#claudius umad III

[endless-vall]

Val & Claudius sharing a kiss 💕💕💕

[endlessflame]

Nice to see another TC&TF references! For me, Claudius Umad IX is Kendra’s distant cousin, since Kenna and Raydan’s son Adrian married Claudius Umad III’s daughter Ciara and they eventually became king and queen. Ciara’s brother Claudius Umad IV had a son, Claudius Umad V, so they must have stopped using the name for a while (confusion over too many at once?) or had some very long generations, or both, if they’re only on IX hundreds of years later.

[endless-vall]

I’ve kept my promise - Val x Claudius fanfic

Summary: Amidst the celebrations and the upcoming wedding of Kenna and Raydan, Val and Claudius reunite.

Author’s note: I haven’t written for this couple in forever, but they’re still one of my very favorite.

Following “If we stay alive long enough” & Inspired by this drawing of mine from awhile ago.

After the war was declared finally over, and Kenna had defeated Empress Azura, everyone hurried to her side. Val, too.

But as she congratulated Kenna on her victory and urged her to go rest, Val’s eyes were distracted, already searching the crowd for a different person.

She wasn’t exactly doing this intentionally, rather than her body acting before her mind could grasp the idea.

Finally, between a group of fellow Fydorian soldiers as he himself was, she saw him.

Claudius.

An audible sigh of relief escaped her mouth, as she moved along, letting Kenna retreat to her chambers and eyes kept fixated on the Fydorian captain. 

Claudius was definitely looking at her as well, his helmet in one hand and the other covering his chest, as if he was holding onto a wound.

A brief moment of concern passed through Val’s mind, but if he was well enough to stand, and walk towards her direction... Then he was probably going to make it.

She grinned at him as he approached her, and he tried bowing before her before shrieking in pain, holding to his - now obvious - wound. “Don’t do that,” Val scolded at him, placing a comforting hand over his shoulder.

She eyed him worriedly again. “In fact, you don’t have to bow for me, at all.” She added.

Claudius had a sly smile on his face, even though his eyes confessed before her that he was still in pain and tremendous exhaustion. “Sure.” He said,

making it obvious he wasn’t going to listen to her, and obey her request.

“At least until you’re healed?” Val tried, taking her walls down and suggesting a truce. 

“Very well.” This is a suggestion he was willing to take.

They shared another meaningful smile, before Val pulled Claudius by his hand and motioned him to follow her. “Come on,” She said. “Let’s get you to the healer.” 

She dropped him off at the doctor’s office, making sure the healer got to him.

Claudius came a long way since she first met him, and now acted more humbly.

He insisted the healers tended to other wounded before they got to him, and Val stayed and eyed them until they cared for his wound anyway.

The look in her eyes struck more fear in them than Claudius stubbornness did.

After making sure he was alright, she retired to her chambers as well, getting a much needed rest.

She’s positive she slept for the entire day, until she heard a knock over her door, of some servant announcing a grand celebration happening outside, to celebrate their victory and the Queen of Stormholt.

Val groaned in her bed, annoyed at being woken up, but thanked the servant through the door anyway.

Celebrating Kenna, huh? She thought to herself.

Oh well, this is a reason worth enough celebrating. She concluded, and stood up.

She didn’t bother changing into something fancy, rather stayed in her regular clothes. This was Kenna’s moment anyway, so no one should care.

She made her way to the party, taken place in the grand fields just outside the royal palace.

She could see most of her friends already there, and even Kenna herself making an entrance.

“To Stormholt!” Jackson carries a toast as she makes it close enough, and everyone follows his lead, raising their glasses in honor of Stormholt.

Val grabs the nearest mug of Ale she can find, and raises it as well. “To Stormholt!” She calls, and drinks nearly all of it in one go.

She can feel a tap on her shoulder, and she turns around to see Claudius. 

Her eyes sparkle as she stares at him, and he clinks his own glass with hers.

Without any words, she downs the rest of her drink with him.

Afterwards, Kenna disappears with Raydan someplace. Val catches it with her eyes but decides against calling it out. She chuckles to herself, playfully, and continues to mingle at the party.

Claudius has to go back and mingle with his troops, eventually, and he reluctantly leaves.

It’s not like she gave him any reason not to. A nasty, annoying voice tells her in her head.

She sighs. It speaks the truth though.

A while later, Kenna and Raydan come back, announcing their engagement and Raydan’s soon to be coronation to King of Stormholt.

The wedding is set a week from that day, and everyone continues to celebrate in their name.

Because of the engagement, the fellow kingdoms don’t scatter, returning to their homelands. Val is thankful to Kenna for that, and she really is looking forward to the wedding.

She pledged her loyalty to Kenna long ago, and she was truly happy for her for finally being able to settle down and her happy ending to this long-going war.

Kenna was, one of her closest friends, after all. Maybe the closest, along with Jackson.

But what Val had in mind wasn’t something she could entrust Jackson with.

So later that week, she manages to catch Kenna for a talk.

“Kenna?” She comes from behind her, sitting alongside Kenna on the porch overlooking the palace’s grounds.

“Val.” Kenna beams. Ever since she announced her engagement she was glowing. “How are you?” She asks with a smile.

Val smiles back. “I’m... Great. Congratulations, by the way.” She blushes. Was it stupid to come to Kenna with this kind of thing?

It was almost time for Kenna’s celebration, after all. Maybe Val was selfish for coming to confide in her.

“Thank you, Val. Was there something you wanted to talk about?”

Of course Kenna saw right through her.

Val felt ever sillier right now.

“Um...” She hesitated, but faced Kenna. “There’s this Fydorian solider. Claudius...” Val started, unsure how to finish her sentence.

“Oh.” The realization seems to down on Kenna, and Val is grateful for that. “I see.” Kenna adds.

An excited smile spreads over her lips and Val is ready to scold at her, not to be so happy and excited about the news she just told her.

“Why don’t you invite him to the wedding?” Kenna suggests.

“He is invited, already.” Val frowns, unsure of what Kenna means.

“Well, yeah... But I meant, as your date?” Kenna makes her point clear and suddenly it makes sense.

“Oh.” Val realizes, and Kenna nods. “That could work.” Val agrees, and Kenna chuckles giddily, wrapping an arm over Val’s shoulder.

Had it been anyone else, Val would probably flinch away from the touch and break the brave person’s arm, who decided to wrap around her, but somehow this gesture from Kenna was an entirely different story.

She realized, Kenna was telling her she could confide in her any time, with that gesture.

“Thank you.” She mouthed at her, resting her head over Kenna’s shoulder for a few moments, overlooking the castle’s grounds with her.

Finding Claudius after that, turns out to be quiet difficult. He isn’t in his bed chambers nor he is in the doctor’s office.

Val’s almost about to give up on finding him today until she bumps into one of his squad-mates.

“Uhm... Excuse me?” She taps him on his shoulder, almost startling him to the ground.

“Ah! Milady mercenary! So nice to see you again.” He engages in conversation.

“Yeah, yeah, you too.” She’s tired of correcting them over her name so she lets it be. She’s about to speak up again when he cuts her off.

“I’m glad you made it through the storm.” He tells her, and Val nods. The last battle with Azura was a storm - A whirlwind, indeed. “As I’m sure Claudius is.” The solider adds, as if he knows something but knows better than to say it out loud.

Val considers threatening him to be careful with his choice of words, but decides against it.

“Speaking of Claudius, you wouldn’t know where he is, would you?” She asks, instead, curiously.

The soldier thinks for a moment, then point in the direction of a gate leading  outside of the castle.

“He said he wanted to get some fresh air. I suppose he went that way.” He smiles at her.

“Was I helpful?” He asks, furrowing his eyebrows in concern.

“Very.” She flashes a smile at him and hurries away, not bothering to end the conversation with him before disappearing in the direction he pointed at.

As promised, Claudius was there, overlooking the cloudy sky. He was laying on his back, but when he noticed Val approaching he stood up and greeted her.

“Lady Val-”

“Just Val.” She hugged him as soon as she was close enough, without giving him any further notice. It took him by surprise but he wrapped his hands around her tightly, and they stayed that way for a few long moments.

When they broke apart, Val studied his figure. He seemed to be getting better and she was glad for that.

“You’re getting better.” She commented, proudly.

“I have to.” He noted, a playful smile creeping to his face.

“Is that so?” She raised an eyebrow, unable to suppress her own smile.

“I still have a promise I have to take you on,” He says, the slightest of blush appearing on his cheeks.

“Promise?” She really is unsure of what he could mean, since she never made him promise anything to her.

“You said we’d go out for another drink, if I stayed alive after the battle.” He explained, and the nickle drops.

“Oh.” She smiles. “That.” They both share a brief chuckle.

“Well, maybe I wasn’t referring to the drink when I agreed to that, but It’s still an offer I’d like to take you on.” She notes.

“Not referring to the drink?” He questioned, confused. Val sent a brief look to his lips and the puzzle pieces seemed to connect in his mind.

“Anyway.” She changed subject before she could chicken out, and her hand found its way into his.

He gripped her hand immediately, interlacing their fingers together as if it was the first time he got to hold her, afraid he’d never get the same chance again.

“I wanted to ask you something...” She steps closer to him. “I was wondering...” She starts, his full attention on her. “If you’d like to come to the wedding,”

“I am,” He commented confused. “- With me.” She finished her sentence, playfully nudging her nose at his. They were so close at that moment she could feel his hot breathe over her skin,

Their lips inches apart and aching to be closer together.

“Oh.” He caught up on her words and before even grasping the idea he already called out a “YES.”

Maybe too fast to his liking, considering how flushed he looked a moment after that,

But Val didn’t care.

She took one last step towards him, closing any distance remaining between them. “Good.” She uttered before wrapping her hands around him and pulling him into a much anticipated kiss.

He responded immediately, wrapping his arms around her and lifting her in his embrace. He deepened the kiss until Val felt her entire world spinning around her.

When they broke apart, and he placed her back on the ground, she saw galaxies in his eyes. She was still a little dizzy, giddy from the kiss, and couldn’t - didn’t want to - take her arms off him.

He didn’t complain, though, as he was still holding onto her too.

“We should do that again.” She commented, hinting towards their previous kiss.

“Yeah.” Claudius nodded enthusiastically.

She caressed his cheek and started pulling him down, closer to her. “Oh you mean right now?--” He barely has time to word out before she plants another kiss over his lips.

“Yes, silly.” She snorts out, and takes a moment to appreciate the look in his eyes.

He looks at her as if she’s the best thing that ever happened to him. Val can’t recall if anyone ever looked at her that way, and her heart fills with a warm emotion she can’t quite grasp or explain.

He finally regains his cool, and then he’s looking at her with determination and desire in his eyes. He leans down and their lips meet again.

Val intends to stay there with him, for a while. Maybe forever.

[endless-vall]

What if? - part four - Val & Claudius fanfic

Summery: What if we got closure not only for Kenna, but for the other characters too? Kenna appoints her master of arms, Val, to a joint training mission in Abanthus, with Fydoria. Val meets old friends and reconnects with them, and finds out a few interesting details.  Author’s note: It took me way too long to continue this series, but inspiration just hit me out of nowhere. This piece is Val centeric, but also tells the story of her and Claudius. If you don’t know who Claudius is, I recommend reading my other fanfic of them here, and checking out my fanart here 😄 ANYWAY, this piece also explores other characters from The Crown and The Flame, and what happened with them (Diavolos, Adder, Eda & Annelyse), and also features a new oc! 😊 Part One, Part Two, Part Three.

“Val, a moment?” Kenna was walking towards her with her son Adrian in her arms. The little brat was Val’s own favorite little angel, even though she would never admit that. Val never liked kids too much, they were always too loud and caused way too much trouble, but the little guy won her over from the first moment she saw him. Val stopped the training session with a few of her new recruits, all of them falling to the ground, hitting it hard, and thanking the lord for a little break, finally. Kenna couldn’t help but chuckle, as Val approached her.  “You should go easier on them.” She suggested, while handing her little prince to Val, who seemed very excited to have a few moments with him. “Huh! y’think? They’ll think i’m turning into a softie!” Val protested, while playing and amusing Adrian. “Right.” Kenna noted, making Val stop at her tracks, and look up at her. “Because right now they think you’re vicious.” Kenna motioned to the hand shadow bunny Val was showing to Adrian. Val snored at her, but nodded. “They might get the wrong idea.” She agreed. Kenna grinned, and ruffled Adrian’s hair. Adrian didn’t seem too happy with that, and made an adorable pout. “Can you blame me?” Val asked, as she kissed Adrian on his cheek, making the pout-y face fade away, and a huge smile spread instead of it. “Not at all.” Kenna agreed. “Well, as much as I adore this little guy over here, i’m sure this isn’t why you wanted to talk to me.” Val focused on Kenna now, while putting Adrian down. The little curious prince wondered out loud in awe, pointing at the stables and calling “Hoses!! hor... horses!!!” excitedly. “You’re right. And you’re also right, my little sunshine, there are horses in there. Do you want to go check that out with me later?” Kenna asked Adrian, who nodded enthusiastically and waited eagerly. “I wanted to have a word because king Diavolos sent this out.” Kenna now turned back to Val. She gave Val a piece of paper, looking like a royal letter. “What does it say? Is he declaring war again? Because I swear--” Val got heated for a moment, before Kenna shook her head and waved her hands in protest “No... No.” She giggled a little. “It’s alright. It’s just an invitation.” She said, showing Val the details on the letter.  “Oh.” Val nodded. “So... why are you showing this to me? I mean, with all due respect, shouldn’t you be showing this to Raydan? Or your advisers? Or even Jackson, for that matter?” Val wondered out loud. “No, silly, this is an invitation for a joint training session.” Kenna explained. “Ohhh...” now it made sense. “Between Abanthus, Stormholt, and... Fydoria.” Kenna explained further, winking at the end. “Uh, why would you say it like that?” Val was getting suspicious. Kenna could’ve decided to send anyone else from her army. While Val was appointed master of arms, she certainly wasn’t the best candidate to represent Stormholt at official matters. And also, pointing out Fydoria like this, made her suspect Kenna had something else on her mind, too. “Oh, no reason. Nothing out of the ordinary. Just... You know. Interesting people might be there.” And with that, Kenna left, not giving away any more details, and walking hand in hand with Adrian towards the stables. “I hate it when she does it!” Val ranted out loud, to herself. She looked back at the group of soldiers she was trying to teach some basic moves to, realizing they were too beated to continue, and decided to call it a day.

When Val laid in her bed at night, she finally had some time to think about what Kenna could mean. “Pick your best group, you’ll leave tomorrow, first thing in the morning!” Kenna noted to her, somewhere along the day, after their talk. What could Kenna mean? Fydoria... Interesting people... Who was she kidding? Val knew what Kenna meant. She knew alright. The last time Val saw him, was at Tevan and Zenobia’s wedding. Kenna caught her looking too longingly at the man officiating the wedding. Then, Val told her about the bond and friendship they formed, and about a certain night at a tavern that still gave her butterflies in her stomach. But other then sharing a drink, and congratulating him on his promotion, they didn’t exchange much words that evening.  Ugh. This was stupid. And now Kenna was sending her, of all people, when she knew he’d be there? It’s not like she was thinking about him, all the time. She had flings with both man and woman in the past few years. But nothing of those things lasted, and she was fine with it that way. But when she did think of him... when they met... her heart fluttered. Val decided to gather her best group, just in case, but to also have a talk, with Kenna, in the following morning. To her luck, she didn’t need to look for Kenna, or even worse, wake her up. Kenna came out, along with Raydan, to wave them goodbye before their journey. “Kenna!” Val leaped to the front, when she saw them getting out of the castle. She was busy handling last preparations before heading out, but once she saw Kenna, she knew she had to ‘confront’ her about this matter. “Oops, that might’ve came out too excitedly.” Val blushed, when she remembered they were in front of many subject of Kenna. While she and Kenna were still friends, and Kenna never made her feel like she was less of anything, for being a former mercenary, or for not a from a noble family line, but Val had to remind herself sometimes that they weren’t on their journeys anymore, and Kenna wasn’t a queen without a kingdom anymore. Kenna just chuckled, and motioned her to get closer, like this wasn’t a big deal. “What, did you want a real hug before saying goodbye?” Kenna teased her, while Raydan found the situation really amusing, from her other side. “What? This is ridiculous. You know exactly what this is about.” Val eyed Kenna, who shrugged innocently. “I have no idea what are you talking about.” She played her role, but Raydan’s chuckle gave her away. “Kenna!” Val grumbled, not too loudly. “Fine! fine!” Kenna admitted defeat, bursting into laughter with her husband. “I’m happy you find torturing me amusing, you guys.” Val looked at both of them, staring them down. “C’mon Val. Don’t you think you’re exaggerating? I wouldn’t go as far as saying this is torturing you.” Raydan was the first to compose himself, and reply to her. Kenna followed closely after, nodding and agreeing with him. “You’re making fun of me, now ya?” Val sighed. “I don’t know what you’re talking about. We’re just sending you on a training mission.” Kenna nudged Val in her shoulder. “Now come on, you should be going.” She smiled, pulled Val into a quick hug, and then turned her around and pushed her towards her soldiers. “Fine.” Val muttered under her breath, and then got on her horse. “Let’s head out!” She called out, all of her soldiers riding behind her. “You’ll meet the Fydorian troops on the way. Then you’ll head together to Abanthus. You should find them by nightfall, but if not - here’s a communication orb.” Val remembered Kenna’s words, as she watched the beautiful purple orb in her side pocket. She wondered who would be on the other side of it. Or maybe, she waited to finally meet him again. Just like he was reading her mind, the purple orb lighted up and a familiar voice came out of it. “Val? Lady Valentina? Is that really you?” Claudius voice rang in her ears. Her heart beat fast in her chest, but she wouldn’t have it that way. “I though I told you to not call me that way, a long time ago. And I warned you about using my full name. I knew it was a mistake telling you about it.” She took the orb out of her pocket and answered him. “I deeply and sincerely apologize. I know I should’ve waited to meet you by nightfall, but I couldn’t wait any longer. I had to hear your voice. Even if you’re just scolding me.” He teased, and Val rolled her eyes, defiantly satisfied. “Oh. I’m not just scolding. You know i’m not just all talk. You’ll be punished when we bump into each other again.” Val warned him again. She heard Claudius chuckle huskily. She could imagine him smirking right now. “I’m counting on that.” He finally whispered. Val blushed at first, then bite her lip. Finally, she composed herself, all in a matter of a few seconds. She was glad she was leading the group, since no one saw her flushing right now. “I’m going to beat you ass, you know.” She said back. “Are you kidding? I was waiting for this re-match for years!” Claudius called excitedly, and Val bursted into laughter. “See ya later when i’ll be kicking your ass, dummy.” Val rolled her eyes, and put the purple orb in her pocket again. By nightfall, as promised, Stormholt troops met the Fydorian troops. They all set camp and started bonfires. Claudius embraced Val in a bear-hug, and she hugged tightly back. After boosting their soldiers moral, the two leaders went a little further from the group. They got to the edge of a low cliff, watching the starry night before them.  They both sat down, and their hands accidentally brushed against each other. It caught them both by surprise, and they both shot their eyes from their hands to each other’s eyes. In the darkness, it was hard to tell, but both were blushing. While they’ve shared a kiss before, this was entirely different. They weren’t drunk right now, and weren’t on the verge of possibly dying tomorrow by a lightning monster. Val opened her mouth. She didn’t know what to say, but she had to say something, right? “Uh...” Was all that came out of Val’s mouth. “So how about that re-match?” Claudius asked, suddenly. “Good idea.” Val swallowed, jumping back on her legs, letting go of his hand. He got up as well, and prepared himself, getting into a fighting position. “I can’t believe it! You beat me with my own move!! UGH!” Val complained, as Claudius sat on her back, holding both of her hands behind her. “What can I say? You’re a good teacher. Or do you want to call it cheating and demand another re-match?” Claudius teased. “Oh, don’t get too cocky. I’ll defiantly defeat you if you’ll give me another chance.” She said, as he released her. “You sure? I got pretty good at thi-” Before he could finish his line, Val leaped towards his, tackling him down and holding his arms under her legs. That way, he was completely immobilized. Under her mercy. “Hey! this was un-fair. We didn’t say we started. I was totally off-guard.” Claudius protested. “A warrior should always be on-guard.” Val simply noted. “I guess I still have a lot to learn.” Claudius agreed. Val freed her hold of his hands, but still stayed on top of him, straddling him. “I guess you do.” She said, and finally got off him. They went back into camp, and each went into their tent. Their journey continued, and they finally made it to Lykos. A messenger announced their arrival, and King Diavolos quickly came out, greeting them. “Hello, Val. Claudius. It’s nice to see you again.” Diavolos approached them, shaking their hands.  “Diavolos,” Val had to give credit to the man. He had proven himself and trust-worthy ally, and a honorably man. Something Val couldn’t ever possibly imagine happening. But a few good years had passed since the end of the war, and Diavolos haven’t disappointed them even once. Claudius bowed slightly, showing his respect too. “You must be tired. The staff will show you to your rooms. We’ll assemble later again, for the training session details.” Diavolos said, and none of them had any complaints. When they gathered again, after re-freshening, Val looked around the courtyard. “Where’s Adder?” she wondered out loud, searching around Diavolos. “Oh, we don’t see her that much these days. After my sister got out of the way, me and Adder got to agreements a lot easier, and she left the ruling part for me. She can run the Black Asps from wherever she wants, and she spends most of her time in Aurelia now.” Diavolos told her. “But you probably shouldn’t mention it near Eda.” He advised, eyeing one of his captains. “Oh. They broke up?” Val asked. While she didn’t remember if Adder and Eda were ever really official, she did remember seeing them dancing together at a few celebrations, as well as in Tevan and Zenobia’s wedding. “They did.” Diavolos confirmed. “Why Aurelia, of all?” Claudius joined in the conversation. “Well, let’s just say, Adder loves gold. Or, more specifically, a certain woman in gold.” Diavolos had a sly smile, while Val realized what he was saying. “No way! Adder and Annelyse got together?” She asked, making sure no to be too loud and upset that captain. “Well, i’m not sure about how Annelyse feels about it, and frankly, i’m not really updated on this subject, regularly. But Adder made it very clear how she feels about her. And, since she does spend a lot of time there, I guess it’s possible.” Diavolos shrugged. It was clear he didn’t know anymore about those two. Diavolos appointed Eda as the head of the training mission on Abanthus side, and left for his businesses. Along with Val and Claudius, the three agreed on a training technique, and started to practice. After a long day of practicing, even Val was ready to call it a day. She was known for being hard on her soldiers, but with good intentions. She was always pushing them to their limits, to be their best-selves. But handling all three groups was getting... exhausting. “Val!” Claudius called, as he and a few other soldiers were heading out, last but not least, from the training arena. “would you like to join us in the tavern?” he asked. A knowing smile spread on his lips. “Oh, I don’t think I could handle it.” Val admitted. “Oh no, are you feeling well?” He checked her for fever, jokingly. “Does the mighty Val refuse a drink just to head to bed early?” He continued. “Hey!” She scoffed. “I’m not saying i’m heading to bed early! i’m just saying I might need to cut on the booze for tonight to stay focused for tomorrow.” She added. “Alright. Boys, you should head without me.” Claudius called back to the group of soldiers, who disappeared so fast Val couldn’t even question it. “Who said I invited you to stay in with me?” She raised an eyebrow, teasingly. “I just thought you’d appreciate the company.” Caludius tried. “Maybe you’re right.” Val punched his arm lightly, and then he wrapped an arm around her shoulder. She enjoyed the touch, and leaned into it. “Where to?” A long moment had passed, until Claudius broke the silence and asked. “I think I saw a cozy spot in the garden, by the fountain, but it might be occupied.” Val suggested. “We could check it out.” Claudius nodded, and they started walking in that direction. They arrived at the fountain, to find Diavolos talking to a stranger. She was a beautiful woman with light hair, golden locks turned into a gentle hairbun, wearing a fancy blue dress. They were too far away to figure out what they were talking about, but it seemed like she said something snarky, and Diavolos chuckled, putting a hand on the back of his neck. The unknown woman raised her eyebrow at him, and then shrugged and took off. Diavolos immediately followed her, calling after her. “Lady Felicia, wait up!” They didn’t seem to notice Val or Claudius, and both caught their places near the fountain. “Lady Felicia, huh?” Val noted, before scooting closer to Claudius. “She looks familiar. If i’m not mistaken, she’s from Fydoria’s noble families. She’s known for being cunning and hard working, don’t let that gentle angelic appearance fool you.” Claudius told her. She sent a questioning look his way, but he just chuckled and shrugged. “I know everything King Tevan needs to know. This includes insight about the noble families.” Val nodded. “Interesting. And do you find Lady gentle angelic appearance attractive?” Val asked, not sure where she was going with this. It’s not like she was jealous, she had nothing to be jealous of, and even if she did, she didn’t have any right to be. “Hm... Pretty? sure. Attractive? Nah.” Claudius simply answered. Val was a little shocked, but it wasn’t showing on her. “Personally, the woman I find attractive, is a little more... rough.” He said, looking directly into her eyes. Well... now, her shock was defiantly showing. Along with a slight blush, she had to quickly shake away. “Oh... Interesting...” Val dared to look back at him. “But none the less beautiful.” Claudius added, his eyes drifted from her eyes to her lips, and to her eyes again. “C'mere. Dammit.” Val pulled at Claudius’s top, making their mouths meet in a clash. “Ouch!” They both burst into laughter, the nervousness faded away, and while the moment “was ruined”, both felt relieved. After they finished laughing it off, Claudius lifted her chin with his hand, and pulled her lightly towards him. She leaned in gladly, and their lips met in a soft and sweet kiss. This time it went smoothly, and quickly enough the kiss developed into a much hungrier one. As if it was making up for every time their glasses clinked and met each other instead of their lips, for every drink they shared instead of a night. They both were so into the kiss they forgot they were sitting on a wall without a backrest, and when none of them seemed to notice and stabilize themselves, they slipped and fell into the fountain. Although that didn’t stop them from kissing, there was some giggling and then they got back into planting kisses and soft bites at each other’s lips, Claudius laying on top of Val, both soaked wet, and completely content.

[endless-vall]

After the war’s over - Val & Claudius/the fydorian solider 😄 “See? I kept my promise...” So, I know not many ppl ship them/even know this ship exists but I do and I wanted to draw this for a while haha We never really got to see Claudius outside of his armor so i had creative freedom, and decided to follow the vague description I gave in my fanfic not long ago (the line under the drawing’s name also reffers to the fanfic) I’m out of practice, but had a lot of fun drawing this 😊

[endless-vall]

if we stay alive long enough - Val x Claudius fanfic

Summery: At the night before the battle against Azura and the Iron empire, after the party at the castle, Val and fellow soliders go out to a tavern near by. An invitation she shouted earlier makes the night take an interesting turn. This takes place during Book 3, Chapter 13. Author’s note: I want to apologise in advance, I just couldn’t resist it! 😂😂 If you’re wondering who Claudius is, He’s a Fydorian solider Val rescued. also, this is my entry for this round of “Choices Creates” for the prompt - “That was fun, let’s do it again sometime!” @hollyashton @zigisbisexual💕 hope you enjoy!

Loud music speared across the tavern, muffeled by even louder laughter and people’s cheering. Val pushed harder and knocked an other guy’s hand on the table. “huh! Who’s next?!” she asked while cracking her knuckles. Another wave of applaud echoed through the tavern, as she danced a little happy dance in her sit. The guy who had just lost to her, stood up from his sit, face down. “don’t be so hard on yourself! No one beats Val!” some stormholt troop yelled after him. “To val!” an other solider called, and a sound of drinks clinking came right after. “well, if no one else is brave enough to face me in an arm-wrestling competition, I guess I’ll have an other drink,” she shrugged. “I believe you still have one opponent left.”

A good looking guy, which Val defiantly didn’t know, had told her. "yeah? And who would that be?” she grinned at him. “me.” He said, as if it was obvious. “after all, you invited me here.” He took a sit in front of her. “I-” she started asking, but then decided to examined him again. Tall figure, dark hair, brown eyes, clothes too fancy for this tavern, a warm smile and… “Milady mercenary” he added a familiar voice. “NO WAY! Claudius? Oh my… gosh. I didn’t recognize you without all that purple-golden armor!” val exhaled. Claudius let out a long chuckle. “knowing you, I might’ve made a mistake, taking on your offer without the armor.” He placed his arm on the table, ready for their match. A group of people joined the stormholt soldiers already surrounding them, ready to watch them arm-wrestle. Val figured they were fydorian soliders, and a smile spread across her face. “let’s do this.” She said, taking his arm in hers, and putting her elbow on the table. His grip was firm and tight, as he pushed with all his might at val’s hand. It turns out to be no use, even though val’s hand is smaller than his, she’s far stronger than him, and after a few moments of struggle, his hand bangs against the table in defeat. “I believe I won,” she says, mimicking his way of speech, and let a victorious chuckle following that. Their audience cheered again for Val, even the fydorian troops. “Can I buy you a drink for that accomplishment?” Claudius offered. Val made a confused expression, and shouted “Two bottles of Ale! Now!” while banging her fist on the table again. “I always say yes to a drink.” She answered now, more quietly, to Claudius. He looked slightly frightened and intimidated by her, but the good kind. He smiled and nodded. A waiter brought their Ale, and Val chugged hers all down, while Claudius sipped his. “Don’t be so weak! This is not how you drink ale!” Val encouraged, and he downed his drink too. As the night drifted away, everyone drank and sang, celebrating before the fight ahead of them. They walked as a drunken gang back towards the castle, and Val fell behind in steps, closer to Claudius and the rest of the fydorian soliders. The moment he spotted her, he shook his hand out of his buddy’s shoulder, and paced closer to her. “did you have fun?” Val asked, not waiting for him to engage in conversation. “Yeah, and the guys did too!” he said with a huge smile. He was probably more drunk than he ever was in his life, Val figured, but since he was still on his feet and had at least half a night’s worth of sleep ahead of him, he’ll probably be back in shape by the time for fighting comes. They reached the castle, and everyone around the dispersed into their rooms, leaving Val and Claudius the last standing in the grand hall. “Well, this was fun. Let’s do it again sometime.” Claudius said, putting a hand on the small od Val’s back. “yeah, we should,” Val smiled. “Although you’d have to make sure you don’t die tomorrow for that.” “I’ll do my best. Milady mercenary.” He promised. “It's… just Val.” She said, maybe the millionth time. he nodded and leaned down, now facing Val. His face was too close, and he brushed his lips on hers. Her first intention was to punch him in the face, but she resisted that urge, letting the warmness filling her take lead instead, and wrapped a hand over his neck, pulling him closer and deepening the kiss. “Good night, Val.” He said, and with that, walked away to his room.

[endlessflame]

Semi-Royal Wedding (TRR/TC&TF Crossover)

Prompt: Round 53 of #ChoicesCreates: Crossovers, hosted by @clonedhayden and @theroyalweisme

Summary: Bastien and Mara talk about Riley and Drake’s upcoming wedding and about their ancestors’ wedding centuries earlier.

Rating: T

Author’s note: The modern-day scenes are a follow-up to Changing of the Guard, and the medieval scene is a follow-up to Part 6  of  Shadow of the Crown.

The ball was coming to an end, and the guests were departing. Bastien watched Riley and Drake walk out together, hand in hand.

"They make a nice couple, don't they?"

Bastien looked to Mara as she approached. "They seem happy."

"Definitely." Mara moved closer and stood beside Bastien. "What a love story theirs is! She was a commoner and now she's nobility, and soon he'll be nobility too. And their wedding is going to be a big event. I bet nothing like that has ever happened before."

"Well, actually, something a bit like that did happen, centuries ago. Remember how I told you that we're descended from Queen Kenna and King Raydan?" As Mara nodded, Bastien continued. "Their grandson Julien Landais, the illegitimate son of their son Adrian, technically wasn't royalty. He was a bodyguard for his cousin Gabriel Drammir, who was also the grandson of King Tevan and Queen Zenobia. But when he got married, royals came from all over the Five Kingdoms. Commoner or not, he was the grandson of Kenna Rys. They got married right here in Fydelia. Well, it was Fydoria back then."

The wedding guests gathered inside Fydoria's castle. Kenna sat beside Raydan, feeling emotional. Soon their grandson would be a married man. It had only been a couple of years since they had learned of his existence and welcomed him into the family, and now they were gaining a new family member.

Julien stood at the front of the room, with Adrian by his side. Seeing them next to each other, Kenna was struck by the resemblance between them. Julien's hair was shorter and not quite as dark, but otherwise they looked very much alike. And Adrian looked so much like Raydan.

Julien's bride, Susanna Ward, began to walk to the front of the room, accompanied by her father Edwin, one of Tevan and Zenobia's guards. She wore an exquisite white dress that looked fit for royalty, and an amethyst and sapphire necklace that Kenna had given her as a wedding gift, to symbolize both Fydoria and Stormholt. When Susanna reached Julien's side, they gazed lovingly into each other's eyes.

Jackson had come from Stormholt to perform the ceremony. In addition to marrying Kenna and Raydan, he had also married most of their children to their spouses.  It had become a family tradition. Only their youngest, Leonidas, had been married by someone else, since he had married in Ducitora. He began to speak the words he had said so many times before. "We gather here today to join these two souls in sacred covenant, and pay witness to their vows."

Julien and Susanna pledged their love to each other, and once Jackson pronounced their union, they kissed passionately. When they finally broke apart, they turned to face the guests, joined hands, and began to walk towards the castle door. Everyone headed out to the Fydorian gardens for the reception. 

A large number of guests had come from all over. Of course, many of them were family. Kenna and Raydan's five children were all there with their spouses and children. Their daughter Adelia had married Zenon Drammir, son of Tevan and Zenobia, and Julien worked for them, so the Fydorian royal family had been happy to host the wedding. Adrian had married Claudius Umad III's daughter Ciara. Ciara's family was present too; after all, Julien was Ciara's stepson and the half-brother of her children. Their daughter Gabrielle had married King Diavolos' son Damianos, and the rest of the Nevrakis family had come with them. Their daughter Marcelline had married Koa Keawe, son of Noa, and his family was also there. Even Leonidas' father-in-law, Jorrin Kal, was there, since Lia and Whitlock had come. Adder had come from Lykos for her great-nephew's wedding. Many of their other longtime friends were in attendance: Dom, Sei, Annelyse, Val, and others. Naturally, Susanna's family and friends and all the Fydorian guards were there.

Kenna and Raydan made their way over to the newlyweds. Kenna hugged Julien, then turned to Susanna. "Welcome to the family."

Susanna smiled. "Thank you, Queen Kenna."

"You don't need to be so formal. You're one of us." Kenna gave Susanna a hug.

"Interesting," Mara said. "A bodyguard's wedding was practically a royal affair. Could you imagine one of us having a wedding like that?"

At those words, Bastien wondered what might have happened if Drake hadn't proposed to Riley. Would she have eventually made a different choice? Could they have ended up together? Bastien had never really expected to have a future with her, but as they had grown closer, his feelings had deepened. Since both Liam and Drake loved her, he didn't dare express his feelings openly, but if the time ever came when they were both over her, maybe he would have a chance. He knew she felt something for him. Maybe she still did.

"Bastien? You OK?" Mara looked to him.

"My leg hurts." Although it was true, it was also a convenient excuse. "I should get some rest."

She nodded. "It's late anyway. Good night."

They parted ways, and soon Bastien was asleep, dreaming of Riley.