#I wish everyone had a bright crown

[akimao]

✨

[thebadboyfanclub]

Welcome To Our Family (Daemon x Reader)

Hey everyone, so as I mentioned before I wanted to write a throuple thing with Rhaenyra and Daemon although even on this request there was some drama involved but it was interesting to write nonetheless. Also I don’t know why but this song inspired me the most especially the part “where you go I go, what you see I see” that was the vibe I was trying to pass for our reader with daemon

Most would say that the war in the stepstones had no place for love to blossom, the reeking stench of death had overtaken and most men had no life in their eyes, the majority prayed in gratitude that they were alive while others cursed the gods for keeping them on this forsaken realm when their friend of even their kin had been killed.

That did not even grace Daemon, who was lucky enough to spend every night in the arms of his beloved (y/n), the sister of one of his soldiers that had been wounded, (y/n) had marched in and demanded that her brother will come home.

“I will be damned if I allow you to give more than an arm for this, you are coming with me”

Her brother had obeyed her, she was as fragile as a rose but her thorns stung more than anything, right then and then Daemon had become a mere slave to his emotions, something that had never occurred before.

“I wish I could stay in your arms forever”

“That would be a dream, my love, however, we are counting the days until you depart, your wife probably awaits you”

Daemon was deeply offended by the jab his lover had thrown at him, slowly he rose up and away from her arm reach to look her straight in the eyes, the fireplace burned bright and the light shined against her glistening skin.

“You are questioning my feelings for you”

“I am questioning how strong they are, you are a prince, a husband, your life seems to hold no room for me”

“Is that how you think of this? That I just wanted to bed you?”

“Do you truly wish for me to answer that?”

Silence took over them while the only sound came from the crackles of the fire, Daemon was aware of how badly this could look, she was a commoner, a mere lady, and the realm would never accept her even if Daemon had not wed another.

“You and our daughter mean everything to me”

“But nothing to the king, he will ask for my head once he finds out I am carrying your child”

“I would never put your lives at risk”

“How do you plan on keeping us safe my love?”

“Do not worry about that, I will take care of everything”

(Y/n)s belly was starting to show, it wouldn’t take long for the king and his little whisperers to demand answers, the easy route was to declare his kin a bastard but Daemon was flying on cloud nine when (y/n) announced that she was with child, no he must do right by her.

He flew with her to Pentos, far away from Viserys and people that cared most about titles and crowns than love and compassion.

“Twins, my prince, two sons, praise the mother”

“What about (y/n)”

“The lady is a warrior, she is tired but healthy”

Daemon did not speak another word to the maester, he simply passed by him and into the room to find his beloved laying in bed, a faint smile on her face as she held one of her children while the other was being held by a midwife.

“You owe me 3 dragon coins”

“It is a bet I will happily pay, how are you feeling?”

“Sore and gross but happy, why don’t you hold him?”

“I-“

“Come on love it is merely a babe, like… so”

Slowly (y/n) passed one of her sons to her lover, instructing him to hold it carefully but securely, then she reached for the midwife so she can have her other son in her arms, both of the babes were quiet in their parent's arms.

“What should we name them?”

“I was thinking of Orryn, and mayhaps… Baelon?”

“Baelon and Orryn, the two princes”

Daemon and (y/n) had grown inseparable much to his brother's dislike Daemon had scoffed at his previous marriage and took his place next to his most endearing (y/n) that had blessed him with not just two children, but with passion, and comfort, she created a home for him, without her there was no warmth, no color.

Viserys was only finding out the milestones his brother was achieving with his mistress via ravens that Daemon dared to send, the birth of his sons had scratched a wound in Viserys that was not quite healed yet, so naturally when Rhea had passed due to fever, Daemon had even dared to invite Viserys to his wedding that took place in Pentos.

(Y/n) had just given birth to another set of siblings, Alyssa and Arren, two silver-haired princesses that slept peacefully through the night and would only stay quiet if (y/n) or Daemon held them, (y/n)s parents and brother had traveled to Pentos to finally meet the children and also attend the wedding.

“You look dashing sweetling, I see the prince has taken good care of you”

“How could I not? What is more important than the happiness of my lady wife?”

“We must admit we had conflicting thoughts over you my prince, I am happy that you proved us wrong”

“I do not hold it against you, she is your daughter you want what is best for her, also you were not the only one, (y/n) was also very skeptical over my intentions”

“I had every reason to do so”

“I have made peace with the fact that you will never admit you were wrong my love, you do not have to find excuses for it”

Daemon and (y/n) were wed in Valyrian traditions, something that infuriated Viserys, how dare he wed a commoner with the sacred paths of old Valyria, it was distasteful and utterly disrespectful, Viserys had only sent a one-sentence raven scroll back

“You disgust me, never come back”

Daemon had only rolled his eyes at it and threw it in the fire, he couldn’t care less about Kings Landing, they could eat each other for all he cared, (y/n) and their children were all that mattered ever since he met with the beautiful hues of hers, he treasured everything about her and worshipped the ground she walked on, he would always hold her close and shower her with gifts.

“We received a raven, I have taken the liberty to open it”

“What is it?”

“Laenor Velaryon has passed, and your niece is requesting our presence, well yours to be specific, she said “I need you, uncle”

“You are jealous, I have never seen you get jealous”

“Is this the one you told me about, that “spur of the moment” girl?”

“Indeed, we do not have to go, besides, my brother banished me”

“No, it is the first time our presence is requested”

“My dear, you are with child and the flight is long”

“I will be fine, I know it”

Daemon was certain he could not sway her, once something was on her mind there was nothing that could turn it around, he was also aware that the reason she was so adamant was a side of hers that felt threatened, there was a ghost of his past that was requesting attention and (y/n) was not willing to walk away from this without putting up a fair fight.

At a day (y/n) and her 8 children stood next to her and her husband all dressed in black, everyone rubbed their eyes at the sight of such numerous children, (y/n) always knew she was meant to be a mother and that fact that she had Daemon as her husband made it so much easier.

Until it didn’t, they were summoned by the king after the ceremony, (y/n) felt her stomach drop as soon as she walked in the room, instinctively her one hand went over her growing belly, yet she mastered the strength to place a smile and curtsy before the king.

“What is the meaning of this brother?”

“I was hoping we could agree to some sort”

“Over what?”

“I wish for you to come back, I… will legitimize your children and wife as she has proven worthy, bringing forward 8 children with another on the way is no easy task”

“The gods have been generous to us that is correct, we are grateful for this offer but forgive me to ask, since you mentioned an agreement it seems you want something in return”

“Correct, there is no smooth way to say this but as a parent, I hope you understand that I would do anything to protect my daughter”

“No”

“Daemon”

“If you are asking us to wed Rhaenyra then you have lost your mind, I will not involve my wife and children in your scandals”

“Pardon my husband, I think you can understand the reason behind his outburst”

Daemon was left confused over (y/n)s composure that attempted to cover for his utter refusal to hide his brother's plans, he turned to observe his wife, she was calm, and her hand went to find his as their fingers intertwined (y/n) gave him a slight squeeze of comfort.

“The legitimacy of our children and our marriage is something that we are interested in, however, you can see why we might have some objections over accepting Rhaenyra in our marriage”

“You are trying to negotiate?”

“Yes”

“What else would you like to accept, please speak freely”

“I want my children to be given dragon eggs as well as meet any unclaimed dragons, they are Targaryens, they should have the pick of their dragons as well”

“Done”

“I shall also be considered Rhaenyras wife, if we were to wed I shall have the same rights as my husband”

“You are suggesting the realm accept you as the future queen's consort?”

“As you mentioned I brought forward 8 children and another on the way, the crown shall accept them as future princes and princesses, if not then there is nothing for us here”

Daemon chose to observe his lady wife than speak up, she took initiative and strived for the best option, something he admired in her but he had never really witnessed how far she was willing to go to secure the future of her family, now she was sacrificing a spot in their marriage for a seat at the table, Viserys had been outsmarted by what he used to frown upon.

“Very well, we accept your conditions”

“Well then… welcome to our family Princess Rhaenyra”

-

(Y/n) and Daemon wed Rhaenyra as they had once done while their children and the rest of their family watched, Rhaenyra had underestimated the lady, (y/n) and might not be as assertive or rebellious as Daemon but her wits and calculated movements showed a woman that walked with her head held high and every step was thought after.

The days turned to seasons and then years, everyone was holding their breaths as they took a front-row seat to one of the most important marriages and alliances within the Targaryen Dynasty.

(Y/n) was held in the best light by the small folk, “the realms mother”, and “the Alyssane reborn” as her fertility kept thriving, blessing Daemon with another set of twins soon after Rhaenyra was wed, the two beautiful baby girls were named Megaera and Valera, the first of their family to receive dragon eggs on their cradles a gift by Rhaenyra who picked them herself then came Aegon, Viserys, and Visenya, overall (y/n) had the castle of Dragonstone filled with children, 13 to be precise.

Rhaenyra was painfully aware of how those babies came to fruition, Daemon's thirst for his wife was evident and he did not even consider giving Rhaenyra the courtesy of hiding, Rhaenyra had lost count of the times she had walked in on (y/n), and Daemon lusting after one another at all hours of the day and any room that was close to them, she sometimes wondered if the legends of Rhaenys being the favorite wife of Aegon made Visenya go through what Rhaenyra was also experiencing, is that mayhaps the reason behind Rhaenyra identifying with the warrior queen?

As (y/n) and Daemon stood by Rhaenyra at court, defending her and consulting her on important matters, painting the picture of a happy marriage with two spouses that supported her revolutionary claim, the realm expected Rhaenyra to bare a child as well, (y/n) was producing heirs one after the other, Rhaenyras womb laid empty since Daemon did not spend not even one night in her chambers.

It was the first time in years that the three of them had stepped foot in kings landing, Vaemond had called the court to usurp Lucerys from his claim at the driftwood throne, naturally, all 13 of their children were present along with the three boys from Rhaenyras previous marriage, (y/n) insisted that it would show how United they are and having that strong of a number on their side would scare off any other accusations.

A solid plan, until Ser Vaemond decided to protest against the king affirming young Lucerys as the successor for the driftwood throne.

“You run your house as you see fit, but I would rather die than let that boy take over my family’s name, parading around because you are too blind to see the truth”

“You dare question the decision of a king?”

“Look at them, all thirteen of them hold the characteristics of old Valyrian, true born heirs that I would happily accept as mine even though they came from a womb of a commoner, and you ask me to accept these three boys as Velaryons? It is blasphemy”

“You are certainly bold Ser Vaemond, you have the nerve to call me a commoner when I hold the future queen and the brother of the king as my spouses, my children are not thirteen, but sixteen, and all of them hold their names with pride, it saddens my heart to see that the thirst for recognition has turned you to this low of antics”

“Her children are BASTARDS! and she. Is. A. Whore”

“Pity, you had such great potential”

As (y/n) finished her sentence Daemon had taken the liberty to end Ser Vaemonds life, a clean cut through his head right above his tongue with the great sword dark sister, causing most people to gasp while (y/n) smirked and watched the body fall on the well-polished floor.

“No one disrespects our family”

“Disarm him!”

“No need, my love”

Daemon stretched his hand to his beloved (y/n) who only turned to pinch Lucerys cheek before she took her husband's hand to walk away, only to halt and turn around again, looking back to the rest of her family members.

“Rhaenyra”

Rhaenyra was grateful for (y/n)s graciousness, there was nothing that she could hold against her, she was loving and caring to her three boys, she would listen to Rhaenyra about any concerns for hours and even now she defended and included her in front of everyone.

She should be satisfied with such, still a thorn stuck in her heart and pride making Rhaenyra feel second best when it came to Daemon's heart, it has always been (y/n), (y/n) carried his offspring’s, he gave up everything for her, took her away and gave her a life full of gifts and love, the finest of any kind was reserved for (y/n).

“Pardon my intrusion, the princess is requesting Prince Daemon in her chamber”

“It is late, can it not wait?”

“Sweetling, the poor girl cannot know, go to her, I will be waiting for you”

“Fine, take your nightgown off for me, I want us to get straight to it when I get back”

Daemon whispered deviously before he planted a passionate kiss on the lips he most adored, reluctantly pulled away with an audible gruff and followed the servant girl silently, wondering what was so important that he had to leave his precious bed and his lustful wife right in the heat of the moment.

Rhaenyra paced back and forth with impatience written all over her demeanor and face, Daemon always had an influence over her, making her feel like a little girl again, though this was a different type of anxiety, once Daemon entered the room and the servant gave them their privacy Rhaenyra took a deep inhale through the nose to ease her nerves.

“I hoped to confront you over our marriage”

“What of it?”

“Do you truly think everything is fine or are you just blind?”

“I and my wife have honored our vows”

“That is the problem, you and your wife, it has never been just your vows”

“When you wed us you were to understand your place when it came to me and (y/n), I never used her as a surprise, you called for our aid and we generously offered it”

He was right, Rhaenyra had never been blindsided by them, (y/n) was a staple of their marriage, (y/n)s strive for the legitimacy of her children was the only reason Daemon allowed their wedding to happen, (y/n) had drank for Rhaenyras cup just as daemon had, binding their hands together and swore loyalty and devotion to their future queen.

As a woman Rhaenyra felt cast aside, this marriage was an insult to her pride, and having to bare through a birth of a child one after the other with a smile on her face was a twist of a knife in her wound, while her womb lay empty.

“You refuse to spend time with me, alone, you only show up with your children-“

“Our children, (y/n) and I call your sons our sons”

“At court yes”

“Are you questioning our actions? I did not have you to be as dim-witted as you seem right now, (y/n) called Lucerys her trueborn son in front of everyone, I took a man’s head for insulting you and our house and yet you stand before me and claim it is not enough for your liking?”

“I stand here to remind you that we have yet to produce a child, you can kill as many men as you wish, and (y/n) can scream it at the top of her lungs but that does not change that everyone sees her parading her belly and call her the realms mother while my womb rottenness under this wedlock”

“Rotten? Alright then, let us entertain this and say you bare my child, a silver-haired beauty that the realm will welcome, has it crossed that brilliant mind of yours that this will be more of a scandal for your three boys?”

“My sons are Targaryens”

“No doubt about it, but certainly they do not look like the part, in comparison to their brothers and sisters they look more like (y/n) than you”

“You are not refusing to lay with me to hush the rumors, you simply do not have the urge for it, I remember a time that you did, mayhaps it was the image of a gullible girl that kept you going”

“Listen and listen well, wife, (y/n) is my eternal love, the woman that took me in her arms and showed me life, you are my blood, I protected you, I defended you, I offered you sanctuary just so you can once again have something to complain about, well that is it, if you dare to summon me again for such idiotic matters I will grab my brother by the neck and force him to annul the marriage do you understand?”

Daemon was furious, as he spoke he started taking steps towards her, to the point that her back found the wall and Daemon was inches away from her face, hissing out the threat of annulment like a snake that released poison to its prey.

Rhaenyra had never experienced such hostility from Daemon, to say she was shocked was an understatement as her eyes frantically tried to find focus on his, daemons eyes were filled with fury, Rhaenyra had crossed the line in his mind, (y/n) had been kind and honorable to the princess, doing her duty like a proper lady wife and Rhaenyra scoffed at her, at his (y/n).

“Alright”

“Wonderful, now you must excuse me, I have some urgent matters that need my attention”

Requests are open!

[goosita]

first of all i love you. really. everything that you're writing is making my life so much better, so thank u <3 if that's okay for u, could you write something where reader is a single mom, she has a little girl and her daughter is very attached to billy? and it's the most sweetest thing ever cause billy loves her, calls her little princess (very sweet tooth 😭) one night, her daughter asks billy to read a storie for her to sleep and he does so and in the end, she says something like "i wish you were my dad" and it's just so cute and funny cause she gagged everyone, reader is like "babe!!!!" while billy is in shock but at the same time his heart is melting 🥺🥺 (sorry if this is too much, just write if u want!)

oh im. gonna cry and sob and piss everywhere this is the sweetest softest thing ive ever read yes oh my god

billy would be so so sweet with your daughter, especially if she was around 4-6 years old. at first you were worried that a man like him wouldn’t want anything to do with a single mother, especially one as young as you. but he never asked you to explain, and never judged you for it. all he ever did was treat you like a queen, and your daughter like a princess.

and your little girl is just enamored with him. she follows after him like a little duckling, so much so that billy starts to call her “ducky”. it makes her giggle every single time, always makes billy smile all warm and fond. they get on like a house on fire, your man and your baby girl. billy teaches her things like how to ride a horse, how to tie all kinds of knots, how to rope a little goat even. your daughter tells you one evening, her little face very serious, that she thinks “billy knows everything, mama. everything!” you want to let her believe it for as long as possible.

on this particular day, all 3 of you had spent the day together. billy had showed up bright and early to take you for a picnic out in a meadow behind your house, a daylong excursion that lasted until the sun slowly set. it was late spring, cicadas beginning to sing in the tall grass. once it got dark outside, billy pulled out a jar and showed your daughter how to catch fireflies. once they had about 10 of them, they sat on the blankets with their heads ducked together to observe them, giving each one a unique name.

“let’s call this one tommy,” she says, pointing at a bug near the bottom.

“perfect name, ducky. how’d you get so good at this?”

your little girl giggles, shrugging and letting billy name the next one. it makes your heart so happy to see a man with so much patience and love for your daughter.

when you finally return to the house, it’s time to get your kid ready for bed. tired and pliant from her long day outside catching bugs and weaving flower crowns (that of course billy taught her how to do), she goes down without much of a fight. she does ask billy to stay and tell her a bedtime story, though, and he’s never been one to deny that sweet little face whatever she wants.

you half-listen as billy spins some wild tale about a princess who slay dragons herself, one who doesn’t need a prince to come and rescue her. she’s strong and brave and guess what? she looks just like your little girl, same hair color and little lilac colored dress. his story makes her smile, even as her sleepy eyes begin to blink more slowly. when he finishes, he leans down to kiss her forehead softly and tuck her blanket around her small little body.

“i wish you were my daddy,” she murmurs sleepily, rubbing her eye with one small fist. you see billy freeze and slowly look to you, unsure what to say.

“oh, baby—“ you start, taking a step forward. billy gently cuts you off, which you welcome, not sure what to tell her.

“you know, ducky, sometimes i wish that too,” he whisper conspiratorially. her eyes light up curiously.

“really?” she asks, looking up at him.

“mhm,” he says with a nod. “but i think this little thing we have going here is even more special. you know why?”

she waits for an answer, eyes full of curiosity and wonder at the man sitting on the edge of her bed.

“because i didn’t help to give you life, life gave you and me to each other. and that’s pretty special, don’t you think?”

your little girl smiles, nodding her head. you swallow hard, your eyes feeling a little misty at the way he loves your baby and she loves him. it’s so pure, so unconditional the way they’ve attached themselves to each other.

billy smiles at her and brushes her hair away from her face, giving her chubby cheek a soft caress.

“sweet dreams, baby girl.”

“goodnight billy,” she says with a little yawn, snuggling down into her pillow. billy blows out the oil lamp beside her bed, following you out of her bedroom and closing the door softly.

“i’m sorry if i overstepped, i didn—“ he’s cut off by you grabbing his face and pulling him down into a dizzying kiss. you smile against his mouth when he doesn’t hesitate for even a second to kiss you back, his arms winding around your waist to pull you closer.

“thank you,” you whisper when you finally break away for air. “for loving both of us, for taking care of us.”

“sweetheart, you don’t have to thank me for that. i’ll always be here to take care of my two best girls,” he says with a grin, tucking a lock of your hair behind your ear. “and who knows? maybe one day soon you’ll let me put a ring on that pretty little finger and that little girl in there can call me whatever she wants.”

[rainesrants]

One Last Time

Pairing: Zuko/Reader Word Count: 2.6K+ Tags: Angst, Arranged Marriage, Childhood Friends to Lovers, Guilty Zuko... Summary: Zuko sees you for the first time in years, but this time, you're on the enemy's side. Unfortunately, he's not here for you; he's there to stop his sister. With you there, will he be able to end this once and for all, or will you remain his weakness? A/N: This is my first time posting one of my works (on this account), so please don't hate! I apologize if there are any grammar mistakes, but I hope you enjoy.

No, it couldn't possibly be. Perhaps he was having a hallucination, his eyes deceiving him. That was the only logical reason as to why you were there, standing right next to his sister as the crowning of the Fire Lord was taking place.

You who he was previously betrothed to, your parents having set you up at a young age for rank. Although it was originally a marriage of convenience, it had quickly blossomed into something more. The two of you were able to cherish your relationship as you grew older, despite the obvious hesitance in the beginning.

You who comforted him the night his mother left, refusing to leave despite his protests. Even with tears blurring his sight, he could see how worried you were. Your arms reached out to him, pulling him into an affectionate hug. He could feel the way you trembled, trying to stay strong as you forced a smile for his sake.

You who stayed with him even when he had lost his honor, his face scarred beyond repair. He could still remember the gentle touch of your hand as you carefully bandaged his wounds and the affectionate forehead kiss that came after.

You who begged to accompany him on his journey to find the Avatar and regain his glory. Alas, he knew he couldn't possibly endanger you, the one last person he held dear to his heart.

You who remained a part of him, even throughout all of his journeys. There were days he'd wish he could crawl back to you, just to get a glimpse of your bright smile.

The warmth you brought with you was unlike anything he had ever felt. It was different from the heat he experienced when he would firebend, much different. It was far beyond that, something he could only describe as soothing. He could feel it in his body as his heart would start to beat faster at the mere sight of you, his lips bending into a clumsy smile as you'd notice the red covering his cheeks.

Even when he had returned to the Fire Nation with his sister, he dared not go back to you. He knew it would only do more harm than good, remembering the feeling of his heart breaking as all he left behind was a letter to you before going off in search of the Avatar alone. He could only imagine your wails as you realized he was gone.

He had always wondered how you were, asking guards to secretly check your condition. It was cowardly, yes, but how could he return after so long? After he had ignored your messages to him during your time apart, after he left without so much as a goodbye, after he had tried to love another just to end up missing you more.

You who owned the title of his best friend and much more. You were the love of his life, someone he could not dare see harmed.

So why?

Why were you there, remaining the only audience to Azula's crowning? 

Even with everything happening, he would always recognize you-no matter how far apart you were. With desperation, he ushered Appa to move even faster than before. A heavy grumble shook the ground as the sky bison landed, wind and debris releasing from under him.

With a slow turn of your head, you realized what everyone was staring at. For just a moment, the two of you made eye contact, and it was only then that he realized the true state you were in. An unreadable expression was displayed across your face, a mixture of both confusion and worry. In all the years he had known you, he'd never seen you quite this disheveled. The beaming grin that adorned your face at almost every moment had disappeared, replaced with a sullen frown. Your eyes no longer shone either, only a dull glare and dark eye bags remaining.

What happened to you?

His attention was quickly taken away as he remembered his mission, the real reason as to why he was there. He couldn't possibly allow himself to be distracted, not when countless lives were at stake. Forcing himself to turn away from you, he swiftly stood up, taking a deep breath as he moved to face his sister.

"Sorry, but you're not going to become Fire Lord today," he said, "I am." Stealthily jumping off of Appa, he landed on the hard ground. He could feel your eyes on him, but all he could do was try his best to remain his composure. 

"You're hilarious." An eerily large smile creeped up his sister's face, the sound of her mocking laughter ringing in his ears.

"And you're going down," Katara announced. He didn't even notice her as she approached from behind, the both of them now standing side by side.

Azula rolled her eyes, but just as she was about to get crowned once more, he watched as she raised her fist, halting the ceremony. "Wait. You want to be Fire Lord? Fine." Standing up, her entire demeanor changed. She was no longer smiling, an angered look on her face. "Let's settle this. Just you and me, brother. The showdown that was always meant to be. Agni Kai!"

He knew what his sister was trying to do, but as his gaze flickered to you out of habit, he felt his words get caught in his throat. You'd seen everything happen when he had refused to fight his father, but this time, the situation was different. "You're on."

His mouth felt dry as he saw you react, moving with your hand out towards him-as if it were an instinct. You had look conflicted, as if you wanted to say something to him. As you were about to take another step forward, Azula began to approach you, reminding you of her presence. He could only watch from a distance as you turned to face her, your arms going limp at your sides as you paused. It seemed you had made your decision, but he could only feel hurt.

"What are you doing? She's playing you." The sound of Katara's voice snapped him back to reality, but her words went through one ear and out the other as his expression hardened, his eyebrows furrowing. "She knows that she can't take us both, so she's trying to separate us."

At her words, Azula began to cackle maniacally. "Oh, how precious, but I'll manage. After all, I have a special guest with me tonight, don't I, Zuko?" She placed a hand on your shoulder and at her signal, you raised your arm, but this time, it was different. Before he could say anything, he watched as you flicked your wrist, shooting fire towards them, just barely missing the poor waterbender.

You hadn't missed.

That was a warning.

He could hear Katara gasp from beside him, not expecting you to attack. She was about to pull out the water beside her but stopped as he held his hand out in front of her. She could see the way he looked at you, and whispering underneath her breath, she asked, "Who is that?"

He hesitated for a moment, clenching his fists tightly as he said, "It doesn't matter." For a moment, he watched your eyes widen in surprise. He bit the inside of his cheek, looking at you one more time before turning back to his sister. "Let's get this over with, just me and you. This way, no one else has to get hurt."

As they both went to opposite sides, Zuko couldn't shake off the feeling that something was wrong. Why were you with Azula of all people? Throughout the years you'd known each other, you may have been close with the both of them, but you would always choose him over her. Had his absence truly changed you this much?

He rolled his shoulder back as the sound of a gong echoed through the arena, announcing the beginning of their fight. Stranding up to face his opponent, he slowly turned around. Thankfully, he was able to catch a glimpse of you, and you were too far back to be accidentally hit by any attacks.

"I'm sorry it has to end this way, brother." Azula took off the jacket wrapped around her shoulders, dropping it onto the floor with a light thud.

"No, you're not." He lifted his hands, getting into a proper fighting stance.

No other words were said as Azula's lips shifted into a deranged smile, forming her own battle stance. Before he could blink, he watched as his sister shot blue fire from across the arena. He quickly retaliated, sending his own in an even bigger wave to counteract her attack. The temperature had quickly dropped from the intense heat, their fires clashing together in a fight between red and blue, creating a wall between them.

Azula continued to stand on the offensive, leaping forward as she used her skills to send multiple attacks his way. Knowing this was a time for no hesitance, Zuko shot even larger flames in order to defend himself. Her fire missed him, going straight to his right. There was no mercy between both sides, the two of them ignoring the way they had set the surrounding buildings aflame.

He could hear his sister panting from afar as she continued her relentless attacks; the amount of power she was using was too much. This was the time to strike, so he sent the strongest wave of fire he could. She just barely jumped out of the way in time, using her bending to send herself propelling towards him as she fought back his attacks. It was like a tornado of heat as Azula circled her brother, but as he carefully predicted her next destination, he was able to knock her back. She crashed to the floor with multiple grunts, her breathing getting heavier and heavier. She could only get up with a groan, an agitated look on her face.

He felt his confidence gain a boost, his lips turning into a smug grin. "No lightning today? What's the matter? Afraid I'll redirect it?"

Her brother's remarks seemed to make her more furious, watching as her expression became enraged. "I'll show you lightning!" Without so much of a thought, the air quickly became electrified as she summoned forth countless lightning bolts around her. He quietly prepared himself for her attack, shifting his feet into a better stance, getting ready to take whatever she gave him. He watched as his sister's eyes darted around, looking for a weak spot, but what he didn't expect was for her to turn around, her eyes focusing on you.

No.

No.

He immediately jolted forward, praying he could get there in time to save you. He couldn't care less if he had to stop his sister and get hit himself, as long as you were safe. With a scream of desperation, he watched as the lightning shot through the air in record-time.

But he was too far.

No matter how fast he moved, no matter how much fire he used to send himself flying face first towards you, he couldn't possibly stop the attack in time. He could only watch as your eyes turned to Azula, then the lightning being shot straight toward you, then him. You barely had a moment to process what she was trying to do, a look of pure shock visible on your face as you scrambled your thoughts together. You knew that you couldn't escape in time, so with as much strength as you could muster, you prepared yourself to take the hit. You tried your best to take a firm stance on the ground, but no amount of preparation or experience in firebending could ever help you get ready for the searing hot pain that hit your chest. 

The vision of you reaching out to him with both of your hands was engraved into Zuko's mind, your eyes darting toward him. The only thing that he could hear was the sound of your strangled scream, calling out to him one last time before you crumpled to the floor. He completely ignored the way Katara yelled at him in bewilderment, only to realize his intentions. Running to reach you, the smell of burnt skin engulfed his senses. He kneeled to the floor beside you, only being able to watch as you twitched uncontrollably from shock.

He wanted to embrace you, to hold you in his arms, but he knew that no matter what he did, he couldn't help relieve the pain. Instead, he grabbed ahold of your hand in support, his grip tight and worried.

The sound of fighting continued behind him and as he turned back to check the commotion, he realized he had left his sister and Katara alone. He wanted to get up, to help her fight back, but he felt the way you had gone limp, your energy quickly fading away. 

He couldn't possibly decide between the both of you, but as he locked eyes with the waterbender, she gave a reassuring nod. "I've got this. You help them." With one last look at the sight of water and fire clashing, he moved to get a better look of you. Thankfully, you were no longer spasming, but you were lying unnaturally still.

You weren't moving at all.

He was unsure of what to do, watching as little by little, your life had slowly started to fade from your eyes. He didn't even realize how tightly he was holding your hand, but if you noticed, you didn't seem to mind.

"I've missed you, Zuko." You forced yourself to speak, your voice raspy and hoarse. It was the first time in a while he had heard you say his name, the sound of your cheery voice gone. He could only be glad to hear it, remembering how he wished to listen it every day, to see you every day. But now, he was unsure if he'd ever get the opportunity to.

"I've missed you too, (name)." You tried your best to curl your lips up into a small smile, your eyes gazing deeply into his. "Why are you here, after all this time?"

You tried to inhale, your breath coming out as ragged. "Azula had said you'd be here, and knowing how reckless you are, I wanted to keep you safe." Once he realized you were always on his side, he felt the knots in his stomach loosen. Of course you didn't betray him, he was a fool for even thinking you would. Pulling you closer, he could feel your heart beating through your chest, moving at a slow, unnatural rate. "I never would have come if it meant you'd get hurt."

"But I didn't get hurt, you did," he whispered, holding you as close as possible without hurting you. 

You rolled your eyes at his words, using all the strength you could muster to playfully pat his arm. "You know what I mean." 

For a moment, the two of you had gone back to how you used to be. To the power couple that were bound to be the best leaders the Fire Nation had in a long time, to being the best friends that were attached to the hip, to being the childhood friends who teasingly messed with each other every opportunity they could.

But that was quickly taken away.

You felt a strong pain strike your chest, the wind being knocked out of your lungs. Zuko could see the hurt you were in, only able to watch as you tried your hardest to fight back the way your eyelids got heavier and heavier. Trying to speak, your words came out almost completely breath-like, practically wheezing. "I'm really glad I got to see you one last time."

"One last time?" He asked, but he knew what you were implying.

"I love you dearly, Zuko." You could barely speak, using the remaining strength in your body to pull him closer. The feeling of your lips meeting together was just as familiar as all the other times you had kissed, the years not changing the affection in them. He held you close, his other hand squeezing your hand tightly. He didn't even realize that he had been crying, your face being soaked with his tears.

As you finally pulled apart, he looked at you one last time to see you crying as well, allowing him to catch one more glimpse of the smile he adored so much. "I love you, too."

When he watched the color drain from your face, all he could do was hold you. When he felt the way you had gotten abnormally cold, all he could do was use his bending to try and warm you up. When you closed your eyes, all he could do was gently push the hair out of your face. When he finally felt the way you crumbled in his arms, going completely limp, he knew he couldn't do anything more.

You were gone.

[asamary]

The precious angel

(This is my first every story... ye)

As the flowers flow in the wind, the bright blue sky shine in the sky. There sat a person in a field filled with various flowers. They hum a tune as they make some flower crowns by themselves.

Alone, as they always were.

In their high school years, all of their school mate thought of them as weird, they had weird habits and would sometimes talk to themselves. Thats what the students say. But in their eyes, these weird habit is the only comfort they had in all their high school years. Arranging even the slightest mess in their table, or suddenly tapping their fingers.

When the other students see them talking to themselves, it's actually them talking to some frogs they suddenly found.

Their high school years were never bright, but not to dull ether. Yet they wished it could have been more fun. Wished they could had made friends to not worry their grandmother too much.

As their grandmother said once, they were a very talented child. Was good at any instruments they held, creative in painting, loved to cook and bake. Even knitted a pile of plushies for their grandma. Of course there were some they found they were bad at too, sports to be exacts, was never good at soccer. And was slow to answering questing in their class, had a hard time having a conversation while looking to one's eyes, Yet even with their anxiousness, they tried. They truly tried.

But as their high school ends, they wanted to forget all of that, start a new, even when it's a bit late now..

So here in these flower field, where the wind blew the flowers away, as they sat holding the flower crowns they made.

A unexpected stranger suddenly came, one they never could have believed was real.

Angel's pov

"Such a pretty flower crown you have made!" A sudden voice spoke behind me, it made me jumped as i whip my head towards the person.

I was expecting a person, yet what came to view, i saw a red bear smiling widely at me. I was frozen in shocked, not just from my anxiety, but also from this unexpected encounter. But as minutes passed, as we stared awkwardly at each other, i answered "than-k you.." and it went back to the awkward silence.

The bear suddenly laughs heartily,as she sat down beside me. "Haha!! I must have surprised you too much! I know humans are not used to seeing beings like me." She said as she watched the flowers flowed through the wind."I'm.. not actually allowed to be here, our sa-.. our mayor doesn't allow certain residents from going out, but for so long i have always wanted to wander outside of our town!! And and .... oh, I'm rambling."she scratched her cheek as she looked at me"you might think I'm more weird now heh...""no!!" I suddenly shouted, it startled her as she looked at me from my sudden outburst. "I..i meant, you're not weird.. I'm just, surprise is all." I looked away as i messed with my fingers. "Im.. I'm not used to talking is all, i tend to be alone most of my time, except when I'm home. I.. i live With my grandmother is all"

I begun, she listed as she smiled at our little conversation. Then she begun to tell stories of their town, saying how everyone is very unique.for hours we talked, and i begun to open up a bit. I never would have thought that i could make a friend again.

But to think that this friend is unlike the others i once had,it brings me hope, that maybe this friendship will last longer.

Time skip~

"Oh my! Was your granma ok then?!" "She was ok, she might be old but she sure is very strong!!" We laughed for a while as i wiped the tears on my face.

We sat there, laughter dying, i suddenly stood up as she watched me put one of the flower crown on her head. "I now dubbed thee, the queen of this flower field!" I snickers as i bowed down jokingly. i held my hand for her to take, She snickers as she stood up, taking my hand. We laughed as she begun to drag me around the flower field.

As we played around, we begun to dance all of a sudden. Me having two left feet was clumsy, and stumbled a lot, Yet she held me as we both danced around the flower field. It went for hours until we both became tired, falling back to the flowers as we huffed in exhaustion.

We layed there, she laugh again and suddenly engulfed me in a bear hug. "It's been so long since i had this much fun with someone... my roommates barely give me any attention anymore." She puffed her cheeks as she continued. "they seem to be always busy now days, I'll only meet them in the morning and at night now... and at week ends their barley home!!" She cried out as she buried her head to my neck.

The close contact shocked me, but i pat her head as i Asked."well, what does your roommates do?"

She answered "well, dogday is always in the school with the miss daisys and the children, bubba was been busy teaching the growing kids about adult stuffs, picky is always in the bakery ether cooking for just baking sweets, crafty had been in the library with bubba but is painting most of the time, and hoppy, kickn and catnap had been aways for sometime a while now.....it was our mayors orders...." she said, as she mumbled the last part. "How about you?" I asked. Patting her head, still a bit uncomfortable by the closeness. "I walk around town from time to time.. have little chats with the other residents of the town.... but I'm always at home, cleaning after them... sometimes we gather together in special school events.. i always yearn for those days... those are the time we all work together... am i too clingy?" She suddenly asked. I stayed quiet for a while.

i would think she was, but i could also see she is just worried about her roommates, afraid if something bad suddenly happened to them. Afraid to be left alone..

So i held her closer and answered"you are clingy. but, i could understand that you are afraid to be alone..i don't quite know what happened to you to become clingy, but I'm not annoyed by it." I smiled as i continued to hold her"we both might have just met hours ago, but it feels as if we both knew each other for a longer time,I'm so happy to meet someone so unique as you are!" I smiled as i hugged her back.

She stayed quiet for a while, before she hugged back tightly. It stayed like this for a while until my phone suddenly rang. I jumped from the loud noice, as i took out my Nokia phone. "Y/N!!! ITS NOW 4PM!! WHERE ARE YOU YOUNG MAN!!" The small device shouted as i held it far away from me. "I-I'm sorry grandma!! I didn't notice.. i . .. " i looked at the bear beside me, and answered "i was with a friend..." "WELL YOUNG LA- oh... a friend? Well, i guess you and your friend could hang out a bit, but i want you home at 6!! Do you hear me girl??" "Yes grandma.. i heard you."i answered as i heard the bear laughing quietly in the back "well then, tell your friend i said hello and they better be nice to you!!" As she suddenly end the call.

I looked at the bear as she burst into laughter,"your grandma sure is full of energy!! Such a loud voice, i think i could have heard her from a mile away!!" I pout at her as she continued to laugh.

As her laughter died, she touched my cheek and said."to have such a caring grandmother, how envious.." i looked at her and spoke"but to suddenly meet a future forever friend, i think even grandma will love you like she does to me..." i smiled as i held her paw on my cheek.

She stared at me quietly, til she said.."aren't you such a precious angel...."

Before i could asked what she meant, a new voice suddenly join.

"BOBBY WHERE ARE YOU!!??" Startled by the new voice, she looked at her back to the forest she came out of, she hesitated before saying."my name is bobby! And if you wish to hang out some more, we can meet here again!!" She said smiling as she stood up. "It seems my roommates had found me heh,they're going to lecture me..again... but!! I don't regret it today!! Because, i found you!!"she said, as she held me up like simba. I limp there, not knowing what to do.

"BOBBY??!!" Another new voice shouted.

"I'll meet you again then, angel❤︎" as she hugged me one last time, before setting me down, and going to where the voices are heard. I stood there, not knowing what to do. "I forgot to tell my name....."

That was the last thing i mumbled, as i heard the voices coming to a stop.

I looked at the setting sun as i thought, 'time to go home then' i smiled, as the thought of meeting my new friend again filled me with joy.

(We thank you for reading, we hoped you liked it!!)

Art by ant baby(me:))

Story by feathered idiot

[starrylothcat]

Dawn of Us

Pairing: Crosshair x Gen!Reader

Summary: Crosshair feels bad about being cold to you and struggles with his ~feelings.

WC: 2100

Warnings: None. Kissing, fluff, some angst (c’mon, it’s Crosshair). Mentions of nightmares. Happy ending. TBB AU in which Crosshair is rescued and with his brothers.

A/N: This is based off of an ask from @banthasworld ! This took an incredibly embarassing amount of time, I am so sorry. It is based on the sunshine x grumpy trope, with Crosshair being…well Crosshair. Reader is always nice to him, and he struggles with that of course. Reader isn’t super described, since this is more from Crosshair’s point of view. But he sees reader as a ray of light, his sunshine, so it kind of works? ANYWAY, I hope you like!

Crosshair furiously chewed his toothpick, watching with feigned disgust as your shoulders shook with mirth, laughing as you placed a delicate ring of flowers atop Wrecker’s head.

Omega let out a giggle, handing Echo a crown of flowers of his own.

Tech was already adorned with one, and Hunter was adjusting his flowers around his bandana.

Everyone had a smile on their face, and Crosshair couldn’t help but retreat to the back of The Marauder to clean his rifle, hoping it would distract him from the merriment happening in the cockpit.

Earlier that day, Tech guided the ship down on a grassy planet for re-supply. They had agreed to pick up a shipment for Shep to bring back to Pabu.

While you were waiting, you and Omega found a lovely patch of flowers not too far from the ship, the fields blooming with color.

You were reminded of your childhood, sitting in meadows and making flower crowns with your friends. You showed a wide-eyed Omega how to make one for herself, which in turn inspired her to make one for all of her brothers.

Crosshair had been back with his brothers for some time now, and while he had mostly gained their trust back and things were somewhat back to normal, he couldn’t help but still keep himself at arm's length.

Crosshair looked up from his rifle once more, connecting his narrow-eyed gaze with your bright eyes.

He felt his stomach flip, something that he noticed was happening more often, something that he was desperately trying to ignore.

You were there when they rescued Crosshair from the Empire’s grasp. You had been kind to him from the start, even knowing everything that he had done, at least whatever his brothers told you about him.

You were laughing now, Wrecker telling a story of a mission Crosshair didn’t remember. It must have been a mission they went on while he was gone.

Crosshair scowled, retreating even further into himself as he flung what was left of his toothpick to the ground.

He glowered at his Firepuncher, waiting to be distracted from the sound of your voice, the beautiful glimmer in your eyes, the sneaking thought of wishing he could make you laugh as joyously as Wrecker…

He snapped out of his thoughts when your shadow changed the lighting around him, realizing you were standing right in front of him.

“Here.” You smiled, holding out a flower crown to him. “This one’s for you.”

Crosshair frowned, not making a move to take it, looking back at his rifle. He couldn’t bear to make eye contact with you. His heart thudded, hoping you’d just walk away.

“Tell the kid thanks, but no thanks.” He muttered.

“Omega didn’t make this for you.” You paused for a moment.

“I did.”

Crosshair’s eyes snapped to yours. You made it for him?

You hesitantly placed the ring of flowers down next to him.

“You don’t have to be back here by yourself, you know.” Your voice was soft, a kindly cadence that Crosshair couldn’t get out of his head at night, no matter how much he tossed and turned.

Crosshair bit down on a fresh toothpick, glancing at the intricately made ring of flowers next to his thigh.

“Who says I want company?”

He knew he was being an asshole, but it was the only way to get you away from him.

Every second you were close to him, every time you glanced his way, brought him a cup of caf, or asked him how he was doing, it was making it harder and harder for him to not take your face in his hands and kiss you.

He wanted to hear your warm words in his ear, feel your lips on his, finally let his guard down for once, and bathe in your light that outshone his darkness.

He couldn’t, though. Why would you want him?

The severe and unyielding traitor who broke his family’s trust? Something he was still gaining back, and may never truly get back.

He was broken. You deserve someone better.

These were the intrusive thoughts that kept him away from you, the nagging voice in the back of his mind that he just couldn’t keep quiet, no matter how hard he tried.

“I can sit with you if you want.” You asked, still standing in front of him, a glimmer of hope in your eyes.

Ask them to sit with you, you idiot.

Crosshair huffed. “I want to be left alone.”

Why am I like this?

You bit your lip, nodding and turning away from him, respecting his space.

Crosshair’s eyes didn’t miss a thing, watching as your shoulders slumped in such a subtle way that you may have done it subconsciously.

You looked over your shoulder at him, your lips parting like you wanted to say something, but continued to walk to the front of the ship, where his brothers and Omega had started some sort of card game.

Crosshair furrowed his brows, trying to focus on cleaning his rifle again.

This was normalcy he thought he’d never have, and it was right in front of him, waiting for him.

And yet he was still choosing to be alone.

Guilt, something he had never really felt before he came back to his brothers, sat like a stone in his stomach. He felt bad for being cold to you. You didn’t deserve this.

He watched as you sat, overseeing the card game, a smile back on your face. You glanced at him quickly, before being dealt in.

✼　 ҉　 ҉　 ҉　 ҉　✼ ✼　 ҉　 ҉　 ҉　 ҉　✼ ✼　

The Marauder was quiet, except for Wrecker’s soft snores reverberating on the durasteel walls.

Crosshair lay in his bunk, gently turning the crown of flowers in his hands, holding it above him.

It was made with extreme care, his fingers grazing against the delicate petals, observing how thoughtfully you crafted it, the vines and stems intertwining with one another without being broken.

Could that be him? Could he be entwined with something beautiful without breaking it?

Crosshair laid the flowers on his chest, slinging one arm over his eyes. He replayed earlier in the evening in his head, except this time, he invited you to sit with him.

You watch as he demonstrates how to take apart his rifle, explaining each part, and showing you how to put it back together. He imagined your face close to his, paying close attention, feeling your breath on the side of his face. Laughing at something he says, a cheery smile just because you’re near him…

A tidal wave of unfamiliar warmth engulfed him, a peculiar fuzziness spreading in his chest.

Crosshair held on to that feeling, this time not trying to push it away, letting it spread and take hold of his heart. The sensation was strange, but comforting. He fell asleep with the ghost of your lips on his, your soft hands embracing him.

✼　 ҉　 ҉　 ҉　 ҉　✼ ✼　 ҉　 ҉　 ҉　 ҉　✼ ✼　

Crosshair awoke early the next morning, something he still did out of habit. He was a light sleeper, and ever since he decided to leave his brothers, his sleep was interrupted by nightmares from his choices, and what was done to him while he was captured.

This morning, though, he realized the usual terrors that plague his mind did not make a visit. Instead, his dreams were filled with you, with flowers, with feelings he could only describe as…peace?

Crosshair sat up, realizing he was still holding the crown of flowers from last night. His head was spinning with emotion, with the realization of how much you meant to him, how much he needed you.

Crosshair didn’t expect anything in return from you, especially after how he’s treated you. But at the very least, you deserved an apology and a thank you for the gift.

Everyone was still asleep, except for you. Your bunk was empty, made up neatly. You were an early riser too, Crosshair often catching you staring at the sunrise on Pabu down at the beach by yourself. He never joined you, assuming you wanted your space.

Crosshair knew you’d be right outside the ship, waiting for the sun to cast its glow over you.

Crosshair silently slipped out of the ship, the ramp cracked just enough for him to slip through without waking anyone else.

The sun was just beginning to rise, casting soft pink and orange glows over the dewy fields, the flowers still closed up for the night, waiting to wake with the rays of the sun.

Crosshair saw you sitting alone in a small clearing, staring toward the horizon.

Crosshair didn’t realize he was holding his breath as he approached you, his heart pounding in his chest.

He cleared his throat, not wanting to scare you.

You turned immediately, your eyes lighting up the second you realized it was him.

“Crosshair! I hope I didn’t wake you?”

Crosshair shook his head. “No, I was already awake.”

He stood awkwardly, not knowing if he should ask to sit with you or not. He wanted to give you the chance to tell him to buzz off, like he told you the night before.

“Would you like to join me?” You asked, your voice quiet, a hopeful spark in your eye.

Crosshair didn’t say anything, taking a seat next to you in the damp grass. The horizon was beginning to turn a kaleidoscope of color as the sun began peeking above the grass on the horizon.

There were a few moments of silence, and then you spoke.

“I’m sorry.” You said, your voice almost inaudible.

Crosshair’s head snapped toward you.

Why the hell were you apologizing to him? He was supposed to be apologizing to you!

“For what?” Crosshair’s brows were knit, wondering what the kriff you were trying to apologize for.

You fiddled with some of the grass under your fingers.

“I know I can be too much sometimes, when I know you just want to be left alone…” your voice trailed off.

“I’m sorry if I’ve been too pushy, especially last night. I realize I’m making you uncomfortable. I will back off.”

Crosshair’s heart sank to his feet. This is not how this was supposed to go. He felt even guiltier than before. You and your big heart, assuming it was all your fault.

Crosshair shook his head. “You’re wrong.”

You looked at him, confused.

“You have nothing to apologize for.” Crosshair took a breath. “You don’t deserve how I’ve treated you. I…appreciate everything you do for me. I’m sorry I don’t return it. I have no excuse.”

Crosshair felt something on his hand. It was yours, barely touching his. Rays of sunlight were reflecting in the dew of the grass, spreading across the plains. Petals stirred, beginning to open toward the light.

“Crosshair…” You whispered his name, your fingers threading together. “I care about you, a lot.”

“I know.” Crosshair’s voice cracked, barely above a whisper. “I’m not a good man, you shouldn’t…

Here I go again, pushing them away.

Crosshair wanted to yell, to take you up in his arms, say how much he cares, how much he wants you, how much he needs you…

You must have seen the battle in his eyes, and your lips were on his cheek before he could continue.

Crosshair froze at first, his body going into overdrive of a million different emotions.

You’re kissing him? You’re touching him? Was this a dream, one that he has secretly wanted for so long?

Your lips were softer than any fantasy as they pressed softly, pulling away as quick as they were on him.

Crosshair’s body erupted in sensations he’d never experienced, goosebumps spreading throughout his body as you kissed him. As fast as it happened, you pulled away.

You quickly took your hand out of his, seeing as he wasn’t responding to your bold move.

“I’m sorry, I-“

“Quit apologizing.” Crosshair muttered before capturing your lips with his in a needy kiss, wrapping one arm around you to bring you close, cradling your head with the other.

Crosshair never, ever wanted to let go of this moment. Feeling your body relax against his, your own arms wrapping around him. He held onto you for dear life, wanting to say so much more, to keep apologizing, to warn you that his darkness may never be cured. Your lips didn’t stop moving together, expressing everything that words could not.

Finally, you both pulled away for a much needed breath, the sun’s rays now fully shining down on you.

“The flowers…” Crosshair uttered against your lips. “Thank you.”

You smiled, tucking your head against his chest as he held you. Momentarily, Crosshair forgot everything as you embraced. It was just you and him, and the hope of the new day, both of you bathed in its light.

Maybe, just maybe, it was time to let himself be cared for. Maybe, just maybe, things would be okay.

As long as he had you, he knew it would be.

Ze Taglist:@crosshairlovebot @sev-on-kamino @kimiheartblade @wizardofrozz @clonemedickix @sunshinesdaydream @kashasenpai @freesia-writes @multi-fan-dom-madness @aconstructofamind @dreamie411 @dystopicjumpsuit @wings-and-beskar @starqueensthings @idontgetanysleep @secretthegriffin @anxiouspineapple99 @sinfulsalutations @secondaryrealm @littlemissmanga @maybethatfanfictionwriter @pb-jellybeans @wanderer-six @king-chaos-world @wolffegirlsunite @dukeoftheblackstar @523rdrebel @lune-de-miel-au-paradis @sleepingsun501 @coraex @cw80831 @dangraccoon @mythical-illustrator @eternal-transcience @the-cantina @nahoney22 @moonlightwarriorqueen

Masterlist Taglist

[gilbirda]

Friendly neighborhood vigilante. Chapter 24

BatmanxDP crossover. JasonxJazz

Link to Jazz's armor design and ramble about ideas >>HERE<<

[Read on AO3] [Read on FF.net]

Based on this post

First chapter || << Previous chapter || Next chapter >>

---

Bruce sighed. Danny choked.

“You— You guys had bets going on?”

Dick stopped his celebratory dance to have the decency to look ashamed. “I mean… Maybe?”

Danny’s smirk replaced his worried face, and the mischievous little brother was back; wearing a heavy and clearly magical armor from another dimension, but still the same person.

“How much?”

“What?”

“How much was the bet?”

“There were a few,” Dick explained, ignoring Bruce’s tired sigh in the background, “But Stephanie thought Jazz was the King. She bet twenty bucks.”

Danny scoffed, crossing his arms. “I’m offended. I’m worth more than twenty.”

Jazz joined Bruce in the tired sigh department. She even placed her hand on her forehead.

“Wait,” Duke perked up, glancing at Jazz trying so hard to keep it together next to a smirking Jason, “if he’s the Ghost King…”

Jason was the first to catch on. “It means Jazz is—”

“The Crown Princess of the Infinite Realms, yeah!” Danny chuckled and pointed a finger at his sister.

“Don’t you dare!”

“Uh-huh!” He answered, the tip of his finger lighting in more green fire.

“Danny, I swear—!”

She couldn’t finish. Danny shot the fire at her, and immediately the flames spread across her body, revealing armor the same way it did for Danny. On her chest, her comfortable long sleeved blouse was replaced by a crimson red chest piece and dark metallic shoulder armor pieces. Her hands and forearms were covered by more red metal, dented and dull with use, up to her elbows.

On her legs, a pleated skirt made of the same dark gray armor reflected the sunlight when she quickly readjusted her legs to stand up, crimson red boots appearing down her legs from her mid thighs.

As the fire retreated over her face, Jazz was already baring her teeth at her brother.

“Danny!” She growled. “That was unnecessary!”

He chuckled again. “If I have to stand here wearing a stupid outfit then so do you.” He approached her and patted her on the back so hard she grunted and stumbled forwards. “What was the thing? ‘A true warrior shows their armor with pride’?”

She rolled her eyes and moved one hand to pull back some strands of hair that had gotten on her face. Jason followed the movement to the bright red headpiece framing her eyes, and extending into points on the sides of her head. They burned with green flames like Danny’s crown did, as if their transformation were condensed in the pieces of metal.

He also noticed the exposed skin of her arms, how his assessment of her turned out to be true, watching the muscles flex with the small movement — and the scary amount of scars she apparently hid under her clothes. He didn’t miss a big burn scar peeking from under one shoulder piece.

“Man, I wish Steph was here,” Dick took everyone’s attention away from the siblings, “because I was also right on the princess thing.”

“So… This is really nothing to you? Like, it does nothing?” Danny’s wide smile was more amused than it should be. “We are literally interdimensional royalty, here, standing in your fancy mansion,” he did a gesture encompassing the whole room, his sister, and himself, “and nothing?”

Jazz sighed again, the flames on the tips of her headpiece burning a little bit brighter. If one squinted, the vague shape of a circle was starting to form with the fire. Her crown?

“Danny,” Jazz made a gesture towards the not at all surprised Waynes sitting in front of them, “there is something you should know about them.”

“Aha?” He glanced at her, but kept his eyes on the others.

“The Waynes are also heroes. They are—”

“No fucking way.”

“Yep.”

“Jazz,” Danny crossed his arms again, but he was smiling, “you had one job. What was it?”

“To not be noticed by Batman.” She looked away, ashamed.

“And what happened?”

“It was— I was careless. I’m sorry, okay?” She closed her eyes and pinched her nose. “Can we drop it? Please?”

Danny was not going to drop it, but Jason got his attention and made a signal to cut it out. Fortunately, the young King made the decision to listen. The little frown told them it was only temporary.

“Okay.” Nobody missed Jazz’s shoulders immediately relax at the word. “So you guys are the bats and birds, and have known about us for a while—”

“Suspected.” Bruce spoke for the first time since reveals started happening. He cleared his throat. “Jasmine, she— She explained some things, but warned that there were things she couldn’t say due to safety reasons and needed to wait for you.”

Danny raised his eyebrows, looking back between Bruce and his sister. Did he know that there was more story behind those words? No doubt he would ask her more details about how they found out — that’s what he would do — so he wasn’t sure the siblings were going to be this amused and relaxed in their— in his presence anymore.

As much as it pained him, maybe this would be the last time they could get answers.

“She talked about the GIW,” Danny tensed, Jazz pursed her lips, “and warned us about Vlad Masters.”

Like the flip of a switch, any amusement left Danny and he donned a persona they haven’t seen yet: the King. It was subtle, but they were so used to reading body language that they could see the shift happen as clear as day.

“Is that so?” The flames of his crown flared for a second. He glanced at Jazz. “When you said the situation had changed…?”

“The GIW and potentially Vlad are… they know I’m here.” She winced. “They will, when they get here. And Jason—”

“I’ve noticed.”

All eyes went to the mentioned. Danny’s new attitude made his piercing green eyes drill holes on Jason’s skin. If he felt poked and prodded when Jazz watched him, it was nothing next to how he literally felt Danny’s consciousness somehow touch his.

He jumped. “What the fuck was that?”

“Interesting.”

“Don’t ‘interesting’ me! What—”

“Darling,” Jazz sat back down next to him, “it’s okay.”

She took his hand, which helped a lot, but still he glared at Danny as the presence came back. At least now that he expected it he didn’t feel so violated.

“What an interesting case.” He tilted his head. “You sure know how to find them, Jazzy.”

“Please don’t call me that.”

“What do you mean?” Jason tried to keep the conversation on track. “What’s interesting?”

Danny licked his lips and shifted his weight from one foot to another. The armor barely made a sound, even if it was expected from such heavy metal.

“You died.” It wasn’t a question. “And your resurrection was painful. What has been done to you was incomplete, tainted, and has left your ghost development stunted.”

That explained absolutely nothing.

“I gave him one of my vials.” Jazz interrupted before he could complain.

That didn’t please her sibling. “Jazz—”

“I know.” The hand that held Jason’s twitched for a second. “But it was an emergency. Would that affect him?”

Danny pondered the question, one hand on his chin. “Maybe. I don’t know. We should check with the yetis.”

“Thought so.” She glanced at her boyfriend. “Sorry.”

“Don’t say sorry. I told you if there’s no blood, there’s no need to say sorry.”

“As cute as this is, we need to focus on the important part here.” Danny got his sister’s attention. “Situation has changed.”

“Yes.” Jazz took a deep breath. “GIW is coming, Vlad may be as well, and I can’t just—” she rubbed her face, “We need to re-negotiate, re-strategize and move up The Plan.”

“The Plan?” Bruce leaned in, catching on the capital letters.

Danny looked at Jazz. Jazz looked at Jason before looking back at her brother.

“We… Okay. Okay.” She breathed in, breathed out. “We are at war. In the Infinite Realms.” She ignored Danny sitting down beside her and the fire when his armor was gone. “Danny is the King, yes, but he is not the only one who has a claim.”

“Vlad.”

Danny clicked his tongue at the name, but patted Jazz’s shoulder and now her armor disappeared in green flames. “He has been after power ever since he came back to life from his accident.”

“We’ve been fighting Vlad and his supporters, as well as trying to fix the mess left behind by the previous King, ever since Danny took the throne.”

“And this was…?”

The siblings shared a look before Danny answered Bruce: “A week after I graduated.”

He was just a kid.

That being said, Robins started fighting crime way younger than eighteen, Bruce considered. Not the same as becoming the ruler of a whole dimension, though.

“Something you guys need to understand about the previous king, Pariah Dark, is that he was such a tyrant he had to be put into the sarcophagus of Eternal Sleep. Everything has been a mess for millenia.”

Bruce pondered Danny’s words. An interdimensional tyrant they knew nothing about, a war they wouldn’t have learned about if it wasn’t for Jason’s neighbor. He got dizzy for a second.

“But that’s not all.” Bruce nodded along when the siblings did, clearly relieved he was catching on. “The GIW.”

“We have been trying our best. Those documents you found with our parents’ signature,” Danny’s head snapped towards Jazz so fast they confirmed he was not human, or he would have had some real damage, “they were the things we couldn’t stop in time. The research we couldn’t erase in time.” She continued, ignoring Danny’s wild eyes.

Bruce swallowed, trying to get rid of the knot in his throat.

“I have nothing to do with these!”

“Darling, listen to me. Jason, this is not true.”

“This is taken out of context.”

Her voice trembled as she tried to defend herself. How could she even sway him? He now understood there was so much at stake than mad scientists on the rise, but she couldn’t say the whole truth, and by principle he considered a half truth as a lie. Nothing she could have said could have convinced him she wasn’t a criminal he needed to stop.

He was ashamed now. How in his mind it made sense. How he was blinded by Jason’s hypothetical gratitude once he presented the report of Jasmine’s arrest. Maybe he could show him he still cared for him, that he still wished him the best even if it wasn’t with him.

It felt so stupid now. Meaningless. He glanced at his son, relaxed, one of his hands subtly on Jazz’s and tracing circles with his thumb without thinking. Jason, who never seeked physical contact, who didn’t like to be hugged even as a kid.

He would never have that, it would never be that easy for both of them to be comfortable together. He made sure of that.

“I— I understand.” He managed to say. He ignored Duke and Cass’ looks at his choked voice.

“That’s when The Plan comes in.” Danny leaned in. “We need help. With Vlad and the war and how much time it consumes running the show, we decided he had to suck it up and call the Justice League.”

Duke nodded. “Jazz mentioned that Amity Park folks don’t like the League?”

“Oh we hate them. With passion.” He leaned back with a grin stretching from ear to ear, apparently enjoying when Bruce tensed. “They abandoned us when we most needed it. They left a dead teenager in charge of protecting the city.” The grin grew bigger with each accusation. Jazz slapped him on the leg. “But we decided it was worth a shot to confront them and demand that help we were owed.”

Jazz sighed. “What Danny meant to say is, after I was done with my internship at Arkham the next steps were confronting the Justice League and negotiating help with taking down the Guys in White.”

“The Plan.”

She nodded at Duke. “We didn’t know what we would encounter but the situation keeps escalating and our parents… Maddie and Jack have to be stopped.”

Danny looked away, suddenly uncomfortable at the mention of his parents. Were they this bad? How much did Barbara’s research cover? How much were they missing?

“We thought— If it’s okay with you, Bruce — that those negotiations—”

“Of course.” He interrupted her. He straightened his back. “Of course we’ll help. I’m… I’m sorry we weren’t there before.”

Jazz nodded, satisfied. Bruce took it as he said the right thing and he was one step closer to properly apologizing.

“Just like that?” Danny didn’t seem that convinced.

“Yes. I’ll need to write a report and bring it up in an emergency meeting that can be as soon as…” he tried to remember everyone’s schedules, “next Tuesday? Could be earlier but I think the Lanterns were away on some Lantern business and this sounds like something they need to know. And they should be back on Tuesday morning.”

The siblings looked at each other and had another silent conversation with just face gestures and rapid fire microexpressions. After a moment Danny sighed and relaxed, letting his body flop back to the backrest of the couch.

“We’d be very grateful, Bruce. Thank you.” Her smile was genuine.

Bruce glanced at Jason, who was looking at Jazz. As if he knew he was being watched, he turned to look at him. He also was smiling a small smirk as he subtly nodded in approval.

“What a shame,” Danny’s tone was playful, “we had planned for the possibility of fighting the League.”

“Danny.” His sister slapped his shoulder.

“Who would have fought B?”

“Dickward.” Jason gave his brother a warning look.

Both ignored the warning and smiled at each other. “Valerie.” He seemed amused that the other bit the bait and asked. “She’s the best at adapting mid combat, has a hoverboard and a bunch of gadgets that neither of you can ever hack or disable.”

“Why?”

“Is ghost technology. Nothing in it, either the material or the code, is even close to anything you have encountered before. Batman thrives when having enough time to prepare, but believe me we wouldn’t give him enough time to figure out how anything works.”

“We have had access to alien tech before.” Bruce was curious now.

Danny was shaking his head. “Our weapons and technology may look like yours but in essence it isn’t. Since we are friends now I wouldn’t mind lending a few things to study. You know, as a token of my faith.”

Bruce glanced at Jazz. She nodded in confirmation. “Would be honored to.” He finally said.

Did he have to offer pleasantries? Danny was the ruler of a dimension, nonchalant about that fact as he was. Bruce chose not to since they weren’t in their armors anymore.

“And Jazz?” Jason asked Danny.

The mentioned hid her face behind her hands. Danny leaned in to look at Jason from Jazz’s other side. “Green Arrow. And of course, Wonder Woman.”

“I noticed the Amazonian armor.”

“I’m right here.” Jazz growled.

“She’s been trained by Pandora, back at the Greek side of the Realms. All the dead Amazons are over there and some were thrilled to participate in her training; so you could say she’s the closest of us all to her battle style. Also Jazz is the expert for close quarters combat and a wide variety of weapons.” Danny was obviously proud of his sister. And maybe loved embarrassing her too much. “Except guns.”

Dick’s eyebrows went to his hairline. Bruce hid his shock as best as he could, and tried hard not to look at Jason.

“Danny.” Jazz said through gritted teeth. “Stop.”

“What? It's the truth! You are the only one of us that doesn’t fight with ectoguns, but you make up for it really well.” He slapped her back so hard a bone should have cracked.

Jason cleared his throat. “No guns? For any particular reason?”

Duke choked. Would Jazz find Jason’s weapon of choice repulsive? It couldn’t be — she knew about Red Hood, she knew what he had done, how he had done it.

Danny’s smile was as bright as the Sun. “Because she sucks! I’ve never seen such a bad aim.”

“I’ve been getting better!” She groaned, her face crimson red. “I’ve practiced!”

“Oh yeah? I still have scars from the last time you ‘practiced’!” He lifted his shirt, showing his lower back and a very clear healed burn scar in there. “You definitely have dad’s aim!”

“Yeah? And you suck at sword fighting!” Danny flinched. “Do you think I don’t know how many training sessions you’ve missed?”

“Is not that bad…”

“Yes it is, Danny,” she crossed her arms, “since you rely so badly on your powers. What happens if you cannot use them?”

“That will never happen.” He crossed his arms too. “Most powerful being of the Realms here.” Danny shrugged, showing off his perfect rows of pointy white teeth, even in human form.

Jazz snorted and moved as fast as lightning, one hand going for her brother’s stomach to punch him square in the gut. She didn’t hit flesh, because at the last minute Danny’s chest went intangible and her whole arm went through like he was air.

“Ha!” He looked back up to laugh at her — finding her other hand waiting for him.

Jazz flicked his forehead so hard the others flinched at the noise it made, and Danny was sent back to the armrest of the sofa.

“Hey!” He rubbed his forehead. “That wasn’t fair!”

“This is what happens when you don’t pay attention, Danny!” She hissed, gesturing with her hands. “And when you rely way too much on your powers!”

“But—”

“But nothing! I bet since I’ve been gone you’ve skipped every damn sword fighting class. Ancients, I bet I could beat your ass even as rusty as I am now!”

Danny opened his mouth to protest, but no words came out. He knew she was right.

The others watched amused as the young man rubbed his forehead again and glared at his sister.

“Not my fault you are a freak.”

“What did you just say?” Jazz tensed, her body ready to pounce.

Bruce cleared his throat, and like magic, the siblings jumped away from each other and sat straighter. Jazz nervously chuckled and fixed her hair again. Bruce smiled. King, princess and all, they were still around his childrens’ age.

Said children giggled, amused by the familiarity of their chaotic dynamic.

“So,” Dick redirected the conversation, “what’s next?”

Jazz tilted her head, thinking. “With my identity revealed, we need to renegotiate with Lady Gotham.”

Danny clicked his tongue. “She’s not going to like it.”

“Well, she will have to if she wants her people protected.”

“Jazz talked about this Spirit,” Bruce nodded. “So there was an agreement?”

“Yeah,” she answered, “as I said, we were not supposed to get closer to Batman or any of the vigilantes, and she wouldn’t be opposed to the Princess stomping on her haunt.” Her cheeks tinted a slight pink as she glanced at Jason. “Obviously that’s void now, and if I’m going to protect this city I need to be able to use my abilities, so we have to chat with her before strategizing.”

“When do you think you are talking to her?”

“Why? Wanna come?”

Bruce’s silence told her that yes, he very much wanted to. She made a weird face, between amused and concerned. “Is it not allowed?” He asked.

Jazz glanced at Danny, who shrugged and was very unhelpful. “I mean… It’s her beloved Knight. Maybe she won’t try to obliterate us on sight if we use him as a human shield.”

“Hey!”

“Actually, it’s not a bad idea.” Bruce conceded. Apologizing for what he had done could also mean mediating when they talked with the sentient city.

He was also curious.

Hm.

“Okay then we could do it sometime tomorrow? Before I have to go back to the Realms.” Danny stretched his back and yawned.

“Are you leaving so soon?”

Danny stopped mid yawn at his sister’s tone of voice. “Why? Did you miss me?”

She didn’t answer, but Jason’s amused nod where she couldn’t see it made Danny chuckle. Jazz would talk your ear out about reaching out and being in touch with your emotional needs; but she also had a hard time admitting that sometimes she also needed her little brother as well.

“You could stay the week? I have work, but apart from that…”

“And we also have to prepare the report with Batman.” He answered, nodding.

“Bruce is fine.”

Jazz nodded at the older man and smiled back at her brother. “What do you think?”

He made a show like he was pondering staying or not, humming and crossing arms, and making a big sigh like a heavy weight was on his chest.

“I guess I can make the time in my busy kingly schedule.” Danny’s smile showed his true age — not a front, not trying to appear mischievous, not wanting to be strong for appearance’s sake.

Just a little brother and his older sister.

---

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[maximotts]

Thinking about Natasha picking Wanda up by her thighs, which of course makes Wanda squeak, and leaning her against a wall but they’re both smiling too wide to properly make out (and Wanda is nose scrunching)

don't look at me I'm weak for overly excitable subby Nat-

civil war era!WandaNat ⁘ 700 words ⁘ no cws needed for this besides Natasha using her strength to be a clingy cutiepie

"Stop it, wait-!"

Being lifted so suddenly had Wanda throwing her arms around her girlfriend, clumsily grasping at Natasha for balance. She barely had enough time to manage that small motion before her back hit the wall, the redhead quickly surging forward to smash her lips into Wanda's.

Nat was uncharacteristically eager, having sped through the halls upon hearing of Wanda's return from her most recent mission. It'd taken a week longer than planned, Wanda's persistent nature keeping her away until she tracked down everyone involved with HYDRA's newest branch.

She couldn't fault her for the extra work, would be a blatant hypocrite to do so, but it didn't change how much she'd missed her while she was away.... Natasha didn't think she'd ever been so impatient to see someone in her entire life. "You're back."

"Mhm..." After every mission there was a debrief; Steve was surely wondering what was keeping Wanda who typically arrived early just to avoid being late— if he asked Natasha would give an excuse faster than Wanda could open her mouth. Or maybe she'd tell the truth: her teammate cornered her with a barrage of kisses.

Natasha was more than strong enough to hold her girlfriend without effort, gripping her thighs almost desperately as she nipped at her lips, but Wanda's giggles were contagious and as they grew, Nat's own bubbled up in sync. "What's so funny, Maximoff?"

Wanda's face was painfully soft as Nat pulled back, grinning down at her captor with a kiss-swollen mouth, "I just didn't expect such a warm welcome, especially right here in the halls from Miss Romanoff herself."

"Yeah well, I'm full of surprises..." She kept her trapped, resting her chin on Wanda's chest and matching her bright smile. "We can't assign you anymore missions this long without me and you're on paid leave for the next three days, welfare issues."

"Welfare, huh?" Tired fingers carded through Nat's long hair, brushing through the thick waves before guiding her head to lay against her. "But I'd hate to miss out on something important-"

"But nothing. As your superior, I've already decided." Wanda did need the field experience, but she was a quick learner and as soon as she'd proven herself as a valuable asset to the team she'd be sent out every chance they got.

It was a purely selfish move to keep Wanda back, but when she closed her eyes and focused in on the soft thrum of the brunette's heartbeat under her ear, the back of her hand sweetly brushing over her blushed cheek, Natasha couldn't talk herself out of doing it. "Missed you, Wands...."

"Poor thing, did you miss me? I left you alone too long?" Nat nodded as the other woman kissed the crown of her head and Wanda melted, cooing over her girlfriend's honesty. Such vulnerability was a treasured thing, raw, unguarded, allowing Wanda to see all her softest spots.

Nat hummed, savoring the joy of her girlfriend's comforting words. She couldn't stop smiling which was rare, but Wanda wouldn't complain a bit, "My giddy girl... I'll always come home to you, no matter what."

"I wish you'd come to bed with me." The confession was mumbled and yet Wanda hear it all the same, her gentle chide in the form of a slight hair tug confirmed it.

Finally Wanda began to squirm, attempting to wiggle away to no avail. "It's the middle of the day! I do have to do some work to do before my forced vacation. At least to tell Steve how everything went."

"You're back safe, that's all that matters right now." Nat let Wanda off the wall, but didn't put her down, securing long legs about her waist before heading back down the hallway— towards their shared room, completely opposite to the elevators leading down to the offices. "Just tell him we needed a private check in first."

"Oh, I am not rewarding this kidnapping!" The struggle was futile, even without the shared laughter weakening Wanda's strength, and after a short message through FRIDAY from Nat warning their teammates not to disturb them during their 'recovery time' Wanda could only hope everyone forgave her for taking the rest of the day to tend to her tenacious girlfriend.

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Rook, Ortho: Princess Power

BRUH 💀 Go figure, giving the guy obsessed with beauty two of the least flattering screenshots in his background frames… But hey, his groovy is very different from everyone else’s so far! ^^ Very relaxed and peaceful.

Cbjssbjsjskendb new tidbits about pre-Pomefiore Rook?? He used to cut his own hair with a knife and focused on keeping his bangs out of his line of sight… and he wasn’t as confident about his style (mood). It’s also interesting to know that he started doing ballet on Vil’s recommendation, and that has helped a lot with his posture, working out muscles he doesn’t normally use, and appreciating the art of performances. We love Pomefiore out here breaking gender norms 👊

A Tale as Old as Time.

Rook drew out a longing sigh, gently easing into the quiet of the museum. The soft sound lingered, coiling around his fingers like thread from a spool. It, too, did not wish to part ways with the stunning beauty laid out bare before it.

A fair maiden was framed in shining platinum. Hair black as ebony, lips as red as the rose, and skin as white as snow... Truly, she was the fairest in all the land.

Her graceful frame was folded, kneeling on the forest floor to greet the woodland creatures that had gathered. The pale yellow skirt of her gown spilled out, blue bodice and puff sleeves fitted well by her figure. Her face round and gentle, in spite of the high collar encircling it, crowed by a petite red bow.

Here was pure innocence, a young girl reveling in nature.

“Beauté,” he marveled—to no one in particular, but such beauty warranted verbal acknowledgement.

“It seems that this painting has captured your interest, Rook Hunt-san!” a voice chirped. A neon blue light emanated from the darkness, accompanied by the silver flash of metal.

“Bonjour!” Rook greeted Ortho. "I must confess, I have been enchanted by this particular work of art! The brush strokes, masterful! The composition, immaculate!! The subject—oh, how it makes my heart quiver with nostalgia!! I am a man close to being moved to tears!!”

Ortho curiously glanced at the girl and her animal friends. No strong emotions arose within up from him. Perhaps he did not feel as much, or perhaps Rook felt too much. “Is there a sentimental experience or memory you have related to this painting…?”

“Oui! It is a tale as old as time.” Rook gestured to the snow white young lady. “They say that this maiden was a princess forced to flee from her home country, as a hostile presence threatened her life. She retreated into the woods and found comfort in a humble life there. Her tenacity is most admirable!!”

“Tenacity… That’s the value that Pomefiore was founded on!” Ortho, floating overhead, beamed at Rook. “I understand why you would like that story. It has a good moral that sticks with you.”

“That is the beauty of telling tales! They inspire those who hear of it, ensuring that the spirit of the story is never truly extinguished.” The huntsman’s eyes held a keep glint to them. “Tell me, Ortho-kun. What do you believe makes a princess?”

The boy blinked. A split second, and he had already input the term into an internal search engine, the formal definition loaded up to recite.

“Prin-cess, noun. The daughter of a monarch or wife to a prince. A woman having sovereign power.”

“An efficient, succinct answer!” Rook applauded, his cheer never faltering. “However, my desire is to know your interpretation. In Ortho-kun’s own words, what makes a princess?”

“My own…?” The words stretched, unsure, on his tongue. Ortho hesitated—seeking, processing, and analyzing. Rook’s heartbeat sounded where there was the space for the boy to think.

Then, finally, Ortho spoke.

“From what I’ve observed in movies and books, the princess is a pop culture icon. She’s usually presented as a role model for little girls. Someone who is beautiful, dainty, and composed, wearing a pretty dress and a glittering crown."

A pause. Ortho assessed Rook’s hard-to-read, bright expression.

“… Is that closer to the response you were looking for, Rook Hunt-san?” he asked.

To this, the third year’s lips quirked. “There is no correct or incorrect answer! I was curious to see your perspective. Everyone holds one that differs, lenses of all designs and colors with which to see the world through! You have my most heartfelt thanks for sharing your view with me.”

"Oh, I see! You're collecting data from a variety of sources to compare to a standard." The android (literally) lit up from within. "Let me ask the same back! Rook Hunt-san, what do you think makes a princess?"

"Mon dieu! You've set my own trap upon me," Rook teased.

The Beautiful Queen, the Fair Maiden, Vil, his peers... So many fragments of beauty in his collection. Plucked, collected, hoarded.

He ran a finger along his chin, contemplating. The thoughts assembled like a collage. Ideas taken, cut up, and pasted together into a new, glorious artwork.

"A princess can be many things," Rook declared with certainty. "They are a princess to their very core, even when their power is stripped from them or they are dressed in only ashes and rags. What defines them is not royal heritage or political influence, but the strength of their character, their values and virtues. They are not bound by a singular trait, but are aspirations to all in their own ways."

Ortho's eyes swelled. "Eh...? That's so broad! By your definition, anyone could be a princess—even you or I!”

The huntsman threw his head back and laughed. "Broad it may be, but I am of the opinion that we all have it in us to live up to the title~”

He indicated the woman in the platinum frame. Ortho’s gaze obediently followed. "Even without a kingdom to call her own, she remained kind-hearted rather than turn to cruelty. That is why she was, and always will be, a noble soul. A princess who puts out good into the world.”

“Rook Hunt-san…”

“Ortho-kun!” Rook dramatically extended an arm to him. He was practically sparkling in the dim room. “I, too, endeavor to put out as much beauty as what is gifted to me! That is my one true calling as the Hunter of Love: to not only seek out beauty, but to cultivate and to contribute to it!”

Ortho silently stared. Nii-san did warn me that Rook Hunt-san could be eccentric, but… maybe there’s some meaning to be found in it.

Cutting through the numbers and the formulas that governed him was a fuzzy warmth. Not the familiar jolt of electricity that powered his circuits. It was too wild, too unpredictable.

Something undeniably human.

Ortho let out a giggle. "Hehe. Then you must be a princess too!"

Rook's mouth formed a small "o". Unsubtle surprise—or perhaps purposefully exaggerated. "Me? Whatever makes you think that?"

"Strength of character!" Ortho parroted mischievously. "I've never met someone as uplifting as you are. Rook Hunt-san is the type of person that sees a princess in everyone."

The boy lowered himself to a few centimeters off of the ground, pretending to dip into a curtsey. "Your majesty!"

"Fufufu. You're quite charming yourself, Princess Ortho-kun!" Rook bent into a deep bow. "Most clever in all the land, computing complex problems in the blink of an eye!”

Upon straightening, the third year laid both hands over his heart. He lifted his head toward the painting of the fair maiden in the forest. A serene smile at his lips.

It was as if he was pledging his allegiance, making a vow. A worshipper at the altar to pray.

“May we all live happily ever after,” Rook whispered raptly, “like the princesses of old.”

Forever and ever.

[atlaculture]

Live-Action Promo Pics: Ozai

Hi everyone, I know I’m pretty late to the party, but I just wanted to give my two cents on the costuming for the second batch of promo pics we got last month. Afterwards, I’m going to be doing a very thorough breakdown of both the fresh and familiar elements showcased in the new trailer. I’ll also be giving my two cents on the casting for the adult characters, as I feel they’re far along enough into their careers to not care what some random person on Tumblr thinks of them.

Ozai

What I Liked

The topknot crown (guan) looks great. They translated the simple look from the animated show into a really elaborate design in live-action that’s fitting of the Fire Lord’s status.

The facial hair looks quite realistic and natural. Facial hair on East/Southeast Asian men tends to grow pretty straight--- until they hit their senior years, when the head and facial hair start to get bushier.

The brocade pattern on his outer robe is cool. The diamond shapes remind me of the sort of patterns you tend to see on traditional Thai fabrics.

They retained his silhouette and color scheme. I know that’s the bare minimum, but I’m still happy that he’s immediately recognizable as Ozai, unlike his movie counterpart.

What I Didn’t Care For

His outfit is really red. I know it’s the Fire Nation’s signature color, but an abundance of bright red tends to be hard on the eyes. This is why most Fire Nation characters dress in much more muted reds, usually with black and grey as secondary colors. His solid red robe with all the shiny, gold detailing makes him look cartoonier than his counterpart in the actual cartoon.

I’m not a fan of the spaulders directly attached to his outer robe. Having them be sewn/glued on to the clothing makes them look flimsy, rather than imposing. It also bothers me that the layers of his spaulders aren’t uniformly curly--- although this is just a personal pet peeve of mine.

I really wish they had incorporated the triangular shoulder pieces from the show into his outfit. It would have made him look more imposing and offset some of the searing red in his outfit. It’s not as if there isn’t any precedent for this kind of armor either; there are real-world examples from SE Asia that they could have used as inspiration. (Picture below: Thai, Burmese, and Lao shoulder armor.)

This design is not amazing, but also not terrible. About what I was expecting: A recognizable, if somewhat underwhelming, interpretation of Ozai.

Overall, I give this look 5 evil goatees out of 10.

I will say that I’ve warmed up to Daniel Dae Kim as Ozai. He’s got an imposing and regal aura, but I still wish a younger actor was playing the role. It would have created an even starker contrast between the vicious younger brother and the wizened elder brother.

[thebadboyfanclub]

Look At Me, Princess (Harwin x Reader)

This was a really nice spin off since I wanted to write about Rhaenyras aunt and someone that Rhaenyra could have a close bond with also having Harwin as your love interest is always a plus

There’s one person princess (y/n) Targaryen loved more than her family and children and that was her dearest niece, Rhaenyra Targaryen who looked up to her aunt ever since she was a toddler, Rhaenyra had formed a bond with the youngest sister of Viserys like no other, mayhaps because (y/n) was only 10 when the princess was born so (y/n) plus understand the struggles she was going through better than anyone since they were still fresh in her mind.

No matter the reason Rhaenyra felt most comfortable in the presence of “the people's princess”, (y/n) was an interesting character, it seemed like she had the best features of both of her brothers, she was fair and optimistic like Viserys but also adventurous and outspoken like Daemon, both of her brothers spoiled her rotten, no harm would come to her if they had something to do with it, it only took for a simple mist of tears to well up in her eyes for Viserys to fill her hands with gifts and Daemon to roll heads.

“You look beautiful Rhaenyra”

“Thank you, I was going to say the same for you, I see you have not held back on the jewelry”

“It is my name-day, the tourney is held in my job honor, and as my dear brother says “it is an opportunity to gather an established suitor” so, in my opinion, it is just enough, besides, I was never known for my subtle taste”

Rhaenyra giggled at the answer of her aunt, (y/n) was one of the most luxurious women Rhaenyra has ever laid eyes upon, ever since she could remember her aunt was dressed in the finest of dresses with the most intricate patterns, and her neck was decorated by rubies and pearls as were her earlobes, she would bathe in goat milk and rub rose oil on her to keep her skin looking youthful.

Her dress was in Targaryen red with golden details sewn all over it, Rhaenyra wondered how long did it take to create this dress to be worn by the most beautiful woman in the seven kingdoms who remained unmarried, Viserys had begged her to marry but she refused any man that asked for her hand, all of them wanted to lay with a Targaryen, the sense of power excited them none would even spare her a look of it wasn’t for her name.

“I must thank the knights that decided to partake in this tourney held by my beloved brother and your king for my name day, I am honored to feel such warmth from you on this special day, I shall keep this brief since I believe no one came to listen to me but to watch the men in action, let the games begin”

Everyone clapped as (y/n) sat back down and winked at her niece who was smiling brightly, poor little thing had yet to adapt after the second wedding of her father, and to her best friend at that, Rhaenyra leaned on (y/n) more than ever and (y/n) was right there to offer a shoulder and an ear, she knew the pain of living without a mother very well.

“I ask the favor from the woman of the hour, princess (y/n) Targaryen, the heart of the realm”

(Y/n) had done her best to keep the peace within the small folk, but the starving masses had torn her heart open, she talked her brother's ear off to offering food and water in the flea bottom and paid for the orphanage to be fixed and in proper condition, that is where “the heart of the realm” name came from.

(Y/n) rose from her seat with a flower crown in hand and stopped in front of the stand, she leaned enough for the flower crown to slide down the spear of the strongest man the Seven Kingdoms could offer, Ser Harwin “Breakbones” Strong who waited patiently for the princess that was smiling as bright as the sun.

“I wish you good fortune and thank you for the kind words Ser Harwin”

“You honor me, princess”

He replied before he commanded his horse to the other side, (y/n) was supposed to walk away as well and sit back in her seat, surprisingly she remained still, her eyes following the Commander of the city watch until he charged at his opponent who to no one’s surprise loss against the knight dressed in blue armor.

(Y/n) smiled and clapped for him only for Ser Harwin to bow his head in gratitude, after that, she went back to sit next to Rhaenyra, the young niece had a playful smirk on her lips.

“Ser Harwin is a very handsome young man”

“Indeed he is”

“And Strong, who else would be better suited for a dragon?”

“You are rushing my dear, where is the fun in marrying Ser Harwin just because he asked for my favor? Things like this shine better with time”

-

“Princess (y/n) Targaryen with her brother Prince Daemon Targaryen”

(Y/n) and Daemon walked into the room side by side, no one knew where to focus, to the luxurious princess or the rogue prince who made his first appearance after his wedding was recently dissolved.

(Y/n) was the one to inform her brother about the feast, she was aware of the feelings Rhaenyra had developed for her older brother so she thought it would be a good gift to her niece.

“Congratulations my sweet Nyra, may the mother bless this wedlock with a plethora of children”

(Y/n) spoke before she got up the steps and hugged her niece, the kiss she placed on Rhaenyra's forehead reminded Daemon and Viserys of their mother Alyssa, even though (y/n) had never met her she would still mirror their late mother in so many aspects of her life.

“Thank you, aunt, mayhaps you are next”

“That is a possibility your father would adore”

“I wish for you to have a husband by your side is that so bad?”

“No brother I was just jesting, let us enjoy this night”

(Y/n) took her appointed seat next to her brother Daemon who sulked in his chair and stared daggers into anyone he laid eyes upon, (y/n) wondered what life would be like if she was Daemon or Viserys, she loved them both and would give her life for them but she had to recognize the privilege of being born a male, a prince at that, one had a target on his back for killing his wife and the other sacrificed his love for a babe that did not survive and is now married to a much younger lady.

Would she suffer the fate of Aemma as well? Or mayhaps marry someone she is not interested in out of duty like her niece? Her thoughts were interrupted by a young man dressed with the sigil of a lion bowed before her.

“Princess, my name is Gregory Lannister, brother of Jason Lannister”

“Pleasure to meet you, my lord, to what do I owe this introduction?”

“I was hoping you would accompany me for a dance”

“The princess will-“

“Be delighted, thank you, my lord”

She interrupted her brother who was ready to attack the young man. It was time for (y/n) to face the music, she is not getting any younger and as a princess, there was not much that she could do but marry, she had managed to slip through the cracks for so long though she could not always run away from it.

The Lannister lord seemed delighted and offered his hand for her to take, his touch was soft and gentle, he guided her to the middle of the crowd, and with a curtsy, they followed the music for the custom dance.

“How does it feel to see your niece be wed?”

“It is a wonderful day for my lovely Rhaenyra, lord Laenor will be a great king Consort for her”

“He is an honorable choice that is true, is that what marriage is for you as well”

“Wedlock is an oath given to the gods, to trust and to hold, it is a sacred act that I hope I will experience myself”

“I am certain you had your chance with multiple suitors would I be overstepping if I asked why have you chosen to stay a maiden?”

“As mentioned I believe marriage is sacred, call me insane for wanting to find a man that I enjoy being around and not just a man that appears to be a match for the realm”

As the two of them grew into a discussion (y/n) did not have the mind to notice a man that gawked at her like a hawk, Ser Harwin Strong had followed her with his gaze and had yet to pull away from her, his hands turned into fists as he saw the man’s eyes shifted down from her face and to her cleavage.

Gregory cared nothing for (y/n) nor her personality, it was all a mediocre act to get his hands at the pot of gold which was befitting behavior of a Lannister Lord.

“You are letting your true self show son”

“I am just guarding the princess”

“You can fool anyone but not me”

Harwin did not respond to his father, he had nothing to say that could prove to his father that he did not have a soft spot for the lady that was spinning around and her dress taking most of the space on the floor, she was perfect to him, a woman that anyone would be lucky to have so he couldn’t help but wonder why was she dancing with a man that was beneath her? He wasn’t clever nor strong nor did he have anything that could help his courting with her besides the Lannister sigil.

No one could have guessed what was coming next, a blood-curling scream went through everyone’s eardrums as the crowd became one mesh, in a blink of an eye Harwin lost sight of the princess, baffled he started shoving people out of the way in hopes to see her, knights were throwing commands as the people screamed and ran for their lives.

(Y/n) attempted to move out of the circle only to be met with someone’s back which caused her to fall back and hit her head on a piece of wooden furniture, the impact on her head was enough to bring her into a sense of lightheadedness, Gregory lifted her by her waist and pretty much carried her outside until they were secluded to a more private and dim lighted area, (y/n) blinked profusely to clear her foggy eyesight but to no avail, her legs felt weak as she had to support herself from Gregory.

“I can’t breathe”

She felt Gregory’s hands go up to the strings of her corset, she was about to thank him for loosening the tight piece of clothing until the corset started to become loose as to expose herself, thankfully she was quick enough to bring her hands up to her chest and keep it there, her mind tried to find an excuse as to Gregory being in shock and not knowing exactly what he was doing.

“My dress”

“It is alright (y/n) we are alone”

“No, my dress is untied”

“I’ll be quick”

(Y/n) finally met his eyes, the eyes that she could not recognize, dark and almost demonic, her hands were occupied with keeping her corset in place to shove him away as she was starting to get squeamish, her stomach turning as she fussed to get away from her.

All she felt was his weight leaving her but she did not count that he was keeping her up, (y/n) slid down and curled into a ball from fear of what was to come, it was at this point that she saw a man towering over Gregory and punching him repeatedly, a part of her felt relieved for the immediate justice of Gregory’s attempt to harm her, her other part trembled about whom it was and who could have seen them.

“Princess”

A voice as soft as silk reached her ears, Harwin strong had knelt to take a good look at her, make sure she was unharmed, he had run out to look for her only to find her in distress whilst the Lannister bastard wanted to defile her, (y/n) flinched when Harwin reached for her and although it hurt him he understood that she probably does not wish to be touched.

“Listen to me princess, in any minute people will start to pass by and if they find you like this they will not ask questions, they will just start whispering, we must take you away to your chambers, can you walk”

“I don’t think so”

“Can I lift you?”

“Please”

-

“Alyssa be careful”

Harwin heard (y/n) call for their eldest daughter as he entered the hall with a letter in his hand, the scene was heavenly in front of him, his beloved princess sitting on the couch with a fan in her hand to cool herself, her swollen belly was protruding from her dress, it was almost time for her to start her labor for their fourth child, their two older children, Alyssa and Alamea running around in mischievous nature chasing one another around and the third Arran was only two years old was sitting down next to his mother playing with his toys.

All of them had inherited their father's hair, dark brown curls, only little details telling of their Targaryen ancestors, Alyssa had her grandmother's eyes, Alamea had a few strings of blonde hair and little Arran had lavender hues, (y/n) never complained, she enjoyed the fact that she could see her lovely knight in their children.

“How are you feeling my dear?”

“I’m burning up but that’s nothing new”

Harwin sat next to her, contemplating how to go about this, his hand found her belly to caress it lovingly, the last thing he needed was to cause any complications with the news that he must share with her, he had done his best to shield his family from the outside world, brought them to harrenhal to maintain a peaceful life away from the menaces that lurked at court, his offspring should never be taint by the monstrosities that found a home in the red keep.

“A raven came from Dragonstone”

He simply informed as he passed the piece of paper to her, (y/n) who was clueless as to what it said grabbed it with excitement, wanting to read news of her family.

“My beloved aunt,

I write to you with great grief to announce to you that my father, your brother, Viserys has passed.

Unfortunately, this letter is not just to inform you over the kings passing, it is to ask for you and your family to come to my aid as I go against my brother Aegon who has usurped me and was crowned in front of the masses, claiming that he is the rightful heir due to his gender.

Please, I beg you for your love and guidance, in return I offer you the position of being the hand of the queen and your husband to be the commander of the queens guard, I need you by my side as you have always been the light of hope at my darkest of moments.

Love,

Rhae Rhae”

Tears welled up in her eyes as her hands trembled over what she was reading, her eldest brother was gone and before his body grew cold the Hightowers declared war on her Rhaenyra, Harwin took the princess in his arms as the tears escaped and sobs took over her body, he hated seeing her like this, he had done his best to keep her happy and now the pain of losing one of the few members of her immediate family engulfed her to such a degree that he saw just her younger self clinging on to her brother for dear life.

Even though (y/n) had created a family of her own, Viserys was someone she adored, her kindhearted brother, (y/n) dug her nails on top of Harwin back out of desperation as he was the one that she could always snatch upon and feel some level of safety, the man that always stood in front of her and took all the pain just so she can be out of harm's way, now that meant that he endured her nails piercing through his skin in an attempt to bring her some type of comfort.

“I must go to her”

“You cannot travel my love, what of our children?”

“You are right I suppose, I am sorry”

“Magdalena take the children elsewhere”

“I want to stay with momma”

Alyssa complained, (y/n) was in shambles and she had every right to be but Harwin wanted to spare them from witnessing such a tragic scene of their mother being miserable.

Once the children were out of sight (y/n) wiped away her tears and her eyes bounced from one thing to another since they refused to focus because her mind was scattered with thoughts that came all at once, a headache was surely soon to follow.

“Look at me, princess”

Harwin's voice was low and endearing, he pulled her out of her delirium the minute her eyes found his deep blue hues, oh those bewitching eyes that held a tremendous amount of admiration for his lady wife, his princess, Harwin took one deep breath through his nose and then out the mouth, (y/n) followed as Harwin wanted to slow down her heart and breathing, soothe her enough so they can plan together.

“Harrenhall shall declare for Rhaenyra, once I give birth we will ride for dragonstone”

“Alyssa is young she cannot go through a war”

“We can take them to Lys, we have friends there”

“If you become the queens' hand and I go as a commander it means we risk our lives”

“I cannot leave her”

“Harrenhall will declare for Rhaenyra, we will send an army to her and bend the knee to her, I give you my word for that, bullet us enjoy a few days of peace until we decide.”

“Fine but I will send a raven to her”

“I love you, princess”

“I love you more, Ser Harwin break bones”

Harwin leaned to place a gentle kiss on his wife's lips, he feared for what would come next, if she dies there was no reason for him to keep on living, but if he refused her she would end up despising him or try to run away, he had no choice but to bargain with her.

The next morrow Rhaenyra received a raven from Harrenhall, she put everything to a halt in order to read what her aunt was writing, she knew she was asking for too much and the princess that was days away from starting her labours had every right to refuse her or remain cordial.

“My Rhae Rhae,

I grieve for my brother, I will forever hold the moments I had with him near my heart, and with utmost love, I also know he is probably cursing at his son from the other side over this treacherous crime.

I also of you to understand that I wish to stay at Harrenhall until I give birth, in a few morrows time my children will go to Lys for sanctuary, I want them away from any type of war.

My husband and I will be by your side, as we only recognize the firstborn daughter Rhaenyra Targaryen as the true heir to the iron throne.

My flesh and blood, my strong niece, you will have your throne and crown.

I love you

(Y/n)”

Requests are open!

[marymary-diva17]

yawne

neteyam x human/avatar reader

avatar masterlist

A young girl had been born and raised on pandora, as your couldn’t go back to earth. So you had become with spider the kids that were raised on pandora, and grew up with the omatacayia m clan and become close with the sully kids. As you had started growing up some of your relationships with the sully kids and spider will change over, the years as you all become older and soon saw each other in a new light. 

Y/n " ahhh neteyam put me down" neteyam had you over his shoulder laughing, as he soon. dropped you into the water below. You and the whole gang had went to this lake with a water fall to spend the day off having fun.

neteyam " as you wish princess" soon neteyam had tossed you into the water, you soon resurfaced and looked at him. Soon laughter could be heard as everyone was looking at you.

y/n " I swear when I get my hands on your blue boy you are going to get it" you soon got to the shore and started chasing after neteyam, but with no such luck as he was faster then you. Neteyam soon pulled a move on your grabbing you and making you two fall onto the ground.

neteyam " it seems like you got me princess"

y/n " no fair you play dirty neteyam" you were laying on neteyam as he had a bright smile on his face, you soon got off of him.

lo'ak " that was a dirty move neteyam y/n I got you back"

y/n " thank you lo'ak I'm happy to know at least someone on my side, verse a specific person"

neteyam " I know you love it princess" you scoffed as you soon helped neteyam back onto his feet, he gave you his usual smirk.

tuk " hey y/n can you help me make some flower crowns please"

y/n " sure tuk" tuk soon pull you awya from neteyam, as you two soon sat down and started making flower crowns. The boys were rough housing in the water, while kiri had joined you and tuk.

kiri " I think you and neteyam might be more then friends in the future"

y/n " what ... I don't know what you mean"

kiri " oh come on the way you both act around each other and look at each other, even grandmother has noticed there a special bond between the two of you"

y/n " ......" you had smiled while you had started to blush this had gotten kiri attention as she had looked at you, she and lo'ak knew of neteyam crush on your and kept on trying to get their brother to tell you before it was to late.

y/n " speaking of being close to a friend what about you and spider, don't tell me there nothing between you and him" kiri soon looked at you as you and tuk started laughing at her reaction.

kiri " fair game y/n fair game" you and kiri were having a good time laughing and talking. The gang had spent their whole day out by the water and enjoying each other company, until it was time to go back to the village and base.

Jake " hello kids"

tuk " hey dad look at the flowers y/n put in my hair today she even helped me make this flower crown"

Jake " that amazing did you say thank you to her"

y/n " yes she did sir" soon Neytiri had stepped out of the home happy to see her children and mate home.

neytiri " good you all are home dinner is ready"

tuk " yeah dinner time"

Jake " a good meal after a long day of work"

neytiri " mother you are here dinner is ready"

mo'at " hello everyone"

kiri " oh mom can spider and y/n join us for dinner please" neytiri soon notice you and spider were here still, she gave you two a cold look.

neytiri " ......"

neteyam " it will be fun to share a meal with ones we hold so dear"

neytiri " kids we ...."

spider " it okay mrs sully I and y/n are having dinner at the base tonight we don't want to be inconvenience"

kiri " oh come guys it will be fun even norm can come as well... please mom"

neytiri " kiri please I ..."

y/n " it okay kiri norm is making our favorite for dinner tonight, so we will see you all tomorrow come on spider"

spider " coming sis sorry guys we have dinner with norm bye" you soon walked away with spider the two of you were like siblings, as you had both been raised by norm who had become like a dad to you both.

later that night

y/n " so that what happened at the village"

norm " oh kids I'm sorry look I know it been hard for you both to fit in due to you both being humans and ...."

spider " our brith parents we know"

norm " you both have enough people that love you and accept you both as children of eywa"

y/n " thanks norm" norm had taken you and spider in when other had doubts of raising you two because of your parents, he had become the only parent you had in life here.

spider " so what going on between you and neteyam"

y/n " kiri said it was something special what about you and kiri"

spider " we are just friends"

norm " oh you kids are in love"

y/n " what about you love life norm with a specific warrior" norm soon laugh and shake his head.

max " sorry to interrupt family dinner but neteyam here"

spider " did he mention coming over after dinner"

y/n " no he didn't tell me anything and he tell me everything... what of you spider"

spider " I'm clueless as you"

max " he wish to speak with y/n and he seem nervous about something"

y/n " I will go speak with him" you had rushed outside to see Neteyam waiting as he seem nervous about something, you soon got closer to him.

neteyam “ y/n you are here”

y/n “ yes I came when max told me you were here asking to speak to me what the matter you look worried” neteyam soon cleared his throat and looked at you.

y/n “ teyam”

neteyam “ for some time now I have fallen in love with you y/n and I know are from two different worlds, but I know you are the right one for me as being with you always make me happy and I can’t image my life without you … as I know today I had to tell you ho I felt because I know of I didn’t I will lose my chance”

y/n “ neteyam”

Neteyam “ here I mad this for you a necklace even due you don’t accept my feelings I want you to have it as it will symbolize how, much I care about you and how special you are to me”

y/n “ neteyam I will accept the necklace and your feelings” a smile had grown on neteyam face as he soon picked you up, making you laugh as you kissed nine quickly. He soon gave you the necklace the both of you smiling like fools.

y/n “ what about everyone else”

neteyam “ we will tell them later no for now let’s enjoy our time together, when the time to right you will become my mate or wife” you soon nodded your head kissing him one last time before Jake had called him home. The two of you will soon entered a romance that was joyful. After months of dating and secret dates you and neteyam had shared the news, everyone had their own feeling about this relationship and that made y/n life a bit hard. Thanks to all the love and support she had gotten it hade made life a bit easier as she was with the one she really loved and hope to spend the rest of her life with netayam. Unknown to the girl that many problems and joyful memories and feeling will come into her life, that will not only challenge your life but everyone else life as well.

[em-writes-stuff-sometimes]

dōnus riñus (sweet girl) │ Chapter 1: Wedding

terms of endearment ‘verse: see my Masterlist for the correct series order!

Chapter 1 │Chapter 2 │Chapter 3 │Chapter 4 │Chapter 5 │Chapter 6 │Chapter 7 │Chapter 8 │Chapter 9 │Chapter 10 │Chapter 11 │Chapter 12 (COMPLETE!)

Synopsis: As the second-born daughter of Aemma and Viserys, you never expected to be married off to your uncle, Daemon Targaryen. The wedding is here. 

(Set in Episode 6 - however, Daemon never married Laena, and he's returned to King's Landing after ten years in exile.)

Hello all! Welcome to my first foray into fanfiction with everyone’s current favourite, Daemon Targaryen. This will be NSFW! TRIGGERS: incest, purity culture, breeding kink, age gap, dubious consent, public bedding.

"The marriage between the second daughter of King Viserys I and his own brother, Prince Daemon, raised eyebrows upon its first announcement. Many assumed the match would echo the Rogue Prince's unfortunate first union with the late Lady Rhea, despite his wish for a Valyrian bride being, finally, fulfilled. It surprised all who took witness to see the intensity of Daemon's devotion to his second wife, a regard that would persist through a long and happy union between uncle and niece."

- 'Fire & Blood, Being a History of the Targaryen Kings of Westeros' by Archmaester Gyldayn

“You look so pretty,” Helaena says behind you.

You smile weakly at your little sister through the mirror before you while your ladies tie you into the gown you wear. Glancing further back, you note the tension between Alicent and Rhaenyra as they sit in your solar and watch as you are readied.

You can tell Alicent is fighting the urge to say something critical to Rhaenyra—your older sister pours herself another goblet of wine, the second in a short time. You wonder if she is drinking to avoid interacting with the Queen, or if she is using the drink as a crutch to cope with the fact you were marrying … well. You smile faintly to yourself—it is probably both. The awkwardness is palpable, but the familiarity of it warms you even so.

“Lovely.” Alicent smiles perfunctorily, her attention diverted more by her own child busying herself at your vanity than you yourself. This does not bother you—you would not claim to be close with your stepmother, but nor are you the enemy she has made of Rhaenyra. “Sweetling—leave your sister’s things alone, please.”

“No, it is fine.” Helaena is a gentle creature, and you know she is earnest in her desire to be helpful. “Why don’t you choose my jewels, ’El?”‘

“Really?” she asks, bright eyes excited.

It makes little difference to you, so you nod. She turns back to your vanity and begins to rifle gently through your collection of necklaces, rings, bracelets and brooches.

“How would you like your hair, Princess?”

“Leave it,” Rhaenyra says as she stands. “I’ll do it.”

Ceryse jerks back in deference as your sister approaches you. You look up at her when she comes to rest behind you, dragging her fingers idly through your hair and humming.

Rhaenyra drags a chair forward and presses you down into it, stepping into place behind you with a silver-handled brush. She runs the bristles through your hair gently, working from your ends up. It reminds you of childhood, of growing up—you never knew your mother well, a faded idea more than a concrete memory, and so your recollections of safety and warmth and a mother’s love are entangled with the presence of your sister, older and wiser and everything you had ever wanted to be once.

Your eyes burn.

“How do you want it?” she asks. Her reflection smiles.

“Up. Nothing ostentatious.”

Alicent protests. “This is a royal wedding, darling. A display of the Crown’s prosperity. You must show them the might of House Targaryen—”

You feel Rhaenyra huff, though there is no outward indication of her annoyance. She has become very proficient at concealing her disdain for her former friend. “A bit of hair will hardly perform such feats, my Queen. Besides”—she turns to you—“this is your wedding, hāedus.” Sister. “Your choice is what matters.”

You see Alicent roll her eyes in the glass before you.

You frown. “My choice has never mattered.” It feels as though you are parading stolen goods before their rightful owner.

“Hey,” she says softly. You look up. She gazes upon you sympathetically—you are relieved to find no bitterness in her expression. “You know he will be kind, don’t you?”

Ah. You have successfully managed to avoid the obvious topic of conversation over the past few sennights, until now. You hate that Helaena and Alicent are here as witnesses, though Helaena has no interest in the conversation going on beside her; Alicent’s eyes watch you like a hawk.

“I didn’t think ‘kind’ was a word one could use to describe Prince Daemon.” Alicent takes her own sip of wine, her eyes glittering meanly. “He certainly has a reputation.”

You wonder if Alicent is trying to be helpful or not. Most likely, she seeks only to start a fight. With your sister or with yourself, you have no idea. It was not like her to behave inflammatorily towards you. You have no desire to bring attention to yourself as the tension between your sister and stepmother mounts, unbeknown to little Helaena as she hums to herself. She still has not chosen for you, though you can see she has narrowed her selection down somewhat.

Rhaenyra smiles at her—it is more of a baring of teeth than an upturning of lips. “People don’t understand our uncle, Your Grace.” She taps your upper arm; you lift up your hand and she passes you the brush to hold as she begins to divide your hair for braiding. “He is… rough around the edges, ‘tis true. But he is hardly a monster.”

Alicent sniffs. “A glowing assessment of his character, I am sure, stepdaughter.”

She tosses her hair back; it is finely braided at the temples, travailing into an ornate half-updo that glitters with the emeralds in her hairnet. She has dressed in her signature colours for this occasion, matched by your sister’s preference to black. The sleeves of her green gown glitter golden in the afternoon light, spreading slivers of shining light on the stone wall behind her.

Rhaenyra opens her mouth—you know it is something rude from the mulish expression on her face. You have no intention of listening to their back-handed wordplay today; something snide about the gracelessness of fucking your best friend’s father, then something outright offensive about the whorishness of spawning three bastard children, and a screaming match that will bring half the Kingsguard to your door in your current state of disarray. No, thank you very much.

“Helaena,” you say, diverting the girl’s attention. “Have you chosen anything for my hair?”

She beams, brandishing her selection. “I thought the pearls would go nice with your dress.”

Rhaenyra takes them from her outstretched palm, smiling at her in acknowledgement before examining your hair critically. It warms your heart to see some harmony here, the obvious outlier being Alicent. You grimace as Rhaenyra begins to tug the strand of pearls through your braids, weaving them into your hair. Fortunately, Rhaenyra and Alicent do not resume their previous conversation.

You are interrupted by a clatter at the door—it opens to reveal the beaming face of Laena Velaryon, your cousin and one of your favourite people in King’s Landing. She looks exquisite; her gown of black and gold cinches in below her breasts before spilling over her rounded belly, and her wild hair is pulled back at the top.

“How is our bride?” she asks, stepping into the room. She genuflects cursorily to Alicent, barely sparing a glance at her before striding over to you and Rhaenyra. She eyes your updo with praise and kisses Rhaenyra softly on the cheek. “Beautiful work, cousin.”

“Thank you.” Rhaenyra smiles. Her hand brushes lightly over Laena’s belly as she passes the pearls through another section of your hair.

“I am well, Laena,” you say.

She is an infectious spirit, your cousin—her and Laenor are what makes the Red Keep so vibrant, a home you are happy in. You are suddenly immensely grateful that your father chose the Velaryon scion as your sister’s husband, though it is an unconventional partnership that exists between the two. Laena is most assuredly happier in her marriage with Ser Harwin, her twin girls and impending child hallmarks of a fruitful union. Not that Rhaenyra is childless; but it is obvious that Jace and Luke and baby Joff are not Laenor’s, for all he dotes on them. “How are you?”

“Excellent,” Laena replies.

You notice Helaena has left the room; you are disappointed momentarily, as you had thought to allow her to help you with putting on your jewellery. Your attention returns to Laena.

“This babe is far more active than my Baela and Rhaena were,” she is saying. “I fear I may make water should he continue to kick so low.”

“He has more room!” Rhaenyra laughs “It is the nature of babes in the belly—they kick you until you piss yourself, and then tear their way through you on their journey into the world.”

She ceases her musings abruptly when you pale at her words.

“I am actually here for a reason,” Laena says, glancing ruefully at your sister. “Joff has spat up all over Luke’s doublet. Luke’s quite hysterical—neither Laenor nor Harwin can calm him down. He’s claiming he has nothing to wear to the feast.”

Rhaenyra has finished threading your hair and steps back to admire her work. She sighs. “I told Laenor not to hand Joff off to Luke, he’s been fussing all day.” She locks eyes with you. “I am sorry, sister. I’ll have to go deal with my boys before they blow up the Keep somehow.”

You smile at her—with three young sons, it is no wonder she perpetually sounds fed up.

There is a pause after Laena and Rhaenyra leave the room, arms entwined; you realise you are alone with your stepmother. She stands and glides over to you. There is something unreadable in the expression on her face as you look at each other.

“I want you to have your guard up,” she says to you. Her tone is uncharacteristically uncertain. She hesitates before placing her hands on your shoulders, her fingers clenching down, though it does not hurt. “Daemon Targaryen is ruthless. Dangerous, even. I did not want this for you.”

“Daemon is my uncle. He will not hurt me.”

You say it with more assurance than you feel. The truth is, you do not know the familiar stranger your uncle has become to you. As a child, he was Daemon-the-uncle, fun and free and your dearest friend in the world; as Daemon-the-man, he is unreadable, an unknown to you. You have no idea if you are right.

“Perhaps not physically.” Alicent pauses, prevaricates—her breath hitches and her hands flex from their resting place on you. “You know what is… expected of you? This evening?”

You nod, refusing to look at yourself in the mirror. You just know that your cheeks are flushed, for your skin belies every shift in emotion, an open book easily read by others.

“Septa Marlow—” You cut off. You will not recount that story; it is embarrassing enough thinking about it. Still, you want to assure your stepmother that you are more than the small girl she sees you as. “I will do my duty, Your Grace.”

“I know you will, darling,” she says.

She moves over to the jewels her daughter laid out for you, and you swallow when you see the rope of Valyrian silver, pendants inlaid with gold and onyx and diamond. One of Daemon’s courting gifts. You think there is something amusing about Helaena selecting one of the few pieces of jewellery gifted to you by your uncle, now to wear for your wedding to the same man today. She fastens it around your neck, gently rearranging it so that it falls into the hollow of your throat.

“I only ask”—she stops—“I know it is unfair, this bedding… This was not my intention.”

Alicent had questioned the point of giving Daemon a new bride—especially a Princess, second in line to the throne at one point in time—when he had refused to give the first children. It was said all over the Seven Kingdoms that he had not visited the Lady Rhea’s bed even once. Of course, your father, being who he was, almost completely misinterpreted his wife, agreeing that ‘some assurances’ were necessary. Grand Maester Mellos, ever unhelpful as he was, indolently recalled a time where royal beddings were witnessed by the Small Council to verify the consummation had occurred. Naturally, Father saw this as a perfectly acceptable solution, never mind the fact that it was Maegor himself who had begun it. You shudder when you think of how vociferous your uncle’s fierce protestations were when you were both called into the Council chambers.

“Absolutely fucking not,” Daemon says.

He stands next to you, fists clenched and jaw working in his fury. You say nothing—you have not processed the insanity that has just been commanded of you. Your fingers twist into the folds of your skirt, self-soothing to restrain the urge to laugh hysterically or perhaps even throw a fit alongside your uncle.

“When did I offer you a choice?” your father asks. His disposition suggests he is amused by Daemon’s outburst, that he sees this as one giant joke. You cannot believe your father would be so callous, and all you can do is watch. “You never lay with Lady Rhea. I’ll not give my daughter to you so you can squander two Targaryen lines.”

“So this is your brilliant solution?” The air is markedly tense as your uncle speaks—you see more than one Kingsguard’s hand drop to the pommel of their sword. “Having everyone watch? Inspecting her afterward, as though she’s some brothel whore? What—do you want to traumatise the girl?”

He gestures angrily toward you, though he does not look at you even once. You think you can hear Ser Criston mutter something unpleasant about Daemon’s familiarity with whores from his station behind you. You ignore your sworn shield as usual.

Lord Lyonel tries to allay him. “Prince Daemon—”

“I didn’t ask for your opinion, Lord Hand,” Daemon says—even though he delivers the title, his tone is anything but courteous.

When he is reminded of who begun the tradition, he is truly wroth. “I already have the blade, so I suppose you may as well name me ‘Daemon the Cruel’ and be done with it.”

You step up.

“Kepus,” you whisper from next to him, lightly touching his arm. It would not do to have him exiled again—you would much rather keep Daemon as your intended than wed Lord Jason Lannister.

“Lykirī, talus,” he says. Quiet, niece.

You bristle. Who does he think he is?

“Kepus,” you say louder, more forcefully, stepping up beside him. His eyes flicker down to you, narrowing consideringly. “Aōle jikāks arlī daor. Līr jaelzi gaomās.” Don’t get yourself sent away again. Just do what they want.

The path of least resistance is preferable, as being a lady of nobility has ingrained into you. You refuse to think of the ramifications of encouraging this madness.

“Lo ābrari Dāro Viliniot vumbiarzo iemnȳ ojenillo harrī gaomi jaelon daor, yne imandūljā.” Forgive me if I don’t want all of King’s Landing in the room as I fuck my wife. He turns to face you. His nose flares, his countenance twisting into something mocking as he looks you up and down. It is possessive, predatory. “Unless that is what you want?”

Your rejoinder is sharp. “Kelīs! Vēdrot ynoma iōrō daor.” Stop! I am not the one you are angry at. 

It comes out as a hiss, but you are not quite as irate yet.

“Fine.”

None save Rhaenyra and your father have understood this conversation. They have both watched this interaction with surprise, for an angry Daemon is usually much more predisposed to cruelty, and this display has been suspiciously absent of such behaviour.

“This is not over. And”—he points at Grand Maester Mellos—“fuck you very much for this little suggestion. I’d watch myself if I were you.”

At the sound of Grand Maester Mellos squawking his indignation and your father calling out to him, Daemon turns and storms out of the room.

“Līr issa,” you say to Alicent. She hums an inquiry—you realise you had forgotten to switch back to the Common Tongue. “It is what it is.”

“Yes.” She huffs a laugh. “Very wise.”

She helps you smooth out the back of your gown as you stand. You turn to her, abruptly grateful for her help today. You have complex feelings about Alicent—she has been a fixture in your life for as long as you remember, and unlike Rhaenyra, you do not really recall a time when she was not the Queen. She has been as kind as a young bride to an older widow with a small child ever could be, and you would love her well if it were not for the callousness with which she treated your sister.

A knock on the door. Alicent bids them entry—Ser Criston, arrived to escort the bride’s party to the sept. It is time.

With Rhaenyra and Laena absent, and your youngest sister having departed quietly under the Kingsguard’s escort, all you can do is clasp onto Alicent’s arm and allow her to lead you out of your childhood room. You spare one last glance to the room before the door closes; the soft rose curtains, the chest of dolls at the foot of the bed, the open wardrobe, clothing half-packed in cases scattered on the floor. It is hardly the grandest room in the Keep, but it had served you well. You were happy here. After today, you would move across the Red Keep to new quarters more befitting the Prince and his lady wife.

The door closes. It feels like an ending.

The Sept is what the residents of the Red Keep call the grand room that winds above the serpentine steps across from the royal stables.

Since Maegor had destroyed the Sept of Remembrance, there has technically been no official place of worship in the capital. It is an understatement to call it a ‘room’, exactly—the ceiling seems to loom so far above you, and you feel even smaller than you usually do, the cavernous chamber echoing with the rumble of excited observers. There is plenty of space for the major lords of the Realm to take their places as guests to this prestigious event, though it is by no means a gathering space for a large crowd. You stand behind the divide just next to the door with Alicent and Ser Criston, awaiting your father, trying desperately to ignore the twist of your gut at the sound of all the people. You’ve never liked crowds. Ironic, for a Princess.

“You look beautiful, Your Highness,” Ser Criston says. You furrow your brow—what a strange and abrupt conversation starter. Alicent looks sharply at him.

“Thank you, Ser. You are in fine fettle as well.” It feels distinctly discomfiting to say so. He is wearing what he always wears, though you suppose it is perhaps a bit shinier than usual. Do the Kingsguard have special polish for their armour on important occasions? you wonder to yourself. The notion entertains you.

The door rattles as your father ambles in, hobbling on a bad leg. You wince sympathetically as you and Alicent move forward to help him into the room. He has been faring progressively worse as of late—the Maesters have done little to avail him of his ills.

Alicent fusses over him, her hands fluttering over his doublet, straightening his empty right sleeve so that the fabric appears stiff; it is almost as though a limb occupies the space once more when she does this. “Have you taken your milk of the poppy, husband?”

He clasps her hand in his, chuckling at her concern.

“Yes, my dear. A small dose, though!” He looks to you conspiratorially, and your chest tightens at the look of mischief on his face. For a moment, you feel like a little girl with her beloved papa again, and then you remember. “Besides, I only need to walk my daughter to the end of that aisle, don’t I?”

“Yes, Papa.” You smile weakly. The congregation has hushed; the ceremony is about to start. You move to take his remaining arm, and Alicent walks off to take her seat. The light sounds of the harp begin to float through the hall.

“Ready, child?” your father whispers. You cleave to him childishly, nodding. He raises his hand to your face, stroking your cheek. He looks wistfully down at you. “My daughter. My second-born. I am so very proud of you.”

You smile, ruthlessly suppressing the urge to cry. His validation has always been the most valuable thing to you, even while you know he has done little to deserve such juvenile adulation, especially lately. Nonetheless, you clasp his arm and begin your walk down the path. You stare straight ahead, steadfastly ignoring the rows and rows of occupants that you pass on the way to the front of the chamber. You smile when you see Helaena standing at the front, awaiting the shedding of your cloak. You catch your uncle’s eye as you walk—he is staring at you, hands clasped in front of him, the very picture of courtly valour were it not for the ravenous expression that paints his face as he watches you approach.

You know what he sees. Today, you are resplendent in a gliding gown the colour of snow, the ruffle of many layers of sheer fabric in a fine weft, a delicate combination of embroidery and metalwork inlaid with precious stones over the bodice and travelling down the skirt. The gown itself is eye-catching in a way that makes you uncomfortable, but your father insisted on a display of wealth to reinforce the legitimacy of today’s event to watchful eyes. Despite having been practiced frequently in the short time House Targaryen had held dominion over the Seven Kingdoms, many still look upon your family’s Valyrian intermarriages as foreign and sinful at best. To avoid the discomfited wagging of tongues, you have donned the sigil of House Arryn, your mother’s family, as your maiden’s cloak; it serves as a reaffirmation of the Vale’s loyalty, who had long been incensed over the rumoured crimes of the Rogue Prince against their own Lady Rhea and the Crown’s subsequent inaction over the previous decade. You are Targaryen and Arryn both today.

The High Septon’s voice is droning. “Who comes before the Seven this day?”

You project your voice, relieved that it does not sound thready or tremulous as you had feared. You clearly state your name and title. “A woman grown, trueborn and noble, I have come here to be wed.”

“Who comes to claim her?”

“Daemon, of House Targaryen, Prince of the Seven Kingdoms.” His voice travels well, and you swear you can hear ladies’ sighs in the crowd as he speaks. You want to roll your eyes.

“Who gives her?”

“Viserys of House Targaryen, First of His Name, King of the Andals, the Rhoynar, and the First Men, Lord of the Seven Kingdoms and Protector of the Realm, gives this woman.”

And with that, your father passes your hand over to Daemon’s, outstretched and waiting for yours. You grasp onto your uncle and step up so that you are level with him. His hand is warm, spreading heat through your chilled fingers. You turn to face him, swinging your cloak around. The metalwork of your dress jangles lightly as you move.

“You may now cloak the bride and bring her under your protection,” the Septon says.

Daemon moves forward. You feel his breath on your face as he untwists the knot holding your cloak around your neck, grasping onto the fabric and passing it over to the waiting Helaena without looking away from you. She takes the cloak and steps back.

The dark cloak of House Targaryen swings over your shoulders as your uncle settles it around you. It feels right to have your actual House’s colours on now. When it is tied, you await the Septon’s next words, your left hand clasped in his.

“We stand here in the sight of gods and men to witness the union of man and wife: one flesh, one heart, one soul, now and forever.” The Septon winds a ribbon of red silk around your joined hands as he speaks. “In the sight of the Seven, I hereby seal these two souls, binding them as one for eternity. Father, Smith, Warrior, Mother, Maiden, Crone, Stranger—hear now their vows.”

You look up at Daemon, heart pounding, throat dry. What if you forget the words? What are the words?

His hand clasps tighter around yours, joined by the ribbon, jolting you out of your spiral. He smirks down at you, eyes glittering. Ready? he mouths.

You nod.

“I am yours and you are mine, from this day, until the end of my days.”

You speak in near unison, the airy tones of your much higher voice intermingling with the rumbling cadence of Daemon’s. Those ladies sigh again.

“Let it be known that they are one heart, one flesh, one soul. Cursed be he who would seek to tear them asunder. I proclaim thee man and wife.”

Daemon’s free hand strokes up over your jawbone, tipping your face up to his. He bends down to kiss you, no more than a light brush of lips before he departs. He tastes of sweet wine and sunlight.

“Gevie,” he whispers, briefly touching his forehead to yours. Beautiful.

You are broken from your reverie by the applause that erupts and echoes across the cavernous chamber. Pasting what you hope to be an expression of polite enjoyment over your face, you and your new husband turn to the audience. It would not do to show anything but total composure before the lords and ladies of the Realm.

Your uncle’s voice hums through the din. “Ready?”

You look up at him and smile, this one real.

Read on AO3:

https://archiveofourown.org/works/41942436/chapters/105320844

[melestasflight]

I'm aware some of this is later versions of canon, but Celeborn and Galadriel giving each other pet names is adorable and I LIVE for it!

Celeborn names her "maiden crowned with a garland of bright radiance":

Thus the name Alatariel, which, according to the late version of the story of their relationship (p. 231), was given to Galadriel by Celeborn [...] which she chose to use in Middle-earth, rendered into Sindarin as Galadriel, rather than her 'father-name' Artanis, or her 'mother-name' Nerwen.

then in LoTR, Galadriel calls him "the Wise":

If our folk had been exiled long and far from Lothlo´rien, who of the Galadhrim, even Celeborn the Wise, would pass nigh and would not wish to look upon their ancient home, though it had become an abode of dragons?

and everyone around them is obliged to accept these pet names as their default names without question.

ROMANCE GOALS BABES

[leighsartworks216]

Forever and Always

Ganondorf x gn!Hylian!reader/no-name OC

Ough boys the Ganondorf brainrot is setting in

Wrote this with BOTW/TOTK Ganon in mind but you could probably read it with a different version in mind

Warnings: none, just pure fluff

Word Count: 626

Masterlist

AO3

Palm trees swayed in the arid desert breeze. The only salvation for miles lay in the oasis and the hydromelons thriving around it. After being dragged from his duties as King to go sand seal surfing, Ganondorf was content to lay by the refreshing water with his beloved. The sun warmed his tan skin, the hydromelon cooled him down, and fingers ran tenderly through his long hair. He could wish for nothing better.

And yet, it would all have to come to an end. The sun would begin to set and they would have to surf back home, to the walls of Gerudo town. Then tomorrow, he would have to work even harder to catch up on work missed today. The thought alone set a frown upon his face. Days like this were so rare, and he cherished every second he could, but every time he had to return to reality. How he wished to stay within this moment forever, with no responsibilities, only his beloved, the sun and the water.

Soft lips pressed to his brow, followed soon after by a thumb that smoothed out the wrinkle between his brows. “What is on your mind, my love?”

Ganondorf opened his eyes and peered up at his dearest. Their lap had quickly become his favorite resting place. The perfect pillow for his weary head. When first they began courting, he was worried he would crush them. They were only Hylian, after all. But they had smiled and tugged him down anyway. Now he could not imagine resting anywhere else. And now as he gazed up at them, they were haloed by the sun, as if Hylia had crowned them with a circlet of pure golden light.

They smiled. “You are staring.”

“I cannot help it, dear heart. You look radiant today.”

“You’re avoiding my question.” They leaned down to kiss the bridge of his nose. “Please tell me what has you so upset, Gan.”

He sighed. They watched as the warmth and light in his eyes became tired and worn out. “This moment only lasts so long,” he explained. He turned his head to look out at the water. Sunlight rippled and danced along its surface. The seals rested nearby in a heap, lazily crunching on melons and napping right up against each other. His was almost double the size of his love’s. “Soon we will have to leave, go back home, and return to the real world. Meetings and planning. Politics.”

“And then…” A small hand on his cheek turned his head back to them. There was no judgement on their features. They married into their royal position, even when Ganondorf warned of the hardships that came with it. They understood better than anyone the longing for an escape and rest. “One day, soon enough, we will come back here. And we’ll laugh, and talk, and love - and we will do it over and over and over again, forever. Reality is not the end, my love.”

“How are you so sure?”

“Because we always wind up back here. Sometimes it takes a little longer, but we always come back.”

His features softened. The warmth returned to his eyes, golden as rich tea, with a spoonful of love stirred in. Only in private did he ever look this gentle. They savored every second he did not have to steel himself into the king everyone expected.

“I love you,” he whispered. It was so quiet, the breeze almost swept it away. Every time he said it like he was scared of the words, like saying it aloud would destroy Hyrule.

They smiled, bright and unapologetic. “I love you, too. Forever and always.”

Large fingers carefully cradled the back of their neck, drawing them closer. “Forever and always.”