#horseback riding gear

[rochestertrailriders]

Beginner Horseback Riding Lessons: A Starter Guide

This podcast episode provides an insightful guide for beginners on starting horseback riding lessons. It discusses how to choose the right lesson program, what to expect during lessons, the essential attire and safety gear needed, and the physical expectations and rewards of riding. Special attention is given to the inclusivity of the sport, with a nod to programs like EquiCenter that cater to…

[horseridinghub]

Learn Horse Riding In Australia

Ready to get started riding? Start safer with your own Beginner horse riding gear get the full beginner gear pack to save 15%, which also includes boots, helmet etc.

[coastercrushed]

nap time before i drive to virginia to relax for a few days before i work the weekend.

[alan-in-the-outernet]

Me? Doing more of the Fantasy AU?

..Yeah

Color Gang - They're all siblings for this Au!

Blue - Helped in the kitchen a lot growing up, and loved going out to collect different herbs or plants if needed. Tends to have pockets full of them, really. Green keeps trying to convince them not to carry around mushrooms to chew on, but Blue does it anyways

Yellow - Learned some blacksmithing, thanks to their parent's being able to pay for it. It's rather interesting in their mind, and they actually helped forge most of their own and their siblings training gear! Even forged a sword for their friend Second after Second wasn't able to try and become a knight.

Red - LOVES WORKING WITH HORSES AND OTHER ANIMALS, oh they enjoy it so much- that's one of the things they're most excited for with becoming a knight, horseback riding! Also hopefully being able to train dogs... or maybe see a dragon! Oh, so much potential...

Green - Tended to be seen as the most obedient and the one with the most potential, Green really wants to make their parents proud with becoming a knight... even if singing and learning musical instruments was always a lot more interesting to them. Loves to teach their siblings a thing or two from time to time!

Also, some doodles from this Au!

[potatothots]

U do dark, yandere👀??? Can I request Grandmaster Bi-han conquering a village and taking virgin!reader as concubine😗 (I'm sick I know🙃😐)

I hope this lives up to expectations! Sorry it was so late. You're not sick, either! It's fantasy!! :D Let me know how I did.

Genre: Drama 

Rating: Porn with plot - NO MINORS

Pairings: dark!Bi-Han x virgin!reader

Warnings: Loss of virginity, breeding kink, talk of death, concubines, non-con

Summary: Bi-Han takes what he wants. The Lin Kuei are always repaid.

Note - I'm not your guardian. You read what you want. I can't stop you. If you don't heed the warnings, too bad for you, not me.

I wrote it, didn’t like it, rewrote some of it, and finally found something I kind of like. Edited by me, however, potatos aren’t the best at editing their own work.

It was a sunny, beautiful day when it happened. There was a chill in the air and a threat of snow on the wind, but it wasn't out of the ordinary for this time of year. You were walking the market street. The smells drew you to various vendors selling dumplings and sweet rice balls. Along with the staples you'd need for the week for yourself and your aging parents, you decided to indulge in some of the sweets. Your dad had a sweet tooth like you; he wouldn't mind. 

As the sun set low on the horizon you started your journey home. There suddenly was a thundering sound. Like horrid storms, but it was coming closer too quickly to be natural. You held your bags to your chest and turned to the noise. The sight made you stop in your tracks. 

More than a dozen men on horseback were charging through the street. They wore gear and masks that signaled their affiliation with the Lin Kuei. You'd never seen them in person but had heard tales of their might and savagery when they wanted something. 

The villagers ran this way and that way, trying to avoid the men on horseback along with the flying debris they left behind in their wake. They smashed stalls and trampled over those unlucky souls who couldn't get away fast enough. Some had bows and arrows and took down more innocent civilians. 

It wasn't until a child ran to you, tears streaming down her cheeks, that you came out of your shock. You threw down your bags and grabbed her, pulling her to safety. Only, it wasn't enough. An arrow pierced her neck. It went so far through that it stabbed your chest. The sight had you screaming in terror. You let the dead child go to run yourself. 

You found yourself in an alley. Pressing your back to the wall, you watched the riders ride past the opening, paying no mind to the dark alley. 

You let out a trembling breath. Your whole body shook in fear. Moving away from the wall, you turned your back to the alley entrance. You had to get to safety. You had to get home. Your parents were in danger. 

As you started to run, you smacked right into a wall - no, not a wall. A giant of a man in the Lin Kuei garb accented with blue. His mask was ornate and hid everything but his expressive brown eyes. 

Those eyes trailed down your face to your chest. He reached out to touch the bloody spot. His fingers were ice cold as they moved your jacket away to inspect the wound through your shirt. You shivered, backing away from him. His other hand grabbed your upper arm to hold you in place. 

"Are you hurt?" He asked in a deep, gravelly voice. 

Your eyes narrowed in annoyance. "Yes! You're destroying my home! Of course, I'm hurt!"

He made a face behind his mask like he was smirking. You tried to pull away, but his grip only tightened. 

"Let me go. I owe you nothing." You said, trying to pull away again. 

"That's where you're wrong, y/n. You owe me everything. Your family and your leader can't pay what they owe us. Instead, they hid the things most precious to them. You, I've decided to spare. You're no son, but you can be very valuable to me in other ways."

"You're wrong about my family. Maybe our leader, but my family would never do anything to be indebted to the likes of a low-life clan like the Lin Kuei."

"You have no idea, do you? I've watched you these last few years. You indulge and never ask where the money comes from. You're either naive or choose to be ignorant. Your father has land, a title, a good job, and somehow has more money than others in his position."

You pause, mulling over his words. Yes, your family might be wealthier than most in town, but your father always said it was that he was good with money. Doubt clouded his words in your head now. Was it true? Why else would they come after you?

"What will happen to the leader's family? His children? Their children?" Your voice is tiny, sticking in your throat with fear. 

"We will get rid of those who won't fall in line." 

His words are so casually spoken that you have to look away. Tears pour down your cheeks at the implications of his words. 

You sniffle, looking back at him. "I'm no fighter. What use would I be to you?"

"You're so innocent." He cups your cheek with the hand that had been inspecting your shirt. "You don't have to be a fighter to warm my bed."

A wave of panic shot through you at his statement. You cried out a sharp "No!" before you finally managed to yank yourself away from him. Only so far could you go before you felt his cold touch again. He held his hand over your nose and mouth. His other arm was tight against your throat. The more you struggled, the more your vision went hazy. 

"Yes. Fight back. It'll make this easier for me." 

He kept talking, but your brain was no longer listening as you fought to keep conscious. 

—

You felt yourself come to. Women were chatting in whispered voices. A few glanced your way. An older woman with gray hair moved over to the bed you were lying on. She held a kindness in her face and movements as she helped you to get up. 

"You'll be Grandmaster Bi-Han's prize tonight. I need you to take a bath and clean yourself everywhere. Make sure to use the oil for your skin. Once you're done, put the robe on and come find me back here." The woman instructed while the two of you went to the bathing room. "Do you understand?" 

You nodded, tears forming in your eyes again. 

"Good. Now, stop crying. He wants you natural and if you keep this up your face will be blotchy and swollen."

She opened the door for you. You stepped in, stopping in the doorway to admire the beauty of the room. 

"You have thirty minutes until the grandmaster is finished with his day. Relax while you clean and pamper yourself. The grandmaster has a temper. It's best not to upset him. 

Here," she put some towels, washcloths, and a robe in your hands. "Calm yourself and get clean so I can dress you."

She didn't give you time to respond as she left the room, closing the door behind her. 

Alone, you realized how quiet it was. The cold air was making you stiff. With a huff, you set to your task: washing and massaging the oil into your skin until you felt soft like silk. No matter what you did you couldn't stop the anger and depression. You threw on your robe and headed back to the busy room. You hoped the woman wouldn't notice your face was still puffy. 

She noticed. Other than a sigh as she wiped around your eyes, she said nothing. A little powder, a simple hairstyle, and some sheer gloss highlighted your face. She dressed you in a silver cheongsam with various blues making up the embroidered bird pattern. Next, she placed a long, white fur cloak around your shoulders and shooed you away with instructions on how to get to where you needed to be. 

When you reached the door it flew open, revealing a hulking presence. He peered down at you, his face set in a scowl. You shifted from one foot to another as he lazily took in your form. 

"Inside," he quipped, grabbing your arm. He pulled you into the room before you had a chance to move yourself. 

He walked you to the center of the sparsely decorated bedroom. 

"Take off the fur." 

You didn’t want to. He noticed the hesitation. Bi-Han narrowed his eyes. His hands flew up to your shoulders and pushed the cloak off. 

His eyes seemed to warm as they trailed over your form. “Where did you get this outfit?”

“The old lady in the - “

“Shush. It’s perfect. Birds suit you. My colors suit you even better.” 

Bi-Han took your hand in a tight grip and led you to the bed. His eyes undressed you as his hands did. You were trembling in fear. You’d never laid with a man, never even let a man see you without clothing on. As your dress fell to the floor you felt tears prick at the corners of your eyes. This was not how you thought your first time would go. 

The grandmaster slid his hands down your sides, pausing to grip your hips. You shivered, goosebumps rising on your skin from his cold touch. His hands moved back up to your breasts. He squeezed them. A hum of appreciation sounded from him. 

“You’ll do well in producing heirs.” He said flatly. His tone seemed at odds with his lust-filled expression and his exploring hands. 

You bit your bottom lip and looked away. “What if I don’t?” You’d heard about women who couldn’t give male heirs. They didn’t last long. 

“I’ll allow you to keep my bed warm.” he shrugged. 

It wasn’t the answer you were expecting. However, you didn’t have much time to process it as he pushed you onto the bed. He crowded you, kissing and biting at your skin. It was overwhelming. There was some pleasure, but mostly pain. He was harsh in his fondling of your body. There was a slight reprieve when he sat up. You were hoping it meant he was done for some reason, but when he simply took his clothes off you knew it was going to be a long night. 

He was barely any nicer to your body when he pushed his cock into your pussy. It stung and you tried to move away from him, but he held you tight. 

“Stop pulling away,” he growled as he grabbed at your ankles. 

“It hurts!”

Bi-Han let out a huff, repositioning himself so your legs were over his shoulders. The intensity of the new position had you crying out in shock. It hurt, but something else was taking over. Your eyes found the grandmaster’s. As cold as his touch was, his expression was burning. You’d seen boys drunk outside of alleyways, their glassy eyes a dead giveaway. That’s how Bi-Han looked. Like he was drunk and needed more. He shifted his hips slightly and you let out a shocked squeak. 

“Gods, right there!” The words tumbled from your lips faster than you could even think of them. 

Bi-Han smirked. “Anything for you, little bird.”

That yearning feeling in your gut was turning your thoughts into white noise. Everything came to a head all at once. The feeling seemed to explode inside of you. Your eyes squeezed shut and you were sure you said something, but it sounded like babbling to your ears. Then, you felt a wet coldness inside you. Bi-Han fucked you through your orgasm, his own triggered by yours. As his hips slowed, your brain was able to catch up with your situation. Tears streamed down your cheeks.

“Hush, now.” Bi-Han cooed, kissing the tears. “You did well, little bird. I knew you would. You were always going to be mine.” He captured your lips in a consuming kiss. 

[hqlourd]

I've discovered my nemeses... I think. I'm fine with heights and water and fighting made-up monsters in the Star Wars and AHS universes... but I cannot handle horses. Okay, let me correct that before the horse people come at me. I cannot handle riding horses. I get on fine, ride along fine, can even get it to kick up a gear and go a little faster, but dismounting? Mmm, no, not so much. Just went on a little mommy/son date and was high key convinced I was just going to have to live on the horse because I couldn't swing my leg back over its butt to get down. On the plus side, my three-year-old son thought it was hilarious, and everyone nearby got out their phones to record it so you may see it on TMZ. Hi, I'm Billie Lourd, you may know me as a literal human disaster, especially on horseback. How's your week going? @hfrpstarters

[muffinsin]

whassupp

how would the sisters react when their s/o showed them a motorbike (maybe from heisenberg) they had fixed secretly

Absolutely! Let’s see… :)

Masterlists

Bela

She’s a little- caught off guard, confused

She would’ve never guessed that when you said you had a surprise for her. Perhaps flowers?

Bela isn’t too fussed about motorbikes, really, though she admires your work

She’s more the- graceful- type of person, and doesn’t quite consider the vehicle as such

Horseback riding and all that…

She stalks around it and drags her nail along it, so much so you’re worried she will damage the paint on it- but she doesn’t

She’s precise in her analysis of your work

Sometimes she asks questions, mainly consisting of what it is you’re showing her, or what certain parts do

“It’s, nice”, she settles on. She’s never seen such a thing, really, except once at the factory

Your explanation of it hardly helps her understand it

Alcina made her distaste clear of the one time Heisenberg showed off a motorbike. Of course, Bela followed suit

Despite not knowing what the large thing even is or does

She stands next to the seat, her fingers caressing the parts of the leathery fabric

“I think I like it. It can’t have been easy to repair this”, she says, ever the one to praise you for your work

She gasps in surprise when you grab her hips and sit her down on it, and stutters out flustered curses when you smile at her

“You’re about to like it even more!”, you grin

Her eyes widen when you climb on it too

You aren’t about to drive it, are you?!

Cassandra

A BIKE?! You’ve got one?!

She immediately demands to know where you got it from

She’s enthusiastic! She’s only seen one once! And it was broken!

Her excitement only grows even more when you tell her- you’ve fixed this one

She demands to know everything!

Where’d you get it from?

How’d you fix it again?

How long did it take to fix up again, what parts are included?

Can she have some of them?

She trails her fingers across it all and crackles when you pull her away from the wheels before she can puncture them with her sharp, claw-like nails

She too, praises you for your work

Upon telling her there are different models, Cassandra almost pounces on you

She’s so curious! You must tell her everything!

She leans against the seat, humming as you sit her down properly

She drags her nails up your sides as you talk, tugging you closer until you stand between her knees and she can lean against your stomach as she listens

She’ll try to take it all in, and is amazed when you tell her of proper roads and such in the outside world

“Have you taken it out for a drive yet?”, she asks at last

Her question is rendered forgotten for a mere moment when you grasp her hips and kiss her

“Would you like us to?”

She’s enthusiastic! Yes! Of course!

She’ll just send you a look when you attempt to give her a helmet, though she eagerly watches you take proper gear for it

“Scared it’ll blow up?”, she teases

Daniela

She giggles as you cover her eyes, claiming you’ve got a surprise for you

Still, you assume she’s peeking. She’s somehow not running into a single thing, as well as stepping over every little stick on the ground

“But my love, I’m so curious!”, she whines still, a large grin on her face

When you finally bring her outside and take your hands off her face, she’s opening her eyes immediately!

She swarms around your bike excitedly, tapping and smelling at spots

“What is it?”, she asks, eyes wide

She’s looking at every little bit, pushing buttons and moving the steering portion of the vehicle

You giggle when she pokes the front wheel expectantly

Upon receiving an explanation, Daniela becomes even more eager to try it out

“It can drive?!”

She’s immediately on top of it, kicking against the wheels

You can’t help but smile when she turns to you, pouting

“It won’t drive”, she whines with another kick to the wheel

Close enough, you figure

Daniela is big on adrenaline

The moment she finds out from you how fast these things go, she wants to try it out herself

Later on, one of her favourite things to do was to simply swarm after you as you drive

A race; more or less, with her picking flowers along the way for you, and catching up again easily

[mostlymaudlin]

i made a joke on twitter that someone should write a crack fic that opens with Andrew riding the horse in TKM and he’s like “bet you’re wondering how i ended up here.”

and well. then this happened:

You’re probably wondering how I ended up here.

A horseback ride in the Blue Ridge mountains sounds idyllic, if you’re the kind of person that takes vacations straight out of the free tourist brochures at gas stations. I am not that person.

In fact, I had never been on any vacation before this week. If I were to take a vacation of my choosing, I would absolutely not be doing an activity that requires me to activate my core while breathing air that smells like animal shit.

Yet here I am. Sitting on a horse double my height, following a group of people I don’t even particularly like down a stinky, too-green path through the woods.

You might ask, why did you put yourself in this situation? It’s a good question, and I fear I have the worst answer of all:

There’s this guy.

I know, I know, how cliche. If it helps, I am not prone to them: I’m an orphan but not a Chosen One. I’m a college athlete who couldn’t care less about winning. I’m a twin but I’m nothing like my brother.

The boy problems, though? I’ve got ‘em. And oh, do I know how to pick ‘em.

Neil’s horse ambles down the wide path next to mine. The man himself is slumped forward in his saddle, reins held loosely in his bandaged hands. Neil has the misfortune of being very murder-able, so the bandages are a more common part of his whole look than one would hope.

This most recent bout of “almost getting killed” was particularly… vexing. (We don’t need to go into detail. All you need to know is that I didn’t handle it well.) Neil is moving on, though. He’s taking in the scenery, and his expression befits a tourist brochure even if the rest of him screams, “I should probably still be in a hospital.” When he catches me looking his lips curve into a small smile, and Reader, it is imperative that you understand how passionately I hate him.

“This is cool,” Neil says.

“Well, as long as you’re enjoying it,” my cousin grumbles from behind us. Nicky enjoys nature about as much as I do. I shoot him a look, and he mimes zipping his mouth shut.

Neil only shrugs, leaning further against the neck of his horse. I’m not sure how he’s awake. In the last four nights, he’s slept in a hospital, on a cot in an FBI conference room, on a dorm room floor, and then finally one night in a real bed in the luxurious “cabin” our teammates are renting. Minus the hospital, I’ve dealt with the same sleeping arrangements (yes, including the giant fluffy bed, no, we will not make a big deal of it). Even without the copious injuries, I do not have why don’t we go horseback riding? energy. But somehow Neil, with his half-melted face and arms, has giddied up to come smile at me and the sky and the trees.

This brings me to my point: I’m in deep. I’m so fucked. This morning, I would have told you that you’d never catch me in touching range of a horse. But for twelve hours, I thought Neil Josten might be dead; if he’s going to stand in front of me, saying he wants to go horseback riding, then yeah, every person on this goddamn team is going to get on a goddamn horse unless they want me to gut them.

My thighs are so sore and itchy. I’m on a horse that smells worse than my gear bag, swatting away flies and dodging low branches. I genuinely hate the present moment. It’s my fault, I know: these are the perils of letting ourselves fall for stupid ass men. These are the perils of getting attached to anyone at all.

But put yourself in my shoes. Really visualize it — they are cowboy boots with honest to god spurs, and I was forced to pay money to rent them.

Now ask yourself: Did I really have any other choice?

now on ao3!

[robin-hood-for-freedom]

Fun fact #1: Pants were original invented as horseback riding gear for the military.

Fun Fact #2: The ancient Greeks believed pants would crush mens testicles and render them effeminate.

Conclusion: Women should be armored cavalry. hoplites and slingers are mens roles

[panakinthedisco]

PART 2 | TICKET TO RIDE ━━ Joel Miller

summary: becoming the president of the class is the most stressful thing that joel miller ever did in his life but then, you made it bearable.

author's note: i'm shookt with the amount of likes with this mini-series huhu so here you go! if it's your first time in here, please read the part 1 of this series <3

other notes: au, elementary teacher!reader x contractor!joel,  no outbreak!joel miller, sarah lives, single dad x teacher, eventual smut but this is a slow burn romance, maybe angst? reader is a fan of the beatles and a mccartney girlie while joel is a george harrison stannie! age gap (reader is in the middle of 20s x joel miller in his 30s), sarah being a cute matchmaker to her dad!

word count: 4.4k

A few days had passed since the PTA meeting, and you were still adjusting to your new life in Austin, Texas. The town was unfamiliar to you, and the job offer had been the only one available at the time. Thankfully, your cousin lived in Austin and had kindly offered you a place to stay. The apartment wasn’t large, but it was cozy and gave you a sense of security in this new environment.

Settling into your new role at the school, you found that the staff and students were welcoming. The school itself had a warm, community-driven atmosphere that you appreciated. Your class was manageable, and you even began to grow fond of your students. They were eager to learn and showed respect in the classroom, which made your job easier and more enjoyable.

One student, in particular, stood out to you: Sarah Miller. She had a natural curiosity for science and was always eager to help. During science classes, Sarah often assisted you in arranging the flasks and beakers on the shelf, her enthusiasm evident in the way she carefully handled each piece of equipment.

One afternoon, as you were setting up for a lab experiment, Sarah approached with a smile. “Do you need any help?”

You returned her smile warmly. “That would be great, Sarah. Could you please arrange these beakers on the top shelf?”

Sarah nodded and began to carefully place the beakers in their designated spots. As she worked, you couldn’t help but feel grateful for her assistance. It made the transition into your new role smoother and less overwhelming.

“How are you finding Austin so far?” Sarah asked, her voice full of genuine curiosity.

You paused for a moment, considering your response. “It’s been an adjustment, but I’m starting to feel more at home. My cousin has been a huge help, and the school is wonderful. I really enjoy teaching here.”

Sarah beamed. “I’m glad to hear that! You’re a great teacher. Everyone in class really likes you.”

Her words warmed your heart. “Thank you, Sarah. That means a lot to me.”

As Sarah carefully placed the beakers on the shelf, you couldn’t help but notice how meticulous and dedicated she was. Her assistance was invaluable, making your adjustment to the new job much smoother. You watched her for a moment, grateful for her help and impressed by her enthusiasm.

Sarah glanced over her shoulder at you, a thoughtful expression on her face. “Have you had a chance to visit any places around Texas yet?”

You shook your head, a small smile playing on your lips. “Not really, Sarah. I haven’t had much time to explore. The only place I’ve really been to is the grocery store near my apartment.”

Sarah giggled, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “You know, there’s a great place for horseback riding just a mile away from here. My dad has a truck, and we go there sometimes. Would you like to join us?”

Her suggestion took you by surprise. It felt a bit unusual to be invited out by a student, especially since you were still getting to know them. You felt a mix of flattery and apprehension, unsure how to respond.

“That’s very kind of you, Sarah,” you said politely. “I’ll think about it.”

Sarah nodded, seemingly satisfied with your answer, but you could see the gears turning in her mind. She returned to her task, her expression thoughtful.

Internally, Sarah was plotting. She adored you and knew her dad had been lonely for a long time. What better way to help both of them than by arranging a casual outing? She envisioned them enjoying a day out, her dad relaxing and having fun, and you, seeing a new side of Texas. Maybe, just maybe, her plan would help bring a bit of happiness into both of your lives.

As you continued to prepare for the lab experiment, you couldn’t help but think about Sarah’s suggestion. The idea of horseback riding sounded fun, but the prospect of spending time with Sarah and her father outside of school felt a bit strange. You appreciated the gesture, though, and couldn’t deny a small part of you was curious about the experience.

Later, as you walked around the classroom, checking on the students and ensuring everything was in place, you found yourself thinking more about the invitation. Sarah’s enthusiasm was infectious, and her desire to share her favorite activities with you was touching.

As the day went on, you decided to keep an open mind. You could see how much Sarah cared about both her father and her teacher, and maybe this outing could be a chance to bond with her and better understand the community you were becoming a part of.

“Alright, everyone, time to wrap up,” you announced, bringing the class to a close. As the students gathered their things and prepared to leave, Sarah gave you a bright smile, and you couldn’t help but return it, feeling a sense of warmth and connection.

As you watched the students file out of the classroom, a wave of mixed emotions washed over you. The hustle and bustle of the day was winding down, and you found yourself alone with your thoughts. The adjustment to life in Austin had been challenging, to say the least. Moving away from your parents was a difficult decision, but the job offer had seemed like a beacon of hope at the time. Now, you weren't so sure.

Loneliness had become an unwelcome companion over the past few weeks. Your parents had been supportive, encouraging you with words of wisdom and confidence, assuring you that you could thrive on your own. But their words felt distant in the face of your current reality. Each day felt like a test of endurance, and even the small victories were overshadowed by an overwhelming sense of isolation.

The faculty room, a place that should have been a source of camaraderie and support, only intensified your feelings of being an outsider. You were the youngest among your colleagues, and their close-knit conversations left you feeling invisible during break times. They had their routines, their inside jokes, and you often found yourself on the periphery, unsure of how to break into their circle.

Your thoughts drifted back to Sarah Miller. She had been a ray of sunshine in an otherwise cloudy experience. Her genuine kindness and eagerness to help had been a lifeline. When she invited you to go horseback riding with her and her father, it had been the first time anyone in Austin had reached out to you in such a personal way. The invitation felt like a small crack in the wall of loneliness that had been building around you.

You sighed, leaning back in your chair, staring at the now-empty classroom. The idea of spending time with Sarah and her father was starting to seem more appealing. Maybe it was a chance to break out of your shell, to connect with the community, and to find a sense of belonging that you desperately needed.

"Why not give it a try?" you thought to yourself. "It’s just an afternoon, and it could be fun."

The image of Sarah’s bright smile flashed in your mind, and you felt a flicker of hope. Her invitation was a small gesture, but it held the potential to change the trajectory of your experience in Austin. Maybe, just maybe, it was a step toward finding the connections and support that you had been yearning for since your move.

You packed your things, the classroom now quiet and still. As you walked out, you made a silent promise to yourself: you would accept Sarah’s invitation.

Life as a teacher continued for you. The final bell rang, and the bustling energy of students packing their bags and heading out the door filled the classroom. You busied yourself with tidying up, ensuring everything was in place for the next day. As you straightened the books on your desk, you glanced up and were surprised to see Joel Miller standing in the doorway.

Your eyes quickly took in his appearance—typical flannel shirt, worn out jeans, and work boots covered in a thin layer of dust. He looked as though he had come straight from a job site. Despite his rugged appearance, there was a certain warmth in his eyes that you found comforting. You gave him a friendly smile.

"Mr. Miller, come on in," you said, motioning him into the classroom.

Joel stepped inside, looking slightly out of place in the tidy, structured environment of the classroom. Just as he was about to speak, Sarah and her friends came up behind him, chattering and laughing.

"Hey, Dad," Sarah greeted, a playful glint in her eye. "I’m going to hang out with Maddie for a bit."

Joel turned to her, a familiar, fatherly concern in his voice. "Alright, but remember, Uncle Tommy is picking you up before dinner. Don’t be late."

Sarah nodded, a mischievous smile playing on her lips. "Got it, Dad." Then, she glanced at you and back at her father, her smile growing wider. "And Dad, don’t forget to shoot your shot."

Joel looked momentarily confused, his brows furrowing. But then he caught the way Sarah glanced at you, and understanding dawned on his face. His cheeks flushed slightly, and he turned back to his daughter, trying to maintain his composure.

"Sarah, you need to go," he said firmly, though his tone was tinged with embarrassment.

Sarah laughed, a light, carefree sound, and gave him a quick hug before skipping off to join her friends. You watched her go, feeling a mix of amusement and curiosity.

Turning your attention back to Joel, you could see he was still slightly flustered by his daughter’s teasing. You decided to break the ice.

"So, you’re here for the field trip plans, Mr. Miller?" you asked, keeping your tone light.

Joel scratched the back of his neck, a sheepish smile forming on his lips. “You can call me Joel, Ma’am. And yes, here are the plans.” Joel handed you over a piece of paper, and it’s handwritten by him. Ever since the PTA meeting where he was elected class president, the responsibility had weighed heavily on him. He had no idea how to organize a field trip, and the last thing he wanted was to embarrass himself in front of you, the new teacher. Earlier, Joel sat at the dining room table, papers strewn about in a chaotic mess. He rubbed his temples, staring at the tentative plans for the upcoming field trip.

His brother, Tommy, wandered into the room, a look of confusion on his face. "What’s got you all riled up, brother?" he asked, eyeing the disarray on the table.

Before Joel could respond, Sarah chimed in, a knowing smirk on her face as she drank her hot cocoa. "Dad’s trying to impress the new teacher," she said, not bothering to hide her amusement.

Tommy's eyebrows shot up, and he plopped down beside Joel, his expression turning into one of playful mischief. "Is that so? Trying to impress the teacher, huh?"

Joel sighed, feeling a flush of embarrassment. "It's not like that," he muttered defensively. "I'm just trying to get these plans sorted out. Also, she seems younger, you know?"

Tommy laughed, clapping Joel on the back. "You’re making excuses, man. I’ve never seen you this worked up about anything before. Sounds to me like you’re more interested in her than you’re letting on."

Joel shook his head, but he couldn’t help the small smile that tugged at his lips. "She's just trying to do her job, and I don't want to make things harder for her. That's all."

Sarah giggled, leaning against the doorframe. "Sure, Dad. Whatever you say."

Tommy leaned back in his chair, still grinning. "Look, Joel, it’s okay to admit you find her interesting. But you can’t stress yourself out over this. We’ll help you figure it out. It’s just a field trip. Goddamn, you’re a lot more stingy to this rather than talking to the grumpy old man across the street that you almost cussed out."

Joel glanced at his brother and daughter, feeling a mix of frustration and gratitude. He appreciated their support, even if their teasing was relentless. "Alright, alright," he said, holding up his hands in surrender. "Let’s figure this out together."

They spent the next hour brainstorming ideas, Tommy throwing out suggestions with his usual carefree attitude while Sarah chimed in with practical advice. Slowly, the plans started to take shape. Joel felt the tension in his shoulders ease as they worked through the details. At least, he had an initial idea for your class’ field trip. 

As the last of the students filtered out of the classroom, Sarah gave her father a mischievous grin before heading off with her friends. Joel watched her go, feeling a mix of pride and trepidation. Once the room was quiet, he turned his attention back to you, taking a deep breath. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a folded piece of paper, handing it to you.

"This is, uh, the rough draft of the field trip plans," he said, his voice a bit strained with nerves.

You took the paper with a warm smile and gestured to an empty chair nearby. "Why don’t you grab a seat Mr. Miller? We can go over this together."

“You can just call me Joel, Maam,” you nodded and looked through the paper. 

Joel hesitated for a moment, but then he dragged the chair over and sat down beside you. You unfolded the paper, smoothing it out on your desk, and pulled out a pink ballpen from your pocket. 

His eyes shifted from the paper to the colorful array of pens spilling out of your pencil case. The case itself was decorated with playful designs and a few strips of washi tape, each adding a personal touch that he found unexpectedly charming. He watched as you reached for your pink ballpen, your fingers deftly maneuvering it as you made notes on his rough draft.

As you started scribbling on the paper, Joel’s brow furrowed, a look of concern crossing his face. "Am I doing something wrong?" he asked, his voice tinged with worry.

You looked up, noticing his apprehension. "Oh, no! It’s just a habit of mine," you explained with a reassuring smile. "I like to doodle while I think. Helps me focus."

Joel nodded, relaxing slightly. He watched as you continued to make notes. 

He couldn't help but smile as he observed your methodical yet creative approach. The pink ink swirled across the paper, punctuated by little stars and hearts that danced around your comments and suggestions. Joel was taken aback by how much personality you injected into such a simple task. It was endearing.

As he continued to watch, he found his gaze drifting towards you. He tried to be subtle, but his eyes traced the curve of your hand as it moved, the way your brow furrowed in concentration, and the gentle way you bit your lip when you were deep in thought. There was something soothing about your presence, a quiet confidence that he hadn't expected.

Joel's attention was momentarily drawn to the scent of vanilla that wafted towards him every time you moved. It was light and sweet, complementing the warmth of the room and adding another layer to the growing sense of comfort he felt in your company.

He shifted in his seat, trying to focus back on the task at hand, but his eyes kept returning to you. The way the afternoon sunlight streamed through the window, catching the strands of your hair and casting a soft glow around you, made it hard to look away. He was struck by how natural and unassuming you were, yet there was an undeniable spark that drew him in.

As you scribbled another note, you looked up, catching Joel's intent gaze. For a moment, neither of you spoke, the air thick with unspoken words. You broke the silence with a warm smile, your eyes crinkling at the corners. "You okay, Joel?" you asked, your voice soft and kind.

Joel cleared his throat, feeling a flush rise to his cheeks. "Yeah, just... watching you work. It's impressive."

You laughed lightly, “Thanks, Joel.”

Returning to the paper, you continued making notes, occasionally glancing up at Joel to ensure he was following along. He tried to focus, but his mind kept drifting back to the little details—the pink pen, the vanilla scent, the way you looked so at ease in your element.

After a few minutes, you paused, tapping the pen thoughtfully against your chin.

"I really like your idea of taking the kids somewhere engaging and interactive," you said, turning to look at him. "Rather than just going to a zoo or a museum, something hands-on will be much more memorable for them."

Joel’s eyes widened in surprise. "You really think so? I wasn’t sure if it was a good idea."

You nodded enthusiastically. "Absolutely. Kids learn best when they’re actively involved. It’s a great way to make the experience more meaningful."

Joel felt a swell of pride at your words. He had spent hours agonizing over those plans, and hearing your approval was incredibly validating. "Thanks," he said, a genuine smile spreading across his face. "That means a lot."

You returned his smile, your eyes twinkling with encouragement. "We’ll just need to iron out a few details, like permissions and logistics, but overall, I think you’re on the right track."

Joel leaned in closer, his confidence growing. "Alright, let’s do this then."

For the next half hour, the two of you worked together, discussing various aspects of the field trip. You appreciated Joel’s practical insights and his willingness to listen to your suggestions. He sat beside you at the small, cluttered desk in the classroom, the map of Austin spread out between you. His rough draft of the field trip plans was covered with your colorful scribbles, and now you were both leaning over the map, discussing potential locations.

"What about this park?" Joel suggested, pointing to a green area on the map. "It's got a nice picnic area and some trails. The kids might enjoy that."

You nodded thoughtfully, considering the idea. "That sounds great. It would be good for them to have some outdoor time."

As you both continued brainstorming, you glanced up from the map and remembered something Sarah had mentioned earlier. "You know," you began, "Sarah mentioned something about horseback riding. She invited me to come along with you two."

Joel's eyes widened in surprise. "She did? What exactly did she say?"

You smiled, recounting the conversation. "She said you have a truck and that there's a place just a mile away. She thought it would be fun if we all went together."

Joel chuckled softly, shaking his head. He knew what his daughter was doing and it’s not even subtle anymore but he did notice that you had no idea what his mischievous daughter was doing. Before he could say more, you interrupted, your eyes sparkling with genuine interest. "Actually, I'm interested. It sounds like a lot of fun."

Joel was momentarily speechless. He hadn't expected you to be so open to the idea. Gathering his thoughts, he finally managed to say, "Well, that would be great. I think it could be a lot of fun, too."

As you both continued discussing the field trip, you glanced at the clock on the wall and realized how late it had gotten. "Oh wow, it's already seven in the evening," you said, surprised. "I think we've done enough for today."

Joel looked at the time and nodded. "Yeah, we should probably call it a day."

As you started packing up your things, Joel looked at you earnestly. "Let me take you home," he offered. "It's getting late, and I don't want you walking home alone. This town has its share of people who might take advantage of someone new."

You hesitated, not wanting to be a bother. "I appreciate it, but I don't want to trouble you."

Joel shook his head firmly. "It's no trouble at all. I insist."

Seeing the genuine concern in his eyes, you nodded in agreement. "Alright, thank you, Joel. I appreciate it."

Together, you left the school, the evening air cool and refreshing. As you walked to his truck, you felt a sense of camaraderie growing between you. Joel opened the passenger door for you, and you climbed in, feeling a mix of gratitude and curiosity about where this new connection might lead.

As Joel drove the truck with you in the passenger seat, he suddenly glanced over at you and asked, "Is it okay if we drive through McDonald's? It's for Sarah."

You smiled and nodded. "Of course, that's fine."

The drive to McDonald's was accompanied by a comfortable silence, punctuated by the hum of the engine and the occasional rustle of papers from the plans you had been working on together. Joel broke the silence, his voice warm and curious. "So, where are you originally from?"

"I'm from Louisiana," you replied, a hint of homesickness in your voice. "This is my first time being away from my family."

Joel nodded, his expression empathetic. "I know it can be tough, especially when you're used to having them around. Just a piece of advice, though: don't walk around at night alone. And if you need anything, you can call me anytime."

You appreciated his concern but didn't want to be a bother. "Thank you, Joel. I don't want to impose, especially since you have a busy work schedule."

Joel waved off your concerns. "It's no imposition at all." He reached out to the dashboard, retrieved a calling card from his company, and handed it to you. "My number is on there. Don't hesitate to call if you need anything."

You took the card, touched by his kindness. "Thank you, Joel. I really appreciate it."

A few minutes later, the truck pulled into the McDonald's drive-through. As you approached the ordering kiosk, the cashier's voice crackled through the telecom. "Welcome to McDonald's. Can I take your order?"

Joel leaned over to the speaker and ordered, "I'll take two Big Macs and fries, please." Then he turned to you. "And what would you like?"

You hesitated, not wanting to add to the order, but Joel's encouraging nod made you feel more at ease. "I'll have a chicken burger, please."

Joel relayed your order to the cashier. "And a chicken burger as well, thanks."

As you waited for the food, Joel glanced at you with a smile. "Louisiana, huh? Must be quite a change coming to Austin."

You nodded, thinking about the differences between the two places. "It is. But I'm slowly adjusting. Your daughter, Sarah, has been a big help since I came to the class."

Joel chuckled. "She's a good kid. Always looking out for people."

The truck rolled forward to the pick-up window. The cashier handed over the bags of food, and Joel passed them to you to hold. As he paid and received the change, you couldn't help but feel a growing sense of admiration for him. His kindness and willingness to help made the transition to your new life a little bit easier.

"Thanks for doing this, Joel," you said as he pulled out of the drive-through and headed back towards your apartment.

"No problem at all," he replied. "I'm glad to help."

When you finally reached your apartment, Joel parked the truck and turned to you. "I'll walk you to your door."

You nodded, appreciating the gesture. As you both got out and he walked you to your apartment, the evening air was filled with the quiet chirping of crickets. When you reached your door, you turned to him with a smile. "Thanks again, Joel. For everything."

"Anytime," he replied, giving you a reassuring smile. "Have a good night."

"You too," you said, watching as he made his way back to the truck.

As you entered your apartment, the cozy familiarity of the small space greeted you. You placed your bag on the kitchen counter, the scent of vanilla lingering from your perfume. Joel Miller's calling card was still in your hand, and you set it down next to the fruit bowl, taking a moment to reflect on the evening.

Joel Miller. He was an enigma. In the classroom, his rugged appearance had caught your eye: the typical flannel shirt, worn-out jeans, and work boots—he exuded a blend of ruggedness and reliability. You remembered how he had seemed hesitant but determined to discuss the field trip plans, his deep voice carrying a hint of nervousness. Despite his rough exterior, there was a gentleness in the way he interacted with you and his daughter.

You recalled his strong hands pointing out locations on the map, the subtle scent of sawdust and pine mingling with the vanilla of your perfume. His genuine concern for your safety had touched you, and his easy smile had made you feel at ease.

But then you shook your head, trying to dispel those thoughts. Joel was a parent, and you were a teacher. It was inappropriate to think of him in any other way. You needed to maintain professionalism, especially since Sarah was one of your favorite students.

You made your way to the bathroom, flicking on the light. The cool tile floor under your feet grounded you as you leaned over the sink, splashing your face with cold water. The shock of the cold helped clear your mind. You stared at your reflection, droplets of water clinging to your skin.

"Cut it out," you muttered to yourself, gripping the edges of the sink. "He's just a parent. Focus on your job."

You took a deep breath and stood up straight, grabbing a towel to pat your face dry. The lingering thoughts of Joel Miller needed to be pushed aside. You were here to teach and not to get distracted by the rugged charm of one of your student’s parents.

You walked back into the living room and sat on the couch, opening your laptop to review tomorrow’s lesson plans. Immersing yourself in work was the best way to push those thoughts away. As you typed away, you reminded yourself of your priorities: teaching, supporting your students, and adjusting to life in Austin. 

Everything else, including your confusing emotions about Joel Miller, would have to wait.

Whatever that even means for you. 

CONTINUE READING: PART 1 | PART 3 ━━ AVAILABLE ON AO3

☆ MASTERLIST | NAVIGATION | SOCIALS | SIGN OFF BANNER MADE BY. @ALDERAANDORS

[horseridinghub]

4 Different Horse Riding Mistakes (And How To Avoid Them)

Are you looking to become a stronger horse rider?

Horse riding brings a range of health benefits or Benefits Of Horseback Riding

But just as with a lot of other things in life, riding a horse is not as easy as it may look.

There are plenty of newcomer mistakes that will not only make you stand out as a novice but may also keep you from being able to handle your horse and ride safely.

If you want to improve your skills and become a more confident and capable rider, here are 4 common mistakes (and how you can avoid them).

Ready to start riding? Check out your very own premium Beginner’s Horse Riding Pack!

Mistake #1 - You’re Holding On Too Tight

Mistake: One of the most common rookie mistakes is holding onto your horse too tight.

Your horse is almost always going to attempt to go faster than you might want to. Therefore, no matter how much you attempt to hold your horse back, you can expect him to speed away. After all, the horse’s head is held up high and its mouth is typically open which can keep him in a non-relaxed state.

How to avoid it: While it might seem like something you shouldn’t do as a newcomer, you want to loosen the grip in order to allow your horse to get in a much more relaxed riding position.

This will allow your horse to lower its head which can keep the horse from speeding off.

The reins are designed to be an effective two-way communication device that you use to guide your horse. It is not intended to act as a manual brake. You should look to ask your riding instructor and/or trainer how to effectively cue your horse with the reins and release the pressure properly.

Mistake #2 - You Have Poor Posture

Mistake: Having poor posture is something that we know is important but we rarely do anything about it.

Good posture is very important for horseback riding. You should be looking to sit up in the chair with your legs forward and without slouching. You shouldn’t engage too hard with your stirrups. Instead, you want to keep them fully relaxed next to your horse.

How to avoid it: To ride perfectly balanced, you will want to keep your body’s center of mass in line.

Keeping everything including your shoulders and hips facing forward and in an upright and vertical position for the best balance while riding.

You can hack this type of position by rolling your pelvis in a forward motion in order to keep your legs much further apart than you might otherwise be able to. You can then breathe in deeply and allow your lower back to relax and allow your legs to effectively be positioned to the sides of your horse.

Mistake #3 - Your Horse Isn’t Still During The Mount

Mistake: When you are looking to mount your horse, you want to avoid hopping alongside the side of your horse with only one foot in your horse’s stirrup.

This is dangerous and shouldn’t be attempted while your horse is moving. The overall way you end up mounting your horse will dictate the tone and your relationship with the horse itself. Therefore, you want to ensure that you are doing it properly.

A lot of horses might be testing you during this mounting process to determine how it should behave. Another reason might be simply due to the horse having a lack of training. Regardless, you need to mount the horse properly prior to beginning the riding session.

It’s important to note that you might be causing the issue with the mounting process on your own.

How to avoid it: When mounting, you should look to implement one of the techniques that work best for you.

One option would be to simply bring the horse’s head toward you as you mount which can make it much harder for the horse to move around.

Another option would be to keep the rein relaxed and to hold the horse in place with the other rein (located outside).

Others might even keep the reins completely relaxed and verbally command their horse to remain in a set position.

You always want to ensure that your horse remains in a steady position even after being mounted to reinforce the fact that they are not to move until given the ‘OK.

Mistake #4 - You’re Not Paying Attention

Mistake: Even those that are considered experienced riders might fail to pay attention at all times.

When you are beginning to learn how to ride, there is a lot going on and a lot that you have to remember. However, one thing that you should always have in the forefront of your mind is that you should keep your head in a forward position and always look where you are going.

How to avoid it: Always look where you are trying to go.

Believe it or not, your horse is able to dictate where they are supposed to go by simply following the cues that come from your body and head positioning. Not only that, but it will keep you much more balanced and it can help you enjoy the ride much more.

Avoid making these 4 common mistakes and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a stronger rider.

Looking for affordable, experienced help to improve your horse riding skills? Chat to the team at the Horse Riding Hub today!

[katarh-mest]

7th time loop vol 5 thoughts

Just finished volume 5 of 7th Time Loop. I don't want to wait until September for the next book! Can't believe I inhaled them all already....

Anyway, stuck some heavy spoilerific thoughts below a line here.

The reveal that the current Emperor has a massive bloodlust presence and he doesn't even try to hide it... He really is being built up to be a monster, no?

What I suspect is that in every timeline, he's been the instigator of the war, and even Arnold killing him has never been enough to stop it once the gears are in motion.

He's priming the rest of the world for a takeover - doing stuff like pouring poison into Dietrich's ears to create a failed coup attempt in that kingdom as a way to knock them out of the picture, weakening Domana by killing off their last remaining priestess (not caring that she's the cousin of his oldest son, since he views his own children as political tools.) The whole counterfeit coin business too.

Every plot has been a long con designed to provoke all the other nations into either being weakened, or into holding a massive grudge against Galkhein, all for the sake of creating a world war that can't he stopped, not even by his death, and leaving the mess for his son Arnold to clean up.

Canon vs Fanon stuff

There's a bunch of things floating around in fanfics that seemed plausible considering the series has supernatural elements, but I was slightly disappointed to find weren't in Vol 5. Maybe they'll be in volume 6????? (Spoil me in comments, go ahead.)

Arnold can take off Riche's clothes with his mind (now wouldn't that be amusing!)

Arnold has super healing powers inherited from his mom (TOTALLY believable) - this one pops up and seems to definitely be in volume 6th so I'm saying this one is probably canon, but I don't know 100% for sure

Arnold is stuck in his own time loop (I'm seriously leaning toward this, it's just his loops have been stuck as a personal hell where he can't stop his dad no matter what he does.)

Wacky things that absolutely are canon:

Arnold's eyes glow sometimes

Rishe and Arnold both have super senses. Love the way the anime depicted her picking out Count Lavinne in the crowd. They're practically Force sensitive.

Rishe is a quick study and has an eidetic memory. In modern day terms, we'd call her gifted. She doesn't forget names or faces that easily. That's it's own super power.

Rishe did study a lot of her interests as a kid, so if Arnold sent Oliver to do homework on her asking "wtf how is my future wife so amazing" the mundane answer was "she actually did do stuff like archery, horseback riding, sword training, etc., but the prince of Hermity told her to stop every one of those activities because she was better than he was."

Fan Theories I've seen

Arnold in a Loop: The reason I tend to agree with the fan hypothesis that Arnold is in his own time loop is because 1. He seemed to be under the impression that she was slightly afraid of him up until the last chapter of volume 5 (I mean, he did stab her in the chest last go round) and 2. He's way too brilliant for even a determined, workaholic 19 year old. Like Rishe, he acts like got an extra few lifetimes of learning under his belt.

He's also several steps ahead of Rishe at every turn. He already knows what's happening, and he seems genuinely delighted at how fast she catches on. And he grabs her suggestions with two hands and runs with them because they're good and valid and often present the solution to the problems he himself wasn't able to find, like a way to make Coyelles an equal partner instead of his first target for invasion.

Was her 5th loop really the first time that he encountered her? He made the gesture toward his heart that she interpreted as "Shoot me if you can" but what if in a prior loop, say the 2nd or 3rd, he saw a cute scholar in Coyelles and wanted to try to encounter her again in later loops but didn't again until the 5th? What he he's bumped into her in every life before, but she only developed her own hunter's sense in the 5th life so never realized it? What it he's been crushing on a girl for 30 years and only by chance in the 7th loop did she choose a different escape route and bump into him?

Dream Vision Arnold: Another fan theory I've seen is Arnold having dream visions of all the wars started in all of Rishe's lives in the future. And that, too, would jive with him having inherited the blood of the goddess and having majority and some notion of events that haven't come to pass yet. (And also why he insists on calling Rishe his wife even though they aren't married yet. Probably saw enough visions of her that the moment he saw her jump off the balcony, he went "oh. That's the girl from my dreams I'm gonna marry. okay. get her. GET HER NOW.")

My own pet theories:

Arnold's mother and the Crusade Church - Fan theories center around the idea of Arnold getting his super powers from his mother's side. (Although his dad is a monster too.) What if the Goddess picked Arnold as her champion of revenge against his dad and that's why he's stuck in a loop (and Rishe is the one getting dragged along with him cuz she's a soulmate?)

Opposing forces: Arnold's father works for another god/goddess (maybe a war god or something) and believes it is his mission in life to bring the world war about, and that's why Arnold feels like he has to stop him

Possible prophesies: The fact that Arnold's father committed straight up infanticide and eventually killed or had all his concubines killed makes me wonder if there was some sort of oracle that told him that his death would come at the hands of his own child with hair of a different color. (Arnold kills him anyway in the six loops so far.) This opens the door for RISHE (daughter in law) being the one to get to murder him in loop 7, which frees Arnold of the sin of patricide but has her committing regicide instead.... Not that she'd care, she's already killed plenty in all of her loops, especially the last two. But since Arnold seems to be getting ideas of involving the Crusade Church, maybe having her take on the role of the champion of the goddess might absolve her of that crime. Especially if the new Emperor Arnold Hein forgives her.

Rishe actually is one of the chosen of the goddess, and Arnold is the only one that knows.

Final Thoughts

Rishe so worried about the public kiss during the wedding ceremony that she hasn't stopped to think about what comes after is kind of amusing. Granted, she trusts Arnold not to hurt her and that he won't do anything she doesn't want him to. But still.

(Also, getting kissed senseless is a pretty nice birthday present.)

Even if it's his first loop or his seventh too, Arnold is absolutely besotted with her. He's a lovesick fool and he's trying so hard to keep it together in public.

SEPTEMBER CAN'T COME FAST ENOUGH!

[brownandblackpearls]

🦇𝒯he  𝒱isitor (Alucard Tepes x BlackReader) Pt.7

PART 7 SUMMARY:

You and Alucard traipse from town to town together...until trouble strikes in the form of claws, fangs and delayed vengeance. With you left shaken and marked, your host isn’t keen on letting you back out of the castle anytime soon. Normally, this stifling limitation would annoy you...but Alucard has been spending more time with you, lately. Getting closer and closer...

...perhaps being stuck in the castle isn’t so bad, after all?

─── Alucard x black female reader

─── imagery + fiction

─── explicit smut

─── Fantasy, vampires, hurt/comfort, enemies-to-friends-to-lovers, magic user, cute bats, gardening, cooking, cottagecore MC, castlecore Alucard.

☾ previous. ☾ next.

┌───────────━┿──┿━──────────┐

└───────────━┿──┿━──────────┘

The next chilly morning, true to his word, you and Alucard make your way down to the garden to gather the harvest.

You’ve switched into a road dress, not wanting to let the nicer gowns that Alucard has conjured for you go to waste. Your hair is bundled up in a scarf neatly behind your head. You’re wearing gloves, ready to work. Alucard makes his way over to the garden and leans down, showing you how he intends to prepare the harvest to take into town.

“This is how we’ll wrap them. Watch closely...You see? Show me.”

He is watchful at first, instructing you on how to bind and rope the packaging just so. It is to keep any of the stock from falling to the wayside while you’re both on horseback, leaving a trail of produce behind you. 

His eyes are as sharp as ever, framed by lowered, dusky blonde lashes as he takes in your handiwork. The low rumblings of his voice give constructive critique, and you manage to avoid any accidents under his gaze. You wonder what he thinks of your hands briefly, before refocusing on the task.

You’re curious now, finding his instructive personality to be a much calmer one than his default. He seems so sure of himself here in the garden, and less walled off. Prepping vegetables is clearly something he had learned prior to your visit (as unseemly as it seemed to be for someone like him), and it is something he seemed more than willing to teach. Alucard seemed like one who liked to learn, now you thought of it.

Soon after, you wait as Alucard spirits away. He reappears with Brutus at his side and together, you prep the saddlebags before mounting the steed and taking off into the woods.

You lean back into Alucard as you watch the tree leaves speed by overhead, the feel of hooves stamping and thrumming through you both. The sound is rhythmic, soothing, and the smell of the green fills you. Alucard’s cologne mixes in with it, his hair beating against his back, with stray locks falling past your shoulders. It is still cool, yet the heat of the horse and his heavy riding gear warms you both. 

You sigh, realizing.

‘I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else,’ you think.

Eventually, you arrive in town and it is lively. You sell everything, making a good profit. You know it isn’t needed, but it is nice to have something to do. You talk to vendors and merchants, your tongue wagging in conversation and your mood feeling light.

‘No,’ you readjust. ‘It’s not in the woods I want to be. Perhaps here? This town? But there’s nothing special about it…’

Currently passing by a stand of jewelers while in thought, one of them reaches out to you, giving you pause. You look into a wrinkled face.

“Yes?”

“A necklace for you, girl? A ring, an anklet?”

You stare at the wares, considering. You’re not here for jewelry you remember, though they are pretty.

“I couldn’t, but thank you.” You say.

“Oh, but you could. What a lovely dress you have on. Never seen one like it.”

You look down to your dress, another that arose from the depths of Alucard’s inventory. It is simpler in comparison to what you know him to have from the clothes you’ve seen this far.

“Thank you,” you say.

“Did your husband gift that to you?” the jeweler inquires, gesturing over your shoulder. You follow their gaze and realize they are looking at Alucard across the stalls, across the road itself. He is kneeling near a tavern wall, gifting coins to some street children, an old woman or two huddled beside the shadows of the building. 

He does not realize you are looking. He doesn’t know you are watching him give what you’ve both earned away to those that need it.

You find yourself surprised. You thought that Alucard ignored most of the world outside his castle and his surroundings. He could certainly afford to. Someone like him would never need to understand or empathize with the destitute and the ill. The human.

And yet there he was. 

“He’s…not my husband.” you find your lips saying to the merchant as you continue to watch Alucard.

“But you came into town with him.” The voice is suddenly sharp. You turn to look and see the merchant appears oddly hostile.

“What concern is it of yours?” you say, retreating a step back.

“Nice dress,” the merchant spits. “He is finely dressed, like you. He gives money away like water. Your skin is clear and dewy. You want for nothing. It’s in the way you move. Slow, measured. You can afford the jewelry. You can.”

You find yourself turning to go, yet the offending seller follows you down the line of stalls.

“Are you a mistress? A hanger-on? Does his wife know? How shameless of you, to parade around like this. The things young ladies do for money, these days.”

Your temper gets the best of you. By the time you feel it, it is too late.

You turn around and crowd in on the seller. Their eyes widen, understanding very quickly that the dynamic has changed. They take a step back. You follow.

“Go on, do slander me. Great sales tactic, I’m sure your wares fly off the shelves, the customers love it so much! And not that it’s any of your fucking business, but do tell me; how you would know anything about what I do and why?”

“...Why else would an unwed woman be out and about with a man so blatantly—”

“ —I could be anything, you bint. I could be a mercenary with a partner, a scholar with a professor, a diplomat with a guide…is your mind so small that the only thing you could conjure is an escort? Even if I was, I still wouldn’t buy your jewelry…you insult me, and you insult him. I won’t have it.”

“Is there a problem?”

You and the seller turn to find Alucard towering over your shoulder.

“No,” you and the seller say in unison, one out of fear and one out of dismissiveness.

Alucard gestured to the gems in the jeweler’s hands, plucking a shining necklace from the bunch easily. The jeweler tremored a bit, looking between you both.

“Ah, sir...your wife was simply looking at my wares. Pretty things for a pretty thing.”

Alucard holds the necklace up beside your face then, not answering the seller. He doesn’t refute or explain, only watches you. You watch his eyes take you in alongside the gem before he seems to make a decision. 

He clutches the necklace back into his grip and hands some coins over to the seller wordlessly. The seller mumbles their thanks before shuffling away, seemingly disbelieving that they made a sale after such a torrid argument.

Alucard dangles the necklace before you. “Do you like it?”

You frown. “You heard what they said to me.”

“I heard you defend our honor.”

“Is this a thanks for that?”

“This is because I want to.”

You pause then, a bit taken aback. 

“I suppose...it’s pretty,” you try.

Alucard situates behind you, fastening the necklace to your neck before clasping it together.

“Then,” his breath warms the back of your neck, “I suppose it’s yours.”

Together, you continue through town, the necklace on your neck. The gem weighs against your sternum and you wonder if other people are noticing it, noticing the two of you.

You are too nervous to inquire further on it.

Soon enough, the day’s dealings are done. On the way back home, you find yourself liking the woods once more, and then the castle itself upon the return home.

Home.

Ah.

‘I want to be where he is,’ you realize.

Yes. That’s it.

Alucard stalks up the steps before turning to you, curious.

“Coming?”

You find yourself smiling, not quite sure why. He also seems taken aback by the sudden expression.

“Yes. Let’s go home.”

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Every other week, the two of you venture into different towns for supplies. Sometimes you go with hooded shrouds, other times you walk freely out in the open. Sometimes Alucard takes you into the nearby towns, and sometimes he steers Brutus further out. You have a feeling he has a system on how he navigates the outside world, a system that keeps eyes off of him and keeps nosy townsfolk from tracking his identity. 

You love the trips. You love seeing other people and conversing with them, you love shopping through the inventory, you love getting the little bit of sun left in the chilly weather and you love going there and back with Alucard. He is like a patient specter…whether right next to your side or not, you have a feeling that he keeps his eyes and ears on you at all times.

It is during a return from another town, that something amiss happens.

───────────━┿──┿━──────────

You’re riding in a wagon this time as Alucard directs Brutus, hitched and pulling the wagon along. It brings with it some new items, and a few things for you to use. You both could have went without any of it, you understand, but the socialization in bartering and trading was well worth it. It keeps the castle from feeling stifling, at times. You find yourself looking forward to return to it.

Brutus stops suddenly, rearing back a bit. Alucard’s eyes sharpen as he looks out into the forest, clearly hearing something. You watch him turn his head this way and that.

He calls your name. “__________, stay in the—”

You feel something drop into the wagon behind you, knocking things aside and pulling up close to your back.

It is not a warm presence. It is ice cold.

A hand grabs you roughly by the hair from behind, forcing you to bear your neck. You shriek in pain, unable to hide it. The shriek breaks into a gasp as you feel something sharp at the front of your throat, barely catching a gleam of the attacker’s blade.

Your head is wrenched so far back by the fist threatening to yank out your hair, that you can’t even lock eyes with Alucard. You can only focus on the trees lining above and try not to wrestle too much so that you don’t cut your own throat. 

‘This is very different from the last time I looked up like this,’ you note uselessly. ‘Let me understand who we’re fighting before I try anything…’

You quickly try tapping into other senses. You can hear two others drop nearby, on either side of the wagon. You can smell the scent of old blood and grime. 

Alucard doesn’t make a sound, doesn’t say a word. Brutus settles.

The one holding you at knifepoint laughs, their belly bouncing against your back. You feel sick.

“Little prince,” the one behind you calls. His voice is thick, like the seafaring folk of the north. “We heard the king is gone. Thought you were too. Guess it got mixed up in the letters.”

‘Vampires,’ you understand, putting it all together.

The breath rolling off your attacker smells rancid and you wince. Your captor notices, yanking you again and earning another whine out of you.

“Don’t like that, do you? Here, have some more—ah, ah, ah, little prince!” you feel the knife burrow a little closer in your skin, barely cutting it. “You’re fast, yes you are! But my knife will be faster. And your pretty little livestock will not recover from a blow like this. Hold your place.”

It is silent then, and another heavily accented voice from the side chips in.

“They say our leader never returned from your father’s castle,” it spits. “Where is Godbrand?”

“It seems,” Alucard clips in a low, threatening manner you’ve yet to hear yourself before, “you already know. What did you come for?”

“Godbrand,” they state again. “You will take us to him.”

Alucard laughs then, low and mirthless. “An army came and went. A rebellion began and ended. Where have you three been this whole time?”

You hear hissing and shuffling about. 

“Give her to me,” Alucard says, “and I let you live.”

The one behind you laughs again, curdling your stomach with the smell, the cruelty. 

“This isn’t a bargain or a trade, boy. Have you gone insane? Look at all this shit,” he kicks something in the wagon aside, “Cabbages! For a bloodsucker? Ha! You’re a trader now, Prince? You play merchant and house with this human whore? You, who can fly across nations, teleport through realities, and shapeshift into anything...taking this piece of shit wagon in the woods?”

The man spits and you pray it was to the side and not in your hair. Fucker.

“You sicken me! Weak. Your father would rattle to life if he knew what you were up to with those talents, wasting them for pussy. Like father, like son I guess.”

You can see the woods darken from where you are. You can spy the treetops begin to shroud in dark clouds. The air feels heavy.

Something is coming.

“You do not know my father,” Alucard says. “And as you said yourself…just like your pissant leader, your king is dead too.”

You shiver at the boldness in his statement, afraid of the knife slicing across your neck in retribution. Is he even thinking of you? But you hear it then…the vampire behind you…his breath hitches. You are saved from the foul smell. 

The vampires are afraid, you understand. Alucard knows this.

You decide to use this moment. You feel behind you for the vampire holding you hostage and try to focus the energy from your core. Sparks fly between your fingers and it is enough to jolt the assailant. You use his surprise to lean back into him, away from the knife and staggering him to the side.

It is the wrong move. The vampire simply uses inhuman strength to get you right back where he wants you, hands gripped in his fist behind your back and your neck under the blade. You’re both gasping from the struggle, but now with the vampire’s grip twisting your wrists instead of your hair, you can see Alucard and the others.

Alucard is closer, now. Just before the wagon, almost. His eyes burn into you before focusing on the attacker. You have never seen them more animalistic than that first day you met.

“See? Fast,” the assailant behind you sing-songs again. “But not faster than the knife!”

The other two vampires draw in behind Alucard, who pays them no mind. The one behind you tightens his grip on you. You feel your eyes begin to traitorously well up, all the emotions running high from this dangerous situation and frustration from being unable to reach Alucard…safety…who is just out of arm’s reach.

“What’s so special about this one?” the vampire asks, nudging his face against yours tauntingly. His beard leaves a burn behind that you despise. “Can’t be what’s under the dress. Those are all the same. Maybe it’s the blood?”

You feel a tongue lathe at your cheek then, and groan in disgust as you try to inch away without running towards the knife. It’s impossible, and you’re trapped in the game of cat and mouse.

Alucard’s eyes darken even further.

“I think,” Alucard begins, his voice steady and his footsteps backing slowly away from the wagon, “you abandoned your posts. I think you felt that you could slither back from where you came without Godbrand…only to find others like him, who would rip you apart for your cowardice. You thought by coming here you would spare yourselves from that...”

The darkness grows so heavy that you can hardly see. Alucard’s voice is the only thing that can cut it.

“...You should’ve let them rip you apart.”

“Oh-ho…now I know she must taste divine, for you to act this way,” your trapper calls, before he foolishly moves the knife from your throat and uses it to cut at your dress in a quick move. Your dress’s front opens and your sleeve is harshly moved aside, sharp teeth sinking into your shoulder. Before the teeth even puncture, you hear something sharp ring through the air.

It all happens so fast, you can hardly catch it. 

A long sword erupts at your side, running through your assailant’s head and missing yours by inches. The vampire pulls off of you to shout, dropping his knife, and you lunge forward and away. You hear his screams warble and croak off behind you. 

Another vampire leaps to grabs you up by the shoulders, yanking you off the wagon entirely. You feel his hands get ripped away from you as you hit the forest floor harshly. You’re quick to stand, swaying in confusion and adrenaline before trying to flee. Alucard and another assailant visualize before you, weapons swinging midair before they vanish once more. It’s almost as if you imagined it…but you can still hear the battle echoing around you.

'Fast,' you understand, turning back and ducking under the wagon.

Too fast for a human to run away from, likely. You don’t want to get in Alucard’s way while he disposes of these ambushers.

You hear clangs and hisses, shouts and bodies hitting the forest floor. Soon enough, it is quiet. You see Alucard’s boots materialize in front of the wagon.

‘He’s here,’ you think.

You crawl from under the wagon and before you can even move to stand, Alucard’s hands pull you up and draw you in. You clutch the front of his blouse tightly, squeezing into him and the cradle of his arms.

That was scary. You don’t want to go through that again. Now that Alucard’s here, it’s alright. 

You peek past his hold and spy a leg on the ground. Just one, nameless leg.

‘Right then. He took care of things.’

He pulls you back, his grip firm. His eyes rove over you as his hair flies astray, made a mess from the fight.

“Are you hurt?”

You look up to him to speak, and find yourself voiceless.

The ride back to the castle is a blur for you. The bodies of the vampires are left long behind and Alucard is sure to let the wagon roll over them on the disembarkment.

You sit in front of him instead of in the wagon, his arms tight around you.

Once at the castle, he makes quick work of unholstering the horse and stabling it away. He unloads the wagon. Then he finds you, still standing amongst everything, waiting for him and lost in your thoughts.

You’re guided through the castle in silence, the arrival to your personal bathroom harkened by the loud steps on the floor.

Alucard runs the tub’s faucet, steaming water jetting out. You sit aside, looking straight ahead and pawing at your neck, feeling the puncture marks and frowning.

Alucard looks at you then, stepping over to lift your hair aside, gazing at your bruised neck.

“Will I turn…?” you rasp.

“No,” he murmurs. “Their intent was to feed. Not to change.”

You feel the tears then, and sniffle a bit before looking down at the floor. Alucard lowers his hand before brushing a few of the tears away. His thumb, his touch, is not cold like theirs you realize. 

It is anything but.

───────────━┿──┿━──────────

The trips come to an end, abruptly.

After the attack, you find that Alucard is unwilling to return to town anytime soon.

You’re annoyed, but you understand why. He’s borne of an immortal creature, somewhat like a demigod on Earth. Trouble like what you faced on the road before is not hindrance to him. 

It’s you.

You’ve picked up your skills, but you still feel shaken after those vampires got so close to you…literally close enough to taste. It scared you then and it rattles you now.

He buffs up the insulation for the stable and prepares bedding and blankets for the animals. He takes cuttings from the garden to inventory in dry storage, there for future use while the Earth’s soil freezes over for the season.

Not long after, the snow begins to fall and frost begins to set. 

It is terribly beautiful from the castle. You can see the forest spread out far and wide, the treetops painted white and the snow falling easily. The stone of the castle keeps you warm from the elements, able to enjoy the beauty from a perch you weren’t always able to use.

You can almost remember the feel of trudging through thick snow like that, nothing but boots and cloth. Like a true adventurer. 

You feel a bit nostalgic.

‘What am I missing…?’ you wonder.

One day, he catches you staring out the castle windows at the snowy grounds below.

“Don’t fret,” he assures, interpreting your expression to be woe. “Spring will return soon enough. It may be safer to travel, then.”

When you don’t respond right away, he comes nearer and looks out the window with you.

“You’ve made your way through the library, I would assume. Nothing left to peer over?”

You think for a moment, your thoughts taking a while to gather as you take in the snow.

“Are you reading something at the moment, Alucard?”

“I am.”

‘I am lonely,’ you realize.

Yet, your host is right here. Perhaps he could help solve this dilemma?

“Can I read with you?” you ask, your voice softer than intended.

Alucard pauses a moment, clearly surprised. “With me...?”

“Yes,” you say. “With you.”

“I…” he looks at you for a long moment before nodding slightly. “Where would you prefer—”

“The parlor,” you decide. “In front of the fireplace.”

You head to the parlor together, quiet through the halls. Soon enough, you enter one of the many throughout the castle. You often wonder why this one is favored for Alucard, though you’ve never drawn it upon yourself to ask why.

You find you quite like it yourself. The colors are warm, the books rise high against their glassed cases, the fireplace is grand and warm, and the rugs and throws are divine. The settee is of a more soft material than the other leathered furniture in the castle.

It is softer, here. 

You sit easily in front of the fireplace, on the fur rug before it. It is clean and cozy for a floor, a far cry from the floors you’ve both sat and slept on in the past during your travels when an inn was out of the question. The fire crackles loudly as you settle, thinking back on the days before you were housed, your vagabond adventures.

You sigh contentedly and watch the fire, your dress swaddling around you as you settle. You don’t even notice your host until he is beside you, holding out your current book.

‘So he still tracks me,’ you think amusedly. “Surely my reading habits cannot interest you this much?” you jest.

Alucard ignores your teasing before taking his own and seating himself in the chair next to the rug. It faces the fire, the glow warming you both.

You watch as he takes off his jacket and vest, hanging them aside and relaxing in one of the simpler white blouses he sometimes dons. He palms open his book and begins taking in the story before him.

You note how rigid he is. 

‘Is he nervous?’ you wonder suddenly. As far-reaching as it is for someone like him, you feel as though he is. Maybe all this time, he wasn’t disgusted, but instead unsure of what to do with himself.

‘Hopeless man.’

“Relax,” you insist, tugging at his nearest leg beside you. He pauses in the chair at your touch, but you do not relent. You smooth a comforting hand down his calf casually before pulling away easily. “There’s no reason to trouble yourself with whatever is rattling around in that head of yours. Let the fire warm you. Relax.” 

You relax on the rug, one hand on the floor and the other flipping through your book as you read.

“Are you quite comfortable?” he asks suddenly.

You look up, watching Alucard watch you. You nod, smiling before looking back to your book.

It is a warmer feeling now than it was by the window, and though the fire helped, it was not the cause.

You find yourself toeing your shoes off and curling into the carpet, watching him watch you.

'Enough of this.'

You go over to him and his chair before seating yourself on his lap and curling up on him in the chair, book in hand. You feel his body turn like stone underneath you, but you choose to relax further, opening the book as you lay your head on his chest, curls tumbling down his front.

It is quiet for a long time, and you sigh comfortably before sinking back into your story and relaxing on your host. He unfolds inch by inch before finally unclenching himself all the way through, loose and easy.

He does not ask that you stop. He does not say a word. You hardly think he's breathing at this point.

You smile. 'Now was that so hard...?'

Alucard's hand suddenly reaches over to pluck the book out of your grasp before putting it aside; he then touches the underside of your jaw.

"What are you doing?" he murmurs at you. It's not a question, not really.

"Whatever I want," you reply easily, meeting his gaze. "I know that's probably fascinating for someone as straight-edge as y—"

His lips are against yours before you can even finish the sentence. His hands tangle in your hair, fingers unable to run through and clenching at your scalp instead, directing you. He leans you back as he leans forward, eager to seemingly sink into the very being of you.

He's never been this forceful with you before. It has never felt so good.

Your eyes draw closed against it, a whimper escaping you before you kiss back eagerly. You don't know who started with tongue but you're both pursuing it now, chasing one another down as the kiss continues into something more heating.

'He doesn't taste like blood,' you think. 'He tastes like wine.'

You hear the fireplace crackling at your side, the fever of the flames against your skin, the rustling noise of your dress against his clothes, and more than anything...you feel the hot, iron handprint of his touch at your waist, at your neck, at your shoulders, on and on the touching continues.

He pulls back, rasping words escaping him.

"You don't know what you're asking for," he begins, stroking at your waist as he eyes your mouth, fighting himself not to kiss you again. The words are bitten out, barely restrained.

"I'm not asking anything," you say, repositioning yourself in the chair to straddle him. "But if you show me...? Then maybe I'll ask nicely. Just for you."

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[paintyoureyeswithavividmind]

close to home | chapter fifty eight

close to home | chapter fifty eight

plot: things continue to spiral at the camp

series masterlist

Pairing: Eventual Daryl Dixon x f!reader Word Count: 3,175 Warnings: violence, blood, typical twd, murder, hint of sexual content, the reader being the reader A/N: thank you for reading!!!

Later that day, after taking a more extended lunch break, and against Daryl’s wishes, you joined everyone else to keep helping. The bridge would be finished soon, and you’d be able to go home and take a break for a while. 

There was a lot of tension in the camp, and people kept glancing at you. The fresh cuts and bruises on your body were a great example to all of them about what happened. But you’d pinned the man who did it to you, so when you stared back, they turned away. 

You were with Aaron in the shade under a tree, and he asked you about what Justin’s been doing to you and if you were okay. You told him a vague situation and reassured him it was nothing you couldn’t handle when Daryl approached the two of you. 

“Gotta get outta here,” Daryl said. “I wanna go up the lumber yard and work up there the rest of the day.”

“I’ll come too,” Aaron said. “I’m getting sick of looking at their faces anyway.”

You squeezed Daryl’s arm. “I’ll grab some gear and meet you by the bike.”

The lumber yard was only a few miles away, and the three of you made it there quickly. You and Daryl beat Aaron, who was riding on horseback. You immediately noticed you were the only woman there but didn’t care. You knew enough of the faces from the Kingdom and Alexandria that you felt safe. And you knew Daryl and Aaron were there with you. 

You’d been working for an hour or so, sweating buckets and helping Daryl saw through tree trunks when you heard the horses started to rile up. You paused and looked at Daryl. He nodded his head to behind you, and you turned, watching a few walkers approach. 

“I got them,” You said, pulling out your machete. 

It was only two and you made quick work at bringing them down, but when you turned and saw dozens of walkers breaking through the trees, you felt dizzy. “Herd’s here!” You yelled and jogged over to Daryl. “We gotta go now!”

Everyone started to move at once, and people took down any walkers that got too close while others grabbed the gear they could. Both you and Daryl were trying to take down as many of the walkers as you could when you heard Aaron yelling. 

You turned and almost screamed when you saw the log on him, and both you and Daryl ran over. He was screaming for people to help Aaron. 

“We need to get this log off him now,” You said as you looked at the blood on the ground. “His arm is likely broken.” You took the flannel that had been tied around your waist and got ready to make a tourniquet. You looked at Aaron and rubbed your hand against his head, trying to soothe him. “It’s going to be all right.”

When the log was finally lifted and he pulled his arm out, your stomach dropped at the sight. You knew he would lose the arm, but you said nothing. You tied the flannel around his forearm to try and stop the blood flow and keep it from moving too much. Then you helped Daryl get him up. 

But the walkers were gaining on you too quickly. Just as one grabbed Daryl and you yelled out his name, it dropped to the ground. Your eyes widened when you saw dozens of people from the camp swarm in, with Rick leading the charge. 

“We got this. Get him back to camp!” 

***

You yelled for Siddiq as soon as you and Daryl dragged Aaron into the camp. Your flannel was doing nothing to stop the bleeding, and you started worrying he’d die from blood loss. When you got to the med tent and learned that Siddiq had been sent back to Alexandria, you and Daryl both shared a look. 

“Okay… okay.” You said and looked at Enid; she’d been doing great for training with Siddiq, but this was bigger. And you’d never done anything like this either. “What do we do, Enid?” You tested her.

She looked at the arm in horror and then towards you. “We have to amputate.”

“Good.” 

Both Daryl and Aaron asked if you were sure, but you ignored them as you prepped the needed materials. “You’re going to have to do it, Enid. I need to help Daryl hold him down.”

“Can’ ya give him somethin’ for the pain?”

“It won’t kick in fast enough.” Both you and Enid said at the same time.

You walked around to Aaron and looked at him. “It’s going to be okay, I promise.” You told your friend. “Daryl, grab his arm. He cannot move. Enid, we need to do this now.”

The young woman nodded, and you could see the hesitation. You thought you would have to do it for her, but she got to work after a second. Aaron started screaming at the pain, and you struggled to hold him down. After a few seconds, he passed out cold, and you started getting things ready to treat and wrap what would be left of his arm. 

“You’re doing great, Enid,” You told her. 

Once the arm was finally removed, both you and she worked quickly to cauterize, treat, and wrap it up as Daryl paced back and forth behind you. His blood covered both of your hands and clothes, but at least his arm was wrapped. 

“What now?”

“We wait,” Enid said. “I can give him meds when he walks up, but now his body has to fight it.” 

“He’ll be okay,” You told your husband. “Aaron is strong. He’s going to pull through.” You could see anger bubbling inside of him, and you knew he would lose it. He wanted answers, and you were scared to think of what he’d do when he found them out. Aaron and him were close, and you knew he’d do anything. 

You turned back to Enid when Daryl stormed off. “I have to go make sure he doesn’t kill anyone. Will you be okay?”

She nodded, “Yes, yes. Go.”

You squeezed her shoulder, “You did amazing. You’re going to make a wonderful doctor.” 

Then you were gone and running out of the tent. You spotted Daryl headed toward the headquarters tent and ran after him. You were quick on your feet and caught up to him as he got to the tent. You yelled his name, but he ignored you. 

“Who was supposed to turn that herd?” Daryl asked Carol as you walked into the tent. 

She nodded her head, and you looked at the other man in the tent. “Fuck,” You muttered when you saw Justin. This was not going to be good. “Daryl.” You said. 

“Hey, the walkie wasn’t charged,” Justin said as Daryl approached him. 

“Bullshit. It’s a solar walkie, you didn’t think to check it?”

“It’s not my fault the radio’s a piece of shit!” 

Daryl punched Justin, and he stumbled out of the tent. You heard him fall into the tables, and you followed Daryl out of the tent, yelling at him to stop. Rick wasn’t here, and after everything Justin had done, you knew he would beat him to death. 

“Daryl, stop!” Carol yelled.

When your husband had Justin pinned to the ground, hitting him repeatedly, it took both you and Carol to pull him back to finally stop. 

“I said stop!” Carol yelled again. 

You knelt down next to Justin and looked over his face. The wounds were terrible, especially after the fight they’d gotten into earlier. 

“We’ll deal with him, but not like this,” Carol said. 

Daryl grunted and grabbed your arm to get you on your feet. “There’s only one way to deal with these assholes.” He said to Carol and then looked at you. “Let him bleed.”

You sighed as he walked away and looked at Carol, who was shaking her head. “We can’t do this anymore. He can’t do this anymore.” You followed Carol back into the HQ tent. 

“Well, I’ve tried speaking to Rick. He’s not listening.” 

You shook your head and sat down. “Easy for him to do that when he’s at Alexandria all the time. I’m basically his messenger boy. He doesn’t know anything.”

“I know, I know.” Carol agreed with you. “But what else are we supposed to do right now?”

“I don’t know, but we gotta think of something fast before someone ends up dead.”

***

Your impossibly long day stretched for another few hours before the sun finally dipped, and everyone stopped working. You hadn’t seen Daryl yet; you figured he’d gone off hunting to calm himself down. And you weren’t exactly sure what would make Daryl feel better anyway. You could attempt as many jokes as you’d like, but it didn’t change how unhappy and pissed off he was. 

For the most part, everyone came together at a fire to eat. Without Daryl, you ended up sitting with Jerry, Nabila, and Henry and joining them in their game. You loved spending time with the three of them, and soon, you were laughing at Jerry’s jokes and rolling your eyes with Nabila. 

Eventually, Daryl found you and sat beside you with an arm around your shoulders. But he mainly stayed quiet. But he was there, with everyone else, and you knew whatever he’d done and helped him out. 

***

The next day, Justin went missing, and the day after that, Maggie showed up with food from the Hilltop and Justin’s head body. He’d been killed by someone. And tension started growing before noon hit. 

You and Carol heard the commotion as you rounded the camp. The saviors were gathered on one side while Hilltop, Alexandria, Oceanside, and the Kingdom stood together. Your stomach dropped at all the yelling, and both you and Carol ran over. 

“Where the hell is Daryl?” You asked Gabriel, but he shook his head. 

You sighed and followed Carol just as a fight started to break out. Quicker than you’d ever seen, the line was crossed and turned into a mob fight. Someone shoved you into Carol, and when you turned around, it was the same one you’d pinned a few days ago. 

He scowled at you, and you knew he was about to hit you, so you docked to the ground, swiped your feet, and knocked him over. 

“You fucking bitch!” The man said and grabbed your arm. 

“Fuck off,” You yelled, winding up and punching him in the nose. Your knuckles ached, but you punched him again and went for a third before he grabbed your arm and spun you around, locking you in a chokehold. 

“Hey, get off of her!” Rosita yelled, and you felt her jump on the man's back, which only made him choke you harder. Her elbow bumped against the sore spot on your head, and you knew she had him in a chokehold. If you weren't struggling to breathe, you would've laughed at the sight it must've been.

“Fucking asshole,” You coughed, scratching at his arms. 

Through the mob, you saw Daryl walking towards you, and you knew the guy did, too, because he let go of you and shoved you away from him. You stumbled forward a few steps, and Daryl grabbed you to steady you before he continued his way toward the man who’d grabbed you. 

Rosita approached you and asked if you were okay, but you were too busy watching Daryl. He grabbed the back of the man’s shirt and pulled him around before punching him square in the face. When he was on the ground, he pulled out his crossbow and pointed it in the man’s face. 

Both you and Rosita grabbed your guns, and you looked around to see that everyone on your side did. The saviors froze, and then you realized that Rick had gotten here--which almost made you angrier. 

You holstered your weapon and walked away. You were too angry to stay. 

***

When Arat went missing, you didn’t feel inclined to help. Although she was one of the ones who seemed to want to change, who wanted a better world. And there had been times where she came to your defense at the Sanctuary. So you joined Maggie and Daryl in helping them look. 

Still, after the past month or so at the camp, you didn’t particularly feel like doing a damn thing for the saviors. 

It was evening, and you’d taken a few minutes to rest and eat. Maggie went to radio into Hilltop, and you and Daryl were left sitting by yourselves. 

“Did ya kill Justin?” Daryl asked you. 

You snorted and threw a stick in the fire. “I fucking wish. Besides, I would’ve told you either before or right after. And I wouldn’t have left his body where someone could find it. Morons. You?”

“Ya fucked up for that one, darlin’, seemed to have it all planned, huh?” Daryl gruffed, which made you laugh. It wasn't very often he so openly joked about things. “But nah, woulda let ya do it.”

“If my old self could hear this conversation…” You trailed off and looked at him. His face was orange from the campfire and setting sun. “I think she’d run for the hills.”

“Woulda loved to know her,” Daryl said quietly. 

His words made your heart hurt and you leaned over to kiss him. “Maybe I’ll tell you about her, if I get to know about the old you.”

Daryl kissed you again and tucked your overgrown bangs behind your ear. “I’ll tell ya anythin’ ya wanna know.”

You heard Maggie approaching the two of you, and you smiled and gave him one last kiss before standing up. She asked you if you both were ready to keep going, and you nodded, kicking dirt over the fire to kill it. 

It got a bit chillier as the sun sunk further into the horizon, a sure sign that fall was approaching. When you stumbled across a few dead walkers, Daryl saw the weapon used to take them down, and he said he knew who’d done it. Neither you nor Maggie needed him to voice who it was; you both knew. Oceanside. 

So Maggie led you to her best hunch, and it was even colder by the time the sunset. You had grabbed Daryl’s hand, intertwining your fingers and walking close to him as you approached an old school. 

“Beg.”

You grabbed your gun as Daryl raised his crossbow, and you all walked quickly around the corner to see what was happening. 

“Beg like you made them beg.” Cyndie held a gun to the back of Arat’s head. Bea and a few other women from Oceanside were with her. 

“Drop it,” Daryl said. 

Cyndia said something to Bea and the women all lowered their weapons. You hesitated, following Daryl’s lead. You kept your gun up. 

“You took out Justin with that thing?”

“He killed my husband,” Bea said. 

You lowered your gun as Daryl lowered his bow. You stayed beside him as you listened to them talk. Your eyes burned with tears when Cyndie cried to the three of you as she spoke of the night Simon attacked the community and how Arat killed her brother. The emotion, the desperation in Cyndie’s voice. It was the same as yours and Maggie’s when Rick saved Negan. 

You scowled and grabbed Daryl’s forearm as you listened to Arat beg and finally reveal what she had said to Cyndie’s eleven-year-old brother. 

Then you looked between Maggie and Daryl, and the three of you walked away without a word. 

Even though you didn’t care to save Arat’s life, you cringed when you heard her yelling at the three of you. Daryl wrapped his arm around your waist, “Don’ look back,” He whispered to you. 

So you didn’t. 

***

The following day, the saviors left the camp. You weren’t surprised, and you were thankful to see them leave. You couldn’t stand the sight of any of them, whether they were friendly or not. You wanted them all gone. You didn’t care if they were dead or not. You just wanted them gone. 

You were sitting in your tent for a while after that. You weren’t sure where Daryl or Maggie were and didn’t feel like going outside to talk to Rick or anyone else. So you stayed in bed and tried your best to not worry about everything wrong in your world right now. 

“Darlin’, wake up.”

Your eyes opened, and you jumped, hearing Daryl chuckle under his breath. You hadn’t even realized you’d fallen asleep. Daryl was kneeling beside the bed cot, caressing the side of your face as you looked at him, blinking the sleep from your eyes. 

“Maggie’s on her way to kill Negan. She'll probably be there by tomorrow."

“What?”

“We worked it out with Oceanside; they gonna cover the walkies case word gets back. It’s ending today. Do ya wanna take my bike and go with her?”

You thought for a moment and then slowly shook your head. “I haven’t seen him since… I never go to the cell. I don’t want to see him.”

He nodded and gently pulled on your loose hair. “Okay, crazy girl.”

“Why didn’t you go?”

“Gotta make sure Rick ain’ anywhere near Alexandria. Keep him busy here.”

You nodded and set your hands on his face. “Okay. I can keep an eye on him, too, then.”

He leaned in to kiss you, which was slow, lazy, and perfect. “Ya look pretty when ya sleep, ya know that?”

You felt your heart flutter and your cheeks burn. “It’s nice to see after this long you can tell me what you think so honestly.” 

He hummed and kissed you again, cradling your face with his hands. You sighed into the kiss and let him deepen it as he slowly pushed you down on the bed. 

“We’re supposed to be keeping an eye on Rick, honey,” You mumbled against his lips when you felt his hand undoing the button to your jeans. You lifted your hips to make it easier for him, contrary to what you had just told him. 

“Right now, I wanna fuck my wife first, that okay with ya?” Daryl said as he leaned back to part your legs. 

You couldn’t say anything; his dominance had captivated you. And you knew after the days you’d both had, you and him needed this. So you nodded and sat up, quickly working to get his own pants undone. 

The both of you knew it had to be quick and quiet, and you bit down on his shoulder to keep yourself from moaning when he pushed into you. 

“Ah, fuck, darlin’,” Daryl mumbled under his breath. You moaned at the his words and how his raspy his voice had gotten, and begged for him to go harder. He chuckled and kissed your forehead. “Ain’ gotta beg me, just gotta ask nicely.”

[gemini-magic17]

Entanglement Chapter Eight

**James' POV

I looked at every square inch of this damn castle yesterday looking for Y/n and nothing. It's no wonder she was always so good a hide n' seek as a child hell even now it is like she disappears without a trace. After asking countless people and receiving the same answer I was about to give up until I came upon Airk.

"Excuse me Airk have you seen my sister anywhere"?

"Yeah, I just saw her. I told her that Kit wanted to go horseback riding with her today", he said nonchalantly. This made me worry because I know what Kit thinks of Y/n and if she were to do anything to her the pain I would inflict on her would be brutal.

"Is that so? Did Kit say why she wanted to take her horseback riding", I asked almost interrogating him.

"Kit said she wanted to get to know her more before they were supposed to get married. Why is there something wrong with that"?

"No, it's just that from what I saw these past couple of days she had little to no interest Y/n. It makes you wonder if she has some kind of agenda", I said with a condescending tone.

"Give my sister more credit would you she is not heartless. Plus what is not to like about Y/n she is brilliant and wise it's hard for anyone not to find any interest."

"It sounds like you have feelings for my sister. May I remind you that she is marrying Kit not you even if I don't want her to. After all, we both know that there is something going on between her and Jade", I said.

"There may be something between them now but I am sure that is likely to change", he said getting right into my face.

"I hope so for your sister's sake at least", I said stepping closer as we stared each other down.

**The Next Day (Still James' POV)

As soon as I was up and dressed I made my way to Y/n's room. I needed to ask her about what went on between her and Kit on their little adventure. With her door in my line of sight, I walked faster, and as I was standing in front of it about to knock when it swung open. I couldn't believe it the person standing in front of me wasn't my sister but the devil herself.

"Hello, James what brings you to the Princess' chambers", she said with that arrogant tone.

"I came looking for my sister but instead found a pest. What are you doing in here", I stepped into the room shutting the door.

"I am simply waiting for Y/n. I was going to ask her if she wanted to come with me to see an old friend."

"Really and what friend would this be? Let me guess this friend is 5'5, has red hair, and is the protector of the Princess of Tir Asleen would that be the one", I said.

"No, as a matter of fact, this friend lives just right on the edge of town", she said with a smug.

"If that so then-", the door suddenly opened and there stood Y/n.

"Can I ask what you two are doing in my room", she said.

Before I could answer Kit got there first. "I just wanted to see if you wanted to come see an old friend with me."

"I would love to but I have a meeting with my parents and your mother", Y/n said. Letting out a sign of relief I no longer had to worry about her running off with Kit today.

"Oh, don't worry about that Y/n. I ran into them on my way here and they said it would be no problem and that you could just do the meeting another day", she said directing a smirk at me.

"Ok, well then just let me change into my riding gear and we can go."

"Alright I will be waiting outside", she said heading towards the door until Y/n asked me what I needed.

"Oh never mind we will talk later", nodding her head at what I said she went to go change while Kit and I left the room.

Standing outside next to evil incarnate I was ready to blow my top. One look at me and she started to laugh at me.

**Kit's POV

"What the fuck are you laughing at", James said.

"Oh nothing much just the fact that you are all red in the face almost as if your head is about to explode", I couldn't stop laughing.

"You think this is funny do you"?

"Yeah, actually I do. Making that vein in your forehead possibly about to pop is hilarious."

"I know what you're doing", he said stepping closer to me.

"Oh yeah, what am I doing? Pray tell, since you have seem to have an answer to that question already."

"Getting closer my sister just to screw with her head", he said.

"I have no idea what you mean. Have you ever thought maybe getting to know your sister might actually get me to like her."

"Bullshit! You are just getting close to her so that I won't hurt you or to be more specific Jade."

"I mean this is what you wanted, isn't it. For me to not break her heart and if I did that it could lead to some pretty damning consequences", I said throwing his words back at him.

"That's right I did say that. Although, making Y/n fall for you is just going to be more devastating when she finds out about you and Jade", he spat at me.

"Then it's a good thing she is never going to find out is she", I smile.

"You know for your sake I hope she doesn't", James said.

The door opened and Y/n appeared dressed in leather riding pants with a red long-sleeve shirt and what seemed to be some kind of black vest. I must admit Y/n is a lot of things but ugly was not one of them. Doing a once-over of her as she turned around to talk to James I had a full view of her ass in those leather pants in front of me. What can I say I may not like her but she does have a nice ass. Continuing to stare it wasn't until I heard the sound of someone clearing their throat. Turns out it was James giving me the evil eye as though he could see what I was doing. I didn't care though and I gave him a look with the expression of "Is there something you want to say".

"Are you ready to go", she asked me.

"Yeah let's go", she started walking and I turned to follow her but not before giving James the middle finger.

**Y/n's POV

As we rode Shadowwing and Chief across the open field it was an exhilarating feeling. The wind blew in my face as Shadowwing picked up speed competing with Kit's just like yesterday. I turned to look at Kit and for the first time since I had met her she was smiling back at me and it was a genuine smile. Focusing back on the open field we continued on until we came upon a house not far away. Slowing down speed Kit stopped in front of the cottage and I followed behind her. Dismounting from the horse she made her way to the front door. I got off Shadowwing just as the door opened to show a man with what seemed to be some sort of staff.

"Kit I wasn't expecting to see you today. What brings you by", he said.

"I just wanted to come see you. I felt like I hadn't seen you in a while. I get updates from Boorman but wanted to come see for myself how you are doing", she said.

"Well as you can see I am the same as the last time you saw me", he laughed.

The man looked past Kit and towards me. Kit turned around and introduced us to one another.

"Y/n this Willow Ufgood", I stretched out my hand to shake his and he looked at me curiously as he took it.

"Willow this is Princess Y/n Ravaryn of Zemira."

"Ah, you are to be wed to Kit. Well I must say it is a pleasure to meet you Princess Y/n", he said.

"Please no formalities you can call me Y/n", I smiled.

Walking into his home he directed us to the dining table. Willow asked if we wanted anything. Kit accepted a cup of water but I told him that I didn't need anything but thank you. Sitting down in one of the chairs and handing Kit the cup his eyes landed on me.

"So, Y/n what do you think of Tir Asleen so far", he asked.

"It's beautiful. Everyone is so welcoming and kind", I smiled.

In the corner of my eye, I could see Kit give me a questioning look. It seemed that Willow saw her look and brought it up.

"What was that expression that just came across your face Kit"?

"What do you mean", she asked

"Oh, you know what I mean. That looked like you didn't agree with the answer she gave when it came to how welcoming the people of Tir Asleen are. Perhaps that look you were giving was directed at yourself. After all, you aren't always the nicest person", Willow raised his eyebrows somehow knowing that he was right.

"Yeah well, I guess you are not wrong. I was not the most welcoming to the Princess when she first came here. After all, how would you feel if you were marrying a complete stranger in three months", she said.

"I don't blame Kit I felt the same way when I found out. I was not rather fawn of this marriage but getting to know her is something I have enjoyed very much", I smiled looking at Kit. Kit just looked into the cup she was given avoiding the fact that I was looking at her. Turning back towards Willow he kept looking at me the same way he was when we were outside and it was starting to make me nervous.

"Kit, you know that sword you were asking about two months ago that you wanted", he said.

"Yeah, why"?

"A friend of mine knew I was looking for it and came across it."

"Really, you have it", Kit seemed excited by this news.

"Yes, it is in the green trunk with gold details on the top of it near all of my books."

Kit couldn't get up fast enough and go get it. I was planning on going after her but before I could make two steps to where she had gone Willow took hold of my hand.

"Y/n there is something that I need to show you. It's of grave importance", after hearing what he said it kind of scared me. I followed him to a room where there were books, herbs, and other things used to do magic. Coming to a stop my eyes set on a book that was directly in front of us. He started to frantically flip through pages until he came across what he was looking for.

"Here it is", he ushered the book towards me, and the content of the page had the prophecy regarding the blood of the dragon as it did in the other book.

"How do you have this", I asked.

"You know it, don't you. You have seen this before."

"What does it matter if I have", genuinely curious.

"You are the girl that the prophecy pertains to", he said.

"No that can't be."

"As soon as I took your hand and the flashes of what is to come it is the prophecy come true. You are the blood of the dragon, I mean how many people can say they came face to face with a dragon especially that dragon being Calyx and live", he exclaimed.

"How do you know about that"?

"I told you I have seen what is to come and from what I have seen you will be the one to bring forth a new world and stop the darkness from consuming the Kingdoms", he said.

"What darkness? What do you mean", I said not knowing what to make of any of this.

"It means that you are destined for greatness."

Before I could ask any more questions we could hear Kit calling for us. Shutting the book and following Willow I was still in shock about what I had just been told.

"Where did you guys run off to", Kit asked.

"I just wanted to show Y/n some of my books on the history of Tir Asleen", he said. Kit gave him a questioning look choosing to believe what he said.

"Y/n it's getting late we should head back", she said.

"Ok, I just have to ask Willow something I will be right out", I said to Kit and she turned to walk out the door but not without thanking Willow for the sword.

"Why me? Why am I the one to bring forth a new world", I asked him.

"You were born with dragon's blood. Prophecies aren't simple and never refer to a specific person. This specific prophecy was written long ago even before the war between the Kingdoms. In other words, the reason that you are the girl it refers to is because of destiny; your destiny", he said.

With those leaving his mouth, I slowly turned around and headed out the door. Before mounting Shadowwing Kit and I said goodbye but not before Willow whispered to me "You may not believe in who you are meant to become but that will all change soon." I looked at him and couldn't help thinking how soon that would be.

Saddling Shadowwing Kit turned to me and asked me what he told me. I told her that he said I could borrow the books he showed me pertaining to Tir Asleen's history. Kit nodded her head and we made our way back to the castle.

[historia-vitae-magistras]

Part Two: Space

Part One: Here. Part Two: You are Here. Part Three: Here.

Author's note: Inspired by the 1950s short story "The Man Who Came Early" by Poul Anderson. This is as close to sci-fi as I've ever written and therefore not accurate to the ISS or other actual science because its time travel. Warnings for panic and some goreless action.

International Space Station 400 km above the surface of the Earth. 21st Century

“Careful up there, Jones.” The navigation officer’s voice echoed through the intercom, making Alfred look up, a domed helmet in his hand. He grinned.

“Don’t you worry yourself, darling,” He replied. “I’ve sat on some bison bigger than that panel.”

He could practically hear her eye roll. “Stay in communication and don’t pull another stunt like that backflip.”

“Aww, c’mon. Kids on the live stream went wild for it.”

“Try me, Jones. There won’t be a presidential order on earth that’ll get you back up here again.”

“Laaaaaame.”

The ISS floated serenely 400 kilometres above the earth. Alfred sailed from the equipment locker, pushing off until he reached the airlock. An old hand at this, it was almost as intuitive as horseback riding was when he was younger, but his heart sped up anyway. He clamped his helmet down and checked the comms.

“Eagle Scream, back to baseboys, over. Confirm baseboys.”

He could practically hear an eye roll from the command module. “Eagles don’t even scream. They get that sound from a hawk.”

“That should be a state secret.” Alfred grumbled. There was a whoosh as the airlock was sealed at the inner end. He opened the outer hatch, giving it one final pat for good luck. Hitching his tether, he grabbed the metal rails and took a moment. He never got sick of this part, the void of nothingness with the sheer expanse of the universe before him. The sun was at 40 degrees; the planet was just behind him.

Tossing a look over his shoulder, he could see the little green sweep of Nantucket at the edge of a grey nor’easter. He released one hand to get a better look. He was a handsome bugger from this angle, almost a thousand miles above the earth. He couldn’t quite reach his ass in the suit, but California looked good regardless. When he was done being vain, reverence swept him through the weightless silence. He leaned his helmeted head against his shoulder, watching his pale blue dot. He smiled: home sweet home.

“Move your ass, Jones.”

“Yeah, yeah.” He snapped out of his reverie, grinning in the helmet. After releasing the rails, he sailed gracefully up and behind until the Canadarm appeared. She was preloaded. All he had to do was line it up, fix some wiring and screw it in, and they were golden.

“Jones to command. Jones to command. Come in command. Need you to swing’er over nice and easy.”

The bright white arm twitched on its crane-like elbow joint, and its flexing attachment worked as steel fingers clamped on the panels and kept them in place as Alfred fastened them. It had better joints than Matt, only whirring softly instead of popping and creaking like organic bubble wrap. Alfred positioned himself near the panel that needed replacing, flexing his hands and cracking his knuckles before pulling out his wrench. The arm reached out, perhaps a bit too fast.

“Whoa, easy on the gears! My brother will shit bricks if we fuck up his baby.”

“Sorry.”

Alfred replaced the panels for an hour. The steady guidance of the Canadarm provided the stability he needed to make damn sure the solar panel was securely in place. He stopped, needing an adjustment as the command module chatted with Houston.

Alfred patted the arm and said, "You've got a better grip on that panel than Mattie does on his mental health." She was almost alive, the machinery warm, and she practically purred.

“Captain, we’ve got some funky radiation readings.”

“Almost done, just crank’er up .2 degrees and I can get this finished and come back in for some sweet tea.”

“Houston advises re-entry.”

So? They hadn’t ordered to retreat, and navigation wasn’t panicking. “I just need oh point two degrees and thirty seconds.”

“Noted.”

Canadarm moved a touch. “There you go.” He centred the panel and lined up the screws. He was the last one in when the alarm rang. Emergency lights flashed red and blue. Alfred had never heard them in action before and grew cold. Comms opened again. No. He breathed. He was not panicking.

“Captain, they’re ordering re-entry.”

“Retract the arm. On my way.”

Alfred gripped the rungs and swung his line out of the way. He pushed off hard and scrambled over the top of the rigid cylinder of the can-shaped module. It was dark here, away from his work lights and sliding across the expanse towards the hatch. He caught himself on the handle, keeping his movements controlled.

“Captain?”

“Almost there.”

“Radiations rising!”

Alfred glanced towards the sun, not looking at it. It was brighter now, with dark fire spots. The rings of light jumping up the Corona stretched and flexed like the hoops of the flexible baleen skirts he used to crawl under every now and then before Lemonade Lucy came along and put him on the straight and narrow.

“Why didn’t anyone tell me we were going to get solar flares?”

“The data didn’t show any!”

“Well, that just dills my pickle.” He muttered. He was almost at the hatch. It was brighter now, and he scrambled up the rungs, barely touching one before climbing the next. Alfred swung at the hatch.

Almost there, almost there. Why was he hot? He shouldn’t be hot. His fingers slipped inside his gloves, but he had the lever in his hand. The world fell black before he closed his fingers.

Incident Report Diplomatic Security Service Bureau of Diplomatic Security State Department

On [redacted] and at [redacted], the ISS and ground services at Carnaval facilities reported unusual radiation readings and advised the crew to return inside. See addendum one. Captain [redacted] was in contact with personnel until Captain [redacted]'s suit abruptly transmitted a distress beacon. A thorough search of the ISS was conducted, leading to the discovery of an empty spacesuit, with the helmet still attached. The inner flight suit, including the Snoopy cap and lining, was not recovered. It has been suggested that a replacement may have been made. However, the space suit contained four viable samples of [redacted]'s DNA, leaving no doubt that it belonged to [redacted]. See Addendum Two.

Two simultaneous investigations were conducted by a multidisciplinary team of experts from [redacted] and [redacted]. Interviews were conducted, telemetry data analyzed, and video footage reviewed. The spacesuit Captain [redacted] wore was intact, with no signs of damage or malfunction. Video footage and telemetry data did not reveal any abnormalities or anomalies, except as previously noted. Crew interviews did not provide any significant information regarding the incident. Pushback regarding these results has been seen overseas, significantly [redacted] and [redacted]. It is the recommendation of this body that our counterparts be updated as to the results of this investigation due to the international familial ties of the next of kin and the diplomatic pressure being leveraged.