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wesimpforxiao · 3 years

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Say My Name and I’ll Be There: 9.3

Childe elected to ignore your groan of pain when he yanked you to your feet. "No hard feelings, comrade."

"I-I'm gonna kill you," you breathed. "I'll kill you and that damned witch if it's the last thing I do." A cold hand pressed to your side while the harbinger threw your other arm over his shoulder to escort you inside.

"I suppose I'll have to train you then if that's your goal."

He wasn't joking; the two of you would remain at a stalemate until your strength grew. He taught you--what you assumed was--almost everything he knew, though for you to reap the full benefits of his knowledge would take years of training. Despite this he pushed you over and over again, every day, after the wound he gave you closed. He didn't give you the courtesy of healing completely before initiating fights with you. He didn't go easy on you either--but it's not like you would've wanted him to in the first place. At least your sparring sessions gave you an outlet to take out your frustrations on.

You didn't count the days that passed. You didn't call for Xiao. You didn't rely on him to save you when all is said and done. It was time to rescue yourself; if you overran the palace on your own, then other nations wouldn't need to get involved on your behalf. If the palace fell, no one except you would be held responsible. You were okay with that. If it meant Xiao, Aether and Zhongli would be excluded from the wrath of the cryo archon, then your struggles were more than worth it.

Yet with every passing day, more and more Fatui agents were injected with the serums that contained your blood--and survived. The only thing that made their successful adaptation possible was the sealing of your and Xiao's bond. With that thought in mind, you were growing increasingly impatient. You were the one that insisted upon training for most of the day, not Childe. You were the one looking for a fight.

"Why're you doing this?" You asked one day while your hand absently trailed down to the fresh scar on your side where he had impaled you.

"Doing what?"

"Training me. Isn't it a stupid move to train someone how to fight when they're intent on killing you? If I was you, I would've just let me bleed out in the snow back then."

"If I didn't train you, I would be missing out on one of the best fights of my life."

"Is that supposed to flatter me?"

"It's the truth. Where else am I supposed to find a worthy opponent? At my current power level, I'd have more luck with creating one." Childe conjured his bow and twirled it in his hand, seemingly debating something that was on his mind. "With your improved skills, I think we'd be able to take the other harbingers."

You froze. "What? Why would you say that? Whatever happened to your undying loyalty?"

"My loyalty for the Tsaritsa and my respect for my coworkers are two entirely different matters. What I really care about is fighting. It's been so long since I've had an exhilarating battle, even after Aether showed up. I would give anything to feel that thrilled again. And that, dear ojou-chan, is where you come in."

"I'm not fighting you for the thrills. I will kill you, I'll make sure of it." It's insulting that he'd even look at your anger as a type of entertainment! The nerve of this guy--

"Well until then I think we could stir up quite the trouble, you and I, don't you think?" His eyes finally left his weapon and locked onto you.

"...What exactly are you implying, Tartaglia?" Narrowed suspicious pupils returned his mischievous ones.

He didn't answer, instead leaving you with an ominous smirk and returning to the palace walls. Why should you trust a word that fell from his mouth after the Lantern Rite stunt he pulled? Maybe a small part of you wanted to believe he had some inkling of good in him, but you forced that wishful thinking down into the depths of your soul. Childe betrayed you so many times; it was in his nature to do so. He would never be done deceiving you either. You were sure of it despite the doubts that weighed on your mind.

.........................

"Bow before Her Majesty, the Tsaritsa." La Signora crossed her arms over her chest when you just glared at the dark throne that sat beneath the shadows.

"I think not."

The clicking of the harbinger's heels echoed in the silent room as everyone held their breaths. No one dared stand up to the cryo archon; it was unthinkable, even considered treason to question her actions. This would be the first meeting with the god since you formed a contract with her. And yet despite your quivering knees, you didn't remove your disrespectful glare from the throne.

"I wasn't asking." Fingers gripped your chin and forced you to look Signora in the face at an uncomfortably close distance. "You know the drill. Bow."

A beat of silence hung heavily in the air and then an awkward cough came from one of the Fatui advisors to your far right. You didn't blink. "Did I stutter?"

Signora's lips curled into a half-amused smirk before her fingers let go of your chin and were replaced by a palm slapping you instead. Her nails broke skin, but your expression never changed even when the stinging pain rang through your ear. "Have you forgotten who you serve?"

"She's not my god."

"Maybe not the one you worship, but I am the one you serve," the Tsaritsa leaned forward from her place on the throne and gestured for the Fair Lady to return to her side. "Tell me, why did you request to see me?"

A quick glance was sent Childe's away as if to check yourself. You had decided it best to at least try the peaceful way out before throwing yourself into a suicide mission. If worse came to worse, at least you'd be able to put your new knowledge to the test. "I'm no longer working for you." The archon's silence urged you to continue. "You don't need me here anymore. You got what you wanted. I'm going to return to Liyue."

"Is that so?"

"I will leave regardless of your answer."

"And you think I'd just let you walk out of here after all I've done for you?" The temperature dropped, but it displayed an emotion that you couldn't put your finger on. "I gifted you your vision, spared your life and that of your friends, and you insult me in return?"

What is this feeling of dread in my stomach? Your fists tightened and you took a deep breath to steady your nerves. "The trials are over now that Dottore's injections work. That was our deal, was it not? You want to break our contract? I thought you were more credible than that," you tested.

"I know what you've been thinking," the archon's thin lips formed a sinister grin. "I know you're plotting to cause an uproar, and I am telling you now that you will fail. Heed my words, Mezzetin, you are and always will be under my control."

"Wh-What did you just say...?" Your heartbeat drummed loudly in your ears and you knees felt like they would give out beneath you. This...This happened before. When did she say that? Where did I hear these words from? Cold, desolate eyes watched you carefully as the room spun beneath your feet. "Stay...away..."

"You work for me, not the other way around. If you leave now, I'll give the order to kill those friends of yours. You're not done until I say you're done."

"You wouldn't--!" Bile burned the back of your throat, and a shaky hand covered your mouth in case you suddenly couldn't hold it in. "You...you..." An unsettling realization came to light.

"Do you understand the position you're in, Mezzetin?"

"It was...You gave me those nightmares! Those were all you?"

"You don't think I'm oblivious to your desires, do you? You will always be under my control."

"If you dare touch him I'll--!" Hundreds of shards manifested behind you and simultaneously shot at the throne. The more that shattered against the seat and back wall, the more that manifested and replaced them.

The ones that barreled nearest to the Tsaritsa diverted their path and shattered against the back wall like they had a mind of their own. Signora used her catalyst to redirect the remaining shards to you. Luckily none of them landed a strike on your skin, but a charged arrow of Childe's landed before your feet and you slipped on the forming ice. His hydro blade was immediately at your throat, along with Signora hovering over you with an annoyed look on her face. The three of you were surrounded by Fatui officers in an instant; despite their capabilities, they were slower than the harbingers.

"If she makes a move, kill her," the archon calmly ordered, completely unbothered by the commotion.

Signora had her men drag you away to the all-too familiar exit that led to the cells beneath the palace. They forced your head forward so you didn't see the Tsaritsa recline back in her seat and into the shadows.

The archon swiped her finger across her pale cheekbone and warily inspected the fresh blood that had run down the side of her face. I missed one? One of your shards did manage to hit her. Such a measly attack shouldn't have injured me, she thought as she stared at her fingers in awe and concern. While your power had grown to a certain extent thanks to Childe's training, it was by no means anywhere near equivalent to his--much less equivalent to a god's. Your strikes, while powerful, shouldn't have been able to hurt the cryo archon. Yet here she was, staring at the blood you drew from her.

She recalled the wild look in your eyes when you decided to attack her. Such a beautiful, pitiful sight that held an immeasurable lack of sanity and rational thought. Your rage was feral, but just like a wild animal, so was your fear of being caged. She could see it in your stance; you were all bark and little bite. The soft interior within her hardened heart actually admired your bravery...only a little, though. If she were to achieve her goals, that flame of admiration would quickly be extinguished since it had no place in such a cruel world.

Her thumb smoothed over her bloodied fingers while she thought quietly to herself. It shouldn't have been possible to harm her. Not on your own, not even with your vision. It was then that it dawned on her the true meaning of your bond with Morax's sole-surviving warrior adeptus.

So this is the power of the Vigilant Yaksha.

#genshin impact #xiao genshin impact #genshin impact xiao #say my name and ill be there #xiao fanfiction #genshin x reader #xiao x reader

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wasabito · 3 years

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thank you to @sparkexplosive and @vs-redemption for beta reading it for me! merry christmas & happy holidays everyone ♥️

➽ synopsis: being a member of the royal guard is a grueling and thankless job, so you decide to remind katsuki a little of what it’s like to be young again—what better way to do that than with some healthy competition.

➽ word count: 1.7k

➽ tags: fluff, budding romance, royalty au, childhood friends

➽ author’s note: i had a ton of fun participating in my first ever secret santa!! this is my gift-fic to the lovely @katsushimaa hope you enjoy, yssa!

"So, this is where the hell you've been hiding?"

His voice tore through the midday stillness like a blade, equal parts raspy and gruff. He sounded irritated and mildly fatigued. Not that Katsuki Bakugou would ever admit to being anything less than a hundred and ten percent. He climbed off his steed, heavy boots crunching under the weight of his feet, and secured his horse against the stump you were leaning on.

You flipped the page of your book, not sparing the man even a cursory glance. You would prefer to keep your attention occupied by fictitious worlds, warriors, and battles fought in the name of love and justice.

It was much easier to allow yourself to become the bearer of fictional hardships, because at least they could be solved through a well-constructed plot with each turn of a page, as opposed to the realities of your actual life, a slow spiraling disaster in comparison.

Bakugou stood in front of you, vein ticking on his throat with every clench of his jaw. His arms were crossed tight over his chest, red gaze pinned on your hunched form. He wasn't at all the kind of person anyone could easily ignore. His very presence demanded attention and drew eyes like a magnet.

Case in point, no matter how much you tried to ignore him, you simply couldn’t.

"Please tell me you aren't going to stand there the entire time. Take a hint will you." You went to turn another page, but Bakugou reached over and snatched the book from your hands with deft fingers and speed you couldn't hope to match.

"Give. It. Back."

"Nah, I don't think I will just yet." He sneered, thumbing through the pages. "I was told to bring your dumbass back to the estate, so that's exactly what the hell I'm 'bout to do."

You blew a puff of air from your lips, eyes blazing with a kind of defiance that only burned harder the more you glared at him. "Then I guess you'll just have to drag me back kicking and screaming."

Bakugou only smirked, teeth spread in a feral grin that sent a chill down your spine.

That had always been his intention.

Almost an hour later, you stood before your parents, clothes dusty, creased, and smudged from having been manhandled like a sack of flour before promptly dumped in front of your waiting audience.

A frown marred your delicate features as they began their lecture.

Your mind drifted elsewhere the more they reminded you of your lineage and that you were royalty and how it was imperative you behave as such. You’d heard it all before, known this for as long as you could remember. As the King and Queen of your home country, your parents never failed to emphasize the importance of keeping your every move in check because of the reputation you had to uphold.

Katsuki stood somewhere behind you, and although he stayed mostly silent, you could almost hear him grinding away at his molars. The King and Queen were taking turns subtly digging into him as well, implying that his incompetence was a stain upon the royal guard perfect record of achievements. If he couldn't keep you in line, what was the point of holding rank?

They annoyed him way more than they did you, but he dare not voice it, not if he wanted to keep his head attached to his shoulders. Far be it from him to send himself to the guillotine

You both were in for a long night.

“Honestly, this kind of behavior is unbecoming of someone of your status. What will our countrymen think if they see you roaming about unattended like a vagabond?” Your father stroked his beard as if waiting for a response. But everyone in the room knew he really just liked to hear himself talk.

He was no better than a machiavellian swindler in expensive robes. A puppet if you would.

The real leader of the land was your mother. After all, she had only married into the family, having been the daughter of a mere advisor with no royal blood. She spoke little, but her glare was more than enough to convey just what she was thinking.

By the end of the lecture, you felt like all of your energy had been sapped from you, but thankfully your parents left you to retreat into your bedroom for the remainder of the day. Bakugou escorted you, following close behind.

“You’re gonna do it again, aren’t ya?”

You paused, foot nearly catching against the carpeted floors of your bedroom. Fiddling with a piece of your hair, you shrugged. “...maybe.”

“You’re a huge idiot.” Bakugou shook his head with a low laugh.

A tiny smidgen of a grin danced on your lips as you considered him. He was your childhood friend. No one knew you better than he did. And he was also the guard most assigned to watch over you and keep you safe from harm.

Despite that, you’d come to notice how much he’d changed. He wasn’t the same Katsuki you grew up knowing and you missed him dearly. Occasions like this, where a part of his guard was let down, were becoming few and far between. There had to be something you could do.

“Let’s make a wager. If you can manage to find me, I’ll do one thing at your command.”

“Challenge accepted.” He reached into the folds of his uniform, pulled out your little novel, and slapped it right into your open palm. "No matter where you run off to, I'll find ya. Trust me on that, princess."

His eyes were like candles in the night, ignited by a spark of passion. Not a single lie could be detected.

"I won't make it easy on you, Katsuki, just so you know."

"Heh, you better not." He sniffed, tucking his hands into his uniform pockets. And with a final half-wave, he was gone.

In and around the capital city, winter had completely lost it's bite. The weather was tepid, swinging a mild breeze that coasted through the countryside. It was the sort of winter where one felt as if woolen clothing were worn more for comfort than necessity. In what should have been the chilliest part of the year, Bakugou found himself traversing one of the many beaches that hedged the southern peninsula.

After a full week following the challenge issued in your bedroom, Bakugou realized you were entirely too good at evading him or any of the other guards at the kingdom’s disposal, for that matter.

Day in and day out, he spent his shifts searching tirelessly for you, just to stumble upon you in the most random of places and only when you had wanted him to find you. The running score was six to five in your favor, but he was determined not to lose to you again.

And there you were, standing at the very edge of the shore, as if a mere thought had manifested you right before his very eyes. Your loose billowing dress of soft satin waved to him like a white flag of surrender in the air. He'd finally found you.

"Not gonna run off this time?"

"Nope! You won this round." Your cheeks creased in a smile.

Given the boots he'd worn, it was no surprise that his feet kept sinking into the sand. You said nothing as he toed off his shoes and socks, bare feet settling into the depths of warm, grainy sand.

He couldn’t help but feel more relaxed. Over the past few months, he’d found himself losing sight of his goals, caught in the dredges of the mundane and routine.

The cool waters lapped at both his and your feet, fizzing and bubbling, leaving behind traces of salt. You went further into the water’s touch, your back to him as the tides licked at the your calves. Even he had to admit, the view was a beautiful one, possibly even more so with you against the backdrop.

“I’m glad you found me,” you called over the cry of seagulls. “For a second, I was worried you’d lose this round.”

Bakugou rolled his eyes. “Tch, as if I’d ever lose to you, princess.”

“Naturally.” You laughed.

“What the hell are we doing out here anyway?”

He knelt to roll up his pants, a mere moment away from following after you like always.

“I... really just wanted to show you the view. Do you remember when we used to come down here as kids? Remember how we used to dare each other to see who could go the farthest into the ocean?”

Of course he remembered. Those were some of his most cherished memories of his time spent with you before duty to the kingdom took precedent.

You reached a hand out to him, an open invitation. “I just thought you needed a little reminder of what that was like.”

For some reason, Katsuki was determined not to meet your gaze, scowling at some point on the horizon, until you came over and nudged him with your elbow. “It wouldn’t kill you to admit that I’m right.”

With a sigh, he reached over and tugged you into a hug. You snuggled close to his chest, gripping the back on his uniform. It may have been your imagination but you could’ve sworn you felt the soft press of lips against your temple.

“Thanks... you know... for everything.”

Beaming, you leaned back to get the full view of his heated cheeks.

“Of course, of course.”

There was something earnest in his eyes that told you no matter how far you went, or however far you traveled, he’d always be a step behind you. It sent your heart hammering in your ribcage. You were suddenly all too aware of the way he held you secure against him like he would never let go.

“What are you thinking, princess?”

You blinked owlishly, taken over by your feelings and mumbling a hushed. “Oh, nothing.” The two of you were just a royal and a guard, bound to one another by duty.

If there could be anything more than that...well, only time would tell.

#pocuties secret santa #mha x reader #bnha x reader #my hero academia x reader #boku no hero academia x reader #bakugou x reader #bakugou katsuki x reader #katsuki bakugou x reader #bakugou katsuki #katsuki bakugou #bakugou fluff

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kyber-queen · 4 years

Text

burning (fives x gn!jedi!reader)

Summary: A retelling of the Umbara arc where reader is assigned to the 501st to assist in the Umbara invasion. Established relationship with Fives, Krell is an ass to reader and Fives is Not Having It, couples that defend one another stay together, lil bit of fluff lil bit of angst lil bit of action we got it ALL

Rating: Teen

Word Count: 4k

Warnings: Canon-typical violence, medical stuff, mentions of death/injury, Krell is just an ASSHOLE to the reader, a lil kiss perhaps

Author’s Note: This idea has been stuck in my head for AGES, and now I finally have it on paper!! This was really fun to write, as always ANY comments/feedback/questions would be HIGHLY appreciated !! ALSO: ner kar’ta means my heart in Mando’a !!

***

A rumble of murmurs rolled through the battalion of troopers at the sight of the interim general of the 501st. Pong Krell, Fives had identified from behind you. You watched warily as the besalisk exited the dropship, his hulking form broad and dark against the soft glow of the natural vegetation. You fell silent as he spoke with General Skywalker. The newcomer unnerved you. Skywalker seemed hesitant to leave his troops behind—you didn’t blame him. The council had insisted you accompany the 501st to assist with the march on Umbara’s capitol, and even with your short time stationed directly in the unit you had seen firsthand Skywalker’s devotion to his troopers. The prospect of leaving them under the command of the rather imposing figure before him must be daunting.

You snapped to attention as Skywalker introduced you and the Captain, your eyes meeting Krell’s for a moment as he appraised you. His gaze turned your stomach.

He was a Jedi master, you reminded yourself. He had the respect and trust of the council, and as Skywalker turned to leave, you reluctantly acknowledged that he had the General’s trust as well. You shifted a quick glance behind you, seeking out Fives. He stood at attention, his shoulders squared. You’d talk to him later, you figured.

“Commander, will I be graced with the honor of your full attention, or do you have more pressing matters at hand?”

Condescension dripped from Krell’s tone. Your cheeks heated, and you quickly turned to face the new General.

“My apologies, sir,”.

Krell harrumphed, continuing on with his speech.

You watched the troopers’ faces fall as he ordered them to stand at attention when speaking to him. Krell seemed to be a fierce disciplinarian—you doubted there would be much tolerance for open discussion with the besalisk in charge. Still, he ran a highly successful battalion. His leadership style differed greatly from Skywalker’s, but he had the success rates to back up his different strategies. It’ll only be one mission, you figured. How bad could it be?

Krell finished his speech with a sharp nod of his head, ordering the troopers to move out. You lingered in the rear, giving Krell a respectful nod as he wrapped up his discussion with the Captain. Now was as good a time as any to make a more personal introduction.

“General Krell, the council sent me here to—”

“I know why you’re here, Commander. As far as my understanding goes, you are to act as a tactical assistant. I will let you know if I need any such assistance. Dismissed,”.

You frowned, turning away and taking a few jogging paces to catch up with the men. Was it just you, or did the new general seem rather indifferent? You brushed away your thoughts as the terrain rose up to meet the steady pace of your feet.

“Fives,” you called, his helmet whipping around at the sound of your voice. He motioned for his brothers to slow down, allowing you to catch up. You quickened your pace, closing the gap between the two of you.

“So, what do you think of the interim General?” He asked, looking back to his brothers for just a moment as if in reassurance.

“Strict, and almost dismissive” you noted, “but I’m sure his intentions are good,”.

Fives nodded, slipping off his helmet and tucking it under his arm as you walked.

“Me ‘n Jesse were just talking—Krell has the highest casualty rate in the GAR,”.

Your mouth formed into a small ‘o’ as you acknowledged the concerned look on Fives’s face.

His voice lowered, so only you could hear.

“It’s over 50%, ner kar’ta. He’s reckless, and he doesn’t take no for an answer. I—”

You silenced him with a gentle touch to his upper arm, in between the gap in his armor. His eyes drifted to your hand against his skin, and then back to your face. His expression softened.

“I know it’s going to be difficult—honestly, I don’t entirely trust him either—but Skywalker and the council do. We aren’t going to be able to pull this invasion off if everybody isn’t on the same page,”.

Fives nodded hesitantly. You gave him a soft smile in response. The two of you trudged on.

***

After hours of crossing inhospitable terrain, fending off native creatures, and surviving an enemy ambush, your patience with Krell was wearing thin. In the past few hours, he had shown a total disregard for the lives of the men under his command as well as your own rank in the battalion. When you seconded Rex’s call for a scouting party, the General all but laughed in your face. Your opinion meant next to nothing to him. Without the extra reconnaissance, hundreds of men died today. Unnecessarily. You burned. Rex and Fives echoed your frustrations, both men airing their grievances with the interim General.

Rex spoke first, raisng the question of Krell’s inconsiderate and dangerous tactics. He was right, you thought. Krell had crossed a line with his reckless strategies.

The General was less than receptive to Rex’s input, jabbing his large finger into the man’s chest as punctuation to his harsh words. You opened your mouth to remind the General that, according to the Jedi council, you were still his tactical advisor and that you had also adamantly disagreed with his strategies before he dismissed your opinion. Before you could speak, Fives strode up to the General, speaking in fierce defense of his captain.

“General Krell, in case you haven’t noticed, Captain Rex just saved this platoon. Surely you won’t fail to recognize that,”.

Krell’s lips twisted into a sneer, and he ignited his lightsaber menacingly. Your hand instinctively flew to your own saber on your belt clip as you stepped forward in defense of Fives, the weapon igniting in your hand.

“ARC-5555, stand down,” Krell ordered. His gaze flitted over to you, noting the saber in your hand and the thinly concealed fury in your eyes with a smirk. “And Commander, put that out before someone loses an eye,”.

“Sir, yes, sir,” Fives murmured, exchanging a glance with you as you hesitantly switched off your saber.

Krell dismissed the platoon with a smug grin.

You grabbed Fives’ vambrace, dragging him behind a large swatch of vegetation. He removed his helmet, taking a seat on the ground next to you. He sighed deeply. The dark circles under his eyes were prominent—he looked tired.

You wanted to yell. You wanted to complain. You knew neither of you needed that right now.

You reached up to cup Fives’s face in your hand, stroking his cheekbone with your thumb gently.

“When we get back, I’ll issue a report to the council on Krell’s neglectful treatment,” you murmured, offering what comfort you could.

Fives shook his head.

“It’s no use—what’s the council going to do? Give him a slap on the wrist? It’s not just Krell, ner kar’ta. To the majority of officers here, we’re expendable. One man dies, but there’s three more finishing up their training on Kamino and ready to take his place. I wish they’d realize—”. Fives trailed off with a sigh, and his soft brown eyes met yours.

You gave him a sad little smile.

“I love you,” you whispered, pressing a gentle kiss to his lips. Fives’ hand moved up to rest lightly against your cheek, his other hand holding the small of your back softly as he returned your kiss with a small grin.

A twig snapped.

You leapt away from each other as if you had both been burned.

You looked around, searching the darkness for a hidden figure. Heavy footsteps sounded to your right.

Before you could turn to follow the noise, blaster fire echoed to your left. Fives slipped his helmet over his head, yanking you back behind the vegetation. Your saber ignited, and the sky lit up with crossfire.

***

After receiving new information from Kenobi, the battered 501st made its weary way to the Umbaran airbase. Under Krell’s command the casualty rate had increased tenfold for this mission alone—the battalion medics were stretched thin. You did what you could to ease the pain of the wounded. Spotting a ridge, Krell motioned for you and the Captain to follow him.

“We’ll advance along the central gorge, and engage their forces in a full-forward assault,” Krell ordered.

You exchanged a look with Rex, who re-examined the terrain with his scope.

“The gorge is narrow, sir. We’ll only be able to move our platoons in single squads,” Rex explained.

We’ll be sitting ducks entering single-file down that gorge, you thought.

“Perhaps a closer recon will tell us if there’s a more secure route,” Rex suggested.

“I agree with the Captain,” you stated. “With the numbers we’ve lost earlier today, we can’t afford to risk the lives of the men we have left with a full-forward assault,” you supplemented.

Krell frowned.

“Obi-Wan and the other battalions are holding off the enemy right now, while they wait for us to take out this base. We don’t have time to look for a more secure route,”.

Krell turned away with finality.

Rex shook his head, turning back toward his men.

This isn’t right, you thought. You jogged to catch up with the General.

“General Krell,” you called.

“What is it, Commander?” he grumbled.

“I’d like to talk to you about possibly reconsidering the full-forward strategy. A short reconnaissance mission could provide vital information in taking this base, and it could possibly save the lives of many of our men,”. Your hands twitched anxiously.

“Our men, hmm? A charming sentiment, Commander,”.

Your brows furrowed. When you next spoke, there was a new intensity to your voice.

“Forgive me for being forward, General, but it isn’t a sentiment. Each trooper we lose is a life that we were responsible for protecting. It is in everyone’s best interest to go forward with the reconnaissance. As your tactical advisor, I strongly suggest you consult with Captain Rex to put together a small recon team,”.

Krell chuckled to himself.

“Everyone’s best interest. Amusing. We’ll proceed with the full-forward assault as planned,”.

You fumed.

“Sir, as your tactical advisor, I insist that you initiate the formation of a reconnaissance team. I do not understand why you fail to realize the gravity of this situation,”.

There was a spark to Krell’s eyes, now. You had angered him. He paused. You held your breath.

“Forgive me for being forward, Commander, but I do not place much weight on the opinion of someone whoring themself out for a clone. I’m sure you understand how this situation appears to me,”.

You sucked in a sharp breath. It had been him in the darkness. You were certain of it. Your chest burned.

“I-I apologize, General,”.

Krell nodded dismissively. You turned away, tears pricking at the corners of your eyes. He knew. You’d get expelled from the order, Fives would get reconditioned if he was lucky, and you had no clue what to do about it. You stepped away.

“Oh, and Commander?”

You turned back to face the General, hastily wiping at your face. You wouldn’t cry in front of him. You couldn’t.

“Yes, sir?”

“If you want to remain in your current station, you would do well not to disobey my orders again,”.

Krell was blackmailing you.

You nodded.

“Yes, sir,”.

You stumbled down the hill as fast as you could, spotting Fives amongst a gathering of troopers. He noticed a tear streaking your face, and pulled you away from the crowd. As soon as the two of you were alone, you spoke.

“He knows, Fives. Krell knows about us. He saw us, when we were away from the rest of the platoon, after he threatened you. Maker, I—” Another tear slipped down your cheek as you fought to catch your breath.

“Slow down, ner kar’ta, are you sure? How do you know?”

Fives’ eyes, soft and calm, met your teary ones. You scrubbed at your face hurriedly.

“I went to talk to him after he proposed the full-forward assault without a recon,” you spoke, your voice wavering less this time. “He wasn’t receptive to my explanation, so I asked him why. He said he ‘didn’t place weight on the opinion of someone whoring themself out for a clone,’”.

Fives’ eyes went wide.

“He said that to you?”

You nodded. “He knows,”.

Fives gripped your shoulders tightly.

“Stay here. I’m going to—” Fives started towards the hill, looking up to where Krell stood with an expression of pure rage on his face. A palm to his chest stopped him in his tracks.

“Don’t. I think he’s blackmailing me—I don’t think he’ll tell, as long as I don’t question his orders,” you explained.

Fives cocked his eyebrow at you.

“You really believe that?”

“I have to. What choice do I have?”

Fives shook his head, checking to make sure you were truly alone before pulling you into a tight embrace. You sighed into his shoulder.

“He won’t get away with this, ner kar’ta. I promise you,”.

***

Your hands shook. You had taken the airbase, the supply ship had been destroyed, and it still wasn’t enough for Krell. You remembered when Fives landed the Umbaran fighter just an hour ago, how relieved you had been when he made it back alive. That relief was gone, now. Krell had ordered him to be court-marshalled for disobeying orders. Rex had assured you he would assume responsibility, that he would talk to Krell, and that Fives would be okay. He came back minutes later with a weary face and news that threatened to rend your heart from its chest. He had received an order of execution for Fives and Jesse. You had to talk to Krell—beg on your hands and knees if you had to—you had to get that order reversed, nevermind Krell’s warning not to question his orders. You had to try.

You stood outside the command center, attempting to steady your countenance. One trembling finger pressed the button to open the door.

“General, we need to talk,”.

“What troubles you, Commander?” Krell didn’t even bother to turn around.

“I demand that you overturn the order of execution for ARC-5555 and CT-5597,” you stated firmly.

Krell chuckled.

“We both know you’re in no position to make such demands, Commander,” Krell sighed to himself. “I had hoped you would heed my earlier warning. I should have known it would fall on deaf ears,”.

“General, you are sending two innocent men to their deaths,”.

Krell glanced around, noticing the surrounding clones closely watching your exchange.

“Troopers, leave us,”.

The men filed out of the room quickly, leaving you alone with the General.

“You should be thanking me, Commander,” Krell mused. “Last time I checked, wasn’t attachment cause to be expelled from the Jedi order? Exterminating this clone solves both of our problems,”.

You shook your head.

“They won’t do it. They won’t execute them,”.

Krell hummed, considering your statement.

“Maybe so—but these men will be put to death, even if I have to carry it out myself,”. A twisted smile split Krell’s face as he spoke.

You ignited your saber, your tone fierce and unyielding.

“I won’t let you,”.

Krell tilted his head, both his sabers lighting up in his hands.

“Make your decision carefully, Commander. You’ll be expelled from the Order. You’ll lose everything,”.

Without Fives, you had nothing left to lose.

You swung.

Krell outmatched you with both speed and power. Each of your attacks was met by his blade. You growled. He parried your strike, landing a blow to your cheek with his fist. Your vision swam.

You were on the defensive now. You blocked two consecutive strikes from Krell’s sabers, grunting as he forced your blade closer and closer to your face. You scrambled for footing.

“It’s disappointing, really,” Krell hummed, his voice alarmingly casual. “Wasted potential,”.

Krell swung his unoccupied fist into the side of your head, the force of the blow carrying you across the room. Your saber clattered to the floor. You reached for your hilt, but just as your fingertips curled around the metal, an invisible hand grabbed you by the throat. Your body lifted from the cold durasteel floor, your toes barely brushing its surface. The pressure around your neck tightened. You clutched at your throat, darkness creeping around the edges of your vision. His eyes locked on yours, golden and eerie.

“You’re…Sith,” you choked out.

Krell chuckled.

“Not quite, my dear Commander,”.

Krell’s sneer was the last thing you saw before your vision went dark. You dropped to the floor.

Krell sighed, waving open the command center door. He motioned for the troopers to re-enter before gesturing at your unconscious body with another uninterested wave of his hand.

“Take them to the brig,”.

***

Fives walked to his execution with his head held high. He joked with Jesse, hoping to ease his brother’s mind as they marched towards their uncertain fate. He tried to be strong. All he could think about was you.

Two soldiers had carried you into the brig, placing you gently into your cell just as Fives was led out of the room. He caught a glimpse of your face before he left—you were bruised and unconscious. What had you done? What had Krell done? The markings on your face could not have been left by a Jedi.

As his closest brothers marched in with their blasters, his heart ached. He couldn't meet his end this way. Not while you and his brothers were still in danger. He needed to do something, and he needed to do it quickly. To save his brothers. To save you.

Dogma asked if he’d like to be blindfolded.

Reality sunk in. It was now or never.

They aimed. Fives spoke.

“Wait! This is wrong. And we all know it. The general is making a mistake, and he needs to be called on it. No clone should have to go out this way—we are loyal soldiers, we follow orders, but we are not a bunch of unthinking droids. We are men. We must be trusted to make the right decisions, especially when the orders we are given are wrong,”.

Fives sucked in a breath, hoping his words were enough.

“Fire!”

Not a single shot met its target. Fives breathed a sigh of relief.

As he and Jesse walked back to the brig, the question of his fate as well as yours still plagued him. He was sure you had ignored Krell’s warning not to question his orders—that must have been why you were so bruised and battered. Fives’s real question was why Krell had left you in such a brutalized state. No Jedi would have been so physically cruel. Fives’s blood boiled.

He re-entered his cell, curling up against the left wall. He could see your unconscious form in the cell next to him. He made careful note of every visible bruise and scrape on your body. Your neck was beginning to shade a deep purple color, and you sported a black eye. Each little mark fueled the fire of Fives’s anger tenfold. Krell needed to pay. To think that the man had even touched you, let alone battered you in such away, was enough to burn at Fives’s chest. He needed revenge. He spent the next few hours carefully monitoring your breathing, wishing he could reach out to touch you through the ray shield, wishing he could offer you the same comfort you always gave to him.

When Rex reappeared hours later, explaining that the era of Krell’s leadership had reached its end, Fives jumped at the chance to bring him in. With each new sliver of information Rex shared with him, Fives felt his anger at the besalisk grow. The so-called Jedi had targeted the two people he had cared about most—you and his brothers. As he checked his weapon and strapped on his armor, his expression set into a steely glare. Krell wouldn’t live to destroy any more lives—Fives would make sure of it.

***

The trees rustled with blaster fire and movement. Krell was everywhere. Fives heard the screams of his brothers over the comm—he took each one to heart. He would be ready.

“Steady your weapons—he’s headed our way,” Rex called.

Fives locked in his scope.

The general emerged in a blur of brightly lit plasma. Fives fired. Each shot was easily deflected by the Jedi, his twirling sabers redirecting the bolts effortlessly. Fives growled.

The general switched off his sabers, as if taking on the platoon with his lightsabers was far too easy. His back was to Fives—Krell grabbed a nearby trooper from his cover, flinging the man into the air. Fives saw his chance.

“What are you doing?” Rex hissed. Fives paid him no mind.

He fired five rapid shots at the general’s back. Only one managed to glance off the besalisk’s thick skin. Fives charged forward, swinging his blaster into Krell’s head with all his might. On his next swing, Krell knocked the blaster from his hand with a mere wave of his arm.

So that was how he wanted to play.

Fives readied his fists, throwing and landing three consecutive punches. The besalisk doubled over on the third, caught off guard by the strength of the blow. Fives grinned from under the helmet.

“A taste of your own medicine, yeah?”

Krell rose to his full height, allowing the remark to roll off his back. He lifted Fives off the ground with an invisible hand, before tossing him unceremoniously into the trunk of a nearby tree.

Feeble clones.

Fives hauled himself up from the ground slowly, his head pounding from the collision. Krell was nowhere to be seen. Fives scanned his surroundings—none of his brothers were visible, either. Had he been knocked unconscious? He listened for blaster fire, but none could be heard. He felt around the darkened forest floor, his hand closing around the shaft of his rifle.

A voice echoed to his left.

Fives ran towards the noise. He could barely make out the sight before him through the thick Umbaran fog. His brothers had gathered in a semi-circle around the still form of the former General. He ran faster, stopping when he reached Krell’s body and sucking in a deep breath.

“I stunned him, sir,” Tup explained.

“Nice work, Tup,” Rex praised.

Fives nudged the general with the nose of his rifle. His finger itched at the trigger. Rex pulled at his arm.

“Ease up, Fives. We got him,”.

Fives exhaled slowly, letting out a breath he didn’t know he was holding.

“Yeah, we got him alright,”.

***

You woke up in medbay, your head aching and throat throbbing. You were thirsty. You tried to speak, but your voice came out in a warble. You flexed your hand, realizing it was encased in something warm. You squeezed.

Fives jolted upright. Both his hands encased yours, and his eyes widened.

“You’re awake—are you alright? Do you need anything?”

You smiled, realizing he had fallen asleep holding your hand. Your smile quickly faded when you remembered what had happened that brought you here. Your heart seized.

“K-Krell—” You managed, the words scraping at your throat.

Fives smiled softly.

“Me ‘n the boys took care of him—he’s gone. You’re okay. We’re okay,”.

You nodded as he brought your palm to his lips, kissing it gently before resting it back in your lap. He fell silent.

Your eyes glanced over his weary expression. The lines on his face had grown into canyons in two short days. You hummed, words catching in your raw throat.

“Are you alright?” you croaked.

Fives shook his head, glancing up at the ceiling before looking back down at you.

“I almost lost you, ner kar’ta. Lost a lot of good men, too. Too many men,”.

You nodded, your chest aching at the emotion in his voice. You held out your arms. He collapsed into you, mindful of your new bruises.

The guilt of so much loss was eating at him. It broke your heart. You held him tight against your chest as he murmured an apology into your skin.

#arc trooper fives #arc trooper fives x reader #fives #fives x reader #fives x you #arc trooper jesse #clone trooper tup #captain rex #clone trooper x reader #the 501st #anakin skywalker #pong krell #my fic

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bensoloslover · 4 years

Text

her.

Kylo ren x Force Sensitive! Reader

(She/ Her Pronouns)

Preview: Madam (L/N) is called aboard to the Supremacy to discuss the terms of an alliance with the First Order. She gets much more than she expected when she finds she has a very special connection with a certain dark harried man

Y/N’s POV

The Debutont, Mega- class Lead Ship of The Dowarly, Deep Space.

“Madam (L/N), the supremacy has requested you attend a meeting to discuss an alliance with The First Order.” Mela stated as she entered your office quarters, carrying her holopad in one hand and interplanetary communicates device in the other.

The Supremacy. Oh how you loathed the idiots who ran that joint. Between them and their whole little empire knock off, otherwise known as the First Order, you could give a womp rats ass about forming an alliance with them.

“First, I’ve asked you to address me as by my name when we’re not in a formal setting. Second, Why exactly would they believe we’d want to form an alliance with them?” You mused looking up at your darling assistant, Mela, who’d be with you since you became head of the coven for The Dowarly. The Coven consisted of a chosen representative from each planet allied with The Dowarly, and the leader of the organization, otherwise known as you.

What’s The Dowarly some might ask? It’s an mostly neutral interplanetary state, dedicated to protecting their allies from the ravages of the war. With its allies choosing not to join either side of the war.

“Not a clue. But they’ve been begging for years. Also with so many of our allied planets thinking of joining, maybe it’s time you at least consider meeting to hear their offer before they make us an enemy, (Y/N).” Mela replied as she took a seat in your office.

“When you speak like that Mela I am tempted to give you a seat on The Coven, even if you’d never accept it.” You laughed as you sat back and weighed your options. Even with Dowarly’s promise of protection and peacekeeping within its allies wall, and it’s neutral stance in the ever growing war between planets, more and more planets had been making the move to either alliance with The Resistance or The First Order.

“I’d hate it, I’d rather just feed you my ideas as your humble assistant and watch them unfold from behind the scenes.” Mela laughed. You’d always thought her to be the smartest person you knew. She’d been your best friend at the academy, you’d grown up together, and when your grandmother passed down her seat at the table to you when you were 19, just a year before her passing, you’d without second thought chosen her to be your right hand woman and most trusted advisor.

“What have you heard from The Coven members about meeting with The Supremacy? I’m sure many of them have been asked to represent their plants.” You asked, knowing Mela had been keeping up with the topic since eventhing started.

“Most of them have already met with them. The rest are waiting for your call. Most will follow The Dowarly’s lead whether we decided to stay neutral or to join the First Order under Supreme Leader Snoke.

“Then let’s prepare the ship, we have a meeting to attend, and once this is over call The Coven to meet so we can state our decision.” You smiled as you stood, your hand outstretched as your saber flew off its pedestal beside you.

“Shall I Call the dressers to get you something sent up that’s… appropriate for a formal meeting perhaps?” Mela mused as she looked at your uniform up and down, with a look that said ‘I dare you to say no.’ “Make sure they prepare something for you too, if I’m stuck meeting with the Supreme Leader, so are you.” You laughed as you both made your way to the hangers of the ship.

Location: The Surprency.

You knew in this moment if your grandmother could see you now, dressed like a queen of some planet in the Outer Rim, walking up to the outside door of Supreme Leader Snoke’s Throne Room, she would have slapped you for even stepping foot on this ship. Let alone what she’d done if she heard you were staying on it for the next week. Force. This is dumb. This was very very dumb.

Your grandmother’s parents had denounced their monarchy, and in her young adult years she had become the senate representative of their home planet, Centonia. She was dear friends with the late Organa Family of Alderaan, who’s daughter is not only the face of the rebellion/ resistance, but also your late mother’s best friend. Though your mother had passed when you were only 3 years old, your grandmother had told you stories of the two of them growing up.

You’d always wondered if she would remember you if she saw you now. You had only met her three or four times as a child, mostly in passing at import meetings and events held by your grandmother. One of the last times you saw her was at your coronation and at your grandmother’s funeral. It was quick, it only felt like she��d said hello and given her condolences before she’d left the planet on urgent business, you were only Twenty at the time and you were too distracted to hear exactly what she said before she left.. Something about her son and her brother's Jedi temple, if you’re not mistaken.

That was well over five years ago now though. God you’ve gotten old.

You’d always thought she was the coolest person ever though. A princess turned General of a Rebellion Group, fighting for their beliefs, plus she was force sensitive? She was everything any little girl would dream of being at your age. At your mother's funeral she told you that if you ever needed anything that you were always welcome. She even offered to take you in as a child when you’d been discovered to be force sensitive, having a son maybe three years older than you with the same abilities.

Stars, did you feel like a traitor at this point. Your grandmother, mother, and the closest thing to another relative you’d ever had would absolutely knock you upside the head for this. You also couldn’t help but think of ways an alliance with the First Order would be beneficial.

“Are you ready to enter Madam (L/N), I was told to announce your arrival.” Said the First Order Captain standing by the doors, her silver armor and perfect posture making her look intimidatingly powerful. Phasma you’d remember her saying her name was when she met you when you docked your ship.

You looked down at your dress, smoothing down the black velvet fitted to your body. Too much you’d thought when you noticed almost everyone dressed in uniform here. Mela was beside you in a navy gown, she’d agreed the dresser had gone a little too hard with your attire, but it was too late now. You adjusted your lightsaber on your navy leather belt, now or never I guess.

“I’m ready.” You started, but then cleared your throat once again. “Also, please announce Mela Montanno, my advisor as well, her opinion is vital to my decision and her presence at this meeting is significant.” You spoke as you reached for Mela who looked as stunned as you could assume the Captain looked under her helmet.

“Yes Madam.” Phasma said, she turned to the doors and knocked twice, the shuffle of feet could be heard and the doors to the throne room were pulled open by two guards clad in red armor.

“Introducing Madam (Y/N) (L/N) of Centonia, Granddaughter of Rosemary (L/N), and esteemed leader of The Dowarly. And Mela Montanno, her distinguished Personal Advisor.” Phasma’s voice seemed to echo throughout the hall as you and Mela walked side by side through the doors into the red throne room. Phasma branched left and kneeled next to a ginger haired and a dark haired man kneeling next to the foot of snokes throne.

Kylo’s POV.

(L/N). Force sensitive. He’d surely heard that name before. Kylo could almost remember the day he’d heard his mother tell his father that she’d offered to take in the (L/N) girl. Force sensitive. She hoped her presence would be good for him. He’d only been ten years old at the time.

“What a pleasure to be in the presence of (Y/N) the Divine Ruler of The Dowarly. The last of a long line of royals and a force user if I’m not mistaken.” Supreme Leader Snoke spoke, Kylo could still hear their heels click against the floor as they approached the throne. “Ren, Hux, Phasma, rise please and greet our guests.”

As Kylo stood he looked up and saw her approaching. Her (H/C) hair shines under the light, her (S/C) complimented perfectly by the black velvet hugging her curves. Her strides powerful and head held high, her aura dripping with the confidence of a queen.

She was stunning. He knew he wasn’t the only one who thought so when he heard General Hux gulp next to him.

“It’s an honor to be here Supreme Leader Snoke, though my grandmother Madam (L/N) II was the Divine Ruler of The Dowarly. I’m simply the Leader of The Dowarly. Madam (L/N) would be fine.” She spoke, her voice sounded angelic yet strong. Her words were confident and precise.

Everything about her screamed power. As he took her in he saw the lightsaber attached to her hip. He knew then she was the little girl his mother had offered to take in. She had to have been. From what General Hux had told him about her family, they’d all died off long ago, her being the soul survivor of her bloodline.

Kylo almost couldn’t take his eyes off her, how he wished he had his mask at this point. At least it wouldn’t make it feel as wrong to be looking at her. He tried to clear his mind of her, Supreme Leader Snoke would surely notice his wandering thoughts.

“Well Madam (L/N), it is an honor to have you here. This is my apprentice Kylo Ren, and General Hux of the First Order. I know you’ve already become acquainted with Captain Phasma. They are here to help discuss the benefits of our alliance, for both sides of the party.” Snoke spoke proudly as he gestured to Kylo and the others with him.

When their eyes met Kylo could feel his heart skip a beat. Her (E/C) eyes pierced holes into his dark ones. That’s when he felt it. The force. The draw. The energy in the room shifted. As if the stars and planet had aligned themselves for this.

He felt her.

(Y/N)‘s POV

Suddenly everything in the room seemed to stop. All noises faded into the background as I locked eyes with him.

He felt so familiar.

Like, someone she’d known before, but she’d never seen him before. She’d surely remember someone so beautiful. Oh god this is supposed to be my first meeting with Supreme Leader Snoke and I’m staring at his apprentice. Shit.

(Y/N) turned away to look back at Snoke, but she couldn’t help but feel the waves of disappointment almost roll off of Kylo. This was already weird and it was only going down hill now.

“It’s an honor to meet you all. I look forward to our meeting about a future alliance. I hope we can come to a mutual agreement.” (Y/N) said, braving another glance towards the dark haired mysterious man, who seemed to be looking anywhere but her, thankfully.

Supreme Leader Snoke smirked, turning his head towards his followers. “Ren.” He said with a tone sharp enough to cut the tension in the room like butter. “Would you please show Madam (L/N) around the ship, and then escort their shared quarters. It should be right near yours. And General Hux, could you escort Lady Mela back to their ship to help receive their bags, and then escort her to their quarters as well. Then you both can be their personal escorts for the remainder of the trip. We wouldn’t want anything or anyone getting lost.”

“Yes sir, Supreme Leader. Captain Phasma could you please arrange a group of stormtroopers to help with the luggage, right this way Lady Mela.” Hux spouted off, holding out a hand to Mela with a warm smile, looking almost relieved to be able to leave the room. Mela on the other hand gave you a painful smile and squeezed your hand goodbye.

“Thank you, it was an honor, Supreme Leader.” Mela bowed and turned to the ginger haired man still holding his hand out to her. “Thank you General Hux.” Mela smiled. Taking his hand and letting him guide her. “Armitage is fine ma’am.” He replied as he led the both of them out the door, you could hear Mela giggle on her way down the hall. Dammit.

“Yes Supreme Leader, right the way Madam (L/N).” Kylo gestured as he walked towards the door. Unlike Mela you didn’t receive a hand, arm, or even a warm smile. Great. At least he’s as uncomfortable as I am, you thought to yourself as you two made your way towards the elevator at the end of the hall.

Force save me now.

“Ladies first.” Kylo spoke softly as the elevator doors opened in front of them, stepping aside so you could enter. Nervous? Why do I feel so nervous, you thought. I’ve been around plenty of powerful men before. Hell I just spoke to The Supreme Leader of The First order. I wonder if he can feel how nervous I am. I can feel how uncomfortable he is. Or maybe he's nervous too. Maybe I should say something.

“This is a huge ship, definitely bigger than our debutont.” Oh god that was dumb.Now we sound like an dumbass. God I’m Dumb.

“Yes. It is large. It’s one of our Mega- class Star Dreadnoughts. It houses our most esteemed Generals and Supreme Leader Snoke.” Kylo spoke, the words coming out flatly. You've already annoyed your tour guide and it's been two minutes, good going. Try and make it less awkward please (Y/N/N).

“So you must spend a lot of time here then?” Worse but whatever, guess you're trying to make the First Order hate Dowarly.

“I reside on the finalizer most of my time, I'm only here for as long as you are Madam (Y/N).” Kylo spoke out, once again very monotonically.

“Since we’ll be spending some time together this week, (Y/N) is perfectly fine outside of formal setting Mr. Ren? …” Moving to a first name basis so fast? Brave. Maybe it'll break the ice some. I thought while looking up to the man next to me. God he’s tall..

“Kylo is fine, (Y/N).” He turned his face to mine and once our eyes locked again it was like I was thrown back in time.

“Leia …” Was all I could utter before I felt myself fall before too large arms grabbed my shoulders.

Fin.

Thank you for reading! Please feel free to send me feedback if you liked it!

#ben solo x reader #kylo x reader #kylo ren imagine #kylo ren #kylo ren x reader #ben solo x you #kylo x you #kylo ren x you #kylo ren x y/n #y/n

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fe-husband-heaven · 4 years

Text

Dimitri x Wife!Reader - Commission (N/SFW)

ohoho

oHOHOHO

@queenofthespacesquids has graciously commissioned Dimitri smut from me :') and has been an absolute angel during this whole mess of a pandemic!

This reader is a general female reader and the commissioner wanted to share the Dimi love so they've allowed posting here!💖💕💖

Thank you once again for commissioning me! I hope everyone else enjoys it too!

______________

The twelfth sigh that day fell from Dimitri's lips. Drooping shoulders accompanied the heaving huffs he gave as his horse trotted along the roads of Fhirdiad.

"We'll be arriving soon, boar. Contain yourself."

Felix travelled afoot alongside Dimitri's white steed. A frown on his face, he shot Dimitri a judgemental look.

Dimitri paid him no heed.

"Awww, c'mon Felix. Give the guy a break. He's a man separated from his lady, doesn't it break your heart?"

Sylvain rode up to the two on his own horse, sticking to Felix's left.

"The only thing it breaks is my patience. I'd understand if this was his first time away, but he does this every time."

Sylvain laughed, his swordsman friend only deepened his scowl.

"Well...They've only been married for a little while..can't imagine they've had too much time alone considering he's the freaking King."

Felix scoffed,

"Y/N's with him all the time, they're attached at the hip, it's a miracle they haven't fused together yet."

Both of them turned to face the blonde man when he gave another longing sigh at the mention of your name.

Sylvain trotted his horse closer to Dimitri, which forced Felix to move to his left. Felix gave him a "Tch." in response.

Sylvain patted Dimitri's shoulder,

"Think of it this way, I'm sure your lady was very lonely. When you get back, she'll probably want lots of-"

Felix stomped on the ground near Sylvain's horse, spooking it and causing it to rear up before it sprung forward, Sylvain, fumbling to stay on and regain control.

"That absolute fool…Don't listen to his inane..."

He trailed off when he looked back to Dimitri, who looked extremely troubled.

"..Lonely..?..My wife is..lone...ly..?"

Dimitri's expression quickly went from yearning, to worry. Felix slapped a hand to his forehead in defeat.

"Ugh, you two are absolutely impossible…"

_______________

The gates of Fhirdiad were in sight not long after that. The soldiers standing guard alerted their fellow knights about the return of the king.

Many thought that Dimitri should remain on the throne and not step foot out into danger, it was a great risk to have the king out and about after what happened to the previous one.

But Dimitri firmly believed in being involved with the people, and seeing for himself what his people needed. The Kingdom was still recovering from the war, constant patrols were necessary.

Unfortunately, this meant that he was often forced apart from you. He would take you with him but it was not the most intelligent of ideas to have both the King and Queen away at the same time.

He wondered...were you really lonely? He knew Dedue had stayed behind as your guard but did you miss him the same way he missed you?

He sighed again, he wanted his wife.

"We're here, boar. Quit moping."

Dimitri looked up, they were in fact in front of the gates. But he honed in on something much more important.

"Dimitri!"

His wife.

She was waving. Smiling and waving at him from just a little bit inside the gate. He could see a couple of advisors begging her to come back inside where it was safe.

Felix and Sylvain essentially watched a man be reborn right in front of them. Dimitri perked up and a bright glimmer found its way into his blue eye, he kept his gaze on her. He knew he was to remain cordial and in line with the rest of his troops but...his wife.

The moment he was able to, Dimitri clambered off his steed and headed straight to you. You stood, adorned in blues and whites, the colors of Fhaergus. Laughing lightly as you held your arms open for him. He did not hesitate to jump right into them and return the hug you gave him.

He squeezed tightly, and pulled back far enough to pepper a couple kisses on your face.

He remained completely unaware of the dozens of eyes watching the two of you. Many of them simply civilians who had come to witness the return of their king. They smiled at the scene, Fhirdiad was well aware of the King's love for the Queen.

This was not the first time he had arrived absolutely starved for his wife's company. The people found it soothing, King Dimitri did not seem so far out of their reach when they saw how very much like them he was. Many were quite fond of the two of you and those of older generations would have a couple "Ahh to be young again.."s when the two of you were spotted together.

Once again, a royal advisor came along to try to usher the local King and Queen back into the palace.

"Please, your majesties-" Cut off by the firm grip of a hand on their shoulder, the man who was about to plead the resident King and Queen to please for the love of the goddess head back inside, turned towards the source of the sudden looming shadow.

He came face to face with a less than pleased Dedue.

"Do not interrupt their Majesties…"

Dedue had not meant for the man to apologize and run away but...he could not help the pleased feeling that ran through him at having protected the precious time their Majesties had together. The Queen doted on him and The King never failed to remind him that he was family. He was extremely grateful, he thought it to be the least he could do.

He quite enjoyed seeing them happy.

Briefly pausing his barrage of affection, Dimitri's lips pulled down into a frown accompanied by what can only be described as puppy dog eyes.

"Were you… lonely..?"

You...weren't sure how to respond. Of course you wanted him home but were you lonely? Dedue and the others had kept you company and they made it difficult to be lonely.

Your attention was caught by a redhead casanova standing a few feet away from the two of you. He was nodding, giving you a thumbs up, and mouthing "Say yes". You then watched as Felix jabbed his elbow into his side before dragging him off by the collar, probably off to go train.

Turning back to your giant lion of a husband, he was still awaiting an answer. You don't know what possessed you to trust Sylvain but between not knowing how to respond and his look of confidence, you threw caution to the wind.

"Of course..!.Isn't it natural to miss my husband?"

For a moment he looked even more saddened, like it was somehow his fault that you had been lonely. You smiled softly at him and laid a gentle hand on the side of his face, cupping his cheek.

"Hmm, didn't you miss me too?"

Leaning into your touch, Dimitri's frown dissipated, and a serene expression was left behind in its departure. Your hand was tenderly covered by his own as the other arm wrapped around your waist tightened just a little.

"Dearly."

Smiling at each other, it seemed as though no one else existed around you. Just a husband and wife who were reunited.

"Your majesties."

Dedue stepped forward.

Dimitri turned to look at him, keeping you in his arms as you did the same.

"Please Dedue, call me "Dimitri". You know you're family to us, Y/N and I would love nothing more than to drop formalities."

Dedue smiled tenderly, his heart warmed.

"Yes, your majesty."

You couldn't help the giggle that escaped you at the way Dimitri was rendered speechless. You doubted that Dedue would ever move past the habit, Dimitri would have to settle for having his name used in private!

Giving your husband a comforting pat, you turned your attention back to Dedue when he continued speaking.

"Your majesties, there are no matters that require your assistance urgently. Please, take this time to rest...both of you." he added.

You smiled and thanked Dedue, who with a bow, went off to the kitchens. His cuisine had grown quite popular among the people and he was often requested for cooking duty in spite of his status as Dimitri's right hand man.

Shooting Dimitri a bright grin, you wrapped your arms around his as his hold on you loosened.

"Shall we go?"

His smile softened further, your lips parted to tease him about being handsome but before you could, a surprised yelp escaped your lips as you were suddenly pulled off of your feet and into strong toned arms.

You heard a couple whistles from onlookers as you collected yourself, Dimitri had already begun moving and walking off towards your room as if he wasn't carrying an entire human being in his arms.

You stabilized yourself by wrapping your arms around his neck, marvelling up at him briefly before laughing.

"Hmm, this is familiar!"you chirped.

Dimitri's strides slowed just a little as he focused on you. He pressed a kiss to your forehead, not noticing the respectful bows of passing attendants.

He laughed lightly,

"Ahhh,yes, our wedding night, you nearly tripped on your own dress when I set you down."

You made an offended sound but felt your heart warm. Dimitri used to be nothing but proper to you, now he was comfortable teasing you.

"Yeah well, you cried when you saw me in it."

Dimitri sputtered,

"T-that is not..!..I-.."

He stopped walking, locking eyes with you as red burned on his cheeks and tips of his ears.

"That is unfair Y/N...you were beautiful.."

You smiled contently at him, sighing softly. Somehow, you had netted yourself the sweetest man on the planet. Tooth-rottingly sweet. You wondered if he knew how charming he was.

"How did I get such a precious husband again..?"

You leaned up to press a kiss to his lips. Not satisfied with a peck, Dimitri careened his neck to return the kiss. A wave of warmth ran through you as the sound of lips melding together slipped into your ear.

You pulled back just enough to murmur against his lips,

"Hurry…"

At probably the fastest speed you'd ever seen him move, Dimitri barreled through the castle halls at breakneck speed. You couldn't help but laugh at his eagerness as he neared your room. Barely getting the door open and crossing through, he was back at engulfing your lips, shifting you in his arms so you pressed against him.

Pulling away reluctantly, you patted his shoulder.

"Set me down here."

He seemed unwilling to let you go but the ever obedient husband he was, he voiced no complaints. Though he did look like he was itching to snake his arms around you again.

Locking the door, you watched with amused eyes as Dimitri's face went crimson the moment you got on your knees in front of him.

"M-my love…!.you don't have to..!.please let me-"

Dimitri moved to help you up but you simply grabbed a hold of his hands and brought them to your cheeks.

"Dimitri…" you locked eyes with him, taking in the flustered expression he wore, "You're always spoiling me...let me take care of you too…!"

There were a lot of things in life Dimitri could handle. Being king, fighting in arduous battles, even the most extraneous of labors. But seeing his wife kneeled in front of him, eager to please him in such a lewd manner was not one of them.

"Y/N...if it is what you wish…"

You frowned, you wanted him to enjoy it too…

Looking back in front of you, you were surprised by the bulge protruding from his pants. You couldn't help the cat-like grin that enveloped your lips.

Reaching out to tug at his belt, you purposefully brushed against the swell, not missing the soft intake of breath from him. You looked up and smiled cheekily at him,

"What I wish,huh…" teasing evident in your voice.

Maybe it was a little mean, but the way he buried his face in his hands as his blush travelled down his neck was well worth it. He was so cute it was almost unfair. This was most definitely not your first time doing anything intimate so to see him flustered even after all the other nights he seemingly couldn't be satiated…well, it was adorable!

You decided to give his heart a bit of a break and turned your gaze away. Working his belt and tugging his pants and undergarments just low enough for his length to slip out, you swallowed thickly as you were reminded about how well endowed your husband was…

Placing a hand on his thigh to stabilize yourself, you curled your fingers around his member and gingerly began pumping its length. Dimitri's hips lightly followed your hand as you rubbed and teased the tip. You thought you wouldn't tease him more but the slow pace you took was probably his greatest enemy right now.

"Y/N..please, this is torture.."

You laughed but indulged him. Tongue wet and warm, you gave a long drawn out lick before taking his cock in your mouth. Head beginning to bob up and down the thick throbbing length of your King, you didn't fail to notice the way Dimitri's hands clenched as he leaned against the door for support.

Struggling to maintain himself, Dimitri watched as he disappeared in and out of his beloved wife's mouth, the lips that kissed him so sweetly, wrapped around him and sucking with such rhythm and heat that he had to fight his own wanton need to buck into your mouth.

It seemed that despite how fervently he had pounded you into the mattress so often after your wedding, he would still be a blushing mess when at your mercy. But he couldn't help it. His wife, his precious wife...full of nothing but love for him..there were times where he was unsure of whether he deserved such devotion.

He knew he shouldn't doubt your decisions but he couldn't help but wonder why him. You told him often about everything you loved about him but the question lingered. What exactly had he done to be blessed with you? Perhaps it was pointless to mull it over, he couldn't let you go either way.

Still...his wife..his wife...Y/N Blaiddyd…

His length twitched in your mouth, and your pace stopped as gentle hands reached down to brush hair out of your face, tenderly caressing your cheeks. You looked up to meet loving blue eyes, Dimitri's expression was soft, and you weren't sure what insighted it.

But it didn't matter, letting your eyelids flutter shut, you nuzzled a little into his touch before continuing. His body responded to your affection with a slow roll of his hips, and a soft breathless moan of your name.

Encouraging him to keep moving, you pulled him a little closer. His breathing was growing rapid and the wary slides into your mouth were building into broken thrusts, desperate to keep feeling the inviting heat of your tongue.

Your jaw was getting sore but the face Dimitri made as he got closer and closer to release was too great of a reward to stop. Burning the image of your King panting and losing himself to pleasure into your mind, you couldn't help but feel a little pleased with yourself.

"..!..Y/N..!!..I'm going to-..!"

Expecting you to let him go, Dimitri was helpless against your increasing speed. Bucking into your mouth while his fingers dug into your hair, he shut his eyes tight as the ache and throbbing of his cock was finally rewarded with the white pleasure of release.

Driving him in as deep as you could, you enjoyed watching him as the rush of warm cum spurted down your throat. Making a show of swallowing, you let his member slip from your lips.

But before you could make a comment that would net you a cute blush and a stammer from the golden haired man, you were pulled up carefully and wrapped into a tight hug.

After a split second moment of surprise, you returned the hug, one hand reaching up to stroke and play with Dimitri's tousled hair. Burying his face in the curve of your neck, Dimitri murmured a soft but bashful Thank you. You would have laughed if it wasn't so sweet.

He was still so polite…thanking you for sucking him off...heh.

"Hmm, don't thank me yet. I'm not quite done with you!" You sing-songed.

Dimitri pulled back just enough so you were facing each other, you admired the color on his cheeks. He kissed your forehead softly,

"May I..?"

Now it was your turn to be putty in his hands, it was hard not to be when he was asking with such decorum to undress you. Your face matched his as you turned around, giving him access to the lacings and buttons on your dress.

He leaned forward and pressed a kiss to the back of your neck as he worked on freeing you from your clothes.

You busied yourself with a mantra reminding you not to pounce on him, but that internal chant was disrupted by the sudden sound of fabric tearing, followed by something dropping on the floor, rolling to a stop in front of you. Looking down, you saw a button.

Silence filled the room and nobody moved a muscle as you stood, feeling a little colder than when you had first walked into the room.

"Dimitri."

"Y-yes..?"

"Did you rip my dress?"

He didn't respond immediately.

"...I..will acquire a new one for you…"

He knew you wouldn't chide him, but he still felt guilty. Expecting you to laugh it off, he was caught by surprise at the sudden barrage of peppered kisses on his face accompanied by you latching onto him through arms snaked around his neck.

He hugged your waist reflexively and though he was extremely happy to be at the receiving end of so much affection, he wanted to know what he had done to deserve it.

"Y/N?"

You cuddled into him, full of glee, having the dam holding you back from smothering him in as much love as you could muster, broken.

"Dimi, you're so cute! Hnnng, why is my husband so cute??"

Dimitri was unsure of what to say but he was happy he was being complimented,

"Two seconds ago, while I was doing something sinful to you, you were absolutely gentle and careful with me but now that you try to be the same to my dress, you go and tear it!"

It was amusing, but also so endearing that you couldn't help the swell of blatant affection that had welled up in your chest. Dimitri was much too kind, handsome, adorable, strong, and intelligent all in one. You were often teased about how much your husband fawned over you, but you were very much the same.

He made you very happy and it's all you wanted for him as well.

Leaning forward, Dimitri captured your lips in a drawn out loving kiss before resting his forehead against yours.

"..Of course...I could never hurt you.."

That netted him a return kiss from you.

Dimitri…

Being even just a little rough during sex constituted as hurting you to him. He knew you weren't helpless, and you could very much handle yourself, but he couldn't help but treat you like you were fragile. He always believed you had to protect the things you love.

Boy, he really took the priest's "to love and cherish till death do you part" seriously…

"My apologies for tearing your dress..I'll replace it, I promise."

And the sweet man was still concerned over something so trivial...You reaaaaaally loved your husband.

You pecked his lips before leaning forward to purr in his ear,

"It's okay. I like it when you tear my clothes off."

It was not but a split second after that you were carried off to your bed, the sound of fabric being torn off your body, music to your ears as an impish grin rested on your lips. With his immense strength, it was an easy task.

The chill from the sudden lack of coverage was ignored as you relished in your riled husband fumbling to take off his armor. When the plates of steel had hit the floor, Dimitri was quick to sink the bed with his weight and hover over you.

"W-would you like me to do the same..?"

Even when he was eager, he was polite.

As sure as you were that he was skilled with his tongue, you had no more patience left to spare.

Shaking your head, you pulled him down so you could let your lips meet, murmuring against them,

"No...I don't want to wait anymore...I just want you, Dimitri."

Making a sound that was strangled by the way he smothered your mouth with his, you felt the hardened tip of his cock align with your entrance, ready to slip into you.

"I-it's wet..." Dimitri noted against your lips.

For as much teasing as you had given him earlier, you were certainly getting your dues at how torturously slow he was sliding into you.

You knew you couldn't rush it but feeling every inch of Dimitri's length filling your core and being unable to have him just pound you into the mattress..it was unfair.

Feeling Dimitri's hips meet yours, you were relieved that you didn't have to wait much longer. The kisses that Dimitri was making to your neck were growing to be too much when coupled with the feverish groping of your chest.

Filled with him, your hips moved on their own and rolled up onto his cock, wanting for him to move.

The slippery inviting heat of his wife's insides mixed with his wife's needy hips spurred Dimitri into slow drawn out thrusts. Thrusts much too leisurely for you.

"Dimitri..faster..please.."

Maybe it was the way you breathed it out next to his ear or the fact that he was always quite obedient in bed but Dimitri did as he was asked.

Building up to a strong steady pace of deep rams of his cock into you, Dimitri wrapped his arms around your waist, keeping you close and in place as he slammed himself in and out of you.

Finally being given what you wanted, your legs wrapped around him as little cries of his name escaped your lips. It had been much too long since the last time you'd done this.

"I-..missed you..!"

You panted out, digging your fingers into his hair as your stomach burned from the pleasure.

Dimitri hugged you tighter against him, almost in comfort and agreeance. It was all he could do, he couldn't trust his mouth to form any words at the moment.

He had missed you so dearly, he did every time he had to leave you behind or when you left his side. He loved you more than anything else in the world and it pained him to think you might've felt lonely all on your own.

He was always elated upon his return to find you smiling and welcoming him back, he found comfort in having a home to return to and being able to do the same for you whenever you travelled to neighboring territories to maintain peaceful relations.

Every time you parted, he felt a piece of him was missing. The nights he spent away from you, wondering what you were doing and whether you were faring well, were torturous. Quiet nights, missing you and your company would lead to the shameful pumps of his cock into his own hand, imagining it to be his wife's heat he was plunging into.

He missed you, this, everything.

Maybe it was unbecoming of him, the King of Fhaergus, to love sex with his wife so much but the mutual wanton need to be together and be one was much too enticing to him. Being as close as he could be to the person he vowed to share his life with..it was precious to him, and he was sure you were the same.

"I..!.love you, Y/N-"

Garbled words in between frenzied thrusts somehow still clutched at your heart. You're not sure why, maybe it was just hitting you how much you truly missed him but your eyesight blurred with sudden tears.

Maybe it was just Dimitri. So full of love and so willing to offer it to you despite him sometimes wondering whether he deserved yours. You just wanted to seal away all those worries.

"Dimitri-..!..Dimitri..!!..I love you-..!.I love you, I love-"

Your cries of his name and declarations of love were muffled by desperate lips melding with yours, tongues slipping against each other as the bed creaked with each jut of his hips. The lewd sound of skin slapping against skin and the wet squelch of you clenching around him burned into your ears.

Hips bucking up wildly, the building white heat that pooled in your stomach finally spilled over the edge as you shook and trembled against him, vision blurring momentarily. All at the same time as your husband's erratic thrusts grew jerky before you felt the hot spill of his seed inside you.

Panting and settling against each other, you ran shaky fingers through Dimitri's hair, smoothing away any strands plastered to his forehead.

Ignoring the wet feeling of cum slipping down the curve of your ass.

You sighed contently as your breathing evened out, a feeling of serenity taking its place. Your husband peacefully rested against your chest, eyelids fluttered shut as he let you caress his face and play with his hair.

The two of you stayed quiet for a long time, just basking in the afterglow of your affection. Dimitri silently relished in his wife's gentle tender hand, enjoying the coolness of your wedding ring when it touched his skin.

He listened to the calming beating of your heart, the same heart that was so open and devoted to him. The same heart that loved him back with as much fervor as his own. The heart that his beloved wife promised belonged to him, just as he had promised his to her.

"..Dimitri..?"

He moved slightly, indicating he was listening.

"..Welcome back."

Shifting, he faced you, joining your mouths in a soft sweet kiss.

"I'm home."

#fire emblem three houses #fe3h #Dimitri #Dimitri Alexandre Blaiddyd #lemon #god get a room yall xjxjdjs #so lovey dovey sickening #heheheh thank you for the commission! and for letting me write for my precious giant lion xjdjdjd #everyone give thanks to the commissioner!

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ahiddenpath · 4 years

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If you could give Daisuke, Miyako, and Iori their own crests, what would they be?

This is a really tough one! I do love that they “inherited” crests; the whole “these kids gets mentors” was so cute? A great way to bring back the older kids in a meaningful way. I personally think the 02 crew “had it together” in ways the original crew... kind of didn’t, lol! But they did have a lot of benefits (ability to go home, Koushiro as an advisor, mentors, two members who already knew what was going on, etc).

I also really love the observation that Adventure emphasized individual development (finding and earning and internalizing their crest traits, evolution is triggered by understanding yourself) and 02 emphasized team development (jogress/evolution triggered by strong bonds between teammates, inheriting wisdom from the ones who came before). So... I guess I hate to mess with that? But I do also see the appeal of giving them their own traits...

THIS GOT INCREDIBLY LONG, but it’s a really cool post, I think! So please read on beneath the cut!

Daisuke

Honestly, I think miracles works pretty well? I’ve heard people say that Daisuke just... Does whatever he wants/follows his gut, and it tends to work out; ie he’s more “lucky” than “an effective leader.”

Personally, I... Truly admire Daisuke’s faith and optimism and just... Just raw belief in everyone? I have anxiety, so sometimes my brain loves to tell me that a thing I’ve done a million times with no problems will somehow explode in my face. Can you imagine just... Choosing to always believe, and acting like everything will be okay? I don’t mean “sticking your head in the sand and going LALALA THIS IS FINE,” I mean taking action without hesitation, even when things are scary.

Like, yeah, maybe that’s not always valid IRL- you need to plan and be realistic and accept and reevaluate when your plan isn’t working- although I’d argue that Daisuke learned to do that over the course of the series (I remember him saying the team should rest at some point, and everyone was surprised that he didn’t want to press on, except Ken).

But I also maintain that Daisuke’s ability to believe in himself, his team, and just a general “things will be okay” is what creates success that almost seems... miraculous!

Also, I think he is suuuch a great meld of courage and friendship, because he pushes on when things are scary (courage) and is able to do so because he believes in everyone (friendship).

So, I’m thinking something like faith/confidence/trust. And having listed some similar-ish words...

I’m going with trust.

What incredible things you can do, when you believe in yourself, your team, and the future.

Miyako

I’ve seen other people assign her the crest of “passion,” which I think is great!

I think the thing about Miyako is that she’s, like... Always on, always 150%, so dynamic and vibrant and just... her cup overflows with energy and... Miyako-ness.

It’s clear to see how she relates to her “purity” side. It took me a long time to understand what I think the crest of purity means, thanks to a lot of... ickiness around the word “pure” in western tradition, which is also why I am loathe to throw the word “innocence” into my definition. Basically, I think the crest of purity means that Mimi and Miyako don’t dissemble/hide how they really feel. You’re always getting their raw, honest truth. And, because Mimi in particular is spoiled, she can come off as childish- which is where people like to throw in the word “innocent.”

[The general selfishness of children is related to them not knowing yet that they aren’t the center of the world- psychologically; Freud would call it “being ruled by the id.” It’s just a developmental stage, and doesn’t really indicate actual selfishness. You know how Winnie the Pooh is a sweetheart, but can make things miserable for other people by just assuming he can help himself to everything?]

But Mimi also displays a child’s heart in terms of being kind and sweet and sensitive and wanting to help... and then swinging back towards the id at the drop of a dime, lol!

Like Mimi, Miyako is very comfortable giving her opinion and drawing attention to herself, and she doesn’t seem to be holding herself back... But we do eventually see that things can weigh on her, and that she’s sometimes putting up a front when her energy actually isn’t at 150%.

I think the “love” part is a bit harder to pin down, but then... The word “love” is incredibly vague, and means a million different things to different people, which is why I kind of hate discussing the crest of love! I like to think of it as “the crest of compassion” to focus discussions; sympathetic consciousness of others' distress together with a desire to alleviate it.

It’s kind of funny to think of Miyako with the crest of love compared to Sora. Sora tends to show love by watching over people, being kind and supportive and brave even when she’s struggling and hiding the signs of her struggle/dismissing her own struggles, doing things for others, often without even letting people know she did anything.

In comparison, Miyako shows compassion by being present for people she loves, telling them bluntly when they need to shape up (which, frankly, a lot of Digimon characters really need. We need waaaaaay less staring into each other’s faces and never answering concerned questions and waaaaaaay more *slap* GET IT TOGETHER! God, ilu Miyako), and being honest and open about how much she cares for them.

So yeah, passion!

Iori

One of my favorite Chosen, this sweet good boy that I lovelovelovelove!

So one thing about Iori is that, while I can write big honkin’ analysis of how Daisuke and Miyako show their inherited crests... Um, I think Iori is his own thing. Like, I don’t... super get honesty and knowledge off of him. I mean, the honesty thing, sure. His Grandpa taught him not to lie, we had a whole ep based on that alone. As for knowledge, yes, he wants to know the truth and get to the bottom of things.

But... Neither crest ever felt like a slam dunk for him? Even though it’s easy to see how “honesty” and “knowledge” coalesce into “a desire for truth,” which is further illustrated in his career as a (presumably upright and truth-seeking) lawyer. Like, it’s right there in front of your face, Hidden!

BUT LEMME PULL UP A CHAIR, CAPTAIN AMERICA STYLE, AND HASH WITH YOU.

The thing that, to me, stands out about Iori most is that he’s grounded and centered. Have you seen that post recently that explains how Daisuke tried, just one time, to treat Iori like a little kid (he says, “shut up, little brat”)? And Iori- who is about three years younger than Daisuke, and much more withdrawn- politely but firmly replies, “Please don’t talk to me like that.”

AND YOU KNOW WHAT? DAISUKE APOLOGIZES AND NEEEEVER TALKS DOWN TO IORI AGAIN.

Iori is like... He’s like eight, my dudes! Rolling with a bunch of eleven-ish year olds! He’s personal friends with Miyako, a twelve year old, before Adventure 02 even opens! And we don’t often see him being doted on and protected like Takeru and Hikari were in the same situation.

YOU WANNA KNOW WHY? The simple answer is that he’s mature, but I wanna say that he’s grounded, the ultimate earth sign type (I think Digmon is a pretty clear metaphor). He doesn’t get flustered or swayed. He knows where he is, where he stands, what he must do. On the one hand, this makes him mature beyond his years, reliable, able to stand up for himself and be an equal team mate among kids who are older than him.

The downside is that “that which cannot bend must break.” I’m sure you’ve read a zillion metas about how Iori sees in black-and-white originally and has trouble changing his world views and learning to forgive... But he does all of those things, maturing further into possibly just... just... Can you even imagine him as an adult?! HE’S TOO POWERFUL.

So, if he were an Adventure character, I’d say that his crest is integrity, and he has to go through his adventure to learn what that really means for him- to develop from stubborn, black-and-white thinking to true integrity.

THANKS FOR THE ASK!

#02 crew #digimon meta #crests for daisuke miyako iori #faves #daisuke motomiya #miyako inoue #iori hida #Anonymous

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concealeddarkness13 · 3 years

Text

WHG 15 Post-Games Imposter Syndrome Part 28

This is a couple days after part 27! Tagging: @ratracechronicler, @maple-writes, @pen-of-roses (also thanks for Conor!), and @thoughts-of-nora!

Just as Aurora said, I was scheduled for an interview a few days later. It probably was to announce the masquerade, but I was the only former tribute to be having an interview this time. So, what else did they have planned?

I walked into room where Priscilla Cristal would be, but she wasn’t there. I frowned at the older man who stood off to the side, spreading out a floor length, midnight blue dress. And no coat or hat.

He looked normal enough. He had the same color eyes as me, and he looked kind of familiar. But I couldn’t place where he was from. He noticed me standing there and bowed. “I’m sorry, Ms. Reeves. Ms. Cristal sends her regrets, but she is swamped with other orders, so she is not available to be your stylist anymore. My name is Dior Hawthorne, and I am a stylist working under Ms. Cristal.” He held out his hand for me to shake.

I nodded and walked forward, shaking his hand. “It is a pleasure to meet you.” I looked over at the dress and cocked an eyebrow. “Unfortunately, you must have missed a memo. I only wear pirate outfits. Or at least a long coat and hat.”

His lips quirked down. “I would love to fulfill your request, however, the Capitol has required me to stick to a certain outfit. I am not able to change what they have required.”

Shit. What the hell were they planning? I just nodded and got changed when he left the room, and he came back in to work on my hair and makeup. It was pretty standard, at least nothing flashy (especially because I had finally gotten rid of all the fucking glitter from last interview yesterday). And he pulled up all my unruly hair into a bun. Wow. Now, that was a metaphor if I ever saw one.

When he was done, he hesitantly put a hand on my shoulder. “Stay strong, Ms. Reeves. I’ve only heard whispers of what they’re planning, and I am not particularly fond of it.”

I frowned a little. He was chatty, wasn’t he? “You might want to be careful about who you tell about what you’re feeling about the Capitol. For all you know, I could love the Capitol.”

He laughed a little and winked. “I think I know my own blood better than that.” And he left.

Wait, what? Blood? Like related? What did he mean by that? I had to push that out of my mind, however. I had to deal possibly with Bystander and whatever the Capitol was going to throw at me now.

And Bystander wasn’t around. So, I just walked over to the elevator I would take to get on stage. The Peacekeepers waved me on, and I walked out into the flashing lights and screaming audience with a smile on my face.

“Welcome to a very special interview with our very own tribute, Triel!” Caesar paused and winked at the crowd as I sat down. “So, you must have noticed that Triel never really talked about her family during the pre-Games, or even the post-Games. There is a reason for that. She is actually an orphan. At least that’s what she believes.”

The crowd sighed, and Caesar pouted his lips in fake sympathy. Oh boy. What were they planning? “She grew up in District 10, away from any luxury or love or family.” Sympathy from the crowd. “It must have been horrible for you, Triel.” He looked over at me with fake sorrow, and the smile slipped from my lips. That was the best I could do with the shit Caesar was saying.

“Well, I did some digging, and I found out that it’s not entirely true that Triel is an orphan. It’s such a closely guarded secret, but I found out who Triel’s mother and father are.” He paused. “Do you want me to tell you?” The audience roared, and Caesar pulled out something that was signed by my mother. He showed it to me first, and my eyes widened as I read it. Was this true? Or did the Capitol lie again?

Then he held it up and waved it for the audience. “I figured out who Triel’s mother was, and I understand why the Capitol wanted to keep it a secret. If someone had figured it out while she was still unsafe, who knows what would have happened to her? But now, she’s safe, so I can reveal the information.” He paused for dramatic effect again. “Her mother is Maria Shasten.”

The audience gasped. Made sense, she was probably a celebrity in the Capitol because she had been chosen by the Shades. The people with the magic that the Shades didn’t hold onto were contracted out to basically do party tricks.

“But that’s not all.” Caesar smirked over at me. “Yes, being the daughter of one of the ones bestowed with magic by the Shades would be reason enough for someone to take her, but I figured out who her father is. And he is none other than a highly important assistant to President Snow,” paused for dramatic effect again, “Creston Fallion! And he is here today!”

He walked on stage with a smirk. He was known as a cruel advisor to Snow, at least among the people of the districts. He only cared about what would entertain him, and he was one of the main supporters of more brutal and deadly Hunger Games. But I had to admit, he did look enough like me that people would believe it. Shit.

I stood up when he walked over to me, and he took my hand and kissed the top of it, all the while smirking at me. Then he turned to Caesar. “I am so happy to finally meet my daughter in person. I have loved what I have seen of her so far on the TV. She is endearing and witty. I can’t wait to talk with her myself.”

“Triel, I should probably call you Triel Fallion,” hell no you shouldn’t, “how do you feel now that you know you are part of the Capitol instead of stuck with the legacy of the districts?”

I forced a smile on my face as I kept looking at Fallion. It was most likely a lie. Churi wouldn’t be so pissed off if my father had been a Capitol official. But still. Even the remote chance that I was related to a piece of shit like him made my stomach lurch. And would I have to spend time with him now? Brilliant. “Absolutely excited! I had no idea I had such an esteemed family. I have been alone for so long, I can’t imagine having a family again.”

They seemed satisfied with that. Caesar looked away from me, back to the crowd. “And just to make it official, Creston has agreed to adopt Triel so she will never have to worry about the districts again.” Fallion squeezed my hand tighter, and my stomach dropped. “She is one of us now, and she always will be!” The crowd roared, and he pulled me into a hug. He was holding me too tight. Shit.

“In celebration of all the wonderful announcements the past few weeks, there will be a masquerade in four days, and the former tributes will all attend! Tickets will go on sale tomorrow, and there are a limited number, so you better act fast!”

The crowd roared, and Caesar gestured at me one last time as Fallion basically pushed me off the stage. When we were out of view of the cameras, he leaned closer to me, still smirking. “I’ve heard all about your sharp tongue from Aurora. I think you’ll amuse me tonight.”

My stomach dropped again, and I couldn’t find my voice. I actually had to be near this trash of a human being now? And I couldn’t do anything about it. Shit.

“7/10 for the lovely lady, I’m sure the shock is the only reason for a not perfect score tonight, but for the unfortunate—pardon me, unexpected side character I’d hesitate to even give a 1/10 really. Far too smug, and I’m the one saying it.”

I jumped and looked up to see Bystander leaning against the wall, studying his nails. I frowned. “What the f—”

Fallion clamped his hand over my mouth and shook his head. “Such naughty language. No daughter of mine will speak like that.” I tried to push back away from him, but he just grabbed my arm in a too tight grip, while still keeping his hand over my mouth. Then he looked over at Bystander. “And I don’t believe you’re needed. I’ll keep her in line tonight.”

Bystander stood up, and his grin was sharp and all teeth. As he stepped slowly forward, his eyes flashed, and some other parts of his face seemed to shift back and forth in the blink of an eye. What the hell? I just stared at him as he kept his attention on Fallion. “But why silence such entertaining wit and charm, truly it’s part of how she’s even gotten here, isn’t it? And I’m almost never needed, and yet I think this is one of those rare occasions where I am. You see, I’ve never been a fan of mortals thinking too highly of themselves, it’s such an obnoxious noise, don’t you think, my dear? Now I do so hope those idiots have informed you of just what roles we are all supposed to be playing? If not allow me to be the first to inform you that you’ve played yours for the night, so please get. Your hands. Off. Her.”

Fallion just stood up taller too. “I am one of the people in charge of this foolish endeavor to make the Capitol happy about what happened, and you are beneath me. So, leave.”

Bystander laughed, cold and humorless. “I do not work for the Capitol or the Shades for that matter, and I am beneath very few. I also don’t like repeating myself, though I will give you just one more chance, because I am curious what exactly you think you can do that Churi and our star have not already done?” He seemed to take only one step, but he was already in front of Fallion, still smiling with his hands clasped behind his back. “Or have you asked about my sudden inclusion in all this? Perhaps you haven’t been trusted quite as much as you think. Not as important as you think. Or maybe you’re just not bright enough to heed the warnings.”

I flinched when Fallion let go of me, his face contorted in rage. “You little peasant.” He went to slap Bystander. Was Fallion going to be killed before my eyes? And did I feel bad about that at all? No. I just watched with morbid curiosity.

Bystander grabbed Fallion’s arm and then wrapped a hand around his throat the next second. “Tsk, tsk, I do hate this part, here I normally prefer to avoid these encounters with words, but clearly you’re worth even less of my time than I initially thought.” He lifted Fallion up above his head, as if he weighed nothing. Bystander turned back to face me, and all I could do was stare. I should have been used to that, since he had acted so nonchalant with me threatening his life before. He sounded bored when he spoke. “Oh, I guess we are beneath him in this instance. While I do hate being proven wrong, I suppose I can accept this instance. Now, can I let you go or will try that again? After all I’m sure if anybody wished to question they would find this was self defense since you went to strike me first.” He smirked up at Fallion with a raised eyebrow.

Fallion was actually smart enough to shake his head and run off after Bystander let him go. He was…actually gone. I shouldn’t have to deal with him tonight. I fell back against the wall and sunk against the floor. “Thanks,” I whispered.

He waved it off, and stared off after anyone who dared linger. “That was hardly any energy, Triel, still far more than he was worth though, but far less than what I’m willing to exert for—well never mind that.” He looked back at me, actually looking serious as he looked me over. “Do you require any sort of medical care, or is it simply shock of the idiocy of that performance?”

All that I needed was a distraction. I took a deep breath and pushed the thoughts out of my mind. I stood up and smirked over at him, brushing off the question. “Well, that interview was certainly a show. How would you rate that reveal? It was pretty standard as ‘learning of secret family you never knew about’ goes.”

He snorted and rolled his eyes. “Boringly so I’ll agree, I dare not even rate it. Honestly, can they not learn new tricks, after all, you’re already their precious darling considering everything else that has led up to this point. Besides, it takes very little digging to uncover the lies of it all. At least it served the purpose of the masquerade being justified, as if they truly need that. Still, it will only make you more valuable to them, if only to keep you safe until then. Tell me, have they asked for how you wish to dress for it? I fear a pirate will break the illusion of mystery for the night.”

I shook my head. “No, they’ll probably choose my outfit again. Like this one.” I eyed him. “Do you find it to your tastes?”

“Hmm, it hardly appears as you, or at least the you I have seen before, more styled to appear as another vapid member of them. Though I suppose that was the point in all this wasn’t it? To somehow prove that you’re no different while also holding you on a pedestal?”

“You think those costumes were any different? I didn’t even pick out my last costume. You did. So, then, what would you prefer me to be wearing?” I leaned a little closer to him and lowered my voice. Distraction would be appreciated.

“Those others were meant to make you appear different from them, even if they were nothing more than costumes as you put it. But they were still similar enough to the style you yourself chose. As for my preferences, well perhaps you will get the chance to see them soon enough. I assure you, they will be more to your tastes than the Capitol image presented previously, costumes have their uses after all but I tend towards a certain level of beauty and charm.” He looked over at me pointedly, smirking.

I laughed a little. “Tell that to your reaping outfit. That lacked both beauty and charm.”

“A costume, a role to play to get what I want. But tell me, do I lack those now? Be honest, I would hate to miss out on your sharp tongue.” He spread his arms so I could see well.

And, damn it, he looked good. A nice, sharp suit that wasn’t gaudy or even stood out at all. But I couldn’t actually admit that. I cocked my head and smirked. “Still a 6/10.”

“Tell me, my dear little thief, what would I have to do to get a perfect score from you?”

Maybe I’d admit it eventually. “You’ll just have to wait and find out.” I smirked over at him. “Anyway, why did you come see me after this interview? Did you just miss my company?” I cocked an eyebrow.

“Will you believe me if I say yes? It’s no secret that I enjoy it so with all our previous times together.”

Yeah right. I faked a gasp. “I’m flattered. No ulterior motives whatsoever?”

“Oh of course there are ulterior motives, but then are we ever truly without them?”

I smirked again. “So, that means that you didn’t just miss my company, so no, I don’t believe you.”

“Hm, but perhaps missing your company was the reason that inspired me to come in the first place, and the rest I was hopeful to attain in addition afterwards?”

I eyed him. Maybe I could get some unreliable information from him? “And what would you be hoping to gain besides my company?”

“Entertainment of course. Though I admit, the fool was more of an annoyance than that. Still, more information was gained for later plans.”

“Any chance you’d give away any information on those plans?”

“Interfering with those of others, research of my own kind, and reuniting with old friends. I’m afraid anything more would come with some sort of price.”

I perked up and smirked wider. Could seduction work possibly? “And what kind of price would that be?”

“For others? A favor of equal importance to the information. For you?” He turned to face me more, smirking back. “The right question and,” he stepped a little closer, “a kiss.”

What right question? Was it a specific question or just not asking an obvious question? It was a price I was willing to pay. Still, I started with a pitiful attempt, making sure to sound teasing as I stepped closer too, so that we were inches from each other, and placed a hand on his chest. He didn’t flinch this time. “Please?”

He laughed. “Oh my little thief, you can do so much better than that, though I commend the effort.”

So, I actually had to try, damn it. I thought for a little bit, mulling over his words. “These old friends, are they Aleksis and Reine? And are you reuniting yourself with them, or with someone else?” Two questions. Would he require two prices?

He grinned. “And there’s that clever head of yours that’s just so fascinating, catching the ambiguity in the wording. In answer to the former, yes but they are not the only ones. The latter can be answered in a similar way I suppose, for I am but one of the people in this. Now for the rest of the price?”

Wait. If he answered both of those, would he answer more questions? I held up a hand before he could lean in more. I had more questions. Could I ask them? “Wait, if I give the rest of the price now, will I be able to ask more questions? And pay another price? Or is that it? Instead, could I ask the questions now and then just have the rest of the prices all in a row?”

He inclined his head, looking thoughtful. “And you would pay all of them? Deals with the devil are a very dangerous thing little thief, the consequences of breaking them even more so.” He sounded teasing, but there was something dark underneath.

I was probably being foolish, but the promise of information was too tempting. I wouldn’t ask too many questions, though. “If it would still be kisses, by all means, I’ll pay it.”

“Then ask your questions.”

Yes! I tried to keep my expression neutral, even as the smile tugged at my lips. “I know all about how you’ve been interfering in my plans, but how have you been interfering in other plans? And what is the purpose of this research in the grand scheme of things?”

“Do you remember my comment of being the devil on your shoulder?” Yes, he just referenced it a little bit ago. “I whisper in the Capitol’s ear about what they should do with all of you, tell them how beneficial something will be to them, or dissuade more attempts to tighten their excuse for a leash because it will not earn them the obedience they think they have. I also keep them from gaining more knowledge of our friends despite their efforts to obtain it.” He gave me a pointed look again. “As for the research, in the grand scheme of things as you say, it lets me know more about the players in the game, where to push and where to back off from. As well as what they have already learned in regards to myself.”

I nodded. That was just so much to unpack. How much of this shit had been his idea, but also how much had he stopped them from doing worse? And how much could I really believe? Not something to think about while I was still in his presence. I could accidentally ask another question. I leaned in closer to him. “So, that’s four, I believe. I’m ready to start paying the price.” My smirk came back in full force.

He smirked back and leaned closer, but he didn’t kiss me right away. Instead, he backed me into the wall and slowly, methodically found all the pins in my hair and took them out, as he leaned closer and closer to me, until my hair fell free, and he laughed in my ear. “That’s more like you, my little thief.”

Before I could say anything snarky back, he smashed his lips to mine, and I automatically melted. Damn dreams. One hand ran through my hair, while his other hand brushed along my back. Hell, if I had to just kiss him to get information that actually sounded truthful, I wouldn’t mind it.

It was as intense as all of the others, so when he broke away, my legs almost gave out from under me as I gasped for breath.

Once I caught my breath, I glanced up at him. “I highly doubt that’s considered four.”

“Of course not, but it would be such a shame to waste them all at once don’t you think?” Damn it, I agreed. The jerk. “And I’d hate for the Capitol to find either of us left unaware because of my actions here in the hallway.”

I laughed. “Do you charge late fees? I’d hate to have negative consequences due to no fault of my own.”

“Not as long as I know the debt will be paid by the end of our relationship.” He winked.

I smirked back. Whenever the hell that would be. “Oh don’t worry.” I leaned closer again, just inches from his face. “I wouldn’t dream of leaving any debts unpaid before I leave.”

He laughed. “I’m counting on it and looking forward to it.”

As good a time as any to make my exit. I bowed and headed off, before he could see my face growing hot. Shit, he was charming.

#writeblr hunger games #writeblr #yes I changed Triel's mom's first name #I thought Maria was better

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storyofmychoices · 4 years

Text

Welcome Home

[Mal Volari x Daenarya Masterlist] [Mal’s Orphanage Series]

Characters: Mal Volari, Daenarya (F!MC, human), Rayden (OC), Lydo (OC), Vayne (OC)

Warnings: brief allusion to child abandonment and abuse (Mal visits the Thieves Guild), threats of violence, swearing/language

Setting: Mal and Daenarya have opened an orphanage in White Tower. They have taken in a young boy, Rayden, and have been looking for his brother who has been missing for over a month. At the market, Rayden said he saw Lydo being dragged away by a man with a tattoo very similar to Mal’s.

This follows Back Where it All Started

(This is the fourth part of Rayden & Lydo’s story. I decided to break this part in half, so part five should be the last part of their initial adoption story.)

Synopsis: Mal promises to retrieve Lydo (Rayden’s missing brother) but to do that he has to return to the one place he never wanted to return.

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

His tearstained face was hidden in his pillow as Daenarya softly stroked his back trying to soothe the five-year-old.

Mal brushed the boy’s hair to the side, kneeling beside the bed. “Here. Try this.” He held out a glass of warm milk with some herbs.

“Nuh-uh!” Rayden buried his face further into his bed, scooting away from Mal.

“It will make you feel better,” Daenarya promised, trying to get his attention.

“I want Lydo!” He pouted, hugging Beary the Bear tightly against his chest. “He needs help!”

“We will help him, but we need a plan. We don’t want him to get hurt…. Hey. Look at me.” Mal gently turned Rayden’s face to him. “I promised I will get your brother back and I will.”

“When?” He sniffled. The tears on his face mixing with the mucus from his nose.

“Soon. I just need you to trust me. Do you think you can do that?”

The back of his little hand wiped over his red, swollen eyes. Tears quickly pooled again falling over his warm cheeks. He shrugged unable to stop his lip from quivering.

Mal sighed heavily, his fingers stroking his chin at a loss for how to help the child. Rayden was only a year younger than he was when he was taken by the Thieves Guild. His eyes crinkled, closing in anguish as the memories of that time flashed back... the sleepless nights, the fear of being in that horrid place, the threats of violence, the loneliness even when surrounded by others. He wouldn't wish that life on any child. He shook away the heavy thoughts, he couldn't change the past but he could make sure one less child had to suffer that fate. He opened his eyes again, focusing on the child that needed him first. His fingers slipped into the coin purse on his belt, shifting around to the bottom in search of the one coin unlike all of the others. He caressed it carefully between his fingers before holding out the unusual coin.

“My mom gave me this before she died, when I was a little younger than you are now...It’s the only thing I have of hers. I want you to hold on to it until I can rescue your brother.” He gently opened one of Rayden’s balled fists and placed it safely in his palm. “I’m trusting you with this… can you trust me?”

The boy blinked back his tears as he examined the curious coin. It had round edges but a square hole cut out in the center, surrounded by strange symbols. On the back were intersecting lines. “What does it mean?”

“I don’t know,” Mal admitted, watching the child become mesmerized by the coin. “I’ve never seen another like it.”

“I trust you.” Rayden whimpered. “Just promise to hurry.”

“We will.” Mal brushed his thumb across the boy’s cheek, wiping away his tears. He lifted the glass of milk once more. “Drink this. It will help you rest.”

Rayden sat up and slowly sipped the warm milk. Daenarya took the opportunity to clean his face. Hoping that soon, he would fall asleep and wake up feeling a little better.

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

“Are you sure about this?” Daenarya fretted.

He took her hands in his own, giving them a gentle squeeze. “I have to try it the honorable way first.”

“Mal Volari, being honorable, I never thought I’d see the day.” She nudged him, trying to calm both of their nerves, knowing what he was planning to do was not going to be easily accepted.

His arms snaked around her He buried his head in her hair, letting her familiar scent remind him of home, as he focused on all the reasons he had to make it back. “I love you, Daeny.”

“I know!” She pressed him back, smirking as she ran her thumb over his jaw. “And when you come back, I’ll let you know how I feel.”

He leaned into her touch, his beard tingling her skin as he moved to kiss her wrist. “I guess I’ll have to hurry!”

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

The old building, while fortified, was crumbling from time and neglect. Not much had changed since the last time he was there, but why should it have, it’s not like the thief masters were using any of the stolen treasures to improve the lives of the children or their buildings. It went straight to their pockets and hoards. His blood boiled as his fists clenched. He had to let it go, he couldn’t let them get to him. He would beat them by being better.

“For me? You shouldn’t have?” Mal tossed his hair back as he sauntered toward the front doors of the Thieves Guild, stopping in front of the two men who had drawn their swords to him. “And here I thought you were the welcoming committee ready to open the doors for me.”

“Go back to the palace, hero,” the guard warned spitting at Mal’s feet.

Mal’s fingers flirted with his dagger. He took a step toward them, flashing a devilish grin. “Yeah, saving the world has this way of dampening your reputation. What can you do?”

Before the men had time to react, Mal had kicked the sword out of one of the guard’s hands, his dagger pressed into his throat.

“Now, you don’t want to do that.” Mal quirked an eyebrow at the other guard who was holding his sword to him. “You stab me, I cut your friend’s throat, and you’ve got a bloody mess to clean up… so here is what you’re going to do. You’re going to lower your weapon and give me the respect I deserve.”

“Never!”

“It wasn’t a request! You will do as I say.” Mal rolled up his sleeve, exposing his Reaper tattoo.

The guard immediately sheathed his sword, lowering his head. “I didn’t know, sir. Apologies.”

“Much better.” Mal twirled his dagger, before lowering it. “Now, I’d like to speak to your boss.”

“Sir? That’s not possible.”

“Again. It wasn’t a request. Make it possible!”

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

He fought against his memories as the damp and musty smell of the old building threatened to remind him of the past. He focused on his mission and the little boy waiting at home for him to return.

“He will see you now.” The guard escorting him opened the door to a large office.

“Vayne,” Mal greeted, noting the man sitting in the elaborate chair behind the ridiculously enormous desk, clearly overcompensating. “You got old.”

“Mal Volari, as I live and breath,” the old man’s darkened eyes narrowed at the Rogue. “Welcome home.”

His jaw clenched, fighting against himself. “This was never my home.”

“You dishonor me, boy,” Vayne’s domineering voice boomed throughout the room as he slapped his fists against his desk.

And for a moment, Mal was that scared little six-year-old boy again.

“I should kill you right here. You owe me a debt. The money I lost when you left. Now, you’re masquerading as some sort of would-be hero. Don’t forget, I know you. The real you. The one that has killed for me, and developed a taste for blood. You live and breathe in my city because I allow it.” Vayne leaned back in his chair, his gaze settling over Mal. “But, perhaps it is destiny that brought you back to me. No one would ever question a hero. What do you say, come home?”

“I spent years clawing my way out of this hell-hole, I’ll be damned if I let you or anyone else draw me back in.” Mal’s fingers wrapped around his dagger. It would be so easy to throw it and take him out, quickly without anyone being able to stop him. But, he wasn’t alone anymore, he had someone to live for and people that needed him. “I’m not here to discuss me. You have a child that I want. Release him to me..”

“And, who are you to make a demand like that,” Vayne scoffed amused by Mal’s request.

Mal threw a bag of gold coins on his desk. “That should more than cover it.”

Vayne poured the bag’s contents out on his desk, examining the coins. “It’s not that I don’t trust you, but I don’t trust you.”

“Do we have a deal?” Mal questioned as the man returned the gold to the bag.

“This won’t even cover what a boy can make in a year, let alone his life. No deal.”

“You’re making a mistake.” Mal knew there was a chance this wouldn’t work so he tried not to lose his temper, as much as he’d like to take the years of pent up anger and pain out on this man, he wouldn’t. Not now at least. He reached for the coins.

“I’ll be keeping that,” the man instructed, snatching the bag of gold out of Mal’s reach and handing it to one of his advisors behind him. “Consider it back payment on dues you owe. Allowing you to leave unscathed is your gift. One you don’t deserve for the dishonor you showed me.”

“You will regret this,” Mal threatened. “I will be back.”

“Then you will die,” the man stated coldly. “Get him out of here.”

Three guards surrounded him, grabbing at him to lead him out. “Guys, I know I’m beautiful, but I’m spoken for.” He winked as he freed himself from their grasp. “I think I can see myself out. I remember the way.”

As the doors closed and locked behind him, his heart sank knowing he had failed... But he owed it to Daenarya, Rayden, and most importantly himself to at least try it the honorable way first. His lips turned up as a plan began to form. He was the greatest thief the city had ever known, stealing a child back, now that was the kind of challenge he would enjoy.

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

Perma tags: @lilyoffandoms ; @raleighcarrera ; @mfackenthal ; @the-soot-sprite ; @virtuallytakenby ; @zeniamiii ; @kaavyaethanramsey; @choicesobsessed; @xjustin-ethansgirliex ; @caseyvalentineramsey; @trappedinfandoms; @anotherbeingsworld ; @tyrils-star

Blades Tags: @princess-geek ; @brightpinkpeppercorn ; @missameliep ; @mvalentine; @walkerswhiskeygirl ; @nyastarlight

#Mal volari #mal volari x mc #blades of light and shadow #bolas #blades #playchoices #fan fiction #daenarya #mal x daenarya #rayden #lydo #the orphanage

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cakelanguage · 3 years

Text

At long last, I bring an update for my “Dorian as a young boy” fic! This fic is the most intimidating to write because I want to do justice to the characters, but that makes me less excited to write which isn’t fantastic lol

I hope you enjoy this update!

First//Previous//Next

You can also read it on AO3 ----

For his time here, Dorian was supposed to be under the watchful eye of the Iron Bull and his Chargers. Despite this, the Iron Bull had given him a long look before slapping him on the back.

“Listen, Dorian,” the Iron Bull said, “I’m going to be making sure you don’t get into trouble, but I’m not going to prevent you from a bit of exploring.” He paused. “Actually, stay away from the advisors if you can, I doubt they’ve gotten over your eavesdropping.”

“In my defense, I needed to get them to understand,” Dorian replied.

Bull shook his head, a grin fighting to spread. “Don’t think they’ll care about that so much as it was a kid they don’t know they can trust yet.”

Well, Dorian supposed that was wise to consider before he upset the wrong person.

“Fine,” Dorian conceded, “I guess I’ll try to find this ‘chuckles’ Varric mentioned.”

“Solas? you’ll find him near the houses to the right of the Chantry. We don’t have a lot of elves around here so he should be pretty easy to find.”

He nodded. “Right, well I’ll be seeing you-”

“Wait, before you go bothering him, a word of advice,” the Iron Bull poked him in the center of his forehead, ignoring Dorian’s disgruntled huff. “Solas doesn’t like Tevinter. Actually, that’s an understatement; he hates Tevinter and their view on the slavery of the elves. Be prepared for him to question you.”

“About slavery?”

“Check if you have any ingrained prejudices, problematic thinking, that sort of thing.”

“Oh, so an interrogation?” Dorian’s face fell. “Lovely.”

The Iron Bull shrugged. “He’ll either like you or he won’t, it’s not more complicated than that.”

Dorian reluctantly nodded. “Well, thank you for warning me, I’ll keep that in mind.”

“Just be back when the sun starts to set, alright?”

“Yes I hear you, can I go now?” He knew he was being impatient but he couldn’t bring himself to disguise the frustration in his voice.

Bull crossed his arms and gave him a sharp smile. “Stay out of trouble, Dorian.”

That was Dorian’s idea but he nodded along anyway. “See you by sunset.”

Trudging through the snow to the collection of homely cottages he started gathering the questions he wanted to ask Solas. What stories did he have from the Fade? Was he part of a clan? Why did he join the Inquisition?

Except he couldn’t see the elf anywhere amongst the cottages. There was just a woman carrying out linens to be washed, and a slightly cross looking man. The others had been so sure that Solas would be here but it was just Dorian’s luck that the elf had vanished.

“Have you seen an elf around here?” Dorian asked.

The man shrugged. “Solas sometimes takes a stroll to the pond outside of Haven,” the man informed, leaning back against his door. “Keeps to himself mostly, but if you get him started he’ll talk your ear off.”

“Speaking from experience?”

“I’m a healer, mostly I just tend to whoever comes back from a mission and make potions and elixirs for the Herald’s party.” A grin adds youth to his face. “It’s nice to have something to break up the monotony.”

“Well, I guess I’ll try the pond.”

“Good luck, you’ll know him when you see him,”: the healer sniggered and Dorian was reminded of Sera’s laughter at pointing out the other elf’s hair situation.

The walk to the pond was quiet and he easily dodged busy men and women whose faces were drawn and shoulders heavy. Dorian tried not to make eye contact with any of them lest he wanted to enter a conversation with him. He just needed to find Solas and then go about the rest of his day.

Just like the healer had said, he spotted Solas walking along the edge of the pond. His shoulders were broad and led to a tapered waist and Dorian couldn’t help but admire the elf’s silhouette.

He trotted up beside the elf with a hint of trepidation. “Solas?” Dorian called out as he reached him.

The man turned his attention towards him with a curious expression. “How can I help you?” Solas asked calmly.

“Aeren- The Herald told me you’re a mage.”

“I am.”

“And I was wondering if you could tell me about the Breach.”

“I can.”

The short answers had Dorian’s enthusiasm wilting. “What if I said please?”

Solas’ lips quirked upwards at that. “I’d say you have manners, at least when it comes to asking questions.” He examined him and Dorian fought the urge to squirm under the accessing gaze. “But you have not introduced yourself as of yet.”

He felt his cheeks pink. “Dorian of House Pavus, how do you do?” Dorian introduced with a bob of his head.

The quirk to the man’s lips disappeared. “You’re the one from Tevinter that everyone is up in arms about.”

“Surely not everyone.” Please let it not be everyone.

“Those of Tevinter rarely travel south of the Free Marches if they can help it, it is no surprise that people would be wary especially given that Tevinter mages have managed to ensnare the Rebel mages into indentured servitude.”

“Not officially, just yet.” It’s a weak protest and he knows it all too well.

Solas tilts his head in acknowledgment. “No, but Tevinter’s idea of indentured servitude is only a hair’s breadth away from slavery.” There’s a bitter tilt to his mouth now. “But I’m sure you’re aware of that.”

The silence stretches between them and for once Dorian is in no rush to fill the silence. Solas’ words echo heavily in his chest, an unfortunately familiar ache settling beneath his sternum.

Guilt.

Felix had told him many times that Dorian had a guilt complex that encompassed the stretch of Tevinter; convinced that he had somehow failed or neglected to do more to help in some way. Carrying the weight of his country’s wrongdoings on his shoulders like a mantle of culpability.

But maybe he could be doing more in some way. Been more outspoken, started the foundations of a revolution to put an end to slavery, aided in an exodus of elves to flee his homeland. Something. But he’s also still just a child no matter how much he wants to proclaim otherwise.

Despite his magical prowess, he has no power when it comes to his people just yet.

“Do not mistake my words as an attack on your character, da’len,” Solas said, letting his gaze refocus on Dorian. “I’m simply lamenting a world that was.” Solas’ voice is considerably softer, if not melancholic than it was moments prior.

Dorian gave him a shallow nod of acknowledgment. “For what it’s worth,” Dorian said, turning his gaze back to the pond. “I’m sorry for what my people have done to yours.”

Solas gave him a mirthless laugh. “Elves have hurt their own plenty all on our own.” Dorian wants to ask him what he means by that but the elf continued with nary a pause. “And although an apology can’t fix all that has been done by your people, I can say that you have a good heart, Dorian of House Pavus.”

He flushed at the comment and shook his head. “I’m just saying what’s right.”

“It’s sometimes easier to agree with a wrong than it is to stand up for a right.” Solas looked once more at the Breach before turning around. “I think it’d be best if I answered your questions at another time. If it’s alright with you, I’d like to be alone now.”

Dorian nodded, thanking his lucky stars for an excuse to leave the situation. “Of course, another time then.”

Another small smile was given to him before Solas continued his methodical stroll around the parameter. He wasn’t sure how he felt about Solas, but he’d seen something in the man’s eyes - a longing and melancholia that he’d only seen in the oldest of elves at his own home. What that longing was for he did not know.

For a moment he just stood there, taking in the sight of the snowy peaks and frozen surface of the pond. It was oddly peaceful, even with the Breach tinting everything an odd green that might’ve reminded him of a particularly early spring if he hadn’t been shivering as the bitter cold seeped through his clothes.

Distantly he could hear the soldiers training, the clang of their swords and grunts of exertion. He could hear the crackle of energy from the Breach from where he was standing, but he half thought that he was imagining the noise. It sounded just like the rifts from inside the Chantry, ripping the fabric of reality to pour forth demons.

But what bothered him the most is that he couldn’t hear the birds. Not a sweet song settled on the wind or the flap of wings fluttering amongst the trees. It was as if they had no sound like the Breach had swallowed them whole.

He turned away from the pond, quickly burying his train of thought with a renewed energy to find something to preoccupy himself with. He considered finding Aeren, but he knew the Herald would be pressed for time by his advisors and his other commitments to have time for Dorian’s brand of pestering.

Varric was a good choice as well but he still hadn’t apologized for giving him the slip and though he wouldn’t mean it, he should still apologize. And he wasn’t quite ready for that - being forgiven so easily when it’d been a breach of trust. The others were still strangers and he wasn’t sure where he stood with the group all things considered.

So really he only had one option left: The Iron Bull.

Dorian turned to look at the qunari that appeared to be lazily taking in his surroundings while talking to a man dressed in armor. One of his company perhaps, Dorian mused as he tentatively made his way over. It would probably help him get over his bloody paranoia about the qunari which he was determined to get over as soon as possible.

The Iron Bull noticed him first and tossed him a lazy wave. “Back already, Dorian?” The Iron Bull asked.

He threw up his hands in exasperation before letting them fold petulantly against his chest. “Solas wasn’t available for talking at the moment, predisposed to his own thoughts for the time being and I figured Aeren has things to do besides entertaining me.”

“I’m surprised I was your next choice.”

You weren’t, Dorian bit his tongue to hold back his comments. “Well,” Dorian paused to sort his thoughts as quickly as he could. “You didn’t seem to be preoccupied so I figured I’d just stay with you.”

The other man snorted and nudged his elbow against the Iron Bull’s side. “You gonna introduce me to the tiny ‘vint?” he asked, turning fully to look at Dorian.

It’s then that Dorian noticed the details of the man. The earthy, brown-gold complexion, sharp cheekbones, and strong jaw. The stitching of his clothes were the same ones in his own leathers. A stitching technique that Dorian knew was only used in one place as Maevaris was adamant he knew the nuances of fashion.

“You’re from Tevinter,” Dorian gasped. He never expected to see another of his people in Fereldan, let alone one who appeared to be part of a company led by a qunari.

The man nodded with a grimace. “I was,” he conceded. “But Tevinter is no home to me.”

Dorian’s shoulders drooped. “Oh." He couldn't hide how he felt like the wind was knocked from his sails nor the disappointment edging at the single word.

He shouldn’t have hoped. It was foolish. People didn’t like Tevinter, not most people that is. Tevinter wasn’t kind. It wasn’t full of happiness or pleasantry for the lower class. It was a constant game of masks and prejudice. He didn't blame anyone for fleeing its borders nor who resented the place.

Dorian never looked at his home through a rose-wine filter, but it was still his home. And he wished he had someone who understood a longing for that.

Not for the first time, he wished Felix was here.

“None of that,” the man nudged him with the back of his wrist. “Tevinter showed my family no kindness, but that doesn’t mean you can’t miss it.” The man shrugged and gave him a cursory look. "What gave me away? Most people don't notice if I don't mention it."

Dorian's cheeks heated at the question and he focused back on the man's armor. "The stitching in your leather," he said with a gesture, "I've only seen it in Tevinter."

The Iron Bull let out a low whistle. "Very observant of you," he praised offhandedly.

Dorian shuffled darting his eyes between the two before gesturing to his clothes. "Mine have the same stitching."

The man laughed and picked at a piece of his leather. "You'd think you were a tailor's son with that kind of observation," the statement was rhetorical as he kept talking. "The name's Krem."

No last name or title, just a name, and Dorian wasn't even sure if it was Krem's full name or not. "Dorian of House Pavus," he introduced.

"Didn't think pedigree 'Vints ventured this far south."

"Not usually," Dorian conceded, "But Felix asked for my help and I couldn’t let him down.”

“Felix is the other ‘Vint helping us in Redcliffe,” the Iron Bull explained.

Krem nodded his head with a smile. “Certainly loyal to this Felix.”

“Felix is my brother,” Dorian explained with a smile of his own. He didn’t explain himself further than that.

“What are your plans for the rest of the day?” the Iron Bull asked.

Dorian shrugged and kicked a bit of snow with his boot. “Whatever you’re doing I suppose.”

The grin that spread across the qunari’s face was positively excited. “Wanna meet my crew?”

The Chargers, with all their lack of manners and crude humor, were probably up there with Aeren and Varric as far as his favorite people he’d met so far. They took no shit and were unashamedly loud, boisterous in their tavern songs and stories. Dorian found himself listening intently too afraid he’d miss what would happen next to pay attention to Rocky sneaking bits from his plate.

“I think we were still finding feathers in our things after a week,” Krem finished with a laugh and a swig from his tankard.

Dalish shook her head, a sparkling of mischief dancing across her features. “Never really figured out how the feathers got into our supplies in the first place,” she mused.

“But it definitely worked in distracting those men in the woods near that one guy’s house,” Rocky said, tearing through his third roll.

The others nodded and Dorian couldn’t help but laugh at their attempt at serious faces. This was perhaps the most fun he’d had in a long while - since before Felix had gotten sick and things had started to unravel and chip around him.

And not once had he flinched away from the Iron Bull.

While he still wanted to ask Solas all the questions he could think of before he was inevitably ushered away, meeting the Bull’s Chargers was just as nice. And provided a wonderful distraction from the nerves that lit up his mind as he thought about the mission tomorrow.

Heading back to Redcliffe was both undeniably tense and laid back in a way Dorian wasn't expecting. For the first quarter of the journey, they traveled with a hoard of the Inquisition's soldiers. They were disciplined and traveled with a one-track mind as they eventually all passed their group. He wondered if all the soldiers had experience before this or if Cullen had managed to train them to be that way.

"They're going on ahead of us?" Dorian asked as the last soldier passed them.

Aeren nodded as he twirled one of his axes around. "They have to sneak into the castle after all," Aeren said. "Besides traveling with such a big group would only cause us trouble. Imagine what the Templars and Rebel mages would do if they saw such a gathering."

Dorian hadn't even thought about the warring groups that were still avidly fighting around the Hinterlands. "Makes sense."

"Course it does, the advisors came up with that one." Aeren grinned, tilting his head like some overgrown Mabari pup.

Varric snorted beside him. "You sure are proud about those advisors of yours having used their common knowledge."

"Varric, we all know that I'm not the brains in any of this." He pressed his lips together like he was holding back a laugh. "I'm just the man with the glowing hand."

Cassandra let out a disgruntled huff. “You could try to pick up on some of our tactics,” she said.

“And deprive you all of your advisings?” Aeren put a hand to his chest. “I wouldn’t dare.”

A large, meaty hand clapped Aeren on the back. “Don’t worry, you’ll pick up on things the more you work with them,” Bull reassured.

“There is one bit of advice I can offer,” Aeren turned his attention back to Dorian, “You’re going to have to remain hidden at least a little when we get there.” He pointed at Dorian’s robes and made a slouching motion. “Maybe fashion some of that drapey fabric to make a hood or something.”

Dorian tugged at his robes self-consciously. “I can, but…” And then it occurred to him: Alexius would recognize him instantly without something to shadow his face. The man had known Dorian for years and could easily pick him out in a crowd even if he wasn’t currently “peacock-ing” as his mentor liked to put it.

He shrugged his bag to one shoulder and pulled some of the extra fabric to the side and then maneuvered it to drape over the top of his head. With the hood as situated as it would get without taking off his bag, he repositioned his pack to its usual position.

“Now you look like chuckles,” Varric laughed.

Tilting his head and squinting for a moment at Dorian, Aeren too let out a snort. “I see it.”

Dorian frowned and crossed his arms. “‘Chuckles’ and I still haven’t really talked,” he said tartly. His conversation with Solas had yet to leave him alone.

Aeren gave him a wolfish grin. “Please call him chuckles to his face when I’m with you, I want to see that dread enter his eyes.”

“I thought you liked Solas,” the Iron Bull admitted, raising a scarred brow.

The Herald shrugged. “He’s a knowledgeable man and I’ve never met an elf that has such tales about our culture.” Aeren’s eyes had a far-off look to them before that gleam of mischief returned. “But that repressed look of disdainful horror that he gets if you say something stupid is more precious than all the Silverite in the Frostback Basin.”

The comment made them all laugh, not even Casandra was immune to Aeren’s statement even if she was desperately suppressing it to a simple quirk of her lips.

He could fulfill Aeren's one wish. "When we get back, set up a meeting with Solas and I'll make it happen," Dorian reassured.

"You're one of the good ones, Dorian," Aeren said with a smile.

If only he felt like one of the good ones.

Redcliffe was just as unnerving as it had been when he'd been here last, but now there was a quiet anxiety that permeated the air. The people stared at their small group, turning away to talk to each other in hushed words when they passed by.

It made the hairs on Dorian's neck stand on end and he gravitated closer towards Varric. He didn't know if the others had picked up on the stifling atmosphere, but Dorian felt like the air was getting thicker the closer they got to the castle.

The dwarf nudged him with his elbow. "Don't pay them any mind," Varric said. The frown Dorian made was only visible to Varric because of their height difference. "Pretty sure these folks just want something to talk about that isn't about the Rebel Mages and the Templars fighting on their doorstep."

It was by no means the first time Dorian was being watched with whispered slander falling from his "audience's" mouths, but this was different. Perhaps it was because Dorian knew that he was walking towards Alexius, who’d been not only his teacher but a pseudo-father to him as well. But he had to do this, especially since Alexius had allied himself with these Venatori.

Despite knowing that, it didn’t provide much comfort to his conscience.

Aeren didn’t seem to mind the stares at all, his gate sure and his face placid. “A warm welcome for us once again,” he said amiably. “With such hospitality, I really should’ve brought Alexius a fruit basket.”

“Herald, will you focus?” Cassandra huffed.

“I am focused,” Aeren turned to look at them as he kept walking. “But if I go in with a dour look everything will seem suspicious.”

The Iron Bull grinned and made a thoughtful hum. “He was jovial when we spoke with Alexius before, and to maintain the cover that the Inquisition is agreeing to ally themselves with Alexius’ goals, a pleasant demeanour seems to be the best idea,” Bull said.

The Herald gestured his hand at Bull. “Thank you, Bull, glad you realized what I’m doing.”

Dorian bobbed his head from side-to-side. “So keep up appearances?” Dorian mused aloud. “Yes, Alexius probably won’t even notice at first since people in Tevinter wear masks like that almost every day.”

Cassandra still didn’t look convinced. “It would still do some good to act a little more serious as we’re acting as diplomats and not just hearing an offer,” she said as they approached the hill that led to the castle entrance.

“You’re plenty serious for the rest of us, Seeker,” Varric remarked as they approached the guards at the door.

“For good reason.”

The guards squared their shoulders and gave them a once over. “State your business,” he said.

Aeren stepped forward with his arms spread. “Surely Alexius is expecting us, is he not?” Aeren asked.

The answer wasn’t sufficient as the guards didn’t move. “Is that your business?”

With a huff, Aeren nodded his head. “Yes, our business is to talk with Alexius about his offer.”

With synchronicity, the guards grabbed the door handles and pulled the heavy doors open. A guard stood waiting for them in the now open doorway.

“Follow me, I’ll take you to Alexius,” the guard said, pivoting on the spot as she began leading them down a series of corridors.

The architecture in Redcliffe Castle was beautiful in its simplicity. Whereas the majestic buildings in Tevinter had vaulted ceilings inscribed with detailed paintings of myths and their heritage, Redcliffe Castle seemed to have preserved much of its decorum to the church.

The castle wasn’t ugly, but there was a utilitarianism to its overall design. The walls were thick and the ceiling was high, and the sparse torches cast an ominous glow about the hallway making their shadows look like looming figures trailing behind them.

The castle was somehow more of an unnerving setting than those he’d been in when he’d studied with the Mortalitasi for a time.

They walked past a multitude of doors and side hallways and Dorian’s mental map of the place was practically nonexistent. Just how far was the throne room from the entrance?

His question became obsolete as they took a final set of stairs up to another grand set of double doors that were opened on their arrival to let them into the throne room.

Aeren strutted forward with his shoulders squared sparing their guard a look. “Announce us,” he said.

Another guard approached them. “The invitation was for Master Lavellan only,” he clarified as if they’d brought a whole group by mistake. “The rest of you must wait here.”

But Aeren didn’t pause. “They have to accompany me.” He sent the man a lazy grin. “I tend to fall into mischief as it were, and you wouldn’t deprive me of my attaché, would you?”

The man looked like he swallowed a lemon as he looked at their little group, finally nodding his head and turning back around to face Alexius, walking further into the room.

Anxiety clawed at Dorian’s stomach as he felt more mages follow up behind them to flank the group. He hoped that the soldiers got in okay and they’d have back up soon.

Dorian took a cursory peak from behind the Iron Bull to take it in his mentor and Felix. Felix looked about the same, but he was leaning himself against the stone pillar behind him that came off as relaxed as opposed to weak.

Alexius on the other hand looked terrible. Purpled bruises highlighted the folds underneath his eyes and there was a tightness to his mouth that almost had his lips pressed into a white line on his face. He could even spot a smattering of gray that now decorated the patch of hair underneath his bottom lip.

He shook his head and focused back on the conversation at hand.

“-I’m sure we can work out some arrangement that is equitable to all parties,” Alexius said.

A woman all but marched up to their group, a frown hardening her features, her attention directed solely at Alexius.

“Are we mages to have no voice in deciding our fate?” a heavily accented voice asked.

Alexius gave her a patronizing smile that Dorian hated. “Fiona, you would not have turned your followers over to my care if you did not trust me with their lives.”

Aeren gestured to the woman. “If the Grand Enchanter wants to be part of these talks, then I welcome her as a guest of the Inquisition,” he explained with that same easygoing smile.

The woman in question seemed surprised at his answer but nodded her head. “Thank you,” she replied.

“Well I wouldn’t stop you from having a say in your own lives, you mages aren’t bargaining chips.”

Except they were, at least to Alexius.

His mentor turned away from them to make his way back to the throne where he lounged confidently back into. “The Inquisition needs mages to close the Breach, and I have them,” Alexius explained. “So, what shall you offer in exchange?”

Dorian had seen plenty of these sorts of exchanges from his countrymen, his parents included, but this was the first time he’d seen Alexius handle a situation like this. He stated what the Inquisition wanted and then asked them to offer whatever they thought would be enough for the mages. Not only did Alexius have the power here to simply deny them the mages until he got exactly what he wanted, but it’d also tell Grand Enchanter Fiona how much the Inquisition valued her people.

“Actually, I hoped you could tell me about these ‘Venatori’ I’m hearing so much about,” Aeren countered, brushing aside Alexius’ question.

Alexius stiffened in his chair momentarily before he seemed to force himself to relax. “Now, where could you have heard that name?” He mused, tapping his fingers against the arm of the throne.

Felix stepped forward. “I told him,” he claimed proudly. For a moment, Felix was once more larger than life and Dorian was calmed by his interjection.

The other man sent Felix a disapproving glare. “Felix, what have you done?” He asked reproachfully. Felix didn’t falter under his stare instead looking all the more determined.

The standoff was broken by Aeren clearing his throat. “Your son is concerned that you’re involved in something terrible,” he said.

Alexius’ lips curled back into a snarl. “So speaks the thief.” A disdainful smile settled his features. “Do you think you can turn my own son against me?”

He already is against you, Dorian thought as his mentor pushed himself up from the throne with the energy of a predator.

“You walk into my stronghold with your stolen mark—a gift you don’t even understand—and think you’re in control?”

The Herald didn’t react to the Magister’s words. “And you walk into Fereldan with the iniquitous goal of practically enslaving an already ailing group of mages that had nowhere safe to turn,” Aeren argued.

“You’re nothing but a mistake,” Alexius hissed.

A scowl of his own finally graced Aeren’s face. “If I’m a mistake, what exactly was the Breach supposed to accomplish?”

“It was to be a triumphant moment for the Elder One, for the world.”

Fanaticism tinges his words but also a wariness like Alexius couldn’t pick whether to be awed or worried about what could have been.

Felix shook his head and took another step towards his father. “Father, listen to yourself!” Felix urged. “Do you know what you sound like?”

Dorian’s heart clenched at the searching look Felix gave Alexius as if he could no longer see his father when he looked at the man. It was time to step in. He took a steadying breath before stepping out from behind the Iron Bull.

“He sounds exactly like the villainous cliché everyone expects us to be,” Dorian replied.

Alexius’ head whipped around to stare at him, his eyes narrowing imperceptibly. “Dorian,” Alexius acknowledged. He looked less surprised than Dorian thought he’d be. “I gave you a chance to be a part of this. You turned me down.”

“As if this is the right choice to make at all,” Dorian snipped. The matter-of-fact way that Alexius explained his offer like it wasn’t the ravings of a desperate father when he’d first approached Dorian about using time magic in a real application.

The man shook his head. “The Elder One has power you would not believe. He will raise the Imperium from its own ashes.”

He wasn’t sure who Alexius was trying to convince, Dorian or himself.

“That’s who you serve?” Aeren cut-in. “The one who killed the Divine? Is he a mage?”

Alexius’ steps echoed through the hall as he took another few steps closer. “Soon he will become a god.” He raised his arms, gazing at all of them with bright eyes. “He will make the world bow to mages once more. We will rule from the Boeric Ocean to the Frozen Seas.”

For a moment Dorian wondered if perhaps Alexius had officially lost it or come into some sort of mind-altering spell. His mentor hadn’t mentioned wanting Tevinter to change or for mages to rule.

“You can’t involve my people in this!” Fiona yelled.

Dorian shook his head and took a small step forward. “Alexius, this is exactly what you and I talked about never wanting to happen!” Dorian reminded and gave his mentor a pleading look. Alexius turned away from him, but Dorian wasn’t deterred. “Why would you support this?”

“Stop it, Father,” Felix commanded. “Give up the Venatori. Let the southern mages fight the Breach,” he took a steadying breath, “and let’s go home.”

Alexius turns back around at that denial on his tongue before he can recenter himself. “No! It’s the only way, Felix.” He grabbed hold of one of Felix’s hands with two of his own. “He can save you.”

Felix gave him an incredulous look and took his hand back from his father’s grasp. “Save me?��

Alexius turned away again from prying eyes to stare into the fire. “There is a way.” He sounded relieved in a way that Dorian had only heard the cusp of when Alexius had first mentioned time magic. “The Elder One promised. If I undo the mistake at the Temple…”

“I’m going to die,” Felix stated, his face a resigned acceptance. “You need to accept that.”

The blunt response has a nail piercing Dorian’s heart because of course, he knows that Felix is dying but sometimes he just wants to push that reality away.

His son’s words fell on deaf ears as Alexius raised a hand towards their group. “Seize them, Venatori! The Elder One demands this man’s life.”

But then choking gasps and the wet sound of blades piercing flesh echo throughout the hall and Dorian knows that the Inquisition’s soldiers have arrived. They’re safe now. It’s over.

Aeren stepped up to stand beside Dorian, that cocky smile more serious than it usually is but no less smug. “Your men are dead, Alexius,” Aeren informed him.

An angry flush brightens Alexius’ face. “You…” the animosity in the hissed word is more obvious than Dorian has ever heard, “are a mistake! You never should have existed.”

A dark green static began to emanate from Alexius’ hand and an amulet rose from his palm to hang within the center of the aura of magic. The crackling of magic flickers ominously as they stare at what’s unfolding.

It took Dorian only a moment to realize what exactly was going on: time magic. He doesn’t even think when he casts a spell to knock the amulet from Alexius’ hand, trying to stop the man from casting. “No!” Dorian yelled.

As he predicted, the spell fizzled out when Alexius dropped the amulet. What he didn't expect was a swirling rift to open up in front of him and Aeren. He turned panicked eyes to Felix, who looked just as panicked.

He heard a cry of his name before darkness overtook him as he and Aeren were sucked into the rift.

#dragon age fic #dragon age inquisition #dragon age inquisition fic #fanfic #my fic #dorian pavus #BAMF!Dorian #solas #the iron bull #varric #krem #cremisius aclassi #male lavellan #in hushed whispers #dragon age #dragon age fanfiction #da:i #da:i fic #dragon age kink meme

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queeranarchist · 3 years

Text

Dear Writer

Heyyo!

It's good to see you here, this is a long exchange so the main thing is enjoying yrself so feel free to pick and choose or ignore this letter as you wish! And feel free to browse through my letter tag for more ideas.

Also, I’m on that full-time work and full-time uni degree grind so it probably will take me like a month to read the fic, does not mean I do not love it and I promise to get to it!! Don’t stress to much about a gap between posting and commenting <3

Now without further ado onto the letter:

General Likes: Trans characters, queer themes, queer solidarity, character development, strong gen. relationships and interactions with characters outside of a relationship, dialogue-driven story, non-linear narrative, animals, angst, hurt/comfort, character introspection

DNW: underage, a/b/o, past S7 for SPN

Supernatural

DNW: Anything past Season 7

Likes: boy king arc, Sam centric fic, queer Sam (I literally head canon him as anything with whatever pronouns), Bobby, trans Dean, religious iconography/themes, Sam being a lore nerd

Dislikes: Sidelining Sam 

Sam/Ruby

1. Ruby lives, I’d love to see how this plays out in Season Five. Whether she sticks with Lucifer or chooses Sam.

2. Sam goes dark side after freeing Lucifer

3. Earlier on Sam starts trusting her and fulfilling his role as the boy king. If this stops Dean from going to hell, changes the way the demons work etc

Sam/Jess

1. Jess lives au! My personal head canon is that Jess is pre-med and being very intent on saving people. When she finds out about hunting, she realises that she can’t just go back to being “normal” knowing people are dying. Maybe Sam decides to go back to law school and they have a semi long-distance relationship where she asks him for advice, maybe they hunt together every now and again. Maybe she joins Dean and Sam and they become a hunting trio.

2. Jess gets brought back to life – place this in any season you want! Go wild.

Dean & Sam

1. Dean keeps in touch with Sam during Stanford! Maybe from the get-go, maybe after a couple of years, maybe seeing each other, maybe just through postcards

2. I’d love to see them during S4 where their relationship starts to fall apart, but like also see them still loving each other

Sam & Dean & John

1. John gets a year to live instead of instantly going to hell AU – how do they react? Do they try to save him? Does John tell them?

2. I’d love a sort of non-linear story of them (especially Sam because it’s been so long) trying to integrate John into his adult life also looking at his life as a child/teen. You know the general angst about how he’d done it, he’d gotten away and he’s right back at square one. Also, Dean starting to realise that he isn’t a kid anymore, and he’s got his own thoughts etc

Sam & Dean & Cas - Cas/Dean & Sam

1. I want to see Sam and Cas and Dean being pals! I especially want to see Cas trying to figure out how he feels about Sam without heaven influencing him to think of him purely as the boy with the demon blood who will break the last seal. I wanna see Dean making fun of Cas with various misconceptions about the bible and Cas just taking it wildly seriously and not getting any jokes.

2. I’d love just a domestic-ish fic, let Sam drill Cas with questions about angels and heaven! Let Cas drill Dean and Sam about human culture! Would love to see Cas taking human culture things out of the context that Sam and Dean provide him, or maybe Dean purposely lies to him about something as a prank

Sam

1. Licherally anything in the boy king arc! I’d love to see him fulfilling his role as the boy king. This stops Dean from going to hell, changes the way the demons work etc

2. His time at Stanford! I’d love to see him adjusting to his new life.

3. I would love to see a bit more of him in Season Four! How he feels about Dean being chosen by the angels, how this affects his view on religion, how he feels about himself and the demon. Blood etc

4. Just some introspection anytime in the series tbh, love to see this boy struggle with wanting to be good, with wanting to be normal, and then um not being those things

5. I’d love a sort of non-linear story of Sam trying to integrate John into his adult life also looking at his life as a child/teen. You know the general angst about how he’d done it, he’d gotten away and he’s right back at square one.

Final Fantasy XV

Likes: fics that include the whole gang, trans Gladio, anything with Prompto, angst about destiny, angst about royal linage, character introspection

Noctis/Gladio/Ignis/Prompto

1. I really like angsty fics about destiny with this lot - I would love to see how the way in which they’ve been raised effects their relationship, be it being groomed to be king or shield or advisor. I would love a getting together fic, with whichever ship you wish to write, with a lot of internal angst.

2. I would also love a post cannon fic where Noctis is alive (magic, never died, skip over it entirely it’s up to you) where they all settle down, maybe Noctis lets the world think he has died so he can live a peaceful life?

3. Set between game cannon and Brotherhood, I‘d be down to see what these guys got up to in the years between high school and the road trip. Did Prompto and Noctis study after high school? Do they travel?’

4. Less of a prompt and more a vague feeling but like *slaps prompto* this bad boy can fit so much angst in it. Honestly he’s childhood is depressing af, with the lack of parents and friends combined with a shit body image/relationship with food I wld rlly love some emotional hurt/comfort with him and the squad

Noctis/Prompto

3. I would like to see a fic of Prompto integrating himself into Noctis’ life, Gladio and Ignis have been around his entire life, so how does Prompto feel about them? How do they feel about him? Honestly I’m 100% here for awkward insecure bby Prompto

4. Set between game cannon and Brotherhood, I‘d be down to see what these guys got up to in the years between high school and the road trip. Did Prompto and Noctis study after high school? Do they travel?

5. Less of a prompt and more a vague feeling but like *slaps prompto* this bad boy can fit so much angst in it. Honestly, he’s childhood is depressing af, with the lack of parents and friends combined with a shit body image/relationship with food I wld rlly love some emotional hurt/comfort with him and the squad

Naruto

Likes: the summons, Rock Lee, the squads and how they operate, Naruto getting to eat the ramen he deserves, Sakura being an actual bad arse fleshed out character, trans Naruto

Sasuke/Naruto

1. Naruto leaves and joins Sasuke on his mission to destroy to Leaf, talks him out of y’know murdering everyone but agrees that the Shinobi system is deeply fucked and needs to be fixed

2. I’d like a fic of Sasuke thinking about Naruto while doing all his plotting, be it set when he’s with Orochimaru or the Akatsuki, it would be nice to see him thinking about Naruto, wanting to stop doing so, wondering how strong he could have been if he had managed to kill him and gain the mangekyou earlier

Gai/Naruto

1. I’d like a fic set just before Kakashi gets his genin, really love to see Gai trying to talk up how cool having a squad is! Dragging Kakashi to see his kids and being like aren’t my team great! And then Team Gai getting into some crazy hijinks that make Kakashi a lil scared about the future but also maybe a bit endeared towards them

2. a fic of Gai watching Kakashi slowly loose himself while in ANBU, of him trying to make things right and not being able to and then eventually asking him to be removed from the forces

SDV

Likes: world building, farm creatures, small town hijinks

Sam/Seb

1. Angst about getting out of town, leaving SDV and becoming who they dreamed they would in HS

Sam & Seb & Abigail

1. Abigail talks them into exploring the mines

2. They pull a prank

3. Angst about getting out of town, leaving SDV and becoming who they dreamed they would in HS

#f5k #letter

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kr210 · 3 years

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The First Friend

Chapter two of Yakumo Sakura’s life where she meets her friend first that will join her journey through life, love, and friendship.

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

Kai and Bai were both against it. It had only been a year since Sakura’s accident and she was turning eleven that year. They still wanted to keep her home where they could protect her and home school her.

Sakura on the other hand was completely against it. She was ready to return to school after dropping out due to her parents death and the car accident. It had taken her nine months to relearn how to walk and over a whole year to finally catch up with her school work. Thankfully her school was very understanding thanks to a large donation. Finally it took 16 months before Sakura could finally get back to training and doing anything remotely athletic.

After plenty of debate and retesting Yakumo Sakura would be returning to her private all girls primary school. Her goal was to be ready to enter Namimori Middle School in a year. She wanted to stop having a shelter life and live like a normal kid. Even the therapist agreed that it would help with her grief if she could continue to live like a normal child. Well as normal as a Yakuza Princess could live.

Kai was now her new guardian while his twin brother was her emergency contact. Her Father really had thought of everything for her daughter in the event of his death. He had already made Nakama Kai her legal guardian and left his business to her with Kai as the advisor until she was ready. There was also a trust fund for her that she could access as soon as she turned 16 but Kai was kind of enough to use the money to buy her whatever she needed.

~~~~

The first day back was exciting for the princess. She had been looking forward to getting things back to normal and getting back to school. Her guardian Kai dropped her off at the front gate in their town car and reminded her that he would be waiting for her around the corner so not to block the gate for the other students. She partly ignored him as she got out of the car joining her fellow students shuffling into the campus.

Right away the short brown hair girl followed the students towards the bulletin board to see what class she was in. She found her name quickly and smiled. This was a small sign that she should be back in school and that she had made the right decision on returning. The princess made her way into the school and changed her outdoor shoes to her indoor ones and headed up to the third floor looking for classroom 5-A.

Once she found her classroom she opened the door to realize one thing. She had been missing school for a year and half and there were already little clicks and groups. Another issue was that she didn’t remember anyone that was in her class. Awkwardly she walked over to her assigned seat in the back and sat there quietly seeing how she didn’t know anyone in the class. As more students filed in, Sakura kept feeling more and more awkward.

At the first break she chose to play on her phone and ignore what was going on around her. It was okay because no one talked to her let alone approached her. After all she had been gone a year and rumors had spread despite knowing the truth. At lunch she couldn’t take it and got up leaving the classroom.

She found herself eating her lunch alone on the side of the building under some trees. It was quiet as the student stretched out her legs. The cool breeze blew her hair to the side causing her to close her eyes. “I need to get used to this. Being a Yakuza leader means being alone. Father was alone. He only used mother to have an heir.” she reasoned with herself.

About to come to terms about this, she was interrupted by some other girl’s voices. “Come on Hinamori” was heard. Sakura knew that name. She was a girl in her class. An annoyed look was plastered on her face as she stood up. “You said you had money to buy us all lunch today. So cough it up” a different voice said. “I don’t have it. I can get it for you tomorrow” the Hinamori student pleaded. A loud slapping sound was heard along with a loud thump then some laughing.

“You’re so stupid. You really think that we don’t know you have money” the tallest girl said pulling Hinamori up by her collar. “Let her go,” Sakura said, folding her arms over her chest. The girls raised an eyebrow at her. “Who the hell do you think you are?” The first voice girl sized up Sakura. This girl had blond curly hair that looked like she was trying to pull off the beach look. She was fit but Sakura knew she could take her. Normally she would introduce herself but bullying didn’t qualify for a reason to give her name. “I said let her go” Sakura’s voice was calm but stern. These girls didn’t scare her at all. If anything she was afraid of seriously hurting them with her training.

The beach girl stalked over to the Cherry Blossom. “Hey brat I’d suggest backing off and leaving this to us. After all, you're the outsider. Missing for 18 months. You don’t belong here anymore” she talked down to her. Her hand went to shove Sakura but she was faster. Instead she took the beach girl’s wrist and easily used her weight against her making her fall face first into the floor. “Please restrain yourself from touching me with your filthy hands”” Sakura countered, talking down to her now.

The second girl turned her attention to Sakura now. Even the leader was surprised by her boldness. Hinamori was left to cower against the side of the building staring in awe of Sakura. The second girl had straight black hair that looked greasy. “You little…” but she was cut off by Sakura slamming her open palm against her chin then in a flash punched the girl in her stomach causing her to kneel over in pain.

Hinamori was in shock that some random classmate would help her. Sakura on the other hand turned her attention to the leader. “I will not repeat myself a third time” she warned her stalking over to her this time. The leader staggered slightly scared. WIthout a word she turned away leaving her henchmen there and heading back into the main building of the school.

Sakura let out a sigh of relief. She really didn’t want to get into a fight on the first day back after being gone for so long. “Um…” Sakura blinked and looked at the cowering girl on the ground. “Thank you” Sakura’s face twitched. “Don’t be so weak next time” she commented and headed back to the classroom. The lunch break would be over soon.

The rest of the school day went pretty easy. People continued to ignore her until the end of school As she was switching her shoes she felt someone watching her.The little yakuza princess rolled her eyes thinking it was the bullies from earlier and that they were going to jump her after school. Shet took a deep breath mentally preparing to fight her out. Proudly and with a strut in her step she walked towards the main gate.

A small smile graced her face when she saw Kai waiting for her at the gate. She increased her step and was about to escape when someone stepped right in front of her. “Shoot” Sakura thought as she instinctively stepped back and took a fighting stance. “You’re Yakumo-san right?” Sakura blinked surprised to see it was the same girl she had helped at lunch and not the bullies. “Yes?” She confirmed her identity and lowered her stance. “I was so nervous to approach you. You look so cool despite being in a school uniform.” There were stars in her eyes. “Okay.” Sakura was still confused as to why this girl was talking to her. “I’m Hinamori Yuna.” she said excitedly. “I’m in class B and I wanted to thank you for helping me out today at lunch,” Hinamori continued. Sakura nodded.

Hinamori was about to continue when a deep male voice interrupted them. “Sakura-sama we need to go.” Sakura held back a sigh of relief. “I’m ready,” she commented, stepping away from Hinamori and getting ready to head hom. “Oh...um...It was nice to meet you Yakumo-san” she ended the conversation. Sakura nodded to her and followed Kai out.

Kai held the car door open for her as the princess got in. He shut the door then headed over to the driver's seat. Sakura looked out the window at the gate to see Hinamori walking where she assumed home. Kai noticed this in a rear view mirror. “Is the girl you were talking to a new friend?” he asked her. “No.” Sakura said not even looking at him. “I helped her out at lunch due to bullies and she ambushed me after school,” Sakura explained. Kai looked worried and Sakura noticed this when she glanced at the mirror to see his expression. “Don’t worry. I didn’t really fight anyone. Mostly disabled the girls.” she shared. Kai nodded pleased with this answer. “Well it sounds like you had a nice day” he told her. The princess nodded her head.

The next day at school Sakura was surprised to see Hinamori waiting outside the gate. She took a breath and continued on towards the main entrance of the school. At least that’s what she hoped until Hinamori started walking next to her seeming nervous. “Good morning Yakumo-san” she greeted her. “Morning,” Sakura said back. She glanced at her and sighed. “Why are you walking with me?” she asked her. Hinamori’s eyes shifted. “Well...those girls from yesterday are waiting for me and they seem afraid of you” she commented. Sakura glanced at her. “Okay....and?” she asked. “Well I was hoping you wouldn’t mind walking with me in. I promise I’ll be quiet” she begged.

Sakura signed and went over to her locker to switch out her shoes. As she was switching them out she looked at Hinamori. “You do know that the best way to deal with bullies is to stand up to them.” she told her trying to get her off her case. “Yes but when I did that they attacked me like they did you yesterday” she tried to explain. Sakura frowned as she shut her locker. Hinamori led her to her locker so she could switch her shoes as well. “Don’t you have any other friends that could help you? Yesterday I just happened to be there.” she commented as Hinamori changed her shoes.

Hinamori looked down and frowned. “I don’t have many friends,” she commented. “My friends were those bullies.” she then told her. Sakura sighed and leaned against the lockers. “You are interesting, Hinamori,” Sakura said. “Yuna” Hinamori corrected her. Sakura glanced at her and was surprised to see the girl smiling and happy. “If you are going to use my name please call me Yuna. I want to be your friend Yakumo-san” she said. Sakura scoffed. “Then you should use my first name as well,” Sakura said smiling. The stars in Hinamori’s eyes appeared again as she shut her locker and held Sakura’s hands smiling. “I am so glad to have you as a friend Sakura-chan!” she said excitedly. Sakura blinked, chuckled and nodded her head, “Me too Yuna”

~~~~~

Yakumo Sakura spent two years at the private all girl’s academy with her friend, Hinamori Yuna. They had gotten really close and had plenty of sleepovers at both girl’s houses. They often hung out after school, would often go to the local cake shop, and even go shopping together.

Yuna’s parents felt sorry for Sakura’s family history and would have her often when Yuna wanted her over. On school breaks, Sakura’s guardians would invite the HInamori’s over to special vacation spots which only made the girls have an even closer relationship. Kai and Bai were both happy that Sakura was doing well and was happy with her new friend. Before the girls knew it they were in their final year of middle school.

One day in the homeroom the teacher talked about middle schools. It was their last year there and they would either transfer to the sister school for all girl’s middle school or Namimori Middle school. The all girls private school tried to encourage the girls to attend the all girls private middle school. Although Yuna and Sakura were going to Namimori Middle School. Yuna to get away from the bullies and attend a school that was more diverse and easier on her parent’s budget. Sakura on the other hand would be attending the public school due to the fact that she wanted to go with Yuna, her only friend. Yuna’s parents were also thankful because it meant that when they had to work late, their daughter could stay at her friend’s house safely.

Their teacher finished explaining about two schools and handed each student a sheet of paper. The students were required to write down which school they were going to and what they would like to do when they grow up. Sakura smiled when she got her paper. She obviously wrote down Namimori middle school and when she grows up she wrote “Something with business”. Yuna wrote Namimori Middle school as well but what she wanted to be growing was a teacher.

The girls finished their final year of primary school with a strong note. Both had graduated with the top 50 of their classes. Yuna was rank 45 and Sakura was ranked 7 of their class. Over the summer the girls had plenty of sleepovers, a vacation together, and a back to school shopping trip. Before they knew it spring had arrived and the girls would be getting ready for their first year at Namimori Middle School.

#Yakumo Sakura #Yakumo Yakuza #Yakuza #Hinamori Yuna #Yuna #katekyo hitman reborn #KHR #Hitman Reborn #Hibari Kyoya #OCxHibari #OC #orginial character

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cloudphillips · 4 years

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There Is A Place

Summary: A place where Seungwan and Joohyun could be free.

The kingdom of Daegu was in high spirits as citizens of different ranks chattered on excitedly when they went about their day. The market was even more crowded than usual and the merchants not only to sold their wares much cheaper than the usual amount but also added a little bit of gossip with every successful purchase made. Delighted squeals and laughter could be heard from the street children near the local pastry shop since the baker decided to give away his baked goods for free. Some people from neighboring kingdoms travelled far and wide just to hear the news. The academy was void of students since the headmaster announced that classes would be suspended in favor of celebrating this momentous occasion.

The princess was betrothed. She was to marry the prince of Seoul.

It was the king himself who announced the engagement. Standing by the balcony of the royal palace alongside his wife, he had his subjects gathered in the square to declare that there will be a matrimony of royal blood. The union of the two kingdoms will bring peace and prosperity for the future to come.

The citizens were beyond ecstatic that they could barely find the motivation to do mundane tasks. Instead, they chose to dance on the streets and sing praises to those who were willing to listen. Everyone was in a festive mood. Today was a special day. It might as well be considered as a holiday.

Although, the palace was more subdued. The imperial guards patrolled the halls with marked vigilance, checking for any unusualities and occasionally helping the palace staff with the heavy lifting. Every once in a while, a servant would rush along the corridors carrying trays of food, loads of books and numerous expensive gifts just to cater the whims of every noble. The king was currently having a council with his most trusted advisors to discuss matters on how to improve the economy while protecting the land borders of Daegu. Meanwhile, the queen basked in the well-wishes and congratulations from the courtiers when they talked about the engagement as they drank tea in the gazebo.

Everyone was happy with the prospect of marriage.

All except for one.

On an empty field just a few yards away from the castle wall, there was a worn down path that wound through a series of twists and turns which eventually led to the forest. Graveled stones and dried twigs soiled the ground and the path opened deeper into the wild. The tall canopy of trees provided shade against the blaring heat of the sun and kept the place relatively cool. Birds and other wild animals sang a music only mother nature could know. The long twisted path eventually led to a clearing, big enough for a small pond to fit in the middle, and a variety of flowers that grew untamed with the lush green grass.

As soon as Seungwan arrived at the clearing, a small, almost heavy, sigh escaped her lips. She was drenched in sweat and tried to catch her breath. Her short blonde locks clung to her neck in sticky waves and her listless brown eyes searched the calming waters of the pond for comfort. It was a good thing that she wore a loose white linen shirt today since it allowed room for movement and felt a little less constricting. Removing her ragged boots and bending down to fold her black trousers, Seungwan walked towards the pond and gently dipped her feet in its cool blue waters. She closed eyes and let the calm wash over her weary soul but even that wasn't enough to quench the heaviness in her heart.

Seungwan left as soon as she heard. The news of the princess' betrothal left her numbed with shock. Her mind at lost for words and she didn't know what to do. She needed to escape to a place where she wouldn't feel trapped. So she ran to the forest until her feet ached and her lungs burned. She ran until her eyes blurred with tears that watered the ground like droplets of rain.

The princess was to be married to the prince of Seoul in two months’ time. It was expected since she was in the appropriate age but it was too soon and Seungwan wasn't quite sure if she was ready for that... If her heart was ready for the inevitable... if she was ready to spend the rest of her life being incomplete. Seungwan closed her eyes and felt her soul resonate within. This was bound to happen. She had seen this for a long time coming and she had no right to object for she was merely a servant. Their worlds were heavens apart.

But why can't her heart accept that?

"I thought I'd find you here."

Seungwan's heart raced once she heard that familiar lilting voice and she quickly jumped to her feet. She smoothed out her clothes to a more presentable manner before bowing deeply.

"Your royal highness." Her eyes stared hard at the ground and she didn't dare lift them in fear that her heart might betray her. It was already traitorous enough as it is.

"I told you not to call me that Seungwan-ah." The princess sounded annoyed at the honorific. She did hate formality especially coming from the little servant girl. Seungwan could just picture the intense glare emanating from her eyes. "Look at me."

But the servant girl made no move to look at her, opting to study the ground instead.

A beat of silence.

"Please."

It was her little plea and Seungwan didn't have it in herself to deny the princess from her wishes. She swallowed the lump in her throat and prepared herself to become undone.

As usual, the princess took her breath away.

There she was, in all her stunning glory, wearing that ocean blue summer dress that emphasized her smooth pale skin, sporting that soft gentle smile she always reserved for Seungwan. Her raven black hair tumbled past her shoulders in silky waves and there was an excited glint in her chocolate brown eyes as she pulled the servant girl into a swift embrace. Seungwan found it difficult to breathe, much less even think. Her touch burned Seungwan's skin and left tendrils of fire in its wake. After all this time, the princess still had the same effect on Seungwan.

"Joohyun." Seungwan whispered breathlessly and lifted her trembling hands to return the princess' embrace. Sanity has long left her now and she wondered if Joohyun had some sort of magic within her... If she somehow bewitched Seungwan with the charm she wielded.

But of course, Joohyun wasn't a sorceress. She wasn't some kind of mythical being that existed in the minds of people. She was very real and beautifully flawed and Seungwan loved her for that.

Joohyun lingered for a moment and Seungwan thought she saw her features turn forlorn the second she pulled away but quickly dismissed it as one of her imaginations. The princess straightened her composure before a mischievous smirk graced her lips. Seungwan knew that look. She'd been the recipient of that smirk too many times throughout the course of their friendship and it was never a good sign for it spelled trouble.

"I'm supposed to be having tea with the court ladies today but I feigned sickness and somehow managed to avoid my responsibilities." Joohyun seemed quite proud of herself and Seungwan could only frown in disapproval as she watched the princess slip out of her heels, hike up her dress and dip her feet into the cool waters just as Seungwan did earlier. "Now I'm free to spend my afternoon with you."

That didn't seem wise but Seungwan knew better than to scold her. Joohyun was as stubborn as it gets. Arguing with her was completely pointless because she rarely ever listens.

Seungwan settled beside Joohyun and the princess proceeded to recount how her day went. How she was caught in a dull conversation with the ambassador of Seoul during breakfast. How she couldn't escape her lessons about Daegu history and most of all, how she tried hard to convince her father to call off the engagement.

"I've told him many times but he wouldn't listen. Marriage isn't what I want." A scowl marred her elegant features when the princess slapped the water in frustration, sending splashes of fluid in all the wrong directions. Seungwan thought that anger didn't suit Joohyun. "It's like my opinions don't even matter."

The servant girl could only patiently listen to the princess as she droned on and on about her frustrations. She stared at the princess the whole time not only because she liked hearing the sound of her voice but mostly because Joohyun was being herself. She didn't play the game of pretenses when she was around the servant girl. She would always let her guard down and allow Seungwan to witness the vulnerable parts of herself that she didn't let others see.

To Seungwan, Joohyun was just Joohyun.

The same Joohyun whom she grew up with and treated her like family. The same Joohyun who snuck out at night to visit Seungwan in the dungeons after being punished for accidentally spilling wine on a noble's trousers. The same Joohyun who defended her when she was accused of stealing food from the kitchens.

"Seungwan-ah?"

The servant girl was completely immersed in her thoughts that she failed to notice the change in Joohyun's mood. The princess had gone very quiet.

"What if my heart longs for another?"

That statement alone pulled Seungwan out of her reverie and she stuttered out a reply. "W-What do you mean?"

"What if I want-" Joohyun was looking at her now, staring directly into her eyes in search for something, and Seungwan was unable to look away. For a moment, she was afraid... terrified that Joohyun would see through her barriers and discover the feelings Seungwan had long kept hidden. "-to marry whom I choose?"

The air was thick with tension and Seungwan tried to lighten atmosphere by cracking a joke. "Why? Is the great princess having a hard time asking someone out?" She knew she was being a coward but her heart can't - wouldn't - shouldn't hope. The path to Joohyun was a lonely road and wishing for the impossible would only end in heartache.

The smile on Joohyun's lips didn't quite reach her eyes and Seungwan's attempts to lighten the atmosphere backfired. Both of them lapsed into an awkward silence, with the princess gazing at the sky and the servant girl fidgeting listlessly in her seat.

"Why did you come here?" The princess asked after a while.

"Oh. I just came here to think." Seungwan shrugged noncommittally, trying to brush it off like it was nothing, when in reality she came here to forget.

To escape the reality that the love of her life was betrothed to another man.

To accept the fact that the more Seungwan yearned for her, the more she realized that they could never be together.

The princess furrowed her brows and pursed her lips into a thin line, a clear indicator that she didn't quite believe the servant girl. "So you came to our place? You only ever come here when something's bothering you." The intensity of her eyes was enough to melt away whatever control was left in Seungwan.

Our place

For this little clearing by the forest had become their sanctuary ever since they were children... their little safe haven that shielded them from the cruel world. This is the place where the magic occurs. This is the place where everything is possible. This is the place where Seungwan was free to love Joohyun in silence.

"Yes."

"But-" The princess tries to press further but the servant girl shook her head and kept silent.

"Let's just enjoy the moment." Seungwan found the courage to hold her hand and joined the princess in watching the skies.

She closed her eyes and dreamed of another life where Joohyun could be hers.

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

Two weeks have passed since the announcement and now the kingdom of Daegu was preparing for the upcoming visit of the prince of Seoul. Banners of blue and silver hung on every house and stall and lanterns lit the cobbled streets. There was a shortage of red roses and the florist was at her wit's end trying to resupply her stock. A demand for heart-shaped cookies and chocolates caused the local baker to create more pastries. Expansions for the church were fully underway so as to accomodate the attendants from Seoul. Music could be heard from the academy since the students were tasked to be the lead choir for the welcoming ceremony. Artisans reknowned from far and wide, hired by the king, came to help decorate the plaza square.

Meanwhile, the palace was plunged into madness. Imperial guards were stationed at every exit and entrance, still observing for anything unusual while servants darted on and about the palace, scrubbing the walls immaculately clean, replacing old flowers from vases, dusting away dirt from large marbled statues, stripping off the soiled linens in each sleeping chamber and changing them into new ones. All the while still catering to the whims of every noble. The cook and his apprentices busied themselves in preparing the food and sometimes, a little servant boy would steal a freshly-baked muffin from the kitchens. The king had a private assembly with his trusted advisors to discuss how to strengthen Daegu's pact with Seoul while the queen made a quick visit to her royal tailor for her gown measurements.

Everyone seemed preoccupied for the special day.

And Seungwan wasn't exempted from that.

She was on stable duty and spent the whole day shovelling manure, cleaning the stalls and grooming horses. Once or twice, she was whisked away by the matron and ordered her to fetch some things from the market. Seungwan complied with every demand that was requested of her since it kept her from thinking about Joohyun. She hadn't been the same since the announcement. She spent her days lost and confused while at night, she could barely fall asleep. So in order to keep her mind off of things, Seungwan busied herself with work.

Maybe this way, she could stop dreaming the impossible.

Maybe this way, she could finally come into terms with the inevitable.

And maybe this way, she could learn to let Joohyun go.

But why was there a constant ache in her heart that refused to disappear?

The servant girl sighed and continued brushing on the horse's mane. She just finished removing the saddle from the animal's back when Johnny, one of the Imperial guards, appeared out of nowhere and shoved a small piece of parchment to her face. "Oi Seungwan! A letter for you." He marched off before Seungwan could ask any questions. Cautiously unfolding the paper, Seungwan immediately recognized the elegant script written in cursive.

It was a letter from Joohyun asking her to come visit her chambers tonight.

Seungwan furrowed her brows. What did the princess want?

No matter. She'll find the answers sooner.

For now, she has to finish cleaning the stables.

When the night came, Seungwan snuck out of the servants' quarters and crept along the dark hallways of the castle. A guard almost caught her lurking around the throne room but thankfully she managed to evade him. Standing outside the princess' chambers, she knocked gently on the mahogany doors. There was no answer. She was about to knock again when the door opened and the princess abruptly grabbed her collar and dragged her into the room. Joohyun pushed her against the wall before securing the locks to her chamber. "Did anyone see you?" And when the servant girl shook her head, the princess sighed in relief and slowly wrapped Seungwan in a tight embrace.

Seungwan felt her throat closed up and mouth go dry when she noticed their apparent closeness. Her mind had a hard time recovering its sanity and it also didn't help that the fine lace robes Joohyun was wearing did nothing to cover her undergarments. The valleys of her breasts and the curves of her hips were tantalizing. It was a sin to look at her and Seungwan should be punished for having such lewd thoughts about the princess. She held her breath in the hopes of preventing herself from being overwhelmed but it was hopeless. She was already intoxicated with Joohyun's scent.

"I was beginning to think that you wouldn't come." Joohyun buried herself on Seungwan's neck and breathed in her sweet fragrance. The servant girl was suddenly painfully aware of the fact that they were by themselves... alone... in the princess' chambers. She imagined the scandal it would cause if someone discovered them. "I missed you."

Seungwan felt her breath hitch. She tried hard, tried to resist whatever enchantment the princess cast upon her, but she was fighting a losing battle and her traitorous heart wouldn't stop beating Joohyun's name. In the end, she stopped fighting and eventually succumbed to her touch.

She allowed herself to enjoy the simple pleasure of having Joohyun in her arms.

Spare me a little taste of forever with you.

Her grip on Joohyun tightened.

Just this once.

"I missed you too."

The embrace lasted for a minute longer before Joohyun took her by the arm and led her towards the bed. Together, they rested on the soft mattress and silken sheets. Seungwan kept her distance but the princess had no concept of personal space and simply scooted closer and draped her arms around the servant girl. Seungwan wondered if she had always been this masochistic. Wanting someone she can't have and wishing for the impossible felt more like self-destruction but she was happy with it. "So what did you want to talk about?"

Then Joohyun asked a rather unusual request. "Tell me your dreams."

Seungwan thought for sure that she had stopped breathing. The answer was right there, almost at the tip of her tongue, but she didn't dare say it because she was terrified of giving it meaning once she voices it out loud.

To spend my life loving you.

Seungwan was a coward because only a coward would choose to love in silence. "I want to find the place where I could be free."

"Have you found that place already?" The princess traced random patterns on her arm and the servant girl found herself lying again.

"No."

Yes.

Right here beside you.

A moment of silence passed and Seungwan cherished every minute of it for this might be the last time she'd ever feel Joohyun's touch.

"Seungwan-ah?"

"Yes princess?

"Why is it that the burden I carry flies away when I'm in your arms?"

Seungwan suddenly lost the ability to speak and the wild beating of her traitorous heart felt difficult to control. This is what those poems authored by dead men must feel like. To long for someone you cannot have. To have all love contained within you and have no one to give it to. To have your soul wither away. This is what must it feel like to slowly die inside.

She wondered if this was the God's punishment for her because she loved a woman. She loved her best friend. Maybe this was His punishment for her, for not knowing her place, for asking the impossible, for thinking that she and Joohyun could ever be equals.

The princess had already fallen asleep by the time Seungwan could find the courage to respond and as she watched Joohyun sleep contently in her arms, she finally found an answer. If the heavens wanted to punish her then she would gladly face its wrath because Joohyun was worth the sacrifice.

And there was no greater sacrifice than laying down her life for the one that she loved.

"Sweat dreams Hyun." Seungwan gently caressed the princess' cheek and planted a soft kiss on her head.

Her eyes suddenly fluttered to Joohyun's mouth and for a moment, she felt the deep-seated longing to kiss her. Seungwan wanted to taste those soft lips and ingrain Joohyun's essence deep into her mind forever so that when the time comes when Joohyun finally leaves, Seungwan will have something to remember her by.

Seungwan wanted her. God, she loved her.

She leaned closer until she could almost feel the warmth of Joohyun's breath brushing against her cheek. Seungwan traced the outlines of her lips, slow, gentle and even reverent, taking great care not to break Joohyun with her caress. She was unworthy to touch her this way. "Just this once."

If equal affection cannot be, let the more loving one be me.

She leaned closer and closer until their lips were only inches apart.

No. Stop! This is wrong.

Seungwan felt the tendrils of guilt wrap her heart. She took advantage of her best friend Joohyun. Sweet and kind Joohyun who trusted her with all her heart and yet Seungwan almost betrayed that trust by giving into her desires. Her love was not pure. Her love was dirty and tainted. The universe was right to punish her.

With an aching heart, she carefully extricated herself away from Joohyun. The servant girl felt disgusted with herself. Only a lowlife would take advantage of their best friend like that. What she did was unforgivable.

“Seungwan?” Joohyun stirred when she felt the warmth disappear and when she noticed Seungwan leaving her chambers, she grabbed hold of her arm and begged for her to stay. "Please stay with me until the sun rises."

Seungwan could never deny the princess so she relented to her wishes. She went back to bed and Joohyun wasted no time wrapping her in an embrace. She clung to Seungwan desperately as if her life depended on it and the servant girl found it difficult not to care.

"Don't go." Joohyun yawned when the remnants of sleep finally overtook her.

And as Seungwan laid in bed, her thoughts wandered to the sleeping woman in her arms. There was no going back now. She had fallen way too deep. Her gaze landed on the ceiling and she sighed.

"You're making it hard for me to let you go."

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

Prince Bogum of Seoul and his entourage finally arrived to the kingdom of Daegu and the citizens celebrated his coming. A ceremony was held at the palace square to laud this joyous occasion. The royal family, along with the trusted advisors and nobles, received him and gave him a warm welcome. Seungwan was one of the onlookers, moving through the crowd to get a better glimpse of the prince. She was supposed to be in the palace, cooking in the kitchens and doing the laundry, but she snuck out and joined the crowd. Of course, she'll surely be punished by the matron but she can worry about that later. For now, she's focused on knowing the man who'll be taking Joohyun's hand in marriage.

"I welcome you, Prince Bogum of Seoul, to the illustrious kingdom of Daegu." The king beamed proudly as he swept his hand over his beloved nation. Behind him, the queen and princess stood graceful and elegant. Joohyun was great at acting calm. If she was nervous then she was certainly doing a good job at hiding it.

"The stories I've heard about your kingdom doesn't do much justice. I thank you for giving me this honor of witnessing for myself the greatness of Daegu your majesty." Prince Bogum bowed respectfully. "I come bearing gifts!" With a simple flick of his hand, his servants emerged bringing caskets filled with gold and fine linen. The king seemed quite pleased with his thoughtful gesture.

The prince was strikingly handsome with his charcoal black hair neatly styled to perfection and fair skin unblemished by scars. His chocolate brown eyes sparked with youth and he carried himself with poise and vigor that immediately charmed the king and his regents. Prince Bogum seemed like a respectable man. Anyone would be lucky to have him.

"I'd like you to meet my daughter, Princess Joohyun of Daegu, whom you'll be marrying in a few weeks' time." The king gestured for his daughter to come forward and proceeded to introduce her. Seungwan could tell that Bogum was rendered awestruck by her beauty. She could relate to him. After all, Joohyun always took her breath away.

"I've heard tales of your beauty princess and it's such a blessing to finally witness it for myself. I am a truly lucky man to have you as my wife." He stumbled upon his words while trying to greet her and everyone seemed to find it a little endearing.

Everyone except Joohyun.

She remained passive the whole time.

"A pleasure to meet you too my prince." There was a subtle frown on Joohyun's features when the prince gently kissed her hand.

Seungwan observed the interaction with a growing heaviness in her heart. Prince Bogum was perfect. He had perfect hair, perfect eyes and perfect smile. He would be the future king of Seoul. He would be good for Joohyun. They would get married, yield beautiful offsprings, have a family and live their lives in utmost happiness. Meanwhile, Seungwan could only watch from afar as she tries to mend the pieces of her broken heart.

This sudden realization struck Seungwan like lightning and she suddenly found it difficult to breathe. She felt trapped, constricted, and the crowd was suffocating her. She needed to escape, somewhere far away from here.

Joohyun scanned the crowd and was surprised to find Seungwan amongst the people. Her surprise turned to worry when she noticed the tears threatening to spill from Seungwan's eyes. The princess moved to approach the servant girl but she was stopped by her mother, who gave her warning look and urged her to strike a conversation with Prince Bogum.

And Joohyun stayed rooted in her spot as she helplessly watched Seungwan escape to the forest.

...

The sun had set and it was already night time when the sound of jovial music and laughter could still be heard throughout the whole kingdom. The people were still celebrating the festivities and sang songs on the streets. The local pub was handing out free drinks, much to everyone's delight, and provided a place for merriment. The Baker was too drunk from the ale to notice that his pastries were slowly getting eaten by the children who visited his shop. An imperial guard left this post and started flirting with the local florist. A ball was held in the palace in honor of the prince's arrival. The king and queen were having a merry chat with Prince Bogum and courtiers wasted no time socializing with the guests from Seoul and getting into their good graces. The servants busied themselves by ensuring that the whole event ran smoothly while catering to the whims of every noble.

Everyone was having a good time.

Everyone except Seungwan.

The servant girl didn't join the merriment because she didn't feel like celebrating. She stayed by the clearing to drown herself in solitude. Prince Bogum's arrival felt like being struck by the cold harsh truth and Seungwan was far from prepared to face reality.

She can't, not yet.

She still needed time.

Time for her to let go.

She laughed hollowly, a strange broken sound that echoed through the night, when feelings of despair started to settle in. What good will wanting Joohyun do? She was a princess and Seungwan was a servant. Even then, she knew that they could never be together. There was nothing she could give Joohyun. She had no riches, no kingdom and she wasn't even of noble birth. Seungwan could only offer her heart but it wasn't enough, it will never be enough. Prince Bogum was perfect and he would be able to provide Joohyun the things Seungwan never could. They would be happy together.

So why can't her heart accept that?

"I knew I'd find you here."

Seungwan would recognize that voice anywhere. There seems to be no escaping the princess now, is there? She sighed in defeat and bowed deeply in reverence.

"Your highness." The servant girl could barely look directly into her eyes. Seungwan never displayed this kind of formality towards Joohyun in their long years of friendship but it needed to be done. A line was needed to be drawn in order to remind Seungwan of her rank.

"I thought I told you not to call me that." Joohyun wasn't at all annoyed but she did sound a little sad. She took a step towards Seungwan but the latter backed away. She didn't bother to hide the hurt she was feeling. "Did something happen? I saw you by the square earlier and I wanted to come to you but you ran away." Joohyun reached out to caress her cheek but Seungwan stepped out of her reach.

"This needs to stop." The finality in Seungwan's tone terrified her completely. It's as if she was about to say something drastic and Joohyun didn't know if she was prepared to handle it.

"S-Stop what?"

"This friendship. It needs to stop." What was going on? Why was Seungwan acting like this?

"But why?" Joohyun's heart ached and her tears threatened to spill. "We've known each other for so long. Why suddenly end this beautiful bond that we have?"

"Exactly that. We've known each for so long that I forget myself when I'm around you Joohyun. You're a princess while I'm merely a servant. It's time you start treating me like one." Seungwan wanted to take back the words she said but the damage had been done and Joohyun was already fighting back tears.

"What are you saying?" Joohyun told herself not to cry. She would not cry, not for her, not for Seungwan.

"I'm saying that no friendship should ever exist between us." Seungwan didn't dare look into her eyes.

"So are you just gonna throw away all those years of us being together? Is that it?" For the first time in Seungwan's life, she became the recipient of Joohyun's harsh glare and it saddened that it had to end this way.

No. She should not feel remorse now. She was only doing this for Joohyun's sake.

Be strong Seungwan.

"Yes."

Then she left and fought hard not to look back.

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

The kingdom of Banora was in a solemn mood. The palace was decorated with white roses and ribbons while lanterns hung on every household. The streets were deserted and no merchant could be seen selling their wares in the market. The local bakery and flower shop were closed. Children, together with their parents, dressed in white formal attire gathered in the square to witness the holy matrimony of Prince Bogum and Princess Joohyun. The imperial guard were stationed at every entrance to ensure the safety of the event. The king and queen and the rest of the nobles settled inside the church, all hushed in excitement as they prepared for the ceremony to begin. Prince Bogum stood by the altar and tried to calm his nerves as he waited for the princess to arrive.

Seungwan stood by the entrance of the palace with the white chariot parked behind her. Dread was creeping to her bones and she was starting to think that this was a bad idea. As punishment for having skipped her chores, the matron thought that it would be fitting for Seungwan to safely escort the princess towards the chariot where the rest of the handmaidens would be waiting. She wondered if this was the universe's cruel way of punishing her, to see the love of her life for one last time before she was whisked away to marry someone else.

But the servant girl thought that it was only appropriate. No amount of punishment could take away the hurt she inflicted on Joohyun.

The sound of sharp heels hitting the floor signaled the princess' arrival and Seungwan looked up from her feet to see Joohyun looking as breathtaking as ever. Flowers adorned her head and her raven locks were pulled into a braid. She was wearing a silk lace white gown that clung to her body like a second skin and the diamonds resting on her neck couldn't compare to the sheer magnitude of her beauty. She held in her hand a bouquet of white roses and Seungwan couldn't help but think that Joohyun looked so beautiful in white.

The second their eyes met, a fond, almost melancholic, smile graced Joohyun's lips when she tentatively approached Seungwan. "I never thought I'd find you here." She stopped just a few inches away but she was close enough for Seungwan to revel in her beauty.

"I'm here to escort you to the chariot your highness." The servant girl swallowed the lump in her throat before bowing reverently.

"Right... I'm the princess after all." Joohyun sounded helpless and Seungwan berated herself for causing this mess in the first place. She rose to her full height and their eyes met.

There was a beat.

A moment of silence.

Both of them stared at each other, committing every detail into memory, realizing that this would be the last, knowing that things would never be the same again.

A beat.

Silence.

And Seungwan decided that she was tired of denying her heart.

"Run away with me."

Joohyun's eyes went wide and she stuttered out. "W-What?"

"Run away with me." Seungwan found her courage and declared the love she had long kept hidden. "We'll go somewhere far away, just you and me, and start a new life. You can be whatever you want to be and I-" She let out a shaky breath. Her hands wouldn't stop trembling. "-I will spend the rest of my life making you happy."

"Why?" Joohyun couldn't stop the tears from falling. It was the first time that Seungwan saw her cry. "Why did you have to say this now? Just when I'm about to get married."

"I just thought-" Seungwan tried to explain but the princess cut her off.

"I waited for you Seungwan! Ever since we were children, I always adored you. I was even willing to forsake the crown for you! But when I already made up my mind, you decide to profess your undying love and hope that it would somehow change a thing?" Joohyun shook her head in disappointment. "You are a cruel person Son Seungwan."

"I just thought that you should know. I'm sorry if it took me long enough." Seungwan tried to wipe away Joohyun's tears but caught herself at the last minute. She had no right to touch the princess, not after all the pain she inflicted upon her.

"I have a duty to my people Seungwan." The princess looked resolute and there was finality in her voice and just like that, Seungwan knew that this was the end. She had resigned herself to a life without Joohyun.

This is what dying must feel like.

She gathered her courage and flashed Joohyun a smile, though it was a little strained. "Meet me at our place if you ever change your mind." She gathered the princess into her arms and inhaled her scent for one last time. "I will wait for you there."

Even if you never come

Joohyun trembled against her and the servant girl tried her best to comfort her. The princess held on to Seungwan tightly, desperately, as if her life depended on it, then softly whispered into her ear.

"My heart will always belong to you."

And when they pulled away, Joohyun bid her a final farewell before heading to the chariot and Seungwan could only watch as the love of her life walked away.

Maybe in another world, their lives wouldn't be so different.

Maybe in another world, Seungwan would be the one that makes Joohyun happy.

Maybe in another world, they'll both be free

But not in this world.

In this world, Joohyun was a princess and Seungwan was a servant.

In this world, she was betrothed to another

In this world, they could never be together.

It's time her heart finally accepted that.

...

Seungwan grunted in exhaustion as soon as she saw the clearing. After the chariot drove off, she quickly gathered her things and ran to the forest. The pond's clear waters was inviting but no amount of comfort could alleviate the ache in her chest.

Then the sound of the cathedral bells echoed through the whole kingdom and dozens of white doves soared to the sky. Seungwan released the shaky breath she had been holding.

It was over. The wedding was over.

Joohyun will never come.

She was all alone now.

For now, Seungwan has decided that she will run away, away from the prison that once felt like a home, to chase her dreams and find the place where she could be free. She gazed at the clouds above and the image of Joohyun flashed into her mind and made her smile. Her friend did love the sky.

"Someday, I'll learn how to live without you."

Seungwan uttered her final prayers before she stood up to leave. Just as she slung her pack over her shoulders, there was a distinct sound of hooves pounding against the ground and the shrill whine of an animal. She turned around, only to be rendered speechless at the sight of Joohyun riding on horseback, all happy and free, forgetting the burden of the crown that she used to carry, laughing in delight as she called out her name. "Seungwan!"

Seungwan couldn't believe her eyes and stood rooted in place. She didn't dare move and wouldn't even dare breathe. This is what dreams must feel. After dismounting off the horse, Joohyun approached the stunned girl with a single purpose. Her eyes burned with intensity when she grabbed Seungwan's collar and pulled her in for a kiss.

It was a kiss that contained worship and reclamation. It was a kiss that shattered the distance between heaven and earth. It was a kiss that brought two different worlds together as one.

In this kiss, Joohyun wasn't a princess and Seungwan wasn't a servant.

No more crowns and titles.

In this kiss, they were equals.

No more barriers and inhibitions.

In this kiss, Joohyun was just Joohyun and Seungwan was just Seungwan.

When Joohyun pulled away, tears cascaded down her cheeks as she gave Seungwan the promise of forever.

"I'd go anywhere with you."

#red velvet #red velvet scenario #wenrene #irene #wendy #seulgi #yerim #joy #royal au #childhood friends #angst #fluff

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williamsilverwood · 3 years

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The Banquet Part ll

(( This takes place post BFA and before Shadowlands. Because I’m lazy with writing. )) The embroidery was impressive, the highest quality silk one could get their hands on. A vest with the Silverwood house sigil on the chest and shoulders hugged against the young lord’s chest, fitting snugly against his body. He wore grey and dark pants that were of a similar fabric. To top off the outfit, a billowing cloak hung around his shoulders and down the rest of his back like a blanket.

Will sat on the edge of his bed, tugging black shoes onto his feet. It had been sometime since he wore proper noble attire and even longer since he was in his human form to do so. His elongated ears twitched at someone approaching. He turned to look over at the grizzled complexion of his friend and trusted advisor, Thoros.

“Well, never thought I’d see much of you in your old body.”

“I thought perhaps it is time to get more acquainted with it. Though I’m unsure what the reactions of the other nobles will be.” He replied, murmuring out his last words.

Thoros’ bushy mustache twitched and he rolled a single shoulder in a shrug.

“I do not think they’ll make too much of a fuss about it. Besides, it is a face they remember after all.”

Will rose a brow. “Is it? I did leave home in my teens, and I doubt they remember what I looked like.” He rubbed at his face with both hands. “Even then it's still the face of the first born son of a prominent house who decided to abandon his duty to his family and live in the city.” He ran a few fingers through his long locks, looking up towards the older man.

“Can’t dwell too much on the past, lad. You came back, didn’t you? Established your right once more and have been fighting under the Gilnean banner for years now. Though, I’m sure Grymm’s Vale’s people would like their lord around more often. You’ve been fighting for quite some time.”

Will blew a strand of hair away from his face, peering towards Thoros. “Well, there’s always fighting to be done. Not my fault there are constant battles. The Legion, a bloody fourth war. Never seems to end. I just hope we’re given some time to finally relax.”

“Agreed.”

In the moment of silence between the two men, the sound of hurried footsteps could be heard along the spiral staircase that led to Will’s chamber. A teenage boy with the symbol of a Silver tree emblazoned on his tunic’s chest came hurrying into the room. He had a shock of messy red hair and wide cheeks.

“My lords..” He dipped his head and upper body into a brief bow. “The guests have arrived in the great hall. Shall I see them to their seats in the dining room? Or do you wish to make an address first, my lord?” His hurried eyes glanced towards the lord in question.

“Hm. What do you think?” Will eyed Thoros who was busy caressing his goatee.

“Huh? Oh, you should greet them. Its the formal thing to do. It leaves a good impression, lad.”

Will nodded. “Right..” He brought himself up to his feet, brushing his pants off for a moment and passing Thoros with a good hearty slap to the shoulder. “C’mon old man, lets go address the peoples.”

“You are addressing them! Not me. Don’t be putting this on me like usual, boy.”

The young lord patted the teen on the shoulder, ushering him down the stairs as he turned his head to flash a grin to his old friend. Those prominent fangs sticking out as he did so. “I’m just messin’ with you, ya’ old bastard. I know what I gotta do. No sweat.” He waved a hand dismissively before following suit down the stairs.

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

The various lords, ladies and high ranking officials of the Grey Hand were present within the great hall of Silverwood manor. They intermingled with each other; mostly conversing about where they felt Gilneas and the Alliance as a whole was headed after the recent war.

Will had just arrived at the main floor with Thoros in tow. He looked around the room, watching as servants carried out large platters of food. Various meats, breads and other treats were placed upon the white tablecloth.

The dining area housed a long table with many chairs tucked neatly beneath it. The most prominent chair was at the front of the table, stark white in color with a large emblem of the noble house it represented on the back.

The Lord of the house sits there. Many times did William see his father sitting at the head of the table, usually stroking his beard and always looking grumpy. The forced dinners with other families were always the worst. Though William had a good feeling this one was to be different than all the rest. Hopefully.

Thoros slammed a heavy hand against the young Lord’s shoulder. “Ready to make that address, lad? Doesn’t have to be too long, just welcomin’ them in.”

Will’s brow twitched and he glanced over to Thoros. “Suppose so. I never did listen when my father did these things. I was always off in my own head, wanting to break out of these stone walls.”

“Ha, I know lad, I know.” Thoros replied.

With a soft sigh, Will began to move towards the banister that overlooked the main entrance where everyone was lingering. Before he could however, he heard small footsteps barreling towards him. His ears twitched and his head turned. Though he did not even need to look to know who it was rushing towards him. A wide smile was already present on his face as he knelt down to welcome the embrace of his only daughter.

He hugged her against his chest, squeezing for a moment or so before letting her go. “You look adorable.” The young girl donned a dress. It was dark in color, various blacks and greys with intricate patterns of red roses running along the trim in typical Gilnean fashion.

Zoey beamed, moving away from her father to spin around in her dress. She seemed rather pleased with herself. “Its pretty!”

Will gave her a look. “I thought you didn’t want to wear a dress..” He murmured, a glint in his eye as he teased his daughter.

She puffed up a bit, cheeks tinged with crimson. “W-well… I…!”

Her father laughed, reaching down to comb a few thick fingers through her chestnut hair that was all done up in curls. “I’m teasing you, sweetie. You look very pretty.” His daughter’s smaller fingers tried to bat away his own as he touched her hair.

“But daddy has to talk to all the lords and ladies. Carmen will take you to the other children. Play nice.” He pinched her cheek before kissing her forehead.

Zoey nodded quickly, prancing off to one of the caretakers that took her hand and led her to one of the tables.

Will walked confidently towards the main bannister overlooking the conversing crowd that had gathered. Men were in fine linens and suits while most of the ladies wore expensive dresses.“Good evening!” Will stood at the bannister, gesturing with his hands out towards the

crowd. He was using that billowing, loud voice of his. Instead of shouting over a battlefield, he was shouting over lords and ladies. He was certainly not in his element. Many heads turned to regard him, looking up at a lord they did not instantly recognize.

Will was one who revered the embodiment of Goldrinn’s fury. It was a blessing to him. More often than not he was within his Worgen form. Tonight, he donned the body in which he used to frequent these very halls with. However, it was changed. He was beginning to slowly adopt more of his wolven features onto his human body. It was without a doubt because of his nearly incessant use of the blessing that was gifted to him. He did not mind the changes much but to the various aristocrats gathered in his great hall… that remained to be seen.

“I welcome you to Silverwood manor as it’s reigning lord.” One of his brows twitched. Usually he heard his father say those words and it was odd to hear them come out of his own mouth now. The thought of having a similarity with his father provided an unsettling feeling.

“Tonight, we celebrate our victory in the fourth war. From Arathi Highlands to the distant shores of Kalimdor, the Alliance have claimed a resounding success against the Banshee Queen’s brutish Horde.” William paused for a long moment, looking across the crowd of faces that peered back at him.

“She has descended into darkness once more and our hunt continues. But for now, drink, be merry and enjoy yourselves. Glory to Gilneas.” He ended to an applause from the guests. The tips of his ears twitching slightly and a smile forming on his lips as he offered a half bow. He turned on his foot to face Thoros who had been crossing his arms over his chest nearby.

“Brief but good. Nice job, kid.” He clasped a thick, calloused hand on Will’s shoulder, giving him a firm pat.

“I thought I started to sound like father. Almost lost my appetite.”

Thoros bellied out a loud chuckle. “At the start, a bit, but you’re not him. Don’t fret now. Try to enjoy yourself tonight. You’ve earned it.”

“Mm.” Will muttered, staying at the top of the stairs so he could greet each and every noble that walked up on either side. It was draining. He was a socialable person but this seemed like too much. Every lord and lady were greeted formally with slight small talk before he moved onto the next couple. It went on and on before he finally saw no one else coming up the stairs. He turned, eyeing everyone at their seats, conversing quietly. Will let out a small sigh, about to engulf himself within many more conversations before he felt a presence rush up behind him suddenly.

Instinctively, he whipped his body around, right clawed hand ready to slash at whomever had decided to appear from the shadows.

A raven haired woman in an equally as dark dress quickly ducked underneath his hand that was coming towards her. As soon as the young lord saw the ‘intruder’ was not really an intruder, he stopped his hand before it would even reach her.

“I didn’t see you treat the other guests like this..” Her voice was soft but carried a slightly huskier tone to it, one that made Will’s ears twitch in familiarity.

“... Caitlyn?” He asked, eyes widening to see the woman before him.

She stood close to him, a lavish and elegant vanilla scent surrounding her form. Her face was narrow with sharp features. Lips plump and painted in a daring red color. Her eyes were large and strikingly bright green, dark full lashes surrounding them, paired with smokey eyeshadow. They held a mischievous glint in them as they peered upwards to him.

The woman’s body was more on the skinnier side. But for some reason, she still looked like she could hold her own. Perhaps it was the aura of confidence she seemed to exude around her or the stance she took with her head held high and eyes forward.

“It has been some time, dear.” Will smiled softly towards her.

“That it has. And you’ve.. well… you’ve changed a lot, Will.” She reached out with long, thin fingers and took one of his hands, moving it up in between them so she could see those elongated, sharpened nails. “Gods, your’s are almost longer than mine. Such interesting changes.” Her own long nails pressed against his palm for a moment before withdrawing.

“Aye, it happened over a long period of time. I never really do come out of my other form.”

“You prefer it?” She perked a thin brow before upturning the corners of her lips into a grin. “That does not surprise me.”

Will could not help but to let out a small snicker at that. “I do, yes. Much more than this form. This body, this.. face, reminds me of my days back here. Being molded into the perfect first born son I was supposed to be.”

Caitlyn took a step back, getting a better look at him. She crossed her left arm over her chest, placing her right elbow into her palm and cupping her chin while an elongated nail tapped at her soft lips. “Well, aside from your wolvish features, I see much of that perfect first born son you were supposed to be right now.”

Will’s brow furrowed, eyes glancing away from her.

“Or.. its just the clothes you’re wearing. Don’t think I’ve ever seen you in threads like those. Definitely not back in the city.” She winked at him, moving a few steps forward so she could place a gloved hand against his chest. “Now, don’t you have guests to attend to?”

Will looked down towards her with an amused gaze. She was just like he remembered. Bold. Confident. Alluring. There was much he learned from her from his time in Gilneas City, like how real people got their way. That certain kind of charm that became one of the young lord’s most strongest attributes. He had much to thank her for. Perhaps an invitation to his chambers to catch up would suffice.

“Unfortunately so. And you’ll have to tell me how you managed to get past my gates, my hounds and my guards without so much as a speck of mud on you.” He remarked.

Caitlyn slid away from his body, moving towards the large banquet hall. She stopped for a moment and looked over her right shoulder to simply wink at him before proceeding to walk confidently into the main hall as the various nobles conversed with each other at the table.

Will stood there, eyeing her as she left. The corners of his mouth upturned in a gentle grin. It seemed the distraction that was needed from this formal procedure had just arrived.

#roleplay #world of warcraft #warcraft #writing #oc #gilneas #worgen

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maple-keenes · 5 years

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they wanted heaven from me, i gave ‘em hell

summary: heaven pays no attention to the actions of those in hell. roman isn't sure whether he's doing the right thing anymore, but he's certain of one thing - that his father isn't fit to be king. and he'll do whatever it takes to make sure that he won't be anymore.

pairing: logicality and prinxiety

tw: murder, death, discussion of murder and death, remus, deceit, morally grey deceit, weapons, criminalization of gay people, homophobia, cursing

wc: 5837

a/n: this took me THREE MONTHS to write and i am ashamed of how bad it turned out

read it on ao3

general:

@analogical-chaos @theflatpancake @ilovemygaydad @alltimevirgilant @virgiliananxiety @romanticsanders @theincediblesulk @wroammin @creativity-killed-thekitten @bitchyybabyy400 @wooflesthatwoof @lyditist @heck-im-lost @max-is-tired @demurphart @thelowlysatsuma @land-of-dragons-and-frogs @theeternalspace @magicallygrimmwiccan @weirdsthenewnormal @romansleftshoulderpad

The king looked down coldly upon his son, who, despite being ordered to his death, was oddly cheery.

“Roman Delacour, you are nothing but an embarrassment and a traitor to this family. You and that… boy… have brought shame upon our kingdom and you tried to murder me, you wretched man.” The king turned up his nose, refusing to look at his son.

Roman smiled crookedly, glancing up at his father. “Daddy, please. Forget about the whole sodomite thing for five minutes, won’t you?” He laughed. “Personally, I find it ridiculous. I think the fact that I’m being executed should fall entirely on the arranged coup, not the boyfriend.”

“ENOUGH!” his father roared, gesturing for the executioner to slap his son. “You are shameful, boy.”

“I’m aware.”

The king wrinkled his nose. “I do not want to have this disgusting creature in my sight any longer! Take him to the dungeons."

Roman caught the eye of a regal man standing to his father’s left and winked. The executioner stood up, grabbing Roman by the arm and wrenching him away until they were out of sight, down in the hallway to the dungeons.

“You know, you didn’t have to actually slap me,” Roman remarked conversationally.

“It was part of the facade,” the executioner grumbled. “Now shut up or we’re gonna get caught.”

Roman grinned, walking side by side next to the executioner as they made their way to the dungeons. As they finally were out of anyone’s sight for certain, he shook off the loosely tied ropes binding his hands and pulled of the ‘executioner’s’ mask, giving his boyfriend a wry smile. “You’re clever, Virgil. I didn’t think you could pull off the executioner act.”

Virgil rolled his eyes. “You have no faith in me, my dearest prince.”

Roman kissed him deeply, wrapping himself around Virgil. “Oh, I’d have you on the dungeon floor if I could, Virge. Many thanks for rescuing me from a terrible fate.”

"Well, I couldn't just leave you to die, my darling."

about five months prior

"A toast!" the king cried, "to my dear son, Prince Roman. May your victories be plenty."

Roman beamed as his father and the rest of the court applauded. He stood up, raising his glass to the rest of the court, the ladies giggling and swooning as he smiled at each of them in turn. “Father, you honor me. I hope to bring great glory to this kingdom!” The crowd let out a raucous cheer, clapping and hollering for their beloved prince.

Oh, their beloved prince, the savior of the kingdom. An amazing title to have bestowed upon oneself, but Roman despised it. Oh, he despised it. He was trapped, caged in a life he didn’t want. His dad was a dictator, his mother was dead, and he was… he was Prince Roman. He was the symbol of hope for this twisted kingdom.

Late one summer evening, Roman saddled up his horse and rode out into the woods, the lantern swinging in front of him as he cantered through the forest. It was practically dark when he decided he should really start to head back, though his plans were interrupted by strong hands grabbing him around the waist and pulling him off his horse. Roman’s cries were muffled by a gag slyly placed around his mouth as the edges of his vision dulled and then everything…

Stayed vaguely in focus, because he wasn’t going to black out. Gotcha.

As he was dragged, his vision slid in and out of focus. Roman supposed that was on purpose, though he wouldn’t have been able to tell you where he was anyways. When they reached the hole that this hooligan was dragging him to, the prince was promptly tied to a chair and then, only then, did Roman realize that the hooligan currently in the process of binding is legs to the chair was unreasonably attractive. Oh, he had skin like a perfectly roasted coffee bean, and gorgeously tousled brown hair all pulled together with grey-blue eyes. Roman could fall right then and there.

Of course, he wouldn’t. Because he was a man, and therefore he would marry a woman, not a beautiful kidnapper. But oh god, those eyes…

What was the harm in flirting a little? Especially with a man who was certainly going to be executed once his father found him. The kingdom would never stand for its beloved prince being missing, and Roman would be grateful, even though his father could only truly be described, as the author would say, as a word that begins with a and ends with sshole. And tyrant. Murderer. Etcetera.

“I don’t suppose you’re only on your knees for my viewing pleasure?” Roman asked lazily, retaining that ridiculous confidence he’d become known for.

His captor looked up. “Oh honey, I only get down on my knees for attractive princes.”

Roman was quite put out by that. Never, in his life, had he been insulted and rejected so thoroughly in the same sentence. “I don’t suppose you’re going to tell me why I’m bound hand and foot.”

“Nah,” his kidnapper replied, flashing him a cheeky smile. “I’m going to go fetch my friends. And then we’ll see about your fate.” He bit his lip, still laughing. “Personally, I was all for execution. My friends are less cold-hearted.”

“I don’t think I could ever see someone as attractive or humorous as you are as cold-hearted,” Roman remarked, grinning at his mysterious captor.

The man winked. “You’d be surprised.” With that, he turned and walked into a room off to the side, returning a minute later with his friends, Roman assumed.

One was taller than the other by quite a bit, sporting a royal blue bandana tied fashionably around his neck. Roman could have sworn he’d seen that face before, the pale skin contrasted against dark brown hair and dark freckles. The picture of regality in posture and poise, but a boyish face nonetheless.

The other was shorter, bouncy, and smiling. This was not a situation where one should be smiling, so he had to admit he was impressed. He has long curls… come to think of it, Roman was fairly certain he had also seen this young man before. God, he really needed to start paying attention to the servants’ names.

“So, my dearest prince, these are my friends. They will decide your fate.”

Tall glanced at him, annoyance and disdain evident. “You have far too much of that ridiculous flair for the dramatic in you.”

“Aww, I think it’s sweet,” Short cooed. “Hi, Prince Roman. I’m Patton, that’s Logan,” he pointed to Tall, “and your captor is Virgil. He’s kind of a... well, he’s a nice jerk, but we love him no matter what.”`

Roman gasped, attempting to point at Logan. "You! I know you! You work for my father!"

Logan nodded. "I am an advisor to the throne. Surely we've met before, prince."

"Once or twice. You are a spy, then?" he questioned.

"Certainly. The former duke - or king, now, I must call him, may trust me, but I know the man is a tyrant." Logan sighed. "I didn't mean to live a double life. I have been Remus' advisor since he was 25 years of age and I 18."

"So… you're old, is what you're saying."

He let out a short, barking laugh. "What I'm saying is that I know your father very well. And his brother, when he was still alive."

Roman opened his mouth in protest, ready to call the older man out on his faulty memory, (his father never had a brother) when Virgil interrupted with a loud "Anyways. Life stories later, prince murdering now. Any last words, Roman?"

"Now hold on a minute -"

Patton placed a calming hand on Virgil's arm. "Virgil. He is not our enemy. Nor are we going to murder him for the actions of his father. The servants I meet are fond of Roman. He is kind to them when his father is not. And the court nobles… well, they know that he is different, if nothing else."

Realization dawned on him. "Patton… do I know you too?"

Patton gave him a small smile. "From a long time ago. It makes sense you would not recognize me, but nonetheless, I still think you are kind and I would much prefer you as an ally and friend than dead on our floor."

(It is months later that Roman finds out the truth about Patton. When the secret is revealed, Roman will think back to this moment and wonder how he missed it, because it was all in the eyes and he just wasn't looking hard enough.)

"So I'm outvoted?" Virgil asks, scoffing. "Fine. But he could still run off and go tell his father and we'd all be dead. We don't know him."

"I do," Logan and Patton chorused.

He shoots them a glare. "Well, I don't." Virgil walked over to Roman and poked him in the chest rather harshly. "How do we know you won't rat us out to Daddy?"

A million reasons ran through Roman's mind.

Because he's a horrible tyrant.

Because he starved thousands.

Because he treats his council and family like we are less than dirt in private, and as if we are gods in public.

Because he murdered my mother and he'll kill me too.

"Because he doesn't deserve the throne he sits on. No country deserves a land ruled by someone with no one's interests at heart but their own." Roman sighed. "And… because I hate him more than you do."

Virgil leaned back, seemingly satisfied with Roman's answer. "Well. I guess that's okay." He reached out his hand to Roman as a gesture of "I guess it's okay if I don't murder you today".

Roman took it. "Good to be a part of the team," he responded. "What do we do now?"

Virgil raised his eyebrows as a smile overtook his face. "Now you learn how to fight."

It was two days later when Roman returned to the place he'd met the other three, mumbling something or other about Virgil being a bitch and also unfairly attractive for such a bitch.

Virgil was already standing outside, twirling a dagger between his fingers and smirking at Roman. There was a straw doll set up a few yards away from the hole marking the entrance to the secret lair or whatever.

"Guess who finally showed up." Virgil sheathed his dagger. "Thought we agreed on 4?"

"Had to convince my guard not to follow me out," Roman said, dismounting from his horse (who had, luckily, wandered back to the castle after Roman was kidnapped).

He nodded, and Roman took that to mean that this was an acceptable excuse. "What'd you tell them?"

"That I had a hot date with a cute boy," he answered along with a wink.

Virgil turned bright red. "I - I can't - " he stuttered, before quickly regaining his confidence. "I feel sorry for the man. His company is quite unattractive."

Roman scowled. "I'm gorgeous, thank you. And I told them that I would like to hunt and i would prefer to do so alone. They were much more keen to believe that excuse than a woodland tryst with another man."

"Oh, I wonder why?" he muttered sarcastically, tossing Roman a plain dagger. "First lesson, close combat."

He held the dagger in his palm, studying it. "It's… well, frankly, Virge, this dagger is boring. And I already know how to fight!"

Virgil shot him an exasperated glare. "Firstly, defending your life or someone else's is not supposed to be a glamorous affair, Roman. Secondly," he continued, ticking them off on his fingers, "you know how to fight like a royal, which means you know how to fight sword fighting instructors and that's about it. And finally, don't call me Virge."

"Jesus, okay." Roman rolled his eyes. "Okay, master sword fighter, teach me your ways."

"No more snark outta you." Virgil grabbed Roman's hand amd balled it into a fist. "Is this the right way to make a fist?"

"Touchy, aren't we?"

"Stop talking and answer my question."

Roman sighed. "No, it isn't. I'll break my thumb if it's inside the fist."

"Correct," Virgil said, smiling. "You're not as useless as I thought."

"Thanks," he replied, annoyed, though he grinned back at Virgil.

Maybe this would be fun after all.

A month passed of combat training with Virgil, potion-making and medicine with Patton, keeping track of the king's movements with Logan, and planning. What for, he didn't know. But they sure as hell did a lot of it.

“So, Logan.”

"Roman."

Roman leaned back in his chair. “When we first met… you said that my father had a brother. And... I haven’t stopped thinking about it. I just - I've never even heard of an uncle."

Logan's face softened, just a little bit. "I suppose your father wouldn't have wanted you to know about him, no."

He went quiet for a bit, mindlessly flicking through their notes. "What was his name?" he asked, avoiding eye contact.

Logan glanced at him, then looked back down at his papers. “It was Damien.”

“Damien,” Roman repeated. “He was exiled when I was little. I never knew he was my uncle.”

“He was better than your father, but that’s sort of a low bar.” Logan chuckled a bit at his own joke. “Damien was… he wanted people to respect and admire him, and he wasn’t always great at telling the truth, but he was a decent man. You deserved to know him.”

Roman gasped in mock astonishment. “Logan… is this your way of saying that you liked someone?”

Logan glared at him. “I like some people plenty. Currently, you’re excluded from that minority.”

“Well, thanks for telling me about my uncle.” He shifted in his seat a bit, shutting the book in front of him. “It was nice of you. Now, on to more important topics, since you mention that you do, in fact, like people -”

“I would prefer to end this conversation here.”

“And I wanna talk about your love life, because we’re friends now and I want to. So, guess we don’t always get what we want.” Roman shrugged. “I remember one story about you at court that you weren’t married yet, and one of the ladies in Princess Madelyn’s kingdom - you know, the one about a thousand miles east from ours - was quite interested to learn this.” He winked, not subtley, as Logan rolled his eyes.

“Roman, I do not want to talk about this. Also, this is quite the change of topic. How long have you been waiting to ask me?” he said, decidedly looking anywhere except Roman.

Roman grinned. “Since I met you. Come on, I’m a prince. I never get to gossip with my friends!”

Logan shut his book and sighed. “Yet instead of talking to the other 20 year old, you come to the 35 year old advisor?”

“Well, I’m curious, Logan. To the rest of the court, it’s a big deal you’ve never been married because it's so uncommon -"

"Roman!" Logan exclaimed sharply. "As far as legality goes, I am not married, no. Is that good enough for you?"

He gasped. "Does that mean you're married illegally? Is it a princess from another kingdom? Or is it someone higher ranking than you and the court doesn’t approve of the marriage?” Roman continued to speculate as Logan slowly tried to open up his book and continue to read. It was a few minutes later that Roman noticed Logan had completely tuned him out and he began to pester Logan into telling him why he wasn’t married legally.

Logan, sensing that this conversation wasn’t going to end until he told him the truth, sighed and set his book down, saying, “It’s not a legal marriage because I’m married to a man, Roman. And as forward-thinking as the king claims to be, that marriage is not legally recognized in this kingdom. If you’re going to tell your father, remember that we’re all very good with a knife.”

“Oh my god, that’s so obvious!” Roman shook his head. “I can’t believe I didn’t guess that. You know, there was this prince from Valdovia who visited when I was like 17 and we ended up making out instead of going to the dinner -”

“It’s great that I don’t have to stab you, but for the love of all things, please stop talking.”

“Who’s your husband? Would I know him?”

He blushed. “Virgil! Come collect Roman, please!”

Logan refused to take any meetings with Roman for a few days after that.

Since it had been a couple months since Roman had joined their motley crew, Virgil and him had developed a rhythm to their day-to-day fighting. Most of the time, Virgil won, but Roman was starting to catch up. This particular time, it had been a couple days since Roman’s conversation with Logan, and he was just excited to see Virgil.

Neither man would ever admit (Virgil especially, since he maintained a steady cover of constant annoyance with Roman) that they looked forward to these daily lessons.

And they would never, ever admit that they looked forward to seeing each other.

They started off like this -

Strike.

Parr.

"So, did you know that Logan is married?" Roman asked.

Kick.

Block.

"Yeah? Him and Patton have been married for like, five years."

This caused a sufficient break in Roman's concentration, and Virgil was able to land a punch on his shoulder.

"You're kidding," he responded, regaining his balance and aiming a kick to Virgil' side.

"I'm not." He rolled his eyes, easily blocking the kick. "No more talking now."

Dodge.

Punch.

Roman got distracted enough watching Virgil fight that when Virgil kicked him next, he lost his balance and fell down, though not before he tried to grab onto his opponent’s arm to pull himself back up, which ultimately resulted in Virgil falling on top of Roman.

Virgil blushed, hard. “S-sorry -”

“I usually prefer my men under me, but this is nice…” Roman said, grinning.

“Don’t say things like that,” he mumbled.

Roman raised his head up and gave Virgil a quick kiss on the cheek. “There. End of conversation. We can get back to -”

The rest of his sentence was cut off by Virgil kissing him full on on the mouth. Roman grabbed the front of his shirt and pulled him closer, wrapping his leg around Virgil’s and that is when Patton walked out.

“Oh!” he exclaimed softly. “Er, boys -”

Virgil rolled off of Roman. “Sorry! We were just… um…”

Patton raised an eyebrow. “Making out on the forest floor?”

“Little bit, yeah.” Roman flushed. “We were fighting and things got a little bit out of hand.”

“You two are so cute!” he said, giggling. “Aw, I was rooting for you guys. I’m gonna go back inside now but just know that I totally approve and -”

“Patton!” Logan called from inside the hole. “Get back here, I need your help!”

And that was the end of that.

Two more months passed of holding hands under the table and kissing each other at the end of fights, of Logan’s stiff congratulations and Patton’s overwhelming acceptance, of training and planning and planning and training, when Logan gathered them all in the main room of the hole and announced formally that the time had come to murder Roman’s father.

“Really, huh? Five months of all this planning and it’s finally time to kill him?” Roman asked, trying to hide the panic slowly creeping into his voice.

Patton laid a comforting hand on his arm. “Roman, you know we’d never make you -”

“No,” he interrupted, voice hardening. “I - I apologize. It feels weird that thing we have been planning for some long has finally come to pass, and I guess it’s just a bit overwhelming for me.” Roman took a deep breath, collecting himself. “What’re we going to do?”

Virgil smirked, standing up. “I’m glad you asked, darling. It requires you to get arrested.”

“Arrested?”

Logan nodded. “We need you to try to kill him and get caught.”

“...why?” he asked.

“If someone were to kill the king, wouldn’t the first in line be the first to suspect? You can’t be there when he dies for real,” Patton explained. “And I can’t either, so when -”

Roman cut him off. “Why can’t you? They don’t know you.”

He cocked his head to the side. “You still don’t know?”

“Save it for later, Patton. Now, I would also be highly suspect, but no one knows who Virgil is. Virgil is our lynchpin. Now, for the rest of it…”

Roman listened intently to his part of the plan (which involved getting caught, escaping, fighting some guards loyal to his father probably, and then being king. Simple, really, if you thought about it) but he was still hung up on Patton’s ‘you still don’t know?’.

Of course, Roman didn’t know a great many things. Roman didn’t know that he’s actually the fictional creativity of a 30 year old man from the year 2019 being written about by a teenager with nothing better to do. He didn’t know about Cup O’Noodles. He didn’t really know what exactly his relationship with Virgil was. Despite all this, the most important thing that Roman does not know is the identity of Patton, who is sitting to his left.

After the meeting, Roman cornered Patton and insisted they talk.

“I - you seemed confused when I asked why you would be suspicious. Why should I know you? Is this some great oversight on my part?”

“Well, a little bit, yes,” Patton said, leaning back against the wall. “You said you never met your uncle. I know for a fact that’s not true.”

Roman folded his arms across his chest. “Fine, so I met him once when I was three. Why do you - oh.”

He smiled a little bit. “Do you remember me now?”

“You - you’re my cousin! You’re Damien’s daughter!” Roman flinched. “Er, I’m sorry. You’re Damien’s son. That’s why - that’s why I knew you - I knew I had met you before! You were my favorite cousin!”

Patton was practically beaming now. “I really have missed you, you know. It was kind of weird, not telling you who I was. But I thought it was for the best…”

“So you are my cousin. Damien’s son,” Roman said, inclining his head towards Patton, who nodded briefly. “But… when I met you… you were a girl.”

“That’s all correct. My dad was never really one to hold me to gender conformity.”

“But my father - he doesn’t like your dad. And… Damien was supposed to be king but he convinced the court to banish him so he could be king, which happened when I was around three so you left with him when you were what, 15? Did I miss anything?”

Patton shook his head.

“And nobody told me this.”

“Apparently not,” he replied.

“I… I’m really sorry, Patton. I feel like I should’ve recognized you earlier,” Roman apologized.

Patton stepped forward and hugged Roman tightly. “Hey, none of that. You know me now. And you’re gonna be king, right? So my father and I will be allowed back into the kingdom.”

Roman smiled a bit and hugged him back. “I promise.”

A little while later, Roman was preparing to mount his horse and head back to the castle as Virgil approached him. Roman set his saddlebag down and turned to him, tilting his head in confusion. “Is something wrong?”

“I - no, nothing’s wrong. I just wanted to ask you - before we go through with all of this…” Virgil trailed off, looking sheepish.

He placed a hand on Virgil’s shoulder. “If this is about the fact that you’re going to have to kill my brother, then I promise I find that a much more attractive quality than you think.”

“It’s not, but duly noted,” he said, laughing a little. “Um, I wanted to ask if you would maybe want to be my boyfriend? I know our relationship is a little weird, and we might die in a couple days, but I -” he coughed, as if it was hard for him to get the words out, “I really like you. You’re the first person I’ve felt this close to ever.”

Roman smiled. “Did you just say something emotional? With no sarcasm at all? Who are you and what did you do with my boyfriend?”

Virgil perked up, looking at Roman. “Is that a yes?”

“Of course it’s a yes, my love,” he responded, giving Virgil a chaste kiss. “Now, I have to get home before dinner, but I’ll see you tomorrow. Alright?”

“Alright.”

Dinner was uneventful. King Remus hadn’t deigned to join them, so Roman struck up a conversation with Logan, who had thankfully attended, about foreign policy or something.

It was when Roman was headed to bed that things got interesting, so to speak.

As he was putting his crown on its cushion, there came a knock at the door. “Come in,” Roman called, stepping back to be able to look at himself in the mirror.

“Roman, what are you doing?”

Roman whirled around to face Remus. “Father! I - I was just putting my crown away. It’s getting late, and I wanted to be rested for my hunt tomorrow.”

The king nodded. “I noticed you’ve been hunting a lot lately. Is there a particular animal you’ve found hard to catch?” he asked, raising an eyebrow.

“If you must know, Remus, there is a deer who is being quite stubborn,” Roman lied. “I had a query for you…”

“Yes?”

He took a deep breath. “There was a man with a daughter that visited when I was very little. Who was that?”

Remus blanched. “I - I cannot tell you.”

“Do you not recall?” Roman pressed.

“It’s not important, Roman,” he snapped. “Come on, get to bed. I will see you tomorrow.”

Tomorrow passed in planning, planning, and more planning. Roman was set to fake the attempt on his father’s life tonight, and Virgil to rescue him by posing as the executioner. Logan had access to the dungeons, so he would meet them down there with Patton after the king had died for real, and they would escape from there.

So when nighttime fell, Roman tucked a knife into his clothes and went to the king’s room. However, when he approached, he heard voices from inside… one his father’s, and one that he remembered from a long time ago.

“I refuse to let you come back. There’s no fun in being king if your dumb old brother is here too.”

Roman stifled a gasp with his free hand. Damien.

“I’m not the dumb brother! You’re the one running this kingdom into the ground!”

His father harrumphed. “I’m leaving, and you best not be here when I get back.”

Roman reached for his knife as the door swung open and he was face to face with his father.

“Roman?” Remus’s eyes flicked down to the knife clutched in his son’s hand. “Well, I figured you were plotting something. Shame it’s gone so badly for you,” he said, feigning pity.

“Father, I -”

Damien walked over to the door, leaning against the frame. “You know, Remus, I always liked your son better than you. I can’t blame him much.”

“Brother, get out of here. Guards, take my son to the dungeons.”

The exiled king’s eyes glittered. “Oh, I will. Roman, do say hello to Patton for me. He hasn’t stopped by in a while. And congratulations on finally getting together with your boyfriend, Patton was quite excited about it the last time we talked.”

Remus turned to Roman, his curiosity overwhelming his fury. “Your boyfriend?”

Roman held his chin high. “Yes, my boyfriend.”

“Well, I guess you’re to be tried for two things tomorrow. Guards!”

At noon the next day, a guard Roman didn’t recognize dragged Roman out into the Great Room, and he was forced to kneel in front of his father and the rest of the court.

“Behold!” Remus cried, “My horrid son!”

You know what happens next.

Roman didn’t seem to mind one bit that he was about to be executed. In fact, he seemed to enjoy it.

“Roman Delacour, you are nothing but an embarrassment and a traitor to this family. You and that… boy… have brought shame upon our kingdom and you tried to murder me, you wretched boy.” His father turned up his nose, refusing to look at his son.

“ENOUGH!” Remus roared, gesturing for the executioner to slap his son. “You are shameful, boy.” The flicker in Roman’s father’s eyes suggested that while Remus appeared furious, he was actually quite enjoying this.

“I’m aware.”

The king wrinkled his nose. “I do not want to have this disgusting creature in my sight any longer! Take him to the dungeons."

Roman caught the eye of a regal man standing to his father’s left and winked. Damien raised an eyebrow in response. The executioner stood up, grabbing Roman by the arm and wrenching him away until they were out of sight, down in the hallway to the dungeons.

“You know, you didn’t have to actually slap me,” Roman remarked conversationally.

“It was part of the facade,” Virgil grumbled. “Now shut up or we’re gonna get caught.”

Virgil rolled his eyes. “You have no faith in me, my dearest prince.”

Roman kissed him deeply, wrapping himself around Virgil. “Oh, I’d have you on the dungeon floor if I could, Virge. Many thanks for rescuing me from a terrible fate.”

"Well, I couldn't just leave you to die, my darling."

Roman giggled. “Okay, handcuffs.”

“Kinky,” he mumbled as he locked Roman into the cuffs, pocketed the key, and put him in the cell. “Now, I’ll be back in about 12 hours and we’ll kick some guard ass.”

“Bye bye.”

Roman wasn’t entirely certain of how long 12 hours was, but one thing he was now sure of was that it was a lot longer than he had previously thought.

By the time the sun rose the next day, Roman was starting to wonder what had happened to Virgil. He hoped that he wasn’t caught or worse, dead, but he couldn’t be sure -

His thoughts were interrupted by Virgil rushing in as if on cue and dragging Roman out of the cell, unlocking his cuffs on the way. “You run to the fight! I have to get out of here before they catch me.” Virgil pulled him in for a quick kiss. “I’ll see you when you’re king, Roman.”

Roman followed Virgil’s instructions and ran towards where he could hear the yelling, keeping his head down as he barrelled through the corridors. When he reached the front lawn of the castle, he saw a million flashes of silver as supporters of his father fought those who opposed him. He saw Patton battling a couple of guards and Logan punching another nobleman in the face, and Roman bit his lip and flew into action.

Strike.

Parr.

Keep your thumb inside your fist, Virgil’s voice reminded him.

Kick.

Block.

You’ve got this.

Dodge.

Punch.

Find your rhythm.

He was getting tired now, and the fight seemed like it was never going to end. As a last ditch resort, Roman cried, “Am I not the king?”, attempting to get everyone’s attention. A couple of people nearby turned their heads, so he continued to talk. “You think you know my father but you don’t! He was a madman!”

“He knew what was best for us!”

“He wanted what was best for him!” Roman snapped. “Remus starved hundreds so he could torture more! He murdered the queen! He is not your king, my people.” He took a deep breath and yelled, “I am your king! And I command you to stop this right now!”

The field fell silent, and Roman made his way through the battlefield. Some of the court he had known best were staring at him with hatred in their eyes he had never seen before. Still, he held his head high and kept walking.

“You know my father as the man who brought you peace after Damien was exiled! You know him as our fearless leader!” Roman yelled, walking through the throngs of people. “But he never knew you. Remus never cared about you!”

“And you do?”

Roman started, a bit taken aback. “I -”

Did he?

“Of course I do,” he said, softer. “I don’t want people to fear me. I want you to respect me. I’m young. I have more time to learn. I won’t be perfect, but I will be better than a man who only wanted the throne to take it from his brother.”

There was a soft murmuring among the people in the crowd, and then a voice called out, “All hail King Roman!”

“King Roman!”

Roman smiled to himself. We did it, guys.

epilogue

“A toast,” the king said, “to the birth of the heir to the throne!”

The rest of the court cheered, the king’s most favored advisor the loudest of them all.

Roman smiled and set down his drink. The child him and his husband had decided to adopt had just been born, and so called for a celebration.

It had been about ten years since the death of his father, and though some people were reluctant to accept Roman at first, he had quickly become favored by the public. (Especially after the legalization of gay marriage and increase in civil rights.)

He walked around, mingling with a few of the guests until he reached his cousin and Patton hugged him as tightly as possible, nearly knocking the breath out of him.

“Oh, I’m so happy for you!” he cried, and Roman laughed.

“Thanks, Pat. I’m sure you will absolutely be his favorite uncle.” He smiled. “I promise Virgil is around here somewhere…”

“Right here, darling,” the man in question said, putting an arm around Roman’s waist. “Hey, Pat. Hey, Logan.”

Logan nodded. “Prince Virgil.”

Virgil stuck out his tongue at him, and Roman laughed. “Love, he’s just being formal.”

And so Dukes Patton and Logan, Prince Virgil, and King Roman, talked together and laughed together, and not a single one thought about what had happened ten years ago.

After all, those in heaven pay no mind to those in hell.

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