in the mushroom kingdom today; she was supposed to be at the Sweet Spore Corner. Courtesy of his brother, who had asked (Y/n) to run and grab some pastries for a fictional tea party the Peach was having. Which left Luigi to “accidentally” run into (Y/n) and hopefully ask her out on a date.

Before he knew it his feet were at the little straw polka dotted welcome mat in front of the bakery. Oh dear, his legs were shaking again… Luigi looked through the glass door, spying (Y/n) waiting at a table. Sunlight bouncing off her hair, illuminating her beautiful complexion, her eyes sparkling, putting the gems in Peaches crown to shame… Luigi sighed in adoration, before catching himself. Taking a deep breath, and walking inside. Which he did rather stiffly, over to the table (Y/n) had perched herself at. He waited by her side for a moment before tapping her shoulder. (Y/n) jumped, turning to Luigi. Her shocked expression melting into a warm smile. Oh ho ho, that made him weak in the knees… Luigi shook his head, focus!

         “Eh, he-hello (Y/n).” He said, shifting side to side.

“Hey Luigi! Fancy seeing you here.” She said chuckling a bit.

         Luigi could only manage a nervous chuckle himself. Certain his whole face was a shade of pink. If (Y/n) noticed she didn’t say anything, how kind of her…

         “(Y/n), there’s something I need to tell you.” He said, squaring his shoulders and taking a deep breath, “I-“

         But just as he was about to do it, a loud, high-pitched scream sounded through Toad Town.

         “MY HAAAT!!”

         Luigi stiffened; he was so close! But he moved quickly when more cries of lost hats and clothing, along with the screes of a condor, rose in both volume and frequency. As Luigi bolted out the door it was just what he feared, Klepto was stealing all of the hats off of the heads of the toads. Leaving wailing, little, bald heads behind him. Luigi, unlike his brother, didn't spring into immediate action. Instead choosing to observe the situation carefully, watching as Klepto snatched a poor toads’ washing off the line, lifting high into the air and dropping the clothes on top of a large birds’ nest located at the top of one of the many giant mushrooms inhabiting the kingdom. About a half-mile from Toad Town itself. With this knowledge in toe, he got down to business. A well-timed jump, a swift kick and Klepto was taken down. Crashing to the ground, Luigi leaving him to the town guards. Running over to the giant mushroom, and taking two large jumps on the smaller mushrooms around it to get the height he needed to land atop the nest. Finding a rather sizable pile of toad laundry, and hats. As he didn’t really have anything to put the clothes in he just ended up tossing them over the side of the mushroom. Looking over the edge of the cap just to see where the stolen goods had fallen. His heart gave a mighty jump, because down there gathering all the little mushroom caps, and clothes, was (Y/n)! Well poor Luigi got startled so bad he fell right off the big fungus.

         "THWUMP!"

(Y/n) ran over to him, "Luigi!! Are you alright? That was quite a fall!" She said lifting him up and dusting him off a bit.

"Ow… uh yeah, I'm okay!" Luigi, said. It was so sweet of her to worry over him. Though it was a little embarrassing to have her see him take a fall like that.

He couldn't help the blush that crept up his neck, just hoping that (Y/n) didn't notice. If she did, she didn't say anything.

"We-" Luigi coughed to mask his voice crack, "Well, let's get this stuff back to the toads."

“Yeah, the toads look pretty strange without their hats…” (Y/n) said, a gorgeous laugh falling from her kissable… lips…

Luigi smacked himself back to reality, he had to focus! No goo goo eyes! He heard a little chuckle beside him. Electing to ignore it, he gathered up the laundry in a bundle. (Y/n) took about half the pile from his arms, with a shrug and a little 'might as well help'. With that they set off towards Toad Town, shooting the breeze as they went. Once they reached town starting to hand back the laundry to the toads. Once they had nearly finished Luigi managed to remember his whole reason for coming out to Toad Town.

“Hey, eh- (Y/n) I hav-” But before Luigi could get out another syllable, the ground began to rumble.

This made all the toads murmur fearfully, and with a final thundering shake the fountain in the town square went from its pristine blue, to a slimy, technicolor goop. Which naturally kicked the toads back into a frenzy. Though what made it far worse was the addition of goobles popping out of the goop from the fountain. Chasing after the toads, jumping and popping on any that didn’t get far enough away in time. Luigi let out an annoyed huff, he did NOT want to deal with this. This kind of problem would need to the help of F.L.U.D.D. which if he remembers correctly was back on Isle Delfino, in pieces… Then he heard (Y/n)’s voice.

“Luigi! Get over here! I’ve got an idea.” She said, fiddling around with a nearby fire hydrant.

Of course! Use the firehose as a high-power washer! (Y/n) was so smart… Luigi thought has he scampered over, dodging goobles and the occasional frantic toad.

“You can use the fire hydrant to wash away the goop!” Luigi said excitedly.

“Exactly! We’re pretty in sync aren’t we?” She said with a breezy laugh. Her (e/c) eyes glinting with joy. “But we need someone to find where this stuff is coming from, or we’ll be here all day!”

“On it!” Luigi said, happy he could help (Y/n).

So off Luigi went, his search taking him all the way to the underground tunnels, where he found Bowser Jr. messing around with professor E. Gadd’s paint brush again. After knocking some sense into the kid, and confiscating the brush. Luigi made his way back to Toad Town square. Hoping that (Y/n) hadn’t gone back to Peach’s castle yet. Breathing a sigh of relief that she was still helping clean up the square. He couldn’t help running over to meet her.

“(Y/n)! I’m so glad you’re still here! I-” But Luigi was interrupted again!

“Help! Help me!” Cried a desperate child-like voice. It was a luma! What was a luma doing all the way out here?

Luigi groaned in frustration, unable to help it at this point, pulling his hat over his eyes hoping the luma would just disappear when he uncovered them.

“Oh dear, what’s the matter?” Asked the sweet angelic voice Luigi knew so well.

“I’m lost! I can’t find my way back home!” Cried the luma, bursting into tears.

“Well don’t worry I’m sure Princess Peach can help you find a way back to the observatory! I’ll take you to her castle.” Said (Y/n), taking the little luma by the hand.

Well, now he’ll never get to tell her. It was like the universe itself was against Luigi today. He slumped with a sigh, kicking some dirt with the toe of his shoe. Trudging after (Y/n) and the luma. Keeping his eyes to the ground until they reached the castle. (Y/n) knocking on the large doors, and hearing no response she then guided them around to a smaller door next to the large decorative ones. (Y/n) opening the door, starting to walk in when the door was slammed right into her nose.

“Ouch!” cried (Y/n), red starting to drip from her nose.

Luigi’s blood boiled, who ever was messing around in Peaches had just hurt (Y/n)!

It. Was. The. Last. Straw.

Luigi couldn’t stand it anymore!

“I have HAD IT WITH TODAY!!” Luigi bellowed. Stomping up to the small castle door. Slamming the door open flattening the boo behind it.

 He yanked out his flashlight, stunning any boo or ghost he ran into until he made it to his guest room in the castle, snatching the extra Poltergust from his closet. Flying into a ghost busting frenzy. Sucking, and stunning, boo’s and specters, left and right. When he got to the last couple is when he let out a few things that he didn’t really intend to.

“I’m!” Shoop! One more boo down nine to go.

“Sick!” Shoop! eight.

“And tired!” Shoop! seven.

“Of getting interrupted!” Shoop! six.

“Each time!” Shoop! five.

“I try!” Shoop! four.

“To tell!” Shoop! three.

“(Y/n)!” Shoop! two.

“I love her!” Shoop! one.

“And the first time I actually manage to get the courage to tell her this, I KEEP GETTING INTERRUPTED!!” Luigi screams the last part, punctuating it by yanking his hat off his head and giving it a good stomp. Falling over on the floor himself afterward.

“Well, the delivery was definitely… interesting. I was wondering when you say anything.” (Y/n) said, walking up to where Luigi lay. Giving him a peck on the cheek, and pulling him up from the floor.

Luigi, fully realizing that he had managed to say all of that OUT LOUD, nearly turned maroon. Only managing to whisper.

“Y-yo-you already knew ?”

“Of course, I did, Mario asking me to get pastries for a tea party I never got the invitation too? And he was a little insistent about just running an errand for him… Also that it had something to do with "giving you a shot" ” She said the smile never leaving her face.

Luigi sighed, of course Mario couldn’t be subtle to save his life… He stood, dusting himself off.

“Why don’t we head to Sweet Spore Corner, I think a date is in order for all that sweet stuff you’ve done for me and the kingdom today.” Said (Y/n), giving Luigi a peck on the cheek.

“o-ok” Luigi said, before promptly fainting into (Y/n)’s arms. Who couldn’t help but crack a grin at the actions of her beloved plumber.

[readercognito]

Lantern Plankton Migration

Nereus x Reader

(Y/n) shot Flora a withering look, not to be combated with Flora’s famous puppy eyes. But (Y/n) held her ground…For ten seconds.

“Fine! I’ll go to the stinking party!” (Y/n) caved, throwing her arms in the air.

Flora cheered, choosing to ignore (Y/n)’s next comment “Who knew that zooplankton migration was Andros’ version of summer solstice…” 

“I’m so glad you're coming! No one else can, other than Aisha. And I’ll get to show you off as the newest member of the winx club!” Flora said excitedly.

“And here I was hoping to have a quiet Saturday after all that Trix nonsense…” (Y/n) said grumbling, but couldn’t help the smile that shone through. “Well, at least it’ll be a fun Saturday with my BFF!” (Y/n) said, jumping into the excitement right along Flora.

“Right?! And I have the perfect outfits for us!” Gushed Flora.

“Oh, is it…?” (Y/n) said, hyping her best friend up. Pointing to a certain set of outfits in Flora’s closet.

“You guessed it! We’re splitting the co-ords!” Flora squeed. 

“YAAS! But I call dibs on using the top.” (Y/n) said, and grinned with mock cunning.

“Aww…so mean.” Flora said with false disappointment.

And that’s how the girls showed up to the party. (Y/n) wore a flutter sleeve tube top with a tropical floral pattern and a pair of white high-waisted shorts. While Flora was rocking a maxi skirt of the same pattern, with a slit to the mid-thigh and a black lettuce edge crop top. Aisha came swayed over to the girls,

“Well, well, don’t you look like a pair of baddies!” She said, hugging both girls. “So glad you guys came.”

Flora gave nothing but a smile, (Y/n) laughing “Like we would miss it! Plus Flora threw those puppy eyes at me… Can’t ever say no to that.”

The girls all laughed at (Y/n)s’ little joke. Aisha turned towards the moon pool in the center of her family's pavilion walking (Y/n) and Flora over to greet her cousins.

“You haven’t met my cousins yet have you (Y/n)?” Asked Aisha as they made their way over.

“Can’t say I have, I was in Linphea College during that whole ocean… fiasco.” (Y/n) said, shrugging. Waving her arms around a bit when mentioning the betrayal of Tritannus.

“Well you’ll get to meet them now!” Aisha said as the girls got to the pool, turning and gesturing to two of the mer-people within the moon pool “Hey guys! I know you know Flora, but we have a brand new member of the winx club! This is (Y/n).” She said, presenting (Y/n) to the merman and mermaid. (Y/n) smiled and gave a little wave. “(Y/n), these are my cousins Tressa, and Nereus!” Aisha said pointing to the mermaid, and merman respectively.

“OH! So you’re fishlips’ brother!” (Y/n) said before she could stop herself. Seeing Nereus and Tressas’ confused glances she continued “Sorry, little nickname I gave him during Flora and I’s talks. So sorry about that whole thing by the way, it must have been devastating for you three. I just wished he didn’t get pushed to that point, ya know?” (Y/n) said a bit melancholy.

Nereus gave a solemn nod in agreement. Her sentiments (and playful insult) instantly endeared (Y/n) to him.

Tressa decided to lighten the mood, “Ah, it’s all in the past now… Come on! the lantern plankton are about to arrive!” She said diving into the moon pool.

Aisha and Flora transforming into their sirenix forms and diving in after her, Nereus hesitated with (Y/n). Waiting patiently to follow after her.

“What’s the matter?” asked Nereus when (Y/n) made no moves to enter the moon pool.

“Would now be a bad time to mention that I don’t have any spells to help me breathe underwater?” (Y/n) said, gesturing towards the pool where her friends disappeared.

Nereus laughed, it was a little funny to see someone so confident get nervous so quickly. 

“Here, stay next to me. I think I’ve got something for that.” Nereus said gently, pulling (Y/n) into the water.

(Y/n) chose not to protest, even though her clothes were getting wet. She was curious to see what the ocean prince would do. Nereus gently placed his arm around (Y/n)'s waist, amazed at her immediate trust in him, wondering aloud.

“You trust quickly,” he said.

“Oh no I don’t! But Flora trusts you.” (Y/n) said her expression turning serious “Which means you're someone worth putting at least a little faith in.” (Y/n) said, instantly returning back to her lighthearted teasing.

Nereus felt his cheeks warm a bit at the statement. He wasn’t sure why, since most people he knew praised his good character. But hearing from (Y/n), who was such a bombastic and friendly person herself, made it feel like guppies were swimming around in his gut. Realizing that (Y/n) had been patiently waiting for him for a bit he hurriedly placed an underwater breathing spell on her. Tucking her to his side and swimming her into the open water. Which made (Y/n) realize something about the spell rather quickly…

“You jerk! Ya could’a told me that the spell keeps you dry!” said (Y/n) playfully, slapping Nereus on the arm.

“Oh, my apologies! I guess I don’t really consider these sorts of things…” Nereus said, cheeks flaming with embarrassment.

(Y/n) couldn’t help but laugh, covering her mouth trying to hide her smile. “Relax, I’m not actually mad. Now come on, take me to this plankton march… thing.” she said,

“The lantern zooplankton migration?” Nereus said, raising a playful quizzical eyebrow. 

He wasn’t used to people talking so relaxed with him, being a crown prince and all. But he was enjoying it. (Y/n) brought out a playful side to him that he hadn’t had since his brother's banishment.

(Y/n) just rolled her eyes with a laugh, allowing Nereus to swim her to the observation area. Meeting up with Aisha, Flora, and Tressa. They talked until the plankton appeared. It was a beautiful sight, it was like glowing living smoke. The colors shifted with the twists and turns of the zooplankton colony. Everyone was quiet with awe, the occasional sounds of wonder murmuring through the crowd at a particular color shift or swirl of the plankton.

Then something amazing happened, while the rest of the spectators with a large swath of the lantern plankton, a small arm of the colony meandered it’s way to (Y/n). Swirling around her (Y/n) reached out to them, playing with the little creatures pushing them to and fro. Nereus gazed at her, smitten. It was like an aquatic halo of multicolored light surrounded (Y/n), highlighting all her glorious features. Nereus could only equate what he was witnessing, to the magnetic beauty of a siren. Her light hearted genuine laughter was music to his ears. Nereus was bewitched by her, body and soul. Only the lantern plankton hurrying back to their migration was what returned him from his stupor. The tail end of the colony disappears into the ocean waters, causing the spectators to return to their homes.

The swim back to the party was a jovial one. Aisha gushed about (Y/n) and the lantern plankton, since it was something that no one had ever seen before. (Y/n) described how wonderful it felt to be amongst such amazing creatures. And it wasn’t until the trio of girls started making their good-byes that Nereus realized he might not see (Y/n) again for quite some time. It was now or never.

(Y/n) heard Nereus call her over, when got closer to him he waved her down to his level. However when (Y/n) leaned down, she felt lips on her cheek and heard a splash.

“Nereus! I’m so gonna get you back for that!”

[readercognito]

A Wicked Spell

Palladium x Reader

I was rather shocked to see two students fly into my infirmary, not walk. Fly. If students were using their Winx on campus, that meant only one thing. Someone was hurt, badly.

Staying calm, I quickly gather my portable medic kit. Holding up a hand to quiet their nervous rambling.

"We don't have time for explanations, just take me to them." I said, urgently.

If someone is seriously hurt I don't have the time to translate flustered teenager babble. They mean well of course, but first year students don't do very well under pressure.

I followed the girls to the courtyard where my blood ran cold upon seeing who the poor soul was. 

Professor Athos Palladium. He looked pale, and was moaning quietly. With a worried Faragonda kneeling beside him. 

I rushed over to his side, using one of my physical diagnosis spells. Nothing, no poison, or any lesions of the body, no deep brushing either. That wasn't good, that meant there was a problem with his magic. Which for an elf, whose magic runs through their own veins just as their blood could be deadly. "This isn't good," I mutter.  

Faragonda and I looked to the two students who were still hovering nearby. 

"Alright girls, help Ms. (L/n) get Professor Palladium to the infirmary! Time is of the essence!" Faragonda commanded.

The girls and I quickly picked Palladium up and carried him to the infirmary. The girls helped me get him on to one of the sterile white beds. A loud groan escapes him as I settle him in. Dismissing the girls back to their classes. Using my strongest magic diagnosis spell I discovered there was a large corruption on his left shoulder. While it hasn't gone too deep yet, if it goes beneath the skin and gets into his bloodstream it could reach his heart and could do one of two things. It would destroy him from the inside out, or he would be transformed into something monstrous.

Acting quickly I take off his shirt, pausing for only a second to whisper an apology that he certainly wouldn't hear. 

There was a blackish-purple, spidery, mark on his left shoulder. It was spreading visibly down his torso and up his neck. This just went from bad to worse, I'm going to need a cleansing ritual, a strong one. I won't be able to do it myself.

"Oh Palladium, what did they do to you?" I whispered, stroking his cheek wistfully. 

After a call to Faragonda, who gathered a few of the other professors and Flora. Even though she was a student she was always a fantastic healer, and her natural affinity for nature based magic would help in this specific case. The ritual was long, and hard. The corruption fought tooth and nail, but we were finally able to confine it and eliminate it from his system.

Unfortunately, due to how far the corruption got in the first place Palladium was too weak to be moved. He would have to rest in the infirmary until his magic regenerates. The professors retired to their beds, naturally the process of cleansing dark magic is exhausting, I was tired myself.

"Is there anything else I can do Ms. (L/n)?" Flora asked, in her sweet gentle way. 

"Oh no Flora, you've done more than enough! Go get some rest, I can handle everything from here sweetie." I said.

Flora floated back to her dorm, I simply smiled and shook my head.

“I swear that girl is from a whole other plane of existence…” I laughed quietly to myself.

I looked down at Palladium, he hadn’t really moved since we finished the cleansing. But the mark on his shoulder was gone, only a faint paleness was still there. He would be in a magically induced healing coma for the next three days, and probably have to remain in the infirmary for at least one week.

My face grew warm at the thought of spending that much time alone with the handsome professor. Shaking that thought out of my head quickly I moved to set up the required monitors. Settling in for a long night of caretaking.

It was only two in the morning when I was woken up by Palladium groaning. I scrambled to check the monitors, but everything was stable. Palladium seemed just as still as before. Until he shifted letting out another groan and what sounded like a whisper, but it wasn't intelligible. So I leaned closer, trying to make out if he was having a nightmare or not. Palladium spoke again after a moment with a furrowed brow.

"Ugh- (Y/n) I- no, no…" He murmured to himself.

So it was a nightmare… And it had something to do with me. I leaned back again, and without thinking much about it. I started to stroke his cheek, tenderly. His brow softened and his frown settled into a gentle smile. A smile I had grown to adore from afar. Then he spoke again this time a little louder and more distinct.

"I think I love you (Y/n)…" 

I halted in my movements, my very thoughts stuttered.

"What?" I ended up whispering to myself. So in a state of shock I was completely numb to Palladium turning to his other side with a contented sigh.

I shook it off sure I was only dreaming, or at least that his whispered confession meant nothing. So I resumed my night watch.

It had been  a week since then. Palladium is wide awake and is finally able to feed himself without aid. He also has grown more talkative, making small talk with me during check ups and food deliveries. Though one morning during his breakfast he asked me something I hoped he wouldn't.

"(Y/n)?" He said. 

I turned to him from the monitor I was checking over.

"Yes, Athos?" I replied. We had long since been on a first name basis. He had requested my first name and to use his fairly recently after he woke up.

"Did I say anything while I was asleep?" He asked, fingering the bed sheet nervously.

I froze for a moment thinking back to that first night…

"A-ah, umm… well. You said that- you said you loved me at one point." I said trying to sound casual, and failing miserably.

Athos went red, stuttering out a simple "o-oh, well… Oh d-dear." 

I scrambled to retrieve the ease that had fled the room.

"Well I'm sure it didn't mean anything. You were deep in a medical coma and fresh off of a dark magic infection! I wasn't bothered by it." I said, lying through my teeth.

Athos didn't brush it off and resume our jovial atmosphere like I thought he would. Instead he looked me directly in the eye. While still a little flushed, he looked more serious than I had seen him in quite some time. 

"But what if it was- it is true?" He said

"What?" I asked, my voice barely audible.

"I do love you (Y/n), I'm not quite sure when it happened. But I have been in love with you for quite some time…" He said, looking me directly in the eye.

His sudden confidence seemed to waiver then, and he turned down the bed. Staring intently at the light blue sheets, though if his ears were anything to go by he was hiding a furious blush. One which I’m sure I was mirroring to some extent, judging by the heat of my own cheeks. Then I decided to do something, something I wasn’t very sure of.

I sat down on the chair by his bed, gently taking his burning face in my hands. Turning him towards me I leaned forward and kissed him. 

I felt him stiffen with a bit of shock and a mix of nervousness, then I got a soft but stalwart response.

It was wonderful, honestly I think it was the best kiss of my entire life. His lips were soft, and gentle, sparking a rush of adoration down my spine. I could feel myself smile into the kiss, his hand moved to my cheek. The tender brush sending fireworks across my skin, both taste and smell wrapped around me. Orange with a hint of mint, when we broke apart it was like he had taken a piece with him. So I chased him to get it back, but to my surprise he got to me first. It was fireworks, and gentle caresses all over again. Then we broke away for the final time, panting a bit to get our lungs filled again. I couldn’t help but laugh, I was so incandescently happy.

“So if you didn’t catch my meaning, I love you too Athos..” I giggled with a sigh.

He let out a mirthful chuckle of his own. Then his eyes with a deep affection, and softness touched his forehead to mine and said.

“I’m sure now, more than ever…”

[readercognito]

Where in the World is the Real Professor Avalon?

Palladium x Reader

I had been keeping an eye on Avalon ever since he came to the school, especially due to his entrance. I mean really he could have just talked with Faragonda, or at least cleared the methods with her! While this had made Faragonda and the other professors wary in the beginning they had all warmed up to him rather quickly. Almost too quickly... 

But no matter how much I talked to him there was always something… off about him. Something I couldn’t quite place, and I didn’t like how close Bloom was getting to him. I understand why she wanted to talk to him, she was desperate to understand herself and her powers. Something Avalon had promised to provide answers too. I would be the same in her place, but that didn’t give me any comfort when Bloom would spend time alone with him. So I had been spying on them, I know it wasn’t really the most appealing method. But after Bloom was spelled the first time (recently coming out of Avalons office I might add) I had to make sure that wouldn’t happen again. So I had been keeping an eye on her using an enchantment all of my own creation. Any dark magic that made itself known around bloom would make my ring buzz. Naturally her tight knit group of friends have done their best to keep her safe. But that isn’t enough, plus they’re teenagers. Easily trusting, and easily distractible...

Then a gentle voice pulled me from my musings.

“What are you still doing here?” Asked Athos, leaning against my desk.

The last class had just let out, but I hadn’t gotten around to leaving my classroom just yet. At least I thought the last period had let out, until I glanced at the clock. Just how long had I been sitting here lost in thought?

“Sorry Athos, I guess I just lost track of time...” I said, looking into the amber eyes of Professor Palladium.

We had known each other since I started work here a year or two after my graduation from Alfea. He ran into me during one of the faculty gatherings, spilled tea all over my skirt. But I couldn't hold a grudge, or even be angry really. Especially since he had bought me a replacement only the day after. We became fast friends after that. He asked me out my second year at the school, (after his confidence boosting change in appearance) and we had been happily dating since. Which only Stella and Flora had figured out, Flora because she often stays back to talk with Athos about nature related topics. Stella found out because she is a drama and relationship bloodhound. Thankfully Faragonda (L/n)sn't seem to know of (or mind really) our relationship.

Athos smiled knowingly, "don't worry too much about it. Let's just head out, I want to show you something in the glade." 

That brought a grin to my face, the glade. Correction, our glade. Something Athos and I had found while looking for a plant for one of his classes. It's a beautiful place, a ring of ancient willows surrounding a sparkling blue lake. The grass is covered with clovers and bushy wild flowers. I still keep the four leaf clover he found for me when we found the glade. I spelled into a tiny glass pendant with a gold chain to hang around my neck.

"This isn't another 'surprise' is it?" I asked playfully.

Palladium flushed, "it was one time! I knew I shouldn't have asked that blasted pixie for help." He grumbled.

I let out a laugh, not able to witness Athos' face soften and a gentle blush return to his cheeks.

We are walking through the woods outside the school, nearly to the glade when Athos goes behind me and covers my eyes. Carefully guiding me into the glade.

"Oh, so it is a surprise~" I chortled.

"Oh hush," he said, with a chuckle.

Then with a flourish of his strong yet delicate hand, he revealed the most magical thing I had seen.

Little glowing orbs were dancing around the trees and above the flowers, clearly enchanted to glow and swaying softly to the tune being played by an unmanned harp at the waters' glittering edge. In the middle of it all was a picnic set up on a beautifully embroidered quilt. A dainty tea set with intricate china plates lay on a short wooden tray of sorts.

The gasp of awe was involuntary, Athos grabbed my hand and gently led my frozen feet to the blanket, then swiftly pulled me into him. I was ripped out of my stupor and fell with a shout.

After regaining my senses, looking a flushed Palladium in the eye. He was so adorably red, I couldn't help but laugh. He seemed as shocked by my fall as I did! Athos joined me with a chuckle of his own, then stilled.

Athos fixed me with those amber eyes, brimming with a yet unknown emotion. Those deep, warm, gentle, eyes. Just as I was about to lean in, my ring buzzed.

"Bloom!" I stood with a shout.

"What? What are you talking about?" Athos asked, confused, moving to stand.

"There's no time! Bloom's in danger!" I shouted before quickly teleporting to her location.

I looked around the room I had popped into, seeing Bloom in a yellow bubble. Avalon standing menacingly behind her, face and body glowing with red marks.

"Bloom look out!" I shouted and quickly shot a spell at Avalon. 

But it bounced off the bubble they were in, Avalon letting out a wicked bark of  laughter. Throwing a dark orb of magic at me and everything went black.

•

•

•

•

Palladium was frantic, what did you sense? How were you able to teleport so quickly to Bloom? How did you know that she was even in danger? These questions and many like it flooded his thoughts as he ran back to Alfea as fast his long legs could carry him.

Athos Palladium returned to an all too silent campus… What horrible thing had (Y/n) been trying to prevent? Was Bloom alright? He only just registered his surroundings before storming into Faragonda, so consumed by his own spiraling thoughts.

"You're looking for (Y/n) aren't you?" She said solemn but matter of fact.

How had she known? But before he could say anything Faragonda beckoned him to her office. Closing the door behind her and walking gracefully to her desk.

"I know about you and (Y/n)." Faragonda started.

Athos' eyes widened with shock, but he remained silent awaiting what Faragonda was going to say next.

"But I believe Professor (L/n) has been kidnapped along with Bloom. That both of them have been taken to Shadow Haunt, I'm not sure what Lord Darkar wants with (Y/n), but I am certain he has every intention to use Bloom's dragonfire to get to the Realix realm."

That answers some of Palladiums questions, replacing his mild panic with a deep sense of dread.

"What do we do now?" Athos' mind was too bogged down with worry to think.

"There isn't much we can do I'm afraid, but the Winx Club is putting together a rescue party with some of the red fountain boys. The same ones that helped when Stella and Bloom went to save the pixies." Said Faragonda almost conspiratorially.

“What? You’re letting them storm Shadow Haunt all by themselves!?” Athos said incredulous, he knew the girls were capable but facing Darkar all by themselves? 

“They certainly won’t be, the red fountain boys will be helping them. Apparently one of them has a connection with the underworlders there… But we are ready to step in if anything were to happen that our girls cannot handle.”

So that’s what they did, Palladium bid the students adieu. Then went to watch them on a scrying spell in Faragonda’s office, with the other headmasters on standby. Which honestly Athos was a little surprised at, he didn’t know that Faragonda had such a long history with them. They were talking with a familiarity only very old friends would have. 

The Winx Club was doing surprisingly well against the Shadow Haunt monsters, the girls even undoing the gloomix enchantment on them. But things got serious when a particularly large monster cornered Stella and Aisha (Layla). That’s when things really got into motion.

•

•

•

•

With the headmasters distracting Darkars lackey, Athos escorts the girls with the pixie elders. They gather the shards required to create a secondary portal to the Realix realm, but before the girls are able to make their way through, another fairy comes through the portal. A very familiar fairy.

It was (Y/n), but there was something off about her, there was a darkness in her aura. Even her clothes and hair seemed darker, and more jagged than her usual appearance. Then with a growl, she launched a plasma sphere at Aisha, who was only just able to dodge it.

“Professor (L/n)?! What happened to you?” Stella exclaimed in shock. Dodging yet another bolt of magic from the corrupted fairy.

“She must have been affected by Darkar’s magic! He most likely used a similar enchantment on bloom! Hurry girls, through the portal! I’ll hold her off…” Palladium shouted, his hands sparking to life with magic, throwing a sphere at (Y/n). Which she deflected, but the attack served its purpose, the girls were able to sneak through the portal and with (Y/n) preoccupied by Athos she didn’t even notice the portal closing. That was until it was too late…

“YOU SIMPLETON! You think those prissy fairies will be able to stop Lord Darkar and Bloom!? They’ll be destroyed!” (Y/n) screeched, then let out a wicked cackle.

Then Athos and (Y/n) went hand to hand for what felt like ages. Each landing a hit and then returning the favor, it got to the point where both of them were panting, and disheveled. Athos took a good long look at (Y/n). Her (h/c) hair was messy and almost entirely pulled from it’s usual style, giving her a deranged edge to her already twisted appearance. Her skin had a sheen of sweat, and there were several burn marks in her clothes, he was sure his appearance matched. But behind those glaring (e/c) eyes, a familiar spark was seen, one he missed so dearly in the moment. And before he could stop himself he said,

“What did Darkar do to the woman I love?” 

“What?” Said (Y/n) the venom only just receding from her voice. Which didn’t go unnoticed by Athos.

Ignoring (Y/n)’s question Athos asked another question with thinly veiled hope.

“Do you love me?”

“Do I what?!” She nearly shouted, the wickedness in her voice starting to fade.

He could do nothing but smile softly, seeing that familiar spark start to grow.

“Do you love me?” He asked again, a glint of knowing twinkling in his eye.

“You’re a fool!” (Y/n) seethed, but once again the anger seemed more fabricated than the last.

Athos let out a tired laugh, “I know, but do you love me?” Then he continued, “Because, though I haven’t said it before. I’m sure of it now, however strange that may seem. That without a doubt I love you. I love your kindness, and patience. I love just how confident you are, you get along with the students so well! But they all respect you, I can see it. They admire you, and how capable you are. I love you, all of you. Do. you. love. me?”

At those words (Y/n) was bathed in a bright light, making Athos close his eyes due to its intensity. Then as quickly as it came, the light faded and before he could even blink the black spots out of his eyes he felt a soft and warm body envelop him in a hug. Feeling warm and wet tears fall on his exposed shoulder,

“I’m so sorry,” (Y/n) sobbed into his shoulder “I saw- I felt what I was doing, but-but I couldn’t stop! I’m so, so sorry Athos…”

Athos returned the embrace full force, rubbing calming circles in (Y/n)’s back, “Don’t worry about that, I knew it wasn’t really you. I’m just glad I’ve got you back now.” He said soothingly.

“Did you mean what you said?” (Y/n) asked hesitantly.

Athos paused for a moment, a blush rushing to his pale face. He just now realizes that was the first time either of them had said those life changing three words. Just then his blasted nerves decided to get the best of him, his carefully cultivated confidence flying right out the window.

“E-eh, We-well of c-cor-course I did-d” He said, face getting even redder and cursing his blasted nerves.

Not that (Y/n) seemed to mind, letting out a cute chortle and kissing him on the cheek.

“You are wonderful Athos, I love you too.” She said.

[readercognito]

A Mortal Trial (Completed)

Palladium x Reader Masterlist

Palladium meets his soulmate as a new years party. Bad news, at the end of the party he realizes that he never got her name!

Chapters will be linked here as they are posted. (so long as I remember, check Palladium x reader tags if you don't see it change)

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4 (coming march 3rd)

Chapter 5 (coming march 10th)