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dystopicjumpsuit · 1 year

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Martyrs and Kings - Epilogue

Rating: Mature/18+/Minors DNI

Pairing: Kix x archivist/historian OFC

Wordcount: 1.2k

Warnings: sensuality

A/N: What's that sound? It's my heart breaking to finally say goodbye to Kix and Maree. Thank you to all my readers who've stuck with me this long! I love you all.

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Six standard months later

“Safe travels, Dr. Finnall,” Brenko said. “While you’re away, I’ll finish cataloging the rest of the artifacts from Hisseen.”

“Have I told you lately that you’re my favorite research assistant?” she asked.

“I’m your only research assistant,” he pointed out. “See you in a couple weeks.”

Maree waved farewell and went to load a few last-minute items into the Meson Martinet’s shuttle. Reveth helped, lifting the heaviest bags with ease with her powerful mechanical arm.

“I still think it’s a mistake for you to go to headquarters of the New Republic Rangers,” Reveth grumbled. “What if the Spinward Patrol recognizes the shuttle and disintegrates you?”

“They wouldn’t dare,” Maree said. “The Rangers are even more scared of Baba than Kix is.”

“I never said I was scared,” Kix objected, entering the shuttle with his small satchel.

“You didn’t have to,” Reveth said. “We could all tell.”

The Twi’lek exited the shuttle and sealed the hatch as Kix muttered under his breath. If he’d been worried that Reveth and Maree would resent each other based on their history with him, those fears paled in comparison to the reality that the two had become fast friends who told each other everything and held weekly holo-sabbac nights with Valsi. It was frankly unfair. Maree was already conducting a stealth campaign to convince Valsi and Tane to leave the Archive and join the crew.

Truth be told, the Martinet was starting to feel a little crowded, but Ithano had a plan. He was building a fleet from old Separatist ships that Kix helped him locate, and a few nights earlier, Quiggold had casually mentioned the possibility of making Kix the captain of a cruiser. If Ithano decided to go through with it, there would be more than enough room for Maree’s growing collection of Seppie junk—er, “artifacts of incalculable historic value and significance.”

Of course, he wasn't sure how much Brenko might object to being pulled away from the Martinet. He had a tendency to flush to a deep emerald green whenever he spoke to Reeg Brosna, and the Arcona frequently had a dazed, starry-eyed expression that had nothing to do with his ocular biology. Maree’s tactics had been completely unsubtle as she seized any opportunity to throw the two together. If Ithano did make Kix a captain, he wouldn't be surprised if Maree tried to get Reeg installed as first mate.

He launched the shuttle, and Maree began to input the coordinates for Adelphi.

“I still can’t believe you stole Brenko to be your research assistant,” Kix said.

“I am a pirate, after all,” Maree said with a shrug as Kix flipped the lever, and the shuttle jumped into hyperspace.

“You have two PhDs,” Eema said severely as she opened every window in the house to let out the billowing smoke. “How is it possible that something as simple as baking cookies eludes you?”

“It wasn’t covered in my coursework,” Maree said, gagging on the acrid scent of charred sugar.

She dumped the tray of scorched biscuits into the sink and turned on the water to put out any remaining embers.

“I’m impressed that this batch actually caught fire,” Baba said in a much milder tone. “How did you manage that?”

“I got distracted,” Maree said, heat rising in her cheeks.

She shot an accusatory glance at Kix, who was leaning against the wall and looking rather pleased with himself.

“Ugh, in my kitchen?” Eema demanded.

“Right in front of your salad,” Baba confirmed with a twinkle.

“Oh, stars, Moms, we weren’t doing that!” Maree exclaimed.

“Not this time, anyway,” Kix said.

“Traitor,” Maree grumbled. “Remind me why I brought you here, again?”

“Because you wanted me to charm your mothers enough that your Baba wouldn’t blow our ship out of the sky,” Kix said. “Do you think it’s working?”

“It was probably working better before I turned the kitchen into a smoldering ruin of despair and regret,” Maree said.

“As if his masculine wiles would work on us,” Eema snorted.

“Maree seems to like them,” Baba said. “No accounting for taste, I suppose.”

She winked at Kix, and he grinned back at her. Despite Maree’s reservations, Baba had taken a single look at Kix and practically adopted him on the spot. The two drank spotchka and swapped war stories, and Baba gleefully told Kix a few of the more embarrassing anecdotes from Maree’s childhood. One night, they sat on the front porch and spoke quietly for many, many hours, long after Maree and Eema had gone to sleep, and when Maree awoke the next morning, she found Kix curled up next to her, his face completely relaxed and looking more at peace than she had ever seen him.

When Maree had somewhat nervously broached the topic of piracy, Baba simply laughed and asked, “Did you think everything I did back in my Ranger days was strictly legal? Sweetie, this is the Outer Rim. If I went chasing every pirate and smuggler that crossed my path, I’d never get a night’s sleep again.”

Eema had been slower to warm up to Kix. She’d been polite and welcoming, of course, but she withheld judgment until she had a chance to see how luminously happy the clone made Maree.

That night, Kix confessed to Maree that Eema terrified him. “I thought you said Baba was the one we had to worry about.”

“I said Baba might kill us,” she corrected him as she climbed into bed. “Eema will just make us wish we were dead.”

“Great,” Kix replied.

He slid under the covers next to her, and she snuggled close to his body, resting her head on his bare shoulder and draping her leg over his thighs.

“She’ll come around,” Maree promised. “She’s just not used to the idea of me being in a relationship.”

“Have you never brought anyone home to meet them before?” he asked, kissing her forehead.

Maree shook her head. “This is uncharted territory for all of us.”

“I feel better already,” Kix said drily.

“I know how to make you feel better,” she said mischievously, stroking her hands down his abdomen.

He squirmed away. “Are you insane? What if they hear us?”

“What’s wrong? Is the big, strong, fearsome warrior afraid of a couple of retirees?”

“Yes!” Kix said frankly. “You know we clones have genetically enhanced survival instincts.”

“I guess you’ll just have to use your genetically enhanced stealth abilities and be very, very quiet,” she said, sliding down his body.

“Oh, kriff,” he gasped as she licked up the inside of his thigh.

“Shhh,” she soothed, snaking a hand up his chest to rest reassuringly over his heart. “We don’t have to do anything if you don’t want to.”

“Now that I think about it, we clones were also taught not to fear death,” he said, tangling his hands in her hair and guiding her head toward his stiffening cock.

“Such a heroic sacrifice,” Maree whispered, drawing him into her mouth.

Kix bit back a groan as he sank into her soft warmth. “Anything for the Republic.”

#clone medic kix #pirate kix #post stasis kix #kix x ofc #sw tcw fanfiction #dystopicjumpsuit writes #martyrs and kings

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real-jane · 2 years

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drifting (epilogue)

[cw!bucky barnes x female!reader]

summary: bucky saves the life of a woman when she’s buried in an avalanche. faced with the possibility that his cover might be blown, bucky must keep the woman alive, and try to keep her from finding out who he is… or what he’s done.

how long can he hide?

warnings: softness.

word count: 1.6K+

a/n: here's the end, my loves. It has been very hard for me to say goodbye. but i think this will do it. thank you for loving my little story of healing.

series masterlist

___

She reaches for the ember before she can second guess it; the glowing debris is flicked from the fire and it lands with a fizzling hiss on Bucky’s hair, which is damp with sweat.

The moment her skin makes contact–heat. She bites back the pain, desperate not to make a sound and break the meditative trance Ayo left him in some time ago. Hours, at least. The last of his triggers finally… deactivated.

Six months in Wakanda, four inches of growth to Bucky’s hair, countless failed attempts to strip the mind control from his synapses without wiping away the frightened boy beneath it all, and here he sits. Between her knees, against a log. Slumped back with his eyes shut, head pillowed into the crook of her neck. His eyes are swollen from tears which he cannot stop.

But he’s free.

He crawled into Y/n’s arms the moment Ayo proved that his trigger words no longer had a hold on him. More than anything, Y/n wept because he did. Seeing Bucky so thankful and free, and emotionally laid bare… it cracked her open.

She’s happy to hold him close, even though he needs to eat or sleep, or bathe (all of those things for the first time in days). But her hand aches from the white-hot burn on her palm, and she whimpers without realizing it.

Bucky stiffens in her arms. Without saying anything, he tilts his head up with a frown. In the glow of the fire, his eyes look more green than blue, and there’s no mistaking the shock of red veining from crying, but Bucky still focuses as best as he can on her face.

“You had a piece of ash,” she murmurs. She inspects the surface of her palm. Sure enough, there is an angry welt at the base of her ring finger. Bucky cradles her hand in his. He sniffs, as if he can’t properly inspect her with a runny nose. He makes a disgruntled sound in the back of his throat.

“‘M alright.”

He shakes his head faintly. “It’s bad.” Bucky’s voice is raw and scratchy, but his tone is firm. “It’ll blister.”

“It can wait–”

Bucky growls, which stops them both in their tracks. His expression shifts from frustration to… amusement. He chuckles, and clears his throat. “Don’t know what that was.”

“Caveman,” she teases softly. He squeezes her wrist.

“That was Gandalf,” he says.

She huffs. “Right. My mistake.”

Bucky turns, so his body is angled towards hers. He allows her to tug at the blanket beneath him, which he had long abandoned in the aftermath of his success. She watches him drape the blanket over his legs when the wind brings the evening breeze rushing through the small grove of banyan trees. She wants to tell him how proud she is. She knew he could do it. He’s so strong. James Barnes prevailed. But she can’t make any of those words come out. Nobody prepared them for what to do after. Maybe they’re supposed to sit in the Wakandan wilderness until they sprout roots.

“Nat took me for burgers,” she remembers under her breath. Bucky glances up at her again, despite diligently studying her burn mark. “When I got home.”

“Hmm,” he says.

“America was too loud. Still is,” she says. “But freshly deprogrammed? I wanted a burger. For all the wonders of Wakanda, they haven’t yet gotten a Five Guys.” He raised an eyebrow. She scoffed. “I lost you.”

“It’s a burger joint?”

“I’ll make Steve bring us takeout next time he comes.”

“Or we could go ourselves…” he trails off.

Y/n swallows hard. “Jamie…” How do you tell a man that you’ve been making plans for his future, without him? “Do you like it here?”

He shakes his head, but Bucky’s mouth curls up at the corners. “More than I expected to.”

“Do you remember saying we could go away again, when all of this was over? I’ve, um. While you’ve been with Shuri and Ayo, I sort of took on a project. I should’ve told you sooner, but you needed to focus. But I want to tell you so bad… I’m rambling–”

“You barely started.” Bucky tilts her chin so she’ll look him in the eye. “What did you do, doll?”

She breathes out slowly. “I found us a place. Ramonda did, but I like it. It’s small. Smaller than the cabin–I don’t know, I think it will be fine. There’s plenty of space around it so we don’t have to be crammed together all the time, but. The fence is sound, so there is ample room to have goats–Ramonda keeps saying chickens but they’re so messy. I don’t want our lives to be covered in chicken shit. But there’s two trees, and it’s definitely good for a hammock. If you want. And I think it’s really nice. For us. If you want to, Jamie–”

“Doll,” he says with a light laugh. “You’re so worried, you’re making me nervous.”

“You want this, right?”

“Mm. That’s what you’re worried about?”

“Jamie…” she laughs, a mix of exasperation and love. “That’s just about the only thought I can make sense of, these days. So. I wanna know what you want.”

Bucky sighs. “We don’t need to rush the next step, you know? I know you’ve got muscles as twitchy as mine, but we aren’t living on borrowed time anymore.”

“Sorry,” she breathes. “I’m–”

“You’re here. That is what I want.” He kisses her gently. “I have one more thing I have to do, and then we’ll decide what’s next.”

“Yes.”

“Do you think you can be patient for seventy-two hours?” The smile at the corner of his lips is so soft that she can’t help but worry her lips over the curve. It’s a place he’s eventually going to wear a wrinkle, because she’s going to make sure he smiles like that every day of the rest of his life.

She’s known about this last phase of his journey in Wakanda because she did the same thing herself. He has to go recalibrate out in the elements, T’challa reminded her, gently. The king has deferred months of inquiry from the US government regarding his fugitive. Bucky will be safer out in the Wakandan back country than walking down a New York City street, so what’s three more days?

“Yes,” she peeps.

He chuckles. “Liar.”

“Do you have to leave right this second?”

Bucky shakes his head. “Not until the coals go out.”

“Okay.”

“Tell me about this house,” he says, resting her upturned hand on her knee. As she gives him a rundown of the property, he tends to her wound, only half-listening to the story of forever she’s built for them both.

He sneaks in behind her as she washes dishes in the small sink basin. Whether or not she realizes he is there is moot; after three days wandering the wild, the thing that had brought him back to himself was the faint scent of her favorite lilac soap on the edge of a breeze… which lead him right to the door of what might generously be called a house, but which he hopes to call ‘home’. He leans against the wall, which has been painted a lovely shade of teal, and watches her.

Three days was an eternity without her.

No, it was longer–months, even, but he wasn’t himself. She floated on the periphery of his heart the entire time, his true north as he fought through the triggers of the Winter Soldier–but it wasn’t until his final night with Ayo by the fire that he had his sweet woman by his side again. A permanent fixture of his third chance at life.

In a lot of ways, Bucky is forever twenty-four. He certainly feels it, with a body charged in renewal. But then again… hasn’t he always felt that way with her?

Long before the avalanche dropped her on his doorstep, back when he had nothing to live for but his next orders, there she was. He remembers it all. The light on her cheeks through the yellow fogged windows, meant to allow sunlight but not observation from the world outside–Moscovian light, which was harsh on buildings and soft on snow. And cheeks, which his lips and fingers tingled to explore even before he knew why.

That song–she has hummed it for years. She hums it now without realizing, because it’s just one of those things ingrained in the fiber of her being. She’s a tapestry of precious threads, shot through with gold filament of tenderness. Instead of fear at the thought of how he might harm her… all that rests on Bucky’s mind is that this house is theirs. Back in the cabin, on the desolate mountain, he wanted it… but he couldn’t give her this without facing his demons. Instead, she held hands with the devil himself, with Soldat, and she made the world technicolor again.

Yes, he wants this. Even if it’s covered in chicken shit and baby goats, and even if they fight every moment, and even if they get bit to high heaven by mosquitos all summer, it is still paradise compared to where they came from.

He takes a measured step forward, but his foot on the soft rug makes a sound which startles her and she turns, hands doused in suds up to the elbows. But she smiles, and there is not one thing better than the way her eyes light up.

That is his home. Wherever those eyes go, whatever they see, he’ll share it. As long as he can wake up next to her.

“Hi, baby,” she whispers.

Bucky’s face exercises the full range of his muscles in one go–smiling brighter than he ever thought himself capable.

“I’m home,” he murmurs.

***

Thank you so much for reading! :)

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kate’s masterlist - my bucky barnes masterlist

#bucky barnes fanfiction #bucky barnes fanfic #bucky barnes fic #bucky barnes x female reader #bucky barnes x reader #bucky barnes x f!reader #bucky barnes x y/n #bucky barnes x you #bucky x f!reader #bucky x female reader #bucky x y/n #bucky x you #bucky x reader #james bucky barnes #james buchanan barnes #drifting by real-jane #drifting

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awanderingmuse-ficrec · 2 years

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Cherry Wine

Fandom: Avatar the Last Airbender

Author: Kaatiba

Rating: Not Rated

Warnings: Violence, Abuse, Sexual Content, Underage

Word Count: 151,452

Pairings: Zutara, Sukka, Tyzula

Characters: Zuko, Katara, Iroh, Ozai, Aang, Sokka, Hakoda, Kya, Ursa, Azula, Dai Li, Earth King, Appa, Momo, Bato, The Gaang, Original Male Character(s), Piandao, The Blue Spirit, The Painted Lady, Toph Bei Fong, Lu Ten, Roku, Sozin, Fang, Ta Min, Hama, Haru, Teo, The Duke, Ty Lee, Mai, Suki, Sun Warriors, Druk, Katara’s and Zuko’s Child(ren)

Tags: Missing Scene, Episode: s02e20 The Crossroads of Destiny, Pre-Slash, Fix-It of Sorts, Zuko's Scar, Zuko's Childhood, Bonding, Implied/Referenced Character Death, Implied/Referenced Child Abuse, Alternate Universe - Canon Divergence, What-If, Angst, Hurt/Comfort, Zuko-centric, Ba Sing Se, POV Alternating, Slow Burn, Fluff and Angst, Fire Nation Lore, Chi Blocking, Zuko whump, Protective Gaang, The Gaang Learns How Zuko Got The Scar, Book 3: Fire, zuko joins the gaang early, Season 3 rewrite, Fire Nation, Southern Water Tribe, Episode: s03e02 The Headband, Hurt/Comfort, Ozai Being a Terrible Parent, Toph Beifong and Zuko are Siblings, Episode: s03e03 The Painted Lady, 'Team Avatar' more like 'Protect Zuko Squad', Episode: s03e04 Sokka's Master, Episode: s03e05 The Beach, Episode: s03e06 The Avatar and the Fire Lord, Episode: s03e07 The Runaway, Episode: s03e08 The Puppetmaster, Episode s03e09: Nightmares and Daydreams, Episode: s03e10-11 The Day of Black Sun, POV Azula, Episode: s03e12 The Western Air Temple, Western Air Temple, Ember Island, Azula has feelings, Emotional/Psychological Abuse, Zuko is an Awkward Turtleduck, Protective Sokka, Violence, War, Azula Redemption, Episode: s03e13 The Firebending Masters, Implied/Referenced Underage Sex, Epilogue, Domestic Fluff, Politics, Fire Nation Royal Family

Canon Divergent AU where Zuko joined the Gaang early in the S2 finale: Crossroads of Destiny

like rum on fire

What if Katara got to know Zuko a bit better in the catacombs, and it altered his choice in Ba Sing Se?

Katara unlocks Zuko's tragic backstory, finally gives him the hug he needs, and the rest is history

the tide of her breathing

(Sequel to "like rum on the fire" but can be read independently)

Zuko makes a different choice back in Ba Sing Se and the rest is history...

A remake of Book 3 where Zuko joined the Gaang early

oh, but she burns

(sequel to "like rum on the fire" and "the tide of her breathing" but could be read independently)

A Canon-Divergent Remake of Book 3 where Zuko joined the Gaang back in Ba Sing Se, and it alters the course of Destiny...

The last half of S3 with 200% more Zutara and Tyzula

cherry wine epilogue

canon divergent book 4 and onward; epilogue scenes from the Cherry Wine series

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the-wolf-lady · 1 year

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Finally saw Elemental

and yeah the marketing for it was not good

it is way better than how they marketed it. and i'm glad it started to do better in theaters

spoilers below

when i first saw the trailers i wasn't sure about the designs (mostly just Wade) but it worked

my only issue is that they didn't really resolve the broken wall. i was hoping in the epilogue they would have at least showed it properly fixed.

also related so much to ember in the beginning when dealing with customers

and when wade evaporated i thought he was going to become a cloud person cuz of the water cycle but he just got absorbed into the brick.

#elemental #elemental spoilers

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theladyofbloodshed · 2 years

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Chapter 19 - The final chapter! Huge thank you to everybody who has read along with this fic. It's been a joy to write and I appreciate each and every person who has read it. There will be an epilogue coming soon. I hope you enjoy.

‘No.’

Cassian shook his head in disbelief. He made a scoffing noise at the back of his throat.

‘No. Absolutely not. Not fucking happening.’

He started pacing on the roof, head still shaking. His brows raised a couple of times as if talking inside his own head.

‘You love her. She loves you. I don’t understand.’

Azriel wrung his face in his hands. Hearing Cassian say those words was somehow worse. His love hadn’t been enough. He hadn’t been enough.

‘What don’t you fucking understand? All of you have made her feel so bad about herself that she’s leaving this court. She doesn’t want to come back. Whoever went to Nesta today hammered the final nail in the coffin.’ Azriel stood, shaking himself off. He wanted to set fire to Velaris. To destroy it all.

‘Who went?’

Parroting Nesta’s words, Azriel said, ‘Does it matter? You’ve all let her know what a horrible person she is enough times now. Why should she put up with it for me? This was what you wanted.’

His eyes stung from crying. His throat was hoarse. Even if Nesta was leaving, the last thing Azriel wanted now was to play happy families with the people who had broken his relationship apart. He didn’t even want to be in this court. He felt like his head was going to explode.

Cassian sensed his distress. His brother had always been one to lean on. Azriel couldn’t now. Not when it was his fault that all of this was happening.

‘I’m so sorry. Az, I’m sorry.’

The stabbing, Azriel could forgive. He’d provoked his brother, knowing his temper would snap. Wounds healed. He didn’t even remember that pain. This, however, would change Azriel irrevocably. Now he knew what love was – had been given the sweetest taste of it from a female so incredible – he wouldn’t be whole without it.

‘Nesta’s leaving – she’s ended it – because of how we’ve all treated her.’

‘Yes. It is that difficult to comprehend?’

Cassian’s dark brows lowered. The night shadowed most of his face. ‘And that’s it? You two are fine otherwise?’

‘We were perfect,’ he replied, letting out a bitter laugh. How could he forgive his family for this?

‘Let’s go.’

‘What?’

Cassian planted his feet. His wings spread out against the harsh red stone of the House of Wind. ‘To Nesta’s. This isn’t happening. I’m not having this.’

He dived towards him, hauling Azriel off of the roof with him. On instinct, his own wings flapped to right himself in the air, but Cassian was swooping down towards the Sidra. It glittered beneath the street lamps as the water churned.

‘Don’t,’ he yelled. With a struggle, he managed to catch up with Cassian then keep pace. He was flying like a hellion towards the block of apartments on the furthest fringes of the city. ‘She’s made her mind up. I’m not going to beg her.’

‘Well, I will. I’ve got no shame,’ Cassian replied. He gritted his teeth then plummeted downwards, landing with a heavy thump onto the stone.

The general charged up the stairs then knocked on the door with impatience. He rattled the handle.

‘Stop,’ Azriel demanded, pulling him away. ‘You’ll scare her. What are you doing? Leave, Cass.’

‘Where’s the key? Give me the key. That or I’ll knock the door down.’

‘You wouldn’t fucking dare do that in front of me.’

Cassian flashed him a smile but it looked more like a grimace. ‘You wouldn’t risk it.’

Reluctantly, Azriel handed over the key. If anything, it was to stop the noise that would wake the sleeping neighbours. Cassian never did learn how to be quiet.

As the door swung open, he caught sight of Nesta on the edge of her seat in the arm chair. The fire was little more than embers.

In the brief moment that their eyes locked onto each other, Nesta’s tears started up again. Her face was already red and blotchy, her eyes swollen likely from crying since they parted. Azriel couldn’t stand by and see her cry, even if she wanted nothing more to do with him.

He pushed past Cassian’s big frame and went to her, damning the consequences. He wouldn’t have her upset. Wouldn’t let her go without comfort.

Nesta pressed her face into his chest in a futile attempt to muffle her tears. Azriel turned her so his back was to Cassian. She hated anybody seeing her crying.

His hands came around her body, one hand smoothing the hair that had come loose from her braid. Without instructions, shadows twined themselves up her legs too like cats brushing against them for affection. He couldn’t bear to hear her crying. It was the worst sound he’d ever heard. Her body trembled against his.

Cassian’s steps came by as he settled himself onto the low-slung couch observing them.

Azriel readied himself for a battle here that would level the living room. He’d have to be quick to get Nesta to safety - after that, he didn’t care what happened to him.

But Cassian remained simply watching.

Nesta manage to prise her face from Azriel’s chest to look up at him. He used his thumb to wipe away the tears tracking down her cheeks. She was the best thing he’d ever had in his life. Nobody had ever understood him like her; his moods, his quiet temper, his past. He didn’t want it to end. Didn’t want to say goodbye. Azriel could feel his chest caving in as he looked at Nesta. He kissed her forehead knowing it was the last time he’d be allowed to do it.

‘It hurts like hell,’ Cassian said, rubbing a hand across his jaw. ‘But seeing that hurt worse. Seeing you cry.’

His hazel eyes flickered between them taking in their embrace, their ease amongst each other. Nesta’s fingers still clutched to his shirt, twisting the soft material around her fingertips.

‘You’re my mate. Maybe there could have been an us a long time ago if I’d been better to you, done more for you like I should have. But I don’t ever want to be responsible for tears like that, no matter who I am to you.’ His eyes moved to Azriel’s. ‘You’re my brother. How can I not want happiness for you? Worse still, how could I want this pain for both of you?’

He stood then and stretched out his arms, feigning a casual mood.

‘If it’s not me then I’m glad it’s you because you’ll love Nesta like she deserves. And I can see that you are so loved, Az. Don’t let that go – either of you.’

Nesta’s inhale was more of a gasp as she fought through her tears. ‘But I don’t want to drive a wedge between everybody. I don’t want everyone to think I’m just so spiteful that I’m doing this to be horrid. I get the blame for everything. I can’t take it anymore.’

Cassian reached for her hand and she let him have that touch even if it unsettled her. Her own hand was tiny in his. Azriel gripped her tighter, scared he might snatch her away.

‘Nes, how could anybody see you two and think it was from spite? I want your happiness. It’s not with me - and it fucking hurts, I can’t lie. But you deserve somebody like him - and if anybody has a problem with my brother’s happiness then they have to answer to me. I’m so sorry. I cannot ever say sorry enough for all the distress I’ve caused.’

He laughed then. A light thing to deflect how difficult this was for him. ‘What kind of prick would I have to be to see you both miserable and feel glad of it? You don’t want me but it doesn’t mean I have to make you both depressed. I’m not that much of a bastard.’

Nesta looked completely dumbstruck. She blinked a few times then tipped forwards against Azriel so her cheek tucked against his neck. Pain bracketed Cassian’s expression to see it, but then he clapped his hands together.

‘Don’t go to Summer. Stay here. I want you here. Both of you. You’re my brother and I can’t imagine a life without Az. And Nesta, your sisters are here. This is your home. This is our court. We stay together.’

‘We’ll always have to see each other,’ Azriel said, keeping a firm arm around Nesta’s waist to emphasise the point that he was never letting her go again - even if it hurt Cassian, she meant far more.

‘Then we’ll figure it out,’ Cassian said simply. ‘I’ll bring your things back here. I’ll gather the others and lay down the law. They won’t ever intervene again. I promise. None of them will ever make you feel unwelcome. Please don’t let love go. I’ve had to put up with Az’s moping for five hundred years. If you want that, you have him.’

‘Prick.’

Cassian clapped him on the shoulder, a slow smile edging onto his features. ‘I’m sorry I have been a prick for months. What a fucking bastard I’ve been. You should have been the one to stab me.’

‘It was tempting plenty of times.’

‘I agree,’ Nesta piped up.

Cassian sniffed then his brows raised suddenly. ‘You have a cat.’

Devlon was readying himself to pounce onto Cassian’s laces. His tail lashed from side to side and his body seemed to buzz with energy.

‘I’ve always wanted one,’ Nesta said. A weak smile flitted onto her face as the cat collided with Cassian’s shoe.

Cassian let out a gasp and clutched his chest in horror. ‘It would never have worked. I’m allergic. I’ll be sneezing for the next week.’

‘A good deterrent to stop you coming here and eating all of our food like you do at Rhys’ house.’

They stood quietly for a moment with only the sounds of cat attacking Cassian’s shoes filling the silence.

Then, surprising both of them, Nesta embraced Cassian.

‘Thank you.’

He swallowed then let out a breath. ‘I don’t ever want either of you crying again. Ever. Whoever says shit to you can deal with me from now on.’

***

‘There better be a good fucking reason to be dragging us all out of bed as this time,’ Mor grumbled, tightening her dressing gown around her waist.

Cassian had gathered them all in the living room of the River House. A few lamps had been lit but it was the middle of the night so the rest of Velaris was slumbering. He’d nearly kicked in Rhys’ door when he hadn’t answered – and received a full view of the high lord and lady naked in bed, asleep when he pushed it open instead.

Elain patted the space beside her for Mor to settle on. There were bloodshot, tired eyes all round, but this couldn’t wait until morning. Cassian needed to fix this mistake now.

‘Who went to Nesta today?’

Feyre let out a long yawn then burrowed closer to Rhys in the chair.

‘Who went to Nesta today?’ Cassian repeated, voice hard and unyielding.

‘Nobody did, why would I want to have her chasing me with silver fire again?’

Cassian sucked in a breath. ‘Because somebody did. And Nesta decided she couldn’t take being treated poorly anymore. She wants to move to the Summer Court.’

‘Azriel would go with her,’ Mor gasped.

‘No. She knows what it would mean for him to leave us so she broke it off.’ Cassian was utterly ashamed of himself that he’d let this carry on for months. There was no hope in hell for him and Nesta. He’d known all along that he’d blown his chance after the war, but the thought of another male loving her better than he could had incensed him. But Azriel? Azriel never gave his heart away easily. He should have known from the start that Azriel would love Nesta like no other. ‘I’ve just had Azriel sobbing on the roof. I never ever want to see either of them crying like that. We drove them apart. Fucking hell, why wouldn’t we want them to be happy? Az has been through enough. Nesta too.’

‘I did tell you that,’ Rhys drawled.

Cassian took in a steadying breath. ‘I want to sever the bond. I love Azriel more. I want my brother to be loved. If you can’t accept my decision on this then kindly fuck off. We’ve put them through hell for no fucking reason.’ Another breath in. Another breath out. ‘I’ll ask one more time. Who went to Nesta today?’

His gaze fell to Mor who made a noise of outrage and tossed off her blanket. ‘It wasn’t me. Why the fuck do you think I’d seek her out?’

‘It was me,’ Amren declared from the doorway.

Mor said things in passion. Elain did what she thought was for the best, Feyre too. There was a callous, ruthless streak in Amren. Cassian dreaded what she might have said to Nesta. They all awaited her words. She folded her arms then exhaled.

‘I merely reminded Nesta that Azriel would follow her wherever she went and what might happen to him if certain courts got their hands on him.’

‘So, you terrified her?’ Feyre asked incredulously. ‘After Cassian had just stabbed him.’

Cassian burned with chagrin at his mistake.

‘I have this court’s best interests at heart. Without Azriel, Illyria will destabilise. We would be severely disadvantaged without our spy master.’

Elain blinked at Amren. ‘But Nesta wouldn’t want to leave Azriel’s side if she worried about his safety.’

‘What else did you say?’ Mor questioned.

‘The only times you have been apart for Starfall were when you were Under the Mountain, Rhysand, and because of Nesta.’

Feyre’s face went white. ‘Tell me you didn’t.’

Amren held firm, arms crossed and jaw set.

‘You compared me to Tamlin when I wouldn’t use my sisters,’ Feyre said, pointing a shaking finger at Amren. ‘Tell me you did not compare my sister to Amarantha. To the female that killed me.’

‘Both succeeded in tearing apart this court. I hoped Nesta would make the right decision and rectify it.’

A sickness settled in Cassian’s gut. What an unbearably cruel thing to say to anybody, least of all Nesta. Amarantha’s cruelty was well known throughout Prythian before she’d ever seized control of it. The things she did could turn even his stomach. And Rhysand had endured fifty years beside her to protect all of them. Rhys had come over pale in shock.

‘Out.’ The voice was quiet but rang with authority. He rose to his feet, magic swarming his hands, the likes of which threatened to devour galaxies. ‘Get out of my court. Don’t come back. Get out before I kill you.’

Mor scrambled to her feet to winnow Amren away; a small pity she could offer.

Feyre wrapped an arm around Rhys, but he pulled free. ‘Go to bed. I need time.’

The hurt was clear on Feyre’s face, but she obeyed her mate. She tugged Elain to her feet and the sisters headed back to bed though Cassian knew that Feyre would force herself to stay awake until Rhys joined her.

Rhys pushed back his black hair, shaking his head in disbelief. He let out a slow laugh. ‘I’ve always been glad for Amren’s savagery. Not when it hurts me though.’

The few details that Rhys had ever let slip about those terrible fifty years were not good. He guarded that time. They didn’t need to know everything he’d done for them. Like him, Rhys would do whatever he could to keep Velaris safe.

‘I can’t believe she compared Nesta to Amarantha,’ he murmured, rubbing his jaw. ‘Fucking despicable behaviour – and all because Az didn’t come to Starfall. He only ever shows up for an hour or two usually anyway.’

If it wasn’t the middle of the night, Cassian might have invited Rhys to go and spar with him. From the expression of the high lord, Cassian knew whatever occurred Under the Mountain still weighed on Rhys and likely would for a long, long time.

‘I never saw Starfall for fifty years.’

Cassian nodded. ‘I know.’

‘No. She knew what it was. Knew what it meant to me. I had to service her all night. Amren really fucking made Nesta feel like she was that bitch?’

It was all made worse with that knowledge. Amren – like him – wasn’t to know that Rhys’ Starfalls had been that way. But it didn’t make her words any better. She had gone to Nesta with one intention and had succeeded.

Rhys shook himself away from those memories. ‘Az and Nesta?’

‘I dumped his stuff back at her doors and locked them in. I think they’ll be alright.’

‘And you?’

‘About as good as you feel right now.’ Cassian poured them both a drink of whiskey. He’d necked his back before Rhys had even raised his glass. ‘We wouldn’t have worked. I know that. But the thought of Nesta being with another male… It hurts and makes me angry still, but it’s Az, Rhys. I can’t imagine anyone who would love a female like he would. I know that Nesta will be loved and he won’t ever hurt her like another male might. You should have seen him on that roof. It was like when he first came to your house. I couldn't see him like that again.’

‘You’re doing a noble thing, Cass. It’s not easy for you. We all deserve to find our happiness.’

Cassian scratched his neck, wings tucking in tight. ‘Just wish I wasn’t such an asshole and nearly ruined it for both of them.’

***

A different side of Cassian had emerged. Azriel refused to talk about what had happened between them when he’d returned to the House of Wind. Nesta wouldn’t pry. Not everything needed to be shared. Nobody had been bruised or bloodied. Nobody had been stabbed either. She’d leave their conversation in the dark. The general insisted that he wanted to have a conversation with the rest of the inner circle to ensure they were all on the same page. It couldn’t have been easy for him to admit defeat. But he had. He had conceded to Azriel. It had been months of pain and sneaking and light stepping but with Cassian’s approval, everything felt better. They no longer felt like an illicit affair. They walked the streets of Velaris easier without a shadow looming over them.

They vowed to each other that they would not be parted again. The pessure put on Nesta had been to much, but Azriel would help her to carry it. And hopefully, that pressure would never come again.

A dinner had been held on the first good evening of Spring. Not a single person made one derisive comment towards them. Cassian had been cracking jokes endlessly seemingly unbothered by their proximity to him. Out of respect, Nesta and Azriel didn’t put on the same public displays as Feyre and Rhys were fond of doing. It wasn't either of them anyway. They were content with linked fingers in public.

Nobody commented on Amren’s absence except Azriel – from the tight expressions of the others, what she had said to Nesta was known to them. If Azriel knew then Amren would likely be hunted him by him, not just for what those words had done to Nesta but what they had likely done to Feyre and Rhys too. Maybe one day she’d be back, but for now, it seemed that Amren was holed up in the Summer Court with Varian despite her dislike of hot weather.

The dinner was as nice as it could possibly be. Nesta tried as hard as she could to be more than civil with Cassian, exchanging the odd laugh and trying not to argue with him when he made a stupid comment.

Azriel was tense through it all though, on edge that another cruel comment might come their way, but Mor held her tongue throughout. He was reluctant to spend any significant amount of time with his family, still jaded by their behaviour. He did his role still, but socialising was kept to a minimum. Shadows flickered around him during the main course as a sign of his growing anxiety, but they had a brief reprise when Nesta’s nose bled at the dinner table.

‘That’s the second time this week,’ Azriel murmured as he handed her another wad of tissue. He perched on the edge of the bath while she sat on the closed-lidded toilet.

‘You seemed uncomfortable. This was all planned to give you a break.’

Nesta peeled the tissue away but the blood still came.

‘Pinch the bridge harder.’

‘You want to go home?’

It was usually the other way round with Azriel offering Nesta an out. It would take Azriel a long time to forgive them fully – but it was their own mistake that his loyalty had slipped. ‘I can manage another hour.’

‘Ice cream by the Sidra on the way?’

Azriel mussed up her hair. ‘Whatever you want.’

When the day came for the bond to be severed weeks later, nobody tried to talk Nesta out of it. There were no suggestions of Cassian losing his mind or that she was cruel beyond belief. Whatever Cassian had said, made them hold their tongues. It annoyed her that they hadn’t listened to Azriel - or her - but at least they stopped interfering now.

It was a private affair - and remarkably casual. In the large lounge of the House of Wind, Helion had been welcomed in. The wraiths had laid out a spread of food as if it were a party so Nesta nibbled on a wedge of cheese while the high lord explained the process. Cassian sat on her right, his leg jiggling with anticipation. It was an energy that made her nervous as a result. On her left, Azriel held her free hand. The shadow singer remained as a statue, calming and stoic.

Whilst the others had wanted to be present, Cassian had said it wasn’t their business and waved them off. They listened. She was thankful for that. It was a kindness that she would not have asked for.

‘We are certain? I can’t reverse it once I sever it.’

Azriel stiffened beside her. He’d never pushed her into this, had let her lead and choose her own path. Nesta was choosing him. She tightened her grip a fraction of an inch on his fingers. There was no other for her. They would never be parted again.

‘Get it over with Helion and I’ll take you to Rita’s tonight. I’ll be your wing male.’

Helion tossed Cassian a charming wink. He had explained to them that he’d have to tease out the bond in order for it to be broken. They remained frozen while Helion spoke to his magic. It curled around them in a faint wisp like a cloud that grow thicker with each passing second then Nesta felt it. A bond tying her to Cassian. There was no doubt now that they were mates. She could feel him on the other end, his sorrow and distress that it was about to break. Nesta could hardly bear it. She gripped Azriel’s hand tighter, needing to reassure herself that this was the right thing.

And then it was gone.

A strange coldness washed over Nesta. She groped for that bond that had twined between them, finding it completely absent. Not as if it had never been there, but as if there was a hole in the ground where a tree had been ripped free. A missing tooth in a gum that her tongue still searched for. A scale from a fish that had scraped away.

From the corner of her eye, Nesta noticed that Cassian looked pale and drawn. Bonds affected males more for a reason that had never been explained. Nesta knew the others would rally around him at least with a wild night at Rita’s planned to soften the blow. He would be well taken care of.

‘Will you give us a moment?’

The suggestion terrified Azriel. It was a protectiveness that Nesta adored because she knew he would do anything to take care of her. She had never had to doubt his loyalty. In Cassian’s presence, she was too afraid to kiss Azriel so, again, she squeezed his fingers in reassurance.

‘I’ll be outside the room.’

Helion departed with him, slinging a bare, muscled arm around Azriel’s shoulder for good measure.

Nesta held Cassian’s hand. Her own was dwarfed by his. It was rough and calloused.

‘How do you feel?’

It was a terrible question, but Nesta didn’t know what to say otherwise. They had never really had a casual conversation. It had always been sweeping gestures of grandeur or barbed and vicious exchanges as they circled the other. There had been no middle ground for them, never a chance to be friends before anything more.

‘Awful,’ he admitted.

Nesta swallowed. This was only the beginning. In the library, there were accounts of bonds being severed and the males never did fare well - but their story was different. They would still see each other. Still have to interact. Only time would tell how that would be.

‘I’m sorry, Cassian.’

‘I lost my chance.’ His hand slid over hers as his other came to cradle it too. They locked around hers like a clam protecting a pearl. ‘I wish you both happiness. I will try to be better for both of you.’ He gave her a pointed look. ‘For all of you.’

There was a long pause where Nesta stopped breathing.

‘Does he know?’

Nesta felt heat crawl up her chest as she shook her head.

‘I could feel through the bond, Nes. How far along are you?’

‘Nearly two months.’

It was unexpected albeit their own foolish fault. When Azriel had been injured, he hadn’t taken his contraceptive tea. They’d thought nothing of it. Hadn’t realised for days. They just carried on as normal until Nesta had the odd wave of nausea then nosebleeds. She’d sought a healer at Azriel’s insistence who surprised her with the news that she was pregnant. She’d told him it had just been a viral infection, gone in a few days, while she processed it.

‘Congratulations,’ Cassian said with a gentle nudge in the rib. ‘He will be over the moon. You’re happy?’

‘I am, yes.’

Nesta was uncertain how to move forwards. She’d been intent on leaving to the Summer Court so that his family could have Azriel back and things would be good again for them. If she’d have set up a life in Summer then inevitably discovered she was pregnant, Nesta knew she couldn’t raise a child alone. She’d have sought assistance from a healer.

Now, things had shifted. They were building a future together and a baby - though early - was what Nesta had always wanted. If Azriel didn’t feel the same way then she didn’t know what they would do.

‘Please don’t tell him.’

‘Lips are sealed, sweetheart. You might want to tell him before he can scent it though.’

‘Urgh. Faeries and your senses. How long do I have?’

‘By about ten weeks the babe is usually detected.’

Maybe there would still be instincts buried in Cassian that meant he’d want to protect her rather than possess her. Protect her child too.

The idea of a baby both terrified and delighted Nesta. She’d tried not to think too much about it in case she grew attached and it wasn’t supposed to be. But she had wanted to be a mother for so long. Had dreamed of being the mother she never had for herself. Twenty-four was a perfectly acceptable age to be a mother as a mortal; in fact, her mother would be having kittens over the fact Nesta hadn’t yet wed or become a mother.

‘Will you keep it a secret?’

Cassian nodded earnestly. ‘It’s not my news to share. I promise you, I will be better.’

***

Nesta was subdued following the severance of the bond. Azriel wasn’t sure what he’d expected really, perhaps something visual to signify it truly being broken. For him, he’d seen and felt nothing. At one point, Nesta’s hand had gripped his painfully tight and her face had gone slack then minutes later Helion announced it was done.

Did she regret it already? Nesta had chosen him over a bond blessed by the Cauldron. All he could offer was his heart though that wasn’t always good or whole.

Suggestions of visiting the tavern that evening were squashed. Nowhere that he offered did she want to go to – not even to see his mother - so Azriel winnowed into the city to bring back mountains of cake and pastries for Nesta instead. It raised a small smile and she departed the bedroom to join him in the living room. Devlon greeted Nesta with a leap onto her lap, a tail swish in her face, then skittered away after a shadow.

‘Do you want to talk about what happened at the House of Wind?’

‘No.’

He’d offered her the choice and had to respect it even if his own insecurities were catching fire within.

‘You’re not hurt or regretting it?’

Regretting me, he wanted to ask. Cassian had an infectious joy, he was better at getting along with others. There was a confidence to him that put other males to shame. He wasn’t like Azriel with his many issues. He could manage a fire without having to bolster himself up to go near it. Cassian didn’t have a constant fear of not being good enough or not doing enough.

Nesta moved from the chair to him. A thigh came down either side of him as she settled in his lap. Grey eyes searched his face. He felt as if all of his mistakes were under examination.

‘I love you. Don’t ever doubt that.’

The following day, Azriel took Nesta to the furthest edge of the city. He’d hoped to take her after the bond had been severed, but her mood hadn’t allowed it.

A large white house stood alone amongst the trees. The owner had passed away a few years earlier so the house had sat untouched since.

Azriel showed her the garden first that was slowly coming to life in the Spring. It was overgrown in parts with weeds tangling over the path. The Sidra flowed nearby and a stream broke off from it, running through the garden. He held her hand to lead her over the little, stone bridge and show her the boundary of the garden where fruit trees were.

‘This is ours,’ he said gently.

Her mouth dropped open in surprise.

‘I thought here we could build something for you so you can read your books outside near this stream.’

Azriel led Nesta through the rooms of the house, offering his ideas of what they could do with them. The kitchen had a massive stove so they could cook together and there was space in the back door to cut a flap for Devlon to come and go. He’d enjoy terrorising the birds in the garden too.

Much of the paint needed a new coat and there were a few cracks that needed patching. She followed him up the stairs, smiling at the size of the bath that would fit both of them in comfortably.

‘And this would be our room because it’s the biggest. It looks out over the garden and you can see the mountains in the distance. But there’s a room at the front if you wanted to see the city.’

There was another bedroom that he would reserve for his mother. Azriel was certain that with enough pleading from him and Nesta that she would come to visit.

‘This room,’ he said gesturing to the one beside theirs with a curved window and a seat carved beneath it, ‘Could be a nursery in the future. If you wanted. There’s no rush. Just if, one day, we wanted a baby. The sun filters in during the evening so we could have a rocking chair to read to a baby. It’s next to ours. But I’m not hurrying anything along. I just. I know you’ll be a good mother.’

His words had come out rushed and uneven. It was odd to give them a voice. Azriel had never thought any female would want to settle with someone like him. Now it was a reality. A female who loved him, all of him, even his shadows.

‘You didn’t take your tea when you were injured.’

Laughing, he said, ‘Not bleeding out was my priority. It was just a couple of days. I’m back on it so there’s no pressure. I’m not expecting a baby in the next ten years. But one day, I would really like it.’

Nesta had gone pale. He’d thought she would love the house. He had expected an initial reaction of pure excitement that they had a home together. It needed work but that meant they could change it together into the home they wanted. Neither of them had really had a proper home they’d chosen for themselves.

‘You don’t like it?’

His hope was slipping, crashing back to the earth with speed.

The crack in Nesta’s voice killed him. ‘I do like it.’

He drew her to him. She was trembling and he couldn’t figure out why. Maybe the house reminded her of the mortal one she had once lived. Why had he purchased it without consulting Nesta first? It wasn’t like him to rush in without thinking. They should have chosen a house together.

‘What’s wrong? I can’t fix it if I don’t know what’s hurting you.’ The fear that always lingered in the back of his mind pushed to the surface. ‘You don’t want me anymore?’

Maybe it was too soon. He knew he could be intense and always wanted more. Maybe he’d scared Nesta with his forwardness and talk of a child. Azriel had never been good at moving slowly. It was everything or nothing.

‘Of course, I do.’ She inhaled deeply, one of her tells that she was anxious. ‘I’m so scared.’

‘Of Cassian? There will be wards and-’

‘No. Azriel.’ Nesta pressed her face into his chest to make a muffled noise of distress. ‘I am pregnant.’

‘Pregnant? With a baby?’

Nesta stared at him with exasperation. ‘What else?’

It took him a moment to process it. His dreams of a child arrived far quicker than he’d imagined. Nesta waited nervously, her hands wringing together in front of her. The faded yellow paint on the wall turned golden in the sunset. They wouldn’t put the crib there. It would need to be on the opposite wall. Girl or boy, it didn’t matter. He found himself liking the yellow paint because it reminded him of sunshine. He thought of all the shells that Nesta had collected in Summer and imagined them around the window frame.

‘Azriel?’

He snapped back to reality. The biggest smile he’d ever worn cracked onto his face. ‘We’re having a baby.’

Reverently, his scarred hand brushed against Nesta’s abdomen. It was flat with no sign of any bump likely to come for a few months, but he was already imagining it. Love swelled within his chest. He had made mistakes. Done things he regretted. But this, this he would do right. Azriel would be the best father he possibly could – the best partner to Nesta.

‘You want this? You’re sure?’

‘I want you most of all.’ Azriel made a noise of pure joy as he lifted Nesta into the air and span her around in the room. His mother would definitely make the trip to Velaris. ‘We’re having a baby,’ he repeated.

Nesta’s smile was real and relieved. His hand stroked against her stomach again. Once without protection would have been incredible luck, but the night after he’d been stabbed, they’d made love over and over brought together by near tragedy. Perhaps it was meant to be. Either way, Azriel didn’t care. His joy could never be tamped down. He had waited a long time for love and found it with the most unexpected person. Azriel and the love of his life would have their golden sky, with their child too.

@misteryhen @wannawriteyouabook @rarephloxes @loysydark @theleafpile @chosenfamily-valkyriequeens

I've griped in the past at how quickly feysand had a baby, but I feel like Nesta always expected to be a mother and a wife quite young and would still want that despite no longer being mortal. I also imagine that Azriel is terrified by fatherhood but it will help him to realise that he is loved and valued. Both of them had poor relationships with their parental figure so will love a baby in the way they were denied. (it's also fan fiction so i love mama nesta). I hope you enjoyed and as I said, an epilogue is coming soon!

#nesta vs the buffer #nezriel

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hanniiesuckle17 · 3 years

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Blue Skies Chapter 34: I’m Just Kidding

A/n: so I know this is not Saturday and I will still update this Saturday! I promise! but nothing else in my drafts Is near ready for posting and i feel like I've got to post something in honor of reaching the 3k milestone! so here is this chapter- I know its a surprise sorry! also the next chapter will be the last one T.T If you guys want a little epilogue let me know! Tag List is Open <3

Tag List: @woodiegochile @mini-meanhoe @leggomylino @hanstagrams @desertofdessert @hoes4hoseok @jeonqqin @geminirules @mrsunshine999 @jisungsjheekies @hannie-squirrel00 @cotccotc @kodzu-ken @konenichi @yangs-jeongin @binniebutter @orangegyu @little-precious-baby

Blue Skies TL: @etherealyoonghwa @yoheyyosup @too-becontinuedside @gayliljoong @empenguin01 @hannahdinse8 @moon8894 @r000l @vxvshoshi @cloudy-yoongi @chaoticenergyradiating @meowtella @rawrrainn @pikacuuuuuuu @sunwooyoung @haseulreturns @xuxiable @tremendousminyoongi @skkrtnawrskkrt @a-teez-4-exo @nichmeddar

Summary: Y/n and Hongjoong were only acquaintances in college. They were on the same dance team but never crossed paths until one day both took notice of the other. One magical night after a party resulted in Y/n leaving with a guilty and angry conscience and surprisingly a blue stick. Three years later, Hongjoong is a hit producer and Y/n is a successful single mom. What happens when their paths cross yet again?

Warnings: cursing

WC: 1k

☁

Y/n’s POV

The sound of the metal camper door slamming open turned your attention to the trailer. Hongjoong found a really nice place that overlooked a rocky beach and Jongho volunteered to rent a camper and some tents big enough for your whole group. Your son was running down the steps with Wooyoung trailing behind him with a playful and devilish grin.

“WOOYOUNG! LANGUAGE!”

Minjun giggled and ran all around the campsite the other boys and Luna had just finished setting up. The sun was about to set, orange creeping up the edge of the blue skyline. Everything finally felt...peaceful. All your friends were around you and the smell of the salted waves was floating through the air. After so much drama it was nice to just relax. A fire that Yunho and Mingi made was crackling with life, embers floating up into the sky like fireflies.

Hongjoong was whispering with Seonghwa near the stairs that led down to the rocky beach. Their eyes occasionally glance around, falling on you a couple of times. It seemed like everyone was casting small looks your way every now and then.

A soft breeze blew Hongjoong’s dyed locks away from his face. He tucked something into his pocket before patting your brother on the back and making his way towards you.

“Vacation looks good on you, my love.” His voice was soothing in your ear

His arms wrapped around your waist, pulling you against his chest. “Well, it’s the first one I’ve been on in years.”

“I’ll make sure to change that.” For a moment your boyfriend was silent, choosing to rest his head on your shoulder and watch everyone happily move about your little campsite glowing under fairy light Luna hung up. “Hey...do you wanna take a little walk on the beach?”

After a little nod from you, Hongjoong wrapped his hand over yours and led you down the wooden stairs on the dark almost black rocks fading into the ocean. The music from the radio faded as you walked closer to the water Hongjoong’s touch was comforting and warm.

The two of you stood in silence standing side by side looking out at the bay. Occasionally his shoulder would brush yours sending a gentle shiver down your spine and blush to your cheeks.

You both turned to look at each other and opened your mouths as if to speak. Hoongjoong laughed and motioned for you to go first. “Do you know how much I love you?” You asked making Hongjoong look away shyly.

“I can guarantee it isn’t as much as I love you.”

You couldn’t help but laugh, pulling your hand away to cover your smile. “I doubt that. I love you so much you could wrap my love around the world five times.”

“Oh yeah? My love would reach fifteen times.”

“I love you so much that I would always give you the last piece of barbeque. Even if it's juicy and perfect.”

“I love you so much that I wanna marry you,” Hongjoong said stuffing his hands in his pockets.

The look on his face made you unsure of whether or not he was serious. He stared at you with such a loving intensity that you almost thought you could drown in his eyes. You coughed- turning to look out at the sun setting over the water. “

Sensing your hesitance Hongjoong looked down before raising his head to the horizon. “If I asked you to marry me...what would you say?”

“Well, you aren’t asking me to marry you so- Hongjoong....Hongjoong?”

Turning you saw him looking down at his hands. His fingers were playing with a little black box. A little black box with a very clear meaning. He didn’t even have to open it. It suddenly became very hard to swallow- a lump forming in your throat.

“It would be a waste of a nice ring if I didn’t.” A small nervous smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. He took a breath before turning to you fully. Hongjoong pulled the box open with a little click, revealing a simple but elegant ring. “Y/n L/n. I love you-”

“Yes.”

“Babe-” He laughed, looking up at the camp for a moment before back to you. “You’ve got to let me ask the question.”

“Well ask the question faster please!”

“Will you marry me?”

“No,”

“What-”

“I’m just kidding. Fuck yes! Of course, I’ll marry you!”

Hongjoong wrapped you in his arms, pressing his lips to yours. Your hands moved to touch his chest but you knocked against his hand. The two of you immediately broke apart and the ring and the box went tumbling out of his hand dangerously close to the water. “OH MY GOD GRAB IT!” The two of you scrambled to catch it before it fell off the rocks and into the water.

Your boyfriend- now fiance- stood triumphantly, ring in hand. “Yeeeeaahhhh!” Someone cheered and laughed from the shore. The voice was undoubtedly Wooyoung’s. His arm still raised in the air you turned his cheek to kiss him deeply again.

“HEY, NEWLY ENGAGED COUPLE! GET BACK UP HERE WE WANT TO EAT!” San yelled down from the hill.

“SOME OF US WANT TO GET OUR FUCKING DRINK ON TOO!” Wooyoung screamed from his friend’s side. You saw Luna discreetly cover Minjun’s ears and shoot Wooyoung a scolding glare.

Hongjoong took your hand in his, slipping the ring onto your finger. Your son ran down to meet you on the rocks, jumping into his father’s arms. “Daddy, they have barbeque up there!” He squealed in excitement.

With a smirk, Hongjoong picked up his son before reaching for your hand and leading the two of you back to your group’s camp. “I’m holding you to that last piece of meat thing, baby.”

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sarahjtv · 2 months

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Thank you, My Hero Academia

Today, August 4th in the West and August 5th in the East, the My Hero Academia or Boku No Hero Academia manga has finally ended after 10 years of serialization in Weekly Shonen Jump with 430 chapters total.

It still doesn't feel real, but it is. I finished reading the final chapter a little over an hour ago and I can say that I am very happy with this ending. The only real complaint I have now is that I wish Horikoshi gave us more chapters for the epilogue to give us more content. The 5 chapter epilogue we got was definitely rushed in some parts, but we should still be blessed we got those 5 chapters at all because I cannot tell you how many times mangaka shortened their epilogues to 1-2 chapters, and then that's it. Apparently he has a lot of pages left in the final Volume to fill in, so we’ll see if Horikoshi will expand on things when it releases in early December. For how it was as a final chapter, it's was near perfect.

Having Izuku become a teacher at UA was a great alternative to becoming a Pro Hero after the embers of OFA faded away. Teachers inspire their students to strive forward and follow their dreams. If he wasn't going to be a Pro Hero, being a teacher at his Alma Mata is a great consolation prize. Thankfully, that dream of Izuku's didn't die.

Izuku did so much for the world and the people around him for that 1+ year that it was going to give something good back to him somehow. Though it took 8 years, thanks to his friends supporting him all the way through, he is able to continue living his dream as a Hero with his friends by his side. Considering the fact that All Might's Iron Might suit cost most of his fortune, I gotta wonder how much it cost to make Izuku's support suit. Shoto, Momo, and Iida are all rich thanks to their family's inheritance, but I'm sure everyone else had to save up a shit ton of cash to get this project done ESPECIALLY BAKUGO! I'm glad they got there in the end anyway.

And seeing our beloved kids as adults (I think they're 24-25 now) leading the way for a better world is so satisfying to see. I love all their upgraded looks and outfits too! I hope we get more details about them in the upcoming Fan Book and Art Book next year! Honestly, I'm going to miss this entire cast even Mineta of all people. Horikoshi clearly put a lot of love and care into each one of his characters no matter how small of a role they played. I saw these kids and even adults grow into amazing people and heroes for the better part of the last decade and saying goodbye to them is like saying goodbye to a good friend.

Despite its problems, this story will always hold a special place in my heart. It was a beacon of hope for me over the past 6-ish years and I'd argue that it saved my life when my life was in the pits. It still is today in a way. I can't give My Hero Academia an honest rating without bias kicking in hard, but I think this is one of the best manga that Shonen Jump had to offer. I'm so glad Horikoshi got to end his story on his own terms and ended up being one of THE most successful mangaka in modern WSJ. He deserves everything good that ever comes to him. Please don't ruin that for us, sir lol.

Regardless, thank you, Kohei Horikoshi. Thank you for telling this incredibly special story of a young boy who became the greatest hero and how everyone can be a hero Quirkless or not. I will forever be grateful for what you brought to me and I will cry happy tears as I say goodbye. I hope you take a long, deserving break for now. I look forward to whatever you have in store for this world next.

#my hero acedamia #boku no academia #mha 430 #bnha 430 #izuku midoriya #deku #kohei horikoshi #finale #final chapter #thank you #thank you for everything #goodbye for now #I will miss you #weekly shonen jump #manga #congratulations #*happy crying*#🥲

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thoughtfullyrainynightmare · 3 years

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I can't believe it's been 10 months (according to tumblr!) since you first published the first chapter of Embers of Sun and Flame! And look at the journey - Solara went from a foreigner to a person with technically a second family in another nation, from watching over an injured man to marrying him! They've gone through a lot, and with the battles of Spade ahead, they'll likely still go through a lot...but they have each other!! And that is so sweet, just like the maple leaf 🥰🥰 The Tree of Binding Fates was a very nice way to end the story, I was so excited we finally got to see it!

Leaving the politics and war on the background and just having each other there ❤️

It's been an incredible journey and I want to thank you so sososososo much for sharing it with us!! Reading it has been a blast and sometimes an emotional rollercoaster (forging trust in a relationship can be an uphill-downhill sometimes 😭) but above all: it's been so sweet and so fun ❤️

I can't wait for more when you feel ready to write again, whether it is someone else's story or Solara's 😁❤️

I know! 😭 I think A03 claims the first chapter to have been published on 29th of November 2020, so a bit over 10 months ago, and 240k later, it's done (well, after editing and the epilogue).

It really was a journey. For her and for myself. And I'm still living it because of editing, and in a way, I suppose, I'm only now going through the journey, because I'm reading it through as a reader. At least more so than a writer. And I want to shake them. I want to slap them. And I want to scream at them from time to time, because it's an emotional journey for me too.

I'm really glad that you liked the ending! I felt that the story wouldn't be completed without the Binding Ritual, with all the talk about fate and being fated. But all else that could have followed from there, the wedding, politics, dealing with people, I didn't feel that it really would have added to the story as it was. Because they're together now. And that was the story. It is about them finding each other, working out their differences, and choosing to be together despite those differences. And it's something they'll need to do again and again, because Spade is up ahead. But with each thing that comes their way, the stronger they'll be afterwards.

I'm extremely happy that you like the story!! I can't stress that enough. I really can't. And hearing that it's been a fun journey, despite all the turmoil, means sososoosososo much to me! 😭🥺💕

It depends on who I'll pick as my next characters to write for. Even if I really do want to write for Lara still. I want to give her a family of her own, but since that happens around Spade arc, or after it, I need to wait.

And suppose I don't know what it'll be about. Though... with Embers I was aiming to write about love, I suppose, but I feel like it ended up being a book about something else as well. I just can't quite put my finger on it.

I'm just rambling at this point, but I just need to say: Thank youuuu!!! For reading, for commenting, and.. y'know, appreciating the story! 💖💖💖

#talk about embers of sun and flame #Sun #sister in law #lovely mutuals

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firelordzukohere · 4 years

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Interior Décor- Epilogue

Hello! I’m sorry I uploaded late! I planned to post this yesterday, but it was a busy weekend! But, it’s here! I really hope you like this and it gives you an ending you appreciate.

I’m now opening requests. If there’s something you’d like to see, maybe related to Zuko and (Y/N) or anyone else, please feel free to send me an ask with a request or a prompt! I will gladly try and take a shot at it!!

Finally, I’d like to genuinely thank everyone for everything. Every single like, reblog, comment, and ask just seriously makes this so much better! I truly appreciate everyone in this fandom and I love each and every one of you!

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Zuko X Fem!Reader

Warnings: Fluff, Slight Aangst(heh), and some implications

Word Count: 4k

Summary: Iroh felt it was time for the Palace to reflect the time of Peace and Love that Zuko promised five years earlier at his coronation. He takes it upon himself to hire an interior decorator to help his nephew out and work together. What he didn’t expect was for Zuko to possibly find his own peace and love in the process.

Chapter 4: Trompe l’oeil >> Epilogue

"When the world is at odds and the mind is at sea, then cease the useless tedium, and brew a cup of tea," a familiar voice whispered behind her, breaking her from her thoughts as she stared at the mural on the wall of the shop. Turning to him, she smiled and accepted the cup of tea he held out for her. He winked at her before turning to examine everything else going on around them. Following his lead, she watched the people within the shop mingle and enjoy their tea.

The grand opening of the Jasmine Dragon Fire Nation location was in full swing. After Iroh had bought the property in the middle ring of the nation, he hired (Y/N) on to decorate the place from top to bottom. It had taken a couple weeks as there was some structural and code issues.

Now the establishment was a beautiful, grand tea shop with hand painted murals of dragons, intricately carved out pillars, quaint seating, and the smell of tea filling every corner.

"Where do you get this stuff, Iroh?" She giggled after taking a sip of her tea. Iroh smiled to himself as he stared at his customers seemingly enjoying themselves in the brand new store.

"All old people know the perfect proverb or sentiment to say," he teased, "it comes with the age." (Y/N) let out a hearty laugh and nodded her head, accepting his claim. "This place looks wonderful, dear," the general complimented. "Your hard work has definitely paid off."

(Y/N) blushed and took another drink of tea to hide the warmth on her face. "It's your hard work General Iroh, the Fire Nation has come along way thanks to you and the Fire Lord, you both deserve success." It was Iroh's turn to blush, now.

"Speaking of my nephew, I thought he would be here with you?"

It had been exactly a year since Zuko and (Y/N) had stopped being idiots and had gotten together. They spent as much free time as they could with each other. Dinners were often spent in the garden, which the turtle ducks enjoyed due to getting spare bread chunks. Days off from the throne and decorating were usually done walking through the city in street clothes enjoying the public and the lack of advisors and guards breathing down their necks. Some holidays were spent visiting his friends in their Nations, getting to know them. After their first meeting, which was simultaneously a mess and a success, (Y/N) couldn't get enough of the GAang and insisted to always be around whenever they visited or Zuko went to visit them.

The easiest of the four to get along with was Aang, obviously since he was kind to everyone, followed by Toph who appreciated her blunt comments, closely behind was Sokka who enjoyed playing pranks on the rest with her and her sarcastic comments, but the hardest to break was Katara. Katara was protective of Zuko and she didn't want anyone to try and take advantage of the Fire Lord.

It took (Y/N) four months to convince Katara that she wasn't with Zuko for the fame and status. It had been a process but she came out victorious when Katara began sending her letters often and ended up being her closest friend of the group.

They would all tell her how apparent it was that Zuko loved her. The way he would look at her, talk about her, or even how he'd be around her.

The two had grown together over the last year.

(Y/N) learned that Zuko needed care and words of affirmation to reassure him that she was still there for him. He enjoyed cuddling and affection, which was something that was apparently new to him according to the group, as he wasn't much like that with Mai other than a few kisses here and there. Learning what kind of day he was having just based off of the way his eyes were set or how his shoulders felt, sometimes how he kissed her said it all. It was the rough days that she knew he needed extra care and she'd try to make him laugh, or show him extra attention.

Zuko discovered quickly that (Y/N) was very easy going. She went with the flow on his busy schedule, never complaining about not being able to see each other and she was always there for him whenever he needed it. Her strong attitude and demeanor to get everything done thoroughly and thoughtfully, while also compassionately was exactly what he wanted in a future Fire Lady. She still cared a lot what people thought of her, definitely having a people pleaser attitude, he figured came with the job of working with interior décor, but she had been working on it a lot since the start of their relationship, especially after the rumors grew about her possibly getting the Palace job to sleep with the Fire Lord. The rumors had been shut down quickly, especially after the people began to see how desperately in love with (Y/N), Zuko was. Soon enough, the people of the Fire Nation adored her and Zuko couldn't have been happier about it.

Now, after a year, they couldn't image their lives any other way. Zuko was finishing up big projects with Aang on making the world peaceful, and (Y/N) had several clients, including General Iroh, who were eager for her to work her magic on their interiors.

(Y/N) was definitely in a wonderful place in her life, and she couldn't help but smile and think about the man who she loved so much, causing Iroh to grin in return at the look on her face.

"He's in a council meeting, apparently he had some business with them that just couldn't wait," she teased, "he said he'd be here after."

"Knowing my nephew, it must be important, he'd come up with any reason not to meet with the Sages," Iroh chuckled. "I'm going to brew some more tea, take care of yourself dear." He said before making his way to the back.

The party was packed, people from all over the nation came to see the notorious General Iroh's brand new tea shop in the Fire Nation. She'd seen several familiar faces and some new ones. It was nice to watch as people admired her decor and the hard work she had put into making the perfect place for Iroh.

At one point, a woman walked up to her, with an apparent nervous look on her face, "Excuse me? Are you the Palace decorator?" The woman asked, causing (Y/N) to internally roll her eyes. T

hat was a new title Iroh and Zuko came up with to tease her. It had caught on quickly that Zuko had begun dating the Palace decorator and that was officially her title to anyone who wasn't in on the joke. While it helped with the business, it definitely annoyed her to think that people only wanted her because she had the official title.

"I did decorate the Palace, yes," she responded the same as she did for everyone who asked her.

"You did this place too, correct?" The woman said, gesturing to the tea shop. "As well as Captain Yuzai's home?"

"Yes, I did both," (Y/N) beamed proudly.

"I was wondering, I have a home in Ba Sing Se that just does not feel comfortable to me, would we be able to discuss the possibility of you going out there and updating it for me?"

"Absolutely! I have another possible job in Ba Sing Se, so to do both at the same time would be simple enough!" The woman grinned in return before giving her, her address in the Fire Nation and setting up a meeting next week.

Watching the woman walk away, (Y/N) couldn't help but smile before she gasping as someone covered her eyes with their hands.

"You look beautiful tonight," he whispered in her ear before moving his hands away. Turning to look at the Fire Lord, (Y/N) blushed. "I'm sorry I'm late. I hope Uncle doesn't hate me too much." She shook her head with a giggle.

"You know he could never hate you!" She chastised before standing up and pressing her lips to his scar affectionately. "I'm glad you're here. How was your meeting?" Zuko's body tensed. "That bad, huh?"

He brushed a strand of (Y/H/C) from her face and shook his head, "it was good, we got everything done, properly. I don't want to talk about some boring old men though, I'd much rather you and I smile a bit, mingle and then go back to the Palace and have a proper dinner." His lips pressed to hers, immediately warming her body with his affection.

"Mmm... I'm not sure" she pulled back slightly and smiled, "I'm having so much fun here. I've been getting new job offers and I think I heard Iroh brought ice cream from the Water Tribe," she teased. "You'll have to do some real convincing to get me to go back with you."

Zuko chuckled, "if you come back with me, I can convince you much more thoroughly" his voice low and raspy. (Y/N)'s cheeks burned and she looked down at the cup in her hand, attempting to gain control of her brain and her body. "Plus, I have a present for you." Her attention whipped right to him and she frowned, her brows furrowed deeply and her lip pouted out just barely.

"No! We promise we weren't going to do presents! I thought we agreed to wait until you were on your leave and go to Ember Island and that would be our present to each other!" Zuko rested his hand on her elbow and shook his head.

"It's not that kind of present, just trust me," he whispered, attempting to reassure her. "We're still going to Ember Island in the summer. Just you and me." He pecked her nose gently. She let out a breath and nodded her head. The one thing she could do was trust him. "I love you," he whispered before pressing his lips gently to her forehead, "Now let's go mingle so I can take you back to the palace, the turtle ducks are hungry." He teased making (Y/N) let out a giggle.

"We’d be horrible parents if we left those poor dears starving," she winked before following him toward a group of people to talk with.

People fawned over Zuko, like they always did, and he accepted it with such humility. Instead of allowing people to talk about him and his accomplishments as a young Fire Lord, he would turn the discussion on others, asking them about their businesses, their family, aspirations in life, all of it. He didn't just nod his head and deafly listen, instead he would ask questions about their answers, or follow up with a story of his own to relate, letting them know he was thoroughly listening to them. He was a caring Fire Lord and (Y/N) couldn't help but fall in love with him more and more. Zuko was a natural at being the lead of the Nation and she knew it had a lot to do with his past and what shaped him into the man he was today, the wonderful, compassionate, handsome man.

"So Fire Lord Zuko," one of the elderly woman interrupted a conversation about farming in the outer parts of the Fire Nation, "it has been almost a year hasn't it?" She asked, gesturing to (Y/N) and him. "Any thoughts about the future? You know those single women are getting restless about if this is serious or not." The woman winked and (Y/N)'s body stilled. She couldn't believe this woman was implying that their relationship wasn't serious. Zuko, seemed a bit taken aback by her question as well, clearing his throat several times.

"I'm not sure what that means, Ume," Zuko responded diplomatically, "I can assure you though, I will not be getting rid of Miss (Y/N) here, anytime soon," he wrapped his arm around her waist and tugged her closer, producing a blush onto her cheeks.

"Ah, young love," Ume fawned, "I'll have to tell my granddaughter that there's no chance then," she playfully pouted before turning her attention to the other ladies who were gushing over Zuko's declaration.

With the distraction, Zuko leaned toward (Y/N) pressing his lips to her ear, "let's find Uncle and then get out of here." She nodded desperately and allowed him to lead her toward the back of the shop, where Iroh was talking with one of his workers with delight.

"The earnings tonight will carry us into next month and we'll make a large profit in no time! Your hard work has been greatly appreciated, Iruna," Iroh complimented, "you can leave for the night, go enjoy your evening with your family." The woman bowed gratefully and rushed out the door before Iroh could change his mind. When the General caught Zuko's form in the corner of his eye, his smile grew, brightly. "Fire Lord Zuko!" He wrapped his nephew into a deep hug. When they released Zuko returned his arm to (Y/N)'s waist. "How did your meeting with the council go? Did you get their approval?" Zuko nodded his head and his Uncle grinned. "Wonderful! The future of the Fire Nation is looking bright!"

"Uncle, we were just coming over to give our congratulations. I'm going to go take (Y/N) to dinner at the Palace, if you don't mind." Iroh shook his head and began shooing them toward the door.

"Go enjoy your evening. One year together is a great feat for anyone, celebrate!"

With quick goodbyes and hugs, (Y/N) and Zuko made their way to the Palace. It was a nice evening out and neither complained about walking side by side back.

"I can't believe it's been a year," Zuko said after a few minutes of silence. "It feels like it's been a couple of weeks," he confessed. "I know I've been busy, but I feel like everything in the Palace is still so new since you changed it up. I'm still finding small details you've added, like the dragon carvings inside my wardrobe, or the flames painted inside of the sconces." (Y/N) smiled at her boyfriend.

"Good, that means I've done my job properly, each day should feel like a fresh one inside of your home." Zuko chuckled and pulled her closer as they walked. "I can't believe it's been a year either. So much has happened in such a little time. We went from client, decorator, to fighting the council on if I was a proper courtship for you, to dealing with the public about my true intentions, to meeting your friends, becoming friends with your friends, and now we're at a year." She reminisced. They had definitely hurdled over many obstacles in their relationship, but nothing stopped them from being together. There was never a doubt over their feelings for each other.

"I'm interested to see what our future looks like," Zuko's voice was soft. (Y/N) nodded and they returned to their comfortable silence as they walked toward the Palace.

When they arrived, Zuko had everything already prepared. Dinner in the garden was a sweet little picnic full of food. It was their favorite foods and desserts piled onto a maroon blanket placed nicely next to the pond. (Y/N) was ecstatic at the site and leaned over to her boyfriend, pecking him on the cheek affectionately before grabbing his hand and walking with him toward the spot.

After their dinner outside in their garden, (Y/N) was kneeled next to the pond, playing with the turtle ducks while Zuko walked around. She didn't say anything, but he seemed to be on edge after the food and she wondered if maybe something hadn't sat right with him. To help ease his tension, she tried humming a bit, pretending it was for the turtle ducks, when in fact, she knew he enjoyed her tunes as well. He had said it reminded him of his mother the first time he caught her doing it.

Zuko turned to look at her, while her attention was on the duck, he couldn't believe he was lucky enough to have been with such an amazing and beautiful woman. While he was annoyed at the question Ume had asked during the tea shop's opening, he was also grateful because it gave him a chance to set the boundary that (Y/N) wasn't going anywhere. He was in love with her.

"General Iroh's shop looked wonderful," he complimented her softly as he walked behind her, leaning against the tree that hung over the pond. She looked up at him and grinned before turning her focus back to the pond.

"Thank you, I'm glad you think so, I really hope people enjoy it and it helps Iroh's business out."

"People weren't able to keep their eyes off of the décor, (Y/N)," Zuko said, trying to let her know that she didn't have to be modest.

"I guess that's true…I did have a woman come up and ask me to take a job with her in Ba Sing Se, I already have a job there next month with that Nobleman's wife, I'm sure getting both done at once would be great." Her voice proud as she discussed her business, another thing Zuko couldn't help but adore about her. "However," her tone turned playful, "I could do without the 'Palace Decorator' silliness I keep hearing," she teased.

"That's what you are," he joked back, "no one else on this planet will ever be allowed to touch the Palace while I'm Fire Lord, I might as well let everyone know that now," he poked fun, "though, if you don't like that title…" he began, reaching into his pocket while she was still looking into the pond, "I'm sure a promotion is in order." He pulled out the object he had been carrying around all night, holding it just perfectly that the light glinted onto the golden surface.

Not seeing this action, (Y/N) snorted out a laugh, "A promotion? Oh come on Zuko, there's not much else I can get promoted to," she turned to look at him as she spoke, "other than the--" that's when her eyes caught the object in his hands and all words escaped her. Her mouth formed into an O, all amusement washed away.

"Fire Lady?" He asked, attempting to keep his voice level as he held up the royal headpiece typically worn by the Fire Lady.

(Y/N)'s eyes darted between Zuko and the crown, attempting to decipher if he was joking or not.

"Zuko, you can't be serious…" her voice low and filled with uncertainty as she spoke her thoughts out loud. He couldn't actually be implying this.

"Dead serious," he said, taking a step toward her, still holding the piece in his hand as he did. "I want to spend every day with you, go back to our room after a long day and relax with you, redecorate the Palace every single year with you, make fun of the Sages with you, dance every night with you,, all of it...with you." He whispered. "There's nothing I've been more sure of in my entire life. Which isn't saying much, since it's been filled with more than enough uncertainty, but you…" he finally reached her, "are the only certainty I've ever known."

"Me? Fire Lady?" She looked down at his chest, unable to focus on his molten eyes or the crown in his hand. "I…" All logic escaped her forcing her to dig through her mind and figure out a reason behind all of this. "The Sages, they'll never agree to it."

"They already did, this afternoon," his tone calm and collected. He knew this was a shock to her, it was a shock to him, but he had known that he wanted this since the first time she smiled at him and giggled.

"That's what your meeting was about?" Her eyes darted up to him, surprised at this revelation. It wasn't some meeting about the nation, it was to get their approval on her being Fire Lady. Then Iroh's words rang in her head.

Knowing my nephew, it must be important, he'd come up with any reason not to meet with the Sages.

How did your meeting with the council go? Did you get their approval?

The future of the Fire Nation is looking bright.

Iroh knew.

"(Y/N), am I just going to hold this thing all night, or are you going to say yes?" Zuko teased as he watched her try to reason through everything in her mind.

She took a deep breath and looked up at him. There wasn't a doubt in her mind that she loved this man more than anything in the world and here he was before her, asking her to spend the rest of his life with her. It was everything she had ever hoped, but still somehow felt like such a dream.

"You didn't ask me," she smiled up at him, her tone completely void of panic now.

"(Y/N), my love, my Palace decorator," he winked causing her to giggle, "marry me. Become the Fire Lady that this nation, this world, needs, the Fire Lady I need." Resting his forehead against hers, he smiled.

"Yes," she whispered and immediately his lips slanted over hers, pulling her into an intense kiss. After a few moments, they separated slightly, catching their breaths, when he placed the crown into the half topknot she had luckily decided to wear that day.

"I love you," he purred into her ear, before placing a chaste kiss on her temple.

"I love you too Fire Lord Zuko," she giggled, wrapping her arms around his neck.

"Fire Lord Zuko and Fire Lady (Y/N)," his goofy grin plastered across his face, "I like the sound of that." Before she could respond, Zuko captured her lips with his again.

(Y/N) couldn't help but think back to what Zuko had said earlier that night:

I'm interested to see what our future looks like.

She couldn't agree more.

Master List

Tag List: @royahllty @mangoberry43 @mrskeishasdead @taeeemin @blushbadger @shortmexicangirl @fire-lady-livi @jujugentle @nnon-it-up

#atla #atla fanfic #atla fanfiction #zuko x reader #zuko x fem!reader #zuko #Fire Lord Zuko #firelordzukohere #iroh #general iroh #x reader #x y/n #zuko x you #zuko x y/n #zuko fluff #atla fluff

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exciting · 4 years

Text

As requested, books / series I read in 2020 in the order I read them, with a few brief thoughts. (This took me a hot second because there are a few and also I moved cities) Should I keep a consistent goodreads? Yes I should but I didn’t think of that at the time, so bone apple teeth & sorry if I offend you abt your faves x

P.S. I can’t figure out how to do a read more on mobile so long post ahead!

A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J Maas - This is one of the most vivid published fantasy books I have ever read... I read it twice in rapid succession. The fandom POPS off. I must say I have issues with certain aspects e.g. fae lore completely ignored à la Twilight, all love interests 500+ years old and technically a different species, etc (I’m not going to deconstruct the entire series here but just know that I could... Nesta deserves better)

Cruel Prince by Holly Black - This fucking slaps, HB clearly has done her research, the lore is near immaculate, and it explores the Fae in such a unique way, tying it to the modern world subtly and seamlessly. My only qualm was that the books felt quite short; truly wish there had been more content.

Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas (6/7) - So basically I read this in one single, hyperfixated fit which meant I literally locked myself in my room for three days straight and read all six books back to back in a row from morning to the wee hours. Which is not to say it was spectacular; although it was a VERY rich world, sometimes it was too much... this felt like 6 stories in one. Ik she was young when she wrote this but it is my humble opinion that SJM needs a better editor & I personally think Rowan is a grade A asshole / straight up abusive (& personally think the ACOTAR Tamlin plot was born from that?). It’s good but not as good as ACOTAR. Skip-read the last book.

Grishaverse (Shadow and Bone) by Leigh Bardugo (3) - This is essential to read before SOC but was very much simply a YA fantasy book, although the world was cool and the way the love plot played out was, imo, a subtle middle finger to the fantasy trope. Felt very much aimed at younger readers though? Really liked the sandwhich structure of the Proluge and Epilogue, especially in #2

Six of Crows series by Leigh Bardugo (2) - INCREDIBLE continuation of Grishaverse, better than the original series by a mile. It has the range, the diversity, the representation (the male lead is a disabled asexual and still the most cunning of the entire cast of characters), the plot is phenomenal, and it manages such a well rounded plot in only two books which means nothing is stretched out or squeezed in more than need be. Deserves all the praise it gets.

King of Scars series by Leigh Bardugo (0.5/1) - Personally I don’t consider this book canon, and while it’s nice to see the rest of Nina’s journey & the world again & everyone else, I don't like it. I will, however, be reading book 2 when it comes out, so shame on me, I suppose.

Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo (1/1) - this was incredibly cool although it went off in a completely different direction than I thought it would based off the first few chapters? One of my favourite YA-author-debuts-New-Adult novels in 2020 though!

Crescent City by Sarah J Maas (1/1) - This was supposed to be SJM/s New Adult debut, although personally I would put her other series in New Adult, and I can’t say a remarkable amount was different with this except they said “fuck” and “ass” a lot. WHY is the romantic interest 500 years old AGAIN. I just... don’t... I just don’t think it was necessary... the world was cool though, and the last half of the book was riveting, but the beginning was quite slow and I thought the sword thing was predictable. I am interested to see where this goes though.

A Darker Shade of Magic by V.E. Schwab (3) - This world is so fucking cool... four Londons aka parallel universes & the one in ‘our’ world is set in industrial era London. Magic, girls dressing up as boys, thieves, pirates, royalty... it all just slaps. Schwab is an incredible writer & I was completely immersed.

Midnight Sun by SMeyer - I didn’t think anything could possibly detract even further from the Twilight story but I was sorely mistaken... seeing the stalking from Edward’s POV - and it was worse than depicted in Twilight, for the record - completely obliterated any sort of romance the first half of the original book may have portrayed. I still hold the opinion that the entire series would have been better if some kind of vampire lore had been abided by, if only to see all of the villains thwarted by someone dropping a bag of rice on the ground, forcing them to have to count them all.

An ember in the Ash by Sabaa Tahir (3/4) - This was just a very stereotypical ya fantasy series, emphasis on the YOUNG... it wasn’t anything to write home about but I remember quite enjoying it at the time.

The Power by Naomi Alderman - This book is FUCKING incredible and EXCEPTIONALLY thought provoking... essentially women alone develop a power of electric shock etc. and then take over the world from men, and it explores feminism and the balance between equality & tipping the scales in the other direction. Written by a friend of M.Atwood in a similar tone to handmaids tale, I would say? Content warning; there are some exceptionally graphic scenes in the latter half of the novel.

Hamlet by Wllm Shksp - I can’t believe it took me this long to finally read it but Ophelia is my favourite name in the entire world & we love to see a woman go batshit (although she didn’t deserve that).

Catherine House by Elisabeth Thomas - this was unsettling in the best sense of the word... it was a little slow & honestly more of a concept than a big reveal, but I couldn’t stop thinking about it after I finished it? A Secret History vibes but make it blurry like the memory of all those dystopian novels you read when you were young?

The Invisible Life of Addie La Rue by V.E. Schwab - This is without a doubt my book of the year, and probably the best book I read in 2020? I stayed up all night on a friend’s couch reading it, got a book hangover and reread the ending, and then thrust it upon my mother who doesn’t usually read but read this, and loved it just as much. HIGHLY recommend and you HAVE to read it, it’s beautiful and endearing and just plain wonderful.

Captive Prince by C.S. Pacat (3/3) - I went into this knowing it was going to be terrible, because I had received a blow by blow telling me as much; although I must say that it did learn a remarkable amount of new words, the books did get better as the series went on, and it did have a rather charming ending? BIG content warning for almost everything.

Sapiens by Yuval Harari - mind-expanding & must recommend for everyone, there is everything in this and I daresay everyone should posses this kind of knowledge? I listened to it as an audiobook (which I recommend because it’s rather hearty) but will be buying this in hardcopy & rereading it with annotations.

Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller - Without a doubt, one of the most beautiful novels I have ever read, and certainly the most beautiful portrayal of the story of Achilles and the battle of Troy I have ever seen. Patroclus deserved the justice that was given to him in this book; indeed, all of the characters were written with justice and grace. Highly recommend.

Trials of Apollo by Rick Riordan (3/5) - Apollo is my favourite Greek God, and the sexiest greek god, and Rick Riordan’s writing slaps, as always. It did pain me to see Apollo, the sexy immortal, have to be forced back into a 16 year old’s body but everything else? Whimsical & wonderful, as expected.

These Violent Delights by Chloe Gong - a retelling of Romeo and Juliette, except it’s set in Shanghai in the 1920′s, and the protagonists already have a history. Very well done, characters are incredibly diverse in race, sexual orientation, gender, and ability / disability (and honestly, representation has never appeared so effortless and elegant). Also it includes a monster and possible magic. Incredibly underrated and highly recommend.

The Once and Future Witches by Alix. E Harrow - this was such a unique concept, and truly captivating, the story was charming, and felt like the kind of beautiful fairytale you would read as children but with more grit? ABSOLUTELY recommend this one

The Pisces by Melissa Broder - I hated this so much, not my vibe at all. Mermaid smut x therapy but make it cynical and judgemental (I know there was a moral in there but that’s not my point) also the dog dies.

Library of the Unwritten by A.J. Hackwith (1/2) - really interesting & unique concept (all unwritten novels / ideas reside in a special library that is part of Hell and then sometimes the books can come to life) however, my first thought upon reading this was “this reads as if it’s stemmed from one of those writing prompt tumblr posts” bc of the tone and whatever and as it turns out I was somewhat correct, it did stem from a short story (not bad just obvious). It did kind of settle down as it went on but I found reading it kind of a drag, and I don’t think I will read the second one.

Abandon by Meg Cabot - 1. Meg Cabot’s writing always fucking slaps 2. Hades and Persephone but make it modern & very 2000′s & somehow kind of unique 3. I literally loved this, sue me

Medusa Girls (Sweet Venom) by Tera Childs - Like Percy Jackson except they are descendants of Medusa so they are Gorgons and have fangs & venom (hence the title). Gave me very 2000′s vibes? Quite cool but tbh I found the books quite short (like two hours each, if that)? Do NOT read the GoodReads description of the book before you read it, you will spoil it for yourself.

Bring me their Hearts by Sara Wolf - In my opinion, this is one of the most underrated YA series I read in 2020. The heroine is endearing, self aware, witty, and loves to look pretty even while kicking ass which in my opinion is an incredibly underrated trait. Also, immortality without being hundreds of years old? VERY sexy. HIGHLY recommend.

A Deal with the Elf King by Elise Kova - High commendation to be given for the fact that it is a standalone and yet manages to fit in the plot of what would usually be a full fantasy trilogy without cutting corners or being a million miles long? Also sweet storyline & beautiful ending? If you liked ACOTAR you should read this as a “what would have / could have been had SJM had a different editor” (No shade I promise).

The Iron Fae by Julie Kagawa (4/4 + novellas) - Incredibly detailed faerie set around the modern world & our current use of technology & iron in it. Very neat adventure-style series, by the time I read the last novella I was well and truly done with the world (aka provided enough content to be fulfilling). Was definitely aimed at a younger audience though, NO smut / smut was brushed over.

The Modern Faerie Tales by Holly Black (3/3 SS) - This is technically the prequel to Cruel prince, set in the modern world, but with the fae world inside it as it traditional? All I have to say is that it is excellent & I highly recommend it.

Bridgerton series (The Duke and I) by Julia Quinn (9/9) - I read this after watching the Netflix show twice through and I am obsessed, although the books were not quite as elegant as the show, and some parts that made me cringe either by their portrayal (it is very firmly set in the 19th century and thus some things are not handled with tact or grace), the characters were exceptionally loveable and I am so excited to see where the show takes them! Lovely language & an abundance of words I had never seen before (always a plus).

#the number of these which I hate with a passion now #fuck my life #HATE SJM #MAD about grishaverse #ASHAMED of bridgerton and the feminism leeched from my soul after reading this

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