Tumgik
#i am the worst DM and i love it
kinsey3furry300 · 2 years
Text
My DnD players, when I give them lore on my villains as DM: “Crazy how that Lich used to be a paladin of Pelor before they fell to the darkness while trying to kill the arch-lich. It would be wild to fight them if they still had their powers and kit...” Me: “Yeah, about that.”
Tumblr media
23 notes · View notes
ducktracy · 1 month
Text
i've been in a very "nostalgic for SpongeBob" mood lately and that's warranted a lot of reflecting on Baby Me being a Sponge fanatic and thinking of what she'd think of now. and i have to say that one of my favorite parts of doing what i do--and also the most stupidly niche--is that one of my first online hyperfixations i recall having was SpongeBob production music. i remember animating magical girl transformations in Flipnote to SPONGEBOB MUSIC. i remember feeling so smart researching all the songs and getting to hear them without any dialogue on top. very gratifying to 11 year old me. i was and am still very fixated on production music, and so i always get very excited when seeing uploads of these songs and spotting a screenshot of a scene i worked on among them. one of my favorite aspects of watching episodes premiere is seeing what music they added on top of scenes i touched. it's just neat how many facets my thankfulness for Doing What I'm Doing gets to reach. i'm never not thinking of how grateful i am to be doing what i'm doing
29 notes · View notes
mostlymaudlin · 2 months
Text
i have so many unanswered asks i am so sorry lol. i was gonna answer more but i got overwhelmed again skdbkgjbnkh
7 notes · View notes
seiya-starsniper · 1 year
Text
.
#if I've made anyone uncomfortable with the things I've been posting the last few days that was in fact the point and fully intended#and I don't say that to be cruel but simply to drive home the point that fandom spaces can be both safe and hostile at the same time#it is a deeply uncomfortable thing to acknowledge and I know most people do no want to deal with that and I understand that truly#but it was important to me to acknowledge and to give my opinion so that's what I did#At the same time none of this changes my opinion on my ship or the fact that I love a certain character other people find problematic#and I am fine with people finding that problematic because I am human being I am problematic by default#and I am confident enough in myself as a person to know when to acknowledge when I've contributed to problematic behavior#and realize the world doesn't end when this happens#my opinion of the fandom I've made my home in hasn't changed either#I had these views before and now they're out there in the open messy wording and all#and if you've decided that changes your opinion of me for the worse that's fine you can unfollow block etc#I understand that even in my attempt to acknowledge hurt within my fandom I've probably hurt other people and I have made my peace with it#but for everyone else that's shown me support both on tumblr and in private#for everyone that's listened to me vent about this subject over DMs and validated my hurt feelings#instead of trying to press your own discomforts onto me to carry in addition to my own#thank you#I've carved a permanent space in my heart for you and I truly mean that#I waded into this mess fully expecting to be ignored at best and to lose connections at worst and I was fully okay with it#but the love I've gotten and the deep honest and vulnerable conversations I've had over the last few days has truly been astounding to me#this last part is taking me AGES to write#because I'm actually crying thinking about all the good that's come out of this#and I acknowledge that's not a universal opinion and that's fine I'm really only speaking to my personal experience with what's happened#which despite outward appearances has been incredibly cathartic and uplifting for me#and I don't need everyone in the fandom to share my views or validate me or tell me I'm right people are allowed to disagree#I also don't need to have a deep personal and honest connection with everyone in the fandom where I can share my deepest vulnerabilities#but the fact that I could have that connection with some of you? that's enough for me. it's everything to me.
22 notes · View notes
kitteneddiediaz · 4 months
Text
.
#I am having such a bad day#like the fucking worst#and the stars aligned for me to have no one to really talk to about it#my parents are at a concert (jealous)#I don’t want to talk to my brother bc he’s the main reason I’m upset#my bff is in south central working and doesn’t have cell service#my other bff is across the us and is already asleep#two of my close friends here are over seas or on a cruise without cell service#my other friend here is out with his guy friends having fun and I’m not gonna stop him#get ready for a self-pity moment here#I know my blog is pretty new#that I’ve been here for… maybe a year?#tbh I can’t remember when I stopped lurking and started engaging#but I always feel like I’m outside looking in at all my mutuals#who dm each other and talk and are friends#and I often feel just like a mutual and not a tumblr friend#and I know that shit takes time#but I just want someone to talk to about my fics and stuff but I feel bad reaching out#bc why would anyone want to talk to me when they have other people in this fandom they like more#man the demons are really getting me today#even my cat bit me#she’s snuggling me now but she bit me earlier#ugh#I don’t think the never ending overcast 40 degree weather is helping either I wish it were warm and sunny#just one day for the love of god#anyway#if you’ve read this far thanks for listening#I’ll probably feel better tomorrow or maybe later in the week#honestly thank god I rebound so fast and generally have a happy disposition
3 notes · View notes
transsexual-divinity · 5 months
Text
Hey losers and losettes,
I’m in the very early stages of starting a little diy zine about horror movies! I have no experience in this so advice is appreciated lol. But I’m hoping to have it out by July. I’m calling it PHOBIA and the theme of this one is summer horror, so not strictly ones that take place in summer but they got the vibes. Along with the horror theme there’s also gonna be a smaller section about upcoming music/concerts/etc too. Going to attempt to have it in print but it may end up digital if that’s easier for me. And I’m having open submissions!
I’m open to all things, art, reviews and rantings, movie recommendations, original fiction or horror poetry, even your urban legends (got a story about a evil ice cream truck lol I’d love to hear it!). The subjects so far are:
House of wax 2005
Sharp objects 2018
X 2022
Texas Chainsaw 3d 2013, though I haven’t watched it yet..
Hopefully Maxxxine 2024 if one of my local theaters plays it when it comes out
Music, so if you want a shameless plug of your band hit me up!
And anything else I (or you) can think of
So if that’s something your interested in email me at: [email protected]
4 notes · View notes
steakout-05 · 6 months
Text
eeuuaghh i would like everyone to know that i apologise if i have not responded to your reblogs/mentions/posts on tumblr, i have really terrible social anxiety and for some reason people talking to me makes my nervous system think i'm being hunted for sport by a resident evil boss. sorry if i havent responded i'm not being rude i'm just having a panic attack :P
additionally: social anxiety is actually the reason why a lot of my old posts from late 2022 had weird spacing and spelling mistakes. i was too anxious to type properly
#sorry this seems like a random thing to post but it has been bugging me for a little bit now and i want to post it#and by a little bit i mean the entire time i've been on this website#as for the reason i have social anxiety: i went to a really terrible high school full of dangerous people-#-who were literally like. the worst most bigoted people ever. not everyone there was bad of course but 90% of them were-#-and that stunted by social development by 5-6 years and now every time someone talks to me i feel like i'm about to get murdered#also primary school was. bad. the other kids could sniff out the autism in me and didn't like me for it#this post isn't directed towards anyone specifically but also it kinda is because there's a DM from someone-#-that i haven't responded to in literally 8 months and every time i think about it i get anxious#i'm sorry!!! i'm not trying to ignore you on purpose and i want to say something but my brain literally will not let me out of fear :(#i'm not used to getting talked to directly so every time i do my entire nervous system starts screaming and running in circles#it's kinda ridiculous because it's like. come on. why are you having a panic attack over a message on tumblr it's LITERALLY just words on-#-a screen what are you freaking out about. but also it's like hhhhh unfamiliar social situation scary. help.#unrelated to that but i am very worried about what people will think of me and like i know i really shouldn't worry about that-#-because i can't control what other people think of me and it really shouldn't be any of my or their business. but also-#-i have legitimate trauma that backs my fears up and every time someone is even slightly critical towards me my brain just goes-#-''see? it happened again i TOLD you it would happen again. idiot. you shouldn't have said anything''#and then i hide and cry and lay in bed thinking about how i'm going to die until i suddenly snap out of it and think-#-''wait hang on why should i care. i love being a weirdo on the internet why should i let my anxieties stop me''#and then it happens AGAIN and it's just a viscous cycle at that point#be silly on the internet -> detect slight criticism -> think everyone hates you again -> go back on your bullshit after 3 days of crying#and it makes sense because that exact same pattern happened to me countless times as a child.#be silly in school -> get made fun of for it -> get hated for it -> rinse and repeat until you think everyone is dangerous and they hate yo#if i could put it in a metaphor it would be like me being a little rabbit who thinks everyone is a scary wolf because of their big shadows-#-even though they're all also rabbits and i'm just paying attention to the scariest parts of them because i only know what wolves look like#trauma does fucked up things to your psyche lemmie tell you#social anxiety#anxiety disorder#i'm literally the ''too scared to order food'' stereotype except it's not a stereotype because it's real and every time i look at the 7/11-#-at my campus i go ''hm but what if they hate me for the food i buy there'' even though they're LITERALLY SELLING IT what is WRONG with me#anyway um. social anxiety sucks and i don't mean to not reply ro everyone who talks to me i am sorr y
3 notes · View notes
teddylupin · 1 year
Text
.
2 notes · View notes
fortunately-bi · 5 months
Text
...... If I went on a hiatus for who knows how long again would y'all hate me....... 👉👈
#i just spent like an hour writing and rewriting a post trying to explain myself amd its just so hard to put into words#im bored here but not in a ew not enough content for the dopamine hit shit#in like a every time i scroll through I dont smile I dont see anything that makes me happy at all i dont get a laugh or anything#its just mindless brain rotting scrolling nothing wasting my time hoping maybe ill see a new artist to follow or something#and every time its nothing#so much nothing taking up so much of my time and space in my life and i already dont have a lot of time to begin with#ive made some awesome friends here ive had lovers from here ive had people who are no longer on this earth from here who ill never forget#i dont think ive really enjoyed anything on here in 7 years#ive left before for a really long time i think like a year or more or something#and i wont be totally unreachable of people message me ill respond but im so sick of this stupid app taking up my life#and all i ever get out of it is getting mad or getting depressed over shit that really is t worth my mental state over#all i ever feel on here is that the world fuckin sucks and theres not even anything here to make hanging around worth it#im not new to this site making me suicidal for an abundance of reasons and im luckily in a spot where i wont actually hurt myself#its just ideation and intrusive thoughts but its a pattern i cant keep ignoring#also im old tumblr im old tumblr and i think i will always be old tumblr im just not catching on to new shit anymore#the fact im even saying anything about a hiatus should show how pld tumblr i am no one does this anymore lol#i just don't want to be here anymore i dont really want to be anywhere online anymore tbh#its always something and i cant mentally keep up with it anymore i have too much going on in my life#my wife is having cancer removed on Tuesday im a lead teacher who has to take care of i think 8 babies now#i have problems i have actual problems that need me and need me to be as there as i can be#i cant be spiraling over stuff online on top of real world problems im in no position to do anything about on top of personal life problems#that are drastically affecting my life at home and hurting my family and loved ones#i have a mass in my thyroid which is so big i choke to the point i stop breathing if I dont have my meds i throw up all day#i have to see a neurologist because at best i have a pinched nerve at worst im having seizures and i might have to move states again#i dont have it in me to come on here and see stuff that makes me upset for the chance i might see something i like#and i can unfollow people and whatever but I dont have the energy or time to sift through people i follow on here#if you want to talk in dms or asks or you want to send me posts pls by all means continue to do so thats fine#but i think i need to take the app out of my line of sight again for a bit and just be in the moment again same with twitter#anyways i love yall i promise i am safe and not in harms way im just stressed af and i have got to start cutting things out that#arent doing anything other then making me miserable
1 note · View note
vcrnons · 1 year
Note
j i miss you :(
Tumblr media
i am right here and not goin anywhere i promise 🫶
0 notes
ham1lton · 2 months
Note
The one time lando tried to soft launch secretyn everyone clowned him bc they said he was stealing images from Pinterest “yeaaa aint no way you bagged all of that”
He even decided to tell a journalist “yes i am in a happy relationship” and the grid was like “yes happy and imaginary** relationship”
author’s note: sorry i was so late responding. i wanted to make this into a mini smau. hope u enjoy <3
faceclaim: havana rose liu <3
────── ⋆⋅☼⋅⋆ ──────
Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media
liked by yourusername, oscarpiastri and 2,827,992 others
landonorris: happy anniversary to my best friend, my soulmate and the love of my life. i love you so much.
tagged: yourusername
view all comments
user1: bro got an ai gf 🤦‍♂️
-> landonorris: FUCK OFF!!!!! NO I DIDN’T 😡
user2: he using pinterest pics 😭😭😭
-> landonorris: i took these thank you very much. in PERSON. because she’s my girlfriend. so i see her very often, in PERSON.
user3: she’s way too pretty for him like bffr
-> landonorris: i have charm 😋
-> user3: it’s spelt MONEY 😃
-> user10: it’s spelt CHATGPT PHOTO GENERATOR 😃
user4: how much is he paying you yourusername?
-> landonorris: i’m not paying her?? she’s real?? we’re in love.
user5: you can literally see where he got this from some hot girl’s ig. like bro it’s okay to be single 😭😭😭
-> landonorris: i’m not single??? she’s my gf??
oscarpiastri: see what happens when you huff too much car fumes guys. you start hallucinating shit. why do you think sebastianvettel supports environmentalism?
-> landonorris: STOP?!
georgerussell63: hi lando. check your dms please.
-> landonorris: my mental health won’t affect my driving hello?! my girlfriend is REAL.
-> georgerussell63: … why yes, of course she is 😃
user6: i believe you lando :)
-> landonorris: thank you!
-> user7: they also believe that zayn is the worst vocalist in one direction. really wouldn’t take their opinion seriously.
-> landonorris: FUCK!
user8: no way in hell.
-> user9: he kidnapped her. we need to free this woman from lando’s bitchless clutches.
-> landonorris: SHE HAS NOT BEEN KIDNAPPED.
-> user9: then why would SHE date YOU 🤨
-> landonorris: BECAUSE 😡
mclaren: we support your relationship lando! 🧡
-> landonorris: thank you mclaren admin 😁👍🏼
-> mclaren: so will she appear on a screen at your games? if she’s ai? just so we’re prepared. that’s all. i’ll pass it to our tech team.
-> landonorris: i’m moving teams.
────── ⋆⋅☼⋅⋆ ──────
((yn sends in a anonymous message to ham1ltonshaderoom confirming that lando’s gf is in fact 100% ai just to see the reactions.))
2K notes · View notes
justablah56 · 2 years
Note
Mint Lilac Lemon Lollipop <3
abehjdjsjs thank you anon !!!! <333
0 notes
jesslovesboats · 2 months
Text
Tumblr media
Hello friends, I am back with more reading recommendations for your agonies! Next up we have the long awaited and much requested Sad Boat Fiction list. As with all of my lists, this is NOT exhaustive and there WILL be great books left off, and also you may or may not like these books! I only rec things that I've personally enjoyed or that come highly recommended by trusted friends, but taste in books is incredibly subjective, especially with fiction. If I missed your favorite, please add it in the comments or drop it in my DMs!
Now that I'm feeling more settled in my new job, I will hopefully have a lot more time to make book lists and do more virtual Readers' Advisory. I have lists in the works for women in polar exploration and companion reads for the HBO War series, but if there's something else you would love to see, please send me a message!
Classics of the Genre
At the Mountains of Madness by H.P. Lovecraft
The Terror by Dan Simmons
Moby Dick by Herman Melville
Dark Matter by Michelle Paver
Media Tie-Ins
Who Goes There? (Filmed as The Thing) by John W. Campbell, Jr.
The North Water by Ian McGuire
Cold Skin by Alfred Sánchez Piñol
The Terror by Dan Simmons
Graphic Novels
Whiteout by Greg Rucka
How to Survive in the North by Luke Healy
The Worst Journey in the World- The Graphic Novel Volume 1: Making Our Easting Down adapted by Sarah Airriess from the book by Apsley Cherry-Garrard*
*this is only fiction in the broadest possible sense of the term, but there is a shiny new American version of this book coming out with a gorgeous new cover and you should pre-order it immediately
Science Fiction
The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. LeGuin
Antarctica by Kim Stanley Robinson
Romance
Under a Pole Star by Stef Penney
The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley
My Last Continent by Midge Raymond
Inspired by the Terra Nova Expedition
The Worst Journey in the World- The Graphic Novel Volume 1: Making Our Easting Down adapted by Sarah Airriess from the book by Apsley Cherry-Garrard*
The Birthday Boys by Beryl Bainbridge
Terra Nova: A Play by Ted Tally
Antarctic Navigation by Elizabeth Arthur
*this is only fiction in the broadest possible sense of the term, but there is a shiny new American version of this book coming out with a gorgeous new cover and you should pre-order it immediately
Inspired by the Franklin Expedition
The Rifles by William T. Vollmann
Minds of Winter by Ed O'Loughlin
Solomon Gursky Was Here by Mordecai Richler
On the Proper Use of Stars by Dominique Fortier
Literary Fiction
The Voyage of the Narwhal by Andrea Barrett
Migrations by Charlotte McConaghy
We, The Drowned by Carsten Jensen
Inspired by the Classics
The Route of Ice and Salt by José Luis Zárate
Ahab's Wife by Sena Jeter Naslund
Modern Day Antarctica
How the Penguins Saved Veronica by Hazel Prior
South Pole Station by Ashley Shelby
Where'd You Go, Bernadette by Maria Semple
Polar and Nautical Horror
Where the Dead Wait by Ally Wilkes
Dark Matter by Michelle Paver
Cold Earth by Sarah Moss
The Deep by Nick Cutter
All the White Spaces by Ally Wilkes
Dark Water by Elizabeth Lowry
The Deep by Alma Katsu
Happy reading!
1K notes · View notes
nsingcat · 25 days
Text
ON REPEAT! C, LECLERC.
Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media
summary ✶ fans take notice when charles keeps streaming this underground singer’s two newest songs.
pairings ✶ charles leclerc x underground singer!reader
faceclaim ✶ jueun lee
notes ✶ i am the worst at summaries anyway- i hope you enjoy! i used many artists music for this (for specifics, check the end !). also ignore the fact that their relationship seems kinda fast, lets just act like a time skipped happened !1!1
Tumblr media
#INSTAGRAM: YOURUSERNAME !
Tumblr media
liked by user, user, user, and 10,636 others!
yourusername in the (home) studio (´△`) ♪ 🎧
view comments
user YN NATION ARE WE READDYY
user IVE BEEN WAITING FOR THIS ONE.. TURN IT UPP 🗣️
user OH MY AGEHEHE
user IS IT AN ALBUM? EP? SINGLE??
➥ yourusername eyee don’t knowww ¯\(◉‿◉)/¯
➥ user AHHHH
user pretty girl making pretty music ☹️☹️
user I USED TO PRAY FOR TIMES LIKE THIS 🙏🏼
user we better get a tour announcement with this song/ep/album 😤
➥ yourusername i don’t think i’m big enough for that yet (゜-゜)
➥ user DOESN’T MATTERR
Tumblr media
#INSTAGRAM: YOURUSERNAME !
Tumblr media
liked by charles_leclerc, user, user and 11,536 others
yourusername i hope everyone enjoys my two new songs every summertime & h.s.k.t ft wonstein off of my upcoming album, love yn coming 09.02.2024 ᡣ𐭩
view comments
user YOUVE DONE IT AGAIN MOTHER!!
user HSKT IS ON REPEATTT
user BABY ILL GIVE UP EVERYTHING TO TRY AND CHANGE YOUR MINDD 🗣️
user ALBUM ANNOUNCEMENT + TWO SONGS OFF OF IT 😵‍💫😵‍💫 WE’RE BEING FEEEDDD
user september needs to hurry up wtf
user did anyone else notice that charles leclerc liked and unlike this post??
➥ user YEAH
➥ user what does he know about MY queen 🤨
➥ user RIGHT LMFOAOA
user talented brilliant incredible amazing show stopping-
user i am NOT sorry for the person i’m gonna become after this album
Tumblr media
#TWITTER: FAN ACCOUNTS !
Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media
#INSTAGRAM DMS: CHARLES & YOU !
Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media
#TWITTER: FAN ACCOUNTS !
Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media
#INSTAGRAM: YOURUSERNAME !
Tumblr media
liked by charles_leclerc, user, f1 and 342,638 others!
yourusername congratulations to @charles_leclerc for winning monza!! i had a blast being there today! p.s, thank you for the dinner ᡣ𐭩!
view comments
user THIS IS THE GIRL CHARLES HAS BEEN LISTENING TO?? GORGEOUS OMGG
user all these f1 fans.. 🤺 GET BACK I SAY 🤺
user HE TOOK HER TO DINNER?? OH MY GODD
user he looks so good in that photo wowza
charles_leclerc As my lucky charm, you are now forced to come to every race until the end of the year. ❤️
➥ yourusername would there be more dinner dates?
➥ charles_leclerc Of course! Maybe even more?
➥ yourusername then i accept your offer, mr leclerc ! (>ω^)
➥ user JUST DATE ALREADY OMG
user okay can yall date now or whatever
user can’t believe my queen isn’t nugu anymore 💔
user all these people in her comments.. yall better stream her album when it comes out 🤨!!
user did yall see the way he stared at her when he was on the podium??? NGNGNNGN
Tumblr media
#INSTAGRAM: YOURUSERNAME !
Tumblr media
liked by charles_leclerc, user, user and 566,234 others!
yourusername my debut album ‘LOVE, YN’ is out now! I really poured my heart and soul into this album & I hope i was able to convey that. i wish you all enjoyment while listening to this album ᡣ𐭩!
view comments
user not you copying album of the year omgg
user AND JULY IS THE BEST SONG OFF THE ALBUM
➥ user not when round and around is right there!1!1
➥ charles_leclerc lovesick stole that spot I’m afraid!
➥ user WHATATAGSG
user THIS PHOTOSHOOT?? MOTHERR
user this is best album ever released i do NOT care what any of yall say
user HAPPY LLOVE YN” DAYY
charles_leclerc Absolutely fantastic Ma Cherie ❤️
➥ user ma cherie… don’t couples call each other that !2!1??
➥ yourusername thank you charlie ♡(˃͈ દ ˂͈ ༶ )
➥ user CHARLIE??? OH YALL KNOW WHAT IM THINKJNN
user charles being a lovesick truther iktr !!!
user you’ve come so far… *sniffs* i feel like a proud mother omg
Tumblr media
#INSTAGRAM: CHARLES_LECLERC !
Tumblr media
liked by yourusername, user, carlossainz55, and 953,621 others!
charles_leclerc God, I’m so lovesick, what have you done to me? @yourusername.
view comments
user i fell to my knees
user IM GONNA CRASH OUT?:?/!2?
user SHES SO CUTE WTAF
yourusername i’m glad i answered your embarrassing dm that day :D
➥ charles_leclerc HEY! you said I didn’t have to feel embarrassed??
➥ yourusername oops uh
user USINGN LOVESICK AS THE CAPTION CHARLES YOU SICK SICK MAN 💔
olliebearman mama y papa !
user HER CAT 😔😔
user charyn pls never die 💔🙏🏼
user idk if i wanna be her or him
ferrari welcome to the family yn !!! (pls sign my cd of ur album 🙏🏼🙏🏼)
➥ yourusername got it admin (・ω<)!!
user i cannot believe this
user THEYRE LITERALLY SO CUTE I CANT 💔
Tumblr media
nymphia talks. artists music i used for yn’s discography! i hope you all enjoyed the fic <3!!
lee hi — h.s.k.t ft wonstein, only
NIKI — every summertime
yves — diorama
yukika — neon 1989
youra — rawww
seulgi — anywhere but home
yerin baek — ms delicate
beabadoobee — the perfect pair
2xxx, miso — girl, interrupted
heize, dean — and july
jo yuri — round and around
laufey — lovesick
403 notes · View notes
fangweaver2099 · 3 months
Text
𝐅 𝐀 𝐖 𝐍 𝐓 𝐄 𝐄 𝐓 𝐇 - Prologue pt 1
Tumblr media
MINORS DNI 18+ FIC
You’ve always liked the idea of having a dominant partner - BDSM was something you’ve read about, watched videos about.
Something you made Pinterest boards and aesthetic tumblr posts about when you were 18 and curious, the idea always sounded nice, but you’ve never done it in practice, not really. Sure you bought fuzzy handcuffs at a gag gift store once, but that didn’t really count.
You’re still a virgin.
You’ve always had that chronically awkward, workaholic type of vibe that made typical dating near impossible at worst and frustrating at best. Normal dating apps have proven fruitless and agitating. So poor curious little you talked yourself into making a fetlife account. You weren’t looking for true love, but at least you could get laid.
DM Request from: 10:13 PM - WebRigger2099 - “Hello, Fawn.”
College was for new experiences after all.
Tumblr media
CW: BDSM heavy/centric fic. Safe, Sane & Consensual. Miguel is your professor, but you both don't know that. Age Gap (Y/N is 23, Miguel is mid 30's)
PART 2
DM Request from: 10:13 PM - WebRigger2099 - “Hello, Fawn.” 
You squint at the request - you can see his icon is his torso.
You knew you had to snoop - be careful. The classic teen girl not wanting to be abducted shit. His skin was tanned - pale palms and even skintone told you he wasn’t a white guy. NYC was a melting pot - so you weren’t about to think too hard about it. You scroll through his writings. Most were boring and formal. You debate reading over the ‘contract template’ he had posted but decide against it.
His pictures are, mostly, not entirely him. A few torso shots showing off dark hair and abs - or more casual showing off a normal looking body of a dude who clearly worked out. The others are a few different women in different states of undress smothered in bondage ropes, always a bright red. The one that intrigues you the most again has the face censored by a black bar, but she’s hung upside down against the wall, diamonds of rope on her thighs as she’s suspended before red rope that was weaved into a massive spider web. He was a fan of spiders - the user name made sense.
Tumblr media
The photos were old, from 2016 at the newest. The photos of him were new - posted just 6 months ago.
His wall was what told a touch of his story. You scroll down dozens of posts, women and men acting friendly or asking to meet up again. You wonder if he used to be a community person, the anon nature of his account was new? Could you check on the wayback machine? 
You tab back into his chat.
“hey. are you really 6’9? ” - Fawnteeth - 10:19 PM
 10:19 PM - WebRigger2099 - “You think I’d lie about that?”  
“maybe. I know a lot of guys who lie about their height, I’m tall enough to tell.” - Fawnteeth - 10:20 PM
 10:20 PM - WebRigger2099 - “Smart to ask. Yes, I am really 6’9”. Is height a big seller for you?”  
“when you’re a tall woman, it is.” - Fawnteeth - 10:20 PM
 10:21 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “You want me to make you feel small. Noted.”
“what had you messaging me? you seem popular.” - Fawnteeth - 10:21 PM
 10:22 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “I’ve been in the scene for a long time, made my way around. Your interests line up and you seem at least somewhat concerned about your own anonymity.”  
“here I thought you’d say you found me pretty.” - Fawnteeth - 10:22 PM
 10:22 PM - WebRigger2099 - “Shallow compliments hardly get us anywhere. Besides, that’s a given.”  
“well, thank you anyway. need to keep this and my personal life separate, like you I see.” - Fawnteeth - 10:23 PM
 10:24 PM - WebRigger2099 - “ “We all have our secrets and reasons to keep them.”  
“serial killer sorta secrets?” - Fawnteeth - 10:24 PM
“I’m kidding.” - Fawnteeth - 10:24 PM
 10:24 PM - WebRigger2099 - “Would you believe me if I said no?”  
“I can try. it’s not like you’re a blank profile, web.” - Fawnteeth - 10:25 PM
 10:26 PM - WebRigger2099 - “Maybe you shouldn’t. Things like that are easy to fake. You’re clearly trying to keep a secret, which means if I met up with you no one would know where you went. Would be a good tactic if  I was preying on little girls.”
You stare at his message for a moment, forcing in a quick breath you sit up as your bed creaks. Okay, time to take things a bit more seriously.
“Good thing I’m not a little girl. I do appreciate the concern, it’s attractive.” - Fawnteeth - 10:27 PM
 10:27 PM - WebRigger2099 - “Lot’s of untrustworthy people on sites like this. Ones that will lull you into a sense of security.”  
“Trust me, I’m well aware. You think I should be afraid of you?” - Fawnteeth - 10:27 PM
 10:28 PM - WebRigger2099 - “Yes. You can’t trust me right away.”
“Well, I like the honesty. I don’t think I have any plans to meet up with anyone soon - not even you.” - Fawnteeth - 10:30 PM
 10:30 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “Of course you don’t. You’re new at this.”
“Did I really give it away that quickly?” - Fawnteeth - 10:31 PM
 10:31 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “Yes.”
You stare at the screen for a long moment, eyes wide. How the hell do you reply to that? Is he ending the conversation? Did you already fuck things up? At this point, most men would be falling over themselves to impress you, not making you feel intimidated . You feel your core throb as you click back to his profile, scrolling over dozens of comments on his wall from years ago - the fact is, his profile spans back years. Longer. He’s experienced, and… he isn’t wrong, either. 
“Is that a problem? I hope it isn’t. You’re the first dude who hasn’t asked me for nudes yet.” - Fawnteeth - 10:32 PM
 10:34 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “No. You should be more careful though, me explaining that and this is something you should be suspicious of. Wanting to ‘protect’ you because you’re young and need to be taught the ropes, so to speak.”  
“Got it, Sir.” - Fawnteeth - 10:34 PM
“Wait, can I call you that?” - Fawnteeth - 10:34 PM
You cringe, placing the laptop on the bed for a moment. Shit - you’ve already messed up.
 10:35 PM - WebRigger2099 -   “That’s acceptable. If you ever call me ‘Daddy’ however I will block you.”  
 10:35 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “That’s not a joke.” 
You open your eyes, glancing over at the chat and his two messages. Raising a brow, you lean in, shifting the laptop back into your lap. 
“Understood. Not my thing.” - Fawnteeth - 10:35 PM
 10:36 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “What is your thing, Fawn?”
“Well… I like giving up control… Feeling like prey. I’ve always loved deer, something about being so fiercely defenseless as a fawn in a wolf’s maw is thrilling.” - Fawnteeth - 10:37 PM
 10:37 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “No wonder you brushed over the red flags.”
“Maybe.The whole giving up control is why most submissives are here, aren’t they?” - Fawnteeth  - 10:38 PM
 10:40 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “The illusion of giving up control. Any good dominant knows the submissive is the one with the power. Safe words, limits, contracts - it all relies on knowing they can end things whenever they want to explore it safely.”  
“Of course.” - Fawnteeth  - 10:40 PM
 10:40 PM - WebRigger2099 - “Of course? So you have those things ready for me?”  
“ Safe words and how I prefer them - yes. Limits, I think so. Contract - no. ” - Fawnteeth  - 10:40 PM
 10:42PM - WebRigger2099 -   “I need one for slow down/ease up and one for an immediate stop. I also need a physical sign if you are unable to say your safe words. Please list them.”  
 10:43 PM - WebRigger2099 -   “Send me 4 lists: Favorites, Yes, Maybe, and No not ever. Include everything you can think of. If you do not include something that I am interested in I will ask about it and we will consider it a maybe until you’ve had time to consider it and possibly research.”
 10:43 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “You will not need a premade contract. I have a basic format we can edit to our needs. If it goes that far.”  
“Is the green, yellow, red method good with you?” - Fawnteeth  - 10:44 PM
 10:44 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “Yes.”
“That’s good.” - Fawnteeth  - 10:44 PM
“...And I'll get you the other things - do you have any hard nos I should know of?” - Fawnteeth  - 10:44 PM
10:45 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “Send me yours and we’ll go from there.”  
“Okay.” - Fawnteeth  - 10:45 PM
You take your time in a Google document, carefully considering your late-night Archive Of Our Own feed. Anxiety tells you to rush, but you get the energy that Web isn’t the kind of guy who wants you to rush.
“ Will you click links? Google Docs. ” - Fawnteeth  - 10:55 PM
 10:55 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “ I applaud you if you somehow hack me from a google docs link. I have a very good firewall as a warning. ” 
You couldn’t help but grin at his reply - you’re charmed by him. Oh no.
“I’d figure as much. Here.” - Fawnteeth  - 10:57 PM
“ [Google Docs Link] “ - Fawnteeth  - 10:57 PM
Tumblr media
 10:57 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “I’ll ask specifics soon but I want to be clear about this - I want something in person, but that is not on the table until the end of the summer. I have obligations. If that is a problem I don’t want to waste your time.” 
“That’s fine. I know we’re both in NYC. I’m kinda glad as I don’t think I’m ready to meet up soon anyway.” - Fawnteeth  - 10:57 PM
 10:58 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “Gives us time to get to know each other and learn expectations.
“Then it sounds like we’re on the same page.” - Fawnteeth  - 10:58 PM
 10:58 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “Good. Due to this being a distance-based arrangement for the time being I cannot touch you myself; Have you heard of a lovense?”
“I have. Aren’t those expensive?”   - Fawnteeth  - 10:58 PM
 10:58 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “Money isn’t a concern for me, and anything I get you is a gift. The only expectation is to use whatever I provide. Acceptable?”
“Yes. I don’t take pictures or videos with my face in them.” - Fawnteeth  - 10:58 PM
 10:58 PM - WebRigger2099 - “I noticed.”
 10:58 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “Neither do I. That isn’t a problem.” 
“Glad to hear that.” -   Fawnteeth  - 10:59 PM
“...So…”   - Fawnteeth  - 10:59 PM
 10:59 PM - WebRigger2099 -   “Your list says nothing about exhibitionism. If I were to tell you to wear your lovense during the day would that be acceptable?”
For a moment you stare at his message. Now that you’re not under your father’s roof, you have free reign to do whatever, and it’s honestly not like your roommates haven’t done weirder, less appropriate shit in far more public spaces. 
“That’s fine as long as I’m not visiting family. I live somewhere else.” - Fawnteeth  - 10:59 PM
 10:59 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “ You say you like roleplay. Are there specific scenarios you’re interested in?”
“Do you know what dead by daylight is?” -  Fawnteeth  - 10:59 PM
 11:00 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “I can’t say I do.”
“...Well. I wasn’t joking about the idea of enjoying being hunted. I guess. Kinda embarrassing to admit to a stranger.” - Fawnteeth  - 11:00 PM
 11:00 PM - WebRigger2099 -   “Does that embarrassment excite you, Fawn?”
“Maybe.” - Fawnteeth  - 11:00 PM
 11:00 PM - WebRigger2099 -   “I expect yes or no answers. If you’re not sure say so.”
“Yes, then.” - Fawnteeth  - 11:00 PM
 11:00 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “Good girl. What do you want me to do when I catch you?”
There’s no hesitation, no doubt in the message. What do you want when I catch you. Not would you want, not if I caught you. When. You can’t help but squirm. For a moment, you consider pacing your tiny, cluttered bedroom.
“Is whatever you want the wrong answer?”   - Fawnteeth  - 11:01 PM
“I might be new, but I think I’m kinda open. I want to please, I suppose.” - Fawnteeth  - 11:01 PM
 11:01 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “ Not at all a wrong answer.”
 11:02 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “Have you ever been spanked before? You said it was a favorite.”
“Yes.” - Fawnteeth - 11:02 PM
You bite your lip - it technically isn’t a lie. You have been spanked - just… not sexually. It’s fine .
 11:02 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “Would you be willing to use a paddle, crop or belt in my absence if I believe you need punishment?”
“I’m not sure. I have a very high pain tolerance, but I don’t live alone, sound is a concern.”   - Fawnteeth - 11:02 PM
 11:03 PM - WebRigger2099 - “Not a problem. Making a small list for a care package if you show me potential is all.” 
“Well, what can I do to impress you, Sir?”  - Fawnteeth  - 11:03 PM
“I don’t mind homework, for lack of a better word.”   - Fawnteeth  - 11:03 PM
 11:04 PM - WebRigger2099 - “Eager, aren’t you? I’m not done.”
 11:04 PM - WebRigger2099 - “Dirty talking. What are your limits, and do you have a specific pet name you want me to use?”
“I like Fawn, obviously. Affectionate things, I think it’s better figuring it out organically. Feels more genuine.” - Fawnteeth  - 11:04 PM
 11:04 PM - WebRigger2099 - “And no humiliation.”
 11:04 PM - WebRigger2099 - “ Understood.”
 11:04 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “I have rules. It’s better that I tell you about them early. They’ve scared most people off.”
“ Well. I won’t pass judgment immediately.” - Fawnteeth - 11:05 PM
“I don’t cut my hair.” - Fawnteeth  - 11:05 PM
 11:05 PM - WebRigger2099 -   “I would be disappointed if you did. Speaking of, I only allow my submissive to trim their pubic hair for one, no shaving it.” 
“That’s fine with me. I haven’t shaved anything in a while.” - Fawnteeth  - 11:05 PM
 11:06 PM - WebRigger2099 - “ If you are going to be unavailable for more than a few hours I expect an explanation so I know you are safe. I don’t allow my partners to go to clubs or bars without me either. If this becomes serious I expect you to download a location tracking app so I know where you are at all times.”
“Okay. That’s fine. I don’t go out much.” - Fawnteeth  - 11:06 PM
 11:06 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “I am not polyamorous. If you want to be mine you are only mine, and I will hold myself to the same standard.”
“That’s fine with me. I have been talking to someone else, but about as much as you at this point. Honesty and all that stuff.”   - Fawnteeth  - 11:06 PM
 11:06 PM - WebRigger2099 - “I don’t let things I own go into disrepair; You will take care of yourself and report what you don’t complete. Punishments will be given if you do not complete these tasks.”
 11:07 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “The basic daily requirements are the following: Three meals a day, showering every day, an hour of exercise and a consistent bedtime during weekdays.”
“Okay. Did this really scare people off?” - Fawnteeth  - 11:07 PM
 11:07 PM - WebRigger2099 - “People have called me controlling. It sounds like you want to surrender your control though.” 
“Not wrong.” - Fawnteeth   - 11:07 PM
 11:07 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “ You’re not hard to read.”
“I’ll try and take it as a compliment.” - Fawnteeth  - 11:07 PM
 11:07 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “Deception and confusion are a waste of time. Own it.”  
“I’ll try my best. I’m used to being considered odd.” - Fawnteeth  - 11:08 PM
 11:08 PM - WebRigger2099 - “Are you?”
“I’m on fetlife. So, yes.” - Fawnteeth  - 11:08 PM
 11:08 PM - WebRigger2099 - “I suppose.”
 11:08 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “ We already established you’re new to this. Will I be your first dominant?”
“Yes. Not my first partner.” - Fawnteeth  - 11:08 PM
 11:09 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “ Were they not interested in this?”
“I never brought it up to them. I don’t really want romance right now.” - Fawnteeth  - 11:09 PM
 11:09 PM - WebRigger2099 -  “And if you fall for me?”
“I’d rather talk about it then, I suppose. I don’t get the vibe from you that you’re looking for romance, just a pet.” - Fawnteeth  - 11:09 PM
 11:09 PM - WebRigger2099 - “Good, and no, not right now.”
“But you think I’ll fall in love with you?” - Fawnteeth  - 11:09 PM
 11:10 PM - WebRigger2099 - “You’re young and inexperienced. Maybe you will, maybe you won’t.” 
 11:10 PM - WebRigger2099 - “ My last important rule - no drugs, limited alcohol. If you drink you must have friends with you that are reliable or myself. Drinking and doing drugs is just asking to put yourself in a vulnerable situation. It’s a precaution some have complained about.” 
With how much he spoke of other people not liking his rules it was almost like he was trying to talk you out of it.
“That’s fine. I celebrated my 21st by watching movies.”   - Fawnteeth  - 11:10 PM
 11:10 PM - WebRigger2099 - “What movies?”  
“Midsommar, it’s my favorite. Silence of the lambs too. Roomies insisted on watching Barbie after that. lol ” - Fawnteeth  - 11:10 PM
 11:10 PM - WebRigger2099 - “ You like horror.”
“Yes. I thought the ghostface poster in my 3rd photo gave it away.” - Fawnteeth  - 11:11 PM
 11:11 PM - WebRigger2099 - “And you’d like him or some other violent thing to chase you down and do whatever they wanted with you instead of killing you.”
 11:11 PM - WebRigger2099 - “It must make watching movies with a group tense if that’s what is going through your mind.” 
“I won’t say it doesn’t.” - Fawnteeth  - 11:11 PM
 11:11 PM - WebRigger2099 - “Let me guess: some part of you likes the discomfort?” 
“Honestly. I haven’t thought about it. Probably.” - Fawnteeth  - 11:11 PM
 11:11 PM - WebRigger2099 - “I think you’d like to walk around with a lovense in you, never knowing when I might turn it on or increase the settings. You enjoy suspense.”
“ It’s appealing, yeah.” - Fawnteeth  - 11:12 PM
You sit back on your bed, propping up the laptop with your pillows. Why did you love that this guy was reading you like an open book? You take in a deep breath, remember - play it cool.
 11:12 PM - WebRigger2099 - “What do you want out of all of this?” 
“My first thought is sex - but also to learn myself a bit more, I guess. Explore something with a partner I can trust… Please someone, feel better about myself. Like I said - I’m a tall woman, it doesn’t exactly make you feel pretty.”  - Fawnteeth  - 11:12 PM
 11:12 PM - WebRigger2099 - "Okay, sounds good."  
You bite your lip, reading over the message on your dimly lit phone screen over and over again. Curling up tighter into the cotton blanket on your bed, you exhale, the cheap mattress creaking underneath you. You flinch, eyes flickering towards the shut door of your bedroom. Your heart flutters in your chest for a few moments until silence rings in your ears. 
You haven’t woken up any of your roommates.Thank god. 
Sighing, you turn your attention back to your phone, looking over the message again.
 11:12 PM - WebRigger2099 - "Okay, sounds good." 
Usually men are more expressive in their text speech when it comes to you - to the extent that some even make you uncomfortable. But WebRigger2099… is very much not . You’ve dubbed him 'Web' in your head, easy enough with his username. 
Web is formal, speaks with proper punctuation and never a single spelling mistake or emote. He’s direct, not flowery or soft in any way. But… you kind of like that. Direct is easy. There’s no guessing games with instructions and meanings laid out plainly.
 11:12 PM - WebRigger2099 -“ You are very pretty, by the way. ” 
You blush.
253 notes · View notes
Text
Winter's King 17
Tumblr media
No tag lists. Do not send asks or DMs about updates. Review my pinned post for guidelines, masterlist, etc.
Warnings: this fic will include dark content such as noncon/dubcon, cheating, violence, and possible untagged elements. My warnings are not exhaustive, enter at your own risk.
This is a dark!fic and explicit. 18+ only. Your media consumption is your own responsibility. Warnings have been given. DO NOT PROCEED if these matters upset you.
Summary: You are a maid to the Duke of Debray, a lord of the Summer Kingdom. That is, until the king of Winter appears with his particular air of coldness. (Medieval AU)
Characters: Geralt of Rivia
Note: I have a house now. One more month until move in.
As per usual, I humbly request your thoughts! Reblogs are always appreciated and welcomed, not only do I see them easier but it lets other people see my work. I will do my best to answer all I can. I’m trying to get better at keeping up so thanks everyone for staying with me.
Your feedback will help in this and future works (and WiPs, I haven’t forgotten those!) Please do not just put ‘more’. I will block you.
I love you all immensely. Take care. 💖
Tumblr media
You leave the queen, stepping into the gales that whip around the outer flap of her tent. You reach to keep your cap from flying into the violent winds, the soldiers with their chins down as they lean against the force. Before you can gain your bearings, a shadow appears and calls your name, battling the weather to be heard. 
“Eh, where is your cloak, silly mouse? You will blow away with the leaves,” Bryce approaches, latching onto your arm as the bluster swirls around you, nearly taking you off your feet. 
“I am fine, sir, I only need find a blanket,” you stumble against him as another willful gust pushes you around.  
“That isn’t what I asked. What has happened to it? You’ve lost it?” 
“The queen was cold, sir,” you answer and cling to him, shivering as the tempest swirls around you. 
“The queen... greedy...” his voice trails off as her sneers towards the tent. 
“Sir,” you touch his arm gently to calm him, “she needs it more than I. She is expecting the king’s child.” 
He looks at you and juts out his jaw, “aye, s’pose you’re right, even if you’re too kind for yer own good.” 
He turns you and grips you tightly, shielding you as best he can against the wind. Your progress is slow and stunted by the sudden ebbs and flows. He grunts as you stagger and steadies you, at times almost lifting you off your feet. 
“Sir Bryce,” a deep voice slices through the whistle of the winds, “a storm approaches.” 
The king nears, his sword gripped by the pommel as he leans it against hit shoulder. His golden eyes flick towards you, as if he had not seen you in the shadow of your escort. He raises his chin and returns his attention to the soldier. He angles his blade to the ground and the tip buries in the dirt. 
“Aye, it surely does,” Bryce agrees, “I’ve seen a worst tempest in my years.” 
“Sir,” Geralt holds out his hands and a glisten appears on his sleeve. You lean in without a thought, curious, then feel a cold speck on your nose. You look up and see the white flakes drifting down. “It will not remain so peaceful. It comes from the north and will deepen by morning.” 
“Shall we wake the camp?” Bryce asks and you sway with the wind. Once more, the king’s attention strays to you, he frowns. 
“Not as yet. Let the horses rest a little longer. They will be able to handle a dusting,” he affirms. “but I will harry the men to prepare for our departure.” 
“As will I. I’ll be certain the carts are covered and weighted.” 
“Sir, ever wise,” King Geralt praises and scowls at you. He shakes his head and huffs, “why does the maid wear no cloak? She will not survive in this, summer soul, she is.” 
“Aye, yes, I was only just telling her as much. Seems her heart is too big for her thin hide,” Bryce tuts, “we were only off to find her a blanket before she sleeps.” 
“Blanket, eh,” the king lets go of his blade, letting it stand in the ground. He unbuckles his collar and sweeps his cloak from around his shoulder, “I have my hunting cloak and I don’t mind the snow so much.” 
Before you can react, the king lays his heavy cloak over your shoulders. It is longer than your height requires and it smells of sweat and iron. You lower your head at the warmth clinging to the lined wool. 
“Your highness, many thanks, but I might find a blanket--” 
“Do not defy your king,” Bryce rebukes, “mouse, you would do well to accept his grace. You will certainly need it if these winds do not pass.” 
“Apologies,” you utter, “sir, your highness, you are both generous.” 
King Geralt grumbles and nods, looking once more to the sky as he grabs his sword. 
“The Ridge, Vulture’s Peak... it isn’t far. The castle will do, eh?” 
“Not far at all, your highness,” Bryce agrees. “It would do you well to let your wife rest. Many congratulations, my king.” 
“Congratulations? For what? Smelling a storm?” the king furrows his brow. 
“Oi, I think I’ve said too much,” Bryce glances at you. 
“Say more,” the king commands. The soldier sighs and sheepishly shows his teeth.  
“Please, maid, would ya...” He mutters. 
“Your highness, the queen said she is with child,” you swallow, “I only just came from her tent. I believed you were aware. I did not mean to gossip.” 
“Child,” his eyes sink and close. He hums and heaves a deep breath, “yes, she would need to be still a time.” 
“Your highness, again, you have my apologies--” 
“No matter,” the king waves his hand. “Take the maid, I shall see to my wife.” 
The king resumes his path onward, sword in hand. He hardly shares in Jazlene’s cheer for the news. Perhaps it is only the threat of the storm that has him unhappy.  
You bring your hands to the dark fur along the collar of the cloak and draw it snug. You chatter and Bryce clucks. He nudges you and you walk forward in step. 
“So the snows have come,” Bryce declares, “along with the heir. I sense many storms brewing, mouse. Best keep our eyes on the horizon.” 
⚔️
You don’t sleep for long, if at all. Only the shallow dregs of your anticipation. You watch the snow fall from beneath the canopy and as the horses are roused and fed before dawn, a carpet coats the ground. 
You peer down at the powder. You wonder what it feels like. Cold and wet, Bryce says, but don’t dirty your soles, you’ll be soaked. He remains, as ever, cynical. 
“Be off soon,” he says as he brings Daisy around, a thick coat over her back and haunches. 
“To Vulture’s Peak?” You ask. 
“Aye, so we will,” he pets Daisy’s snout as she sniffs him. “though our host may not be so fond to have us.” 
“Host? It is not the king’s castle?” 
“Ha, no, no,” Bryce laughs heartily, “a king can’t live on a desolate bluff. By fealty, a lord must break bread and offer a roof to his king. It might be his company which has him facing a cold welcome.” 
“Oh,” you frown. 
“Ah, even this old coot won’t deny us in the coming storm. He has sense of these better than any,” Bryce shrugs. “Don’t worry your head. You stay in your cart and Daisy will do the rest. She’s a fine climber--” 
“Out of my way!” The curdling snarl interrupts the soldier and you both look to see the source. “Move, by gods, I am the queen, be away from me.” 
You get to your knees, leaning on the edge of the wagon to see out from under the canopy. A scatter of bodies split apart as Queen Jazlene struts through, the fur cloak rippling from her shoulders and the hood set back on her head as her curls spill out. She sneers at the snow beneath her slippers. 
“Ah, I did hear there was a cart around here—ugh, out,” she points as she marches up to the cart, “by royal right, I am seizing this cart.” 
“Eh,” Bryce moves closer, “your highness, the king--” 
“I cannot sit a horse, sir,” she rests her gloved hand over her stomach. “Or would you murder the future prince with your selfishness. All for a--” she pauses and glowers over at you, rolling her eyes. “A maid?” 
You rise and snatch up the cloak you’d used as a blanket. You keep bent under the low canopy and climb out with the cushion under your arm. 
“Sir, the queen is right, she should have the cart, I will sit with the luggage.” 
He huffs and sends a grimace to the sky, unable to direct his malice towards its source, “if she must...” 
“I must!” The queen snaps and yanks the pillow from your hands, “I will need this, certainly.” 
You stand aside, staring at the pillow dolefully, and buckle the top of your cloak. The queen pauses as she faces you. She looks you up and down. 
“Where did you find this then?” She touches the collar of the cloak. 
“It is my spare cloak,” Bryce insists before you can answer, “what else do you require, your highness? Shall we bring a lamb to sacrifice?” 
“Hm, is that how you northerners worship?” She sneers, missing his irony. 
He blinks dully and says nothing. 
“Well, secure the horse, I will need to be drawn.” 
“It is my horse,” Bryce insists, “you may bridle your own.” 
“You dare deny me?” She snarls at him as the soldiers with her stand on either side of the cart. 
“You may take it up with your husband. This is my steed, she carried me to war and she will carry me henceforth,” he snips. 
Bryce and Jazlene glare at each other. You look between them nervously. You don’t know who King Geralt might choose in this battle should he be called. 
“Fine, fetch the stinky thing,” Jazlene demands of one of the soldiers, “and blankets, another pillow, perhaps something to eat.” 
The cast of the sky shifts with the first light of the sun and Bryce grabs both horses and leads them aside. He whistles for you to follow. You come to him as Chestnut and Daisy cluelessly puff into the cold air. 
“You will ride. I will not have that... queen seizing my horse,” he sniffs, “I will show you how once I’ve saddled the mare.” 
“Oh, yes, sir.” You look up at the horses back. It seems very high. 
“You will want to be aback anyhow,” he shrugs, “you’ll not want to miss the mountain. It is very beautiful, especially in the snow.” 
⚔️
The party continues onward, treacherously. As the snow falls, the train diverts away from the flats and onto the narrow paths speckled with broken trunks and towering trees. The smell of pine tickles your nose as you ascend, bit by bit. 
It takes some time to grow used to the motion of the horse. Daisy’s hooves are certain and she does not slip on even the most precarious spots. Bryce rides behind you, booming about each nook and cranny, pointing out the white rabbits and the wilted fauna. His enthusiasm is unexpected but endearing. 
You ride until the moon replaces the sun and dismount along the side of the great cliff. There is no room here to pitch a tent and only a few fires burn along the ridge. Your hips ache as the soldier grunts about his back. 
“I should see to the queen,” you suggest as you rub your hands together. 
“She must have many fawning over her,” Bryce spits out a wad of leaves and squashes it under his feet. 
“I am her maid--” 
“And we are on a long road. She might go without you minding her temper,” he snarls. 
You frown, “I am not upset. She needs the cart more than me.” 
“It isn’t that which sees me chagrined,” he growls. “It’s those deeds you will not admit of that traitor’s daughter which make me prickle.” 
You’re quiet. You look away, your eyes wandering up into the sky, watching the snow swirl down, following it down to the ground far below. The heaps are immaculate in the moonlight and the trim of white along the ridge gleams. 
“I am a maid.” 
“I know little of your summer people but if that is how they treat those who serve them, perhaps this alliance was not so wise,” he grumbles as he steps up beside you, “perhaps it would’ve been better to submit such cruel nobles.” 
“Sir,” you say, shocked and peer over at his profile. His beard has grown to meet his cloak, his hair coiling down to his shoulders. 
“I serve my king, as I ever will, but I will not bend the knees to a snake,” he hisses and crosses his arms. 
“We are united, aren’t we? Summer and Winter,” you reach to touch his thick hide mitt. 
“Aye, yes, I do not seek another battle,” he exhales. “I am only wary of those who may.” 
You squint. Your mind returns to Lord Dustan and what he said to his daughter. The heir is their prize, an affirmation of the bounty earned by their betrayal, but also a chain to that very act. To the man they forsook their name for. A man they speak as kindly on as they had their former allies. 
“Might I walk?” You draw your hand from his. “My legs are sore.” 
“Not too far. And keep your eyes open,” he girds, “and your hands in your cloak. You needn’t frostbite.” 
You nod and he turns to you. He pulls up the hood of your cloak and pats your shoulder. 
“Tarry too long and I’ll look for you,” he warns. 
“Sir,” you shift slowly and step past him. 
You trod higher up the incline as you marvel over the edge. Bodies huddles together beneath cloaks and blankets, nestling for warmth against the wall of the cliff. You carry on and stop near a luggage cart, close to the drop. You hold out your hand, letting snow gather in your palm. It is cold, bitterly and painfully cold, but so beautiful. You bring it closer and watch it slowly melt as your hand numbs. 
“Do you remember...” the king’s voice drawls over you as his soft steps approach. “What I told you of this place?” 
You look at him. He is lit by the moonlight, his golden eyes like stars, and his jaw is bristly with thickening stubble. You bow your head, “your highness, are the bears already asleep in their caves?” 
He chuckles, “you do recall,” he praises, “not yet, though they do not come this high.” 
“And the wolves? Are they near?” 
“They are always prowling,” he says, shifting closer, his arm pressing to yours. He bends slightly to peer straight down, “the elk will be in the forests.” He points to the snowcapped tips of the distant trees, “here, the vultures have their nests. Their eggs,” he curves his hands to show the size, “I made a writ, years ago. It is forbidden to eat the eggs. I always found it quite tragic to desecrate the majestic creatures before they can even be borne. Before they can fly even.” 
“Vultures? I’ve never seen one? They are... birds?” 
“Yes, birds,” he confirms.  
He is silent as he considers his kingdom below. His breath is gritty as it rises and falls. He has much to think on. A child, a wife, and his homecoming delayed by a storm. 
“One thing has changed here, in these lands of winter,” he says lowly and you feel a ripple in your cloak. He presses his hand firmly to your back, sliding it along your side to grasp your hip. He moves to stand behind you and brings you close. He wraps his arms around you and rests his chin on your crown, “I said before, there is no summer here,” he holds you, pulling his cloak around you, concealing you within it as he drapes himself around you, “summer is here. With me. Warm and gentle.” 
You go rigid as he holds you, your heart beating at the unexpected embrace, at the unseemly contact between you. He hums as he stands with you in the shadows of the cart, so brazenly covert. Anyone might happen upon you and yet they all hide away from the storm. 
“Your highness,” you stammer and quiver against him. 
“Treasure,” he purrs, “my treasure. The one good thing I’ve brought home...” 
You can’t breathe or think. Is he drunk? Confused? What does he mean? 
“I--” he begins but the kick of a rock quiets him, the stone bouncing off the cart’s wheel. 
A shadow stalks down the precipice towards you and the king detaches, uncovering you from his cloak. He faces the figure as the tramp up the incline. You hear the king shudder as he tickles your back. 
“There’s the mouse,” Bryce says as he comes into the moonlight, his brow and jaw set, though he doesn’t look at you. He looks at the king, almost defiant. “You shouldn't be out so long in the cold. Exposed,” he grits, “come, I’ve sparked us a fire.” 
King Geralt clears his throat, “thank you, sir.” 
“My king,” Bryce says as he beckons to you, “I will keep the maid safe. As you bid.” 
358 notes · View notes