#apologize; and thank the empress; king and prince

[makeitlookdecent]

crumble/reassurance

[pippin-pippout]

So I dragged myself kicking and screaming and, yes, mostly in denial, through the last episodes of A Journey to Love.

My thoughts can be summarized as follows:

Obviously this is mainly due to me being horrifically traumatized by Yuan Lu’s death. After all, they told us from the get go he wouldn’t live to 20. They made it clear he had a deadly heart disease. And then. They had the nerve. They had the audacity. They had the actual fucking bahoonga BALLS to follow through!?

But then I found myself sobbing at literally every good guy death scene, plus all of the mourning scenes. The latter was in large part thanks to Alen Fang's acting - deepest apologies to him for just referring to his character as 'the slutty one' for the majority of the show. Not that I was wrong. Also thanks to strong performances from He Lan Dou for Yuan Lu's death.

Anyway so I need to add this gif x4 for the Liudao Hall babies:

Qian Zhao, da ge, who made mistakes but always did right in the end

Sun Lang, who just wanted to hold something fluffy at the end, dying a hero

Yuan Lu, who died in his princess's arms after running to deliver a letter rendered useless by the Emperor of An's greed.

Yu Shisan, who lived as he lived and had such a happy moment with Chu Yue right before it all became irrevocable.

When they added Yu Shisan to the snowball fight, I just about lost it. Liu Yuning's acting there - having the realization about Shisan's death as he watched them play in real time was so well done. Really hurt.

Plus I'll make a couple of versions with edits.

For the Wu Emperor. I knew it was gonna happen from the spoilers but damn, him genuinely learning the value of friendship and brotherly love made me root for him. Dude did not deserve to go out like that. Thank goodness for the magic of CDramas where he lived just long enough to pass on his will to Ning Yuanzhou, and do one last act of good.

It also ensured Duke of Chu was able to pass on his command to his daughter, Chu Yue, before dying of the same (was not clear if her bro died or not, or if dad was always going to choose her).

And for Deng Hui. Started out thinking he was just a sexist bastard. Turns out he was one of the most principled characters in the show.

Their deaths didn't make me cry, but I respect them.

Also loved Chen Du Ling's (Empress of Wu) small part in this. I may not like all of her characters but she can deliver a scene and hold a room. It was a bit cathartic to see her put every man in their place, and basically decide the fate of two countries, even though her lament that she'd only ever have power through another held true.

Ah Ying, my baby girl. This is a character that could have turned people off from the beginning. Thanks to strong writing and stronger acting, it did not. I was super impressed with He Lan Dou. She can dial it up and dial it down in a single take, and can play big dramatic scenes with a subtlety that some older actors cannot grasp. This was the first thing I've seen her in, though for her and Chen You Wei (Yuan Lu) I might watch Tiger and Crane if someone tells me it's good.

I still think Li Tongguang is a perverted and creepy child, who never managed to learn (except in literally the last ep), but at least I trust that he will treat Ah Ying well. I don't hold it against him for screwing up the battle - he was trying to be benevolent but made a bad choice.

The main couple win it for me this year. What an inspired pairing. They beat out heavy hitters including Bai Lu x Everyone which was near impossible. Something to do with letting Liu Shi Shi use Liu Yuning's height against him at every possible moment. Also the 'if you die, I'll finish the job and then follow you' is my favorite dynamic. I swear when Ruyi threw those bombs, NOT NEEDING TO HAVING ALREADY SUCCEEDED AT KILLING THE KING AND PRINCE, just to join him, y'all I died. Good for whoever posthumously gave her the Marquis title on her own (not just furen) - couldn't tell if it was Li Tongguang acting as regent or Dayang (great shot of those two at the end).

The final episode was one of the best final cdrama episodes I've seen. I might have to make another post about that. In sum, despite losing a large portion of the well-loved cast, the remainder gave a world-class finale. The visuals were incredible (explosions are my favorite). The final scene was beautiful (though I'm a bit surprised they gave it to Chu Yue instead of Ah Ying who knew all 6 of them closely).

[star-my]

born as a tiger

Pairing: Min Yoongi (Mad King) x OFC (Lee Hoyeon)

Rating: T | WC: 5.8k | Ao3 | My Fics Masterlist | Masterlist |

AU: Daechwita AU, Arranged Marriage AU, Historical AU, Royal AU

CW: implied unhealthy/abusive parental relationship, OFC has Trust Issues & implied C-PTSD, Yoongi & Yoonji star in this fic, Namjoon cameo, Jackson Wang shows up (does not throw a party but is cause for one), Jackson goes by Gayi, empty threats of violence but as a love language, sword fighting but friendly, I think that's it, lmk if I should update this

Summary:

Lee Hoyeon trembled at all the thoughts flashing through her head as her carriage pulled up in front of the infamous Changdeokgung palace. Peering out through the window, she was unsettled to see how clean the stone courtyard was, the cool taupe a far cry from the dripping red she’d half-expected after tormenting herself with thoughts of her fiance’s atrocities. All the gossip she’d heard from the maids and guards back home in Dongjak Kingdom was now front and centre in her mind.  The carriage slowed to a gentle stop and the door opened, courtesy of the footman. Hoyeon took his hand, hoping hers wasn’t trembling too noticeably, and took her first step on the grounds she would be empress of in three weeks.

A/N: - this idea lay dormant for a year and a half and suddenly resurrected in the middle of reading a webtoon at 10 pm so here I am answering the author’s call of nature 😭 (*spongebob voice* fOuR mOnThS lAtEr: bless the ATZ hyperfixation for me wanting to get something out of my brain to make more room for the ot8 brainrot and this WIP was the sacrifice it chose)

I did some research for this fic, such as the Changdeokgung palace truly existing (of which I used in my moodboard), the chrysanthemum tea vs plum tea debate, and Yoongi’s sword apparently being called a hwando, etc. Any inaccuracies are mine and I apologize. Please feel free to point them out :)

There was supposed to be some smut but the muses refused. I may add it in the future or post it in a second chapter.

Thanks to the lovely @lunarelles for betaing! Any remaining mistakes are my own <3 Enjoy! 

D-22

Emperor Min Yoongi of the Dalseogu Empire was a force to be reckoned with. His subjects trembled in fear when he was whispered about–even his fellow rulers kept a wide berth around him when they met at diplomatic events. He’s a monster, they said. His reign was written with the blood of his subjects. He was nicknamed the Mad King for a reason–not that anyone would say his unofficial title to his face.

The day after the seventh emperor of the Dalseogu empire was crowned, he killed half of his court. Only a select few officials remained unscathed from the Mad King’s bloodbath. Even the families of the officials he killed were not all exempt – wives, concubines, and children being wiped out by his sword. The Dowager Empress and the Second, Third, and Fourth Prince had all died that day, making it the second most bloody day the Empire had seen since its inception.

Lee Hoyeon trembled at all the thoughts flashing through her head as her carriage pulled up in front of the infamous Changdeokgung palace. Peering out through the window, she was unsettled to see how clean the stone courtyard was, the cool taupe a far cry from the dripping red she’d half-expected after tormenting herself with thoughts of her fiance’s atrocities.

All the gossip she’d heard from the maids and guards back home in Dongjak Kingdom was now front and centre in her mind. 

The carriage slowed to a gentle stop and the door opened, courtesy of the footman. Hoyeon took his hand, hoping hers wasn’t trembling too noticeably, and took her first step on the grounds she would be empress of in three weeks. 

A contingency of guards marched out from the front gates of Changdeokgung, a swish of brightly-coloured silk in their midst. Bowing to Hoyeon, they stepped aside, revealing the silk as the crown princess, the Mad King’s twin sister, Min Yoonji.

“I’m glad you made it here safely, Princess Hoyeon,” greeted Crown Princess Yoonji familiarly, as if this was their hundredth meeting and not their first. “The emperor was out often the past couple weeks ensuring the bandits would not attack the carriages. I imagine you’re rather thirsty and tired. Would you like some tea?”

“Tea would be lovely, thank you, Crown Princess.”

“Please, call me unnie, we are to be sisters in a few weeks.”

“As you wish, Crown Princess.” Hoyeon followed the princess to the quarters prepared for her stay before she wed the emperor. 

This whole situation was most bizarre. The crown princess had been rumoured to be a fierce warrior–much like her brother, the maids had gasped as Hoyeon eavesdropped. Yet here she was, dressed in silks like any other respectable lady of the court and pouring the fragrant tea with a natural elegance Hoyeon had practiced for days to attain.

“So, are you excited for the wedding?” asked Yoonji, refilling their cups with the most delicious blend of tea Hoyeon had ever drunk.

Hoyeon nibbled on her lip, debating how much would be prudent to tell the crown princess. She was lovely and welcoming, but she was also the emperor’s sister. How was she supposed to say she was scared out of her wits and had been for the past several days, since her father had announced her engagement to the Mad King at a state dinner with no warning whatsoever. That she’d tried to learn what she could about her new empire and husband-to-be, but all she had gleaned was that she would be lucky to survive six months as the empress? What could she say, I almost looked forward to this when my father first announced this, so that I had a chance to finally be free from his tyranny, but now I wish I was back with the devil I know?

Deciding the last train of thought had the most truth she could pluck from and spin into a plausible half-truth, she replied, “I was surprised when my father mentioned the alliance to me, but I am pleased to be able to support my kingdom in this way. I will do my best to be a good empress to Dalseogu. I noticed the absolutely beautiful scenery as I made my way here, and it is a lovely empire.” Just ruled by not-so-lovely people, she thought, then ignored the stab of guilt at the mental insult to Yoonji, who’d been rather good so far at calming her nerves.

Yoonji smiled at the compliment to her empire. “I’m so glad you think so! I know it can be a bit…sparse, to some, but I think there’s a wild beauty to the land.”

One of her maids stepped forward to whisper in her ear. Yoonji looked at Hoyeon apologetically. 

“Duty calls, I’m afraid. I’ll leave you to rest now. I know my brother was looking forward to greeting you, but something came up that he couldn’t ignore. He’d like you to join him for tea tomorrow afternoon.”

“Of course, I will be there. Thank you, Crown Princess…unnie.”

Yoonji’s glare softened at the casual honorific. “Lovely! Rest well, Princess Hoyeon.”

The crown princess and her entourage left, leaving only Hoyeon and her maid, Jina. 

“That seemed to go well, Miss,” offered Jina as she began to unpack and brush out Hoyeon’s nightclothes.

Hoyeon groaned, collapsing onto her bed with her hand flung over her eyes. “Appearances can be deceiving, Jina. I can’t afford to trust anyone here, no matter how nice they are–especially the emperor’s sister!”

“I hope she can be a true friend to you here, Miss.”

“Thank you, Jina.”

D-21

“It’s a pleasure to serve you, Princess Hoyeon,” bowed the maid provided by the palace, named Sora. 

“Thank you. I’m sure Jina will appreciate your help in navigating the palace until she becomes accustomed to our new accommodations.”

“I’ll do my best, Princess.”

Sora and Jina chattered away, becoming fast friends, as Hoyeon chewed anxiously on her thumbnail in the corner. 

She learned that Sora had a younger sister, Soha, whom she was very proud of for having recently become a full-fledged palace maid. The head maid was tough but caring once a maid proved herself, and Sora was sure Jina would win her over in no time. There were a couple guards who were insufferable flirts, but they were still respectful. Jina’s best course of action would be to ignore any flirtations and not respond to the provocations. 

Hoyeon finally jumped up from her seat, startling the maids from their conversation. “What time should I be prepared to go for tea with the emperor?”

“If we start now, you should arrive just after the emperor’s meeting finishes, Princess,” replied Sora. 

The maids did their best to dress Hoyeon up in her favourite hanbok, pinning her hair with a gold hairpin the emperor had gifted her via her father, and using cosmetics to accentuate her features.

“You’re a little pale,” commented Jina as she patted some pink onto Hoyeon’s cheeks. 

“Do you blame me?” she retorted. “Sora, is there anything I need to be aware of when I greet the emperor?”

Sora paused from folding a discarded robe. “I don’t think so. Emperor Min doesn’t insist on many formalities if it’s not a formal event. I believe Soha will be serving the tea, so if you need anything, you can ask her to find me, Princess.”

“Thank you, Sora.”

Jina and Sora fell in behind her, Sora quietly directing her through the maze of corridors to the room the emperor was waiting in for her.

She smiled at the guards outside the doors. “Is the emperor available?”

“Unnie!”

Hoyeon turned to see a girl bearing a tea tray. She bowed to her before turning to Sora.

“Unnie, the emperor is still occupied.”

“Do you think he will be long?”

“I don’t think you will wait long,” reported the girl, who Hoyeon assumed was Soha. “Princess,” she bowed again before entering the room.

A loud voice escaped the open door, followed by the distinctive sound of a slap.

A minute later she ran out, tears flowing down her face as she passed Hoyeon and her maids.

Hoyeon stared in trepidation at the girl. What had happened to make the emperor slap her? She’d barely had time to do anything. This didn’t bode well for her.

“Show Princess Lee in,” called a voice. The guards opened the door.

Hoyeon took a deep breath and stepped forward, keeping her eyes on the next step she was taking.

She paused when she reached a low tea table, droplets of tea scattered across its surface. She could see the emperor’s robes across from her and a tea set shattered on the floor to her right.

So that was why Soha had run out. Why was it broken?

“Your Majesty,” she bowed, hoping it was low enough.

“Your Highness,” he greeted in response. “You may stand.”

“Thank you, Your Majesty.” Her eyes flicked up to his face quickly, then back down to hide her surprise.

He had a scar across his right eye, from his eyebrow to his cheek. She’d thought the rumours were just that–rumours. Who had ever heard of a king with a scar?

She supposed with a reputation like his, he didn’t have to worry about naysayers attempting to depose him.

She’d been so surprised at the scar and hadn’t wanted to be caught staring that she barely remembered his other features.

She chanced another glance and found him staring at her.

“You can look at me, Princess Hoyeon.”

“Thank you, Your Majesty.” She peeked up under her lashes.

Was it possible for a scar to heighten his appeal? He had shockingly blond hair pulled back into the typical sangtu, thick brows, a nose that she couldn’t believe the first adjective she thought of was ‘cute’, and pouty lips. Overall, he was rather attractive. 

The benefit to marrying a young emperor was that he was surprisingly handsome, but it also meant he was less likely to die soon. In all honesty, Hoyeon expected him to outlive her.  

She hadn’t met his eyes–his look had been far too calculating. If there was one thing she knew about court politics, it was to never show your fear when someone was around. 

“You arrived much quicker than I expected, Princess Hoyeon. I hope your travels were smooth.”

“Yes, thank you. We had no trouble at all. My father said it was better to arrive sooner lest we be waylaid and made late.” He was just thrilled he could finally get some use out of his useless only child.

“Crown Princess Yoonji said that you were an interesting companion at her tea yesterday.”

I knew she’d tell him about me.

“As was she, Your Majesty. I look forward to getting to know her–and you–better.”

“Good,” said the emperor, clearly pleased. “The crown princess is pleased to be able to help you become accustomed to the Dalseogu Empire. I will be busy with all the things that must be finished before the wedding, so I imagine you will be seeing her often.”

“I’m pleased to hear that, Your Majesty. May I ask you a question?” Better to find out now how lenient he will be towards my impertinence.

“Go ahead.”

“Why did you approach the Dongjak kingdom for an alliance?” Why me?

“It is advantageous for both our lands to have the trade deals this alliance will forge. Dongjak and Dalseogu have not always been at peace, so this was a good way to cement it.”

Slightly surprised that the emperor had actually given her an answer, she nodded. She hadn’t had the slightest shred of hope that he would give her some secretly romantic explanation, such as he’d seen her at some event and been so taken by her that he had to have her. All she was good for was strengthening her kingdom’s ties as one of its most important representatives. 

The guards opened the door and let in Sora, carrying the replacement tea set.

She poured the tea quietly and served their cups to them, then retreated to the side, assuming an at-ease position.

“Please sit,” directed the emperor, settling himself on his cushion. Hoyeon followed his example, making herself as comfortable as she could sitting opposite an unknown volatile man no one could rebuke.

The tea was delicious, stronger than what she was used to back in Dongjak, but she found its tart flavour pleasant. 

“This is exquisite tea, Your Majesty.”

He inclined his head. “It is plum tea. I believe Dongjak more commonly uses the chrysanthemum flowers for their tea.”

“You are correct, Your Majesty.”

Tea with the emperor went fairly well, although Hoyeon caught his considering gaze upon her several times. It unnerved her, wondering why he was taking so much interest in his political bride. 

She didn’t like it.

D-20

Hoyeon giggled, finally somewhat relaxed around the crown princess as the older girl spilled stories about her maids’ and guards’ dramatic dynamics and relationships. 

“Don’t tell the head maid I told you this,” Yoonji leaned forward, finger to her lips. 

Hoyeon’s eyes widened as she bit her lower lip, nodding quickly in agreement. She knew that the maids were one of the biggest and best ally teams she could have on her side in the palace, and she wouldn’t dare do anything to harm her chances of gaining connections.

“So, what do you think of my brother, after your tea with him yesterday?” Yoonji relaxed onto her cushion, pouring herself another cup of what Hoyeon wasn’t completely convinced was just plum tea. 

Her teeth dug further into her lip as she considered how to answer. The siblings appeared fairly close for being possible throne rivals–especially considering that Yoonji had survived the Mad King’s bloody beginning–and she couldn’t speak freely. The princess was a skilled politician, however, and would surely catch on if she lied and began praising the man.

“I find His Majesty…intimidating,” she said slowly, gauging how Yoonji took that ambivalent opening.

Yoonji nodded, motioning to continue with her finger. “He certainly knows how to make himself understood.”

Understatement of the dynasty, thought Hoyeon. 

“He’s…rather good looking. I was surprised,” she mused. Realising Yoonji had raised her eyebrow at her, she went on hastily. “Just that I hadn’t heard anyone speak about that when they discussed the emperor! I had very little information on His Majesty to go off of. I suppose the men that met the emperor were more focused on his character than his countenance,” she snorted, a little self-deprecatingly, glancing up to see if Yoonji would take the bait and either consider her a little simple and romantically-minded or expound upon her open-ended question to know more about her fiance’s personality. 

“Well, I suppose I agree that my brother is rather good-looking,” Yoonji mused, sipping her tea. “I’ve been told often that we appear quite similar.”

“Indeed, that was one of the first things I noticed. You’re both attractive and there’s certainly a family resemblance between you two. By the way, is there anyone you think is good-looking, unnie?” she asked curiously, hoping she wasn’t overstepping.

Yoonji shook her head. “There are several tolerably handsome ministers and princes around, but their personalit-”

A knock sounded at the door to the crown princess’s tea room. Yoonji nodded at Hoyeon in apology, excusing herself to speak quietly with the maid waiting at the door, bringing a message from the emperor. 

Yoonji’s brow furrowed slightly, then smoothed as she turned back to Hoyeon. “The emperor has requested an audience with me, and he wishes to see you after my visit. Would you like to come with me now?”

Hoyeon nodded, setting her tea down and getting to her feet. She still wasn’t entirely sure she had the palace layout memorised, and Jina was currently being interviewed by the head maid, leaving Hoyeon friendless and ally-less if Yoonji also left her behind. 

“I’d be honoured to join you, Your Highness.”

The two young women headed as briskly as nobles could to the emperor’s throne room, where he remained after a meeting with his ministers earlier. 

The guards saw the duo’s approach and opened the tall doors in anticipation of Yoonji’s entrance. Hoyeon chose to remain outside, though the doors remained open, giving the siblings privacy and taking advantage of the moment to prepare her nerves to see her fiance again. She’d relaxed in Yoonji’s quiet company, but reverted to her stiff princess behaviour on their walk here. 

Shaking her head at her rapid closeness with the princess, she straightened her skirts anxiously. For all she knew, the siblings were in there right now discussing her pathetic surface-level attraction to the Mad King and how quickly she’d come to confide in the princess.

Shifting on her feet, she cursed her father once again for removing anyone who’d appeared close to her, making her a prime target for spilling her innermost thoughts when she met someone who appeared to listen. Reminding herself it had only been two days and Yoonji had not yet proved if it was safe to trust her, Hoyeon twisted the jade ring on her finger as she waited.

A loud cry came from Yoonji, giving her deja vu. With an inner sigh, she inched forward, straining her ear to make out what the siblings were arguing about. 

Silently, she watched Yoonji, who appeared unafraid to talk back to the emperor. Was it because she was his sister? He wouldn’t retaliate? Something else? She needed to know everything she could.

“I’m getting married?!” cried Yoonji, clearly. “In two weeks?! Without you telling me first?!”

Hoyeon froze. Her newest ally and possible future friend would be leaving the palace? Was it because they were becoming close? Had Yoonji done something warranting being sent away? No, it was probably just another business transaction, like her marriage was to be. 

Calming her anxious thoughts, Hoyeon shuffled a little closer, wondering who the groom was.

“No, you are leaving Dalseogu in two weeks. You are getting married in a week to Emperor Wang Gayi.”

“You arranged a marriage for me? With the Wang Emperor?!”

“Yes, I did, and you will marry him. That’s an emperor’s order, Min Yoonji.”

“You gave me no choice? I’m so mad that you interfered with my relationships,” Yoonji said flatly, turning and exiting via the hall behind the throne area. 

“Your groom will be here by tomorrow morning,” the emperor informed her, barely raising his voice. Facing forward once again, he motioned Hoyeon to approach him. 

“Good afternoon, Princess.”

She bowed. “Good afternoon, Your Majesty.”

“Good afternoon, Your Highness. Would you like some tea?”

“No, thank you. I just came from having some with the crown princess. I suppose she will be busy now with her wedding preparations, so I am grateful that I could have these past few days to get to know my sister-in-law.”

“I apologize if you feel that my sister’s wedding takes precedence over ours,” the emperor said, surprising Hoyeon. “I wished her to wed soon and thought that now would be best since most of the preparations for ours are already complete and can transfer to theirs. Emperor Wang has to return to Kowloon soon and I wanted him to take Yoonji with him.”

“I am not slighted at all, Your Majesty. I wish the royal couple all happiness and longevity. May I ask why you requested to see me after the crown princess, Your Majesty?”

He stretched languidly, rising to his feet and sauntering down the steps to his throne. “Am I not allowed to wish to see my fiancee?” he asked, approaching Hoyeon. 

“Y-you are, Your Majesty.” Biting her lip, she forced herself to remain standing tall and not move back.

He paused two arm lengths away from her. “I would like to see you every day before our wedding, if you are available.”

“I believe I will be, if that is what you wish.”

He tilted his head, scanning her head to toe. She lowered her gaze to his feet, hoping she hadn’t mussed her clothing since Jina left her at Yoonji’s tea room. 

“You seem rather nervous.”

Who wouldn’t be, being the focus of one of the continent’s most dangerous men?! Hoyeon shrieked internally. Well, it appeared the emperor was more perceptive than her father, so lying was off the table. “I suppose I am. We have only met once, and I am unchaperoned. I do not wish to cause any damage to either of your kingdoms if there were negative repercussions from this event, Your Majesty.”

He hummed, taking a step back so that his black-clad feet were no longer in her vision. “The doors are open and there are plenty of guards and other staff around, Princess. But, if it would make you feel better–Chief Advisor Kim!”

Barely repressing the flinch at his sudden shout, Hoyeon turned to see who the emperor had just summoned. A tall, handsome man rushed in, arms full of scrolls and books, a pair of spectacles sliding down his nose. He pushed them up, a scroll fluttering from its precarious spot under his elbow. 

Hoyeon stooped without thinking, catching the runaway parchment and handing it back to the man, who flashed a thankful smile at her, dimples appearing in his cheeks. “Thank you, Your Highness.”

“Princess Hoyeon, this is my most trusted advisor, Kim Namjoon. He will be our chaperone,” the emperor said shortly. 

“I’m honoured to meet you, Princess. Congratulations on the wedding.”

“Thank you,” she nodded at him and turned back to her fiance, not wanting to spend his patience with her over another man. Still, his behaviour was unlike anything she was used to. The Mad King was her enigma, and she only hoped it wouldn’t take too long to figure him out. 

D-17

The sound of metal hitting metal drew Hoyeon’s attention from the flowery bushes she was admiring, turning towards the walled courtyard ahead of her.

Jina stopped by her side, both somewhat behind one of the pillars by the entrance, watching the two men in front of them slash at each other, silver swords glinting in the sunlight.

The emperor’s distinctive blond hair gave his identity away, and Hoyeon watched his graceful power with an open mouth, seeing first-hand her fiance’s prowess with a blade.

The other man was about the same height, with short brown hair and a slimmer sword than Yoongi’s. He held it with a careless ease that belied years of training, evenly matched with his opponent. 

Their blades clashed, sun rays reflecting off their entwined blades and blinding Hoyeon. She sneezed unexpectedly, interrupting the men’s moment. They bowed to each other, sheathing their blades and walking in different directions–Yoongi towards her and the other man towards Yoonji, whom Hoyeon just noticed was standing at the other side. 

Hoyeon bowed, greeting the emperor. He nodded back at her, taking the damp cloth his attendant held out to him and wiping his face and neck down. The neckline of his black robe gaped a little, affording Hoyeon a glimpse of smooth pale skin and subtly defined musculature. She blushed red, glancing away quickly to watch Yoonji, who had attained her own sword. 

The emperor followed her gaze, leaning his hand carelessly on his hwando pommel. “That’s Emperor Wang,” he confirmed her suspicion carelessly. “Would you like to make a bet with me?”

“A bet, Your Majesty?” Hoyeon flicked her gaze to him in confusion.

He nodded towards the couple. “On who will win their spar, Yoonji or Gayi.”

“They will spar?” Crown princess versus emperor, fiancee versus fiance?

The two moved towards the now-open sparring area in the middle of the yard, raising their blades to the opening position. 

“They have both trained for years. I’m curious myself about the outcome. So, what do you say, Princess?” The emperor leaned towards her, breath brushing her cheek. “Will you bet with me?”

“Very well, Your Majesty. What are your terms?”

He leaned back, studying her in mild surprise. “Hm…you must answer three questions I ask of you fully and truthfully, when I wish.”

That’s all? Like I could lie to you anyways. “Alright. I will hold the same terms, for the sake of fairness. I bet that the emperor will win.”

Hoyeon felt the weight of his gaze on her. “Not my sister?”

She shook her head. “I saw some of the emperor’s prowess when you two were fighting. I have not seen the princess fight, and the emperor surely has more experience, being on the battlefield.”

“But he will be tired since we were fighting before this,” Yoongi pointed out. “And I have fought with the princess. So, our bet. We each bet three complete, truthful answers about any topic we are asked about by the other if they win–you if Emperor Gayi wins, myself if Crown Princess Yoonji wins.”

“I agree to your terms.” Hoyeon shook the emperor’s hand, feeling his long fingers and calloused palms against her bare skin for the first time. He was warmer than she had expected; somehow she’d anticipated a cold-blooded, rigid man. 

He let go of her hand and she swiftly tucked her hands into her sleeves, feeling the ghost of his palm against hers. Focusing on the duo facing off in front of her, she did her best to ignore the warm presence brushing against her side. 

Yoonji was better than Hoyeon had expected, never having seen a female warrior before. Some of her moves looked similar to the emperor’s, but some were distinctively hers. She seemed to be having fun, however, a large gummy smile forming on her face as she parried the emperor’s strikes and danced into his space, making it more difficult for him to evade her attacks. 

Her opponent also seemed to be having fun, a smile growing on his face as they sparred. 

Hoyeon was glad the two were getting along, albeit in a more violent way than she was used to. Given what she knew of the crown princess’s personality, she was curious how the couple’s relationship would progress.

“The princess is quite good,” she said without thinking.

The emperor hummed in agreement. “I trained with her often. She is one of my best generals.”

Hoyeon whipped around in surprise. “The crown princess is your general?”

He nodded, dragging his eyes from the fight to her face. 

“Then why–” Hoyeon bit her lip, realizing her curiosity could be taken as insolence.

“Continue,” the emperor prompted her curiously. 

“Then why are you marrying your general off to the Kowloon Empire?” she asked quietly. He still appeared to have heard her, as he replied.

“The emperor and my sister have been in love for a while now. I will be saddened by my best general, advisor, and companion’s absence, but it is beyond time for her to have her happiness.”

Hoyeon blinked. Was the emperor…sentimental? And what was that about the marriage argument the other day?

“But…I understood the princess was against the marriage?”

“Not at all, she was being sarcastic. ‘How dare you marry me to the love of my life? Alas, I am ordered to spend time with the only man who makes me happy.’ Like that.”

“Oh.”

“Are you slandering me behind my back, Your Majesty?” Yoonji approached the two, her fiance behind her, carrying their swords.

“Is it slander if it’s true?” he retorted. “It seems my bride has not yet grown accustomed to your strange sense of humour. Now tell me, who won? I have a bet on the line, here.”

Realizing she’d been too distracted by the emperor to see who won, Hoyeon looked to Yoonji, who had what she now realised was a faux-betrayed look on her face. 

“You had better have bet on me, brother.”

“Of course I did,” he replied smugly. “So, I won the bet?”

Yoonji’s fiance spoke up. “No, your lovely fiancee did. Congratulations, Princess.”

“Damn, I should have bet on Gayi.”

Yoonji smacked her brother’s arm for his comment. “You are lucky I’m leaving the palace, Your Majesty.”

Hoyeon watched the siblings banter with wide eyes. The emperor was so relaxed and unlike his Mad King persona today. Which was the real one?

“It’s okay, Princess,” commiserated Emperor Gayi. “No one understands these two’s strange relationship, either.”

“I can behead you, you know,” threatened Yoongi. 

“You better give me his empire if you do,” Yoonji poked his stomach.

“Not if you keep touching me, I won’t!”

“OR,” interrupted Gayi, “you can not behead me and Yoonji can begin her reign over my empire peacefully as my empress!”

“But then I’d still have to hear you talk about my sister,” pointed out Yoongi. “It would be a lot quieter if your head was removed from your shoulders.”

“Say something!” Gayi looked at Yoonji, who sighed.

“Yoongi, don’t kill my fiance. It wouldn’t be a lot quieter because you’d then have to hear your sister talk about how much she missed her dead fiance instead…and your fiancee wouldn’t like you to kill her new ally, I guess.”

Yoongi looked at the bewildered Hoyeon. “Hm. It’s better to remove two nuisances at once, I suppose. I shall endure this next week for the princess’s sake, I suppose, since she won our bet.”

“How generous, Your Majesty,” Gayi and Yoonji bowed formally after the emperor, who left with an eye roll at their antics. 

Yoonji straightened once he was gone and turned to Hoyeon with a smile. “Do you want me to show you to the archery range?”

D-13

The wedding of the Emperor of Kowloon and the Crown Princess of Dalseogu went off without a hitch, which relieved some of Hoyeon’s worries. It was exactly the same as it would be for her and Yoongi, so she had a chance to mentally prepare. There wasn’t too much that could go wrong, thankfully, so as long as she didn’t faint next week, she should be in the clear.

Spending time with her fiance the past week and a half, as well as with his sister and her fiance, helped relax Hoyeon. He was courteous, surprisingly soft-spoken in private, and less menacing than she had been prepared for. Slowly, she began to wonder if the rumours had been exaggerated, as royal rumours tended to be, and if she might in fact be safe in the Dalseogu empire. 

Then came the day of her wedding, and all Hoyeon’s nerves returned full-force. Yoonji had left for Kowloon with Gayi, unable to stay for the wedding, and only Jina was there as someone she could rely on.

Her father had sent a witness to his only child’s wedding, too concerned over possible attacks to come himself. Hoyeon snorted as she read the letter his delegate had handed to her, dropping the paper to the table carelessly.

So he could send his daughter to live in the empire, but couldn’t come in person to celebrate her nuptials, the entire reason he would be safe visiting? Well, it wasn’t like she’d expected anything from him, but it still pinched in her heart. 

Jina brushed her robes out smoothly, stepping back and giving her a reassuring nod. “It’s time, Your Highness.”

D-Day

The entire ceremony was a blur, Hoyeon too focused on not making a mistake to take in anything else. She had the vague sense that the atmosphere was overcast, but nothing more than that.

The celebration feast was similarly unfocused, for slightly differing reasons. Yoongi, her new husband (what a strange thought), was right beside her at the head table, paying rather unnerving attention to her. 

Small bites were all she could choke down under his scrutiny, though he did his best to keep her dishes full. Hoyeon was a little confused when he kept adding delicious-smelling dishes to her immediate reach. Any other day, she’d be happy to try the new and intriguing dishes, but with the nerves in her stomach and the eyes on her chopsticks, she couldn’t choke down more than a few bites, something she bemoaned.

Toasts and cheers were continually offered by the celebrating ministers and nobles filling the hall, gallons of alcohol flowing freely. 

Hoyeon grabbed her goblet, draining the dregs in a couple gulps, coughing a little at the afterburn. Yoongi’s scrutiny became heavier, his warmth overwhelming her as he leaned even closer to whisper in her ear. “Are you alright, Your Majesty?”

Hoyeon hiccuped. “I’m perfectly fine, thank you for your concern, Your Majesty. Just thirsty.”

His expression told her he didn’t fully believe her, but he leaned back, letting her breathe easily again. She turned away, patting her burning cheeks with the back of her hand. 

It really should be illegal for someone to look that handsome up close. She considered her previous fears that he would behead her within six months and revised it to worry that she’d be overcome by his beauty within six months instead. 

A sudden weight on her hand made her look down from picking up individual grains of rice with her chopsticks.

Yoongi’s hand rested on hers, his thumb caressing her pulse point. Her heart skipped a beat at the simple touch. He didn’t look at her anymore, thankfully, but his hand stayed on hers the rest of the feast.

Her eyes darted between his profile and her chopsticks several times. Maybe it wouldn’t be so bad being his empress. 

General taglist (open): @bangtanwritershq @kayleefriedchicken @otome-wandering + (@moni-logues you seemed intrigued when we sprinted so I hope this is okay :] )

Divider by @bunnysrph | Moodboard photos from Pinterest/Google, edit is mine :]

[yourfellowhuman07]

Fates Rewritten

A She-Ra: Princess of Power 2018 Fanfiction

________

For years, The Princess Alliance has been campaigning for their independence from the Eternian Empire to no avail. Out of options, they seek the help of Zoria, the only galactic entity that matches the might of the Eternians. Now with the crown prince's army, the Etherians must fight against the Eternian armies and their mightiest warrior: She-Ra.

________

Chapter 2: The Garden

Everyone’s heads were pulled to the tall figure at the doorway, seemingly taken aback by the glittery group of Etherians. Fiery crimson eyes peeked through the shadow of the helmet, and the glow of mouth was faintly seen through the front. The armor comprised small Prussian blue plates that attached and gave the illusion of dragon scales. Underneath was silver chainmail overtop a navy fabric.

“Apologies for my interruption, your majesties,” his voice was low, gruff, and slightly muffled from his helmet. “I will take my l-”

“Nonsense.” Queen Ziella cut in, her face noticeably softer. “Come. We were just talking about you.”

After regaining his moxie, he walked across the room and bowed to the High King and Queen.

“Meet our top general, my son, Crown Prince Hordak.” Queen Ziella boasted.

“At your service.” He faced the Alliance and gave them a bow.

“Take your helmet off, boy. Let them see your face.” High King Orphir commanded with a wave of his hand.

With a small sigh, he slipped the helmet off of his head and ran a hand through his short, curly, indigo hair. He looked back at his parents with eyes framed in black paint in a pattern akin to bat wings.

“I trust your travels were safe, my son.” Queen Ziella asked, leaning slightly forward.

“Yes, mother. We defeated many of the monsters of the north and dealt with some insignificant scuffles between neighboring provinces. Now, may I ask who they are?” Prince Hordak waved a hand at the Alliance.

“We are the Princess Alliance of Etheria,” Queen Angella replied, stepping forward. “We have come to your planet to ask for your help in our campaign to leave the Eternian Empire.”

“So you wish to wage war?” He inquired, raising what would be his brow.

“Not exactly, but we are willing to engage in a war if it comes down to it.”

“Which will hopefully not happen,” High King Orphir interjected. “In two days, I will travel to the Eternian capital and meet with the Emperor and Empress of Eternia and plead their case.”

“What if they refuse?” Prince Hordak inquired.

“That is something to be determined later. Now, Osian.” The steward briskly walked to the foot of the platform. He pushed his circular glasses up closer to his tangerine eyes. “See to it that our guests have rooms. They will be staying with us for the next couple of days. Tell the kitchens to prepare dinner for us all.”

“As you wish, Your Majesty,” he replied. The steward turned on his heels and continued his brisk walk out of the large wooden doors.

“Thank you, Your Majesty, for your gracious hospitality.” Angella thanked.

“Do not worry. For now, explore. Our home is your home. Perhaps my son could show you around,” Prince Hordak’s eyes widened.

Queen Ziella whispered to him in their native tongue. Her tone seemed worried and partially annoyed. He whispered back, sounding assured.

“You are all dismissed.” He waved his hand, and the Alliance departed along with the Prince.

____________________________________

After the guards closed the heavy wooden door, the Alliance breathed a sigh of relief.

“That was easier than expected.” Glimmer commented.

“Thankfully.” Angella sighed.

“What do we do now?” Frosta asked.

“Didn’t the king say he was showing us around?” Mermista whispered, gesturing to the Prince who was scrolling through something on his datapad.

“It’s best not to bother him-”

“So what are you going to show us first?” Entrapta asked, interrupting Micah’s warning. The Prince looked at her bewildered, not used to directness when dealing with strangers.

“I suppose I could show you the gardens.” He said slowly. “They are revered as the most illustrious across our planet.”

“Only if it is no trouble,” Angella interjected, praying the Crown Prince was not offended.

“Of course it is not.” The Prince assured, regaining himself and his manners. “Come with me.”

_____________________________

Another set of guards opened large glass doors, thick humidity hitting the Alliance like a brick wall, revealing an expansive greenhouse. It had a giant dome that reached high into the sky and pristine marble floors that stayed impeccably shiny. Fragrant flowers bloomed everywhere in raised garden beds, and delicate Butterflies and plush Bees fluttered from bloom to bloom. A large fountain sat in the middle, spouting cool water. A tall statue was on the top of the fountain. It was of a Zorian woman with a crown on her head holding a basket of flowers. Across the greenhouse was another set of doors that opened into an extensive garden outdoors.

A tall woman in a Maya blue tabard and a sapphire dress stood admiring a white hydrangea bush. Her hair was long and indigo, and she had glowing azure eyes. Her ears perked up as the Alliance entered, and her eyes lit up when she saw the Prince.

“Hordak!” she shouted. She ran over to the prince, pushing past the princesses, and flung her arms around his neck. “I was wondering when you would return home. You have been gone for months.”

“Hello to you too, CeEllia.” He greeted, exasperated and slightly embarrassed, pulling her off of him.

“Don’t take that tone with me. I have a right to be worried about my baby brother being gone for months on end.”

“You were born five minutes before me. You hardly constitute my older sister.”

“Oh, you believe what you will. Now who are these people?” CeEllia asked, gesturing toward the Alliance.

“They are rulers from the Eternian colony named Etheria. They are seeking our aid in their fight to gain independence. In two days, our father will meet with the Eternians. In the meantime, they will be staying with us.”

“I see.” She turned toward the Alliance. “Welcome to Zoria. I am Princess CeEllia. I hope you find your stay favorable.”

“It is a pleasure to meet you, princess.” Angella greeted her with a small bow.

“The pleasure is all mine. I trust my little brother has been taking care of you.” Hordak rolled his eyes.

“How about you show our guests around the gardens, dear sister.” Hordak forced out between his teeth.

“Splendid idea, little brother.” She replied in a plastic tone. “Come with me.”

CeEllia led the Alliance through a path lined with purple ceanothus as the crown prince followed.

Only Angella was left standing, half-heartedly admiring the rose bushes. Micah looked around, confused. When he spotted her, he went to his wife’s side.

“Are you feeling okay?” Micah wrapped a hand around his wife’s.

“Yes.” She turned to look at her husband. “The meeting went better than expected.” A small smile formed on her face.

“It did, didn’t it.” His thumb made small circles on his hand.

“I just… worry.”

“I understand. It’ll all work out, promise.”

I hope you are right, Angella thought.

“Come on,” he gave a slight tug on her hand, “let’s catch up with the others.” Micah gave her a warm smile. Angella returned that smile as the two went to join the Alliance.

______________________________

“These gardens were originally grown by my great-great-great grandmother, High Queen Terrina. She had a fondness for lavender and roses.” CeEllia explained this as she walked past fragrant lavender, followed by the Alliance.

“This place is beautiful.” Perfuma, who had quickly warmed up to this foreign planet, complimented.

“Thank you. I-” CeEllia saw Hordak leaving out of the corner of her eye. “My apologies. I need to speak with my brother.”

“That’s okay, dear. We don’t need to bother you.” Castaspella reassured.

“Thank you.” She turned her head. “Hordak!” He turned his head to her. “Can you come here?”

To the amazement of the Etherians, Hordak’s entire body was compressed into a small lighting bolt. It zipped across the garden right next to CeEllia before Hordak rematerialized.

“What is it that you need?” He asked casually, ignoring the astonished faces of the Etherians.

“I must speak with you.” She took him by the arm and turned her head to the Etherians. “I must take my leave. Enjoy the gardens.” She led the Prince through the green bushes.

Before the twins got out of earshot, the Etherians heard them whispering to each other in their native tongue.

___________________________________________

The twin royals sat in a white gazebo on a small table. Green vines grew on the white columns. Frilly fish swam in a clear pond sprinkled with flowering lily pads. The warm sun glints off the clear water.

“< So what is the deal with these foreigners? >” CeEllia asked in her native tongue, her accent becoming more prominent.

“< They claim to need our aid, but we can’t know if their intentions are pure. >” Hordak answered in his native tongue. “< Their story does make sense. The Eternians are notorious for their strictness when a colony is concerned. >”

“< Just because a story makes sense doesn’t mean it is true. >”

“< That is why we must remain cautious. For all we know, they could be working with the Eternians. For now, we act as if what they say is true. I will speak with our parents and Melitchie and advise them to increase security and assign guards to each of the Etherians. >”

“< Good. Good. >” CeEllia paused. “< What if a war does break out? >” 

“< Then we will fight. Regarding the Etherians, we have ways of keeping their intentions pure. >”

CeEllia nodded her head. The two sat in silence, neither sure how to continue the conversation.

“< Never mind foreign affairs. >” CeEllia blurted out, wanting conversation. “< You’ve been gone for eight months, and I have much to tell you. >”

“< I am sure you do. How is your husband? >”

“< Castor is well. He has been in an excellent mood lately. >” She answered, a shy smile forming on her face.

“< And why is that? >” He asked, sensing his sister had something brewing.

“< Well, he is going to be a father. >”

Hordak paused. His face pinched into a perplexed look. His face softened as the realization washed over him. A wide smile graced his face as he rushed to scoop his sister in a hug, picking her up off the ground.

[thyramalie]

Hey hi. I want to ask you a question, can you answer please? Can you tell us about the stories of the Russian Empress Maria and her sister, Queen of England Alexandra, Thrya and their mother, Queen of Denmark Louise, during their Danish holidays? For example, what kind of gossip was circulating among these magnificent four, or how did Queen Louise give her daughters advice? Which of the girls did he consider to be his favourite? How was the relationship between Queen Louise and her daughters? Thanks in advance for your answer 😊🙏

Hi, apologies for the late reply, and thank you for your question.

From what I read, I got the impression that Louise made absolutely no difference between her daughters (say, that she preferred Alexandra and Dagmar due to their titles & positions, as opposed to Thyra, who was merely the titular Queen Consort of Hanover, as her husband had never renounced his rights to the throne). She comes across as a loving and equally attentive mother to all of her children.

In Sarah Tooley's biography of Queen Alexandra you can find the following quote "It has well been said of the Princess's mother, that she trained her daughters 'to be natural girls and useful women first of all, and princesses afterwards", which reveals perfectly how they were brought up - in an unassuming and simple way. There's also another story when during an informal family luncheon with some guests they ran out of butter, and Louise asked Alexandra to go get some more from the larder, much to the surprise of the said guests.

With 4 of their 6 children living outside Denmark, Christian IX and Louise loved nothing better than family reunions at Bernstorff or Fredensborg, when they were all reunited for a while. Louise and her daughters would spend their holidays practising eight-handed arrangements on two pianos, painting, taking strolls & playing various games. According to Christopher of Greece (Louise's grandson), "the world might know them as middle-aged kings, queens and princes - they saw them still as their children, to be praised or scolded when the occasion arose", and how "Queen Alexandra, then Princess of Wales, received many a lecture on the subject of managing a husband." When the Queen became ill and spent most of the time in a bath-chair, her daughters took turns in wheeling her around her rose garden, and taking care of her.

Sources: The life of Queen Alexandra, Sarah A. Tooley & Memoirs of H.R.H Prince Christopher of Greece

[meenah-chan]

Safe haven

a Diavolo x GN! MC fanfic

2.36k words

Genre: Angst

Trigger warning: Insane deadly stunt but not suicide, please don't read if you have this triggers. And please don't try this at home... or anywhere

Part 2 (Safe Haven ~Another Story~) | Part 3 (Safe Haven ~Epilogue~)

Masterlist

It is their sanctuary. A place that has everything they could wish for...

if only, fate isn't fickle...

"If I jump, will you save me again?"

"What a wretched soul I have..."

It’s been an hour since they were staring far in the horizon. Dusk is on its way, with the lake gulping the sun whole to bring forth darkness in the grassy land they’re on. That place is secluded, surrounded with trees serving as its walls. As if it were cradling them away from everything.

It's not their first-time watching day turn to night on where they are. They’ve known that spot enough to vividly paint the place on a whim.

It was neither a simple place as it seems. That place is a part of the human realm, untouched by anyone but two persons— them and Diavolo. A place which witnessed how the said Prince dropped on his knees and confessed he likes them. The place they admit they felt the same.

The place where they held hands in their secret rendezvous; times where the Future king would go to whenever he ran away from his endless responsibilities for a day and spend it with them, with words of affections and adorations for each other. It is their safe haven.

The Forget-me-not flowers they planted are blooming around them. As the two sat beneath the shade of the tree, appreciating the presence of the flowers and each other.

Diavolo has a habit of caressing their cheeks, brushing strands of their locks past their ears, as he embraces them as if they were the most precious treasure, he has ever held. Those smiles he would beam; brighter than the sol they always see. "You're the most beautiful being I have ever seen." And they would smile back, with their feelings overflowing so much they would always pour it back to him with a kiss.

But being always in that place doesn't mean they never left it. There are times they would give him a heart attack by literally jumping off the edge of the cliff. The demon prince then would follow them in a snap, before transforming right before their eyes and seizing them.

They knew it was a foolish thing to do. No sane person would ever carry out such dumb, dangerous stunt. They do have a magic or two under their sleeves should Diavolo fail the task. Spells they would feverishly study and tirelessly practice for the sake of the success of the Exchange Student program; for the sake of making Diavolo proud of them. So, they studied hard, yet fools only around their beloved.

So, they kept on flying off to the danger at every given chance. For the feeling during the times they would fall, they had the best view they could ever see in their lifetime. How the demon they ever loved could be so... breathtaking. Turning into his demon form—metamorphosing like a dazzling butterfly, his red locks fluttering in the wind, with such golden ornaments, such golden eyes reflecting the radiance of the sun. And most of all, such playful, thrilled smiles they would willingly lay their life just to see. He seems like the mesmerizing golden red dusk. He may be a demon, but Diavolo is much more divine than the angels in their eyes.

And to think that such an ambrosial prince would hold them in his firm arms, and bury them in his well-toned chest before gliding up in the air. They really love the feeling. Akin to the flowers they cultivate symbolizes, he is their true love.

"Should we land back on the top of the land?"

"Just a little bit longer." Humming, they would place a peck onto the tip of his horn or temple whenever they would request something so badly, which then would receive a chuckle from the Demon. "Hahaha, what a pampered human... Alright, just a little bit longer." And who knows how long they stay in the air. Then they would share small talks back on the cliff, and soon be bombarded with tons of messages and missed calls from the butler and the right-hand man. They would head back home after that, before the said aides decide to search for them and find their secret haven.

It was all they could ever wish for. An everlasting love to carry inside their mortal heart.

They have everything they could ask for, until that day comes. A moonless, rainy night during the celebration of Diavolo's birth.

"I'm glad to finally meet you, the Future King of Devildom." …the day she came. Rosa, a rather respected princess, and the daughter of Queen Rose.

"...N-No, the pleasure is mine." Whether he was flustered by her sudden appearance or not, something was rather amiss. His gaze towards her was different than anything they've ever seen him make. So different yet... familiar. Like the way his eyes sparked of reverie the day they first met, except it was more profound.

Diavolo sighed, "I'm telling you, you don't have to worry. You know you're the one I love." It was nothing, he said. It was only in their imagination, he said. Even so, the connection between the two they perceived every time the two met on business, felt so real.

They were so anxious, so angry they wanted to explode. They want to blame it all on that demon princess who appeared out of nowhere, and brought everything to a big mess! They wanted to lash at her, right from the deepest pit of their stomach!

...Yet, they didn't.

They simply can't. Not when she was like an angel who descended in the land of darkness.

So pure yet so wise, so diligent and well-versed. She is strong-willed and rather capable in every aspect. She doesn't deserve to be blamed for something she didn't mean to do. It was merely a work of two hearts naturally falling for each other. It was inevitable.

Instead of brooding without doing anything, they will fight. They will fight for what's theirs. For what's right. For the specks of affection left inside Diavolo. For their love, they won't give up.

Or so they thought...

"Y/N, would you mind having tea with me later?" Barbatos asked for their attendance.

But unlike the usual afternoon tea they always share with the butler, "Where's Diavolo?" ... the prince is not around.

"The Young master has prior engagement and brought Lucifer in my stead. My apologies if it was not to your liking."

"Ahh, no. I didn't mean it like that. It's just that... having snacks with only you are unusual." It's not unusual. Rather, it never occurred even once. Diavolo tends to postpone the teatime for another time whenever he can't go, as Barbatos always join his absence.

"Actually, I asked you today about an important matter to discuss."

"...Is it related to Diavolo and me, isn't it?" They shouldn't have asked him. They hated themself for asking Diavolo's attendant.

"Yes. To be precise, it is about your relationship and the lady you met during Young master's birthday. I believe you have the right to know this." They held their breath. "I hate to break it to you but the lady you met back then, is the Young Master's... fiancée and his soulmate." The words that came off Barbatos' lips felt like cold water dumped on them.

They just want to end the conversation right there and leave the garden as fast as they can, but they forcefully pull themself together and learn the whole truth, as painful as it is for them. "...Fiancee, you said? And what do you mean by soulmate?"

"For every heir of the throne, there is a prophecy foretelling the righteous betrothed one fated for them. This Oracle has never once failed in predicting who..." Barbatos paused, evaluating whether they could take any more. "...would help the Ruler in bringing prosperity in the Devildom."

After a minute of silence, they spoke. "Does Diavolo know all about this? About her?"

"Yes... but I swear in my name, he has always wanted to be free of the prophecy and achieve prosperity through his own power."

"Where is he headed to at the moment?"

"..." Barbatos' silence tells them everything. He is with her. That's all that they needed to know.

"I... see... Thank you for telling me this."

"I— no, I don't deserve such words from you." They shook their head, "You still disclosed this even when Diavolo wanted to keep it a secret from me. I'm sorry I brought trouble to you."

"It was my own choice. I'm just doing what I think is right."

"Thank you, really..."

They left the castle, thinking a lot of things but also finally enlightened.

They never had Diavolo's heart from the start.

He is the future of the Devildom, the future of all the demons who could easily outlive them. And for that he needs an Empress who can fully support him and bear another long-lived heir. His soulmate, his forever, his other half. Everything that they could never be.

Their life is short. His' is not. He could never fathom the extent of his life like they could. That is also the reason why they could love him until the day they cease to exist, a mere blink to him.

As obvious as the glaring sun that blinds them atop that cliff, his love... is gone.

They could see it in his eyes. Every day he spends with them, his mind is somewhere else.

Even in their favorite place, his embraces were still as cold as the mountain's peak. His smile is too forced, like a one man playing before their eyes. His kisses were prickling and painful. And his gaze... He is suffering.

Like they were.

"Forgive me." It was for the Devildom, he said. His head hangs low, wearing that distressed expression.

"Hey, lift your head? The future king shouldn't bow to anyone." They smiled, cupping his cheeks to raise his face.

"Look, I understand." It was a surprise they didn't shed a drop of tear, as they pat his head gently. "Follow your heart. You'll become a great king."

He made a wise decision, to choose his bond that suddenly came that day. Someone who really owns Diavolo's heart per destiny's decree. The heart they thought he offered back then, with the trees, and the cool breeze, and the swaying leaves, and the sunset as their witnesses. The heart they thought were already theirs. The heart that slipped from their fingers as he let go of their hand when Diavolo locked eyes with his fated one.

Diavolo's love is fleeting. Or maybe it was never love from the start, but a mere curiosity on his end. A misconception, but it doesn't matter anymore. They already knew the answer.

He already achieved his true love, holding his Empress in white. He wears that smile, much, much brighter than anything they have ever seen.

The bells sing with the crowd in jubilation. It is a merry occasion, with the official new rulers of the Devildom. All were so elated.

Except for one. "What a wretched soul I have..." they uttered under their breath. They couldn't take the sight. With the man they so love to be happy in someone's arms. Rage was boiling inside them. Staying there for a second longer and they would definitely ravage everything. So, they fled the scene, escaping to their secret place surrounded by the lake and the sea of trees.

They wanted to let it all out. Pain, sorrow, rage, envy. They were overflowing with emotion more than they could take. It should be them, placing a ring on his finger! the one smiling and crying of happiness as he makes a vow! The one who should be kissing him in front of thousands of witnesses!

"WHY?! What did I do to deserve this?!" The swaying blue and white Forget-me-nots they took with utmost care came to view. "What useless plants!!" They cried out, yanking and tearing everything off the soil. "True love?! It was only me from the very start!!"

All they could do was cry. Scream until their throat goes dry, until their voice disappears.

When all energy left their body, they slumped in the grassy land they’re on. In that secluded place, surrounded with trees serving as its walls. As if it were cradling them away from everything. Hiding their wretched self from everyone.

Dazed, they stared at the sky for an hour. As its hue turns from light blue to red, their mind gets clearer. That's when they heard a familiar sound. They followed it on the tip of the cliff.

It was the roaring waves beneath the land mass. It seems like it's continuing the cries they couldn't do anymore. Roaring like it was spilling the emotions inside them.

"If I jump, will you save me again?" They spoke to the man who is no longer in that secret place. It will never be a safe haven for them anymore.

"I want to be saved by you one more time." I want to be embraced by you one last time.

They faced their back to the rim of the cliff, and took a step backward. A foot standing on a void. And so, their body tipped, losing the other foot from the ground. As their balance disappears, they see nothing but the golden rays of the sunset and the redness of the dusk. So red like Diavolo's locks, golden like his eyes. There's nothing but only traces of him; of the man who doesn't really love them as he promised.

This is foolish... They thought. They're all alone. No Diavolo will fly down and save them anymore.

"I should go home..." Dying here would only hurt him... They whispered as the firm breeze swirls beneath, ready to catch them. After all, no one will save me but I... thinking of that, another pang spiked their heart.

But the wind spell they casted couldn't catch them. When they should have been falling, a hand appeared and pulled them in an embrace.

"Please don't do this..." it was not the warmth they were expecting. Yet, streams began flowing down their cheeks, in comfort of another’s arms. With their hoarse voice they sob the sorrow of losing their safe haven.

Part 2 (Safe Haven ~Another Story~) | Part 3 (Safe Haven ~Epilogue~)

Masterlist

[athys-obelia]

character/s: claude de alger obelia, diana of siodonna, felix robane

synopsis: it's...uhm....an empress!diana x concubine!claude crackfic 😭😭

warning/s: uhh a sprinkle of politics, the robane duchy is now siodonnan and not obelian screw canon, diana is lowkey mean to rogrog

a/n: i'm so sorry this is so bad

part one

felix's foot taps against the tiles of the empress' room impatiently. "you stayed up finalising the agreement all night, your majesty, perhaps some rest is due?"

diana spares him glance, turning sideways from her position on her bed. "what was his name again?"

  "pardon?"

  "the painter," she elaborates, pointing towards the painting on the ceiling above the bed. "i keep...i don't know, i keep finding new things the more i look at it."

  "is that so?"

the painting itself, a coronation gift from felix, depicts the goddess diana reaching out to the children of the world and vice versa. "if you look at the sky closely - remember our old siodonann classes?- 'for the people' is hidden in the stars. isn't that cool?"

the knight squints at the painting. "oh, i see it! i wonder why it's in old siodonann, though?"

  "i would guess it's because the imperial family wasn't worshipped in the old days," diana explains, "for example - right now, in some parts of the empire, my late father - bless him - and i may actually have shrines because people believe the imperial family's descent is from the gods. when the kingdom was just formed, though, kings and queens weren't allowed to ride alone in carriages as they greeted their subjects- they needed to have a slave with them at all times, who kept on repeating 'you are human' to them. 'you are human', 'we are all the same in the eyes of the true gods."

the sound of the army of maids behind the door is enough to pull felix out of his trance. "er...horatius calvus, your majesty."

  "hm?"

  "the artist, that's his name."

  "ah." diana turns to the painting once more, eyes staring at the goddess' hair that melted into the night sky. "would you be able to get in contact with him? i'd like to commission a piece."

felix bows gracefully. "as your majesty commands. oh, and - for the obelian delegates' farewell celebration tonight...has your majesty decided on an escort?"

she groans, falling back on the bed. "i've had so much free time lately, the harem is all i think about!"

  "very funny, ma'am. then...shall i prepare the usual?"

diana shakes her head. "i'll visit viscaria palace later and see for myself. the obelians brought some concubines with them as presents, it's be nice to weed through the bunch."

felix's eyes nearly pop out. "you're visiting the harem?! your majesty! did you find someone you like??"

she chucks a pillow at him before he can continue. "you weren't loud enough just now, fe, i don't think all of siodonna heard you."

  "...apologies, ma'am."

three years ago, when she had only just come into power, diana remembers being afraid of the large, gold doors between her and the council room. she remembers pausing before entering, regaining her breath, preparing her mind. projecting an image.

if there is one thing she has learnt, though, it's that only fools can be afraid of their own property. their assets. the larger-than-life doors swing at her command, allow or deny entrance with solely her permission. confidence comes easy when you act like you own the place - nevermind the fact that she did own most places.

but i have no reason to be afraid.

the obelian delegates stand at her arrival and bow like good little lords should before an empress. one of the more prominent ones stands to address her as soon as the meeting commences.

  "blessings and glory upon the sun of the great siodonnan empire," he says.

diana raises an amused eyebrow. this game, hm? "is that an obelian greeting, duke? how interesting. here, one would usually wish 'a long life to the protector of the siodonnan people'. that's all i am, after all - how could i be the sun?"

duke alpheus sputters. "er...i failed to acquaint myself with siodonnan culture appropriately, my apologies, your majesty. i shall do better next time."

how arrogant. still, she smiles, "i must confess, duke alpheus - i am slightly susceptible to praise, so i'll let you off this time."

  "thank you, ma'am."

  "although making the assumption that there will be a next time at all was quite courageous of you." diana signals the guards, who open the door to let the final participant of the meeting inside. "however -courage and bravery are traits best suited for kings and queens, duke. not lords."

the obelian delegates pale as they watch their - former - emperor, wrists bound, enter the hall with an entourage of knights.

diana glances at the newcomer. "although i suppose even for an emperor, too much of a bravado may cost a war."

anastacius de alger obelia glowers at her.

she frowns at the knights. "how come such a precious friend of mine is tied up like this? is this how we siodonnans treat our guests?"

felix bows deeply. "i apologise, ma'am - he was resisting far too much."

  "whatever the case. get a seat set up right here, beside me - after all," diana smiles at the fuming obelian, "we were dining together just a few months ago, weren't we?"

  "three months ago, to be precise," anastacius spits out, "after which you decided to switch tides and invade us like a coward."

she watches one of the knights set down a fancy chair to the left of hers, reaching out to untie the bindings on anastacius' wrist. diana frowns suddenly, waving over felix, "ah, is this the leash my brother used when he tamed his dragon?"

the former emperor flinches, staring down at it. "someone here tamed a dragon?" a light pink dusts his cheeks - did he really touch the actual leash of a dragon?

felix shakes his head with a small smirk. "this is the leash her majesty the late dowager empress used, ma'am. for her dog."

  "-ah, right, i remember now! all the ones marked with this little purple line are used for tying down senseless animals, aren't they?"

  "yes, your majesty." felix returns to his spot behind her, clear amusement swimming in his grey eyes as he watches the obelians try and maintain their composure.

diana gently lets the leash loose, a hand on the stunned anastacius' shoulder to lightly push him into the seat. "you aren't wrong - i did betray your hospitality, didn't i?"

roger alpheus winces at the sudden authority in her tone as the knights pass out a document to each of the obelian lords.

  "obelia's greeting and offer for peace was kind to me, so i must return this generosity. your country is now part of the siodonnan empire, so we should be parting on a good note. will a little present suffice?"

a brunette diana remembers to be a count speaks up, "...a gift, your majesty?"

felix moves closer to the table, watching the detailed map of siodonna carved into its centre. as he raises his hand, almost as if it were a chess piece, a small island moves to the left. its color flickers between a siodonnan purple and the obelian teal.

diana sighs. "i was planning on the island of delphine, since it not only contains a relatively large gold mine, but also much tourist attraction."

oh, she can see the stars in alpheus' eyes already. "thank you, your ma-"

  "but." he shrivels under her piercing gaze, "but, obelia doesn't need gold, does it? what you need is better foreign relations. and what better way to form an alliance..."

she eyes the map, and with a flick of felix's wrist, a small stretch of land connecting two continents switches from its original purple to a hue of blue.

diana looks up now, meeting even anastacius' shocked eyes. he eyes her suspiciously, "do you really-?"

she nods. "...consider it a gift from your sovereign. it is enough, yes?"

  "i- uh," duke alpheus blinks twice, "the isthmus of erven is...an adequate present, yes, your majesty. the people of obelia shall thrive due to your generosity."

  "it is not generosity, duke. your people are my subjects now. however, i hope you realise the isthmus isn't obelian property for obvious reasons. there is no trust between us. despite this, what i will allow is some access." diana stands, watching the foreign nobles mirror the action. "the terms and conditions of our relationship from this point onwards are in the papers before you and are, obviously, subject to change. feel free to approach me with concerns, should you have any."

  "you were firmer than i'd expected with the obelians, your majesty," felix comments.

diana recoils as his eyes light up at the sight of viscaria palace. "remember when i visited obelia for anastacius' coronation? i was only seventeen, but two years into my studies as heir - and they were all over duke renauld's son! poor cousin ronnie couldn't stop apologising."

felix snorts. "the renaulds wouldn't have dared challenge your majesty's claim, not while the late empress dowager was behind you."

  "ha! that's right, everyone was scared of mama." she grins fondly, "papa most of all."

the knight nods, murmuring a prayer.

  "i want them gone as soon as possible," diana admits, "but there's much to settle before that. i need to fix up anastacius before we can let him back, the second prince is still...what was his name, again?"

  "claude de alger obelia, ma'am."

she winces. "yes, he's an impo-"

a commotion sounds from within viscaria. felix raises an eyebrow at the shouts echoing from the beautiful building, a hand already atop his sheathed sword. "ma'am, stay back, i'll have a look- your majesty! where are you going-?!"

navigating through the decorated halls, diana halts before the entrance of the garden. the argument is between two men she doesn't recognise, as the older concubines gather to the side, amusing twinkling in their eyes.

  "attention!" felix roars, "her imperial majesty, empress diana celeste!"

the two freeze in fear.

  "disrupting my peace. how dare you?" diana demands.

one of them, dressed too finely for someone she hadn't even seen yet, steps forward. "your majesty, my name is xerre, i was only-"

she raises a hand, effectively shutting him up. tone softening, diana turns to the group crowding around the desert table. "lex?"

the group shuffles to let a young, silver haired young man forward. lex bows gracefully, laugh lines around his eyes crinkling. "yes, my lady?"

  "do you know what happened here?"

lex nods. "the monthly salary was being distributed, your majesty, and xerre - being a present from the kingdom of masur - had some trouble believing his amount was the same as a former obelian slave's. verhan stepped in to argue that your majesty was the one to decide this, and they began fighting."

  "shall i prepare for his voyage back to masur, majesty?" felix asks, as the rest of the concubines roll their eyes at his antics.

diana studies the masurian concubine, beckoning him closer. "it is common knowledge i do not generally accept gifted concubines from territories out of my own."

she watches his adam's apple rise and fall, tracing a nail over the well defined jawline. xerre shivers.

  "however, your king is new to his throne, and his queen one of my dearest friends. do you realise how our alliance will look were i to send you back?"

he nods cautiously.

  "i do not wish to withdraw support from someone i consider a brother, xerre. especially when he is engaged in armed conflict on two fronts."

  "i- i am prepared for any punishment your majesty deems appropriate."

diana sighs softly. "i would send you to work for me in the capitol, but the rules state every concubine entering must reside here for a certain amount of time. until then, bear with it. this palace, and a life of luxury, is only meant for my favorites. clear?"

  "yes, your majesty."

  "my apologies, ma'am," felix says once the crowd disperses, his head hanging. "i should've prepared for your arrival with more care."

she waves off the apology, heading to the guest hall to take a look at the new obelian  concubines.

  "vera leaves for her son's wedding for a week and we've already had an incident. honestly, felix."

  "...who's vera?"

diana pauses at the unfamiliar voice. her gaze falls on the figure sitting on the window seat, entirely immersed in the book in his hands. she blinks, stunned, watching the colourful window's filtered light paint the brilliant blonde of his hair.

felix is the first to address him, scoffing, "i believe your majesty's beauty has enchanted one of the gods - who else would dare address the empress of our nation so casually?"

diana chuckles, watching as the man stands, intrigued. she stays silent, breath hitched, as he towers over her, studying her with a curiosity that rivals hers from a moment ago. and only when he finally lowers himself to a knee does his hair part, and diana flushes at the red tinting his ears.

  "greetings to her imperial majesty, may the gods grant the protector of the siodonnan people a life long and blessed."

she offers him her hand. "rise. and tell me your name."

a beat of silence passes as he stares at her outstretched hand before hesitantly accepting. "claude, your majesty."

  "claude," diana tries, finding it rolls of her tongue deliciously.

he raises an eyebrow as she regards him. "your majesty...?"

diana smiles, her hand moving to touch the various jewellery adorning his fingers. gently, she slides off the gold ring off of his ring finger. "you must have a good reason to be donning an unauthorized magical item in my palace."

he doesn't answer, head lowered.

her hand lets go of his, raising to grip the blonde's jaw. diana tilts up his face, meeting his gaze. the dull grey eyes from before have vanished, replaced by glittering blues.

she inhales sharply. "you're...the obelian pr...the second prince of obelia."

he nods.

diana turns, more puzzled than angry. "why is he in my harem?"

  "... didn't your majesty wish for it?" felix tilts his head in confusion.

  "what? no?"

the knight frowns. "but i was so sure...your majesty said you didn't have an heir because you wanted a concubine as beautiful as me...when we took over the imperial palace, as the army swore their allegiance...your majesty said the prince was the prettiest you’ve ever seen?"

  "i- felix, i was kidding!"

  "...oh."

she turns to the prince then, "and you! you're a prince! how come you just went along with this??"

  "well...it was the most peaceful part of the palace..."

diana gapes at the two men, before finally sighing in defeat. "you're telling me i was scouring the lands for you, while you were right...?" she raises a hand to massage her temple, "...gods grant me patience."

felix cautiously steps forward, "your majesty...i understand this is shocking, but... tonight's escort..."

she glances up at the obelian prince. "allow them all to retire. i've found the perfect escort."

a/n: hmmm this was a bit empty claudiana wise, wasn't it? their development is coming though, i had to give empress!diana an intro :) also !! the situation may seem a bit confusing rn, but next chapter will clear things up! or you can just ask me for clarification <3

💕 felix is dying to find a concubine diana likes bc he really really really wants to be an uncle

💕 in siodonna, emperors/empresses are referred to by their first(diana) + middle name(celeste) and not a last name bc they technically can't belong to a house, they belong to the empire. but the middle name is important bc you have to ask for it (from someone you love and respect usually), you're never just born with one (so you could ask a parent / friend / mentor yada yada and they give you a name they believe fits best)

[filmsmakkari]

Congratulations

Wordcount- 1.7k

Hamilton!Tom Holland x Angelica!Reader

Tom Holland x Princess!Reader

I would recommend listening to the song here!

Full Series Masterlist

Your time in Hasnaa was joyous. You wished you could have stayed there forever, but you most unfortunately had to return to your husband, and your disastrous marriage in London. With him, the days were drab and dull. It felt as if every day dragged on longer than the last, but drag on they did, and before you knew it, five years had passed.

You were sitting at the end of the table what felt like miles away from your husband, when a servant entered with a letter in her hand.

“It’s from Prince Phillip, your grace.” The servant girl curtsied before exiting.

“Thank you,” you said as you opened the letter.

It read:

My Dear Aunt,

Cold is my heart as I reckon with the affects my father’s whims have had on our family name. I’m not sure if word has yet reached you there in London, but I must most regretfully inform you that our dear Duke of Saataun has had a most unfortunate affair with the young Countess Nadia Renoylds. Apparently, it took place when we were visiting grandfather at the Fadar da Hasnaa, a considerable time indeed. He also had the privity and connivance of the count, whom he paid off to not tell mother. Apparently, the entire affair was an elaborate scheme on the Renoylds’ part. Their most intricate plan was for the countess to seduce father into an affair, and then blackmail him. If father did not find himself in a prosperous enough position to put wealth into their pockets, they would tell mother of the affair. Of course, this all took place many years ago, and father did pay the count off. None of this would have come to light if those vultures Anthony Monroe, Christopher Jefferson, and Aaron Blackwell hadn’t accused father of embezzlement. To prove his innocence, father published an essay entitled “The Reynolds Pamphlet”in which he admits the truth of his affair, and how he did not in fact embezzle money, but rather used it to pay off his mistress’s husband. In truth it isn’t much better, but he committed no crimes. He might have mortally wounded his prospects, but his papers are orderly, that is a fact none can deny. I have attached a copy of The Reynolds Pamphlet with this letter so that you may read it yourself. Tis no surprise that my mother is outraged. She has father sleeping in his office, and last night as I was passing her cracked bedroom door, I saw her setting fire to all the hundreds of letters he’s written to her. I know it is much to ask of you, seeing as you are the ruler of a large realm, but if you could journey here to see her, I’m sure it would be much consolation. With our dear Peggy sick in Paris, you are the only of her sisters with the ability to make the journey. Please consider.

Votre neveu le plus adorant et le plus vrai,

Prince Phillip of Saataun

Your heart sank as you read your nephew’s words. You quickly took the “Reynolds Pamphlet” from under his letter and read it.

It Read:

I owe perhaps to my friends an apology for condescending to give a public explanation. A just pride with reluctance stoops to a formal vindication against so despicable a contrivance and is inclined rather to oppose to it the uniform evidence of an upright character.

The charge against me is a connection with one Anthony Reynolds. For purposes of improper speculation, my real crime is an amorous connection with his wife, for a considerable time with his knowing consent, if not originally brought on by a combination between the husband and wife with the design to extort money from me. I had frequent meetings with her, most of them in my own house, the Duchess with our children being absent on a visit to the King.

This confession is not made without a blush. I cannot be the apologist of any vice because the ardour of passion may have made it mine. I can never cease to condemn myself for the pang, which it may inflict in a bosom eminently intitled to all my gratitude, fidelity and love. But that bosom will approve, that even at so great an expence, I should effectually wipe away a more serious stain from a name, which it cherishes with no less elevation than tenderness. The public too will I trust excuse the confession. The necessity of it to my defence against a more heinous charge could alone have extorted from me so painful an indecorum.

The essay went on for several more paragraphs, but you could not bear to read any more. Your heart felt as if it was cracking as you thought of your dear Eliza. Oh, all the pain she must have been in. How could Thomas, your Thomas have done such a thing? How could he have hurt your sister in such a way? The anger must have been clear in your eyes, as your husband suddenly spoke.

“What is it?” his monotone voice asked. He barely even looked up from his newspaper.

“My dear sister, Eliza, and our brother, Thomas seem to have been involved in a scandal. I must return home immediately.”

“Oh, well you do that. I shall remain here.”

Oh, of course, he was. You held back an eye roll as you stood and went to your quarters to begin packing.

You booked passage on a ship that was heading for Saataun the next day and quickly made your way home. Your carriage was awaiting your arrival when you stepped off the docks, and you immediately directed him to Eliza’s palace. When you knocked on the door, to your surprise, it was answered by your nephew, Phillip, now fourteen years old. You hugged him tightly.

“Where is your mother, Phillip?” you asked as you released the boy.

“At the store, I believe. But father’s just upstairs, in his office.”

You thanked the young boy before rushing up the stairs and into Thomas’s office.

His eyes widened at the sight of you. “(Y/N)?”

“I came as soon as I heard,” you said flatly.

“Oh, (Y/N), thank God,” he rose and walked towards you, taking your hands and trying to kiss it “someone who understands what I’m struggling here to do-” he paused as you snatched your hand away from him.

“(Y/N)?”

“Congratulations, Thomas.”

He looked at you confused.

“You have invented a new kind of stupid! A damage you could never undo kind of stupid, an open all the cages in the zoo kind of stupid! Truly, you didn’t think this through, did you?”

You gestured with your hands as you spoke. “Let's review, shall we? You two a rumor a few-what was it, three- people knew and refuted it by sharing an affair of which no one has accused you!” You got close to his face, saying, “Thomas, I begged you to take a break and you refused to.”

Now you were pacing and speaking loudly. “You’re so scared of what your enemies will do to you when in reality you’re the only enemy you ever seem to lose to! Do you know why Jefferson can do as he pleases? He doesn’t dignify schoolyard taunts with a response! So yes, congratulations, Thomas.”

“(Y/N)...”

“You’ve redefined your legacy. No, really! Congratulations,” you said, walking out.

“It was an act of political sacrifice!” he exclaimed.

You stopped in your tracks, looking back at him bewildered. “Sacrifice? Thomas Holland, you know nothing of sacrifice.”

“What does that mean?”

“Thomas, I languished in a loveless marriage in London, I lived only to read your letters. I look at you and think “God, what have we done with our lives, and what did it get us?” It doesn’t wipe all the years or all my tears away, but I’ve returned to Larione, and this time I’m here to stay. Do you know what I’m here to do, Thomas?”

“(Y/N)...” he said, coming close to you and cupping your face.

As much as it pained you to do so, you grabbed his hand, tearing it from your face, and saying, “I’m not here for you.”

Thomas sighed, tears burning in his eyes.

You felt the anger begin to rise again as you spoke, “I know my sister like I know my own mind! You will meet a more gentle, kind, trusting soul. I love my sister more than anything in this life! If it comes to choosing between her happiness and mine, I will choose hers every time! Yelizaveta is the best person in our lives, so never again make the mistake of forgetting that you have been blessed with the best wife! For the rest of your life, every sacrifice you make is for my sister, you be sure to give her the best life!”

You raised your hand and slapped him as hard as humanly possible and turned to leave. You paused in the doorframe, turning back to him. “Putting what we had aside, I’m going to find my sister and I am going to stand by her side. I already know “you could never be satisfied.” God, I hope you’re satisfied.” And with that, you were gone.

Your night was spent whispering comforting words to your younger sister, remarking to her “Oh, my dear Eliza, I fear you have married an Icarus. He has flown too close to the sun.”

You did in fact stay in Larione, just as you had told Thomas you would, choosing to relocate to the Fadar da Zuri. It was frowned upon by the public that you, the Empress of Jimbaari, were staying in a palace outside of your country without a husband or some other guardian, but you didn’t care. Your sister and her happiness were all that mattered to you. You prayed for your sister’s happiness. You also prayed that she’d forgive Thomas. Not, in fact, because of your love for Thomas, but rather as you didn’t want anything weighing on your sister’s gentle soul.

As for your ever most complicated relationship with Thomas, you barely interacted with him, not speaking to him when at their home and not writing to him. Though sometimes, you would catch him staring at you with such deep longing that it made your heart ache. And it pained you so deeply, because you knew you couldn’t have been more in love with him- even after his betrayal. So, pray you did. Prayed for your sister’s inner peace, and your own, prayed for the well being of the children, and prayed begging the lord why in all his goodness, he would cause you the utmost pain by bringing that foolish soldier Thomas Holland into their lives.

[noyashighlight]

The Villianess who lived

Chapter one

“ And for the crimes of trying to harm another noble not only in public but in the vicinity of the royal family I summon you to death Y/n Villarreal.” The executioner’s voice boomed through the crowd of people gather in town square.

The one accused of the Horrendous crime was nothing more than a young girl, but not just any girl the daughter of Duke Villarreal who had just been beheaded this moment in an attempt to save his beloved daughter. Though she was vain and jealous of the baron's daughter for managing to steal her love the first prince, poisoning tea wasn’t her thing. Speaking of her beloved first prince, Tooru Oikawa was the one who sentenced her to this harsh death. He loved Maryanne Barlowe and not y/n, only being engaged to her for political advantage to be the crowned prince. He watched from his seat a daunting smirk on his face, his hatred for the girl ran deep to the point where the announcement of her death made him chuckle.

Next to him stood his best friend and personal knight Hajime Iwaizumi wearing his usual poker face. Though she was annoying with her unexplained love for the one he served and her cruel attitude towards women, the knight didn’t believe she deserved this punishment.

And on his other side sat Maryanne Barlowe the eighth and youngest child of the Baron, known as the sunflower of high society thanks to her friendly attitude she used to social climb. No one saw her as a threat due to her title, but now she would be the future empress. Soon she would reveal her true self as this was all an act for her, from pretending to be nice and weak to poisoning her own drink at a tea party Y/n hosted.

Y/n’s eyes shook with rage, hatred soared. Everything was taken from her, she was an accused villainess whose only real crime was falling for the wrong man who thought of her as a disposable object. “Any last words Lady Villarreal?” Tooru said standing from his seat, making sure he could get a good view of her in her last moments.

“ I hope that in my next life, I’ll be the one to place your head on a stick and parade it around the capital.” She still held her head high as if she wasn’t who just defamed the future self-proclaimed king.

He let out a loud chuckle that would send chills down anyone’s spine, “ Those who have sinned don’t get a next life, I hope the heavens forgive you my dear.” To think the only time he called her my dear was in a sinister setting. He nodded his head as cue for the executioner to do his job, “ May your damned soul find peace in the after life.” He whispered before swinging the sword down.

Her throat felt cold and burned as she shot up in her bed holding her throat letting out a scream of terror. “ My Lady are you okay?” Her personal maid Olivia burst through the double doors of her room. Y/n looked around horrified, she was back in her room. And Olivia was alive and well? This couldn’t be, the maid had died after taking the fall saying she had poured the tea thinking it would save her master.

“ I-I’m fine, how old am I?” It all felt too real to be a dream, was she given a second chance? Or was this the peacefulness of the afterlife being with the ones she loves? “ You’re about to turn 17 in a week, are you sure that you’re okay? You look pale and sweaty my lady.” The maid worried checking her head for fever or any signs of one. She was interrupted when Y/n pulled her down into a hug.

“ I’m fine Liv, I’m just happy to see you that’s all.” The young girl was never this gentle on any subject but that prince. Ah, that bastard who dared to cross her after devoting her life and body to him. She had a year until her death so she hadn’t done anything stupid yet. But to change her fate she had to change the future. “ What’s my schedule for today?” She hummed, if they wanted a villainess she would play the part but for her own benefit.

Olivia looked at y/n like she had lost her mind, “ You’re having tea with the first prince, you had to wait a whole month to get him to agree since he said he was busy.” Ah, that was right Tooru did all he could do to ignore and shun his betrothed. What a cowardly man, she thought getting out of bed.

“ I want to wear a light orange dress today, the more innocent the better. I’ve got a crow to catch.” She smiled to herself as sat in front of her vanity. Her maid was distraught by the sudden change of dress. “ But my lady! You’ve had that revealing aqua dress you were planning to wear since it’s Prince Tooru’s favorite color.” Maybe her mistress had finally lost her mind.

Y/n couldn’t help but laugh, love was such a blind curse. “ Throw it out, and anything else that color it makes me was to puke. Now pick me out something simple for breakfast so I can have breakfast with father. The maid nodded and quickly got her ready.

“ Father!” Y/n hugged the stern Duke, his face automatically softening. She hadn’t clung to him like this since he told her that he got the king to accept her engagement to Prince Tooru. “well hello to you too sweetheart, what did I do to deserve this?” He was curious, he hadn’t brought her anything over the past few days due to him being gone.

She couldn’t believe that her father was standing before her alive and well. “ Nothing I’m just glad to see you, now let’s have breakfast together before I have to go to the palace. “ she clung to his arm as they walked to the table together, she was going to make sure her father didn’t die in vain this time.

“ And we're finished, you look gorgeous Lady Y/n. No Lady’s beautiful rivals yours, the prince will definitely fall in love with you this time.” Olivia gushed at her handy work, as y/n stared at herself in the mirror astonished at her reflection. “ Olivia I will reward you when I come back home, now I must go I don’t want to be late.” She smiled making her way to her carriage, it didn’t matter if she was late or not because the prince would always arrive an hour late just to show the true distance between them. In this hour of free time she would set her plan into action.

“ Lady Villarreal.” Her knight Wakatoshi Ushijima said, holding out his hand to help her on to the carriage. “ Toshi I told you not to be so formal when no one is around, I get enough of that already.” She giggled at him taking his hand and getting on. Not only was he the best knight of the Duke but also her childhood friend.

“ My apologies lad- y/n, I’m used to you always having one of the noble ladies with you.” Those ladies weren’t here friends only using her for her high status, in the past, she was just too dumb to see but now it was clear as day.

The second she arrived at the palace she told wakatoshi to wait for her, as she wanted her alone time with the prince. Aha if only they knew which prince she was talking about. Y/n was headed to the crow garden, where the second prince Tobio Kageyama would be since it was a garden dedicated to his late mother. Once aprincess from another kingdom before becoming the empress while Tooru’s mother was only a queen. Sadly Tobio’s mother died at a young age, this palace was deadly yet somehow he was still alive. She was taking a real gamble coming here trying to meet him, it could even cost her life but whether she dies now or a year later made no difference.

The garden was filled with orange and black flowers that seemed almost otherworldly, the girl looked like she was a part of the garden with her dress blending into the flowers. No sign of the second prince at all, maybe her plan was going all to waste. The girl crouched down gently touching a flower. Just then she felt a cold sword on her shoulders threatening to cut her neck. “ Your highness prince Tobio has forbidden anyone from picking the flowers. Stand up slowly and turn to state your name.” Y/n gulped as she followed instructions meeting eyes with Shoyo Hinata, the orange-headed prince’s guard. He usually wore a playful smile but when ordered to can become deadly in seconds.

“ Lower your sword, I’m very aware of who she is. Though I have no idea why you’d show your face in this part of the palace.” A low voice ordered from behind Shoyo. prince Tobio finally came into the picture, but he didn’t look too happy.

Y/n bowed after the sudden shock, “ Glory to you your highness, may you prosper.” She spoke humbly, he was almost taken aback that she was bowing in his stead. Yes, she was in a lower position than him, but rumor had it that the duke’s daughter thought of herself as a prince who would only bow below the king and her beloved. “ You may rise, Lady Villarreal, why have you come here?”

He was itching to find out why she was here of all places, was she sent by his brother to kill him? Tobio had never formally met Y/n only the rumors that she was an evil being. There was no evil being that stood before him just a lovely woman who looked innocent. “ I’m sorry that I’ve intruded, I’ve heard about this garden since I was little but was never able to come. Also I heard that you would be here.” She tucked her hair behind her ear, with Knight Hinata still here she couldn’t reveal her true plan yet.

She came here for him? What business did she have him with anyway? Maybe he had done something to offend her, Shoyo often told him that his face was scary and made ladies cry. “ Why would I be interesting enough for the lady to come all the way here just to see me? Does my brother know that you are here?” He and everyone else knew Tooru didn’t love Y/n but if he knew one thing about his brother is that he is possessive. Just knowing that his fiancé came to see him would drive him crazy.

“ Ah I can’t say, your guard is scaring me.” She lied straight through her teeth, Tobio took the bait nodded his head to dismiss his knight. “ Now you may speak freely.” This whole encounter was strange for him and what she was about to say was even stranger.

She took a deep breath, worse comes to worse she would be sent to jail for offending royalty. “ I’m going to cancel the engagement with the first prince.” She looked up to meet his eyes that just went wide with concern and confusion.

“ Why would you do that? And why would you be telling me this as if it mattered to me?” He questioned as his eyes narrowed with suspicion, maybe she wasn’t as weak as he had thought when he saw her.

Y/n smiled as she had just won a prize, he was asking questions which was a good sign. “ Well, it’s clear that Prince Tooru doesn’t love me, and is only with me for ties to the Villarreal Dukedom. Without me lowers his chances of being king, being with Maryanne Barlowe who can’t give him a status raise will be his downfall.”

“ You know speaking of a future king while the current one is still alive is a crime right, yet you refuse to bite your tongue. Go on and continue, I’ll decide by the end of this if you’ll end up in the dungeon or not.” Tobio advised causing her to gulp, she must not falter to his empty threats. 

“ My birthday ball Tooru will bring lady Maryanne instead of escorting me, excuse me but that bastard is going to embarrass me for that woman publicly. I do not wish to stay by his side, I do not wish to love anymore. So please be my escort to my birthday, I will back you and make you king. Just don’t let me die.” Her eyes began to water and gloss over which she didn’t intend to happen, the thought of repeating the past scared her.

Tobio was taken back by the sudden emotions she held, she was shaking like her life was in danger. How was her fiancé being unfaithful going to end in death? His brain swirled with theories and answers but nothing made sense. This offer was too good for him to decline also too risky in the same sense. “ Keep your word that you’re going to cancel the engagement, then I’ll send you a message on what my answer will be.” This was the only acceptable answer he could give fearing this could all be a trap, something in her eyes was crying for him to help. If Tooru did become king he was as good as dead since he had hate for Tobio. With that he left without another word, he couldn’t take in any more information at the moment.

Y/n sat in the indoor garden sipping on her tea, she had been here for two hours, her fiancé was running extra late today not that she minded. It gave her time to practice speaking calmly instead of jumping over the table and brutally murder him for the trauma he had caused from her death. When the door opened Tooru arrived with Hajime, this tea was informal as ever how did y/n of the past look forward to meeting this rude man.

“ Sorry for being late, I had some stuff to take care of. “ he sat down expecting her to whine about how she had waited so long to see him. “ I didn’t mind, I was enjoying being in my own company. I’m starting to prefer spending time with myself instead.” She said calmly not even bothering to look up from her tea.

He smirked at her attitude, he wished she was always like this instead of drooling all over him. “ Your birthday is next week, I’m guessing you’re here to ask me to escort you? I’ll be wearing blue so you have to match me.” He loved toying with her emotions and getting her hopes up, yes he would agree to go but not with her.

Y/n hated the way he was so cocky and sure of himself, “ You don’t have to worry about us matching, I’m not wearing blue at all.” She simply stated finally meeting eyes with him. “ Is this your way of telling me that you want us to wear a different color? How rude you know I love blue.” If she wanted to wear a different color he would comply since it wasn’t his party but usually she agreed with whatever he said.

“ No not us, I will be wearing a different color since you won’t be escorting me.” She dropped the bomb on him even making his knight flinch at her harsh words. Tooru most definitely thought she was playing hard to get now. “ Why wouldn’t I be? I’m your loving fiancé aren't I?” He wore a playful smirk on his face, she was going to cave in if he played the part of a lover.

She chuckled at his ignorance, he just wasn’t getting it was he? “ Prince Tooru we both know you don’t love me, and I’ve decided to stop loving you now. So why don’t we do each other a favor, and stop this? I y/n Villarreal am annulling this engagement.” She stood up from her seat shucking the prince who could only grind his teeth. Lowering herself she got close to his ear, “ Why don’t you ask Maryanne Barlowe to be your betrothed, or you might be better off marrying a commoner.” Y/n stood up straight as she made her way to the door.

Tooru could barely react in time, “ If you leave right now Y/n, I will never take you back no matter how much you or your father beg me.” He stood up quickly making his chair topple over with a slam, their was no way this weak-minded girl changed overnight.

“ Your highness please refer to me as Lady Villarreal in public from now on, I don’t want people to get weird ideas.” She smiled politely before exiting, leaving the prince to flip over the tea table in anger. Though she had escaped from that death doesn’t mean she escaped from death completely.

A/n: it took me awhile to place the characters! Thank you to everyone who submitted stuff, I’m sorry if I didn’t get to use the character you wanted but I’ll be making some headcannons for the ones y’all sent. P.s I don’t hate Oikawa at all but you can’t tell me he doesn’t play his part well lmaooo. See you next time <3

[demonictales]

I have a oneshot idea with Run yu. How about: when Run yu was a child, he met this demon child, reader (maybe a dog or wolf demon) who is a wild child and a prankster, and they became good friends for a while, until the empress took him away from his home. When Run yu grew up, he meets reader again who is a demon lord/lady now. Reader is a charmer and like to cause trouble to the empress. Reader is a troublemaker but always been honest to Run yu even in his hardest time.

that’s such a cute idea, i love it! here we go. let me know if you liked it. 

TW: DROWNING

As a kid, you had it pretty easy. You were an illegitimate child of the demon king and could do whatever you wanted. So naturally you'd steal out of the demon realm and sneak around the heavenly realm and often could be found around Dongtin lake. You'd snuck around it it ever so often, not in your human form but in your small little wolf form. Where most would expect a black wolf with dark eyes, your fur was the brightes white someone had ever seen, it could rival the snow, your eyes were a dark purple, matching your little horns. A monster some would say, but your attitude would come of as adorable next to mischievious.

You met Runyu for the first time when you fell into the lake, of course you were running to fast chasing a stupid bird as you realized you landed in the lake barely able to keep your head over the surface when you felt someone pushing you up. That someone must've heard your desperate yelps. Admittingly, you were a terrible swimmer. Only then when you had ground underneath your feet and looked back into the water you spotted a face and turned back into your human form. A small grin spread on your face as you waved to the boy underneath the surface.

Your father only knew you for causing trouble whereever you went and today was no different, just had just shown someone your true form. The little wolf demon that you were turned into the bastard princess/prince of the demon realm right in front of someone from the heavenly realm. Of course whereever you followed, trouble was near.

The second time you met him, you were in your human form, black robes with white and pruple ornaments were drabbed over your tiny figure, looking much more presentable than last time. You sat on the shore and threw some stones into the lake, hoping that the boy you saw would show up again. After all, you still owed him a thank you for day that he had saved you from drowning. As a wolf it was in your nature to support people who had done something good for you, even now in your younger years. It was the loyalty of a wolf that made you friends in the end. Quickly, your thoughts ended when you saw a movement in the water and became curious. It was him. The little fish that had saved you, but he didn't seem happy.

"Please don't throw stones into the lake. You could hurt someone." His voice was calm but soft as he spoke, but you just stared at him. " I'm sorry. " You admitted a bit meekly, you never apologize, at least only when you were forced to. " But actually it's not my fault. You didn't tell me your name last time. How else was I supposed to find you. ----- " The said apology was still worth nothing. " I am Y/N. I'm from the demon realm. " Before he could ask, you already gave him the answer. " Do you want to play with me? --- "

That day was the day you both became friends for eternity so it seeemed. Nearly everyday for the next 200 years you would sneak into the heavenly real to meet Runyu. You'd play hide and seek around the lake, you taught him how to play fetch and how you could jump as high as you wanted without much effort and he eventually taught you how to swim. Even though you had 200 years together, one day when you came to the heavenly realm, you noticed something was off. There was a strange woman at the lake talking to your friend as you did hide behind some shilf bushes and she took Runyu with her. The next few days you always patiently waited for Runyu to appear but he never did, so you eventually went your own way as a lone wolf again, roaming the heavenly realm quietly and without a friend by your side.

Another 5000 years should have passed for you to meet Runyu again. This time you had to snuck into the heavenly realm again for spying purposes, forced by King Gucheng to do so. He saw no big purpose for you so in case something would be off, you could lose your head. He wouldn't mind. You on the other hand enjoyed drama, chaos and mischief. Not that you enjoyed the bad side of it. You'd never get blood on your hands, but the demon realm knew of your bravery and slight concerning love for daredevil actions, so of course you offered and they'd send you willingly. Of course it couldn't go unnoticed that someone had snuck into the heavenly realm on the empress birthday.

Of course you glamoured yourself, a small broquet doing the trick. Your hair long and openly falling over your back in a black waterfall, your attire s colors were swapped, the fabric purple with black and white ornaments as you seated yourself with the lower class deitys, spotting a very familiar face in the crowd. It was Yanyou.

You had met him several years ago after you roamed the mortal realm. Both of you enjoyed the same things and became friends, you were surprised to see him here and luckily he had not noticed you yet. However, you noticed another glamour spell in the room, right next to him. It wasn't particularly strong but not easy to decipher as well. Natrually you saw a chance for mischief, causing distraction could buy you some time and less eyes on you. Only when everything went quiet your eyes darted to the entrance where the Heavenly Emperor and the Heavenly Empress entered, your purple colored eyes landed on someone beside the emperor. He looked oddly familiar but you could not place a name to his face. He walked so lightly and gracefully as no one you had ever seen before. Quietly from your seat you watched him curiously.

The feast went on smoothly, yet you got bored quite easily as you finally decided to let action break loose. You let a small mouse ran loose and enjoyed the chaos that emerged from your spot, a mischievous smile hard to suppress. The scene unfolded itself, the person who had a galmour spell over her was indeed a young woman of the flower realm. Impressive you thought, but the fact that the empress seemed bothered and angry after hearing these things was enough for you to move on, sneaking out of the banquet walking quietly around the palace and ending up in the night immortals wing.

Runyu had left the banquet after Jinmi was exposed and quietly took care of whatever happened, he ordered Yanyou to take her out of heavenly real and back to the flower real for now. As he had excused himself, he wandered off to where he was needed, to let the night fall in on his way, however, he was delayed as she saw you sneaking around his quarters.

" How may I help you? --- " The night immortal spoke up as he eyes you, his voice smooth and calming, no sense of threat detected. You spun arround, caught in the act of breaking in as a smirk formed on your lips. " I believe I got lost wandering around. --- " You lied, simple as that. Runyu chuckled, knowing you did so but seemingly you did not care. It reminded him of a childhood friend of his.

Not quite sure what it was, you decided to reveal yourself. What could possibly go wrong. If anything, you were fast and could flee within the blink of an eye. Revealing yourself by letting your glamour vanish, your robes were back to their usual black color, decorated with white and purple ornaments, a black iron pin with purple stones keeping your hair up. Your identity now revealed to him, the ever so known smirk never leaving your face.

It dawned on him as to who you where and yet there you stood, still not recognizing him. You had quite matured over the years and grown quite well, yet your character seemed to be still the same. Runyu enjoyed the fact you hadn't changed much. "Y/N -- How long has it been? --- " The night immortal asked you, clearly remembering the childhood friend who was always by his side.

Puzzled as you seemed, you were confused that he knew your name. " Do we know each other? " You spoke frankly, wondering why he asked you of your well being when you were caught red handed in the act of breaking into this royals chamber. He chuckled stepping closer to you as he bowed. " I believe we had spent many years together at the Dongting lake before I was brought to the heavenly palace."

It took you a moment to pin one and one together but eventually your features gave you away, eyes big as you did not dare believe it. "Runyu..?!" It came more out as a question, but the more you thought about it, the more you looked at him, it was him. He was your childhood best friend. A very honest smile formed on your features. He returned the soft smile, nodding. " I can't believe it. Out of every place I snuck in I met you at the heavenly palace.. ----- It has been so long. " The words left your mouth, remembering the days you spent alone without him by your side.

"I have waited for you so many days at the lake for you to come back, but you never came. ----- I was so lonely. " Even though you were grown up, you were still whining, pulling on his sleeve. " You could have at least tell me good bye. It was the empress that took you away from me, wasn't she. " You huffed angrily as you crossed your arms. " She deserved that chaos at her banquett today. That's for taking my only great companion away from me leaving me to wander alone all these years. " Oh, how great it was to be with your friend again. " So it was you that stirred up the chaos at the hall earlier today. " Runyu concluded, not really surprised at your words, even now.

Taking a few steps back you grinned, scratching the back of your neck. " Maybe..---- "

"But I had my reasons. " You continued. " Did I get you in trouble though? If you did, I'm willing to take the punishment. After all I'm your loyal everlasting friend. " Words that you once told him when you were a child, that you'd be friends forever and that your loyalty would never go away until the day you died and you did it today as well, a grown up woman who would now occasionally meet up with him at the dongting lake, the flower real or easily would snuck into heavenly real again at night to meet him.

Finally you had your friend back and would no longer have to wander the world alone.

[tcrtaglia]

@synnthos​ :  ✐+ longing

〘楓〙

    It’s not often she’s restless.  Himiko rises with both the sun and the moon--or so the saying goes.  Perhaps the best thing about her blessing was she never needed much rest.  The only downside being that her nights were often filled with insomniac behaviors.  Working until she was bone tired was how she combatted it but even with such tactics, but tonight her mind still felt as if it still had to run laps around the palace.  

    The crescent moon shines brightly among the stars, and she wonders--can Miyuki see the same sigh as her?  The Empress of Towagoe, normally strong and calm leans against the railing of the balcony as her amber gaze stays focused across the sea.  According to the nation’s spies, the arrogant Emperor had refused to see the duo, instead passing it on to a noble instead.  She shouldn’t be surprised but the annoyance still built up in her when she thought about it.  

     Miyuki was doing them a favor.  They should be throwing themselves down in thanks for her service, not be treated as just a hindrance.  She should have waited a while longer before sending them to Grecia, at least until she could get a better idea of the King’s madness.  But, Amaterasu has said it was urgent before more chaos happened.  From the reports sent to her, the public was growing uneasy as the monsters begun to attack in waves.  The gods remained silent, and there was no solution in sight.  

     Besides concern for her friend, there was a certain...loneliness that hit her.  She was trained to be wary of every intention here in the palace.  The noble sons and daughters that tried to cozy up to her when she was younger soon learned that she wouldn’t be swayed by just sweet words and treatment.  Mitsutada had said that it was normal to feel that way, especially since the other woman was her first friend.  An equal, and a comrade who listened to her mindless rambling.  It was fun--and if the goddess allowed her too, she would have kept her here.  

    At least she found an ally--the second prince.  But, would he be able to keep her safe when he was simply a puppet for his brother?  A frown forms as a sigh escapes.  She purses her lip and then lets out a whistle--  

    The beating of wings answer her call, and soon a crow lands in front of her.  It’s three legs shuffle along the balcony to get a better hold as black eyes stare at her curiously.  

    “May I ask for your help, my friend?”  She muses aloud as fingers run across its silken feathers.  It leans into her touch, its cast eyes glimmering for a moment as it lets out a murmured caw.  

     “Thank you.  I will reward you once you return.”  It replies with another noise, as it begins to preen itself.  

      The Empress moves back into her chambers, and she sits one she reaches her desk.  Paper spread on it as her hands become stained from grinding the ink stone.  Fresh ink is soon made and she dips her brush before beginning to write.  

     Miyuki, 

     I once again apologize for not being able to stay with you while you visit Grecia.  If I get the chance to assist you from my position I will take it immediately.  My carrier is a yatagarasu, and should you desire to reply to me, it will take your message back.  

    I’ve heard about the current circumstances you are in, and I will be requesting another meeting with the King of those parts.  Kara should be able to get in touch with our people positioned there, and should be able to get whatever material you need.  If there’s anything you wish for personally from here please do let him know. I will send it straight away.  I understand you are traveling with the second prince but be careful of him.  He can be a puppet for his brother at times.  

    Other than that, I do miss your company and hope Amaterasu will protect you.  I await for your return eagerly.  And if you feel like you are not making considerable progress, please return to Towagoe so we can think of another plan.  

    Kaede.  

    The ink dries quickly, and she folds her note neatly before wrapping it in a red ribbon.  The black crow is still waiting for her on the balcony and she traces its beak before tying her letter to one of the crow’s legs.  She lifts her arm and it hops on as it leans close to her face.  She smiles at it, and she’s sure it does the same. As she lifts her hands up, it takes flight with mighty wings, the updraft of wind enough to blow her hair away from her face. 

    “The moon is in the eastern sky. The sun is in the western sky.”  Her murmured words are lost to the night as she gazes the bird until it vanishes into the blackness of the night.  

    “ On a leafless branch, A crow comes to rest--How much I long for the snow.”

[loveafterthefact]

Love After the Fact Chapter 6: Behind the Scenes Part 1

Sometimes, our favorite morally dubious attendant needs a little help.

First  Previous  Next

Adam sighs. What an exhausting, troublesome day. He cautiously knocks on the door, balancing the covered tray in one hand. If this guy kills him, he's going to strangle the crown prince.

It opens, and there’s the captain, a good two dashes taller than Adam himself, irises a winter gray.

“Ah. Adam, right?” Adam nods. “Can I help you?”

“Um. Crown Prince Lancel asked me to ensure you ate something. I understand he told you not to eat at the banquet.”

“More like he gave me permission not to.” The captain steps aside, smiling, ears forward. Adam swallows and enters the room with small steps. He opens the tray and sets a large plate of food on the small table by the couch in front of the fireplace.

Adam can’t resist. “Captain Sh-”

“Shiro. Please.” Shiro smiles again. That’s all he ever seems to do. Despite being about ten dashes tall and three dashes wide at the shoulders. It’s somewhat jarring, to say the least.

“Shiro. If I may... Why do you and Prince Yorak hate the food so much?”

“My species cannot taste what you refer to as ‘sweet.’ When we eat Altean food, all we get are the hints and undertones, which on their own…” the captain trails off, smiling good-naturedly. Adam notices how wide, how genuine his eyes seemed to shine.

“I imagine it’s horrible.”

“It is. No offense of course. I’m sure if ‘sweet’ meant anything to me, I’d quite like it.” Shiro chuckles. “But to me, it means nothing, and is nothing.”

“How odd,” Adam muses. “I can’t quite wrap my head around it. Sweet is to me what sour is. Or salt. Or savory. Or air. It is like saying you cannot see the color blue.”

“We see color as you do. Though our night vision is far better, I should think.”

“Does it make it hard to sleep?”

“No. Why?”

“I can’t sleep if it isn’t dark.”

“It’s a different kind of ‘light,’” Shiro says with a shrug. “It’s not like daylight is. It’s... different. I don’t know how I’d explain it.” He plucks a piece of whatever Hunk made for him and takes a bite. He must like it, because he takes another. Adam shifts, guilty. The man must be hungry. “You’re a curious one.”

“Sorry!” Adam jumps. “I didn’t meant to offend-” His panicked apology is cut off by a laugh.

“Don’t! Please, ask whatever you like. It makes a nice change after what I endured at the banquet. I just wish Crown Prince Lancel could have rescued me too. Though I’m sure Prince Yorak was grateful.”

Adam relaxes, relieved. He’s not about to be ripped to shreds. “I’m Crown Prince Lancel’s attendant. If I am to keep up with him, I must know everything I can about everything I know of. When it comes to knowledge of your kind, I am woefully uninformed. He was not at all surprised when Lord Lanval made a comment about Prince Yorak’s gender... I was.”

“There are three genders. Binary, like yourself. And then there is a third, like Prince Yorak. They tend to have mixed characteristics which facilitate multiple or no facets of child-giving and -rearing. Prince Yorak is a gift.”

“A gift?” Adam frowns, pushing his glasses up his nose.

Shiro nods. “Prince Yorak is capable of both siring and bearing children. He is a blessing. On Daibazaal, he would be revered, were it not for his size.” Shiro hesitates, then continues. “You say you make it your mission to assist Crown Prince Lancel in his day-to-day life and well-being?”

“Yes. That mission now extends to Prince Yorak as well.”

“Then also make note: Prince Yorak may require a trip to Daibazaal during his final growth spurt. He has a disease that can cause stunted growth. His growth plates are defective. It’s why he’s so small. During the war, he lacked access to medical treatment, so missed several growth spurts all together. It’s important that he does not miss this one, as it could cause fertility issues. Regardless of what Altea requires of him, he deserves to have a family if he wants one.”

“I will keep that in mind. I’ll keep an eye on him.” Adam pulled out his datapad, typing away. “I don’t believe the Crown Prince knows of this... I’d rather not tell him.”

“Why not?” Shiro cocks his head to the side, ears perked. Those ears have followed Adam’s every move. The Altean finds it unnerving. It makes his scales itch.

And yet... Something about the giant intrigues him. He carefully discards his caution.

“Lance is... He’s undyingly loyal. He does not love Keith, to be sure. But he will care for him, and be faithful to him, and most importantly, he will worry about him.

“He will worry about Keith being here. About him eating, sleeping, wandering around alone. Everything. I do my best to ease his worry. It’s why I try to stay one step ahead of him. I want to be good at my job, and my job is to ease his burdens.”

The Galra’s head shifts a little, ears and eyes still focused solely on him. Adam decides he finds it refreshing. He’s so rarely the center of someone’s attention.

“You say Lance is loyal.” Adam nods. He is. As loyal and dedicated as they come. “Interesting... You are quite loyal yourself, aren’t you? You believe in your prince. Genuinely.” Shiro takes a step closer, and this time Adam stands his ground, staring down that fascinated gaze. Or rather, up.

“Yes. I do.” Adam stands tall as Shiro’s stare refuses waver. The Galra looms over him. “I was born a noble. I chose to serve him. I believe in his love for his people, and in his ability to maintain peace.”

“Is it really a choice to serve him if he is your crown prince?” Shiro asks softly.

“The people of Altea have the right to refuse the rule of their kings. We have the right to rebel, to demand action or inaction. And I have the right to forsake Lance and my duties. Yet I stay, because I wish to see what he will become. And you? Why do you serve your masters?”

“I love my people. The Captain of the Guard is a servant not only to Emperor Zarkon and Empress Honerva, but to the people. I am the serving protector of my race.”

“Then we are the same,” Adam murmurs. Shiro’s left ear twitches, and Adam wonders if he struck a nerve. Those gray eyes narrow slightly, slanted pupils dilating as they zero in on his own.

“It would seem so,” Shiro murmurs, taking a step back. When had he gotten so close? He’d been less than a dash away. “I thank you for the meal. Please, if you haven't already, bring something to Keith as well. He ate even less than I did.” Adam nods. “And send Lance my thanks. He has my undying gratitude.”

“Of course.” Whether Shiro’s grateful for the food or the care Lance will bestow upon Keith, Adam isn’t sure.

Those eyes and ears follow Adam out of the room.

He’s ever so slightly shaken. Ever so slightly intrigued.

[sada-siva-sanyaasi]

For Her - Part 2

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Reader (Modern Royalty AU)

Genre: Romance, fluff, angst.

Words: 1,418 words.

Warnings: Maybe in the future? None for now.

Series Summary: He was just supposed to attend her coronation, possibly make a new ally out of her country. Not fall in love with her.

Prologue | Part 1 

The ride back to the castle was silent, in the beginning. Bucky looked out the window with awe as he eagerly took in the empire in front of him. Steve sat beside him and silently took in the limousine and the people in it.

The Princess of Themyscira sat a seat away, looking up every now and then at Bucky before turning away, her lips set in a pout. Her bodyguard pulled his phone out and typed something in before setting it down, and a second later the princess pulled her phone out, her pout twisting into a sneer as she turned to glare at him.

Steve bit his lip, a small smile on his face as he took in the exchange, but was pleasantly surprised when she turned to them and decided to initiate the conversation.

“There will be a long Royal tour around the empire soon, Your Majesty. You don’t have to drink it all in at once. A meal is best savoured with each bite.” The amused smirk on her face made Bucky smile as well, a soft laugh escaping him.

“Oh I’m sure the Royal tour will be fantastic. Your country is just too ethereal for me to take my eyes off it, Your Grace.”

Y/N’s smile fell for a short second, and she opened her mouth to reply when a sharp gasp left her. Bucky and Steve turned to look at her when she turned to glare at her bodyguard. “Why did you do that, Manny?” She hissed, rubbing her hip as he shrugged nonchalantly.

“I have no idea what you’re talking about, Your Grace.” She bit her lip and turned away, looking at her other guards and signalling something before smiling at her guests.

“Manny was being… Manny. Right, Captain?” Both of them glared at each other and Bucky coughed into his fist, a small smirk on his face.

“Your captain and you seem close, Your Grace.” Y/N noted the smirk on his face and she adjusted her watch, clearing her throat.

“Manny and I grew up together, he’s been my best friend since I learnt to walk. So yes, we’re close. Aren’t we, Emmanuel?”

The Captain grimaced and turned away, grumbling under his breath. Her smirk widened and she leaned closer to Bucky, lowering her voice. “He despises being called Emmanuel. And he can’t scream at me with you around. Wonderful, right?”

Bucky laughed, staring at her. “Absolutely.” Steve cleared his throat and Y/N leaned back in her seat, when her phone rang. She looked at it and frowned, before sparing Bucky an apologetic look.

“I apologise, but I must attend to this call. I hope you don’t mind, Your Majesty.” He shook his head, and she went to talking into her phone, staring at her nails. “And how long do I have for that? Alright. We’re almost there anyway, I’ll meet you in the hall, thank you Peggy.” She set her phone down and smiled at Bucky, eyes so apologetic Bucky was ready to forgive her for even bombing his country.

“We’re near the Palace right now, but I must apologise as I will not be with you for longer than half an hour as I need to go and attend to other royalties arriving as well, Your Majesty.” Bucky stared at her as she bit her lip and tucked a strand of her hair behind her ear, looking at him as though she was waiting.

“What? Oh, no please I don’t mind, Your Grace. It’s quite alright.” She nodded, smiling, when the limo halted and her guards stepped out, opening the door for them and bowing.

The moment Bucky stepped out, his breath hitched in throat as his eyes scanned the palace. Y/N stood beside him and sighed, smiling at the palace.

“I know, it’s a little too pretty. I heard the first Queen always wanted things she owned to be grand, didn’t realise until her great-granddaughter let me move in here a few years ago.”

He turned to her with wide eyes as they both began to walk towards the palace, their guards surrounding them. “Wait, what?”

“My great-grandmother, who passed away two years ago, is the first Queen’s great-granddaughter, and Themyscira’s first Empress. She lived a long and good life, I should say, having lived here her entire life.” Bucky nodded as he noticed his secretary and Prime Minister reach them right then, only a few feet behind them.

Tony and Natasha bowed to the royals, and Bucky nodded in return as Y/N just smiled and shook their hands, ushering them closer as they noticed the paparazzi nearby. “How about you smile for the cameras once, the paparazzi look excited.” Tony said, and Y/N chuckled, smiling along with all of them before motioning for them to follow her into the palace.

A lady walked towards them, bowing to all of them and then smiling at Y/N, almost looking relieved to see her.

“Y/N- Your Grace, welcome back. Welcome to Themyscira, Your Majesty, Prime Minister Romanoff and Mr. Stark. My name is Margaret Carter, I am Her Grace’s assistant, and I will also be in charge of your Royal Tour scheduled for tomorrow. Would you like me to escort you to your rooms?” Y/N raised an eyebrow as she stared at her. “You’ll leave me alone here, Pegs? With him?” She said, jerking her head in Manny’s direction who just scowled at her.

Everyone around her stared at her as Peggy just rolled her eyes and smiled. “I’m not leaving you alone in the middle of this palace, and I’m pretty sure he won’t hit you, Your Grace. Would you, Manny?”

Manny opened his mouth, but another voice said, “I would, she probably deserved it.”

Y/N sighed and clapped her hands, looking towards the stairs with a smile. “Please meet my siblings, Your Majesty.”

Two men and a lady walked towards them, everyone turning and bowing before returning to what they were doing. “Prince Thor, the oldest, Princess Diana, the second-born, and Prince Loki, the third sibling.”

Loki smirked as he stood beside Y/N. “You forgot to introduce yourself, little sister. Y/N, youngest and heir to the throne.”

Bucky chuckled as he greeted everyone, walking along as they all got seated in a room. Steve and Manny stayed outside, while Tony and Natasha had taken their seats beside Bucky.

“Thor is an architect,” Y/N said, watching Thor converse with Natasha while Tony and Loki engaged in a deep debate.

“I heard Princess Diana abdicated,” Bucky used, sipping his tea as he observed the sisters. “Any particular reason, Your Grace?”

Diana smiled, one that looked tired of the question making Bucky wish he could take it back. “Well, I was never interested in the throne and royal duties, my love was always for things beyond this empire. And I found him outside too,” she twisted the ring around her finger and gazed at it fondly, “he made me believe I was more than what everyone wanted me to be, and has stayed by my side as I made this decision as well. Now as Mrs. Trevor I feel more as me than I did as Diana, heir apparent to the throne of Themyscira.”

Bucky gazed at his own rings, the sapphires and opals glimmering under the fancy lights as he remembered the history of them. “I… I never thought of it, to be honest,” he sighed, pulling out the ring on his left middle finger; a gift from his grandfather. “All my life, I’ve been told that I was born to be King, and that Frigus was my right. But now that I am King, I see it’s more of a responsibility and honour than people make it to be.”

Y/N smiled to herself, opening her mouth, when her assistant walked into the room. “Pardon me, Your Grace, but it’s time.” Y/N glanced apologetically at Bucky before standing up, sticking her hand out.

“My apologies, Your Majesty. Duty calls. I will be seeing you soon, I suppose.” “Oh you will, Your Grace. Until we meet again.” Bucky shook her hand, but decided to call out to her just as she was about to leave the room.

“Also, why is it Your Grace? Aren’t princesses referred to as Royal Highnesses?” Y/N laughed, the sweet sound filling his ears and making him break a smile as well.

“Oh the ladies of this empire loved to be referred to as graceful rather than high, that’s it.”

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[violinsweetiemiss]

Phoenix Aurora Chapter 3 (Got7 Jinyoung X OC)

For a long moment, the entire main hall was completely silent. Court officials stared at each other, as did the other princes besides Jinyoung and Jaebeom. 

Had they just heard her right?

The Empress had chosen not one the princes that were known for their swordsmanship or their archery abilities, nor had she chosen any of the princes that had already made a name for themselves in court.

Instead, she had chosen the gentle, scholarly Fifth Prince?

Jinyoung stared at the Empress, shocked to the core. He was the last person he had ever expected her to choose. Surely, she had made a mistake. Too much alcohol perhaps? And yet, here she was, standing right in front of him with a small smile on her face that made it clear there would be no questioning her choice. For once, even the king was flabbergasted.

“Your Majesty...what did you just say?” He asked. Jang Soyoung turned and looked at him, an unperturbed smile on her face.

“I said,” She replied, “I would like to marry the fifth prince, Park Jinyoung.” Her dark, steady gaze narrowed, sending a shiver down Jinyoung’s back.

“I do not wish to repeat myself a second time.” She added firmly. The king slowly composed himself and then hesitated before speaking.

“But Your Majesty…” He said carefully, “Jinyoung is...simply a scholarly boy. He is intelligent, that is true, but he is neither an experienced politician nor a brilliant fighter. Why do you want to marry him?” Jang Soyoung thought for a moment before smirking.

“That is true.” She said, “He is none of the things that someone would expect to see in a person I choose to be prince consort. However…” She reached up and tapped her head.

“I do not need a warrior as a husband.” She stated, “If that was the case, I would have married someone from Yuan and arranged for a union between our countries a different way. What I need is someone with his intelligence, who can stand by my side with unwavering loyalty. Park Jinyoung has exactly what I need.” Jinyoung shot a pleading look at Jaebeom, and then his father, but he could tell that both were at a loss. It was clear the Empress had already made up her mind. There was nothing that could be done. 

“King of Goryeo.” Jang Soyoung raised an eyebrow, “I recognize he is one of your two precious sons born of the late queen. However, you cannot coddle him within the Goryeo boundaries forever.” The king swallowed hard and slowly nodded.

“I understand.” He said, “If it is Jinyoung that Your Majesty wishes to marry, then it will happen. I am sure he will live a good life in Yuan.” Jang Soyoung smiled and bowed politely.

“Of course.” She replied, “I thank you, King of Goryeo, for allowing me to marry your precious son.” Jinyoung fell back into his chair, his legs going weak.

It was the most impossible of results, and yet, here it was. 

He was going to marry the Empress of Yuan.

____________________________________________________________________________

The rest of the banquet passed by without any issues, but Jinyoung barely noticed time going by. Although bewildered by the whole mess, the court officials came to congratulate him on the upcoming marriage. Jaebeom, thankfully, moved quickly to intercede the cups of wine offered from the court officials, allowing Jinyoung to think through the matters with a clear mind.

The more Jinyoung thought about it, the more the whole matter didn’t make sense to him. What had the Empress seen in him? What had he done that had caught her attention by the time half the banquet was over, that had made her so certain she wanted to marry him? No, it couldn’t possibly be based on the banquet alone. The way the empress looked at him, the certain smile on her face...it all made Jinyoung think back to the girl at the teahouse earlier that day. And so, as the banquet came to a close and the guests retired to their rooms, Park Jinyoung made up his mind.

Sitting here wondering isn’t going to get me any answers.

After asking around for a short while, Jinyoung made his way directly to the Empress’s guest chambers. Unfortunately, he was promptly blocked at the door by two guards, who refused to move even when he made his identity clear.

“What’s going on?” Her voice, the clear authoritative tone, rose from inside the closed doors. Glaring at the guards, Jinyoung called out loudly in response.

“The Fifth Prince Park Jinyoung requests an audience with Her Majesty!” He called out. There was a long silence, then a soft laugh came from inside.

“Let him in.” 

The guards promptly moved aside, and Jinyoung swiftly made his way inside the guest chambers. He didn’t think of himself as a rash person; growing up in the palace had taught him to think three times before he did anything. But this time, he needed answers, and he wasn’t going to stop until he got them when his future was on the line. 

He could see the Empress sitting on her bed behind a delicate paper screen as he entered, and he promptly stopped in his tracks to maintain propriety. 

“My apologies, Your Majesty.” Jinyoung said quickly, “I did not realize you were preparing for bed.” Her soft laugh, like windchimes blowing in the night breeze, fluttered from behind the screen. 

“Not to worry, Fifth Prince.” She replied, “I was simply preparing for a night walk through the palace. However, it seems like you have an urgent matter you need to discuss with me.” Jinyoung hesitated for a brief moment, then charged forward with his question.

“My apologies if I am being too frank.” He said, “But why does Your Majesty want to marry me?” There was a brief moment of silence, and then the empress laughed again. Slowly, she rose from her seat and stepped out from behind the thin paper screen. Jinyoung stared for a brief moment, a hot flush rising to his cheeks. In the short time since the banquet had ended, the empress had changed into a thinner lilac and white gown, one far simpler than the elaborate dress she had worn for the banquet. The silky fabric fell smoothly down her body, hugging her waist and showing off her well toned figure. The elaborate headdress had be replaced instead with soft purple flowers and two intricate hairpieces that matched her dress. It was far from a nightgown, and she had pulled a cloak on over the dress, but Jinyoung had never been this close with a woman dressed in anything short of full formal attire.

“Is that all this is about?” Empress Soyoung asked, drawing Jinyoung out of his daze, “You rushed all the way into an unmarried woman’s room late at night to ask something I already answered?” Jinyoung cleared his throat loudly in an attempt to clear his mind.

“That is...I need more answers than that.” He said, “Your Majesty, as my father said, I am neither a warrior nor a politician. I cannot help you in your conquests nor can I help you in court. What is it that you like about me?” The Empress tilted her head slightly and looked at him for a long moment before smiling ever so slightly.

“Indeed, you are not a warrior.” She replied, “But I am. A warrior doesn’t need a warrior by her side. To put two strong warriors together only calls for disaster. And if you want to learn, I can still teach you in the future.” 

“But I am not well versed in Yuan politics, nor do I know anything about Yuan that would be helpful as prince consort!” Jinyoung protested. The Empress laughed and stepped closer to him, and on instinct, Jinyoung took another step back.

“You will learn quickly.” She replied, “You are an intelligent man, are you not?” 

“I’m only a scholar!” Jinyoung countered, “Simply a scholar! I’d rather spend my entire day sitting and reading in the library!” Empress Soyoung chuckled and shook her head.

“Fifth Prince, do not underestimate yourself so much.” She said, “You are not simply a scholar. You are observant, careful, astute, and think quickly on your feet. Those are the qualities that I need in a husband.” Something cold bumped up against Jinyoung’s back, and with a start he realized that at some point, he had backed directly into the cold stone wall that lined the guest chambers. He spluttered for something to say as Jang Soyoung gazed intently at him.

“Is there anything else you would like to ask, Fifth Prince?” She asked coolly, seemingly unperturbed by the fact that they were merely inches apart. Jinyoung swallowed hard, his throat going dry.

“I barely said a word all night.” He said, “How did Your Majesty see all those qualities in me?” The Empress raised an eyebrow, then laughed at the question. Jinyoung gulped as she stretched out her hand next to him and pressed it against the wall behind him, bringing her even closer to the young prince’s face. 

“Whoever said this was the first time we met?” She replied, “Little poet.” Jinyoung’s eyes widened as he took in what she was saying. 

So I wasn’t imagining that deja vu!

“Your Majesty...you...you were at the teahouse?” He spluttered, “What were you doing there?” The corner of Jang Soyoung’s lips turned up in a small smirk, and suddenly Jinyoung felt once again like he was watching a little wildcat. 

And once again, the cat’s target was him.

“Did Your Highness not say that I would only choose the best to be my other half?” She responded instead, “Then trust that you are the best, and stop asking so many questions.” His heart hammering in his chest at their proximity, Jinyoung could only nod.

“Y-yes. I understand.” He spluttered, at a loss for words. On his way here, he had thought of a hundred different arguments to convince the empress not to marry him. But no matter what he said, she had an immediate counterargument to stop him in his tracks. 

The message was clear: Jang Soyoung was not taking no for an answer.

Sensing there was nothing more he could say, Jang Soyoung pulled away at last.

“If Your Highness is finished, I will be taking my walk now.” She declared, and walked out of the guest chambers as if nothing had ever happened. Jinyoung watched her go, his jaw dropping as he slowly took in all that had just happened.

Just what is this woman?

____________________________________________________________________________

“Just who is this woman?” Jinyoung’s angry voice echoed across the room as he paced across the Crown Prince’s chambers, his hands clasped tightly behind his back.

“Just what sort of woman is she?” He said to no one in particular, “I couldn’t get in a single word with her! I’ve never seen a woman this stubborn, this intent on one thing before! What am I, her prey? What sort of woman just declares someone is going to be her husband and expects him to accept it!” Jaebeom chuckled and rose to his feet, his gentle hands pulling Jinyoung to a stop.

“Brother, brother, calm down.” He said, “You are going to wear a hole in the floor at this rate.” Jinyoung huffed angrily.

“Hyung-nim!” He protested, “I don’t want to marry her!”

“I know, I know.” Jaebeom said soothingly, “But if she is the girl from the tea house, didn’t you find her intriguing?” Jinyoung huffed again.

“That was then, and this is now!” He stated, “I found her straightforwardness interesting, and at that point she did pose a fun challenge to me. But this is completely different! Just because I found that one experience interesting doesn’t mean I wouldn’t mind marrying her!” Jaebeom patted Jinyoung on the shoulder gently.

“I know, I know.” He said again, “You like to take things slowly when it comes to women. To have someone just walk up and declare you will marry her is completely opposite to what you wanted.”

“Exactly!” Jinyoung replied with a little angry stomp on the floor. 

“But think about it this way,” Jaebeom said, “Perhaps she is precisely the type of woman you need. She is the complete opposite of you, but sometimes that is the best pairing someone can ask for.”

“No!” Jinyoung insisted with a growl, “I know she isn’t the right match for me! And now I’m going to have to spend the rest of my life in a different country with a woman I couldn’t possibly love!” Jaebeom clapped a hand over Jinyoung’s mouth, his gentle gaze narrowing in a second.

“Quiet.” He scolded, “Don’t let anyone hear you say that. Everyone of course acknowledges you and the empress don’t love each other, but who knows what trouble will be created if you say it that loudly?” Of course Jinyoung understood what his brother was talking about. There was no way he and the empress felt anything for each other, but if he made it too obvious, it would become a weakness for others to exploit for their ulterior motives. Who knew what rumors would start spreading if he was too vocal about the matter? It was safest to keep his head down and follow the prearranged path. 

Like it or not, he would have to go to Yuan.

“Look at things this way, Brother.” Jaebeom suggested, ‘It could be much worse. At the very  least, you must admit she is beautiful.” Jinyoung thought for a moment about the comment, and had to admit the Crown Prince was right. Slowly, he found his mind wandering back to the way he had seen Jang Soyoung last, dressed in a soft lilac dress with flowers in her hair. If he hadn’t known better, he would have thought she was a nobleman’s daughter who had befriended one of his sisters. Somehow, his mind also wandered back to the way she had leaned close to him, her face inches from him as she spoke, the soft scent of floral perfume floating off her long flowing hair as her pink lips turned up slightly in the faintest of smiles…

“Jinyoung?” Jaebeom’s voice drew him back to the present, and he blinked in confusion as he saw his brother staring at him.

“What?” He asked, realizing he had frozen in place.

“You’re blushing.” Jaebeom replied, poking at Jinyoung’s cheeks, “Are you thinking of the empress?” Jinyoung cleared his throat and turned away in embarrassment, flapping a hand at his cheeks at a futile attempt to calm himself.

Where is my mind going?

“So what if she’s beautiful?” He replied, trying to pull the conversation back on track, “It doesn’t mean I’ll have to like her.” Jaebeom chuckled knowingly.

“So you were thinking of the empress.” He affirmed, playfully giving him a shove on the shoulder. Jinyoung huffed, feeling his cheeks grow hot again. 

“That’s enough for tonight!” He declared, “I’m tired! I’m going to bed!” With that, Jinyoung rushed out of the Crown Prince’s quarters before Jaebeom could say anything, and hurried off into the night.

____________________________________________________________________________

Elsewhere, Jang Soyoung stood in the royal garden, her hands trailing lightly over a large pink flower that glimmered in the moonlight.

“My Lady.” Hyojun said quietly from her side, but didn’t say anything else. Jang Soyoung smiled faintly.

“Go ahead and ask.” She said, “You also want to know why I chose the Fifth Prince, don’t you?” 

“Indeed, My Lady.” Hyojun replied, “He is the most unassuming prince, the one few people think of as being a powerful player in court. Don’t you need someone strong and powerful to stay by your side?” Soyoung smiled and tsked softly.

“Hyojun, I thought you, out of all people, would understand my choice.” She said. Hyojun dipped his head.

“I’m sorry, My Lady.” He said quietly. Soyoung laughed softly and shook her head.

“It is because he is unassuming, it is because he is the least likely choice that I chose him.” She replied, “All the court officials were constantly wondering who I would pick as prince consort, wondering which powerful player I would bring into the fight to hold onto my throne. You know they were all preparing to fight against the strongest possible player I could have chosen. And yet, Park Jinyoung is someone they are not prepared to face. His strengths lie not in his backing, or his physical strength, but in his intellect. And that is something nobody but himself can control. That is the type of man I need by my side.” A smile turned up the corner of her lips as she continued walking.

“And besides...he is the first person to have held my attention for so long.” Soyoung mused softly, “The way he speaks, the way he recites his poems, the way he smiles...I’ve never been so attracted to one man before.”

“My Lady holds affection for the Fifth Prince already?” Hyojun asked, sounding skeptical. Soyoung laughed and poked her guard lightly on the forehead.

“Look at you, speaking as if you have so much experience with love.” She teased, then shook her head.

“It is too soon to say if there is affection.” She said, “Rather, right now I’d say if I need someone from Goryeo to stand by my side for the rest of my life, I wouldn’t mind it being him.” Hyojun didn’t respond, and Soyoung turned to see her guard looking perplexed. Shaking her head, knowing that he hadn’t quite followed, she turned back and continued on her way through the royal garden. Her mind wandered back to the Fifth Prince’s wide eyed gaze as she leaned closer to him in her chambers, her eyes narrowed and making it clear she was not going to be accepting any of his protests. His cheeks had been flushed, giving off an impression of an innocent puppy. Holding back a soft laugh, Soyoung smiled as she continued on her walk.

How cute.

__________________________________________________________________________

The days between the Empress’s announcement and the day Jinyoung would depart for Yuan with her went by in the blink of an eye, and before he knew it, he was standing outside the palace as the servants loaded the last of their luggage into one of the caravans. Jinyoung gazed up at the palace he had spent his entire life living in. He had never imagined one day that he would be married out of the palace, much less marrying off to a country far away. All of a sudden, he understood how foreign princesses felt in the moments before they left their home to be married to princes and emperors in other countries. Swallowing hard, he turned and looked at his father and brothers, who had come to send him off along with Yugyeom and Youngjae. 

“Father, please take care of yourself.” He said, “I will write home often.” The king nodded and squeezed Jinyoung on the shoulder.

“Take care of yourself in Yuan.” He said, “Remember that you are a foreigner in their country. You must acclimate yourself to their rules and way of life as quickly as possible.” Jinyoung nodded. 

“I will do my best to maintain peace between our countries.” He assured.

“Write to me if you need anything.” Jaebeom said, “I will try my best to answer you quickly.” Jinyoung nodded.

“Please take care of yourself, hyung-nim.” He said, “I leave Father in your care.” Jinyoung took a few steps back, then dipped into a formal bow, his hands trembling slightly as they touched the warm stone ground in front of him.

“I will not disappoint you, Father, Brother.” He promised. Jinyoung rose to his feet, turned, and entered the carriage that was waiting for him. Normally, he would have chosen to ride on a horse, but the journey to the center of Yuan territory was too time consuming and arduous to complete on horseback. Empress Soyoung was already waiting for him inside the carriage, having said her goodbyes to the king before Jinyoung. Dressed in a light aqua green dress, she was the epitome of calm and poise, her slender fingers holding a book calmly in front of her. Jinyoung knew, however, that she hadn’t truly been reading while he said his goodbyes.

“Were you eavesdropping?” He asked. 

“And if I was?” She replied coolly, “Even if I tried, I couldn’t have avoided hearing things.” 

“Are you always this calm with everything?” Jinyoung asked, unable to hold back his curiosity, “You are currently sitting in a carriage with a man you’ve barely known for more than a week.” Jang Soyoung’s gaze rose lightly above the top edge of her book, her dark gaze sending a slight shiver down Jinyoung’s back. The look in her eyes made it clear she would tolerate no nonsense.

“As opposed to what?” She replied, “Gushing like a child over your goodbyes with your family? Squealing over how excited I am about the upcoming wedding? Park Jinyoung, I am not your average woman.”

“That’s not what I meant-” Jinyoug began, but cut off as he heard Im Hyojun, the empress’s personal guard that he had seen at the teahouse and the banquet, call out from his place at the front of the group of travelers.

“Set off!” He called, and the carriage jolted slightly as the horses began moving. Jinyoung quickly pulled back the curtain covering the window in the side of the carriage, and waved to his friends and family as the carriage pulled away. Jang Soyoung sighed as the carriage turned the corner and the castle disappeared into the distance.

“It’s not like you won’t see them again.” She said, “You’re acting like it’s the end of the world.” Jinyoung glanced over at her, but bit his tongue to keep himself from lashing out at the empress.

It’s easy for her to say! She’s not the one who’s marrying into a foreign nation!

“You can come back to Goryeo once a year to visit if you’d like.” The empress stated suddenly, startling Jinyoung from his thoughts. He frowned and peered suspiciously at the empress.

“Really?” He asked. Jang Soyoung scoffed softly, closing the book in her hands with a soft thwack.

“I am not a tyrant, Park Jinyoung.” She said firmly, “You are going to be my husband, not an exotic pet I have to keep locked up. I have no reason to keep you separated from your family forever.” Jinyoung hesitated for a moment, then nodded slightly.

“Thank you.” He said begrudgingly, “Truly.” 

“Mm.” Jang Soyoung replied. The engaged couple sat for a few moments in awkward silence before the empress reached for a stack of papers that had been sitting next to her and handing them to Jinyoung.

“Here. Read these on our way to the capital.” She said. Jinyoung looked at the papers skeptically.

“What are they?” He asked. 

“Some basic information about our court, the names and pictures of the highest ranking court officials and information about them, the most important members of the royal family, and things like that.” Jang Soyoung replied, “It’s all information that will be useful in the future.” Jinyoung raised an eyebrow.

“You want me to have all of this down by the time we get to Yuan?” He asked, “Do you realize that this is information you spent your life learning?” Jang Soyoung smiled, fixing her unwavering gaze on him.

“You are the most intelligent man in Goryeo.” She said, “Surely you can learn it all, right?” Jinyoung swallowed hard, then bit back the protests that were rising in his chest. In the blink of an eye, the empress had managed to put his reputation and intelligence on the line, all based on a stack of flimsy paper! If he didn’t manage to even memorize such basic information, both he and Goryeo would surely lose face. 

“Fine.” He said, “Very well.” The couple sat in silence as they traveled, the only sound in the carriage the sound of pages flipping as Jinyoung read through the materials the empress had given him. His fingers stilled as he reached the middle of the stack, his gaze pausing on the person drawn on the paper. The person was an austere looking man with cold serious eyes, his lips pressed together in a thin line that gave off the impression of being cold and ruthless. Jinyoung’s gaze traveled over to the name written on the side of the paper.

Temur Qayisan...Korean name Jang Jaewon. 

Jang Soyoung looked over as she noticed Jinyoung’s fingers still, and scoffed softly.

“I see you’ve found my Uncle, the Grand Preceptor.” She stated. Jinyoung raised an eyebrow as he looked at her.

“Your Uncle?” He repeated.

“Mm.” The empress replied, “Do me a favor and try to stay away from him.” Jinyoung frowned in confusion.

“But why?” He asked, “I’ve long heard that he is a powerful player in court.” Jang Soyoung looked thoughtful for a moment before smiling mysteriously and simply shaking her head.

“Just...avoid him if you can.” She repeated. Jinyoung looked back down at the drawing in his hand, confused as ever about what the empress was talking about.

Jang Jaewon...just who are you?

____________________________________________________________________________

Khanbaliq, Yuan Territory

The sound of birds chirping could be heard in the royal garden of the Mongol palace. The soft sounds of the rushing man made stream bubbled in the air, the soft spots of color that were butterflies dancing across the carefully tended flowers. In a pavilion near the middle of the royal garden, a tall man in mahogany red robes stood watching over the scene, his hands clasped behind his back. As he stood  there, a figure dashed up to him and bowed.

“News has just arrived.” The newcomer said, “The empress is on her way back from Goryeo, and she is bringing one of the princes with her.” The man in the pavilion chuckled softly.

“So one of the Goryeo boys did catch her eye after all.” He said, “Find out which prince she is going to marry. I need complete information on the future prince consort.” 

“Yes Sir!” The soldier said, and dashed off into the distance. As the man left, Jang Jaewon smiled ever so slightly. 

Little niece...I wonder which prince managed to catch your eye.

[weeb-alcove]

2019 English Playlist

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL77pv5URcE8b4_k9_GQYZoQYz_HhRDP2D 

In English: 

“99″ - Barns Courtney

10ft - Eileen Yo

5 Seconds of Summer Babylon Easier Lie to Me  Teeth

88rising History Midsummer Madness ♪ from their album Head in the Clouds II ♬ Breathe I Love You 3000 II Indigo Strange Land These Nights

Affection - Between Friends

Aftertaste - Whethan

Ain’t Goin Back - Russ

Alan Walker Are You Lonely Different World Do It All for You Lily  On My Way Play

All Fall Down - Johnny Glenn & Ally Hills & Just Juice

All Over Again (remix) - Lost You & Michael Moawad

Another Summer Night Without You - Alexander 23

Aphrodite - Rini

Ariana Grande Esta Noche ♪ from her album thank u, next ♬ bloodline in my head NASA

Arms Around You - XXXTentacion & Swae Lee & Lil Pump

Ava Max Freaking Me Out (Bingo Players remix) Not Your Barbie Girl So Am I

Bae - Trevor Wesley

Bars and Melody Lighthouse (Dave Winnel remix) Waiting for the Sun

Bazzi Caught in the Fire Focus Mine Myself No Way!

Beat of My Drum - Powers

Benee Evil Spider Find an Island Glitter  Monsta Want Me Back  Wishful Thinking

Better Not - Louis the Child

Big Sean Berzerk Single Again

Billie Eilish everything i wanted  When I Was Older ♪ from her album WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO? ♬ 8 bad guy bury a friend ilomilo  my strange addiction wish you were gay  xanny 

Birthday Party - AJR 

Break Your Heart - Taio Cruz

broken - lovelytheband

Caffeine and Dopamine - Keepitinside

Camila Cabello Find U Again  Señorita  ♪ from her album Romance ♬ Bad Kind of Butterflies  Liar My Oh My Shameless  Should’ve Said It

Cardi B Money Please Me

Catch Feelings - Henry Young & Zachary

Céline - Gallant

Cemetery - Coin

Chanel - Frank Ocean

Chase - Aaron Carpenter

Cherry Cola - Kuwada

Cigarette - offonoff & Tablo & MISO

Clairo Sofia Throwaway

Close to Me - Ellie Goulding & Diplo & Swae Lee

Cold - Boy In Space & unheard

Come My Way - Plvtinum

Conan Gray Generation Why Greek God  Maniac The King 

Creep - Radiohead (GAMPER remix & Dadoni & Ember Island)

Crush - Lucian & Tiffany Day

Crying My Eyes Out - Stephen Puth

Crystal Dolphin - Engelwood

Dangerous Love - Justice Carradine

David Guetta Better When You’re Gone Blame It on Love

Daya Insomnia Left Me Yet Wanted

Don’t Be Gone Too Long - Chris Brown

Don’t Lie to Me - Lena

Don’t Start Now - Dua Lipa

Eric Nam ♪ from his album Before We Begin ♬ Congratulations  Love Die Young

Everything - TobyMac

Eyes Wide Shut -  Glades 

Falling - Trevor Daniel

Fine - Rufus

Finneas I Don’t Miss You at All  Let’s Fall in Love for the Night

Fitz and the Tantrums Hand Clap Out of My League

Flower - Johnny Stimson

Friends - Feyde

Funeral - Miguel

G-Eazy 1942 Nadie Como Tu 

Get Away - Ed Black

Giants - Becky G & Keke Palmer & Soyeon & Duckwrth & Thutmose

Glass Animals Life Itself The Other Side of Paradise 

Greyson Chance Boots Shut Up

Halsey Eastside Graveyard

Heart in Tokyo - Good Gasoline

Heartstrings - STVN & Jenna Carlie

Her - Alex Aiono

Hey Violet Better by Myself Queen of the Night

High School - Umi

Hometown Smile - Bahjat

Honne  Crying Over You  Day 1

How Do You Sleep? - Sam Smith

IDK - Bruce Wiegner

I Fall in Like Too Easily - Ashton Arbab

I Feel Love - Suggi

If I Can’t Have You - Shawn Mendes

If You Need Me - Julia Michaels

If You’re Over Me - Years & Years

I Heart You - Baby Ariel

I’ll Be There - King Henry & Sasha Sloan

ILYA - Fly By Midnight

In Betweenin’ - Austin Brown

Indiana Massara Apology Smoke in My Eyes

i think i love you (but i dont like you) - push baby

It’s Not You It’s Me - 6LACK & Bea Miller

Japanese Denim - Daniel Caesar

Jaymes Young Infinity  Northern Lights 

Joji Sanctuary  Test Drive Yeah Right

Jonas Brothers Only Human Sucker

Juliet - Sebastian Javier

June - Sage Charmaine

Just My Luck - Tia Ray & Kehlani

Kailee Morgue Go to Sleep Headcase

Katy Perry 365 Harleys in Hawaii

Kiss Me Thru the Phone - Soulja Boy

Lalala - Y2K, bbno$

Last Hurrah - Bebe Rexha

Lauv Drugs & the Internet I’m So Tired

Lava Lamp - Dandi

Left to Right - Marteen

Lennon Stella La Di Da Polaroid Workin’ on It

Lifeguard - iamnotshane

Lovefool - The Cardigans

Love Me Wrong - Allie X & Troye Sivan

Love You Like That - Dagny

Madison Beer Fools  Hurts Like Hell

Maggie Lindemann Friends Go Would I

MAGIC! Girl at Coachella Lay You Down Easy 

Make You Mine - Public

Mango Love - Shawn Wasabi & SATICA

Mask - joe.k

MAX Love Me Less One Two Things Worship

Middle of the Night - Monsta X

Miss Americana & the Heartbreak Prince - Taylor Swift

MØ Blur Don’t Leave Kamikaze Nostalgia  On & On  Red Wine 

Mona Lisa - Valntn & Peter Fenn

mxmtoon Blame Game Prom Dress

My Family - Karol G & Migos & Rock Mafia & Snoop Dogg

Nobody - Emilee

No Sleep - Martin Garrix & Bonn

Nostalgia - The Beamish Brothers

NOTD Keep You Mine Romantic (NOTD remix) So Close

Ocean Man - Ween

October - Alessia Cara

Oh Wonder I Wish I Never Met You Super Love

Only You - Cheat Codes & Little Mix

On the Low - Justin Park

Pardon Me - Dion

Permission - New Hope Club

Pharmacy - Isaac Dunbar

Pink - No Rome

Post Malone ♪ from his album Hollywood’s Bleeding ♬ A Thousand Bad Times Circles Die for Me  Goodbyes Take What You Want 

PRETTYMUCH Blind Solita

Quinn XCII U & Us Wayback (remix)

R3HAB All Comes Back To You Don’t Give Up on Me Now Lullaby This Is How We Party

Raincoat - Kieron Lee & Chloe Ho

Rebels - Ivy Adara

Red Sippy Cup - Ellis G & Tristen the God

Rei Brown Picture Frames Real Love

Rescue Me - OneRepublic

Right Now - Nick Jonas & Robin Schulz

Rolex - Ayo & Teo

Roots - Galantis & Valerie Broussard

Roxanne - Arizona Zervas

Ruel Free Time Real Thing Younger

Say It to My Face - Maty Noyes

Selena Gomez Bad Liar I Can’t Get Enough

Sick Thoughts - Lewis Blissett

Skeletons - keshi

Speechless - Dan + Shay

Stay Home - Faye Risakotta

Sugarplum Elegy - Niki

Summer Love - Hyu

Summer Time High Time - Cuco & J-Kwe$t

Summertime in Paris - Jaden & Willow

Suncity - Khalid & Empress Of

Superfruit - Maude Latour

Sweet Little Lies -  bülow

Swimming in Your Feelings - Haven

Talking Loud - Jennifer Zhang

Tell Me - Mika-Intersection

tell me how you rly feel - adam&steve & Lostboycrow

Tessa Violet Bad Ideas Crush

Thank You - Junny

The Chainsmokers Family Kills You Slowly Takeaway

The Vamps All Night All the Lies Can We Dance  Just My Type  Middle of the Night Missing You  Somebody to You  We Don’t Care 

Think About Me - dvsn

Tired - Jasmine Sokko

Tomorrow Tonight - Loote

Virtual Reality - ieuan

Waste My Time - Grace VanderWaal

Why Don’t We Come to Brazil I Don’t Belong in This Club I Still Do Mad At You  Unbelievable  What Am I (Casualkimono remix)

Why Don’t We - Austin Mahone

Why Haven’t I Met You? - Cameron Dallas

Woke Up Late - Drax Project & Hailee Steinfield

Yellow Hearts - Ant Saunders

Yoandri All the Way Bravo Cherry on Top It’ll Be Ok Only You

You & Me - Marc E. Bassy

You Got Issues - spring gang & Amaranthine

Young the Giant Apartment  Cough Syrup

Zayn Rumors There You Are

In French:

Tous Les Mêmes - Stromae

In Spanish:

Rebeca - Mc Livinho & Gerex & Maejor

Teléfono - Aitana (remix with Lele Pons)

Electronic:

Monster Gambling in Tokyo - Idealism

Sorry I Like You - Burbank

Sunset Lover - Petit Biscuit

[panda-noosh]

Fools Gold {Prince Zuko x Reader}

  Words: 8k 

  Summary: You and Zuko aren’t supposed to be together, but the rules set in place do very little to stop the feelings that have always been there. 

  Genre: angst

  Warning:

  Notes: hola please enjoy thank you xx 

  ---

    Zuko pressed his lips against your own. There was a literal spark.

   You didn't flinch away, used to the feeling of the flames that shot between the two of you when you got like this; it was difficult to control, a hunger that erupted in your stomach and showed itself through your powers. It didn't matter how many years you practised your control – Zuko always managed to bring them out of you.

   His hands were warm against your hip bones, rubbing circles into the flesh as the two of you stumbled into the closest bedroom. The back of your thighs hit off the edge of the bed and you both tumbled, him straddling you with little to no intentions of stopping.

    You weren't complaining.

   Your fingers trailed through his hair, tugging on the strands and he groaned into your mouth, the noise being the only reason his lips detached from your own. It did not last long, however, as he was back to kissing you in a matter of seconds, rougher this time, as if in warning.

    “Zuko,” you choked out, pressing your fists against his shirt. “Zuko, I have work. Your father will be expecting me in-”

    “He can wait,” was Zuko's abrupt reply before he was kissing you all over again. “I haven't seen you in days. He's been keeping you all to himself.”

  “He is the one paying me,” you replied.

   Zuko rolled his eyes, finally sitting up and sighing. You looked up at him, the way his eyes blew out, the new swell of his lips. He ran his hands through his freshly tousled hair, trying to flatten it out after your fingers had attacked it only seconds before.

   He looked peaceful, despite the crease between his brows.

   You reached up and wound your fingers through the tassels on his fine silk coat. He looked down at you, smiling warily as if trying to assure you that he was okay, everything was fine.

   You could read him better than that, though.

   “Nobody is going to find out,” you said. “It's been months, Zuko. You don't have to keep worrying. We know what we're doing.”

    Zuko hollowed out his cheeks, finally rolling onto his back beside you. You rolled over to face him, absently messing with his black hair.

    “Do we, though?” he asked. “If we knew what we were doing, we wouldn't be doing this at all.”

 You tensed. His head snapped round in your direction, eyes immediately softening.

   “That's not what I meant,” he said, wrapping an arm around your shoulders and tugging you into his side. “You know that's not what I meant. I love you, but this . . . what we're doing is risky. Most people wouldn't even think of it.”

    “Then stop thinking about it,” you mumbled, nuzzling your head beneath his chin.

   “That's easy for you to say. If my father sees us together, it'll be me who has to pay the consequences for it. He'll hurt you. Make me watch.”

    “At most, he'll send me away.”

   “And that's supposed to make me feel better?”

   You shrugged. “It's better than him killing me. Better than...” You slowly reached up, grazing your fingers along the scar that covered one half of Zuko's face; you remembered the first time you had seen it, the way Zuko had tried to hide it from your view but without success. You remembered thinking he was the strongest person you had ever met, purely because he could still look his father in the eye even after the terrors that man had put him through.

    Zuko did not shy away from you now, though. He closed his eyes, shivered against your hesitant touch before he pressed his cheek firmer into your palm. You ran your thumb beneath his eye before leaning forward and pressing a kiss to the corner of his mouth.

    “Everything is going to be absolutely fine, Zuko,” you said.

   ---

   “Send in the entertainment.”

  That was your cue.

    Plastering that famous fake smile onto your face, you made your way into the throne room. The doors were held open by two guards, both of whom snickered at your outfit choice – well, choice was a risky word for it. Never would you have chosen such an outfit, but amongst the choices of fools garments you were given, this one seemed most appropriate.

   It was colourful, tiny little bells dangling from the seams that jingled with every move you made. The king looked up at the sudden noise, scowled as soon as his eyes settled on you. You were used to it at this point, having played the kings jester since you were nothing more than a child.

     You grinned at the king, bowing low. Beside him, Zuko was staring at you, flushing red but you had grown used to ignoring the prince and focusing purely on the man you were here to impress.

    “Good afternoon, King Ozai,” you said, bowing lavishly with the jingles to add flare. “How are you today?”

    Ozai looked over you towards the guards. “Is this what you think I need during a time like this? My court jester to come cheer me up?”

    “We thought you just needed a little stress relief, Your Majesty,” the guard replied. “You've been awfully busy lately-”

    “And I will remain awfully busy whether the jester makes an appearance or not,” Ozai growled, before turning his sharp eyes towards you. It was moments like this that made you question why you stayed – moments where Ozai treated you as nothing more than the dirt beneath his shoe.

   Nonetheless, you had been trained for this. You straightened up, folding your hands in front of you and continued to smile. “My apologies if this is a bad time, Your Majesty.”

    Ozai scowled. “How old are you, jester?”

   You froze. This was certainly something you had never experienced before, something you definitely weren't trained in.

   “I'm – I'm eighteen, Your Majesty.”

   Ozai hummed. “The same age as Mai. Perhaps you two will get on well.”

   “Father-” Zuko started, but Ozai cut him off, and it was that very thing that set you on edge.

   Zuko looked most uncomfortable at the mention of Mai. Of course, you had heard of her before, but the two of you had barely any interaction between you – neither of you needed to talk, considering you were the court jester and she was someone far beyond your ranking.

    Zuko shifted in his seat, glancing to the ground as soon as you made to join eyes with him; he had never done that before, either.

   You raised a brow, turning back to the king. “Mai, Your Majesty?”

   “Mm,” Ozai hummed, now absent-mindedly picking at his nails. “She's to move into the palace fairly soon to begin her etiquette lessons for when she becomes Empress. I was in need of someone to befriend her, show her around the palace. I can't think of anyone better than you.”

  You ran his words through your head once more, evaluating his jumbled mess of sentences in any attempt to make sense of what he had just said. Empress. Moving into the palace. Showing her around.

   “Empress?” you spat out before you could stop yourself.

   Zuko inhaled a sharp breath and stood up. “Guards, please escort Y/N out of the palace right this instant.”

   Your eyes widened. You couldn't help it. Your skin was glowing hot, the realisation dawning on you quicker than you could comprehend it; Zuko would be emperor once his father died. If Mai was to be empress, that meant...

   Your head snapped round to Zuko as the guards came to your side and gently escorted you from the room. Even Ozai himself was looking at his son with a raised brow, though nobody said anything in question of his actions – to everybody else, nothing was off. To everybody else, Zuko had just grown tired of the jesters presence, but you knew the real reason behind your banishment.

   Zuko didn't want you to hear the truth. Zuko didn't want to see your expression crumble, didn't want to see the truth dawn upon you whilst he was forced to pretend like the arrangements made were nothing.

   But it was too late for that now. You knew the truth. You had pieced the puzzle together, and now your heart was breaking.

   ---

    You couldn't sleep. That was why you were able to hear Zuko's light footsteps approach behind you as you gazed out over your balcony that night.

    You didn't turn to look at him. It was easier that way. Maybe if you pretended he wasn't there, he would abandon his efforts of explaining and just leave. Maybe if you ignored him, he would get the hint and leave you to suffer on your own.

    The brush of his fingertips against your elbow dispelled those thoughts from your mind almost immediately, too quick for your liking. You squeezed your eyes closed, gritted your teeth, cursed yourself for letting him make you feel this way when you should have known all along that he was not the man for you; he couldn't be.

      “Look at me.”

   His voice was barely audible over the sound of the wind, but you heard him well. You opened your eyes and glanced over your shoulder, intaking the sight of him standing there in all of his glory. His tanned skin was glowing in the moonlight, a ruby robe pulled over his shoulders that was made from finer silk than the clothes you wore on a daily basis. His black hair was ruffled, a sure sign that he had been running his fingers through his own locks with his stress.

    It hurt your heart to see him look so dishevelled, but you remembered the words of his father and turned back to face the view, unable to continue looking at him for any longer than necessary.

   Zuko sighed and stepped forward, shoulder brushing against your own. “You're angry.”

   “I'm confused.”

   “You blame me, and I understand that.”

   The way he said it with such certainty, not even giving you a chance to deny the truth. He didn't ask questions, he said statements. It was the emperor in him.

     “I don't love Mai, Y/N. That's one thing you need to understand,” he continued. “It's an arranged marriage. My father. . . He didn't give me a choice.”

  You bit the inside of your cheek, wrapping your arms around your middle.

   “Are you cold?”

   “I'm fine. I think I'm gonna go back-” Zuko didn't let you finish before he was stripping off his robe and wrapping it over your shoulders. He stood beside you now in nothing more than a thin black shirt and a pair of pyjama bottoms which hung loosely from his waist.

     He folded his arms over his chest and said, “Please stay. Let's talk about this.”

   “You don't have to explain yourself,” you replied. “It's court life. I've lived amongst it all long enough to understand that there's nothing I can do.”

    Zuko sighed. “I'm sorry if I humiliated you in the throne room earlier on. You know I wouldn't have sent you out if I didn't think it was for your own good.”

 “I was going to storm out anyway,” you replied, chuckling softly. “It's a good thing you made the order, or else that might have looked a little suspicious.”

   Zuko scoffed. “It would have looked even more suspicious considering I'd have probably gone after you to make sure you're alright.” He glanced at you. “I don't like seeing you upset, Y/N. Especially when I can't do anything about it.”

    It was right about now that you would have leaned your head against his shoulder, or bundled yourself in his arms, or let him press a kiss to your temple – but neither of you moved. It was an unspoken agreement suddenly set in place; things had changed, and the two of you would be fools for trying to fight past it now. It would only make the situation ten times worse.

    And so you both stayed side-by-side, shoulders touching. It wasn't enough. It would never be enough, not with the feelings you harboured for him, not with the memories the two of you had formed together over the past few years.

   But for now, it was all you could get, and you weren't willing to give it up.

    ---

    You met Mai a few days later.

    Her visit wasn't necessarily unexpected, but that did not stop the jolt that swept through you upon first sight. She was dressed in the finest clothes you had ever seen, red garments, heavy jewellery, her hair tied up in a tight ponytail that made her stern expression look even more dire.

    Her fine clothing and graceful walk was a direct contrast to the colourful clothes you were forced to wear, stood in the far corner of the throne room alongside the other help of the palace. Mai and her family were shaking hands with the people they deemed prestigious enough, whilst Zuko and his family stayed rooted to the front of the room, waiting for their greetings to be made.

    Mai barely even glanced in your direction. You were part of the crowd, but clearly not of high enough rank for her to think her time should be wasted saying hello. Not like you minded. Your hands were already trembling, and it would be much too difficult to hide if she decided to deliver courtesy to you.

    She made her way towards the front, bowing to Ozai before turning her full attention on the prince. Zuko's eyes met your own for a fraction of a second, just long enough for you to get the hint – he did not want to be here. If he could have picked any other route, he would have done, and he wanted you to understand that.

   But then he followed orders. He bowed low, pressed his lips to the back of Mai's hand before guiding her to his side as if it were the most natural thing in the world; to him, you supposed it was. He had grown up with etiquette, had been taught from his first steps how to treat a woman of the court.

   You had never received that kind of treatment, though you could barely blame Zuko for such a thing. You were different. You were no person of court, but merely the entertainment who popped in from time to time to make sure the king wasn't grouchy for too long.

   You scowled at the thought. It wasn't often you let your brain wander to those dark areas of your mind – Zuko very rarely let you – but this seemed like an exception.

   “Mai, it is great to see your travels weren't too strenuous,” Ozai began. “I trust you were treated well at the gates?”

   When Mai spoke, there was no emotion in her tone. “I was led directly to the throne room, as I was told would happen.”

   Zuko pursed his lips, looking down at the ground. Nobody else would have noticed the small tick in his jaw, or the way he had to bite down on his tongue to stop himself from saying anything, but you had seen that expression on his face all too often to call it nothing.

   “Well, as you well know, you are here to confirm the joining of our families,” Ozai continued. “Your marriage to my son Zuko is a welcome one, and we are very excited to see you become part of the family.”

   Part of the family. You very nearly rolled your eyes. Ozai could hardly treat his own blood as family, let alone an outsider who clearly wasn't taking too kindly to the idea of being bossed around.

    When Mai didn't reply, Ozai awkwardly coughed and turned back to the awaiting crowd. You straightened up, bells jingling on your shoulders, and tried desperately to make it seem like you weren't crumbling from the inside out, like you didn't feel light-headed with the need to get out of this crowded room as soon as possible.

    “Y/N L/N, please come forward.”

  Your head snapped round so fast that the bells on your shoulders echoed throughout the room. Heads turned to face you, curious whispers filling the room. Zuko slowly looked up, glanced at his father with his lips pursed – this was something they had talked about beforehand, and Ozai clearly had paid him no mind.

   Nonetheless, Ozai was king, and you would be a fool to go against his orders. That was your only wise thought as you stumbled out of the crowd and bowed, even forgetting your usual smile.

    “Mai, meet the court jester, Y/N L/N. They'll be your guide during the first few weeks of your stay,” said Ozai, and your stomach dropped.

   “Father, we discussed this,” said Zuko in a low voice. “I am quite capable of showing Mai around on my own if that's-”

   “Last I recall, Zuko, when we discussed this, I made it very clear that your assistance will not be needed,” Ozai snapped. “Mai needs someone her own age to show her the ropes, someone who has all the time in the world to get her accustomed to her new setting. You, I'm afraid, will be much too busy to take on such a duty.” Ozai smiled, looking back down at you. “Y/N, on the other hand, does not have them same restraints.”

   And that was it. The smile glimmering on the kings face was enough to halt any protestations you may have had, because you knew his mind was made up. Any arguing would lead to something much more dangerous than a scolding, or a nasty glance in your direction; you had no choice but to obey.

   So you did what you did best, and you forced that smile on your face, straightened up your shoulders and said, “It would be my pleasure,” before you offered your arm to Mai.

   ---

    “I hate it. I hate it so fucking much.”

  You flinched, Zuko's use of a curse word being so rare that it had taken you off guard to hear it now.

   The two of you were sat in your usual hiding place – a cupboard beneath one of the many staircases in the palace. After a long and exhausting day of leading Mai around the place, trying desperately to keep up your charade of being the happy-go-lucky jester that people ordered you to be, it was nice to finally be sat by his side again, despite you not being able to touch him in the way you wanted.

   He ducked his head into his hands and groaned again. “You must have had such a difficult time today.”

  “I was alright,” you lied. “You shouldn't be worrying about me, Zuko. It's you that's being forced into this marriage. After a few weeks, I'll be free to do whatever I want.”

   “You'll be forced to sit back and watch me marry a woman I don't love,” Zuko scoffed, glancing at you through a crack in his fingers. “Someone who isn't you.”   You swallowed the golf ball sized lump in your throat, looking away before the tears could spring to your eyes. What would be the point in crying? It would be a waste, and you knew it.

    You hollowed out your cheeks, let your head fall back against the wall with a dull thump. “I'm just so tired, Zuko.”

    “So am I.”

    “We should never have done this in the first place. It's done nothing but cause hassle that could have been avoided if we just didn't. . . . If we hadn't have just. . .”      “Fallen in love with each other?”

   You bit your lip. “Exactly.”

      Zuko was silent for only a moment before his fingers crept over your own. “I want you to know that I don't regret a single moment of it.”

     “That's risky.”

     He scoffed. “Our entire relationship has been risky.”

   And he was right. There was nothing about the relationship you two had formed that would ever be labelled normal, and once upon a time, you had liked that. You had liked the risk of running around and hiding your feelings, liked the risk of making eye contact with Zuko and just knowing that forbidden secret between you both. At one point, it had been the only entertainment you had been given.

   But when feelings suddenly grow into something more than a simple play-thing, it all becomes a little bit more difficult to deal with. That was what happened. You had fallen in love with him, had suddenly wanted a future with him even though you knew full well it was impossible.

    You hollowed out your cheeks and tilted your head back against the wall, basking in the feeling of his fingers creeping through your own. It was the only contact you would risk at the moment, and even on its own it made your chest tighten with the urge to do something more.

   Zuko glanced at you, tightened his grip just that little bit. “I still love you, you know.”

   You closed your eyes, swallowing thickly.

    “Tell me you love me back.”

    “You know I love you.” Your voice shook. “But we can't. . . we can't do this any more.”

    Zuko didn't argue. He merely nodded slowly, looking towards the darkened door his feet were propped against. Over the years, he had grown much too tall for this room, but neither of you cared. It was your place, and would forever stay that way even years after you would be forced to abandon it.

  ---

    “My dress has to match your brothers,” Mai said, shuffling through the freshly adorned wardrobe she had been gifted upon arrival.

   Azula raised a brow, her thin arms folded over her chest. “Is the aesthetic really that important?”

  “No,” Mai grunted. “If it were up to me, I wouldn't even be going to this stupid event, but I'm afraid I have duties to complete and little room to argue.”

  Azula scoffed, glancing in your direction. You quickly looked away, the bells on your hat jingling. Once again you found your afternoon spent slaving beside Mai as she figured out the ways of the palace; it had been nearly two weeks since she had arrived. She was already well aware of the ins-and-outs of the palace, but was choosing to keep you by her side for company at this point.

    Azula and Mai had become friends overtime, as well, meaning you were spending much more time with the princess, a fact which you weren't entirely sure you enjoyed. Though you and Azula had never truly spoken, you had seen her yelling at other servants in the past, had seen the way she treated others, the way she put herself on a higher pedestal than everyone else. She was certainly not your favourite person to be around.

    “What do you think, jester?” she suddenly spoke, snapping you out of your stupor.

   You glanced up anxiously, quickly caught yourself and plastered a smile upon your face. “I'm sorry, Princess Azula?”

    “What dress do you think my brother would like most on his betrothed?”

   Your chest tightened. Mai shot up from the wardrobe, holding two silk dresses in her hands. One was emerald green, made from fine silk, whilst the other was a sharp red colour with jewels bedazzling the low cut neckline.

     Both of them were glamorous, but you knew Zuko would enjoy the red much better; he always claimed to love it when you wore red.

   “The green one,” you replied. “It's very eye-catching. You'll sparkle in that one, Mai.”

    Mai hummed, examining the chosen dress for a little while longer before she shrugged and hung the red one back up. “Give me two minutes to get changed and then we can head down to the gardens.”

    Mai sauntered off, leaving you and Azula in silence. You shuffled to the side, gazing out the window in any attempt to feign nonchalance; there was truly no use in it, though. Not unlike Zuko, Azula had a way with reading energies. If you were any less wise, you would have been convinced that she had known you for years with how fast she was able to pick up on your uncomfortable demeanour.

    “The green one, hm?”

   Your head snapped in her direction. “Yes. Very nice dress.”

    “But are you sure it's the one my brother would have preferred?” Azula raised a perfectly shaped eyebrow, her arms still folded, her expression still menacing. She had features similar to Zuko, and you would be a fool to deny them, but there was certainly a level of evil that was not present on her brothers face.

    “Well, of course I can't say for sure. If you can keep a secret, princess, I chose that dress just because I liked the colouring of it.” You tried for a laugh, but Azula did not join you. She pushed her tongue into her cheek, tilted her head to the side and hummed, running her eyes over your form.

    “The green one was pretty,” she said. “But I know for a fact that my brother would have preferred red. He's always preferred red.” Azula slowly leaned in. “Especially on the people he loves.”

    You inhaled a sharp breath, fighting off the urge to look away. You kept that smile on your face, eyes innocent. “Oh. Well, maybe we should go and tell Mai to change so she can-”

    “He's told you on multiple occasions that he likes seeing you in red, Y/N. Why would you tell Mai that he prefers green when you know full well you're lying?”

   Your heart skipped. Your breathing quickened. Your palms grew slick with sweat, and you quickly shoved them into the deep pockets of your parachute pants in any attempt to hide the clear sign of nerves.

    “I'm – I'm afraid I don't fully understand what you're getting at, princess.” It was a weak comeback, but the safest one, and the only one you could come up with at the moment.

   “Oh honey. I'm not stupid. I have eyes all over this palace, and I have seen everything. Heard everything, whether I wanted to or not.” Azula grimaced. “You two were not nearly as subtle as you thought you were. In fact, with those stupid glances you kept giving each other, I'm surprised my father didn't pick up on it either.”

   You shook your head like you were a child having a tantrum. “Princess, I don't-”

    “Truth to be told,” she continued, starting to pace the room with her hands now behind her back. “I thought it was over. After Mai showed up and Zuko's engagement was announced, I truly thought that not even he would be stupid enough to continue an affair with the court jester.”

     “It is over,” you rushed.  

    “You two may have stopped meeting up and sneaking around, but nothing is over, is it?”

   You didn't quite catch on to what she meant. Raising a brow, you opened your mouth to reply, but Azula was quicker.

    “Mai and I happen to be very close friends, Y/N, as you have seen.” She glanced at you over her shoulder. “I am very protective of my friends, and seeing her get strung along by my brother just because he can't let go of his childish feelings for you is not something I'm particularly fond of.”

    “There are no feelings, Azula. I'm sure – I'm sure that over time, him and Mai will be happy and in love, and – and everything will work itself out. But you have to believe me when I say that Zuko and I aren't – we aren't a thing any more.”

    Azula rolled her eyes. There was no tricking her, and even though you wanted to believe you were telling the truth, even your denial wasn't strong enough to cover up the feelings you knew full well you still harboured for the prince, the feelings he still harboured for you.

    “I really don't appreciate being seen as a fool,” she growled. “I may not know who you are, or the story behind you and my brother, but I can tell when a person is lying. The jester cannot trick the princess – literally.”

    You clenched your jaw, looking away. Tears of anger sprang to your eyes, and it took everything in you to not let them pour down your cheeks.

    She sighed dreamily, circling you not unlike a predator circling its prey. “The party today will be the perfect place for you and Zuko to end things once and for all, don't you think?”

   Your head snapped up. “Sorry?”

    “I'm just thinking, it's going to be most difficult for you and Zuko to dispel your feelings if you're living under the same roof, and Zuko can't move out, of course.” Azula grinned, and even though you knew exactly what her plan was, you let her continue. “That just leaves you. You can be easily replaced, so don't worry about that.”

    “W-what are you suggesting?”

   “I'm not suggesting anything.” And then her fingers were wrapping round your throat, and your back was being pressed against the wardrobe behind you. You grunted, eyes squeezing closed as Azula tightened her grip just enough for your airways to be blocked, just enough to make you panic.

    “I'm telling you what is going to happen,” she growled, leaning in so close that you could smell the ash on her teeth. “You're going to mess something up at the party. Embarrass my father, ruin some decorations – something that will finally pluck at my fathers last nerve, and he is going to banish you from this palace in front of everyone, in front of Zuko. And then my brother will know that there's nothing else he can do but forget about you and whatever stupid little fling the two of you had. Do you understand?”

   “Please,” you choked out. Her grip only tightened. “Azula, I can't br-”

   “I asked you a question,” she growled. “Do you understand?”

   “Yes!” you cried.

   Azula grinned, finally dropping her hand back to her side, wiping it casually on the skirt of her fine dress. Your knees trembled beneath you to the point where they could no longer hold you up, and you were falling to the carpet before you could catch yourself. Your own hand travelled up, tracing gentle circles against the area where Azula's sharp red nails had been piercing your flesh.

    She turned on her heel and strolled over to the mirror, fixing her hair as she did so. “I'm glad we're both on the same page. This could have been a lot more difficult if you hadn't cooperated so easily.”

   ---

   Almost as soon as you stepped into the gardens, Zuko was the first person you saw.

   It didn't matter how big the crowd was – your eyes were drawn to him immediately, and his station at the front of the crowd was doing very little to help with that.

    He stood with his usual tall demeanour, seeming to tower over the people crowding around him. His hair was styled, though the neat ensemble his stylists had clearly tried to make had already been ruined by Zuko no doubt running his fingers through it countless times; now, the black hairs stood up on the back of his neck.

    You itched to reach forward and flatten them, just like you always did, but the knowledge of Azula's presence somewhere in the crowd stopped you. It was easier to just ignore him, to get this moment out of the way and move on with your life once and for all.

   With Zuko or not.

    And so, you started your job. It was easy enough to slip back into the fun, bubbly character you had been hired to be, despite the heavy weight in your stomach and the aching of your chest. The urge to cry was forced to the side, because that was all you could do; it would not look good if the jester suddenly had a breakdown in the middle of the dance floor.

    “Mai is wearing green,” someone whispered to your right as you walked through the crowd. “But the prince is wearing red. Surely they should match for such a prestigious event?”

   “She's new. We have to give her the benefit of the doubt,” somebody else replied. You bristled, quickening your pace to the point where people were glaring at you, the sound of the bells attached to your colourful outfit clearly annoying them.

   You paid them no mind, simply placing that smile on your face and darting through the people until you reached the buffet table, where a mountain of drinks and snacks were set up. You were quick to snatch up a glass of champagne, downing it in a matter of seconds before reaching for another one.

    “Slow down there.”

   You span around, eyes widening at the sight of Zuko and Mai standing behind you – Zuko and Mai, her arm looped through his own, her grimace as broad as ever.

    You forced yourself to smile. You had to. You always had to, no matter how difficult it was to keep the expression up.

   “Prince Zuko! Princess Mai!” you exclaimed, bowing. “Congratulations on the festivities. I've never seen this place look so good.”

    Mai was the one to reply, Zuko too busy staring at you with a raised brow. “I will admit that they clean up nicely. I'm surprised they invited the jester, though. Seems quite inappropriate for a formal banquet.”

   Zuko's head snapped round to his betrothed. “Y/N is a respected member of the court.”

    “Y/N plans on getting a little bit tipsy tonight,” you added – you were just remaining in character.

   That was what you told yourself, even as Zuko's eyes flashed and his mouth dropped open at your sudden confession. The thing was, you weren't even drunk yet. One glass of champagne wasn't going to mess with your thoughts – you were just tired, and judging by the sudden knot in Zuko's brow, he could see that perfectly well.

    Mai hummed. “You are the entertainment. Perhaps it'll be good to see you fall off a table by the end of the night.”

   “I don't take requests,” you replied. “But I can certainly keep it in the back pocket for later use, princess, thank you very much.”

   Zuko coughed. “Mai, if you could leave me alone to talk to the – to the jester for a little bit, that would be very much appreciated.”

   Mai raised a brow. “You expect me to walk around on my own?”

  “I'll be with you shortly. I just have some things to discuss about the entertainment plans.” Zuko smiled at her, a smile he used to save for you. “Don't want the entire evening to be messed up over some bad communication, now do we?”

   Mai hummed again, looked you over one last time before she span on her heel and disappeared into the crowd. Almost as soon as she was gone, Zuko whirled on you and grabbed your arm, dragging you backwards before you could so much as protest.

    “What's wrong with you?” he hissed. “How many glasses of that have you had?”

   You downed your second one, looking him directly in the eye. “Not many.”

    He sighed, grabbed the empty glass from your hand and set it on the table next to him. “Something happened that you're not telling me. You never get this way.”

   “Maybe that's why I finally want to get this way,” you shot back. “Spending my entire life making a complete fool of myself for the entertainment of your father, it's about time I got a chance to relax.”

    “I completely agree, but do you really have to do it here?”

  You rolled your eyes. The anger was bubbling up now, a mix of the alcohol and the previous events tainting your system until you could scarcely stop the words flooding from your mouth; all of it was against your will, your brain foggy both with the champagne and the presence of the prince.

    “I'm sorry if I'm embarrassing you, Prince Zuko.”

   Zuko's eyes widened. “Prince Zuko? Since when do you call me that?”

    “Since you got engaged and tossed me to the side,” you hissed, and it was that very sentence that wrenched at your heart strings, had you very nearly doubling over. You wanted to scream, wanted to stampede right back into the gardens and just let it all out, but Zuko suddenly had his arms around you and there was nowhere else you could go.

   You collapsed against his chest, burying your head into the crook of his neck. He ran his fingers through your hair, swaying back and forth as if you were a child in need of comfort. In your ear, you could hear his voice whispering soothing words, but you couldn't make out what they were, not whilst your sobs were racking your entire body.

    “I'm sorry,” you whimpered against him. “I'm being so selfish. I should – I shouldn't just be thinking of my own feelings.”

   “This is hard on me too, Y/N.”

    You squeezed your eyes closed. “I know. I know that. I do.” You pulled away then, reached up and cupped his face. His own eyes were wide, looking down at you with a thin sheen of tears swept over the top of them. You had seen him cry before, had held him as sobs racked his body, but this was a different feeling altogether; never before had you seen him look genuinely heartbroken. Not until now.

    “God, I just love you so much, Zuko,” you whispered. “And this is the last time I'll ever get to see you like this.”

    Zuko faltered, his eyebrows knotting together. “What do you mean?”

   “I have to go,” you replied.

   “Go where?” he pushed, curling his fingers around your wrists, keeping your hands pressed into his cheeks.

    “Away,” you said. “Azula doesn't want me here. Your father . . . Once he finds out what happened between us-”

   “He won't find out. What are you talking about?” Zuko stepped forward, his chest nudging your own. “Wasn't it you who was saying we would be fine only a few weeks ago?”

   “A lot has changed in a few weeks,” you hissed. “Azula knows about us, Zuko. She told me herself.”

   Zuko's features relaxed, his jaw opening slowly as realisation dawned upon him. “She told you to leave.”

    You shrugged. “She made some very decent points.”

   “She doesn't know what she's talking about.” Zuko dropped his hands back to his sides, whirled around and started walking before you had a chance to stop him. You yelped, stumbling forward and scrambling for his wrist, but his movements were quicker than you could ever possibly be. “Where is she?”

   “Zuko, stop this,” you hissed. “People are staring! People are going to know!”

   He reached behind him, grabbed your hand and dragged you to his side. He had dropped all pretence of subtlety now, wrapping his arm around your waist in a way that could not be mistaken for anything other than what it was. The eyes of the crowd burned into your back as you walked, but you found an odd sense of comfort with having Zuko beside you.

    “Where is my sister?” Zuko demanded of one of the stall workers.

   The elderly mans watery grey eyes widened, snapping down to the place where Zuko's fingers were curled protectively around your waist. You had the sudden urge to pull away, but remained rooted to your spot.

    “She – She was with your betrothed last time I checked, Prince Zuko,” the man replied. “Y-You're betrothed is correct?”

  Zuko didn't answer, simply started walking towards the main part of the party. You stumbled after him.

   “Zuko, please calm down,” you said.

   “She's gone too far,” he growled. “It's one thing teasing me about every person I lay eyes on, but it's another going after the person I love. She has no right to banish you from this palace-”

    “Azula doesn't, but I certainly do.”

   Oh god no.

   You froze. Zuko froze. The world froze.

   His voice was like ice, cold fingertips trailing down the base of your spine. It was the voice that had ordered you around for most of your life, the voice that you obeyed no matter the circumstances. It was the very same voice that had terrified you for years.

   It was the last voice you wanted to hear right now.

   Zuko was the first to spin around to face his father. You expected him to pull away, to pretend he had never even touched you in the first place, but he did the complete opposite – his fingers gripped your waist a little bit tighter as he pulled you closer protectively.

   Ozai raised a brow, smiling just a little bit. “So Azula wasn't being delusional.”

    “I think we have some things to talk about, father.”

   Ozai raised a hand. “There is nothing to talk about. You've shown me how much respect you have for this family, and it is clearly very little.”

   “King Ozai, please-” you began, but the king was hearing none of it.

   “Do you think it's funny to make this family look like scum, Zuko? Do you think it's brave to try and step outside of tradition?”

   Zuko clenched his jaw. “I can't help that I fell in love.”

   Ozai scoffed. “You know nothing about love, son. You're young, impressionable, rebellious. You hold the jesters hand purely because you want to prove something.”

   Your insides clenched. You knew there was absolutely no truth to his words – you knew Zuko well enough at this point to know he loved you, but it still stung to hear such an accusation be made.

    “I've spent my entire life trying to impress you, father,” Zuko growled. “But this – this is one thing I have to do for myself.”

     Ozai raised a brow. “And what is that?”

  “I'm not marrying Mai. I'm marrying Y/N, whether or not you agree with it.”

   Your heart stuttered, head snapping round to face him. He had to have been joking – there was no other explanation for it. “Zuko, what are you-”

    “You have duties to serve the Fire Nation,” Ozai growled. “You're willing to throw that all away for the help?”

   Zuko gritted his teeth. “If that's what it takes, then yes.”

   “Zuko, stop,” you hissed, whirling around and putting yourself between him and his father. “This isn't funny any more.”

   “I'm not kidding,” said Zuko, looking at you now. “I want to marry you. I've wanted to marry you from the start, but I was too scared.” He looked up at his father, gaze hardening. “I'm not scared any more. You don't deserve what their putting you through, Y/N, and if I have to leave this palace to keep you safe, then that's what I'll do.”

   It went silent. The party goers had long since stopped partying and were now staring daggers at the scene in front of them. They must have been so confused – you couldn't blame them. You were in the centre of it all, and yet you were barely able to wrap your head around what was being said.

    Ozai inhaled deeply. “Then leave this palace you shall.”

   You whirled around. “No! Ozai-”

    But your words were cut off when Zuko's fingers wrapped around your waist and tugged you backwards. You stumbled, quickly spinning and catching yourself before you could fall face first into the dirt. Zuko was wasting no time in front of his father, that much was clear, and as much as you wanted to protest, you found yourself jogging to keep up with his pace.

    “Zuko,” you panted, unable to hold the sobs back. “Zuko, what just happened? What did we just do?”

   “We're getting away from here,” he replied. “We don't have to be scared any more.”

   “This is your home!” you exclaimed, tugging on his hand. “Zuko, stop!”

   And he did. Just before he crossed the threshold between the palace and the Fire Nation, he stopped and turned to look at you. His eyes were watering, his lower lip trembling, and you knew then and there that the tough persona he had been putting on was far from what he truly felt.

   You shook your head. You could have scolded him, called him stupid, refused to leave with him because this was your home just as much as it was his – but you did none of those things. You did the only thing you could think to do in that moment and rushed towards him, wrapping your arms around his shoulders and tugging him into you.

   He broke down as soon as his head was nuzzled in the crook of your neck. His sobs were quiet, obscured by the crackling of the flames alight beside you, but you could hear him sniffling, could feel the damp slick of his tears against your flesh.  

   You trailed your hands through his hair, biting your bottom lip to stop yourself from bursting into tears; it would help no one, and yet holding the man you loved whilst his entire heart was ripped from his chest was making the task of staying composed extremely difficult.

    “We're gonna be okay,” you whispered. “You said that, didn't you? You told me we were going to be fine, and you were right. We will be.”

   He nodded, pulling away to look you in the eyes. His face was puffy, and yet he still managed to offer you the tiniest of comforting smiles. “I know. We always have been.”

     ---

   “Has anyone ever told you how gross you two are?”

    Sokka groaned, throwing his head back. “Finally! Someone said it!”

   “Oh, be quiet,” Katara hissed, slapping Aang and Sokka on their arms. “They're in love. Stop being spoil sports.”

    Zuko grinned against your lips, triggering you into a fit of giggles; the two of you had been pretending like you couldn't hear the protestations of your friends, but the band had been broken now.

   You pulled away, keeping one hand on Zuko's jaw. “Are you guys finished?”

   Sokka's eyes widened. “We could ask you two the same thing!”

    Zuko placed a finger against your chin, tilting your head to look back at him. “No, I don't think we are.” And then he kissed you again, chuckling against your mouth as Sokka and Aang continued to protest behind you.

   None of them would understand, though, and you weren't entirely sure if you wanted to explain it to them. Sometimes it was just easier to keep the feelings of mutual freedom between you and Zuko, because you were the ones who understood it best. After years of hiding around, years of being terrified of your own feelings, it was a very nice change to be sitting around a camp fire with people you genuinely cared about, no longer needing to hide from the fact that you were utterly and completely in love.