#creesha devayne

[she-whatshername]

EVEN MORE Tyrrish Headcanons you didn’t ask for (Xaden, Garrick, Bodhi, Imogen, aka the Kitchen Table crew)

AN: Wow I’m just posting everything but a chapter update to ‘Drifted’ aren’t I? Writing about trauma is hard for me, and IDK why i chose to make Cree’s character full of it and pair her with Bodhi who’s…surrounded by it. But, what’s a fanfic without a little author induced torture, right?

ANYWAYs, let’s get into it

Garrick, Imogen, and Bodhi would draw straws on who would have to update Xaden on Violet during her first year before Liam was tasked as her bodyguard. Bodhi never drew the short straw but was always the one who ended up telling Xaden. He carried on the tradition after Garrick and Xaden graduated.

Bodhi is viewed as the little brother of the group for two reasons. One, he always was one step behind Xaden and Garrick and a physical year younger than him. And two, despite everything he's been through, he never let it take away his humanity. Xaden cruelly jokes that Bodhi is the only one in the revolution with a still beating heart

Bodhi only 'broke character' once during his years at Basgiath when someone in his squad used a particular slur when referencing his deceased mother. Garrick and Xaden had to drag him off the cadet and dispose of the body and make a cover up so he didn't get charged with breaking the codex. It was their first trio heist together before the actual weapons operations.

Garrick didn't talk to Imogen the first month of her year at Basgiath because he was ashamed of all the horrible things he'd done in his first year

Every one of them has cried in front of Xaden at least once. Even Imogen, though she was heavily inebriated

Also, everyone has cried in Bodhi's lap. Even Xaden, who was also heavily inebriated.

Xaden didn't want to let Imogen into operations at first due to her unpredictable emotions; Garrick convinced him otherwise. When Imogen thwarted not one but 4 separate attempts on Xadens life, it was one of the first and few times he actually admitted to Garrick that he was right.

When Garrick and Xaden found out that Bodhi lost his virginity to someone at Basgiath the two literally detoured from their weapons operations to find out who it was like the protective and nosy older brothers that they are.

Imogen snorts when she laughs. She rarely laughs as deeply as she used to so when it does slip out, it instantly makes everyone feel like they aren't in a active war and that they're back home in Aretia.

Bodhi, Xaden and Garrick have all had sexual relationships with Fliers/Poromish people. Imgoen has not and refuses to out of what she calls 'pride and respect for dragons.'

I think all Tyrrish folk are pretty open and fluid about their sex lives until they find their person. Much like fated couples or mates, its Tyrrish tradition to find 'your person'.

I think they all marry for love only and Xaden's family dynamics are the outlier. Though I think Fen's 'person' was Tyrrendor the country verses Xaden's mother.

Because of this, Xaden grew up with a warped perception of romance and relationships. Also, he's fluent in all Tyrrish history and customs. He knew and spoke Tyrrish before the common language, and learning the common language was very difficult for him.

Also, Imogen is Garrick's person, 100%.

Xaden got his ego, wit and charisma from his father but his aunt, Bodhi's mother, taught him a lot about actual charm.

It was actually his aunt who, upon finding out that then 13 year old Xaden ghosted his girlfriend, made him go the the gardens and pick fresh flowers and hand deliver them to the girl's house with a handwritten apology declaring his 'boyish stupidity'.

Before the unification, if someone finds their person and they choose to marry, the couple would create a rune specific to the joining of their love/family house. Xaden giving Violet a book on weaving textiles was NO coincidence.

Tyrrish weddings are fun as shit (Why yes, there is one in 'Drifted'). In fact, there is a 'Cardulo Clause' that states that any wedding guest who drinks beyond their fare share at a wedding ceremony most pay a balance to the respective wedding partners. This came in part due to Imogen's great, great grandfather who, legend says, drank an entire keg to themselves during a wedding.

Okay now I'm actually going to go back and write 'Drifted'.

[she-whatshername]

A chapter of Bodhi coming to grips with jealousy and getting verbally destroyed by Cuir and Garrick. A lovely fluff before some real juicy stuff goes down in Drifted. Enjoy.

[she-whatshername]

Chapters: 1/? Fandom: The Empyrean - Rebecca Yarros Rating: Mature Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Relationships: Bodhi Durran & Reader, Xaden Riorson/Violet Sorrengail, Imogen Cardulo/Garrick Tavis Characters: Bodhi Durran, Xaden Riorson, Garrick Tavis, Imogen Cardulo, Violet Sorrengail, Rhiannon Matthias, Ridoc Gamlyn, Liam Mairi Summary:

In the space between the cadets arrival to Riorson House and the battle at Basgiath, Bodhi is navigating his heart against the trails of the revolution and the blissful torment of unexpected love. For a man who has spent his life shouldering the emotions of others, he finds his own at mercy of a flier with a wounded heart and mind more dangerous than the creatures lurking beyond the boarders. Though, its hard to surrender his own heart to someone who has no desire to find her own.

And for Cree, A drifter from the east and newest member to the rebellion who, despite her father's warning to "Never Trust A Tyr" ends up falling for one.

[she-whatshername]

Drifted

Y'all Its here. The first chapter of 'Drifted'. I really cannot believe I am posting this. Whew. I also posted this on Ao3. Once I figure out how to link stuff in this magical world wide web, I'll get on it.

Series Summary: In the space between the cadets arrival to Riorson House and the battle at Basgiath, Bodhi is navigating his heart against the trails of the revolution and the blissful torment of unexpected love. For a man who has spent his life shouldering the emotions of others, he finds his own at mercy of a flier with a wounded heart and mind more dangerous than the creatures lurking beyond the boarders. Though, its hard to surrender his own heart to someone who has no desire to find her own. And for Cree, A drifter from the east and newest member to the revolution who, despite her father's warning to "Never Trust A Tyr" ends up falling for one.

Drifted, Chapter 1: Riorson? 

“It’s a lost magic…maybe there’s a reason this stone never worked. It might be broken.” 

It was all Bodhi could think of at the moment. Kindness and a bit of wit. What else was he supposed to say? Violent was standing next to him, nodding as if she was  present but he could tell behind her vacant eyes her mind was running through every scenario that led to this moment of what he knew she perceived as failure. A bloodied hand and no wards.

Xaden, his cousin, was trying his best to console her in his own way. But, as quickly as he whispers his words, he’s back to being stoic, unemotional and negotiating back up plans with Kylynn and The Assembly. His onyx eyes flashing up momentarily to meet Bodhi’s brown. It was a fraction of glance but the silent request rang loudly in Bodhi’s mind. 

Comfort Violet. 

And so, Bodhi did as was asked. To comfort and to care. 

It was natural for him to do it. Even at a young age he found himself in situations he didn’t have to be in, but wanted to because he had an unwavering desire to care.

 As a child he snuck nightly deserts into Xaden’s room after he and Garrick took his uncles prized stallion out for a ride when they absolutely weren’t supposed to; resulting Garrick getting thrown off and Xaden getting no sweets for that entire summer. Or, the time he stepped in and fought a kid who picked on Imogen, which resulted in him getting his ass kicked in the process. But, at least they left Imogen alone after that. He sat with his mother, holding her hand in both of his on the nights he found her crying and unable to sleep. He didn’t know what to say then, but felt that his presence was the least he could do. 

And then there was the 24 hours after their parents’ executions before they were all displaced. He did not shed a tear, but was the shoulder everyone needed for them to shed their own.

Even Xaden.

He didn’t have to be there for everyone. But, to Bodhi, he had to be there for everyone. 

And, he truly did care for Violet. This wasn’t her fault or her failure. Ever since Resson, everything she knew to be true was either a lie or a cover up of a lie; from  knowing every part of history, to getting all of it wrong. He has never been someone so tied to the truth as she was, but he absolutely could understand that feeling of your world being upended on you without any warning. And, if gentle humor and comfort from a friend could heal her spiraling mind and bruised ego, so be it. He’s had far worse to work with in the past. 

But, gods, couldn’t he be a little angry too? Hope was a fickle feeling he’d try to abandon all those years ago during the apostasy. It didn’t save him, his mother, his home or country then. But in moments like these, the promise of the safeguarding of his home and friends are hanging in front of him by hope, only to be stolen away moments later. It fucking sucked to say the least. 

But, as he heard Xaden whisper to Violet, they would try again. It seemed to be the new Tyrrish way of life. 

A dash of silver crossed his eyes as Violet stormed off with Brennon following quickly behind. Another quick glance from his cousin. He could tell the two of them had one of their weird, mind arguments and he assumed as much that it didn’t go well. By the grace of Amari, could those two ever put their egos aside and just talk to eachother?

Now Xaden’s glowering at him. What, was he supposed to chase after her now too?

“Leave the rider be. Let her lick her wounds in peace.” Cuir had spoken through their bond. She was right, as she always is.

“Tell Xaden that.” Bodhi responded.

“And insert myself into that mess of a mating? Absolutely not. I hear enough about it on my end.” 

He knew she was mentioning Sgaeyl. Apparently when Xaden and Violet are arguing and not taking the appropriate measure to shield their emotions the blue dragon becomes even more volatile and scarier to be around. Which Bodhi found hard to believe due to Sgaeyl already being scary to be around as is.

“I bet you’re glad to have chosen me.” He commented, his eyes brightening a bit 

He could feel the pride in her tone as she echoed across his mind, “I refuse to feed that ego of yours anymore than I should but I suppose I am…fortunate to have chosen you. You’re also much more intelligent than the rest of your little companions when you do decide to indulge in your little pleasures. Though after that one tryst with that obnoxiously loud rider-” 

Speaking of shield, he decided to do just that, cutting off their communication for now. He was not in the mood to discuss his love life with his dragon, especially when he had to fix everyone else's relationships. 

The rest of the assembly began to file out of the cavern, Kylynn and Xaden having shared one last remark before she exited, her face seemingly not pleased with whatever words were exchanged. That left Xaden and Bodhi alone. 

Before Bodhi could step towards him, the entire cavern was surrounding by shadows, making the room an endless shade of black. It stayed like that for a moment, echoing the sounds of his cousin’s frustrated groan before the light of the night sky slowly began to creep into the darkness; the shadows receding back to their natural places amongst the walls. 

Bodhi had been caught in Xaden’s shadows a few times, and though he was familiar with the sensation, it was still fucking unsettling.

“Cousin? Shit.” Xadens rough voice cut through the silence, “Didn’t know you were still here.” 

Humor and kindness, Bodhi.“Yeah, well I didn’t want you to sulk alone but…maybe I should have. Are you - “ 

“We’re fucked.” Xaden answered bluntly. His hands wrapped around the back of his neck and he glanced upwards to the open ceiling above him. “It’s not her fault.”

He wasn’t sure if it was reckless courage or the reckless desire to comfort but Bodhi stepped forward towards his cousin, speaking softly, ”Of course not. She’s given us more information on taking down venin and wyvern than The Assembly. She got it wrong this time, and that's rare for her. She’ll try again. We’ll try again.” He decided to use his own words against him, which got him a side eyeing glare.

“I take it from the wallowing family gathering, it didn’t work?” Garricks voice filled the room as the young man stepped into view. He strode down the stairs, a roll of churam in his left and lit match in his right. “I was saving this for our victory party tonight but considering no one is celebrating, it can also help in lifting the mood.” 

He passed it to Xaden and held up the match. He took a deep drag which caused a low whistle from Garrick who mumbled something along the lines of saving some for the rest of them. Eventually Garrick got his turn and pretty much did the same. Bodhi took it next, much to his friends' surprise, but hells, this called for it. If he couldn’t be openly pissed he could at least take something to dull the anger.

“Fuck” Xaden exhaled, a cloud of smoke leaving his lips.

“Double fuck.” Agreed Garrick.

Bodhi nodded, mentally cursing the situation alongside the two.

The three of them stood in silence, watching the warm clouds of churam hover in the air around them before the dissipated into the open ceiling above them.

Garricks’s voice eventually broke the silence while he crossed his arms over his broad chest. “You know, I was really hoping I could use the whole raising the wards celebration to my advantage tonight. Safety for Aretia of course but now that Nyra’s back in the fold, my chances were looking pretty good.”

Xaden gave his friend a look that boarded both amusement and concern, “Voldaren? Really. Our senior wingleader Voldaren?” 

“Former senior wing leader..” Garrick corrected. “If Bodhi and I are your left and right hand of this revolution doesn’t that make me outrank her?” 

“You really need to sort your shit out with Imogen. For all of our sanities.” 

A dangerously sly smirk crossed Garrick’s lips as he rubbed shoulders with the dark haired man, “You’re one to talk about ‘sorting your shit out’. And besides, I know what Nyra likes. And if we were all celebrating tonight I could have had her and Im-”

“If we can’t raise the wards now, what is the back up plan?” Bodhi asked, desperate to change the subject. He did not want to hear about the two people he’d often refer to as his siblings in any explicit manner; not this evening. 

Xaden gave Bodhi a look that he could have sworn was a non-verbal thank you before his usual, broody facade took over again. “Same thing it always was. But I’m not taking her to Cordyn. I’ll go myself after we finish our usual route for defactors and-” Before he could finish Xaden paused, his body posture becoming more upright than it normally is. He must be talking to Syagel. Then, he started walking out of the chamber in long strides. 

Garrick and Bodhi shared a confused glance before hearing Xaden’s booming voice to follow him. Garrick huffed in annoyance and pressed the blunt against the strap of leather on his shoulder, snuffing out the flame. “You heard the boss.” He grumbled before beginning walking. 

And, as if they were young again, Bodhi started moving as well, a step behind Garrick. 

Bodhi moved quickly taking the steps down the mountain in sets of twos and threes, reaching out to Cuir in the process. “What’s going on? Wyvern? How many?” 

“No,” Cuir responded, the tone questioning as if he could see her seeking out into the darkness of the night to find the answer, “Something else. Something familiar but - Oh.” 

Bodhi could have sworn he heard a chuckle in her voice. And hearing Sgaeyl’s roar echo from the mountainside didn’t sound funny at all.

“What? Are you and the others coming?” 

“Follow your brethren and keep calm. Do not act on impulse. I’ll alert the others to stand down.” 

Well that wasn’t comforting or reassuring at all. But, he trusted Cuir; as ominous as she tends to be sometimes. So he followed along tried to keep as calmly as possible. They Were now going around the fortress, to the front gates. It was the same path they took as kids when they were trying to sneak around the place without getting noticed, or cut through the grounds to the front  without actually going through the palace. Bodhi took a few glances at ahead at Xaden and Garrick who both conversed quietly with eachother. But, they didn’t look ready for battle or as confused as he was. 

What did they know that he didn’t? 

After a few twists and turns in the grounds they made their way to the front wall, towards the main iron doors and stopped as if they were waiting for someone. And, sure enough a pair of footsteps were heard rounding the winding path up to the fortress.  

“...So, whats going on?” Bodhi questioned. And seriously, why were neither of them drawing their weapons? 

“The scout we sent out has returned.” Xaden answered, his shadows were slowly swirling at his feet. 

“With riders?” Bodhi pressed. 

Xaden was still staring at the pathway “Not quite.”

As if on cue, two figures appeared. The scout, one of the riders from Xaden and Garricks year stepped forward followed by a cloaked individual in a dark brown hood. Both illuminated by a floating mage light in the scouts hand.  

A hooded creature, were they a venin? 

“Here we are Riorson. Crazy you’ve lived here your whole life and forgot where to find this place. It is a pretty big fortress afterall…” 

Bodhi blinked, his brows furrowing with confusion. The scout, Leeson, was talking to the hooded rider, not his cousin. Was he confused? 

Glancing around, Neither Garrick or Xaden were confused either. It was like they were expecting this to happen. In fact, his cousin looked like he was smirking. Bodhi felt like slapping his face; was he high?

“Ah yes,” the voice responded from behind the fabric of their cloak, “Thanks for bringing me back, Grant.” 

“Need anything else before I…wait, Rirson?” His eyes widened as he gazed upon Xaden and then back to the hooded figure, and to Xaden again.

Two hands appeared from the cloak, pulling at the hood over her head to reveal the exact opposite of his cousin. She was a young woman with brown skin, darker than his own but with a complexion Bodhi matched to the warm color of chestnuts that grew outside of his former family home. 

The sides of her head were shaved, stopping at the long thick braided twists of hair that were bundled together to flow down her back, much like the mane of a wild horse, save for one singular loc that was kept free next to her right eye. That hair, he’d never seen a style like that here in Aretia or all of Navarre for that matter. Her smile pressed against her cheeks, highlighting what he could perceive to be two small dimples. Bodhi wasn’t sure why that was a feature worth taking note of. 

“Riorson?” Xaden finally asked, his voice calm and stoic. 

“Riorson!” She responded her voice was oddly warm, her cocky smile once again gracing her features. 

“Wait-” Leeson’s voice was starting to panic while glancing between the obvious Riorson and the impostor who looked absolutely nothing like his cousin, “...R-Riorson?”

Her dark brown eyes glanced in Bodhi’s direction, causing the young man’s breath to hitch in his throat. She tilted her head, studying him, “Riorson?”

“Durran.” Xaden corrected.

“Ah.” 

“Can someone tell me what the hells is going on?!” Bodhi couldn’t believe his own outburst. 

The woman snapped at her fingers on her left hand, and Leeson’s body suddenly perked upright, his eyes blinking a few times before stuttering, “What…where am I? What’s going on here?” He turned to the dark haired woman, “Who are you?”

He really shouldn't have taken that many hits of churam. Whatever was happening, it needed to stop. His own hand began to stretch forward, drawing power to his fingertips. He hadn’t seen this type of signet before. And no matter how friendly this woman was acting towards everyone, Bodhi should keep her in check, maybe if he blocks her mind work for a bit he could actually get some answers. 

“Remember,” Cuir reminded him, “do not act on impulse.” 

“It's alright, Grant. Get inside.” Xaden ordered. Lesson nodded once, placing a hand on his head as he walked past them towards the main doors to Riorson House. 

“He’s gonna be freaked out for weeks.” Garrick sighed. 

Bodhi understood. It finally connected in his mind. “Mind work.” He declared. Xaden nodded once. 

“If you’re Riorson then where’s your…what was her name…well your Sgaeyl, er whatever?” Garrick asked awkwardly. Clearly the churman started to effect him as well.  

She motioned towards the south, “The cliffs, keeping watch. She didn’t really approve of this idea.” 

“Then cut the bullshit Cree. Why are you here?” 

“Business as always, Riorson.” Cree chastised, “Fine, to the order of my business then.” She dropped her rucksack to the ground where it landed with a rather loud thud. Crouching down she flipped open the bag and reached inside, her whole arm entering the back up to her shoulder while she fished around for whatever she was searching for until she pulled out a rather large black object.

Bodhi stared at it with a small hint of wonder as it came into view under the mage light. Aside from the fake eggs used during war games, he’d never seen a real one before. “A dragon’s egg?” 

Cree nodded, “So observant, not-Riorson.I found it two weeks ago up north in the Esben mountains. Scorched earth and a fallen dragon and its rider. A couple of nights later I’m awakened to the sound of thunder and winds on a clear night. So I followed it, found a friend along the way and persuaded him to take me to where I’d find you. So here I am, in fucking Tyrrendor of all places.”

Bodhi assumed she must have sensed the hundred dragon riot that flew south of Basgiath a week ago. 

“And now that my business is concluded here. Goodbye.” She set the egg on the ground and began packing up her rucksack.  

“You came all this way to deliver an egg?” Garrick questioned. “That’s highly unlike you, Cree.”

“Don’t act like you know me. I don't care what you do with it, but if it's meant to survive it has better odds here than with me. And, I’m not really the dragon-liking type, remember?”

“Well since you showed up unannounced on a rather shit day for me, I guess I’ll invoke my favor now.” Xaden’s word stopped Cree who locked eyes with the tall man.

“A favor? I don't owe you shit, Riorson.” The words barely leaving Cree’s clenched teeth. 

“Teorann.” Was all Xaden had to say. He spoke with such authority. And seeing the slight wideness of Cree’s eyes and her face slacking slightly led Bodhi to believe there was a deeper meaning behind the word.

She relented with a angered sigh, “What’s the fucking favor?”

“Join us - ” 

“Absolutely not. This isn’t my war. Pick another favor.”

“Six months. That’s all I’ll need.” 

“Not happening.” Cree motioned to leave, however she could barely take a step backwards towards the winding path as the thrumming beat of Sgaeyl’s wing’s surrounded the air around them, pushing it towards the hard earth with such force it almost knocked the woman over. The dragon crouched low once her claws touched the ground, her neck snaking down to hover over Cree, a huff of hot steam casting down on her, surely sending a shiver down her spine. It had to be only about 10 feet separating the top of Cree’s head and the blue dragon’s glistening fangs. 

Cree kept her fear filled eyes forward to Xaden. Bodhi knew she knew better not to look up at the clearly pissed off dragon. “If I knew you’d be bringing your girlfriend I would’ve brought my own backup!” She yelled.

“Trust me.” Garrick laughed, “You wouldn’t have wanted Xaden to bring his other girlfriend either.” 

Bodhi watched Xaden cross his arms, knowing he had Cree cornered. With a smug look he said, “She doesn’t really take no for an answer. And she's not too pleased with your little impersonation from earlier.”

Cree slowly began to move from side to side as if she was literally weighing her options; though she didn't have many. “3 months.” 

“Six.” Xaden countered.

“Four and a fortnight”

“Six.”

“Five months, and twenty eight nights.” 

“That’s basically six-”

Sgaeyl opened her mouth and roared down upon Cree. It was loud enough to cause chatter from within the fortress as some people began to gather outside to see what was going on.

Cree finally gave in, “Fine! Fine, six months!”

Xaden closed his eyes momentarily in victory, “Glad you could come to an agreement.” 

A high pitched cry echoed in the mountains, turning Sgaeyl’s attention upwards and she reached over Cree to snatch the egg into her talon and launched in the air towards the noise. 

Cree closed her eyes with an exhale, muttering some sort of thanks to the gods before glaring over at Xaden again. 

“Let’s get inside, you need to meet some people.” Xaden ordered while turning towards the fortress. Garrick smirked at Cree and motioned that she follow as well before turning towards Cree, “You too Bodhi.” 

Cree huffed and threw up her hood before walking inside. And once again, Bodhi found himself following behind the others. 

The Assembly was not pleased with Xaden’s new recruit when they did find out and haul them all into the large assembly room for questioning. They spent the next 10 minutes taking turns chaisting Xaden, which wasn’t too out of the norm for them. Felix for not calling a proper vote. Ulices for his recklessness, even Brennan for not thinking through how Riorson house has grown 5 times its size in occupants over the past two days and with the addition of rider deserters adding on an additional house guest wasn’t as easy as it used to be. 

Bodhi was sure other words were being said but now that Cree was standing next to Xaden in the light of the assembly room, he was able to truly lay eyes on her. She was tall, not as tall as he or Xaden but much taller than the other female cadets in the fortress. She had freckles dotted across her face mimicking that of a night skies constellation, and he saw what he could visualize to be a scar that cut her skin from the end of her brow to right past her left ear.

And her hair, gods her hair. He’d never seen braids like that before. They were much more intricate than the ones Matthias, Violet or even Cat wore; each strand layered and woven into the other and looped over the other to mimic a mohawk. 

She was…something.

He couldn’t tell if it was the lingering buzz of the churam or if he really could hear Cuir chortling in his head. 

Eventually, his attention drew back to the matter at hand, The Assembly. Apparently Xaden made his word final and didn’t give any room for argument, stating something along the lines of ‘Needed every chance they had since the wards weren’t ready to be raised yet.’ 

Suri was next to speak; this wasn’t going to go well, “And why should we trust this Poromish-”

“Cygni.” Cree interjected loudly. It was the first time she actually spoke since she walked into Riorson house with everyone. “I’m Cygni. Not Poromish. And yeah, there's a fucking difference.” 

Suri pressed on, “If you’re going to be trusted to join our cause and be part of our command, aside from unhatched eggs, what can you offer us for our trust and protection?” 

“Well for starters I can bake a mean pie.” Cree began sarcastically, “And I’m a great shot. I could show you-” 

“Or don't.” Garrick’s tone was even but his eyes almost looked like they were panicking. “We’re still rebuilding the place.”

Bodhi felt like he was just standing there on the sidelines of this whole conversation, so he supplied a small, “You did mind work, don’t you?” 

Cree snapped her head in his direction before eyeing the rest of the assembly who seemed to be intrigued by Bodhi’s words.

Taking the cue from the assembly he continued, “you forced a scout to think you were Xaden Riorson.” 

“I prefer the term persuasion.” Cree answered.

Suri raised a brow, “So you can manipulate anyone to your whim?” 

“Show us what you can do.” It was Brennan’s voice who now joined the conversation. 

Cree shugged her shoulders from beneath her cloak, “Okay.” Her eyes scanned the room, making contact with each member of the Assembly before her eyes locked on Garricks. Garrick let out a squeak of surprise as Cree stepped forward. He was able to block the first to swipes she took at him with her hands, but eventually she sidestepped to the left and quickly grazed her fingers over his temple. Garrick had a jerked back quickly, before he closed his eyes, probably in an attempt to shield is mind from her probing gaze. It had only lasted a few moments, but Cree eventually blinked, an exhale leaving her lips.

A smug look grew on Garricks face, “Nice try. Best shields in all of Aretia.” 

That was absolutely not true. But Bodhi didn’t want to press the matter. 

“Getting a little rusty there, Cree?” Xaden said with an irritated gravel in his tone.

“How…unamusing.” Suri mused while leaning back in her chair.

Suddenly, Garrick’s body jerked, his wide shoulders shaking as a large laugh left his lips. Both Bodhi, Xaden, and most of the Assembly in the room gave the lieutenant a confused look.

“Have some composure Tavis,” Suri began only to be met with another roar of laughter, this time his hand slapping on his brother’s shoulder while he leaned into him. 

“Impressed yet?” Cree asked innocently. 

“What did you do?” Brennan asked, clearly impressed and intrigued by the display of power. 

“Not much really, I told his mind to believe that everything that one said was the funnest thing he’s ever heard. Because you’re a joke.” 

“How dare you-” Garricks laughter cut her off. The poor thing doubled over now, clutching his ribs. 

With a snap of Cree’s fingers it was over, Garrick finally gaining his composure, only to yell at Cree for never touching his mind again. Suri was pissed, but clearly did not approve of Cree in any way. Brennan told Xaden to get Cree on the front lines as quickly as tomorrow. And, with that, the Assembly left.

Once again it was Bodhi, Xaden, a still pissed Garrick, and the new member of the revolution, Cree.

Xaden started to head for the door, giving his final orders of the evening, “We take flight at sunrise. Meet us by the cliffs. Find her somewhere to stay, cousin. And Garrick, work on your shields.” 

“Yes sir.” Cree gave a rather lewd salute with her middle finger. 

Garrick let out a groan before he too made his way to the door, “I need a drink. See you in formation, Bodhi. And don’t do that shit to me again, Cree. S’felt weird as fuck.” 

And that left Bodhi and Cree. 

“So,” He began slowly, “Barracks are on the third floor and upwards. Pretty sure I could find you a room by yourself-”

“I may be stuck here for the next six months but I am not sleeping with a bunch of riders, dragons and Tyrs. Gods, my father is rolling in the next life cursing me for this.” 

Och. So much for casual conversation. She rivals Xaden as the meanest houseguest. Time to default, humor and kindness. “Well, there’s the town below…but that’s also full of riders, and the valley above us is full of dragons. I guess there’s the abandoned stables if you really want to be alone and away from all dragon and rider folk.” 

Her eyes perked up, “Not a bad idea, not-Xaden.” 

“Durran. But call me Bodhi.” He found himself saying rather quickly, almost pleadingly, “And, I was just kidding, you know.”

“You need to work on that humor, Bodhi.” 

“Wait, how do you know Xaden and-” And…she’s gone. 

Bodhi let out the longest exhale of the evening, his mind spinning as it recalled the past two hours. He made himself two promises that night. One, he’s never ever smoking that much Churam again. And two, come sunrise he’s going to track down Garrick in the morning and get answers about Cree.

And, perhaps three, maybe he should work on his humor.

[she-whatshername]

Next week is going to be booked for me so I am trying to use the time I have this week to post the next chapter (or chapters) of Drifted but yooo, I was not prepared for the angst that is coming.

“Sheesh! I know Imogen is usually as cuddly as a hungry dragon but this is a new breed of intense.” Ridoc groaned.

“It’s always the same each year. Just give her space and she’ll come around in a week or so, okay?”

“Give her space for what? What missions are Xaden and the assembly sending you all on?” Rhiannon asked

Oh. They didn’t know.

“Just go easy on her, okay? And don’t take anything to heart. She’s our Imogen after all.” He tried his best to smile his way through his non answer in hopes no one would press further. Luckily the group was satisfied and began discussing something else.

Bodhi on the other hand politely excused himself and went in search of Garrick and Xaden. Imogen was going to hate him for this but he had to tell them pull her from the mission this week.

The Venin fear Violet for her raw power of commanding the skies

But on the week of her sister’s birthday, it is all who should fear, ally or foe, the wrath of Imogen Cardulo.

[she-whatshername]

My heart becomes so very full every time I check my emails and I see a kudos or comment on Drifted in AO3. I also appreciate everyone who interacts with the work here in Tumblr. It’s been very fun to write again in general, and to write from a canon characters perspective. I hope to do Bodhis character proud by adding more depth and dynamic to his character.

Shoutout to @siobhanbooks who has literally commented on every chapter l. Much love to you 🥹💖

In that theme, a little preview of the next chapter

"Hey, watch the ash." Garrick warned from his seat at the wooden table. Cree let out a small laugh and a puff of smoke, the roll of churam staying perfectly balanced on her lips while she continued to stir the large pot over the stove, "Please. The food you serve here is so bland, it could use a little spice. Seriously, If your people are as cautious to fighting venin as you are with your seasonings, this whole revolution is fucked."

Bodhi couldn't help the small laugh that escaped his lips. It was a strange comfort seeing Cree in the kitchen, cooking for them, and actually smiling and having a laugh. He felt the same sense of security of her by their side on the front as she was now, literally preparing them a meal he had no idea of its contents. Her emotional state seemed to rotate on a pendulum; one evening she's enraged and ready to fight a flier for simply giving her a hug, and the next she's domesticated and demure, barefoot in the kitchen. Such a unique, and strange woman she was. Ouch. He could feel the sting of the ghost of his mother extending across the lands of Malek to slap at his wrist, and his own hands instinctually wrapped around themselves. He should know better than to belittle and mock the emotions of a woman. He was raised better than that. Gods, he could hear his mother chastising him as if he was fourteen again sitting across from her in this very kitchen. Hopefully he'll have many more years before stepping into Maleks arms so he could prepare himself for the reprimanding he was sure to receive; for that and for not eating all his vegetables or taking good care of his skin like she had taught him to when he was young. And then there was that one time when he and Ridoc got a little too tipsy on wine made in an unused tub in the bathing chambers of Basgiath...the things they did, the things they said to eachother should probably never be uttered to another soul again. It was one of the few moments he wished his mothers words to him that, 'shed always be with him' was just a lie. He did not want to have to explain to his mother why being referred to as father figure was so...enamoring to him -

[she-whatshername]

After a lovely few weeks of adventure and frivolous writing i am very much excited to get back in a groove and get the next chapter of Drifted this week.

Also, I may or may not have written an actual plot and set up for the Xadeen/Garrick/Imogen/Liam/Violet poly fic

And…I may or may not have written a oneshot of a Garrick/OC where the characters signet is she can create portals by channeling her power through doorknobs

And…maybe I made another oneshot of Xaden getting a massage by a healer during his first year and has a breakdown

I’m a mess, y’all. lol

[she-whatshername]

It is complete! Whew! Next chapter of 'Drifted' is going up tonight, people. I edit last so I need time to get the bells and bolts on but I'm so so happy we're moving along with the story. I literally have the next 2 chapters done I just needed this one to put some plot on the plate, haha.

What are you in for this evening? Take a look at a lil snapshot below.

Bodhi looked to his left and realized Garrick wasn’t next to him, rather he was standing in front of Cree’s back, his hand wrapped around Cree’s arm, “Cree, put the crazy away and get up.”  “You were there,” Her voice was practically shaking, “You were there and you saw it. I know you were there.” her head tilted up towards Garrick and Bodhi could see the wildness of her eyes, the fear and anger in her face, “She was there, Garrick.” She looked back at Rhiannon’s worried face and all hell broke loose when she uttered, “I’m going to fucking kill you.”

[she-whatshername]

DRIFTED: Chapter 8 'Embracing The Kijivu, The Liath and The Gray'

The shortest chapter I ever wrote but perhaps my most favorite chapter I ever wrote with its meaning and its messages. I hope you enjoy it.

[she-whatshername]

Drifted: Chapter 3 Teorann Part 1

Because I made y'all wait, here is chapter 3!

I will make a note here that I put at the beginning of this chapter on Ao3 as this is chapter has some heavy content.

Hey all. Just putting a note here about a content warning that this chapter discusses the heaviness of war and hurt and harm to children; who make up the majority of the innocent lives taken during war and conflict. This chapter also talks about freedom of movement and the unjust violence committed toward refugees and displaced persons. I know that Fourth Wing and Iron Flame specifically speaks to this through the plot of the book, but these are still heavy topics that intersect our world outside of our books, so I would still like to call attention to it here. Please feel free to skip over this chapter if the above my cause harm or distress to you. And, as always, take care of yourself and your peace.

[she-whatshername]

Its has arrived!! Drifted, chapter six, 'Everything is Full of Shit' is now up on AO3.

[she-whatshername]

Drifted Chapter 5: The Dornian Bar Brawl

Honestly, one of my favorite chapters I got to write so far. Unhinged Xaden. Cree just being messy AF. And brotherly banter.

This now gets me in a good place to begin what I know will be one of my favorite chapters, which is already titled, 'Never Trust A Tyr.'

[she-whatshername]

Drifted: Chapter 4 - Four Questions

New chapter is up!

[she-whatshername]

Drifted: Chapter 2 The Revolution's Greatest Weapon

Its been posted!!

[she-whatshername]

Thank you all for giving kudos, hearts and comments on my first chapter of 'Drifted'; Friday was a 'shit day' if you will and waking up the next morn to your interactions with the first chapter really boosted by mood. I am really looking forward to sharing this series with you all. Drifted will post weekly on Friday's (with some surprise drop days here and there). I hope to see ya'll in the second chapter!

Now, to the order of my posting.

Is it me or is it like...weird AF that all the marked ones were conscripted into the riders quadrant? THE rider's quadrant. Where you can bond a mythical creature and possess a signet and, I dunno, seek revenge?! LOL what was the government thinking? You got the shadow father Xaden, Bo-don't got a signet no more Durran, Imogen Cardu-lost your memories, and Garrick (who I think his signet is around navigation/location or weaponry) Tavis, and all the other marked ones who got a major power up through bonding a dragon. Maybe they thought they'd all die before threshing but like...whoever thought of that plan on the council should be fired-oh shit, sorry Lily

I'm not mad at it, but I question it sometimes...lol. Anyone else have any Fourth Wing "This could have been avoided if______" scenarios you think about at all hours of the night?

[she-whatshername]

‘Drifted’ chapter 1 is going out tomorrow night here and on AO3 (follow me at she.whatshername).

I’m making this public so I hold myself accountable because I’m in that weird ‘I’ve reread this so many times I’m changing everything and second guessing myself/imposter syndrome’ part of my writing process lol.