#I shared a menu with my grandfather

[wow-its-me]

I went to a restaurant with my family today

[valyriians]

-values of marriage.

cregan stark x fem!targ!reader.

requested: yes.

wc: 7287.

warnings: mention of childbirth, miscarriage, smut, MDNI, oral (f receiving), mention of death. brackets are high valyrian translation.

You let out a laugh while Vermithor roared a victorious screech that could be heard everywhere on the island and patted his back.

’’Tegon, Vermithor!’’ you told him. (land)

He landed at the base of the staircase that led up to the great castle, sliding down as he lowered his body so your fall to the ground wouldn't be harsh you trailed your hand over his neck while you told him to be calm as the dragon keepers walked over to you preparing him to break his fast.

’’What is on today’s menu Claedon?’’ you asked the dragon keeper who is in charge of the dragons.

’’A dozen cattle and three goats, Princess.’’ Claedon says.

’’Give him some more goats, he did so very well today and the rope on the left side is starting to become loose so you need to fix that and maybe have the saddle adjusted while you’re at it.’’ You say while walking to your brothers who are landing with their dragons.

’’Of course Princess, anything else?’’ Claedon asks.

’’No that will be all thank you Claedon.’’ You say as you dismiss him.

’’While my dragon may be smaller and swifter you still somehow manage to best us both.’’ Jace says while he slides down his saddle.

’’Maybe you should’ve paid better attention to the dragon keeper lesson in King’s Landing, you would then be the better rider.’’ You say, half jesting but you always paid attention to anything dragon related, whether it was history, anatomy or just basic stuff.

’’I’ve only been a dragon rider for five moons but I assure you I will one day beat you.’’ Luke says, Arrax was small and had only recently begun taking Luke to the skies.

The three of you share a laugh until you see your grandmother, Princess Rhaenys, you hit Jace beckoning him to stop laughing.

’’Your lady mother needs to see you!’’ She shouts.

You take Luke's hand and begin walking to her and bow to her asking what is the matter.

’’It is best if your mother tells you.’’ Rhaenys looks at you, taking your face into her hands.

Unlike your brothers, you were the result of a successful bedding with Princess Rhaenyra and Ser Laenor, you had the golden-silver hair of Old Valyria. Your grandmother loved all of her grandchildren, she saw her son in you the most. In your looks and your love for your dragon. It was known that Seasmoke was Ser Laenors pride and joy, just like Vermithor was yours.

A concerning look dwelled upon your face as you raced up the staircase to your mother's chambers where you heard screaming and grunting, you entered with your brothers in tow.

’’Mother?’’ Jace asks.

’’Your grandsire, King Viserys has passed.”

Your mother said, panting.

“Viserys?!” Luke cries out.

“The greens have repudiated the succession and claimed The Iron Throne. Aegon has been crowned king.” Your mother said, following cries and grunting.

Your grandfather is dead and your uncle has been crowned king, your mother's birthright and throne had been stolen from her, causing her to go into early labour Maester Gerardys believes.

You felt faint and everything blurred, you sat down and thought about how this had happened, just last night you were having dinner with your king, and everything felt like it was in place. You would’ve never thought that everything happened so quickly and soon.

“What is there to be done about it?” Jace asked in an angry tone, the fire inside him is ready to burst but for the sake of his mother he kept himself composed.

“Nothing yet.” your mother replies, crying and sweating.

“Where is Daemon?” You ask, wiping away your tears and standing up.

“I don’t know, gone to madness, gone to plot his war.” she cries out.

“Leave him with me.” you say to your mother while crouching to her.

“Whatever claim remains to me you are now its heir, the burden is a heavy one.” your mother says to you, clutching your arm.

“I won’t fail you, mother.” You say to her and then walk out of the room.

-

You walk into the main hall with red puffy cheeks and still in your riding clothes, Daemon is by the table pointing to the figurines on the table while the lords are writing things down and talking to each other.

“I will fly to the Riverlands myself and affirm Lord Tullys support.” Daemon says.

“You will do no such thing.” You say, making your presence in the hall known, Daemon looks at you.

“My mother has decreed no action be taken while she is abed.” You say firmly.

“It’s good you’re here young princess, you’re needed to patr-“

“Did you not hear what I said? As Princess of Dragonstone I command this.” You shout, making all the lords look at you, Daemon with rage in his eyes.

“Come with me.” Daemon says gritting through his teeth.

He takes you to the highest top on the Dragonmount. Where he stands before you and shouts at you.

“You dare to command me? I don’t take orders from you, I am your mothers right hand and while she is abed I have the control not you!” He shouts.

“That’s it, your control is only so limited, I will however be my mothers heir as long as I breathe air!” You scream at him, unleashing the anger and grief you feel.

“None of this would have happened if my mother married you!” you said, it was partly true.

“You have only brought pain and torment to her, she’s more than some brood mare who you can have children with and right now she is in anguish, screaming and begging for you! Her husband! The father of her children!” You shout at him, unleashing a scream from you and at the same time a dragons roar shakes the ground, Vermithor felt you, he mirrored your emotions.

You fell to your knees, crying clutching your arms to your chest. You hear footsteps and see Daemon kneeling before you.

“I'm taking control because I am her husband and the mother of my children, for all our safety.” he says, taking your shoulder.

“Now come, we are both needed by someone.” He grabs your hand the both of you walk to the castle.

-

“Wait here.” Daemon says before he walks into his shared chamber with Rhaenyra.

It was good to let your feelings out, the rage inside you had finally burst out and you were feeling confident.

You went to your brothers who were in the nursery with Aegon and Viserys, trying to keep your mind occupied while you comforted them.

You played with Aegon's curls and looked at the toy Viserys was playing with which was a toy soldier and wooden sword. It filled you with fear to think about your brothers having to fight, Aegon had his dragon of course while Viserys didn’t have one.

-

Syrax lit the funeral pyre for your sister whom your mother named Visenya, seeing your mother and Daemon standing on the over the pyre is heartbreaking, you hear armor clinking and see a white cloak walking towards your mother.

“I mean no harm brothers.” Ser Erryk calls out, reaching into his bag he pulls out your grandfathers crown.

“I swear to ward the Queen, with all my strength and give my blood for hers. I shall take no wife. Hold no lands. Father no children. I shall guard her secrets. Obey her commands. Ride at her side and defend her name and honour.” he calls out, holding the crown.

Daemon takes the crown from him and crowns your mother, then kneels before her, calling her his queen.

You kneel with your brothers, acknowledging your mother as the Queen.

-

You get dressed into a more comfortable outfit, with dragon scale detailing and red and blue lace design.

Walking into the room and taking your place beside your brother who looked anxious and troubled.

“What is it?” you ask.

“Everything is happening so fast, I wish for this to be over quickly.” Luke says.

You take his hand comforting him and give him a faint smile.

“Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen, first of her name, Queen of the Andals and the Rhoynar and the First Men, Lady of the Seven Kingdoms and Protector of the Realm. Your Grace.” Daemon proclaims, looking at his wife proudly.

You would have never guessed that she had just said goodbye to her child, she looked ethereal and stood tall despite the circumstances.

“Where do we stand?” The queen asks and Daemon and the maester reply to her.

You had the majority of the houses on your side, there were some who needed to be reminded of who King Viserys named his heir.

“Your Grace, a ship has been sighted offshore flying the banner of a three headed green dragon.” a white cloak announced.

You looked at your mother who knew well who it was.

“I shall meet them.” The queen said, beckoning you closer to her.

“Take your brothers to your chamber, if anything should happen to me, it’s your duty to take care of them. Do you understand?” she says.

“Yes, my queen.” You bow and gather your brothers, Baela and Rhaena.

-

A load of things happened before everyone were once again gathered in the hall, your mother lost in her thoughts as you listened to the lords talking about how their troops are ready to fight and have been dispatched to their locations.

“Do your forces have enough food and supplies?” you ask Lord Celtigar.

“We have enough to last us for two moons but we shall be prepared for anything Princess.” he replies looking over his books.

“Vermithor and I will patrol the skies for food and drop some for your forces.” You say, Lord Celtigar bows to you and gives his thanks.

“The Lord of the Tides! Lord Corlys Velaryon and his wife, the Princess Rhaenys Targaryen!” Ser Erryk shouts, all eyes gloom at the limping man going down the stairs.

“My lords.” Corlys says,

“Lord Corlys, it brings much relief to see you hale and healthy again.” the queen says.

“I’m very sorry about your father, Your Grace.” he says, offering his sincere condolences.

Corlys looks at you, proud as ever, you looked so much like your father in certain lights.

-

“We must first secure the support of Winterfell, the Eyrie and Storm's End.” Lord Bartimos says.

“I will prepare the ravens Your Grace” the maester says.

“We should bear those messages, dragons can fly faster than ravens, and are more convincing.” Jacaerys says.

“Send us.” he asks, but more like demands.

“My brother is right, the last King in the North bent the knee to the Conqueror when he saw Balerion.” you say, remembering your history lesson.

Your mother was not very keen on the idea, sending her children away, but her daughter was correct. Dragons are faster and they have no time to loose.

“Very well, Prince Jaceaerys will fly to the Eyrie to see my mother’s cousin, the Lady Jeyne Arryn. Princess Y/n will fly north to Winterfell to treat with Lord Cregan Stark for the support of the North. Prince Lucerys will fly south to Storm's End and treat Lord Borros Baratheon.

We must remind these lords of the oaths they swore and the cost of breaking them.” your mother says, you are up to the task, Vermithor has seen the snow in the north so it will be easier for you to go north.

-

“If you take this errand, you go as messengers, not as warriors, you must take part in any fighting, swear it to me now under the eyes of the Seven.”

Luke was the first one to place his hand on the book, then you, then Jace.

“I swear it.” you say.

You bow to her, she takes your face into her hand and kisses your forehead, she knows you will be safe but goodbyes are always hard.

You walk to Vermithor who has been on the coast, he was sleeping but roused up when you walked closer. You placed your hand on his neck and urged him to lower his body so you could climb onto the saddle, you then strapped yourself in and took the reins and commanded him to fly, he stretched out his bronze wings and let out a roar then he took flight, climbing higher and higher into the cloud.

You looked at your grandmother Rhaenys and then your brother Luke who was on his way to Storm's End and waved them goodbye.

-

The flight was long and cold, stormy weather and winds made it difficult to hold on but it was easy for Vermithor, being used to harsh climate and familiar to the North, the old king Jaehaerys I visited the North once.

You spotted Winterfell, it was covered in snow and the walls were high and covered in the banners of House Stark. You circled over the castle thrice and then landed outside the castle, shaking the ground and the snow melted beneath Vermithors body, many servants and guards looked at the Bronze Fury in terror and awe.

You unclasped yourself from the saddle and dismounted, giving him a stroke on his neck and whispering to him to stay calm.

Four guardsmen approached you.

“Princess Y/n, we are here to escort you to the inner courtyard of Winterfell.” one guard said.

You nodded your head, then allowed Vermithor to linger around and then you approached the guards and began to make your way into Winterfell.

-

“Princess Y/n Velaryon, daughter of Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen” a guard shouted in the courtyard as you looked around the courtyard, it was in some ways like Dragonstone, high black walls and everything was made from stone.

You turn your head to look at the man who stands tall among the crowd, a huge sword in his hand, his black hair is pulled back and is covered in light snow. His coat is big and covers his left arm.

“Winterfell is yours, princess.” he bows down to you, beckoning a young child beside him to walk to you with a bouquet of blue winter roses, native to the North.

“Welcome to Winterfell princess, I hope your journey fared well.” the young man said while handing you the bouquet, it was Lord Starks first born child, Rickon.

“Why thank you my lord.” you crouch down to him so you can talk with him better.

“These roses are very beautiful, how did you know blue is my favorite colour?” you joke with him and he laughs.

“Would you perhaps escort me to your father? For I desire to speak with him.” You ask him while inspecting the bouquet.

He nods his head and takes your hand and drags you to his father. Cregan was tall and had a handsome sharp face. He had the eyes you could fall into easily.

“Princess.” Cregan said to you, as he took your hand and kissed it softly and gently. You fully got lost in a trance and stood there for a moment.

“Lord Stark, I have brought you messages from my mother, the Queen.” you say, giving him the scroll.

“Let us go inside.” He said, taking your hand and leading you into the castle where a fire was lit.

You arrived into the hall and looked around, not many decorations were around but it was warm and welcoming.

“Would you like some refreshments Princess? some ale perhaps?”

“That would be wonderful, thank you.” you say, sitting down while straightening out your dress.

Cregan poured some ale into a jug and handed it to you, taking a sip of the drink made you cough and Cregan let out a laugh.

“Not the drink you’re used to eh?” he asked.

“Certainly not my lord.” you say with a sour look on your face.

There was a moment of silence, he looked at you as if he had seen the gods, he was taken away by you.

“Lord Stark, I am not sure if the news has reached so far but my grandfather, the king, has passed away.” you stand up and walk around the room.

“He was a good king with a gentle heart, my condolences princess.” he says while clasping his hands together.

“That he was, he always…. he always cared for me.” you say with a heavy heart and sniffled.

Cregan stands up and goes to comfort you.

“Princess-“ he begins.

“Your father Lord Rickon Stark swore an oath to King Viserys and my mother to acknowledge her as the princess of Dragonstone and the heir to the Iron Throne and I need to affirm your support. The Hightowers have placed Prince Aegon on the throne and crowned him in the Dragonpit. You have a choice to make my Lord, you can choose to honor your fathers oath and stand with the rightful ruler or you can learn the consequences of being an oathbreaker.” You proclaim to him, he steps back and his mind is clouded.

“You sound tired princess, have your rest change your attire because as the evening grows, the colder it will be.” he says as he walks away.

“I will send a lady to attend to you.” he added as a guard guided you to your chamber.

You walked into the chamber where a large tub and bed was waiting, you looked around, put your gloves down on the table where old maps and books layed around.

‘Was I too harsh?’ you asked yourself and placed your head in your hands and felt the urge to cry but straightened up when you heard a knock.

“Come in.” you said, straightening your dress.

A girl entered the room, she was about the same age as you, with brown hair and hazel eyes, her clothes were probably mended just a few moments ago.

“Princess, Lord Stark sent me.” she said.

“Yes, what is your name?” you asked.

“Mariah, princess.” she said.

“Right, I wish to bathe before I meet with Lord Stark again, I didn’t bring anything with me. I was wondering if there is something I might be able to wear.” you ask her.

“We have already prepared you a gown for tonight princess, it is quite splendid.” she says.

You start to undo your dress with the help of Mariah, she looks at your gown with awe in her eyes, she runs her fingers over the intricate design and lace and quickly shakes herself out of the trance and undid your hair.

You enter the tub and allow yourself to submerge into the water, Mariah gathers some oils and herbs to add into the water, along with soap.

“Your hair princess, may I?” Mariah asks and you nod your head, allowing her to rinse through it and wash it gently.

There was a long momentary silence when you finally spoke up.

“Tell me Mariah, how are the customs here in the North, I wish to be as respectful and modest as I can.” you ask her, she’s clearly stressed at the question but answers with grace.

“Well, it has been some time since your house has arrived here, last time it was King Jaehaerys and Queen Alysanne so you can imagine our surprise when the Bronze Fury graced the northern sky once again.” she said, she had clearly done her research.

“Well, I know that Queen Alysannes visit here brought great fortune, I certainly wish to do the same.” you tell her.

“You have already won the favor of Lord Cregans, ever since the late Lady Stark passed away Lord Stark has been very cautious about his son, protecting him from all harm and danger.” she says, clearly reminiscing about the old days.

“What was the late Lady Stark like?” you ask, in a low voice.

“She was very beautiful, the epitome of a lady.” Mariah answered.

You stayed in the tub for some time, not wanting to get out as riding for such a long time made your legs ache and the comfort from the hot water soothed the pain.

“Princess, I have gathered some gowns for you to pick from.” Mariah says while she helps you cover up.

Before you there were three beautiful gowns that were clearly fashioned for the North, you let your fingers glide over the dresses and then you picked a grey gown that showed your shoulders and covered your arms with another piece of fabric draped around your arms. Mariah brushed your hair and braided the top of it, allowing some hair to fall to your shoulders and back.

She lathered some oil on your collarbone and placed a dragon broach in the dress.

Mariah took one last look at you and bowed, leaving the room, letting you have some time alone before the feast began.

-

You walked into the great hall as a guard announced your presence, making everyone stand up and looking in your direction.

“Princess Y/n Velaryon, daughter of Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen.” was announced loudly.

You walked through the hall with your head high and when you reached the table where Lord Cregan and his family were sitting you nodded to him, making sure to keep eye contact. You then took your place beside him on the table.

The commotion in the hall began after you had taken your seat and you looked over at the great number of people, taking a sip from your drink.

“I hope Mariah was satisfactory, princess.” Cregan asks you.

“She was, my lord. I thank you for the hospitality.” you answered.

“You must forgive her, she was only trained to serve ladies, not princesses.” he jests, trying to make something of the conversation.

The tension between the two of you didn’t go unnoticed, some man then marched over to the table and bowed.

“Princess Y/n, the tales are true then.” the old lord says.

“Which tales might that be my lord-?” you ask him, wondering about his name.

“Hornwood, princess. Lord Cregan told us of your beauty, said you were as beautiful as the dawn.” Lord Hornwood said, making you blush and smile at him.

“You are much too kind my lord.” you replied and looked at Cregan who was embarrassed as he hid his face in a horn of wine. Lord Hornwood walked away after bowing to you and his lord.

The feast continued with lots of drinking and singing when you finally managed to talk with Cregan about your reason here.

“As much as I appreciate your hospitality and welcome here, I will need an answer from you before I leave for Dragonstone again.’’ you told Cregan, who sighed and looked at your face with much admiration.

‘’Of course princess, I have gone over the demands and conditions in the letter from your mother with my council and we have decided that, while my duty as Warden of the North is the most important to me, fulfilling my father's oath is just as important to me.’’ Cregan answers.

He rises and grabs the attention of everyone in the hall, raising his cup.

‘’My lords and ladies, I bid you all a warm welcome to my home on this occasion, while the harshest of winter snow has not yet fallen from the sky, a harsher wound this realm has faced. The king is dead.’’ he says, with a crack in his voice and people begin talking, looking at you with apologizing eyes. You looked down at your hands and tears began to swell your eyes.

‘’While I never met King Viserys, my father told me he was a just man and always wanted peace and unity across the realm. He also told me about the time he travelled South and bent the knee to him on the Iron Throne alongside Princess Rhaenyra, swearing his sword and allegiance to them both and acknowledging his first-born child as his heir and successor.’’ He shouts across the hall, having everyone listening to him. It was quite a show.

‘’Princess Y/n arrived here with a message, signed by her mother, the Queen.’’ he says, he recognized your mother as the queen, you felt shivering in your spine and arms.

‘’She says that the Hightowers have usurped her throne and crowned her half-brother Aegon as king, she asks that I do not forget my father’s oath and pledge for her if war will ensue which she does not wish for’‘ Cregan continues

The North does not forget oaths easily, we stay true to our word.’’ Creagns says, earning an agreeable shout from everyone.

“The North will honor the sworn oath to Rhaenyra Targaryen, the Queen of the seven kingdoms and protector of the realm. We know that a Targaryen must sit the Iron Throne when the Long Night arrives, an alliance between the crown and the North is crucial.” He shouted, banging on the table to capture everyone’s attention. The way his hand fists met the wooden table and made everything shake was riveting.

“Each house will supply a hundred men that will march for Harrenhal and await my commands.” he made his decree.

You looked at him, with glossy eyes, you thought your mission had failed when he distanced himself from you, maybe stalling so the greens could come for you but how wrong you were.

“To Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen, first of her name!” He lifted his cup and shouted, being met with joyous screams and cheers from the hall.

The celebrations continued until you decided to retire and Cregan himself escorted you to your chambers

“The Queen is most thankful for your support, with the strength of the North by our side we shall see much success if war ensues.” you say while walking slowly.

“Of course princess, we will start making progress in the next few days.” he says to you, clearly anxious.

“I shall be returning back to Dragonstone on the morrow, my mother will be most pleased with the news.” you tell him as you stop in the hallway.

“What will you do next?” he asks, questioning you.

“I will do what my mother commands, whether it is fighting, being by her side or marrying someone.” you say, with disappointment in the last words.

You always knew you had to marry, not for love but for political alliances or stability, a marriage for love in your position is not something that would be possible. You would always put the responsibility of the crown first.

“Marriage? You have someone in mind, princess?” he asks.

“No, my Lord.” you say then begin to laugh.

“Well there was this one boy who worked in the kitchen in the Red Keep, he always sneaked some sweets to me when I was younger, I told myself I would marry him because he always listened to me and bring me sweets, I like to think of him as my first love but it was childish really.” you say, clinging to the sweet memory like a child with a blanket.

“I wish to share my life with someone who listens to me and honors the values I myself uphold, who wants the same things as I, someone that knows their histories and cultures.” you say to him, imagining a life with your future one and smiling.

“That sounds like a very fine match princess, I do hope you find him.” he says with a sincere smile.

You both smile at each other and chuckle.

You see a small shadow behind the corner of the hallway, and soon find out that it is Rickon as he runs up to his father.

“Rickon! What are you doing here little one, you’re supposed to be abed.” Cregan says to him as he picks him up and puts a kiss on his forehead.

“I had a nightmare, the Others were coming for me riding giant spiders and I was so scared.” Little Rickon said as he snuggled with his father, burying his face into the thick coat his father wore.

“Oh my son, the Others have been dead for thousands of years, no harm will come to you, I swear it.” Cregan says, sharing a sweet moment with his son. You smile at the sight.

You hear someone walk to you, it is a guard wearing the Stark sigil and he bows before you.

“My lord, you are needed in the great hall.” he says.

“I will be there soon, I must put my son to bed”. Cregan says.

“Forgive me my lord, it is quite urgent.” the guard says.

Cregan becomes annoyed, sighing to himself and then starts putting him down when you intervene.

“I can tuck him in, if the little Lord would have me.” you smile as you stroke his cheek.

“Is that okay Rickon?” Cregan asks his son and he responds with a nod.

You pick Rickon up and caress his curls and begin walking to his chambers, you set him down in bed and tuck him in so he is comfortable.

“There you go Rickon, are you comfortable?” you ask as he nods and begins playing with his toy. You begin to walk away when he starts asking for a story. You sit down beside his bed.

“I heard you were talking about the Others to your father, can you tell me about them?” you ask him.

“They are big scary creatures and they ride dead horses and big spiders, they are made of ice and are very strong.” he says, shaking with fear, no wonder he woke up and asked for comfort. You nod to him and then straighten your back to grab the dragon broach from your dress and show it to him.

“You know what this is?” you smile and show it to him.

“Yes, a dragon!” he says with a smile on his face.

“Yes! a dragon you are correct and can you tell me what dragons do my lord?” you ask while holding the broach.

“They fly high into the sky!” he raises his arms up.

“Yes and what else?” you say with a smirk.

“They can breathe fire!” he says at last.

“Yes they can, and what does fire do to ice?” you ask.

“I don’t know.” he says with a confused look.

“Fire melts ice.” you say with a serious tone while spinning the broach in your hand.

“My dragon can breath so much fire that if the Others were to ever come, they would melt in an instant and turn into a big puddle. His wingspan is so wide it can cover a small town. My dragon would do anything I tell him to, all I must do is tell him ‘dracarys’ and he will breathe fire.” you tell him, he looks at you with much admiration and smiles.

“So if the Others were ever to come, all you must do is call me and I will arrive with my dragon.” you say to him and lastly give him the broach.

“So you remember me.” you say, giving him a kiss on the forehead as he begins to yawn and rub his eyes.

“Goodnight, my lord.” you whisper.

You stand up and see Cregan in the doorway, smiling at him and begin walking out.

“He’s a sweet boy.” you say as you cross your arms.

“It’s been hard, his mother died giving birth to him. He has never been satisfied with any maid or woman that has tried to comfort him.” Cregan tells you while dropping his head.

“I have experience, my younger brothers Aegon and Viserys are quite a handful, they only want my mother or me to tuck them in.” you tell him, you miss your brothers dearly.

You walk to your chambers at a slow pace.

“He has your eyes, you know.” you tell him, offering some comfort.

You reach your chambers, the walk to it felt so short and you felt heavy at heart when you reached the door. Wanting the company of Cregan to last forever you reach for his hand.

“I thank you for tonight Cregan, it was most enjoyable my lord.” you say caressing his hand.

“I am most pleased princess, I shall see you on the morrow before you leave.” he tells you as he places a kiss on your hand.

Looking into his eyes you felt your heart skip a beat and felt your hair rising when he kissed your hand, making you twitch inside with excitement.

“See you then, my lord.” you tell him.

He bows and leaves you.

You walk into your chambers and begin to discard your clothes and dress into a warm nightgown suited for the north, Mariah helps you and then bids you a good night.

The kiss Cregan left on your hands made you sigh and smile, the day had been long and tiring but being with Cregan was worth it, how his hair moved in the wind, how delicate his rough hands were and the way his voice rasped when he talked in the great hall. You were ashamed to admit it but you felt excitement and pleasure. You wanted to spend the moment with Cregan and have his body close to yours and feel his hands in yours.

You got under the endless pelts in the bed hoping to that sleep would find you but as you twisted and turned in bed making it impossible for you to rest, staring at the ceiling as you took a deep breath you started rub your thighs together and felt a tingling sensation where your womanhood was placed. You had one time felt that sensation when you saw servants in the Red Keep, the man was buried under the skirts of the woman and she clutched his hair and her mouth made an O shape, it was like she was drowning but at last she let out a gasp and the man slowed down and started to kiss her, you ran away before they could see you.

She felt like she was drowning and wanted to come back up for air, desperately wanting for air but not knowing how to breathe. You felt ashamed, you were a princess and this was not appropriate behavior. You finally gave up and got up from the bed and reached for the door and walked to the room where a maestar was located, you knocked on the door and the maestar opened.

“I am sorry for the late hour maestar but i have trouble finding any sleep, I was wondering if I could request a drought to help me?” you ask the man, who looks young and hale.

“Yes princess, I shall have it sent to your room if it pleases you.” he answered.

“Thank you.” you tell him and walk the cold corridor that leads to your room, you grab the door handle when you gasp, feeling the excitement you felt before once again clutching to your skirt and feeling your legs tremble.

You walked in and took off a layer of your nightgown trying to escape the burning heat that filled you up, pacing the room trying to catch your breath when a knock on the door drove your eyes to the door and opened it.

“Princess.”

It was Cregan, the maestar told Cregan what you needed and he delivered it personally. He held the bottle by the throttle with his arms crossed, the way his veins were illuminated by the torch in the hallway.

He barged into the room and placed the bottle on the table. You inhale the scent as he walks by you and once again feel that sensation but manage to contain your breath.

“Lord Cregan, the hour is late.” you tell him, ashamed to be feeling like this.

“Please, enough with the formalities, I am Cregan to you.” he says as he walks slowly to you, discarding his cloak.

“Cregan..” you say but he grabs your face and kisses you, a hand slides around your waist and takes hold on the nape of your neck, pushing deeper and deeper into the kiss and then going down to kiss your neck as a moan escapes your lips. You are lost in your thoughts and as you grab his hair he pushes back.

“I’m sorry princess, that was improper of me.” he says as he avoids eye contact and begins to walk away.

“Cregan” you shout at him, as you grab your chest and then you walk to him.

“I want this.” you say shyly, “I want you… to be touched by you.” you manage to form those words into a sentence with a shaky voice.

“Whatever the princess commands.” he answers and grabs your face and plants a harsh kiss on your lips with no warning and he begins to move your hair from your face to see the whole of your face. Then he stops and looks into your eyes.

“I will not sully you princess, you have my word.” he says, while caressing your cheek.

He leads you to the bed and motions you to sit down, looking at you with hungry eyes like a wolf looking at its prey as he removes your dress, shyness crept over you but you kept eye contact.

He kneels down facing your body and lift his two rough hands to separate your legs, revealing your womanhood and then he rises up to your face and starts kissing you as he places his body between your legs, you lay your back down on the furs as he starts leaving kisses on your body, the shoulders, the arms, the belly. Your soul was on fire, the constant kissing and touching made you twitch inside and with every kiss the fire grew larger and stronger. He placed your legs over his shoulders and began to place kisses in between your thighs and then started to kiss the place where you felt the burning sensation, he started to pleasure you with his mouth and with each breath you started to see stars, the way his hands grabbed your hips and thighs was just a beginning, he continued to be glued to your womanhood and you grabbed his hair and gasp, you had never felt that before. they way he stayed in a comfortable pace but also made sure you always felt pleasure, your back arched when he had started a faster pace and you started to feel your legs tremble and as you moaned out your body felt electric, this release was the thing you needed, he still touched you as you were calming down from your high and looked at you with glimmer in his eyes as you gasped and panted.

When he was finished with you, he climbed on top of you and started to kiss you passionately, the wetness from your womanhood still on his lips while he cupped your behind.

The two of you laid there together for a long while, he continued to kiss your shoulders and grasp your behind as you started drawing shapes on his chest, he didn’t leave you, he stayed with you.

“Princess.” Cregan says.

“It is Y/n, my name is Y/n.” you correct him.

“Y/n, I hope this did not scare you.” he asks.

“I’ll admit I was scared but when you touched me, something in me fired up, something I've been wanting to experience for some time. I thank you, my lord.” you say.

“My name is Cregan, you will call me Cregan.” he then says as he grabs your waist and rolls you under him as you laugh. You start kissing each other again and when sleep finally reaches you he leaves, making sure not to make a sound.

-

You wake up to the sound of ravens crying out, you call for Mariah and she gets you ready, helping you with your hair and riding attire. You thank her for the help and give her a bag of coins for her service which she accepts gleefully and runs off.

As you make your way to the courtyard to formally leave Winterfell you notice everyone looking at you, with a confused expression and also sadness. Your heart begins to race when you start thinking about what happened last night, did someone see you? or hear you with Cregan? Did Cregan himself tell someone? Your reputation will be ruined if word reaches the Queen.

You get to the courtyard and see the great host that has come to say goodbye to you. Cregan stands in the middle with a letter in his hands and looks at you, his eyes are glistening and looking at you with sorrowful eyes.

“My lord, is everything well?” you ask him.

He takes your hand and walks away from the crowd leading you to a secluded place and gives you the letter he was holding. It had the sigil of House Targaryen, likely from Dragonstone. He hands you the letter and gives you some space. As you read the letter, sadness overcomes you but also rage and guilt. In the letter that was signed by your mother, was the news on the death of your brother Lucerys, he had been slaughtered by your uncle Aemond when they met each other at Storm's End.

Your sweet younger brother was dead, he died alone with only his dragon who did not survive. They clashed into the sea and the red cape he wore tangled into his dragon's wing. Your mother had found it while searching for your brother.

You stared at the paper while tears began to run down your cheeks and you quietly walked away and then you broke down and hit the cold ground beneath you, clutching the letter and screaming cries of anguish and in the moment a loud roar was heard that shook the earth, Cregan flinched but you sat still letting cries and scream escape your body.

You stayed there for a while until Cregan came to you, putting his hand on your shoulder.

“The Queen requested you to return to Dragonstone at once princess, she will be wanting you back no doubt.” he said.

“The first thing Luke said to me after I claimed Vermithor was that I was now the rider of the second largest dragon in the world, almost the same size, I do wonder what would have happened if I went to Storm's End in place of Luke, I could’ve matched with Vhagars size and ferociousness.” you tell him in between sobs as you sit motionless.

“You cannot blame yourself.” Cregan says.

“I know I should not but I cannot help myself.” you cry out.

A thunderous roar came from above as Vermithor landed before you, walking towards you and shaking his entire body.

“Gather your army and march to Harrenhal, when the time is right you and I will lay waste to the Greens army.” you tell him as you take his hand.

“Winter will be coming for them, I swear this.”He places his lips on your hand and bows and walks away, he senses Vermithor getting himself ready to take flight and he backs away, allowing himself to be alone with your dragon.

“Gūrogon issa lenton.” you tell Vermithor, as you mount him, the tears on your face freezing as you go higher and higher, sadness quickly becomes rage as you think about Luke. The Greens will never know peace again. (take me home)

-

this is only part one! i am thinking of turning it into a series but we will see. hope you guys enjoyed!

[bluesylveon2]

A Love as Sweet as This

Summary: When Queen Draconia demands for cake, it is Sebek's duty to get it for her.

Note: royal au, fluff, Vanrouges giving love advice, and cameos from other Diasomnia fics in this series. For the sake of this fic, Malleus' Yuu/Reader did not lay an egg, but (SLIGHT BOOK 7 SPOILERS) her pregnancy shares some characteristics of how dragon faes develop.

Warning: fem Yuu/reader, pregnancy (for Malleus' Yuu/reader), not beta read, mini Book 7 spoiler, oc child, and possible ooc characters

Word Count: 5.1k

Masterlist: here, Series Masterlist: here

The Zigvolt family has been known for protecting the Draconia family since Baur Zigvolt first joined. The youngest grandson, Sebek, loved hearing stories about how his grandfather worked alongside Queen Maleficia. He decided that he would be the same. Sebek would do anything for the Draconia family.

Malleus needed some tea? Sebek was there to brew it.

Someone tries to stab Malleus? Sebek would take the hit instead. 

Malleus told him to jump off a cliff? Sebek would do it like he was platform diving.

Nevertheless, Sebek's loyalty to the family was very high. 

"Sebek, it is not the end of the world. I'm pregnant, not terminally ill. I want some cake."

Human Draconias were now included.

Said human frowned as she walked side by side with Sebek. He did not understand why she insisted on this rather than the knight carrying her and flying. 

"Your Majesty, you are carrying the future heir of Briar Valley! Because this is the child of you and the Young Master, they are my responsibility, as are you now. I assure you, we are almost at the castle. I can ask the chefs to bake you some and the staff to massage you."

"I don't have time to sit and wait." The Queen whined. "This baby wants one now, and Lilia said that bakery nearby is to die for." She said, pointing at a quaint bakery that was not busy. 

Sebek looked at the place with uncertainty. The Queen sighed. "You don't have time to think about it. The lunch rush will start soon, so let's go before we lose our chance. This baby needs food to grow!" She grabbed his hand and dragged him to the bakery.

"Your Majesty!" Sebek exclaimed, a blush evident on his face. "The child needs love to grow."

"This child won't get love if I don't get a slice of cake and fast." The Queen cheerfully grinned as she pulled her retainer. Who knew the grandson of the great Baur Zigvolt would get dragged around by a human, his Queen nonetheless? Said grandson would rather go through this than besmirch his Queen. 

A bell and a faint "coming" brought Sebek back to reality. Oh, what would Malleus say when they came back late? 

(Little did Sebek know that Malleus would cling to his wife when she stepped inside the palace.)

"Sebek, I was thinking about getting this cake." Queen Draconia said, pointing at a small green cake topped with fruit and green flowers. 

"Good choice, Your Majesty! The green really matches the Young Master's eyes." Sebek exclaimed and walked up to the counter to order, unaware of the Queen muttering about how the fruit was shaped like a crocodile. The Queen chose to sit down and rest a bit. 

The back door opened, and a new figure appeared. The newcomer was female, had some icing smeared on her cheeks, and was dressed in a uniform that matched the aesthetic of the bakery. Like the Queen, this woman was also human. 

"Hello! Are you ready to order?" 

"Yes, human. I want an order of this cake!" Sebek said, pointing at the picture his Queen pointed to earlier. 

"Alright, anything else?" 

Sebek stared at the menu behind the woman. "A small cup of black coffee." 

"Alright, your total will be 12 thaumarks." The woman said with a smile. Her eyes shifted slightly to the Queen behind Sebek. 

"How sweet. You are such a doting husband to your wife."

For a brief moment, Sebek thought he heard thunder in the distance. 

"SHE IS NOT MY WIFE! I AM NOT WORTHY ENOUGH TO BE MARRIED TO HER MAJESTY!" He exclaimed while frantically waving his hands, causing the Queen to laugh loudly. 

The woman winced at his volume. "Okay, I get it, but quiet down a little before I lose my hearing."

"How dare-" Sebek stopped when the human raised her hand, silencing him. How could a human do something like that to him? The retainer to the great Waka-sama???

Sebek quickly put the payment down and glanced at his Queen, who had a smirk on her face. "I apologize, human. I did not mean to yell at your establishment."

"It's Yuu." 

Sebek's eyes widened, and he swore he heard a snicker behind him. "I'm sorry?"

Yuu pointed to her herself. "My name is Yuu, not human. And I will call for you when your order is ready…"

Sebek stood up proudly. "Sebek Zigvolt, a loyal retainer to the Draconia family!"

Yuu giggled. "Sebek. I'll make sure to remember that. I'm new to the area, so I'm still learning."

"WELL IF YOU WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT WAKA-SAMA THEN I SHALL TELL YOU EVERYTHING ABOUT HIM!"

Yuu removed her hands from her ears. "Alright. Why don't you tell me more about him now while you get your order?"

Sebek smirked proudly, unaware of his heartbeat slowly increasing as he stared at Yuu. "Of course! I shall educate you about the wonders, okay, how great Waka-sama  is!" Sebek exclaimed before heading into a tangent about the Malleus as Yuu worked. 

Meanwhile, the Queen smirked and laid a hand on her stomach. "Oh, little one, hopefully you get a cousin soon."

Sebek continued to visit the bakery for many months. He and Yuu had come to an unspoken agreement: he would passionately share his knowledge about the Draconia family with Yuu, and Yuu would give him a slice of cake to eat. Normally, people who listened to Sebek's rants gave not even decent praise about Malleus, but Yuu would listen to Sebek and ask questions when needed. 

More humans should be more interested in Malleus like Yuu!

"Sebek?" 

The knight shook off his thoughts and flew to his Queen's side. The palace roses she was admiring shook slightly from Sebek's movement. "Do you need something, Your Majesty?"

The Queen smiled as she let her finger brush against a rose petal. 

"I do." She turned to Sebek. "I would like some more cake." 

Sebek looked up in shock. It all started when Sebek decided to bring home the cake slice Yuu gave him instead of eating it at the bakery. He did not think about it, but when the Queen noticed the treat in his hands, she demanded more (not for free, of course. She insisted on paying!). It was not like Yuu could say no! In the end, the human added an extra slice just for the Queen. This did not go unnoticed as King Malleus grew concerned for his wife, and she burst into tears when he confronted her about it. 

At least the bakery was high on business. Malleus learned to never question his Queen again. 

"Very well." Sebek nodded stiffly. "Is that all?"

The Queen shook her head. "I'm thinking about throwing a party in honor of my future child—a baby shower, as humans call it." She snapped her fingers, and a servant holding an envelope appeared by her side. She picked it up and handed it in Sebek's direction. "I want you to deliver this letter to Yuu because I want her to make the desserts for the party."

Sebek grabbed the letter like it would disintegrate from his touch. "You Majesty, that is such a high honor! Are you sure she is capable of the task?" 

The Queen smiled gently. "Of course, I always enjoy eating her cakes. Speaking of, I am craving some right now, and I would appreciate it if you got me more cake coming back."

Sebek nodded. "Very well. I shall see this plan through."

Sebek should not be feeling nervous. 

For crying out loud, he is a knight of the great Draconia family and a descendant of Baur Zigvolt! All he had to do was deliver something to a human. It would be a short interaction, and then he would be back in the castle. 

But why does he feel like there were butterflies in his stomach?

"Tsk. How dare these insects get to me!" Sebek complained as he flew to the bakery. "Maintaining this condition will not make me serve the royal family at my highest potential. I shall get rid of them at once!"

As Sebek flew down the streets, he spotted a flower shop with a colorful display on the window. Some flowers around the bakery could brighten the atmosphere more. Would Yuu like flowers? What kind does she like? 

"WHAT AM I THINKING?!" Sebek exclaimed, startling the townsfolk as he passed. 

Sebek felt the butterflies increase as he stepped away from the door. The poor knight was confused. What was it about the bakery that made him so nervous? Was it the comfy atmosphere the moment a customer walked in? Was it the smell of fresh fruit and bread? Was it the human who ran it? The same woman who actively listened and asked Sebek questions during his talk about Malleus-

"NO! She cannot be in my thoughts all the time!"

"Who can't be in your thoughts?" A female voice asked, causing Sebek to scream. 

"Human?! How long have you been here?" Sebek asked frantically. 

"Not long. I was restocking when I saw you standing outside from my window." Yuu began to smirk. "You know you can walk in without forcing yourself to."

"I know that!" Sebek looked away and followed Yuu inside.  

"Still, I can't help but wonder who the female you were referring to earlier is," Yuu questioned aloud as she closed the door before leaning close to Sebek. “Is there someone you fancy?" She grinned. 

Sebek gulped. The close proximity made Sebek blush even more. Was her eyes always sparkling like diamonds? Did she always have a beauty mark on her cheek?

"I was referring to Her Majesty. The new prince or princess is coming soon." Yuu let out a laugh that sounded like music to Sebek. "Here!" Sebek pushed the letter into Yuu's hands. "A letter from her."

"Wow, that's important. I hope im not in trouble," Yuu joked. She carefully opened the envelope and scanned the contents. Her eyes widened, and she dropped the letter. Sebek watched as the paper fluttered to the ground. 

"Yuu?" He snapped his fingers in front of Yuu's frozen face. Her eyes trailed from the letter to Sebek. Suddenly, she jumped on him and pulled Sebek into a tight hug. 

"YES! YES! I will be honored to help the Queen on her big day!"

"Of course!" Sebek huffed. "It would be foolish to not accept this opportunity from a Draconia." 

"Oh, there's so much to do!" Yuu pulled away and began to freak out in excitement. "What desserts does the Queen want? More important! What gender is the baby so I can plan accordingly!"

"I assure you, another knight, Silver, or I will come to get you to discuss these matters with the royal family." 

Yuu smiled brightly, almost like the sun. She pulled Sebek in for another hug. "Thank you for bringing me the news, Sebek." The next thing Yuu did caused Sebek to blush wildly.

She kissed his cheek. 

Sebek felt his body freeze and heat up simultaneously. His cheek felt warm, and the knight put a gloved hand against it to see if he was dreaming. 

At that moment, Sebek's stomach decided to make itself known. 

Yuu giggled, her smile brightening, and her eyes were focused on Sebek's growing blush. 

"Well, let's get you something to eat before you go back. I was about to close for lunch anyway."

Sebek could not believe his ears. Him eating with Yuu? Alone?! Oh, what would Malleus think if he or his wife saw them? "I don't want to impose on your busy schedule."

"Nonsense! I prefer your company, honestly." 

Sebek's heart could not handle it. His heartbeat increased, and he was sure Yuu could see how red his ears were turning. Sebek slowly backed his way to the door. "I should go-AH!"

Sebek was too stunned to speak. He did not expect Yuu to shoot a hand out behind him and use her body and the door to stop him. Technically, Sebek could use his strength or leave through the opening Yuu left, but he was too astonished to move. 

"Sebek, please stay for lunch, and then you can go back to the castle." Yuu pleaded, her eyes staring into Sebek's for the second time that day. 

The knight was relentless. He should not give into a human and return to his duty. However, Sebek would not admit it outloud, but he could stare into Yuu's eyes all day. Moments passed when he gave in. 

"Fine, human. I shall join you today. Don't get any ideas."

Yuu could not stop the grin from forming on Ber's face. "Thank you!" She grabbed Sebek's hand and dragged him to the back. C'mon! Tell me what you want, and I can prepare it. You can also help me start planning, and I will make sure to pack a cake for the Queen before you go!"

Yuu broke into a carefree laugh as she continued listing her plans. Sebek's face turned red again as Yuu's attitude got to him. No wonder he grew to love it and would not mind seeing it more often. 

Oh. 

Oh no.

"Sebek? Can I come in?" Silence. If Sebek said anything, Silver did not hear it. "Sebek?" Silver knocked. There was a loud groan in response. Silver started to get worried. This behavior was unusual for Sebek. "I'm coming in."

Silver peeked into his brother's room to find said male lying flat on his bed, his face buried in his pillow. Sebek shifted so his yellow-green eyes met auroral ones. 

"Please leave, Silver. I need a day to lay here, and then we can talk."

"This is important." Silver sat down on the side of the bed and rubbed his hand against Sebek's back for comfort. "Father mentioned you were having issues regarding matters of the heart."

Sebek sat straight up and surprised Silver, who put his hand on Sebek's shoulder. "Master Lilia knows?"

Silver nodded. "He said that you had an expression similar to what Malleus and I had before."

Sebek groaned into his hands. He was usually great at being stoic. His grandfather trained him on it if he ever met a foe on the battlefield. How could a human make him feel this way? Sebek couldn't make sense of what he was feeling. The butterflies had increased his presence. "Oh, how could I show that out in public!"

A small smile adorned Silver's face as he rubbed Sebek's shoulder. "It's better I talk to you about this than Father. Luckily for me, he was too busy doting on the Queen or my sister and not asking when I would give him grandchildren."

"But you haven't proposed to your partner yet."

"Exactly," both Silver and Sebek chuckled. The brothers let the moment pass until Sebek finally addressed the elephant in the room. "Silver, how did you know when you…" Sebek felt a lump form in his throat. "When…" he began to struggle to form basic sentences. 

"When I?" Silver asked, confused. 

"LIKEDYOURPARTNER!" Sebek hid his face in his hands. There, he said it. The cat was out of the bag. 

Sadly for him, Silver did not know where the cat was. "Can you repeat that?"

Sebek's hands immediately fell to his lap, and he turned to Silver with a shocked expression. How did Silver not understand his predicament?

"How did you know…when you had feelings for your partner?"

A genuine smile graced Silver's lips, and the boy folded his hands together to think. "You will know it on your own. However, I started to know when my partner continuously occupied my thoughts. The next thing I knew, I wanted to care for her and go through life with her by my side. I wanted to protect her from anything or anyone that may harm her."

"I see…" Sebek murmured, igniting Silver's curiosity. "Is the girl you fancy a human or fae?" 

"A human. A beautiful and talented one." Sebek said with a certain softness Silver had heard before from Lilia and Malleus. 

Silver could not hide his growing smile. Oh, how you've grown, Sebek. "What is the issue, Sebek? I think that you should court her."

"But what will the others think?" Sebek frowned. "You know how people reacted to my mother marrying a human." He did not say it aloud, but Sebek cared for Yuu enough that he would protect her from the prejudice of some faes. 

Silver grabbed Sebek's shoulders and looked at him dead in the eye. "And they have a happy marriage and wonderful children. Same for Malleus. People opposed his marriage, but now the newest heir is coming. Things have changed, and who cares what blood is running through this girl's veins." Sebek frowned like an internal argument was happening in his mind, causing Silver to sigh and pull Sebek in for a hug. "Look, you like her for who she is; she probably feels the same. Don't let others dictate your happiness. Be her knight in shining armor."

"Your Majesty, you are absolutely glowing!" Yuu squealed while maintaining a reasonable distance away from the royal couple. 

Many months had passed since the big announcement, and Yuu still felt nervous whenever she entered the castle. Sure, she met everyone within the walls but was surrounded by famous names such as the Vanrouges and the Zigvolts. Yuu felt that a tiny mistake could end with her being zapped by lightning. 

"Thank you, Yuu." The Queen smiled and caressed her belly. "The baby is surrounded with love from their family. They are very active. Probably gets it from her father." She turned to her husband, who sat on his throne beside her, with a teasing look. 

Malleus smiled. It surprised Yuu how someone as intimidating as the King looked at his wife with adoration. "The baby also got her mother's love for sweets. I wonder how she did not get heartburn." He whispered low enough for Yuu to hear. 

"What did you say?" 

"Nothing, my love." Malleus placed a kiss on his wife's temple. "I was just discussing the cake for the party."

"Yes!" Yuu nodded in agreement. "It should be at the garden for later."

"I'm so excited!" The Queen squealed. "I'm sure it will be a boy!"

Malleus grabbed his wife's hand and squeezed it. "Well, I think the baby will be a girl."

"I have to disagree with you, Malleus," another voice added. Yuu watched as Lilia floated down to the Royals. Another woman holding a sleeping baby appeared by his side just as the fae's feet touched the floor. "I think the child will be a boy. Don't you agree, dear?" 

His wife rolled her eyes in exasperation and handed her baby to Lilia. She stepped towards Yuu and pulled her into a friendly hug. "It's nice to see you again, Yuu. Why don't you save yourself from this endless argument and walk around the garden? It sure is lovely to see the roses without extra people roaming around."

"I heard that," Lilia interrupted as the royal couple continued their discussion in the background. 

"I know, dear," Lady Vanrouge laughed as Lilia wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her close for a quick kiss. Yuu felt a slight feeling of envy form in her chest. Oh, how she wished for her knight in shining armor to sweep her off her feet. Yuu's eyes shifted to see how Malleus looked at his wife gently as if she were a star in the sky. 

Maybe she could have something like that with a certain green-haired, loud-mouthed knight-

Yuu's eyes widened. Don't think about it! She looked at her exit in a hurry. A simple stroll will help her clear her mind. 

Lady Vanrouge spoke up, interrupting Yuu's thoughts. "Yuu? Do you want to go to the gardens?"

"Yes!" Yuu exclaimed until she reminded herself about where she was. "I mean, ahem, yes. I would love that."

The woman smiled. "Wonderful!" She turned her attention to Lilia. "My love, can you escort Yuu to the rose garden? I will mediate the other two."

"Of course," Lilia handed the baby to his wife and extended an arm towards Yuu. "Let's go, Yuu."

The "walk" to the garden did not help Yuu at all. The girl prayed that Lilia could not feel her stomach churning or feel her clammy hands. 

Since her arrival, Yuu had not seen Sebek or a speck of light green hair. Typically, Sebek was around the King and Queen to protect them at a moment's notice. Yet, Silver (who was sleeping) was in his spot instead.

An angel appeared on Yuu's shoulder. "He could be swamped today. You never know what could happen," the angel suggested. 

"Please!" A devil appeared on Yuu's other shoulder. "Clearly, he is avoiding you because he doesn't want to be seen with you."

"You don't know that!" The angel argued. 

"It's because she is a human. H-U-M-A-N."

"I think Sebek likes her for who she is."

The devil rolled its eyes. "Say what you want, but you know that is untrue."

"Yuu?" The angel and devil poofed away, leaving Yuu to look at Lilia's concerned face. "Are you okay?" 

"Yes…" she started, but Lilia's face remained unchanged. "No. No, I'm not."

"Do you want to talk about it? I can listen," Lilia's face became serious and sympathetic, simmering Yuu's nervousness.

"Yes. I would like that."

"Very well," Lilia grabbed Yuu's hand. He skillfully navigated his way around until he stopped in a quiet hallway. He let Yuu go in first and turned around to check the area. "There. No one should be coming by anytime soon." He turned his attention to Yuu. "Now, what seems to be the problem? You seemed lost in thought earlier."

Yuu sighed. Here it goes. "It's about Sebek."

"Oh," Lilia tilted his head and had a clueless look on his face. "What about him?"

"I may have developed….feelings for him, but I don't know if it is mutual."

Lilia could not hide the smirk growing on his face, so he hid it behind a cough. "I see. Tell me, dear. What is it about Sebek that you like?"

Yuu chuckled and rubbed the back of her neck. "Well, there are many things."

"I'll say!" Lilia exclaimed, his eyes twinkling with mirth. Finally, after seeing two of his sons find love, it was Sebek's turn! Wait till Baul hears about this. "Is it the grumpy way he talks?"

Yuu laughed, reminiscing about her first meeting with Sebek. "Not really, but I thought I would lose my hearing there."

"Is it his dashing looks?"

"Lilia..."

"Or that he's socially impaired?"

"Lilia…"

"Or the one time he tinkled in his bed?"

"Lil-wait, what did you say?"

Lilia gasped and covered his mouth with his hand. "I said too much." Yuu didn't have to know that he was smirking, too. How boring would it be to not share the juicy stories? 

"It's not all of those, although I don't want to know what that last one was." Yuu took a breath before continuing. "it's his devotion."

"Oh," Lilia raised a brow in interest. "Tell me more."

"Well…" Yuu blushed before continuing. "He is very devoted to the King and the Queen. He was attentive to the Queen since they first entered my bakery." Her eyes met Lilia's. "If he can be like that to them, then surely he would be as devoted to a significant other."

"Fufufu, I see. Then you must make haste and tell him your feelings!" Lilia urged, but Yuu shook her head. 

"I would, but," Her eyes shifted away, and uncertainty crossed her face. Could she really face Sebek and spill everything? "Can I take some time to process this?"

Lilia smiled gently. "Of course. Take as much time as you need." He quietly led Yuu back toward the garden. "You know, I once worried about how Sebek would react to the new queen, given that she is human."

Yuu jumped out of her thoughts and eyed Lilia curiously. "And how did he react?"

Lilia stopped before a set of doors leading to the garden. "He kneeled before her and dedicated his life to protecting her."

Yuu smiled, her heart lighted with hope. "Thank you, Lilia, for your wisdom."

"You're welcome, Yuu. I will see you at the party." Lilia smiled before opening the door and vanishing in thin air, leaving Yuu alone. 

Yuu turned to the doorway, and her jaw fell open in awe. The garden was indeed a sight to behold. The bright red roses oddly complimented the dark and eerie atmosphere of the castle's architecture. There were paths with hedges leading to the center and a fountain with a statue of the former Queen, Maleanor. The moonlight blanketed the flora by outlining each plant in a silver glow. 

"Woah…" Yuu followed a path to get a closer look at the statue. According to a past visit from Sebek, the King had commissioned the statue to be built in honor of his late mother and Lilia's friend. 

If only he had met her.

"I should court her now. I should not court her later…"

Yuu's ears perked up at the sound. It sounded like it was coming from nearby. Yuu could not shake the feeling that she knew it from somewhere. 

It won't hurt to take a peek. Yuu quietly tiptoed to the source. 

"I should court her now. I should not court her later…" Yuu stepped even closer, luckily not alerting the person. She leaned in slightly and saw a mop of yellow-green hair.

No. Way. 

"Sebek."

"AGH!" Sebek screamed. "When did you show up?" He frantically threw the rose he held earlier over the hedge. 

"I just got here-" Yuu tilted her head. "Although I want to know what are you hiding back there?"

"Nothing!" Sebek replied rather quickly. "Shouldn't you be with Her Majesty? I'm sure she needs your assistance."

"No, Sebek. I wanted to take a stroll and look for you," It's not like she has something important to say first. 

Sebek felt his heart race. "ME?! YOU SHOULD FOCUS ON HER MAJESTY OR YOUR FOOD!"

Yuu felt her patience wearing thin. "Sebek, other people do that for me."

"But Her Majesty could be injured; we will not know unless we are there! 

"Sebek."

"Honestly, being a part of these festivities is the highest honor in Briar Valley-" 

"SEBEK!" Yuu exclaimed and attempted to trap him against the hedge. Except, the "wall" she was supposed to hold on to was not wood like last time, but shrubs. "Ah!" Yuu screamed and shut her eyes, bracing her landing on the ground. 

But it never came. She felt something firm around her waist, tugging her body close to a firm surface. Her arms also wrapped around the figure.     

"YUU! HOW COULD YOU BE SO CARELESS?"

Yuu opened her eyes to Sebek, who was red and very close, so close that Yuu could see how his slit pupils and long eyelashes. 

"Yuu! Answer me!"

"First, you need to turn your voice down, or else I will lose my hearing before the party starts."

Sebek blushed out of embarrassment and nodded. He still remained close to Yuu and did not move. He could not move even if he tried. It was as if there was a magnet forcing him to stay still. 

"Second, I want you to listen to me carefully because I will not repeat this."

Sebek audibly gulped, his throat bobbing in anticipation. Yuu took a breath. It's now or never. 

"I like you, Sebek, and I have for a while now." Yuu briefly looked away from Sebek before continuing. "You don't have to reciprocate it; there's no pressure. I just wanted to let you know what's been going on in my mind for the past few days."

Sebek remained quiet, his heart racing. Here was the woman of his dreams confessing to him before he did. It did not matter anymore. It was not like he considered making his confession dramatic, like in the books he read. He could save that for another day, but this is now. 

"Yuu, I also want to tell you that I have gained feelings for you," He reached over and gently grabbed Yuu's hands, holding them close like they were made of feathers. "I wish to court you if you allow me."

Yuu felt her heart explode into a million pieces out of pure joy. Her smile grew wide, and she nodded. That was all Sebek needed as he pulled Yuu close, and their noses were almost touching. 

"Is it okay for me to kiss you?' Sebek asked shyly, and Yuu nodded, finding the question cute. He stiffened as Yuu gently caressed his face in her hands. "Let me know if you don't want this or if I overstep your boundaries."

Yuu chuckled. "Just kiss me, Sebek!"  

The knight obliged and closed the remaining distance with the baker. His eyes closed instinctively, and he tilted his head, lips meeting hers in a tender kiss. 

One of many more to come.  

"UGH, THEY ARE SO ADORABLE!"

"I KNOW! SEBEK HAS GROWN UP SO MUCH!!"

Malleus and Lady Vanrouge watched from a nearby sofa as their respective spouses sobbed from their hiding spots within the castle but with the couple in their view. Both faes glanced at each other nervously. Luckily, no one besides the sleeping Silver and Aurie was around to see this embarrassing moment. 

"My love," Malleus called and summoned handkerchiefs to hand to his wife and Lilia. "We need to get ready for the party."

"I know, I know. Let me just-" The Queen blew her nose loudly and wiped the tears off her cheeks. "Okay, now I'm ready."

"Very well," Malleus hugged his wife and teleported them away, leaving the Vanrouge family behind. 

"It feels like yesterday when I purposely scared Silver and Sebek for fun. Now he is going to have a wife soon! Oh, I need to tell Baur the news when he arrives!" Lilia bawled and blew his nose into his handkerchief. 

Lady Vanrouge sighed. With one hand, she held her daughter and ran her fingers through Silver's hair with the other. Was it too late to take a nap with her children?

"My love, if you continue crying, you’ll wake the children up."

"I can't help it! Now we have two things to celebrate today!"

Lady Vanrouge sighed for the nth time today. Adding Sebek's new relationship on top of the upcoming heir will cause some waterworks among the guests. The woman looked up at the new couple and smiled. 

A/N: WHY IS SEBEK HARD TO WRITE??? I swear he is a lot easier to write when he is with a chaotic group like the first years. Anyways, sorry for the long wait! Hopefully I get more out with the other characters soon!

Disclaimer: I do not own Twisted Wonderland and its characters. Those belong to Aniplex, Walt Disney Japan, and Yana Toboso.

©: This story belongs to bluesylveon2 2020-24. DO NOT modify, republish, or plagiarize my work.

[jamneuromain]

Wild Child Chapter. 1

Series Summary:

As the granddaughter of the sole Duke in your country, you know that you were going to marry some douche prince, because it is the only way to solidify the grasp the future king has on the Upper House. On the flight home, you come up with a brilliant plan to defy your upcoming matrimony.

Bringing a random man to your grandfather's place, and say you have a boyfriend already.

"Is there anything else I should know about? Before I meet your family?" Ari cocks his head to the side, watching you adjusting your cerulean Valentino dress when you wave your hand dismissively.

"Just say we're in love and help me get out of marrying this D-bag."

Ari Levinson x You

#i didn't know he is my fiance-douchebag-prince

#when i did, it was too late

“Ladies and gentlemen, welcome on board Flight CM80072 from London to Ancetol. This is your Captain speaking. My name is…”

The broadcast started as you stuffed your ears with your earbuds. The screeching static along with the horrible noise whenever the captain chewed the mic in his lips and popped every consonant as if he couldn’t speak otherwise.

You should have brought your earplugs.

Or fly your private plane.

Correction: Fly your family’s private plane.

But you guessed they were still mad at you, which was probably the reason why the bodyguard they sent simply handed you an envelope with an airplane ticket inside.

“Would you like to see the menu?” The stewardess asked you with a kind smile, handing you the thick book of menu, “We have foie gras, smoked salmon, or veal rolls for the main course. Of course, you can also choose the vegan meal. All the ingredients are listed below the dishes.”

“I’ll have the veal roll.” You took a sip of the lemon-flavored soda she gave you earlier, “First course - the shrimp, and dessert would be the … ice cream, with extra berry toppings?”

“Excellent choice, Miss Y/L/N.” The stewardess nodded, taking notes of your demands, the impeccable smile still on her lips, “Any drinks?”

The bodyguard to your back coughed. Very loudly. Very spontaneously. As if he would be dead if someone didn’t hand him a glass of water or ship him off to the chemotherapy very soon.

“Cappu…” you changed your mind as soon as you were “reminded” that you were not allowed to drink alcohol, "Screw it, apple cider please.”

“Miss -” The bodyguard in the full black suit tried to warn you, “His Lordship won’t be pleased.”

“His Lordship,” you sniggered, “desperate measure to demonstrate his control over me, huh? Plus, I don’t think I recall our King has issued any announcement on the succession of the title. So, Lord him all you like. Pathetic man. I’m not respecting someone who participated perhaps even less than a minute in creating me.” You muttered the last few words under your breath.

You could practically imagine what “His Lordship” would do when he hears the report from the bodyguard, word for word.

He might throw some crystal ornaments to the wall, shouting at the top of his lungs, as if that would reinforce his authority.

A man to your right chuckled. Like you, he was just approached by the stewardess regarding his meal choice, now sipping scotch on the rocks. You glared at him. He looks like a man in his 30s. Terribly well dressed. The suit fitted his tailoring right up to his cufflinks. Golden cufflinks, you might add. White shirt without a tie. Long hair with a full-grown beard.

“Sorry, can’t help but overhear.” He raised his hands and folded them on his knees, “I’m Guy. Guy Thomas.”

“Mr. Thomas,” you shared your given name with him, but left out your family name, offering to shake his hand.

“Guy.” He stressed, “You’re from Ancetol?”

You were born in the outskirts of Ancetol, the capital of your home country, Ballenia, one of the few countries that are still ruled by a monarch. Your mother was relieved that you were blessed with a quick birth. But your father wanted nothing more than a boy. A boy that could take the family title and carry the family honor. Probably why he didn’t make an appearance until the second day of your birth. Reluctantly. You might add.

You spent the next couple of years of your life in a small town in Ballenia, growing up with your mother who thought innocently that your father would miraculously love you and accept you both as family.

You stopped believing in “a happy marriage” a long time ago. No. You stopped believing in “marriage”. And the fairy tales. And the lovely stories that told you one day, Prince Charming would come to rescue you riding his big white horse and ask you to be his wife, and some happily ever after bullshit.

No.

The reality was, fairly close to the story of your family, where the “Cinderella”, your mother, was abandoned by the prince, who is your father, and he had a couple of mistresses when Cinderella was only allowed to be presented during formal circumstances.

Ah yes, after all, a divorce would destroy the reputation of His Lordship. Making them look bad if they kick a civilian woman out of the door. The press would go frenzy about it, spreading the news that the “Cinderella” had been divorced by the cold-hearted heir of the Duke.

Luckily, or, unlucky for your father, it was your grandfather who carried the Duke title. Your grandfather who was equally displeased with you, a useless girl. Your grandfather, who passed away quite recently. Three days ago.

Hence, your urgent return. And some pretenses for the reputation of your family.

So, sunglasses it is then. During the funeral. With a white handkerchief. No one will see your dry eyes incapable of producing tears, not for that old bastard anyway. You thought to yourself, eyeing the huge bulk of a man next to you.

Did you forget to mention that the late Duke did the same trick as your father? Marrying a civilian woman and keeping a dozen mistresses in the same mansion they live in?

“You sound local.” You commented on the way he speaks English, “Are you from Ancetol as well?”

“Aww, what gave it away?” The man switched to fluent Ballenian, the language you haven’t heard of for years, and asked you, sounding sincere, “Is it the ‘r’? I always mess up the ‘r’.”

“Your name doesn’t sound local though,” you buckled your seatbelt as the stewardess stepped close to inform you the plane was ready to depart, lowering your eyes to fumble with the metal link, “Guy Thomas. Very American.”

Ari, no, Guy, pushed a little smile on his lips.

Of course, this name sounded American. You would freak out if he told you his true name.

“My mother is American and my father is Ballenian.” Which was 75% true because his mother was half American. The other half Danish.

He went by “Guy Thomas” when he was having fun among people and didn’t want to spoil everything by announcing he was Ari. The fucking prince of Ballenia.

Total mood killer.

“Are you here for business or pleasure?” You joked, “Or visiting your family?”

“Mostly business.” Ari fabricated a lie out of nowhere, “I work as a manager of my family business.” Technically that’s not a lie. He even slipped in some details for credibility.

Family business, the kingdom.

Manager, well sort of, since his dad owned the country.

“And I’m back in Ballenia to secure a deal.”

You lacked interest in business and all that, waving your hand as if dismissal, but allowing the stewardess to come and take away the food and drink in front of you, “hard to do business nowadays, especially when the Minister of Foreign Trade is a jackass.”

“You speak as if you know him.”

“Please, he’s been in that position for fifteen years.” You rolled your eyes.

The minister tried to get you to marry his hideous, lazy, pig-like son who knows nothing more than eating, smoking, and partying. Promising your father to “sweeten the deal” by favoring the company your mother owned but your father controlled.

Your father really would have said yes if it weren’t for the deal years ago, promising you to another man already. A man more powerful than the minister or his son will ever be.

“Of course, he is a jackass. If not now, then somewhere in his 15 years of gripping the foreign trade.” But you were not telling a total stranger about you being promised around like a Ming-Dynasty Vase. “Just look at the new announcement he made with the U.S. What deal did he make? None! Claiming that ‘further efforts are needed’. Further my ass. The Ambassador from the States could barely keep the smile on his face for Christ’s sake.”

Ari took a mental note to look into this “jackass” Minister.

“What about you?” He asked, “Visiting your family? Plan on staying here long?”

You pursed your lips on hearing the question.

Visit your family? How about dead family?

You were here to attend your grandfather, the late Duke’s funeral.

Staying long?

You wouldn’t curse yourself like that.

The longer you stay, the more probable your father and your mother will talk you into marriage.

You loved your mother, but for Christ’s sake, “I hope not.”

Ari didn’t respond to your reply. He simply hummed, making you confused about whether he agreed with you or not.

The plane did not wait for a minute more before departing into the air. A short while of gravity shift brought you 30,000 feet up in the sky. You pulled down the blind as the annoying sunlight burned your eyes, getting up for a bit more leg room and heading to the bathroom.

In the blink of an eye, a violent turbulence threw you off your own feet.

The soft ring of the safety belt sign turned the orange light on, while you slowly came to your senses that you weren’t embraced by the ground, but rather a firm body wrapping around you. One arm on your back, holding your upper body, another hung – rather awkwardly – in the air. You were sitting on his thick thighs sideways. Your ankle hurting. You were pretty much sure you twisted it with your damn heels.

“Miss Y/L/N!” The bodyguard hurried towards you, completely disregarding the tremble of the plane, rushing to your side. “Miss, I need you to try and stand up.” He held out an arm, leaning towards you to help you up.

Seeing him trying to assess how hurt your ankle was, you were very touched that he was concerned and reacted quickly. Maybe a small pay rise for him if you get back to your home?

Your bodyguard sighs, shaking his head with a disapproving look, “If this is your way of trying to escape the deal, his lordship won’t be pleased.”

Oh yes, the deal. The deal that simply packed you like a FedEx item and threw you to the palace door. The deal that promised you to the prince, right after you were born. The deal that you were told by your parents to honor for as long as you can remember. The deal lurking in the corner and bit you in the ass whenever you had done something to displease your father, reminding you over and over again that the only reason that you were alive was the fucking deal.

Apparently, your father had left out a most important piece of detail when instructing this bodyguard to “guard” you from running away.

You hardly ever do as you’re told.

“I think my ankle is broken.” You said dryly, pointing at your feet, not even trying to pretend that you can convince no one with your bland facial expression, “Can’t get up.”

Ari bit his lips so that he wouldn’t laugh.

You were sure as hell an interesting soul.

If he had any doubt or concerns regarding marrying you, a complete stranger in a matter of weeks, he now had none.

He thought you were the kind of girl who was a black sheep in the family, a wild child, with tattoos on your eyeballs or something. But you were nothing like his imagination.

Wild? Sure.

Black sheep? Compared to your father, the to-be-Duke, who seemed more like what the term was describing.

Ari raised his eyebrows, “Although I wouldn’t oppose you sitting on my thighs,” he nodded towards the stewardess who lurked behind the thin veil of curtain, “I’m afraid she would be unable to do her job properly if this continues.”

You clenched your jaw. Ignoring the extended hand from your bodyguard, you stood up, feeling instantly a sharp pain stinging your bones.

Bathroom was long forgotten, not that you have a chance to reach there on your own, you slumped down the seat and made sure you pushed the seat back until you could almost lie down like on a gurney. Lifting the hurting ankle on your other ankle, you closed your eyes.

Fuck his lordship.

The pain throbbing on your ankle. Your body dipped in both the coolness of the AC and the heat from your spine and the back of your head.

The few hours on the plane became more and more unbearable.

The veal roll didn’t lift your spirit in any way when it was brought to you.

The meat itself was fine. Only that it tasted like wax to you. You let out a long exhale as you outstretched your leg to ease the stress. Finishing the meal barely, you pushed the plate away, not even looking at the cider that you were thrilled to piss your father off with, and asked the stewardess for some paper. Empty sheets for writing.

She was clearly dumb-founded by your request, but hurried to carry your idea out.

You thanked her when she brought you some sheets, torn from some notepad as there were jigsaw razor edges on the side of the paper.

If the pain and the fact that every second you were closer to Ballenia was bothering you, you only needed something more bothering to take your mind off.

Ari narrowed his eyes when he cast a glimpse that you pulled out a pen from your bag from the overhead compartment and started writing on the empty sheets of paper.

Call him nosey but he wanted to know what you were writing.

Too inconvenient for him, your letters scribbled too small for his eyes to see. Occasional glimpses couldn’t help him read your writing. Nor that the content on your phone was clear enough for him to read either.

He did know that should be a text of some kind.

What text though? That was the real question.

…not some kind of text that could curse the royal family of the Ballenia, right?

Ari was almost amused by his own thoughts, before a shiver ran down his body and stuck an idea in his mind that this was totally and perfectly possible.

…you wouldn’t, would you?

Hard to tell. You weren’t exactly obeying the orders to marry him. Delaying it a couple of times in the past three years. And now, hearing that you had just called a minister “asshole” … or was it “butt ass” (?), anyway, something about ass, behind his back, and that you could mull a long face over your own bodyguard? Ari couldn’t figure out your temper and your actions all of a sudden.

The adjectives, that your father and his father used when they were talking about you, didn’t even come close to you.

“Kind” “Warm” “Considerate” “Perfect Princess”.

“Exceptional”. Maybe this was the right word.

Definitely different and strong-minded.

He could almost imagine the changes you would bring to his family and the kingdom.

He could discuss politics with you. You had your own thoughts and ideas, which was a good sign. Talk about foreign policies. Speaking of, he should really have someone fetch your dissertation from your university to understand where lies your interests. He’d allow gossip on the table too, if that’s what you like.

Ari hated gossip.

And there he was, imagining the future with you, before you were willing to marry him.

“If you want the book, I can lend it to you.” Your voice snapped him out of his fantasies. You had stopped scribing and rubbing your knuckles with your other hand. Pursing your lips together, you had, obviously, found out that he had his eyes glued to you.

“I’m sorry?”

“The History and Nature of International Relations.” You shrugged, twirling your wrist and your shoulder for writing too long, “I gotta warn you though, it’s pretty boring.”

Ari knew the correct answer to his question, but he asked either way, “You are studying it?”

“No. Yes. Hmpf,” You pouted at your change of words, “I did. I was. I was studying International Relations.” Something blipped in your mind, “Did you know this book?”

Ari smiled, “Took a course in International Relations years ago. I’m surprised they are still using it as an example of a textbook – where did you study?”

“NYU.” That’s a plain fat lie. You had a friend studying at NYU, but you were not planning on giving all your personal information away to a complete stranger, “You?”

Ari cocked his eyebrows. You were studying in Cambridge. He read that from your file.

“University of Ancetol.” Because studying there demonstrated the confidence of the Royal family in their country’s educational system. From there, the lies weaved themselves from his lips, “Got an undergrad degree and started to take over the family business. I visited New York last year,” along with his father, the King, but they travelled as quietly as they could, initiating a state visit without disturbing the press, “I miss school, now that I’m thinking of it.” Ari sighed deeply, “Wanted to get a grad degree but work’s too busy.”

“A manager in your family business?” You teased him light-heartedly, “Surely you can spare the time and study for a grad degree.”

Ari chose to evade this question. Reaching for his suit pocket, he fished out a business card with his name (Guy Thomas) and phone number on it, handing it to you, “Grad school doesn’t exactly tolerate me flying all over the world for … my family business.” He pushed his soft brown hair behind his ears, his eyes sparkling with a hint of joy that he had successfully fooled you, “Jewelry, my specialty. Diamonds, pearls, gemstones … call me if you need anything.”

“Oh, and she got her Master’s degree two months ago.” Ari casually dropped this to his parents in the middle of having dinner, he almost felt proud of his future wife, “Majoring in Political Science and International Relations. With a merit… no, distinction. The top 10% of her class.”

“We want a princess, not a college professor.” His father looked rather disappointed, “We were promised a princess.”

Ari didn’t understand.

If it were to be a marriage without love, he’d rather his spouse would be clever than bimbos who need help spelling “distinction”. Clever would mean he has a handful to deal with, yes, but what’s the fun in talking with someone who only cares about mani-pedi and the latest fashion magazines when he would be running the country?

Why wouldn’t they want someone smart as his wife?

“Your father is right, Ari,” his mother, Queen Olivia, reminded him with a softer tone, “we don’t need someone academically outstanding. We only want her to care for your home, you, and your future children.” She then turned to Ari’s father, King Victor, with blame framing her tone, “Told you should’ve just kept her with us when she was born. I knew Y/L/Ns were incompetent in raising our son’s future wife.”

Ari nearly spat out his food, “HOUSEWIFE?” Earning the “Shhh” from the Queen, he ignored the palace rules and the rules of being a prince altogether, “You want a HOUSEWIFE as the future queen?”

“For the moment.” Olivia waved her hand as if all this was not important, “Only temporal. After you get acquainted with the Upper House, you could divorce her and we’ll find you a proper wife.”

Taglist: @irishhappiness @patzammit

Find the Wild Child Masterlist here 👈

Questions? Comments? Requests? 👉Send them to my inbox 👂

[ceruleanangel]

The Diamond of Zaun- Chapter One

Pairings: Vi x Reader could be more later...

Tags: f!reader, performer!reader

Content Warnings: Alcohol, creepy old men, angst

a/n: heyy... how y'all doing? .... ik i haven't posted in a few years while, but I decided to finally share the absolute lore of my maladaptive daydreams. This first part is pretty introduction heavy, but the following parts will be more content heavy plus there might be chances for audience participation.

Chapter Two

“Do you think I could ever be popular enough to perform on topside?” you spoke, winding the dial on the old radio, slightly hitting the side of the box, allowing the voice of a woman to flow through the static. The pink-haired girl chuckled and shook her head, trying and failing to wind a white bandage around her knuckles post-fight.

 “Ugh, I’m serious! What do you think, Vi?” you move to sit next to her, thigh pressing against hers as you take her hand in your own and rewind the bandage to properly care for the wound. Vi looks away, thinking, as you finish tying up her bandage, a pout grows on your face as the pinkette doesn’t respond. You’re looking towards the radio before you feel two hands take hold of your face, turning your face to look into her blue eyes, 

“I think you’ll be so popular that everyone will be all over you… but I’ll fight ‘em off!

“...I’ll protect you.”

You smile against her hands, “You promise!?”

“I promise.” 

Current Time

The neon pink of the billboard reflects the wet in your eyes. The figure in the center of the sign stands posed on a stage, with bright glittering eyes, lush lips, blowing a kiss to any passersby who might look up at her image. Her hair and clothes flow about her, as she beckons with one hand, convincing anyone who sees her to join her, to join the party. The neon words on the sign flicker on and off against your face in bright shades of green and pink, until you feel a harsh shove against your shoulder. Crowds of people push past to get to their nooks and crannies of the Underground. You wipe at your eyes and dive back into the crowd, heading to your own dark corner of the city, glancing at the sign one last time,

Come join the Diamond of Zaun at The Last Drop!

Your body moves with the music, weaving in between the tables as the mic in your hand propels your voice all about the bar. Normally the patrons of The Last Drop go about their business, passively listening to whatever entertainment is provided, but not now. Not today. Today, with you on stage, the bar is bustling, tables filled, eyes on you. No one dares interrupt or draw attention from the Diamond of Zaun. 

Your sweet siren voice entrances admirers, while your body moves in tune with the rhythm, your sequined two-piece outfit catching the lights of the club, ensuring all eyes stay on you. You breathe out the last verse of your song, returning to the stage. And now for the time of the night that many have leaked forward to since you stepped on the stage. In between the songs of your set, the patron who spends the most during the duration of the previous song gets your exclusive, undivided attention during your cooldown between songs. 

You step off the stage and grit your teeth, forming it into a smile. You beg and plead to the gods that your ‘guest’ won’t be like the one from your previous performance, a man old enough to be your great-great-grandfather from Topside. Who paid just enough money to have your guards conveniently look away when he breathed his rum in your face and slid his wrinkly hands down your thigh. You followed your guards through the crowd to a table near the back, sitting with some middle-aged man who spent all his current and future wealth to have a few minutes with you. You laugh at all his jokes and flash your winning smile in his direction, asking him to buy you a drink, recommending the most expensive one on the menu, draining every last penny from his wallet. Though, once the well runs dry you blow him a signature kiss goodbye and make your way back up to the stage for the last song in your set. 

You start to move your body, ending the night with a jazzier, slower song. You’re almost done when you glimpse a flash of pink hair from the crowd. Your breath hitches as your eyes flick back to a familiar short, pink haircut, thinking that you imagined her face, and it will be some other rose-haired guest.

But no, It's her. It's Vi.

Her face can be seen as clear as day, the lights reflect off of your dress and into the crowd like a disco ball, placing a perfect spotlight on her face. She looks up at you from the back of the club, a look of confusion, sadness, and disbelief dawning on her face. “What is she doing here?” “I thought she was dead!” “Who’s that blue-haired girl with her?” Hundreds of thoughts and questions fly through your head but a nudge on your leg from your guard brings you back to the present: on stage, in front of a crowd of people who are watching your every move. 

You quickly snap yourself out of it and flash your smile about the crowd, winking at a few to wipe the memory of your mask slip from their minds. You continue the set, adding a bit more flare to your performance to recover from the slip-up, once enough time has passed, you glance back at the spot where Vi once was, to find an absence in her stead. You try to subtly look around, desperate to catch one more glimpse of the girl, finding nothing but disappointment. Despite being frazzled, you finish up the song and bid goodbye to your adorers. 

You make your way to the back of house and walk down the hallway, slightly leaning on the wall as you take off your high heels. You rub at your temples and rationalize what you saw tonight. 

I know she’s gone, there's no possible way for her to be here, so I must have imagined her… but why did I see her so vividly?

Head in your palm, you lean over and push open the door to your dressing room, head spinning. But what really makes your whole world spin completely off its axis, is when you open the door to Vi, reclining in the middle of your couch, toying with one of your sparkly mics.

“Hey, Diamond of Zaun, been a while, hasn’t it?

Chapter Two

[unicorncornflakes]

Wedding Dress - Modern AU! | Chapter 3

Previous Chapter | Next Chapter

Paring: Jacaerys Velaryon x Reader x Aemond Targaryen.

Summary: You have always seemed happy. A perfect life: a good job, a good family… and a good boyfriend. Finally, you are going to marry Jace after three years of dating. Everything seems perfect, but you know it's not.

Everything falters the same night you meet Aemond Targaryen. You are no longer sure of your decisions… let alone about the wedding…

Tags: Alternate Universe – Modern/ Setting Enemies to Friends to Lovers/ Emotional Hurt/ComfortDrama & Romance/ Eventual Smut.

Author´s note: Hi everyone! English is not my first language, sorry for any mistake! All of them are my fault! Pls, enjoy! Feedback, shares and comments are always welcome!

Warnings: 18+ smut below the cut.

Word Count: 5.5K

Tag-List (If you wanna be tagged, let me know): @tssf-imagines @nika-sophie05 @hkmultifandom @thetrueblackheart @chainsawsangel @darkenchantress @afro-hispwriter @itsabby15

“And then she started to scream: ‘This is the dress! This is the dress!” Aegon gossiped. Tyland Lannister was paying attention to him with his face in shock, and Aemond regretted two things: Telling Aegon about what happened in the dress fitting and bringing him to so important lunch. His older brother was about his four glass of wine and they hadn´t even ordered the food. They were at the terrace in the Hightower´s Hotel at King’s Landing. Their grandfather, Otto, was the owner of that luxury hotel chain. If they were going to talk about business, they felt more comfortable in their domains. It was a good sunny day of spring, almost perfect if not for the sun that was bothering Aemond´s eye. Without any single word, one of the waiters went to their table and opened a big parasol to stop the sunlight that was annoying him. He continue reading the menu, however, he knew he would ask the same as usual. Life was easy, at least in that moment, Aemond felt that it was easy. Aegon was still laughing “Tell to him, Aemond” he asked to his younger brother.

The one-eye man just closed the menu with a sigh, leaving the card on the table. A fast waitress approached to them: “Do the gentlemen know what they are going to order for lunch?” She was a young girl, almost pretty. Aegon had to be drunk because he gazed her like if she was the cuttest girl in westeros.

“A beef steak, rare. Bring one salad to accompanied it, and water” Aemond commanded without looking the poor girl. His stoic face scared her as much as the scar did. He looked to his brother who was still gazing to the waitress who was taking note of the rest of the commands on that table.

“You are not in the menu?” Aegon wincked his eye, while the waitress gave a stupid laugh, like if she was enjoying that poor flirt. Aemond raised his eyebrow so tired of him.

“I´m afraid not, sir” she replied him.

“What a pity!” He muttered with a charming smile. The girl has gone when he shouted: “And bring more wine! We are thirsty!”

“Enough wine for today” Aemond replied him.

“Aemond, you didn’t tell Tyland what happened at the dress fitting of Jace´s fiancée” he laughed, visibly drunk. “That girl must be a wild beast” he joked. Tyland looked at Aemond, waiting for the confirmation of his brother´s words.

“It wasn’t as tremendous as Aegon is relating you” Aemond shrugged “She was just upset. She is a regular girl, a pretty one, not a beautiful one” he lied. He had to be cold, stoic and indifferent.

“I'm honestly worried. If a woman like that is going to marry the person who is running the company right now, you will tell me how it can end this” the Lannister replied with a sign of concern in his face “Right now, we are steady over again. After the new contract with The Stark Company, we are not in red numbers again. But you know that this is not going to last forever”

Of course, he knew it. Aemond Targaryen was the Chief Operating Officer of Targaryen Co. He was the company's second in command, second only to Jace. His nephew was the CEO. Aemond was in charge of the company's day-to-day operations. And although he himself had to report to Jace everything that happened, his secretary was in charge of that request. They were dedicated to the transport of merchandise both nationally and internationally, among other activities. They had several fleets of planes, named like the dragons that their ancestors were supposed to have had, and a whole maritime fleet, inherited from the merger with Velarion Inc., after her sister had married the heir of the same and she would have had those "children" so similar to their father.

“We are out of Wine!” Aegon muttered while he served to himself another glass. Aemond ignored him. His older brother was only the “Community Manager Assistant” of the company. He wasn't even the community manager himself, although he was paid more than the other. He went to the meetings because he had to go, but he couldn't care less as long as he didn't lose his luxuries.

“The Stark Company now is one of the most powerful on the market. We are going to take care of the transport of the minerals that are extracted from the north, but the problem is not this” Aemond remarked, taking a little sip of his glass.

“Dragons and Wolfs have never worked well together. It gets too much drama” Tyland said.

“And what we are going to do?” Aegon was wondering, shaking the empty wine bottle, trying to find another drop.

“You are the graduate in business management, so surprise me” Aemond replied terrible upset, taking the bottle from his hands and giving it to the waitress again, without getting up from his seat. Aemond was really tired of him. Aegon had been supposed to have Aemond´s position at the company. He had studied a degree in Philosophy and History, and had dreamed of being a professor at a good university, but had left everything behind for his family and the company. The first thing was the responsibilities and the duty, although now he was not rewarding. “We must to find other opportunities, because this alliance with the Starks is not going to work”.

They continued talking about the situation and having lunch. However, when they were about to finish. Aemond received a message on his phone.  Aegon and Tyland were still talking, and Aemond checked his phone. A message from Alys. He opened it. ‘I'm in town tonight. See you where always?’ she texted him. He thought for a moment if it was correct meeting Alys now you were in his life… But, What? You weren’t his girlfriend nor his lover. He was losing his head for you. Maybe, all that he needed was sleeping with other woman. Alys was after all his friend with benefits. They had great sex together. So, why not? ‘It will be a pleasure’ He replied. ‘At 20:00? :)’ She asked. ‘OK’ he replied. So, he had plans for that night too.

You were looking at the ground. That precious morning seemed anything but precious to you. The night before had not gone as you expected and the last thing you wanted was to go see flowers for the wedding. You were sick of the wedding by now, yet there you were. With Rhaenyra and Jace, and your grandmother of course, because as your boyfriend used to say, how could you leave her out of something so important in your life? Nana, the affectionate nickname you had given her as a child, was clinging to Jace's arm. They both were looking at the flowers enthusiastically. The plant nursery was huge, but you began to feel overwhelmed by the sensation of heat that was in there.

“We have a wide variety of flowers, In what did the couple think?” one of the works of that place was there to help you to find the flowers for that ‘must be’ perfect day. You yawned. You had been up all night without sleep. You couldn't stop thinking. And what were you thinking? It was shorter to ask what you weren't thinking about.Without a doubt, something that did not concern you at all was the subject of the wedding.

“I was thinking in roses. Red roses” your grandmother claimed. And you rolled your eyes. Yeah, sure. She wanted roses… Sometimes, you thought that she was the one that truly was to marry Jace, not you. Jace only smiled at her response. He was the boy which all decent girls dreamt about. You sighed, but only Rhaenyra noticed. She  looked at you, her face full of worry.

“We can take a look to the roses, of course” Jace replied to her, and she squeezed his hand.

“A really truly gentleman” she said, so proud. He was a gentleman, a fucking gentleman who wasn’t able to fuck you as you deserved… Shit. What was happening with you? Before, you would have smiled at the scene. And you would have replied that the roses were a good option.

Rhaenyra seemed to see your mental breakdown and spoke quickly “We are not asking to the bride” she smiled, caressing your shoulder, taking care of you like if you were a little girl. You really appreciated it. If your boyfriend wasn´t there for you, at least you have her. “Which flowers do you like for the bouquet, (Y/N)?” she asked, still caressing your shoulder.

“I´m thinking in… stargaze lilys” you replied. Before the last weekend, those were the flowers that you wanted for your wedding. But, well, you weren’t sure at the moment.

“They are spectacular flowers” Your future mother-in-law replied. You were on the brink of tears. Why was that happening to you? Why did you have to know Aemond? Why did you sleep with him?

“No. You got away with that hideous dress. We are not going to use such ordinary flowers. By the seven!” Your grandmother woke you up from your thoughts. “I´m going to pay the flowers, so I will decide the flowers” she sentenced.

You looked at Jace, seeking his help in this matter. And he only shrugged. ‘She is an old person, we have take care of her, you know how she is’. You could imagined what he was thinking.

“Explain me, then what I´m doing here?” you exploded, all the eyes there looking at you. “I have a lot of work, I have to write… Explain me! Do you need me here?” You crossed your arms in your chest. That was the waiting explosion, like the dam of a river that burst. The last night, you didn’t resolve your inner conflict, the last afternoon you had to met Aemond… and now this…

“Of course, we need you, Honey” Your grandmother replied, without letting go of Jace's arm “You are the bride and you will choose which roses do you want”

“Really?” You snorted. This was so…

“I decided you were going to keep the dress because Alicent's son said you looked very pretty, but I still find it hideous. On the subject of flowers...” Your grandmother started to say, but in that moment, Jace cut out her speech.

“Sorry? I´m lost, Which son of Alicent told what?” Jace asked, looking at you so confused. She just looked at him as well, but you aparted your gaze quickly. You didn’t want to discuss with him.

“Aemond went to the dress fitting, Jace. He picked up Alicent, that’s all” Rhaenyra replied, and her son just looked like devastated, like if the same death would have gone to your dress fitting. Jace didn’t hate Aemond, He wasn’t able to hate nobody, but he really detested him. The only thougth that he could see you in your dress wedding really got him angry. And, what about Aemond saying that you were pretty…

“(Y/N), I asked you about the dress fitting, and you said: ‘Normal’. You didn’t tell me that he was there…” He was so upset. He wasn’t really angry, he knew how to control himself, but you had never seen him like this before “Well, I think that his presence is not just ‘Normal’”

“I didn't even know he existed and now you ask me to inform you that it was there. What did I know, Jace?” You said through your teeth, trying to stay calm. What was happening? You had never discossed with him. Never. The both of you always remained in perfect synchrony. 

“That guy does nothing but piss me off. He's an…” Jace was going to insult him, but he stopped his words. You cognized him, he couldn´t insult nobody. He was too correct for that, perfect. And, in a second, you hated him for being so truly perfect, not like you.

“And is it my fault that you haven't even mentioned him to me? I didn’t even know about his existence” You shouted. Things were getting too much wrong.

“I asked you, and you didn’t even mention him” He repeated again. The situation started to seemed like a broken record. And you started to be tired of everything.

“I need fresh air” You proclaimed. It sounded like a statement.

“Honey, don’t be so silly!” Your grandmother tried to calm you. But, he was part of the problem. You were tired.

“No, I need fresh air” You announced again, and you leave the plant nursery. You needed to remain calm for, at least, one moment.

You were sitting on a bench outside the store for what seemed like an eternity, because it really was. Your grandmother was choosing the flowers for your wedding. It was going to be quite a lady's wedding, at least in her idea of what a lady was. Your disappointment and your feelings seemed to matter rather less. At that moment. For the first time since you'd met Aemond, you stopped to think. Why did you continue with this? I wasn't making you happy. You had never wanted to get married until you met Jace. A sweet boy who had made you change your mind, but now you questioned if you really loved him. Maybe it was...

"Hey," you heard Jace whisper to you. He was sitting next to you on the bench and you hadn't even noticed his presence. You were so deep in thought. You didn't even look at him, perhaps you were looking for the strength to tell him that... "Your grandmother chose red roses, quite pretty, I came to ask you if it was okay with you."

“Does it matter at all what I can or cannot say?” you shrugged, ready to argue again when the time came. You were just tired.

"I think not, you know how it is" she laughed, narrowing her eyes, and for the first time since she had returned from the trip, you laughed with him. How long has it been since you laughed with him? But, at that moment you looked into her eyes. They were lit, like a puppy's gaze. It was so cute to see him like this, so in love even when you were angry.

"This thing about flowers is bullshit" you told him with a sad smile. Your gaze fixed on his. For a moment, you felt like when you started dating him. Totally understood, full…

"I have an idea" he smiled at you and you responded with your gaze fixed on him, attentive to his words "Tonight. You and me alone. At La Chapelle. Table for 2, at 20:00. How about?"

"That's not bad" you replied with a smile, biting your lower lip. Yeah, that was going to be a great night. Things would work out. Something inside you told you.

"Not bad" he said "I know we're stressed, that things are difficult lately" You looked away, but he stroked your chin, forcing you to look at him. Your eyes locked on his. "But huh? We are a team, remember?"

“Jace...” You were going to confess everything, you couldn't take it anymore. He was too nice a guy for you. Deemon was right.

“Just let him get away with it, what does it matter? The important thing is that we're getting married, the rest doesn't matter” He smiled at you and you kissed him again, but no, damn. You wanted those flowers. You wanted that dress. And you were tired of him being such a nice guy, unable to stick up for you over something so silly. You got the impression that he was very accommodating to everyone except you. I only expected you to be as accommodating as he was. And you were tired, but you didn't answer. You just let it go, like with everything. Just letting it go.

“I'm gonna have to start charging you rent” You heard Daemon´s voice after you. You rose your eye from the white document of your computer screen. Maybe, you didn´t expect any type of annoyance in your office desk at the job. You didn’t expect his visit “What are you doing at the office one Saturday afternoon? I know that you are workaholic, but seriously, you need a dog” He joked while he was approaching to his table too. 

“Well, Caraxes is a loyal dog, and you are here as well as me” You returned the joked, and he only laughed at your occurrence. Your stare came again to the screen, while a smile appeared in your lips.

“I guess that the both of us are here for the same reason” he dropped his body into his desk chair. He set his eyes on you, his lips in a mischievous smile. Yeah, he started to catch you after three years working together. 

You looked at him again, without understanding anything I was saying to you. You stopped trying to write. It wouldn't work if Daemon was there.

“The both of us want to escape from our reality” he claimed, leading his body against the chair. The squeezing ball again in his hand. You stared him. Why he had to know you so well, however, you only replied a simply statement.

“I´m trying to write, if not, I wiil not send you nothing tomorrow” you declared with a stressful sigh.

“Yeah, I also told Rhaenyra that I had to work this afternoon. A very important book is what we have in our hands” he stated without looking at you. That devilish smile. You didn’t understand why Rhaenyra still believed him, but maybe that was part of his charming.

“Yes, a great book” You replied, following his game, nodding your head. You both exploded into a complicit laugh. He was really surprise about how much you had changed in the last days. In other times, you had would scolded him, and now you were laughing with him. “I´m not capable of writing, an any single sentence. Nothing” you confessed to him, your cheeks burning.

“The muses are elusive lovers. They will be back” he explained to you. After all, he was a publisher, he understood about what he was talking. “But, you are not here to catch muses”. It wasn’t a question, it was a truth. “I heard about what happened in your dress fitting and about the issue with the flowers” he smiled. Another squeeze. In that moment, you felt like that stupid ball.

“I'm going to explode if someone talks to me again about the wedding” you confessed in a whisper. You had come to the office, looking for being alone. You really need it after the last days.

“Because, you don´t want to marry Jace” he said, his eyes fixed on you again “I must be the only one who realizes this. You are like me. You are like the wind. And the wind cannot be trapped” He defined the situation and you rolled your eyes.

“Daemon, you are married. Someone can caught the wind” you declared, your gaze again in the white document.

“Rhaenyra is a Dragon. I´m a dragon too” he was about to explain you, when you talked again.

“I thought you were wind” you smiled. Not now, please, you needed a friend, not a sermon, but maybe that's what real friends do, give sermons looking for the best for the person they love.

“We are together because she needs me for flying, I need her for remaining on the ground” he analyzed. It wasn’t the first time that he thought about his relationship. “Jace is not wind, he is not going to help you to fly as you deserve and need. He likes simple things: a house, two kids, one dog… a complacent girl” he sighed, like if wanted to speak about that with you, he really needed. “You are not a complacent girl anymore, (Y/N). I don’t know what happened last weekend, I don’t want either, but you have changed”

“Everything is fine” you tried to sound convincing, but you failed. Those days you didn’t sound like your old you.

“No, it´s not” he whispered to you, approaching to you, just to cleaned a tear that was running down your cheek with his thumb.

“I just want the things come back to normal. I really need it” you sobbed “I just want to do what is expecting from me” you remained, crying in silence. Daemon didn´t say another word. He could understand what was happening. He only hopped that you realize too, before it would be too late.

“And this is my uncle Aegon, who is the 'Community Manager Assistant.'” Jace selected another photo from the company's website on his phone. He wanted to introduce you to all the family he hadn't told you about before. It was a way to make amends and prepare you for what awaited you at the next family meal. "He is the oldest of all my uncles"

"And what does a 'Community Manager Assistant' do?" you asked as you looked at the phone screen, sitting next to Jace in that very expensive restaurant. He smiled at your curiosity.

"Well, he does a lot of important things on social media, but in Aegon's case I don't think he makes any of it" he laughed defeated. You smiled at him. It was the closest he was going to get in his life to insulting someone.

"So, you have four uncles you've never told me about before," you sighed. You looked at him with a look that was trying to be complacent. That was what Jace needed, a willing girl. That was what you were going to be.

“If he went for me, you wouldn't know anyone. It's not a part of my family that I feel comfortable with. I understand that my mother and Alicent are trying to fix things with this wedding thing, but it's something we've tried before and it's never worked” I confess, jaded and exhausted by the situation, ashe put away his phone.

"You work with them, so sooner or later I would have to meet them, right?" you shrugged and smiled charmingly at him. That was what you had to be again. Conformist. You were on the right track, was what your head was whispering to you at that moment.

“It's just that I know Aemond. I'm surprised he didn't make fun of you when he saw you in the dress” she cocked her head, trying to figure out what that moment had been like. You felt your cheeks burn slightly.

In that exactly moment, one waiter of the restaurant came with the first dishes that you have already order. For your surprise, it wasn’t the food that you ordered before. Jace realized your discomfort and he whispered to you: “What´s the problem?”

“This is not the dish that I´ve ordened” you replied in a lower tone.

“Oh, don’t you worry. I´m sure that it taste good too” he smiled. And you only sighed in distress. Why would you complain? You weren't going to get anything. You grinned again and began to eat. Jace was talking about his job again when you perceived who was having a date two tables further from where you were. And then, your stomach was closed and you coughed really high.

“I have to go to the bathroom” you muttered, rising really fast from your chair. Jace only looked at you worried.

“And then we will travel to the summer islands” Alys blinked fast at Aemond, looking at him with a sensual smile and a really sparkling eyes. Her red lips drinking through a straw her cocktail. Alys was everything he'd ever wanted, until she married a man richer than him. At that moment, he had realized that perhaps it had been more a feverish desire than a reality. Alys was beautiful, sassy, a couple of years older than him, and his first high school sweetheart. But it was all over the moment she had left him for something better. Yet they were still hooked on each other. They were friends with benefits. When she was in king's landing they would meet and fuck. That was their whole relationship in those days.

“I´m really glad that the things with your husband are working again” he sneered. His disdain for the situation was only increased. He was hoping to finish the dinner as soon as possible to just…  squeeze Alys against the nearest surface and then finishing what they started as usually.

“Oh, Aemond, are you jealous?” she wondering to him, caressing his hand with her long nails, teasing him. That had being her play, to make him jealous and possessive about her. “You know that if he knew how to eat pussy like you, I wouldn't be here”.

“A stunning revelation” he smirked ironicaly. He took a sip from his glass of wine, while Alys was caressing his hand.

“I guess that we will sleep together tonight, no?” she flirted with him, her huge breast in his sight. He curled one corner of his lips.

“Dinner would be very expensive for myself if we weren't going to fuck afterwards” he told her in a suggestive whisper. Like a whore, this was how Alys liked to be treated, and he hadn't known much more ways to flirt than that. She just giggled like a little child, and then Aemond saw a woman shape that he knew perfectly. And then, his mind stopped thinking on Alys.

You refreshed you face at the bathroom. It was okay. Everything was fine. The both of you were adults. It was an only-one night affair, as a lot of people do. Yes that was all. You weren’t jealous because he was with another woman. You weren’t jealous, jealous, jealous… jealousy is for other kind of relationships. You were going to have the best night of your life with Jace, and Aemond would become past. Yeah, that was the attitude. You painted your lips again, you were going to leave the bathroom with a lustful smile for your boyfriend and you would ignore Aemond so hard…

You left the bathroom, and you felt how a man pulled you against the wall of the corridor, far from any look. You recognized his scent, you recognized his grip. Her hands on your hips, caressing them, grabbing them... he really coveted you like no one else in your life would. You felt how the blood rose to your cheeks, and how the heat was concentrated in the least indicated part of your body. His face, with his lips parted, in the shadows of the hallway. His long hair... would never cease to fascinate you. You wanted to see him without that patch, you wanted to feel that lips on your...

“I really wish you have a good night. I hope tonight he would manage to erase me from your mind, hmm” he whispered in your ear. His husky voice. His warm breath against your skin. You heard how his lips were moistened, how he breathed your essence. And you felt that strange feeling in your stomach that Jace didn't give you. At that moment, you wanted him to turn you around and press you against the wall, to pull up your dress and unzip his fly, to show you how guys like him made it.

You pushed him away with what little sanity you had left. You noticed her lips curled into a sneer, smiling at your reaction, as if she knew you were soaked. He literally drove you crazy. That enough smile, that look that devoured you in silence... the place where he had grabbed you by the hips now burned with an indescribable sensation. Aemond Targaryen was simply fire, a passion unleashed that had nothing to do with Jace.

You raised your face and approached him again, in a behavior that you had never had before. You brought your lips closer to his. Your mouth was so close to his that you thought she could kiss you at any moment, but you just opened it defiantly and full of lust and whispered to him as he did to you: "I hope she manages to erase me too out of your head." he simply smiled, showing his teeth. At that moment you thought that he had the most beautiful smile in the world.

"My little slut is now a daring woman" he replied. You looked down and you could see that he had his cock tough. It pressed hard against his pants and you could only let out a daring giggle. "I have to show you your place, Hmm?” he whispered, and in that moment, you realized that if you asked him, he would undoubtedly fuck you against the bathroom wall again.

"Good night, Aemond" you replied pulling away from him, waddling for him. What was happening to you? You weren't like that and you regretted it again the moment you saw Jace. His eyes expectant for you. You felt like a terrible piece of shit.

"Finally home," Jace chuckled softly, "I promise I can't wait for the day we live together and…" You silenced him with a kiss. His innocent lips met yours that devoured him as if they hadn't been together for months. At the end of the kiss, you smiled at him, grabbing his hand, looking at him askance. You directed him towards your bed and he couldn't be more shocked, but happy, by this change.

Alys was directing him towards the room of that expensive hotel. Her fingers entwined with Aemond's, as if they were a newly enamored couple. She glanced at him. Those red lips so pretty between open. Those eyes that devoured him in silence. Aemond was more than willing. A bulge pressing against his pants.

Arriving in the bedroom, Jace kissed you again, sweet, soft, savoring every moment your lips met. You smiled mischievously after each kiss. You were ready to have the best night of your life. You sat him on the bed to his surprise and you knelt in front of him. Jace swallowed, as if this was the last thing he expected. You bit your bottom lip as you slowly unbuttoned his pants. You watched with excitement as he closed his eyes at the same moment that you gently grabbed his cock. “Fuck…” he whispered, and you smiled at yourself. In the end, he did know how to insult. But the greatest spectacle was when your tongue found itself on his glans, licking the precum slowly...  gently...

Aemond slammed the bedroom door shut. He watched as Alys took off her dress, completely, but that wasn't what he wanted at the moment. He unbuckled his belt and dropped his pants. His cock bounced against his stomach in a painful motion, hissing as it met the air. He grabbed Alys by her hair and he made her kneel before him. His mouth did know what to do... and yet, it wasn't her lips they were thinking about while she sucked him off. He didn't stare at Alys, only at the wall in front of him. His scowl completely frowned at her as he set the pace by holding back her hair. He knew how he liked things.

You knocked Jace down on the bed and climbed on top of it. His cock entered easily on top of you, you were drenched just for him. His violet gaze fixed on you. His strong hands pinching your nipples as you ride him in circular motions... you were going to remember this night forever... Aemond and you... alone at last...

Aemond threw Alys against the bed. She gave a gleeful laugh just as he turned her around. He placed her on all fours and entered her. That night he didn't want to see her face. He was being selfish. He ran one of her hands along the line of her back, while the other held her hips... he thought about how beautiful the line of your back was... it truly fascinated him... her hips collided quickly... he wasn't going to last…

Jace couldn't take it anymore and just cumed, eyes closed and holding your hips tight. Your name was whispered with a sweet smile...

A low growl, a name he couldn't remember saying, and Aemond had finally cumed inside Alys. Her pussy tightening around his cock. The breaths of both mismatched. The warmth of their bodies had turned into sticky sweat. The heat of the moment had faded. He felt released, he felt relieved, he felt…empty.

Jace hugged you against his bare chest, and you settled back against him with a smile. "I'm going to have to go on a bussines trip more often" he groaned, gasping for air, trying to recover. you laughed "What has changed?" he whispered with a smile, stroking your hair. And then, you realized you weren't with Aemond. And what had changed? All. Everything had just changed, you hugged Jace's chest. You tried to convince yourself that you had only thought of him.

Alys looked at him with cold eyes, completely taken aback by what had happened: “Who is (Y/N)?” She looked at him accusingly, as if she had never expected Aemond to think of a woman other than her. Aemond didn't answer, just looked away and fell back on the bed, weary. He had made love to you through her.

[sillysorcerer]

I wrote this for Rosemary month, day 5. The theme was video games or movies.

Rose and Kanaya pull closely under the blanket. A pale white arm stretches out with a remote in hand, shifting through menus to the desired film. Kanaya shifts to get comfortable, and lays her head on Rose's shoulder. The light from the television illuminates two soft faces, gray and white. Three couches surround the screen. Rose and Kanaya share one while the other two sit lonely.

The film starts, as a child is sick in his bedroom, and his grandfather comes in to tell him a story. Kanaya darts up.

"Rose! I love A Story is Told in Which an Overlooked Love Returns to Rescue the Damseled Princess from Three Men but is captured by an Evil Prince Planning on Killing-"

"Kanaya," an already exhausted Rose replies, "We humans just call it The Princess Bride. You may partake in that tradition if you like."

"Oh, very well then. I'm excited to see the cultural differences in the film though! In the Alternian version, Troll Cary Elewes' character, Wesley is brutally tortured for days on end until he dies, in a punishment fitting Alternian law for a lowblood jumping caste."

"Actually Kanaya, that's still in the human version."

"Oh good!" Kanaya claps under the blanket.

"Hey guys, whatcha watchin?"

Startled by the sudden intrusion by a third party, Rose pauses the film. John is standing behind the sofa with his arms crossed, looking over Rose's other shoulder.

"Ooo! I love Princess Bride! Can I watch?"

"I don't see why not."

Rose twitches slightly, irritated by Kanaya's answer. This was supposed to be a date for the two of them. Maybe she didn't call it that, but it should have been obvious, right? And worse, she foresees another intrusion.

"Of course you would love Princess Bride, it's so cheesy."

Dave struts in from the back door. A familiar voice chimes in after him.

"SO YOU ALL THOUGHT THAT YOU COULD LEAVE ME OUT OF ROMCOM NIGHT? 'WHO CARES ABOUT KARKAT, HE ONLY LED EVERYONE TO VICTORY AND CREATED THE DUMB HUMANS UNIVERSE! HE WONT MIND BEING LEFT OUT OF HIS OWN EXPERTICE!' WELL FUCK YOU ALL. I'M STAYING!"

"Dave, The Princess Bride is a great film, what are you talking about?"

"Come on, dude. It's trash-"

"DAVE I AM GOING TO STRANGLE YOU NOW."

Dave holds Karkat back with his long arms, as Karkat grows more infuriated trying and failing to attack the Knight of Time.

"See, even Karkat likes it."

"Dude the only person with trashier takes on movies than you is Karkat."

"I WILL SALT YOUR TALK MUSCLE AND SERVE IT TO YOU IN A BOWL BEFITTING LAME, ILL BARKBEASTS!"

"No, you want good films, watch Die Hard, or Fast and the Furious."

"Weren't you watching Barbie: The Mermaid Princess just last week." John retorts.

Dave freezes, and puts his head into his hand to try and play it off like he's embarrassed of John. "Yeah well, that was for ironic purposes. You just don't get-"

"JOHN, THE INTRICACIES OF BARBIE'S LIFESTYLE ARE JUST ABOVE YOU, BECAUSE SHE'S A BETTER, MORE SUCCESSFUL HUMAN THAN YOU CAN EVER HOPE TO BE. I UNDERSTAND YOUR JEALOUSY BUT KINDLY KEEP IT IN THE HUMAN WASTE BASKET WITH THE REST OF EVERYTHING YOU SAY AND ARE." Karkat wrestles to get out of Dave's headlock.

Rose stares forward at the paused screen. She's growing tired of these intrusions. Why did she have to be so unlucky-

"John, where's Vriska?" Rose asks.

"I've 8een here the WHOOOOOOOOLE time!"

Vriska steps away from the wall behind the group as everyone turns to look at her.

"What's the m8tter, Rose? I thought you liked meddling? Why else would you be with miss fussyfangs here?"

Kanaya asks her, "Vriska, could you perhaps be trying to elicit black feelings from my matesprit?"

Vriska stabs her with a glare as her face twists into a mix of irritation and embarrasement. "Shut UP, Maryam!"

Rose grins, now fully aware of Vriska's plan. Vriska drops her smirk with a huff and wraps her arm around John. He smiles.

"Yeah so what if I was? I just thought you two might get lonely, so I invited a few friends."

"But how did you know?" Rose asks.

Vriska leans in close. "You aren't the only light player, Lalonde. I may not have vision eightfold-"

"I have no idea what that is."

"-BUT," Vriska reinterjects, "I can still tell when I'm being left out of the fun."

"MOOOM!" Roxy runs in, vaulting over the couch to sit next to Rose on the other side, crashing through Dave and John in her excitement. Calliope enters behind her, a silent contrast to her energetic entrance.

"Oh, hello Roxy." Kanaya greets her politely, still entirely unaware Rose meant for this to be private.

Roxy peeks over the couch at Dave and Karkat, wrestling on the floor, and John helping Vriska up. "Oops, sorry."

"LET GO OF ME YOU PRETENTIOUS DOUCHE! I CAN SMELL YOUR LIFELESS CHEETO FINGERS FROM HERE YOU SHAMEFUL EXAMPLE OF SOCIAL OSTRACISM"

"Nice burn, KK, REAL scathiing." Sollux and Aradia are the next to walk into Rose's childhood house uninvited.

"WHAT ARE YOU EVEN DOING HERE, YOU'RE BLIND, IDIOT! AND LAST TIME I CHECKED, YOU HAVE MORE SELF RESPECT THAN TO GO LICKING SCREENS!"

Karkat is tangling himself up around Dave trying to stop the Knight from moving. Suddenly he is grabbed from behind, and flipped, allowing Dave to pin him down. He high-fives Terezi.

"Oh 4nd you th1nk you'r3 so much b3tt3r? K4rk4t wh3n w4s th3 l4st t1m3 you 3v3n l3ft th3 hous3?"

"Now that's a burn," Dave adds, "and I thought I was raised on heat."

"laaaaaaaame." John adds. "That was lame!"

"Shut up John, you probably still use 8 repetitions when you type"

"That's because he has good taste." Vriska takes John's hand as he helps her up off the floor. Terezi punches his shoulder, just for fun. He's too naive to understand black flirting, but he glares at her. His anger smells delicious. Terezi grins.

Dave replies to Vriska as Aradia talks to Kanaya.

"You're talking about a kid who made a Nic Cage shrine in his bedroom- oh wait, I forgot that talentless hack infected your brain too."

"We th0ught we'd c0me j0in in the fun human m0vie night."

"Aradiia, you can just call iit a moviie niight. Iits not liike we're stiill watchiing them on earth."

"Vriska, how many people did you invite?"

Rose stares daggers into Vriska's eye. The troll smirks.

"Just family. Why? You'd rather be alone?"

She knows what she's doing. Rose can see it on her face. She refuses to stoop to her chides.

"Golly, I love me a good movie night!"

"I brought snacks!"

Jake and Jane are the next to arrive, taking seats on the floor now that the couches are full. Dirk follows them in without a word. He ruffles Dave's hair, then looks away with his hands in his pockets, trying furiously to pretend he didn't do anything.

Karkat has mostly settled down by now, and he takes a seat next to Terezi and Dave. Everyone is chatting amongst one another, the screen is crowded with popcorn, homemade candy, and a cake, for some reason.

"Why did you bring a cake?" Rose asks.

"Oh I baked it last night and didn't want it to go to waste." Jane replies. The only person missing now is-

"WOOO!" Jade appears out of thin air, floating above the table, and blocking the screen entirely.

"Hey Jade!"

"Hi John! I heard we were watching a movie!"

"Yeah, we are."

"Well now we're watching Jade." Rose interjects. Kanaya can tell something is bothering her and places her hand on Rose's shoulder.

"Oops, sorry." Jade lowers to the floor like everyone else.

"Are you ok?" Kanaya asks Rose.

"I was not planning on this many intrusions"

"Well I am still here, and if you like, we can do something after this."

"I'd love that." Rose deliveres a gentle peck to Kanaya's forehead.

"Well why don't we start the movie?" Kanaya delivers her line loudly enough that everyone can hear, and a hushed silence falls on the living room. Vriska kicks Aradia and Sollux off of the third couch so she and John can sit. The two move without caring enough to complain. As everyone splits into groups and couples, Rose resumes the movie.

John is leaning forward excitedly, with Vriska resting her head in his lap and taking up the entire rest of the sofa. Sollux and Aradia lean against each other on the floor. Aradia feeds sollux popcorn as he listens. On the other side is Dave and Terezi sitting together next to Karkat. Rose sits on the arm of the couch beside them. On the floor, Jane, Jake, and Dirk have set up all their treats for the movie, sharing food from each other's laps. In the center sits Rose, Kanaya, and Roxy, with Calliope sitting on the floor in front of them. Kanaya lays her head back onto Rose's shoulder, tilted so that her horns aren't in the way. Rose hugs her close, realising she's happy to be here. Even if it wasn't how she imagined it, she's with family and friends she loves, and the person she cares most about is by her side.

The film continues with everyone huddled around the screen.

"As you wish."

[neon-moon-beam]

I hope you enjoy the dlc! I liked it a lot, and as someone who just likes your opinions, i'm looking forward to seeing what your thoughts are.

Spinarak is adorable!

Spoilers ahead.

Pros:

The story felt a lot stronger than the mainline game for the most part. Maybe it was because it was shorter but Arven and Nemona's storylines really felt like too little too late.

The plot twists were interesting enough, and I'm interested to see where the cliffhanger goes.

I liked that it starts off looking like Carmine is going to be a bully and a problem, but it turns out she's actually rather complex and shows her true personality really quickly. And whereas you think Kieran is going to grow in a different way (like standing up to Carmine), he instead turns out a bit worse off (which is also nicely complex characterization!) Both of them also seem to have some kind of issues going on the background, so I'm curious to see if the second DLC covers it.

It's nice to see some Pokemon that had stayed Dexit'd for a while. Yes, some were in BDSP, but BDSP is a top down game and it doesn't feel like it's happening in...let's just say a more organic space. There's also no way to interact with you Pokemon in BDSP other than just talking to them if they're walking with you.

I liked getting new clothes and hairstyles with the Teal card. I changed into one of the new hairstyles.

Poltchageist and Sinistcha are nice. They make me want to drink matcha more.

It was nice to get a new area to explore. Part of the reason I stopped really playing Violet at all post-game was Paldea felt very empty with nothing to do.

Mossui really does feel like a rural Japanese town.

Ogrepon is cute.

Cons: Not a lot of new music. The main theme plays nearly everywhere and after 20 mins or so it gets very boring.

Not happy about the PLA stuff at all. I don't want an Adaman descendant, I don't want Hisuian variants, I don't want an event similar to PLA with music remixed from it. I don't want any PLA. The game caused too much damage.

Kieran feeling betrayed seemed a bit forced? Like, the player is just honoring his grandfather's wish to not share the story with him yet due to his age and he goes from feeling betrayed to practically resenting the player when he cannot defeat them. Him comparing himself to Ogrepon when Carmine and the player left him out of the loop (again, honoring what Carmine and Kieran's grandfather asked) felt overdramatic and...not comparable at all? (But then again kids just do that kind of thing) Also he expected Ogrepon to just go with him when he hadn't bonded with it at all. Carmine even says that Ogrepon's feelings are also important but he just ignores it. He's got a lot to learn, and I hope we see him learn it.

The glitchy backgrounds are still happening. My Eelektross breaks the ground revealing the massive ocean that is responsible for a lot of glitches (the ocean is literally too big for the game), and the walls sometimes do that jiggly thing that makes some people feel queasy when they see it.

The festival stalls are disappointing. At first I was excited to see what new foods they have. I mean yeah, it's annoying that most shops in SV just open up a menu and make you feel like Paldea favors cooking over everything else, but sometimes it's nice to see the worldbuilding with the food. However there are only 8 stalls, one of which you can't even interact with, and 4 of them are the same! There's two candied fruit stalls and two shaved ice stalls! They really couldn't just make two more new stalls, or at least change the menus on two of them? I've been to carnivals and festivals IRL and yeah, there are often repeat stalls (though usually at bigger events), but there are also stalls that sell similar things but are made by different brands.

I was hoping for a bigger variety of jinbei and masks. I really don't want Pikachu and Eevee things again. I'm very much over those two. And while I liked being able to switch from the uniform to the jinbei, I still don't like that I'm forced to wear between a handful of pre-created outfits that clash horribly with most of the accessories.

The landscape feels old fast, and empty like Paldea. A lot of it is the same kind of landforms, just arranged differently. The only unique thing was the Infernal Pass.

[rosalinewintrell]

Christmas at Hogwarts Part One

I'm back! I know I'm a little late but I'm gettkng ready to move next week so between my job and packing I'm booked!

Anyway! Here is Part one of a Christmas at Hogwarts. It was getting long so I split it!

A few days before Christmas, Rosaline is bundled up, sitting inside The Three Broomsticks with her grandparents. Her grandmother, Silvia Alexandra Wintrell, was reviewing their small Teatime menu, her grandfather, Reginald Beaumont Buchanon Wintrell II, reading over her shoulder, gaze flickering to the clock on the wall. “My dear,” Reginald says, “They will be here any minute, you must choose something.” His voice is slightly gruff, but there is humor in his words, an adoring, appeasing twinkle in his eye.

They are both dressed warmly and smartly. Silvia, in a pale blue suit made of soft wool with white lace and pearl embellishments, a white, fur trimmed capelet covered her shoulders. Her dark grey hair was pulled into an elegant twist at the back of her head. Reginald was dressed in a pressed suit, a sharp black wool coat over top. His hair was white, but still full, slicked back and curling at the nape of his neck, and well-groomed mustache, curling with the shape of his smile as he regarded his wife.

“Get the Light Tea with the Big Red Robe Oolang tea.” Her grandfather said, pointing at it on the menu. “We all know that’s your favorite.” He glanced at Rosaline and winks, playful smile on his face as he teased his wife.

“Oh hush, you,” Her grandmother responds, smacking her husband’s arm away, her own teasing smile curving at her lips. But indeed, when Sirona stopped bye for their order, the inn keeper’s charm quickly endearing her to the elder Wintrell couple, Silvia ordered the Light Tea with a sample of dark Oolang tea.

“Thank you, dear,” Silvia smiled at Sirona, as the woman walked away to put the kettle on. Reginald rolled his eyes playfully behind his wife’s head, an amused smile still alight on his face.

Then, the door to the inn opened, allowing a gust of snow and wind to fly through the space. Rosaline shivered, despite still being wrapped in her coat. She saw Garreth walk in, rubbing his arms. He is quickly followed by his father, a tall man that shared his son’s head of fiery hair. She could the bright strands peeking out from under his flat brimmed cap. They were both bundled in wide-collared wool coats and matching gloves.

After a cursory glance around the inn, Garreth spots Rosaline, sending her a wide smile before walking over with his father close behind. The three Wintrells stood as the pair approached the table, Reginald reaching his hand out towards Garreth’s father.

“Reginald,” He said, smiling politely. “Reginald Wintrell. A pleasure to meet you.”

Garreth’s father returns the handshake, grip firm. “Gregory Weasley. The pleasure is mine.” he says. He then puts a supportive hand on his son’s shoulder. “This is my son, Garreth.”

“It’s an honor, sir,” Garreth says, shaking Reginald’s hand. No one comments if his voice cracks just a little.

“Ah, young Garreth!” Reginald says, smile widening, “I’ve heard many things about you.”

“Oh, really?” Garreth says with genuine surprise, glancing at Rosaline and noting the slight pink hue of her cheeks. “All good, I hope.”

Reginald chuckles and nods. “Yes, I would say so.” He doesn’t seem to notice his granddaughter’s embarrassment, but Silvia is watching Rosaline with an amused smile.

“Gregory, this is my wife, Silvia, and my Granddaughter, Rosaline.” Reginald introduced, motioning to the two women.

Gregory leaned forward to shake hands with both, a smile on his face. “It is a pleasure to meet you, young lady,” he said to Rosaline. “My son has spoken of you often, as well.” The older man flicked a teasing smile towards his son, Garreth now sporting his own faint blush.

“The pleasure is mine, Mr. Weasley,” Rosaline said with her own smile.

“Call me Gregory, please,” Gregory said. “Shall we sit?”

Everyone but Rosaline’s grandmother removed their outer wear now that they would all be sitting together. Silvia was quite sensitive to the cold, so she chose to leave her capelet on, begging forgiveness, which was quickly waved away by Gregory. Both Gregory and Garreth were wearing simple suits, tweed vests over linen shirts. Gregory wore a brown bowtie to match his olive vest. Garreth wore a long tie cobalt in color matched with a burgundy vest. Both jackets were of a similar style and brown.

Rosaline wore a light pink cotton skirt and jacket combination, a ruffled cream shirt peaking out from the between the lapels, the collar secured with a small bird shaped pin. The sleeves of the jackets were puffed by the shoulder before tapering at the wrist. Cream lace overlays on the end of them matched the draped lace across the front of her skirt. Her hair was pulled into a bun at the nape of her neck.

She exchanged quick smiles with Garreth as they sat before Sirona approached, a small, tiered tray in hand, a simple white tea set floating on a tray beside her. The tiered plates hosted an assortment of Salami and ham sandwiches as well as a selection of fruit scones and tarts. The set included pots of clotted cream and butter.

“So Garreth,” Reginald said, buttering a scone, “Rosaline tells me you alerted her the the issues regarding this potions shop?”

“Yes sir,” Garreth affirmed, “I asked Rosaline to look inspect it a few months ago.”

“And why was that?” Reginald asked, eyes now trained evenly on Garreth’s face. Sitting back in his chair, white slicked hair, pinstriped suit, a cup of tea poised in his hand, he looked every bit the wealthy, powerful ma he was. Tea had barely begun, and he was on to business.

“I… I’m sorry sir?” Garreth glanced at his father, but Gregory only nodded at Garreth, allowing his son to navigate this first part of the conversation.

“Why did you seek Rosaline out for her help? Why not involve a professor? Your potions professor, perhaps?”

Garreth shifted in his seat as Reginald elaborated on his question. “Well, we attend the same potions class sir, I had seen her knowledge at work I knew she would be able to help me.” Garreth hesitated. “I’m afraid I don’t have the greatest relationship with Professor Sharp.”

“Unfortunately,” Gregory interceded, tight smile on his face, “My son has a bad habit of performing experiments in class.” His voice was tight, a bit of defeat stressing his words.

“Ah, an inventor, are you?” Reginald asked Garreth, a small spark in his blue eyes.

“Yes, sir,” Garreth replied, glancing quickly to Rosaline. She smiled at him and nodded slightly in encouragement. “I’m currently working on a recipe for Fizzing Whizbeer.”

“Oh!” Reginald said, before Garreth could continue. He his stroking his moustache between two fingers, eyes wide, voice interested. “Based on those wonderful little candies at the sweets shop? I tried one this morning, they are quite delightful!”

“Yes sir,” Garreth nodded, smile bright on his face. He leaned forward just a bit in his excitement. “I’ve nearly perfected it, I’m just having issues with—”

Gregory’s hand on Garreth’s shoulder quiets him. The elder Weasley pulls his son back into his seat. “Now son, I don’t think Mr. Wintrell is interested in your… hobby.” Gregory says this not unkindly, but it is clear he isn’t a big fan of Garreth’s preoccupation with potion making.

“Oh, call me Reginald please.” Rosaline’s grandfather said, though his gaze was a bit more serious as he regarded Gerald now.

“Rosaline dear,” Silvia said then, a soft smile on her face, “why don’t you and Garreth run over to Honeydukes, grab your grandfather a box of that candy. I haven’t seen him so taken with a sweet in decades.”

Reginald spluttered at his wife a little, claiming he is not taken with anything, and he enjoys sweets on a healthy basis thank you!

Rosaline chuckled at her grandparents, but wordlessly grabbed her jacket. Throwing it over her shoulders and walking out of the Three Broomsticks with Garreth in tow. There wasn’t much else they could do after such a blatant, if polite, dismissal.

“I suppose they’ll be talking about us,” Garreth said once the door was closed behind them. They took slow steps, allowing the adults their time to discuss amongst themselves.

“No doubt,” Rosaline said, huffing a small laugh. She glances at him, hiding her gaze under her lashes, but Garreth still feels the prickle of her attention.

“What is it, Rosaline?” He asks plainly.

“Does you father disapprove of your potion making?” She replied plainly in turn.

Garreth sighed, running a hand through his hair. “It’s not the potions making he disapproves of. The failures, the explosions, and messes and… detentions—he doesn’t approve of the trouble I get into or the time I spend in the potions lab rather than studying. He thinks of it as just a hobby he—he doesn’t understand…”

“That it’s more than just a hobby,” Rosaline finished for him, her expression full of sympathy for him as he nodded, seeming a bit dejected about the whole thing. “I’m sorry Garreth.”

Garreth shook his head with a sigh. “You have nothing to be sorry for,” he says, turning to look at her with a smile. “Your grandad is awesome. Terrifying, but awesome.”

“He is his own kind of person, certainly,” Rosaline said with a chuckle. Her grandfather always tipped the scales of emotional range, His eccentric sensibilities just as apparent as his more serious countenance.

“He seems nice though, overall.” Garreth added as he stepped ahead of Rosaline so he could open the door to Honeydukes for her.

“He likes you, I knew he would, though.” Rosaline grinned, noting the pink flush on his cheeks and the silly smile on his face.

“He likes me? You think so?” His voice is now light and giddy, like a small child after seeing a puppy for the first time. 

“Definitely,” Rosaline wandered through the aisles, she grabs a box of Fizzing Whizbees for her grandfather. “He’s getting these to help with your research, after all.”

Garreth looks between Rosaline and the box of candy in his hand. Mouth open, eyes wide in disbelief.  “He is not!” he cried, shock and an underlying giddy hum in his voice. Rosaline’s smile widened as Garreth’s excitement grew. “I don’t—I can’t, Rosaline I cannot believe this.”

She chuckled, stepping up to the register, paying for the sweets quickly before trailing Garreth out the door. “You’d better believe it,” Rosaline said, “You’ve quite impressed him between your observations of J. Pippins and” Rosalie paused here, nearly choking on the force of the words. She cleared her throat and shook her head. “Never- never mind.”

But her cheeks flushed a deeper pink, embarrassment clear on her face. Garreth smiled mischievously as he watched Rosaline try to act around her slip. “Between that and what, Rosaline?” He inquired, playful, teasing voice ghosting across her ear.

Caught, Rosaline looked away, cheeks still hot. “I… might’ve written about you. Once or twice.” She admitted, trying and failing not to look at his smiling, nearly smug face.

“Ah what wonderful praise it must have been,” Garreth placed a light a hand on her lower back and leaned closer towards her, “If he is truly so impressed by me, as you have said.” His words were teasing, but eyes were bright as he watched her face, flickering from her eyes to the pink staining her cheeks.

“I—I merely said you are quite… skilled with potions is all.” Rosaline insists, clasping her hands behind her back averting her gaze to her feet. Garreth continues to smile down at her, eyes trailing over the curl of her blonde eyelashes, the line of her nose, down to her lips which were pouted just a bit. Her hair is fastened back by a ribbon, most of it draping over shoulders, some straggling strands framed her face.

“I have not yet said so but,” Garreth reaches out and cups her jaw lightly, turning her head up so he could see her face fully, soft olive eyes meeting wide, onyx orbs. “You look quite beautiful today.”

Rosaline’s heart fluttered, Garreth’s eyes and easy smile regarded her, his warm fingers on her chilled skin. “You look quite dashing, yourself.” Rosaline responded, voice stuttering a little.

“You think?” Garreth asked, eyes crinkling with his widening smile. “Mum tried to put me in a suit from my brother’s wedding. Paps insisted this would be sufficient.” Garreth looked down, giving his attire a quick once over before looking back at Rosaline. “I’m glad he was right.”

“Yes I—I am glad too.” Rosaline said quietly and Garreth stepped away, offering her his arm for the short walk back to the Three Broomsticks. They walked quietly together, nodding their heads in greeting to a few passersby before reentering the inn.

The adults were still stalking, thought it seemed like the topic at hand was friendly and light, Silvia watching the two men chat amicably with a small smile. “Ah, your back, dear. I assume things went to plan then?”

Rosaline handed her grandmother the box of sweets before shedding her coat and sitting once more. “Oh yes, I do believe that’s them.” Silvia said, glancing over the box and then passing it to her husband. “Here Reginald, look.”

“Ah yes,” Reginald said, pulling a pair of reading glasses out of his breast pocket and perching them on his nose to look over the box himself. “Quite a fun little treat, I think. Tell me, Garreth,” Reginald says, glancing at the boy, “Will your potion also cause levitation, or simply replicate the taste?”

Garreth glanced over at his father, expecting the elder Weasley to stop him from discussing his experiments. Instead, Gregory nodded his head in approval, though his expression remained neutral. “That would be the best outcome, sir,” Garreth explained, “I’m still having trouble finding a levitation recipe that remains stable once the flavorings are added.”

“Yes, I am sure you are.” Reginald said, almost to himself. “And the flavor recipe… that is your original recipe? Just based the flavor of these?”

“Yes, sir I have probably eaten about twenty boxes worth,” Garreth cringed a bit when his father sighed upon the admission, but it had been for research. Now that he had his flavor recipe perfected, he hadn’t even touched one.

Reginald simply laughed, shoulders shaking in delight, “A sign of true dedication, certainly!” Rosaline glanced over at Garreth as her grandfather laughed, offering him a reassuring smile and nod.

“I am asking you these things, Garreth, because I see a great deal of untapped potential in you.” Reginald said after sobering himself. He now regarded Garreth with a kind, but serious expression, his hands folded on the table in front of him. “Your father has agreed to my offer to oversee your potioneering outside of the classroom, culminating in a two week stay at my home during your summer holiday, where I will instruct you personally.” The Wintrell patriarch said with a small smirk, continuing before Garreth could interrupt. “There are a few conditions to this opportunity and if you accept the offer, you will be agreeing to these as well.”

Garreth didn’t need to think twice, he was being offered an apprenticeship with one of the most famous potioneers in modern history, he wouldn’t allow himself to get in his own way. “Of course, sir,” he said quickly, “anything.”

Rosaline hid a smile behind her hand as she watched Garreth’s eyes go wide and his smile brighten to epic proportions, rivalling even a child’s expression when first entering a toy store. She also spies a delighted twinkle in her grandfather’s eyes. She was a good pupil, took to his tutelage gratefully, but she did not have the raw, experimental talent Garreth did. He would make for a much more engaging apprentice.

She was happy for them both.

[dangermousie]

S2 ep 5

1. Marcos declaring this boarding school is like a horror movie - he is so right. So much of this ep is his desperately trying to get himself (and more importantly Paula) out of it and the horror of it is he can’t (and once again, Caro gets all the signs she is ignoring, that she will never be his all-consuming love. He doesn’t even think of her in light of hopes of getting Paula out. As is right - being with Marcos would be in any meaningful way like being with a single father - you will come second and you should. But I don’t think Caro truly gets it.)

2. Julia and Ivan bonding over the math teacher being a psycho but what strikes me again is Ivan mentioning the man choked him and nobody even goes “we should report it.” What the hell is this school? Ah, hell school!

3. The irony of Elsa telling Ivan that if he doesn’t learn to control his aggression, he will end up like daddy. She is gonna date daddy!!!! And also, it’s rather hypocritical seeing she hired a teacher who chokes students and is a murderer; it all comes across as “only beat others if you have power” - yeah, that’s basically the school. (Side note - finding out he has no shared blood with Daddy was one of the best things that happened to Ivan - well that and getting an explanation as to why his father was such a monster; it stops him from wondering if there is something wrong with him that his own father could not love him (though I want to point out that this show is big on biology is not destiny. Marcos’ father and grandfather turn out hardcore Nazis and yet he’s good and fights them with everything.)) But anyway, the scene of Ivan “bonding” with Paula, there for punching a kid, is AMAZING. My fave part is when she sees him give Elsa’s back the finger and asks what it is, and he says it’s a gesture of liking and she should do it to her brother and teachers OMG you juvenile delinquent!

4. Fermin x Maria are everything. His telling her if she came to spend the night she won’t need the nightie and when she is asking which place he prefers (she is sleeping in his room for plot reasons, and they both know sex is not on the menu), his saying he likes being on the bottom. Heeee. I do love how Fermin somehow manages to both convey his liking her and wanting her and total acceptance of it all going at her pace...

5. Hi there resident serial killer. That was downright terrifying!

6. Evelyn and Paula decide to fake a letter from Ivan’s father (because they asked Maria why Ivan is bad and she said he wasn’t bad, he just does bad things because he’s sad because his father is in jail) and like...I melt as much as Ivan does. AWWWW. You know, for all his many issues and sharp edges, he responds to genuine kindness so strongly.

7. That flashback of Marcos learning about their parents’ deaths - what struck me is Marcos falling apart but Paula skipping oblivious, happily, and he is containing his grief - for her sake. That is their whole story summed up - he falls apart but protects her from all those horrors that cause him to do so. LIKE!!!!

8. Ivan, protector of Paula. Heeeee!!!! Well, you can’t be bros with Marcos if you don’t take care of his baby sis. (How far we’ve come from early s1 and Ivan’s snide comments to Marcos that he wants to tell Marcos’ sister their parents are dead.)

9. I caaaan’t!!!! He did tell her this is a gesture of friendship. OMG. This show was WILD!!!!

10. Marcos learning they have no money, their childhood home is gone...

And that means he is trapped with his sister in the boarding school of hell, they can’t leave, he can’t protect her (and his lawyer is clearly somehow involved which makes it scarier) and just the helplessness and the terror. This show liked breaking Marcos down almost as much as it did Ivan.

But once again - he is keening silently so Paula can sleep sweetly and peacefully. Because this is how it always is. I can’t with him and with them!

PS I find it pretty telling how Ivan is not shattered by the break up with Caro. I think because for him that relationship really also was largely not genuine love but wanting to have someone and not be alone.

[countlessrealities]

{ @advnterccs || To your Rick and Morty from my Rick and Morty ~ }

That familiar swirling green portal formed in the middle of the living room, emerging out of it Rick and Morty. Both wearing Santa hats and the scientist holding a large red satchel full of presents. Which were left next to their counterpart family's tree. Most of which belonged to the other family members and from their family members.

And after a few moments of greeting one another, they both decided to get on with giving out the gifts.

Grabbing a snowflake patterned wrapped box, with a yellow bow on top, Rick proceeded to walk over towards the other Morty. He shoved it into the teen's arms. "Merry X-Mas," He said, slightly amused and curious for the other's reactions. "H-Hope you like it,"

Once opened, it would reveal a virtual reality headset. Silver in color with a green fluid-like substance running through the insides of it. The device in itself looked like something that Rick bought and altered himself.

"I-Imagine the game Roy from Blips and Chitz, except i-it's your whole existence that gets transported and not just your consciousness," He explained.

At the same time, Morty wandered off towards the other Rick. The present in his hand just a simple bottle. A galactic brand; from the looks of it, expensive and rare. It would've been perfect --- if it weren't for the fact that it was half empty.

"Uh, I-I stole this from some planet while my Rick wasn't looking, I-I wanted you both to share so, th-that's why it's only half-full," He gave an awkward laugh. "M-My Rick tried some earlier, he said it was good, so I-I think you'll like it, too."

Usually Christmas was hardly an event to be looked forward to at the Smith-Sanchez household. Unless you were Jerry and had spent hours going crazy over decorations and planning the menu for the main meal of the day. However, this year, things would be different. It was the first Christmas after the timeline split, and the first big holiday the families would spend together as a group.

Morty was excited, made restless by a mixture of eagerness and nervousness at the prospect of spending the day with his counterpart. Rick, on his part, had mostly kept on his usual half bored, half annoyed facade, but deep down he was looking forward to the following hours too. After all, for him any chance to spend time with his boyfriend was something to cherish.

At the very familiar sound of a portal opening, they both looked up from the glasses of eggnog they were already nursing to pass the time. The sight of the hates tore a snort out of Rick, while Morty couldn't stop himself from thinking just how cute his counterpart looked with that splash of red and white on his head.

They would have been contented with enjoying some prolonged greetings, an awkward wave followed by nervous words and chuckles for the Mortys and whispers and kisses in the Ricks' case, but it seemed like their counterparts had other plans. Namely starting to hand out some of their presents, which Rick had to admit was probably the smarter way to go around it. Neither him nor his Morty had thought about doing it right away, which meant that they would have to find a good moment to do it during the days.

The teen reluctantly detached himself from his counterpart, to allow him to deliver his gift, while he found himself faced with his other grandfather. He accepted the box without hesitation, curiosity making him eager to see what the other Rick had got him, but his expression morphed in a puzzled look when he found himself staring at a virtual reality headset, brows knitting together in confusion.

He was absolutely sure that he had seen his Rick building something similar as a present for the other Morty a few days before. The one he was holding had a different design, but it was still the same thing. Had their grandfather decided what to give them together? Or was it just a coincidence? They two were the same person after all...but they were also very lazy when it came to this sort of thing. He wouldn't be surprised to learn that they had brainstorm together for one idea that they both could use.

"Tha-That sounds really cool, Rick," he chose to say, instead of voicing his thoughts. He didn't want to make the man annoyed. "S-So it's like...the Sims, b-but as a, uh, immersive virtual reality? I-I saw Summer playing that."

This was supposed to be a good day for them all and, besides, the gift was a great one. He had been a little envious when he had seen what his Rick was building for his counterpart. So, he had been hoping that he would get one too, at some point. It had just happened sooner than he thought.

He carefully pulled the device out of the box, having a good look at it, before returning his eyes on the man. "T-Thank you, Rick. T-This is really awesome. I-I can't wait to try it!"

He hesitated for a moment, feeling like he should do something more than just saying "thanks" with his words, and then stepped forward, pressing himself against his other grandfather in a quick and awkward one-arm hug.

"Y-You're the best."

In the meanwhile, Rick too had been presented with his gift. His first reaction at the sight of the half empty bottle had been raising an eyebrow and he had been forced to bite his tongue not to make some sarcastic and most likely hurtful comment about it. Under other circumstances, he wouldn't have held back, but he didn't want to start off the day with a fight. His counterpart and his Morty were just a few steps away, and it was certain that his grandson would have stepped in to defend the other teen's honour or something.

The idea almost made him roll his eyes, but he stopped himself from doing that too, choosing instead to focus on the bottle and vaguely listening to what the other Morty was saying. He recognised the brand, even if he hadn't tasted that particular liquor in years. The teen had guessed it right. It was very expensive and even rarer.

"D-Damn, you fuckin' stole it, Morty?" He commented, sounding amused. Yet, deep down, he was also a little proud of that bold move. He took the bottle with a hum. "S-Shit, you need to learn to show y-your ballsy side more often, buddy. W-We forget that you have one at times."

The words weren't exactly flattering, but they were spoken in a playful tone and he even elbowed Morty for good measure, to make sure that the boy would know that he was kidding. Well, mostly kidding.

The cap came off easily and he downed a small sip while reaching out to ruffle the teen's hair. The strong taste, a mixture of mint, spice and alcohol, and the velvet feeling it left on his tongue confirmed that it was the real thing.

"I-I fuckin' hope Rick drank it from the bottle," he commented then, his grin turning into a sly smirk. "B-Because...you know. I-I'd be kissing him by proxy or something e-every time I take a sip."

[ttakttakmedead]

Week 10 : Gaming Communities, Social Gaming, and Live Streaming

hi guys! this week we will dive into the vibrant world of gaming communities, the joys of social gaming, and the thrill of live streaming. whether you're a casual gamer, a competitive pro, or just love watching others play, there's something here for everyone. let's get started! 🚀

The Evolution of Games

Before the internet, smartphones, and cell phones became commonplace, and starting in the late 1970s, computer nerds at universities like MIT would sneak into the computer lab and learn how to do programming. Atari (founded by Nolan Bushnell) created the first basic video games, such as Pong, a table-tennis themed video game. (Teicholz, 2020) In addition to producing its own games, Atari founded a whole new industry centered around the "arcade," and soon, arcade games could be found in pubs, bowling alleys, and shopping centers all over the world. (Chikhani, 2024)

Game cartridges eventually replaced Nolan Bushnell and Atari game systems, after Nintendo, including Donkey Kong and Mario, was developed in Japan.

The advent of home consoles in the 1980s and 1990s, like Nintendo and Sega, brought gaming into living rooms worldwide. Suddenly, gaming was no longer confined to public spaces—it was an activity that could be enjoyed at home, alone, or with friends and family. This era saw the rise of iconic franchises such as Mario, Zelda, and Sonic, which have left an indelible mark on popular culture.

Gaming Communities: Where Friendships Level Up!

Gaming communities are the heart and soul of the gaming world. From massive online forums like Reddit, Steam, and Twitter to Discord servers, these spaces are where gamers connect, share tips, and enjoy their favorite games. Communities have an important role in bringing together people of all ages, nationalities, and cultural backgrounds, basically everyone all around the world! Games' virtual worlds erase barriers and offer easier ways for people to connect. (Games, 2023)

Social Gaming: Play Together, Stay Together

Gaming is no longer a solitary activity. Social gaming brings people together, no matter where they are in the world. Team up with friends to take on challenges and quests. It's not just about winning; it's about the journey together.

I think Stardew Valley is the right example for this!

Stardew Valley produced by Eric Barone, is basically a game where you're a young person who quits your boring corporate career to start afresh on your grandfather's run-down farm. As days blend into days and seasons into seasons, Stardew Valley overwhelms the players' stimulus-reward system with an endless stream of short-term quests. The objective is, in a sense, anything you want it to be. (Singal, 2016)

Back to the main point, there's no need to set up a server for multiplayer. Just invite your friends online through whatever platform you're on. When you're on the main menu, pick co-op to decide if you want to start a new farm or join your friend's farm. (Randell, 2021) Easy peasy right?

I co-op a farm with my cousins and since we live in different houses, we use discord to communicate! this is me btw hehe

Live Streaming: The New Frontier of Entertainment

Live streaming has revolutionized the way we consume gaming content. Platforms like Twitch, YouTube Gaming, and Facebook Gaming offer endless entertainment and a chance to interact with your favorite streamers and for streamers to connect with their audience.

This setup lets people connect directly, making everything feel real and personal. Thanks to the internet, anyone can watch or stream live stuff, no matter where they are. It breaks down borders and gives us a huge variety of things to check out. (Carter, 2024)

It also gives content creators a cool new way to make money from their content. They can earn cash through ads, sponsorships, selling merch live, or even virtual tip jars. Here's an example for you!

But hey, let’s talk about something important: gaming isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. Sometimes, they can get pretty messy. You know, all that toxic behavior and bullying? It’s like a dark cloud hanging over things. Competition, controversies, and the whole cloak of anonymity online can stir up some serious drama. We’ve got to make sure our gaming hangouts are safe and respectful places for everyone. That means standing up to toxicity and working together to build a positive vibe. After all, gaming should be about fun and connecting, not tearing each other down.

Gaming communities, social gaming, and live streaming have transformed gaming into a rich, social experience. So, get out there, join a community, play with friends, and maybe even start your own livestream! The world of gaming is more connected than ever, and it might be waiting for you.

that's all from me! as usual, meet you in my next blog? (о´∀`о) meanwhile, drop your favorite gaming communities or streamer recommendations, i would like to hear from you guys! thank you, xie xie, kamsahamida, arigato!

References:

Carter, T 2024, ‘What is live streaming & how does live streaming works?’, What is Live Streaming & How Does Live Streaming Works?, viewed 19 June, 2024, <https://www.zegocloud.com/blog/what-is-live-streaming>.

Chikhani, R 2024, ‘The history of gaming: An evolving community’, TechCrunch, viewed 19 June, 2024, <https://techcrunch.com/2015/10/31/the-history-of-gaming-an-evolving-community/>.

Games, B 2023, ‘Gaming communities: The rise and impact of gaming communities on the world of video games’, Medium, Medium, viewed 19 June, 2024, <https://bggames.medium.com/gaming-communities-the-rise-and-impact-of-gaming-communities-on-the-world-of-video-games-1fec152f649f>.

Laura May Randell, SH 2021, ‘How to play co-op - stardew valley guide’, IGN, viewed 19 June, 2024, <https://www.ign.com/wikis/stardew-valley/How_To_Play_Co-Op>.

Singal, J 2016, ‘How a first-time developer created Stardew Valley, 2016’s best game to date’, Vulture, Vulture, viewed 19 June, 2024, <https://www.vulture.com/2016/03/first-time-developer-made-stardew-valley.html>.

Teicholz, T 2020, ‘Playing with video gaming culture’, Forbes, Forbes Magazine, viewed 19 June, 2024, <https://www.forbes.com/sites/tomteicholz/2020/09/09/playing-with-video-gaming-culture/>.

[entrepreneurial-street]

Giampaolo Ienna: “To Be A Great Manager, Don’t Treat Your Employees Different From Your Customers”

Don’t treat your employees different from your customers. Personally, I don’t treat my staff any differently than my VIP guests. I’ve had A-list celebrities call me up to make reservations to my restaurants and hang out with me, but I don’t treat them any differently in my interactions than I treat the waiters who work with me.

I had the pleasure to interview Giampaolo Ienna. Giampaolo is an actor, DJ, and the VIP Director at the White Horse Tavern and Hunt & Fish Club in NYC. The White Horse Tavern is the 2nd oldest bar in NY. Thank you so much for joining us Giampaolo. Can you share your “backstory” with us?

In the 90s, the Italian government took away my family’s property. They took it from my grandfather — it was worth a lot of money and it caused a lot of problems for us. Ultimately, my goal is to get into real estate and build an empire to show my grandfather (and my family) that rebuilding is possible. It’s why I got into music and the restaurant business:

I started off as a DJ in Italy, building relationships in the music world at clubs and lounges. I played all over the world at the best clubs with people who I idolized as a kid. Eventually, I moved into the restaurant industry as a VIP Director — I manage relationships with celebrities and build relationships with people who come into my restaurant and nurture the relationships for both the restaurant and real estate areas in my life.

Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you started your career?

The most interesting story was an interaction I had with 50 Cent.

I got to know 50 a little bit when I DJ’d for his party when he launched Vitamin Water. It was amazing to meet him and get this opportunity because his CD “Get rich or die tryin” was the first hip hop CD I bought and listened to when I was a kid. We ended up interacting over the coming months and years and became friends. The most interesting story happened on Christmas Eve. It was 10pm, and I was taking a shower and I almost missed a call from 50 Cent.

He wanted to get Christmas dinner with his family and asked me if I could set up a restaurant for him. I ended up calling many restaurants I knew to see if anyone could do me a favor to open a restaurant on Christmas Eve at 10pm. I finally secured one guy who agreed and had the entire restaurant open and waiting for 50 Cent by the time he got there. It was the craziest experience I’ve had with a celebrity.

Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you were first starting? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?

The biggest mistake I made back when I was serving tables at 18 years old was not paying attention to the food being served to a child with a nut allergy. The parents told me he had a nut allergy and if they could order a special kind of Tartufo on the menu. I thought it didn’t contain any nuts so I went ahead and took their order and brought out the Tartufo without asking the chef. Unfortunately, this specific restaurant I was working at did put nuts in their Tartufo. Once the child ate it, he had an immediate reaction and his parents were infuriated. Eventually, his dad took out an allergy pen and thankfully the boy was totally fine. It’s an experience I’ll never forget. Learning from the mistakes I have made help me guide my staff so they don’t make the same mistakes also.

Ok, let’s jump to the core of our interview. Most times when people quit their jobs they actually “quit their managers”. What are your thoughts on the best way to talent today?

I always make sure that when I hire someone, that they’re willing to be coached and adapt to the style of the restaurant. On top of that, I try to make sure that I’m friends with everyone first. If we’re going to be around each other all day, I make sure that I like the person first — it helps a lot when it comes to them following my instructions and enjoying the process of delivering a great experience for the guest.

How do you synchronize large teams to effectively work together?

Creating trust between everyone is key. That comes from two things: 1) Knowing that everyone knows how to do their job well (this comes from training and holding their hand through the first few days or weeks of the job), and 2) cultivating a certain level of friendship between everyone on the team. Setting expectations in the beginning and helping someone do their job well (so they can understand what a “good job” looks like is huge), plus getting everyone to a place where they like everyone they work with.

What advice would you give to other CEOs or founders to help their employees to thrive?

Focus on relationships first. It’s not about giving orders to your employees and telling them to do things — it’s about building a relationship with them just like you build relationships with your biggest clients. Once they like you and feel like you’re their friend, many doors will start to open up.

Can you share your 5 strategies to effectively manage a team?

1. Be authentic. If you’re fake, you can never be a great manager. It is a different kind of relationship you have with people when you’re genuine and real. It’ll separate you from everyone else in the industry. People will trust you and come back, and back, and back.

2. Make friends with everyone. If you truly make friends with the people on your team, you’ll win. I treat every part of the business as a relationship first, and that includes the team I work with. They’ll respond to you better if you’re friends first, and it makes it more fun.

3. Don’t treat your employees different from your customers. Personally, I don’t treat my staff any differently than my VIP guests. I’ve had A-list celebrities call me up to make reservations to my restaurants and hang out with me, but I don’t treat them any differently in my interactions than I treat the waiters who work with me.

4. Hold their hand in the beginning. When any waiter or staff member is serving a VIP for the first time, they all go through the same training process — they have to look at me during the first time and I’ll give them signals. I’ll tell them whether the water needs to be filled again, signal to them to ask if the VIP needs anything else, etc. After the first few times, they’ll be able to do it on their own but the support and mentorship in the beginning goes a long way.

5. Always remember when you were in the position of the person you’re managing. Being a restaurant that is always in demand, we are always going into a nightly service knowing that new challenges will always arise. On one particular evening we had two servers that had just passed training but were not yet accustomed to a service when we have three major VIP’s coming in at 5:30 pm before a Broadway performance and wanting to be out in one hour with a full dining experience. Not to mention the other 150 covers coming in within that time frame. It was noticeable that our new team members became overwhelmed. It is our jobs as great managers to see this and jump in before a guest notices it. Most importantly it helps evolve the comradery amongst your staff when they know that you will always be there to back them up.

You are a person of great influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be?

Happiness. There’s a lot of hate right now online, and most people struggle with having empathy. If you’re doing things you don’t want to be doing or complaining you’re going to impact people negatively so it’s important to remain optimistic and therefore impact your team positively.

Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?

You’re going to die.

It’s from Gary Vaynerchuk. It helps me squeeze the maximum out of every day — when you really understand what this quote means, you start to see life in a different way.

[nickgerlich]

Extra Light Sleight Of Hand

The beer industry is a crazy one. One might be inclined to think that all beers are the same, that there’s really nothing to get excited about, and that the best beer is the one your father drank. And grandfather.

Of course, as hard core beer enthusiasts know, this couldn’t be farther from the truth, especially on the craft beer scene. I am well acquainted with one of the owners at Amarillo’s Pondaseta Brewing Company, and he told me in a podcast interview nearly two years ago that his brewery routinely churns out one new varietal every week, sharing menu board space with four core brews and seasonals. It puts the menu board in a steady state of flux, but it keeps customers coming back.

And craft brewers are especially wont to hop—pun intended—on whatever the latest flavor of the month might be. Last year was Cold IPAs, meaning they were still ales, but brewed at the colder temperature of a lager. Before that was a wave of sours, and before that, all of the different IPA styles in their glory. You can still find those sours and IPAs, but you can bet the last drop in your glass that they’re already brewing up the next foamy fad.

Even the mass producers get in on what’s hot, introducing new beers to latch on to trends. I recall amber reds, dry beer, and ice beer from the 80s and 90s as evidence of this. Lite Beers made their biggest splash in the 70s and 80s, especially after Miller purchased Lite Beer from the struggling Meister Brau Brewing Company in Chicago. The rest is beer history.

A number of years ago, Miller and others sensed there was desire for a super low-calorie beer, so they introduced Miller 64, which was the amount of calories in a 12-ounce serving. Of course, they weren’t thinking this through completely, because by having 64 in the name, they really could not deviate from 12-ounce cans and bottles. Forget about those 24-ounce bombers. It would then be Miller 128.

And now comes news that Miller is doing a two-stage transition of this beer—no changes in formulation, only the name—in reaction to the fact that Millennials and Gen-Zers increasingly want low- or no-alcohol beers. They’re not as much worried about the calories. So Miller is obliging by repositioning and renaming Miller 64, first to Miller 64 Extra Light, and then dropping the 64 completely.

Voilà! New brand. Kinda. Almost.

The reason they are hanging on to the “64” part is marketing sleight of hand, so that current customers are not caught off guard, perhaps wondering what happened to their beer. And remember, those people were probably buying it for its low-calorie status, not necessarily low alcohol. By the time next autumn rolls around, they should be over any initial apprehensions, and will—hopefully—keep drinking it.

Smart people over there at Miller, even if they couldn’t brew a serious IPA if their lives depended on it.

To promote this rechristening, Miller is using a blend of modern and old-school methods, including social, video, and OOH (Out-Of-Home). In other words, expect to see this on TikTok and Insta, YouTube, perhaps interstitials on Hulu and other streamers, and billboards. Interesting.

Remember, this repositioning is aimed at Millennials and Gen-Zers, so other traditional media vehicles are out of the question. You have to speak your target audience’s language.

I doubt I will ever put my lips to a can of this product, unless I buy both the transitional one and then the final one to add to my collection of breweriana. You don’t drink beer to lose weight (there’s the calorie thinking right there), and if I wanted to lower the alcohol intake, I would opt for a no-alcohol from Athletic (they’re pretty good). Miller is convinced there is a middle ground—and they have numbers to support it—so we shall see if this move is a good one.

I’m betting it will result in at least a minor uptick in sales, if only because they’re targeting a youthful crowd still establishing its brand and product preferences for the rest of their adult lives. As for my fellow Boomers, I realize our days in the sun are fading fast, and anything we once held dear is up for grabs.

But if Miller could figure out how to roll out some barrels of IPAs—and I’m not talking the ones they do through Revolver, the craft brewery in Granbury Texas they bought a number of years ago—then I would be interested. I’ll wait.

Dr “Fill ‘Er Up” Gerlich

Audio Blog

[pastorsperspective]

Thanksgiving Memories

Happy Thanksgiving week to you all! The sermon this week was titled; "To Be So Thankful" and the supporting scripture was Colossians 3: 15-17. If you missed it, I'm so sorry that I can't share the link. Once again, our live feed had no sound. While we await our technical people to figure that out, please enjoy this blog instead!

I loved all the funny stories you shared reminiscing Thanksgivings past. We all have some funny, and some not so funny stories we remember, I'm sure. Do you have a funny Thanksgiving story to share?

One year when I was little and my sister was tiny, our family was going through difficult times and not sure how Thanksgiving dinner would even happen. After taking a drive one day, we got back home to a turkey just walking around on the front porch of our city home. I immediately named it and then it became family. After a day of not knowing what to do with the giant bird, my grandfather took it to his place where it scratched up his brand new truck. We never knew what happened to the turkey after that Thanksgiving, some say he still roams Wise County to this very day. We now know without a doubt God always provides, it just may not be in the way you expect it! 

Oh, Wow! That's funny! On my first Thanksgiving as a young, married woman. I was hosting my first ever Thanksgiving for my family. I spent weeks planning the menu, looking up recipes, and shopping. Of course, I wanted everything to be perfect, just like my grandmother always made it. I worked away for a couple of days making the feast. Thanksgiving arrived and my husband began to carve the turkey, and then he stopped. He began to pull out this long object from the turkey and then a bag of some kind. I was absolutely mortified. I had no idea where these things even came from! Turns out, I forgot to remove the neck and the giblet bag from the turkey cavity. Because I didn't plan to actually stuff the turkey, I never looked inside of it and didn't know any of that was in there! I'm even more embarrassed to admit, I have done this several more times throughout the years. However, my dogs always get a fully cooked treat when that happens!

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. I love how it's really just all about being together and counting your blessings. Every Thanksgiving evening, for as long as I can remember, we always watched White Christmas before bed. Naturally, I think of the songs from this movie throughout the day on Thanksgiving. Especially since my fondest dream was to grow up to be just like Rosemary Clooney! So in that spirit, I leave you with this song: Count Your Blessings https://youtu.be/DXKxazgio2s

May your Thanksgiving be filled with the love of family, the joy of memories past and memories made, and all the good food your stomach can hold!

[dinneratsheilas]

Brunch on the Deck with my sister!!! (finally)

My sister, who lives in Pennsylvania, finally made it to SLO a couple of weeks ago!  She has visited many times since we have moved here going on 10 years ago.  But...

the week the Pandemic began, almost 3 years ago, when she was due to fly out for a visit, she was forced to cancel her flight.  Little did we know it would take this long til she could safely fly out to visit.

During that time she had made reservations a number of times to come, and each time there was another surge in Covid, forcing her to cancel those flights.

During the Pandemic we became grandparents (for the first time) to our adorable grandsons, who are now 2 years old, and 7 months old, and we now have a granddaughter who is approaching 2 months old!!!

So my sister’s visit was not only to see my husband, myself, and our sons and daughters-in-law, it was also to meet her great-nephews and her great-niece!  And it finally happened!!!

Through these past few years these three sweet grandchildren have become a bright spot through what was a challenging time for us and all my siblings, living on the east coast and the mid-west.

Through many photos, face-times, and family zoom sessions they have been able to share in the joy of the births and growth of their nephews and niece. And my husband and I have been able to share in the joy and enthusiasm they experienced.

My sister arrived on a Saturday, and on Sunday morning we were able to have our brunch on the deck with her which was long overdue.

When I was looking for a tablecloth I pulled out this one above.  There’s a story behind that cloth...

Many, many years ago my grandparents would get in their Cadillac and squeeze in my grandfather’s siblings and drive, (yes, drive) from Pennsylvania to California! 

My grandmother would always return with a gift from their trip, and among them, sometimes a tablecloth, the one you see above.

When I placed it on the table I was stunned to see San Luis Obispo on the map front and center! 

I never would have imagined so many years ago when we received the gift of this cloth we would be living right smack in the middle of it!

And so happy I happened to pull it out after so many years of forgetting I even had it.  Especially since my sister and I could share the memories  it holds over brunch on the deck!

(Brunch menu...Bagels, smoked salmon rounds (dill, pepper, and plain),  veggie platter, olives, sliced heirloom tomatoes, fruit plates of fresh pineapple, persimmons, peaches, and blueberries, strawberries and oranges, homemade pumpkin bread and rugelach, and assorted pastries from Scout Coffee Shop.)