#BAL SAID SORRY

[definesupposedtobe]

I’m having a fucking BREAKDOWN the nimona ending- when she said “it’s time to rewrite this story” CAUSE THEY DID SHE WAS THE HERO THEY GOT A HAPPY ENDING FUCKING HELL something something queer healing I can’t believe I get to see this story find it’s footing and it’s message just so BLATANTLY IM LOOSING IT

[abstract-moth]

Last Rites

Also on ao3

Queen Valerin knows she only has seconds to live. The pain spreading across her chest is unmistakable, icy death drawing near. Her body hits the floor with a jolt.

And all she can hear is screams. 

The panic reminds her of the look on Ballister’s face as the sword unfurled. As if he didn’t know what was happening. As if he didn’t even know the weapon was there. 

It’s an expression she is certain only she had glimpsed. 

“He wouldn’t do this,” she rasped, her lips struggling to move. “Ballister’s innocent.”

Staring down at her, the Director nods. 

“I know.”

[dilemmaontwolegs]

The Best Kept Secret on the Grid || Part Four

MV, CL, CS, LH, LN, PG, GR, FA, DR, OP x fem!reader Warnings: fluff and flirting (sorry there will be smut next time) Reader gets to go on a hunt of her own! WC: 3.1k F1 Masterlist || Part One || Part Two || Part Three || Part Four || Part Five Thank you to @kimi240302 for being inspired to make this collage, it’s perfect! 💕 and it inspired this fic!

It was strange that the elevator had arrived on your floor, and even stranger that it was empty. Your penthouse apartment took up the entire top floor of the building and required a keycard just to use the private elevator. Only Max had the spare keycard.

Sticking your head inside you found it wasn’t entirely empty. Tucked into the corner was a gift box tied off with a delicate silver bow, your name written on the tag hanging from it. You thought about calling Max first but it wasn’t unusual to receive gifts from him so you carried it inside and opened it.

Your jaw dropped at the beautiful ball gown neatly placed inside. Each crystal of the glittering bodice was individually sewn on with meticulous care and it must have cost a small fortune to make. There wasn’t even a label to give a clue as to who the designer was, but it was clearly custom made and you knew without even stepping into it that it would fit perfectly.

Lifting the train out, you found an equally stunning half mask along with a small blank card that you turned over. Hand written in an elegant script is said: Le Bal Masqué 2200. You looked at the time and saw there was just over an hour to get ready.

You had just settled the mask over your styled hair when there was a knock on your door and you slipped your heels on before answering. Expecting to see Max waiting, you were surprised to find a stranger holding a card with your name on it, silently handing it over before you could ask what was going on.

It’s your turn to find us tonight, M.

“Your car is downstairs, madame,” the messenger said as he held the elevator door open for you.

The excitement brought a smile to your face as you stepped inside, wondering just what he had planned for you. You obviously weren’t hunting them the same way they chased you on the island, the dress was far too nice to ruin.

You were occupied by your thoughts the entire drive through the streets of Monte Carlo until you arrived at a cliff side residence. The gates opened at the car’s approach and you could see the mansion was full of men wearing their finest suits. 

“Have a lovely evening, madame,” the chauffeur said as he opened the door for you. 

You thanked him as you stepped out, your entrance garnering plenty of envious stares from the women and looks of longing from men loitering on the steps. You had scanned what you could see of the men’s faces beneath the masks and determined why this was a hunt - three had the same blue eyes and dirty blonde hair as Max while two could have easily been Charles at first glance. 

Smiling to yourself, you climbed the stairs and entered the large foyer full of men who could all pass for yours. 

“Champagne?” You took the flute from the waiter’s tray and saw two rolls of stickers beside it. Noticing the curious lift of your brow above the diamante mask, the waiter tapped the first roll. “The green sticker is for when you believe you have found one of the drivers here this evening, there are only ten so choose wisely. If you believe you have found an imposter, place a red dot on their lapel and they will be escorted off the premises. You have until midnight. Happy hunting.”

You smirked over the rim of your champagne flute and grabbed the roll of red stickers first. Turning to survey the crowd, you chuckled as you whispered to yourself, “Oh Max, you’ve outdone yourself.”

“Enjoying your evening?”

You turned to the man with a thick Spanish accent and immediately knew he wasn’t your Nando, though the jawline beneath the mask followed the same curve and his short beard was shaped similarly. The voice was too deep and the eyes were more green than hazel to match Nando’s so you plucked a red dot from the reel and slapped it on his suit as you answered, “Extremely. Thank you for coming.”

His lips turned down and a large unmasked man stepped out of the shadows, already guiding him out of the residence. You were already making your way to the ballroom where the crowd swelled, dozens and dozens congregating on the dance floor where a band were playing new hit singles but in a classical way. Perhaps band wasn’t the right term, there were so many instruments it was practically an orchestra.

An arm curled around your waist as you swayed to the music and you tipped your head back to meet a pair of brown eyes so dark they were almost black. He didn’t speak as he pulled you closer and for the first time you weren’t certain if the man was an imposter or your Esteban.

“You’re not going to ask how my night is going?” you baited him, a quick smiling parting his lips as he shook his head. Pursing your lips, you weren’t ready to rule him out with a red sticker but you needed to hear his voice to decide if he was worth one of the precious ten green dots in your hand. “Then how about a drink instead?”

His smile grew as he took your hand in his and led you to one of the small bars dotted around the ballroom. Looking at the long fingers laced with yours, you saw a thin tan line on his index finger where a ring had spent a lot of time and you tried to remember if Esteban had one too. Charles, Pierre and Lando definitely did but the memory of Estie’s hand drew a blank - you knew his fingers from how they felt between your legs not by sight apparently.

“Two piña coladas, please,” you ordered as you watched what features you could around the mask but there was no sign of disgust. “One for the road,” you added as you placed a red sticker on his collar.

“How did you know?” the lookalike asked with an English accent.

“Pineapples.” You shrugged and took the cocktail that was placed in front of you. “He hates them.”

Half an hour later the crowd had thinned dramatically. The security team had been kept busy as you felt like the Oprah meme, slapping red dots on the imposters - you get one, and you get one. With a large portion of men gone you were able to focus better and there were two men in particular you had your eye on.

All it took was one laugh and you were peeling back the first green sticker, heading for the pair of dark haired men chatting in the library. Their backs were to you as they laughed at silly book titles and you announced your arrival with a kiss to the shadow of a beard before sticking the green dot to his forehead.

“You two together was always going to be a dead giveaway,” you teased as you stuck another sticker on Lando’s nose. “Only Carlos can make you laugh like that.”

“Don’t tell me we were first?” he whined as he saw the otherwise full strip of green dots. “How have you not found George?”

You trailed a finger over the perfect lines of his suit before tugging the bow tie around his neck. He swallowed at the smouldering look in your eyes and let you drag him closer by the throat until your lips brushed his ear. “Why don’t you help me?”

His lips parted to answer but Carlos pulled him away before he could impart the information he knew. Blocking you with his body, Carlos shook his head at your attempt to break the younger driver. “Rules are rules, hermosa, and you are running out of time.”

He jutted his chin at the grandfather clock and smirked as he ducked from your reach with a laugh when you tried to take back the green sticker. “Uh uh uh, I’m well and truly yours.”

“You’re lucky you’re handsome,” you warned as you left them to their game and continued your hunt. “Alright, George, Gerorge, George, where would you be…oh.”

You had wandered through the throngs of people inside the impressive mansion but you hadn’t explored the rest of the property. It was very easy to understand Lando’s complaint when you walked out the wide open doors to the infinity pool set on the cliff face.

“I’m not sure how I’m going to get this to stick to you,” you said as you held a green dot on your finger tip. George grinned beneath his mask as he looked up from the waters edge enjoying a warm dip in the pool. Water dripped from his hair and ran down his chest as he stood up, tracing a wet palm up your calf through the slit in the dress. He was the only one at the soirée who had taken his suit off and he had also decided to put his bow tie back on before hopping in the heated pool. “You look like a stripper.”

“A very expensive one I hope,” he teased. “You look hot, love, you should join me and cool off.”

“Wish I could,” you sighed, feeling a little like the white rabbit in Alice in Wonderland, “but I’m running late and still have seven of you guys to chase down.”

George pulled himself out of the pool and grabbed a towel, a few drops of water catching on the crystal bodice as he shook his hair out. He dragged the towel down his body and you used the dry spot on the centre of his chest to plant a green dot on him. “Tagging my heart, love,” he chuckled, leaning in to kiss your cheek. “You don’t need to chase us, we are waiting for you.”

He sent you a wink as he swiped up his suit and left you poolside, confused by what he meant. “You’ll figure it out, I know you will.”

Dawdling along the balcony, you chewed over his words before realisation struck. You found Lando and Carlos together and George in the water - places where they loved to be. It seemed so obvious once you thought it and you rushed inside to the ballroom. You hadn’t questioned why the orchestra was masked but when you spotted the dark head of hair at the grand piano it made sense.

“It’s my favourite Frenchman,” you whispered in his ear and the melody bounced over a miskey.

“Monegasque,” he corrected automatically, turning to see the amusement shimmering in your eyes. “Bonsoir, mi bella.”

“You might want to rest those fingers, Charles, wouldn’t want you to get a cramp later.”

He grinned at the remark and dragged them across the keys. “Don’t worry, I’m just warming up.”

“So am I.” You reached out and stuck the green dot to the index and middle finger on his right hand before kissing the dimple on his cheek. “Those are mine.”

You followed a waiter as he slipped from the room with an empty tray and found a set of stairs leading down a floor, into a busy kitchen. Your next target stood out among the white shirt chefs and you were once again amazed at how they had managed to find strangers with such a resemblance to your drivers.

“What’s cooking, good looking?”

Fernando turned with a spoonful of something that smelled delicious and your lips parted for him. A heavenly moan hummed from your chest as you tasted what he had been stirring on the stove. Nando smirked as his eyes followed the line of your lips before he leaned in and caught them with his, rolling his tongue across your bottom lip.

“You missed a bit,” he said as he wiped the spot of sauce with his thumb before licking it clean. You momentarily forgot what you were doing but he had his wits about him as he took a green sticker and placed it on his collar. “Now this is my colour.”

“Not red?” He shook his head as you flattened the dot to make sure it wouldn’t be lost in the 25 minutes you had left. “So the Ferrari rumours…?”

“Just rumours, querida, but I don’t think you have time to gossip.” He pointed the spoon to the clock above the head chef’s station. “There’s still a few spots left.”

“Vegan special,” the chef shouted as he hit the bell for service and a waiter arrived in an instant. “Deliver this to the home theatre.”

“One less now.” You grinned and pulled another sticker out. “See you at midnight.”

You followed the waiter into the quiet depths of the mansion until he reached a door and you took the plate from the tray. “I can take it from here, thanks.”

Lewis was so engrossed in the film he didn’t notice it was you in the room with him. It was only when he looked closer he saw the green dot stuck to the white china plate in your hands and looked up with a wide smile.

“I take gratuities in orgasms, just so you know,” you said with a laugh as he moved the plate and pulled you onto his lap instead.

“It’s your lucky night, baby,” he purred in your ear as his hand slipped up the slit in your dress. “I’ve been told I’m a heavy tipper.”

His fingers teased along the lace edge of your panties and you only just managed to clear your head before he could erase all your thoughts with his touch. “Rain check,” you groaned, not wanting to leave just yet but Fernando had given you an idea before the chef had set you onto Lewis’ path. “Where would you go if you wanted to hear the juiciest gossip?”

Lewis chewed his lip as he thought it over before deciding, “The bar, a few drinks definitely loosens lips.”

“Then that’s where I need to go.” You thanked him with a kiss before leaving the theatre and made your way back to the busiest room in the place. But, before you could leave the lower levels you heard a distinctive accent and skidded to a stop.

“When they said you guys came from a land down under, I didn’t think they meant the basement.” Daniel’s smile split his face as you stepped into the games room where he and Oscar were chalking their cue sticks.

“Thank god you’re here,” Oscar sighed gratefully and placed the cue down on the table, turning to face you with a smile. “I suck at playing pool.”

“Maybe that’s because it's billiards, not pool,” you pointed out as you stepped into the space between his legs.

“I don’t even know what that is,” he admitted, his hands running over the dresses bodice and down to rest on your ass. “You look gorgeous.”

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen you in a suit.” You straightened the bow that had tilted at some point and draped your arms around his neck. “It suits you, handsome.”

His nose wrinkled and you giggled as he tugged at the tie, sending it off kilter again. “It feels like I’m being choked.”

“There’s some pleasure to be found in a bit of choking. Isn’t that right?” Daniel asked in your ear as he stepped up behind you, his fingers delicately circling your throat. He guided your head back to his shoulder and traced his nose over your racing pulse, inhaling the sweet scent of your perfume. “Hmm, maybe we can show him how good it can be.”

You could feel both of them coming to life as they sandwiched you between them, digging their erections into you. Your eyes fluttered shut at the temptation to drop to your knees and taste the Australian drivers, but you forced your eyes open and squirmed free of their intoxicating embrace.

“Soon, promise,” you panted as you slapped a sticker on Daniel’s ass and made Oscar whine needily when you placed one over his tented trousers, rubbing your palm over it to make sure the green dot was secured. “Very soon.”

The largest bar was set up in what you guessed was usually a dining hall and it spanned the length of the room. Leaning against the bartop was Pierre, his chin on his fist as he listened to the revellers unravelling their innermost thoughts aloud. He was engrossed in the tale, nodding encouragement when the woman’s cheeks turned scarlet red beneath her mask.

“And what did he do?” Pierre asked eagerly.

The woman covered her lips as she giggled before leaning in and whispering her confession. Pierre’s lips parted with a gasp, his eyebrows rising over the top of his mask as he stood upright. “Non!”

“Oui!”

Pierre spun around at the sound of your voice in his ear and he tore his mask from his face. “Ma chatte, look at you,” he said with a playful bit of his lip as you gave him a slow spin to show all of your curves glittering beneath the chandelier light. “Beautiful. And just in time too.”

You followed his gaze and saw there was only three minutes to midnight. “Shit,” you whispered as you grabbed the second to last sticker and pressed it to his chest. “Gotta run.”

Your calves burned as you climbed the stairs, spiralling higher and higher, racing the hands of the clock until you reached the top floor. The entire wall was made of glass and overlooked the dark water beyond the cliffs, but it wasn’t the panoramic vista that caught your eye.

His back was to you, the black silk tie of his mask flattening the back of his hair that would usually stick up in all directions, especially after combing your fingers through the strands. But it didn’t matter if you couldn’t see his face, you would recognise him anywhere.

His hands were crossed at the base of his spine, right one holding the left. It was how he stood whenever he was on the podium, how he stood when his anthem played. It was how he stood when he desperately wanted to be elsewhere but was forced to be patient.

You wrapped your arms around his narrow waist and found his eyes reflected in the glass. “Hi.”

The grandfather clocks throughout the mansion struck 12, the loud dongs echoing through the halls. “I wasn’t sure you were going to make it.”

You smiled into his shoulder at the teasing in his voice. “I always knew where you would be.” Stepping around his body, he pulled you into the circle of his arms so you were both watching the horizon as fireworks began to light up the sky above the sea. “There was only one place my Max could possibly be…at the top.”

Click here for the next part.

[a-dumb-sarcastic-bisexual]

I’m gonna keep writing Nimona headcanons til someone stops me cause they’ve taken over my life

Ambrosius was forced to suppress his emotions basically his whole life 

He used to be one of those guys who would say shit like “I haven’t cried in 15 years”

But not as like a weird subtle brag just as stating a fact which made it more depressing 

Once the wall came down it’s like the floodgates opened this man will cry when he’s happy sad angry stressed 

You name it he’s crying 

And he’s not a pretty crier either which is funny cause there is a whole compilation of “Ambrosius being unreasonably photogenic” 

Bal was the typical crybaby growing up 

He was constantly bullied for it and it only got worse when he was at the institute 

A lot of his classmates and teachers would try and be “helpful” and give him tips to stop crying  

Ambrosius was the only one who encouraged him to cry and deal with all his emotions 

It’s pretty rare to see Bal cry now but it happens occasionally when he’s sad or stressed or really happy  

Seeing Nimona cry is a rare phenomenon 

Bal and Ambrosius have only ever seen her cry four times 

The first was when they were on Gloreth’s statue at the end of the movie, the second Gloreth’s statue was fully taken down, the third was when the adoption paperwork was finalized and the fourth was their wedding 

But she denies it literally every single time 

Pinky promises are sacred for the trio

Back when the boys were training they would only make pinky promises about big things 

And if they broke those promises there would be big consequences like giving up your dessert for two months 

It was a habit that Bal subconsciously passed onto Nimona 

The trio never really talked about it but there was a silent mutual understanding that they held weight

The first pink promise Ambrosius ever made was right after Nimona started trusting him and had enough respect for him to hold a conversation without hissing 

And he swore that he would never consciously hurt Bal or Nimona again 

Nimona made a joke about that being a big promise to make 

And Ambrosius said “That’s why it’s a pinky promise”

I feel like Bal and Ambrosius never tried to hide their relationship the kingdom is just stupid 

They were highly encouraged by the staff and family to keep it under wraps but they said fuck that noise I wanna hold my boyfriend's hand in public 

The fellow knights in training knew something was up but they didn’t figure it out until the wall fell

Todd was the most outspoken when they first started dating he used to go around and tell people “No one looks at their bro like that”

After a while they stopped giving a fuck and they didn’t really have enough time or energy to ask because they were too busy getting their asses handed to them by the boys 

A lot of citizens had this weird misconception that they had this heated and bitter rivalry 

There were entire articles written about how they were “The rivals of the century” 

And the boys would get together and dramatically read every single one of them

Whenever the boys were in a bad mood they would reference the articles like this 

“Hey sunshine did you know I joined the institute specifically to dethrone you?” “You know what moonbeam I didn’t but thanks for telling me” 

“Bal I just want you to know that I am utterly seething at the cruel defeat by your hand” “Oh I’m so sorry love I’ll make sure to kick your ass nicer next time”

[mimi-croissant]

One thing that’s so interesting to me about the comic vs the movie is the restaurant scene and before it. In the comics, Ambrosius has to call Ballister to state his intentions and ask if they can meet up, to CONVINCE HIM, and to make sure Ballister is going to come

In the movie, Ambrosius messages him something that’s like an inside joke, something only the both of them would know, which is just nachos, and Bal knows exactly what he means the second he sees the message, barely even thinks about it, and Ambrosius had just enough hope and faith that Bal WOULD and meet him up with just that and Bal DID, and they probably hadn’t spent that much time apart from each other in forever, and they just wanted to see each other again after everything so badly

I also want to mention the different reactions to reaching out to Bal’s right hand. Because comic Ambrosius was sorry but didn’t show it very well, and the pain wasn’t as fresh, but it was a shock and he PULLED AWAY very quickly, because he didn’t expect it, but you could tell he was still SORRY because deep down he knew it was his fault and his actions that caused Ballister to lose his arm

Meanwhile, movie Ambrosius knew exactly what would happen when he reached out to Bal’s hand, and he held it softly and squeezed it and said he was SORRY because the regret was immediate, and the circumstances were different, and movie Ambrosius didn’t have as much time to dwell on the “it was just an accident” aspect and his vision was “being trained like that is not an excuse” vs “blowing his arm off was an accident and not my fault” (when in reality it was a haze and adrenaline infused decision)(movie version actually had a very similar format to that but very different circumstances)

[dangraccoon]

What I Said

Tech x f!reader (she/her pronouns, otherwise undescribed)

Warnings: Reader is a civilian journalist, jealousy, misunderstandings, pining, Tech is autistic, Kaminoans were assholes, The Bad Batch was abused as children, Referenced Past Child Abuse, it gets a little whumpy but has a happy ending!

All Mando'a used is translated within the story!

Tech’s brow furrowed as you talked animatedly to Wrecker and Echo around the fire. He buried himself in his datapad again, hoping to tune out the nonsense spewing from you to his brothers’ delight. You were too busy telling them about the stories you had woven to notice his frustration, but Hunter certainly did. 

He got up, moving from his quiet spot at the edge of the clearing to sit next to his irritated brother. 

“Tech?” he questioned. 

“Yes, Hunter?”

“What’s wrong?”

Tech momentarily paused his scrolling. “It is of no importance,” he decided. 

Hunter’s eyes narrowed. “Tion’cuyir bic kaysh?” [Is it her?]

“Ibac cuyir dini’la,” Tech rolled his eyes. [That is mad.]

“Gar ru'kir cuyir or'atu irudayc at kaysh,” Hunter chuckled. “Gar ru'kir cuyir ori’jaytyc.” [You should be more friendly to her. She is very nice.]

“Vod, gar ganar noy'ganyc gar kov'nyn o'r te akaan. Ni cuy' ratiin irudayc.” [Brother, you have lost your head in the war. I am always friendly.]

“Ibac cuyir osik bal gar kar'taylir bic,” Crosshair drawled from behind them. [That is dung and you know it.]

Great, Tech thought, rolling his eyes. 

“O'r haa'keb, Ni mirdir kaysh guuror te dala ori’sol,” Crosshair smirked. [In fact, I think he likes the woman a lot.]

“Ibac cuyir ogir'olar,” Tech growled, a little too quickly, but breathed a quiet admission to himself, as well as Hunter. “Kaysh cuyir ori’mirdala, bal mesh'la.” [That is irrelevant. She is very clever, and beautiful.]

“Hey,” Wrecker shouted across the fire. “What’re you guys talkin’ about?”

Tech’s brow furrowed even more as he went back to his research on his datapad. He hoped that the light of the fire disguised the flush of his cheeks as you carefully observed the group. 

You could tell they were talking about you. The boys didn’t have full conversations in mando’a much, usually only utilizing a word or two. You felt your embarrassment heat your face, and you listened to Crosshair and Wrecker bicker about private conversations. Using the growing debate as cover, you rose from the rock you’d been perched on, quietly making your way back to the ship.

Once you were securely in your bunk room, you let out a long sigh. It seemed like the boys were bickering more and more lately and you couldn’t shake the feeling that it was somehow your fault. 

A knock at your door shook you from your thoughts. 

“Who is it?” you called. 

“Echo,” he replied. 

You slid the door open, inviting him in. 

“What’s up?” you tried to ask nonchalantly. 

“Are you okay?”

That caught you off-guard. You’d been with the Bad Batch for almost 3 standard weeks. Sure, you got along fine with them - well most of them - but it wasn’t like you were particularly close. 

“Fine,” you shrugged. “Just got tired, I guess.”

“I’m sorry about the others,” he said abruptly.

You hummed a little. You didn’t think anyone needed to apologize, especially Echo, who didn’t get involved.

“Right, well- um, have a good night,” he mumbled, giving you a curt nod before retreating from the room, closing the door behind him. 

–––––

The next few days felt rocky, even though most of the squad seemed fine, one member was particularly snarky. Tech wasn’t happy with his brothers, and he made sure they knew. He acted no differently than he had before with you. Indifference seemed to seep off of him when you were near, but he’d leave the space when you joined it, if possible. 

By the third day of Tech’s snippiness, you’d had enough, and had begun avoiding him entirely. You were starting to feel irritated knowing that you caused whatever his issue was, but the rest of the squad was taking the brunt of Tech’s anger, and overhearing his conversation with Echo pushed you over the edge. You needed to end this.

Everyone else was out to restock supplies, leaving just you and Tech left on the ship as he worked on repairs. You sat quietly, working on your data pad, nerves starting to get the better of you.

You nearly jumped out of your skin when Tech called your name from the cockpit.

“Y-yeah?” you stuttered.

“I could use an extra set of hands,” he replied easily.

When you entered the cockpit, Tech was sprawled out underneath the control panel, arms elbow deep in the inner workings of the Marauder.

“How can I help?” you asked.

“Well, you can start by getting down here; you’re of no use to me up there,” he said. He thought he said it jokingly. You thought he was snapping at you.

“There’s no call to be rude,” you muttered under your breath, but still plopped down on the floor next to Tech, who scowled at the misunderstanding.

“Now, I cannot let go of these wires here, so you need to take the shrink tubing and put it in place on the other end so that when I reconnect the wires, they will hold in place,” he explained.

You sighed quietly. You’d have to lay on the floor next to him. As you do so, you catch Tech watching you from the corner of his eye. Or at least you thought you did, the moment was so quick. You look under the panel, seeing the parts he was talking about. You picked a piece of shrink tubing up, placing it between your lips so you didn’t lose it. You had to scoot closer to Tech to reach the panel, damn his long arms. The top of your head was inches from his temple now as you scowled up into the machinery. You swear you felt his gaze on you as you worked in the panel. No doubt he had a criticism of your technique or a more efficient way of doing the simple task.

Tech’s mind was running. She agreed to help him, despite the cold shoulder you had recently been giving him. Did that mean you had forgiven him? Could you possibly feel for him as he did for you? No. He refused to let his hopes get the better of him. Yet, here he was, watching you assist him with repairs, laying so close to him, and he couldn’t help but think perhaps the two of you were on a better path. I can fix this, he thought. Perhaps I still have a chance with her.

“Okay, I’ve got the tubing in place. What now?” you asked. When the clone so close to you didn’t respond, you turned your head to meet his eye, almost jumping when you realized he was facing you as well. It took him a moment to come out of whatever stupor he’d found himself in.

Tech shook his head, kicking himself for missing a single word that fell from your lips, a slight blush threatening to creep up from his neck. “Apologies, could you repeat what you said?” 

You huffed a little before repeating your request for the next step. 

“Right,” Tech flustered, going back to working rather than daydreaming about you, feeling his ears go red. 

The two of you worked in tandem, Tech providing instruction on occasion. It was…nice. A little awkward, but nice. Being in such close proximity to a man you were sure hated you was starting to wear on your nerves, so as soon as the four-handed repair was finished, you quickly got up from your spot on the floor, brushing yourself off and beginning to walk away.

Tech panicked internally. “Where are you going?” he asked, sliding out from underneath the panel and sitting up to look at you.

You eyed him suspiciously. “I was going to go for a walk to stretch my legs a little.”

“I see,” he said, looking down at his datapad for a moment before looking back up. “The list of necessary repairs are finished, so I will accompany you.” His heart was pounding in his chest, and he silently thanked the stars for Hunter’s absence. 

“That’s…unnecessary,” you uttered, choosing your words carefully.

“Do not be ridiculous,” insisted Tech. “You are a civilian and this planet is unfamiliar. If you were to run into trouble, you may not be able to protect yourself. It is inadvisable to go alone.”

“Oh, am I ridiculous now?” you fumed. This was the straw that broke the eopie’s back. “And helpless? You’ll have to add those to your list.”

Tech felt like he was experiencing whiplash. “My list?”

“I heard you talking to Echo last night,” you barked. “When he asked you about me you told him that I’m ‘hard-headed’ and ‘inappropriate’. That I’m ‘nosy’, my ‘mind is too high in the clouds’.”

“That’s not- I did not mean-” Tech sputtered, realizing he was rapidly falling into a hole he wasn’t sure how to get out of. 

“‘Didn’t mean it’? Sure,” you spat, spinning on your heel and rushing out of the ship, begging that he couldn’t see the tears streaming from your eyes.

–––––

“What do you mean ‘she’s gone’?” Hunter demanded.

“She overheard part of my conversation with Echo last night,” Tech replied miserably. You were gone. He’d spent the last hour out searching for you in the jungle that surrounded the ship, but you had turned your comm off.

“The conversation we had last night? You told me you were in love with her,” Echo said, hoping to sooth his bespectacled brother. “Surely she couldn’t be angry about that?”

“She must have left before that,” lamented Tech. His leg was bouncing rapidly as he held his head in his hands. 

“Where are you going?” Echo asked as Hunter turned towards the ship’s door.

“To find the civilian journalist we’re supposed to be protecting,” he hummed, stepping out of the ship.

Hunter could see the traces of you as you’d hurried away from the protection of the Marauder; a few footsteps here, a trace of your scent there, recently broken branches and kicked up leaves. It didn’t take him long to find the small alcove you’d found in the side of a steep, rocky hill that overlooked a river.

He approached you wordlessly, making sure to allow his steps to be quite louder than he typically would - he didn’t want to frighten you, after all.

You didn’t acknowledge his presence, you simply stayed in the position in which he’d found you; your knees pulled up towards your chest, leaning against the cool rock, eyes staring blankly over the river. The two of you sat there in silence; you were replaying the last few days in your head on an endless repeat, he was attempting to find something, anything to say. 

After a few more beats of simple quiet, you both started to speak, breaking off mid-word to allow the other to talk first.

“We haven’t talked about ourselves much, have we? I mean our lives before the war.”

You shook your head. It had always seemed like a sensitive topic, so you’d never pushed it. 

“Our ‘childhood’,” he started, throwing up a set of air quotes. “If you could call it that, well, it wasn’t happy. You know we’re different from the other clones. Well, somehow, the regs didn’t take kindly to that. Most of them anyway. We were outcasts, and before Echo, it was just the four of us. That’s all we ever had, and all we ever needed.

“And then there were the Kaminoans. They were…diligent…in our training. Putting us through exercises the regs didn’t have to. They separated us a lot. I was the leader and they wouldn���t let me anywhere near my brothers during the tests. We were all treated terribly by the Kaminoans, but Tech, he had it the worst. He doesn’t sleep much because they used to keep him awake for days, poking at him, prodding him, pushing him to know more, do more, remember more. He never told us much about the tests. I think he didn’t want to worry us.

“One day he came back to the barracks covered in these little marks. His goggles were broken. He stayed in bed for hours, not moving, just staring at the wall. Then he finally got up, started moving around like a droid. Eventually, he came across a piece of chalk. He started writing on the walls. It was like he was in a trance.”

Hunter’s voice turned dark, his face showing an extreme mixture of disgust, anger, worry. “He was making a blueprint of the suit the Kaminoans were using to train him. It covered his full body with little bits of metal over his pressure points. It was wired to connect to his nervous system. They used it to monitor his emotions, mostly. When he would get excited, they would electrocute him. If he started to fall behind or fall asleep, or if he got overwhelmed. He was in that suit for nearly three days before he finally got sent back to the barracks.

“He refused to show any emotion, even after we graduated and were deployed into the field, for such a long time. If we were all talking, telling stories, laughing, he would just be sitting there. Eventually, the longer we were away from Kamino, he would show little hints that he was still human, like the tiniest bit of a smile. He’d crack jokes. He would get frustrated or angry more often than anything else, though. Those were easier, I guess.

“When Echo joined us, he came to me one night. He said there was something wrong with him, but he didn’t know what. He was shaking uncontrollably, flinching at small noises and his own words. By the time I finally figured out the cause, he was nearly unconscious, basically sleep talking. I don’t know if he really even remembers that night.”

You were stuck silent. 

“All that to say, he has trouble, more so than the rest of us. He still doesn’t know how to deal with emotions. It was bred out of him. He was scared when Echo joined us because he was worried that it would change the dynamic of our squad. He was worried that with Echo’s experience and scomp, he’d be replaced. It took a lot of time and a few missteps, but now they’re practically inseparable.. When you joined us, it was easier for him. You’re not meant to be a permanent fixture, so to him, it’s easier not to get attached. But he did.”

“He…got attached?” you gasped.

“I probably shouldn’t say, but he fell for you. Hard,” Hunter smirked. “The second you smiled at him the day we met you, heh, I don’t think I’ve ever heard his heart beat so loud.”

You felt your face flush and you swallowed hard.

“What I’m trying to ask of you is that you be patient with him. He’s still learning to feel, to act with more than his head.”

“That night…around the fire. What were you saying?”

“Hmm?”

“You were all talking in Mando’a. What were you saying?”

Hunter chuckled. “Well, I was trying to give him a push. He was jealous that you were talking to Wrecker and Echo, but didn’t understand why. ‘Course Crosshair had to start teasing him. That night, he told me ‘kaysh cuyir ori’mirdala, bal mesh'la’. Almost couldn’t believe he’d even actually said it.”

You looked at Hunter, confusion plain on your face. He grinned and shook his head. “He said you’re very clever,” he chuckled. “And beautiful’.”

“I’ve been so stupid,” you concluded after a few moments of sitting there, your cheeks flaming hot.

“You didn’t know and he’s still learning how to tell you. Just give him time, let him come to you.”

–––––

Hunter returned to the ship with you in tow just as the sun was beginning to set. Three of the squad started asking questions, arguing and teasing each other as you set foot in the ship once more. The presence of a certain set of eyes on you didn’t go unnoticed. 

With the rest of the squad distracted, you sat down near him at his place at the small table.

“Hi,” you nearly whispered, feeling like you were shrinking into the seat.

Tech’s eyes didn’t leave you, even as he said nothing.

“Hunter told me about- well, a little bit- I mean, I couldn’t have- I didn’t know-” you stumbled along trying to find what you were trying to say.

“I meant everything I said last night to Echo,” he asserted. “You are nosy, stubborn, and inappropriate.”

You stared at the table in front of you.

“But Echo helped me realize why you frustrate me so. You are curious, that’s why you seemed nosy. Your will is made of durasteel. You are colorful and wild. You are so similar to myself, yet so different,” he explained. “He helped me come to the logical conclusion after you’d stopped listening.”

“What is the logical conclusion?” you asked, finally looking back at him. His eyes were starry as he looked at you. Despite all knowledge, all fact, all reason, to him you had created the universe for him to explore.

He fidgeted a little, but never took his eyes from hers. “Ni copad kar’tayl gar darasuum, cyare, meh gar kelir duumir ni.”

The room fell silent, save for the loud and steady pounding of two hearts. His brothers watched him in awe, but he didn’t take his eyes off of you.

“What does that mean?” you whispered as he inched closer to you.

“I wish to know you forever, beloved, if you will allow me,” he whispered back, eyes finally dropping from yours to take your hand between his. 

“Please, cyare, tell me you feel the same?” he pleaded. 

“Tech,” you smiled, using your free hand to cup his cheek. “I’m in love with you, too.”

Neither of you knew who closed the gap, but the kiss felt like a revelation. All the misunderstandings, the confusion, the pain, it was all a distant memory. Vaguely, you could hear the hoots and hollers of the brothers behind you, but that didn’t bother you. 

Tech was the first to break the kiss, standing, and pulling you with him.

“Where are you going?” one of the boys called after the pair of you.

“To make up for lost time,” Tech shouted back, closing the door to the cockpit after pulling you through.

Thanks for reading! - River

Main Masterlist Taglist Form Read on Ao3

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[yrrtyrrtwhenihrrthrrt]

Yayy here we go

Can you please write a goldenheart one-shot where Ballister breaks something which belongs to Ambrosius (the way he broke it damaged Bal's health too, like a cut or something) and is afraid that Ambrosius will get mad at him only to be surprised that all Ambrosius cares about is his safety?? It doesn't have to be angsty in particular, I'm all for it if you do make it angsty lol

Ayo!!!

Alright we're trying to work on drabbles again. Here you go, I hope you like it! (Movieverse)

-

Ballister leaned back against the headboard of the dorm bed, playing video games while his boyfriend studied for the upcoming Institute exam. Ballister, by this point, felt confident. He had been studying. Ambrosius, on the other hand, had not. So, he was taking the evening to relax and play video games on Ambrosius’s computer. It was way nicer than anything he could afford, he just used the one the Institute issued him for classwork.

Ambrosius yawned and rubbed his eyes. “I'm gonna take a coffee break. Want anything?”

Ballister hummed. “I'll just take hot chocolate, the exam is tomorrow, I'll need to get to sleep early.” He failed to hide the smirk at the look his boyfriend gave him, knowing he would be up all night making up for his prior laziness.

Ambrosius left the room, and Ballister reached for his water bottle off the bedside table. While drinking, he accidentally aspirated some of the water and choked, reacting too late to dropping the water bottle onto the laptop. The heavy bottle split the keyboard and water spilled into the mechanism, causing it to smoke and short-circuit.

In his frantic attempt to fix it, Ballister winced as the broken metal sliced his fingertips and lightly burned his hand. “No no no no, shit!”

Ambrosius ran into the room and Ballister wanted to sink into the floor with shame. He could feel tears welling into his eyes. Since he was small, he knew the value of things. Breaking toys at the orphanage was punished harshly, as there was hardly any money to go around to buy new ones. When he was even littler, his mom was never cruel to him, but her frustration when he ruined or broke things in the apartment where they already had so little was apparent. He saw what happened to people on the streets when they stole food. Loaves of bread were worth more than starving people, and an expensive laptop was worth far more than Ballister.

“Ambrosius, I broke it, I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to, I choked on my water and dropped it, I– I'm so sorry–!” He broke down and his vision blurred. “I'll replace it somehow, I promise!”

He felt the laptop removed from his lap and soft hands examine his own. “Never mind that!” Ambrosius said, his voice urgent but soft. “Look at your poor hand, are you okay?”

Ballister sniffled. “What?”

“Bal, you’re all cut up! And the sparks got your fingers. Gloreth knows what those tech companies put in here, you got your tetanus shots, right?”

Ballister nodded softly. “I'm so, so, so sorry. I'll replace it. Or– or I'll fix it! I'll build you a new one!”

Ambrosius waved him off, as if it was nothing. “Don't even worry about that right now! Do you think they need stitches? Maybe I should take you to the med hall.”

“No, no, they're fine, I'll rinse them off and put on some bandages. Ambrosius, won't you listen to me? Didn't you see I broke your laptop?” He hiccupped. Ambrosius met his eyes, his own filled with worry. “Bal, honey, I don't care about that. It was an accident. Besides, this was just my gaming laptop, all my Institute documents are backed up, no harm was done except you being hurt.”

“No harm– your laptop is broken! That thing is worth thousands of dollars!”

“I hate to flex my wealth, Bal, but to my family, that laptop isn't expensive. And even if it was, I don't need it. What I need is for my boyfriend who I love more than anything in the world to be safe and happy.” He kissed Ballister on the nose.

Ballister was too stunned to respond, really. He couldn't imagine the privilege of just disregarding an object so expensive, but he got the impression that Ambrosius wouldn't care about the value either way. How could a few cut up fingers, on him, be worth more? He wasn't the Queen, he wasn't worth fussing over.

Ambrosius, as though he read his mind, nuzzled against his temple and stroked his hair. “You're something money could never buy. I liked my laptop, but I love you.”

Ballister eventually ended up making him a new laptop anyway, despite his insistence it wasn't necessary, but every time he looked at the little scars on his middle and ring fingers, he remembered the first day he'd ever felt truly valued.

[starrycassi]

Ambrosius's (indirect) champion.

Find part one here

"It's oficial. You've gone crazy"

Ambrosius, who feels thrilled with his idea, scoffs. In a quick move, he drags Ballister down to the bed, pulling him by the wrists, making the boy's head fall directly in his own chest. Had this been practice, he knows he probably would've gotten a punch to the ribs in retaliation. But they are in private, they are just teens, and Ballister allows his boyfriend to drag him down.

"Don't call me that, babe" Ambrosius whines, while Ballister tries to regain some of his dignity by lifting himself up with his arms to establish some sort of distance. "I'll cry"

"Ambrosius, this is not funny" finally managing to get on his hand and knees, Ballister stares down at his boyfriend, frowning. "This is incredibly concerning and serious"

Ambrosius pouts for a second, and giggles to himself after giving Ballister a quick kiss on the lips. He is scared, oh, so scared. He wants to cry and run and scream and punch and the best alternative he has right now is to be pretend to be charming with his boyfriend, but every good thing must come to an end, and he has to face reality.

They sit down, again, in the bed, face to face. Ambrosius's sudden burst of energy leaves as fast it came, leaving him with a dull sense of... confusion. Nothingness.

"You haven't heard my plan" he tries to grin at his boyfriend, hoping that his eyebags aren't nearly as big as he feels them be. "Come on. Let me tell you, and then you can say no"

They look at each other for some seconds, and Ballister gives in, the second Ambrosius brings out his best card on the whole deck: tears.

Crying on command is a pretty useful skill to have, Ambrosius's come to find out. He doesn't go all the way out with it, no this time, but he knows his eyes are watery and his nose is red. Ballister looks away, groaning.

"Fine!" He resigns, throwing his hands up to the heavens. "But if your plan is "something, something, we win" again, I'm out. I'm so out. You're going to have to ask Todd for help"

Ambrosius gasps, offended at the barbarity his boyfriend just said. How dares he? The old "fuck it, we ball" plan has never let them down, but this isn't the moment to bask in the glory of all of their past accomplishments.

"Okay, so..." he starts, taking in a big breath of air. This is going to be long, and troublesome. Sometimes he's sorry for Ballister, who has to learn all of this things as they go, unlike him, who's been memorizing the rules ever since he learned to read. "The duels, right. Not all noble families train their kids to be knigths. Not all knights are heirs, either. If you have an older sibling or just aren't the favor, then you're probably not a heir. Follow me?"

Ballister, who loves learning about new stuff, even if it's nobility rubbish, nods along, "Follow you"

"I am the sole heir of the family, so I have obligations. You already know this. One of those is to keep up alliances and all that stuff"

Nodding again, Ballister chuckles a bit. Of course he knows. He's been there to witness every single event that's happened ever since Ambrosius finally turned old enough to go to balls and shit as an actual member of the upper society, or whatever it is they call themselves.

"We have many allies made by old marriages, debts, whatever. If one of them asks something of me, then it usually really just falls on me to say no. Unless they put up conditions"

Ambrosius licks his lips, grabbing his boyfriend's hands and looking at him straight in the eyes. How wonderful they are, Ballister's eyes.

"Now is when it gets kinda hard, so bear with me. Mom's been saying no to everyone who wants to form an alliance by marriage. Don't make that face, Bal. It's not really a lovely affair as much as it is legal papers, for a lot of people. But if all of my allies get along and decide to put conditions on me, then we're obligated to answer"

"That's so, so bullshit"

"It really is. Specially because, since we have so many allies, they usually never get along for long enough to actually make and write a demand, but I guess I'm just that hot and everyone wants to bed me. Too bad I'm already in love with what my allies would probably qualify as a disgraceful street rat"

Ballister blushes, playfully shoving Ambrosius on the chest.

"They would get a heart attack, don't you think? If they knew about me and you"

"They would get a heart attack if they knew I'm gay. They would get a heart attack if they knew I'm a tube baby because my mom loathes my dad. They would get a heart attack if they knew I eat chocolate cake sometimes. Don't feel special" shrugging, Ambrosius continues, "So, they are threatening to call off a lot of agreements and stuff if I don't answer their demands, which, like, mature much? Not my fault all of their heirs look like horror creatures.

So, Mom, being Mom, decided to have me answer with a tournament, because apparently she believes I'm Hercules or something. I would traditionally have to fight with every single person who asked for my hand in a stupid sword duel and bla bla bla, but that would take forever, Bal. So, they came to an agreement. People fight each other, and whoever wins, figths with me"

"That sounds... extremely complicated" cringing a bit at the lengths people would go for a chance to figth with his boyfriend, Ballister grimaces. Bunch of weirdos.

"I'm not some easy harlot, Ballister. You offend me. Of course trying to marry me is complicated. But, wait, now's where it gets interesting"

"Now? Just now? This whole thing is nuts"

Ignoring him, Ambrosius takes two pillows and places one if front of the other. "There are people who can fight me and expect to win" he says, pointing to one of them. "And people who can't but want the marriage"

"So, a lot of families don't have knights. A lot of knigths aren't heirs. Even if a family has a heir that would marry me, they could just be a scholar or something. All knights are nobles..."

"Except me, clearly"

"Yeah, well. Most knigths are nobles, but a bunch of nobles aren't knigths. Like the Queen and such."

"And this is important because...?"

"Because families are going to choose champions, now. Wich means, they can just find a random good figther who's willing to commit to life to me and make them fight. Mom tried to make it so only noble heirs could enter, but they said no. You only have to represent a noble family, and there can only be one fighter per family. Wich means, you can simply sign up and beat everyone up!"

He throws his hands up in the air, a pinched smile on his face.

"You forget a very small but important detail, Amber" Ballister sighs, rubbing his eyes with the palm of his hands. "I'm neither noble nor a heir, and no family is going to choose me as a champion. You might actually need help from Todd on this one"

Ambrosius suddenly comes to a stop, blinking.

"I would sooner kill myself than marry Todd Disgusting Sureblade. Never. Nuh-uh. Not even if we were the last two men left in the planet. You know how some girls swear they can switch gays guys to the other team? I'm throughly convinced that Todd actually has the power to do so. Leave me alone with him in a room and I come out both a killer and ready to settle down with a woman. Hell, we'll have kids, even. Don't ever joke about that, Ballister. I'm going to have nightmares, tonight"

Cackling, Ballister pretends to apologize, while his boyfriend rambles about how horrifying it would be, to be around Todd every day of his life, and how death would be mercy if anyone ever was to ever be on that situation.

Ambrosius finally stops, clearing his throat to stop Ballister from dying of asphyxiation, "With that settled, I would like to point out that my family can't choose you because I have to represent the Goldenloins. Not because I don't want. But there's still someone, Bal. Someone who's childless, a noble, and probably would love to help us out in this"

Ambrosius's next words convince Ballister of the fact that, yes, Captain Gloria surely drank too much whiskey while she was pregnant, because there's something deeply wrong with this man's brain.

"We're going to ask formal help from the Queen. And we're going to do it right now"

He should've stayed at that orphanage. Things would've been easier.

˗ˋ ♡  ˊ˗

Ballister fixes his shirt, and then does so again. Next to him, Ambrosius is doing a pretty good job at pretending to be calm, but his lips are going to start bleeding in any second if he keeps munching on them like that, and his hands shake ever so slightly.

"If the speech doesn't work out" he whispers to Ballister, while they walk down the marble corridors of the palace, "then you put on your best puppy eyes. Pout and all. I'm bringing out the waterworks. Ugly crying, if needed. Gloreth, I'll fake-faint if it comes to that"

Ballister's pretty sure that the speech they wrote and tried to memorize on the two hours it took to get here (asking for permissions at the institute, getting into a carriage, arriving at the palace, getting the secretary to make them the next meeting using Ambrosius's status) isn't nearly good enough to convince the Queen to get involved in this mess, so he tries to remember the saddest moments in his life. There's a lot. He definitely feels ready to cry and beg.

They reach the Queen's office (because, apparently, queen's do have offices) and are welcomed by two palace guards that open up the wood doors for them to come in.

The place is wonderful. Not rich-people wonderful, it's soul-crushing, life-changing beautiful, instead. Everything is so white and golden and blue and shiny and ethereal.

In the middle of it, the Queen is seated, smiling softly at them. They both kneel down, knigth training and actual admiration manifesting in the gesture.

"Gentlemen" she greets, placing her joined hands on her desk, and they stand up straight, standing still, waiting for orders, her orders, always ready to obey to her, "you may sit down"

They do so.

Ballister's bones are trying to crawl out of his skin, and his whole face itches with nerves.

"Thank you, for receiving us in such short notice, Your Majesty" says Ambrosius, voice full with feeling. He's better at the whole "being social" thing.

"It is refreshing to see young faces on the palace grounds every once in a while" she responds, in that weird way formal people talk when they're trying to say something without saying it. "And I am honored to have two of my best cadets in here today. I have to ask, though, as to what situation do I owe the pleasure of such a distinguished visit? Specially a dual one"

"The honor is all ours" adds Ballister, who doesn't want to feel useless in the conversation, even if he feels incredibly out of place in the dances the nobility follows when they talk, when they breath, when they live.

"We come here with a plead," explains Ambrosius, and he suddenly looks older. Serious, worried, solemn. His voice is deep, calm, "One that would benefit both of us, and for which we require your help."

The Queen hums softly, slightly rising an eyebrow. "What sort of plea my I aid you both in?"

"I don't want to get married" blurts out Ambrosius, straight to the point. Ballister asked him, on the carriage, to be honest with this. He knows how... creative the Goldenloins can get when they want something, and he feels like the Queen deserves the truth. Even if it's a slightly dramatized version of it. Plus, being bold will surely add to the element of surprise.

"Excuse me?" The Queen looks clearly put off at the words, loosing her elegant demeanor for a second, "Come again?"

Seeing her eyebrows frown and her vocabulary change so abruptly, Ambrosius clears his throat, hiding a smile. Their plan seems to be going well.

"I don't want to get married" he repeats, enunciating every word, "And I'm being forced to engage in an obligated tournament for those purposes, Your Majesty"

He gives her a second to understand the words, to take the information in. In those seconds, Ambrosius remembers that one time he thought Ballister hated him, back when they were twelve, and tries to pour all the sadness he felt on his voice.

"Of course, I presume Your Majesty is aware of how vicious and outdated some traditions are" quickly, he glances down at Ballister, who's also putting on his best kicked lost helpless puppy performance, "but I am still subjected to them, as a heir."

The Queen is the Queen, but even her can't change the rules that noble families uphold each other to. That's not what they want, anyway. She nods, looking worried. Bingo.

"That's why I want to help him" cutting in, Ballister stammers a bit, like Ambrosius instructed him to; for extra empathy points, he said, "We've come up with a plan. It's not perfect, but..."

"... it's the best we can do" Ambrosius finishes, following his cue.

Now, they both stare at her, identical sad smiles plastered on their faces. If Ambrosius is as good with people as he claims to be, then they already have her heart in the bag. They just need to get her brain on it.

"And how can I help?" She asks, and both knigths know they've kit the jackpot in the instant her voice comes out. She sounds so much like a preocuppied mother. Ballister feels slightly guilty, slightly wishful. "How may I aid you both, on this quest?"

"We need someone to sign me in" Puppy eyes. Puppy eyes. Think sad thoughts. "No one else but you can do it, Your Majesty. I am a commoner, and the families despise me"

They're not even lying. Most nobles do despise Ballister. They're just... putting some heart onto the delivery of the news.

"He's my last resource" Ambrosius is about to cry. Teary eyes, red cheeks, trembling words. Such an actor. "My mommy can't do it because she's my own family, and I am so scared, Your Majesty. Marriage is the least of my concerns..."

He leans in to her, even if it's only the three of them in the room.

"Just... just, you know, thinking about what someone with control over me could ask for, gives me chills," and, to spice some politics in, he whispers to her, "there's so many things my mom would give over for me. Money, land, jews... Gloreth, even alliances, or debts. There's a lot of power tied into the family, and if I'm allowed to be honest, I fear for what would happen if all that rested in the hand of someone evil. Some villain. Some monster.

It's a well known secret that the Goldenloins could match the royal family in influence, in power. They're probably a bit over them, if one were to actually measure the impact they have on the people, on the kingdom. Ambrosius couldn't care less about this knowledge, but the Queen should be able to recognize a threat when it's in front of her.

She blinks once, twice. Ballister makes a show of giving Ambrosius a handkerchief for his tears, and he takes it with an apology for his horrible demeanor.

"I see why you've come to me," she finally speaks up, eyes fixed on them, "and I am glad that you did. This is an urgent matter. I am deeply troubled to see you in this state, Goldenloin"

Ambrosius mutters a quick thank you, still "too emotional" to talk.

"And I am glad to learn that the bond between my star knights is as strong as the walls that protect this kingdom. You both are what keep my people safe, after all"

Ballister's never been so proud to be compared to a wall as he is right now. It's wonderful.

"To show you my gratitude for your hard work, I will agree. Ballister, you can fight in representation of the noble house of Elpis, as my champion. Any armor or other supplies needed will be provided, too"

Thank Gloreth and every single saint ever for Ambrosius's manipulative ass. He's so in love with this dramatic wreck of a man. Thank Gloreth and every single saint ever for Queen Valentin's tendency to go against tradition. He's so grateful to have been born under her regency.

They both thank her, deeply, multiple times, bowing their heads. Ambrosius even sheds some more tears and wipes them off with urgency.

Then, the Queen stands up, and they follow suit, ready to leave with their victory. Before they can go, however, she shoots them a question, one that they didn't come prepared for

"You both are aware, I pressume, of how the nature of your... bond, could affect this tournament?"

Stop. Pause. What did she say? Whatdidshesay?

They look at each other, completely out of track. This time, she is the one with the upper hand. And they're so fucked. Seeing as how their silence continues, she speaks, again

"Your romance" she clarifies, and Ambrosius's choke on his own saliva isn't fake. Ballister goes so red his face burns, and, out of instinct, he hits his boyfriend on the back to try and stop his death. He hits a little too hard, but it works.

"Excuse us?" Screeches Ambrosius, high pitched, "Our what?"

"You must be confused" says Ballister at the same time, feeling like a very dumb caged animal. They didn't plan this. He's got no idea what to do next. "Ambrosius and I don't-"

"We would never-"

"We couldn't even be together! I'm just some commoner and he is..."

"Don't talk about yourself like that"

"Amber, this is not the moment to-"

"I won't let you be mean to yourself in front of the Queen"

The woman in front of them chuckles, amazed at their idiocy. They both blush even more, if that's possible. They suck at this whole "pretending to be single" thing.

"You're adorable" she coos, and Ambrosius is ready to change his name and move towns, "You remind me so much of Derek and me, back when we were young"

She brings up dead husband, as if this isn't weird enough already.

"Surely, you know that if people take notice of this, and Ballister does end up winning — like I have faith he will — they could argue that the tournament has been rigged by the Goldenloins"

They look at each other, bewildered. They never even considered that possibility. The Queen chuckles some more.

"I trust you would come up with a way to deal with that problem, Mister Goldenloin. Your mother's always had her way with schemes and theatrical dramas, and I am fairly sure that I just witnessed one of your plans in action, didn't I? Was any of what you said true, cadets?"

Of course. Of course. Of curse that, The Actual Queen, who's probably been working alongside Captain Gloria her whole life, would notice. Perhaps they didn't plan this as neatly as they could've. But they had less than a day to come up with the whole thing, so.

"I really, really don't wanna get married or have to obey to someone" argues Ambrosius, pouting. "Specially to some older weirdo"

"And I really, really don't want him to marry or have to obey to someone" agrees Ballister, apologetic. "Specially some older weirdo"

After considering them for some seconds, she nods again, agreeing to keep her word. Seeing no point on subtlety, they hug each other quickly, to celebrate.

"We're going to give back every penny you spend on Bal in this whole thing, swear to Gloreth" promises Ambrosius, one hand drapped along his boyfriend's back, "when he wins, I'm throwing a party, and you are so invited", quickly, he adds, "uh, Your Majesty, ma'am"

She lets them go after discussing some minor details, and they beam all the way out of the palace.

"I told you my plan would work" Ambrosius puffs out his chest like a proud peacock once they're on the carriage back to the institute, texting Gloreth knows who on his phone, "We're irresistible"

"She only agreed because you asked her. No one says no to a Goldenloin, Amber"

Ballister stretches, already tired. This whole thing has been draining. He's so ready to go back to the institute and join classes again. If this carriages hurries up, they might get there in time for sword training before lunch, his favorite part of the day.

"Talking 'bout Goldenloins..." trails off Ambrosius, playful smile painted on his lips, playing with the phone on his hands, "what you say we go talk to my mom now?"

"Absolutely no way-"

"Too bad" he interrupts him, placing his hand over Ballister's lips, "already told her we're on our way. She asked to chefs to prepare us something tasty"

Fuck this kid and his lack of self control.

[walrus150915]

Nimona headcanons part 3 bc I'm insane (out of order and disorganized so like- be ready) and bc it's my new year gift for y'all

• Nimona mostly talks like a normal teen but sometimes she'd use words that show her real age. "Sonorous", "vapidity" n stuff like that. Her vocabulary is INSANELY huge

• Ambrosius tries not to swear so he uses a lot of silly replacements instead. "HOLY S- golly!!", "You son of a b- bishop". Like I'm sorry but he's the type of guy to say fricking instead of, yknow, the intended word. Ballister finds it endearing; Nimona finds it stupid

• Yes yes he does replace sex with lovemaking. Yes he purely refers to him and Bal going at it as "making love". Yes he's a fellow like that

• Ballister doesn't drink alcohol. I know that's implied in the movie that he drinks (although I thought he drank, like, soda?? On the other hand he is a wholeass thirty years old man who's seen some shit so I wouldn't be surprised) but idk he strikes me as a type to refuse drinking out of moral code. He doesn't eat pork for the same reasons (pushing my cultural Muslim Ballister agenda)

• Ambrosius drinks only during celebrations or parties. Not much because he's a light drinker😭 one cup and he's already lying on the floor, crying and hyperanalyzing his life

• after Nimona came back Ambrosius was not safe from her jokes. Neither of them despised each other (not after Nimona saved the whole Kingdom and not after Ambrosius proved he really isn't a jerk) but boy does Nimona make fun of him on any given occasion. Ambrosius was taken aback by this at first but then he just got used to it

• Ambrosius is being kinda petty and jealous when Ballister spends more time with Nimona than him ("Although now apparently he's got a new best friend, what's that about?!"), not in a way that'd make it unhealthy ofc but still😭. Him and Ballister were tied to the hip for like the most of their lives and now there's someone ELSE Ballister likes to hang out with? Ugh🙄

• Ambrosius had a diary when he was a teen, he didn't write much there (one or two sentences a day). Once he became an adult he kind of forgot about it but after the whole... Hunting stuff started happening he found himself writing a ton of sentences there again

• when him and Bal started dating Ambrosius had a whole page in that diary filled with "Ambrosius Boldheart" HE'S A GUY LIKE THAT OKAY

• Ambrosius likes to attack Ballister's face with quick little kisses. If he pecked his forehead he must peck his cheeks and nose and eyelids and cheekbones etc etc

• Nimona sometimes speaks in rhymes. She doesn't know how she's doing it but her tongue just does it on its own. ("Let's go dunk on the punk in the trunk")

• Ballister has actually been a year older than everyone in his class, another reason why he was the black sheep™

• Ambrosius can play the flute and the piano due to his noble upbringing he HATES whenever someone brings it up tho

• Nimona and Ballister have those nights where they recall historical facts and situations and Nimona shows her perspective of the things. "The guy claimed to be a war criminal was the biggest sweetheart in the world what are you onnn". Ballister wrecks his brain trying to understand if she's serious or not

• Ballister doesn't get a lot of the jokes, they just fly over his head. Only after some time he starts getting them, like in the middle of the night randomly going "ohhhh that's what she meant"

• first time Ambrosius and Ballister made out Ambrosius threw his hands in the air and said "yayy :D"

• Ballister's haircare routine is better than you think it is he's just casual about it. Yes he uses coconut oil like his life depends on it

• Ambrosius's complexion is leaner but Bal's is broader. So when they exchange clothes it doesn't fit because Bal's shirts are too loose on Ambrosius but also kinda short and Ambrosius's are kinda long but too tight in the shoulders for Bal. They still think it's sweet to swap their clothes sometimes

[ninjadeathblade]

Post-Training Dinner (a Nimona fanfic)

Summary: After a long day of training Ambrosius and Ballister go get some dinner at a new bar.

A tiny bit of angst to fluff

Warnings: Ballister getting bullied (you can't tell me he wasn't, I'm pretty sure he would've been), blood. (think that's it but let me know if I missed anything.

Word count: 1,359

Author's notes: I took ages to think about how these guys first went to the nacho bar. In the end, Ambrosius dragging Ballister there after training stuck, which is why we're here now. This is before they get together because Ballister awkwardly crushing on his best friend makes me laugh.

Ballister closed his eyes momentarily, relishing in the mild sense of peace. He was exhausted after the long day of training, jumping through the hoops that was the training the army gave him. It was easy of course, he'd grown used to their procedures by now. However he still grew weary after an extra hard day of training.

"Hey, look, it's the commoner!" Ballister's eyes snapped open at Todd's jeers, anxiety spiking through him. The other knights, all descendants of the originals, loved to rub it in his face that he was the one who stood out. "Hey, Ballister, what's it like being stupid?"

"I'm not stupid, if anyone's stupid it's you," Ballister mumbled, beginning to strip his armour off.

"Oh, did you hear that guys?!" Todd exclaimed, mouth agape as he turned back to his group of friends. "Common boy here thinks he's a big shot!" Ballister continued to ignore Todd and his gang, continuing to change out of his armour. "C'mon Ballister, say it again!"

"If anyone is stupid, it's you," Ballister repeated slowly, enunciating each word coldly. A sharp punch sent him backwards into the wall behind him, the taste of iron on his tongue as blood filled his mouth. Todd cracked his knuckles, stepping closer to Ballister. Ballister wiped the blood from his face with the back of one hand, trying not to focus on the red liquid as it stuck to the fabric of his shirt.

"You're worthless. Calling me stupid," Todd spat and Ballister swept one of his legs out and knocked Todd over. The ginger knight aimed another punch at him and Ballister rolled to the side just in time to dodge it. Todd raised his fist to punch again before a voice rang out across the changing rooms.

"Leave him alone!" Todd and Ballister turned around, looking at Ambrosius. He was framed by the light from the window outside, making him glow in an ethereal fashion. Todd scowled before standing up.

"You're not worth my time anyway," Todd said in a final sort of way. Ballister pushed himself up to sit, wiping more blood away from his nose. He held his sleeve against it as Ambrosius crossed the room, crouching beside him.

"You should really tell the Director," he fretted, eyes flitting across Ballister's features. Ballister shook his head gently, forcing himself not to gag at the smell of blood.

"It's not like she has any real power over them. Besides, they're the perfect kids with the pure bloodline. I'm the mongrel that the queen brought in from the streets," Ballister replied bitterly. "Even if the Director did care, they wouldn't stop. They'd ignore me for a day and then be right back at it." Ambrosius stood, pulling Ballister up beside him.

"Let's get you patched up then, hero." Ballister's cheeks tinged pink at the nickname, then darkened further as Ambrosius winked at him. He had privately admitted to himself he was growing feelings for his best friend but didn't exactly know how to tackle those feelings. Ambrosius probably didn't return the feelings so why was he so attracted to him? "Bal? You're spacing again."

"Sorry," Ballister apologised, sitting down on the floor in the bathrooms. Ambrosius ran the sink until it was warm before sticking a flannel under the jet of water. "I'm just…thinking."

"You do that a lot," Ambrosius chuckled before sitting down beside Ballister and wiping the flannel across his face. The warm water stung at the wounds opened by Todd and Ballister grimaced slightly. "Sorry if it stings."

"No, it doesn't," Ballister lied, closing his eyes as Ambrosius continued to clean his wounds. Minutes passed in blissful silence, the two of them just enjoying each others' company.

"There. All cleaned up. Now everyone can see your handsome face again," Ambrosius teased, jabbing Ballister gently in the ribs.

"Yeah right. You're the lady-killer, not me," Ballister retorted, standing up and wincing at the way his head pounded. Ambrosius looped an arm around his shoulders, steadying him.

"You can borrow one of my spare shirts," Ambrosius offered with a small smile that Ballister returned. After the two of them changed, Ambrosius picked up both their bags. "Can't have you getting more injured."

"I doubt I'd get hurt carrying my bag."

"You never know Bal!"

"You're unbearable sometimes." Ballister rolled his eyes, trying and failing to keep the smirk off his lips.

"Hey, I found a really cool bar while I was on lunch break the other day, wanna go check it out?" Ambrosius changed the topic.

"We're not old enough to drink."

"They don't just do drinks!" Ambrosius protested. "Please Bal? It wouldn't be the same without you." Ballister rolled his eyes playfully before making an over-exaggerated sigh.

"I suppose so but only if I have my bag." Ballister barely had to finish his sentence before his satchel was thrust back into his hands.

"Yes! I love you! Let's go!" Ambrosius cheered, taking Ballister's hand in his own and tugging him out the compound. They spent half an hour wandering through the city before Ballister decided to question his friend's directional skills.

"Are you sure you remember where it is? We've been past this barrel seven times already," Ballister deadpanned.

"No, I swear, it was in this district!" Ambrosius complained, squinting at the map in his hands. "This map has got to be out of date!"

"What a surprise, who would've guessed that a paper map would be out of date," Ballister responded sarcastically. He was irritated because he was tired and the last thing he needed was running around town, on an empty stomach, on a wild goose chase for some bar.

"You don't have to be so mean about it," Ambrosius pouted, looking up at him. Ambrosius' face lit up seconds later. "The bar!" Ballister turned around, looking at the small bar. It seemed like quite a nice establishment, lit by a few lanterns with cheery looking people inside. Ambrosius linked arms with Ballister, pulling him towards the building.

"Are you sure this is a good idea?" Ballister asked hesitantly.

"Why wouldn't it be?" Ambrosius replied, walking them to sit in a booth in the back corner of the bar. "Thought you'd like to sit here seeing as you don't like crowds."

"Thanks." Ballister's response was shy and he distracted himself looking at the menu. "Nachos sounds nice." Ambrosius hummed his agreement before waving over a waiter.

"A bowl of nachos to share please. And some water," he ordered. The waiter nodded before walking away and leaving them alone together again. Ballister thoughtfully stared at his lap, fidgeting with his hands under the table. "What's the serious face for?"

"Thinking," Ballister muttered.

"About?"

"You." The word slipped out before Ballister realised what he'd said. After realisation hit him, Ballister comically slapped a hand over his mouth, nervously looking at Ambrosius. Ambrosius smiled gently, reaching up and tucking a strand of hair behind his ear.

"Oh yeah? What about me?"

"I'd prefer not to answer that." Ballister blushed, grateful when the bowl of nachos was set down on their table and interrupted their conversation. He dug in without complaint, thankful for any reason to not talk. Ballister's curiosity was piqued when he watched Ambrosius carefully remove any olives he came across. Ambrosius met his questioning gaze with a shrug.

"I'm allergic," he explained simply. Ballister reached over, picking the olives off the napkin he'd put them on. Ambrosius watched him curiously for a moment.

"No point wasting them," Ballister shrugged, popping a couple of the olives into his mouth. They ate in silence and it was raining when they finally left the bar. Drops of water came from the cloud coated night sky, drenching them in the sheet of water within a couple minutes.

"We should go back there for dinner after training tomorrow," Ambrosius suggested as they walked back to their 'home'.

"Yeah. Sounds good," Ballister agreed, kicking a stone across the lumpy stone road.

"It can be our little place."

"That would be nice," Ballister pulled Ambrosius into a hug, happy that he at least had his friend.

"You're amazing Bal."

"You're not so bad either."

[vioartemis]

Didn't you want this, Cara Mia?

(Wednesday Addams x fem! Sinclair! reader)

Summary: You're Enid's twin sister, and happen to have a tiny little crush on her best friend Wednesday Addams Part 1 || Part 2 Warnings: Injuries, blood, mention of death (I think that's all) (English isn't my first language, I'm sorry if there are mistakes or if something doesn't make sense TvT)

Here it was; the Rave'N. Your worst nightmare. The bal wasn't actually your worst nightmare. It wouldn't have been if your plan went well. But it didn't.

You were now condemned to the torture of seing your crush go to the Rave'N with someone else.

At first, you weren't too happy, but you knew it was for the investigation's sake. But now. It was not that anymore.

You really liked Thing. But was he forced to write that note to Tyler in Wednesday's name?

Wednesday. Your sister's best friend. The girl you have a crush on. Okay he didn't know that. But still. Why him?

"Hey Y/n! Ready to go?" Yoko asked

You turned around to face her. She was pretty. And your date for the bal. But not a date, date. Neither of you was interested in the other, you only went together as friends, nothing more.

"You look good" you said, walking toward her

"You too" she smiled "Let's go, we're gonna be late"

You nodded silently, letting out a sigh.

"Everything's okay?" the vampire asked, walking by your side

"Yeah, just.. the idea of seeing the person I like dancing with someone else is more than unpleasant. I really don't want to see that but.." you sighed again, shaking your head

"That sucks. I'm sorry for you. But you can still dance with him, even if you didn't come together. Or her." she winks at you as you both entered the ball room.

"Not sure about that, but thanks"

You smiled at her, before greeting Principal Weems and Mrs Thornhill, wondering if Wednesday was already here, but you couldn't see her anywhere.

She was, in fact, already here, her jaw clenched tight at the sight of you and Yoko arriving together. She hated that she felt like that. That you made her feel like that.

At first, she didn't understand what was happening to her, so she asked Thing for advice. What he told her wasn't what she expected, and she didn't like it.

She felt weak every time you looked at her, every time you smiled at her. She would never admit it out loud but she liked your smile. Not now though. Not when she wasn't the reason you smiled.

<><><><> ♡ <><><><>

Three hours into the bal, the only interesting thing that happened was Wednesday dancing. She was stunning. You couldn't take your eyes away from her.

"Do you like her??"

You jumped at the sudden exclamation.

"Jesus, Enid! You scared the shit out of me! And keep your voice low please!"

"So you like her?? You like Wednesday??" she asked again, more quietly

".. Yes. Tell her and you can say goodbye to your stuffed animals"

"Why are you being so- ohhh" she smirked "Are you jealous?"

Before you could answer, you felt something drop on your shoulder. Something red. The red drop soon turned into a red rain.

"Carrie.." you murmured

"Interesting choice of animation, I have to say. Sadly it is not pig blood, but paint."

Earing Wednesday's comment, your lips turned into a soft smile.

Everyone was panicking and falling on the floor, while you calmly stood here, admiring how red looked good on the ravenette, who got pushed forward by a student trying to flee the room.

Suddenly, her head fell back. She was having a vision.

"Wednesday are yo-"

"I need to go. Eugene is in danger."

"Wha-"

She was already gone. Shit. She was putting herself in danger. You started running after her, guiding yourself with the scent of danger, which was becoming stronger every step you took.

But you weren't going fast enough. You knew it. The only solution was to wolf out. You didn't want to. You didn't tell anyone that you already wolfed out.

When you wolfed out the first time, the only thing you could think about was what your mother would say or do to Enid. You were twins, even if you didn't look alike. And you knew your mom's behavior toward Enid would've been worse if she knew.

So you simply didn't tell anyone. To protect your sister. To who you've been lying for almost a year about your transformation.

In your wolf form, you were going fast enough to see the monster Wednesday told you about ready to cut Eugene in half with its claws.

You didn't think twice and jumped on the monster, attacking him with your own claws, trying to push him far away from Eugene and Wednesday, who you could hear coming.

You fought for a while. But the monster was stronger than you. You started to feel dizzy. You were about to turn back into your human form.

You tried to hurt the monster as much as you could, hoping that it would go away before your transformation ends. After you almost gouged out one of its eyes, the monster threw you into a three.

You thought it was about to end you, but instead it ran away with a limp, to your relief. You slid down the three, all your forces leaving you.

You heard footsteps coming toward you, but you passed out before seeing the face of the person.

This person was, of course, Wednesday. She saw everything. The fight, your wolf form, the way you were hurt. She was running toward you, and for the first time in her life, the sight of a body, hurt and covered in blood, didn't feel good.

Because it was you. Death didn't look good on you. Not as good as she thought it would. She hated it actually.

<><><><> ♡ <><><><>

"If you die, I will kill you."

That was the first thing you heard since you passed out in the forest. You were in what you thought was a bed. A very confortable bed. Nothing to do with the forest.

Maybe you were dead.

No, that wouldn't make any sense given what you just heard. So you should be in a hospital. Yeah, now you could hear a slight bip bip beside you.

You opened your eyes slowly, letting out a grunt when the bright light of the room kinda burned your eyes. As you did, you felt something - or someone - move next to you.

You turned your head to the side, wanting to see who it was, even if you already had an idea.

"Hi Wednesday.."

A little smile made its way up to your face at the sight of her. She was sitting on a chair beside you, a book on her lap.

"Why did you do that?" the ravenette asked "You put yourself in danger. You could have not wolfed out."

"Actually... it wasn't the first time I wolfed out... I already did, almost a year ago"

She raised her eyebrows, visibly surprised.

"Enid doesn't know" you added

"Still. You could have died."

"I thought you liked the sight of death?"

You saw her fingers grip her book until her knuckles turned white.

"It doesn't suit you."

"Yeah?"

You stayed silent for a moment, not knowing exactly what she meant.

"Is Eugene okay?" you finally asked

"He's fine. He just left. Enid too."

You tried to sit on your bed, but as you did you felt a sharp pain in your chest. You quit and just lay on your back, looking at the ceiling.

After a little while, you spoke again, quietly.

"Wednesday..?"

"What is it Y/n?"

"Thank you. For being here." you turned your head toward her once again "I appreciate it. Really." you smile, before adding "Oh, I wanted to tell you.. Blood looks good on you. As long as it's not yours"

You took a deep breath, well as deep as your wounded chest could handle, before continuing.

"You know, I uh.. I think I'm in love with you.."

"I see you are still recovering from your fight. You are clearly out of your mind."

"I'm serious Wednesday. I'd do anything for you. I'd die for you. I'd kill for you. I'd rip my heart out of my chest and carve your name into it if you asked me to." you claimed

She looked at you, trying to figure out whether you were serious or not. You were.

"That is a terrible idea. I could ask you to do that."

"Ask and I'll do it."

You looked dead serious. At this moment, you swore her lips curled up a little. She stood up, and walked toward the door, but stopped before exiting the room.

"Y/n."

"Hm?"

"You are mine."

"What-"

You were surprised by her sudden words, blushing hard. She turned around to look at you, a slight smirk on her beautiful face.

"Didn't you want this, Cara Mia?"

[Next part]

[majorpatheticcas]

⚠️TW: BLOOD WILL BE SEEN UNDERCUT.⚠️

So yeah. This happened to me yesterday and I'm taking time off school AND work to take care of myself. I have a doctor's appointment tomorrow and decided to post this now to let you guys know about my health!

Alright, I woke up around 4 am feeling a little tipsy, so I decided to go downstairs and drink some water. But while I was walking to the kitchen, I felt the sudden urge to puke. So I ran to the bathroom, blood was spilling out of my mouth. Why? I had no idea. So while I was running, my legs suddenly gave up on me so I tried my best to crawl to the bathroom. But then one of my roommates went down since they wake up VERY early and saw the blood on the floor to the bathroom. They called out my name and followed the blood trail to the bathroom, only to face me breathing heavily while I kept vomitting blood. The first words I said are exactly what I put in the last panel lmao. I'm clearly not fine but I'm only saying I am so my friends won't worry about someone like me <3.

Bal belongs to: @caycanteven (sorry if I've been tagging you a lot, and especially if it's bothering you. I just can't contain my love for your boi <33)

[flying-thing]

Poly Headcanons with Ballistar and Ambrosious

Second request!

CW: Smut (at the end and not graphic), possibly OOC characters

Word Count: 1190

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

How you guys met:

You work at one of the shops in the market

You met Nimona before Ballistar and Ambrosious

She was the one who actually introduced you guys

Both of them were happy to meet you. You seemed like you would be a very good friend.

When they fell for you:

You and Nimona really enjoy playing pranks on the guys

Whether it be hiding one of their socks or making them get soaked by the river, it's really fun for you two

For Ballistar, it was the way you'd hide your smile or laugh with your hand in front of your mouth

When he saw your smile for the first time, he couldn't help but do the same

It's so contagious

He especially enjoys when he's the one who makes you happy

For Ambrosious, he thought your humour and the general way you expressed yourself was extraordinary

He respected that you always spoke your mind

When they asked you out:

Ballistar was the first of the two to tell Ambrosious that he was in love with you too

He felt like a bad partner for wanting another person

He talked to Nimona before talking to Ambrosious and she said that relationships such as this exist and thrive

With new confidence, he told his husband (because I said so) and he said that he felt the same as he did

They both agreed that if you would take them, they would be happy to have you

They visited your store one day, which wasn't out of the ordinary, and asked when you would be able to close up shop

You give them the time and ask why, but they just say that they have a surprise for you

When you get out, they walk on either side of you along the river

They thought this would be the perfect place to ask you out because the temperature is good and the view is breathtaking. Especially when on the cliff that they were walking you to

You try and ask them what the surprise is and they just slide off your questions and tell you to wait and have patience

Ambrosious is the one who asks you

"Bal and I have come together to ask if you would join our relationship. We have both fallen for your charms and are fully prepared to court you first if you would wish."

Your face lit up before falling again

"What if I mess up? I don't want to possibly ruin your relationship."

Bal just put his hand on your cheek and asked you not to worry

"You do not need to agree or say yes. We will not pressure you. Just please do not have such thoughts. You will not mess anything up or ruin it."

A big smile places itself on your lips and you say that you would love to be with them

First kisses:

Ambrosious: you guys were baking together and you ended up getting chocolate on your cheek

He brings up his hand and wipes it away

Before putting his hand down though, he brings his thumb to your lips

It was an impulsive thought and he didn't think anything of it until you licked off the chocolate

A teasing smirk comes onto your face

"Maybe you want a taste too?"

His eyes widen slightly and he puts his other hand on your other cheek and pulls you in for a kiss

It's not sloppy or heat-ridden by any means, but he still manages to actually get chocolate in his mouth

Afterwards, you guys were giggling like little kids

Ballistar: you two were taking a walk in the outskirts of town while holding hands

You don't even remember what you guys were talking about before-

"Can I kiss you?"

You pause momentarily and stare up at him

"I'm sorry, was that too forward?"

You smile and shake your head

You pull him down by his shirt to kiss him and you see a flash of a camera

Looking over, you guys see Nimona with a camera grinning like a maniac

You chase them around but never get the picture

He ended up giving it to Ambrosious and he put it on the fridge

[This is where the smut hcs are so if you do not want to read, please skip this, thank you. There is nothing happening after the smut, I promise]

First time:

When you guys had talked about sex, you were a little shy

You were a virgin and had little to no idea what to do

They did not tease you for it and both happily agreed to teach you

You guys' first time was slow and sweet

You were properly opened up so they wouldn't hurt you, for which you later appreciated

The feeling was new, but not unwelcome

For my tops, they showed you how to do all the things they like and they were pleasantly surprised with how quickly you caught on

General HCs:

Ambrosious blushes a lot when getting head. He never knows where to put his hands and tries so hard to not fuck into your mouth

He is a whiner and his moans are so sweet when he's bottoming

When he tops, he's very in control. Listen to him or get punished for it

He makes you look at him when he eats you out or gives you head

Ballistar is a munch. Don't lie, we all thought about it

His favourite thing is oral

He teaches you how to use your tounge so you can have mouth magic too

When he tops, he is such a big praiser

He holds your hips still while he fucks you like there's no tomorrow while praising you at how well you take him

When he bottoms, he hides his face a lot

Very blushy baby

His moans are so sweet though, you can never get enough

They both have long fingers and every time they finger you open, it always leaves you gasping and desperate for more. They know how to use them, trust me on that

And the way the jerk you off? Soul is gone

They'll make you cum at least twice before they fuck you properly and that's if the feel merciful

Bal, I think, definitely likes to mark what is his. You've had people ask you about the bruises on your neck several times and it's as equally embarrassing as it was the first time

Ambrosious definitely grips your hips and thighs though. He has bruises of his fingers imprinted there basically

They will tease the ever-loving shit out of you just because they can

Aftercare:

No matter how rough or soft they are, they always make sure to clean you up properly and get you water

Sometimes bath time happens and it's so nice

The tub is big enough for the three of you because knights are rich and have nice things

You guys wash each other and relax in the warmth of the water

Cuddles cuddles cuddles cuddles cuddles

Did I mention cuddles?

They are so sweet.

We love these guys

[a-dumb-sarcastic-bisexual]

I can't think of a title for these Nimona headcanons

Throughout their childhood Bal and Ambrosius switched between who was taller 

They would get growth spurts so frequently that it wasn’t uncommon for them to go to the nurse's office just to settle a score and check who was taller every couple of weeks 

And when they did figure out who was taller the “winner” would make a massive scene about it and constantly mock the other until they got a growth spurt 

For some reason Bal was unreasonably proud after his growth spurts and would often say shit like “I’m sorry my lord you’re going to have to speak up I can’t hear you from this great distance”

While Ambrosius was plastered to his side 

Bal was actually taller at the start of their relationship and he always made a scene about kissing Ambrosius 

He would let out a groan whenever he had to lean down and straighten back up and would make joking remarks about his back hurting because of it 

Once it became clear that Ambrosius was winning the height contest he made up for the constant jokes 

Bal calls Ambrosius short will so much honesty and conviction that bystanders have often told them to stand back-to-back just to make sure Ambrosius is taller 

I said in this post that Ambrosius is allergic to a shit ton of things 

And because of that he has multiple EpiPens  

He keeps one on hand at all times, one in his car, one in his office, and one in his room

He was also given two extras that Bal and Nimona took

He didn’t even know that they took them until one night they went out to dinner 

And he order something that gave him a mild reaction

He knew it was fine but the duo was freaking out and he noticed that they kept reaching for something 

He asked them about it and they both unwillingly showed him the EpiPens 

He wasn’t even surprised that they took them he was just shocked he didn’t notice they were missing 

When Nimona is distracted or in a rush their human form is less believable and sometimes ventures into the realm of uncanny 

Sometimes its bigger things like their limbs being disproportionate to their body or their eyes being bigger than the average person

And sometimes it’s smaller things like the texture of their skin being closer to sharks' scales and their hair feeling like animal fur 

He also doesn’t need to breathe or blink as often as humans and he physically can’t break a sweat 

So it’s kind of creepy to watch him do something physically taxing without his chest heaving or blinking sweat out of his eyes 

Whenever the boys mess up or break a promise Nimona makes a big deal about them “making it up to her” 

Sometimes she makes them cook for a month straight 

Sometimes she drags them to the store and forces them to either buy her something or watch her back as she steals something 

Either way once it’s done they call it even and never bring it up again

But she also makes an equally big deal about when she breaks a promise and she begs them to pick something to make it right

Sometimes when the boys are feeling petty they’ll really wait to figure out their favor and she always acts like they’re torturing her

But she always makes up for it even if it’s something as simple as flying them to work cause they’re running late

[ortofosforico]

You can see Ballister was in love because he let Ambrosius TOUCH HIM.

After he pointed a sword to Bal's face, didn't believe him, and told him "what? Are you going to kill me too?"

Of all the times Ambrosius reached out, Ballister didn't back up once, didn't flinch, didn't vocally state he didn't want contact.

Bitch, I could NEVER.

They don't let anger and resentment get in between them and that's so pure.

THAT BEING SAID-

"She's manipulating you. I'm sorry for the arm" *touches Bal's robo-hand*

Back the fuck up my boy. I'm cutting that hand myself, don't kick a wet-face-already-been-kicked-enough puppy while he's down.

[meowmeow-motherfucker]

Covenant- Chapter 7

Summary: With the five year anniversary of the attack on New York approaching, Odin and Fury come to the agreement that an arranged marriage between Asgard and Earth would show good faith toward all future interactions. When Odin refuses Jane’s candidacy, Agent Coulson is tasked with finding a suitable wife for the prince of Asgard.

Pairing: Loki x OFC

Chapter warnings: Claire being a badass, imposter syndrome, mutual pining, tooth rotting fluff, feelings, FIRST KISS!! There's also vague mentions of the former laughingstock of a US president (if you know, you know). He is not mentioned by name because I refuse to put his name in any of my work, but he is his usual "charming" self and no one likes him. All opinions spoken by Claire and Loki are my opinions and also fact, but I'm not trying to end up on an FBI watch list so take everything with a grain of salt. Also, do not come at me with political commentary, I'm literally just trying to have a good time and write y'all an entertaining story.

Read it on AO3 here: https://archiveofourown.org/works/51197938/chapters/129363727

Taglist: @lokisgoodgirl @gigglingtiggerv2 @icytrickster17 @mysteriouslyfriedjellyfish @lokislilkitten @justjoanne242 @amlocked @ddmariegirl @mags-04-blog @sharris8 @meepycheep @iamlokisgloriouspurpose @the-fantasy-loving-angel @jaidenhawke @smolvenger

Please let me know if you'd like to be added to the taglist! Thanks for coming along on this journey with me!

Four days until the wedding

The next morning, Claire was hating life. The mead, like the wine, was delicious, but good grief did it pack a punch. Claire trudged her way to the bathroom, barely keeping her eyes open as Ragna helped her clean up and dress, and would have flopped on the couch if not for the nausea.

Instead, she was doing her best impression of a corpse until she had no choice but to leave in order to get breakfast.

Loki was already there when she dragged her sorry ass into the great hall, giving her a knowing smile when she dropped into her seat beside him.

“I did warn you-”

“Don’t-” Claire grimaced, waving his smug face away. Her head began to throb from the loud commotion in the great hall, and she cradled her head, her eyes falling closed in relief. “Oh god, I’m gonna die.”

“You won’t die,” Loki chuckled as he flagged down a servant to bring her wine. “Have some wine, it will help.”

“Not if I barf it up!” Claire whined.

“Humor me, won’t you?”

“Ugh, fine, I’ll do it for you,” Claire accepted the wine and swallowed a mouthful, groaning as her stomach complained loudly. “Are you sure I won’t die?”

“Positive,” Loki replied. “You need a good meal, and some scandalous gossip.”

“Oh my, is it about the prince and the soon-to-be princess who escaped the palace and spent the night drinking in a seedy bar?”

“Slightly more scandalous, which is truly saying something,” Loki snickered. “Have you seen Fandral today?” he muttered as he jutted his chin toward the other side of the great hall. “He’s acting...stranger than usual.”

“Is he?” Claire replied innocently as she glanced over at the man in question. To her delight, the arrogant man was squirming in his seat to the point his companions were all eyeing him warily. Even in her pitiful hungover state, she could tell what happening. “Interesting.”

“It’s as if...I couldn’t possibly speak of it- it’s inappropriate.”

“Tell me anyway,” Claire inched closer to Loki, hoping he would share whatever he was thinking. “You know I don’t care about propriety.” Loki patted her hand fondly. How could he forget?

“He’s behaving as though he’s picked up a disease,” he shook his head. “One obtained through...questionable behavior.” Claire gasped dramatically, leaning even closer.

“Surely you don’t mean…” she trailed off, resting her hand on his arm as they shared a meaningful glance. “Oh dear,” she said with false concern. “I hope he’ll be able to recover.”

“What have you done?” Loki asked without ire, looking at her expectantly.

“Me?” Claire balked. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“I’m certain you don’t,” Loki said casually, taking a sip of his wine as they watched Fandral squirm, now fidgeting so hard that his chair scraped loudly on the stone floor with each movement. It was causing quite a stir, and drawing the attention of nearly everyone in the great hall. “Oh dear.”

“Poor guy must be itching for relief.” Claire snickered at her private joke.

“I knew it,” Loki chuckled. “What did you do?”

“I might have snuck itching powder into his clothes,” Claire admitted from behind her goblet. “I forgot to tell you about it last night.”

“When did you do this?”

“Yesterday afternoon,” Claire replied guiltily. “I had some unsupervised free time and I used it to sneak into his rooms. Don’t look at me like that; it’s not my fault his staff just let me walk in.”

“That is quite devious of you, darling, but was it worth it?” His ridiculous question was punctuated by Fandral dropping his mead to grip the underside of his chair with both hands, now wiggling from side to side as he grew increasingly panicked.

“Of course it was worth it; look at his face!” Claire cackled behind her goblet. “Besides, his constant man-whoring is annoying. Did you know he’s slept with every one of my staff, apart from Ragna? Not that I blame them; who hasn’t fallen for a guy like that? Maybe now he’ll act like less of a lech,” her lip curled in disgust as Fandral began actively itching his privates. “Or not.”

“Color me impressed. Well done,” Loki murmured as a frantic Fandral scurried from the great hall, his body contorting in an odd dance as he itched himself all the way to the door and presumably beyond. “Perhaps it was a bit harsh.”

“He deserves it,” Claire tucked into her breakfast without remorse. “Especially with the way he treats you.”

“You did this for me?” Loki asked in surprise. “My lady, I am touched.”

“You’re welcome,” Claire nodded, drinking deeply from her wine. “I’ll teach that prick to mess with my man.” she grumbled to herself. Loki grinned, warmed by the sentiment. He pressed a kiss to her knuckles.

Eating with one hand was a challenge, but Loki found he couldn’t be bothered to let go of Claire’s hand. And if he used his seidr to soothe her hangover, it was really no one’s business but his own.

~~~~

Frigga was convinced that something secretive was going on between Claire and Loki. Claire had improved significantly in her daily lessons over the last several days, and during her appointments with the couple, Frigga had noticed their behavior toward each other had changed. They still argued from time to time, but there was an undercurrent to their interactions that hadn't been there before. As if the pair knew secrets no one else in the universe was party to. Frigga had been a mother long enough to know when something was going on under her nose. Something was going on, but for the sake of her son and the bond she could see growing day by day, she couldn't (and wouldn't) prove anything. With barely a week left before their wedding, the stakes were higher than ever.

She just hoped they were being smart.

Across the palace, Claire and Loki were embroiled in a heated argument in her chambers. Loki's top hat game piece had just landed on New York Avenue, which Claire owned, and upon which she had built four hotels. The commoner had bankrupted the prince.

“How. Dare. You. Madam,” Loki hissed as he was forced to surrender his properties one by one to her pile. “You tricked me, you sly little-” he growled as he then forked over a rainbow of colored bills. Claire cackled, counting the money before sorting it into the piles in front of her. The piles in front of Loki had dwindled to nothing thanks to Claire's construction efforts, leaving her the victor in his inaugural game of Monopoly.

“I told you to unmortgage your properties when you had the money but noooooo, you didn’t want to listen!” She said defensively. “Not my fault you're stubborn.”

“What are you talking about, I did exactly as you said!” Loki gestured uselessly to the still mortgaged properties in front of him. Claire laughed heartily, softening his ire. He'd tried everything and she'd slaughtered him. Mercilessly. He admired her ruthlessness, rolling his eyes affably at her smug smile when he collected the dice and handed them to her.

“Wanna play again?” She offered, eyes glinting mischievously as he glared at her.

“Absolutely not,” he laughed. “You'll just bankrupt me again.”

“Well I had fun.” Claire giggled.

“I'm sure you did,” Loki replied. “Tomorrow night I'll bring a game for us to play, and I shall win.”

“It's a date,” Claire grinned. “You probably need to go, don't you?” She asked as she began to gather the game pieces.

“Probably,” Loki said sheepishly, gathering the cards on the board in his large hands. “But I don’t wish to.” Their fingers brushed as she took the cards from him and Claire grinned.

“It's okay to admit you like spending time with me, you know,” she said as she put the cards in the box. “Just sayin'.” She folded the board and put it away, slipping the lid into place.

“I enjoy spending time with you,” Loki chuckled. “Without the crones, preferably.”

“Yeah they need to lighten up,” the couple shared a laugh before Claire jolted. “I have an idea!” She crowed excitedly, jumping up and bounding from the room. Loki was debating whether he should follow her to her bed chamber when she returned with a slim black rectangle. “Have you done a crossword before?”

“A what?”

“Okay, didn't think so,” Claire giggled as she sat beside him on the lounge. Her perfume had faded since their earlier outing, but only slightly. From afar she'd smelled enchanting, but up close her sweet scent was even more potent and made him yearn to reach out and touch her. “This isn't a competitive game, since someone is a sore loser.”

“I am not!” Loki protested lamely. Claire looked at him skeptically, her raised eyebrow making him scoff.

“Okay,” she snickered. “Like you didn’t literally throw a tantrum and call me names.”

“I called you madam; in what realm is that offensive? There are far worse things I could call you.”

“But you didn't.”

“Exactly.” Claire smiled in spite of herself. He was right.

“I think that's possibly the only time I've been called madam by someone who's mad at me. Usually I get called a bitch. Or a cunt. Or a whore.” Loki laughed sharply, immediately schooling his face.

“Apologies,” he said. “I was not expecting-”

“It's okay, I know it's not ladylike, but I ain't a lady.” Claire snickered.

“The men of Midgard do not know how to treat your sex, do they?” Loki asked.

“I would argue men everywhere don't. There are exceptions of course,” Claire hedged when Loki bristled. “But the vast majority? No.”

“That is unfortunate,” Loki murmured. “I shall endeavor to remain in the minority. Now, teach me this new game and defeat me again.”

“You like losing all of a sudden?” Claire teased.

“To you, perhaps,” Loki admitted as Claire opened her crossword app. “I said perhaps!” He added quickly when she laughed at him.

“Don’t worry, mischief, this isn’t that kind of game.” She patted his leg absently, and all of Loki's focus concentrated on that small point of contact. They sat shoulder to shoulder, with their arms pressed together. It would be so easy to lean over and- No! He chastised himself mentally. You have less than a week- surely you can last a week! “Does that make sense?” Damn, he'd missed her explanation while staring at her mouth! What had she said?

“...yes.”

“Lie.”

“I beg your pardon?”

“You were staring at me, not the game,” Claire grinned when Loki’s cheeks became pink. “Oh, you’re adorable.” Loki scoffed.

“Madam-”

“Sir?” Claire replied cheekily, her grin blossoming into a wide smile at Loki’s dismay. “Would you like me to explain it again?”

“Yes, but…” Loki chuckled. “Do you know,” he paused before smiling shyly. “I was beginning to think your lips changed color. They've been a different shade each day since you've arrived,” his eyes dipped down to her lush lips. “Yet each night they are the same rosy pink.”

“Well I have to keep you on your toes somehow,” Claire snickered, enjoying the heat in his gaze as he glanced at her mouth. “Would you like to pick tomorrow's color, or should I surprise you?” Loki's brain seemed to stop working for a moment, as he gaped at her open-mouthed. She waited patiently, basking in her victory.

“Green,” he cleared his throat nervously. “Please.” He finally requested.

“As you wish, Your Majesty.” Claire winked at him, already looking forward to knocking him on his ass.

“I have an idea,” Loki said suddenly, changing form as he leapt to his feet. “I’ll return shortly.”

~~~~

Half an hour later, Claire and Loki sat in her chambers embroiled in a battle of wits. Loki had returned with his chess set, challenging her to best him. Claire was aghast to learn it was three-dimensional. She liked Star Trek as much as the next girl, but this was ridiculous. Loki had beaten her in three rapid fire games, and they were now locked in their fourth bout.

“We can stop if you want.” Loki suggested as he waited for her to make a move.

“And let you claim victory again? I don’t think so.” Claire replied stubbornly as her eyes roamed the boards between them.

“Whilst I admire your determination darling, it’s time to admit you’ve been bested,” Loki chuckled. “See here? You are trapped.” he pointed to where his queen had indeed trapped her last lonely knight as he stood in defense of her king.

“I can still win,” Claire doubled down, leaning closer to him. “And when I do, you should kiss me. As a reward.” Loki grinned, wishing he could give her what she wanted.

“Claire, you know we can't.” he said, pulling away from her even though he didn't want to. Claire groaned, rolling her eyes. They’d already broken several rules, what was one more?

“It's a stupid rule.”

“Yes, but it's one we all agreed to-”

“-For the sake of appearances, I know I know. What is it with you princes and having to marry virgins anyway? It's not like sitting on a dick really changes you as a person,” Claire said. “No offense. I'm sure yours is very nice.”

“You'll find out in four days, you impatient creature,” Loki huffed in amusement. “Surely you will survive that long?”

“Fine,” Claire rolled her eyes. “It's still stupid.”

“Yes it is,” Loki replied as Claire yawned. “I should take my leave. Get some sleep, little wife. I shall see you in the morning.”

“I don't think you can call me that yet.” Claire teased.

“We may as well get used to it, don't you think?” Loki asked softly, looking relieved when Claire grinned.

“Can I ask you something?”

“Of course.”

“Do you think I can do this?” Claire asked. “I’m almost done with princess lessons, and my head feels like it’s close to bursting with all the shit I have to remember, but that’s just protocol stuff. What about everything else?” The imposter syndrome was hitting really hard and Claire was struggling.

“Such as?”

“I don’t know, meeting foreign politicians, helping orphans...I’m still a little unclear on what exactly I should be doing and I’m kinda freaking out. I can’t quite wrap my head around the fact that less than a week from now, I’m going to be a princess. What am I supposed to do?”

“It will get easier with time.”

“Of course you think that, Loki, you grew up here. I grew up poor in LA. Maybe you’re right and it will get easier, but what about now?” Claire asked. “People aren’t going to want anything to do with me if they think I suck, and let’s face it, I’m good at lots of things but I suck at this! I’m barely even a real adult,” she scoffed as she ranted. “I’m-I am three owls in a trench coat, Loki!”

“You’re what?” Loki looked her over with alarm.

“Ugh, it’s a figure of speech,” Claire groaned. Yet another communication error. “I’m just worried I won’t live up to all the expectations.”

“I understand your concern, but we will work through it together. I meant what I said, Claire. I will not let you fail.” Loki murmured as he leaned closer. Claire swallowed, wondering if he would actually break the rule and kiss her. All this waiting felt like middle school all over again; the anticipation was killing her. At the last second Loki pressed his lips to her forehead, and though it wasn't what she wanted, Claire's insides turned molten and gooey.

“That was rude.”

“Is that why you’re blushing?” Loki laughed as he pulled away, winking at her as he got to his feet.

“Shut up. It's still rude,” Claire grumped. “I’m still sixty percent sure I’m going to crash and burn.”

“I would apologize, but I'm not the least bit sorry,” Loki dodged the pillow she threw at him with a laugh. “You'll have to be faster than that, darling.”

“Get out!” Claire laughed, throwing another pillow at him. He bowed sarcastically before making his way to the door.

“Try not to worry too much. Everything will be fine. I swear it.”

“I’ll try. Now go away, I need my beauty sleep.” Claire threw another pillow at him, giggling when he batted it away.

“Good night.” He smiled as he looked back at her.

“Good night.” Claire smiled back, holding back her girlish squeal until the door closed behind him. She still thought marriage was stupid, but things with Loki were going so well that it gave her hope they would be happy together. And even though she wasn’t fully convinced she’d be a good princess, she trusted Loki when he said he would help her navigate her new role.

Three days until the wedding

The next morning, Loki was distracted as soon as he woke up. He wasn't due to see Claire until the late afternoon, but already he was consumed by thoughts of her. Would she actually wear the green as he'd asked?

Through his council meetings and appointments with the tailor, Loki’s usually sharp mind wandered. He found himself daydreaming of the soft pillow of Claire’s lips, painted in a rainbow of colors, while his fellow council members droned on about taxes and new regulations for businesses.

At long last, after a swift mid-day meal of soup and crusty bread, Loki readied himself for his outing with Claire and hastened to her chambers. Outside the door, he adjusted his leathers and fussed with his hair like a nervous boy.

The crones had arrived before him, to his dismay, but Claire’s personal servant Ragna welcomed him inside.

“My lady will be out momentarily, Your Majesty.” she curtsied as she closed the door behind him.

“I’m here now, Ragna,” Claire announced as she stepped into the room. The crones stepped aside, curtsying low. A beaming smile lit Claire’s face as her eyes landed on him. “Hi.”

It was as if every ounce of breath had left his body. Claire was radiant, draped in a flattering tulle dress. The sweetheart neckline left her shoulders exposed, a quaint gold and emerald necklace gracing her collarbone. Her long dark hair hung in delicate curls, and her hands looked more delicate than usual with the long sleeves of the dress hanging past her wrists. The silver band on her bicep blended almost perfectly with the sheer sleeves.

“Hi.” he managed finally, the fluttering of his hands matching the fluttering in his stomach. Her lips were painted green as promised, light in shade like the kiwi fruit of her home. Loki had never had anything that was truly his, but here she was- claiming him with her jewelry and her lip paint.

“It's poison apple.” Claire said, pulling Loki from his thoughts.

“W-what?” his stammered response gained him another smile.

“My lipstick is called poison apple. You keep looking at it, so I assume you like it. Wanna borrow it?” She winked at him, setting the butterflies into motion once again.

“What?” Claire giggled, not even slightly remorseful for the effect she was having on him. They shared intense eye contact, simply staring at one another. Their chaperones burst their bubble, one of them clearing her throat rather harshly.

“Shall we move along to the market?” she suggested. Loki snapped to attention first.

“Yes, we shall,” Loki replied, offering Claire his arm. “My lady?”

“Let’s hit it, my lord,” Claire gave his arm a squeeze when she looped hers around his bicep. God damn, his biceps were incredible.

~~~~

“Tell me something,” Loki asked as they walked through the market. “What exactly was your role with S.H.I.E.L.D.? You mentioned investigation, but what exactly did that entail?”

“I was responsible for determining threat levels,” Claire replied as she inspected a woven basket. “Analyzing people and their behavior was my specialty, but whenever something weird happened, my department would check it out and decide how best to proceed.”

“Which is why you were present-”

“When you sent the destroyer, yes,” Claire replied. “I was part of the team investigating Mjolnir when it showed up.”

“I am sorry you were in harms way.”

“Oh no biggie,” Claire waved off his concern. “Happens all the time. It was cool, you know?”

“Cool?” Loki asked skeptically, his brows rising high.

“I mean, sure, it was terrifying. Buuuut if I had a super awesome robot I would probably send it to break stuff too,” Claire laughed softly. “Can I ask-”

“Why I sent it?”

“Yeah,” Loki looked down, unwilling to admit his petty reasons. “You don't have to talk about it if you don't want to. I was just curious.”

“You would be the first.”

“What do you mean?” Claire asked. “No one asked you why?” Loki shook his head.

“They assumed I was jealous of my older brother and his claim to the throne; I was content to let them. But that was not why.”

“So what was the reason?” Claire pressed. Loki hesitated, his gaze flicking toward their chaperones. The two older women glared back, and Loki frowned.

“I should not say,“ He finally answered. “I have been...encouraged, shall we say, not to bring up unpleasant memories.”

“Why?”

“I believe Odin is concerned you will become too sympathetic.” Loki gave a sarcastic smile.

“Well that's horseshit,” Claire said. The chaperones gasped behind them and she turned to stare at the older women. “Yeah, I said a bad word. Deal with it,” She turned back to Loki. “Look, we're going to be married for a long time. I know I said I wouldn’t push you for answers and I meant it, but I think at some point I deserve answers to my questions.”

“I don't disagree,” Loki replied gently. "I do not trust easily, my lady.”

“I've noticed,” Claire pretending to inspect a skein of fabric while she thought. “You know, there’s a quote from Earth- those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it’.”

“England’s Wintston Churchill, I believe,” Loki's mouth pursed as he chose his words carefully. “It would be...beneficial, perhaps, for someone to hear my side of things. Someone who would not assume my guilt automatically.”

“I'm all ears, mischief.”

“You are not,” Loki smirked. “You are also have a charming wit and pleasant curves I find myself staring at far more than a respectable man should,” Claire blushed at his earnest words. “Forgive me, that was forward.”

“Don't apologize,” Claire replied. “The feeling is mutual.”

“I have pleasant curves?” Loki joked, delighting when Claire laughed and struck him on the arm.

“You have lots of pleasant things.”

“Such as?” Loki scoffed.

“Your hands,” Claire replied. She held up their clasped hands, unfurling her fingers and pressing her palm against his. His long fingers and wide palm dwarfed hers in size, and his gentle grip made her feel delicate- a feeling she was not familiar with. “Your eyes.”

“My eyes?” Loki asked doubtfully. No one in Asgard had eyes like his. “They are an oddity here.”

“I think they're beautiful,” Claire smiled. “I like odd,” The tops of Loki's cheeks turned pink, and she curled their fingers together again. “Also you have a cute butt.”

“I beg your pardon?!” Loki spluttered.

“Okay.” Claire shrugged.

“What?”

“You said I beg your pardon. So beg.” Loki snorted, tugging her closer by the hand until they were chest to chest.

“You are demanding,” he murmured. “I like it.” Claire preened, a smug look on her face as the chaperones chastised them for being too close. Ignoring them, Loki pulled her even closer, grinning when she squealed giddily. “Once we are wed, I shall tell you what you wish to know.” Claire pulled back, patting his chest plate fondly.

“In your own time, mischief. We have plenty of it.” Loki grinned, releasing her at last. He brought her hand to his lips and pressed a kiss to her knuckles.

“Shall I tell you all the ways I find you beautiful instead?”

“Who am I say no to a prince?” Claire laughed as they began to walk again. Loki plucked a long stemmed rose from a vendors basket, offering it to her.

“You are refreshingly honest and utterly enchanting,” he said, admiring the red against her creamy skin as she smelled the flower. “I will confess I worried we would be ill-suited, or that you would be unattractive in some way. Even when we fight,” he chuckled. “I admire that you challenge me head on. Each time I think I have you figured out, you surprise me. I find myself appreciating each new thing I learn about you. I look forward to learning more about you in the years to come.” Oh my. Loki, coming in clutch with the silver tongue.

“I’m looking forward to that too,” Claire leaned against him, her cheeks beginning to hurt from smiling so much. Her smile faltered when their chaperones scolded them once again for being too close. She rolled her eyes as she took a step back from him. “Mostly I look forward to spending time with you, alone.”

“The feeling is mutual, my lady.” Loki chuckled. Claire giggled, twirling the rose between her fingertips before her face grew serious.

“Loki?”

“Hmm?”

“I know babies are expected at some point, but...how soon is soon? Do we get to enjoy being married for a little while first?”

“Is that what you want?”

“At least a year,” Claire chewed her bottom lip. “Maybe two? I like fun, but what about baby-free fun?”

“There are ways to avoid conception, my lady.”

“There are? Even here?”

“Of course. I am a master of seidr,” Loki replied. “It may be different from what you are used to on Midgard, but it will work just as effectively, if not more.”

“Whatever it is, sign me up,” Claire breathed a sigh of relief. “That’s okay, right?”

“Of course. Who am I to tell you what to do with your body?” Loki replied, smiling when Claire leaned her head against his shoulder. “I like the idea of being able to enjoy you without worry. We’ll decide together when the time is right.”

~~~~

“There you are,” Loki sighed in relief as he opened the door to her en-suite bathroom. “I came for our lesson and could not find you, and I...well, I worried.”Loki admitted sheepishly as he hid behind the door. He heard the water splash in the room beyond, and his body responded to knowing Claire was naked mere feet away.

“Are you supposed to be in here?” she laughed.

“Technically, I am not,” Loki replied cheekily, grinning when he heard her laugh. “I wanted to check on you. I know today was a lot for you.”She’d spent the morning perfecting her riding form, and the afternoon being drilled by all of her instructors, each of them wanting to make sure she was flawless before the ceremony. It was draining and frustrating and while their outing to the market had been wonderful, Claire wanted to pull her hair out from the stress of it all.

“Oh god, don’t remind me,” Claire groaned, sinking deeper into the water. “I’m in a weird mood tonight.”

“What troubles you?”

“Lots of things.” Claire sighed heavily. “I don’t even know if I understand it myself.”

“Try me.”

“This is gonna sound nuts, but just stick with me, okay?” Claire pleaded. “I’ve really enjoyed getting to know you one-on-one. I’m feeling a lot more confident about signing up for this now that I know you better,” she smiled. “I enjoy our supervised dates too, but I like spending time with you without all the rules,” Loki smiled to himself, warmed by her admission. “I understand that all of this is pretty much a performance, like the circus. I know that in three days, there’s going to be a ton of people here to watch us get married and that’s fine.”

“But?”

“But I hate that all those people are going to see our first kiss,” Claire confessed. “Again, I understand we can’t break the rules and that our marriage is basically a spectacle, but I don’t want us to be a spectacle. Does that make sense?”

“I understand completely.”

“I know we can’t do anything to change it. I don’t want you to risk your safety, I just needed you to know how I’m feeling.”

“I’m honored you trust me with that knowledge.” Silence hung in the steamy air for a stretch, the only sound the rippling of the water. Loki sat on the opposite side of the door, sure to preserve her privacy but wanting to be nearby. He could sense that she needed him.

“Loki?” she called.

“Yes, darling?”

“Do you really think I can do this?” Claire asked softly.

“I was worried at first,” he admitted with a fond smile. “You were loud and brash and opinionated-”

“That’s me, baby- bold and brash,” Claire snickered from the water. “I understand the concern.”

“I no longer have it,” Loki admitted. He heard Claire jerk suddenly in the water- no doubt looking at the door as though he’d sprouted a second head. “Something you said struck a cord with me; that either you would walk beside me as an equal or not at all. We are different, you and I. We may not fit elsewhere but we fit each other. If you were the person you were expected to be, we would not. We will always be equals, this I promise. I am not saying you will not stumble, but I will be with you every step of the way,” Loki pledged. “I have no doubt that in time you will bring the entirety of Asgard to its knees.”

“Thank you. Are you included in that?” Claire asked. The question hung in the air until she snorted, bursting into laughter that echoed in the bathroom. “I’m sorry, you’re out there being serious and I’m making dirty jokes. Feelings make me uncomfortable.”

“I have that difficulty also,” Loki replied. “Would you want me on my knees?”

“I could be persuaded,” Claire chuckled. “I like a good challenge.”

“I shall keep that in mind.”

“Can you toss me my towel please?” Claire laughed from inside the bathroom. “I forgot to grab it before I got in.”

“Here,” Loki stepped into the room, careful to avert his eyes and tossed her towel into her outstretched hand. “I’m going to set up our lesson for tonight. Join me when you’re ready.”

Claire stepped into the main room a few minutes later, dressed comfortably in her pajama pants and an old S.H.I.E.L.D t-shirt. Loki had not set up for any lessons- it looked more like he’d prepared for a book club than anything else. A stack of books sat on the table, as well as the usual tray laden with snack foods.

“I thought you said you were setting up a lesson.”

“A clever ruse,” Loki grinned. “I thought perhaps we could simply spend time together. It has been a difficult day for you and you deserve a break.”

“That’s very thoughtful of you, thank you.”

“Of course,” Loki smiled as she sat on the couch beside him. “I wondered if I could ask you a question.”

“Shoot.”

“When you first arrived, you had-” Loki mimed monstrous claws, making Claire laugh. “You no longer have them.”

“Yeah, I took them off,” Claire replied. “I really just wanted to look a little scary, and the claws are a good way to do it.”

“Ah,” Loki nodded. He could see why she would want to appear intimidating. “And the hoop in your nose?”

“The hoop stays. It’s permanent,” Claire plucked lightly at the purple hoop. “I’ve had it for years. I got it when I was sixteen and man, was my mom mad,” she laughed. “I thought she was gonna spit fire.”

“Was that a talent of hers?”

“No, it’s just an expression,” Claire shook her head. “Although she was Puerto Rican and probably could have done it if she put her mind to it.”

“I see. Is that a nationality?”

“It is, actually. You’ll find Puerto Ricans of all ethnic backgrounds, but she was born on the island. Her parents moved to the United States when she was a kid. That’s where I was born.”

“In LA?”

“Yeah. Los Angeles, or LA for short, is in California on the west coast of my country. I lived there until I was sixteen.”

“Would I be correct in assuming that is when you lost your mother?” Claire nodded.

“Yes. Phil took me in after that, and I went to the S.H.I.E.L.D academy, then I was out in the field within a couple of years.”

“And you’ve done nothing else?”

“Hey, my career is nothing to sneeze at. I had to work very hard to get to where I was,” Claire said defensively. “The S.H.I.E.L.D academy trains kids from a very early age, but I was able to pass their tests and get in late. I broke tons of records there, both at the academy and in the field. I’ve been to places most people couldn’t even dream of visiting.”

“Asgard included.” Claire laughed despite herself.

“Yes, Asgard included. You could probably make a killing in the tourism trade.”

“We have enough money, darling, believe me,” Loki chuckled. “Please, help yourself to something.” he held out the plate of snacks.

“What book are you reading?” Claire asked as she helped herself to a fruit tart. Loki produced a thick text on philosophy, already marked by a book mark.

“I am trying to refine my argument for the next council meeting,” he explained. “What will you read?”

“I’m reading a history of Asgard.”

“Your tutors will be pleased.” Loki chuckled as Claire scooted closer.

Loki set the snacks between them as they both settled in to read their books.

~~~~

Claire closed her book once she’d finished her chapter; the question niggling in her brain demanding to be aired.

“I have a question.”

“Of course,” Loki put aside the book he was reading from to look at her. “What is it?”

“So I understand that people aren't supposed to touch members of the royal family. Am I included in that?”

“You are,” Loki nodded. “Even though we are not yet wed, you are my intended and that courtesy ought to be extended to you as it is to me.”

“And if it isn't?” Claire had though she’d seen Loki angry. She'd seen him annoyed, when he'd told off the crones or when they bickered, and he’d been furious after the glitter bomb incident, but this was different. His eyes darkened and his jaw tightened, a muscle ticking as he clenched his teeth.

“Give me a name.”

“I don't think it's that serious.”

“You said someone touched you. Or at least implied it. Who?”

“Why?”

“Why?” Loki balked. “I assume this cretin is still breathing. I intend to put a stop to that,” Claire couldn't help but smile. “You laugh, my lady, but this is no laughing matter.”

“No, you're right, sorry,” Claire nodded. “But why don't you let me handle it? I was really just asking for clarification.”

“Is that what you want? To handle it personally?”

“I think it would be best.”

“Do you not trust me?”

“It's not that,” Claire shook her head. “But we're getting married in a matter of days and I imagine this will cause a stir. The last thing we need is a scene.”

“I am capable of discretion,” Loki scoffed, clearly offended. “Honestly.”

“Loki, why do I feel like if you had your way, I would have a dead body outside my door?”

“Seems reasonable to me,” Loki shrugged. “Would that upset your delicate sensibilities?” He asked darkly.

“Of course not; I’m hardly a stranger to dead bodies. But I'd prefer if our marriage didn't start with one or both of us in prison.”

“You're no fun.” Loki purred.

“I'm plenty of fun. You'll find out exactly how much in three days.”

“Hmm,” The deep rumble from his chest made Claire's insides turn to goo. Fuck, she wanted him. The fact he offered to kill for her...it sent a dark thrill down her spine. He shot to his feet, preparing to leave. “I will ensure there is additional security at your door. I should-”

“Can I give you a hug?” Claire asked abruptly. Loki paused, surprised by her question.

“You may.” He grunted when she squeezed him around the middle, pressing her face into his chest. Loki stood awkwardly as she embraced him without fear. He couldn't remember the last time...

“I knew it.”

“What?”

“We fit.” Claire murmured, practically purring with contentment as Loki's arms wrapped around her. His head came to rest on hers as he pulled her tightly against him. His heartbeat was steady and comforting in her ear, his body molded perfectly to hers as his chest rose and fell. This was the most they had touched since meeting, and Claire adored the feeling of his solid form against her body, as though he were the anchor to her ship lost at sea.

“Are you certain you wish to handle-”

“Yes,” Claire said stubbornly, keeping her face buried in his chest. “But if I need help, I'll tag you in.”

“How shall you handle it?”

“I'll beat him up, obviously.” Claire giggled.

“I would very much like to see that.” Loki replied.

“You like the fact that I can defend myself, don’t you?”

“I do indeed,” Loki chuckled. “I’ll admit, I’ve thought of it often since our fight on the training field.”

“I still want that rematch.”

“You shall have it. For now I shall have to hope that I can see you dispense justice to whichever lout dared to put a hand on you.” Claire laughed as she shifted her weight, grinning when she felt what was hiding in his pants.

“Is that a roll of quarters in your pocket or are you just excited to see me?” Claire snickered. Loki sighed in exasperation.

“Is this how life is to be with you? Hmm?” He jostled her playfully, making her laugh. “You tease me relentlessly then mock me for reacting?”

“For now,” Claire said apologetically. “Sorry, I can't do anything to help.” She wasn’t sorry at all.

“You are a dreadful menace. Go to bed, you little imp,” Loki huffed without ire, pulling away from her. “I shall see you in the morning.”

“Think sexy thoughts about me, k?” Loki laughed, his tongue flashing as he licked his lips. He grinned down at her, every inch a predator observing his prey, and Claire could have come on the spot.

“Darling, all of my thoughts are about you. Especially when I bring myself to release.” He growled, hands fisting in her clothes as he pulled her back into his chest, and Claire desperately wanted to feel his hands on her bare skin.

“I think about you too.” She confessed, shivering with delight when he backed her up against the nearest wall.

“Your pupils are dilated,” he noted as he towered over her. “I would wager if I touched you, you would be wet for me.”

“You're welcome to,” Claire challenged. “Or are we still pretending we're following the rules?” Loki growled as the neckline of her dress slipped lower, exposing unseen flesh to his desperate gaze. “Wait, can you lift me?” Loki furrowed his brows at the silly question. Of course he could. He lifted her effortlessly, stepping between her parted thighs with a growl. Claire sighed sweetly as he took her weight, her lithe arms closing behind his neck.

“Better?” He asked softly, his lips a mere inch from hers. It would be so easy to break the rules and kiss her, claim her until she begged him for sweet release.

“I've been thinking how I wanted to fuck you first after we're married,” nimble fingers combed through his hair, and Loki melted into the affection. “This is pretty high on the list.” Claire sighed, wrapping a lock of his hair around her finger as she squeezed his waist with her delectable thighs. Even though she was fully clothed, Loki could feel the heat of her skin through the cloth of her dress and it was driving him mad. Loki grunted with want and his cock throbbed between her legs. The whimper that escaped her nearly drove him to his knees. He dropped his head to her shoulder, inhaling her intoxicating scent as his eyes drifted closed.

“Sometimes,” he swallowed nervously. “I worry this is all a dream and I will wake to find myself still locked in that accursed cell,” He longed to sink his teeth into her flesh and mark her for all to see, but to do it now would have grave consequences. “I should go while I can still think clearly.” Claire brushed his hair back gently, clinging to him as he gingerly set her back on her feet. His hands trailed up her body, giving her goosebumps. He clasped her hand and gave the softest kiss to her knuckles, his eyes burning into hers as he put all his longing into his kiss. He pulled away, but pressed another kiss to her forearm as his other arm held her against him.

Holy shit. He was doing the Gomez thing. Without her asking! Claire was pretty sure he didn't even know who Gomez Addams was. His mouth burned with promise as he laid another kiss at the delicate fold of her arm. Claire's eyes were half closed with pleasure as he blazed a scorching trail along the heated nerves of her skin, kissing at her bicep and again at her shoulder. Claire's knees went weak as his lips pressed to the curve of her neck, only remaining upright thanks to his tightened grip when she wilted. Loki's tongue darted out to taste her flushed skin, teasing her with the sharp tip of his canines.

“Loki,” she pleaded breathlessly. “You should leave before I tie you to the bed.”

“Such promises, darling,” he murmured, pressing a final kiss to her neck before pulling away. “Are you sure you can stand?”

“Shut up,” Claire laughed. “Fuckin' neck kisses get me every time.”

“I shan't forget,” Loki promised, enjoying the needy way she grabbed his sleeves when he leaned in to kiss her. He didn't fully press his lips to hers, enjoying the dizzying pull of her mouth. She was utterly enchanting, sapphire eyes closed and cheeks flushed. “How could I with such a lovely reaction?” He released her, grinning when she groaned with want. “I shall take my leave. Good night, my lady.” Though his words were formal, his tone was anything but. This wasn't him testing her knowledge again. He was claiming her.

“Good night, my lord,” Claire replied. She welcomed the claim, and returned it. “I hate these rules.”

“As do I,” Loki said. “Though I believe it is past the midnight hour now. Two more days and you shall be mine.” Claire groaned, wishing time would hurry up and pass already.

“Two more days.” She sighed as the handmaiden replaced Loki. The guard at her door nodded in greeting when the massive door opened, and she waved at him as Loki slash the handmaiden strolled past him without incident. Frustrated, Claire began making mental plans to have a steamy bath before bed. She knew she should have packed more toys.

Two days until the wedding

“Good morning, darlings! A fabulous day awaits you- your guests arrive shortly and the wedding games will begin tomorrow!” Frigga greeted Claire and Loki in the great hall during breakfast. “Eat quickly; you must approve all the final touches before the guests arrive.” The couple shared a knowing glance. This was undoubtedly the last bit of calm they would have for the next few days.

~~~~

After giving final approval of the seating arrangements, decorations, and the various menus of the coming feasts, Claire and Loki retreated to the garden with Frigga for tea. Frigga was practically vibrating with excitement as they rested before the madness truly began. The first official wedding event, the opening feast, would take place in a matter of hours.

“Mother,” Loki began as Claire nursed her cup of tea. “I wonder if I could ask something of you.”

“Of course, my darling,” Frigga patted his hand fondly. “What do you need?” Loki glanced at Claire before turning back to Frigga.

“I wondered if Claire and I could have just a moment alone.” he asked. Frigga challenged him with a raised brow, staring at him pensively over the rim of her teacup.

“More than you’ve already had?” she asked. Loki and Claire both froze, Claire choking on her tea and beginning to cough. “Relax, my darlings-”

“We haven’t broken the rules!” Claire said urgently.

“I’ve been helping Claire prepare for her role, nothing more,” Loki added. “Mother-”

“Hush,” Frigga said calmly as she straightened in her chair. “I already know this.”

“You do?”

“Darling girl,” Frigga scoffed gently as she pierced Claire with her knowing gaze. “You made a rather drastic improvement without warning. It was obvious you had assistance. And simultaneously, by some miracle, Loki’s outlook also began to improve. It was not difficult to discern what was happening,” she smirked, glancing between the pair. “I am no fool; I have raised two sons to adulthood. But results are results, and I was glad to see you happy,” she smiled at Loki. “And to see you faring better.” she extended a hand to Claire.

“Mother-”

“If you did not break any additional rules, it shall remain our secret.” Frigga promised.

“We have not.”

“The risk isn’t worth it,” Claire added, warming Loki with her sincerity. “We both understand the rules and the reason behind them. We’re both doing this for bigger reasons than ourselves, and we understand we will largely be in the public eye. We just didn’t want the start of our physical relationship to be the same way.”

“Ah,” Frigga nodded in understanding. “As someone who did not meet her husband until we arrived at the altar, I completely understand.”

“Would you allow it?” Loki asked. Frigga said nothing, bridging her fingers in front of her tea cup as she stared them down. Claire was used to being under scrutiny, under threat of death, but her future mother-in-law’s discerning gaze made her sweat.

“I will cover for you for exactly five minutes,” she finally agreed, relaxing and taking a sip of tea. “I am trusting you to follow the other rules as you have until now.”

“Thank you, mother.” Loki got to his feet and offered Claire his hand. Claire grinned and took it, letting him lead her away from the table.

“What shall we discuss in our time together?” Frigga asked as they disappeared into the garden. Claire looked back to see Frigga chatting with mirror images of the two of them.

“Your mom is awesome,” Claire laughed as they made their way deeper into the thick of the garden. “Can you do that too?”

“I can,” Loki replied as they came upon a lush willow tree. Loki tugged her beneath the tree’s canopy, the long leafy boughs shielding them from any passersby. “I could show you, if you wanted. But is that really how you wish to spend our limited time together?”

“Nah, I’ll take a rain check. I’d rather kiss you stupid.” Claire let him press her against the tree.

“You, kiss me stupid?” Loki scoffed as he towered over her. His gaze dropped to her lush lips as he leaned closer, his arm snaking around her waist. “You’re rather confident for someone who gets weak in the knees when I merely kiss your hand.”

“Shut up,” Claire giggled. “I’ll have you know I’m quite the ball-buster back home. You should be flattered.” She poked a finger in his chest, flattening her palm against him as he stepped even closer. They were chest to chest now, and Claire’s heart was thundering in her ears. Loki looked so handsome she wanted to eat him alive.

“Who says I’m not?” he purred. His lips hovered over hers teasingly, both of them drunk on the delectable liquor of finally being able to touch. Tired of waiting, Claire cupped the back of his neck and pulled Loki down, sighing happily as he crowded her against the tree. The kisses on her knuckles had alluded to Loki’s skill, but this was a different experience with all new thrills. His lips were soft and warm, and she could faintly taste the tea he’d sipped before they’d escaped. After being denied any sort of touch for so long, Claire wanted to remember everything.

Loki licked at her lips, humming with delight when she pulled him closer. Their shared breath became heated as they both fought the urge to tear off the offending clothing between them. His long fingers grasped at the material of her dress, tugging her against him insistently.

Loki’s hair was soft and looped easily around her fingers as she sank her hands into the tresses. Claire pulled away long enough to work her fingers beneath his collar, gasping when his large hand groped at her breast. Loki reclaimed her mouth, making her dizzy with want as he made love to her with his tongue. Unlike other men she’d kissed, Loki didn’t shove his tongue down her throat. Instead, he stoked her desire with measured teasing strokes that had her insides melting and her knees quaking.

Loki pulled away from her reluctantly, supporting her weight with a knowing smile.

“Do you feel better?” he asked softly.

“Much better.” Claire smiled up at him, soaking up the feel of him pressed against her as he kissed her forehead. He wrapped his arms around her, tucking her under his chin as she hugged him tightly. She could feel his pulse racing in his throat, and felt a wave of satisfaction that he was just as affected as she was.

“This was an excellent idea,” he murmured. “It may be difficult to steal moments like these once we are both entrenched in our duties, but I would like to-”

“I’d like that too. I know all this-” Claire gestured beyond the tree’s hanging boughs. “Is mostly a performance for others, but this is private.” She wound their fingers together, clasping their hands tightly.

“It shall stay that way. I am a very private person.”

“I’ve noticed,” Claire smiled. “But I agree. I don’t share well.” she hummed with satisfaction as he kissed her again, her eyes slipping closed as she wrapped her arms around his shoulders.

“You’ll never share me, little wife. I am yours as you are mine,” Loki promised softly. “We should return,” he ran his hand down her arm, lifting her knuckles to his mouth before dotting kisses upon her wrist and forearm. “We are overdue.”

“If you keep doing that, you’re gonna have to carry me.” Claire murmured as his lips caressed the exposed skin at her inner elbow.

“Are you unwell?” he gave a teasing smirk when a whimper escaped her. It was unfair, honestly, how a simple kiss could make her clit throb with need. He traced his lips along her skin, pressing more kisses inside the sleeve openings at her bicep and at her shoulder. His warm breath caressed her skin delicately as he clutched possessively at her waist. “Perhaps I can help,” he placed another kiss upon her collar bone, searing her flesh and making desire flood her veins. “Better?” he breathed against her flushed skin, grinning mischievously when she clutched him to her. “Your scent...it shall drive me mad.” he murmured as he nosed at her neck, peppering kisses upon her skin and making her writhe against him.

“Loki-”

“Gods, I cannot wait to make you fall apart beneath me,” he licked at her skin, drawing the tender flesh between his teeth as her nails dug into his shoulders. “We shall have endless amounts of fun together.”

Approaching footsteps pulled their attention from each other and they sprung apart. The skin at Claire’s neck smarted delightfully, but any mark would have given them away instantly. Loki soothed the skin with a brush of his thumb, using seidr to remove the faint mark he’d left behind.

“Thanks.” Claire grabbed his hand appreciatively, grateful he’d thought about it.

“Of course.” the couple shared a secretive smile as they emerged from under the tree to see Frigga approaching them. The queen took in their flushed faces and smiles before giving them a knowing look.

“There you are, my darlings. I trust all is well?”

“Very well, Mother. Thank you.”

“Of course. Now! Let us finish our walk before I must turn you over to the mercy of your guests.” she winked at them, gesturing for them to walk ahead of her on the cobblestone path.

“My lady?” Loki offered Claire his arm. Claire looped her arm through his, knocking into him gently with her hip. Loki looked at her with surprise before he knocked into her with his hip. Claire bumped into him again, making him stumble slightly. Frigga looked in with mild concern as Loki bumped into her harder, her concern giving way as the two burst into giggles. The pair took off down the path, shrieking with laughter and wearing matching smiles as Frigga trailed behind them with a smile of her own.

~~~~

After their interlude in the garden, Claire and Loki were ushered to their respective chambers to get ready for the guests arrival. Claire felt like she was floating on air, chitchatting with Ragna as they walked.

All through her preparation, as her hair was combed within an inch of its life, her nails buffed until they gleamed, and her lips painted with a shimmery gloss, the feeling remained. Looking in the mirror, Claire saw not just herself, but a respectable lady. Someone in love.

Was it too early to call it that? Claire had long since given up on any meaningful connection, but Loki had found a way past her defenses in such a short time that it frightened her a little.

Okay, a lot.

But wasn’t that part of love? Didn’t it make you feel like you could fly, but also like you were a ship about to be dashed upon the rocky shore?

“Lady Claire?” Ragna caught her attention with a gentle hand on her shoulder. “It’s time.”

“Right,” Claire took a deep breath, looking back at her reflection in the mirror. She didn’t have any answers, but maybe this was one of those things you just have to go through. She felt confident that because of their bond, she and Loki would work well together, and hopefully, be happy for years to come. “I’m ready.”

~~~~

Claire arrived in the throne room shortly after Loki, who looked devastatingly handsome in his formal leathers and cape. Claire’s intrusive thoughts wanted her to hug him from behind and bury her face between his shoulder blades. She settled for complimenting him since they were under heavy surveillance still.

“You look so fancy,” she murmured as she stepped up beside him. “No helmet today?”

“Not today, darling, you must be serious for once.”

“I can be serious.” Claire argued. Loki shot her a skeptical look. Claire made a silly face at him, catching him off guard and making him laugh. Behind Claire, Frigga made a stern face at the both of them, silently warning them to behave. This only served to make the pair laugh harder despite their best attempts to quiet down. The large doors opened, revealing the sea of people who’d come to see them. Claire’s stomach dropped, her anxiety suddenly dialed up to eleven. What if she did something stupid? What if she didn’t look the part?

“Don’t fuss, darling,” Loki said gently, squeezing her hand and preventing her from picking at her pristine nails. “You can do this.” he reassured her in the quiet before the storm.

“Thank you.” Claire squeezed back, grateful that he had noticed her distress, and that he had stepped in to soothe her.

“You’re welcome. Now chin up. You look lovely, and I know how confident you are,” he smiled. “Act like it.” he gave her hand another squeeze before the first guest approached. People were still spilling into the room, the line of guests to be greeted growing longer and longer. Loki stood at the head of their receiving line to Claire’s left, while Frigga and finally Odin stood to her right. Claire had assumed that the king and queen would greet the guests first, but Frigga had explained that the majority of the guests were allies of Asgard and therefore would come to pay respect to Odin, but also Loki and her by extension. Because they were the ones being celebrated, they would greet the guests first.

As a staff member told Loki the names of the first guests, Claire had a thought that maybe she should have binged The Crown before she came to Asgard. It probably would have been at least a little helpful.

She’d certainly get her curtsy down pat after today.

~~~~

Good God, was there any end to this line?! Claire felt as though she’d met enough people to fill an entire stadium. Her hands ached from shaking so many, her face hurt from the smile she had plastered on, her feet were screaming at her from inside the shoes she wore. She just wanted this to end.

“I didn’t realize you would be coming!” Claire exclaimed as she saw a group of familiar faces approaching Loki. “It’s so nice to see all of you.”

“Please,” Tony said, holding up a hand to stop her. “Don’t get too emotional, I’m a person just like you. Actually I take that back-” He grunted when his wife smacked him in the ribs.

“Ignore him,” the blonde said with a small smile. “I’m Pepper.” She offered her hand for Claire to take.

“Oh hi!” Claire said excitedly. “I’ve heard lots of great things about you; it’s nice to finally meet you.”

“You too. Congratulations.”

“Thank you.”

“Hey, Rock of Ages, how’s it going?” Tony asked casually, unfazed by Loki’s glare as he held out his hand.

“How do you think?” he asked harshly, pointedly ignoring Tony’s hand.

“It’s just a question, buddy, relax. Congratulations.” Tony retracted his hand. A muscle ticked in Loki’s jaw as he clenched his fists. Beside Tony, Pepper facepalmed.

“Thank you.” Loki replied tersely as the couple continued down the line to greet Frigga. Steve stood waiting to greet Loki, along with Anja and a brunette man Claire didn’t recognize.

“Loki.” Steve offered his hand as he stepped in front of Loki.

“Rogers.” Loki shared a tense smile with the captain, squeezing his hand tightly. He released the captain after the appropriate amount of time, allowing him to sidestep and greet Claire.

“Hi Cla-”

“Captain,” Claire said icily. She still hadn’t forgiven Steve for choosing Rollins over her for the STRIKE team several years ago. “Thank you for coming.”

“Of course, thank you for the invitation,” Steve nodded politely. “Congratulations.” Steve stepped aside to greet Frigga, allowing Claire to observe Loki and Anja’s interaction.

“-Not being incarcerated has done wonders for me,” Loki said warmly. “Thank you for asking.”

“Of course,” Anja replied. “I’m glad you’re doing better.” she gave Loki a warm smile before stepping over to greet Claire.

“Shadow, right?” Claire asked, taking her hand.

“That’s me,” Anja smiled. “I’m your uncles favorite.” She stage whispered.

“Don’t let her lie, I’m his favorite.” Tony objected from further down the line. Frigga looked at him quizzically.

“I’m sure,” Claire giggled as Pepper dragged Tony away from Frigga to greet Odin. She turned back to Anja, clasping her hand in her own. “Thank you for coming.”

“Of course! I love weddings, and this place is gorg-eous!” Anja sang. “Congratulations. This is my husband Bucky.” she gestured to the dark haired man beside her.

“Hi.” Claire shook his hand too.

“Oh, hi. I thought-” Claire glanced at Steve, her head cocked in confusion.

“I got a two-fer,” Anja grinned. “Our rabbi is very modern.”

“Oh, right on!” Claire laughed. Kudos to Anja for bagging two hot relics. “Thanks for coming.”

“Thanks for inviting us.” Bucky replied, shaking her hand before the throuple moved down the line.

Bruce and a brunette woman Claire didn’t recognize stepped in front of Loki. The tension between Bruce and Loki was instantly palpable and everyone seemed to take a collective breath as the two stared each other down. Claire remembered from the file in her room that Hulk had thrown Loki around Avengers tower like a rag doll. Yikes. Talk about awkward. After a moment, Bruce offered a hand shake in a show of peace. Loki glanced down at his hand and up to Bruce, pausing briefly before taking his hand grudgingly.

“Hi, Claire,” Bruce said softly as they stepped in front of her. “This is my wife Darcy.”

“Hi there!” Darcy chimed in brightly. Claire smiled back at them and shook their hands, thanking them for coming. The couple seemed to balance each other; where Bruce was reserved, Darcy was exuberant.

“Uh…congratulations.” Bruce offered meekly.

“This must be so awkward for the both of you,” Darcy said gently. “No offense, arranged marriage just seems so...eek.”

“It was at first,” Claire chuckled. “It’s gotten better.” Darcy patted her hand comfortingly.

“Good, good. I hope your first child is a masculine child.” Darcy spoke with gravitas, in a perfect impression of Luca Brasi. Claire curled her lips inward to contain her laughter. She liked Darcy. They would have been good friends.

“Thanks Darcy.” Claire finally managed. Loki looked on with confusion as Darcy curtsied before moving on to greet Frigga.

“What was that girl talking about?” he leaned close to ask.

“It was a movie reference, dear, I’ll explain later.” Claire snickered as Thor appeared (finally), at the end of the line. Claire was overjoyed to see the president of her home country bringing up the rear of the line as she’d asked, sulking like a spoiled child just as she’d known he would. She’d known he couldn’t be uninvited for the sake of appearances, of course, but he was no doubt the furthest from where he wanted to be. If Claire knew the slimy bastard like she thought she did, he was surely hoping to use the occasion for some peacocking.

“Welcome to Asgard,” Loki greeted the man politely, as if he hadn’t suggested the man’s miserable place in the line. “I trust your accommodations are to your liking?”

“Yes, yes, very fine,” the man mumbled. “Not as nice as my resort, but very fine.” Loki glanced over to Claire with a pointed look that clearly meant Is this fool serious? Claire arched her brow in response.

Yes. Unfortunately.

Loki’s brow ticked just slightly, as if to say I see.

“We will do everything we can to make your time in Asgard more comfortable. We appreciate you coming.” Loki said diplomatically.

“Congratulations,” the man mumbled, ambling over to Claire with an awkward gait. “I’d love to meet while I’m here-” he wheezed, sticking out his small hand for Claire to shake. “Get your opinion on a couple things.”

“That depends,” Claire replied coolly, pointedly ignoring his tiny hand. “Are you actually interested in what I have to say, or are you hoping I’ll fix the next election to keep you in power?” Loki glanced at her with giddy interest, delighted to see her sink her claws into her prey. The puny man grew red in the face and withdrew his hand.

“I won fair and square.”

“I’m sure,” Claire said placidly. “I’m also sure we can both agree that Asgard is a far more powerful ally than Russia.”

“Maybe we can work something out. You’re from the States, after all.”

“Be that as it may, I won’t be interceding on your behalf. You’ll have to get by on your own merit, if you’re able.”

“I’m more than able- the most able,” the man insisted. “I can make things very difficult for you.”

“Can you even reach my shoulders?” Claire scoffed. “I will not be blackmailed by some ineffectual, privileged, effete, soft-penised debutante. You want to start a street fight with me; bring it on, but you're gonna be surprised by how ugly it gets. You don't even know my name,” she sneered, leaning into the man’s space and making him shrink back. “I'm the fucking lizard king.”

Gods, she was magnificent. Was this what love felt like? Loki would have gladly given her anything she desired in that moment.

Several emotions flickered across the mans face; fear, indignation, embarrassment, and finally, rage. He looked comical with his wide eyes, his eye sockets two large circles of white amidst the rest of his carrot-orange face. He mumbled something unintelligible to Claire and beat a hasty retreat.

“That is the leader of your country?” Loki leaned in to scoff. “Why is he orange?” his lip curled in disgust as he watched the odious man greet Frigga and Odin, his off-colored lips flapping as he no doubt said something offensive.

“He insists it’s a tan.”

“He is delusional,” Loki muttered. “He looks like a sunburnt Krylorian,” Claire couldn’t have contained her laughter if she tried. She did manage to reign it in, but only after the butt of their private joke glared at her. “Oh dear, I think you’re in trouble darling.”

“Oh my god, stop,” Claire cackled, slapping at him ineffectually, as he continued to mock the short man and make her laugh. “You’re going to get us in trouble.”

“You don’t need my help for that, menace,” Loki said with pride, pulling her against him with an arm around her waist. “You’ve sent him running like a frightened dog. But what exactly is a lizard king?” Claire laughed again.

“It’s a quote from a tv show,” she replied as Thor arrived, heralding at last the end of the parade of guests. “Don’t worry, I’m not in any competing lines of succession.”

“Good to know,” Loki chuckled. “I should hate for anything to derail our big day.”

“Looking forward to it, are you?” Claire asked teasingly as he offered her his arm to lead her to the great hall. A long night of feasting, drinking and dancing with their guests awaited them, and Claire for one was very excited.

“It would be a pity if it didn’t happen. Everyone is already here, after all.” Loki murmured, pleased beyond measure when she laughed and let her head drop onto his shoulder. No one else quite grasped his sense of humor like she did. It made him feel something he couldn’t quite name but whatever it was, he knew he wanted to feel it always.

~~~~

Claire sank into the water with a groan of delight, overjoyed to soak her aching feet after such a long night. The opening feast was still in full swing in the great hall, but having accomplished everything she’d wanted to for the night, Claire had made an excuse to go to bed early.

She turned toward the open door as a creak sounded from outside it, smiling to herself. It could only be one person.

“You left early too?” she called.

“It was rather dull without you,” Loki replied from his post beyond the door. “Are you alright?”

“Yeah I’m fine,” Claire laughed. “People think women are fragile so I was able to make an easy exit. Did I miss anything?”

“Not really. Things quieted down after your country’s...leader was separated from the captain and sergeant.” Claire snorted as she wet her hair in the steaming water.

“That’s probably for the best,” she cackled. “I can’t believe he had the nerve to ask them to take a photo with him,” her head shot up as a foul thought occurred to her. “You don’t think he’ll ask us for one, do you?”

“If he does, we’ll simply say no,” Loki chuckled. “I have no qualms about upsetting such a...how should I describe him?”

“An idiot?”

“Yes, that will do,” Loki agreed. “I have no qualms about upsetting an idiot,” The pair laughed together for a moment as they thought of the bumbling man downstairs. “Were you pleased by tonight’s event?”

“Oh yes, everything was wonderful! I am so full, I couldn’t eat another bite, but the food was so good I want more.”

“What of our guests? I saw you flitting about.”

“I’ll admit I had a bit of an agenda,” Claire laughed. “There were several politicians I wanted to talk to, and it was the perfect opportunity to pick their brains.”

“Did you manage to catch everyone you wished to speak to?”

“Yes! I was most excited to speak to Angela Merkel- she’s the first female chancellor of Germany; and Michelle Obama! Ah, such a remarkable woman, I really admire her. I asked her for leadership advice.”

“And did she give any?”

“Oh yes,” Claire sighed happily. “I don’t know how much I’ll be leading here, but I’d like to be like her. She’s very intelligent. Resilient. Level-headed and compassionate. She really cares about people.”

“I’m sure you’ll find opportunity,” Loki smiled. “Did you speak with anyone else?”

“Yes, I can’t believe I forgot to tell you!” Claire squealed excitedly. “Let it be known that, I, Claire Fisher, a lowly S.H.I.E.L.D agent and childhood resident of Compton, spoke to the QUEEN OF ENGLAND!”

“I had no idea you would be so excited about this,” Loki laughed, charmed by her enthusiasm. “Did she meet your expectations?”

“YES!” Claire squealed. “She was wonderful! She gave me leadership advice- and some marriage advice- and she’s SO funny! I love her so much, Loki, I never want her to leave.” Loki laughed heartily at that.

“Eventually we must let her go home, darling.”

“Oh alright, fine, she can leave.” Claire replied grumpily, sulking deeper into the water. She began to rub body wash into her skin, filling the humid air with the scent.

“What is that?” Loki asked. “That smell.” It smelled of intoxicating sweet flowers and musk.

“It’s body wash. In the Stars, from Bath and Body Works. It was a gift from my friends you met. FitzSimmons?”

“Ah yes, the scientists. I would have liked to speak to them more.”

“You should; I think you’d get along,” Claire smiled. “Anyway, they made me a going-away gift of self-care items and makeup. All of the scents are space or astronomy themed, which is so on brand for both of them. They also gave me all the lipsticks you’re so fond of.”

“I shall endeavor to thank them,” Loki smiled. “I assume you know them from S.H.I.E.L.D., but how did your role correlate to theirs?”

“Ah, well, as scientists, they would develop weapons and gear and whatnot, and every so often I would get to test their new toys in the field. They made a plasma cannon once that sadly did not get the final approval from the higher ups, but it was fun to play with.”

“I can imagine it was quite destructive.”

“Yeah, I spent a week filling out damage reports,” Claire cringed. “Still, it was disappointing to see it scrapped,” the pair fell into easy silence as Claire continued to scrub her skin. “Loki?”

“Yes?”

“Tell me about one of your disappointments.” the loaded request sat heavy on Loki’s shoulders. It was a request to be vulnerable, and Loki wondered how far he was willing to let his guard down where Claire was concerned.

“When I was a boy- well...I was at an odd stage- not quite a man, but no longer a boy- I had a very exciting opportunity to study some insects that were on the brink of extinction. I have always preferred my studies to the practices of Odin and Thor, but this was an exceptional chance to study creatures that were vastly important to their ecosystems. For whatever reason, it was nearly impossible to get them to breed, and so their numbers dwindled, and dwindled, until finally, there were only two males and one female left.”

“That does sound interesting.”

“My tutor was one of the utmost experts in the field, and whether by design or luck, he came into possession of these three beetles. For weeks we studied them, and my days were consumed with them. I felt...a kinship of sorts with them, because they were the last of their kind, and I was- I am- an outsider. I wondered whether they could feel, or perhaps even shared, my profound sense of isolation.”

“Oh, honey…”

“One day, Odin stormed into my daily lessons, demanding to know why I was not on the training field with Thor. I tried to explain what my tutor and I were attempting, but he would not listen. He cared only that I was neglecting my training. I should mention that military service is compulsory at one’s majority, which was rapidly approaching for me at that time. He meant well-”

“That doesn’t matter. Your studies were important too,” Claire replied. “What happened?”

“Odin crushed the female,” Loki said softly. “He then told me it no longer mattered and since the beetles were doomed, I would be better served focusing on what did matter. He dragged me to the training field and made me stay there for hours.”

“Jesus.”

“At one point I collapsed, because I had been in the hot sun for so long without food or water. Odin instructed one of the older boys to dump water on me, and when I woke, I was told I was pathetic and not fit to serve in the infantry, let alone as an officer.”

“That’s horrible.”

“Yes, well...I cannot isolate the time I learned how little I mattered to Odin into a single memory; it is a running theme of which he enjoys reminding me.”

“I’m so sorry, Loki. No one deserves to feel that way,” Claire said angrily. “For what it’s worth, you matter to me.” Silence fell once again as Loki wrapped his arms around himself on the other side of the door.

“Thank you.” he murmured after a beat.

“Would you like to know my disappointment?” Claire asked softly.

“Yes, of course.”

“In one of our first meetings, when we were talking about my-” Claire laughed. “My parentage was questionable at best, I believe were your words.”

“Which I regret.”

“That’s mine as well. That I don’t know who my father is. I don’t know what kind of person he is, what his favorite food is,” she said softly. “At least with Odin...you know what color his eyes are, what tea he likes.”

“Is it worse to know, or not to know?” Loki asked somberly.

“I don’t have an answer to that.”

“Hmm,” Loki said absently. “Finish your bath, darling. Meet me on the lounge when you’re ready.” he withdrew quickly, needing a moment alone to collect himself. Claire let him go, already knowing what he needed. She needed it too.

She finished her bath quickly, wrapping her hair in the towel after slipping into her pajamas. She stepped out to find Loki stretched out on the couch with his eyes closed.

“Scoot over.” Claire nudged him gently as she reached the couch, settling beside him when he scooted to make room.

“That is a rather daring head piece,” Loki squinted at her. “You’ll make quite a statement at court.”

“Shut up,” Claire laughed. “I’m not gonna snuggle with you if you’re gonna make fun of me.”

“I wouldn’t dream of it, darling,” came the chuckled reply. “What was the marriage advice? From the queen of England?” he asked as they settled on the couch facing each other. Claire laughed softly, smothering her mirth in the pillow beneath her head.

“To find little moments to share, so that even when the job prevents big moments from happening, you have something to hold onto.”

“That is...rather honest.”

“I was going to invite you to join me in the bath, but I knew you would say no,” Claire murmured, glancing over at him. “These rules are dumb; we’re breaking several right now.”

“Indeed we are,” Loki purred. “Less than forty-eight hours to go, little wife.” Claire giggled as she stretched out alongside him.

“Stay for a little while?” Claire asked as tiredness washed over her. Her eyes fluttered closed and she reached for him, tugging him closer with a hand on his hip.

“Of course.”

~~~~

Loki wasn’t sure what woke him, but he quickly realized he’d stayed far too long. The fire had died down, the dying embers casting a faint glow about the dark room. Claire lay tucked into his side, her warm body pressed deliciously close. Her hands clutched his bare skin, having wormed beneath his clothes as they slept.

“Norns,” Loki swore under his breath as he spied the blue tinge on the horizon. As much as he was enjoying their current predicament, he needed to leave. “Darling, I have to go.”

“Did we sleep too long?” Claire mumbled.

“A little. Get to bed, little wife.” Claire hummed when Loki kissed her forehead.

“Wait, let me walk you out,” Claire mumbled as she got to her feet. She rubbed her tired eyes as Loki stretched. Claire seized the opportunity and hugged him, nuzzling her face into his chest as he returned her affection. “I wish you could stay.”

“I shall see you in just a few hours, darling. Will you miss me terribly?” Claire nodded, eyes slipping closed as he squeezed her tightly.

“Yes,” Claire’s voice was muffled against his chest. “See you soon.”

“Sleep well, my darling,” Loki leaned down to kiss her forehead, but he was taken by surprise when Claire rose up to her tiptoes to kiss him. She wound her arms around his neck, pulling him in with the spell she cast. Loki let himself be pulled in, any argument dying as his hands skirted beneath her clothes. His fingers danced along her skin, palms bracketing her ribs as his thumbs just grazed the swell of her breasts. “Claire-”

“Sorry, not sorry,” Claire sighed as she released him, trailing her hands through his curly hair before she fully let him go. “I couldn’t help myself.” she grinned mischievously as he brushed her wild hair from her face. Miraculously, her still-damp towel was still on her head, but several locks of hair had escaped.

“Good night,” Loki drew both her hands to his lips and kissed her knuckles. “See you soon.”