#bors the breaker

[vinomino]

Be Vulnerable Part 1 - Two Sides Of A Coin Make It Whole

Contents: nsfw mdni 18+, arranged marriage au, samurai au, heavy angst, miscommunication, mention of dv(not with reader), mention of abuse, mention of assault, violence, murder, dubcon(aphrodisiacs), vaginal fingering

WC: 10.5k

“Say, what would you want your husband to be like?” Your elder sister, Tsuya, often spoke of the topic, sitting next to you in the garden talking your ear off about her dream future husband. That he had to be handsome, taller, and the deal-breaker; to treat you, her only little sister, with kindness. 

Thumbing at the leaf of a pink lily, “I don’t really care.” 

You haven’t given it much, women aren’t given a say in their marriage, or their lives. Do what they tell you to do, speak how they tell you to speak, say what they tell you to say. Your worth as a human is decided by how you present yourself. What good is it to fantasize about a man that doesn’t exist? 

“Eh? You should care…this is a man you will spend the rest of your life with.” She ungraciously blows raspberries. You respect Tsuya, she’s smart and calm but is an utter fool in the world of love. Wind breezes through the garden as you continue to watch the ants crawl along the rocks until the maids summon you back inside. 

Tsuya was often scolded on your behalf, always taking the blame for accidents you made. “It’s alright, I want you to depend on your older sister.” Patting your head after leaving your mother's chamber, you could faintly hear your mother ranting about another one of her favorite vases being destroyed. A vase you bumped into, causing it to fall over its stand. “Do I need a reason to love my sister?” 

Mother never paid much attention to you, primarily due to the fact she isn’t your biological mom. You were an illegitimate child, your real mother was your father’s first love. She was a servant to your family, the daughter of your grandfather’s best friend, they had grown up together, but due to her status, were not permitted to marry. He kept her around even after marrying Mother, she didn’t lash out at her husband for keeping a mistress around, in fact, she said that she was grateful he didn’t seek her out every night, and it wouldn’t be a problem as long as there wasn’t a child. 

She passed away shortly after giving birth to you. While it did tick Mother off when Father said he would add you under the family register, she eventually let it go. You weren’t the firstborn son or daughter. Akihiro was the heir and eldest, Tsuya was the second, and Akiro, your little brother was the spare. As the third child, your duties were lessened. Akihiro would succeed Father and run the household. Tsuya’s duty was to marry into a clan that would benefit the house. While that was also enforced onto you, you had the option of marrying any man as long as he wasn’t beneath you in status. You were just an addition, your existence didn’t play a huge role. 

Your family wasn’t a battle clan, but rather a trading one. The Hatano clan. The lead family under the Hata clan umbrella. Your father was a wealthy aristocrat, while lacking power and might, he made up for it in merchandising. Your family was in possession of fertile land, having an abundance of crops which put him at the top of the agriculture circle. It fostered trading and strong ties to bigger clans, most notably, your family’s precious sake*. Known famously far and wide for being the best, the rice wine being traded off for the promise of protection. 

Tsuya and you were close, your parents didn’t spend that much time with you and your elder brother was busy with duties to prepare him for being heir, duties ranging from sword fighting to study lessons, and you rarely got to see him because of it. Tsuya was the only family member you spent the days with, she didn’t discriminate against you for being a half-sibling, in fact, she loved you unconditionally. Akihiro didn’t disrespect you, he mostly ignored you, much like Mother. Akiro was born in the winter of your 14th year, he didn’t feel much like a younger brother, but more like a nephew due to the age gap. 

Riko, your exclusive maid is combing your hair, getting you ready for bed. “Miss, your hair is always so soft and gorgeous! Oh, should I shut the window? It is quite cold tonight…” She patiently awaits your answer. “Alright, thank you.” You send her a soft smile through the mirror. Riko was born the same year as you, a child of a man serving your father. Riko was much more confident and courageous than you expected. Despite how the other maids who have worked in the family longer act, she doesn’t shy away at all. She puts your mind at ease. You stand up, going to head for the bed, catching sight of the katana, resting upon the decorative table. 

On your tenth birthday, Father seated you on his lap and asked what you wanted. 

“I want a sword!” You beam at him. 

“What will you do with a sword?” He raises his brows, confused as to why his ten-year-old daughter asked for a katana, but still decides to humor you. It was undeniable you were Father’s favorite child, most likely because you inherited your mother’s beauty, resembling his first love. 

“I want to put it on display in my room.” A childish answer from a child. He stares into your sparkling eyes, eyes the same as his lover. “I shall commission one to be made.” He let you get away with stuff your siblings wouldn’t. Your father’s right-hand man suggests to him some notable blacksmiths. They nod along at your excitement, saying what color it should be, what it should look like, and rambling on naming it as well. 

When Riko leaves, you shimmy out of bed, stepping towards the table. Picking up the sword from the koshirae*, you unsheath it from the red saya*, and a yellow sageo* cord is wrapped around it. Gripping the black handle holding the silver blade out towards the window, the moonlight flows over it. Father calls a bladesmith every season to do upkeep on the katana. The sword must’ve cost a fortune to make, the steel and forgery were better than some of the katanas the swordsmen serving the family had. It was slightly smaller than the average katana though, you remember when Akihiro let you hold his sword, his was much heavier. 

Your father revealed it to you and you stared in awe. The servants murmured in shock at their Lord presented his youngest child, a girl, with her very own sword. Mother bit her tongue during it. Once, she learned you had played in the kitchen, spilling flour all over the floor, so she had you whipped and locked in a room. Calling you an impudent low-born disgrace and declaring you were to only have water for a week. When Father heard word of it, he immediately came to your rescue and called the family physician to tend to your wounds. You didn’t see Mother for a while after that, but you caught sight of her leaving the garden, a veil over her head, and you could faintly see a dark bruise on her cheek. After that incident, the servants began to tip-toe around you. She didn’t raise a hand against you again and no one dared call you names. 

Remembering the training hall, how the men swing their swords you try to replicate it. Running a hand through your hair, you tighten your grip around the handle. Still, you couldn’t move the same way a samurai does. The reason you asked for a sword back then was because of Momotarō*, a Japanese folklore your nanny would often recite to you. You would parade around the house, pestering your sister and the servants to help you slay the demons. Thinking back, it was quite embarrassing. But the sword was too heavy for you, even swinging it for more than half an hour would tire you out. The first time you dabbled with it, you fell bedridden. 

Only noble and aristocratic women were permitted to learn how to read and write. Reading was the only way to relieve you of your boredom, you didn’t have lessons with tutors and did not attend social events like Tsuya. 

Picking out some books from the library, Riko and a footman helped carry them back to your chambers, setting the stack down on your desk. You usually would’ve read in the garden, but it was drizzling out. 

“Shall I bring you some tea and snacks Miss?” Riko asks, ushering the footman out. 

“No. It’s fine, I’d like to be alone for now.” You answer, opening a book. She bows and shuts the door behind her. Struggling to focus on reading, you sigh and shut the book closed. Leaning back into your chair you turn your head to look at the mountain of letters.

You could be called a quiet child who neither stood out nor would disappear into the background. You never had an interest in going to parties, but Tsuya nagged you enough that day. You received countless marriage proposals and rejected every single one to Mother’s exasperation, she says your pretty face will soon slip away if you don’t take advantage of it. But she knew that there would be many more, agreeing with you to wait for one to stand above the rest. “Mother, I’m sure you can sell me off for something more.” Which is why you had reached adulthood, a marriageable age, but yet to be engaged. 

Marriage; you could marry a male from within the Hata clan, but there weren’t many who were around your age. You’d plunge a sword into your stomach before marrying someone twice your age or one of those creeps who keep bothering you. 

Tsuya was promised to Miyoshi Akihito of the Roppo-Ichiza clan. He was three years older than her. They were called love birds by maids who often gushed at the sight of them. It was a dream come true for her to marry not only out of convenience but also love. At first, you thought Miyoshi was simply faking a persona until you saw he was actually sincere. Maybe your sister was pitied for being a hopeless romantic that the deities made her wish come true. Thinking made you tired, bookmarking the page, you headed to your bedroom, sliding under the blanket and closing your eyes. 

A large commotion is coming from the hallway, causing you to awaken from your slumber. Opening the door you see servants rushing around frantically, out of the corner of your eye you spot Tsuya coming down the hall, “Sister…what’s going on…?” 

She has a grim expression, pushing you back into your room, sending a glance at Riko who bows her head and leaves. The rain poured down, a crack of thunder. Tsuya grips your shoulders tightly and finally speaks up, “Brother Akihiro died in an ambush.” Hearing the news of your elder brother’s death you slap a hand over your mouth. You can feel her muscles tense as she thinks about what is going to happen now that the heir of the house is gone. The two of you go to find Mother, she's standing in the engawa, sobbing into her hands. You help her back into the house, as she weeps for your brother. The rest of the night is a blur, everyone gets sent back to their quarters for the night, aside from Father and his men who hold an emergency meeting. Tsuya accompanies you for the night, scared of what's to come. “Big sister…” You murmur lying next to her, she shushes you. The sleepless night passes and everyone gets summoned into the meeting hall early in the morning. 

Placing next to Tsuya, you notice only the immediate family is present. Mother holds a solemn expression next to Father. The door slides open and your little brother steps in, Mother ushers him to sit next to her, embracing him in her arms. Father clears his voice. 

“Last night, Akihiro passed away.” He lets out a long sigh. 

“First, Akiro is to be named the new successor and will proceed with the training. Second, Tsuya you will cancel your engagement with Miyoshi Akihito of the Roppo-Ichiza clan and marry into the Bofurin clan. Not only did we lose your brother, but many of our best men as well. Finally, the wake will be held this evening, so be prepared.” With that, you're standing with your sister in the hall. Tsuya buries her face into your neck as she sobs. You try to comfort her, rubbing at her back. 

The loss of your elder brother and many of the swordsmen leaves the house unprotected, trade routes would be vulnerable, and there’s also the risk of plundering by bandits. While Roppo-Ichiza is strong, it pales in comparison to Bofurin, known for its strength, one of the most powerful clans by its might and size. A marriage connecting your family to Bofurin would be extremely beneficial. Tsuya knows this herself, which is why she did not raise any words against the decision. 

Then came the funeral, full of tension and tears. Standing next to Mother as she squeezed the chopsticks in her hands, it was time for the kotsuage*. She stares lifelessly at the ashes and bones of her first child. No one spoke as each picked out bone fragments. Riko wraps your haori around you as you head back to the family home. You were resting your head on her shoulder as the carriage took you away from the cemetery. 

Staying in your chambers as the week passes, you learn from a servant that the man Tsuya is to be betrothed to was named Lord General Kaji Ren, second in command of the Vaisravana unit, serving under Lord General Militant Hiragi Toma, who was one of the four kings of Bofurin, second to its Lord Commander, Umemiya Hajime.

Riko stands by as you read a book while sipping on tea, the calm atmosphere makes you feel ignorant. The only orders you had were to stay in your quarters, placing the book down, “Riko, will you follow me wherever I go?” Resting against your hand as you stare out the window. “Miss, I will follow you wherever you go, I promised, didn't I?” Her voice is calm, portraying her sincerity. A sigh escapes your lips as you prepare yourself for your plan. 

Seeking out father, you seek out his office. The footman by the door notices you approaching, straightening himself up. “Miss, is there anything you need?” 

“I want to request an audience with my father, it’s important.” 

He nods and enters the office, a minute passes before he opens the doors for you, nodding his head again. You can feel his gaze linger on you as you inhale deeply and step in, making your way to your father. Tsuya was also there, she looked surprised seeing you. 

“Father, let me marry in Tsuya’s place.” Pressing your shoulders back and raising your head to meet his eyes. 

“What are you saying?” Tsuya whispers over in a hushed tone. 

He sets his cup down, brows furrowed, “No.” 

“There should be no problem with me being the one to marry, then please allow her to proceed with her marriage to Miyoshi. I will marry Lord Kaji Ren.” Placing a hand over your chest. 

He glances over at Tsuya and then back at you. “I won’t allow it.” 

“Father, Tsuya is also your child.” Father should’ve married you off instead– but he didn’t want to lose you. You know him well. 

He doesn’t want to lose you like he lost his first love. “I’m not sending you away–” 

“Father, I care about Tsuya’s happiness. For once– please see me as my own person.” You plead. 

Father grits his teeth, “Leave, both of you.” 

Tsuya grabs you outside the office, pulling you into a secluded area, “Why–” 

“Sister is always kind to me, so… I want to be the one to help her when she needs it the most. Marry Miyoshi, be happy together.” You hold her shoulder. 

“What about…you?” 

Offering her a soft smile, “Write to me often, alright?” 

Tears well up in her eyes as she embraces you, “Since when did you grow up? Hah…Making me feel like the younger one.” She pinches your cheek like she always did when you were kids. 

Lord General Kaji Ren, was also referred to as a beast on the battlefield. Riko managed to gather some information; he was taller than you, had platinum hair and dark gray eyes, and was allegedly “good-looking”. With this little to go by, you couldn’t picture what he looked like, staring at Riko’s squiggly drawing of who she says is a portrait of your husband-to-be. You know Father reluctantly agreed since he didn’t come to see you.    

The wedding date was set and preparations were beginning. The number of servants who were around you now felt draining, the seamstresses spent hours taking your measurements. slouching back into the chair and rubbing at your temple, “Riko, are weddings this much of a headache?” Taking another bite of a biscuit.

“Miss! A wedding only happens once in a lifetime. Also, the youngest daughter of the Hatano family marrying a Lord General of the Bofurin clan is a big deal! Miss, you shouldn’t eat so much…your wedding is tomorrow and the Head Lady looked quite…mad at dinner.”

For once she paid attention to you. Was something like this considered a big deal? 

The day of the wedding arrived, waking up at dusk to get ready for it. The servants bathing you and dressing you. You should feel nervous, but instead, you feel a strange sense of peace, being able to protect your sister’s happiness. The white shiromuku* is neatly laid on top of your body. Flowers and birds are hand painted on the silk fabric, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail. A white wedding kimono symbolizes pureness and cleanness; to take on the other color of the groom and accept the values and ideas of the groom’s clan. Riko meticulously does your hair-do, wrapping it around and pinning it up. The silence was interrupted by a knock on the door. 

Tsuya steps in, her eyes wavering at you. “Here I thought I would be marrying first…my baby sister is all grown up now.” 

“Oh, both of you are here.” You look at your mother, carrying a small wooden box. For the first time in a while, she smiles. “It seems I am losing another child again.” She sighs, her frail cold hands push your hair out of your forehead and caress your cheek.

“Mother…don’t miss me too much.” Earning a soft laugh from her. She opens the box, “This was the hairpin I wore when I married your father. I want you to have it. Serve your husband well.” Gently handling the silver ornament, sliding it into your hair. Mother then turned on her heel and left with her servants, leaving the three of you.

“It suits you. Let me do your makeup, one last favor from your big sister.” Tsuya pats your head carefully to not move it out of place. 

She skillfully applies the blush and lipstick, leaning back to admire her work, “I’d say you don’t need anything more. You are always stunning.” 

“I agree Miss, I fell for your looks the moment I saw you!” Riko chimes in. 

Again, a knock at the door. This time it’s Miyoshi, “Riko, can you leave us for a bit.” She bows her head and steps out of the room. 

“Miyoshi? What–” Tsuya is cut off when he kneels on the floor. “I wanted to sincerely thank you, for everything, I promise to take care of Tsuya for the rest of my life.” Miyoshi bows his head. 

Tsuya’s breath hitches for a moment before joining Miyoshi, next to him. “No, please– raise your heads.” You bend down and pull them up, “As long as you two are happy, that’s enough repayment I need.” Tsuya burst out into tears, refraining from touching you, to not stain your kimono. “I swear it on my life” Miyoshi states, taking Tsuya out with him to calm her down. 

You're left alone, sitting in front of the mirror. The woman looking back at you is unfamiliar, is she really you? It felt surreal, only yesterday you were tottering after Tsuya, and now you were getting married off before her. 

The wedding ceremony was to take place in Bofurin’s ceremonial hall, the ride there was a lengthy one. Peering over your shoulder, taking one last look at the place you were born and grew up in, before stepping into the carriage. Fiddling with the fan the whole way, Tsuya’s and Miyoshi’s children will grow up in a family full of warmth, that alone sets a smile on you. 

“Miss, we’ve entered the Bofurin territory.” A male voice informs you. 

Daughters live their whole lives for this. This is the last thing you can do for your family. 

In a separate room, Tsuya places the wataboshi* over my head. The pristine white hood to be worn before and during the ceremony is the equivalent of a wedding veil. 

SANSHIN-NO-GI (PROCESSION CEREMONY) 参進の儀

One foot in front of the other, white zori* shoes clacking against the ground as you walk towards the ceremony hall. The bridal party, accompanying you is led inside by a maiden. Head slightly tilted down you are still able to see how many people were present, your family to the left, Bofurin to the right, and all the clansmen were identifiable in their dark green haori*. Peering up, you can see the ceremonial table and altar at the back of the hall, a man stands beside it. Platinum blond hair, it's hard to see his eyes with his fringe, but you tell they are a murky color. He wears a traditional groom’s black kimono and the same haori as his clansmen, on closer inspection the Furin symbol is on it—a neutral expression on his face, lips in a tight line. The priest awaits you beyond the table. 

NYUJYO  (ENTRANCE) 入場

The maiden introduces the bride and groom, “Today we are witnessing the unification of the young lady from the Hatano family and Lord General Kaji Ren of the Bofurin clan.” 

SHUBATSU-NO-GI  (PURIFICATION CEREMONY) 修祓の儀

The priest purifies the bride, groom, and attendees. To purify you and Kaji Ren from all your sins to begin your journey together. 

NORITO-SOJO (SHINTO RITUAL PRAYER READING) 祝詞奏上

Then the priest recites ritual prayers, announcing to the deities of your marriage, a marriage promising eternal happiness together. Asking for protection and blessings. You shift and wiggle your toes against the socks. Unable to scratch the itch, you peek over to your right, at Kaji Ren. The guests all stand and bow. 

SANKON-NO-GI（EXCHANGE OF CUPS）三献の儀

The exchange of the three cups of sacred sake. In front, three cups, small, medium, and large. The priests begin to pour the sake into them. The familiar scent, it's your family's sake. For the first time your will wavers. You raise the cup to your lips, taking three sips, the harsh liquid burning your throat, but you force it down. Passing the cup to the priest for it to be refilled, he hands the cup to Kaji, who does the same, face never faltering. This proceeds until you have sipped from all three cups.    

KAGURA HŌNŌ (DEDICATION OF THE SACRED DANCE) 神楽奉納

The maidens then begin to perform the ancient dance as an offering to the gods.

SEISHI SOJO (READING OF VOWS) 誓詞奏上

The priest hands Kaji a paper scroll, he clears his throat, “This woman, I marry, no matter what the health situation is, I will love this person, respect this person, console this person, and help this person until death, I swear.” He hands the paper to you, “This man, I marry, no matter what the health situation is, I will love this person, respect this person, console this person, and help this person until death, I swear.” 

“Groom, do you take this woman to be your wife?” 

“I do.”

“Bride, do you take this man to be your husband?” 

Gulping, “I do.”

“Then it shall be.” 

TAMAGUSHI HOTEN (TAMAGUSHI OFFERINGS) 玉串奉奠 

Holding the tamagushi* in your hands, you bow twice, clap your hands twice, and bow one more time. Kaji does it alongside you. Showing gratitude to the gods. 

YUBIWA-NO-GI (EXCHANGE OF RINGS)  指輪の交換

The maiden then passes a black velvet box to the priest, he takes it and opens it in front of us. Kaji takes the smaller band and turns to you, holding out his hand, you place yours in his, and he slides the silver band on your ring finger. You turn and take the other ring, sliding the band on his ring finger. His hands feel calloused and rough. 

SHINZOKUSAKAZUKI-NO-GI (DRINKING OF SACRED WINE WITH THE WEDDING PARTICIPANTS) 親族杯の儀

Marriage not only symbolizes the binding of the bride and groom but also their clans and families. All the guests present take three sips of the wine, binding the Bofurin clan and Hatano family together. 

TAIJYO (EXIT) 退場 

After bowing, people start to exit the hall. Everyone takes their exit, leaving you and Kaji alone. “Follow me.” He roughly speaks and leads you back to his personal estate. Following the wedding, the night to consummate it was equally if not more important. 

Stepping into his bedroom chambers, he shuts the door behind him. You take off the wataboshi, placing it on the table against the wall. Kaji is staring at you, he’s finally able to see what you look like. Undoing your hair, letting it fall, placing Mother’s hairpin down. Nimble fingers reaching to undo the obi*, to get undressed, Kaji lets out a loud cough. “There’s no need.” 

Tilting your head, “Lord General, this is my duty.” 

“You’ve already done it. I heard about Akihiro, we used to spar together…and no need to call me so formally. We are husband and wife now, you are also a Kaji…” He trails off as he steps towards the bed, picking up his sword from its stand and unsheathing it. You watch as he slices at his arm, dripping his blood on the white sheets, staining it crimson. “This should be enough. There’s no need for you to worry about an heir.” With that, he walks past you into the connected room, disappearing from your sight. You don't follow, opting to get unready for bed instead. Blowing out the candles and sliding under the blankets, on the opposite side of where the blood is.

Kaji sits down on the lounge chair, hands working to bandage the cut. Then he cleans his blade down spotless, taking off his haori and the haori himo*, kicking off his sandals as he leans into the cushion. He sighs, running a hand through his fringe. How did he get into this situation? 

It was sad news to hear an old friend had died at such a young age, but what he didn’t expect was Umemiya and Hiragi summoning him to tell him he was to marry his dead friend’s sister. He knew the status of your family, knowing they were in dire need of manpower. 

“Kaji, if you don’t want to, I won’t force you to.” 

He clenched his jaw so hard he thought it would shatter. “If it's not me, who will do it?” 

“Hiragi would have to, the Hatano family specifically requested a groom from the Vaisravana unit. Well, there’s Sakura, but…” Umemiya pauses, the third in command, General Sakura Haruka, everyone collectively agrees he was not mature enough to take on a wife. “Her name’s Tsuya Hatano, she’s a year younger than you.” 

Kaji did not want to put Hiragi in a position he did not want to be in, no, he owed too much to the man. Owed his entire life to Hiragi, so reluctantly, he agreed. Word spread quickly in Bofurin, and his vices began to bother him about it. 

“A day ourrrr RRRen gets marrrrrried! Who woulda thought!” Enomoto laughs, smacking him on the back as he grimaces. Kasumi nods with a smile more annoying than usual. “Go away, piss off!” Kaji unwraps a candy and chucks it into his mouth, swirling the sweet around. 

“Oh look! It’s Sir Kaji!” Great, he mumbles, turning around and is met with another headache. A triple headache that is. Nirei, Suo, and Sakura all walk towards him. 

“I heard you were marrying a daughter from the Hatano family!” Nirei asks excitedly, making Kaji cringe internally. 

“The who family?” Sakura asks. 

“Sakura, they are practically ranked one–first in the trading business…” thumbing through the small notebook, “Oh they make the famous Hatano sake. Sakura, you like that one.” 

“Eh?” Sakura scratches his head, trying to remember. 

“Sakura, you know the names are the same, right?” Suo teases, dodging the duo-colored boy’s punches.  

“The Hatano’s have four children. The oldest son, the oldest daughter, the youngest daughter, and the youngest son. I heard Tsuya Hatano was very pretty, but I thought she was going to marry Mishiyo of Roppo-Ichiza…I don’t have much of the youngest daughter or son…they haven’t been to social events yet.” Kaji intently listens as the younger boy talks. It felt a heavy bitter taste on his tongue, worse knowing he was marrying someone who was supposed to be promised to another.  Crunching the candy, he storms off. “Oi, Kaji wherrrrre ya going?!” Enomoto calls out for him. 

It wasn’t until the night before the wedding he was informed the bride had changed to the youngest daughter. To his relief, you were only a couple of years younger than your sister. However, now, he's marrying someone he has no information on. You don’t want this either, no one wants to marry out of their family’s desperation. Kaji can only begin to imagine your emotions, he’ll always despise arranged marriages. This deepened when he first laid eyes on you, a well-bred lady, who looks far too weak and frail to be betrothed to a brute like him. He’s certain even the slightest touch of his hand will shatter you, unable to read any emotions on your calm face like this was your only destiny. Kaji sensed underneath that, the firmness in you, in those clear hues. Shifting uncomfortably on the chair, the image of you taking off your Obi belt resurfaces, he splays a hand over his face to smother the heat. Your skin must be smooth to the touch, without a single blemish, raised completely differently than him. It stirs an unfamiliar emotion in his chest. 

The wind chimes on the window jingles in the wind, swaying back and forth, you peel open your eyes to see Kaji not present. The sheets wrestle as you sit up, surveying the room with the daylight present. Noting your husband was a simple man, with little to no decoration, aside from a little jar filled with wrappers in the corner of the room, catching your eye. You walk over to inspect it. Popping open the lid to sniff it.

Candy? Does he like sweets?

“Miss, are you awake?” Riko knocks on the door. She had demanded to come with you, saying she promised to never leave your side. Grateful that someone familiar with you, you make a mental note to raise her pay. “Yes, come in.” 

Riko enters with an elderly lady, as she comes over to usher me into the washroom, the older woman silently walks over to inspect the bedsheets. Glancing over your shoulder; she looks up, clasps her hands, and deeply bows. The warm water comforts you, Riko washes your hair. “What do you think about the Lord?” She asks. 

You hum and tilt your head back, “He’s…not that much of a talker…?” Shutting your eyes trying to remember last night. Deciding it would be best to not speak of the bedding night, you sink further under the water, it pools up beneath your nose. Riko helps you dress, it's a fine kimono, made of silk; a pale fabric embroidered with green thread. Upon entering the hall another maid awaits, much younger than the other. “I will show you around the estate.” She says and bows, ushering Riko and you to follow behind. 

Your legs hurt, why is it never-ending? The young girl talks your ear off about the history and types of rooms present. You nod along, despite not paying attention, until you pass by a large portrait hung on the wall. A younger version of Kaji, along with his late parents. You stare it for a while until a voice breaks your thoughts. 

“Arrrre you the new miss?!” A man with slick black hair swiftly approaches you. The young servant bows her head at him. Straightening to do the same, “No, no, no you don’t need to bow yourrrr head. Yourrrr Kaji Rrren’s wife! Yourrrr my superrriorrrr!” He’s boisterous. “The name’s Enomoto Takeshi!” He nods, and you give him a friendly smile at his enthusiasm. Enomoto is taken aback, eyes widening. 

“Is something wrong?” 

“N-No! I’d say Rrren found himself quite a fairrr maiden!” Enomoto rubs at the back of his neck, “If you need anything, just hollerrrrr!” Giving you a thumb-up before scurrying off. Were the Bofurin members this eccentric?

The tour finally ends, sitting on a cushioned chair as you place your feet on the wooden rest. The walking seemed to never cease, Kaji’s estate alone rivaled your family’s house. Hours spent learning about the history and Kaji’s childhood. Letting out a sigh, you lean back, closing your eyes to refresh. 

“Psst! Enomoto! Over here!” The guys from his unit flag him down. “Did you see the miss? What’d she look like?” They surround him with questions. 

“Well, she was prrretty…” Enomoto mumbles, remembering your face. His answer causes the group of boys to erupt, pestering him for more information. 

“Is this all you have on her?” Kaji leans on his desk with elbows, staring directly into the nervous Vice General. 

“Y-Yes!” The blonde squeaks out. 

He hums and flicks through the three-page paper, “Alright, you can go now.” Nirei lets out a sigh of relief and skimpers out and Kaji begins to read the report. 

When he finished, he reached over for the bell, and summoned a servant. 

“Yes, my lord?” The man bows his head. 

“Call for the Head Maid.” Kaji traces a finger over the papers. 

“Young Lord?” The Head Maid bows her head at him. With the passing of his parents, she had been the one who managed the household in place of his mother. Now with a new lady of the house, his wife should be one to do it. “Shall I start training the Miss tomorrow?” 

Kaji bluntly responds, “No, there’s no need.”

The head maid is taken aback, “May I ask why…?” 

“She doesn’t need to do anything.” You were raised preciously. Even the rain could leave you ill for days. You shouldn’t be forced into a duty you never wanted, especially one that’s tiring. Remembering Nirei’s words: The lady spends most of her time reading. “Also, make arrangements to expand the library.” 

~

The Head Maid was the same woman who entered aside Riko on the morning after the wedding night. “What do you mean I won’t be handling the household?” 

“The Lord has not permitted you to do so. I will continue to carry on the work of the lady of the house.”

Kaji not permitting you was one thing, but the way she talked down on you, saying you weren’t the Head Lady irked you. 

You later found out the Head Maid was also Kaji’s nanny and took care of him while also managing the internal affairs after his parents passing. There’s no way he would side with you, a woman he just met over the woman who cared for him since he was an infant. So you just decided to bite your tongue. 

“I can’t go to the library?” Frowning at the footman. If Kaji didn’t want you to do anything, you would surely die of boredom. “It’s being expanded Miss, it should be finished in five days.” He fumbles out. Letting out a sigh, “Alright, I’ll come back then.” Turning on your heel back to your chambers. You don’t miss the way the servants are jeering at you under their breaths. 

It had to be the Head Maid, who else could’ve spread the word that you weren’t allowed to take on the marital duties? The servants were anxious, trying to figure out how to treat you. While they never spoke rudely to your face, they did it from behind.  From your books being placed back in the library when you haven’t finished with them to deliberately brewing poor tea leaves, the pranks continued. Snickering behind your back after playing innocent to your face. They even influenced the guards and footmen. Back at home, you would’ve had guards and a few servants accompanying you whenever you left your chambers, but now you only had Riko. Even Riko took on all the work of a low-ranking maid for you, dusting your room and bringing you your food. She picked up on the servants neglecting those tasks. But you chose to ignore it for your family, for Tsuya. 

The clan members were kind and welcoming, it touched your heart to be accepted by them. You even made friends, Tsubaki and Kotoha, who you often have tea with. When Enomoto and Kasumi run into you, they chat with you. You even met Vice Generals, Suo and Nirei. Nirei reminds you much of a sweet, innocent puppy and neither of them seems to harbor any hostility towards you like the Head Maid. They worked under General Sakura, speaking of whom, your first meeting with the two-colored boy didn’t go well. 

You were at the library alone, carrying some books back to your chambers. Maybe you picked out too many because you were struggling to walk back with them. Nobody was near except Sakura. He was speaking with Kaji and caught sight of you when he was heading out. Wordlessly he picked the books out of your arms and carried them. “Thank you, you can place them on that table.” 

“You’re kind of weak.” Your eye twitched. Was he talking about how weak you are physically or that you couldn't stand up for the mistreatment? 

“General, not everyone is as fortunate as you. Please take your leave now.” He stared at you for a moment before nodding his head and leaving. 

A day later Sakura stands outside your outer chambers, hesitating to knock. “Sakura…that’s not very kind to say to Lady Kaji…she got married in exchange for manpower, can you imagine being in her position?” Suo reprimands him as Nirei nods. 

“Are you here to see the lady?” Riko notices him standing at the door. He flinches and stammers, “Gah! Y-Yeah…” She ushers him inside. 

“Ah, Riko and…the General?” You look up surprised to see Sakura who is avoiding eye contact with you with a scowl on his face. Riko sets the snack tray down on the table. “General, do you like cookies?” 

Sakura reluctantly sits down and glances at the tray. “Here, have some.” You push a plate towards him, he grumbles and picks a biscuit up. You stifle a giggle watching the way his face lights up as he eats. He reminds you of Akiro. “You still haven’t told me your name.” 

“It’s Sakura Haruka.” He says while chewing. 

“Well, Sakura, why are you here?” You lean on your hand, waiting for his answer. 

“Urk– y-yesterday…” he awkwardly rubs the back of his neck. “I–I’m sor–” 

“Say ah~” You push a piece of candy into his mouth. He flinches backward into the chair, raising his arms like he is about to fight you. He’s as red as a rose. How adorable. “Oh? Do you not like candy?” You laugh as he blubbers, trying to talk. 

“I’ll forgive you if you come to have tea with me sometime. You can also bring Suo and Nirei with you.” 

And so, the next spring came. Kaji and you barely see each other, let alone speak. Even at important events, Kaji doesn’t even make eye contact with you, the house servants murmur to themselves about a cold marriage because you’ve yet to nurture an heir. Riko is still Riko, tending to you like she has been, although lately you sense she’s also on edge, spending more time at your side, recommending you take walks or visit the shopping district. Laying on your side on the bed facing away from Kaji, true to his word, he hadn’t touched you since you got married last year. He spent the nights sleeping on the sofa, until three months ago he started sleeping by your side. Kotoha, the clan’s doctor, instructed him to do so after he complained about a sore back. 

You should go see Lady Kotoha. With Kasumi’s advice, he seeks out the clan’s doctor. “My back has been aching lately and it's affecting my training.” 

Kotoha jots what he says down, “How do you sleep?” 

“On my side.” 

“Hmm, you should start laying on your back more, sleeping on your side all the time might be the cause of this issue.” 

“It’s too small for me to sleep on my back, do you have any pain medication?” 

“Too small? Where have you been sleeping?” Kotoha tilts her head in confusion. 

“On a couch.” 

“Why not on the bed?” She questions. 

“I can’t– someone is occupying it.” 

“You mean your wife.” Kotoha knows about how your marriage is with him, “Lord General, it’s common for married couples to share a bed. Even if I prescribe you with medication, the pain won’t go away.” With that, she sends him back to his estate. 

The first time he slept by your side you thought he wanted to have sex with you. Slipping your kimono off your shoulder, “S-Stop. I’m just here to sleep on the bed. The doctor told me to.” Covering his eyes with his hand, he only removes it when you dress yourself again. Not even sparing him a single word you laid back down and pulled the blanket over yourself.

“What…did you do today?” Kaji breaks the unbearable silence, laying on his back, head turned to look at your figure. 

“Nothing.” A blank reply. He could easily find out by asking Riko or any of the other maids, why bother asking you? After all this time of being neglected, you formed some sort of resentment towards him. Telling yourself it was only a matter of time before he takes in another wife, a woman he truly loves. Your mother often wrote letters, asking when she would meet her grandchild and to try and seduce Kaji. Over time the letters have gotten worse and worse, lately you just chuck them unopened into the fire to be kindling. Clutching the blanket closer, you close your eyes, falling into a dreamless slumber. 

Kaji clenches his jaw, his insides cringing in pain, a part of him wants to be angry and yell at you. He takes a deep breath, looking at your back, he wants to reach out and touch you. To feel your skin against his, at first, he thought he could just ignore you. But now, he isn’t sure. He would usually ignore when the other men talk of you, how gorgeous you are, and well that was true. However, when he overheard a man from the Komoku unit talk about the things he would do to you if he were in Kaji’s place, that had his blood boiling. His vices had to pull him off the guy as he pummeled the bastard with his fists, in a fit of anger he unsheathed his blade towards another Bofurin member, and Hiragi had to clash with him to pull him back to his senses. He never felt such a rage on behalf of anyone ever before in his life, the feeling scared him. Scared he would turn back into a beast. 

“Kaji, this is proof of your feelings towards your wife.” Hiragi pours him a cup of alcohol.

The younger male shakes his head in his hands, “That’s not possible.” 

“You fought on your wife’s honor this time, I won’t punish you…Lord General Militant Mizuki also wants to extend his apology to your wife.” 

“...Hiragi…how do you get along with your wife…?” Kaji strains out. 

“Are you having marital problems?” 

“We don’t talk, the only time I touched her was during the ring exchanging ceremony…we haven’t had…” 

“Your first time yet huh?” Hiragi finishes his sentence, “Well, I don't have a wife myself…my advice probably isn't the best in this situation. Let me ask you this Kaji, do you want to change your relationship with her now? Do you want to be closer to her?” 

Kaji pauses, does he want to be closer to you? The way you smile at everyone except him, offer your tender gaze to everybody else. He wants you to look at him the same way, to be the recipient of your affections. Especially the way you treat the Sakura, he wants you to talk comfortably with him as well. “I…I do…”

“Then you need to be upfront, try making subtle changes. Talk to her, ask her how her day was, and make an effort. Communication and honesty are key, but sometimes actions speak louder than words. Since you guys haven’t been intimate yet, it might take a while.” Kaji nods at his superior’s words. 

Glancing at your sleeping figure, he sighs. Stretching his arm out, he hovers his hand before hesitantly touching your hair. The silky strands flow in between his fingers, he presses a kiss against it, breathing in your scent before letting go. Crossing his arms and he enters a dreamless sleep as well.

Kotoha reminded you of your sister. She was mature and smart. You were in awe when you entered her office. The jars of herbs and medicines, you never thought a woman could become a doctor. “I’m running out of supplies, why don’t you accompany me outside.” 

“Oh…I’m not permitted to go out…”

Remembering the Head Maid telling you, you couldn’t go to the shopping district with Riko. “Stay here, it's for your safety.” Live quietly like a rat. 

Even going to Kotoha’s workplace at the Umemiya estate, you had to sneak out.

“What are you saying? You have every right to leave your estate…who told you, you couldn’t?” 

“It’s nothing! I must’ve been mistaken since I fall ill often.” You raise your hands playing it off. “Kotoha, does Bofurin not hold banquets or gatherings?” Trying to change the subject, you never stepped foot out of the estate until now when Kotoha invited you to see her chambers. 

“Huh? We do, if anything we hold too many…” she chuckles. “Come to think of it, do you not like such things? You never come. Oh– I’m not trying to pry or anything, I know some people who don’t go because they find it bothersome.” 

You’ve never received word or invitations to go. Kaji doesn’t even tell you. When you asked the Head Maid when the New Year’s celebration would take place she said that there was no need for you to go. That wicked woman– it’s almost like she wants to push you out and marry Kaji instead. You can’t say anything to the servants since they all take her side and that Kaji prick probably won’t even hear you out. 

“When will we be heading out? Shall I meet you here?” You avoid her questions altogether. 

~

“Miss, please don’t walk too fast!” Riko speeds up trying to catch up with you. “We shouldn’t wander too far from General Sakura and Lady Kotoha…” 

“It’s fine, I just want to see the hairpins in that shop, Tsuya’s about to give birth soon, I want to send her a gift. Will you help me pick something out? Riko…?” You turn around but don’t see her at all. Looking around, the crowds of people walking by make it difficult to spot her. An uneasy feeling creeps up, you should try going back to the way you came from. Retracing your steps, you're grabbed by your arm and yanked into an alleyway. “MMPH!” You try to scream, but a cloth is placed over your mouth. An odd scent fills your nostrils. 

Riko desperately tries to call out for you. You’re able to faintly hear her, before succumbing to unconsciousness. “Miss? Miss!” 

“Riko? What’s wrong?” Kotoha notices her panicking in the middle of the street. Sakura walks out of the medicine store behind her carrying bags. 

“The lady! I can’t find her!” 

Stirring awake, you open your eyes to find yourself lying on the wooden floor of a shabby shack. Wigging your hands, your wrists and ankles are bound by a rope. Eyes darting around the room to see what was going on. 

“Lookie! She’s awake!” A man’s shrill voice pierces your ears. 

“She is? Hmm…?” A second voice. “Hey, you idiot! You grabbed the wrong chick! She ain’t Kotoha Tachibana!” The other man grabs him by the collar about to punch him. 

“Shit? Really? My bad my bad…you barely gave me anything to work with!” 

“Dumbass! You stupid fucker! We can’t get ransom with some unknown girl!” 

“You sure? Her kimono looks expensive~ She was also traveling with a Bofurin General, you know how protective that clan is with their members.” 

They continue arguing, and you see the door is slightly ajar. Squinting your eyes you can see a forest beyond it, now inspecting the men, you notice one has a dagger strapped to their thigh and the other has a katana on their hip. One of the men noticed you staring, “Well hello there…wow she’s a gorgeous girl. I’m sure we can sell her for a hefty bunch.” 

“She’s likely married, she ain’t a virgin, we can’t get that much.” He scoffs, rubbing at his temples. 

“Then lemme play with her for a bit…, I went through so much trouble. We can just sell her to that old lady running that brothel. I’m sure she’ll rack in a bunch of money.” 

“Fine, sun sets in two hours.” A third voice speaks up, much for gruff than the other two. He leaves out the door.

“Fuck this, M’ going for a smoke.” The second voice leaves, leaving the door wider. Probably so he can hear if someone goes wrong. With more sunlight pouring into the dark shed you can clearly see the man’s face, a dark scar running down it. 

“Whewwww…I’d never seen a woman prettier than ya. I’ll say…got permission to play with you too.” 

“Play?” You croak out. 

“How interesting! Not ‘Where am I?’ or a ‘Why are you doing this?’ hmmm?” 

“You wouldn’t tell me anyways.” Speaking as calmly as you can muster. 

“I like ya…don’t like my women all whiny and crying. Ruins my mood, I think I'll enjoy you. Might even visit you at the brothel we’ll sell you to.” He licks his lips, the action making bile come up your throat. “Righty! I got something that’ll make ya feel real good!” He pulls out a vial of liquid. “Pucker up!” You try moving back, but he grips your mouth, pouring it in. Closing your throat to prevent it from going down, he clicks his tongue and shoves two digits into the back of your throat making you gag the liquid down. “There we go! It ain’t poison if that’s why you're shaking.” He smiles. The murky substance drips down into your stomach as you cough. 

Grabbing the dagger at his thigh, you flinch, pressing back against the wall. He hums as he drags the tip down your chin and chest, the sharp blade cutting the front of your kimono, slowly exposing your chest. Dread fills you, is anyone coming to save you? Whatever he gave you, you didn’t have much time to waste. Clenching your fists you wait for him to take back the knife. A sinister grin on his face as he scoffs at your tough demeanor. He’s speaking, but you can’t hear him, focusing on when the knife will be farthest away from you, he starts waving it around, pointing outside. 

You’ve always been weak, even standing out in the sun for too long would leave you ill for days. 

But you never realized the other downside of it until you were cornered by a son from the Hanazawa clan. He pinned you against the wall and demanded to know why you didn’t respond to his advances. Luckily, Tsuya was looking for you and he quickly backed off, fumbling out some excuse about you dropping your handkerchief and he wanted to give it back. The feeling of being helpless and powerless was horrid. He could’ve had his way with you– do what he wanted to you. 

A few weeks later you ran into Akihiro. “Have you just finished training big brother?” 

“Yes, is there something you need?” He eyes you up and down, seeing that you are troubled. 

“Do you know how to take a man down?” 

He stiffens up, “Did something happen?” 

“Oh, um nothing– I wanted to know– just in case.” 

“Hm, well I do see how it can be helpful in that case.” 

Slipping your hands out the rope you’ve been working at, you lunge at the man. Moving like how your brother taught you. Adrenaline rewiring your brain, you push him backward, kneeing him in the crotch, and shoving your elbow into his mouth to shut him up. The dagger slips out of his hand as he tries to shove you off, biting down on your flesh. Grabbing the blade, you plunge it repeatedly into his neck. Over and over again until he stops moving and his eyes roll back. Dark red liquid oozes out of the protruding skin, flowing down onto the floor. The man goes limp and you finally back off, looking over at the door to see if anyone was coming back inside. Slicing your ankles free.

A slip of relief, you’re crying. You didn’t even cry at Akihiro’s funeral, but now you mourn his death. Looking past the door into the forest, that man said the sun was going to set soon, you didn’t have time. Making a run for it, kicking off your shoes and socks, you dash out into the forest. The two other men shout behind you, chasing you down. Your lungs screaming at you, and your knees crying out as adrenaline rushes into your veins. Stumbling over a few sticks and rocks, you pray to not lose your footing. Tears bubble in your vision as you blink them away, a silent prayer for any kind of help. 

“Stop! You bitch!” They scream after you. 

Gasping for air as you feel your limit approaching. Right out the corner of your eye, you see a slip of green moving, Bofurin green. 

“Ren!” You wail, turning to run in the new direction. Please, please, please. 

“Over here!” A new voice shouts. You catch sight of a burgundy-haired man, Vice General Suo Hayato. He raises his bow, aiming behind you. His lone red eye is steady as he shoots, and you trip as the arrow passes by. Finally, looking behind you, the men turn tail and run, fleeing to save their lives. Panting on the ground, your throat is dry and hoarse. Someone engulfs you in their arms. Wrapping themselves around you. Who is it? Your vision is blurry as your head is tilted back, there’s a deafening ringing in your ears, and all you can see is gray. 

“Lord General Kaji! Lord General Kaji!” Everyone looks up as Nirei bursts into the meeting hall. 

“What’s going on?” The Lord Commander stands up. 

“The Lady– Lady Kaji– she’s gone!” For the first time in his life, Kaji feels his blood run cold.    

The nearby west forest was the first place to search. Bandits would kidnap women, often holding them there. He wasn’t much religious, but he begged and pleaded for any higher being to ensure you were safe. Hopelessness, regret, desperation, what else could he feel? 

Don’t be hurt, don’t be injured, please don’t die. 

All he can do is blame himself for his carelessness, touching your disheveled limp form, he wants to puke. Your cheek, colorless and clammy, holding you tightly against him. 

If only he paid more attention if only he accompanied you if only it wasn’t like this. 

On one hand, he was terrified of being vulnerable, but on the other, he wouldn’t mind being blinded by his emotions since you had become his whole world. He could no longer deny it, he fell helplessly under your charms from the moment he saw you. He no longer wanted to deny it. 

“Go after them! Don’t kill them, not until I talk with them!” His men obey his orders, hunting down the men. 

“She doesn’t look good, we should take her to Lady Kotoha–” Suo reaches down to feel your temperature. 

Kaji slaps his hand away, “Don’t you dare touch her.” He bares his fangs, wrapping you in his haori and carrying you away, away from the miserable place. 

Whose crying? 

Mother? 

Tsuya? 

It hurts. 

I can’t breathe. 

Anybody…

“I’m not your mother! You aren’t my child! Stop calling me that!!!” 

Father, why were you so nice to me? 

Tsuya…why didn't you resent me?

If you had held a single piece of hatred for me, I wouldn’t have felt so indebted. 

Can I wish for my own happiness? Am I allowed to wish for something like that? 

“Is it poison?” 

Kotoha shakes her head, “It’s a common aphrodisiac, but what they gave her is a much more potent form.” She hands him a jar, “This might ease the pain…” 

“How do I make it go away? How– How can she no longer be in pain…?” Clenching his fists at his sides, he is unable to look at your writhing form. 

“The quickest way is a release. It’ll detoxify her.” 

“You can’t mean–” Kotoha nods. “We– We haven’t even–” 

“Lord General, you’re her husband.” She calls his title to ground him, “Since you guys haven’t…you can do it without penetration.” Kotoha glances at his hand. She stands, a slight bow before leaving, shutting the doors behind her. 

Kaji sees you grasping at your chest, at the torn kimono, he grits his teeth. Sitting on the edge of the bed and pushing your hair out of your sweaty face. Your pretty face scrunched up in agony. He wants to cry. 

“Help– cough hurts…” Your eyes open, staring at him with a drugged gaze. Tears slipping down. 

Wiping them away with his thumb, “Don’t cry, please don’t cry– I’m going to take care of you…” Pulling you into his lap, feeling how you're overheating, seeing you in pain stabs at his heart. He tries to remember the boys talking about their night deeds, to remember how to do this. Gulping, he pulls the end of your kimono up to your thighs, deeply inhaling before he moves his fingers closer to your core. It's wet, dripping, crying out, for something, anything. Your hips twitch at the contact of his digits against your folds. The drug destroys all reason as you grip his thighs and roll your hips. Mewling when your clit touches the tip of his finger. “Shhh, it's okay…” Kaji smoothes your hair down. Slipping one finger in, you gasp as you throw your head back against his shoulder. He begins to curl it, squishing it against your walls. 

Choking out a moan as he inserts another finger, pushing them in and out of your cunt. He closely watches your reactions, the way you jolt and squirm when he presses against your g-spot. His restraint breaks, he wants to bring you to your release and make you feel better. 

Your cries of pleasure fill the room as he quickly finger fucks you, slipping his other hand down to play with your clit. “Guh– mmnn s’good-hahh!” Slurring out, unable to form any actual words. The desire for more, your eyes catch onto his dark gray ones, his Adam's apple moving as he swallows. He shivers and lowly groans when your plush lips make contact with the skin of his neck, suckling on it. Your hot slimy muscle lapping at the sweat beading on him. 

He breathes harshly, telling himself you're not in your right mind, and he to stay on task. How he dreamt of you making these sweet noises in the dead of night, having you all to himself, making you his. It’s driving him wild. 

You begin thrashing, Kaji tightens his hold on you, keeping you in place. You claw at his arms, body trembling as you come undone. Your mouth is ajar as you gush, clear streams spraying out of you onto the sheets and flow about. He continues to move his hands to prolong your orgasm, helping you ride it out. You shake against him and he can see the change in your eyes, the drugged haziness clearing up a bit, making you more aware. The aphrodisiac is wearing off. “Ren…” You murmur before going limp, exhausted and drained. It made sense for you to pass out. His forearm against your head, you’re cooled down now. 

Placing you back down on the bed, Kaji calls in a servant to help clean you as he makes his way into the washroom. Standing behind the door as he palms his hard cock, his pants straining against it. Tugging his cock out he spits on his head to pump himself. Replaying your moans and expressions as he works himself to his climax. The way you called his given name– cum spurting out his angry red tip as he gasps your name over and over again. Fuck.

~

The windchime jingles, and you wake up oddly refreshed. “My lady!” Riko throws herself beside your bed, “I–I was so scared!” She helps you sit up, fat tears pouring out of her eyes. 

“Are you alright…? I gave you some medicine…your fever has gone down.” Kotoha places her hand over your forehead. 

“Kotoha..?” You didn’t expect her to be by your bedside when you awoke. 

“They were after me…I feel responsible.” The brunette trembles, rubbing at the back of your hand. 

“It wasn’t your fault.” You give her a warm smile, happy she was alright. 

“Girl, why didn’t you have anyone with you?” Tsubaki sits down on the edge of the bed. 

“What the hell were you doing?!” Kaji grabs Sakura by his collar. 

“I was guarding Kotoha!” Sakura grabs Kaji’s wrist. He releases his grip, he clicks his tongue. 

“Tch– who was the guard with her?” 

“There wasn’t one– she said she found people around her bothersome.” That doesn’t make sense, when you were back at the Hattano clan, you would have guards and servants around you at all times, and you were basically pampered– he didn’t receive any word from anybody you were heading out. Things just weren’t adding up.

*Notes

[thatonegirl322]

A yandere Gyro and Johnny pairing fighting off a yandere Diego and Hotpants or maybe Valentine?

IM SORRY I TOOK SO LONG I HAD NO IDEA WHAT TO DO WITH THIS.

' = thoughts

" = speech

-----------------------------------------------

As Y/n walks in a old 1800's western styled town she questioned her life and why she's still a big jojo fan.

Y/n plops down on the sandy ground and sighs.

" I'm tired of having to walk a mile, Im just gonna rest for a little while"

1 minute

2 minutes

3 minutes

" NOTHINGS HAPPENING IM SO BOR- is that a tumble weed!"

Y/n runs up to the mini sized tumble weed and grins.

" I've always wanted to throw a tumble weed at someone!"

Y/n grabs the tumble weed and puts it in her bag that she conveniently has on her.

' Welp, I guess it's time to walk until something interesting happens.... again'

Y/n gets up and pats off sand off her sweat pants.

' I wish I had my phone and some headphones'

" Darling? Is that you?"

' Oh shit it's the zesty ball cowboy, don't look behind you y/n, don't look-'

" Ummm no this is Tyrone" Y/n says in the deepest voice she can muster.

A different voice cuts in

" Y/n get on one of our horses now"

' That's definitely Johnny I can recognize that painfully blunt voice from anywhere'

" M-kay'"

I turn around and walk torwards them.

"Which horse should I get on?"

" Mine!" Gyro says.

" Wait what? She always goes on your horse Gyro it's my turn now"

' You know what since Johnny has a big ass- uhhhh i mean nice personality I'll ride with him'

" I'll ride with you this time Johnny" Y/n says as she smiles

" WHAT!?" Gyro exclaims doing his cursed shocked face.

I walk to Johnny's horse and after two embarrassing tries I get on behind him.

I wrap my arms around Johnny just incase the horse hates me.

" Where are we even going?" Y/n asks

" Were going to continue the race"

" Wait- how far are you into the race!?-"

" Johnny and Gyro, I haven't seen you in a long time" Valentine says as he comes out a carriage 5 feet away from us.

' How did none of us hear that loud ass carriage' Y/n thinks

" Johnny, Gyro, I think we should leave he's way too American-"

Tusk Act 4 and Ball Breaker come out of there Users backs.

" Hiya" Y/n says as she waves to the cute stands.

They excitedly wave back

' Wahhh~ so cute!'

Funny slowly stride's torwards us

" Hand Y/n over please, if you do that I will spare you and you make have a chance of winning the race"

" I would appreciate if I had say in this please!" Y/n says as she deadpans.

" No! We're not handing her over to you, you bastard!" Johnny Yells

" Fine, be that way then" Funny replies as D4C comes out

" You know, I could just runaway and leave Valentine to chase me, Then you guys can finish the race without me nagging you"

" NO!" Gyro, Johnny both yell

" Fine then, I was just trying to help" Y/n says as she rolls her eyes

' No matter what Y/n I'll always be with you, even if I have to kill a few bastards to keep me with you" Johnny thinks as he Glares at Valentine

Johnny puts hand into a hand gun position and aims it at Valentine.

' I'll Die before I'll let anyone take you away from me, Y/n' Gyro thinks

Gyro takes out his steel ball and focuses on trying to find the golden ratio on Valentine.

" Don't worry I got this guys!"

Y/n opens her bag and takes the tumble weed out.

' A tumble weed......?' Johnny and Gyro both think.

Y/n throws the tumble weed at Funny. It lands directly on his and hits his eyes.

" Augh!-"

" GO BEFORE HE OPENS HIS EYES"

Johnny and Gyro quickly make there horses get away from Funny Valentine.

" HAHHA THATS WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU GET FREAKY WITH LITTLE GIRLS LOSER"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

IM SORRY THIS WAS JUST SO RANDOM-

I hoped you guys liked this love ya'll!

[444namesplus]

all character names used in the song of ice and fire pile

addam addison adrack adrian aegon aegor aelyx aemma aemon aemond aenar aenys aerea aerion aeron aeryn aerys aethan aethelmure aggo agnes ahai aladale aladore alan alannys alaric alarra alayaya alayne albar albett albin alchemist alekyne alerie alester alfyn alicent all allar alleras alliser allyria alton alvyn alyce alyn alys alysanne alyssa amarei amerei amory amos and andar andrey andrik andros androw anguy annara antario anya archer archon's ardrian aregelle areo argella arianne arlan armen armond aron arra arrana arrec arryk arryn arsa arstan arthur artos arwood arwyn arya arys asha ashara ashford aubrey aurane aurion axell ayrmidon azor b baelish baelon baelor balaq balerion ball balman balon banefort bar baratheon barbara barber barbrey barneby barra barre barristan barthogan bass bastards beesbury bella bellanora bellegere bellena bellonara belly ben benard benedict benfred benfrey benifer benjen benjicot bennard bennarion bennifer benton beren berena beric bernarr beron bertrand bess beth bethany bettley bharbo big billy biter black blackbar blackberry blackfyre blackshield blacktyde blackwood blade blood bloody blount blue boarkiller boisterous bolton boremund boros bors borys botley bowen boy bracken bran branda brandon brax braxton breaker brella brienne brightstone bronn broome brother brother brune brus bryan bryce bryen brynden bryndon buckler bullock bulwer bump burley burton byan byrch byron bywater c cadwyl cafferen caleotte calla captain captain's cargyll caron cassana cassel cassella caswell category catelyn catspaw cayn cedric celtigar cerelle cerenna cerissa cersei cerwyn ceryse character characters characters charlton chataya chayle chett chiggen children clarent clayton clegane clement cleos cletus cleyton clifton clydas cockshaw codd cohollo coldhands colemon colin colmar commander commander's connington corbray corlys corne correy coryanne costayne courtesan cousin cox craghorn

crake crakehall crane cregan cregard creighton cressen creylen crow culiper cuy cynthea cyrelle cyrenna d daario dacey dacks daegon daella daemion daemon daenerys daenora daenys daeron daeryssa dagmer dagon dale dalt dalton damion damon danny danos danwell dareon daring darke darklyn darlessa darnold darry daryn daughter daughter daven davos daxos dayne deana deceased deem delena demonlover denyo denys desmera desmond devan deziel dick dickon dobber donal dondarrion donel donella donnel donnis donnor dontos doran doreah dormund dorna dornishman dragons drogo drumm drunkard dryn duckfield duncan dunstable dunstan duram durran durrandon durwald dusk duskendale dusky dustin duur dyanna dykk dywen e ebrose eddara eddard eddison edgar edgerran edmund edmure edmyn edric edwell edwyle edwyn edyth eerl egen elaena elder eldred eleyna elia elinda elinor ella ellard ellaria ellyn elmar elmo elric elwood elyas elyn elys elysar emberlei emma emmett emmon emmond emory endrew erena erenford erich ermesande erren erryk essie estermont estren ethan euron ever eye eyed f falena falyse farman farring farwynd father fenn fergon flatnose flement fletcher flint florent florian florys flowers folk follard fool foote for forel fork forley foss fossoway fox franklyn free frenken frey from g gael gaemon gage galbart gardener gared gareth garibald garlan garrison garse garth gaunt gawen gendry genna gerald geremy gerion germund gerold gerrick gevin gilbert gilliane gilly gilly's glendon glover godry gold goodbrook goodbrother goode goren gormon gormond gorold gower graceford gran grance greatjon green greenbeard greenfield greenhand gregor grell grenn grey greydon greyiron greyjoy griffith grover groves guard guncer gwayne gwenys gwin gwynesse gylbert gyldayn gyles gysella h h'ghar haegon haereg haggo haggon hagon haigh hairy hake hal halder hali halleck hallis hallyne halys hammer hardy hardyng hareth harlan harlaw harlon harma harmen harmond harmund harrag harras harren harrion harrold harron harry harwin harwyn harys hawick hayford heddle helman hendry henly herndon hero herrock heward hibald high hightower hill hilmar historical hoare hoarfrost hoat hobb hobber hobert hodor hogg hoke hollard holly hop horas horgan horn

hornwood horpe horse horton horys hosman hosteen hostella hoster hot hotah hotho howard howland hubard hubert hugh hugo hullen humble humfrey hunter huntsman husband illifer illyrio ilyn imry irri iv ix j jacaerys jacelyn jack jacks jaehaerys jafer jaime jalabhar jammos janei janna janos jaqen jared jaremy jason jasper jast jax jayne jennis jenny jenye jeor jeren jeyne jhiqui jhogo jirelle joanna jocasta jocelyn joffrey johanna john jojen jommo jon jonah jonnel jonos jonothor jonquil jorah joron jorquen jory joseran joseth joss josua joy joyeuse jurene justin justman jyck k kaeth kandaq karlon karstark karyl kedge kegs kella kenning kermit kettleblack kevan kezmya kindly king king kings kingsblood kingsblood's kingsguard knight knights kurleket kyndall kyra l lad laenor lake lambert lancel langward lanna lannister larence lark larys last laswell leana leathers leek lefford lelia lem lemoncloak lenwood leo leobald leona leonella leonette leslyn lester lew lewyn lewys lharys lia lianna lickspittle lily locke lodos lollys lomys long longbough longleaf longthorpe longwaters lonmouth lonnel loraq loras lorch lord lord loren lorence lorent loreon lorimar lorimer loron lorra lothar lothor lucamore lucas luceon lucifer lucimore lucinda lucion luthor luwin lyanna lyarra lydden lyle lyman lymond lyn lynara lynora lyonce lyonel lysa lythene m mace mad maege maegelle maegon maegor maekar maelor maelys maester maia maid maldon malegorn malleon mallery mallister mallor man mance manderly mandon manfred manfrey manfryd manly marbrand

margaery margaret marghaz margot mariah marillion maris mariya mark marla marlon marna maron marq marqelo marsella marsh martell martyn maryam masha maslyn massey matarys mathis matthar mattheus matthew maz meadows medgar medrick medwick meera megga meha melantha melara meldred melesa melessa melisandre melissa mellario melony melwyn merianne meribald merlon merlyn mern merrell merrett merryweather mervyn meryn mikken milk mina minisa mirri mo mohor mollander mollen monarchs moon moore mooton mopatis mord mordane moreo morgan morgarth morgon mormont moro morrec morrigen morros mors morya moryn mott mounts mullendore mullin mully munda murenmure musgood mya mycah mychel myles myr myranda myrcella myre myriame myrielle mysaria n naerys naggle naharis nan narha night's norbert norcross norjen norman normund norne norren norrey norridge norvos notch noye nute nymeria o o' oak oakenshield oakheart oarsman obara oberyn of old olene olenna ollidar olymer olyvar olyver omer ondrew orbert orkwood ormond ormund orryn orton orys osbert oscar osfryd osha osmund osney osric oswald oswell oswyck oswyn othell otherys othgar otho othor ottyn owen oznak p paege pahl palehair patchface pate pater patrek paul paxter payne peake penny pennytree penrose perceon peremore perianne perkin perra perriane perwyn petyr philip pie piper plummer podrick polliver poole porther pov praed pree prentys prester preston prince

princes promised prudence prunella pryor puckens pyat pycelle pyg pyke pypar q qalen qarl qarlton qhored qhorin qhorwyn qorgyle qotho quaithe quaro queen quellon quenten quentin quenton quentyn quincy qyburn qyle r ragged rakharo ralf rambton ramsay randyll rast raven ravos raya rayder raylon raymont raymun raymund raynald raynard reach red redbeard redfort redpool redwyne reed reference regenard regis regnar renfred renly rennifer reynard reyne reysen rhae rhaegal rhaegar rhaegel rhaella rhaelle rhaenyra rhalla rhea rhogoro ricasso richard rickard rickon rivers rob robar robard robb robert robett robin robyn roderick rodrik rodwell roger rogers rognar rohanne roland rolder rollam rolland rolley rolly rolph romny ronel ronnal ronnel roone roose roote rorge roryn rosamund rosby rose rosey roslin rowan roxton roy royce rufus rupert rus russell ruttiger ryam rycherd ryella ryger ryk rykker rylene ryman rymolf rymond ryswell s saan sabitha salladhor sallei saltcliffe samantha samgood samwell sand sandor sansa santagar sara saranella sargon sarra sarsfield sarya satin sawane scales scarb seastar seaworth sebaston selmond selmy selwyn selyse senelle septon serena serra serry serwyn sevenstreams shadrich shae shaena shagwell sharp she shella shepherd shett shiera shierle shireen shirei shortear shrike shrykos sigfry sigfryd sigorn simon sister sisterton skahaz skinchangers sloane slynt small smallwood smike smiling snow son son soulless sour sparr spicer spotted squire stackspear stafford

stallion stannis stark starvling staunton steffarion steffon stevron stillwood stiv stokeworth stone stonehouse stonetree storm stout strickland strong suggs sumner sunglass surly swann sweet swyft sybell sylas sylvenna sylwa symond syrio t taena tagaros talbert tall talla tallhart tally tanda tanner tarbeck targaryen tarle tarly tarth tawney templeton teora ternesio terys tess that the the theo theodore theomore theon thoren thorne thoros three timeon timotty tion titus tobho todder todric togarion tollett tom tomard tommen torghen torgon torrhen torwyn torwynd tower towers toyne trant tree tregar tristifer triston trystane tully tumitis turnberry turnip tyana tybolt tyene tygett tyler tyrek tyrell tyrion tyrion's tysane tysha tyta tytos tywald tywin u ulf uller umber umfred umma urragon urras urrathon urrigon urron urswyck uther utherydes uthor utt v vaegon vaellyn valaena valerion valiant vance varamyr vardis vargo varly varys vayon velaryon veron vickon victaria victarion victor vikary vines visenya viserra viserys volmark vorian vortimer votyris w waif walda walder walderan waldon walgrave wallace wallen walter walton waltyr walys was waters watt waymar wayn waynwood weaver webber weeper wendamyr wendel westerlands westerling westling wex whalen whent white whittlestick who wick wife wildling will willamen willas willem william willis willow wind wineseller winterfell wode wolves woman woodcock woolfield world woth wulfgar wull wyl wylde wylis wylla wyman wynafrei wynafryd wynch wynton wythers x xaro xho xhoan y yandry yarwyck yew ygon ygritte yohn yorbert yoren yorko youngest yronwood ysabel ysilla z zo zollo

[writingwenches]

Tell me about Mateo and Clarice Hightower👀

I've been wanting to talk about Clarice! Thanks for the opportunity!~ She's a recent favorite of mine~ Warning: I changed a lot of names already LOL. Its fun working with a character I purposely added the Seven Degrees of Keven Bacon to~ Clarice is one! OOOP THIS IS FOREVER LONG

"Death Before Disgrace"

History of House Bulwer — Bors the Breaker is a legendary son of Garth Greenhand and founder of House Bulwer of Blackcrown, Its cliffs are called singing cliffs for the whistle heard from the twisted towers and wind-carved stones standing above the waves. According to legend, Born of Bulwer gained the strength of twenty men by drinking only bull's blood. Some tales state Bors drank so much blood he grew a pair of shiny black horns.

30s AC — Lord Herbert Belwer and his wife Lady Charlaena of House Leygood are seen as responsible and accountable rulers of House Belwer. Lord Herbert was named Lord Belwer upon turning 13, after his father's two-year long battle with illness. A year into his Lordship, Lord Herbert was married to Lady Charlaena Leygood when she was 13, shortly after her first blood. The couple did not consummate their marriage for many years, as Lady Charlaena lived in Blackcrown Castle under the supervision of multiple Septas until she officially came of age.

50s AC — Lady Clarice Belwer was the eldest child of House Belwer, along with her siblings Lady Aenaes Bulwer, the future Lord Maurice Bulwer, and Lady Gaëlle Bulwer.

Her brother, Maurice finds himself with a bastard (b. ~70s AC) or two before he ascends to the Lordship. His youngest sister Gaëlle marries the second son to Lord Redwyne, and suddenly finds herself Lady Redwyne after husband's elder brother dies. Gaëlle outlives her husband and child, but lives into old age to watch her grandson ascend to Lord Redwyne, who's only daughter, Lady Oletta Redwyne, is courting Prince Aegon ii Targaryen. Her middle sister, Aenaes Bulwer, is totally open for fun future plotting!

The Redwynes of the Dance are some of my favorite OCs, Oletta's face is Havana Rose Liu for fun previews ;P

Clarice Bulwer was late to receiving her first blood, her younger sister beating her to it. As blood is historically important to their house, House Bulwer celebrated Clarice's entrance into adulthood with a tournament in her honor. The future Lord Hightower, Ser Othello Hightower, in his 30s and married, asked for the favor of Lady Clarice and declared that she was the most beautiful woman in The Reach. He used the excuse that he took pity on the late-blooming girl. Lady Clarice and Ser Othello began an intimate letter exchange from Oldtown and nearby Blackcrown.

In his 40s, Ser Othello Hightower married his second wife, the young Clarice Bulwer. There were rumors at court that the plain looking Clarice used bloodmagic to entice Othello into marriage. Othello and his first wife only had one daughter together, who was always rather sickly. The girl died in her early teens, sparking more rumors at court.

**potential plot — (~late 50s AC - 60AC) Clarice had a bastard child with Othello shortly before they married, if a boy the child could be raised by the Maesters? If a girl, the family could allow ~10 orphan/bastard girls to be employed at the Hightower for "goodwill" sake, being trained and raised with the young ladies of court and employed as their maids. The bastard girl could be one of them, and potentially never finds out about her parentage rip. (or twins and its both LOL) send opinions~

Lady Clarice never had interest in children, and performed her duty and bore two true-born sons to Othello. Hobert and Otto. Clarice left the raising to the nursemaids, tutors and their father. Othello ascended to Lord Hightower late in his life, after his sons were born and raised by his Knightly hand. Clarice preferred the company of Maesters to her husband or other courtly ladies. Perhaps she hated courtly ladies most of all. Othello did not spend long as Lord Hightower, dying and passing the title onto his twenty year old eldest son, Hobert.

Perhaps, the best time of her life was after she ascended to Lady Hightower, which only was made better when she became Lady Dowager.

Clarice was not much interested in the Faith of the Seven, favoring the Maesters Order instead. Instead of confessing her sins to a traditional Septon, she confessed to her close Maesters. Her closest confidant was Maester Fyodor, who shared many of the mysteries of the Citadel with her. During her time as Lady Hightower to a decade after, rumors swarmed around court about her potential use of blood magic with her Maester friends. Rumor had it that she kept with House Bulwer tradition and drank bull's blood in her wine. Some even say that she bathed in the blood of maidens for eternal life. Some rumors were based in fact...

As a mother-in-law, she was harsh and extremely critical whenever she took the time to come down from the top of the Hightower. Her youngest son, Otto, married without much of her consideration. Clarice was potentially most cruel toward Lady Alyrie Florent who married her youngest son, Otto. Alyrie struggled with conception issues, and many Maesters were sent to study her conditions. The Maesters were extremely invasive about her sexual life, potential on the orders of Lady Clarice. I'm sure all the information gathered was shared with her.

That was, until her eldest true born son, Hobert, was married to a Lady of the extremely wealthy House Estermont. Lady Juliette Estermont, the new Lady Hightower, was in for a rough surprise.

House Manderly of the North have strong ties to The South. Lady Sybelle Manderly, a little person/dwarf from The North, started a correspondence with Ser Lyam, the future Lord Estermont, they bonded over having very similar ridiculous fail!knight brothers.

Lady Clarice Hightower nearly fainted when she heard the Lord brother to her daughter-in-law was marrying a dwarf.

Clarice EITHER

went to the wedding, wearing white (or whatever Westeros wedding color) after paying for Lady Sybelle's dress to be ruined, leaving her wearing plain clothes.

[OR] she sent a large party with Lady Juliette Hightower to the wedding celebration and paid to outfit all the Reach girls in the finest of fashions, overshadowing the bride. Or both LOL (always open for other ideas~~)

TO make up for her horrible attitude, Clarice invited Lady Sybelle Estermont and her husband to Oldtown to celebrate some milestone. Potentially Sybelle could have been pregnant and Clarice invited her to be seen by the best Maesters in the Realms. (and made her haul her north ass across the ENTIRE Stormland/Reach while pregnant yeah thanks sooooo much girl)

Ser Lyam Estermont enjoyed his time at Oldstown, sporting with Hobert and enjoying catching up with his sister, Juliette. Lyam, Hobert and their men particularly enjoyed their time hunting along the Honeywine norht of the city. Which left Sybelle to spent most of her time at Oldstown, with Clarice and maybe a terrified Juliette.

It didn't take Sybelle to realize something was horridly wrong. She was from The North, she had a suspicion for these sorts of things. And, of course, when the Maesters starting asking about her plans for her own corpse...well, the technical term is Sybelle skedaddled outta there.

It's a story they tell their children, amongst are Maeria Estermont, many times over. Sybelle took a carriage to the Honeywine to fetch her husband from hunting and left the city. She used her Northern voice and barked orders which made Lyam get off his horse and into her carriage which pulled away without another word.

Sybelle was paranoid and instead of using the Roseroad towards Estermont in the east, they spent time in the Uplands with House Mullendore, arriving with little to no luggage or servants, waiting in their Keep for weeks until all their staff and things arrived. Lady Juliette (Estermont) Hightower graced the Uplands castle, MUCH to the excitement of Lord and Lady Mullendore. There was much drama those nights, and the Mullendore's speak of it often.

Lady Clarice Hightower outlived most everyone in her life, living to at least 90 years. Her grandchildren's generation hardly ever met her, even with everyone but Alicent living in Oldtown, Clarice rarely left the highest rooms of the Hightower. Her great-grandchildren's generation mostly do not know she is alive, nor rarely ask about her. I'm sure her and Helaena have strange dreamscapes together. Anyone older than that would be utterly shocked to find that she was living.

What might have finally killed her was finding out her daughter-in-law's niece (Maeria) marries a Dornishman (Rahul). rip

AND I think that's it....it's a whole novel in itself WHOOPS. Always love hearing thoughts and prayers about her!

[knightfighttourney]

Knight Fight Week 2

With Week 1 finished and half of our Armed and Mostly Dangerous contestants sent to the Shadow Realm, I will no unveil the matchups for Week 2! These will be rolling out 10/2 at midnight CST. Or would that make it 10/3 midnight? It is entirely possible that I'm just dumb. ANYWAY!

Bracket A)

Bracket B)

Bracket C) Oops, All Orkneys (Minor Adjustment was made so that Agravaine and Gaheris can duke it out this round)

Bracket D)

Bracket E) (adjusted for tie, placement of Bors/Dagonet decided by coin toss)

Bracket F) (adjusted for tie, placement of Elyan and Cador determined by coin flip)

Bracket G) (adjusted for tie, placement of Calogrenant and Segwarides determined by coin toss)

Bonus Tie-Breaker Bracket!)

Moving forward, any future tie will be determined with a one day bonus poll in the effort of moving things along. The fact that there were three entire ties this go-around, however, deserved an extra bracket!

[razorfst]

i'm forever in your debt.

It was nothing but instinct to the heir of Blackcrown, to help those wounded around him or in arms way. It had been what he was trained for, the preparation of battle always the objective of his house to be ready when needed. They took pride in that, being descended from Bors the Breaker was an honor to them and it showed with fierce each generation fought when the time came. This was no different and Andrei showed that, but even then he wasn't going to leave a wounded ally on the battlefield when they could be saved. To him it made sense to help, there was no thought of debt or need to be repaid. Head shakes as he stands to the side, free from the dangers of a battlefield where the other could receive attention while they waited. "There is no need for that." A wave of his hand to dismiss the thought accompanies his words. "I do not need to be repaid for doing what anyone else would do. Or should do." He felt like adding as proud shoulders lift and fall in a shrug. "Think nothing of it."

Patching Wounds | Accepting | @kingmaketh

[bitchfromtheseventhhell]

Some Celebrated Children of Garth Greenhand

❀ John the Oak, the First Knight, who brought chivalry to Westeros (a huge man, all agree, eight feet tall in some tales, ten or twelve feet tall in others, sired by Garth Greenhand on a giantess). His own descendants became the Oakhearts of Old Oak.

❀ Gilbert of the Vines, who taught the men of the Arbor to make sweet wine from the grapes that grew so fat and lush across their island, and who founded House Redwyne.

❀ Florys the Fox, the cleverest of Garth's children, who kept three husbands, each ignorant of the existence of the others. (From their sons sprang House Florent, House Ball, and House Peake).

❀ Maris the Maid, the Most Fair, whose beauty was so renowned that fifty lords vied for her hand at the first tourney ever to be held in Westeros. (The victor was the Grey Giant, Argoth Stone-Skin, but Maris wed King Uthor of the High Tower before he could claim her, and Argoth spent the rest of his days raging outside the walls of Oldtown, roaring for his bride.)

❀ Foss the Archer, renowned for shooting apples off the head of any maid who took his fancy, from whom both the red apple and green apple Fossoways trace their descent.

❀ Brandon of the Bloody Blade, who drove the giants from the Reach and warred against the children of the forest, slaying so many at Blue Lake that it has been known as Red Lake ever since.

❀ Owen Oakenshield, who conquered the Shield Islands, driving the selkies and merlings back into the sea.

❀ Harlon the Hunter and Herndon of the Horn, twin brothers who built their castle atop Horn Hill and took to wife the beautiful woods witch who dwelled there, sharing her favors for a hundred years (for the brothers did not age so long as they embraced her whenever the moon was full).

❀ Bors the Breaker, who gained the strength of twenty men by drinking only bull's blood, and founded House Bulwer of Blackcrown. (Some tales claim Bors drank so much bull's blood he grew a pair of shiny black horns.)

❀ Rose of Red Lake, a skinchanger, able to transform into a crane at will—a power some say still manifests from time to time in the women of House Crane, her descendants.

❀ Ellyn Ever Sweet, the girl who loved honey so much she sought out the King of the Bees in his vast mountain hive and made a pact with him, to care for his children and his children's children for all time. She was the first beekeeper, and the mother to House Beesbury.

❀ Rowan Gold-Tree, who was so bereft when her lover left her for a rich rival that she wrapped an apple in her golden hair, planted it upon a hill, and grew a tree whose bark and leaves and fruit were gleaming yellow gold, and to whose daughters the Rowans of Goldengrove trace their roots.

[lareinevictoire-blog1]

___________________________________________________⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀House Gardener ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ___________________________________________________

[virginiagreene]

"Hey. HEY. You, cloaca-sniffer--put that down! Stop--stop chewing that! Those materials cost more than every bone in your body to make, you--you synapsid." --- As I prepare to post this, a Carolina wren is scolding someone or something as loudly as she can right outside my window. Perfect. <3 #cloacasniffer #squirrel #kettle #carolinawren #balladsofremex #BoR #breaker #soothsinging #interspeciesconflict #squirrelshavenorespect #art #illustration #birds #bird #mammal #midtonepaper #ink #INKTOBER #inktober2019 #whiteink #tryingtechniques (at Charlottesville, Virginia) https://www.instagram.com/p/B3HdazCj6o5/?igshid=dkqnlmuv7fe7

[westerosoliviapope]

Glittering Westerati Flirt and Frolick at the 107th Annual Grand Garden Classic

Bring on the champagne and brandy cocktails!

Our favorite flowery southern region kicked off its famed derby season this weekend at the 107th Annual Grand Garden Classic and everybody who's anybody traveled to The Reach for society's favorite sport.

No offense to this year's champion thoroughbred, Bors the Breaker — but we all know the real competition here: seeing and being seen.

The day started at the Highgarden Country Club with the Women's League Charity Brunch (sponsored by Redwyne Family Vineyards), where Women's League Chairwoman and Future First Lady, Margaery Tyrell Baratheon was the obvious belle of the ball alongside her himbo Man Candy husband and candidate for Prime Minister, People's Councilman Renly Baratheon.

On hand to accept the League's Woman of the Year Award (before the race where she allegedly bet big on second-place winner Knight of the Laughing Tree and swore like a wildling) was Foreign Affairs Minister Lyanna Stark.

No doubt, dragged below The Neck by his fiancee, People's Councilman Robb Stark also made an appearance to support his dear aunt. Let's hope our sweet WKLN anchor Roslin Frey employs a better stylist next year if she doesn't want to be outshined by her dashing groom-to-be.

Speaking of visitors from lands far and wide, all hail Princess Arianne Martell, who made her first-ever derby appearance. Could my Little Birds' reports that the over thirty-five-years old and still single heir to the Dornish throne is shopping for a Westerosi husband be true? We've heard she canoodled with a certain ne'er-do-well prince at the after-party, but more on that later.

Included in the Princess's retinue were her cousins and daughters of International Man of Mystery Prince Oberyn Martell: (pictured from left to right) fashion maven and style influencer Obella Sand, fixer and political maverick Sarella Sand, Tyroshi Tennis Open Champion Elia Sand, and international playgirl fixer Nymeria Sand.

And let's not forget Prince Trystane and his lady love and Westerosi society princess, Myrcella Baratheon.

We wonder how Myrcella reacted when her mother, Former First Lady Cersei Lannister, showed up on the arm of the criminal eccentric businessman Euron Greyjoy? Only the gods know what's going on here, but Little Birds report that a collective gasp rippled through the box seats at the race track when they walked in? Is the notoriously uptight Lady Lannister looking for a wild ride after her tumultuous divorce and the death of her oldest son? Could #Ceron be the newest couple to watch?

Not to be outdone by their visitors, our Reachmen and women were out in full force. Let's start with the age-defying plastic surgery enthusiast socialite and boutique franchiser, Lynesse Hightower-Ormollen who made her derby entrance via billboards throughout Garden City featuring herself exclusive pieces from her stores' also named after herself spring line.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE OF THE DAILY WHISPER'S EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE OF THE 107TH ANNUAL GRAND GARDEN CLASSIC.

[chemistfail]

Detritus world building

Most therians are discouraged from learning magic because Fae born are dick heads. So to protect themselves, they've became very skill spell breakers. It's not uncommon to see therian towns decked out in intricate spell banishing glyphs and protection wards

And since magic is heavily associated with dick head mages, demigods, and fae bor, most therian are further discouraged to learn magic by their families and communities. Creating this misconception that therians can't do magic

Which isn't the the case at all and many therians are skilled magicians but have to keep their heritage a secret

[verysharpteeth]

Cursed Individual Episode Summary and Review

Episode 1.02

Nimue is on the run and having flashbacks to her childhood where apparently evil demon bears just flat out tried to murk her on the regular. She manages to kill the bear but not without getting slashed. Current Nimue is found by a pursuing Red Paladin. As he tries to murder her, she uses her powers to pull him away. She throws up at the horror of what she’s done, implying the plants have killed the monk in a horrible way. They...didn’t? When the head monk finds him he’s just sort of wrapped up? This was rather disappointing to me. Why make like something so horrible happened to him and then just have him sort of Wicker Manned there rather than dead? The Weeping Monk finds Squirrel and takes him captive. He’s really just using him as bait because when some of the escaped villagers come to free Squirrel, the Weeping Monk promptly kills them all in the best choreographed bit of the show so far. In fact it’s probably the most compelling thing that’s happened thus far on the show. The Weeping Monk lets Squirrel, having gotten what he wanted out of him. 

Nimue is trying to sneak into the city that is crawling with Red Paladins all of a sudden. She has to have a tooth removed by a travelling dentist to prove a lie of why she’s going into town. This is never mentioned again in the episode, which seems like an oversight since she should be in terrible pain now. Arthur finds her and she is attacked by Bors, whose hand she cuts off. She remembers being in the village and using her powers when the other teenagers brutally attacked her. Oddly I got a weird vibe from this flashback since they frame it with Nimue walking with a boy and admitting that he’s already promised to another girl but she’s apparently gonna roll with that anyway. It honestly is a weird tone to pick since it makes Nimue less sympathetic. Arthur proves to be a grade A dick by wanting her to give him the sword even after she explains that her DYING MOTHER GAVE HER A MISSION. Arthur point blank tells her that her fresh dead mother needs to be gotten over pronto. So he has NO empathy for someone who just had her home and family wiped out like 24 hours ago? I get that the sword is supposed to manipulate people, but does it really have to make Arthur look so unlikable? 

Merlin goes and finds Nimue’s mother and buries her. He then chats with someone looking like the Grim Reaper who complains about him losing the sword and being a drunk. Meanwhile Arthur steals the damn sword and leaves Nimue. Merlin and the Grim Reaper are still talking and he comes up with a complicated plan to destroy the sword, which he thinks is a bad omen. The Grim Reaper is more concerned about the dying fey but agrees to help Merlin. Arthur rides off to adventure with his boosted sword.

I don’t like anyone on this show. There’s a difference between giving likable characters flaws or redemption arcs to horrible characters. This show literally has given me no reason to like Nimue. All she’s been shown doing is whining and grumping around. Arthur makes what I call a “deal breaker” character mistake when he shows absolutely no empathy and that’s not framed as something truly horrible. The Weeping Monk is at least straightforward in his badness. We’re shown moments that are supposed to make us sympathetic to Nimue, but really it’s more her whining about how the other children are afraid of her and in a scene where we SHOULD sympathize with her, add the element that she’s too dumb to realize this dude she’s never talked to before and who’s promised to another girl is suddenly going want to step out with her? And speaking of dumb, Nimue decides to go to a heavily populated town that she just had to go on the run from about 24 hours ago? I don’t get how this show is trying to set up characters to be sympathetic. 

[klaradox]

THE CHILDREN OF GARTH GREENHAND 4/13: BORS THE BREAKER

Bors the Breaker is a legendary son of Garth Greenhand and founder of House Bulwer of Blackcrown. According to legend, he gained the strength of twenty men by drinking only bull's blood. Some tales state Bors drank so much blood he grew a pair of shiny black horns.

This image will be featured on my upcoming map of THE REACH.

[szabadpecsofficial]

A pécsi bor megint szép lesz? Méltó régi, nagy híréhez? (podcast)

A pécsi bor megint szép lesz? Méltó régi, nagy híréhez? (podcast)

A Szabad Péntek, a Szabad Pécs heti podcastjában ezúttal Szabó Zoltánnal, a pécsi borásszal beszélgettem a borvidék lehetőségeiről és a magyar borról.

A teljes adást itt lehet meghallgatni:

A podcast a legtöbb platformon, alkalmazásban elérhető: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Anchor  | Pocket Casts | Breaker |  Radio Public | RSS | Letöltés

Ebben a részben Szabó…

[asongoficeandfirefashion]

A gown for the Lady of House Bulwer to wear at court in Highgarden. Pre-Fall 2017 Reem Acra.

House Bulwer is noble house from The Reach sworn to the Hightower’s who are banner-men to the Tyrell’s. The seat of House Bulwer is called Blackcrown and is located to the North of Old Town on the northern coast of the Whispering Sound. House Bulwer is one of the many houses in the reach that claim to be descended from Garth Greenhand, according to legend they are the descendants of Bors the Breaker. Their sigil is a bull’s skull on a sanguine field, “bone over blood”, and their words are “Death Before Disgrace”. The current ruling lady is “Little” Alysanne Bulwer, one of Margaery Tyrell’s Ladies in waiting and a girl of seven, she inherited her title after her father Jon Bulwer died of a summer fever. The Bulwer’s and their forces have remained loyal to the Hightower’s and Tyrell’s throughout the War of Five Kings.    

[eds-gryff]

I Know The Feeling

God fucking damn it, this is the 4th time I'm having to write it, Tumblr is being such a bitch this week. But I love you, Theseus.

English is not my first language.

Not British, I hail from India.

It had been nine months. Nine months since Queenie went over to the Dark Side for love. Nine months of frantic searching by Tina, aided by Newt (they had finally become romantically involved). Nine months of denial by Jacob. Nine months since Leta had sacrificed herself. Nine months of wrath and depression by Theseus, whose nightmares plagued him every single night, he had been so close, he could've saved her, he could've had his fianceé with him in his office right now, smirking at him as he got ready for an interview with a candidate for Deputy Head Auror. But he had been too far away and far too slow and so he was alone.

He had loved her, despite or maybe because if her dark past. And he had lost her.

°°°

'Oh Morgana's saggy tits!' You thought most improperly but you felt it was quite appropriate considering you were facing the door to the rest of your life. Alright, maybe that was a tad dramatic but the gossip you'd heard about the strict, capable, young and handsome Head Auror was going to be one intimidating interview.

There was also the fact that you held a tiny grudge towards Theseus Scamander who everyone attracted to men had a crush on because when he was a seventh year (and a Prefect and a Seeker) had your Crup (a dog like creature resembling a Jack Russell terrier) sent back home when he found you, then a mere youngling of a first year, playing with it because only cats, toads and owls were allowed at Hogwarts. It was a barmy and most discriminating rule but no matter how much you argued against it during all your years at the magical school, it was all in vain. But at least your protesting had let you meet- never mind.

But seriously, just because he got your dog (who was now in the throes of old age) sent home was no reason to hate him. Much.

Making up your mind to have a bit of the courage Gryffindors were so praised for and to not say a single syllable about the old Crup, you knocked on the door. Hearing a deep, sultry voice say "Come in", you walked in the tidy, dark panelled office.

Your first thought when you saw Theseus Griffin Scamander (headcanon) was 'Jesus, Mary and Joseph' even though you weren't Christian. This was because the man in front of you was positively delectable-tall and fit, broad-shouldered with dark but sparkling blue eyes, curly but gelled hair in a dozen shades of brown, and with a smattering of freckles across his cheeks and nose.

Then 'Do not have an orgasm.'

Then 'NO DOG TALK'.

"(Y/N) (L/N)?" He asked with a curious look- probably because he was wondering why the odd stranger was looking at him like he had the head of a bull instead of a normal human one.

Do not talk about the Crup.

Do not have an orgasm.

No dog talk-

"You sent my Crup away."

Why am I even here if you never listen to me?

"Pardon?" He asked, bewildered and a little bemused because of your sudden blush.

Do not explain, it'll make you seem cra-

"I, er, see, when I was a 1st year and you a 7th, you sent my dog home because he wasn't allowed at Hogwarts." You bit your lip, drawing his attentive, blue gaze to your mouth.

Oh well, conscience. Appears that I'm about to break your other rule as well.

He frowned and suddenly his brow cleared. "You're the Crup firstie. Merlin, you were such a shrill, chubby thing them. You look really marvellous now." Realising what he said, he blushed the colour of his house. To cover up his blunder he said, "I tell stories about your every Christmas, you know."

"Exhilarating." You deadpanned. "Just what I've always wanted to be known as- a shrill, chubby Crup obsessed firstie."

After a bit more of stuttering and ice breakers, he got started on your file and looked impressed. "Quite qualified, O's in all subjects except an E in Potions and -" He smirked and made you go weak in the knees but you smirked yourself. "A D in Divination."

"Couldn't help it." You shrugged. "I fell asleep in every class and once dropped a Dungbomb in the old coot's tea. I'm lucky not to get a Troll."

"Well, thankfully you don't need a Divination degree in the Auror sector." He smiled and that resurrected every single almost-skeletal butterfly in your stomach.

After a bit more talk about Hogwarts and your five year long Auror career, he leaned back and started, sternly. "I want an honest answer, (Y/N). Why an Auror?"

Heck, you were hoping that he wouldn't ask that. Nevertheless, you answered instantaneously, in a dead calm voice. "Grindelwald."

His face hardened and steeled. "Elaborate."

"My partner-" Your tone made it clear what kind of partner you meant "- was brain washed and recruited into his side. Couple of months in, (preferred gender) woke up and realized (preferred gender) was too soft for it all and wanted out and-" You didn't finish but merely shook your head, trying to keep your tears at bay. "I was 20 and (preferred gender) was barely 22. I wake up everyday wanting to kill the murderer and then sleep somehow every night, regretting that he isn't dead or wishing he was." You spoke venomously.

Raising your (H/C) head to look at Theseus, you were surprised to not see any semblance of putting in his handsome features but only determination and.... understanding.

Belatedly, you remembered that his fianceé Leta Lestrange too died in Paris because of Grindelwald.

He exhaled and the expression in his blue eyes made him seem older than he was.

"I know the feeling."

Maybe that was partly why you two forged such a strong friendship. Why after 5 months of camaraderie, he asked you out. Why after four months of dating and a near death experience, he asked you to marry him.

"We're in war, (Y/N) and, and as much as I'd like to avoid another Leta and you'd like to avoid another (ex's name), the love I have for you is stronger. When I saw that spell hit you....and I realized it was a green one, I was dead sure that I'd kill myself if it turned to be what I thought and you were dead. I can't live without you and I don't want to. I know it's early...and I don't have a ring but-"

"Yes, of course. It's yes, Thes, yes! It's always going to be yes."

'And that's why-' Theseus thought as you lay next to him on your wedding night, hearing your exhausted, even breathing and smiling, 'I fell in love with (your gender).'

'And that's why-' You thought as you lay next to him on nearly every night since, hearing his shallow, tired out soft snoring and smiling, 'I love him.'

Thank you to @jordsie for your stories and your comment, it made me stay up till 1 o' clock here to finish this story and make sure it's actually posted properly. Love your fics and hope you tolerate this.