#being brought back to see all your siblings have grown up without you

[mmyashas]

theres something so depressing that maybe if this bug had been found out earlier tilin and juana could've lived. like...way longer. and now its basically close to impossible since its been so long :( crying sbbing emoji

[diorchids]

BACKYARD BARBECUE, SIMON ‘GHOST’ RILEY.

— dadsbestfriend!simon, age gap (r is 19-20), size kink, fingering, p in v, praise kink, choking, bruising, nipple sucking, nipple play, outdoor sex, tummy bulges.

you knew he was coming. 

simon is your father's best friend, the two met while stationed. you’d met him enough times to call him an uncle, about a year ago, getting more and more comfortable with him as the months passed.

your skirt billowed in the slight wind, the sun shone as you spoke to family. 

you heard your father chuckle before seeing simon, a few words being exchanged before he made his way over to you. 

he’s taken a liking to you out of all your siblings, making this extremely obvious to you just by the way he treats you. he gets closer to you and immediately hugs you, taking in your smell and planting his large hand on your back.

“hey there, sweetheart. how’s my favorite girl doing?” his scruffy beard scratching your face as his hands moved further down, stopping before breaking the hug.

“hey, si,” you gave a smile, not breaking eye contact for even a second. to anyone, this would be flirting. but it’s not like that. you’re greeting a family friend, attending to your daughterly duties.

“look at you, kiddo, so grown up now.” he stood back and looked you up and down, eyeing your body perversely. 

you two talked, having to practically yell because of the number of people speaking. he knew he had your attention, and he liked it.

“but,” he grinned, taking another step closer. his hand slid down your hip, fingers grazing against the bare skin of your thigh. "why don't we find a nice quiet spot to talk?" he whispered in your ear, his warm breath tickling your neck.

this wasn’t completely new for him. there was an incident before when you had to drive with him to the beach, your car was broken down, and your parents' car was full. you sat in the passenger seat in your bikini, smiling and laughing at whatever he was saying, a little desperate. his hand rested on your thigh, thumb rubbing the supple skin back and forth. you could’ve sworn he was inching closer to your inner thighs as he drove. 

you waited for a second before answering, your head tilted before speaking, “‘kay.” a brief answer, no teasing this time. 

simon leads you to a secluded corner of the backyard, away from the bustle of the barbecue. he sits on an old, wooden bench, patting his lap invitingly. "now then, love," he began, his voice low. 

you sat promptly. 

simon's large hands roamed your body, squeezing your thighs and tracing the curves of your waist. his fingers dipped beneath your skirt, brushing against the thin fabric of your panties.

he groaned grossly under his breath, not getting enough of your body. the way you’d melt under his touch, so disgustingly needy for contact, made him want to take you even more.

his fingers dipped beneath your skirt, brushing against the thin fabric of your panties. your clit was so puffy, you were just so ready for his cock. “i’ve been watchin’ you, you know,” his thick accent making your thighs burn.

simon's lips were inches from your ear, his warm breath sending shivers down your spine. he brought his other hand to your throat, squeezing before moving it toward your breasts. “i've always thought you were such a pretty little thing.” he whispered.

his hands pinched your nipples through your thin shirt, in turn making you grind down on his bulge. :(

“mmm, really?” your poor clit twitched under his finger. he pressed his lips against your neck, kissing and nipping gently, “so grown up now… hm?” he purred. his hands traveled lower, pushing your skirt up around your hips. you had nothing to say, words failing to escape your lips.

both of his hands were circling your pulsing cunt by now, a finger finding you already wet with excitement. you whimpered as he pressed his finger against your entrance, rubbing teasingly. “you want this, don’t you, doll?” you nodded, “i do.”

without hesitation, simon pushed his fingers inside you, feeling your tight cunt grip him perfectly. he began to move them in and out slowly, picking up speed as he felt your wetness coat his knuckles. “so fucking tight.” he moaned.

you writhed underneath him, tears already starting to roll as your legs trembled. you babbled and shook as he pumped his fingers in and out of you, stretching you. 

simon used another hand to pull your shirt over your head, revealing your breasts. your back rubbed up against his chest before he pulled his fingers from your cunt, lifting and turning you so you were facing him.

he took one of your nipples into his mouth, sucking hard while pushing his fingers back into your starving little cunt. your mascara ran down your face as you pouted and cried, senses becoming overwhelmed.

he sucked hard while continuing to finger you. “you’re gonna make such a pretty little slut.” he groaned against your skin. “mhm! f-feels so fuckin’ good, si. m’gonna cum.” stupidly nodding and biting your plump lip.

he chuckled darkly, his fingers pumping faster and harder inside your velvety walls. your cunt constricted around his knuckles as you cried out, legs quivering as the knot in your tummy threatened release.

salty tears rolled down your face before he pulled his fingers out of you, leaving a trail of your juices on his hand. his fat cock pushed up against his slacks, straining against it, emphasizing every curve in his bulge. you cried loudly, lips puffy and slick, clit twitching pathetically.

your fingers curved around his clothed cock, being pushed away before he unbuckles his belt, pulling his pants down, pre-cum leaking through the fabric of his boxers. he pulls his waistband away from his hips, freeing his cock pressed up against his stomach. 

he pulled his pants off as you stood and watched, salivating at the sight of his cock. you’d do anything for him, getting more and more greedy at the thought of him finally pushing his cock into you. 

finally, he had you on your knees on the bench, facing away from him, cunt burning, waiting for his thick length. you waited, breaking the silence with a question, “you usually like college girls?” 

it was an honest question, you were serious. 

he rubbed the tip of his cock against your slick hole, teasing. “i like what i like,” he grinned. “and right now, i like you.” he pushed his cock into your tense cunt, causing you to dig your nails into his thigh.

simon thrust his hips forward, burying his cock inside you up to the hilt. you felt his chest rising and falling against you as he groaned against your neck. how badly he wanted to bruise it up.

“take it,” he grunted, “take all of it.” his cock stretched your cunts walls, filling you up with his thickness. you felt a hand trail up to your throat, another gripping your hips tightly, guiding him in and out of your soaking hole.

he was rough with you, increasing the force with which he pounded into you. his hips snapped forward which each thrust, making your ass ripple. “s-si, can’t take it n’more! agh–cock s’fat, go slow, si, please, hurt s’bad!” he laughed at your attempts to stop him.

his grip on your neck tightened with each thrust, surely creating small bruises to deal with later. “fuckin’ delicious. takin’ me so well.” he said breathlessly, continuing to pound into you without mercy. 

“s’too much… si, fuck!” he was hunched over, both of you a mess, hair stuck to his forehead, you, crying ‘cause of his fat dick! 

“g-go deeper, deep–mmf!” you begged.

simon hissed, pulling out almost completely before slamming his huge cock back in with a force that made your poor tummy flip. he continued this pattern of deep thrusts, grunting loudly with each one as he dove his cock deeper into your wet hole.

he brought a hand to your clit, thick finger lousily rubbing and rolling it roughly between his thumb and forefinger. “m’gonna cum!” you pushed yourself onto his cock more, greedy for his length.

“cum–cum for me, love.” he urged, thrusting into you even harder. you gushed around his cock, thrashing while your cunt showed its appreciation, orgasm crashing over you, causing you to clench tightly around his cock. you moaned like an animal as he continued his abuse on your walls.

“fuck–like that,” simon grunted, groaning loudly as he felt his cock shudder violently inside of you. with one last thrust, he let go and came inside of you, filling you with his hot seed. it spilled out of you before simon sloppily thrust a few more times, making sure to fuck his cum deep into you, like there were no consequences. 

he didn’t let go of you, still hunched over your body, small in comparison to him, tummy slightly bulged by his oversized cock. panting heavily, he rode out the aftershocks of his orgasm. his cock twitched inside of you, releasing a few more spurts of cum. 

he helped you to your feet, smoothing your hair, drying your tears after wiping the cum from your inner thigh with his thumb, and sticking it in your mouth. you sucked his thumb hungrily, warm tongue making him softly groan. 

he’d heard your father call for him from the grill while he buckled his pants, kissing you before walking back into the yard. 

“good talk, sweetheart.”

[vinziel]

Hug Time? Male Reader x John Dory

A/N: First time writing angst. Yay.

Throughout the saving Floyd mission, you've noticed John Dory always tried to hug his siblings and you, but neither you nor his brothers hugged him. It seems you and his brothers are still uncomfortable. After a few months have passed since that day and you've grown accustomed to being touchy with John Dory but his brothers still need a bit of time, which was understandable, yet John Dory felt...distanced from his brothers, no matter how hard or how much he tried they never seem to get around and be comfortable with him. He thinks that maybe he'll never convince them but you always assure him that he can and it'll take time. John Dory felt assured but the feeling still lingered inside of him. One day, you were going out to buy some groceries, Bruce also came to visit at this time, John Dory, Poppy, Branch, Viva and the rest of the Brozone brothers were all talking inside the bunker, talking about anything really. Then the hug time bracelets went off and everyone started to hug each other, except for John Dory, whenever he would try to hug one of his brothers someone hugged them first, and he didn't want to just hug them still since he knew that they may not be so comfortable still. Now everyone has hugged someone.

John Dory was on the verge of a mental breakdown, he felt like crying, he was slightly trembling, thinking to himself "No John Dory, don't do it. Don't ruin the mood" He stands up and leaves without anyone noticing, he then goes to his shared room with you, locks the door and just quietly cries in bed. He had you and he was grateful but he still wanted at least one of his brothers to hug him or show the same affection he was giving them. He knew that he brought this upon himself but, it still hurts, to know your brothers still don't feel comfortable enough with you. Time passes by and Poppy notices John Dory is gone, and she gets a little concerned "Wait, did anyone hug John Dory?" She says. The brothers and Viva look at each other and shrug. All of them then went to your bedroom with John Dory room knocking on his door to no response.

You finally got back home with groceries, putting them on the table, you see a small commotion outside your room. "What's going on?" You ask, concerned and curious. "Well we're not sure. I think no one hugged John Dory during hug time, and we're trying to let him let us inside his room to maybe help him feel better" Poppy says before continuing "But he's not opening the door" You sigh, a frown on your face, visibly worried about how John Dory's feeling "Let me handle this" You say knocking on the door saying "John? Can you let me in? It's me, Y/N" The door then opens and you enter it, and close it, while the rest of the group goes back to the living room.

It was now just you and John Dory. He guys you, still quietly sobbing, as you take him to bed, sitting beside him "How are you feeling?" You ask, your voice is soft, stroking his hair, as you take off his goggles that cover his tear filled eyes, John Dory then just let's it all out on you, as you comfort him "It's fine, just let it all out" after a while of crying John Dory stops, it's been a while since he's ever actually cried so this was new, John Dory felt good letting it all out, as you both continue to hug "I just feel that maybe they still don't love me like a big brother. Maybe they'll never love me like a big brother, maybe I'll never get them to be comfortable with me. I-I" You sush him "Nonesense" John Dory then removes your hand and says "No! It's not nonesense! They still can't bring themselves to hug me, and every time it's just me and one of my brothers alone it's always awkward!" He yells, the walls were thankfully thick enough to make it soundproof which you're glad "I don't know what I can do to make them like me anymore. It seems no matter how hard I try, they still have resentment over me, no matter how hard they try to hide it, and maybe I deserve it. I-I just wish I can get them to at least not be awkward with me anymore, to be comfortable with me" He continues, his voice is breaking, he isn't yelling anymore, tears rolling down his cheek, he stopped hugging you, as he just puts his hands on the bed.

You always saw John Dory as being a bit too confident but now, it seems like this whole new side of him is new to you, he was being vulnerable with you, and he was letting himself cry, he's letting himself be all sad around you. You have a frown on your face, concerned for John Dory's mental health, you sigh and say "Look....sure it's true, you may have deserved this kind of treatment from your brothers but I assure you they still love you. It just takes time to get used to being around the person who was the reason you ran away from home, the person trying to force them to be perfect, so please John, don't give up and don't think that just because they haven't gotten comfortable with you doesn't mean they won't ever will" You kiss John Dory, in hopes it'll make him feel a bit better, John Dory kisses you back, and after pulling away, he smiles and wipes his tears "You're right, maybe they'll come around some day." He says "That's the spirit! Now let's go back to the living room." You exclaim.

Once you two are back in the living room, the Brozone brothers, Poppy and Viva, all hug John Dory, he's quite shocked by this, then Bruce starts to talk "We're sorry for not hugging you John. We know we may have been a bit resentful towards you at times but we want to assure you that we do still love you" Branch continues by saying "Yeah, we've seen your efforts in trying to make us be comfortable around you and we have been too harsh on you" All the brothers, Poppy and Viva then nod in agreement of Bruce and Branch's statement, John Dory starts to cry tears of joy "I love you guys. You have no idea how much I needed to hear that." He says. You watch this unfold with a smile on your face, appreciating the heartfelt moment. The day continues on as Bruce decides to cook you all dinner, you all eat together and The brothers now seem to be more comfortable around John Dory. Sharing laughs, sharing embarrassing stories about each other during the Brozone days (Mostly from John Dory). Yes this is truly the start of a new beginning among the brothers.

[aris-ink]

Hi so I saw your post about request, well I was wondering if you could write about "somnophilia and pseudo incest," with jungkook or jimin. However, idk, if its okay if the oc/yn is a lowkey yandere too? 😅😅

jk because I already have a similar request for jimin 💖 also, yes

pairing: jungkook x reader

genre: forbidden romance, step!siblings au

warnings: this is nothing but sin, allusions to violence (not towards the reader), possessiveness, jealousy, pseudo incest, mentions of medication, con noncon, somnophilia, masturbation, creampie, some dirty talk, lowkey yandere reader

It wasn't unusual for your stepbrother to check up on you before bed. You've grown closer than you initially thought you would; it turned out that beneath the surface, you and Jungkook weren't that different, after all.

With a soft click, he turned off your nightlight, the mattress dipping under his weight as he settled beside you. Only the light of the moon filtered in through the curtains now, casting an ethereal glow on your face. Not for the first time, Jungkook's thoughts strayed far from the appropriate, familial path that they should have stayed on. He had always been rather closed off, but you managed to reach his heart and make a home in it so deep he couldn't stand to be apart from you.

Not for the first time, looking at you, Jungkook thought he understood the primal, ancient practices of making sacrifices to the gods. You were certainly a goddess to him, and he'd fall on his knees a thousand times over to pray at your altar; he'd slaughter and maim, to worship you and protect you. And he'd do so without batting an eyelid.

You wrapped an arm around his waist and snuggled into him, letting him pull you into his broad chest. You seemed to realize it was wrong to be this affectionate with him; he could see it in the way you jumped when your parents walked in as he'd hold you, pushing his hands away and avoiding his eyes. He could see it in the way you'd tense up when he'd come near you anytime your friends were around. But you never said anything; so he didn't, either.

He accepted that for a while, he could only be close to you in moments like this, concealed by the darkness behind closed doors. He stroked your cheek with the back of his hand, his rings cold against the heat of your skin.

"Sleepy?" He asked, amusement clear in his voice as he watched your eyes fall shut.

You hummed in response.

"I feel so much better on the new medication," you whispered. "I can't even remember when I fall asleep."

"That's good," Jungkook nodded. "I'm really glad."

It was true; Jungkook hated seeing you worn out, tormented by constant interruptions in your sleeping patterns. Seeing your eyes glow brighter and the bags under them disappear brought him a sense of relief he could never put into words.

There was one more reason, though. One more reason he had waited so patiently for you to get your new medication, settle into good sleeping habits and lower your guard. One more reason why he watched you so carefully as you swallowed your pills tonight. Jungkook was a good brother; but he was not a good man.

Carefully, he slipped his arm out from under you, ignoring the adorable groan of protest that tumbled out of your mouth. He pressed one knee into the mattress, right in between your thighs, resting his muscular arms on either side of your head. Your eyes fluttered as you felt his weight above you, your lids heavy with the weight of exhaustion, struggling to stay open.

"Jungkook?" You whispered.

The question lingering in the air felt so tangible he could practically taste it on his tongue. He could practically taste you as he leaned in, your breath mingling with his. This was a line he had never crossed before, and the fact that he was on the verge of doing so just as you were being pulled into the dark abyss of dreams was perplexing enough to make you reach out to touch him, see if he was real.

His arm felt hot and hard beneath your palm. He felt real enough. What was he doing, exactly? You weren't sure. Your head was beginning to feel fuzzy; but Jungkook had no intentions of letting you go to sleep scared or confused.

"Relax," he muttered. "This is what you wanted, isn't it, baby?"

It wasn't a term that he used with you often. You blinked up at him slowly, like you weren't quite catching on. Jungkook tapped the tip of his finger against your bottom lip, clicking his tongue.

"So this is how it's going to be, huh?" His voice turned into gravel, though it remained quiet all the same. "We're gonna pretend I don't notice how you push that little ass against me when we're in bed? Walking around the house with your tits on full display."

Seeing the embarassment that settled on your face made him grow harder in his briefs. It was all the confirmation he needed. He brushed his cheek against yours when his lips touched your ear.

"Should I also pretend I don't know about the mess you made behind my back?" He could feel you stiffen beneath him, your breath catching in your throat. "Scaring away all my girls. Possessive, aren't you?"

When he lifted his head again he couldn't hold back the arrogance that shone through his smile. The way you squeezed your hand into a fist with the little strength you had left, the way you pursed your lips, refusing to meet his eye. So cute.

He kissed your cheek tenderly, cooing at you.

"Don't be mad, baby. You're my only girl."

And then the way you looked up at him. It made his lungs constrict. He could have spent neons counting all the stars in your eyes.

"Then kiss me."

Whether it was your request, or the drugs taking over, your eyes fell shut again. Jungkook could swear his cock was starting to leak, his heart thudding loudly in his ears. The realization that he was finally going to have you, touch you and do whatever he wanted was beginning to settle in, setting his nerves on fire. Because you had no idea what you were in for.

"No," he gruffed. "You're a little minx. And you're going to get fucking punished for making me wait."

"Jungkook," his name came out as a weak, beautiful whine. "You were the one sleeping around."

Jungkook raised his eyebrows.

"Two can play at that game, baby. Don't be jealous."

His teasing tone was deceiving. He wanted you to be jealous. That was the whole point. And now that he reached his goal, it was his responsibility and utmost pleasure to take all of your concerns away.

"You're the only girl that matters," he promised sincerely, his thumb tracing over your cheekbone. "The only one that ever mattered."

The peaceful sigh that left you made excitement simmer in his stomach.

"And you're mine," he added in a murmur, "aren't you?"

You nodded in agreement.

"Then dream away, baby. I'm gonna leave you a gift," he pressed two of his fingers into your panty clad core, sliding them down to your entrance. "Right here."

You moaned into his ear. Jungkook's eyes almost rolled back, the dampness of your underwear sending him spiraling deeper into the most depraved parts of his mind.

"You'll be dripping with my cum," he dropped his voice down to a whisper. "Extra wet to touch yourself in the morning, yeah?"

You shuddered, attempting to wrap your arms around him, but they fell helplessly to your sides. "Please," you sighed, barely audible.

There was no way Jungkook could resist, not when you were begging for it, pliant and wet even as you succumbed to your medication and drifted off into a deep slumber. In fact, knowing that you were so eager for him despite being unconscious made his cock swell more, along with his heart.

"Sweet dreams."

He took in the steady rise and fall of your chest, how your head lolled to the side. He wanted you to be awake for your first time together; he wanted to capture your every moan and face expression, because Jungkook was greedy that way.

That didn't mean, however, that he couldn't keep his promise tonight.

He ran his tongue over his piercing as he lifted your shirt, pupils blown out, eyes stuck on the swell of your breasts. Tight, pretty nipples he couldn't wait to put his mouth on. He felt like a teenager again, watching porn for the first time; only this was real, you were real, so much better than any fantasy mankind could conjure up.

A deity from heavens above indeed.

He cupped your breast, the softness of it almost overwhelming. Leaning in to catch a hardened nipple in his mouth, he gave it an experimental suck. You were perfect. Groaning, he quickly switched to flicking his hot tongue against it. You tasted so sweet, he couldn't help looking for relief, shifting slightly in between your legs so he could grind his hard on against you.

It didn't help. The pleasure shot through him like a bolt of lightning. He was too excited; he knew he wasn't going to last long, but he didn't care. The sight of you lying there, helpless and waiting to be taken was enough to corrupt any man, that much he knew. Should he have felt some kind of guilt, a shadow of doubt, maybe? He didn't care about that either. Somehow the thought of how wrong this was made him leak more precum into his briefs. You belonged to him in all ways possible, and this was proof. You always have.

He inched away from your chest to pull your underwear aside, long, tattooed fingers grazing your wet folds. You were so warm, so mesmerizing; he couldn't take his eyes off of you, fumbling to take his needy, throbbing cock out with one hand.

The cool air that hit him was a small relief. He couldn't wait, no matter how much he wanted to savor the moment. He consoled himself with the thought that he'd have plenty of time to do it again. To feel you, to grope you, to choose where he wanted to come - because right now he still had a promise to keep.

Only a fraction of him was sober enough to remember how thin the walls were. He gritted his teeth as he rubbed his cock in between your folds, fighting to keep his breathing under control.

So wet. So still. He spread your lips, slipping the flushed tip inside the tightness of your cunt. His abdomen tensed up, a whimper trying to push its way out of his throat. This was the real test of his faith, the biggest temptation Jungkook had yet to face. It would have been so easy to just ram inside and fuck you.

But Jungkook was a good brother, and good brothers didn't go back on their word. Good brothers weren't selfish.

He wrapped a hand around his veiny shaft and pressed his lips into your neck, proceeding to stroke himself slowly. He grunted when he felt your walls sucking him in, like you were begging for the rest of his cock to ruin you. Instead his hand sped up, his hips beginning to rut forward.

"So tight, so tight," he gritted into your skin. "Mmph- fuck."

No response. Of course, how could there be one? He tightened his hand around your breast, squeezing desperately. He had dreamed of jerking himself off right into your willing, drenched pussy, and the fact that it was finally happening was too much for him to handle. He could feel his orgasm rushing at him like a freight train, and he made no attempt to move out of the way of its blinding lights.

His cock pulsed as sticky cum shot into your heat, a throaty moan muffled against your neck. He emptied himself inside you with his eyes shut tightly, letting the sensation consume him entirely until he was spent.

He limped against you before pulling his cock out of your filled cunt, attempting to catch his breath.

"Oh fuck..." he mumbled. "Oh fuck."

His body was humming with a pleasant rush, his stomach still jittery, the aftermath of a rollercoaster. He breathed you in, trying to ground himself in you.

Not wanting to crush you, however, he forced himself up and lied down beside you, a heavy sigh fleeing his chest. He fixed up your panties and pulled his own boxers back up, trying not to think about his cum resting inside you. If he focused on it too much, he knew he'd get hard again, and he didn't think he'd be able to restrain himself this time.

Wrapping an arm around you, he left appreciative kisses on your shoulder, an uncomfortable pang of sorrow stinging his chest when he realized he couldn't stay with you. Not as a boyfriend. Not as a lover. If your parents walked in and caught you, you'd both be immediately disowned. And while Jungkook didn't give a flying fuck, personally, he didn't want to see you hurt.

It looked like he'd have to take care of this problem on his own. Sooner rather than later.

He sighed again, pressing a final kiss into your lips. Soft, short and sweet, a silent goodnight, see you tomorrow, I love you.

He couldn't wait to say it out loud.

[oceansblvds]

around the fur ; aegon targaryen

pairing ; aegon targaryen ii x reader

words ; 2k ish

about ; an in depth understanding into the relationship between you and aegon targaryen. you had known each other since you were children; you wanted each other, lusted for one another . . . a tumultuous pattern that went around and around like a wheel.

warning(s) ; very little fluff, swearing, sexual themes, mentions of smut but not explicit smut?, it's not yandere but it's definitely not a healthy relationship, angst?, targaryen realness, my professor says i write too many words so that's a warning in itself.

authors note ; okay okay so i kinda wrote this as more of a word dump? i'm quite obsessed with aegon right now and definitely taking requests for aegon and aemond and possibly other hotd characters!

The confines of the Red Keep was something that you had grown accustomed to whilst growing up. You were soon coming to learn every staircase, where to find the best view of the sky at night, where to go when you wanted to be alone . . . everything. A part of that was of your own curiosity, though most of it had to do with your longtime childhood friend — Aegon Targaryen.

"My father will have me hanged if I am late for dinner again, Aegon," You whined, hands gripping your skirts as the two of you ran through the gardens. The hour was growing late, sun setting in pale hues of pinks and oranges. That was the sign that you should return to your chambers and wait for your father to come join you, or the other way around. But lately you had forgotten the time, leading to your father's angered words.

He was a lesser lord, but a lord nonetheless, and your home was originally in the southwest part of Westeros near Highgarden. Though, your father often was demanded at court, and it became easier to just move there for the time being. You couldn't remember much of your childhood before Kings Landing, this was your home.

"You will be back in time for supper, I promise," Aegon said, not even glancing in your direction as he slowed down. The two of you were far enough away from the keep that you knew he was giving false hope, but you believed him anyways. He was your best friend, the closest person you had here except for Helaena and sometimes Daeron, but both siblings tended to want alone time. Aegon was always the person you went to, he would say yes to playing no matter what. "Besides, if he eats without you, I can ask for something to be brought up to your chambers."

"I can do that myself," You said, laughing at him thinking that you could be so helpless.

Aegon stopped in his tracks, finally turning to look at you. "But, I would want to."

You smiled, a pale blush coming to your cheeks. You were both only one and two, the world was still so new. Things were bright and shiny, a world that was filled with many wondrous things for you to see. You didn't understand concepts like love, only that it was what others were supposed to have for their spouses.

You walked up closer to him now, able to see his face painted with the colors of the sunset. You quite liked the lighting like this, you thought to yourself, it made Aegon's pale hair have a glow, accenting his pale violet eyes. He wasn't quite taller than you, but he was always very quick to saying he would grow to be as tall as his father someday. You chose not to mention it, only granting him another smile and pressing your ankles off the ground, reaching to give a quick peck on his cheek.

Before he could say anything, you turned on your heel and made a beeline for the gates. You had to get to dinner, after all.

That was where it all started.

You were older now, one and seven, and it had been somewhat of an eventful year. You were to think about marrying now, multiple lords coming to your father and mother with hopes that they would grant your hand. They were stalling, almost as if they were keeping inventory of all the men that wanted you. It made you sick to your stomach, especially when your head and heart led you elsewhere.

You could swear he was doing it to you on purpose. The sickly sweet spell that Aegon had put you under hadn't let up, relentlessly bringing you back to him whenever you attempted to do otherwise.

His silver locks had grown out into a wavy pattern that you found yourself staring at, wondering what it felt like to run your hands through it. Hands gripped firmly on the gauntlet, which kissed his lips every time he yearned for a sip of the honeyed wine he had sent up for the two of you. It was a dreary day outside, meaning that your usual escapades would have to resume indoors. There wasn't much to do, and you were aware he was trying to get away from his mother's meddling. You watched, almost a little too intently, at the way his tongue pressed in between his teeth as he tasted the fine wine, licked it from his lips and set the gauntlet down, returning to laying down on the cushion between you and him.

In order to try and avoid watching his every move, which you found yourself attempting to do a lot these days, you fancied yourself a book. It was something about the War on Dorne, how the Targaryen's had failed to conquer the land of the south. To be truthful, you were trying your hardest to pay attention, but you couldn't. He was doing something to you.

"Are you okay?" Aegon asked, snapping you out of your thoughts and bringing you to reality once again. His eyes were focused on you, his vision looking upside down as he stayed laying down on the cushion.

Your eyes narrowed. "Yes?"

"You've been staring," He stated bluntly, seemingly unbothered as he reached to take another sip of his wine. This time, however, he stayed upright, bringing his attention to you. His arms held himself up, turning his body to face you as he said, "You do that a lot."

"No I don't," You said, your first instinct to grow defensive.

Instead of being defensive back, Aegon only laughed, an almost comical grin taking over his face. Your eyebrow rose, wondering what in the seven hells he was thinking. Like Aegon did every day, he spoke bluntly. "Have you ever been kissed?" Almost as if he was mocking you.

The question threw you off guard, unable to give him an answer right away. You were hesitant to shake your head, because the answer was no, you hadn't been kissed. While it was normal for Aegon to go about and do what he wanted with various women (something that you spent a considerable time worrying about as of late), you were not allowed to do such things. You were meant to stay as pure as you could, virginal, untouched. Of course you hadn't been kissed, he should know that, but instead he held the same stupid quizzical look on his face.

"No," You confessed, closing the book in your lap. "Would you like to elaborate as to why you felt the need to ask?"

Aegon leaned forward and kissed you. His scent enveloped you as much as his body did, it was such a brash action that you were unaware if you were dreaming or this was real life. After a few moments passed, his lips still working against yours, slowly, as if he was trying to teach you the motion, you were sure this was real life.

You didn't stop him.

His hands gripped your sides, sending sparks of electricity in their wake as he touched you there, and there, and there. His kisses were all consuming, leaving you entrenched in the feeling of only him, only Aegon. If you were to pull away, he would only pull you closer, a constant push and pull, both of you wanting for something that seemingly was unattainable. Neither of you wanted to stop.

A wave of satisfaction spilled forward in your soul, your heart intertwining into his with every touch, every sigh that passed your parted lips. At some point his kiss broke and he sent his mouth going lower and lower, against the soft skin of your collarbone, casually nipping at the skin that was exposed.

You wondered how you got here, pressed into the darkened corner of a hallway, on the outskirts of the Red Keep, hoping that no one would pass by and witness the outright sinful actions that you were partaking in. It wasn't the first time, and it surely wouldn't be the last. You learned quickly that once Aegon set his eyes on something, he wouldn't let it out of his sight until he had it. And when he looked at you, you supposed he saw a challenge. You were so virtuous, so pure, innocent, something fragile that he felt the need to break. He felt the need to take.

And you let him, with not many thoughts opposed. Ever since he had kissed you, all you could think about was the next time that you would be kissed. It was strange at first, meeting with him and wondering if he had forgotten what had happened, or it wouldn't happen again. But it did, it happened many times that you had to change locations. After all, who would marry you if you were caught?

You let out a breathy sigh, closing your eyes and thrusting your head back, allowing for him to have more access to your neck. As you opened your eyes, the soft dim light of the sun beginning the set blinded you, mixing with the embellished strands of his hair. He came up to face you, nipping at your lips, violet eyes staring intently into your own. It was his way of asking if you were okay, even though he knew the answer.

"What is it?" You asked, your hand brushing against his cheek.

He shook his head, it wasn't important. Instead his hands reached under the skirts of your dress, skin grazing against the soft skin of your thigh. You gasped, rather loudly, making him capture your lips in another kiss to silence you.

His kisses were soft despite his tough exterior, but they were not without intention. Every time his lips made contact with a piece of your skin you could feel his want, his desire, like he couldn’t get enough of you no matter how hard he tried. It was like you were his church and he was on his knees, praying for forgiveness for his sins, praying to your body that he worshipped unlike all the faceless gods in the world. Your hands collided with his hair, intertwining the soft locks of silver and pulling on it, pulling him closer.

Eventually more clothes came off, more skin against skin. He found solace again in your tiny sighs and moans that left your lips when he kissed there and there . . . and especially there.

You found yourself lost in it, lost in the fire that he created around you. You were certain that you were always meant to burn together. To love him was to love the hot embers of a forest fire, pressing your hands farther and farther into the flames no matter how much your body screamed to let go. It was all consuming, a love that suffocated you like smoke and left you burning for days. He was always burning, and sometimes you wondered if you just got caught up in the flames.

[ronwestbreeze]

i had an idea for your shallow end series. imagine y/n telling tua about her late older brother and what he was like, little stories about him when he was alive in attempt to keep his memory alive even after having another baby :')

wishes

pairing: jake sully x fem!na'vi!reader

summary: in which you help tua fall asleep by telling her about her older brother...

warnings: a little angsty :(

word count: 0.6k

author's note: yes it's a bit short but i liked how it turned out so, eh i'm not too worried. hope you enjoy it. this kind of hurt me haha

“A-Aawpok?”

“Mhmm, that’s your older brother’s name.” You say.

Both you and little Tua, who was beginning to say her first words, were lying down in the tent together that night. Everyone else had fallen asleep, all sprawled about. Lo’ak, Spider, and Neteyam were sleeping on one side of the room. Kiri and Tuk lay next to Neytiri, Tuk being sandwiched between the two. Jake lied on the other side of Neytiri and was also sandwiched between you and Neytiri. And Tua was on your right. You had turned a little bit out of your husband’s arms so you could face and comfort her.

It usually took Tua a while to fall asleep. You never minded staying up with her since you were having trouble sleeping yourself these days.

You caressed her little toes as you whispered quietly for her to hear, “He would have adored you, my little one. He always loved taking care of his siblings, fiercely protective of them—which means he was as stubborn as your father.” You chuckled quietly as Tua stared up at you with wide eyes.

Tua took your thumb and brought it to her mouth, numbing at it with her barely grown teeth as you continued. “The boy was quite adventurous too. Often always getting into trouble with Lo’ak, he could be a little troublesome sometimes but that’s what I loved best about him. I still remember the first time he got his ikran. Your brother was so stubborn about it. Like Lo’ak, he had fallen off the first time and was determined to get back on it and try again. Jake was against it but Aawpok did it anyway and he succeeded. I had never been so proud but of course, I had to receive an earful afterwards about how he’s my son, yadda, yadda, yadda.” Tua giggled when you tried mimicking Jake’s voice. “We often fought about it but that was during the times where your father and I weren’t as close…

“Aawpok always hated it, how distant we were in the beginning. And I hated that he had to see that. He was sensitive and always fought for us to love each other someday.” You played with Tua’s little hairs on her head, blinking away tears. “I just wished he could’ve seen that it did come true. That his wishes were heard that he was heard. He would be so happy if he were here…my little sunshine boy.” You tickled her belly, earning another giggle from the toddler that made you smile despite your tears. “And my little moon girl.”

You hummed a quiet lullaby to her, stopping every now and then when your voice quivered just a bit. Eventually, Tua’s eyes began to droop until they closed and her breathing evened in a steady pattern.

And for a moment you pressed your ear against her chest without waking her, listening to her little heartbeat. You lied on your back then, closing your eyes to will the tears away.

It wasn’t until you felt a larger body wrap itself around you, did you finally open your eyes. You turned your head to find Jake was awake. He watched you as he always did, his larger hand coming up to caress your cheek, wiping away the tear stains as he did.

“Is she sleeping?” He asked quietly, sitting up just a bit to see her sleeping form.

“Mhm.” You responded, burying yourself further into his chest. He responded instantly, wrapping his arm around you while the other stayed with Neytiri.

He pressed a kiss against your hairline, “I miss him too.” He kissed your nose. “And I wish he was here, every waking day.”

You smiled up at him, “He was so much like you.”

A chuckle left his lips, “Yes but he was you all the same. I loved that about him. And I love that about you.”

You sat up slightly and leaned down to press a kiss against his lips, “I love you.”

“And I adore you.”

[catb1tez]

Define “Damijon”?

I never realized how hard this question could be until you asked me. But if I speak of it off the top of my head, then DamiJon is the relationship between Damian Wayne and Jon Kent. To me, it’s a romantic relationship. DamiJon is built on the friendship the two created together, no matter in what way that friendship is built. Whether in a different universe or their own, they will always find that bond and maybe even a stronger bond. In an ideal world, the bond is one of trust, loyalty, authenticity, love, and more that I’m probably forgetting right now.

Damian grew up believing he had to prove himself, and he was willing to do what was necessary to accomplish the acknowledgment he sought. Even if it meant killing others, or going up against those who were close with him. Although, when he started living with his father, the disappointment this brought to his father had made him start to realize something. I personally believe Damian had a hard time acknowledging this change, especially because he thought he had to fight so hard for everything when it looked like his older siblings did nothing to deserve their home in their father’s heart. At least when he first met them. This train of thought of his combined with his position as the youngest, made him feel like he had to prove himself that much more. And as most assassins are trained, he grown accustomed to seeing stoicism as strength. He hid most of his emotions as best as a child could. But I believe his relations with Jon put a dent into this. Many times we see characters mention how Damian had some characteristics of his changed after bonding with Jon. Some examples are how talkative he was, and his opinions on hugs. This proves that Jon helps bring out the best of Damian, and Damian sees Jon as someone he can not only rely on but also be himself around. To me, this is something to be strongly valued in a relationship, especially romantic.

(Obviously there is so much more to Damian’s character and how he grew up, but I think when discussing my personal definition of DamiJon, this is one of the more important factors)

Then there’s how Jon lives his life, most of this will be based off of Jon’s character pre-bendis. The second he got his powers, there was a sudden tension from the idea that he was the next in line for the title of “man of steel.” To most worlds, Superman is a symbol of hope. Jon is someone who is meant to show kindness to all of those around him. Even so, he still made sure to make room for his personality. I appreciate how there were moments where it felt like Jon was sassy, but those moments shined the most when he was around Damian. Jon will always go out of his way to help those in need, and he will usually show a bright smile while doing so. That’s what he sees when he watches his father. He also sees his mother exhibit the strength that is standing up for what’s right no matter even if someone or something is trying to push you back. Watching these two as role models obviously made a huge impact on who he is as a person and how he views the world. Thats why I think he must’ve been shocked to meet Damian. He wasn’t used to seeing another vigilante behave with such bluntness the way Damian did when they first met. In Jon’s eyes, Damian presented strength and knowledge but in a way he’s never seen before. I think without even realizing it, Damian helped Jon learn about another side to life. Alongside what I had mentioned earlier, I think being able to bring something new to your partner’s life, or having a contrast to them from what they’re used to, can be important in a relationship.

Even though I’ve only really touched the surface of my personal definition of DamiJon/JonDami, I’m going to wrap this response up now. I apologize for my poor grammar, and I hope I made at least some sense. Thank you for the ask, it was a nice challenge.

[scarletwinterxx]

Sorry I'm not holding back - haechan imagine / sorry heart series pt.1

hi!! this is pt.1 of Sorry Heart Series, not sure how lone it'll take me to write it but I'll try my best. Every part will feature another member and for the pt.1 it's Hyuck. Hope you like it!

if you have a request or scenario you want me to do, just send me a message I'll see what I can do😊💌

For my other works you can check them out here, and for my other story series’ you can check them out here.

All works are copyrighted ©scarletwinterxx 2023 . Do not repost, re-write without the permission of author.

There's a few numbers on your contact list you really don't expect ever hearing from again. One of them being your ex-boyfriend's little brother. You'd never ignore any of his younger siblings' texts or calls, it's just a bit unexpected.

"Noona, are you busy right now?" Sungyeon, Donghyuck's younger brother, asks you when you answered the phone

"No, I'm free. Why? Everything okay?"

"I'm sorry to bother you, but hyung isn't answering his phone and mom and dad is not around. I'm stranded here at the academy" he tells you, already you're worried for the young boy. You didn't need any further explanation, you packed your stuff and made your way out of the library even though you're homework was still halfway done

"Can you wait 20 minutes tops? I'm driving there now" you tell him, putting your phone between your shoulder and cheeks as you rummage for your car keys in your bag

"Yea sure, I'll just wait here at the convenient store outside school. Thank you, noona!"

Even though you and Donghyuck were no longer together, you'd still drive across town for his family. They were so kind and welcoming to you, and you have a particular soft spot for his siblings.

"Noona, you made it! I brought you banana milk" Sungyeon says when he saw you pull up the street, rolling down the car window to call him

"Thank you, were you waiting long?" you ask him, waiting for young boy to buckle up before driving him home. You've been there plenty of times, you don't need the GPS to guide you.

It still stings a bit, the wound from that hearbreak, but you're mature enough to not let that dent your relationship with his siblings.

"A bit, hyung wasn't answering his phone. He promised he was going to pick me up. By the way, why didn't you come and visit for New year and Christmas? He was home all holiday week"

Oh. So it seems like Donghyuck hasn't broken the news to his family.

"Sorry, I went home too. Did you get the presents I sent you?" you asked Jeno to give the presents to Donghyuck to give to his parents and siblings

"Yes, thank you! It would've been more fun if you came though"

"Sorry, buddy. I'll come and hangout with you next time. I'll buy you ice cream, how does that sound?"

"Okay!" by then you pull up the Lee family home, you see a familiar car parked on the driveway. Wondering why he didn't pick his brother up if he was home all along.

"He's here, why didn't he pick me up. That Lee Donghyuck" you chuckle at the young boy's words, watching him step out of the car.

"You go in, I'll go when you get inside" you bid goodbye, waiting for him to safely get inside the house before driving away. Sungyeon waves one last time before going inside.

The moment he steps inside the house, the oldest Lee brother steps out from the kitchen

"Oh, wait shit I was suppose to pick you up" Donghyuck says, remembering his promise to his brother.

"I meant crap I was suppose to pick you up" he repeats without the curse word, scared his mom might know he curses infront of his siblings even though he's a literal grown man now.

The younger one just scowls at him, "Yea you were, why didn't you pick up your phone?"

"Because I have this killer headache since midnight and I've been in bed. I forgot to tell mom though, wait how did you get home? Did you take the bus?"

"I called Y/N noona"

It took Donghyuck a few seconds to process that sentence. his head was already pounding since this morning but hearing you drove his brother home when you're probably busy with your own schedule all across town sends his thoughts into over drive.

That and the fact that he hasn't told his family the two of you called it quits months ago.

To be honest, he didn't have it in his heart to break the news to his family. He was going to tell them during Christmas break, the reason why he spent almost a month at home sulking in his room but then Jeno texted him saying you got presents for everybody when you didn't have to anymore.

He knows for a fact his mother loves you, maybe more than she loves her own son. His siblings are smitten with you, and his dad thinks he's a fool if he ever lets you go. So in short, his own family will disown him if they hear you two are done.

Instead of saying anything, he just sulked away his heartache. The conversation never came up, and every time someone asks why you aren't around he just makes some excuse.

He knows one day he has to come clean about it, but one more day won't hurt.

He thinks.

When you got home to your apartment, another unexpected text came. From another Lee sibling, this time the very one you never thought of hearing from ever again.

Hyuck: thank you for driving Sungyeonie home. You didn't have to, but thanks.

You: don't worry about it, though you should tell him next time. I had some free time, he was lucky.

Lies, you would've still driven him home even if you were busy.

Hyuck: been sick since last night and I forgot to tell mom, I owe you one. Thanks again.

The next day, you see Jeno walking across campus hallway. Calling his name out to catch his attention.

"Hey, what's up?"

"Can I ask you a favor? Please?"

"What is it this time?" Jeno asks, already having a feeling about where this conversation is about to go.

"Can you give this to Hyuck, heard he's sick" you say, passing the brown bag to him

"He is? Huh explains why he wasn't answering his phone yesterday. Anyways, why do you care? Like no offense, but like didn't you two broke up?" he has a point and you don't really have an answer to that.

Last night after the quick exchange, you can't help but feel worried. You know how Donghyuck pushes himself over his own limits, one of the reasons why the two of you argued a few times that eventually led to your break-up.

But even after all of that, of course you still care.

"Just give it to him, or don't. I don't really know too" you mumble

"You good?" Jeno asks

"Yep, I'm gonna go. Thanks Jen"

A few hours later, Jeno is knocking on Hyuck's bedroom door after his mom let him in.

"I'll eat dinner later" Jeno hears his friend shout from the other side of the door

"Open the door"

That made Hyuck get up from his bed to see why his friend is here, "What are you doing here?"

Jeno just puts the brown bag infront of his face, "What's this?"

"Care package from your dear Y/N"

"You're joking" Hyuck scowls at him before taking the bag, checking the contents and it was indeed a bunch of medicine and snacks he likes

"Do I look like I'll buy those for you? You're lucky your ex-girlfriend is a good person. I'm gonna go now before you pass your germs to me" Jeno says before walking away. He can hear his friend say goodbye to his mom, closing his door before walking towards the bedside table to get his phone.

It was easy to dial your phone number, you're still on top of his contact list. After a few rings, you pick up

"Hello?"

He wasn't sure what he was going to say, he really didn't think this through but it's too late

"Hyuck? Are you okay?" you ask, getting worried by the second

"Hi, uh yea hi"

"Why did you call? You okay?"

Why are you being so nice to him? You're suppose to not care about him anymore. You're suppose to curse him, hate him and vow to never answer any of his texts and calls.

But instead you're the exact opposite. You still have his number saved, you're still in good terms with his siblings and you even sent him things when you didn't have to.

"You there?" you ask again, breaking him from his thoughts

"Yea, just wanted to say thanks for the stuff. Seems like I owe you another one"

"Don't worry about it, and don't worry about yesterday. Like I said, I had free time but Hyuck, can I ask something?"

it's been a while since he last heard you say his name. To mostly everyone he's Haechan. To his family, he's Donghyuck. To you, he's Hyuck. Claiming you loved his name so much, you even wore his initial around your neck.

"Sure"

"Why haven't you told your family we broke up?"

"I just haven't found the right timing, I guess. Sorry"

"You should tell them, we shouldn't make it complicated for them and I hate lying to them" you tell him

"I'll tell them"

A few seconds passed, neither of you said anything. Until Hyuck broke the silence with a question that'll break your heart all over again

"Why did we break up again?"

"Hyuck-"

"Sorry, I just still don't get it. One day we were okay then the next we weren't. Was it that easy to walk away?"

"You think it was? You think it was easy for me? I was hurt too, it hurt me too Hyuck. But fighting for you and fighting with you started to feel like the same thing. You always tell me everything's okay when it's not, I kept asking you if you were okay but you won't let me in. We were suppose to be a team, why were you holding back?"

He was at lost for words. This is the conversation he's been dreading ever since the two of you broke up. He was a easy go lucky guy, he tries to handle everything positively and would never let anyone see when he's struggling. And because of that, because he was too proud to let his walls down he lost you.

"I'm sorry"

"I've heard that before, doesn't change a thing. Go rest, Hyuck. Goodnight."

You really thought that was the last you'll hear from him. You didn't end things on a bad term but after that conversation you're not so sure. All it did was open wounds you've been trying to heal.

It felt like you were back to square one. Suddenly, you're missing him too much again. His absence too real and too much for your heart. Feeling sorry for your self again.

It was a free day for you, you didn't have any class for the day so you let yourself sulk. You promised you wouldn't do it but just for today you let yourself mope around.

Sometime after lunch, you hear a knock on your door. You thought it was your bestfriend, coming to check up on you so imagine the surprise on your face when you open the door to see your ex standing there with a sorry look on your face.

"Before you slam the door on my face can I just say what I came here to say then you can curse at me, hit me, block me all you want. I deserve it. Can you just hear me out first? Three minutes and I'll go"

You look at him, already feeling a few tears gathering threatening to fall any second. You did want to slam the door on his face, but you also wanted to just hug him and bury your face on his chest hoping that will mend your broken heart.

Even now he's the only one who can fix it even though he was the one who broke it in the first place.

"I'm counting"

"Oh okay, I thought you were going to slam the door on my face so I really didn't think-"

"2 minutes 50 seconds"

"Shit okay okay I'm sorry. First of all I'm sorry. You're right, it was unfair of me to treat you like that when all you wanted was to be there for me. You've always been on my side and I was too dumb and too proud, I pushed you away when I should've been holding you tighter. I was scared to tell you my worries because I didn't want you to see me like that, I was scared to be vulnerable I thought I was being weak. That's on me, now I know that. I should've talked to you, I should've listened when you were asking me. You shouldn't have to fight with me or for me. I was dumb, I know that now. And now here I am making the biggest fool of myself because I lost the only one who stayed with me despite all of my bullshit. Sorry for the pain. I'm letting it all out now, sorry for letting you down. If by any chance you don't think I'm completely dumb, can we have another shot at this?"

Donghyuck said all of that under three minutes, taking himself by surprise. Poor you had to process it all at once.

"That's all I wanted from you" you breathed out

"Was I too much?" he whispers

"No, you'll never be that to me. Nothing I can't handle, so if we're giving this another shot that's all I need from you. Don't hold back when it's with me, all or nothing"

For the first time in months, it's like this weight was lifted off of both your shoulders. It might take some time, but you can already feel things falling back into place. It's a risk, but he'll always be a risk you're willing to take no matter how high the stakes are.

"All or nothing" he echoes your words, ready to bet his heart again because he knows with you he'll never lose.

"Can I have a hug now?" you mumble, Haechan chuckles pulling you by the arms until your in his arms again. And this time, he's not letting go.

[lolotheparagon]

Who were your favorite characters from G3/G4 mlp and why?

G3:

Wisteria - i love a good garden horse who's also a big socialist and hates the idea of being royalty cos she misses being with her friends

Minty - the goofiest lovable horse in the entire franchise that always delivered G3's most iconic moments (you broke santa? scene comes to mind) and its offensive she was never brought back for G4

Pinkie Pie - I honestly prefer this version over G4 Pinkie, cos seeing a level-headed, snarky yet still upbeat Pinkie, its a lot more fun and interesting to see than a wacky, emotionally unstable mess that is G4 Pinkie

Kimono - I really wish she was in G3 a lot more, cos the idea of a village hermit pony (not because she hates everyone but because shes very introverted) who occasionly helps the ponies with problems or give advice or just be someone to confide in is a great idea

Lily Lightly - her special about learning to love your weird wonderful self is such an important, sweet lesson cos even grown ass adults struggle to embrace being cringe. And her horn glowing makes her passion for lights that much more interesting cos its like she's sharing her love of lights to make everyone glow like she does. What a pioneer, she invented electric lights for these horses

Rarity - I love how much of a rambunctious little goober Rarity is, especially for a princess in training. Like she doesnt care that she never fell off a waterfall, she immediately wants to do it again. She loves to rollerskate, play around in the mud and wants to play with a caterpillar rather than study, like a real kid would do. But she does actually take her princess lessons seriously and grows into a more responsible person, without losing her fun-loving self.

Scootaloo - out of all the G3 ponies, Scoots stands out for being a little ankle biter but has a good heart. She can be selfish, impulsive and stubborn, again G3 really knows how to write kid characters

Sweetie Belle - the epitome of no thoughts, head empty and I love her for it. She's so baby and happy, that telling a white lie is a foreign concept to her

Cheerilee - I like her more neurotic and shy version than her teacher counterpart in G4, I also like that her dynamic with Scootaloo isnt toxic, unlike a lot of sibling relationships in media, the two are not only similar in age but also share the same stubbornness, but the two are quick to apologise to each other and its clear they still love each other, despite their differences.

Rainbow Dash - I LOVE DIVA DASH SO MUCH. WHY THE FUCK DID BRONIES COMPLAIN ABOUT HER OVER THE YEARS? SHE'S HILARIOUS?!

G4:

Twilight Sparkle - as much as I hate how much she became a vector for the writers spewing friendship, I love how Twilight became a great protagonist growing from an asocial student to the princess of friendship, being the straight mare to everyone's antics. Although her perfectionism and fanaticism have become flanderised over the years

Fluttershy - talk about a glow up, she went from an insufferable uwu wallflower to an introverted, yet snarky and self-confident pony who has retained all her lessons of self-assertion and yet still being the sweet, shy horse we all know. Also shy quiet characters having dry wit and has calm indignation when something ticks them off is just peak character writing

Rarity - this horse made me love ultra feminine characters, i remember hating Rarity when I started watching cos I knew she would be just the stereotypical diva bitch character that reminded me of all the girls i had to deal with in school at the time (me having insecurities about my femininty didnt help), but damn i couldnt be more wrong, cos she's a wonderfully sassy yet kind and passionate character. Her love of fashion and creating is infectious and while her friends are wildly different to her, she tries her best to make something she knows they will all like and isnt afraid to get her hooves dirty to help others

Discord - the most uniquely designed and characterised character. As someone who starts off a chaotically evil villain to a chaotic good reformed ally cos the shy horse reached out to him, its no surprise he became so popular in both the show and fandom. And to this day, his redemption is the most well-executed example ive seen cos of how tentative it was. I love how incredibly devoted he is to Fluttershy and will kill anyone who harms her. I just wish he had more scenes with the rest of the mane 6, I would've loved more Pinkie and Discord pulling pranks together.

Maud Pie - you will never find another pony in the entirety of MLP like Maud. Stoic, blunt and very literal in her choice of words, expressionless yet becomes instantly emotional and caring when her loved ones are hurt or in danger. Like whoever wrote her, I love you cos she's the most refreshing character ive seen. I love characters who look like eternally on autopilot yet will spring into action like a bat out of hell if the people they love are hurt.

Sunset Shimmer - The fact Sunset Shimmer didnt become a protagonist in her own right in Equestria Girls cos WE HAVE TO HAVE A TWILIGHT in every MLP G4 universe is a crying shame. She was saved from being a boring high school girl villain obsessed with power and thats it to a strong-willed, passionate, devoted friend who will fight tooth and nail to make her friends happy. I love how EQG reforms a bully without forcing Sunset to lose her edge and fiery temper cos that was always the biggest problem kids shows fall into when redeeming bullies. That scene were Sunset yells at Sci-Twi for unintentionally causing a lot of damage to Canterlot High and putting her friends in danger was palpable.

Princess Cadance - one of the most level headed characters in the show and honestly does a much better job at being a mentor to Twilight than Celestia. Also her relationship with Shining Armor is peak power couple. I love how despite being more powerful than he is, Cadance never treats him as someone beneath her. She's just great and I hate teenage me for calling her a bland Barbie horse.

Trixie - Trixie is the prime example of designated bitch cos the show tries desperately hard to make her look like a villain when all she did was put on a magic show and boast about her magic. Even when she gets redeemed, she was treated with more scorn and derision than DISCORD (who did a lot worse than Trixie) and becomes friends with a pony who one time SOLD HER HOUSE WITHOUT HER PERMISSION TO A RANDO JUST BECAUSE THEY HAD AN ARGUMENT THAT THE WAGON WAS TOO SMALL FOR BOTH OF THEM TO SLEEP IN. JESUS this show treated her like shit. its a damn shame cos Trixie's self-confidence and sarcasm made her a delight and underneath all her theatrics, she really does care for people and that wouldve been interesting to discuss if the show didnt constantly harp on her being arrogant COS HOW DARE SHE

Spike - Ive really grown to like Spike looking back, while Twilight has become more erractic and insane as time went on, Spike has become the straight man. I love how unphased he is about liking traditionally girly things and is comfortable with being a dragon who likes pony things. Of course bronies lambasted him for being selfish and mean or impulsive at times, cos how dare a kid character acts like a kid. I also like how overly excited he is about wanting to help others, from Twilight to Applejack to Rarity. I just really wish the writers dropped the whole crush he had on Rarity, cos the show got REALLY WEIRD with it.

Sunburst - what a delightfully nerdy horse. From hyperfixating on ancient pony lore and artifacts to being precise about a right answer percentage in a town trivia contest, he's hilarious and way too good of a character to be saddled with Starlight Glimmer of all people. He shouldve been Trixie's best friend if we're being honest.

Sorry for late reply!

[saintsir4n]

PROLOGUE

where tommy shelby decides to take a leap of faith

___

1913

"COME on 'Saiah, maths ain't that hard, even I could do it and I didn't know my dividing from my multiplying,"

"What's that?" he groaned, dropping his pencil and pouting his lips, which Eden thought was adorable, but she couldn't say it aloud otherwise he would whine and cry about being treated like a child. Brat. "Those ain't real words."

"They are, trust me and you'll learn 'em soon. Don't worry kid, just remember we have to get this homework sheet done, I don't want your teacher actin' up."

"'Cause she's a... what d'you call it, a b-bitch?"

Her eyes widened at the curse, "Isaiah."

"You say it and so does Finn," he quickly explained, patting the table.

"Neither of you lot are supposed to say it. You're kids!"

"I'm almost six," he said cheekily as if it meant anything.

She pinched his cheeks, "Still a baby to me."

"I am not a baby, Dad said I'm a big boy," he spoke grumpily, "I can count to fifty y'know?"

Knocking at the front door caught their attention.

Eden frowned because she knew her parents had a key, same with her uncle Jeremiah and he didn't stop preaching until he 'put the fear of god into small heath', even though she couldn't tell if he believed the words he spoke. Whoever was rapidly knocking slightly worried her.

"How about, you stay here and count to fifty like a big boy and then we can stop for a bit," she hushed him before he could clap excitedly, "I'll throw in some sweets if you can keep quiet and finish one of these sums alright?"

Isaiah nodded happily and started counting, holding his hands up to help him, not wanting to ruin his chances of getting some sweets along with his Friday night chips that his dad brought home with him.

Eden cautiously approached the front door, all while wishing she brought a knife from the kitchen or a nursing needle from the nursing course she was taking (following in her mother's footsteps she was).

If she had a religious bone in her body she would've prayed, but there was no God in Small Heath, only devils existed 'round here.

And that was who was on the other side of the door.

Thomas bloody Shelby.

Stood there leant against the archway of the door without uttering a single word.

Tilting her head upwards, Eden met his impenetrable gaze.

During their school years, not one word was exchanged between them, well being in different years groups would do that and the fact he never seemed to stray far from his two best friends Greta and Freddie, just like Lorenzo and Dorris never strayed from her. Not one word and yet she usually talked to his brother John, with him being in the same year as her.

Eden didn't know what to do other than glance behind her, hoping not to see Isaiah making his way around the corner but luckily all she could faintly hear was him struggling to count. When she turned back she gulped at the sight of Tommy. Eyes as piercing as snow, not even the peaky hat could protect her from his stare. With his fairly chapped lips and a jaw that could slice its way through the thickest bread one could buy at the local bakery, she took a step back, swiftly raking her gaze down his slightly worn suit and dress shoes that must've been polished this morning.

Tommy was frustratingly handsome and to him, she was infuriatingly beautiful.

He was there for a reason, though he'd never uttered a word to the girl he'd grown up with he knew there was more than what met the eye. He knew her closest friends, which sibling of his she spoke to, her parents' profession and what she might do with her future. He knew she would come to the door cautiously considering the rough street they lived on. He knew her short hair would be styled back in a bun which unintentionally insinuated her flawless features. And he knew she would be wearing an ankle-length skirt and a loose-fitting blouse similar to his aunt. Why? He just knew.

They never spoke a word to each other.

Not one word until now.

"You lost?" she asked, leaning forward and glancing around the noisy street.

And what he was about to say next, she could never have predicted.

"Come to my uncle's yard, John told me you know where it is," he replied shortly, taking her back.

She blinked at him, ignoring how his gruff voice made her feel, "Hello Tommy, nice to see you too."

He continued, unaffected by her sarcasm, "Just come."

Her grip on the door tighten, "And why would I listen to you?"

He shrugged, "Well, As your future husband, I want to show you things that no one else will."

A laugh of disbelief escaped her lips and yet she didn't smile, much to his chagrin.

"And what things are they Mr Shelby?" her grip on the door loosened slightly, which he took note of.

"Anything you ask, meet me at my uncle's yard and don't be late."

"And what if I am?" she dared to ask, rolling her shoulders back and insinuating her neck. A bear neck, like always. He assumed that a cross would cover it, but even when they were all forced to go to church as kids she never wore one. "What will you do huh?"

His tongue swiped over his teeth before answering, "Then I'll just have to wait for you then eh?"

She wanted to smile at his answers, they were all so...charming, but why would she believe the ladykiller of small heath? Just as she went to reply, she was interrupted.

"Edie!" Isaiah's little voice boomed through the little space, making her sigh and Tommy raise a brow and cocked his head to the side, letting his eyes dart around the small foyer of the narrow home. Cleaner than my house that's for fucking sure. It looked cosy and warm, filled with pictures, hanging from the walls and cluttered on the small table near where shoes laid, "Counted to a fifty, I did."

"Then finish the sum!" her voice pulled him from his thoughts and a ghost of a smile tugged at his lips.

Hearing Isaiah's huff and groan, Eden exhaled and turned back to a rather amused Tommy.

"What?" she questioned, finally dropping her hand from the door.

"Nothing," he paused, "I don't remember you being so good at maths at school."

Her brows pinched together, "You didn't speak to me at school so how would you know that?"

"Finn tells me things," he recalled all the times his littlest brother would run home after being babysat by Eden and gush over every little thing she did, "You help him with readin' and writin' like Isaiah back there."

"Two little shits that drive me off the bend," she blurted out, then went to correct herself remembering who she was speaking to, "shit- I mean-" he swiftly cut her off.

"Thick as thieves those two," he said, amused by her cursing, "Our Finn is head-case and despite Jeremiah stalking through town and trying to fill it with hope and all the godly advice in the bloody world, Isaiah is just like my brother."

She hummed and then changed the conversation.

"Am I even your type? Because the women I've seen you with are the same colour as my palm if that."

"So you watch me," he noted rather smugly, though his face didn't show it, his eyes beamed slightly.

"Easy, I notice things."

"As do I," he retorted, "You're wrong, about the women you see me with," she raised a questioning brow, urging him to go on, "I don't have a type, you can say there's a pattern —"

"And you wanna break it with me? No chance."

She didn't want to be the first black woman he bedded, even though she highly doubted she would be. Well, that and she didn't want to give in to the small-town gangster.

"Haven't you heard? Life is full of chances," he jested.

"Cute."

"And you should take one on me."

Rolling her eyes, "Since I watch you..." her tone turned mocking, "I could've sworn you have a woman, at least that's what the streets are saying."

"The streets of Small Heath are full of lies," he spoke, pulling out a cigarette tin, growing slightly irritated from all her assumptions and questions. He didn't think it would be easy to get someone like Eden Dawkins, he liked a challenge, but she was fucking stubborn. Like trying to force the wrong bullet into a barrel, it won't fucking go. "And fuckin' smoke," he added, pulling out a lighter.

Not being able to help herself her gaze dropped to his lips just as the cigarette swiped against them before he lit it. He took a drag and turned his head as the smoke escaped.

A sly smirk appeared on his face after noting her stare.

"What?"

"Nothing," she quickly cleared her throat and ignored the beam in his icy eyes, "it's just that you contribute to the latter well enough," she uttered, quickly nodding to his cigarette. Fuck I need one.

"Yeah, the factories help me out a bit."

She almost smiled.

"I suppose, but I'm just remembering what I was told... you know about you being taken."

"By who?"

"Whom," she corrected.

"Fine, whom?"

"The eyes of small Heath." Her eyes, but she wouldn't admit that.

"Alright. You think if I had a woman I would look at you, be on your doorstep?" he asked after taking another drag, even offering her a hit, but she refused, despite needing a release of her own.

"I hope not. Or I would let her know that her man's a dog," she said, holding back a smile.

He made a noise, "A horse is more fitting."

"Ah yes, your family loves to ride," she quickly added, "John's on four feet more than he's on two."

"It's in the blood. Gypsy blood," he informed, waiting to see how she would react to his background.

It wasn't a secret where his family came from, most people were disgusted by them, many hid it well, whilst the others got a beating if they opened their gobs.

He was glad when he didn't catch any indifference in her demeanour. She didn't care or didn't see any faults in it. He supposed that she couldn't, being black and all, but if you weren't pure-blooded you would get put into the same boat as everyone else or the bottom of the barrel. And that's where one would find people like them; Watery Lane.

"I'm scared of horses," she admitted.

He squinted, "What has a horse ever done to you, Eh?"

"Mum doesn't like 'em, so I guess she passed that on to me."

"Suppose I have to change that," I will change that.

"Not without asking that girl of yours," she finally smiled at her own joke and so did he.

He playfully rolled his eyes, "I'm available, not with anyone and those who say they're with me are lying alright."

"Alright. Because I don't like cheaters. I despise the lot of 'em, just like those toffs despise us."

"It's a good thing I'm not one then ain't it?"

Finally giving in, she shrugged, "I guess you're right."

"And what about you," he turned it on her, "I heard I weren't the only lad in knockin' at your door."

She hummed, folding her arms, "There's a long list."

Narrowing his eyes, he didn't know whether or not she was playing with him, "How long?"

"No need to bawl and shout. According to the eyes of Small Heath, it goes from here to bloody Black Country. But all you need to know is that you could be at the end..." she trailed off.

"Last darlin', last."

"Oh really?"

"Changretta won't storm your mind when you next see me I promise you that."

She laughed, "Changretta, which one? Just like you Shelbys, there's many."

"You know which one, I don't have to spell it out for you," he took his last drag and let the cigarette drop before stomping it out.

"You might, I'm a woman y'see, I don't always get things straight away, have to get a man to dumb things down f'me."

He almost smiled again at her teasing, but all joy faded as he spoke.

"Luca," he pronounced as clear as day, with his jaw tightening ever so slightly. That bloody jawline. He knew she was heavily involved with the Changrettas, her closest friend was Lorenzo for Christ's sake and she even talked to the Angel also. But Luca... he and Luca never got along. not during school or out of it. Shelby's and Changretta's... like water and oil. Them being Italian meant they were also the bottom of the barrel, but that didn't mean they had to get along. "That Changretta."

She began to grin and even though he wanted to enjoy her expression, he took a mental picture and decided to save it for later.

"Ah, so the eyes of Small Heath have told you about me and him is that right?"

"Yeah, these bloody eyes seem to know all."

She hummed, "Bloody nosey."

"Too right," he agreed.

"So confident, where has this man been for the last couple of years? Pestering other doorsteps and desecrating other homes," she motioned to the used cigarette, which made him quickly kick it away.

"Making sure he was the right man for you," he spoke not taking his eyes off of her which made her cave and look away, much to his amusement because he caught the light blush kissing her caramel skin.

"You've got the charm," she annoyedly admitted, "it's all in the eyes."

He huffed out a chuckle, "Don't stare for too long, yours will get stuck."

Feigning offence, "And then I won't take you up on that offer, oh no."

Checking his watch, he tsked and ignored her quip. He shot her one last look and then spun on his heel, before shouting, "I'll see you at Charlie's yard Eden!"

"No, you won't!"

"Don't dress up for me!"

"Wasn't gonna!"

And with that, she slammed the door shut with the biggest smile on her face.

"Edie!" Isaiah yelled, "I'm done!"

"Sure you are little man!"

"Can we get sweets now?" he eagerly asked after she entered the kitchen and saw the biggest drawings all over his homework, making her curse.

"You ain't done. Your dad will be on my arse if he sees this."

"He won't. Just like I won't tell him about Tommy comin' over."

His cheeky grin widened at the glare he received.

"Fine," she gave in, "but don't tell your dad."

"Promise."

"Alright get your coat," she huffed as he ran away, "little shit."

▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃

a/n:

dorathy dandridge is eden’s face claim. this story is also on my wattpad account, but I know that many people cannot access the app/website so I’ll try and post on both.

[baronessblixen]

23. Mistletoe kiss! (I think you know who)

Thank you for the prompt! This turned into a sequel to Christmas With The Scullys, but I think it can also be read on its own. It's very fluff.

Wc: 2,231 | Tagging @today-in-fic

Mistletoe Musings

Gooey darkness greets him as he slowly comes to, trying to blink away the sleep from his eyes. He wakes up languidly, stretching his legs, amazed at how soft this bed is. How quiet everything is here. How wonderful it smells.

Wait.

Mulder opens his eyes fully, looking around. His head is throbbing in tandem with his heartbeat. Where the fuck is he and why is he not alone in his bed? First things first. This, he realizes seeing a picture of a very young Scully and her siblings – Bill may have grown, but he hasn’t changed – on the nightstand, is not his bed, or his home. The memories return to him in scraps. Hospital. Concussion. Scully’s car. Scully’s mother’s house.

The bed he’s sleeping in is Scully’s. The person he’s sharing the bed with is… Scully. His eyes are still getting used to the dark, but now that he knows, he can see her. The lump under the comforter is without a doubt his partner. This isn’t the first time they’re sharing a bed, but it’s the first time they’re sharing her bed.

He doesn’t remember why they put him up here in Scully’s room. Does her mother think they’re dating? Scully, still asleep, chooses that moment to scoot closer to him, sighing deeply. Her scent is intoxicating. So is her proximity. If his mind keeps going down this path, his head will soon no longer be the only thing throbbing.

What he has to do is get a grip. This is Scully. She brought him here because he got himself hurt – again – and he couldn’t be left alone. Like a child. He’s crashing her Christmas because he acted before thinking.

He should thank Scully and all his lucky stars that he’s here and alive, not dead in some ditch, or all alone in a hospital. His eyes find Scully and his mind stops racing. A smile breaks on his face, just watching her sleep. He shifts the tiniest bit closer to her, hoping she won’t wake. When she doesn’t stir, he wills himself to relax. His eyes watching her, he’s being pulled back to sleep, too.

“Why can’t we wake them?” Someone not too quietly whispers. “I want to see what Santa brought!”

“Shhh. Let them sleep a moment longer.” Another voice chimes in, more familiar and more mature. It must be Mrs. Scully.

“Huh?” Scully, who at some point during the night decided to use his chest as a pillow, wakes up and as soon as she realizes how close they are, she gasps. But she doesn’t move away. She glances at him, her mind playing catch up, and then she smiles.

“Good morning,” she says.

“Grandma, they’re awake!” Two Scully children exclaim and both Mulder and Scully turn towards the door where Mrs. Scully stands with the biggest grin on her face.

“You better hurry,” she says, chuckling. “These kids are in a hurry.”

“Aunt Dana and the fox are awake!” One of the children screams, running down the stairs.

“What time is it?” Mulder asks once they’re alone again.

“Early,” Scully replies with a yawn. “Too early. How’s your head?”

“Scully, why is your very Catholic mother not at all fazed that I’m in your bed?”

“I take it your head is better.” Her words don’t stop her from touching the bump on his head and he winces. “There’s not enough space with half my family here. Is your head not better? Do we need to go back to the hospital?” Her hand is still on his head, but now she’s cradling it.

“No. No, we don’t. You’re important to me,” he says, remembering saying the same thing to her last night. He wants to say it again. Needs to say it again. There are no painkillers in his blood. Even the adrenaline is gone. If she didn’t believe him last night, she cannot deny it this morning.

“You told me last night. Do you- do you remember what happened yesterday?”

“I know I said it last night,” he assures her. “I do remember what happened. Well, mostly. I know where we are, and I know who I am, and I know who you are. What else do I need? I just wanted to say it again so that you know I meant it.”

“Thank you, Mulder,” she says, blushing faintly. “I meant it, too.”

“Glad we’re on the same page.” He grins at her, his head moving towards hers. Somewhere in the back of his mind he knows that they were supposed to get up and go downstairs where a plethora of Scullys wait for them. But what he really wants is to drink in Scully’s sleep-tousled hair, her make-up-free morning face full of freckles, and her inviting lips.

“Mulder,” she says, his name sounding like a murmur. Her eyes flicker to his lips, letting him know that she wants this, too. But before their mouths meet, his brain fires another word at him.

“Mistletoe,” he says, right before their lips meet. “We talked about mistletoe last night, didn’t we?” Scully chuckles, her eyes closing briefly.

“We did.”

“I still don’t know if there is any downstairs.”

“I think it’s time you find out.”

*

They draw all eyes to them when they enter Mrs. Scully’s living room. For a moment Mulder isn’t sure whether he’s seeing double. He’s never seen so many people for Christmas. They’re everywhere.

“Finally,” a kid says with a groan, crawling towards the tree and the presents there. Scully takes his hand, leading him toward the couch where her mother is sitting. Mulder feels several pairs of eyes bore into him. Most prominently Bill Jr.’s. He swallows hard, smiling at everyone else.

“Oh dear,” Mrs. Scully says. “There really is not enough space here.” She motions to the couch and Mulder realizes she’s right. There’s just enough space for one more person. They can’t very well ask the old lady with her cup of tea to sit on the floor.

“I can, um, stand over there,” Mulder says, pointing. “It’s fine.”

“Don’t be silly,” Mrs. Scully says. “Dana can sit on your lap. Come on now,” she urges. “You’re going to miss all the fun.”

Mulder and Scully exchange a quick look. If they don’t sit down soon, they will make it worse. Though Mulder isn’t sure things can be worse now.

“Sit down,” Scully says, her voice soft. She touches his arm, letting him know it’s okay. This is at once a dream and a nightmare come true. But he sits down, the couch sinking under his weight. Mrs. Scully nods at him, smiling before she redirects her focus back to the children. The only person still watching them is Bill Jr.

Mulder’s head is throbbing but he ignores it, waiting for Scully to sit on his lap. His Scully on his lap. She’s light as a feather, feeling just right sitting here. His arms go around her waist of their own volition. She leans against him, throwing him a quick smile. As he watches everyone tear through their presents, wrapping paper flying everywhere, he wonders if this is happening or a side effect of his concussion. Last night, he shared a bed with Scully. This morning, she’s sitting in his lap.

“This one’s for you, Dana.” Someone hands Scully a present and he rests his head on her shoulder to watch her unwrap it.

“What a beautiful scarf,” she says. “Thank you, Aunt Sylvia.”

“It’s from Santa,” one of the children reminds her.

“You’re right,” Scully says, laughing. “Thank you, Santa.” She turns around to look at Mulder, still smiling. He’s never seen her like this, like Dana. Being around her family grounds her, mellows her. She’s the most beautiful he’s ever seen her.

“Happiness looks good on you,” he whispers.

“It looks good on you, too,” she says, wrapping the scarf around him. It already smells like her and he doesn’t ever want to take it off. She’s right: he’s happy. It’s been more years than he can count since he’s felt this peaceful on Christmas.

“I know you had no choice,” Mulder says, his voice breaking. “But thank you for bringing me here.”

“I wanted you here, Mulder. I could have left you in the hospital.”

“I need to find that mistletoe,” he says. As much as he wants to kiss her – and do it right now – it might just be the last straw for Bill Jr.

“Look around,” Scully whispers, making him shiver all over. He does. His eyes scan the whole room and then, finally, he sees it. Mistletoe right by the window. He knew he could count on Mrs. Scully. Now all he has to do is be patient. He’s grinning like a Cheshire cat, much to the delight of the other grown up guests. He hopes they don’t know what he’s thinking about. But even if they do, he can’t care. Not tonight. Today he will receive the greatest Christmas gift he can imagine. He will get to kiss Scully.

*

In the end, it’s probably no more than an hour. To Mulder, it feels endless. The last present is unwrapped, the children are happy and playing with their toys, and the adults are refilling their coffees to stay awake and alert. Mulder doesn’t need caffeine. He’s thirsty for something else. But Tara has grabbed Scully by the arm and now the two women are in the kitchen while Mulder hangs around the mistletoe by himself.

“So you are Dana’s partner.” A woman approaches him, holding a plate with cookies. She offers one to Mulder and he politely takes one. “I’m her aunt. I’ve been very curious about you.”

“Hmm?” Is all he can say with his mouth full of cookie.

“Maggie told me all about you and Dana. She was hoping you’d be here. I love Dana, but these last few years,” she trails off, sighing. “It was obvious that there was always something missing. Someone missing. It was you. It’s good to see my favorite niece smile again. Don’t tell Bill Jr. I called Dana my favorite.” She winks at him and Mulder smiles, trying to process what he just heard.

He doesn’t get much time, because Scully returns to the living room, walking towards him. He forgets everything else. There is no one else in this room but them. His head doesn’t hurt. The only reason his knees are weak is that Scully is smiling at him. She has a cup of coffee in her hand that she puts on the mantelpiece.

“Hi,” he says, his voice breathless.

“Hi.”

“I found mistletoe.”

“I see.”

“You know the tradition,” he says.

“I do. You should be glad Aunt Sylvia didn’t look up just now,” Scully says. “I think she might have a thing for you.”

“Hmm, too bad. I’m already interested in someone else.”

“Who?” Scully asks, but he steals the word from her lips. They meet in the middle with her on tiptoes and him slightly stooped. It starts out soft and gentle, a perfect first kiss. But when Scully’s fingers lock in his hair, all bets are off. He forgets that he shouldn’t be upright for longer periods of time. His knees buckle, but kissing Scully takes precedence over everything else.

“There are children present, for God’s sake.” It’s Bill’s booming voice that brings them back to the present, to Mrs. Scully’s house, and the various family members glaring at them.

“I’m, um, we- well.” Mulder tries to find words, but can’t. He wipes his mouth and Bill’s eyes narrow.

“The kids are not even paying attention,” Scully says. Everyone over the age of 12 is, however. Mulder has never seen so many women smile at him. He stands closer to Scully, knowing she’ll protect him.

“I said I’d try to be nice to him,” Bill says, looking him up and down. “But Dana, this is going too far.”

“It was one kiss, Bill.”

“Hey, don’t fight, please,” Mulder says, his headache returning with a vengeance. “I think I need to sit down anyway. I’m a bit dizzy.”

“I wasn’t thinking.” She throws Bill a dirty look and for a brief moment, the siblings battle a silent fight that Scully seems to be winning. She leads Mulder over to the couch where every Scully woman starts fawning over him. His very own Scully has her hand on his head, straightening the hair she mussed up. He grins, thinking about what happened mere moments ago. He wants it to happen again soon.

“He’s wearing lipstick,” Aunt Sylvia says, taking a sip from her coffee. “Looks good on him.” Somewhere Bill Jr. groans while everyone else laughs. Scully wipes the lipstick away with her thumb, pressing a kiss to his cheek. She’s not at all shy with him here, surrounded by her family. Even if she only does it to rile up her big brother, he doesn’t care. After all, he gets kisses. From Scully. He will never complain about that. Though he can’t wait to do this when they’re alone and Bill Jr. isn’t breathing down their necks. Quite literally.

“It really does look good on you,” she whispers, bringing him back to the present.

“Maybe I can wear it again later?” He asks, full of hope.

“Oh, you will be wearing it again later tonight, don’t worry,” she promises him.

[axratsffxivwrite]

FFXIV Write Day 18 - Hackneyed (A New Quest)

"So, you were meant to stay in Eorzea, doin' easy quests for the guild…"

"Mhm."

"But once your mum left for Garlemald you went and snuck out to join the Bozjans without tellin' her or us?"

"…that about sums it up, aye."

Kin took a bite of his steak, chewing it over as the young Roegadyn man across from him chewed over his words. Loetzirn Wyrnsolksyn cut a hulking figure, and had already devoured two plates in the time it had taken Kin to get through his first, in spite of his persistent questioning. The remaining three members of Loetzirn's party sat back, their eyes darting between the pair as they listened over the din of the Quicksand's patrons.

To Kin's right sat the Miqo'te siblings, Rahki and Rheloh'a Moshlaali. Rahki's shortbow leaned against the table alongside her brother's staff, though they were both dressed down from their usual armor and robe accoutrements in simple, Ul'dahn style dress.

To Kin's right was the Elezen duskwright, Velavene Atheaux, her features dark as ash. Though dressed down in a simple tunic and breeches, her sword still hung from her hip and her shield sat leaned against the side of her chair, never far from reach.

Loetzirn tilted his head to the side. "Well, it's a little hackneyed, but I guess if it worked out for ya."

"Hackneyed?" Kin echoed incredulously.

"Well, yeah, didn't you pull the same stunt at Paglth'an? Went running off without permission and all? Think you mentioned that once or twice. The whole running away to go join a big fuck-off battle's becomin' something of a habit for ya."

Kin chewed over a bite slowly, not entirely sure what to say to that.

Rahki laughed. "I think he's doing just fine for it. Look at how much he's grown up." She picked at the strands of Kin's long, shaggy hair. "You were such a nervous little thing the first time we met, all lanky and long-limbed. You've filled out well these past couple of years. Lost all that baby fat in your face. Very handsome."

Kin coughed awkwardly, swallowing his food. "…thanks? I mean. We've all grown since then, have we not? Except Vela, I suppose…"

Velavene let out an amused chuckle. She was the eldest by a decade, certainly, but also the most hands-off and prone to leaving the younger adventurers to make their own mistakes, while never being far if they truly needed her.

Loetzirn nodded. "Aye, aye… but you got me wondering, Kin, what's brought you back and calling us for help? You've got all you wanted, getting to go back home."

Ah. Right. Time to get down to business.

Kin finished the last bites of his stake, then set down his cutlery and reached for his bag, rifling through it until he found his journal. He opened it up to a marked page.

Taped to the page was a painstakingly drawn, monochromatic ink sketch of a woman. She looked to be of middling age, with Dalmascan features and fair hair. Kin turned the journal out and held it up for them to see.

"I'm trying to find her." He explained. "We think she's somewhere in Eorzea, but that…"

Rheloh'a scoffed, "doesn't narrow it down much, does it?"

"No, and that's my problem." Kin sighed.

Loetzirn furrowed his brow. "Never seen her in my life, I'm afraid. She mean something to you?"

"She's…" Kin trailed off. Describing his relation to Adi Trelik was always a complicated matter. He had no blood relation to her, he had never met the woman, but Marsil was nothing if not a second father to him.

"…she's the mother of my clan's leader," he explained tactfully. "We know she fled Rabanastre before it was destroyed, but then she vanishes off the face of the star. He's been looking for her for years, but unfortunately he can't keep running off. Eorzea is unfamiliar hunting grounds to him, which means now I'm here, trying to help."

Loetzirn hummed, scratching at his jaw. "Take it this means you ain't joining back up with us?"

"I… no, this is more of a 'divide and conquer' request. The more old friends keeping an eye out, the more likely I am to learn something eventually."

Rheloh'a rested his elbow on the table and leaned his head against his fist. "Smart. Cast a wide net, you're bound to catch something. Just a matter of it being what you need…"

Velavene tapped a knuckle against her chin. "Ala Mhigo's the most sympathetic land a Dalmascan could go, I think. A lone, old woman in hiding? She's likely to be exploited in Ul'dah, robbed blind in Limsa Lominsa, and turned away from Gridania or Ishgard unless the elementals or the high houses see potential for her."

Loetzirn grunted. "Could also try Werlyt, potentially. Little close to Ilsabard but it's rebuilding, last I heard. Never been myself."

Kin sighed. "Wide net, indeed…"

He closed the journal and tucked it away once more before he cast a weary glance about the table.

"I'm not asking for a miracle or even for you to go out of your way, only that you let me know if you see someone matching her description."

Loetzirn scoffed. "'course we will. You better keep in touch and let us know if you find anything so we know to stop lookin'."

"Of course."

Kin shouldered his bag and rose from his seat with a fond, if tired smile.

"I appreciate you hearing me out, if nothing else."

"Don't be so damn formal with us, you long-eared shite. Still the same ol' mates you had before you went traipsing off to Bozja without us. Might not adventure with us anymore but we're still friends."

Kin chuckled softly. "Right, sorry."

Rheloh'a cleared his throat. "I watered your plants, by the way. Pruned 'em, too."

Rahki laughed. "I think after the first turn he was gone they became your plants."

"Our plants."

Kin's smile widened. "Our plants." He agreed. "I was headed that way next, I look forward to seeing how good they look."

Rheloh'a nodded. "Still alive, all of them. You'll see."

"I suppose I will. Thanks, again. I owe you."

He excused himself with a smile and a bow of his head before he turned and headed out into the streets of Ul'dah.

[birdie123au]

agon

agon - a contest, struggle, or conflict of personality, character, or values

War has taken from you everything you had known and loved. Still, new light has been brought into your life to keep you afloat. Through an unlikely friendship, you forge your way in the royal court as a force of great power to be reckoned with.

part four of five

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The sun was harsh as it shone over the sea, reflecting its intense rays off the clear ocean blue back into the sky. Despite the beautiful, sunny weather that often brought good fortune, the day was nothing but solem and the air was tense. A fleet of a dozen ships would be setting sail for Troy, and on one of those was your newlywed husband, Ajax.

It had only been several weeks since the two of you married, yet it felt like lifetimes ago. The very next morning following your wedding, you woke up in a room full of people you dreaded to see. The headmistress, the master guard, the King of Salamis, and the horse-stable man. Angrily, three of them demanded to know if it was true. If you had truly wedded the future king in the later hours of the evening without proper supervision or consent of the father. You practically had a heart attack after being bombarded by their questions, especially when they began to bring up matters of consummation and which chamber you slept in that night. It wasn’t until his siblings, the rest of the royal counsel, and Ajax himself arrived that you no longer felt you were the target of the attack.

After hours of debate, screaming, and scheming, the royal counsel came to the conclusion that, although they did not wish for it, the marriage was legal and therefore binding. This meant that the two of you were married officially, your betrothals ceased, and you were now a princess. But you were certainly not treated as such, especially after you guaranteed you would never have the favor of the king who was beyond mad his matchmaking skills with the Princess Arete had gone to waste. 

But it didn't matter, as today was not about you. It was about your Ajax. He was to get on a boat for an indeterminate amount of time with the slight chance he would never return. The night before his departure you spent weeping into the pillows of your shared room. You no longer had shame expressing your tears, and you instead sought the comfort of those around you, including your husband, as a means of coping with your grief. 

Despite all prayers and wishes, you stood in front of your husband, looking directly into his bright blue eyes. You couldn't help but wonder how things could have turned out to be this way. The twelve year old boy you once knew, who you used to play toys with, and watch his sports, had grown right in front of your eyes. His face had matured and his hair color had deepend. You tried to imagine the two versions of himself standing next to each other, how similar their smirks would be, how different their height. What that twelve year old boy would be feeling about all this, you do not know. Now matter how much reflection you could do did not change current circumstances. Ajax was leaving you, just after you finally, truly had him, and he would not be back for many more moons.

“Ajax,” you said, taking an additional step forward. He met you halfway in a bone crushing hug. Summers on Salamis could be sticky and unbearably hot at times, but you didn't mind how your skin stuck together slightly due to the line layer of sweat.

“Y/n,” he similarly addressed, “be a good girl for me, won’t you?”

You laughed into his shoulder before pulling yourself away to meet his lips; “Only if you promise you’ll be good as well.”

You were only half joking.

You heard a much deeper voice clear his throat from behind; “Son,” the voice said.

King Telamon was standing directly behind you, towering over both you and your husband. You decided it was best to move out of their way, opting to stand a comfortable distance at the side of Ajax. You watched as the two men embraced, and although Ajax was eighteen you couldn’t help but identify parts of his twelve year old self as he attempted to squirm and squeeze his way out of his fathers hug. You felt a pang of sadness in your heart as you watched the scene knowing you no longer had the opportunity to embrace your own father.

The Queen Hesione was nowhere in sight. Ever since the marriage of her eldest son to the bastard daughter of a beggar, tensions were ever high in the royal court. Hesione took a particular dislike to you out of all the women present. It was unsettling to you that you preferred the company of Headmistress Xanthe over the queen. She was cold, judgemental, and outright rude towards you despite the fact you had only formally spoken a few times. She did not like you, and you were fine with that. Afterall, she owed you nothing and you did not behave in a way to indicate that she did. But what you did find rather obnoxious was her refusal to send off her own son to war due to her grievances with you. 

Despite this bit of drama, the rest of Ajax’s family and court were present. The Princess Tonia, Prince Anton, and Prince Teucer all had to blink back the tears in their eyes as they hugged their brother goodbye. You did not know his siblings well, but you were still formal enough as to have no public grievances. Watching the siblings interact in a way so caring, so loving filled your heart with joy. It reminded you of your childhood with Rosaria. You loved having a pseudo sibling, you loved the fact Ajax had a sibling, and you knew you wanted any future children of yours to have siblings as well. 

It wasn’t much longer before Ajax had to say his goodbyes. With one last kiss, he turned toward you to say, “Good luck, girlie!” before heading off. No ‘I love you’ or ‘I'll miss you’ just a childish, silly phrase he would say. That was your Ajax. 

With that, he was gone. You watched as the ships slowly disappeared over the horizon. Standing alongside the rest of his family and court, you became increasingly aware of a looming threat above you. Ajax served as the protector, the buffer between you and his enraged council. Without him, you were vulnerable, your only truly allies being Dimitri and the headmistress, if she was having a good day. You attempted to push away these thoughts in your head, and instead focused on watching attentively as you watched your husband disappear right before your eyes over the great ocean.

–––––––––

My dearest, Y/n

It's hard to believe over two years have passed since the day I left you on that dock. The war moves slowly, much like many of the old warriors who serve Menelaus. The days are long, and the nights seem to only grow faster. I urge Menelaus to push forward against their defenses. Afterall, we have many strong, capable men (like me) who are up for the task. Still, he assures me that his plan of working slowly against each of Hector and Paris’s wave of armies remains the best strategy available. I spend my nights drinking with Agamemnon, mornings reviewing strategies with Odysseus, and afternoons discussing more simple ideas with Achilles and his dear friend Patroclus.

Don’t get me wrong, I love spending time with my buddies! But two years of talking with only men has grown rather… repetitive. I long to hear your voice again. Some nights I find myself saying up whispering your name, to see if it still sounds the same to me, you know?

I hope things are going smoothly in court. It hurts me to know you're still dealing with these… problems with my family. Just know, you have someone on your side all the way across the sea. I’m sure you will rise above this seemingly never ending challenge, you always do! Keep me updated with this whole Dimitri–Linos affair. It’s the only good gossip I can get around here. 

I know I always write the same thing, but I think about you everyday. I think about your hair, your eyes, your smile, the way your scent always reminds me of the beach. Reminds me of home. Getting to fight in a war is great in all, but I do find myself missing you and the family more and more as the days pass.  

Take care of yourself, and tell the boys I say hi.

All my love,

Ajax

You sigh as you look up from reading your letter. The chambers of your room have a great window that looks out onto the sea. Ever since you had moved in almost three years ago you had been infatuated with watching the curtains blow towards you with each gust of wind. As the wife of the crowned prince, you find that you no longer have as many freedoms as you once did as a young serving girl. 

You were no longer able to take a stroll all by yourself onto the beach, no, you were always under constant supervision by either the guards or ladies in waiting. Not like it mattered who it was, as no matter the type of person once their duties were done they would always whisper in the hallways calling you names such as ‘The Bitch Servant’ or ‘The Bastard Queen.’ Your skin was thick, and their words could not penetrate it. However, you always found it interesting how no matter your station in the palace, you would never truly have their respect. Not even by marrying the future king of all of Salamis. 

Years had gone by since you had last seen your husband. Not even his letters could appease the growing hole in your heart that his presence once filled. Instead, that whole was filled by a person, two people.

As if they had read your thoughts, you heard the frantic knock of a young servant girl, and you therefore already knew who was here. Standing up from your chair, you fixed your light purple robe and adjusted the string that tied up your hair. The young serving girl had already swung open the door and there ran in two little bodies. Your boys. 

Alexandros and Simonides, who you referred to as Alex and Simon, had recently turned two years old, and had the energy to prove it. The two toddlers would constantly be running up and down the palace corridors with their arms extended to their sides like little birds. The boys shared the ginger hair of their father, but inherited both their complexion and their eye color from yourself. 

Alexandros was the older of the two boys. This natural born leader aspect of his character had already begun to show from the way he paraded his little brother around, commanding him which halls to go down, which foods to eat. He had a knack for mischief and liked to show it. 

Simonides, the younger twin, was more sensitive than his brother. He cried more often than his brother, and was less ambitious to take on new challenges. Despite this, the boy had an extensive vocabulary for his age, and his delicate, intelligent nature served as the perfect foil to his more intense brother.

“Oh my boys!” you said, throwing the letter down onto a nearby chair. You crouched before the two of them, stretching your arms out wide to which the two boys gladly ran into. 

“Thank you, Agatha,” you said as you dismissed the service girl. She did not respond, but rather bowed her head before swiftly leaving this door.

“Mama!” Alex giggled, throwing his little hands up in the air.

“For you,” Simon said, sudden;y releasing whatever had been clutched in his little hands. It was a small flower, most likely from a rogue seedling that had grown in the grass.

“Why is it beautiful!” you replied, pulling it up to your nose to take a sniff,  “It smells very fresh. Did you boys find it on your walk with Agatha?”

“No!” Simon shouted, “Grandmama walk with us.”

“Ah,” you cringed, “Well, I hope you had fun, my sweet boys.”

Alex then sprung in an escape from your arms and began running around your bedroom. It had been difficult raising your children without your husband the past few years, but with the help of the staff and Ajax’s family you did not have to struggle as much as your father did. It did pain you that Ajax had never met his own sons, but you found strength in the idea that he may someday return. Although you knew many in his family had no love for you, they did love the boys, and for that you were grateful. Your children were your rock, they were what kept you strong. They were the reason you could hear vile whispers and allegations in the halls and walk past them with your head up, eyes forward. You only hoped that your sons would never have to face the same speculations that you had. 

“Your majesty?” a handmaiden said, standing at the now open door of your chamber.

“Yes?” you asked, standing up from where you were crouched on the floor, watching your boys run all around the room.

“Her grace the queen wants to speak to you,” she paused for a moment and anxiously picked at her hand, “She says it urgent.”

“Oh,” you said, “Well, could you help me take the boys?”

“Um, she actually wants it to be just the two of you,” she replied, you raised your eyebrows in exasperation, “The boys will be sent down to the Princesses quarters until you can return.”

“Why,” you said, anger straining your voice, “I haven't seen my sons all day. What does she want?”

“I don’t know, your majesty…” the handmaiden said, looking as though she was about to cry.

You sighed angrily as you walked out the door, leaving her behind to escort your children. You then made the walk across the entire palace. Holding up your dress so as to not trip up the many stairs, you were fuming. It was not as though the queen intentionally kept your children away from you often, but she knew that today was when the letters from the army would arrive at Salamis. She knew Ajax had sent you a letter, and you knew that ignited the wounds of betrayal from years ago. 

You had learned from Ajax in a letter he had sent about a year ago that it was the queen's idea to marry him to Princess Arete, and that the king had been the one to put the scheme to life. The queen’s cousin was mother of Arete, and Queen Hesione wished to have a family member nearby for comfort. It pained you to learn that she had been shipped off to Salamis at the age of only fourteen to marry the already eighteen year old King Telamon. 

Not pausing to knock, a guard swung open the queen’s door at the sight of your arrival. The queen turned around from where she had stood, gazing out her window, much like you had been. Hesione was a beautiful woman, that was for certain. She had long, curled auburn hair with a section of it braided and wrapped around the back of her head going ear to ear. Her eyes were a beautiful light brown. The way in which she carried herself with confidence reminded you of her first born son, Ajax.

“Ah, Y/n,” she said, “Please, take a seat at the table.”

“Your grace,” you bowed before taking a seat at the small table by her window. It was an ancient wooden table that belonged to one of the first queens of Salamis and only two of its original chairs remained. Taking a seat, you glanced once more at the queen who was now approaching you. She did not look happy, but rather solem. 

“I wish not to bore you with idle chit-chat,” she began, “I’m sure you received a letter from my son this morning, have you not?”

“I have, your grace,” you lifted the cup of wine that had been placed before your seat, taking a sip; it was bitter.

“Tell me what it said,” she said, startling you with her change in demeanor, “Tell me in total the truth of it.”

“Excuse me?” is all you could think of as a reply.

“Y/n,” the queen pleaded, “Please, this is very important. The queen commands it.”

“If I had known this was all that concerned you, I would have brought it to you myself,” you said before explaining to her the contents of the letter. 

“I see,” was all she said in response, “I understand then.”

“Is that all, your grace?” you said, annoyance still present in your voice despite you trying to be as calm as possible.

“If I tell you this, will you promise not to spread this gossip?” she said; you were confused.

“Of course,” you replied upon instinct, “What is it?”

As if her demeanor had not shocked you enough, the queen began weeping. Despite your sour relationship over the past several years, you felt plain watching her cry in front of you, helpless to stop it.

“My son writes to me,” she said in between her tears, “That the Trojans are making their advances and are winning the war. Menelaus is stubborn and wishes to carry out his strategy with no change. They–”

The queen became overwhelmed by grief and sobbed into her hands. Awkwardly, you walked towards her offering an embrace. Much to your surprise, she had not rejected you, and instead allowed you to wrap her in your arms. It was strange, you had never been this close to the queen physically in your entire life. After a moment, the queen gained her senses and lifted her head back up. You took your seat at the table once more.

“They wish to take to battle more skilled warriors,” she finally explained, “Menelaus demands for my son’s brothers to fight by his side. Ajax has wholeheartedly agreed.”

“What?” you gasped, “But Anton has just begun his studies of philosophy. Teucer is hardly fifteen. Surely there is no way the king will allow this.”

The queen shook her head, crying some more; “I spoke with my husband this morning, Ajax had already written to him with this news months ago. What a fool! Does he not care for the lives and innocence of his younger brothers! He is meant to protect them, not drag them into battle. Oh, and my husband! I just cannot believe he would allow such a thing!”

“I’m so sorry,” you said, reaching your hands onto the table, “Is there anything I can do?”

In another shocking act, the queen grabbed your hands into hers; “I have been at this court for many years at the mercy of the men around me,” She continued tearing up as she spoke, “Not once have I had an ally completely partial to me, not even my own husband.”

It started to make sense. Queen Hesione, the same woman who had spent years mocking you to your face and whispering about you behind your back, had now realized that in all the time she spent tearing you down she had neglected the fact she had very few allies in court. She now needed your support, your perspective, someone who would agree with her: a fellow mother. The thought first disgusted you, how dare she treat you like that and then expect you to blindly support her in court! But the more you thought about it, the more you realized the great importance an ally of her status would mean for you. No longer would the servants be able to freely whisper about you in the halls, insult your late father, or question the legitimacy of your own children. You knew you had to dismiss your anger in search of greener pastures. You had to make an ally out of Queen Hesione.

“Y/n,” the queen continued, “Your support in this court would be a great help to me, to my own daughter. We are both mothers who care deeply for our children. Together we could protect them.”

“I completely agree, your grace,” you said, putting on your best comforting smile, “I believe that if you had the support of Princess Tonia and I, surely the head priest Dimitri would follow– as well as the high priestesses of the Temple of Athena.”

“I’m glad you see it as I do,” the queen said as she removed one of her hands from yours as to wipe her tears away, “Well, I must now go speak to my daughter, tell her all of her brothers will be sent away to war. You will come with me, and we will go visit my grandchildren as well.”

Walking with linked arms, you and Hesione left for the princesses quarters. As you walked through the halls, the servants stared, bowing down to the two of you in awe. An allyship, a statement to the king, a protest of sorts. Showing how two women at odds could unite under a common ground: the protection of their children. You and the queen, walking arm and arm. 

–––––––––

The princess’s head was buried in her hands, sobbing. Her mother, the queen, was at her side attempting to comfort her with reassuring words of strength. Tonia had just turned sixteen years old, but carried herself with grace beyond her years. She was educated, had great posture, and had a beauty that would rival her own mothers. Much like all of his siblings, she shared practically identical features to Ajax. 

Upon your arrival to her chambers, the young girl was playing blocks with your sons. Laughing as the two would take turns knocking over the towers she had built up. She was initially very confused why you and her queen mother had arrived at the same time, arms liked as though you were longtime friends. But the confusion very quickly turned to joy as she grew excited over the possibility of your friendship. That happiness quickly turned into horror as her mother sat her down and explained that her two remaining brothers would be shipped off to war, just as the oldest had been. 

As the mother comforted her daughter, you stood off to the side, looking on in sadness as your little boys laughed and tugged at your dress. A few moments later, the queen stood up from where she had been crouching. 

“My daughter,” she said, stroking the princesses' ginger hair, “I bring you more alarming news, but you should not worry. Your father has plans to marry you off to the cousin of King Menelaus of Sparta, an older man with no children. But we, you, Y/n, and I, will not allow this to happen. I will not have my only daughter, my only child remaining, shipped off to some far away kingdom to a man three times her age. You are to come to court, and the three of us will present our case. Y/n will write to Ajax demanding him to negotiate against his father.” 

So then turned to you, “We only have so much time, you must write quickly.” Tonia looked between the two of you, tears still in her eyes, but the every deviant princess nodded her head in solidarity, and so the three of you devised a plan. By the end of the month, there would be a meeting at the royal court to decide upon the dowry of Tonia. It is where the three of you would present your case to King Telamon, and if all went according to plan the three of you would remain at court. Remain in power.

–––––––––

My dearest, Y/n

I am glad to hear that the boys are doing well. I remember when my little brother, Teucer, was their age. He also had a habit of running around, causing mischief, and keeping both the handmaidens and my own mother on her toes. The war has been going steady, though not too great for us, my fellow warriors and I have slew hundreds of Trojans and we won’t stop until Helen is returned to her rightful home.

As for the more pressing matter to which you write, I cannot believe how disgusting the situation is. If it was up to me, Tonia would not marry the cousin of Menelaus. He is a lazy bum, and more than twice her age! I already was on edge about accepting my brothers into my army, but this has truly gone too far. I certainly condemn this relationship, and I’ve already written to my father demanding he does not proceed. Trust me, I’ll take care of it.

I am also very pleased to hear you and my mother are getting along now! In her letter she wrote praises of you and your bravery. I can’t wait to hear more about all your adventures together. I miss you and the family more than anything. 

Yours,

Ajax

The King Telamon crumpled your letter into his face, angrily looking upon his wife; “Hesione,” he demanded, “What is the meaning of this!”

“My dear husband,” the queen said, she was the only person at the small table of the royal counsel who stood up, “I believe that it would be in our best interest to not marry the Princess Tonia to the cousin of the King of Sparta. Instead, I propose we marry her to one of his sons when she is to turn eighteen.”

“Oh you stupid woman,” the king laughed, “You know nothing of politics! I have a fair trade with the cousin. Twentyseven oxen in exchange for our daughter! These oxen would bring great fortune and good to our local farmers. Strengthen the economy of all of Salamis!”

“Is that all our daughter is to you!” the queen yelled back, “Is she worth twentyseven ox? Is that all she means to you!”

The king grew even more angered, and opened his mouth in protest, but you instead cut in to speak your mind, “If I may, you grace?” all eyes turned to you as you stood from your chair, “The deal for your daughter is an excellent one, a clever political move.”

The queen raised her eyebrows in confusion as Tonia’s eyes widened in fear of what you would say next, “But it is clear to me you are being schemed by the cousin of Menelaus. He knows too well that Menelaus’s sons are a far better match for your daughter, and is attempting to woo you with animals that you could surely obtain through other means. In fact, if you were to marry your daughter to his eldest son, Nicostratus, I’m certain he could provide you with gifts of an even greater scale. Your daughter would be the future Queen of Sparta, she would be fair and good and loved by all her people. She would have status and power, you would have connection to the throne of Sparta.”

The queen smiled; “I agree with Y/n, my husband,” she said, “I will write to Menelaus, informing him of the proposal. Ajax will be quite pleased, and I am certain he will convince his fellow warrior to approve of the union.” 

The king sat in silence for quite some time, thinking long and diligently about the proposal; “Headpriest Dimitri,” he said suddenly, “What are your opinions on the matter? Do you believe the union to be promoting and truthful? Is it the will of the gods?”

Dimitri practically yelped at being put on the spot. He stood up from where he sat, brushing his robes off with his hands in a fit of anxiety. He took a deep breath and cleared his throat before beginning to speak; “Your grace,” he began, “I believe that the queen and princesses proposal is a fair one. A proposal that will surely have the gods smiling down upon the union. Nicostratus will succeed his father and take Tonia as his queen. Connections with Sparta will certainly assure a bountiful harvest in trade and crop.”

“Is that so?” the king said, looking at his wife, “Well… Y/n, you should write to Ajax immediately informing him of this offer. Dimitri, I want to send word for Sparta tonight informing him of my intentions to marry my daughter to Nicostratus. And to my wife, you best not involve yourself in such political matters again. Women are unfit for such a station.”

Following the conclusion of the meeting, you, Queen Hesione, and Tonia spent the evening in the queen's chambers, eating rich food and drinking fine wine. You shared stories about your youth as a servant, including the one where you met Ajax for the first time. Tonia gasped in horror while the drunk Hesione laughed like a schoolgirl in reaction to you telling them about when Ajax practically drowned you in the water to wash off your clothes. You found yourself enjoying their comfort more and more as each day passed with your husband around. You no longer felt as isolated, as afraid of the people around you.

Despite King Telamon’s threats about the women no longer being able to attend his court, the three of you continued to do so until Tonia was married off to Prince Nicostratus. You and Queen Hesione, however, continued to hold powerful influences in court for many years. When King Telamon became too ill with consumption to attend the hearings, it was Hesione who sat in his place with you at her side. 

It is not a king who rules over Salamis, they would say, it was a woman and a bastard, a queen and a princess.

–––––––––

My love,

I find I have little time to write to you. The war is near its end. Achilles is dead, I have killed Hector with my own hands. All that is left is for us to kill Paris and rescue Helen. I will finally be able to reunite with you.

I have recently been thinking about what I’ve been doing with my life for the past decade. Was participating in this war truly worth it? Was watching my dear brother Anton die before my eyes worth the gold and honor I would bring back with me to Salamis? Not being able to visit my father even though he's getting sicker? It's been ten years since my sons were born, and I still haven't even met them once.

Every night I think back to the night we ran away and got married. Nothing stopped us from continuing to run. We could have left everything behind and had each other. I would still be with you. When I can’t sleep, I leave my tent to go standby on the shore of the ocean. Watching the waves crash on the shore in the dead of night reminds me of you.

I hope the next time I write to you I’m on the ship, heading home. Tomorrow my fellow soldier, Odysseus and I will fight for Achilles’s armor. Once I have all my affairs settled, I will return home.

It won't be long now!

Yours,

Ajax

“Is that all he said?” you asked, continuing to weave the stitches on the loom.

“Yes, mother,” Simon said, “It’s shorter than usual, doesn’t even take up a full page.”

“Well, hopefully the next one he writes is longer,” you stop weaving to stand up and smile at your son, “Now, where is Alex? I have another meeting with the council this afternoon, and I want you both to be there.”

“Um, I think he's out training in the yard,” he said, “I can go grab him if you want.”

“I would appreciate that,” you kissed him on the cheek, “Take your time, you don’t have to rush.”

You smiled as you watched your younger son leave the room. He had grown a great amount in the past ten years, and he was tall for his age. He was several inches taller than his brother, but his build was more slender due to the fact he never trained outside. Alex kept his ginger hair to his shoulders while Simon kept it shorter and in a ponytail. It pleased you to see how good your boys had gotten along. 

“Princess?” a handmaiden said, standing at your door, “The queen requests your presence in the garden.” 

You nodded at the girl’s words, following her out the door to approach the garden. Walking through the large marble halls has always filled you with a sense of nostalgia, remember your walks as a young servant girl, fetching water for the horses or chum for the fish. You often thought about Rosaria as you walked through the courtyard to the garden, walking past the various statues of goddesses and gods. Although the two of you wrote to each other often, it had been several years since she last visited you and your sons at the palace. You appreciated the fact that she would also write to your sons often, establishing a healthy relationship as a caring aunt. 

I love this chapter with all my heart. Expanding on Mc’s relationship with other characters was a real treat. Yay princess girlboss!

As you entered the garden and turned the corner, you were greeted by the face of the queen and several of her handmaidens. 

“Y/n,” she said with a smile, “Come here dearest.”

You walked towards the queen, her hands taking yours as she reached out towards you; “I have a surprise!”

You stiffened in surprise as you felt someone's hands cover your eyes from behind. They were soft and delicate, they surely belonged to a woman.

“Guess who!” the cheery voice called out. You recognized you it belonged to immediately. Wiping your head around you made eye contact with her.

“Tonia!” you said, opening your arms wide for a hug to which she readily accepted, “Oh, how I’ve missed you!”

“I’ve missed you too!” she cried, “Exchanging letters was nice but it doesn’t compare to truly hearing your voice!”

The queen laughed as the two of you continued to hug each other. After several minutes of catching up in the garden, the princess turned to her mother and then to you again.

“Oh!” she said, “Mother, Y/n, there is someone I want to introduce you to.”

The princess then took both of your arms in hers, and the three of you made your way back through the courtyard. You had a good idea of what the princess was going to show you, but you could hardly contain your excitement when you entered the quarters and saw her. Tonia’s daughter, Princess Eudora, had just recently turned three years old. 

Tonia grabbed her little girl and handed her off to her mother, the queen. Who had tears in her eyes as she held her granddaughter for the first time. The girl had dark brown hair like her father, but blue eyes the same shade as Tonia’s. 

“I wonder where my boys are right now,” you said out loud, “I’m sure they would love to meet their little cousin.”

“Guards,” the queen said as rocked her granddaughter, “Go to the training quarters and receive Alexandros and Simonides. Tell them the queen demands their presence.”

“Mother! You’re going to scare them!” Tonia laughed. The queen had never truly gotten over using her summoning powers in a way that could send chills down someone's spine. You remembered it quite well, the first two years you had known her, you remember the intense anxiety of being summoned by the queen even when you had done nothing wrong.

Not even twenty minutes had gone by when your two boys appeared before you, excited as could be.

“Mother!” Alex said, racing to be at your side, “Can we please hold, Eudora? We promise to be gentle!”

“Alex!” Simon angrily whispered, nudging his brother’s arm.

“Simon’s right,” you said, “Remember your manners and greet the queen and princess first. Alex’s eyes opened wide, shocked at the fact he failed to remember a proper greeting.

“Grandmother,” Alex said as he and Simon bowed, “Aunt Tonia.”

Just as quickly, the boys shedded their formalities and raced over to the queen, who laughed as she handed her granddaughter over to Simon. Alex protested before eventually coming to terms with the fact he would have to be patient and wait his turn. Once he had finally had the chance to hold his cousin, he turned to you.

“Would you like to hold her, Mother?” he asked, grabbing the baby’s hand and waving it around.

“I would love to,” you said.

And so for the rest of the morning, the six of you spent your time in both the guest chambers and the garden, entertaining the young Eudora. You laughed as you watched your sons chase her around the garden as well as when she ‘tackled’ Alex to the floor. You drank your wine and listened to the bard’s music in bliss as you awaited the meeting at court that afternoon.

–––––––––

“I, Hesione, daughter of Laomedon, sister of Priam, and wife of Telamon, sit before you today acting in the interest of the king who is too ill to join us. My decision on each matter is representative and acting in the best interest of the crown and the kingdom.”

The queen delivered the same speech at the start of each meeting for the past several years following the illness of Telamon. In a room full of powerful men, it was important she established herself as a woman of great power and prestige, but also someone who valued morals. You sat in the chair directly next to the head of the table; you were at the queen’s side, readily available for whenever she needed you.

“Today, we are joined by a few special guests,” she said, using her arm to guide everyone’s eyes to the further end of the table, “Nicostratus, Crowned Prince of Sparta, and his wife, my daughter, the Princess Tonia.”

Next, she guided her arm to where you sat or, more accurately, next to where you sat; “My grandsons, the Prince Alexandros, future king of Salamis, and Simonides, his younger brother.”

“Today we hear petitions from various peasants,” she continued, “They will be in regards to land disputes, taxes, and family rivalries. I expect you all to give me counsel, when you are asked to do so, that acts not in the interest of personal ambitions, but instead what would be best for the kingdom.”

And so for the next several hours you and your children sat in court, hearing petitions from various families all with different concerns. Some of it was interesting, some of it was not. Whenever the queen was in need of counsel, she would either turn to you or to her master of economics. The afternoon passed without much quarrel, and after eating dinner with your larger-than-usual family you sent the three children off to sleep.

“Y/n, wait a moment!” Tonia said as you were exiting the dining hall, “Don’t go to bed yet– come with me.”

“What are we going to do?” you asked, playfully raising your eyebrow in suspicion, “Rob the master of economics?”

Tonia threw her head back in laughter, “No silly! We're going to sneak into my grandfather's office!”

“What? No!” you whispered, but it was too late, Tonia had already began to drag you across the palace halls.

“Trust me, Y/n,” she said, “the stuff we’ll find in here is gonna be worth the trouble it takes to get it.” 

Tonia led you to a small room with nothing but a trap door. You began to protest once you realized the implications of what that meant: you were going to have to go in it. But with the princess’s pestering you eventually complied. You were crawling on your hands and knees for what felt like an eternity until Tonia suddenly shot her head up, effectively opening the other end of the trap door.

The ‘office’ of King Telamon’s father was less of a workspace and much more of a library. There were shelves upon shelves of books, scrolls, and hieroglyphics on papyrus. Tonia immediately began looking around the books despite the fact the shelves were at least thirty feet high. You instead decided to peek around what looked like a desk of pure gold at the center of the vast room. 

Despite the fact the previous king had been dead for several decades, there was a scroll open that was far more recent. The date at the top of it read that it was from thirty years ago, just days after when you were born. You laughed at the coincidence before taking a seat on the old, wooden chair, but you stop laughing immediately when you read the name of the author. It was your father. Although under most circumstances you knew better not to read letters that were not addressed to you without permission, you concluded that this letter was a particular exception. Though looking back, you wished you had never read it at all. It began with:

My dear friend,

I write to you with a heavy heart and a great sense of urgency. As you know, following my studies in Athens, I trained to be a priest of the goddess Hebe. 

It seems my ambition has led me down a path of great regret. It was a late night several moons ago when I was taking a walk down the beach. I had gotten into a great fight with a fellow priest over a sacrifice that had gone wrong. I was ever certain I was in the right, but when my superior scolded me I lashed out and fled the scene. It was there when I saw her the first time. The great goddess, my light, my savior, Hebe. She came towards me offering help, to overthrow the ‘corrupt’ head priest and instate myself in his place.

Together we collaborated for months, and it wasn’t until I was in the trenches of our passion that I realized I was completely and irrevocably in love. She was married, that was true, but I knew that gods did not value fidelity as strongly as humans do, even the women. And so we began our secret affair of which I wholeheartedly participated knowing I was sacrificing my dignity, honor, and manhood. But still I could not stop, my heart and head at war. 

I suppose it was only a matter of time until the other priests found out. Jealous, angered, or genuinely betrayed I did not know, but it became clear to me that I was no longer welcomed as a religious leader. Matters were only made worse when the subject of this letter, my daughter, was brought before me by the goddess.

She explained that this child was the result of love, but that she could not keep her. Despite her trying to keep a secret, some of the other gods, including Zeus, her father, had found out about her affair with her own priest. My hubris, my believing I was worthy of loving a goddess as a god would, was my downfall. A curse was put upon not only me, but also my daughter. We would both be casted down for our love. Rapid aging has already set in for me as I feel my life slipping away every passing second.

But for my daughter, it does not have to be like this. Take her in as a serving girl. Help me protect her from the god’s wrath and my own deadly pride. If not you, then who will?

I hope to hear from you soon,

Your old friend

You shrieked. You cried out. You felt faint.

Tonia rushed to your side, confused by your fit of emotion. When she realized she could not calm you down, she was sent running down the hall in search of someone for help.

The room felt as though it spun. How could this be possible? You spent your entire life thinking your mother, the woman who gave you life, was nothing more than a common whore who ruined your fathers career through seduction. If your mother was a goddess, Hebe, goddess of youth and cupbearer of the gods, that meant you were half god. But that made no sense as you felt less than special in each aspect of life.

Yet it was true, it all made sense. Your father’s fear of the gods and how they would harm you, his dedication to warning people of fatal sins through the stories he would share, and his untimely death early in life.

By the time several handmaidens arrived with help, you had already pulled yourself up the ground and began racing to your chambers. Not even Tonia could stop you as you locked yourself in your room and ran to where you kept your quill and paper: you had to write Ajax immediately. 

Not even an hour had passed when you had finished your letter, sealed it up, and began to walk towards the door in search of a servant to hand it to. That's when you realized you were hearing sobs from the other side of the door.

Swinging it open stood, your eyes widened in fear. There stood several handmaidens, Queen Hesione who was cradling a sobbing Tonia, Headpriest Dimitri, and several guards.

“What is the meaning of this?” you asked, suddenly feeling very guilty for your emotional outburst, “I didn’t mean to frighten any of you–”

“Your majesty,” one of the serving girls cut you off, eyes wide with terror, “We came here with urgent news, well, to tell you of–um.”

“Y/n,” Dimitri cut her off, “Ajax is dead.”

[bisexualbumblebee-writes]

Fluffuary 2023 Day 27: Snowed In- Elrohir x OC

Elrohir x Adaia

Description: If there's one thing Adaia doesn't like, it's snow.

Word Count: 1.1k

Challenge made by the lovely @darthglitterfanfictionnfiction

Adaia was once again spending a few days in Lord Elrond’s home while her parents were off doing business with some other kingdom. Of course, being fully grown, she didn’t actually need to be there, but she loved being around them. They were like a second family to her and vice versa. She’d been nothing short of happy while residing at the Last Homely House. 

That was, until today. The elleth (female Elf) almost immediately noticed the slightly biting chill in the air as she woke up. Her frame shook lightly with shivers as she sat up and looked around, her eyes ultimately landing on the open window that stood just a few feet away from her bed. She must have forgotten to close it last night. A small sigh left her lips as she plopped back down on her pillows. The thought of having to get up and feel the cold air wash over her body was not something she looked forward to. 

Nevertheless, after standing up she was quick to grab her robe and put it on as she padded over to her window. She began to close it when something white caught her eye. It seemed that winter had come early because apparently it had snowed sometime during the night. A fresh blanket laid on everything in sight. Adair’s nose scrunched up in distaste. Great. Just what she needed. 

If there was one thing Adaia hated, it was snow. It was cold, it was bland, and it was an overall nuisance to her. It covered all life, all the beautiful colors of nature. It was like the temporary death of everything. No sound, no color, no life.

Now don’t get her wrong, she loved winter. She thought the changing of the seasons were beautiful and she loved the shorter days and longer nights. It was just snow that she detested. 

And just like that her plans to spend as much time outside before it was too cold had gone out the window. She’d been too late. Adaia closed the window with a small huff. Before she could close the curtains as well she paused upon noticing two people running outside. It was Elladan and Arwen, who were looking around at the snow with a look that Adaia could only describe as wonder and utter joy. Though she couldn’t hear what they were saying she could see their mouths moving in excitement. Their stepmother Iris joined them just a moment later then the trio began to play in the snow. 

The sight admittedly brought a smile to the girl’s face as she watched them. Just because she didn’t like snow didn’t mean she wasn’t happy when it brought others joy. After a few minutes Adaia finally stepped away from the window, wishing for nothing more than a mug of her (semi) infamous cocoa to battle the chill that swept through the Last Homely House. 

After making a quick stop in the kitchen to make said drink, she opted to go to the Hall of Fire, where a fire already roared in the large and beautiful fireplace. Just before sitting down, she grabbed a book from a nearby shelf. It was one that she’d read before, more times than she could count, but it was a good story and she knew it would help pass the time. Though, she’d just barely got into the first few chapters before she was interrupted. 

“Not interested in going out and enjoying the snowfall?” Elrohir’s teasing voice questioned from behind her. A sarcastic smile formed on the girl’s face (though she knew he couldn’t see it as her eyes focused on the fore in front of her) and she shook her head amusedly. 

“You know I’m not,” she responded simply before taking a sip from her mug. Her fiancé merely hummed in response, though she could practically see his amused expression without needing to turn around and face him. 

“So what are you still doing inside?” She continued after setting her cup down. “Shouldn’t you be out building snowmen with your siblings or throwing snowballs at your father or Erestor?” That got a chuckle out of the ellon (male Elf) as he rounded the side of the couch she occupied and sat in the empty seat beside her. He picked up her feet (which previously laid where he now sat) and set them on his lap. 

“I’d much rather be spending time with you,” he responded simply. Adaia fought the urge to coo at his sweet response and instead merely smiled at him. After a moment she spoke. 

“Your father forced you inside, didn’t he?” She asked in a flat tone. She knew that Elrohir knew that he’d been caught because for a moment surprise flashed in his eyes despite his otherwise impassive demeanor. 

“Yeah, it started heavily snowing and he didn’t want us outside on the chance that we get snowed in,” he responded in the same tone, which made the girl laugh. 

“I knew it,” she muttered amusedly as her gaze went back to her book. 

“That doesn’t mean that I didn’t want to spend time with you,” he continued quickly. “I just now have an excuse to stay with you all day as my daily duties lay outside under the snowstorm.” Adaia rolled her eyes playfully, though she couldn’t hide her smile even if she tried. 

“I’m afraid you may be bored to death then. I do not plan on moving from this spot until dinner.” 

“Then I’d be glad to keep you company,” he responded simply. Adaia looked at him with that same small smile, though her expression morphed from amused to fondness. Elrohir didn’t say anything as he made himself comfortable leaning against his side of the couch’s arm. He then gestured to the book that still sat in his fiancé’s lap, and she got the message to hand it to him. Once it was in his right hand he held out his left arm invitingly. Adaia once again got the hint as she settled into his embrace. His arm wrapped around her as his other hand held the book up, and he began to read aloud to her. 

The elleth had to admit that the story sounded much better coming from him. He had that sort of comforting voice that she could listen to for hours on end - which she did. Just as promised neither of them moved until they were called for dinner. Though, they still had trouble getting up even then. Who would have thought a snow day would actually bring Adaia joy?

[pissfizz]

okay well now that you mentioned it i am Also very curious on your thoughts on their parenting (esp ena since you already mentioned it)

Ok WELL. let’s start with ena since that’s who I’ve already brought up lol

Since I already find myself so incredibly similar to her it’s kind of easy to see where her faults would be, since they’re the same as mine. I say this with love, but ena is vain, selfish, and self centered. I’m not saying that someone with these traits can’t be a good parent, but it is very very difficult. She thinks about herself a lot, which can be hard on a kid that just wants their moms attention all the time. Also, she is incredibly easily annoyed, which, in my experience, doesn’t tend to fare well with children. I’m sure by the time she’s the age of having a kid, she’ll have grown, but these are still intrinsic parts of her, and in Naomi’s early years, I think she’d still be struggling a lot with them. They would be hard on Naomi, especially with how easily annoyed she is. But don’t get me wrong, she definitely still loves Naomi with every bit of her being, and honestly something tells me she’d accidentally become a little too strict out of worry since Mizuki is a lot looser when it comes to rules and stuff. Naomi would gravitate towards Mizuki for these reasons, and before she comes to understand ena more, she would likely resent her a bit. But as Naomi ages, ena grows and becomes a better parent. Not perfect, but better. Around the time Naomi is sixteen is when ena is really trying to remedy her behavior from Naomi’s childhood, and trying to be warmer and more caring and spend more time with Naomi and support her more.

With Mizuki, they’re a very laid back parent. They feel Naomi needs to have some independence and figure things out on her own sometimes. They talk with her like a friend, and are very casual and don’t really have a traditional parent child barrier of respect, which they’re fine with. Mizuki let’s Naomi get away with a lot of stuff and kind of do whatever she wants, but sometimes she takes advantage of this and does things she shouldn’t or skips out on rules or school stuff because she knows Mizuki won’t punish her. Mizuki views themself as a bad parent because of this, being unable to be an actual parent to her and not just an adult friend that happened to sire her. Especially when Naomi was a baby, they would freak out because they didn’t know what they were doing and didn’t know how to take care of a kid, especially when they still feel like a kid themself. However, between the both of them, Naomi is an amazing makeup artist and is amazing at expressing herself through her appearance and clothes.

With toya, his biggest fear would be being too much like his dad. He goes out of his way to make sure his kid gets to make their own choices and be who they want and that neither he or akito is forcing them into something they don’t want. He also doesn’t want to have that cold distance he had with his parents and siblings, trying especially hard to have their family be close and warm, although sometimes he can become incredibly overbearing, made worse by his struggle to express himself properly. He can also become a bit of a push over, since he doesn’t want to come off as strict as his father. His desire for an affectionate family can also be a little odd for him, since he doesn’t have experience with it and thus he can be a bit awkward and distant when he’s making everyone all hang out together. But Yuichi does get full range to express themself without judgement, which is a great thing.

Akito has a similar problem to ena with getting easily annoyed, but not quite as intense, but that may also be because Yuichi was a much quieter child than Naomi was. I don’t have as many thoughts on him as the others but he’s definitely very chill most of the time, and makes sure that Yuichi is comfortable around him. He also constantly stresses that Yuichi can be whoever he wants to be, and not anything that others think he should. He’s also pretty protective too. I might add more on this later but this is what I have for akito right now

Return at a later date for emunene since I only have the bare bones for them </3

[thefamilyeldritchabomination]

Chapter Five: The Shrine/An Argument Pt. 8

 “Gort…what happened over there? You’re acting off.” Freddy said with worry, getting Dorian to stop tormenting him for a short moment. “The one called ‘Envy’, they said something that was in verbatim of what my wayfaring friend from so long ago had said.” Dolly answered, knowing full well not to hide things from Freddy. “You mean the one that gave you that weird eye portrait? But that was like centuries ago, how did that little sadist know?” Freddy said equally freaked out about this. “I don’t know, they wouldn’t say. I mean I figured that when he left for home, he’d found someone and simply just lived a good life with them. Now I’m not so sure anymore, I wonder what became of him now.” Dolly admitted as she got the lamb into the sink to defrost in the water. Freddy unsteadily got up from his set and walked over to Dolly in the kitchen to give an one armed hug, in turn, Dolly hugged Freddy gently right back. Dorian sat on the table confused about the whole thing as the wind started blowing into the apartment from that broken window. The broken window was now an after thought, ignoring what could potentially climb in through it at any moment… =======================================================================

 Back in the endless planes of worlds, one week in human time since Gort went missing, The young aislings of the Autumn Mist gathered before the Queen of the district, their overseer. The Autumn Mist, following the orders from the Summer Dusk, brought forth a spaniel-like dullahan aisling that wasn’t part of the batch. It had always been a major key trait aside from the two talents in all queens born, the transformative blood that could change mortals into a fae they called ‘cavaliers’. Normally it would've been done to a fully grown human that was raised on the island, however, the situation called for something far more drastic. Never before had the Autumn Mist fed a human child his blood so young before in his time of being Queen, but the wretched deed was done. The child whimpered after such a horrible and traumatizing experience as The Autumn Mist spoke.

“From now on, everytime we see the other districts, everytime we go on field trips to Nibiru, we are to tell them that this aisling is your batch sister, Gort. We cannot go back to retrieve the original Gort, but we will have to continue on without her. Please, make your new batch sister feel right at home in the Autumn Mist District.” The Autumn Mist declared as he gently nudged the aisling over to the rest of the batch.

“Why can’t we go back!? We don’t want a new batch sister, we want our Gort!” One of the older children, the same species as Gort but bigger and both fully upright ears, screamed out in anger. 

 “Because the Summer Dusk said we couldn’t and we cannot argue with his final judgment, as much as we want to, Tinne. I am asking you to play along and call this new aisling ‘Gort’ from now on. Treat her like you would with your own Batch siblings, is that understood?” The Autumn Mist lector at Tinne, Tinne making a face any angry child would make.

“Fuck this stupid crumbling island and it’s stupid rules!” Tinne roared out, stumping out in anger.

“Hey now, we may sing the sweet low song of the F bomb in this district, but you cannot say that about the island we live and ride on, especially in front of the Summer Dusk. This conversation is over now Tinne, please be nice to your new batch sister.” The Autumn Mist warned as he gently nudged the new Aisling towards her new batch siblings.

Tinne tried to protest, but the Autumn Mist was too quick in leaving the nursery dorm for the aislings of the Autumn Mist District. The sight and reaction was all too hard of an emotion to handle after this unprecedented incident. It was true the island had been crumbling a lot faster than it should’ve been and had been one of the reasons they had stopped in that dimension earlier for maintenance. While yes, the beings that lived on the Island were all immortals, the island itself was not. Crops were failing, cattle they had imported started dying off from malnutrition, the island itself grew smaller and smaller with each passing moment, and none of the other Queens knew why.

The Summer Dusk had said that if they had twelve queens united in keeping the raw magic at bay, the island would stop breaking apart and start healing. That was always the plan, the Autumn Mist thought for sure that all new batches of aislings would be protected as any one of them could be the twelfth queen, not just the few that fit a mold. The door to the master room opened as the Autumn Mist entered to sit on his throne of twisted birch and elm. It was like entering a forest as the mist swirled around the Autumn Mist’s hooves as he poured a glass of winter wine. ‘Coward’, that was a word that haunted the Autumn Mist since the aisling went missing. It curdled his stomach as the sweet and spicy wine was sipped.

 ‘No, I need to stop thinking like that, I hadn’t purposefully abandoned Gort…right? I had to follow the order by the Summer Mist himself..Any other Queen would’ve done the same on Tir Na Nog. I’m not being a coward like that Cavalier said.’ The Autumn Mist thought to himself as he poured a second glass.

‘Of course you are a coward, you did subject that small human child into becoming an aisling to appease a monster who didn’t want anyone else to know about the missing aisling.’ an intrusive thought echoed in the back of the Autumn Mist’s mind, the guilt had returned.