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asira-mizery · 1 month

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Trepidations of a District Boy (Sejanus/Marcus + OC)

***NOTE: this short drabble is apart of a longer fic i'm writing on ao3 that isn't centered on this ship (marcus/sejanus) but they've taken me by storm and I just had to write something. i'll probably write more for them cause tragic gay angst always gets to me. In this AU Topaz is Lucy Gray's daughter who he helps raise as his own.

Sejanus Plinth had only ever fallen in love twice in his life.

The first being a curly haired, brown skinned, wide eyed classmate named Demeter Hilderbilt. She was only a year younger but had excelled in her studies enough to join his grade. She was loud, always angry, and picked more fights with Festus Creed than one could count on their fingers.

It was no surprise that her father, a high-end Councilman and military strategist named Jupiter Hilderbilt, was abhorrently hateful of his family. To the point that he’d instructed his daughter to not go near the Plinth boy. Even the instructors at the academy had been advised to not pair them up for assignments or otherwise Jupiter would pull his funding from the school.

It was an interesting dilemma seeing as how most of the man’s hatred was directed towards his father, and in turn being his father’s son that was close to his daughter had redirected that anger. So, it was a turn of surprise when Jupiter’s wife, Hestia, had extended a hand to his mother. Offering companionship and another ear in the city as most Capitolite women had ignored his mother’s existence. Holding out her arm during events despite the lackluster expressions from the masses.

Her daughter was relentless.

It wasn’t that she pursued him simply for romantic interests as she first put it, but because he seemed to be one of the few people with his head screwed on. And that even if he didn’t like her romantically, that his friendship would be appreciated. A friend who disliked the games was always appreciated.

But in truth, Sejanus could never be her friend.

Not when her father had eyes all over the city, and one wrong move could break the balance of things.

Coriolanus Snow was his only friend, and one that he could be by his side despite all odds.

But still she pursued.

On the eve of new year’s, in the corner where eyes couldn’t roam, Demeter walked up to him and planted a kiss on his cheek.

It was the first kiss he’d received from someone other than his mother, and perhaps it was his curious mind that led him to return the kiss in full.

They weren’t friends, and they could never be friends.

But their kisses continued in the dark corners.

Their words flowed like honey and rivers.

“My grandfather was from the districts. So, I don’t know if that’s why I can’t stand the games. I don’t know…I just feel like collective punishment is immoral. None of them deserve to be displayed like animals for crimes they never committed.” She’d told him one afternoon.

“Collective punishment is immoral. It’s a tactic used to assert control. When those with no power see that they can be killed despite having done no wrong, they can only ever resist or submit themselves. So, you’re right. I just wish everyone else could see it that way.” Sejanus responded, watching as she twirled a blade of grass between her fingers.

They could never be friends, but she was always there in front of him. With her melancholic smile and her loud words. Her soft kisses and bruised hands. It was then, when one day after their escapades of teenage glory, that Sejanus realized his heart had grown. Finding himself smiling whenever she started her rants early in the morning. Sneaking around with her to explore things he could never utter to a single soul (or else her father would punish her greatly, which meant not even Coriolanus could know).

But they could never be friends, much less what Demeter had truly aspired for them to be. And Sejanus saw the betrayal in her eyes when he told her that.

Afterwards, when she tried hiding her tear-stained cheeks, Sejanus felt too ashamed to even look her way.

The second was Marcus Alcove.

Marcus Alcove wasn’t someone Sejanus ever thought could throw him off track the way he did.

It was a cruel twist of fate, he figured. The Academy staff probably laughed as they paired him with his old classmate. ‘The boy from 2 ought to mentor one of his own.’ Or most likely it was his father who’d bribed them into giving him the boy from District 2, to set his mind straight. Furthering the gap between him and his birthplace. A grand showcase to the people of 2 that the Plinth’s were never on their level. He felt his stomach lurch the moment Dean Highbottom called it out.

“District 2 Male Tribute, Marcus Alcove – Sejanus Plinth.”

Snickers from his classmates echoed across the room, laughing at the twisted fate of the district-born boy. But for which boy he wondered; maybe it was both. Of course it was both.

There wasn’t much he remembered about Marcus, except for a vivid memory that was etched into his brain before he could comprehend the horrors of what was to come next.

“You like apples, right?” A young 6-year-old Marcus asked, rubbing his snotty nose against his sleeve.

“I do! Especially red ones!” Sejanus grins, his front tooth missing but nonetheless continued to gnaw on hardened fruits.

Marcus pulls out a small paper bag, his tiny fingers grabbing onto a few apple slices and handed them over.

“Here, my Ma said I should share them with you.” Marcus smiled as Sejanus plucked the slices from his hand.

“Thanks!”

“Yeah. She asked if I wanted strawberries but they’re too sour.” Marcus bit into the apple slice, snot still sliding down.

Sejanus nods, “Same here.” That was a lie. Sejanus loved strawberries! So why did he lie?

The gap between them was large, and it only grew as Marcus continued to shovel his distrust towards him. Sejanus couldn’t blame the boy. Despite being born in 2, his old home saw him as a newly born pure-bred Capitol. A bloodthirsty Capitolite whose father betrayed them and sold weapons to the Capitol.

Whose father had set up a prize to excite the mentors into gaining a victor for the games; to bring out the most nauseating, abhorrent ideas one could conjure up to make the games more enticing.

Whose money from the weapons sold to kill their own people bought the clothes he wore. The watches on his wrist. No longer was Sejanus Plinth one of their own. He lost that right the moment he left.

“My goodness, Sejanus Plinth.” Marcus laughed coldly when they locked eyes for the time in over a decade, “Still alive and it looks like the Capitol is treating you well, huh? Fancy new suit you got there.”

But Sejanus persisted. He’d been forced into this position, the very least he could do was make sure they weren’t being starved to death.

Out of ill refute, Marcus revealed that he still liked apples.

Sejanus brought him apple turnovers the next day. He watched as Marcus stared at the turnover, fingers gripping onto the pastry so harshly that it began to break apart, before throwing it onto the ground and spitting on it.

Truthfully, he had no idea why he was so desperate to gain Marcus’s favor, knowing that it would never happen. His family had betrayed him. Had betrayed their people.

Was it his darkened brown eyes? So deep that Sejanus felt as though he could lose himself in them.

The flow of his hair?

The curve of his lips?

The witty remarks?

The fact that Marcus’s words clung to him so deeply, on a level that had Sejanus unable to sleep for most nights.

“I don’t want your food, pretty boy.”

“But you’ll need strength for the arena!” Sejanus argued, desperate to get the boy to accept his Ma’s sandwiches.

Marcus’s face shrivels up, “Why? Feeding me like an animal before the slaughter, Plinth? You take joy out of feeding us mere crumbs only to see our bloods spilled like savages, just like your daddy?” Despite his eyes being brown, there was a flaring red that blazed inside of them. The pits of his eyes were as dark as the abyss, pulling Sejanus even further in.

“I—”

“Quit pretending you care about me.” Marcus hisses, “You’re just like everyone else in this fucking place. Being nice doesn’t change the fact that our blood funds your new home, Plinth. Funds the fancy new clothes you wear. So, take your sandwiches and shove them up your ass.”

Sejanus was grateful Coriolanus had helped him pass out the rest of the sandwiches, but even then, as he saw the tributes take bites – Marcus’s words never left his mind. Like an echo that never seemed to fade away.

Marcus was handsome. No if ands or buts about it. He had the type of gentlemanly look that Sejanus couldn’t stop staring at. Why couldn’t he stop looking at Marcus? Was it normal to think about another guy so much? Many people had brown eyes and hair! But of course, one could admire another guy’s good looks! But would he be as bad as the decrepit men who snickered over district girls with sinister thoughts?

Marcus looked rough but his words were harsher.

Yet he was just as funny as he was from their youth.

To other tributes, however.

Sure, Sejanus was living in the Capitol – but they saw him as district. Why couldn’t Marcus still see him as such? Why couldn’t Marcus tell him such jokes like he once did? (He knew why, he knew exactly why. The illogical part of his brain just refused to admit it).

Why was he so agitated over Marcus leaning against another boy’s shoulders for rest? They were all tributes headed for the same fate except for a singular one. Of course they’d lean on each other for support before being forced to tear each other’s throats off!

“You’ve always been cute, but if you ever tell anyone I said that I’ll crawl out of my grave and drag you down with me.” Marcus spat at him before the interview with Lucky Flickerman.

Sejanus felt his heart race – the same way it did with Demeter.

He shouldn’t be having these feelings.

He shouldn’t have been sitting across from his father during dinner with flashes of Marcus’s eyes gazing up at him in his head.

NO!

He didn’t deserve to harbor such feelings when the very lifestyle he was living was sending his old classmate to his imminent doom. When his own father was orchestrating a competition to make the boy’s demise much more favorable to elite citizens of the Capitol. Sending their own people to die. Guilt clung to Sejanus like a second skin. He could barely hold down his food, much less shove it down his throat. Water turned to ash as it hit his tongue. And right before the games started, in the dark corners of the room, Marcus turned around brushed his lips against his.

It came out of nowhere, almost knocking Sejanus off his feet.

It was electrifying. Sending goosebumps down his back as the boy leaned in, the smell of musk ever so persistent. His lips were riddled with dirt and blood, and his eyes were pooled with such intensity Sejanus felt like he would drown. The kiss bruised his lips, but he wanted more.

“You know, I liked you back then. But you’d already left before I could tell you that.”

“It was nice knowing you, pretty boy.” Marcus whispered in his ears before turning around to leave.

And later, when his eyes flickered to see Marcus’s body on the floor, unmoving – Sejanus felt as though his very soul had been ripped out and shoved into the deepest pits of purgatory. He didn’t think when his legs walked out of his house. He didn’t think when he grabbed the bag of breadcrumbs. He didn’t think when he walked right into the arena and looked onto the boy’s lifeless body. He knelt down, rage clawing at his chest, and began to sprinkle the crumbs over Marcus’s body.

If Marcus couldn’t get peace in this world, he surely deserved it in the next.

And when he was saved by Coriolanus, he figured if no one else was left at least he had him. He had his brother. His best friend. He would one day tell Coriolanus of what exactly unfolded, and surely Coryo would understand.

(Though there was always an underlying fear that even Coriolanus wouldn’t understand a boy liking another boy, and even a girl. It wasn’t as if such things were talked about publicly. Always hidden, always hushed.)

And after his father yelled at him with such indignation that he swore the cabinets shook, Sejanus ran to the bathroom – the gush of bile coming out of his throat. It burned as he emptied the contents of his stomach. He stared at the vomit, feeling his ears ringing. Sejanus then locked the doors to his bedroom and shoved his face into the blood-soaked pillows.

He wasn’t a crier.

Sejanus wasn’t a crier, even when the kids bullied at school. His father instilled in him that men never cried. Even in the face of agony. So, Sejanus promised his father, at the mere age of 10, that he would never cry.

Yet that night, Sejanus broke the first promise he ever made to his father, and cried until he could no longer. Until his tears dried on his cheeks and his voice was so hoarse that a meager ‘Ma’ hurt his throat. Until his blood-soaked pillows were now soaked with tears. He howled into it, feeling every fiber of his being ripping apart. It was a primal yell, one that left him banging his fists into the cushy mattress.

“I’m sorry. I’m sorry. I’m sorry.” But what good was saying I’m sorry if they were already dead? If his actions had done nothing? He’d just sent his former classmate to die, and he had the audacity to cry?

And when the altercation with the rebels occurred, and the one man he deemed a brother – a true friend- his only final friend- his best friend shot at him: Sejanus could only think of his Ma. How far out of reach she was and how he would do anything to hold her one last time. And later, when the reality of the situation clarified, he thought of Marcus and Demeter as the sound of bullets continued to ring in his ear.

There was regret.

Regret he never befriended Demeter.

Regret that he couldn’t save Marcus. That he couldn’t know Marcus beyond the few measly moments granted to him by the universe in his final days. So, when Lucy Gray and Topaz had stumbled into his life, Sejanus swore he wouldn’t make the same mistake twice.

He would befriend Lucy Gray, and he would protect Topaz till his very last breath. Even in the face of the brother who had betrayed him.

So, Sejanus takes his daughter’s arm, dressed in finely pressed clothing his Ma had picked out for them, and they head off.

#sejanus plinth #sejanus deserved better #tbosas #the ballad of songbirds and snakes #sejanus x marcus #oc #sejanus x oc #angst

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elwynten · 4 months

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Chapter 46

New Recruits and setting up shop.

The Hestia Familia got the go ahead from the Guild to be able to open a store, or two. Which means we now need to find a building to either rent or buy. I would like to find a building on Northwest Main Street, West Main Street or Southwest Main Street. That way it would be fairly close to Hearthstone Manor and also be in the main traffic area of both adventurers and non-combatants alike.

Since we were about finished going through Folkvangr, we would need a place to move all the items to so we can sell them. So, getting a store was one of the first things on the list to do.

I stopped by the Blue Pharmacy to talk to Miach. As Taima and I walked into the shop, Nahza greeted us.

"Hello Eilwyn and Taima. What may I help you with?" Nahza asked me.

"Hello Nahza, I would like to talk to Miach if he's not too busy. Hi, Jenim." I replied.

"He just went to make tea. You can go through."

"Greetings Eilwyn, Hi Taima." Jenim, Nahza's Companion said in greeting.

I nodded my head in understanding. "Thank you, Nahza." I told her.

"Hello Jemin." I told Jemin, again.

I looked at Taima. "You stay here unless I call you. Okay?"

"Okay, I'll talk to Nahza and Jenim."

I went through the door that separates the pharmacy from their home in the back.

"Knock, knock." I said as I walked into the apartment. I didn't want to surprise Miach.

"Hello?" Miach said as he poked his head around the corner. "Ah, Eilwyn. What brings you here today?"

"We got the go ahead to open the store." I started as I walked into the kitchen where Miach was making tea. "I wanted to know if you had thought about going in with us. I know that would mean moving your business and home, but you'll be closer to or on one of the main streets. And I can help you out with a new place to live." I said.

"People are starting to shop here because of your Familia winning the war game. I'm not sure it would be a good idea to move right now." Miach told me.

"All you would have to do is post a sign in the window saying when and where you'll be relocating to. Besides, since we're going to be selling items for the hearth and home along with weapons, it should help bring more people into the store. People looking for furniture or weapons would see your potions and that could bring in more sales. At the least, people will spread the word and that should bring in more sales for you." I tried to assure Miach.

"What about where my Familia will live? Buying or renting a place that big will cost a lot of money. Plus buying or renting something with an apartment big enough to house all four of us will cost a lot more. Even with your Familia putting in the majority of the money I don't think we could afford it." Miach informed me.

I chuckled. "All we need to do is find a place big enough for Welf's weapons and armor, your potions and salves, a restaurant and for the hearth and home items, because a place for your Familia to live will cost… 'nothing'."

Miach looked confused and doubtful. "How can a house or an apartment cost nothing?"

I grinned and waved my arm. "Like that." I said and pointed at the portal to a Pocket Dimension. It's the same kind of PD that the Hestia Familia lived in until we moved into the Hearthstone Manor. I walked to the door between the apartment and the store and opened it up.

I called out. "Nahza! Are you free for a couple minutes?"

"No one's in the store right now, but there is no telling if someone will come in." Nahza replied.

"Taima and Jemin can watch the store and if anyone comes in Jemin can let you know." I suggested.

Miach was just staring at the portal to the PD with his mouth hanging open. "H-how did you make a different word?" Miach asked me.

I chuckled as Nahza walked into the room. "It's not a world it is called a pocket plain or pocket dimension. This one is around ten miles across, in the middle is a good-sized house and the terrain can be set to what you like. Right now, it has a forest around most of the edge of the PD, there are a couple creeks or streams and ponds along with an ocean and beach over that way." I told Miach and Nahza pointing off to the left.

Nahza like Miach stared at the portal to the PD with shock and surprise on her face.

"B-but how can you create something like this. The gods can't even do that." Miach asked me.

I shrugged my shoulders and sighed. "I really need to record the story about how I received all of these powers and abilities." I told Miach and Nahza about the accident, hearing a voice in the blackness and receiving all of the powers and abilities.

"You mean, someone or something gave you several abilities and powers and one of the powers allows you to create the Companions you gave Nahza and the others and also the ability to create this pocket-what did you call it?" Miach stated.

I nodded my head in agreement. "That's about it. I don't know who or what gave me all these powers and abilities. All I know is Taima, my Companion, was there when I woke up and I could do some very amazing things." I added to my story. Then to answer Miach's question. "It is a Pocket Plain or Pocket Dimension or PD for short. When I joined the Hestia Familia, I opened one so we would have a nice place to live until we could find a better place." I informed Miach and Nahza. "Besides there wasn't much room in the hidden basement under the church. You should know about that Miach, you've been there a time or two."

"Ya, you are right. I have been to the room under the church, and it isn't very big. Hestia knows about this PD thing of yours?" Miach asked shocked.

I nodded my head in agreement. "Yes, she does, because she lived in one until we were able to move into the Hearthstone Manor." I said. "The best thing to do is fix a door onto a wall so it can be locked and when the door is opened, it matches the portal or opening, to the PD.

"Let's take a look." I suggested and stepped through the portal.

I led Miach and Nahza into the PD, around the house and then gave them a tour of the house. "Although the house you use doesn't have to look like this one. You can set it up as you want or need as long as it is no more than 232.25 square meders (2,500 square feet). And as you can see there is plenty of room to grow plants for your potions. You can put in a lake or ocean with a beach so you can go swimming in the evenings." I told them.

"Wait, wait, wait… what do you mean we can put in a lake or ocean in here?" Nahza asked surprised.

I chuckled. "You can set up the PD just about any way you want it. You can choose what kind of environment you want around the house. That means the house can be set in mountains or by a lake or even on the beach by the ocean. You can put in creeks or rivers that flow from one side of the PD to the other side or into a lake or ocean if you have them. All you have to do is, the first time you enter the PD is go to the house where there is a 'tablet'. On the 'tablet' you choose how many bedrooms, bathrooms and their sizes and the rooms for the rest of the house. You can choose to have a gazebo and patio behind the house. Then you choose what you want the environment to be. You can even set the weather, so one day you can have it snow then 80 degrees the next day. Although we had the temperature around 80 degrees with a light breeze, every day." I informed them.

"Are you sure you're not a god?" Miach asked me.

I chuckled. "I'm not a god and I have never indicated that I am a god. I just happen to have abilities and powers that make it look that way, but that does not mean I am a god." I said and shrugged my shoulders.

"So, if you would like to set up shop with the Hestia Familia, I will set this up at the new store for you to live in. Although the other employees might use the patio for break times and to eat lunch or supper at." I told them.

Miach and Nahza looked at each other. "Do we have time to talk with Cassandra and Daphne about it?" Miach asked.

"Not a problem. Take a few days to think about it and to talk it over and get back to me in three or four days." I offered. "And I'll show Daphnie and Cassandra the PD if they don't believe you when you tell them about it." I said and chuckled.

"Oh, and as a bonus the kitchen restocks itself every day, so you don't have to buy any food if you don't want to." I added.

"Thank you, Eilwyn. This is an amazing offer. Especially after giving us the grimoire." Nahza said.

I gave a small bow to Nahza and Miach, turned and left the Blue Pharmacy with Taima.

===================

Hestia, Cindy, Kimmy, Wiene, Sky, Fia and I are in the dining room when Horn walked in. "Lady Hestia, Eilwyn I believe I have found some low-level adventurers that will fit in with the Hestia Familia." Horn told us.

"Oh, that's good." Hestia said. Her twin ponytails were bouncing around in her excitement.

"Have you talked to them about joining our Familia, if so, would you be willing to let them know to meet us here?" I asked Horn.

"I did talk to them. I told them the Hestia Familia might be interested in letting them join their, I mean our, Familia" Horn said and blushed when she corrected herself. "And they seemed interested."

I chuckled. "That's okay Horn. It takes a little while to get used to belonging to a new Familia." I assured her. "Could you ask them if they could come by tomorrow evening around six in the evening?" I asked.

Horn had a thoughtful look on her face. "I should be able to do that." She told us. "I also thought about what I want to do here. There isn't enough people for me to be in a Battle party yet. I was thinking that I could help around the manor if you approve." Horn told us.

I nodded my head in understanding. "That's fine. We want you to do the work you want to do. If I may ask. If we get more adventurers, would you want to go into the Dungeon?"

"Since I was Freya's assistant. I haven't been in the Dungeon for quite a while. I don't know if I would want to do that again. Besides I am only Level two."

I nodded my head in agreement. "Makes since. Although you might go into the Dungeon again a few times to give it a try to see if it'll work for you or not. If not, I'm sure we can find something for you to do. Haruhime can use some help and if you can cook, we could use a full time cook so Mikoto doesn't have to do any cooking after a day in the Dungeon." I suggested.

"I'll do what I can, but I haven't done much cooking before." Horn told us.

"We can also help you rank up, if you want. But your being Level two doesn't matter to any of us. If you want to learn to cook, I'm sure Mikoto would be willing to teach you, or you can just help out in the kitchen or you can help Haruhime with keeping the Manor clean, or a little of both. But as I told you before, you can take some time to think about it. We are even opening a store to sell all of the extra things from Folkvangr along with other things. So, working in the store is an option. I'm just tossing out ideas. If none of them suit you. Feel free to come up with something else you would like to do." I told Horn.

"You have given me several ideas to think about, thank you." Horn told us and excusing herself she left the room.

==========

The next day shortly before six o'clock, I was sitting in the living room along with Horn, Bell, Welf, Lili, Kimmy, Haruhemi and Hestia. All of our Companions were out in the yard waiting for the potential recruits to show up.

[We have company.] Taima sent to me. [Two males.]

"Taima says there are two males here." I informed everyone.

"They should be Felton and Keao." Horn told us.

Before they could knock on the door, Haruhemi opened the door for them. "Welcome to Hearthstone Manor." She said as the two guys walked into the living room.

A girl opened the gate and walked into the front garden before Haruhemi could close the door. Haruhemi stood with the door open so the girl could enter the Manor. "Welcome to Hearthstone Manor." Haruhemi said to the girl and motioned for her to enter the building.

Haruhemi escorted all three into the living room and offered them seats. She gave a bow and left to go to the kitchen.

Once the three possible recruits were seated. "I am goddess Hestia." Hestia started. Then she indicated Bell. "This is our captain Bell Cranel and our self-appointed vice-Captain Eilwyn Tengee." She said indicating me, grinning at me.

I grinned at Hestia and shrugged my shoulders.

Hestia continued the introductions, pointing to each person in turn. "The person that let you in is Haruhemi our maid. You know Horn. Welf Crozzo is our smith, and he is also an adventurer. Next is Lili, she is Bell's supporter. Fia (In their Chianthrope form) has just joined us, she's still trying to figure out what she wants to do. And last is Kimmy, she is a member of Eilwyn's Adventuring Team." Hestia finished introducing the members of her Familia that were in the room. "There are a few more Familia members but they are off doing other things… Now may I ask, who are you?"

The three sitting on a couch looked at each other for a couple moments. Then the girl stood up. "I'm Pembe Moondancer, I'm a sword mage, and I'm level two." She said then sat back down.

Pembe is a Half Elf, 5' 4" tall with blue hair and amber eyes.

The boy on the opposite end of the couch from Pembe stood up. "I'm Keao Mouzer and I'm a level one adventurer. And please don't make fun of my last name." He said, blushed and sat back down.

Keao is a 5' 4" tall Cat Person, with black hair and blue-green eyes.

"I won't make fun of your name if you don't hold my last name against me." Welf told Keao, with his usual smile.

"You're a Crozzo?!" Keao stated with big eyes. "I-I'll do that. It's a deal." He told Welf.

The last recruit stood up and bowed before speaking. "I am Fenton Helum a level two adventurer." Fenton stated bowed again and sat back down.

Fenton is a 5' 7" tall human with brown hair and brown eyes. He is also dressed like Take's Children dress. Fenton is not from the far East, but he wishes he was.

Hestia looked at Bell. When Bell saw Hestia looking at him, he blushed, so I stood up. "We are all glad you want to join the Hestia Familia. But there are a few things you have to know before you join. First, we are nothing like the Freya Familia was. We don't spar for hours on end, and we do 'not' try to kill our fellow Familia members. We will not allow that here in the Hestia Familia. Sparring and getting hurt is one thing, but sparring and almost killing your sparring partner is totally different, and we do not allow that. Second, we consider each other to be family as well as friends and we help each other out when needed and we support each other. That means if any of you are having a problem, we want you to come to one of us and ask for help. We will do everything we can to help you if we can. If we can't help you, we'll try to find someone that can help you out." I told them.

All three of them looked at each other and at Horn with shock and surprise on their faces.

Horn nodded her head, yes. "Eilwyn is speaking the truth. The Hestia Familia is nothing like our old Familia. Here they all care about each other and support each other. They are more of a family than many families I have seen." Horn told them.

while all of this was going on, I was peeking into their minds to see what they were thinking, how they felt about us and to see if it looked like they would fit in with our Familia. So far it looked like if they joined the Hestia Familia, they would work out well, although it might take a little time for them to adjust to how we do things, just like it is taking time for Horn to adjust to how we do things.

"Third, do not treat supporters as second class. We have two supporters in our Familia and they both work hard and make it easier for the adventurers to fight and kill monsters. So, if y'all treat a supporter badly you will not like what happens to you." I made sure they knew how I felt and how our Familia felt about how they should treat supporters.

"As an example, my Team's Supporter, Rosni wanted to rank up. So, the rest of my Team took turns taking Rosni into the Dungeon so she could kill monsters while another member of our Team took the roll of supporter. Also, Bell went into the dungeon by himself for a while, but once he hired a supporter his earnings went up by three to four times. So, supporters do more than just follow adventurers around." I explained.

"Bell Cranel's loot went up that much just because he hired a supporter?" Pembe asked surprised.

Both Bell and I nodded our heads, yes. "Yes, it did. I was so surprised by how much I could make by just hiring a supporter. They are treated badly by many adventurers, but a supporter is worth their weight in magic stones." Bell proclaimed.

"We can talk more about that later." Hestia stated.

"And last, for now. Everyone, as long as a Familia member works outside the house, as an Adventurer, in a shop, and so on, they give the Familia ten percent of what they get to the Familia. The rest of what you make is for you to do with as you please." I finished. "Do any of you have any questions?"

Again, they looked at each other, then Keao raised his hand.

"Keao, correct?" I asked. Keao nodded his head, yes. "Please go ahead." I told him.

"I-if I join the Hestia Familia, will I be able to live here? I guess this is the Hestia Familia's home." He asked.

Hestia nodded her head in agreement. "Yes, this is the Familia's home and as long as we have room any and all members of my Familia can live her. Right now, you can have your own room, or you can share a room if there is someone you would not mind having as a roommate. As long as both roommates are the same sex that is." Hestia informed him.

I looked at Hestia and cleared my throat. "Are you sure about that?" I asked her.

Hestia looked shocked for a moment then grinned at me. "Well… if it's a boy and girl in the same room, they have to have known each other for over six months and both parties have to agree." Hestia corrected herself.

I chuckled. "That's better, thank you lady Hestia." I told Hestia and put my arm around Fia's shoulders and hugged her to me.

Keao nodded his head in understanding. "That's good because I don't a have long term place to live right now either. If you'll take me, I would like to join the Hestia Familia, and I'll try to do everything I can to live up to what goddess Hestia expects of her Familia." He told Hestia.

"One last thing for now. The Hestia Familia has its secrets just like every other Familia has their secrets. We don't expect you to tell us any of the Freya secrets although you might be asked for general information about the Freya Familia. And since the Freya Familia has been disbanded, keeping Freya's secrets are up to you. With that said, we expect you to keep all of the Hestia Familia's secrets even if you do not agree with those secrets." I told them.

All three nodded their heads in agreement. "That is expected." "I would never tell my Familia's secrets." They responded.

Hestia had a big smile on her face, but she looked over at me. I nodded my head, yes. "All three should work out well after they get adjusted to their new Familia." I told Hestia.

Hestia jumped up and clapped her hands together. "All right then. Any of you that really want to join my Familia follow me." She told the three.

All three stood up and looked at Hestia.

"We need to assign one of the rooms for just updating Falna's." I said and stood up. "I believe there is a good room just down the hall." I told them as I removed my arm from around Fia and stood up. "Excuse me Fia." I said and took Hestia's hand, bent my arm and put her hand on the inside of the crook of my arm. I escorted lady Hestia and the new recrutes to the room I was thinking of.

I opened the door to the room and let Hestia enter first. The room looked like it might have been a small office even though it is empty right now. The room is about half the size of one of the bedrooms. I created a massage chair and placed it in the middle of the room.

"One at a time in the room with lady Hestia while she gives each of you your new Falna." I told our new members. "When all of you have had your Falna changed, I'll give you a tour of the manor and you can pick what rooms you want. So far everyone has taken rooms on the third floor." I said and shrugged my shoulders. "After you pick your room, you are free to go get your belongings." I finished.

"Why are there all those animals in the front yard?" Pembe asked me.

I chuckled. "Those are our Companions. Almost everyone in the Familia has one, and if any new members prove they are trustworthy they will get a Companion as well, after being a member of the Familia for a month." I told Pembe.

"So, we get a pet if we prove we can take care of them?"

I shook my head, no. "They are not pets, nor just animals. They are known as Companions. They are as intelligent as most humans, they have abilities that help them, and their partner can also use those same abilities. And you and your Companion can talk to each other telepathically or mind to mind." I tried to explain.

"I'm not sure I understand. They look like animals to me."

"Since you'll be living here, you'll see what I mean."

Pembe didn't look convinced, but she shrugged her shoulders. "If you say so. I'll wait and see."

Hestia Looked at the three new recruits. "Who will be first?" She asked.

Keao shrugged his shoulders. "I'll go first." He told Hestia.

"Okay, sit on the chair backwards then, and the rest of you can wait outside in the hall." Hestia said and turned to the chair.

I made sure the other two left the room and I closed the door to the room behind me. "I have something to do for a minute or two. I'll be back shortly." I told Pembe and Fenton and headed down the hall.

I entered an empty bedroom and closed the door. I then opened a portal to Pern and walked through, then I closed the portal behind me.

I headed to the Armory. In the Armory I 'found' weapons and armor for the new members of our Familia. They each have the standard runes as all the other weapons that I take to Orario have. A Bonding Rune, Extended Range Rune, an Elemental Control Rune and if it is a ranged weapon it has a Doppleganger Rune on it as well.

Keao Mouzer uses a sword and buckler shield. Although the buckler is a little different. His buckler has a gauntlet on it so when the buckler is on his arm his hand fits in the gauntlet. There are two short spikes on the gauntlet and two longer spikes on the buckler itself.

Fenton Helum uses a bow and arrows and a double Halberd Spear. I will have to do my best to not call him "Harcourt Fenton Mudd". And last is Pembe Moondancer, our second mage. She has a four feet long staff that at the top end flairs out enough to make a six-inch diameter ribbing that she can use as a club or mace if she needs to. Her staff also lets her use mind more efficiently. She will be able to use her magic twice as much before going mind down. And of course, each weapon is also a Hestia Weapon.

I also 'found' armor for Fenton and Keao both with Bonding Runes and an armored robe for Pembe.

I spent a couple hours on Pern updating everyone that was interested on what is going on in Orario. Then I headed back to Orario and the Hearthstone Manor.

I opened a portal to the empty room at Hearthstone Manor and walked through. I closed the portal once I was back in the empty room I had left from. I opened the door to the room and headed back to where Hestia was giving her Blessing to the new members of the Hestia Familia.

Keao was still in the room with Hestia. That's not really a surprise because Hestia has to write all of her Falna onto the person's back, and that can take several minutes to do. I waited until they had all received Hestia's Blessing so I could take them on a tour of the manor and so they can pick out what bedrooms they want.

I again watched Hestia give the new recruits their new Falna. I was trying to learn how to give a Falna so I can give the Xenos a Falna.

I took the three new members of the Hestia Familia on a tour of the manor. I showed then where the kitchen and dining room are. Where the library is and where the taken bedrooms on the third floor are.

"You can take any room that is unclaimed. We would prefer if you picked one close to everyone else, but it is not mandatory. It's just easier on our maid, plus it is easier to get to know each other."

Pembe took the room across the hall from my Team's room, although she and the other new recruits didn't know about the PD yet. Fenton and Keao each took a room down the hall across from Welf and Bell.

After all, three had picked out which rooms they wanted, I gave them their new Hestia weapons. I explained what the Runes did and that Pembe's staff has Ice Control, Keao's sword has fire Control. And Fenton's bow has Doppelganger with dust arrows, fire, Ice, Gravity, and electricity, and his double Halberd Spear has Electrical Control.

I demonstrated how the Bonding Rune, the Elemental Control Runes and the Extended Range Runes work, and as usual they were shocked and surprised. "And remember, you don't have to worry about going mind down when you use the Elemental Control Rune from your weapons, because they don't use mind. Just don't become too dependent on the Elemental Control because there will be times the element you can control won't work on some monsters or it will be weak against some monsters. You will have to practice with the Extended Range because it only starts at two feet but the more you practice the farther it will extend until it reaches its maximum range of about twenty feet."

"This is amazing! Freya never gave us any weapons. We had to buy and maintain our own weapons." Pembe told me.

I shrugged my shoulders. "It's something I started when I joined the Hestia's Familia. So, it's not a Hestia Familia thing or idea, it's just something I want to do to help out any new members. But keep that under your hat. We don't want people trying to join just because they think they'll get a new weapon for joining our Familia." I told Pembe and the others. "You can say, it's one of those Familia secrets."

"After you get settled in, you can go into the Dungeon as a group, or you can go in with either my Team or Bell's Team or both. It is entirely up to you. Now with that said, go and get your belongings and get settled in. If you need any help, just ask and we'll do what we can. If you want, you can take a couple days off to get acquainted with everyone and the manor before you start going into the Dungeon again." I offered.

Fenton shook his head in disbelief. "I still can't get over how helpful and caring this Familia is. In the Freya Familia it was everyone for themselves." He explained.

"I should add that we are friends with the Miach Familia, the Hephaistos Familia and the Takemikuzuchi Familia." I informed them.

"Ya, I heard Mikoto joined the Hestia Familia so she could help you in the war game." Keao said.

"Yes, she did, and we are all grateful she did. Her gravity magic helped out a lot." I replied.

I turned to Pembe. "Pembe, I don't know how you feel about being touched by non-elves. But here we are fairly touchy-feely. By that I mean, we give hugs, we touch each other on the hands, arms, shoulders, back, and heads. I can understand not wanting to be touched by strangers. So, we hope you can get over any Elf feelings or beliefs about not being touched by non-elves. You won't be kicked out if you refuse to be touched by anyone here but… you will miss out on a lot." I informed Pembe.

"I'm only half Elf and my Elf mother didn't have much to do with the, not being touched by non-Elves or the Elven attitude that elves are better than any other race. As you said, I don't like being touched by strangers, but shortly the Hestia Familia members will not be strangers." Pembe assured me with a smile.

I nodded my head in agreement and understanding. "That's good to know." I said and smiled at Pembe. "Go on and get your belongings and get settled in." I shooed them off.

Now all I had to do was introduce them to Wiene, Sky, Fia, the real Wiene, Sky and Fia that is, and the other Xenos and see what they think about living with talking 'monsters'.

===================

A couple days later I announce there will be a Familia meeting after supper. The meeting is mainly for the four new members, but it will probably be better if everyone is there. With Bell, Welf, Hestia, Mikoto and the others there, it will give me back up and the older members will be able to support me when I tell the new members about the Xenos.

I set up the meeting so it would be in the PD. That way when I reveal Fia, Sky and Wiene are 'monsters'. Fei and Sky will be able to fly around. And so I can shut the portal to the PD. That way if Horn, Pembe, Fenton and Keao freak out they won't be able to run off.

Once everyone was seated, I stood up. "I'm going to tell you about a Familia secret. But it is also a farther-reaching secret because a few others know about it. It still needs to be kept secret though." I started.

"Get to it." Welf says.

I chuckled at Welf. "There are always preliminaries before the main topic. You know that Welf."

Welf nodded his head in agreement. "I know. I just prefer getting right to the point." Welf said with his usual grin.

"To the point, then. This is for all of the new members. You might have heard stories about singing in the Dungeon and voices being heard when there is no one around." I said.

Horn nodded her head in agreement. "I've heard stories like that. I never believed them, though." She admitted.

"The stories are true." I continue. "This will be very hard to believe, but… There are intelligent monsters in the Dungeon." I told them.

"No there's not!" Fenton stated. While the other three nodded their heads in agreement.

"The farther down in the dungeon you go the more intelligent the monsters are. They know how to work in groups and how to strategize their attacks. That takes intelligence. But the intelligent monsters I'm talking about have human level intelligence and want to live in peace with humans. You see these intelligent monsters are attacked by both humans and other monsters." I started to explain.

"W-what are you talking about!? We kill monsters because they would kill us if they could!" Pembe exclaimed.

I nodded my head in agreement. "True, but there are a few monsters that would rather not attack you or fight you. They are called Xenos. Everyone in the Familia other then you four, have met and talked to some of the Xenos." I informed them.

"That's crazy! You can't be friends with monsters!" Keao almost yelled.

I chuckled. "Again, that is mostly true. There are very few monsters that are friendly. Or at least don't want to fight humans. And I should point out that you have been friends or at least friendly, with monsters since you moved into Hearthstone Manor." I told them and pointed to Wiene, Fia and Sky.

So far Keao hadn't said anything. He just sat there listening with a shocked expression on his face.

"If all of that is true, how do you tell the difference between the monsters that want to kill humans and the intelligent monsters that don't want to kill humans?" Horn asked.

I nod my head in understanding. "It's not always easy, but the regular monsters will attack you on sight. The intelligent monsters that don't want to kill humans will try to avoid a fight and will probably try to avoid you all together." I tried to explain.

"Okay, but how do you tell the difference between the two groups of monsters?" Horn asked.

"When you go into the Dungeon figure that all of the monsters are out to kill you. It is better to be safe than sorry. Other than that, the intelligent monsters will camouflage themselves to avoid a fight unless they are a newly spawned Xenos." I told Horn.

"How can a monster camouflage themselves?" Pembe asked.

I chuckled. "Quite easily. I didn't really want to show you this so soon, but…" I said and turned to Fia. "Fia, if you would show them how a Xenos can Camouflage themself?" I asked Fia.

Fia looked a little scared because she doesn't want anyone to know she is a monster herself. "Are you sure?" She asked me.

"I'm sorry you have to do this so soon, but we knew it would have to happen sooner or later. Besides you're stronger and more durable than they are so they can't hurt you. Plus, you know I won't let them hurt you, Sweetheart." I told Fia.

"Okay I'll do it." Fia said and shifted to her natural Harpy form with her Extra Arms.

Pembe, Horn, Keao and Fenton all stared at Fia with shock, surprise and fear.

Before they can react. "That is how intelligent monsters can use camouflage. Fia is a Harpy as you can see." I said and walked over to Fia and put an arm around her waist. "Fia is a sweet person. And yes, I said person because as far as I'm concerned and everyone else in the Familia is concerned, Fia and the other intelligent monsters are people that just happen to look different." I explain. I had also Nullified the Normalization I had put on Fia so the new recruits would know she is a real monster.

I heard, "monster fetish" from one of the four, I'm not sure who said it.

"Heeh heeh heeh." I chuckle. "I know you meant that as an insult, but I've lived around 'monsters' or monster girls for over a year now. Most of which don't live in Orario or the Dungeon. But that you will learn more about over time." I told them.

I put Normalization back on Fia. All four of the new members jerk and stare at Fia.

Looking back and forth between Fia and me, Fenton speaks out. "What happened? What! Happened! First there is a girl standing beside you, then she changes into a Harpy and now there is another girl standing beside you." He quarries confused.

I grin. "Every one of the Xenos have been given what is called Normalization. That means anyone that looks at them will see them as normal people and at the most will see them as somewhat exotic but nothing out of the ordinary. That means if you see any of the intelligent monsters, all you will see is a normal person. Although all of the Xenos have a human form they use most of the time. When you first saw Fia, that is her human form. What you see now is Fia with just Normalization." I explained.

Keao points at Fia. "You mean she won't attack us? She's safe to be around?" He asks.

I nod my head in agreement. "That's what I'm saying. Now if you or anyone else attacks her, Fia will defend herself to the best of her abilities. And If I'm around or anyone else in the Familia is around when Fia or any of the other Xenos are attacked. We all will come to their defense." I tell Keao.

"The Harpies I've heard of don't have arms. She has wings and arms. How is that possible?" Keao continued.

"Harpies and Sirens arms are their wings, so yes, they only have 'wings'. But I'm able to do a few things and one of them is giving someone Extra Arms. I gave Fia two extra arms so she has arms and hands so she can do things on her own, when she's in her natural form." I replied.

Keao looked thoughtful for a few moments. "Could you give us," Keao looked at Horn, Pembe and Fenton then back to me. "Extra Arms?" He asked.

"Ha-ha-ha-ha-ha." I had to laugh at his question, but I nodded my head in agreement. "Yes, I can. But I'm guessing you really mean, can I give 'you' Extra Arms. Correct?" I asked.

Keao looked everywhere except at me, and his face was turning pink. "W-well, ya, I guess so." He admitted. "Having four arms would really help fighting monsters…" He looked at Fia then to me. "In the Dungeon, that is." Keao told me.

I nod my head in agreement. "Yes, it would. But, having four arms, most people would think you are a… Monster." I told Keao.

"But if you used that other thing where people see monsters as normal, then I wouldn't look like a monster, would I." Keao continued with a small grin on his face.

"Touche." I say chuckling. "You are quite right and a good point as well. I'll think about it. Although using four arms at the same time is much more difficult than using two arms at the same time." I told Keao.

Keao has a thoughtful look on his face. "I can see where that might be a problem." He admitted.

"Right now, there are three Xenos living at the Hearthstone Manor. Fia as you know, but Sky is a siren and last, although she was the first Xenos to live with us, is Wiene, and she's a Vouivre." I gave them the list of Xenos that live with us at Hearthstone Manor.

I smiled. "With the way y'all are talking and acting. I'm getting the impression that you don't have much to any problem with being around intelligent monsters." I said to them.

"It's bit to get used to. We spend most days killing monsters and now we will be living with monsters. So how do we know if a monster is one of those Xenos or not?" Pembe asked.

"Any monster in the Dungeon is a monster to be killed. That is the easiest way to tell the difference. If they go into the Dungeon, the Xenos will be in their human or demi-human forms most of the time. We might come up with something the Xenos can wear or carry to let people know they are friendly if they are not attacked. But that would be if they happen to be in their natural forms." I told them.

"Now if you see monsters in the Manor or in the PD. They are intelligent monsters, so they are friendly." I added.

==========

Giving Wiene, Fia and Sky a Falna.

I had watched Hestia updating my Team's Falna's and I had her explain what she knows about giving a Falna and updating them. Since Hephaestus has been in the lower world quite a long time, I also went to her so she could tell me everything she knows about giving a Falna and updating them. So, I should be able to give humans a Falna, and I am hoping I will be able to give Wiene, Fia and Sky a Falna as well.

I don't want to have to stick my finger every time I give a Falna or update one. I decided to create my own blood. since I technically have touched my own blood because it runs through my vanes, I'm pretty sure I can create my own blood. If that doesn't work, I can Nullify my durability, prick a finger to get a drop of blood. That way I will be touching my own blood. Drop the Nullification so my durability will be back to normal, or normal for me. Then I will be able to create my own blood when I want to.

I called Wiene, Sky and Fia into the apartment and explained that I wanted to try to give them a Falna.

"You want to give us a blessing? Why do that?" Fia sked.

"If I can give you a Falna or blessing, I will be able to teach someone we trust to be the 'god of the Xenos for when you live on the surface." I chuckled. "The other Xenos can live on the surface as a Familia, that is." I explained.

If you can give us a Falna. Why don't you be our god?" Fia asked.

"For one, I have Hestia's Falna so I belong to a Familia already. It would be difficult to be a member of a Familia and the patron of a different Familia at the same time." I replied. "This way Fels or someone else can by the Xenos' patron."

"But if you give us a Falna, won't you be our god?" Wiene asked.

I nodded my head in agreement. "Technically yes I would be your patron. But that is because we need to know if a Xenos can receive a Falna in the first place. So, all I need to do is see if I can give just one of you a Falna. I have already talked to Hestia about it. She agreed to let which ever one of you I give a Falna to, will be an honorary member of the Hestia Familia. They won't be a member of her Familia. We will just say you are a member of the Hestia Familia." I told all three of them. "Plus, if I become the Xenos' patron. I know Iris, Kimmy and Cindy will want to join my Familia. that means Hestia will lose four followers and possibly five if Rosni wants to convert as well." I added.

"I'll let you give me your blessing." Wiene pipped up.

"I would like to be in your Familia." Sky told me.

"My too. I want to receive your blessing." Fia said as well.

I chuckled. "Why am I not surprised. Okay, I'm sure Hestia won't be surprised that all three of you want me to give you my Falna. If I can even give you one, that is." I told them.

I had Wiene, in her human form, sit on the massage chair we were using when Hestia updated our Falna's on. I chose to use my symbol or emblem from RWBY as the background emblem in the Falna. As far as I know every 'god' has a picture or symbol they put on their follower's backs along with the contract. Hestia's symbol is a brazier with a flame coming out of it. So, I'm going to use my RWBY emblem.

I'm also going to see if I can use English cursive in the Falna instead of the 'god's' hieroglyphs. If that doesn't work, I'll nullify the Falna and try it with another alphabet. If it works, I will be the only one able to read any Falna I give. Although their names and basic stats will be in koine.

I created a drop of blood and let it fall onto Wiene's back. Then I drew the emblem. When that was finished, I started writing the contract on Wiene's back. Since I have to put the person's name on their back for the contract. I put 'Wiene the Vouivre' as her name. I will about the same with the other two. Fia the Harpy and Sky the Siren.

I finished writing out the contract. Next, I tried to pull up Wiene's excela to see if I could do it. "It looks like it's working. I'm going to see if I can pull up your excela so I can make sure your status is as high as it will go." I explained. I was able to raise up some of Wiene's stats. And to my surprise she had a Skill. Now I kind of understand how Hestia feels when she updates my Team's status. Wiene's skill is 'Spirit Animal'.

"Um, Wiene… You have a Skill already. It's Spirit Animal, like my Team has." I told Wiene.

I put a piece of paper on Wiene's back and circled my hand over it. I pulled the paper up, is now has all of Wiene's stats on it. I step back so Wiene can stand up. I hand her the paper.

Wiene the Vouivre Level 1 Strength: A-887, Defense: B-744, Dexterity: S-926, Agility: S-965, magic: None Skill: Spirit Animal, I-0 Spirit Animal: Dragon Trigger Phrase: I am a Dragon. Release Phrase: I am a Chienthrope Spirit Animal: Dragon

"Well, it looks like it worked." I told Wiene. I turned to Fia and Sky. "Does that mean you both want me to give you my Falna?" I asked them.

"Yes!" Sky yelled excitedly. Then she cleared her throat and in a calmer voice. "Yes, please."

"Yes. I want to be in your Familia, Eilwyn." Fia told me bashfully, her cheeks turning pink.

I chuckled. "Okay then Sky, if you would take Wiene's place." I said.

Wiene stood up from the chair and moved to the side while Sky took her place on the massage chair. I went through the same proses as I had with Wiene, giving Sky my Falna. Once I was finished, I handed Sky the paper with her status on it.

Sky the Siren Level 1 Strength: C-682, Defense: S-923, Dexterity: A-872, Agility: S-909, magic: none Skill: Spirit Animal, I-0 Spirit Animal: Winged Manticore Trigger Phrase: I will sting you. Release Phrase: It won't sting.

Lastly Fia sat down on the chair. And again, I put my Falna on Fia's back. I saw that Fia also had the Skill: Spirit Animal. "I wonder if everyone I have given a Companion to is getting the Skill: Spirit Animal." I said thinking out loud.

Fia the Harpy Level 1 Strength: S-934, Defense: A-883, Dexterity: A-872, Agility: S-967, magic: none Skill: Spirit Animal, I-0 Spirit Animal: Winged Manticore Trigger Phrase; Take off. Release Phrase; Landing

"Y'all received the same Skill, Spirit Animal. Everyone on my Team has the same Skill. I think it might have something to do with having a Companions. If that's true, all of the Xenos will have the Skill, Spirit Animal when they receive their Falna. And Bell's team should receive the same skill because they all have Companions." I told Sky, Wiene and Fia.

I shrugged my shoulders. "I should show these to Hestia." I said creating copies of the papers I had given to the girls.

"Yall are level one. I know all three of you are a lot stronger than that, but when you first receive a Falna you start out at Level one. Y'all are high enough that you should be able to Rank up shortly. I would say if you registered with the Guild to wait five to six weeks before you try to Rank up."

"What will we have to do to Rank up to level two?" Fia asked.

"Fight something big. MY Team and I fought the Goliath on the 17th floor to Rank up to level three. Then a few weeks later we fought the Goliath again, but this time in pairs, to Rank up to Level four. Each of you fighting and killing two to three minotaur's each should be enough to get y'all to Rank up to Level two." I explained. "But as I said. You don't have to be adventurers if you don't want to be."

Usually, it takes one to two years before someone can Rank up. but, because y'all have Companions, you won't have to fight monsters to increase your stats. One of your stats has to be a 'D' ranking or higher before you can even try to Rank up to the next level. After you Rank up to Level two, I can add all Level one stats from your Companions to you so you won't have to fight monsters so long. That is what I've done with my Team." I told them.

Wiene grinned from ear to ear. "That will make it a lot easier for us to Rank up quickly, right?" Wiene asked.

I nodded my head in agreement. "That's right."

"As a side note, if you go to the Guild to register as adventurers. Report that you are level one adventurers, and you are members of the Hestia Familia. Although, I should probably go with you when and if you register." I told them.

"Should we register with the Guild?" Fia asked me.

"If you want to be an adventurer, then yes, you have to register with the Guild. But if you don't plan on going into the Dungeon, then no, you do not have to register. But even if you do register as an adventurer, that does not mean you have to go into the Dungeon. You can just stay above ground and work at the Hestia store when it opens, or you could work around the Manor." I said.

"Think about it and let me know later if any of you want to register as adventurers or not."

"Can I be on your Team if I register as an adventurer?" Wiene asked. Sky nodded her head in agreement.

"I would have to talk to my Team to see if they are ok with any of you joining the Team. But I don't really see there being a problem with it. Although if y'all want to be adventurers. Y'all might want to be your own team or see if the new recruits would like to have you join them." I said but seeing Sky's and Wiene's frowns. "I'm not saying I don't want you to join my Team. I'm just giving you other options."

"We will be able to spend time with you in the evenings if we make our own Team or can join Finton's team? wouldn't we?" Sky asked.

"I would expect you to. Y'all are living in the PD with me and your part of my Familia as well as the Hestia Familia. So, yes, I would expect us to spend time together in the evenings. Maybe not all evening or every evening. But most of the time. We will be doing our own things some of the time." I assured them.

They all three cheered up at hearing that.

I smiled at them. "I need to talk to Hestia about the three of you being able to receive a Falna and also all three of you receiving the Skill, Spirit Animal." I told them and started out of the room.

At the door I turned back to the girls. "I guess this is a good excuse to go out and celebrate. We won't be able to tell anyone outside the Familia. The Hestia Familia that is, but we could still go to the Benevolent Mistress and celebrate." I told Wiene, Sky and Fia.

I turned back to the door and left. I heard the girls cheering as I left.

I found Hestia shortly after I left our apartment. She was in the living room reading "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone." I had given her a translated to koine. It's not difficult to translate them. I have thought about giving Hestia the "Dragonriders of Pern" books to ready. I can tell her they are just stories about Pern, kind of like a history of the Planet or they are romanticised stories of Pern.

"Lady Hestia, do you have time to talk?" I asked Hestia.

Hestia put her finger between the pages and closed the book she was reading. "That Harry Potter would make a good adventurer with all the magic he is learning." She commented.

I chuckled. "Wait until the next book or two and he will know a lot more magic." I told her as I took a seat across from Hestia. I handed Hestia the papers of Sky, Fia and Wiene's status. "As you can see, I was able to give the Xenos a Falna." I told her.

As Hestia was reading the papers. "As you might notice, all three of them have the Skill, 'Spirit Animal'. I'm beginning to believe that anyone that has a Companion might receive that same Skill." I told her.

"I saw that Skill on Sky's status paper. I haven't read the others yet." Hestia informed me as she shifted papers to read the next one.

I sat quietly as Hestia finished reading the girls status papers.

Still looking at the last paper. "Yes, yes, it does look like anyone that you gave a Companion to receives the Spirit Animal Skill. Although no one on Bell's Team has received that Skill yet." Hestia said thoughtfully.

I shrugged my shoulders. "When was the last time you updated their Falnas?" I asked, then I continued. "They haven't had their Companions very long and the time a person receives the Skill might very." I offered.

Hestia nodded her head in understanding. "Maybe, you never can tell what's going to happen with skills." Hestia admitted.

"True, but you might want to keep an eye out the next few times you update Bell's, Welf's, Mikoto's, Lili's and Haruhime's Falnas. Along with Pembe's, Fenton's and Keao's as well. This could be an interesting happenstance." I said.

"Just what we need. Something else to bring attention to my Familia." Hestia groaned.

I chuckled. "I think with Bell and my Team ranking up so fast, we already have all the attention of Orario already. Something like everyone in the Familia having the same Skill shouldn't draw that much more attention." I offered.

"I hope so. Uuhh." Hestia said with a sigh.

"Well to go back to the original topic… The Xenos can receive a Falna. So, the Xenos can become adventurers once they start living on the surface." I told Hestia.

Hestia nodded her head in agreement. "Yes, that should work. What about your three? Are they going to be adventurers?" She asked me.

I shrugged my shoulders. "They're not sure yet. I'm going to give them time to think about it. but I think they are at least going to the Guild to register as Adventurers just in case they need to or want to go into the Dungeon." I told Hestia.

"I have been teaching them to read and write koine as well English. That way they can ready anything they need to read here in Orario. And if they want to, they will be able to read any of my books from Earth." I added.

"That makes since." Hestia told me.

"If you would like, I can tell Fels that the Xenos can receive a Falna." I offered.

"Oh, yes, would you please. You can get ahold of Fels easier than I can." Hestia accepted.

I'll do that shortly." I said as I stood up. "Well, that is all I wanted to talk about. I'll see you later." I told Hestia and gave her a small bow. I went back to the apartment.

#fanfiction #anime #Orario #DanMachi #Is it wroing to try to pick up girls in a dungeon #Bell #Freya #Hestia #Welf #Wiene #Fia #Sky #Hearthstone Manor #Monsters #Dungeon

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willsimpforanyone · 2 years

Note

could u write a leo valdez x daughter of hestia :)) basically two bffs who crush on each other but neither of them no that their feelings are reciprocated

oh that's so sweet

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

as a daughter of hestia you're chill, a calming presence to those around you

this is a godsend when it comes to leo

he's spent his whole life bouncing from carehome to carehome and running away more times than he can count

he thought he killed his mom

he got dragged into this new demigod life and a prophecy within a year

plus he had adhd and that's a whole other level

so when he finds himself in a group with you for capture the flag

he honestly gets a lil freaked out

he's so not used to being relaxed and focused and after ten minutes he has to leave

it takes a day or so for him to realise that hey, he actually really liked that feeling?

it felt like when he was working on festus, only without the metal dragon and his thoughts weren't racing so much

so he started looking for you

and this became a regular thing

you'd be sitting by the campfire or polishing your weapon or something

and leo would sidle up, ask how you were doing, maybe ask your opinion on something to spark a conversation

of course you welcomed his presence

but assumed he'd move on after a while

this tended to be a pattern

people would crave being around you for a while

a calm eye in the hurricane that was this existence

and then they'd leave

it kinda sucked, but you got used to it

you were a temporary home, a respite

so when leo kept coming back you were pleasantly confused

he was so hyper a lot of the time when you saw him around camp you'd assumed he wouldn't be able to deal with the feeling of 'chill the fuck out' for very long

but he didn't leave

he even started affecting you

you noticed some of the mechanics around camp that he'd point out to you

how you'd take a little longer doing tasks so he stayed longer

that you felt kinda cold without him by you

after a few weeks it was a rare sight to see one of you without the other

you were attached at the hip

best friends

besties

bros

nothing else

...right?

it took months for you to realise that maybe, just maybe, you had non-platonic feelings for the son of hephaestus

a playful smack of your head from your siblings told you that duh!! obviously!!

you panicked a lil

dear gods what if he left now?? like everyone else?? what if he'd just become addicted to the calming feeling??

what if he didn't like you?

in the hephaestus cabin, leo was freaking out at piper and jason

"shit shit shit i really like her! what if she thinks i just like the weird chilling out feeling and not actually her?? what if she's just putting up with me because her mom is hestia and that's just... what she does??

what if she doesn't like me back?"

oh you sweet precious idiots

the entire camp had figured this out before you two

piper did her best to calm leo down

she told him that he should tell you about his feelings or they'll just eat him up inside, jason nodding along enthusiastically

reluctantly he agreed

"damn you piper and your knowledge of me as a friend"

the three of them stayed up way past their bedtime planning how he should tell you

you, on the other hand, were with your closest sibling

desperately trying to figure out how to let leo know of your feelings and still keep him as a friend

the morning was unwelcome, as it meant you'd stayed up far too long

but there was a familiar excitement, one that you knew meant you'd get to see leo today

yes that excitement was there every day

you had no idea how it had taken so long to realise you had a crush on the guy

to your surprise, you found his outside your cabin door

it had been a long night

you were both exhausted

brain filters were broken

and at the same time

to almost no one's surprise except yours

you both said

"i really like you"

...

the adrenaline surged and explanations poured out

"i'm so sorry leo i didn't mean to just say that i just mean that like i think i have a crush on you like a really big crush and if you don't feel the same way that's fine i didn't even mean to tell you right now i-"

"i'm sorry i didn't mean- well yeah i did mean- yes i really like you but i didn't wanna just say it because i thought it would freak you out and i'm a little freaked out right know 'cause like i didn't know what i was gonna say-"

you both stopped, finally realising what had happened, and huge smiles broke out on your faces

"leo... you like me?"

he flushed and looked down, grinning wildly

"actually what i said was that i really like you"

you giggled

"well i really like you too"

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

i very much hope you enjoyed, thank you for requesting!

#leo valdez #leo #leo x reader #leo valdez x reader #pjo #heroes of olympus #hoo

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luvring · 2 years

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You had no business destroying me with that TrueLoveIsJustTheFirstOneAndTheOthersAreJustReplacements song scenario 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭.

Can we... Can we have Rime's too? 🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺 Or or Mc and Felix making up cuz my heart just broke 😭😭😭😭

i accidentally deleted my rime draft. um. no one hmu. but i can do the comfort !!

(part 1)

mc and felix haven't spoken to each other in a while

the only thing that seemed to loop in their minds was those last moments before mc left the room. the way they quietly mumbled an acceptance and goodbye before turning around, refusing to meet felix's gaze

time. felix just wanted some more time—to think, to respond, to apologize. and he almost wants to laugh as he says that to himself considering it's definitely what he ended up getting

at some point it feels unbearable. he misses spending all day with mc and seeing them smile. felix thinks that even if they aren't together anymore after this, he'd do anything to have it back. so he goes to find them

"...hey, fe—" "can i speak with you? just—i just need a few minutes and then we can..." go back to this. even if the thought of that makes his stomach drop. "...yeah. i have some time."

there's still a heavy tension in the air as they sit across from each other in his study. mc looks everywhere but felix and he clears his throat and breathes before starting

"mc, do you...trust me?"

he mostly expected their nod, but felix still relaxes in relief when they do. he slowly reaches for their hands, giving them time to pull back if they wanted to. he holds them before looking back up and speaking,

"then please believe me when i say i'm sorry. i'm sorry for not making you feel as confident or...loved as you should be. i adore you, truly and wholly. my hesitation—my answer—wasn't because i didn't. i had just avoided thinking about that hypothetical for so long that i panicked."

"but i...i don't believe it matters." he backtracks quickly. "not to say that your feelings aren't valid! they completely are but i just—i'm happy with you now. i love you now. you may have helped me heal from my past with rime but you—you're so much more than just that to me."

felix's grip has tightened and he's surprised neither of them have broken eye contact. he takes another breath before finishing, "and you're not obligated to accept my apology, of course. i understand if you'd rather we were just friends or, or um, coworkers? it's up to you, but i meant every word. i'm so, so sorry."

he doesn't know what to expect after he finishes. he drops mc's hands after a moment and purses his lips, satisfied that he at least got to tell them the truth

"i'm sorry, too. for what i said earlier."

mc frowns slightly, remembering what happened. felix opens and closes his mouth, choosing to instead hold his breath and wait for them continue

"if that had happened i would have expected you to struggle. i mean, i definitely would've. i just...i was scared. even when i said it i knew it wasn't fair to have asked. i'm sorry, felix."

his gaze softens a little before reaching to hold their hands again, with more confidence this time. "shall we both promise to communicate better, then?" he asks lightly. mc smiles back, "promise."

"does this mean we can go back to talking and cuddling again?" felix blinks before laughing and planting a kiss on their hand, "of course, love. there's nothing i'd like more."

tags // @evanox @felixescellun @yelenalovegood @rimeliker @demon-paradise @pst-02 @diamo-chan @chubbywasouski @god-is-trans @sweet-milky-tea705 @felixismytrophywife @bananacockatiel @yoyo-campfire @felinvu @sleezzsister @lonelylittlecowboy @hestia-marie @lordbugs @azahelmz

my taglist (°▽°)/

#last legacy #fictif #fictif felix #felix escellun #felix escellun x reader #🛒nia.reqs

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matrixaffiliate · 2 years

Text

Tidal - Part Two

New Story! FFN and AO3

A Hinny Pirate AU

Read Part One here. (Tumblr refused to let me post all 32K words in one post so it had to go up in two parts.)

Part of the @harryandginuary Big Bang Event!

Ginny smiled up at him. "Now I think you're alright, for a pirate."

Harry rolled his eyes. "We've established I'm not a pirate."

"I suppose we have," Ginny's chuckle shifted quickly into a yawn.

"You're tired." Harry squeezed her shoulders. "You don't need to be out here in the cold. You can go back to bed."

Ginny rubbed her eyes and nodded. "Alright, don't trip and die on your way back."

Harry squeezed her shoulders, wanting her pressed against him for just a moment longer. "I'll do my best. Good night, Gin."

She stood with another yawn. "Good night, Harry."

Harry watched her until she faded into the black of the night. There was no way around it, Harry was starting to realize that he was falling for one Ginny Weasley, and there was nothing he could do to stop it.

Tidal

The weeks progressed and Harry found that his growing affection for Ginny was becoming obvious to the Marauders. Gentle teasing was commonplace among their family, but this was the first time Harry had received the teasing over a woman.

"Like father like son," Frank chuckled as Harry watched Ginny while he kneaded bread. "Red hair seems to be the Potter's weakness."

"Eh, get him out to sea," Hestia chuckled. "Harry'll go back to normal once he's got salt water under him again."

"I am right here," Harry gave the two a pointed stare.

"And your attention is over there," Hestia gestured over to where Ginny sat with Hannah and Dorcas.

Harry huffed but didn't respond. She was right, his attention was on Ginny.

It was after dinner that Ginny brought up one of their earlier conversations that Harry had decided to pretend he forgot.

"You know we never did manage to spar that day."

"Verbally we've sparred plenty," Harry intentionally became very focused on one of the logs in the fire.

"But I wanted to see who would have won if it hadn't been for your mum." Ginny smirked. "Come on, Harry, let's spar."

"Who's sparring?" James looked over at them.

"I asked Harry if he wanted to, Captain." Ginny's smirk immediately changed to a pleasant smile.

"Capital idea, Ginny," James stood. "Harry, help me fetch the wasters, we could all do with a bit of night training."

Reluctantly, Harry stood and followed his dad to one of the caves they used for storage.

"Do your best, she'll be furious if you let her win." James spoke quietly as he motioned for Harry to take one side of the crate of wasters.

"Let her win?" Harry gawked at his dad. "Dad, I don't think it's a good idea for me to spar with her at all."

"Harry, she's as taken with you as you're taken with her." James chuckled. "That's why she's asking to spar with you. It gives her a reason to be closer to you."

Harry felt his face getting hot and he avoided his dad's gaze. "What are you talking about? She most certainly does not feel the same way I do. Blast it! I don't even know how I feel!"

"Allow me to disagree," James chuckled, "And ignore that part of yourself that thinks I'm wrong while you're sparring her. But after we put these away you and her could discuss that matter further. She might surprise you."

Harry felt his face grow impossibly warmer in the chilled night air.

"Was it this complicated for you and Mum?"

"We had different complications," James paused their progress towards camp a moment, "As does every couple. But those complications are what make a relationship strong. Take our crew, we had a lot to work through in the beginning, but now we're thicker than blood. It's in putting the relationship first, Harry, and letting the smaller things stay small things."

Harry nodded and looked down at the crate of wasters, "Right. I'll, I'll, I don't know what but I'll figure out what to say to her."

"Good," James motioned them forward again, "And remember to take some time to spar with the rest of the family too."

Harry nodded, but he silently admitted that he'd rather spend the entire time with Ginny, even though the concept left him with a cacophony of emotions that he hadn't the time to sort through.

"Alright, mates." James and Harry set the crate down and James unlatched the lid. "Let's have a bit of sport."

Harry reached in and pulled out a waster for himself and for Ginny, tossing it to her as she approached.

"Ready?" She grinned as she caught the waster by its hilt.

Harry took a deep breath before meeting her eye. "Let's find out."

They moved away from the fire and found a spot to begin. This started much differently than their initial fight had. Wasters crossed they stepped back and then began circling each other, as opposed to jumping out with the intention to kill the other.

Harry found that he greatly preferred this instance to their first match.

"Do you always train with the entire crew?" Ginny asked as she moved to strike and Harry parried.

"Usually, it's good practice."

Harry maneuvered and went for the touch but Ginny managed the block.

"Practice for what?"

"Our battles are fought on ship decks, Gin," Harry blocked her strike. "Close quarters, with others fighting around you. Training in camp is spread out for us."

Harry struck and Ginny spun out of the way; he grinned as he pursued her.

"Do you train on the Phoenix as well then?"

Ginny lunged forward to try and knock Harry off balance but he parried her strike and shifted out of the way.

"Yes. Usually we move to training on deck closer to when we're planning to set sail."

Harry had learned to wield a sword on this terrain, and he knew it gave him the unfair advantage, but his dad's warning to do his best told him to use it. So he struck again, not for the touch, but to shift her around to rockier soil.

"So this is the easier option?" She shifted as he'd hoped and Harry took stock of everyone sparring around them to be sure he had space.

"For me, yes," he forced her to step back again. "Though there's something exciting about being in close quarters on a deck with everyone around you fighting as well."

Ginny tried to push him back and Harry caught her waster with his own before spinning her around, pinning her between him and a boulder.

Ginny looked up shocked as she realized her situation.

"So this is where you'd push me overboard?"

Harry chuckled, resisting the urge to reach out and touch the freckles on her face.

"If you were my enemy, yes."

"Am I your enemy?"

Harry leant in, unable to stop himself. "Not in the slightest."

"If I'm not your enemy, Harry," she smiled up at him, dropping her weapon to place her hands on his waster and sliding it down away from her. "Then what am I?"

Harry let his waster fall, his hand coming to the boulder behind her as he leant in closer.

"I'm honestly not sure," he looked down at her lips, feeling the pull to kiss her stronger than he felt the pull to the sea.

He felt Ginny's breath catch as much as he heard it and instinct began to take over. He leant in further, and watched Ginny's eyes flutter closed, like she wanted this as much as he did.

But before his lips could reach hers, the rocks under his boots shifted and he slipped backwards, forcing him to pull back to keep himself upright.

Ginny stepped forward, her hand reaching out to steady him, but he pulled away before she could touch him, unsure of whether or not he'd make a scene with her, unsure of if he kissed her, whether he'd be able to stop, unsure of the feelings swarming inside him like the waves in a storm.

They stared at each other a long moment, Harry's heart beating in his ears. He couldn't manage to speak. She wasn't as close as they'd been moments ago and his entire body cried out to pull her to him and claim her lips with his own.

Her pull was as strong as the sea's.

He took a half step back, putting more space between them. She was looking at him with wide eyes and parted lips and Harry almost stopped, almost gave in, almost let the undercurrent pull him under.

"Harry," Neville called out.

Harry turned, both grateful for the interruption and hateful of it.

"Aye."

"Ready for a new partner?"

"Aye," he nodded Ginny towards Hannah.

Ginny looked at him with confusion. She opened her mouth to speak twice before shaking her head, picking up her waster, and turning on her heels.

"Hannah, show me how to move on this blasted uneven ground."

Harry watched Ginny move to where Hannah was as Neville approached him.

"Alright, Harry?"

Harry retrieved his waster and shoved his hand in his hair.

"Give me a hard fight, Nev." Harry turned his back on Ginny and Hannah, but he could still feel her eyes on him.

Harry and Ginny didn't spar again that evening. Harry took a round with most of the crew, and each match he threw everything into it. He was determined to rid himself of the way he'd felt with Ginny when their match had ended, the way he felt sucked under the waves unable to break through their surface. But no matter how hard he fought he only managed to feel exhausted along with the adrenaline that still pumped through his veins.

"Alright, my friends," James called out after he'd whistled for them to halt practice. "Let's call it a night."

The crew filed forward to put their wasters away, and Harry reached to take one side of the crate to carry it back to the supply cave.

"We've got it Harry," Benjy waved him off. "You've beat yourself to a pulp tonight. Get some rest."

Harry went to argue, but realized there was no way he could articulate the way he both desperately wanted to be alone with Ginny and felt he probably shouldn't be, at least not until he had sorted himself out. He opted for a grunt and a grateful nod before turning towards the woman who was quickly becoming his undoing.

Ginny looked over at him with a smile that felt so different than her smiles had felt just an hour ago. It felt sad and Harry swallowed hard against the impulse to immediately try and brighten it.

"I'm heading to bed," Harry murmured to her as she spoke with Emmeline.

Ginny pursed her lips but didn't meet his eye. "I'm staying up a bit longer."

Harry nodded before moving quickly away. He had to put distance between them until he had some idea of what he was doing. Until he could figure out what he wanted. These feelings, this pull, he knew it would be more to him than a simple kiss, she already was more to him.

Wasting no time in grabbing rocks from the fire and moving to his cave, Harry was determined to be asleep before Ginny returned, or at least in a position to feign sleep. There weren't words to describe what he'd felt when he'd gone to kiss her, or the way that he'd wanted to lose himself in that feeling.

Ginny was so much like the sea, Harry reasoned as he climbed under his blankets and blew out the candle. That was why she could do this to him. Her skin was soft as seafoam. Her temperament was the crashing waves against a ship's hull in the wind. Her laughter was the rushing sound of water hitting the cliffs of the island. Her smile was the light reflecting off of the sea's surface.

Ginny was the embodiment of the sea, and Harry wanted to be pulled under to the watery depths of her soul.

But she was leaving.

They'd return her to Dumbledore and then she'd return to Dercia. Harry needed to stop whatever was going on inside his heart. Ginny wasn't really a Marauder, she was a Dercian who was going to leave.

She came in quietly and Harry turned away from the cave's opening before she could see him still awake. While he may not be a pirate, Harry was certain that he was a man already in love with the sea, and now he was around a woman who felt just like the rolling waters surrounding him. And that woman could never truly be his.

He didn't have the nerve the next morning to try and discuss with Ginny what had happened the previous evening. She seemed to feel the same way, at least she also didn't broach the topic. The two of them were again back to treading lightly around the other, unsure of where they stood, or how they should react.

And Harry hated it.

It felt like he was not only off with Ginny, but he was now off with the sea as well. Sitting on the cliffs as he watched the sea didn't give him the same peace and joy that it always did. Hearing her waves crash seemed to only agitate him. The whole thing made him want to sail away in the Phoenix and pretend he'd never met Ginny Weasley, and that she'd never soured the sea for him.

"Harry, what happened?" Neville asked as they swabbed the deck of the Phoenix together a few days before Neville and Hannah's wedding.

"I'm not sure what happened, Neville." Harry sloshed more water over the deck and pushed it around with a rough shove.

"You two seemed to be doing fine until the night you sparred." Neville pressed. "Was it something to do with that?"

Harry shoved his hand in his hair and looked out at the sea, wishing he could go back to thinking the ocean and a ship were all he needed.

"I almost kissed her, Nev."

Neville let out a long breath. "What made you not?"

Harry leant against the railing and turned away from the sea to look at the island.

"It was overwhelming, Neville, I've never felt this way, not with anyone, and I just, I didn't, she's the ocean Nev. I'd throw myself into the sea if I thought she could have me alive. What am I supposed to do with a woman who has skin like seafoam and a temperament like the waves and a laugh that sounds better than the roaring of the sea? One who's leaving?"

"May I suggest not letting her get away?" Neville chuckled.

Harry turned sharply. "What are you talking about?"

"What this family is all about, Harry. No secrets." Neville came to stand next to him. "Harry, if she's the sea, tell her so. If you're willing to throw yourself into the ocean if she'd have you alive, tell Ginny that too. If you want to kiss her, then tell her. If you want her to stay, ask her to."

Harry was quiet for a long moment before responding. "And what if she isn't the sea, Nev? What if I'm wrong?"

"Then you'll always have the sea and the Phoenix."

"And what if she doesn't want this? What if life on the Phoenix and the sea isn't the life she wants?"

"Then you'll have to decide what's more important." Neville sloshed more water around. "But you won't know one way or another if she never finds out how you feel."

Harry worked silently as he let Neville's words sink in.

"You could talk to her at the celebration." Neville suggested once they'd finished with the deck. "No one will notice if you take her away from the commotion to talk, explain how you feel."

Harry nodded, not sure if he could respond.

"I think you'll be surprised, Harry. Even if she isn't sure about the life you lead, I can tell that she is sure about how she feels. If anything, I would wager she was disappointed that you didn't kiss her that night."

"Thanks, Nev," Harry nodded, remembering the way Ginny's eyes had closed and her lips had moved to meet him. "I'll think about it."

That comment ended up being an understatement. Harry didn't simply think about the suggestion, he obsessed over it. His brain broke down every possible way he could take Ginny aside at Hannah and Neville's wedding and do away with the secrets.

When the day finally arrived he wasn't sure what he was going to do, but he had accepted the fact that he couldn't live this way anymore. He couldn't lose both his relationship with the sea and any possibility of a relationship with Ginny.

He spent most of the day of the ceremony trying to be a good friend keeping Neville occupied while the women fussed over Hannah. That time away from Ginny helped him determine that as soon as he had the chance in the celebration he would pull her aside and try to put what he felt into words.

But when it was time for them to get Neville to camp for the ceremony, Harry wasn't sure if he was ready to see Ginny. When he saw her, he knew he wasn't. She was a dream, sitting near the fire, wearing a borrowed dress from Hestia in a deep green color and her overcoat, her hair flowing in long graceful strands down her back. She was captivating even more now than she'd been the first day he'd seen her out of that cursed Deircian naval uniform.

He took his seat after clasping Neville's hand and waited for Hannah, trying not to stare at Ginny.

Remus, Elphias, Emmeline, Patricia, and Arabella started up the music and Hannah walked up to the camp flanked by her parents.

Harry tried to pay attention to the short ceremony his dad had prepared, but his eyes kept wandering to Ginny and how she adamantly refused to look at him.

When his dad had proclaimed the happy couple wed, and the celebration began, Harry moved to Ginny's side.

"Gin?"

She turned from her conversation with Mary, looking weary of him.

"Dance with me?"

"Go on, then," Mary laughed and gave Ginny a gentle push.

Ginny smiled at Mary before taking Harry's hand. "Alright."

Harry ran his thumb along her hand, feeling more right than he had in the week since he'd almost kissed her.

The music picked up the next piece and Harry led Ginny into the steps.

Her eyes went wide and she gaped at him.

"What?"

"This isn't a dance just anyone knows, Harry."

Harry shook his head as he chuckled, "It's one of the only ones I know."

"It's a dance that only the Dukes and King know, Harry." She looked around at the other dancers and Harry noticed it was the main step the rest of the crew had chosen as well.

"But you know it," Harry countered.

"No, you're a good leader. I've never learned this dance."

"Welcome to the Marauders, teaching dances apparently only my dad, Sirius, and Kingsley would have been taught to the masses."

Finally, Ginny laughed and her smile was bright. Harry felt some of his anxiety lift and he capitalized on it.

"Walk with me?"

Ginny's smile faded a fraction but she nodded.

Harry moved them away from the dancing and towards the Phoenix, linking his fingers with hers.

"Do you remember, when you first joined us, you mentioned I had a reputation for being independent?" Harry led her across the gang plank.

"Yes, and you made a joke about being wed to the sea if I remember." Ginny sighed as Harry pulled her with him to the topmost deck.

"The joke has some basis in fact. If I thought the sea could have me alive I'd probably jump."

Ginny pulled her hand away with a huff and leant against the railing.

Harry followed her, resting his elbows on the railing as he looked out at the black sea and the silver stars, neither as captivating as the woman to his right, but they gave him courage to continue.

"But then you came along," Harry swallowed, "And I found out a woman could be everything the sea is."

Ginny went very still.

"Harry-"

"Do you know your skin feels like seafoam?" He interrupted her. "Or that your laugh is better than the roar of the ocean? That having you near is more comforting than the crashing waves against the Phoenix's hull? Being on the ocean is an encompassing experience, but being with you feels like I've been swallowed up in her depths and I don't know which way is up and I'm not sure how long I can hold my breath."

"Harry-"

"If I'm not what you want that's, that'll be alright. But I've gone on and on with you about how the Marauders don't keep secrets and I needed to stop keeping this from you. I should have kissed you when we sparred, but I was, I was shocked that I could feel so desperately for another person. To be perfectly frank it scared me. I've known you a bit more than a month now, and I can honestly say that you claimed me just as quickly as the sea herself did. But you're leav-"

"Harry!" Ginny grabbed his arm, roughly turning him, and brought her lips to his.

It was as all consuming as Harry feared it would be. Her lips were the kiss of saltwater on the open sea. Her sigh when he wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her flush against him was the heaving of a ship in the tides. Harry was sinking below the surface of her waves and he never wanted to come up again.

He was content to drown in Ginny's kiss, the Phoenix bobbing beneath him and her lips pulling the oxygen out of him. Her hands running through his hair and her sighs spurring him further as he slid his hands against her back, pressing her closer to him, it left him gasping when Ginny pulled away for air.

"Harry," his name on her lips was the whispered song of the sirens.

Harry brought his lips to hers again, tasting her and relishing how sweet the savor of the sea was.

"Gin."

"I thought," she kissed him again, "that you didn't want me, because I was one of Dumbledore's men."

Harry pulled her closer. "I told you, you aren't my enemy."

She smirked and spoke against his lips. "Then what am I, Harry?"

"The sea," he sighed into her, "And I've always been hers."

Her breath caught as he kissed her further, deeper, and Harry indulged himself in the feel of her teeth pressing into his lip.

"I'm not the sea, Harry."

"Then she sent you to me," he slid a hand into her hair, overcome by the softness of it. "Trust me Gin, no other woman has ever captured me this way. Nothing, no one, has made me feel like I could hold the sea in my arms." He brought his lips to her cheek, sliding them along her chin, to the soft skin behind her ear. "Until you."

Ginny hummed and pulled his lips back to hers. Her kiss was demanding, searing his lips as she slid her hands from the hair at the nape of his neck to his shoulders and then down his chest. Harry cupped her neck in his hand, angling them so that he could kiss her deeper while his other hand moved to pull her closer.

"Will anyone," Ginny's voice was breathless as Harry kissed her further, his hands wandering across her body, "Will anyone come looking for us?"

Harry moved his lips back to her neck as he spoke against her skin.

"The crew knows how I feel about you. I don't think they'll come looking."

"They know?" She pulled back enough to look at him.

Harry chuckled, "I really have been wed to the sea, Gin. It hasn't been hard for them to see the difference in me around you."

"Are you forsaking her for me then?" Ginny smirked, sliding her fingers along the buttons of his overcoat.

Harry took a deep breath, his hands stilling to rest on her hips.

"I'm hoping I won't need to choose between her and you. I'm hoping you're one in the same."

Ginny licked her lips as she kept her eyes locked with his.

"I don't know if I'm the sea, Harry."

"I'm willing to wait and find out."

Her smile started small before growing to fill her face.

"We have time."

Harry felt his chest burn and captured her lips again.

"Aye," he spoke against her, "We have time to find out."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It was a dream.

In the weeks that followed Neville and Hannah's wedding, Ginny was at his side almost constantly. He knew she wasn't sure on the matter but the more time Harry spent wrapped in Ginny's arms the more sure he had become that she was the sea in a woman's body. He was attuned to her, she had tides and storms that were no different than the sea. The freckles on her skin were the stars in the night sky. Her breathing was the rise and fall of the waves. Her smile was the reflection of the sun on the sea's surface. And her presence made him feel as though he hadn't left the sea at all, that she had stepped up and walked with him onto the island.

He felt the most complete when they'd sit on the Phoenix's deck or walk along the rocks near the cliffs of the island. Having Ginny and the sea together, Harry was convinced he'd found perfection.

They were walking along the path that kept them far enough from the cliffs to not be seen but close enough to hear the sea singing to them and smell the saltwater in the air. Stealing kisses and talking about everything above and below the sea's surface.

"You know, you're nothing like the sailors I read about in my books," Ginny slid her thumb along the back of his hand, their fingers intertwined.

"A gentleman of fortune I am not," Harry chuckled. "But before you, I'd never met or read about a noblewoman who knew how to wield a sword."

"To be fair, I didn't know how until a year or so ago. I didn't even know what my brothers and father were doing with Lord Dumbledore till then either. I don't even know why I was allowed in on the secret in the first place. But it was a chance at more than simply running a household and I took it."

Harry shook his head and chose to focus on the less dismal part of the situation. "You'd never held a sword until you were eighteen? I was training with wasters by the time I was ten."

Ginny squeezed his hand as she smiled fondly up at him. "I wasn't a pirate."

Harry gave her hand a sharp tug and pulled her to him, wrapping his arm securely around her.

"I'm not a pirate."

"I don't know Harry," Ginny brought her lips to his, "You might have been a pirate last night."

Harry chuckled, "You were not opposed to any of it, so am I really a pirate?"

Ginny smirked against him, "What if I wanted you to be a pirate?"

"You've always brought out the pirate in me, Gin."

"Hmm, and here I thought you were the son of a Duke."

"I haven't been the son of a Duke for nearly twenty years."

"Well I suppose, if you needed a title on the rare occasion, I wouldn't mind you being a pirate under the right circumstances."

She slid her tongue against his lips and Harry felt like waves were pouring over him as he slid his hand along her neck before pulling her into him and kissing her fully.

Ginny sighed, pulling him back with her until she could lean against the nearest boulder, the sea crashing behind her. Harry happily obliged, loving the way it felt to have every inch of her pressed against him.

It was when he pulled back to kiss her neck that he caught sight of something strange on the horizon. He turned his attention to the opening in the rocks behind Ginny and his heart stopped.

"Shite!"

"What?"

"Come on!" Harry grabbed her hand.

"Wait, what's wrong?" She pulled him back.

Harry pulled her forward as he pointed to the sea, "There are three Deircian naval ships within 20 leagues of us!"

The color drained from Ginny's face.

"No."

"Hurry!" He pulled her along, stumbling over the rocks as he moved at top speed toward camp.

"Dowse the fire!" He shouted as they came running in, "Dowse it!"

Frank and Edgar jumped for water.

"Deircians!" Harry let go of Ginny's hand and ran for his parents' cave. "Captain! Three Deircian naval ships to the Southwest! 20 leagues out at most!"

James came barreling out of his cave, Lily hot in his heels.

"Fire's out?"

"Aye, sir!" Frank shouted.

"Marauders to your stations! You know what to do!"

The crew moved at lighting's speed, pulling their whistles over their heads as they belted on their swords and loaded their pistols.

"Come on," Harry pulled Ginny to retrieve their weapons.

"What's my assignment?" She plaited her hair back and quickly tied it off.

"To stay with me. You don't know our calls yet, and they're the only way you'll know what's going on." He tossed her a second pistol. "Be ready."

Ginny caught it and shoved it in her belt.

"Let's go."

The Marauders knew this could happen, but in nineteen years the Deircians had never found them here. They'd never had a close call. The rock of an island was outside of Deircian waters, too far East and North of Deircia for them to chance upon it. But the Marauders had prepared regardless, training for what their response would be, for what they may have to do today.

Harry moved quickly with Ginny to the East side of the island and his assigned post, not too far from the inlet that served as the dock for the Phoenix.

"What now?" Ginny whispered when they had situated themselves so they could watch without being seen.

"We hope they sail on."

"And if they don't?"

Harry squeezed her hand. "Do you remember one of those first days you were here and we played hunter? There's a reason we called the game 'hunter,' Gin. As children we were learning to hide so we wouldn't be found in this scenario, and as we got older we developed the skills to hunt invaders that could end up on the isle."

"What do we do if they find the Phoenix?"

"If they find the inlet, there will be a whistle for that, and we'll move towards the Phoenix. Then we'll pick them off with pistols and muskets until they either turn around or make it to the Phoenix. If they make it too close to the Phoenix, we'll include cannon fire, and prepare to board their ships."

"What if they surrender?" Ginny kept running her hand over the hilt of her sword.

Harry shook his head. "We've never had a Deircian sailor surrender."

"What if they did?"

Harry shoved a hand into his hair. "We'd have to decide that as a crew, but Gin, they would know where we are. They'd know how to make it back here. If we let them go, we'd never be able to come back to this island again."

Ginny didn't have a response for him, and they sat watching the sea in silence after that.

The sea seemed to be as uneasy as Harry felt. Her waves crashed higher and harder against the island than he was used to and her normal bright blue felt murky.

It was nearly an hour later that Harry heard the whistle that the ships had moved on and let out a huge breath in relief.

"That's all clear. Let's go, Dad's going to want to hear everyone's thoughts."

Ginny nodded and moved with him back to camp, her hand finding his and holding on tight.

The crew gathered around the fire as Edgar and Sirius got it going again.

"Well done, all of you." James shoved his hand in his hair and Lily gently pulled it down. "I don't think we could have moved faster."

"The fact that we had to is what's concerning." Patricia huffed.

"I agree," Remus nodded. "They didn't get closer than ten leagues because they could tell the area is dangerous, but it won't take long for them to do what we did and send a jolly boat around to see if there's a way for a full sized ship to approach."

"If they ever come back," Emmeline shook her head, "They sailed off, and we don't even know if they're looking for us."

"I think they might be," Ginny spoke very quietly, and Harry turned to her.

"Why do you think they're looking for us?"

Ginny shook her head, "I don't know for certain, but there was something Lord Dumbledore said when I was preparing to try and find you, he said it was important that we found all of you first."

"That could mean that there's another rebellion group?" Fabien sat behind Ginny and put a hand on her shoulder.

"It could also mean that the King has tired of losing ships." Elphias shook his head.

"That could very well be," James nodded, "But I think we need more information. What say the crew to meeting with Dumbledore within the month?"

"Leave before the worst of winter has passed?" Arabella shook her head. "And for a conversation with Dumbledore? He's part of the reason this started in the first place."

"I thought you left because the King tried to kill the Potters?" Ginny frowned.

"You see," Arabella groaned and pointed at Ginny. "He doesn't even bother to tell the current people working for him what really happened."

"That's part of it, dear," Lily addressed Ginny. "You see, when King Thomas took the Deircian throne, we knew he intended to run things his own way without regard for the people. James and I made it known that we didn't care for his way of trampling the population under his whims. Dumbledore had sent spies into the castle and found out that King Thomas intended to kill off families and give their lands and titles to more loyal lapdogs. Dumbledore, however, withheld that information from us. James and I gathered several friends, most of them are around you now, to discuss what measures we would take to protect the Deircians. A friend of ours let the King know we'd all be under one roof and then helped to get the royal guard to the chalet we'd chosen for the meeting."

Ginny gasped. "He betrayed you?!"

"Aye," Sirius gripped his sword hilt. "But my brother was in the royal guard, and he alerted us, snuck away from them to tell us what was happening. They would have massacred us all if he hadn't."

Ginny frowned and looked around the crew.

"Regulus died in the battle," Harry supplied, "Killed by the head of the guard."

"And after it all happened," James continued, "Dumbledore told me that he knew King Thomas had planned to kill off families, but hadn't thought he'd start with Dukes, so hadn't thought I needed to know."

"Why didn't you all move against the King then? Surely there would be enough men among your vassals to form an army."

"Open rebellion with the crown usually kills a lot of men who have no choice in the matter, Ginny." Alice answered. "Our fight with the King is personal."

"I second James on meeting with Dumbledore." Elphias brought them back to the question at hand. "If King Thomas is looking for us then it won't be long before Remus is right and the Deircian navy is combing these isles the same way we did that first year. I like this rock, and I like the life we lead. If we're seen away from here it'll keep them away too."

"Are there any against sailing to Keshmar two months early, and the costs that come with it?" James asked. "We'll continue discussing whether we meet with Dumbledore immediately or at the end of the winter, but Elphias is right. If we're seen further south, they're likely to shift their search."

The camp was silent and James shoved his hand in his hair. "Alright, we leave in two days. Let's get dinner done and then tomorrow all hands on deck to get us prepared to set out for Keshmar on the following morning tide."

The crew was solemn as they slowly dispersed. Harry reached for Ginny as they stood.

"Walk with me?"

Ginny took his outstretched hand and Harry pulled her closer. He had thought they had time. That he had months to show her why a life with the Marauders, a life with him, was something she could want more than returning to Deircia or Dumbledore. But time had apparently run out.

"Are you to deliver your message to Dumbledore in person?" Harry asked as he led her inside his cave.

"No," Ginny pulled the pistols from her belt. "I'm to send a messenger to Deircia and remain with you."

Harry mimicked her motions. "And return with Dumbledore when he leaves us?"

Ginny stilled, her sword only partially unbelted. "Dumbledore didn't say."

Harry cursed under his breath and yanked his sword from his belt. Of course the old man hadn't said more, blasted secrets.

"Harry."

Her small hand wrapped around his arm before he could slam his sword against his cot.

Harry sighed and set the weapon down before pulling Ginny into his arms.

"It's going to be alright, Harry. Deircia isn't going to find Marauders' Cove. They aren't going to keep searching these isles because we'll be in Keshmar in two weeks. We'll be seen there and they'll think they should look to the South. They won't find you."

Harry buried his face in the crook of her neck and breathed in the way she always seemed to have some flowery scent about her.

"You're right," he spoke against her shirt and skin, "And at least we have a bit longer."

Ginny's fingers tangled in his hair as she pulled him closer and held him to her chest. They stayed like that until the whistle blew for dinner.

"Let's go," Harry reluctantly pulled away. "We'll need as much strength as we can muster for tomorrow. We don't usually load the ship in one day. There won't be any rest."

Ginny took his hand and nodded. "Then we'll rest tonight, together."

Harry leant down and kissed her, tracing her with his lips and tongue, determined to remember every last sensation it gave him. If his time with Ginny was going to end, he refused to take a single moment for granted.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Keshmar was the sort of port sailors dreamt of. The sea that surrounded the island was a bright blue, and it's weather was usually mild. Never more rain than a man could stand, provided he could handle a fair bit now and then, always warm, and the sun shimmered on the water's surface like diamonds scattered across a jewelers table.

But where Keshmar usually brightened Harry's spirits, it seemed incapable of doing anything for the dread he felt now.

The crew had decided to send for Dumbledore as soon as they reached Keshmar, and so Ginny was currently with Hannah trying to find a ship that would carry a message to Dumbledore. They'd been gone nearly an hour and while he had plenty to keep his hands busy, Harry's mind was free to obsess over his worry that Ginny would probably be leaving them - him - soon.

"Harry," Remus caught his attention and pointed toward the dock.

Harry turned and felt a smile pull on his lips.

Ginny had returned.

Hannah helped her back onto the deck and Harry moved to her side.

"Find someone, then?"

Ginny nodded "Yes, though it took far longer than I thought it would."

"I told you," Hannah adjusted her tricorne, "No sailor chooses to sail up to cold winter seas unless they've good reason for it."

"Dumbledore will pay them when he gets the message," Ginny retorted.

"Sailors don't like to deal in promises either, Gin." Harry reached for her hand and felt grounded when she met him halfway.

Ginny shook her head but laughed, "My books were so misleading."

"Very," Hannah agreed before looking around. "Where's my husband, Harry?"

"Getting lunch prepared with Fabien and Patricia; they're waiting on you as well," Harry nodded her on.

"Don't forget your own chores," Hannah winked before she descended to the galley, smiling as Harry pulled Ginny closer.

Harry ignored his friend as he brushed his lips against Ginny's, slow and attentive.

"We have work to do," Ginny hummed against him.

"There's nothing that says a bit of fun can't be involved."

Ginny laughed, "I have determined that you Marauders can't manage to do anything without a bit of fun."

"I would have to plead guilty to that charge," Harry pulled back but kept Ginny firmly in his embrace. "And I aim to persuade you that the Marauders' way of thinking is more appealing than many others."

He had to.

They easily managed to steal kisses as they worked, much to the teasing of the rest of the Marauders. But Harry wasn't concerned about their teasing. He was concerned about showing Ginny how much better life could be with him than as one of Dumbledore's pawns and Deircia's nobility.

Apparently, that was also something the crew noticed, though he really shouldn't have been surprised.

"Harry, a word?" His dad motioned to the captain's quarters after dinner that evening.

Harry nodded and followed after James.

Once the door was shut and father and son were seated at James' large desk, James' expression turned from carefree to worried.

"Son, you know we all have come to enjoy Ginny, and as a crew we're thrilled at the prospect of the two of you together. We've never seen you happier. But we're all worried what it would do to you if she chooses to go back to Deircia when this is over."

Harry rested his head against the high back of the chair and ran his hand through his hair.

"So, you're here to tell me to call it off?"

"Of course not," James scoffed, "I'm here to tell you that if you were to choose Ginny and Deircia then we would support you in that choice. I hope that you wouldn't let Dumbledore manipulate you or use you, I would feel personally responsible if you ended up unhappy, or suffered, or heaven forbid died from one of Dumbledore's schemes. But if Ginny is who you want to be with, and that means you leave us, we support you."

Harry looked out the small window into the fading light.

"And what if I don't want to leave? What if this is the life I want?"

"Then we welcome Ginny to the crew."

Harry swallowed and gripped his hair in his fist. "And if she doesn't want my life?"

James leant forward, resting his clasped hands on the desk.

"Then we'll be here to help you move on. We've all experienced heartache, and if a relationship is something you want then we'll find a way to help you meet someone new." James shook his head. "Seeing you this happy has reminded all of us what we gave up, what we left behind. We don't want to force this on you, we don't want you to feel trapped. Frank and David are having a similar conversation with Neville and Hannah right now. We didn't know if we would live this long, Harry. We didn't think about what life would be like for the three of you as adults, we didn't have any plan but to survive and be enough of a thorn in Thomas' side to keep him focused on us and not on the rest of the Deircian nobility. Now that we've made it nearly two decades in this life, the whole crew is realizing that maybe things don't have to keep going this way, maybe we could do things differently."

Harry heaved a sigh as his dad's words sank in.

"I appreciate the sentiment, but this is the life I want. I love this life; I was born for this life. And it scares me because if Ginny doesn't want this life I don't know if I can give this up to be a landsman." Harry shook his head and gave a bitter chuckle. "Besides, you're not a Duke anymore. I can't very well be an acceptable partner away from the Phoenix. My house is a ship, I have no noble title, and my only fortune is my family's carefully managed fund to care for the Phoenix."

"But we could fix some of that," James ran his fingers through his hair. "We could give you enough to purchase a home, set up life as a merchant, not in Deircia obviously, but somewhere like here in Keshmar. If you wanted it, we could make it happen."

Harry took a moment to consider the offer before sighing. "I don't know if Ginny would take that."

"Would you?" James asked with a penetrating gaze.

Harry looked down at the old wooden desk for a long moment before meeting this dad's gaze. "For Ginny, I think I might."

After that conversation, Harry spent his time pretending that time wasn't running out on him and Ginny. He spent every moment with her, though he never could bring himself to ask the one question that would change everything. He couldn't bring himself to end this misery because if she told him she was leaving, he didn't think he could handle that with her here, with her presence the constant reminder of what he would lose.

Instead, Harry focused on things like showing Ginny around Keshmar, regaling her with tales of this port and others he'd been in, and talking about anything and everything in between kissing her and holding her and pouring his heart into her.

"That's where Master Jack's place was," he gestured down one of the haphazard roads that had developed around the island. "That's who taught me to make cots one year."

"How old were you?"

"Fifteen I think?"

“Can we go see him?” Ginny was already moving in the direction he'd pointed.

"I don't know if he's still there," Harry grabbed her hand. "But we can go look. I haven't ever been back."

Ginny moved closer to him as people shuffled around them. "Why not?"

"I didn't need the work." Harry shrugged and led her down the road a good way. "If Jack's still here, he'd be in that shop."

"Well come on, then," Ginny pulled him inside the hut he'd pointed out.

Harry smiled at the man shaving thin strips off of a large tree branch. His black hair now touched with gray, and his tanned skin now sporting a few more creases than Harry remembered from the last time he'd seen him.

"Hello, Master Jack."

Jack looked up from his work and laughed.

"By the moon and the stars it's Master Harry!" He moved from his work to shake Harry's hand. "And don't you tell me the sea found you a woman mad enough to sail with you?"

Harry swallowed the bubbling admission that Ginny wasn't really his.

"Aye," Ginny responded with a laugh, "The sea didn't even consult me, Master Jack. She just tossed me overboard and then right onto the Phoenix."

Jack laughed and tipped his head to Ginny. "She's a fickle mistress, it's true, Miss, but the sea will never steer you wrong, mark my words, she knows what's best for all of us. Even those she takes for herself, in life or death, she gives what's best."

"Is he who made you love the sea so much?" Ginny grinned up at Harry, but before he could answer Jack shook his head.

"Nay, Master Harry made me want to return to the sea with his love for her; he's hers through and through. He could charm a siren off her rock for how connected to the waves of the ocean he is."

Harry chuckled, "I don't believe I could manage that, but your confidence is flattering."

"Are you looking for work, Master Harry?" Jack looked over at his tools and back at him with a grin.

"Not today, old friend. Miss Ginny here wanted to see who taught me to build the cot I made her."

"It's the best cot I ever slept upon, Master Jack," Ginny nodded.

Jack beamed. "Well, you let Master Harry make you cots, Miss Ginny, and then send all your friends to me."

"Of course," Ginny nodded conspiratorially, "We can't let the apprentice outshine the teacher."

Jack laughed heartily. "Oh the sea has blessed you well, Master Harry! I say she's given you one of her very own!"

Ginny squeezed Harry's hand in hers as they all laughed, and Harry hoped Jack was right.

But while the time spent with Jack made Harry feel like time really would stand still for him and Ginny, the clock did finally run out.

Dumbledore arrived two weeks after Ginny's message left Keshmar. The old man approached the Phoenix alone, which Harry found surprising. He didn't think Dumbledore would trust them enough to come alone. Then Harry remembered that Dumbledore wasn't alone; Ginny was, after all, one of his crew.

Neville and Hanna had cornered him and Ginny a few days earlier with that exact worry. It wasn't said in so many words, but Neville and Hannah were worried that if Dumbledore noticed that Harry and Ginny were involved, he'd manipulate their relationship to his advantage. Reluctantly, Ginny agreed that it was best to keep their relationship among the Marauders for now. And before Hannah could call them on the question Harry had been avoiding, she'd been called to help with dinner.

And now, as they watched Dumbledore approach, Harry and Ginny slowly, but deliberately, drifted apart.

"Ho, Dumbledore!" James called from the deck. "We heard you might be around these parts."

"It's been a long time, Potter," Dumbledore called back. "I thought it might be nice to catch up."

James nodded to Dorcas and Elphias, who extended the gang plank.

"Come aboard, we'll reminisce about the past."

Harry had been listening to the conversation, but his focus was on Ginny's reaction to seeing her captain or rebellion leader or whatever she thought of Dumbledore as.

The old man climbed aboard and shook James' hand. Then he turned to Ginny and she bowed slightly. The sight made Harry's blood boil.

"Very well done, Miss Weasley. I knew you would succeed."

"And my brothers?" Ginny asked without giving any notice to his praise.

"Fine, fine," Dumbledore nodded with a smile. "Your family is all well."

Ginny relaxed visibly and Harry held back from going to her side.

"Pull the gang plank and we'll adjourn to the galley," Lily came to stand behind Harry and spoke quietly. "Most of the crew has already started that way."

Harry nodded and snagged Neville to help him with the gang plank. Once the ship was secure, Harry turned in time to watch Dumbledore offer Ginny his arm and guide her down to the galley. The sight made his stomach drop as he realized the next several minutes would determine if Ginny was staying with them or leaving.

"It'll be alright, mate," Neville gripped his shoulder. "Stay close to Hannah and me, we'll get through this the way we've made it through everything else, the three of us together."

Harry could only nod as they went below deck.

Hannah had kept space for the two of them at one of the tables, and his two friends sandwiched themselves around him.

"Well, Albus," James began, "Welcome aboard the Phoenix."

"I hadn't anticipated the company of your whole crew, your Grace. I would have thought we'd speak in the Captain's quarters." Dumbledore's smile was placid, and Harry felt a sense of unease at the controlled calm the man seemed to exude.

"Aye," James grinned, "But the entire crew doesn't fit in the Captain's quarters."

"We don't keep secrets old man," Arabella's voice was ice and her stare was colder.

"She's right," Sirius lounged idly as his fingers played in the ends of Marlene's hair. "You'll have to tell us all what it is you've got in mind."

"And we'll all need to agree to it for it to happen." Remus added.

"So what do you say, Albus," James sat down next to Lily and gestured to an open seat near Dumbledore's left. "Are you willing to play by our rules this time?"

Dumbledore stood stoic before a small smile slid across his face.

"For the moment, yes."

He and Ginny took their seats and Harry keenly felt the line drawn in the sand, the Marauders on one side, and Dumbledore on the other.

"To be concise," Dumbledore began, "I would like you to assist me in regicide."

Harry rolled his eyes.

"We understood as much from Ginny's message," Frank scoffed as he voiced Harry's own thoughts.

"Details, Albus," Edgar tapped his fingers on the table in front of him. "What do you want us to do and why us?"

Dumbledore looked shrewdly at Edgar before nodding. "I see my past grievances are not forgiven."

"We forgave you a long time ago, Albus," Alice shook her head, "but you lost our trust the night Regulus Black died."

Harry saw the briefest flicker of pain in Dumbledore's eyes. "And how do you propose I earn back that trust?"

"Be completely open with us," Lily leant forward. "No secrets this time, Albus. We'll have it all out in the open, where all of us can decide whether it's worth our lives to help you."

Albus looked at Ginny, "And what do you think of the Marauders' way of doing things, Miss Weasley?"

Ginny had been looking down at the table for most of the conversation, but at Dumbledore's words she looked up and locked eyes with Harry for a fraction of a second, her stare blazing, before looking at Dumbledore.

"I prefer it, your Grace."

Harry completely missed Dumbledore's reaction because his eyes were fixed on Ginny while Hannah's fingers gripped his arm tightly to keep him from doing something rash. Ginny's message had hit him like a tsunami and Harry wanted to throw Dumbledore overboard, wash his hands of Deircia, and sail away with Ginny to have the sea be their home and never have cause to leave the ocean or Ginny again.

"Very well," Dumbledore continued. "Riddle and all of his entourage, including those he gave your lands to, meet every month in the same room. My intentions are to blow up the room while they meet."

"Gunpowder?" Kingsley asked. "How are you going to get enough there to kill a room full of people?"

"I have personally been smuggling gunpowder compacted in canisters into this room, the room below it, and the room above it, for the last year. I assure you, your Grace, there is more than enough gun powder to wipe out the entire wing of the palace."

"What would our role be?" Patricia grabbed Edgar's hand to stop him from tapping on the table.

"You'd be helping me to set off the explosion, and clearing the wing before the explosion takes place."

"Don't you have enough men to do this?" Benjy eyed him, "Why do you need us specifically?"

"The majority of you know the royal palace. Since Riddle took the throne, most of my men haven't ever been on the castle grounds, let alone within the building itself."

"It's been more than twenty years, Albus," Emmeline frowned, "Are we really better than someone going in blind?"

Dumbledore nodded confidently, "I believe you are."

"Who is the next in line?" James asked.

"Once everyone in that room is confirmed dead Rosmerta Aldworth, Duchess of Hogsmeade."

"Lovely woman if I recall," Fabien smiled. "All business and no nonsense."

"And she was fond of all of you," Dumbledore smiled. "I'm sure she'd allow you all to reestablish yourselves in Deircia."

"What is there for us in Deircia?" Harry's question left his lips before he could stop it, but the question wasn't for Dumbledore; his eyes were pinned on Ginny.

Ginny locked eyes with him and answered before Dumbledore could.

"Very little that can't be brought back out to sea."

"I'm sure that having your homes and standings restored to you would be more than enough." Dumbledore put a hand on Ginny's shoulder, his expression now touched with worry as she looked back down at the table.

Harry, however, was having to fight the impulse to grab Ginny and find a private place to have the conversation he'd been deliberately putting off, now that he was sure the answers, while not easy, would keep Ginny in his life. Hannah's hand holding him in place by his arm was probably the only thing keeping him on the bench.

"So, you'd have us pushing the servants away from the rooms and then setting off the explosion?" Remus brought the conversation back around. "And then once Rosmerta has been crowned, you'd expect us to return to Deircia?"

Dumbledore nodded.

"Did it ever occur to you that we may not want to return?" Marlene smiled sweetly at Dumbledore. "After all, we're pirates, aren't we?"

James shook his head and cut off Dumbledore's response, "We'll discuss what we want out of this later. Right now the question is whether we're willing to lend our services, and if we do, how we're going to approach Deircia without being sunk in the process."

"Leave your ship here and I'll purchase passage for you back to Deircia." Dumbledore said confidently.

"Leave the Phoenix?" Dorcas scoffed. "Are you mad?"

"Enough," James stopped the argument again. "What says the crew? Are we going to help Dumbledore?"

The galley went silent.

Harry watched Ginny and when she finally looked up and locked eyes with him Harry felt his resolve harden.

"Aye, Captain," Harry stood. "I will help."

Ginny's face lit up with a small smile and Harry held back from running to her.

Neville and Hannah shared a long look around him before standing as well.

"Aye, Captain, we're helping as well." Neville nodded.

"We don't want to return to Deircia," Hannah added, "But we're done worrying about every Deircian ship in the ocean. It's time to end this so we can live our lives."

"We're with them," Fabien and Gideon stood.

"As are we," Frank and Alice stood.

One by one, the crew stood.

"But we're not leaving the Phoenix, Albus," Elphias stood with Arabella. "We'll need to find a way to smuggle us in, ship and all. I want to be well into open water by the time they're counting bodies."

"Agreed," James nodded. "This ship is everything we have, Albus. We'll be keeping her with us."

"Very well then," Dumbledore stood. "I'll have my men find a smuggler's cove and we can hide the Phoenix there. I'll send a messenger to guide you in. The meeting takes place in two weeks."

"We'll be there," James stood and shook Dumbledore's hand.

"Come along, Miss Weasley."

Dumbledore turned but Ginny didn't move.

"I'll be staying here, your Grace." She looked up at him. "Please give my regards to everyone."

Dumbledore frowned, "Are you certain? Your family is concerned for you, and I told them I'd be bringing you home."

"Then you'll have to tell them I refused to return to Deircia." Ginny stood. "I will remain with the Marauders for as long as they allow me to."

"We're pleased to have you, Ginny." Lily reached out and took Ginny's hand. "You're one of ours now."

"Tell Molly we'll keep her safe," Fabien and Gideon flanked Dumbledore and began pushing him out of the galley and back up on deck. "She's our niece after all."

Harry watched as Dumbledore was whisked out of the room then Neville and Hannah both gave him a hard nudge toward Ginny. Feeling the restraint of Dumbledore's presence lifted he jumped over the table between them and pulled Ginny into his arms.

"You're sure? About all of it? Us, the sea, Deircia, your family?"

Ginny laughed and launched forward, crashing her lips into his, causing the room to erupt into cheers.

"I'm sure," she murmured against his mouth.

Harry rested his forehead against hers and smiled. "Good, because I've fallen in love with you and was contemplating living on land for the remainder of my life to be with you."

"May your tongue turn black and fall out for such thoughts." Ginny teased. "And I love you too."

Harry pressed his lips back down to hers and enjoyed the sound of his family's cheers and laughter.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Deircia was wet.

Not in the way that a good rain soaked the ground and left it's scent in the air, but in the way that sopping wet clothes in a pile seemed to be perpetually rank.

Harry recognized that he was seeing Deircia in the dead of winter, but if winter were any indication, he didn't care for the country at all.

"Does the sun ever come out?" Harry asked Ginny as they climbed into the wagons that Dumbledore had sent to meet them and Minerva, the messenger that had led them to the cove where they would be keeping the Phoenix anchored.

"Yes," Ginny laughed quietly. "Someday we'll run out of places to see and I'll bring you back here when it's nice."

Harry took one last look at the carefully hidden trail down to the cove. He'd been as unsure as the rest of the crew about leaving the ship behind. But Ginny's family had come with several others loyal to Dumbledore and promised to protect their home. He suspected their daughter coming with them was a good motivator. Ginny's mother had barely maintained her composure at Ginny's insistence that she was not going home, but coming to the palace with them. Ultimately, Lily interceded and promised to keep Ginny with her and safe.

"The Phoenix will be there when we get back, Harry." Ginny took his hand. "Let's go free Deircia."

Harry squeezed her hand and resolutely climbed up into the wagon, pulling the canvas over himself and Ginny.

The plan was surprisingly simple. The wagon master, Seamus, was leading the team of wagons full of food and Marauders into the palace. Then they would sneak into the wing by secret passages that his father, Sirius, and Remus knew of, and clear everyone out while the Longbottoms and Abbots went to set off the gunpowder in the room above Riddle, the Blacks, Remus, and Dorcas set off the gunpowder below the room, and The Potter's, Ginny and Kingsley set it off in the room Riddle would be in. Then they just had to get back to the wagons, and Seamus would smuggle them out in the confusion.

Harry pushed the thoughts of their plans away and pulled Ginny closer.

"When we get out of all of this," He nestled himself closer to her, "I would like to properly meet your family."

Ginny chuckled, "Maybe we should give them a few months to cool down first. My mother is likely planning how she's going to drag me home in chains once we return to the Phoenix."

"I'm sure it's because she loves you." Harry laughed quietly.

"Of course, but that doesn't change that I'll feel a lot better when we're 20 leagues out to sea." Ginny turned to look at him with a glint of mischief in her eyes.

Harry felt his pulse quicken at the way she moved against him and shifted to capitalize on their forced proximity.

"And I'll feel better when you're both not whispering." Kingsley interrupted from under the canvas near the front of the wagon.

Ginny smirked and leant in to brush her lips over Harry's before nestling in his arms and letting the moment be a promise for later.

The ride was uncomfortable and longer than Harry cared for seeing as this was how their escape would go as well. After what felt like an eternity they were finally pulling up their hoods and tying masks over their eyes.

"Stay close and do not get separated from your group." James spoke quietly. "I haven't lost any of you in twenty years and I'm sure as hell not losing any of you tonight."

"Just make sure you blow this place up when the hour chimes." Elphias adjusted the position of his sword on his belt. "We'll meet you back here."

Harry grabbed Ginny's hand and squeezed it for a moment before they all entered into the servants' entrance.

The rest of the night was a silent adrenaline rush. They dared not speak and as each group moved out of the secret passage; Harry felt like a piece of him was torn away with them.

James led them out into the corridor and Harry felt his heartbeat in his ears as they moved towards the room that held the King and his entourage. Theirs was the trickiest of the assignments. Where with the other two rooms the groups had access to the gunpowder itself, their group did not. But Dumbledore assured them a sizable amount of the packed gunpowder was along the wall shared with the corridor. And so the five of them were armed with flasks of napalm, torches, and their pocket watches.

Harry watched the hand on his watch tick closer to one minute before the hour as they hid behind a hanging tapestry. Ginny to his right and Kingsley to his left. The five minutes they waited stretched for hours and every sound spiked his heart rate. He knew Ginny was feeling the moments of panic too as she gripped his hand in a death grip. But finally James nodded and they moved to cover the lower part of the wall in napalm. The smell was terrible and Harry was sure that anyone who ended up near them would be able to smell it on them. Just as soon as his flask was empty he set it next to the wall and started moving for the entrance to the secret passage.

He was quickly joined by Ginny and Lily, and then he saw the flicker of a quickly moving flame and James and Kingsley running towards them.

"Move!" His mum's voice was fierce and Harry grabbed Ginny's hand before bolting back towards the wagons.

The explosion came as they nearly crashed into the other two groups that had set off the gunpowder on the other floors. The walls and floors shook and Harry's ears rang as though he'd been standing next to one hundred cannons firing at once.

"Let's go!" James moved to lead them as they ran from the fire and confusion.

Elphias was waiting for them as they came out of the passage and back into the kitchens.

"Everyone's in the wagons, Captain. Let's get out of here."

James gripped Elphias' shoulder before he grabbed Lily's hand and slipped under the canvas.

Within minutes of the explosion, they were in the wagons and outside of the palace grounds.

"We did it." Ginny whispered next to him.

"By the sea and the stars I hope so." Harry kissed her hair. "And even if we haven't, I still want to marry you."

Ginny went still and then shifted to look up at him in the dark. "What did you say?"

"Marry me, Gin?"

"Yes," she pushed forward and kissed him. "I always wanted to marry a pirate."

"I'm not a pirate." His response was automatic and they both chuckled quietly.

"Harry, we just committed regicide. If that doesn't make us pirates I don't know what does."

Harry laughed before kissing Ginny again.

He expected the ride back to the Phoenix to be filled with the same nerves that had accompanied the ride to the palace. But with his fiance in his arms Harry thought the trip was over far faster than he would have preferred.

"Let's move," Harry pushed the canvas off of them as they came to a stop and heard the all clear whistle. He wanted as far away from the Deircian coast as possible.

"Get Ginny on board," Kingsley stepped next to him. "There'll be time enough to meet her family when we know Riddle didn't survive. And congratulations."

Harry looked to Ginny as she took his hand and nodded. "Kingsley's right, my mum will only prolong this."

"Then let's go." Harry moved swiftly and silently, feeling like he was playing hunter again, the game's true purpose being realized. He and Ginny were quickly flanked by Neville and Hannah. The four of them moved in sync down to the water's edge and climbed into a jolly boat, pushing quietly out to sea.

The ocean beneath him, and his best friends and fiance around him, Harry finally felt free.

"I'll climb up," Ginny whispered as they came alongside the Phoenix.

She reached out and Harry chuckled as he watched what had been her saving decision when they'd sunk the ship she'd been on.

"Let's get hooked up to the lift," Hannah handed him one of the lines. "She can help pull in the rope from the deck while we pull from here."

Harry heard the sound of the other jolly boats hitting the water and picked up the pace. Gin's low whistle called and he responded with his own before they were rising into the air.

Harry stepped onto the deck of the Phoenix and Ginny rushed to his arms, kissing him soundly.

He was home.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Captain Harry Potter of the Marauders stood at the bow of his ship, the Phoenix, stars shining above him, smiling to himself at how fast twenty years had gone by. It had been twenty years since they'd killed the King; twenty years since Her Majesty, Queen Rosmerta, took the throne; twenty years since he'd asked Gin to be his wife; twenty years he'd been married to her.

"You're not on watch tonight," Ginny walked up behind him.

Harry smiled, "No, but Dad used to do this when he was captain. It's soothing to be under the stars with the sea holding me up."

"I'm sure James still does it, now it's as Duke instead of Captain."

Harry nodded. That had been Rosmerta's only request, that when the Marauders had tired of being "pirates" that they return to their lands and their titles. Most of the crew had done just that this year. Harry had not only assumed the role of Captain of the Phoenix, but over several new crew members as well.

"The children want to see Marauders' Cove." Harry looked back up at the constellations that had navigated him for decades now.

"Do you want to go back?" Ginny slid herself into his embrace. "We haven't been back since we cleared it out all those years ago."

"We didn't need to hide anymore," Harry nodded, "But I'm sure it's still there, and I think they'd enjoy seeing where their family started. It would be good for these new crew members to know the roots of the Marauders."

Ginny grinned up at him. "I always wondered what it was like in the summer."

"Well then I believe it's high time I showed you."

Harry pulled her closer before bringing his lips to hers, soft and sweet and home.

The sea ebbed beneath them and Harry smiled as she seemed to give her silent blessing on not just their new destination, but on him and Gin as well. Harry had once thought that Ginny was the sea in a woman, but now he knew she was so much more than just the sea. Ginny was the pounding in his chest in an ocean storm, she was each individual bubble in seafoam, she was the salt in the saltwater surrounding him. Ginny was everything, and most importantly, she was his.

Fin.

#Tidal #pirate au #hinny pirate au #hinny #harry x ginny #harry potter x ginny weasle #harry potter #ginny weasley #romance #adventure #fluff #harry potter fanfiction #harry and ginuary big bang #harry and ginuary

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antiloreolympus · 3 years

Note

May I ask why you dislike LO? I enjoy reading the series, and there are faults in the writing (as no series is perfect) and I have my own gripes with it, but overall I just really like the myth of Hades and Persephone.

I'll admit there were things that made me uncomfortable when I first started reading it (and they still kinda do) like Persephone being a teenager while Hades is, what - 40-60ish? The timeline (of the story taking place over the course of only a few weeks, when a Lot of stuff is going on), Hera the goddess of marriage having an affair, Demeter being an overbearing mother who financially takes advantage of her daughter, some of the flashbacks (like specifically the one where a much younger Kore meets a drunken Hades and falls on top of him while naked? And its played off as a meet cute)

But thats besides the point - I'm curious as to why you don't like LO and/or the creator of it I guess?

Also your posts are showing up in the lore Olympus tag - (and I know there's probably a seperate "anti-lo" tag but I also wouldn't be surprised if angry anons came into your inbox for spamming the tag of the webcomic they like with criticism, because apparently thats what people do on this hellsite instead of just blocking). And, of course your entitled to critique the series, but I'm sure some people are not going to be happy about that. (I say this as a person who enjoys critiquing media, like netflix's spop reboot, and have had angry anons come at me before, so stay safe out there).

Also, sorry this is so long.

Heyo! And I understand

I'll take this time to get into why I don't like each character as it's one of the reasons I don't like LO as a whole:

(Some I removed because there isn't much to say about them)

Main Characters:

• Hades - Man in his Late 30s to Early 40s actively pursuing a 'teenaged girl'.... He acknowledged that this was wrong at yet pursues her anyway? Plus, he's perfectly fine with slave labor and using his power/status to get his way. His character is also inconsistent when it comes to Minthe because one minute he can stand up for himself and the next he's terrified?

• Persephone - An overly sexualized teen who acts like a child. She also killed people but it was because of a 'feeling'. She still committed murder and yet it's framed as a "well, it's not her fault" but I'm also supposed to believe this 19-20 yr old would make a great and feared queen.

• Hera - Not only does she treat the lower class like garbage but she's also a hypocrite (the affair). Plus, she just randomly goes back on her word about Hades being a creep for no reason.

• Eros - Put a girl in some random dude's car and gave her "apology donuts" as a sorry gift 😒

Antagonists:

• Minthe - She was coded with bpd which wouldn't be a bad thing if she wasn't so demonized by the story.

• Apollo - How come this dude is one of the most prevalent people in the story and we don't get a strong motive for him until season 2? Even then, we barely know anything else about him. I get the whole "well, he did this so I don't want a backstory for him" but at least give him a solid motive. One that comes from him directly.

• Thetis - One of the sweetest people gets turned into a homewrecker for no reason. Even then, people gloss over her being verbally manipulative to Minthe.

• Leto - Also verbally manipulative to her daughter. How comes RS decided to demonize the goddess of motherhood, too? There's really no justifiable reason for that.

Others:

• Hecate - Also switched up about Hades and Persephone. Let's not forget her hitting Hades 3 times and him having to tell her to stop.

• Artemis - I get letting her brother in the house but Eros and Hermes? That's just inconsistency right there.

• Demeter - Got demonized for the 5973th time 😔🤚

• Aphrodite - Also rude to the lower class but it makes more sense as she's Aphrodite. Still rude af though.

• Hermes - Man got mad at Thanatos for "messing with his money" as if he didn't cover the whole thing up with Demeter

• Hestia + Athena - Just hypocrites and the fact that they're supposed to be (aro)ace goddesses.

• Ares - He and Persephone also made out when she was 18 and I assume he was way, way older. Plus, him simping for Persephone in front of Aphrodite was an odd move.

• Hephaestus - This issue has more to do with RS's writing because how the hell did he hack Apollo's phone from Persephone's sim card alone and why is that just never explained?

• Daphne - Excusing nepotism as if Thanatos doesn't work in the same place as Persephone

Now, onto the story:

Its pacing is slow but also extremely fast for what it is. Everything (excluding flashbacks) has taken place over the course of 2-3 weeks. Persephone literally gets SA'd the day after the party. But then you have to think about how Persephone and Hades are probably going to get married like a month after their second meeting. We haven't even gotten to the trial yet and it feels like we never will with how slow everything is. LO honestly isn't made to be like a regular webtoon, it's made to be binged like a Netflix show or something. That would be fine but I can tell from interviews that it wasn't RS's intentions.

Also, RS herself? Yeah, don't really vibe with what she says a good portion of the time

I'll show some examples:

Not all of them are bad, just very weird

Besides the wonky art, she does have potential but LO doesn't really show her skill. Hopefully, she does learn from this comic though.

About the hate, I honestly don't care that much anymore as it really doesn't change much. I respond but only because I find it funny/entertaining when someone tries to tells me what to do with my own freetime.

#anti lo #anti lore olympus #lo critical #lore olympus critical

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mandoalorian · 3 years

Text

I Believe In Love [Maxwell Lord x F!Reader] — Two: Truth

Author's note: When you find your calling to leave Themyscira, you venture out to the World of Man with intentions of helping and healing a very specific person's relationship with his son. You've heard his voice before, but only in dreams. You've felt his pain and anguish and you've never been able to relate to anything more. But things don't come easy for you, and they certainly don't come easy for him either. [This series contains spoilers for WW84 and is my interpretation of what happens after the movie ends].

Warnings: allusions to sex, mention of trauma

Word count: 4,400>

Masterlist

Previous - Chapter Two - Next

"Can I help you?" you jumped when you felt a tap on your shoulder. You spun around on your heel, diverting your attention from the man on the television to the petite blonde girl who was doting a pale pink pant suit. Her blue eyes seemed friendly enough, but her expression of bewilderment and slight disdain was enough to make you uncomfortable. Your lips parted slightly as you tried to gather your words.

"I'm… I'm looking for someone," you said hesitantly. You turned back around to watch the television, pressing the palm of your hand against the screen and watching him with awe. You weren't sure if you were more flabbergasted by this brand new technology, or by the handsome man who was attempting to sell you oil.

"You're going to have to be more specific," the woman placed a hand on her hip and quirked her eyebrow.

"My friend Alistair…" you said slowly before shaking your head and smiling. "Do you know this man?" you pointed at the television.

The blonde woman looked completely and utterly perplexed. "Mr Lord?" she asked. Her mind was racing: everyone knew who her boss was. She pondered for a moment, questioning who exactly you were and where did you come from before shaking her head profusely. "Wait, I’m sorry. Did you just say Alistair?" she pinched the bridge of her nose and began to circle around you, taking in your appearance; judging your native Amazonian outfit and muddy skin.

"Yes, Alistair. We met in the park earlier," you explained. "Please excuse the dirt on my body."

"Mr Lord’s son…?" the lady said, speaking her thoughts out loud. No woman had ever come to Black Gold Cooperative requesting to see Alistair, note even his own mother. "Who are you?"

You smiled politely, taking the lady's hand. "I'm here to help. Where can I find Mr Lord?"

"Do you have an appointment with him?" the lady in pink asked, walking around the main desk and checking the computer. "I'm his secretary by the way. My name is Raquel." she mumbled as she pressed a few keys.

You introduced yourself and shook her hand, admiring her beautifully manicured nails. "An appointment?" you repeated. "No, not really. He doesn’t know I’m coming.”

“Mr Lord is a very busy man,” Raquel sighed, tapping her manicured acrylic nails against the oak wood desk. “He doesn’t do surprise visits.”

“That’s okay, I wish to see Alistair anyway. I must know if he’s okay.” your body was still rife with concern over what you had witnessed happen to the little boy earlier at the playpark, and how he had disappeared.

“There is no way for me to contact Alistair, he’s just a child… but uh, let me see what I can do.” Raquel sighed, knowing she wasn’t easily going to get rid of you anytime soon. “I can give Mr Lord a call and let him know you wish to see him,” she told you, ringing in his phone number. “Can I ask what your business with him is?”

“I’m here to help him,” you repeated with an eager grin.

“Right,” Raquel said slowly as you turned back to the television, admiring the man with the dark blonde hair, sporting the three piece designer suits. “Help him with what?”

You blinked momentarily, watching this Mr Lord drone on and on and on. “Oil.” you practically squeaked out.

“Oil?” Raquel questioned, not believing you for one minute. She had every right inkling to believe you were dangerous, but it was her job to contact Maxwell in this type of situation, no matter what. You squeezed your eyes shut almost sensing her disbelief when you heard her speak again. Her voice had changed completely, high pitched and almost articulated. “Oh, yes, hi! Mr Lord! There is someone here who wishes to see you.”

Thank the Gods he’d picked up the phone before Raquel could quiz you further.

Maxwell had answered from the car phone. He’d just dropped Alistair off at Julianna and Theodore’s home. It was never fun, having to go see his wife. He wanted to be strong, and he certainly wanted to keep his promise to Alisitar, about spending the whole weekend together - but there was too much at stake. He knew that deep down, Alisitair would understand one day. Maxwell cursed himself for messing up so quickly. The phone rang just as Maxwell slid back into the car. Pinching the bridge of his nose, Max huffed a sigh and held the phone to his ear. “Who is it?” Maxwell asked wearily. “If it’s the FBI or the FTC…”

Maxwell was nervous. He was even confused that Raquel was still at Black Gold, still happy to work for him after he did commit what potentially could be classified as war crimes. Maxwell was a realist and he knew that with every action, came a consequence. The world had never been kind to him, and he looked down at the envelope that Theodore had handed to him. His name, Maxwell Lorenzano, was written on the front in Julianna’s perfectly inked calligraphy. Max hated it. He didn’t have his name legally changed fifteen years ago just so his ex wife could throw his old identity back in his face. He hated his real name. It was a constant reminder of his past life. But now he didn’t know what was worse, being a Lord or a Lorenzano. The name Lorenzano had been tainted for him, by his family, and years of bullying. But the name Lord? He’d tainted that himself. A conman. A stupid, messed up loser. Julianna hadn’t wanted to see Maxwell, and instead sent her new boyfriend to collect Alistair from him.

“Julianna wants you to have this,” Theodore said with a frown, taking Alistair’s hand and pulling him away from Maxwell. “When you read through it, give her a call.” was all he said before slamming the front door in Max’s face. Max didn’t know what was inside the envelope, but he knew it couldn’t be good.

“No, it’s not the FBI or the FTC. It’s a woman,” Raquel said hesitantly. “She… she’s a bit odd,” Raquel whispered, but not quiet enough for it to go unnoticed by you. Nevertheless, you pretended to ignore her comment. Perhaps you were odd, and perhaps that was okay. The world of man was not something you were used to. But you were here for a reason. The delay in Maxwell’s response prompted Raquel to say more. “Mr Lord… I don’t think she’s going to leave without seeing you. Would you like me to call the cops?”

“No!” Maxwell practically barked. He turned on the engine of his car and held the phone between his ear and shoulder, reversing out of the driveway. He didn’t know what was going on, it was too early to tell - but Maxwell couldn’t have the police anywhere near Black Gold. There was a good chance the police might be looking for him anyway. There was a good chance Max believed he might even have to go into hiding. “I’m on my way.” Maxwell promised before putting the phone down.

You turned back to Raquel when you heard the phone click back onto the hook. “Well, he’s coming,” she shrugged. “Just take a seat please. He won’t be long.”

You walked over to the centre of the lobby where there was a long circular velveteen sofa with a silver foiled surface. You ran your finger over the material, savouring the soft feeling. It was unlike anything you had ever felt before. You let out a small gasp when you noticed your gladiator sandals had trailed in mud and made a mess of the pristine marble floor. You knew it wouldn’t take much to clean, but you still felt bad.

The lobby of Black Gold Cooperative was large, with pillars similar to what they’d have in the Themysciran palace back home and vases of white roses decorating every corner. You wiped down your skirt and tunic, not wanting to be responsible for any more mess, and sat down on the sofa. You groaned as the velveteen plush engulfed you. You couldn’t help it, Raquel was gone and you were exhausted after spending the day looking for Alistair. You hummed in contentment, unbuckling the leather straps on your shoes and laying down on the sofa, curling up and closing your eyes.

Everything was dull. The sky was grey, dark and rainy clouds casting a cold shadow over your shoulders. This was weird. Normally your dreams would be utter and complete blackness - the inability to see anything, only hear the chaos that surrounded you. Only hear the cries and pleas for help and terror - and his voice. The man you were soughting for. You wondered if upon venturing to the world of man, your premonitions had stopped. But that didn’t make any sense. You were one step closer to finding this mystery man.

In the distance, you saw a group of kids tormenting and teasing another little boy. The image reflected what you had seen earlier at the playpark with Alistair, but it was different children this time. “What are you wearing?” you heard one boy mock as you ran closer. “Look at your shoes! Little Lorenzano can’t even afford new shoes!” a different girl cackled.

Lorenzano. You stopped dead in your footsteps, your eyes widening as you watched the group of kids disband, leaving the little boy with glazed brown eyes and ripped clothes shaking with fear. Lorenzano was the name of the man you were looking for - the man you had to help. Your mother Hestia had helped you learn that, but you had never seen him before. This Lorenzano was just a child. There was no way he could have a son.

You took a deep breath and reached out. “Sweet boy?” you called, taking a cautious step forward. Little Lorenzano didn’t even flinch. “Hello?” you asked again. You got as close as you could to him, walking around in circles and taking in his appearance, but he didn’t even notice you. It was almost like he couldn’t see you.

That’s when you realised you weren’t in a dream. You were in a memory. And suddenly everything made sense. This broken little boy was in fact the same person you were looking for. But now, he was a broken man who was desperately trying to make things right. Desperately trying to turn his life around. You’d seen a fleck of his past and you wondered if he was anything like that now. It didn’t matter. All that mattered was that you had to find him.

There was no way of telling how long you were asleep for, but when you heard Maxwell Lord’s voice, you couldn’t distinguish it from your dream or reality. It was so familiar, so rich and articulate.

“Jesus Christ,” Maxwell muttered, pacing backwards and forwards before turning back to you and prodding a finger into your bare arm. “Wake up.” he said sternly, his voice a little louder than before. You yawned, bringing your hands up to your eyes and giving them a gentle rub before sitting up and looking at the man.

It was him. The same man you had seen on the television. Only there was something not that right. You couldn’t put your finger on it. You grinned, your eyes gleaming with delight as you stood up and cupped your hands around his face, squeezing his cheeks and getting as close as you could. You touched him and maneuvered his body in different ways, lifting his arms up and brushing down his shoulders. He was broader than any Amazonian woman, and that said a lot. Surprisingly, Maxwell became putty in your grip. He would’ve never have expected it, but he just let you mould him and sculpt him in any which way you pleased. You traced his skin with your fingers, taking in every detail. It was certainly the man from the television - but this version of Maxwell Lord looked more tired and disheveled. His hair wasn’t perfectly styled and he wasn’t fitted into a perfectly pressed suit. But he was still just as remarkable and there was something about his presence that simply took your breath away.

He could say the same about you, too. He was completely stunned by you. Your beauty was incomparable to anyone else he’d ever seen. You almost looked out of this world. He was quick to shrug off his fascination with you, boiling it down to the fact you were covered in dirt and dressed in the strangest costume. He had more important things to worry about… like Alistair and whatever was in that damn envelope Theodore had given him.

“You’re a man,” you whispered in disbelief.

“I- what?” Maxwell asked, furrowing his eyebrows together.

“A real man,” you gasped, running your fingers through his dark blonde hair. Maxwell had to push back a longing groan, as your touch went straight to his semi-hard and already throbbing manhood. He gulped, diverting his gaze from your beautiful eyes.

“Do I- do I not look like a real man?” he asked curiously, ignoring the shudder that felt like it was swallowing him whole.

“Themyscrian depictions of man illustrate a strong, tall, muscular fellow who carries a sword and shield,” You explained, biting your lip and placing the palm of your hand over his chest. You could feel his beating heart under your touch and it almost took your breath away. You dragged your hand down to the curve of his tummy and Maxwell felt his cheeks heat up with insecurity. He never let anyone touch him like this. “They were naked too.”

Maxwell practically choked on his own tongue. That comment alone was enough to get him to step back and raise his hands up defensively.

“Well princess, I won’t be getting naked for you anytime soon, that’s for sure.” He chuckled nervously.

You smiled. “Princess? No no, I’m not a princess,” you giggled before introducing yourself. “I’m the goddess of home and hearth.”

Maxwell gulped before bursting into a fit of laughter. He looked around the office lobby, his movements quick and stressed. “Right, where’s the camera?”

“The- the camera?” you asked, confused.

“Is this for TV? Come on, tell me quickly. It’s a practical joke… right? You’re here, in my office, covered in dirt and in the most ridiculous clothes I’ve ever seen. And you say all these weird words like Themysciran - whatever that means, and you’re telling me you’re the goddess of home and… hearth?” he said almost quizzically. “You’re the crazy woman who stole Alistair away from me at the playpark earlier.”

So Raquel was right. He really was Alistair’s father. “Hey!” you frowned at his accusations. You hadn’t lied to him once. “You weren’t where Alistair left you. You disappeared and I was helping him find you!” you shot back, feeling an anger bubble inside of you.

“I don’t know where you come from princess, but here in America, you don’t just go round stealing people’s kids. That’s like, a federal offence.” Maxwell shouted, wiggling his finger in the air. “Jesus, where do you come from?”

You defensively crossed your arms over your chest, his yelling making you feel vulnerable. You could tell that he was clearly already under a lot of stress but he had no reason to take it out on you. “Themyscira.” you told him calmly.

He scrunched up his face in disdain. "There it is again. Them-a-what-now?"

"Themyscira." you said, this time making conscious effort to say it slower and clearer.

"With all due respect darling, I've travelled the world. I've been to many different places. I spent my adolescence studying a map of the world and never in my life have I heard of such a place." Maxwell shook his head in disbelief.

"I'm not here to prove anything to you, Mr Lord. But I find your attitude towards me to be quite upsetting." you revealed, looking back at the revolving doors you came in. There was a deafening silence that filled the room.

"Why are you here?" Maxwell snapped eventually with a huff. You swallowed as he stalked over to you, his gaze not breaking from you once. There was something primal in his walk. "Why… are you… here?"

He wished he could ignore the distracting erection in his pants. He didn't even know you. You were just a random girl who had come into his office demanding to see him, refusing to leave until he came. You were just a random girl who had got close with him, who had touched his face and dragged your hand down his body. Who… talked about naked men. Truthfully, Maxwell had never been with a woman who was quite like you, but things were starting to make sense for him. Maybe it wouldn't be so bad if he were to just take you up to his private office.

Your throat felt dry and for the first time, you couldn't fathom words. His honeyed brown eyes were now dark and lust blown as he raised his hand to caress your cheek. You didn't even realise the way you subconsciously moved your face further into his hold and a wicked smirk crossed his lips. His hand was large and warm and his touch filled you with a sense of protection you didn't even think you needed. "Oh," Maxwell chuckled darkly. "I know what you want from me."

"You do?" you asked timidly, not even realising the hold he had you under. For a second, you'd forgotten why you were even here. You were so taken in by Max. You were feeling things you had never felt in your life for this man who had been haunting your every thought. He was so close to you, his breath fanned over your skin and you felt a sensation erupt between your legs. His presence was intoxicating, and he could say the same about you.

"But I can't," Maxwell shook his head, his gaze falling to your lips before dropping his hand from your face and taking a step back. He cleared his throat and looked away awkwardly, moving his hand down to his crotch trying to hide his arousal from you. "I… I should go."

There was an immediate feeling of guilt that washed over Maxwell. He'd gained reputation in the past for sleeping with women, namely his assistants and secretaries, and not shown them a slither of affection or care. He was a selfless lover and he could get away with it because he was rich, famous and attractive. But now he was none of those things. When he looked at himself in the mirror before heading to the playpark, his own appearance knocked him sick. The stress wrinkles setting in his forehead, the dark circles around his eyes… and he hadn't showered in a week. His hair was a mess and he couldn't even bring himself to check a whiff of his underarms. He didn't know you, but he sure as hell knew you deserved better than a man like him.

You were bright eyed, polite, and curious about the world around you. Not only that, you had demanded to see Maxwell just because you wished to check on his son and make sure he was okay. You had gotten very close to Max and not said a word about his bad hygiene or his tired eyes, instead, you looked at him with hope and admiration. Almost as if you believed that he could become a better man.

"Wait!" you called, reaching your hand out before Maxwell could walk away. "I'm sorry if- I'm sorry if this wasn't a good conversation for you. I've never spoken to a man before."

Maxwell titled his head and quirked an eyebrow. "You intrigue me," he admitted, pursing his lips slightly. His gaze fell from your face to the circle of rope attached to your belt. It didn't take long before he realised what it was— but no, it couldn't be. "What is that?" Maxwell asked, pointing at the rope as fear dripped from his tongue. He even took a few steps back.

You unravelled the rope and held it out for him to see. "This is the lasso of Hestia, it was my mother's. She gave it to me before I left for the world of man. Only two were made and this— this is the last one," you smiled a tearful smile at the memory of your mother. Diana had taken the other lasso, as well as the sword of Athena, back in 1918. "My mother Hestia is the goddess of Truth. And the lasso of Hestia compels any individual it uses to see the truth, or speak it," There was no telling what the expression on Maxwell's face showed. You frowned. "You still don't believe me, do you?"

The lasso had initiated a trauma response in Maxwell as you turned it on. He watched it glow yellow, the same yellow that Diana's lasso had glowed when she wrapped it around his ankle in the island bunker. He remembered her words; "See the truth." and his heart sank into the depths of his chest. That's when he saw Alistair.

Maxwell had always thought Diana Prince was strange. Ever since she told him she didn't own a TV— because who in the 1980s didn't own a TV? And who would deny a free 19 inch TV from Sears? But when she had followed him to Cairo with her pilot boyfriend and caused nothing but chaos in her red, blue and gold superhero outfit, he knew she was special. That she possessed powers. This was later reaffirmed in The White House, and then in the bunker as Maxwell tried to plot world domination and grant wishes to every citizen.

He looked at you behind all the mud and dirt, and he looked into your eyes. Could it be true? Could you be telling the truth? What if you were like Diana? Would he really want to be around someone like you?

Maxwell took a huff of air and wrapped the lasso around his wrist. You watched him, letting him do so. "Prove it." Max swallowed the lump in his throat that he hadn't even realised was there. You looked at him with hesitancy before nodding your head. If this worked, he has no reason not to believe you. A magical lasso… and it wasn't the first he had seen.

"What do you wish to see?" you asked Maxwell, your voice quiet. You didn't detach your gaze from his eyes once.

"Do you see what I see?" He asked, and you nodded your head in affirmation. Maxwell thought for a second, before remembering you had come all this way to Black Gold Cooperative just to see Alistair. At first, there was something deeply unsettling about it… but your presence made Maxwell feel safe. "Show me my son."

You closed your eyes and Maxwell followed your actions, and it wasn't long before your vision was clouded by the image of Alistair in his bedroom at Julianna and Theodore's house. Sitting at a desk, he was humming a song. Maxwell couldn't help but smile, recognising the song from the video game Alistair played with him earlier in the day. With an array of colourful crayons, he intricately sketched a drawing of a man with messy yellow hair and a tie, holding the hand of a smaller boy with black hair holding a teddy bear. He labelled the drawing ‘me and daddy’.

"Alistair sweetheart," Julianna called, peeking her head through the door that stood slightly ajar. "Dinner is ready," Alistair didn't look up once, continuing to rub pink crayon into his paper. "What are you drawing there?" Julianna asked, slipping into her son's bedroom and peering over his shoulder and the drawing.

"Me and daddy," Alistair mumbled, only half listening. He was too busy concentrating on adding the purple detailing on his daddy's socks.

"Oh sweetie, I told you that maybe, sometime, you could draw yourself and Theodore? You know, since he's your father too. He does so much for you Alistair, he takes you out to the movies, takes you to your piano lessons… he's a good guy," Julianna smiled, ruffling her son's hair. She pressed her finger into the yellow haired stick man wearing purple socks. "He's not a good guy."

Alistair furrowed his eyebrows, dropping the crayon to the paper and turning to face his mother. "My daddy is my hero." Alistair told his mother, his brown eyes wide and full of love.

Julianna didn't say a word. She stiffened up, standing tall and glared at her son's drawing. Her stare was so intense, you wondered if she was about to eject lasers from her eyes and set the paper on fire.

"Go eat your dinner." She finally said coldly, her words dripping with malice before barging out Alistair's bedroom.

The lasso of truth unravelled itself from Maxwell's wrist and you curled it back into your holster, clipping it in place on your belt. You looked up and noticed the tears that were pricking Maxwell's eyes.

"You- you probably shouldn't have seen all of that," Maxwell admitted, his voice croaking slightly as he tried to hold himself back from becoming a sobbing mess. "I'm not a hero."

You reached out and took the hand of the big-name businessman who was standing before you on the verge of tears. His hand was big, cold, and his fingers were calloused. You took him in both of your hands and rubbed soothing circles into his skin, desperately trying to provide him with warmth and comfort. His glazed brown eyes looked up at you with bewilderment as he wondered why you were being so nice to him. He was a monster, he deserved every bad consequence that would be coming for him. And yet, you treat him like a human. Even at the height of his career when he lived in riches and luxury, nobody had treated him with the politeness and love you were currently giving him — and you were a stranger. A stranger who was covered in mud with a magic lasso.

"Maybe you are a hero."

—-—-—

Permanent: @supernaturalgirl @phoenixhalliwell @ah-callie @luvzoria @stardust-galaxies @wickedfrsgrl @goth-topic @nerdypinupcrystal @wonderfulfluffer @kiwi-the-first @pedroepascal @castiel-barnes @honeymandos @rocketqueen @ladycumberbatchofcamelot @dybalalover10 @girl-obsessed-with-things @elena-myth @moth-guillotine @pedro-pascal-love @hayley-the-comet @pinkninja190 @maxiarapamaya @autumnleaves1991-blog @artsymaddie

I Believe In Love: @mrschiltoncat @thebloodrobin @bxxbxy @marydjarin @the-feckless-wonder @typicalnerd98 @thwiso @julieteagk @starsandmando @kishie8 @supernaturalcat7 @galaxypox @cocastyle @welcometothepedroverse @galactic-rhi @honestlystop @walkerchick007 @synystersilenceinblacknwhite @criminalmind1927 @seasonschange-butpeopledont @thesadvampire @wonder-jedi @eternallyvenus @way-too-addicted-to-anime @spacedaddydinn

#pedro pascal #pedro pascal x reader #maxwell lord #max lord #maxwell lord x reader #max lord x reader #ww84

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fruitcoops · 3 years

Note

Remus gets injured in a game. I have literally read everything you have written but i'm not sure if you have wrote one like this. If you have, ANOTHER PLZZ

Hello anon! I wove this together with a couple different prompts, listed below:

1. Coops argument

2. Prompt 21: “You need to eat something”

3. Remus gets in a fight with Snape

4. Protective Sirius

5. Coops going home grumpy after losing a game (see link)

Sweater Weather credit goes to @lumosinlove! TW for fights, blood, bruises, arguments, and someone getting called a wh*re

Snape’s cheek gave easily beneath Remus’ fist, which was a tad bit surprising. He wrapped his other hand in the neckline of his jersey, yanking him back in to land another punch to the side of his head—that would leave a nasty bruise in the morning. Stars sparkled in his vision as Snape got a lucky shot in and he doubled down, ignoring the thin line of pain that trickled down his chin.

“Break it up, boys, that’s enough!” The referee’s whistle blew as he and another pried Remus’ hands off Snape’s jersey; someone took him by the shoulders and pushed him away from the fight. Pots.

“Say it again!” Remus shouted at Snape as the refs and their teammates continued pulling them apart. “Say it again and I’ll knock your fucking teeth in!”

James’ hold on him faltered for a second as another person skated over and tried to join the melee. “Cap, no!”

“Move, Pots.”

“Loops won the fight, it’s done. Let’s just keep playing.” James shoved both their chests hard enough to send them back a few inches, but Remus’ blood boiled as he ground his mouthguard between his teeth. He glanced up at the clock—3:16 left in the third, Snakes up by two. Their win was almost guaranteed and Snape was still pulling this bullshit.

He skated quickly over to the bench and mumbled his thanks to Hestia as she pressed some gauze to his lip and ice to his cheek. “Lupin, you’re in for the rest of the game,” Coach Weasley said, tapping him on the arm with his playboard. “Anything broken?”

“No, Coach.”

“Then get your ass back out on the ice and score some points. We need some speed.”

He could feel the fury rolling off Sirius as they wove through the Snakes’ defense, shooting again and again to no avail. Frustration built up in every nerve—he was worried about the win, of course, but mostly he was pissed. Pissed at Snape, pissed at James for pushing him, and pissed at Sirius for butting into the fight.

Remus scored a final goal just as the buzzer sounded. Hissing filled the stadium, even though it was a home game. Snape smirked at him as he skated past and the only thing keeping him from dragging him right back in by his greasy hair was the possible suspension.

The shower was cold, because of course the fucking shower was cold. Remus shoved his stuff in his duffel and waited outside the locker room, silently fist bumping the guys as they left. God, he hated losing games. It was inevitable, but it always felt shitty.

“How’s the lip?” Sirius asked when he finally came out, bag slung over his shoulder.

“Fine. What the fuck was that?”

“What was what?”

“You butted into my fight. Nobody asked you to.”

Sirius’ eyebrows rose. “Re, he called you—”

“Yeah, I know what he called me,” Remus snapped, practically slamming the door to the parking lot closed. “I was there.”

The only reason you’re on this team is because you’re the captain’s whore, Snape had sneered. He bit the inside of his cheek as his anger flared at the memory. “I was just trying to help,” Sirius grumbled.

“Well, you didn’t. You proved his fucking point.”

“I didn’t prove shit!” Sirius scoffed as they got in the car. Immediately, Remus felt claustrophobic.

“I had it handled, Sirius!”

“You’re still bleeding!”

Remus ran his tongue along his lip—sure enough, the salty tang of blood filled his mouth. He swore under his breath and held his sleeve to his lip; his cheekbone throbbed and he knew it would be swollen in mere hours.

“Here.”

“I don’t need that.”

“You’d rather stain your sleeve than accept a tissue from me?”

“It’s a black sweatshirt, it’s fine.” Sirius muttered something. “Care to share with the class?”

Sirius sighed as he turned off the freeway. “I said it was your idea to keep these here in the first place. I don’t know why you’re being all pissy with me. We’ve lost games before.”

“I’m pissed because you don’t think I can handle myself in a fight.”

Sirius took his eyes off the road for a half second in shock. “Excuse me? Why do you think that?”

“I just told you!” Remus said, exasperated. “Snape was being a dick, so I punched him. I didn’t need your hero complex to swoop in and save the day.”

“Re, I didn’t even get a hand on him. Pots—”

“Oh, I’m pissed at him as well,” Remus snorted, staring out the passenger window at the blurry lights against the dark. “If someone calls me a whore, I’d rather get the message across that they can’t do it again.”

“Would you rather have gotten a penalty?”

“Yes.”

“That is unbelievably selfish.”

Remus laughed without humor. “Y’know, it’s really funny that you’ve never had this conversation with Logan, the king of the penalty box. Is it because he’s not a delicate flower like me?”

“Wh—” Sirius clenched his jaw and took a deep breath. “I don’t know what the fuck you’re talking about, Remus. I have never seen you as a—a delicate flower. For your information, I have chewed Logan out on multiple occasions.”

Remus gritted his teeth and trained his gaze firmly out the window. He heard Sirius sigh next to him and it took every ounce of willpower to keep his composure. The next ten minutes were dead silent and deeply uncomfortable, which was a rarity with them; even after losses, they would talk through the errors or try to lighten the mood.

Both of them closed their doors a little harder than necessary when they got to the house and Hattie trotted over hesitantly when they came inside. “Hey, Hatters,” Remus murmured, crouching down to her level and holding a hand out. She licked his cheek and let him bury his face in her thick fur—Sirius scratched her ears as he walked past. “Did you have a good time while we were out? Huh, baby girl?” He looked up and saw the tail end of Sirius’ eye roll. “What?”

“Nothing.”

“Don’t bullshit me, Sirius, it doesn’t work. I’m giving the dog a hug because I’m still pissed at you.”

“There is literally no good reason for you to be pissed at me!” Sirius finally said, tossing his keys into the bowl by the door. “Holy shit, Re, I don’t even think you’re mad at me!”

“Oh, yeah? Then who am I mad at, oh great and wise captain?” Remus practically spat, shouldering past him into the kitchen and wrenching a cabinet open. “Please enlighten me.”

“I wish I knew!”

Remus slammed the bread down on the counter and glared at him. “Then maybe you should shut the fuck up if you don’t have anything to support your claim.”

“Acting like this is a goddamn debate club isn’t helping. Your lip is bleeding again.”

“Fuck.” Remus ripped a paper towel off the roll and dampened it, holding it to his lip with a wince. Sirius opened the freezer and dug around for a moment with another paper towel. “I don’t remember you getting hit.”

“This is for you, you stubborn fucker,” Sirius said as he walked over and pressed it gently to the side of Remus’ face. “Better?”

“…a bit.”

The tension on Sirius’ face began to fade; he just looked concerned as he pulled the ice away and checked the bruise. “Your eye might swell.”

“Yeah.”

“Do you actually want to talk now, or should we yell a little more?”

Remus sighed and felt his anger abate. He was beyond exhausted, and still upset, but having Sirius nearby was like balm on a burn. “I don’t know.”

“I’m going to make some sandwiches. Hold this.” Sirius tapped the ice towel and moved to the abandoned loaf, grabbing some peanut butter and jelly as he went.

“I’m not hungry.”

“You need to eat something.”

“I’m fine.”

Sirius glanced over his shoulder and gave him a look. “I know you, Re. You’re not going to feel better unless you get some food, and neither will I.”

“I hate it when you’re reasonable.”

“No, you don’t.”

Remus’ lack of response was enough of an answer. The pain stretched to his forehead and he grimaced, prodding his lip cautiously. Sirius whistled for Hattie and spread the leftover peanut butter from the knife onto a clean spoon, holding it down for her to lick. A smile tugged the corner of Remus’ mouth. “Cute.”

“I can be cute on occasion.”

“You’re always cute.” There was a beat of quiet. “I’m sorry.”

“You’re forgiven. I’m sorry for yelling.”

“Not for interrupting the fight?”

“Nope.”

“That’s fair.” Something tickled at the back of Remus’ throat. “I fucking hate Snape.”

“Me, too.”

“Surprisingly enough, it feels pretty shitty to be called a whore. Who would’ve thought?”

Sirius turned and faced him, sleeves rolled to his elbows. His eyes were soft. “You know that’s not true, right?”

“Yeah.”

“Remus. What he said wasn’t true. You have nothing to prove to anyone on the team, least of all to me. You earned that spot on the roster fair and square, and Snape’s just freaked out because there’s another player who could grind him into the dust without breaking a sweat.” He stepped closer and leaned on the counter next to Remus, leaving a few inches between them. “I don’t think you’re a whore, if that means anything.”

Remus laughed softly. “Of all the people out there, I think you’re the only one who could reliably make that assumption.”

Sirius didn’t smile. “You’re my best friend and also my fiancé. The sex is a great bonus, but my favorite part of being with you is just being with you.”

“That doesn’t make any sense,” Remus muttered, though the sharp edges began to smooth in his gut. He closed the distance between them and laid his head on Sirius’ shoulder. “Love you.”

“I love you, too. Can I take a look at your lip?”

“Sure.” Remus peeled the towel away and Sirius bent slightly, poking the area around it. “Ouch.”

“That’ll probably take a week or so to heal. He got you good.”

Remus pouted. “No kisses for a week?”

Sirius did laugh that time, bright and sunny enough that Remus nearly made his lip bleed again with the answering smile. “I said nothing about no kisses.” Warm lips trailed from his unbruised cheekbone to the edge of his mouth, leaving tiny tingles in their wake.

“I really am sorry about what I said. You were right, I wasn’t angry with you, and I had no right to go off like that.”

Sirius shrugged. “It happens.”

“It shouldn’t.”

“Then let’s agree to talk first, bite heads off later, okay?” He held his pinky out and Remus linked it with his own, kissing it quickly.

“Deal. Are the sandwiches done? I’m starving.”

Wordlessly, Sirius handed him a sandwich and hopped up to sit on the counter, scooting over to make room for Remus to join him. They ate quietly, swinging their legs as the calmness of the kitchen crept back in once more.

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feyariel · 3 years

Text

D&D Pantheons, Evaluated

Because you needed this. These are only groups of deities; if a deity has multiple religions in the same setting, I only evaluate it once.

Greyhawk Pantheons:

Core 3.5: Short, sweet, relatable in a vaguely Olympian way. Bonus points for bucking the trend and having an Apollo (Corellon) and an Artemis (Ehlonna). Missing a mythos and several roles, done in favor of having deities for each class by alignment and each race. Mildly Lawful. Sausage fest. C+

Extended Greyhawk (Complete Divine, 5e): Look, some of these (Beory, Tharizdun) are good additions, but this is getting unwieldy now. Note the absence of a Zeus/Hera (rulership) or Aphrodite (love). D

Baklunish: Attested as incomplete, but interesting in what it prioritizes. Without Al'Asran (Pelor) and Al'Zarad (Boccob), has no male deities of greater than Demigod status. C+

Flan (aka The Old Faith): The Druidic faith of the Flannaess. Majority of its major deities are commonly worshipped. Why do they have the only god(dess) of love in the setting (and why is her name dumb)? C

Oeridian: Trying to be Greco-Roman without actually being Greco-Roman. Kinda boring, really. C-

Olman: Aztec/Mayan/Olmec (mainly Aztec) pantheon imported. Like you do.

Suloise: There are good reasons why these gods aren't widely worshipped, but the best is that they have crappy names (like "Phaulkon" and "Osprem" and "Norebo"). D

Touv: Absolutely needs more use -- and not just because they're black in an otherwise mostly white setting. B

Pantheons of Toril

Main Faerûnian: There absolutely do not need to be this many gods of greater than Demigod status in a single pantheon. Doesn't follow its own rules: portfolio elements overlap (e.g., Akadi and Shaundakul), level of godhood does not correlate with prominence of worship (Akadi, Grumbar, and Istishia are all Greater deities despite barely having worship; Waukeen is Lesser while filling at least an Intermediate role). Too much deicide. At least it has gods of important concepts, like love. D

Celestial Bureaucracy (Kara-Tur): I know so little about various Chinese mythologies that I cannot compare these (the naming conventions alone scream Chinese even without obvious deities like you have Kwan Yin and "Mad Monkey" [Sun Wukong]).

Lords of Creation (Vedic Pantheon): I'm not surprised that there are basically no details here, as everyone skips Hinduism for some reason. (Don't want to offend because there are a billion+ living Hindus? Too similar to the Greek pantheon while being "exotic"?)

Maztican Gods: Aztec-ish gods with short, often Spanish names. Blargh? F

Mulhorandi (Faerûnian-Egyptian): Astonishingly close to the version presented in Deities & Demigods 3.0; drops Anubis, Apep, Imhotep, and Ptah, adds Anhur and Geb (wank gestures). Middling treatment of what in reality is an extensive pantheon. C+

Netherese Pantheon: Ah, a condensed pantheon of important Faerunian deities! Good. A few additions (e.g., Sune) would help. B+

Untheric (Mesopotamian) Pantheon: All but Hoar (Assuran) are dead, so who cares?

Zakharan Pantheon: I love that the main pantheon is about intellectual, emotional, social, and otherwise human qualities. (Too often, D&D pantheons end up making the only culture-y gods 1.) a paladin, 2.) maybe a bard, and 3.) maybe Hestia/a housewife.) That said, I know too little about this pantheon. A?

Golarion Pantheons

Inner Sea (Core): Mein Gott, these names are terrible. Very clearly an attempt at balancing genders in the 3.5 pantheon while importing Faerûnian gods (e.g., Mask, Selûne, Tempus). Points for having Aphrodite Urania and Pandemos, plus several other gods of love. No points for making Asmodeus (Satan) the Bane of the setting; he's been in every other main setting since 1e AD&D. D

Inner Sea (Lessers): These are interesting. Pirate Queen, Majora's Mask moon, Lady Liberty but without the blood washed away, an ascended construct, and Juliet. B

Osirian (Egyptian) Pantheon: A much more comprehensive approach to a pantheon which, if presented historically accurately, would be even more unwieldy than the Faerûnian one (because it's syncretic and covers several thousand years of cultural changes). Points for including Ma'at and not combining Horus and Ra. B

Tian Xia: Familiar deities abound, mostly Japanese with some Chinese names. Not terrible, but nothing profound. C

Vudran (~Hindu): Appropriately has a bajillion gods; consequently, I know next to nothing about it.

Other Official Human Pantheons

3.5 Splatbook Gods: Some of these names are okay; would have been nice if they'd been developed at all. D+

"Asgardian" (Norse) Pantheon (Deities & Demigods 3.0): The more I learn about Norse Mythology, the less I like this presentation. Why on Earth is Sif presented as a warrior goddess? Why do we have Odur treated as a separate god at all (and where's Sunna)? C

Birthright Gods: Erik and Sera? So lame! Eh. Just don't care. D

Dragonlance: HEAVILY Lawful -- the only sub-pantheon with more than one Chaotic deity is the evil pantheon, with two, and it still skews Lawful. Names are overly Biblical (to the point that some end up retrieving Bible materials when searched). Also a sausage fest (one good goddess, three neutral goddesses, and two evil ones). D-

Mystaran Immortals: ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ I know nothing about them.

Olympian Pantheon (Deities & Demigods 3.0): I feel like this could be better, but as far as interpretations go, it isn't horrible. B

"Pharaohnic" (Egyptian) Pantheon (Deities & Demigods 3.0): Not a terrible take on a ginormous pantheon, but too rooted in the Isis-Osiris-Horus mythos to present other important deities (like Amun or Ma'at). Points for Apep, though, who's kinda worse than Set. B-

Sovereign Host and Dark Six: Very clearly based on the Greek Gods without being too Greek (i.e., having much personality). Sovereign Host skews Lawful slightly (only one Chaotic deity -- the Barbarian deity/Kord-Hercules replacement/canonically Gruumsh). Dark Six is NE with the exception of the other two Chaotic deities (CN and CE); no LE god, implying Law = Good. May as well not exist. Just...bleh. D

Theros Gods: FOUR MILLION POINTS LOST FOR NOT HAVING AN APOLLO, GREEKEST OF GODS. Heliod is not Apollo; he is not a god of knowledge, truth, philosophy, art, and such. Apollo's important not for being a god of light, protection, and healing (there are zillions of gods like that), but for being a god of the Humanities. (Kruphix is the closest to this, but missed it.) Further points off for missing Aphrodite, Hera, and Hestia. Dear fuck, if you're doing a Greek setting, FUCKING DO GREECE! F-

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paladinwife · 3 years

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I'm sure you're already gonna get some but just to be sure, all of the mythology asks for Raiden :> (both of them or either, your choice <3)

Me blasting Rules of Nature as I answer this

Also because this is a lot this will just be Metal Gear Raiden! Baal will have to be separate

Zeus: How did you first meet your f/o(s)? How did you feel about each other at first?

So I’m still working through this, but: my theory is that the people that hurt and nearly killed Elise were involved with the Patriots (not that she knew), and so her pursuing revenge resulted in her basically accidentally walking in on the plot of MGS2. She and Raiden run into each other this way some time shortly after the whole incident with Rose (where, in this timeline, he won’t forgive her and refuses to take her back). After their chance meeting they actually start bonding and see each other more and more.

Hera: How did you first start your romantic relationship with your f/o(s)? How did the way you feel about each other evolve to get to that point?

And this jumps off perfectly from the last question! Like I said, after their meeting, they start getting closer and spending some actual time together. At some point, Raiden realizes he’s following Elise like a puppy, but he’s nervous considering how badly his last romantic relationship went. Eventually, though, his feelings win out and he does approach her about dating, and Elise is happy to accept.

Poseidon: Do you and your f/o(s) like to travel? If so, where do you like to go? Is there anywhere you’d like to go that you haven’t yet?

Raiden and Elise travel a lot for their careers, but I think they really want to travel together. First priority is to go somewhere with a nice beach and just have a relaxing time, I think. But there are so many countries they want to see together when they have the chance.

Demeter: What’s your favorite season, and how do you like to spend that season together?

Elise loves autumn - not only is it her birth month, but the weather is lovely, and she loves to have some tea and enjoy the leaves changing color. Raiden doesn’t have particularly strong feelings on any season, but he appreciates how happy autumn makes his wife, and also that’s it’s Wife Birthday Time. Besides, he has some unfortunate memories associated with spring.

Athena: Are your f/o(s) interested in any particular hobby or interest of yours? Have you taught them about it, or let them watch you, or anything similar?

Elise, particularly after getting some cyborg augmentation in her arms and hands, starts getting really interested in visual art, especially painting. Raiden doesn’t know shit about art, but he knows that what his wife creates is super cool and he’s so proud. Also, Elise is a bit of a fitness buff to try to keep the human parts of her body strong and healthy, and Raiden is more than happy to watch if not join her just for the fun and moral support.

Apollo: What do you like best about your f/o(s)? What does your f/o(s) like best about you?

Ask this question to either of them and their first response will be “everything”. They adore each other. If Elise had to pick one, it would be his strength - not physical (though she is impressed with what he can achieve there), but the fact that he just keeps going despite everything. She had a lot of admiration for him in that regard and does her best to stay strong too. If Raiden had to just choose one, he would choose her heart. Not only is she the first person to treat him kindly and let him just exist as himself, but he sees the kind and gentle way she handles other people. She has a lot of love in her heart for others, and he doesn’t see a lot of that, so he thinks it’s beautiful. Also, he’s quick to add, she’s smart as hell and he admires that so much.

Artemis: Do you have any LGBT+ headcanons for you f/o(s)? Do you share these identities? Feel free to share anything else special about your LGBT+ identities.

They’re both bi as hell. I’m aware that most of Metal Gear is very bi, but Elise and Raiden are both extremely bisexual and love each other in an extremely bisexual way.

Ares: Are you ever protective of your f/o(s)? Are they ever protective of you?

Oh, both. Mutual protectiveness. Raiden being protective of her is obvious, but at any given time Elise is ready to fuck up anyone that would dare hurt him any more. Also they’re both more than ready to fight each other’s shitty exes.

Hephaestus: Do you and your f/o(s) ever like to get gifts for one another? What kind of gifts?

Yes! I’ve previously addressed Raiden’s tendency to get Elise cheesy souvenirs when he travels - he likes getting her little things like that. He also likes picking up things that remind him of her. Elise is also aware of Raiden’s tendency to not get things for himself, but one time she bought him something nice that she thought he’d like and he has treasured it ever since. It’s not about the actual thing, but more about the fact she loves him, right? She also apparently gets him t shirts that say silly things because he loves them.

Aphrodite: How do you and your f/o(s) like to show love to each other? Feel free to include your love languages, if you find that helpful.

Raiden kind of struggles to figure out his own love language and shows love in multiple different ways. I think, though, his primary one is quality time, and he very much appreciates just being around Elise. Second is physical touch, as he ends up really loving giving physical affection to her and the warm feeling of her skin. Elise likewise dabbles in all of them to a degree, but she tends towards acts of service - she will constantly go out of her way for him in a way that isn’t lost on him. She also does have quite the way with words that makes him feel all warm and fuzzy.

Hermes: Was it love at first sight? Slow burn with lots of pining? How fast did your relationship progress?

Raiden fell very very fast. He was like a puppy following her around. In spite of his trauma, or maybe because of it, he melted at her kindness and care right away and couldn’t get enough. Elise was a little slower, but I feel like she was surprised at how fast she fell. They were both careful in progressing the relationship, given their trauma, but it’s hardly a slow burn.

Hestia: What makes you and your f/o(s) feel at home?

Raiden’s answer is Elise herself. Before he met her he didn’t have anything that strongly felt like a home - recall that Rose got mad at him for having a mostly empty bedroom because he didn’t come back to it often. It was Elise being there that made him want to come home more often. It’s less about the location and more about coming back to her, you know? Elise’s answer is actually similar - she’s not from where they live now and has moved around a lot in her life. Her attachment is more with him than to the place.

Dionysus: What do you like to do with your f/o(s) for fun? Is there anything fun you’d like to try with them?

Actually? Watching movies together at home. Raiden has a strong interest in that kind of thing, and watching them at home means he doesn’t have to try to pretend to be “normal” around others, whatever that means. It’s kind of been their thing since their first date. They certainly try lots of fun things together, but that one is special.

Hades: Would you ever consider a pet with your f/o(s)? What kind of pet? If you already have one, what is the pet like?

Honestly he deserves a dog. Again I’m leaning towards a bigger dog, but I think he’d love any dog. Just give this man a dog and he’ll dote on it. I’m particularly fond of a GSD for him because he kind of reminds me of one.

Persephone: How different are you and your f/o(s)? How do you deal with each other’s differences?

Honestly, more similar than you’d think. Aside from some shared trauma, they’re both very strong and persistent, and they’re full of compassion for others. I just think their strengths lie in different places. Really the similarities helped them bond quicker.

Nyx: Do you have any children with your f/o(s)? Would you ever consider children (biological or adopted)?

Well, I’d consider John (normally mothered by Rose, but now mothered by Elise herself) their son. I also made the mistake of referencing “children” to Justice, implying more than one, so uh. Watch this space.

(Thanatos answered here!)

Hypnos: Do you like to sleep together or share a bed with your f/o(s)? If so, what position do you sleep in? Does anyone hog the blankets, or have a stuffed animal, or have nightmares and need the other for comfort? Anything else along those lines?

Anyone who has played MGS2 knows Raiden is not naturally comfortable sleeping with other people. It takes him a while, but he does get to that point with Elise. Even better is that he finds that Elise soothes his insomnia and troubles with nightmares a lot. They tend to sleep hugging each other, by Elise’s request but with his enthusiastic consent.

The Erinyes: How does your f/o (or f/os) respond to someone mistreating you? Do they confront the person? Do they comfort you?

Raiden. Gets. Furious. He can’t stand the thought of someone mistreating his wife. He would fight them if necessary. But at the same time, Elise isn’t that different: hell hath no fury like Elise pissed off that you’re mistreating her husband, who has been through enough.

The Moirai: What is your “happy ending” for your ship? How do you end up? What kind of life do you want together?

It’s for them both to finally be at peace. They’ve been through so much, and now that they have someone that they can truly trust, they can finally let their guards down and just exist peacefully. I think that’s the happy ending for them, regardless of everything else about how they end up.

(Calliope answered here!)

Thalia: Discuss any fluff ideas you have for your ship. What kind of affectionate or sweet scenarios do you like best for this ship?

Raiden really likes holding hands with Elise. Not only is he tickled by how tiny her hands are, but he finds it very soothing. Sometimes it’s hard for him to pretend for the public to be a completely normal un-traumatized person, but her touch and her hand put him at ease. He asks to hold hands with her a lot.

Melpomene: Here’s your dedicated angst question: discuss any angsty or hurt/comfort ideas you have for your ship.

This is hard, since I see this as such a happy ship. But the one thing is: when it comes to their first child, instead of faking a relationship and devastating Raiden, Elise probably tells him what’s going on and goes into hiding to protect her and their child. She probably had to have his first child alone and desperately hope that he would come back to her alive, and that’s a pretty painful thought.

Euterpe: What song(s) suit your ship best? Any particular lyrics that fit well?

From Take My Breath Away, the titular song for the ship:

That’s pretty painful but also very fitting.

Erato: Does any canon ship remind you of your ship (if you like those)? What tropes or ship dynamics apply to your ship?

Remember the girlboss/malewife pair from FMA and how iconic that was? That’s them for sure.

Terpsichore: Have you and your f/o(s) ever danced together? What kind of dancing? Formal dress or completely informal jamming out in your home?

Oh definitely they would. Elise is the only one with formal dance training, but Raiden is a romantic at heart and wants a dance with her, formal or not. I can see them just slow dancing in their house, so happy they’re in love.

#thank you Adrian!#oh goodness this was a lot #ask to tag #take my breath away (with raiden)

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elwynten · 9 months

Text

Chapter 25

Talk with Miach, Hephaestus, Hestia and Takemikazuchi about immortality.

I invited Miach, Hephaistos, Hestia and Takemikazuchi to a special supper. I served hamburgers and French fries. Something they have never had before. The food was quite the surprise to our guests, although they did like the food.

The conversation was easy because our guests are kind and friendly people, or should I say 'gods'.

About halfway through the meal Miach spoke up. "While I do appreciate this delicious and unusual food. I have to wonder why you invited all of us here."

I smiled a Miach. "I have two reasons for inviting all of you here. The first is to try out the hamburgers and French fries, to see if y'all would like them. I might open a restaurant that serves them as well as a few other foods. The second reason is the main reason y'all were invited. And that reason is a little more… how should I put it… sensitive." I started.

Hephaistos nodded her head. "The food is very good. If you do open a restaurant, I will visit it regularly. Unless I can get the recipe so my cooks can make it." She said with a smile.

I chuckled. "Over time people will probably figure out how to make the hamburgers and fries, but until then I don't plan on giving out the recipe. But since y'all are my test subjects I'll let y'all eat for free for six months." I told Hephaistos and the others.

Take' nodded his head in agreement. "That sounds like a good offer." He admitted.

"Once the shop is open, I would appreciate if y'all would let everyone know how good the food is and get the word out." I told them.

They all nodded their heads in agreement. "What is the sensitive subject you wished to talk to us about?" Miach asked.

"Yes, what would be so sensitive that you would need to talk to us?" Hephaistos asked me as she looked between Hestia and myself.

I saw where Hephaistos was looking. "Hestia doesn't know what I want to talk to you about." I started. "So, to get to the point. To you 'gods' us mortals are only here for a blink of an eye. Some of you have fallen in love with a mortal to only have them die of old age in mere moments as far as you are concerned. I was wondering what you would think if there was a way for some of your 'children' to live hundreds or even thousands of years instead of sixty to eighty years." I started.

They all had surprised looks in their faces. "Sadly, our children can only live a short time. It is the way of the world." Take' said.

"Yes, as much as we would like our children to live longer, it is not possible." Hephaistos added.

"I would love to have Bell with me forever, but sadly it can't happen." Hestia said with a sad expression on her face.

Take' looked me in the eyes. "Why would you ask such a thing?" Take' asked. There was no anger in his voice, just curiosity and possibly some concern.

"I'm over sixty years old. I don't age, because 'I' am immortal. I will never die unless I am killed, or I want to die." I told them.

"You're telling us that you're a god?" Take' asked leaning forward onto the table.

I shook my head, negative. "No, I'm not a 'god', and I have never claimed to be one. But I was gifted immortality, 'and' I was given the ability to give that same immortality to anyone I want to." I said. "Now the immortality I can give to others does not prevent that person or people from being killed, but they will never die of old age. They will stay young forever." I explained.

Hephaistos stood up quickly causing the legs of her chair to scrape and squeal across the floor and looked down at me. "You're telling us that you are immortal, and you can make others immortal as well!?" She exclained.

"You mean Bell could be with me forever?" Hestia asked with a huge smile on her face and shining eyes.

I grinned at Hestia because I know how much she cares for Bell. "His life has already been extended. When I gave him a Companion, his life was extended to over four hundred years. It's the same with everyone I gave a Companion to." I informed Hestia.

Miach looked at me with a confused look on his face. "Companion? Who or what is this companion?" He asked me.

Hephaistos sat back down.

"Have you seen any of the animals that usually accompany our Familia's members?" I asked Miach.

"Yes, I have." He replied.

"Those animals are Companions. They are 'not' normal animals. They have human intelligence, they are stronger, more durable and have some other abilities and/or powers. And those abilities and powers are shared with their human partner." I informed them. "One of those abilities is Regeneration or quick self-healing. Some of them heal so fast a lost arm or leg will regrow in about seven days. Others the Regeneration will restore a lost arm or leg in an hour or less. And depending on the speed of the Regeneration the Companion and their partner will live three to six times longer than normal. In other words, they will live to be around two hundred forty years to four hundred and fifty years old." I explained.

Miach's face showed shock on it. "Those animals are as intelligent as humans? That's not possible." He stated.

I chuckled. "Taima would you come in here please." I called to Taima who was just outside the room. *In cat form please.* I sent to her as well.

A moment later the door opened, and Taima in her Snow Leopard form walked into the room. Taima trotted over to an empty chair at the table and jumped up onto it, then she put her front paws on the table. "Who doesn't believe I'm intelligent?" She asked our guests.

Miach and Hephaistos pushed their chairs back away from the table, while Take' had a thoughtful look on his face.

Hestia gave Taima a dirty look. "Paws!" Hestia told Taima with a little heat.

Taima removed her front paws from the table and placed them on the chair. "Sorry, lady Hestia." Taima said to Hestia.

"Thank you, Taima." Hestia said as Taima removing her paws from the table.

Hephaistos, Miach and Take' all gave Hestia and Taima surprised looks.

I chuckled. "Hestia, rightly so, will not allow anyone or anything to put their feet on the dining table." I explained.

"She-she… the c-cat removed her feet from the table when Hestia said 'paws'." Hephaistos observed. "Hestia didn't even tell the cat what to do. She just said 'paws' and the cat removed her feet from the table." Hephaistos said surprised.

"That's because Taima knew what Hestia meant and she also knows she's not supposed to put her feet up on the table." I explained.

"I did know what lady Hestia meant. That is why I took my front paws off the table." Taima explained. "And since Eilwyn is immortal, I am immortal also. A Companion's life span is the same as their partner's. That means when a Companion's partner dies, the Companion dies. Which means since Eilwyn is immortal, I am immortal." Taima added.

Miach looked at me for several moments. "Can you prove you are immortal?" Miach asked me.

"Not really. How would anyone prove they are immortal? Although I can give you information that might help you believe What I have said is true." I told Miach and the others. I held out my hand and summoned from my closet PD, the first paper Hestia had given me with my status on it after she had given me her 'Blessing'. "When I joined Hestia's Familia, she handed me this paper. It's the first paper with my status on it. I kept it just in case I needed it, and it looks like I need it." I told them then handed Miach the paper.

Miach's eyes widened to the size of dinner plates. "Th-this isn't p-p-possible!" He exclaimed.

Hephaistos reached across the table and took the paper out of Miach's hand. She looked the paper over.

"I would appreciate it if you didn't tell anyone about what you are seeing. You know how some of the 'gods' want anyone that's different." I told them. I also pushed it into their minds that they would not tell anyone and that they would only talk about it if they were alone with the other people in this room.

Hephaistos handed the paper to Take' so he could read it. "How is this possible? How could you be so… so… so powerful?" Hephaistos asked me and Hestia.

I chuckled. "I really must record that story, so I don't have to keep repeating it. Long story short. I was in an accident, a life-threatening accident. I heard a voice in my head after I blacked out. The voice told me, my dreams would come true. When I woke up, Taima was there looking at me, and I had all the powers and abilities you saw on the paper and many more that aren't on the paper." I explained to Miach, Hephaistos and Take'. "And one of those abilities is immortality." I told them. "Plus, I can give that very same immortality to anyone I want. I have already given Cindy, Iris and Kimmy immortality, and I'm thinking of giving Rosni, Bell, Welf and the rest of the Hestia Familia immortality. Of course, I'll ask before I give anyone immortality.

"You have abilities not listed on your status sheet?" Take' asked.

I nodded my head in agreement. "Yes, I can see in total darkness, and I can see in infrared, which means I can see the heat that people, animals and other objects give off. And…" I said while I stood up and moved behind my chair. I extended my Extra Arms out, using three of them to lift myself off the floor. The fourth 'arm' I reached over the table and used to scratch Taima on the head between her ears.

"You know I prefer that you use your hands when you scratch my head." Taima gave me a mild rebuke.

I chuckled. "I was just demonstrating how my 'Extra Arms' work." I replied.

Hephaistos stood up and looked at my 'extra arms'. "How do those work?" She asked with awe in her voice and on her face.

I shrugged my shoulders. "I don't really know how they work. They are just one of the abilities I received, and I can use them just like I can use my natural arms." I told Hephaistos. "And again, please don't tell anyone about any of this." I reiterated.

"B-but if you don't know how they work. How do you repair them when they get damaged?" Hephaistos asked me.

I smiled. "That's the nice thing about them. They don't get damaged, so they don't need repaired. They are indestructible." I told Hephaistos.

Hephaistos stared at my 'Extra Arms'. "But even unbreakable swords need to be sharpened and maintained."

"These don't, along with all of my weapons and the weapons of my Familia. None of them need to be sharpened nor do they need to be maintained." I assured Hephaistos. I set myself back on the floor and retracted the 'extra arms'. Then I summoned my naginata to my hand. I handed it to Hephaistos to look over. "You might want to take a look at this." I suggested.

Hephaistos took the naginata from me and started taking a close look at it. "Who made this weapon?" She asked.

I shrugged my shoulders. "No clue. I got it along with all the other weapons from my Armory. Why?" I replied.

Hephaistos looked up at me with awe on her face. "This is a perfect weapon. There are no flaws, no blemishes, no imperfections. It's perfect. What are these markings?" She said pointing to the runes on my naginata.

"Those are runes that allow the owner of the weapon to do different things." I started. I pointed to each rune as I explained what they do. "That one is a Bonding Rune. It allows you to bond or store the weapon 'in' yourself. It doesn't harm you and you don't even know it's there. Plus, you can summon it to your hand whenever you need it, and while it's Bonded to you, you can use any of the other runes when you want to use them. Then there is:

Electrical Control (create and control electricity) Metal Control (create and control metals) Weather Control Healing (Heal people, mend/repair non-magical objects) Air Control (Create and control air) Multiples (Doppelganger, make copies of the weapon) Purify (Cleanse wounds, food, places) Elementalist (Electricity, Air or Earth can be used on the blade to cause greater damage) Extended Range Danger Sense."

I listed everything the runes on Sasori and what they each can give the owner the ability to do.

"It will not crumble after you use the magic a certain number of times. It lasts forever or until I put it back into the Armory. And it doesn't use mind to power it, so you don't have to worry about mind down or mind zero after you've used the magic several times." I told Hephaistos.

Hephaistos sat in her chair shaking her head in disbelief as she read what was on the blade. "There' are hieroglyphs on the blade as well." She said as she read what it said. "This is Hestia's Falna!?"

"This first side reads; The truest of silver and brilliance of mithril, shapes thy body. The true light shall be clouded if touched by others. Take care, as only one who shares your blood, can draw this blade." Hephaistos read.

"The edge of the blade says; You are the Goddess Hestia’s double. The flame of hearth that splits the shadow, the one who cuts through the path of your master. You are to be the forever companion, protecting your master." Hephaistos continued.

"And the other side says; The master of The Armory, being an ally of Hestia, to create this weapon. Marked by the Falna, god’s Blade, you are our beloved Familia. Commanded to be equal to the name of Hestia. Share your strength and give glory to the ones who share your blood. The name of your master, Eilwyn Tengee. You become the other half of your master; may you smile together, rage together, cry together, hurt together, travel together, surpass hardships together, grow together. Excelia be your food, sharpen your edge, and reach new height together." She finished reading what was written on the blade.

"This weapon is alive. It'll grow as you grow and get stronger as you grow stronger. How did you get this?" Hephaistos asked shocked and surprised by what she had read.

I grinned. "I told you; I got it from my Armory. And I should let you know that everyone in the Hestia Familia has their own version. Bell has a Hestia knife, I have my Hestia Naginata, Welf has a Hestia Sword, Cindy has a Pair of Hestia Gossip Yuanyang Tomahawks, Iris has two Hestia Hook Swords, Kimmy has a Hestia Pole Axe…" I started listing off all the 'Hestia" weapons, but Hephaistos stopped me before I could finish.

Hephaistos held up her hand, palm facing me. "Enough I don't need to hear what everyone's 'Hestia' weapon is. If they can do what I think they can, they could become the most powerful weapons on the planet." She said with awe and fear on her face and in her voice.

"I also have a couple different styles of Hestia Short Swords as well." I added.

"I said ENOUGH!" Hephaistos said forcefully. "I don't need to hear the whole list. It's bad enough everyone in the Hestia Familia has one of those in the first place."

I chuckled at Hephaistos's dilemma. I tried to change the subject back to immortality. "We'll drop the weapons for now." I said and summoned my naginata to my hand. Hephaistos's hand still looked like she was holding the shaft of my naginata although her hand was empty. Hephaestus jumped in shock and surprise to find her hand empty and my naginata back in my hand. I then Bonded it to myself.

"Back to the immortality. What would you think of me giving a few people immortally? Of course, everyone in the Hestia Familia will receive immortality, 'if' they want it. And I would have no problem giving those in the Miach Familia, Take' Familia and some in the Hephaistos Familia Immortality if they want it as well." I offered.

Miach looked at me thoughtfully. "Would anyone that you give this immortality to also receive one of those Hestia weapons?" He asked me.

I shook my head in the negative. "No of course not, because they are not in the Hestia Familia. All of the Hestia weapons only work for people 'in' the Hestia Familia. Anyone else that tries to use them, the weapon looks, feels and acts like a piece of useless junk." I explained. "Now, I can get Miach Familia weapons as well as Take' Familia weapons." I said then I looked at Hephaistos. "I'm guessing your smiths wouldn't want one. Although Welf has one and is trying to figure out how to make them himself." I told Hephaistos and grinned.

Hephaistos rolled her eyes. "That child." She said exasperated.

"Since Nahza isn't an adventurer anymore. I don't see any reason to give her a Miach Familia weapon, but I'll leave that up to you and her." I told Miach.

Miach looked at me for a moment then he nodded his head in agreement. "I can see that reasoning." He admitted. Miach then looked at Take' and Hephaistos then back to me. "I believe we will need to talk more about this immortality before we tell our children about it, or even think about offering them immortality." He told me.

"Yes, we should talk about it amongst the three of us." Take' said.

Hephaistos nodded her head in agreement. "Definitely we'll need to talk about it more. If we have any questions, will you be available to answer them, Eilwyn?" She said.

"If I'm able to, I'll answer any questions you have. But you have to realize I don't know all of the answers." I replied.

Hephaistos nodded her head in understanding. "That is acceptable."

"Now if everyone isn't off their food. We have bubbly pies for dessert." I offered.

= = = = = = = = = =

A fortnight later (2 weeks) Takemikazuchi, Hephaistos and Miach returned to the Heartstone Manor. This time we were sitting in the living room.

"You are sure anyone that receives this immortality does not age?" Miach asked me.

"Yes and no. They will age to their prime which is usually around twenty-five years of age. But once they reach their prime age, they will stop aging." I answered. "Plus, if someone that is over their prime receives immortality, they will age backwards until they are at their prime, then they will stay at that age." I added.

Miach nodded his head in understanding. "What does it take to give this immortality to a person?" He asked.

"It takes about five minutes to give the immortality to a person." I told Miach. "Although I do have the option to 'not' give immortality to anyone I feel is unfit to receive it. There are some people that would abuse it. Plus, it is free. The immortality is 'not' for sale. That way it cannot be considered something that only the rich or rich Familia's can obtain. Although I would like to keep this as quiet as possible. I don't want anyone and everyone coming to the door wanting immortality." I told them. "And one more thing. After I give someone immortallity, I can take it away if I feel they don't deserve it or are abusing it."

"That is understandable. Would you be willing to give my 'children' immortality?" Take' asked.

I nodded my head in agreement. "Yes, I would. They will either have to come here or I'll have to go to your home to do it. And they will have to want immortality as well." I told Take'.

Take' nodded his head in understanding. "That is as expected."

I looked at Miach. "What about you?" I asked him.

"I will tell them about it and leave it up to them." Miach told me.

I turned to Hephaistos. "With as many members you have in your Familia, you might want to give it to only those that work hard, learn their trade well and won't use immortality to build themselves up." I suggested.

Hephaistos nodded her head in agreement. "Kind of like a bonus for doing good and not cheating customers. Sadly, there are a few in my Familia that try to pass off shoddy work for first class work." She admitted.

"Sadly, that happens in the best of businesses." I agreed.

I turned to Take' and Miach. "If you would talk to your Familia's and find out if they want immortality or not and who wants it, then let me know. After you do that, I'll give immortality to those that want it." I told them.

#DanMachi #Bell Cranel #Hestia #Miach #Hephaistos #is it wrong to try to pick up girls in a dungeon

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