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forever-rogue · 5 years ago

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In Name Only - Part 1

A/N: Ughhh, hi! I’m a whore for Oberyn Martell and cannot be stopped. This is gonna be a little series, only a few parts (at least for now), and I hope you enjoy. This was one of my many shower ideas that I couldn’t let go! As always, feedback and comments are welcome, and if you’d like to be tagged, let me know! xx

Pairing: Oberyn Martell x Reader

Word Count: 6.5k

Warnings: slight language

IN NAME ONLY SERIES MASTERLIST

MASTERLIST

»»————-　♡　————-««

“I will not marry a man that does not love me,” you cursed the gods for making you a woman. You cursed your mother for being the way she was though it was not her fault that you were her only daughter among six sons. You cursed the laws of men that determined your position in life, “I will not be tied down to man who does not care about me, to a castle that will never be a home, and bear children I do not want.”

“You are an insolent, silly girl,” she hissed at you, and for a moment you feared that she might reached and strike you across the face. She had been prone to doing so when you were younger, but in her older years she had calmed down, softening with the birth of each child after you, each son, each brother you loathed for how easy their lives were, “you should have been married many moons ago.”

“I will not marry a man almost twice my age that openly keeps a lover and already has plenty of children,” a fiery rage set through your bones, one that would probably be perfectly suited in the warm, desert homeland of the husband she insisted you take. In the Reach, your attitude was abhorred, and you were considered the lone deviant of your family, “I will not give up my freedoms because you deem it fit for me to do so.”

“You will marry him and bear him an heir,” she grabbed your hair and roughly yanked it and leaned in so only you could hear, “you are lucky any man will have you. You’re much too old to be unwed and your demeanor makes you almost unbearable.”

“I will not do it,” you gritted your teeth and tried to pull out of grasp, “I will not subject myself to a life of servitude-”

“When I was your age I’d already been long married to your father and had you and two of your brothers,” she reminded, pushing you away with a heavy sigh, “do you think I wanted to get married? I was no more than a child, and you at least are a woman grown. I could have married you off years ago, as I should have. You would have been out of my sight and perhaps tamed.”

“I refuse. I will not bend and break to your whim,” turning away you started to storm off, hoping that some fresh air would calm you down. Perhaps you could ride your horse through the open pastures and fields surrounding the castle.

“And just what do you plan on doing then? Will you wander through the kingdoms on your own, travelling without anything or anyone like a heathen?”

“Perhaps I will,” you shrugged, “it would be better than doing what you ask of me. If you loved me-”

“If you do not marry him, you will be cut off from this family,” her words were enough to cause you turn around and listen to her, “you will lose your name, your worldly possessions, and you will be penniless. Is that really what you desire?”

“All of this because I do not want to take a husband?”

“It is your duty. As it has been the duty of every woman before you.”

“Fuck duty!” your voiced reverberated around the castle’s stone walls as she stared you down, “I will not marry someone I do not love. Father would never make me do so.”

“And your father is dead,” she reminded you with venom lacing her tone, “and what do you even know about love? It is a fiction created to keep little girls happy.”

“I loved him,” your heart felt like it was being ripped out of your chest as you thought of him. Your mother scoffed and dramatically rolled her eyes at you, “I loved him and you sent him away to certain death because you are a monster.”

“That horrid boy? He was a bastard,” she reminded you of the cruel little thing that kept you apart. How you rued the term of bastard; it did not mean anything, it did not determine a person’s character or heart, “he was never good enough for you. And you defiled yourself for him.”

“Because I loved him!” you insisted, “and he loved me! We would have been happy together, we could have built a life together...”

“He was a peasant, he tended stables-”

“That does not matter to me,” you reminded her, “he was kind and gentle and warm. I would have loved to have a life of tending stables if meant I was with him. Because I loved him!”

“You were lost in your girlhood fantasies of what you think love is,” she was cruel, each of her words twisting like a knife in your gut, “he was the first boy to show you attention and you fell for his little trap, and it has left you ruined for other men. You are lucky that Oberyn Martell does not know and he will not care, the one benefit of having a Dornish heathen for a husband.”

“I did love him, mother,” you tried hard to fight off the flood of tears that were pricked the back of your eyes, “and just because you can’t handle that you sent him to the Wall where he will live out his days and die. I never even got to say goodbye.”

“He was a bastard, it did not matter.”

“He was a good man,” your voice broke slightly as you tried to square your shoulders and stare her down, “his only fault in life was loving me. It’s gotten him the most cruel of fates.”

“I have had enough of you,” she steeled herself and strode past you, regal and noble in appearance as ever, “in two weeks time you will travel to Dorne and you will marry Oberyn Martell. You will either oblige and do it, as is your duty or you be expelled from this castle and can live out your days among the bastards that you love so much. It is your choice, whether you bring shame to this family or you disappear into the background as a woman should and become a dutiful wife.”

“Those are both horrible, vile options.”

“That is duty of being born a woman.”

“I wish I was born a man then,” you turned on your heel to walk away, wishing you were stronger, wishing you weren’t on the verge of tears, “maybe then I would not subjected to such a cruel fate, and I wouldn’t let any woman in my care suffer the same.”

“Aren’t you just the martyr,” she mocked you with such a ferocity that you wanted to give her a good whack across her own smug face, “you think you know so much, you know nothing.”

“I know what it means to be a good person, or at least to try,” it was days like that you longed for your father. He had been a kindhearted, generous man, one who did not believe in the stereotypes that divided men and women. He was the reason you had remained unwed for many years, far past the age of anyone of noble blood. He encouraged your wildness, your open heart and free spirit. Your mother had always been the exact opposite. You always wondered how they seemingly got along so well, but you’d come to understand that it was no more than an illusion. The only love they shared was that of their children, and sometimes you wondered how deep that truly ran.

“Enough,” her tone held the cruel finality, the singular word was as sharp as a dagger as she stood in the doorway, the soft light filtering in behind her. She was a handsome woman, and if you hadn’t known better, she appeared almost angelic. But you knew better, much better; she was no more a saint than you were a sinner. You remained steadfast in your spot, trying to channel the ferocity that your father always embodied, “in two weeks time you will travel to Sunspear and you will marry the prince.”

“I would rather die.”

“If you choose your own grave so be it,” she slammed the door to her quarters shut, letting the sound ring through the hall. You had flinched at the noise, but now it only served to anger you. Your whole life, the little joys it still afforded you would be taken away soon, all because of a name. All because you were a woman.

They often called occasions such as these little deaths, but you had a feeling that it would be a lot more than a little pain to make yourself subservient to a husband you did not want.

»»————-　♡　————-««

The journey from the lush green lands of Honeyholt and surrounding lands into the dry, red deserts of Dorne had been...miserable. While you would have relished traveling and seeing the new lands under any other circumstance, you experienced no moments of tranquility or peace. The landscapes meshed into one and the only thing signaling that you were entered the land of the Dornish was the stifling heat. The Reach was temperate, never an extreme in either direction, but Sunspear provided its first test through the scorching heat of the golden sun.

It would take some getting used to but you could understand why the symbol of the house you would soon be joining was a blazing sun. It never seemed to fade, casting its golden light across every inch of the land. The people that you spied in villages and smaller cities as you approached Sunspear looked as if they didn’t mind; perhaps only a lifetime of heat would allow you to get used to it.

Their curious glances were always trained on you, and your small retinue that would depart as soon as you arrived safely. You were an outsider from a strange land that the Dornish were reluctant to trust; it wasn’t common fro one of Northern breeding to step this far south. Not that you had much of a choice in the matter; you hadn’t thrown a fit, or cried, or screamed, not wanting to give anyone the satisfaction of seeing you so upset. Instead you had remained silent, speaking only a few words here and there as necessary, your true self hidden behind a thick veneer of steel. Maybe your true self would be hidden forever, dying a little bit day by day as you waited patiently for your death.

There would be no ceremony, no pomp, and most definitely no circumstance when you arrived to your new home and to meet the man who would shortly become your husband. You would be all but abandoned in the palace where you knew no one, trying to fend for yourself. It had been at your mother’s request and you knew exactly why she would treat you in such a manner; each of your brothers, all but the two youngest had been married off already, in a show of great festivities and celebration. You were all but kicked under the carpet, a smudge on the family name that she wished to forget.

Your mother harbored no love for the Dornish, whom she considered savages and uncultured; she must have been desperate to finally see you off if she agreed to a marriage proposal from the Martells. You wondered why they had even asked for you; there were plenty of other families in Dorne that could have produced a worthy daughter, or other Northern families that might have agreed. Perhaps they too realized that it would difficult to marry off a prince nearing middle age that housed a paramour and bragged about his bastard daughters. It did not phase you, or bother you in the slightest; you were pleased rather that they seemed to enjoy life to such a degree. But perhaps even the Martells were smart enough to know that they would need heirs, legitimate ones, to recognized by the Northern countries and carry on their name.

When you arrived at the palace in Sunspear, your jaw dropped slightly in surprise - it was a stunning beauty, a feat of architecture that you were loathe to find anywhere else in the seven kingdoms. It presented a sharp contrast to the home you had known your entire life; there was no bleak grays or beiges that met your eyes, instead colorful, brilliant shades of warm crimsons, oranges, tans, and bronzes met your eyes. it was warm and welcoming, despite the reason for your arrival. If this was to be your home for the remainder of your days, at least it was beautiful.

Your carriage came to a harsh stop and you almost slid off your seat at the sudden force. You groaned lightly as you straightened yourself, looking down at the green dress you were sporting and already wishing you had something cooler to wear. If you had been granted your way, you’d be dressed the same as the men that could spy all around the palace, sporting a pair of trousers and a loose tunic. Your father had never cared what you wore, but the day your mother found out that you had been running around like a boy, she had made you wear only the finest dresses. You’d still sneak off in trousers whenever presented with the opportunity, a small thrill running through your veins, knowing that you were directly defying your mother.

The small door was opened and you stepped out, letting your feet hit the warm the sand. You wiggled your feet about, trying to get a feel for it, bending over and picking up a handful of the small grains. It was a dark bronze color, different than the seasides of the Reach, and softer. You liked it, you immediately decided, it was much more comforting than stone and hard soil.

“Knock it off and put it back,” internally rolling your eyes at the septa you swore you were much too old to still have you, you let the sand trickle out of your hand and back onto the ground, “you’re acting like a child. You must behave and act like a proper woman.”

Sighing lightly, you remained wordless, not wanting to start an argument in the middle of your new home before you’d even made a proper entrance. The few items you’d brought from Honeyholt with you were quickly unloaded and brought into the palace. You hadn’t desired to bring much; you wanted a fresh start, a new one that you could call all your own, even if you weren’t here by choice. It felt like you could hang on to a little bit of autonomy that way.

Your most prized possession hung around your neck: a delicate golden chain that contained a small rose colored gem. It had been given to you by your father on your fourteenth nameday; he’d presented it to you with such joy and excitement, having it made just for you. He had claimed that the rose gem symbolized love and that you would always know how much he loved and adored you whenever you wore it. You hadn’t taken it off since his untimely demise; a small consolation for not having him around anymore.

You’d been so lost in your own thoughts, of your father, of your new life, that you hadn’t seen realized you’d stepped foot inside, until a pair of arms wrapped around you. Your body tensed in defense as you came back to reality and saw a young, dark haired girl grinning at you. She was beautiful, clearly of Dorne with her sunkissed skin and dark features, and animated smile. She was dressed in silks of gold and orange, much like the house she served. Appearing to be only a few years younger than yourself, she had a warm aura about her; it was the most kindness you’d experienced in some time.

“I’m Asha,” she had taken a step back when noticed your hesitation and held her hand out instead. You gave her the best smile you could as you gingerly shook her hand, still wanting to tread lightly as you gave her your name, “I’m your handmaiden. I’ll be helping you with whatever you need.”

“Handmaiden?” surely this must be a joke. Back in Honeyholt you’d had maids and servants, surely, but never one that served you in such a personal manner. Perhaps this was one of the perks of marrying a prince, even if he was one by name only, “I’m quite sure that I can handle myself...I’m sorry, forgive me, I do not mean to be rude. I’ve just never had someone...”

“It’s quite alright,” she insisted, taking your hand and pulling you further into the palace. You tried to get a good look at everything, but there was so much going on all at once that it was hard to keep track of everything, “I’ll be here for whatever you need and should you decide you do not need me at all, then I will remain as your friend, if it pleases you.”

“Friend?” that was the last thing you expected. It something you both had and hadn’t thought much about in the past few weeks. You’d had friends in Honeyholt, less and less the older you became, when they turned into mere acquaintances, tending to the families they were growing, but you’d resigned yourself to a life of solitude in Dorne. You weren’t sure what to expect here; you didn’t think the people would be so welcoming for the stranger that came to marry their favorite prince.

“Yes,” she gave you a dazzling grin, “like I said, if it pleases you. The prince wants to make sure you feel at home and that you’re comfortable.”

“He does?” you’d been there for such a short time, but already you’d experienced more twists and turns than you had expected.

“Of course,” she pulled you up a flight of marbled stairs and down a long hallway, stopping before a grand set of doors. They were beautiful, made of aged wood and intricately carved. You couldn’t stop yourself as you reached up and touched the carvings, letting your fingers glide over them, “ he’s traveled all over the seven kingdoms, the Summer Isles, Essos...so many different places. He understands better than anyone what it is like to be in a new, and often unwelcoming land. He wants you to know that this is your home too. The prince is very happy to have you here and finally meet you.”

“Huh,” you turned to her, searching her eyes for any signs of deception, but you found none. Her dark eyes were wide with excitement as she opened the door and revealed the beautiful interior of your personal quarters. It was a beautiful sight to behold, colorful furniture was strewn about, a large, soft bed with golden cloth over it, and open doors leading to a balcony that housed many plants. A soft breeze ruffled the curtains and rustled the leaves. This space, in the few moments you’d stared at it, felt more like a home than anything you had experienced.

“His quarters are on the opposite end of the hallway,” she explained and nudged her in the direction. Separate quarters, you thought to yourself, how strange, “he wanted to make sure you liked everything. If you’re unhappy with it or require anything else, just say the word and you will have it.”

“It’s beautiful,” you admitted, stepping into the space and taking a closer at everything, “Dorne is beautiful...I had not expected this much beauty in the desert lands. The way the Northern lords make it sound...it should be horrid and ugly. But it’s lovely.”

“There is so much in Dorne that they will never tell you about because they will not allow themselves to see the beauty in front of them. We know they see us as savages and heathens, we know what they say, but we are not as they claim. We are different, surely, but does not make us bad people simply because we do not share the same views and beliefs?” she asked as she started to drag in some of the small trunks containing your items. You shook your head with a small smile; no, surely it did not make them any less human. They were already a warmer people than any of the northerners you’d encountered.

Standing up and helping her, she looked at with you with a curious glance. You just carried on, not wanting to let her do all of the work; why should you?

“I can handle it, my lady,” she insisted, but you refused to back down. You repeated your name and insisted that she call you that, “even if you are to be the princess?”

“I take no joy or pride in hollow titles or unnecessary formalities,” you promised her, “you and I are not different are we? We’re both women, subject to the harsh reality of what that entails and the laws of the gods and men. I insist, please, that you call me by my given name. And I am more than capable of helping to unpack my own items. You musn’t do it all alone.

Asha gave you a big grin as she nodded, surprised by your genial approach. Those she had met from the lands north of Dorne would never dare to renounce a title so freely, or speak so candidly with her. But you did; Oberyn would like you, she thought to herself, “as you wish...I think you will like Dorne, it will suit you well. We do not believe that men hold any superior power over women, nor do we believe that women should be reduced to standing behind a man. Everyone is equal here, just as the gods willed it.”

“And yet here I am, to be married to a man I do not know and that does know me and give him an heir,” there was a slight tone of bitterness to your voice that you hadn’t quite intended. You sighed and shook your head in apology, knowing she had nothing to do with your fortune, “I’m sorry...I should not have lashed out at you.”

“It’s quite alright,” she insisted, “I know how it seems is harsh, but I assure you that not everything is as it seems. It must be shocking to come to a new home and be surrounded by only strangers, but I think you will be just fine; if nothing else you will provide a good wit to match Prince Doran.”

“Prince Doran?” you asked as she nodded, “and he is...”

“I dare they must have kept you quite in the dark about all of this,” you nodded as you allowed yourself to sit on the soft bed, testing it out and finding it just as soft as you liked, “Prince Doran is the ruler of Dorne, his oldest daughter Princess Arianne is his heir and Oberyn is his brother.”

“Oh,” you felt silly, and a bit dumb not being privy to any of this information before. It didn’t surprise you though; your mother did not care for the Martells and it was unlikely that she knew much of this information herself, “I apologize for not being as well versed in your land and people as I should be.”

“There is no need,” she laid out some of your dresses, placing them in the closet that stood against the wall, “one thing you will need to learn is that in Dorne we do not apologize. There is no reason to ever apologize for one’s true self, right? You were not to know this information, so how should you have known? You will learn in time. It is your home now and we are your people.”

“How is that I already feel so much warmer and lighter here than I have in years in my own home, the place I was birthed?” you let out a small laugh in spite of yourself and stood back up, spying some fine silks draped over the chair that was placed in front of the small writing desk, “what are these?”

“Silks,” Asha watched your face turn into a small smile as you touched the delicate fabrics and studied the colors, “they’re a gift from -”

“The prince,” you finished for her and she just nodded with a smile.

“He had a feeling that you wouldn’t be well prepared for the heat and wanted to provide you with something more suitable,” you lifted a few pieces up, holding them against your body. They were lovely, designed and crafted with care and expert stitching, “he asked about your coloring to make sure they’d suit you. And of course, some of the Martell gold and orange had to be included.”

“They are wonderful...absolutely beautiful,” a small sense of satisfaction worked its way into your bones as you realized that your mother would absolutely abhor the clothing, declaring crude and too revealing. But you loved the pieces, knowing they’d be perfect for the hot afternoons and warm evenings you’d come to expect, “this prince...he’s very kind.”

“He can...rough around the edges, but underneath the exterior he presents, he is a most kind and gentle man. His people love him and he loves them as well,” she answered, and you could easily sense the admiration she had for him. Maybe...just maybe, if this prince proved to be as fair and just as Asha made him out to be, things wouldn’t be a complete nightmare, “he wanted to be here to greet you, but unfortunately his duties have kept him away a bit longer than he intended. He will be back in time for your wedding.”

Wedding. Of course. You had somehow forgotten that little detail; this was just some sort of vacation or leisure trip. This was a whole new life you were walking into.

“Oh,” you tried to hide the nervous lilt of voice, but Asha picked up on it anyway. For someone so young, she was very attuned to your emotions. She stood next to you and slowly, as if testing the waters, put an arm around your shoulders. This time, you let her. You let her pull you into a hug and hold onto you tightly as you let your body relax into the comfort of her own. You were almost like clay, melting into her arms; it had been so long since you had experienced the touch of another. She smelled of fresh citrus and spices, a scent you already found comforting, “thank you, Asha. You have been more kind than I could have ever anticipated. It is not lost on me...I should be proud to consider you a friend.”

“And I you,” she insisted, you were quickly interrupted by a loud throat clear from the entrance to your new space. Your oldest brother, now the Lord of Honeyholt in your father’s absence, was standing there, an impatient look on his face. Asha pulled back and bowed her head in reverence, “my lord.”

“Come and make sure your goodbyes, sister,” he completely ignored Asha and turned his cold gaze to yours. Never having been close with any of your brothers, besides the youngest, you harbored no strong feelings for him. He was a fine man, a decent lord, but nothing compared to your father. The halls of Honeyholt were never the same since he sat at the head of the table, “we must leave soon to make it back before our visitors from the Crownlands come.”

“You just mean to leave me here,” it was not a question, but a cold statement of fact, “you do not intend to stay and watch me marry? It is only a short time away.”

“We do not have time,” he insisted already starting to walk away, “besides, what is there to celebrate? You’re married off far too late to...a Martell. Hardly calls for celebration.”

“Goodbye brother,” you called after him, not even bothering to follow and bid anyone else a farewell and a safe journey back, “if that is the way you feel, to leave your only sister thus, then so be it. I wish you, nor our brothers, nor mother any ill will, but I cannot say I will be amiss of any of you.”

“Watch your tongue,” he growled at you from the foot of the stairs, “you are lucky to be my sister or I would have you thrown out long ago. You taint our name and have no respect for decency. You’re just like father; weak and a fool. Always thinking without your brain.”

“So with my heart?” you spat at him, “how dare you take father’s name in vain! He’s more of a man, father, and lord than you will be ever be.”

“And look where that got him,” he reminded you of the harsh reality that your favorite person, the one that you had idolized growing up, was gone, “an early grave.”

“He was ill-”

“It does matter. I am lord now and you will obey me,” he shook his head, “you know, mother was smart to finally marry you off. At least you will be able to take the name of Martell and will stop bringing shame to ours. You are no sister of mine, you can join these...barbarians, become one of them,”

“If I see you again, it will be on your deathbed,” you insisted, feeling a tears of sheer anger roll down your cheeks, as your body trembled with frustration, “I guarantee it. You are no brother of mine.”

He glowered at you before turning around and storming off, his robes trailing behind him. You’d never shared a great appreciation or love for him, but this was a harsh blow nonetheless. Your family, the only one you’d ever know was so content to just cart you off. You wondered how long he had waited for this day - but it didn’t matter. Just like that you had no more home in Honeyholt. Sunspear, and Dorne, was your home now. Even if it was a life you did not desire, at least it would be your own.

“I’m sorry,” Asha appeared at your side, a concerned expression on her face at the heated exchanged. You choked back the few sobs that threatened to bubble up in your throat. You’d essentially just lost the little bit of family you had, “I did not expect such a response. Family means much to Dornishmen, sweet dove. You will never have to feel alone or unloved here.”

“Thank you,” you gave her a small smile, “I hope my family does not dishonor Prince Doran. I have not even meet the man who is to be my brother and already I bring chaos.”

“Prince Doran would never hold the actions of them against you,” she promised, “he shall be glad to meet you and welcome you into his family. As will we all. I can show you around the palace, if you so desire, and the water gardens. They’re most beautiful, especially during the peak of heat, such as this.”

“Will I meet Prince Doran today?” you were curious about meeting your new family, albeit the tiniest bit hopeful. It could be no worse than what you had just experienced.

“I’m afraid both princes will not return until tomorrow,” she explained, “however, they are preparing a feast in your honor for this evening. The Princess is here, and I am sure she will be delighted to meet you. She’s a brilliant combination of her father and uncle, and will surely revel in your company, she grows bored of monotony.”

»»————-　♡　————-««

Dinner had been an...interesting affair. You’d gotten to meet the princess, her mother, and many other members of the household and those who worked for and were dear to the Martells - to your family. It was a shocking contrast to the normally reserved and quiet meals that were had in the dreary dining hall of your former home.

The large tables in the garden were laden with delicious foods from all of Dorne, including the famed Dornish wine and everyone sat together, it did not matter their rank, station, or title. They were happy, kind, and jovial, welcoming you with open arms to Sunspear and their family. It was a warmth you had not known before, but not unwelcome. It was a sight to see everyone so happy, joking and laughing, teasing each other until late into the night; they had no reservations, no fears, no inhibitions. And you loved that about them immediately.

Your heart had almost stopped when the princess had presented you with a beautiful golden bracelet, containing the Martell sun entwined with the little dove of your own house. She had gently clasped it around your wrist, before kissing your cheeks gently. You would think of her, her generosity and warmth whenever you wore it.

But even the excitement and relief that the evening had provided was not enough to stave off the tears that found you late in the evening as you sat on the balcony connected to your quarters. You’d been studying the starry night sky, admiring how it glittered over the red dunes of the desert, when you were hit with a wave of sadness that you couldn’t ward of. A few hot, warm, salty tears dripped down your cheeks as you slowly repeated the names of the constellations you could see, stopping only when a small knock came at your door.

You dabbed at your eyes and turned around to see who the visitor was, but Arianne slowly let herself in. You gave her a small smile and she joined you on the balcony, without a word, but a gentle hand on your shoulder.

“I am sorry that you must see me in such a state,” you apologized but she shook her head. She was about to open her mouth, but you stopped her with a small smile, already knowing what she was going to say, “do not apologize for being your true self.”

“Yes,” she agreed with a small laugh, rich and musical, “see you’re learning already - you’ll fit in perfectly.”

You remained silent for a moment and let out a long sigh.

“What plagues you so?” she asked gently, “besides the loss of your family?”

“Today has proven it is no real loss,” you admitted, “I am...I do not know if I can do this.”

“Marry my uncle?”

“Yes,” you said quietly, “I vowed to myself that I would never marry someone I did not love, and I know this sounds silly, but my father, before his death, always promised me that he would never send me off to do so unless I desired it. And now...”

“It is not easy.”

“No,” you sighed, a fresh wave of tears rolled down your cheeks, “I cannot bring myself to love someone just because I am required to, nor have a desire to be treated as a sow to be used for heirs. I do not know if I can do this, to myself or your uncle.”

“I realize this is very little consolation, but I do think I might know how you to help, if only a small bit,” she had your attention and you gave her a curious glance, “think of it as a marriage only in name.”

“Only in name?”

“Precisely,” she explained, “you will marry Oberyn, and that will the end of it. You do not owe him an heir and he would never expect one from you. He has eight daughters already, some nearing your age, and he loves them dearly. They keep him busy and if you do not desire children he would never force one on you. You do not have to love him, he knows you likely never will, but just respect him; for outside purposes you will be husband and wife, but behind closed doors, and to those here in Dorne, who not care about such things, it will not matter.”

“Oh?”

“Give it some time and you will find a lover, a man or a woman, or many lovers,” she explained, “love should not be contained so willfully, unless two people desire it. you are free to explore and take as lovers as you want. You give and take love.”

“Oberyn...has a lover,” why you suddenly felt shy, you did not know. Certainly it could not be jealousy? You did not know him nor care for him, and clearly did not love him, but something inside you panged slightly. How strange it would be to be married to a man with a different lover.

“He had a lover, a paramour by the name of Ellaria Sand,” she explained and you found yourself intrigued, “she’s a most kind, generous and lovely woman, and mother to four of his daughters. She is beautiful as she is kind and still comes around often, but she has left his bed sometime ago and has returned to her childhood home in Helholt.”

“Oh?” you wondered if it had anything to do with you, but you had your doubts. What power would you, a mere child compared to his longtime lover hold?

“It was amicable, I believe. They remain friends, and both love their daughters deeply. I think a strong bond and love remains between them, but nothing romantic,” she expanded, but it did not ease your nerves, “I’m sure you will meet her at some point, she comes around not infrequently, but you have nothing to worry about. She will love you, as we already do as well. She will understand what your position as Oberyn’s wife means.”

“Does he take other lovers still?”

“As far as I know,” she shrugged, not deeply concerned with her uncle’s affairs, “anything further than that you will have to discuss among yourselves.”

“I see,” you let out a long sigh and let your shoulders slump, finding little solace in her words. She was trying her best, but it did not chase away all your fears, “still I...”

“Remember,” she said softly, “name only. You will not have be with him, in his presence, any more than you desire. He will grant you many liberties and freedoms. The ways things work between a husband and wife are very different here in Dorne than in the North. You will not be confined to the palace or your husband, you will have your own voice here.”

“Such a strange concept,” you mused as she shrugged, “all my life I’ve been told that my only goal in life is to behave, marry a nobleman, and bear him children. Nothing more and nothing less.”

“Welcome to Dorne, sweet dove,” Arianne pressed a light kiss to the side of your head, before moving to leave your chambers, leaving you alone with your thoughts, “and welcome to House Martell.”

You watched her go without another word, envying her easy going personality and liveliness. She’s known this her whole life, and yet she was so happy; maybe there was something to this Dornish way of life. Maybe you could find some purchase here and make a happy little life for yourself. With or without your husband at your side.

You straightened up and stretched, raising your arms above your head as you looked at the moon, shining among the stars. Maybe...this did not have to be as bad as you had originally thought; maybe Dorne could be your own sanctuary. Your head was swimming with so many thoughts, and you were overwhelmed with a tiredness you had not known in ages. You walked back into your bedchamber, leaving the doors open to let in the warm evening breeze. It was quiet now, a quiet that you’d never really experience. Peaceful.

Oberyn watched you moved back inside from his spot in the courtyard of the palace. He and Doran had returned early, at his behest, but not early enough for a proper introduction. He been curious to meet his bride, the wild girl from the North that refused to be tamed. He had overheard you and Arianne, listening intently to your every word, clinging on to them to try and figure out how to best serve you. He wanted you to be happy, he hoped you would be, and if you wanted nothing to do with him, then he would respect that as well.

Whatever you desired, Oberyn Martell was going to make sure you had it.

»»————-　♡　————-««

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#oberyn martell x reader #oberyn martell #prince oberyn x reader #got #oberyn x reader #reader insert #pedro pascal #pedro pascal x reader #i miss my prince #in name only series

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mizelophsun11 · 3 years ago

Text

Mizeloph's Tale Chapter 8

Pairing - It is still General Kirigan x OC Sun Summoner and will eventually shift to Kaz Brekker x Reader

Summary - First the little group from Ketterdam has to make it through the Fold before they can get to Eastern Ravka. As they travel through the Fold a past that Kaz does not like to talk about haunts his thoughts. A promise that he never intended on breaking brings more to Kaz than he cared to admit.

Word Count - 2550

“They want you to believe the Sun Summoner has been found to finally tear down the wall that divides us. But how many times have we been fed a story like that?! And how many times have we in the West been told to send our sons and daughters through the Fold for another year? It is time to accept that we need to break away from the old country! Now is the time to form our own country, to keep what we make and what we earn instead of sending it to the East! For the true Ravka!” Zlatan finished his speech and walked off towards the entrance of his tent where he shook hands with Arken who had an interesting proposition

Out in the open Kaz Brekker watched their exchange, he had not been too thrilled about this, but knew that they needed Arken to get them across the Fold. He would be able to come up with a plan to deal with Arken later. Kaz spotted Inej looking at the stones with names of people from the West who had gone through the Fold and died or never come back.

Inej noticed Kaz walk up to her with the tiny goat “he’s adorable”

“Don’t get too attached” he looked between her and the stones “I didn’t think I’d have to specify no detours for you”

“Even if just a few minutes could end a lifetime of questions?” Inej asked

Kaz sighed “I have looked at these stones for answers, when I couldn’t find her name these stones felt useless, just another reminder of an unknown”

“Maybe because she was able to survive the Fold, she is now the Sun Summoner, you cannot continue to deny it forever, there is hope you two will see each other again” Inej knew that they both were trying to find a name to have some closure, but it was not always that easy

“Hope is dangerous, it can cloud anyones judgement, including our own. Just like your mind has been clouded by your questions of my past with Anna Mizeloph, I told you I wanted your complete focus on this job” Kaz said adjusting the goat he was holding in his arm

“I will, this will be the last time I promise” Inej could tell that she was pushing on Kaz berries with talking about Anna

“Don’t forget Inej, we all have debts to pay” Kaz walked off to meet head towards the meeting point with Inej walking behind him

Once it got darker everyone had met at the disclosed location near the edge of town so they could start their journey, but there was one person missing, Jesper. They still made their way towards where the train would be when Inej stopped to read the sign.

“Wait, there are landmines here..” Inej said looking to Arken

“I put those signs up there to keep people away” Akren informed them

Kaz looked behind “where the hell is Jesper?” he did not want to be delayed

They walked over to where the machinery was hidden that would get them through the Fold “It’s one thing to hear about it, but.. This is..” Inej looked at the looming darkness as they got closer

“Nothing compared to what lies within” Arken went through the thick shadow and pulled the train out “there, so the goat, jurad.. Thank you. Now we are just waiting on the coal..”

“Wait for me!” Jesper yelled as he ran, followed by gunshots

Arken began to panic as he saw Jesper running towards their location with people following behind “they can’t see the train!”

“Leave the lantern!” Inej yelled

“Landmines!” Jesper looked at the sign

“Come on!” Kaz knew it was going to be close

Jesper tossed the lantern onto the ground and ran to the train in the dark making sure to watch his step. Once he got in he felt a slight sigh of relief wash over him, he had gotten coal and not been blown up.

“Please tell me you have 20 pounds of alabaster coal” Arken pleaded

Jesper gave him the bag “slight snap in the plan, turns out the kid who was helping me buy the coal didn’t exactly know how to, um, buy coal”

“We know you gambled it away” Kaz knew Jesper too well

“I lost a bit of the money.. Well, I lost all of the money, but! I was able to steal 20 pounds of alabaster coal” Jesper smiled a little

“No no.. there’s only 16 pounds” Arken was slightly panicking

Jespers smile faltered “16 pounds of alabaster coal”

“Can we do it on 16?” Kaz asked

“Never been done before, now I need you three to sit down and never shift your weight” Arken started to set everything up to get the train to start moving, then they suddenly heard the sound of an explosion and men screaming

Jesper shook a little “Landmines..”

Kaz looked up a Arken from his spot “I thought you said they weren’t real”

“I said no such thing, I just said I put the sign up” Arken began to put coal in and the train started, they entered the Fold.

It was quiet in the train so far, everyone was thinking about anything else than being inside the Fold. As the train chugged on Kaz knew that right now he should be thinking about what they will do to get into the Little Palace, but his thoughts drifted to Anna Mizeloph. He knew better, but Kaz could not help it, the little girl with white hair that he remembered was now the Sun Summoner. He remembered when they were younger, imagining their lives and how everything would work out.

Little 8 year old Kaz and Anna were holding hands as they ran down an alley holding a few items of food. Once they got to their safe spot they sat down and started to nibble at the food, Anna looked over at Kaz.

“What do you think our lives will be like once we are older Kazie?” Anna asked

“Honestly, I’m not sure, I want to get back at Pekka for putting me and Jordie in our current situation” Kaz was angry, he and his brother had the chance to start a new life when their father had died, they should not be in this situation

“But you met me.. You mean a lot to me Kazie” Anna said looking at the small amount of food she had left, this was all she knew, living on the streets

Kaz sighed “the future also involves me and Jordie becoming rich and you will be a part of that Anna, we will stick together” he smiled a little at her and pulled Anna close

“Good” she rested her head on his shoulder “but if you become rich can we travel the world? Maybe see Ravka? I’ve only heard of it from others travelers, but it sounds beautiful”

“Anything you want Anna” Kaz adjusted Anna and began to run his fingers through her hair to try and get a few tangles out “when we are older you will get whatever you want, I promise”

Anna smiled and closed her eyes feeling Kaz run his fingers through her hair. While she hated that Kaz and Jordie were cheated out of their money to survive, Anna was thanking every saint that she had known for meeting Kaz. She felt beyond lucky to have a best friend like Kaz and wished that they had met under different circumstances.

“Hey Kazie?” Anna said softly

“Yes Anna?” He continued to run his fingers through her hair now for comfort

“Can you make me another promise? This one is more important..” Anna could not imagine her future without Kaz

“Anything you want Anna” Kaz smiled a little finishing his combe through of her hair and pulled her close into a hug

“Promise me that we will never be separated, that we will grow up together and never leave each other, please promise me this” she pleased

“Yes, I promise” Kaz said, not knowing what the future held and that in a year he would break that promise. However, he didn’t know that, so with his ignorant bliss he made the promise

“Can we pinkie promise?” Anna asked looking at Kaz

Kaz smiled and nodded holding his pinky out “I promise”

Anna held her hand out and linked their pinkles “I promise” she continued to stay close to Kaz as he kissed the top of her head, their promise.

Kaz thought about that promise more than he would like to admit, he was the first one to break it. Even though it wasn’t really his choice because the people who collected him and his brother thought they were dead. However, that was still the moment of separation and Kaz wished that things could have been different. Anna was and still is an important girl to him and it made him think about what would happen when they were finally face to face. It would eventually happen since Anna is the key to the million kruge mission. Kaz wondered if she would recognize him or not, if she did how would she react? There was a lot running through his mind about Anna that was suddenly jossled when the train jerked.

With the sudden motion of the train came a strange noise snapping Kaz out of his thoughts “what was that?”

“Bits of metal hun on the poles, when they collide with the one on the train it markes where we are in our journey, right now we are on time” Arken said while looking at his watch

“How did you know where to put the poles?” Kaz asked

“Physics and engineering are a part of.. Most of my success” Akren continued to focus on his watch, he would glance at the coal then back at his watch

“And the rest?” Kaz glanced up at Arken

“What we might call divine intervention” Akren checked the coal against

“What other might call luck” Kaz never enjoyed relying on luck in anything

“And after all, the Fold is thick with volcra, and the tracks are not complete. Coal please” Arken said, Kaz threw some coal in

“I’m sorry, did you say the tracks weren’t complete?” Jesper asked starting to feel a little bit nervous and began to move

“Ah, ah! No moving” Arken said “it seems like we are falling behind, by my calculations we are now a tad late, more coal” Kaz put some more coal into the flames, fueling the train to continue going

“Back to the real issue, we are on tracks that don’t connect to other tracks” the amount of panic in Jesper was beginning to rise

“There is a gap, but..” Arken was going to continue but Kaz cut him off

“You said you could get us through, how much of a gap?” Kaz asked

Arken sighed, continuing to watch the coal and the watch to see if they could get back to being on time. “I built slats on the car, they roll into place under the wheels and the turbine generated enough wind to push all the way to the eastern tracks. This only works if we did not shift our weight, now we are about to go past a nest, the noise may attract volcra but it is the only way across”

As they continued through the sound of growling volcra echoed “now we have a problem, but we should be fine if they haven’t attacked us by..” the flapping wings of volcra got closer

Kaz looked at how Arken reacted “if need be how do you fight them off?”

“There is no way to fight them off, I can only outrun them to give a fighting chance. Open the throttle and toss all of the coal in, if we had 20 pounds this would work” as the coal was tossed in the train was gossled, Arken looked out to see what had happened “Damn! One of them impaid itself onto a spike”

The blood from the Volcra seeped through the ceiling and into the train “we need to get it off or else the other will stand on it” Kaz said

“More coal!” Arken commanded

Kaz threw the rest of the coal in and the bag it came in “we are down on fumes!”

Everything was beginning to unfold against them, they were behind, volcra were now attacking their only means of transportation through the Fold. A true nightmare, it almost had seemed too good to be true in the beginning when everything was running smoothly. Kaz could tell that they would be cutting it close, if they could even make it through.

Arken nodded “we won’t make it with this extra weight” he continued to try and get the dead volcra off the spike

“This is how we die” Jesper said

“Jesper grab the goat” Arken looked down at his watch to see if they were any close to the other side of the Fold

“I’m not throwing out the goat!” Jesper yelled

“Damit it Jesper, grab the damn goat! It’s not bait, it is for you now I need you to calm down and hug the goat!” Arken yelled back at Jesper

The sound of metal meeting metal rattled through the train “no no.. we should have hit that mark 20 seconds ago”

This caught Kaz's attention “20 seconds? Meaning..”

“My timing is precise in order to get us through, even 20 seconds behind means the train could stop inside the Fold which means.. Death for all of us” Akren looked down at the flames keeping the train going, but his attention was pulled away by the sound of volcra “there are more coming.. You may want to make your peace..”

Kaz never hoped for anything, until now he was hoping to make it through the Fold to see Anna. He had never been afraid of death, every mission in Ketterdam was a risk. However, this was different, he could die right here and never see Anna again. Within his thoughts he realised that there was so much more to this mission. Once her name left that man's lips the night of the job, that night he knew that this would be his chance to see her again. He needed to stay alive in order to see her and that would not be possible if he died in the Fold.

Arken looked up as the contraption that had taken him across the Fold too many times to count, it was now being torn apart by a few volcra. Jesper knew what he had to do, he had the guns, with his skills in hand he approached where the volcra were tearing through the top. The monsters screamed and with collection Jesper began to fire off shots at the swarming volcra killing all of them. It was a moment of silence before another metal ping rang, the sun shone through the hole made by the dead volcra. A sigh of relief left everyone in the train, they had made it through the Fold, alive. Now they had to figure out what the next plan was in order to get them into the Little Palace and get Anna Mizeloph.

Author Note - I am so sorry this chapter came later than I had hoped! These seem to only get longer and longer XD However I hope everyone enjoys this chapter! I originally did not plan on adding this chapter, but I thought it would be good to see more of Kaz and the past he has with Anna Mizeloph. Like always feel free to pm me if you would like to or leave a comment, I love reading what everyone has to say!

Tag List- @rika90 @itsemy01 @hotleaf-juice @teatimeforusreaders @benbarnes-supremacy @graciefullygracie @aleksanderwh0r3 @klaudosh @herbatkazmilosica

#shadow and bone #shadow and bone fanfiction #the grisha series #grishaverse #grisha fic #ben barnes #general kirigan #general kirigan x reader #freddy carter #kaz brekker #kaz brekker x reader

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ikeromantic · 3 years ago

Text

This Life

Written for @ashavesa as part of my 500 follower celebration

Le Comte de Saint-Germain, Memory, Something Old, and Surprise Me!

Approx. 1500 words

The heavy gold band lay in a box of used quills, dry ink pots, and other sundry desk items. It was unremarkable in every way. Worn down to a dull sheen, its soft surface scratched. The ring occupied this spot in Comte’s writing box for more years than a man might count out in a lifetime.

Every so often, he’d check it. His smooth, long fingers seeking the edge of gold. Running his thumb over the worn surface. Then he’d close the box. It might be months or even years before he looked at it again.

Today he had it out, held in the palm of his hand. He rolled it between his fingers, lost in memory. Though it was centuries ago, he still recalled the day she gave it to him. The little Italian girl with her big dark eyes.

She was standing alone in the street. Her white gown blew around her bare feet in a cold, autumn wind. At the bottom of the road, there was a bonfire. Only the sick-sweet smell gave away the truth of that flame. A crematory for the plague-bearing dead. The girl’s eyes found his, held them. Gold on black meeting across the shadowed ground between.

“You aren’t sick. I see you walk the streets every day, but you aren’t sick.” Her voice carried, soft like silk on his ears.

Le Comte nodded. “I won’t get sick, ma cherie. Belleza.”

She held her hand out to him. “Can you heal me, then? I am sick. Everyone in my family is dead and now . . . now I will die too.”

“It isn’t that simple -” he began.

“I can pay. I have my husband’s ring. It is real gold.” She turned her palm up, and there rested a man’s ring. The large gold band reflected the evening light, and the flicker of flame behind her.

Le Comte did not need that ring. Nor did he ever take payment for what she was asking. It was a gift, to be carefully given. Not a product sold by cawing merchants in a square. “No.” He turned to walk away from her. He was sad that she would die. Sad that so many were already dead, but he could not help. Could not save them all.

The girl was determined. She flung herself on him. “Please. Please!”

He lifted her, ready to frighten her off with his golden eyes, a light enchantment. But he saw on her arm, the mark. Red roses. Red roses. They blossomed from wrist to elbow. And along the swan-curved neck. Comte set her down gently. “You don’t know what you are asking me to do.”

“I do know. I have watched you.” She smiled. “You do not grow old or ill. You are fast and strong. And you hunt the men who come here to loot and rape and kill. I’ve seen you chase them, laughing. You tear out their throat and drink -”

“Quiet.” The one word command silenced her. “What would you do with this gift, if you had it? You may answer that question only.”

She struggled for a moment against him, will to will. Then, “I would live. I would rejoice in every dawn. And I would hunt those that cause harm. I would take their lives so they cannot take others.”

Le Comte struggled with himself. He had no reason to take this girl under his wing. How many other mortals had died just this night? But there was something compelling in her gaze. A steel strength that made him want to give her this chance. “Then come.”

He pulled the girl into an alley, out of sight. She gasped as he pressed her against the cold stone. “This will hurt, but only for a moment.”

“I am not afraid,” she replied. And he could see in her eyes that she wasn’t.

Comte lowered his head to her neck. She smelled like lavender and the sea. A strange, heady mix. He could feel the pulse of her life-blood beneath his lips. He wondered who she had been, before the plague. Before this night. It was all gone, anyhow.

His fangs pierced her skin.

The girl gasped, a short, sharp exhale. Then a surprised moan, low in her throat. She trembled in his arms. Her hands clutched at him, her eyes fluttered shut.

Le Comte passed his gift to her, what he could of it. He thought she was unconscious, but her eyes opened as he lifted her up.

“I am like you now. I can feel my body changing.”

“Does it hurt?”

The girl shook her head. “I hurt before. But now . . . now I am only hungry.”

He gazed into the abyss of her eyes. “You will drink blood to live. If you are discovered, mortal men will hunt and kill you. You are not immortal. But you will heal faster and live longer. You are fast and strong.”

“I will live. I will not get sick.” She smiled. Her fangs already began to show.

“Yes.”

“Then set me down.”

Le Comte did as she asked. “Do you need me to-”

“No. You have given me enough, ragazzo d'oro.” She laughed. “Thank you. I cannot give you anything that repays this . . . this! But here -” She held out the ring.

“I don’t want it.”

“Take it. It is our trade, our bargain.” She placed it in his hand. “Gold for the golden one.”

Le Comte took the ring and placed it in his pocket.

She gave a nod, and then turned.

He watched her walk until he couldn’t see her anymore. “I didn’t ask her name,” he murmured.

“Who’s name?” The girl from the future stood in the study door. Her bright gaze took in the ring, and his pensive expression.

Le Comte smiled. He put the ring back into the box and closed it. “Doesn’t matter, ma cherie. Didn’t I promise to take you dress shopping today?”

“No, I think you -”

“Yes, I believe I did. Let’s get you something in blue today. At least one something. And matching jewelry?” He laughed and took her arm. “Let me enjoy you, ma cherie. Even if we didn’t plan it. We must enjoy every moment we have together.”

She looked at him with big, dark eyes. “I want to know when something makes you sad. I want to help.”

Behind the veil of soft gentility, his lover was resolute in her request. She wanted to know, and perhaps, it was something to share. “It is only a memory, ma cherie. A woman who, in some ways, was like you. Such a strong spirit.” He leaned down and kissed her cheek.

“Did she look like me?”

“A bit. But you are far sweeter, ma beauté. And you will not disappear on me, non?” Le Comte let his hand drift down her back.

She leaned into his caress with a happy sigh. “I hope you will tell me about this girl sometime.”

“There isn’t much to tell . . .” He gave her the basics of his encounter with the girl so many centuries before. Le Comte always expected the vast years separating them to matter to her, but she took him with a sense of wonder, seeing his experience as yet another thing to love.

After he finished, she looked at him thoughtfully. “And you never saw her again?”

“I never did. Although I did look. I wonder sometimes what became of her. If she spent those years well or . . .”

“I think she must have.”

“Why is that?”

She thought for a moment and then smiled. “I don’t know, I just do, my ragazzo d’oro!”

“What did you call me?” le Comte’s surprise made his voice quiet, low, and tense.

“I . . . rag-ah, I don’t know. It just popped out? Probably something I picked up from you or one of the others.”

The phrase was not common, and le Comte was sure he hadn’t recounted it for her. He leaned closed as if to see into her soul.

“Are you . . . upset with me?” Her lips pressed together in a tight, unhappy line.

“Of course not, ma cherie. You only surprised me.” He relaxed and gave her a light kiss.

“I am glad,” she whispered. “I couldn’t stand it if you were angry with me.”

“I never could be.” And this was true, he thought. He couldn’t imagine ever being angry with this gift in his arms. She was everything he desired, had searched for his long life. Only now . . . now he wondered if perhaps he’d found her earlier. Before he or she were ready for each other. Another life in another time.

She touched his cheek. “You look sad again.”

“No, no ma cherie. I was only thoughtful.” Le Comte kissed her again, more deeply this time. His fingers curled in her long dark hair as she deepened the embrace. Her lips parted, letting his daring tongue taste her. And she played back, nipping his bottom lip, holding to his vest as if to anchor him against her.

They had this life together, he thought, and this time. He was going to make the most of every moment. Le Comte swept her into his arms as if she were a child and proceeded down the hall.

Of course, she noticed and broke the kiss between them. “You need to put me down! What if someone sees us? You can’t carry me out shopping!”

Le Comte smiled. “Ah, ma cherie, I’ve decided to spend the afternoon in other ways. I will make it up to you later.” And then he kissed her again. Hungrily.

#ikemen vampire #ikevamp le comte de saint germain #ikevamp le comte #le comte de saint germain #otome guys #otome #fanfiction #fanfic

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dialovers-translations · 4 years ago

Text

Diabolik Lovers VANDEAD CARNIVAL ;; Ruki Route ー Chapter 2

ー The scene starts on the Carnival’s venue

Yui: Come to think of it...You said you don’t know what the ‘Queen of the Carnival’ is about either, right?

Ruki: Yes. I was aware of the existence of the Carnival itself, but never had I heard of there being a Queen.

Yui: You knew about the Carnival already? But you’ve never come here, right?

Ruki: It’s my first time visiting. However, I read about it in Eden in the past.

Yui: Eden?

Ruki: It’s the castle us siblings lived at during the time we had just been turned into Vampires. It is what we would call the place.

Amongst the literary collection at the castle, I found a book which had information on the Carnival and read it.

I believe the book mentioned that the Demon World’s Carnival is set up to resemble similar festivities in the human world.

Back then, I never even fathomed I would one day be able to enjoy it myself, of course...

I suppose you can never predict the future.

However, thinking back to it now, I am fairly certain nothing was written about a Queen.

That bothers me.

Yui: ( ...I’ve gotten a little anxious. I wonder what the Queen’s duty is? )

( I just hope I don’t get myself involved in anything strange or scary... )

Ruki: ...

Oi, Livestock. We’re gonna take a small break. I’m sure you’re exhausted too?

Yui: Eh? Why would you suddenly bring that up...?

Ruki: There’s a perfect shop over there. Let’s go.

ー Ruki walks away

Yui: Eh? Uhm, Ruki-kun!?

ー The scene shifts to Cafe ‘Tarte Tatin’

Waiter A: Welcome!

Yui: ( This is...a cafe? It looks normal from the outside... )

( But all the customers here are Vampires, right? It’s honestly kind of amazing... )

Ruki: Do you have any spare tables?

Waiter A: Yes, for two, right? Please wait one secーー Ah...

...Pardon my rudeness, dear customer. However, does that lady over there happen to be a human...?

Yui: ( He noticed...My scent should be suppressed by the drug though... )

Uhm, I...

Ruki: If I say yes, would that pose a problem?

Waiter A: I-I never claimed as much but...

Ruki: Then why ask that question?

Waiter A: U-Uhm...

Manager: ーー Pardon me, customer.

Is my waiter causing any trouble?

Ruki: Yes, he made a statement as if this place picks its customers, you see...I was hoping to inquire him about his true intentions.

Manager: ...Is the lady over there a human?

Yui: ( So they really do notice. I wonder if the medicine hasn’t taken full effect yet...? )

( Ruki-kun was so kind to tell me to enjoy myself too, but like this... )

Ruki: Let me tell you, she is no ordinary human.

She is special. One chosen by Karlheinz-sama, that is.

Waiter A: By Karlheinz-sama...!?

Manager: This human is...?

Ruki: If you reject her entrance, you are basically going against that man’s wishes too.

Manager: ...

...Prepare a table on the terrace.

Waiter A: Eh? ...Are you sure?

Manager: I shall permit it. ...They are very important customers after all.

Please excuse our rudeness, dear customers. We shall prepare everything right away, so please wait one second.

Ruki: Sure.

Yui: ( You know... )

Ruki: Why are you looking at me like that? If there’s something on your mind, tell me.

Yui: N-No...

( Ruki-kun is very reliable, it’s at times like these that I realize how lucky I am to have him on my side... )

Ruki: ...Yui. You should learn to be a little more assertive.

Yui: Assertive?

Ruki: You need to learn to voice your own opinion.

Nothing good comes from being too timid.

You are the chosen Eve. Have more confidence. Be proud.

If you stand there cowering, (1) it has a negative impact on me, the person by your side, as well.

Yui: ...Right. I’m sorry, Ruki-kun.

Ruki: Of course, I know that is simply who you are. Therefore, I’m not exactly blaming you or anything.

I do like that side of you too after all.

Yui: Eh...?

Waiter A: My apologies for the wait. I shall escort you to your seats.

Ruki: Let’s go.

The terrace is a VIP seat. Try and keep your head up high, so you seem fitting of sitting there. Understood?

*TIMESKIP*

Waiter A: Here’s your coffee, cafe au lait and tarte tatin.

*Thud*

Yui: Wah...Looks delicious! Take a look, Ruki-kun!

Ruki: Oi, don’t make too much of a fuss. Did I not tell you these seats are special? You’re embarrassing us.

Yui: Ah...Sorry.

Ruki: Remain calm when eating. Right now you are reminding me of Kou or Yuma.

Yui: Yes...Well then, I’ll have a bite.

*Cling*

Yui: Nn...Delicious!

Ruki: I see.

Yui: You won’t eat anything?

Ruki: No. Watching you eat something so sugary sweet is more than enough for me.

Yui: However, it actually isn’t too overly sweet, so won’t you try some as well?

We’re here together now anyway, so just one bite, okay?

Ruki: ...If you insist, I suppose I will. Give me some.

Yui: Yes! I’ll ask the waiter for a fork...

Ruki: No need. You are already holding one in your hand, no?

You can use that one.

Yui: B-But, then I’ll have to...

Ruki: What? You can’t...?

Yui: It’s not impossible but...

Ruki: ...You won’t claim it’s embarrassing, right?

You’ve already directly accepted my fangs with your body, yet this much is enough to make you feel shame?

If you don’t like the idea, you don’t have to share with me. I’m not that interested after all.

Yui: I do think it’s embarrassing, but I want you to be able to have a taste as well.

Ruki: Hmph...In that case...You know what to do, right?

Yui: ( Uu...I guess having him on your side can still cause trouble at times... )

*TIMESKIP*

ー They leave the cafe

Waiter A: Thank you very much for your visit!

Yui: That was so good! I’m glad we came.

Ruki: Yeah.

Yui: Say, Ruki-kun. Where are we headed next?

Ruki: Wherever you want. We are just killing time until it’s time after all.

*Clap clap clap*

Clown A: Gather around, everyone! A spectacular show is about to begin!

Everyone interested should head to Saint Nore Park right away! A fun time awaits ahead!

Yui: Saint Nore Park...? I wonder what kind of show they’re talking about?

Ruki: Want to go take a look if you’re curious? We still have time.

Yui: Yeah!

ー The scene shifts to Saint Nore Park’s venue

Yui: What a crowd...I guess the show will take place around here?

Ruki: Oi, Livestock, don’tーー

*Thud*

Yui: Ah...!

Female Vampire D: Watch your step! Be careful!

Yui: S-Sorry...

Ruki: ...Haah.

*Rustle*

Ruki: Don’t wander around without permission from your Master. Who do you think has to go through trouble if you were to get yourself lost?

Yui: Sorry...

Ruki: If you truly feel guilty, make sure to stick by my side from here on out. I don’t want to get into trouble either.

Yui: Y-Yeah...

( However, aren’t we a little too close right now...? )

ー The crowd cheers

Magician A: This concludes our marionette act.

We had some close calls with the threads getting entangled, but those kind of ‘small’ incidents are part of the act’s charm!

Yui: ( That’s not a laughing matter...! )

Magician A: Well then, let’s move to the next show time!

I need an assistant for this next act...So could I ask for a volunteer?

Yui: Fufu, this kind of stuff often happens, huh?

Ruki: Usually the assistant is decided upon beforehand though.

Yui: Oh come on...

Magician A: Hm...Let’s see...Ah!

Yui: ( ...Eh? Did our eyes meet just now? )

Magician A: The young lady over there. Would you be willing to help me out?

Yui: ( I knew it...! )

Ruki: ...Are you referring to her?

Magician A: Why of course! I just felt like this is fate.

I feel like my act will definitely succeed if she helps me out. Unlike the one from before.

Ruki: ...I’m sorry, but I can’t hand her over.

Magician A: Eeh? Please don’t say that...Say, young lady? How do you feel about this?

Yui: Me? I...

Selection

→ I want to give it a try

Yui: I guess I kind of want to...give it a shot.

Magician A: See? Did you hear that?

Ruki: ...You fool.

Yui: Eh...!?

( Is he upset...!? )

→ Ask Ruki-kun (☾)

Yui: Ruki-kun...What should I do?

Ruki: ...If you want to try it, you should.

Yui: Thenーー

Ruki: Which is what I’d love to say. But I cannot give you permission this time.

Yui: ( He seems really insistent about it... )

Is there a specific reason, Ruki-kun?

Ruki: ...You know very well that you’re surrounded by Vampires right now, don’t you?

Vampires don’t die so easily. Therefore, even if they make a small blunder, they can just cover it up as being part of the show.

If anything, I heard that sometimes they will mess up on purpose to get a stronger reaction from the audience. I assume that was the case in the previous act as well.

Even if it is something which could usually cost a person their life, for a Vampire who doesn’t die very easily, they can simply laugh it off.

However...You are different. If a mistake were to occur, you’d die.

How could I let you go through with this...knowing very well that is the case?

Yui: ( Come to think of it...Earlier everyone laughed when he said there was a close call as well. )

( If an incident were to happen again while I’m helping out... )

Ruki: Do you still want to give it a try after hearing all of this?

Yui: ...I don’t...

Ruki: Figured as much.

Magician A: Hello? Have you made up your mind?

Ruki: It was obvious from the very start. She can’t help. If you need someone to assist you, you’ll have to try your luck somewhere else.

Magician A: Not even a little? All she has to do is stand there.

Ruki: The answer is no.

Magician A: ...I suppose you leave me with no other choice then.

ー The magician pulls Yui his way

*Thud*

Yui: Ow...!

Ruki: ...Oi!

Magician A: Oh come on, it’ll be over in the blink of an eye.

Yui: ( This person is incredibly strong...! )

P-Please stop...!

Magician A: Don’t be scared. Even if a mishap occurs, we don’t die, do we?

Yui: ( He’s mistaking me for a Vampire!? Because my scent has faded due to the drug...!? )

Ruki: Oi! Let go of her right noーー!

*Thud*

Ruki: ...!? What are you two doing!?

Clown A: No, no...You shouldn’t interfere with the show!

Clown B: We know that you’re worried about her, but this is all for the sake of the Carnival, okay? Can’t you work with us for a bit?

Ruki: Cut the crap!! Kuh...!

Magician A: Well then, everyone! Please behold! What I would like to demonstrate on this lovely little lady isーー

A knife-throwing show!!

Yui: ( Knives...!? )

Magician A: There are three numbers written on the target behind her. I shall throw the knives towards those in order.

If I manage to hit all three without messing up...I would very much appreciate a grand applause from you all!

Yui: ( No way...The number behind me? They’re near the face...!? )

No! Ruki-kun...!

Ruki: Kuh...! Let me go...!

Clown A: Ah~ Yeah, yeah, stop moving!

Clown B: Don’t worry, it’ll only sting a little at worst.

Ruki: ...Only sting a little, you say...?

...Don’t be ridiculous!!

Magician A: Well thenーー Starting with the first one!

Yui: ...!!

ー She closes her eyes

Yui: ( Ruki-kun...! )

Ruki: ...Yui!!

*Thud*

ー She opens her eyes again

Magician A: ...Oh dear?

Clown A: Oh my! Such strength!

Clown B: There were two of us, but he still escaped our grip.

Ruki: ...Are you okay, Yui?

Yui: Ruki-kun...

( I had my eyes closed so I didn’t see what happened but...Ruki-kun saved me...? )

( ...The knife hit exactly the place I was standing up till now...!? )

( If Ruki-kun hadn’t come to my rescue, right now, I would have been...! )

...! Ow...!?

Ruki: Oi, what’s wrong? Don’t tell me, did the knife...!?

Yui: I’m okay...Seems like it only scraped my arm...But, it’s bleeding...

Spectator A: ...Hm? This scent...

Spectator B: A human! There’s a human here! But, this is...!

Spectator C: What a delicious fragrance! It’s coming from that young lady...!

Ruki: Che...Oi, press down onto your arm! We have to run!

ー The two of them run away

ーー TO BE CONTINUED ーー

Translation notes

(1) Literally he says that she is ‘making her back round’, implying that she is standing somewhat leaning forward as if you are trying to make yourself small, with your head bowed downwards.

← RETURN TO CHAPTER 1

→ PROCEED WITH MAIN STORY [CHAPTER 3]

→ SUB-SCENARIO #1 [W/REIJI]

→ SUB-SCENARIO #2 [W/ KANATO]

→ SUB-SCENARIO #3 [W/ AZUSA]

#diabolik lovers #dialovers #ruki mukami #vandead carnival #diabolik lovers translation #vcrukichapter2

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captainseaweedbrains · 3 years ago

Text

The Hunger Games Again Ch. 6 Thoughts

I am chugging through finally! Here are my rambling thoughts on chapter 6:

I remember our Carson’s had a see-through elevator in it and I used to *love* going up and down it as a child. This just reminds me how young and pure Katniss is wanting to ride the elevator again.

She and Haymitch will be overseeing us right into the arena. In a way, that's a plus because at least she can be counted on to corral us around to places on time whereas we haven't seen Haymitch since he agreed to help us on the train.// I am just imagining these two wandering aimlessly if they were just left in Haymitch’s charge and have a little chuckle

Effie knows everyone who's anyone in the Capitol and has been talking us up all day, trying to win us sponsors.

"I've been very mysterious, though," she says, her eyes squint half shut. "Because, of course, Haymitch hasn't bothered to tell me your strategies. But I've done my best with what I had to work with. How Katniss sacrificed herself for her sister. How you've both successfully struggled to overcome the barbarism of your district." // Similar to the prep team, I cannot help but love her because Effie is just so tone deaf to how she comes off. It's funny.

what's she basing our success on? Our table manners? // You absolutely know she is, Katniss

I said, and this was very clever of me, I said, 'Well, if you put enough pressure on coal it turns to pearls!'" Effie beams at us so brilliantly that we have no choice but to respond enthusiastically to her cleverness even though it's wrong. // It’s stuff like this that endears me and everyone just goes along even though they’re like “wtf. No, idiot.” *wipes tear* You’re so stupid, Effie. I love you.

"But don't worry, I'll get him to the table at gunpoint if necessary." // It is with a curling wand and she is lethal with it

Yo. Sign me up for this instant dryer and hair detangler. I need that NOW.

A meal presided over by just Effie and Haymitch is bound to be a disaster. // I would pay to see it. And they totally do after the war Yes I am a Haffie shipper Don’t @ me

Katniss, you are not wrong. Sweet wine is the best.

Haymitch showing up right as the food is coming out is my kind of style. No, I don’t want to socialize. I am here to eat and I need to make that as clear as possible.

I wonder who’s the unfortunate soul who is stuck cleaning Haymitch up. Do you get paid enough for such a task? Probably not

Last time I mention it, but ughhhhhhhh with the food descriptions.

Katniss’ reaction to seeing Lavinia warms my heart for whatever reason and then I get sad because it’s connected to sadness

Peeta coming to Katniss’ slightly drunk rescue...What a saint.

WHAT DID DELLY EVER DO TO YOU, KATNISS? Calling her LUMPY? Part of me wonders, because clearly Peeta is close to Delly as childhood friends and the fact he thinks of her right away despite the two girls looking nothing alike, if there is a tiny itsy bitsy part of Katniss that is jealous of her. Maybe not so much because Delly and Peeta are close (though perhaps…), but I imagine Delly can easily thank people and talk to people and Katniss, bless her caring heart, does not have that natural skill. So there’s bitterness there and Katniss turns that bitterness into unfair slander on my girl. SLANDER.

Again, can we just talk about how these two work so well as a team? Picking up easily where the other leaves off? Amazing. Brilliant. We stan.

I still have many thoughts on Cinna and the hand holding. Clearly he was working with the rebellion and they were waiting for the right match to set it going. Maybe Cinna was just wiggling his way in and more like opportunity came a knocking?

When we get to my door, he leans against the frame, not blocking my entrance exactly but insisting I pay attention to him.//Peeta, your popular jock boy self is showing.

Maybe sharing a confidence will actually make him believe I see him as a friend.// I know you don’t fully trust him, Katniss, but your subconscious seems to disagree with you if you’re willing to share anything with him.

I really enjoy how SC does this. She distracts us with the flash and glamor and then swiftly reminds us of the horrors that is Panem and the whole reason Peeta and Katniss are here. So similar to how we handle information today and how the news and government try to change our focus to other things to hide from the big, scary picture.

*cries because they read each other so well and pick up meaning behind what the other is actually saying*

You do have the sense that we might be under surveillance here. // They are, no worries

Lmao at it just being such an obvious thing that Katniss and her dad hunt(ed). I know the Mellarks trade(d) with them, but still funny. The not-so secret of the district

There was a moment, after the bird call, but before the hovercraft, where the girl had seen us. She'd locked eyes with me and called out for help.// I love when Katniss tells stories of her past. It’s so haunting and somber. Very clear to picture, and the obvious guilt she feels here. Gets me every time.

Peeta takes off his jacket and wraps it around my shoulders. I start to take a step back, but then I let him, deciding for a moment to accept both his jacket and his kindness. A friend would do that, right? // *weeps* Peeta is such a good egg. A true gentleman. Yes, Katniss, accept his kindness.

HOLD THE FRONT DOOR. He *buttons* the coat? Peeta is really going all “Last few days of life. We’re just going for it.”

The 1950s vibe of giving the girlfriend the letterman jacket I feel in this Chile’s tonight

And now begins Terri’s frequent comment about how Peeta Mellark is a rebellious boy by nature and does not get the credit he deserves by helping set the building blocks for Katniss later on in the book/series

Sldkmflm PEETA, YOU ARE SO OBVIOUS. Asking about Gale all ~casually. iS He yoUr CoUsIN??? As if you don’t know.

Peeta is a really good liar, yes, Katniss. but he would never lie to you

I find it interesting that Peeta flat out says Mr. M probably wanted a daughter, yet in fandom, it’s Mrs. M.. Interesting.

The idea that I might ever have been discussed, around the dinner table, at the bakery fire, just in passing in Peeta's house gives me a start. It must have been when the mother was out of the room.// Now all I’m imagining is Peeta talking about Katniss to Delly, his confidant, and her just patting his head.

It seems impolite to say she never mentioned the baker except to compliment his bread // Dang, Mrs. E.. Show us how you truly feel.

We're at my door. I give back his jacket. "See you in the morning then."

"See you," he says, and walks off down the hall.//

I know Katniss is going through A Lot right now, but child, pick up your clothes before you shower.

At least she apologizes.

But still.

You don't forget the face of the person who was your last hope. // Honestly, one of the best lines of the whole series. Fight me on that, but it’s so true.

I wonder if Katniss has anxiety with how her thought process goes with the guilt and her feeling like she’s not good enough, etc..

On to the next chapter!

#The Hunger Games #thgagain #The Hunger Games Again #Terri reads The Hunger Games #My thoughts #I have feelings

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argent-vulpine · 4 years ago

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Where are we Going?

Fandom: Fire Emblem Three Houses

Rating: M

Characters: Seteth/Byleth

Read it on AO3!

It was her prerogative as Archbishop of the Church of Seiros to make decisions regarding the church, its function in society, and its functions within its own halls.

This was what he had to keep telling himself, staring at her open-mouthed as she delivered the news to him. It took him a long moment before her words really caught up with him, and he finally snapped his mouth closed, teeth clicking together. “You cannot possibly be serious,” he finally mustered, staring at her as if to see whether it was still her.

Byleth smiled at him, sly and scheming. He didn’t trust that smile on the best of days - it meant she was up to something. And no doubt that smile had been learned and copied from her good friend Claude… or Khalid, now, King of Almyra. Those two could get into so much trouble when they were together, even now.

“I assure you, Seteth, I am quite serious. Who better to perform the ceremony for Saint Cichol day than you?” she added with a knowing look.

Who better, indeed, than Cichol himself. He could almost hear her thinking the words.

Seteth would not win this argument. It wasn’t even worth trying to argue.

So he simply sighed, and nodded, and went to prepare for the service.

————

Archbishop Byleth did not get out of attending the service. She had to be there, after all, and she sat upon the seat meant for her, presiding over all who’d come to Garreg Mach for this.

But true to her word, she did not lead it, and instead watched as Seteth performed in her stead. And though he felt immensely uncomfortable, he had to admit some small part of him enjoyed it. They were making corrections to the story that Fódlan had been given, a little bit at a time.

Who the saints really were. Who the elites were, and how Nemesis had not been the king that people had thought him to be. It was taking time, but they had agreed early on that the church would be moving forward in truth.

There was a lot to correct, after a thousand years of Rhea and her machinations, keeping Fódlan at bay, stifled, in an uneasy peace of her own design, and locked away from the rest of the world.

Things were already changing for the better, or at least they thought.

Still, he was relieved when the service was over, and he was able to step away from the forefront, accepting the quiet compliments paid him by those of their friends who had been able to attend.

He waited with the congregation as Byleth made her way out of the cathedral, leaving through the doors and no doubt heading across the bridge and back to their suite. When he was certain that his own duties were fulfilled, he followed at a leisurely pace, for once taking time to enjoy the clear skies, the crisp chill in the wind.

By the time he returned to their suite, she had already changed out of her regalia and into something simpler and - she claimed - infinitely more comfortable. She looked up from her book when he entered, giving him a faint smirk.

“I knew you would do well,” she said simply, setting the book down after carefully marking her place. “But now you really know how I feel, in front of all those people.”

Neither of them had been made for the kinds of crowds that they had found themselves dealing with. Mercenary turned professor turned archbishop least of all. He knew it was difficult for her; he had never really appreciated how much until today.

“I hope you do not intend for me to take over all of these services,” he finally replied, moving to join her on the sofa and pressing a soft kiss to her forehead. “But perhaps it is not such a terrible idea, to find others who can be trusted to give services appropriately.”

“Of course not. We have others for other purposes. I just thought it would be fitting, having you give a service in honor of yourself.” She tilted her head up, pressing a teasing kiss to his lips. “But now that’s over with, we can celebrate your birthday properly.”

They hadn’t discussed doing anything special. In fact, she’d very pointedly avoided talking about it at all, and he knew the day itself had a great deal of things church-related surrounding it. So mention of any celebration now was something of a surprise, and he told her as much.

“I wouldn’t leave you to do such an important service on your birthday and not have something to reward you with, Seteth,” she said plainly, shaking her head. “But first, Flayn sent you a letter. It’s on the desk.”

His eyes lit up and he had to force himself to calmly stand and walk over so that he could read the letter from his daughter. She wrote to tell him that she was doing well, and still traveling; that the world outside of Fódlan was quite interesting, and she was learning a great deal. She remarked that her speech pattern had begun to catch up to the times, thanks in some ways to her time as a student, but especially from her travels and listening to all sorts of people.

He was glad to hear from her, to know that she was doing well. And she wished him a happy birthday, and called him Father in her letters.

The day was already perfect from the letter alone. He struggled to find his voice for a long moment. “She told us where to send a letter to for a response. It seems she will be there for some time, so proper correspondence will be much easier for a while,” he finally said, smiling fondly at the letter in his hands.

“We’ll have to write something suitable in reply. I received one from her as well, but I haven’t read it yet. I wanted you to have the first opportunity.”

Seteth returned to where Byleth sat, settling down and pulling her into his lap, holding her close. “Thank you, my love,” he said, voice soft and thick with emotion. “It means so much to me that you did so.”

She leaned back against him, resting her head on his shoulder. “Of course, now I feel like anything else I do today will be greatly overshadowed by Flayn’s letter,” she teased.

His arms tightened around her. “That is very much untrue.” She had his heart, after all, and though he loved his daughter and missed her greatly, Byleth was here with him now. Sharing her life with him, as much as they were able to do for the time being.

“Well, in that case, you should definitely change into something less… stuffy.” She tilted her head slightly, pressing a series of quick, soft kisses to his jaw. “There’s somewhere I want to take you.”

She managed to wriggle out of his grasp, giving him a knowing look when he made a sound of protest, but of course he caved to her request, going and changing into a simple shirt and pants, comfortable and… less ‘stuffy’. Byleth gave him an appraising look, one eyebrow raising slightly before she gave him a sharp nod of acceptance.

Bemused, he followed her as she led him out of the suite, down the stairs and out into the monastery. It took him a moment, but he eventually recognized that she was leading him to Abyss, and he couldn’t stop the look of confusion from creeping onto his face.

Byleth almost laughed at him. Almost. But since he was following willingly, she took him down into the underground town, greeting those they came across as they wound through the tunnels. It looked… brighter, happier, and much more well-kept than it had all those years ago when he’d first followed her into the darkness.

He wondered, briefly, if she missed her former students, those who had been known as the Ashen Wolves. If perhaps she’d had a hand in the restoration of these catacombs. Judging from the warm reception they were receiving, he imagined it must be so.

So lost in thought was he that he almost hadn’t realized they’d left the normal paths and were now in darker corridors winding through the ground. It was oddly warmer here, the stones damp and moss-covered, more and more the further they went, until finally she pulled him through a small tunnel which opened into a large cavern, steam rising in idle wisps from the thermal springs that they housed. Sunlight filtered in from far above.

Byleth had clearly done some preparation, though, as she sent out a stream of magic, lighting small lamps that littered the cave: lounging on natural ledges, resting on the ground, even a few hanging from what he could see were stakes driven into the rock itself. The light cast a cozy, comfortable glow around the cavern, allowing them to see more clearly.

There was no one around but the two of them, not another living soul in sight.

“I thought you might like to relax away from prying eyes for once,” she finally said, oddly shy. “I knew of this place from… before.” Before the war, he heard.

“A certain underground lord told you about it, no doubt,” he remarked, though there was no jealousy in his tone. He knew they were close friends, even to this day.

She laughed, the sound echoing oddly in the cavern, skittering across the water and warping. Still, he loved her laugh, on the rare occasions she gave in to the impulse. “Maybe he did. Maybe he didn’t.” She grinned at him then, mischievous and bright. “So what say you, Seteth? Care to take some time to yourself for once?”

“Not for myself, no,” he replied, leaning down to kiss her softly. “But for us, yes, I would do that.”

There was heat in her gaze as she nodded understanding, her fingers moving to help him out of his clothes, fingertips grazing his skin, mapping the planes of his body, the smooth muscle cording along his arms, his chest, his stomach. She allowed him to perform the same treatment of her, carefully removing clothing, folding them, setting them on a rock ledge away from the water.

They entered the thermal pool together, hands on each other, touching and grasping, exploring. She led him to a submerged ledge that could act as a seat, and he sank onto it, pulling her down to straddle him, letting the warm water swirl around them.

For a time all they did was sit, and touch, and kiss, until he grew hard beneath her, his breath coming in gasps at the deluge of sensation. Smirking, she shifted her position just slightly, guiding him into her and causing a sharp groan to spill from his lips.

She teased him with agonizing slowness, rocking her hips and grinding against him, driving him deep into her at a leisurely pace. Her lips found his neck, licking, sucking, nipping at the skin, drawing out pleasured moans from him.

It was sweet torture, and he allowed it to go until it was too much. When he could stand no more, he lifted her, standing and turning, setting her on a higher ledge and thrusting into her, watching as her nipples turned into hard peaks from the chill of air. They were enticing, and he leaned forward to draw one into his mouth, tongue flicking as he pushed into her.

He moved a hand to cover her other breast, massaging, thumb rubbing until she was melting beneath him, her own moans joining his and filling the cavern.

She wrapped her legs around him, pulling him against her as he pumped, picking up speed as her walls tightened around him in increasing pleasure. He felt her hand reach down, fingers rubbing her clit while his hands were otherwise occupied, and knowing that she was pleasuring herself with himself sheathed so deeply inside her only made him harder, made him want to push faster.

Faster, harder, deeper until she was coming apart beneath him, her cries of ecstasy bouncing around the rock walls, the splashing of water as he thrust into her and his groans the only other sounds in the cavern, until finally he too climaxed, throbbing inside her as her walls clamped around him, as her legs tightened and held him close, so close he found it difficult to discern where his own body ended and hers began.

He continued to thrust into her, drawing out her orgasm until she passed the peak and hit a new one, her body shaking with aftershocks of pleasure. Seteth held her through them, waiting until their breath stopped coming in ragged gasps, until his own heart had slowed to a more reasonable pace, before he finally withdrew, helping her back into the water and carefully helping to clean her as her shuddering slowed.

When they were finally recovered from their quick and intense lovemaking, she gave him another sly smile, pulling him to her for a slow, deep kiss. “Happy birthday, Cichol,” she murmured against his lips.

Something about the way she said it, her tone of voice, had him aroused all over again.

It was quite a long time before they finally returned aboveground, but he had to admit… it had turned out to be quite an enjoyable birthday after all.

#Seteth #Setleth #Byleth Eisner #Seteth BB Week 2020 #Seteth Birthday Bash 2020 #day 7: saint cichol day #day 7: seteth's birthday #spicy #we all know there's thermal pools in Abyss come on #Fire Emblem #Fire Emblem Three Houses #FE3H

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kyouxa · 4 years ago

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Diabolik lovers Lunatic Parade: Carla Tsukinami (Chapter 4)

Surprise! Dear @pjpammee & anonymous askers, I have heard your requests about doing Carla’s route and I hope this makes you happy! (๑و•̀ω•́)و [Honestly, if anyone still has someone they want me to translate from Lunatic Parade in the future, please type an anon ask and I will definitely see it!]

Place: Bernstein castle — Inside

*alarm goes off*

Yui: —Nn!

(I woke up right on time… it must be naturally a good day since I‘ve got to work really hard today)

(At the worst possible time it‘s not only the very last day of the parade… it also seems to be the day Carla-san‘s petrification reaches its final stage)

Carla: —Did you wake up?

Yui: Kyaaa!?

Carla: Why are you being astonished? Did the both of us not go to bed together?

Yui: W-We did, you‘re right… but, um… you‘re being a little too close right now…

Carla: Hmph… I was simply getting a proper view over your sleeping face.

Yui: Eh!?

Carla: You slept while grinning broadly. Did you have some sort of nice dream while sleeping?

Yui: I smirked, you say… please don‘t do such a thing as observing each and everything I do while I‘m not aware of it… !

(This is so embarrassing… !)

Carla: I was merely waking up earlier than you, which is why I am not to blame for this, am I?

If we stay in bed together this way, even if you believe it is unpleasant, I will happen to catch a sight of your face either way.

It is absurd requesting for me not to observe you like this then.

Yui: W-Well then, this bed is now yours—

*Yui tries to escape*

Carla: I will not permit that. Nn…

Yui: Nn… but… otherwise—

Carla: I would never lose interest in examining your sleeping face. I want you to show it to me freely.

Yui: B-But… !!

*Yui pushes him away*

Carla: What? Do you want to go already?

Yui: We have to get that jewel back as soon as possible, in order to have Aji-san make the antidote since she can‘t make it without it.

Carla: Do not panic. You are being way too hasty at this hour.

Yui: Even if you say so…

I can‘t stay here carefreely and do nothing either way. Please, let's start moving as quickly as possible.

Carla: Haa… it cannot be helped. I will get dressed up then.

*Carla starts changing*

Yui: (Carla-san seems to be awfully leisurely about this situation… he almost behaves as if nothing ever happened…)

(He might be acting differently since he‘s having the abilities of the founder‘s king… but I, on the contrary, feel rather uneasy about this all…)

Carla: —Let us go.

Yui: Yes!

Place: Demon World — Glimmer Main Street

Yui: Hm? Carla-san… isn‘t this a different route from usual? If I recall, the underground corridor isn‘t on that way—

Carla: You simply remain silent and follow me.

Yui: ...Uhh… but…

Carla: …..

Yui: (Aren‘t we heading towards the exact opposite direction of our destination… ? Carla-san, just what are you thinking?)

Place: Demon World — Saint nore park street

Yui: —Okay, and why did we come to this place?

Carla: There is only one possible thing you can do here.

Yui: Please wait for me! Carla-san… don‘t tell me your intentions were to come hither and then enjoy yourself?

Carla: I did intend on doing that.

Yui: ...Nn… don‘t you think it would be better to do so after you took the antidote?

Carla: I cannot. We have to do it now.

Yui: …..!?

(What on earth is your plan about… ?)

(I don‘t think this has anything to do with getting closer to obtaining the antidote either…)

Carla: Anyhow, you only have to follow my plan.

Yui: (Even if he says it like that… what is there to do?)

Choices

1) Obey him♡♡♡

2) Tell him to get the stone back first

— Obey him♡

Yui: (But I‘m pretty sure Carla-san must've thought of something like a plan before coming here though)

(I made up my mind, I‘ll believe in Carla-san being absolutely fine, doing whatever he came up with… I do believe him, so—)

Alright, understood.

Carla: Good to know.

*Carla comes closer*

Carla: —You merely have to continue following me.

Yui: Yes…

— Tell him to get the stone back first

Yui: Carla-san, this situation isn‘t only about enjoying yourself, you know? We need to seriously hurry up and get this jewel back.

Carla: ...Are you judging my opinion?

Yui: I, um…

Carla: I told you to simply follow me. Come!

*Carla grabs Yui*

Yui: Ouch… !

(I think I made him angry by saying something like this…)

Place: Saint Nore Park — Coffee cup

Carla: —What on earth is this?

Yui: ...U-Um, let‘s see… I think this is an attraction called “coffee cup”…

You use the handle in the middle to increase or decrease the speed of the cup you‘re riding in…

With this you‘re supposed to control it and therefore avoid hitting the other surrounding cups…

Carla: I see. This playground equipment is supposed to make you enjoy the speed.

Yui: Exactly.

*Carla gets closer*

Yui: Hm… Carla-san?

Carla: Get on.

Yui: Ehh!?

Carla: You shall join me.

Yui: P-Please wait a moment. Are you being serious?

Carla: ...Are you doubting me?

Yui: I-It‘s not like that…

(What am I supposed to say… to be honest, I didn‘t really think Carla-san would be interested in getting on that sort of thing…)

(Instead, I thought he‘d seem like a person who dislikes this kind of place…)

Carla: —Hey, come in quickly. It appears to start moving soon.

Yui: Y-Yes, I‘m coming!

(...I don‘t think there‘s anything helping us about this… I guess I have no other choice but to enjoy it for now)

— If you win: (+CG)♡

Yui: —Fufu… I really did a good job not bumping into something, don‘t you think?

Carla: Indeed. You were handling this quite skillful.

Yui: Thank you!

(I‘m really glad Carla-san praises me for even trivial things like that)

— If you lose:

Yui: Nn…

Carla: My, My… it appears as if you truly are not good at turning away from hitting the other objects.

Yui: Nn… I‘m sorry…

Carla: It is fine. You may have been able to enjoy yourself a little.

Yui: —Yes, I did…

(But I actually wanted to show him what I‘m really capable of…)

end Game

Carla: Hmph…

Yui: What‘s wrong?

Carla: I was wondering if I could make you feel relaxed with doing this.

Yui: Eh?

Carla: You may have not noticed it yourself, but you have been persistently showing a stiff face ever since you woke up.

Yui: I-I‘m sorry… I didn‘t even notice if I did show an unpleasant face...

Carla: Whatever. Anyway, I truly hope this has relaxed you for at least a little bit. Let us continue.

*Carla leaves*

Yui: Ah! Please wait for me!!

(Speaking of which, I don‘t know if I really feel better… but I now know Carla-san actually does care about this whole situation)

(I know it‘s way more difficult to enjoy yourself while being in a hurry though...)

Place: Underground corridor

Carla: —Is this truly the place the twins usually stay at?

Yui: Yes, at least Aji-san said so.

Carla: Let us continue then. These vampire twins, or even just a companion of them, should be discovered right away once we proceed searching.

Yui: I think so too. Let‘s go on.

*time passes*

Carla: Here��

Yui: What should we do now?

Carla: They might think I am here for an attack. Even if I am no threat, they might try to run away when seeing me.

Yui: In that case, I‘ll try my luck….

*Yui knocks on their house*

Yui: —Excuse me. Is anyone in there right now?

*Yui knocks again*

Yui: ...Nobody seems to be inside.

Carla: ...No, that is not it. Even if you cannot see it with your eyes, I will not be tricked by something as simple as that.

They are inside, but they pretend to be out.

Yui: ….. !

*Yui knocks again*

Yui: Please! If you‘re inside there, please come out! We have something important to talk about!

*Yui knocks again*

Yui: —Please, open up!

Nn… it‘s no use...

Carla: —It cannot be helped then.

*Carla charges magic*

Yui: Carla-san!?

Carla: If they show rough behaviour, so will I—

Yui: Whatever the circumstances, you can‘t do that! They're having children inside there after all!

Carla: Even though they are children, is it not true that they were the ones silently stealing the gem, and now they are cowardly barricading themselves?

If so, they are splendid thieves indeed. But they will not be forgiven.

*Carla continues charging magic*

Yui: P-Please! Open up for us! Otherwise we have to—

Twin Children Vampire A: ….. !

Twin Children Vampire B: O-Our house… please don‘t break it… !

*Carla continues charging magic*

Carla: ...You two, show yourselves. You were the ones quietly stealing the melted stone from the shop, is that right?

Twin Children Vampire B: Eek… !

Twin Children Vampire A: I-I‘m scared...

Carla: You will not be forgiven, even if you cry.

Yui: Nn…

(These children are completely startled by his appearance… !)

Carla-san, please calm down! I‘ll take over here—

Twin Children Vampire B: Uwuahhhhh!! We‘re sorry!!

Twin Children Vampire A: We‘re so sorry!!

Carla: Nn… !

Yui: Come on, there‘s no need to cry, right? Why don‘t you tell your big sis about everything in detail?

Twin Children Vampire B: Y-You won‘t get angry… and destroy our house if we do, right?

Carla: About that—

Yui: Carla-san!

Carla: Tch…

*Carla steps back*

Yui: Good. Your big sis won‘t get angry nor destroy your house if you try to explain yourself to her.

Did you take the stone with you because you‘re in some sort of difficult circumstances? Please let me know about that first.

Twin Children Vampire B: Err… what should we do?

Twin Children Vampire A: We have no other choice but to tell her...

Yui: So you do want to tell me about it?

Twin Children Vampire B: Yes. Please come with us.

Yui: Eh? Where are we going?

Twin Children Vampire A: It will be easier if you see it for yourself…

*they start walking*

Yui: (Where exactly are they planning on bringing us?)

Carla: —Good grief. That is exactly why children are not my favorites.

Place: Subterranean tunnel — Large door

Yui: ...Where‘s this place… ? There‘s only a huge door...

Twin Children Vampire A: Right behind this door is a direct way to the castle‘s basement. It barely opens up for anyone, and if it does, rarely any people are going through it.

Twin Children Vampire B: That‘s why… here...

Carla: ...Are you hiding something here?

Twin Children Vampire A: Yes… it‘s somebody called Gazby.

*dog barks*

Yui: A dog!?

Twin Children Vampire A: Gazby!

*dog barks again*

Twin Children Vampire B: Gazby is our dog.

Yui: ...Ah, so that‘s it. You two really have a cute doggie.

Twin Children Vampire A: Right? Gazby has been together with us ever since we were born.

Yui: I see. But we came here because we have to talk to you two about the stone, right?

Carla: —This dog, it has been bitten by the medusa snake as well.

Yui: Eh!?

Twin Children Vampire A: Nn… he‘s right. The first time I encountered the snake was when I played with Gazby in the forest… and that‘s also when he was bitten by it.

Gazby desperately needs help...

Yui: Ah, I understand. That means, Gazby‘s petrifaction has started spreading through his body too...

But why didn‘t you even try honestly telling Aji-san about it?

I‘m sure she would‘ve made the medicine, by melting the stone, as soon as possible if you told her about it.

Twin Children Vampire A: —Because she would‘ve said that it‘s just a dog anyway.

Carla: What do you mean?

Twin Children Vampire B: Our papa and mama already told us that we should give up on it since he‘s just a dog.

They said even if we did manage to stop the petrifaction by using the gem, he would still die someday.

Yui: That is...

Carla: Then, why did you not use your abilities on Gazby in order to make his body become immortal in case the moment of departure arrives?

You should have known he might pass away sooner or later.

Twin Children Vampire A: ...Hmm.

Twin Children Vampire B: We didn‘t really think too much about that until now. It‘s true that dogs aren‘t normal animals in the demon world, so he‘ll surely die someday, but...

If we make Gazby‘s body unable to die anymore, it wouldn‘t feel as if it‘s really Gazby anymore.

Carla: …..

Yui: (Somehow, this is the same as I feel about that… this suddenly reminded me of a conversation I had with Carla-san…)

Twin Children Vampire A: We know that we have to part ways someday.

But that‘s exactly why we think it‘s ridiculous not to cure something, which clearly can be healed.

Twin Children Vampire B: That‘s right… but both, dad and mom… no, all adults don‘t really understand us.

*dog whines painfully*

Twin Children Vampire A: We‘re begging you! Please give the medicine, made with the stone, to us!

Twin Children Vampire B: Please!

Twin Children Vampire A: I heard you‘re being referred to as a founder, a person who possesses the strongest magic among anyone else anyway, isn‘t that right… ?

Carla: …..

Yui: ...Nn…

(What should we do now… ? I really want to hand the medicine over to those children… but if we do that, Aji-san—)

*backflash*

Aji: Here, this is a list of all the missing ingredients. Bring me what you can get, and don‘t worry about it too much if you can‘t.

Carla: There are quite many missing.

Aji: Can‘t change that. However, this is the only way we can obtain the antidote little by little…

It is the only way to save you.

*backflash ends*

Yui: (—This is what she said…)

…..

Carla: —I understand. Take it.

Twin Children Vampire A: Eh!? R-Really!?

Twin Children Vampire B: I‘m so happy! Gazby!

*dog barks*

Yui: But, Carla-san—

Carla: It is okay.

Yui: Nn…

Carla: Believe in me.

Yui: (It‘s not like I‘m not believing in him. I know Carla-san is a really kindhearted person and all, but… I‘m still feeling uneasy about this situation…)

Carla: Hey, children. You have to hand over the gem first, otherwise the antidote will not be able to be finished. Aji has to be the one mixing the medicine together after all.

Twin Children Vampire A: Okay!

Carla: Good. Now, let us go.

Twin Children Vampire A: Yes!

Twin Children Vampire B: Yes!

Yui: Haa...

(I can‘t help myself but wonder about what might happen next. The most important thing we can do for now is to stop the petrifaction from spreading inside the dog…)

Place: Demon world — Reine • de • Aji store

Carla: We are back.

Aji: Nn! I was impatiently waiting for you! Where is the stone?

Carla: …..

Aji: My, My! Ngh, you guys really did manage to bring it back after all?

Twin Children Vampire A: I‘m sorry…

Twin Children Vampire B: I‘m sorry, too…

Aji: I‘ll do the preaching later. I have to mix the antidote first, now that I have this back. Wait here obediently until I‘m done!

*Aji leaves*

Yui: Okay…

Carla: ...Good. After that — Hey, Yui.

Yui: Hm?

Carla: Follow me.

Yui: ….. ?

(Follow me, he said… where on earth are we supposed to go?)

Place: Glimmer Main Street — Zatan’s mouth

Yui: ...Carla-san, what exactly do you want to do here?

Carla: Just watch.

…..

Yui: (..... ? ...Carla-san, what are you doing… ?)

*Carla uses magic*

Carla: Ngh… !!

Yui: Nn… !

Carla: …..

*Carla uses magic*

Yui: Carla-san… I, um—

Carla: Stay quiet. Just a little more.

Yui: …..

Carla: Okay — this will do.

Yui: ….. ?

Carla: I have given the snake that bit me a strong punishment about its doing.

Yui: Isn‘t the snake only in there while the sun shines?

Carla: Here, look for yourself.

Yui: Kyaaaa!? T-The snake is still right there—

Carla: I already put the snake under my control by now. I had to set a curse on it.

Yui: ….. !?

Carla: —Now, medusa snake, come on my hand.

*snake peeks outside*

Carla: Oh my, you have made me go through some sort of bitter experiences indeed.

This would have never happened to me, if I had been aware of the existence of this particular matter in the first place.

But it does not matter any longer. You will be able to make up for the sins you have created with your own body soon enough.

Yui: Nn… what does that exactly mean?

Carla: —That stone… it has been dissolved in the interior body of this snake from the very beginning.

Yui: ...Nn… so that‘s it! Does that mean the exact same stone‘s really inside that snake?

Carla: Well, the size of the jewel must have narrowed since it may have reached its upper limit.

But over this short amount of time, it could not possibly afford shrinking too much either. I would have to take out the stone to prove that.

We only have to capture it now—

Yui: Is it seriously okay to touch it barehanded?

Carla: It will not be able to resist because of the effective spell I put upon it… Nn…

—What!? What is this supposed to mean… !?

Yui: Kyaaa!?

(It spouted!!)

*Carla protects Yui*

Carla: —Nn!!

Yui: Carla-san… !!

(It can‘t be… !! Carla-san can‘t be bitten again, he can‘t…)

Are you okay!?

Carla: Tch… it appears as if the spell has not worked successfully because of its poison... it seems to still have enough willpower to go against it...

Are you alright, at least?

Yui: Yeah, only because Carla-san ended up protecting me though...

Carla: Good...

Yui: Other than that, Carla-san...

Nn… !

*Yui hugs Carla*

Yui: Nn…

Carla: Is there anything to cry for? I have already been bitten by it once by now. If I have not changed after one time, I will not after another.

Yui: Are you sure about that? The petrifaction won‘t keep on moving forward faster… is that really true?

Carla: I have been taking this with me for a long time now, would you not agree?

So, do not cry… Nn...

*Carla kisses Yui*

Yui: (Carla-san… he‘s really affectionate. Even though… he‘s in such a critical situation right now…)

Carla: Okay. We will now take the snake with us, and then make sure to give it to Aji.

Yui: Nn… yes… !

Place: Demon world — Reine • de • Aji store

Carla: —We are back.

Twin Children Vampire B: Welcome back!!

Carla: The medicine?

Twin Children Vampire A: Oh, yes. Look, it‘s over there.

Aji: —I‘ve heard it from the children already, but are you really willing to give the medicine to them?

Carla: Yes, that is my intention.

Aji: Good grief, our founder-sama really is a praiseworthy person. What will you do about your petrification then?

Carla: —With this, even a small amount should be enough. Would you be willing to make another antidote?

Aji: Oh my, the medusa snake… I see, that‘s what you thought of.

However, I won‘t be able to make enough medicine to completely detoxify your whole body with just this one.

Even so, are you okay with that?

Carla: It is fine. As long as I am able to continue living after only half of my body has turned into stone.

Aji: Alright. I‘ll start making it immediately.

Yui: —U-Um… can I ask something?

That snake… will you end up killing it?

Aji: Why would you care about something like that?

Yui: That‘s because...

Carla: ...Is there perhaps a method to get the gem out of the snake without killing it?

Yui: Carla-san… !

Aji: Hmm, it wouldn‘t be much of a problem taking it out without killing it, but it will take some time to do so.

In the meantime, the petrification could be possibly completed by then, you know? Do you still want that?

Carla: Yes.

Aji: Okay, fine. Well then, keep waiting a little.

*Aji leaves*

Carla: Now, kids. Give this medicine to your dog.

Twin Children Vampire B: Nn… thank you… really!

Twin Children Vampire A: Founder-sama… you‘re really an amazing man!

Carla: I told you, I do not joke around. Now go, quickly.

Twin Children Vampire B: Yes! U-Um… this...

Carla: What is this? An ornament… ?

Twin Children Vampire A: This is to show our gratitude. Well then… !

*they run off*

Carla: ...Now what exactly is this?

Yui: As those two already said, they just wanted to give you something to thank you.

Carla: Hmph. Good grief… that is exactly why children are not my cup of tea.

Yui: (Even if he does say such a thing, Carla-san seems way more gentle to children than to others)

—Carla-san, you‘d surely make a good father in the future...

Carla: ...Ngh… !

Yui: Carla-san!!

Carla: —Fuck… the petrifaction… it‘s progressing… Nn… !

Yui: (Nn… mostly every part of his body… has already turned into stone… !)

Carla-san! Please, hang in there… !

Carla: I… I‘m al… right...

*Yui gets closer*

Carla: Ngh…

Yui: (...Please! Come back… faster… please, hurry up!)

*time passes*

Aji: —I must‘ve kept you waiting.

Yui: Nn… ! Aji-san… Carla-san, he is… !

Aji: Good god, this is bad. We have to give him the medicine as soon as possible.

Be aware to be careful not to spill anything.

Yui: Carla-san… Carla-san… !!

Carla: …..

Aji: He already lost consciousness. It‘s already impossible for him to drink the medicine all by himself.

Yui: —Then, I‘ll make him drink it mouth-to-mouth...

Nn…

Carla: Nn…

Yui: (Please… work… dear goddess, please let it work… !)

(Carla-san… come back!)

*Carla slowly moves*

Yui: (Ah! The petrification… it loosened…)

Aji: I‘m so glad. It seems as if you did it right in time.

Yui: Yes… !

Carla: Nn… Yui… ?

Yui: Yes, I‘m here… ! Carla-san… how are you feeling?

Carla: I feel better now… luckily… it feels as if the petrifaction has loosened itself in my whole body...

Aji: I‘m glad. Since you‘re a founder, only this much amount must‘ve been enough to cure it completely.

This is definitely not normal otherwise.

Carla: Aji, I have to thank you.

Aji: No, No. It‘s only natural to help other people who are troubled by something.

—By the way, I‘ll take the full responsibility of releasing the snake deep into one of the forests.

Carla: I see… please do.

Aji: Okay!

*Carla dresses up*

Carla: Well, then… next… should be your turn.

Yui: Eh? My turn?

Carla: …..

Yui: My turn you say… then, ah, is that so...

I‘m sorry. My head might‘ve been full with everything that has happened with Carla-san, and that‘s probably how I forgot about myself.

Carla: Haa, that is simply the woman you are… you are way too good-natured for a normal person.

Yui: ...Probably...

(I only came to this parade because of a treasure that has been stolen from me, but with everything that has been going on, it must‘ve been natural that I forgot about myself)

Carla: —Hey, Walter… are you listening?

Yui: Eh?

Earl of Walter: —Kuku, as expected from your awareness.

Yui: (Nn, the voice of the Earl was coming from somewhere in the sky or something… !)

Carla: I noticed it indeed. You have been continuously doing this for a while.

Yui: W-What is that supposed to mean?

Earl of Walter: Both of your actions, I‘ve been continuously looking at them for a long time by now.

Yui: (I didn‘t even notice him at all…)

Carla: —And, what about it now? Do you feel like returning her heart?

Earl of Walter: I don‘t think so...

Carla: Nn… stop joking around… !

Yui: Carla-san!?

Place: Glimmer street — Eisen alley

Carla: I will not accept you saying that. She is someone who, in comparison to me, should have her strength being recognized.

This woman is truthful. She is in comparison to anyone, pure.

She is the one and only woman who is worth possessing this sort of heart. I will not let you say anything different from this!

Yui: (Carla-san… I think this might be the first time I‘ve ever seen him shouting out like that…)

Earl of Walter: —My, My. It appears as if I have no other choice but to surrender.

Yui: Eh… ?

(Nn… !?)

(My chest… Nn… !)

Carla: —Hey! Hang in there!

*Carla comes closer*

Carla: Hey!

Yui: Nn… I-I‘m okay...

Earl of Walter: —I certainly did return it now.

Carla: Hey, did he surely return it back to you?

Yui: ...Yes, he did...

Carla: Nn...

*Carla leans toward her chest*

Carla: —What a relief.

Yui: (Carla-san…)

Earl of Walter: Therefore, I‘m done here. But, enjoy the finale of the parade to your complete heart‘s content, please do this much for me.

Carla: Never appear again!

Earl of Walter: —Fufu, then…

*Earl disappears*

Yui: Ah...

Carla: This issue seems to be settled.

Yui: Yes!

(I was already wondering what would happen at first…)

(But because of all the things that happened to us, I was able to see various aspects of Carla-san again, and I did that without even being able to enjoy the parade at its fullest until now.)

(I was, once again, able to see his other colors for myself, and I‘ll never forget about this sort of feeling any longer. In order to do so, I‘ll keep on living…)

(—With Carla-san together…)

Carla: Now, in that case—

Yui: Let‘s enjoy the remaining time we still have!

Carla: Yes.

#diabolik lovers translation #Diabolik brothers #Diabolik Lovers #diabolik #lunatic parade #diabolik lovers lunatic parade #carla tsukinami lunatic parade #lunatic parade translation #tsukinami carla #carla tsukinami translation #carla tsukinami #diabolik lovers lunatic parade carla tsukinami #diabolik lovers lunatic parade carla tsukinami translation #lunatic parade carla tsukinami translation #Komori Yui #yui komori

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laukora1030 · 4 years ago

Text

Captain America: The First Avenger pt. 1

First off, spoilers if you’ve never seen the movies and you want to. And, english IS NOT my first language, so excuse me if I make mistakes.

I guess I should start by saying that this is my favorite movie of the trilogy. Steve might not be my favorite character, but this is the perfect origin story for the character he was supposed to be before the Russo brothers destroyed his character arc.

Before I go head first into the movie, I should talk a little bit with what I already know and remember of both Steve and the movie.

It angers me that people made Steve to be some type of saint when he’s always been quite the selfish guy. And I don't mean that in the “I’m the only one that matters and everything I want I should have” type of way, I mean it mostly, centering on this movie, with how everything he wishes he could have he does illegal things to get it. Looking at you, Steve lying on his application forms several times. And the problem is, he gets what he lied for. I will not take it away from him, he is extremely persevering, but I don’t think getting a reward after doing illegal things to get it, is the best thing that could happen to him, because after that he believes that he can do anything without repercussion. That’s not how the real world works for most of us. Now, onto the movie.

I love the beginning scene. I don’t really know why, I just happen to love it. I mean the scene where they find the plane. It's eerie, I think that’s why I love it so much. I enjoy this scene so much because of this phrase: “This one’s waited long enough.” When they find the shield, I like to believe it was a light of hope for humanity. I’m talking about that universe. It’s sad to know that Howard was already dead when they found the one thing he spent his entire life searching for, but I like to believe that, at least to the people who knew he was alive (aka SHIELD) finding Captain America’s shield was, hopeful, for a lack of better words.

I really like the scene in Norway, where we first see the villain of the story, Redskull. I think he is perhaps one of my favorite villains in the MCU, because he has ambitions, and he’s not a fucking idiot (looking at you, Thanos). Johann Schmidt was a well written character, in my opinion, and to learn his fate for such ambition, I think it was both a good ending and a good punishment. This scene shows how intelligent he is, and not only that, how much he knows about the universe, which, admittedly isn’t much as it could have been in the present, but it was so much knowledge to have in the 40s. I wonder though, how did he find out about the Tesseract, and how did the Tesseract end up on Earth. Isn’t it supposed to be something of incredible power? He was observant and analytical, and no one can take that away from him. Sometimes I wonder what would have happen of he was a Nazi double agent, or if he worked for the Allies, because he was such an intelligent person.

One thing I NEED to mention before anything else is that I loath HYDRA’s symbol. That’s not a fucking hydra you dweebs, that’s an octopus with two extremities. Who exactly was the dumbass who designed the logo? I just wanna talk.

Meeting smol Steve is fucking hilarious to me, because he has such a thick(?) voice, and you have this tiny thing that, with just one look, makes you wonder if he can actually walk more than just 10 meters. And then they go and tell you every single way he can die, and, damn, I’m surprised he lived that long before getting the serum. He could have died in 12 different ways (I count them) and still wanted to enlist. Gotta give it to Tiny Steve, he was one persisting motherfucker, but God, I hate it sometimes.

I get that Steve wished to serve just like his father did, but didn’t he understand that trying to get on the Army was just pure selfishness? I’m talking about how, had he’d been accepted, he could have gotten an asthma attack in the middle of the battle, putting everyone else in his battalion (I have no idea if that’s what they’re called, please correct me if I’m wrong). He wanted to be part of the battle, to be able to help, but fighting wasn’t everything. I really think it’s incredibly selfish to do something you know will put others in danger. He’s one brave motherfucker, and I have to give him that, but putting others in dangers crosses the line between brave and stupid. His “I can do this all day” used to be so endearing to me, if I’m being honest. I thought it was brave that he would fight for what he believed in, blame the Russos for my hate for it.

James Buchanan Barnes was a hot piece of shit. Look at him in his military suit, gorgeous. I love the Jersey slander. Why do people hate Jersey? That’s a legit question, I’d love an answer. I think Steve, as much as he loved Bucky, was at least a bit envious of him. Steve wanted to be in the Army, on the 107th, on the front lines, fighting for the innocents, yet he couldn’t because he was born a weakling boy. Yet here you have his best friend, James Barnes, a tall strong man, who clearly got accepted in the Army, who was stationed on the 107th, and was being sent to England. Bucky was everything Steve wasn’t at the moment, and I can’t help but think Steve was jealous of his best friend, no matter how much he loved him.

Howard Stark is a bitch and y’all can’t change my mind. He was a genius in his time, that much is obvious, and the flying car is extremely cool, even if it didn’t work, but he, unlike Tony, loved the spotlight, he loved to be seen and noticed. And yeah, he came from a poor family, and he became a self made millionaire, but his entire life he was what Tony used to be. I’m glad Tony changed, even if it was because he almost died. I guess I cannot blame him, because there’s a part of me that gets that need for attention and for the spotlight when I do something that might change my life.

I pity Tiny Steve. He wanted to be so much more than he was, and he knew that it would probably not happen because of his medical conditions. I, once again, get why he was so stubborn with getting into the army. When you want something so hard and realize that you will definitely not get it because of the conditions you were born into, it becomes an obsession and there is a deep desire of doing what you can’t. I guess we’re the same that way.

I know he says that his wish of being part of the army isn’t about him, because “there are men laying their lives down”, but it is about him. His entire personality up to this point in the movie is “I cannot be what I wish to be, so I’ll do anything, and I mean anything, in my hands to get it.” Steve is not a bad man, he just wishes he was so much more than he is, and I guess that’s exactly why Erskine chose him. A young naïve man, who would do anything to get what he wants? It was way too easy, and if I had been looking for the same thing Erskien was looking for, I would’ve definitely gone for Steve. But Bucky knew. He knew that Steve was so manipulable, that he would do anything to get what he wanted, even stuff that wasn’t good for him. I think that’s where the “Don't do anything stupid until I get back” phrase comes from.

Erskine knew how easy it would be to manipulate Steve. He knew exactly what words to choose, how to act like a “nice man” to get him to open up. I don’t doubt that Erskine was a good man, but this was war, and we just tend to forget that at war, everything is legal, even, apparently, pardoning 5 illegal enlistment forms because the man who did them was the perfect rat lab for an experiment that by all means shouldn’t have gone according to plan. I believe that is the only reason Steve didn’t end up in jail.

Just a comment, I like the change in audio when Schmidt took the Tesseract out of its box. I feel like it’s the perfect way to show you that this thing is really something from legends, not just a mere object created by mortals.

I wonder how similar Zola’s and Erskine’s investigations are? Do they say it in the movie later on? I guess I’ll find out.

Unlike every single scientist in SHIELD, Zola was a complete genius. I guess that’s why he could infiltrate HYDRA into SHIELD for years before Steve realized. If you remember Avengers, no one was able to both understand and stabilize the Tesseract, meanwhile Zola wasn’t just able to stabilize it, he was able to use it to power every single one of his weapons. It wasn’t really a surprise when the SSR recruited him.

Peggy Carter is a motherfucking queen, and whoever says anything slightly different can come fight me behind a Denny’s. She is one of my fictional role models because she just won’t take shit from men, especially assholes like Hodge. She’s beauty, she’s grace, she’ll punch you in the face. I thank God for the creation of Peggy Carter and Hayley Atwell, everybody please say thank you. Awoman. But no, seriously, Peggy Carter isn’t only a badass, she fought for her place in the Army, she knows she deserves to be there, and she won’t take shit from others because that is her rightful place. We stan.

Just stating something. Phillips reaction to Steve is fucking hilarious. He was expecting the “best man” and he got a child who is clearly 4’11.

One thing I will never take away from Steven Grant Rogers is how persisting he is. It’s admirable how he doesn’t let anything get to him. Not the other idiots bullying him, not Phillips clearly not believing in him, not his boss (how is that guy called? Like, what’s his title?). He keeps on fighting, because he knows he can do it. I like that of him. He is also extremely intelligent. Not Howard Stark or Arnim Zola intelligent, but he looks for a creative way out of problems. I love that way of thinking. The whole flag scene is perhaps one of my favorites in the MCU, and definitely my favorite in the movie. And I love how proud Peggy is of him.

Can we please talk about how quick Peggy was to go to the fake grenade? Like, of course Steve was gonna go for it, he made it very clear in the end of this movie that he is willing to lay down his life to save others, so I wouldn’t have expected anything less than throwing himself at the grenade. But we tend to overlook how Peggy was just as willing to do so. I honestly had forgotten how much I admired Tiny Steve. Like, yeah, his need to go to war was kind of selfish, but he still was ready to just die to save others, and not everyone is. I love the Steve from this movie. I honestly think this was the exact moment Peggy Carter understood the value of Steve Rogers. Like, of course she knew he was intelligent and persistent and persevering, but I think it’s this exact moment when he sees him as more than a soldier.

Erskine chose the perfect person for the experiment. I’m not talking about the manipulative bit from before. I seriously mean it. The serum was supposed to enhance everything, and he chose a rather selfless, amiable man, who would not hesitate to use his newfound strength to save others from death and destruction. Steve was the perfect person, no doubt.

I wonder what Steve felt in Avengers when he was fighting gods. I wonder if he remembered Erskine talking about how Schmidt thought all these myths were real.

“Not a perfect soldier but a good man”, said by Erskine to Steve, reminds me deeply of “Do not waste your life”, which is what Yinsen said to Tony. In the end, Steve went back to being a good man. (I’m not even gonna touch the whole time travel thing).

Schmidt was supposed to be the head of the research “branch” of the Nazis. Then how did he become the head of a whole organization. We know, or at least this is what I was told in world history some years ago, that Hitler was great giving speeches and convincing people, which is how he won so much power to begin with. So, does that mean that Schmidt is way better at that than Hitler? Or did he kill enough people to make others join HYDRA, and when they saw all the power they could have they stayed there and gathered more people for the group (is that a correct word to use?)

Steven Grant Rogers has no fucking idea of how to talk to women. I’m honestly not surprised, the only woman he interacted with before Peggy was the girl Bucky set him up with at the beginning, but bitch, ya kidding me? Really gonna tell Peggy you’ve no idea why she joined the army because “she’s beautiful”? Poor choice of words. At least Peggy didn’t get completely mad.

The code to get in is stupid as fuck. I’m sorry, I had to say it. Sounds like they watched a movie and that was in it and they were like “you know what would be a great code for a secret lab? Talking about the weather and saying you always carry an umbrella.” Pure genius, who’s idea was it? They need a raise. Morons.

I like how everyone is surprised with Steve when he gets in. And of course, the senator saying “somebody get that kid a sandwich” is a whole mood.

This experiment should not have work. I have no idea how long it took Erskine to perfect it, but by all means this looks impossible. Then again, in the future Steve will deal with gods, but still, his chances of survival were really slim to none. And, we saw it with Banner, this should not have gone as good as it did. But it did. I really wonder why.

So, the serum is supposed to enhance everything, right? It enhanced his height, his weight, his muscles. But what exactly happened to his diseases? Shouldn’t they have been enhanced too? Or was there something on the serum that was created precisely to erase every sort of disease or create an immunity to each one of them? There is no physical way someone as weak and sick as Steve could have survived that.

Hot reveal, hot reveal, hot reveal!

Erskine’s death scene is a big parallel to Yinsen’s death scene. I will not take criticism. Let’s be real for a moment. Tony and Steve have a lot of similar traits, they just let them drive them in different ways. This scene specifically is one of the ways they’re the same. The pure anger Steve feels in this moment is what drives him to follow the other man, because Erskine died in his arms. Same goes to Tony, but I’ll get into that when I get to Iron Man (at this pace I’m never gonna make it). But yeah, Steve was driven to fight even harder because of the death of a friend. I guess this is what makes him break the rules and go for Bucky later on, because he is not willing to lose another friend.

In other news, I cannot believe Peggy Carter is the only person in the army to have a nice shot. Like, what the fuck? But also, we stan a queen.

Note to self, I hate HYDRA, but I love the small one-person submarine the spy uses. It’s cool.

I still hate whoever designed the HYDRA logo. Who was it? I just wanna talk about your stupidity. It makes me irrationally angry.

Going back to Schmidt. Erskine mentioned that him and Hitler were friends, but Hitler was the face of the Nazis, so Schmidt, full of envy, jealousy and ambition, had to become The Red Skull. He wanted everything, and he betrayed his friend to do so. Still better reasons than Thanos.

I never really did like Phillips. He was an ass. He wasn’t mean or condescending to Peggy, which is a lot because, after all, Peggy is still a woman in the 40s, but he always treated Steve like he wasn’t a valuable asset, and that is not good. I get it, he wasn’t his first option for the experiment, but he didn’t have to be such an ass.

Something completely out of topic. Why is it written Colonel but pronounced “kernel”. America, explain.

I find it hilarious that Big Steve was so desperate to do something with his life, especially now that he had the physical strength to do so, that, in that desperation, he accepted something he didn’t even want. This is what I mean when I say Steve is manipulable. His desire to be someone in life gets him to extremes such as becoming the government’s monkey.

Another question. Was Steve ever really made a Captain? Like, I don’t even know if he completed bootcamp, let alone become a private. So how, pray tell, did they make him a Captain when he didn’t have a training for it? Or was the title of Captain just for his shows? Please, if someone has answers, I would love to hear them.

Steve is the most awkward human being in the 40s. Also, love the song, whoever wrote it, I salute you. Honestly I feel a little bad for him. He was doing something he didn’t like, and while it was for a good reason (bonds, for those who’re wondering), it’s never nice when people make you do stuff you’re not comfortable with. I love the dancers’ suits, they’re beautiful and the girls all look gorgeous. But Steve, oh dear, he looks hilarious.

He was doing something good, perhaps not what he expected to do, but he was making the Americans livelier, and children looked up to him. I don’t know you, but if that wasn’t good I really don’t know what is. Also, can we notice how, the longer he did it, the more elaborated his show became? I have no idea how long he did this, but clearly it was at least a year if he got to have confetti and bikes and all the paraphernalia.

Who’s idea was to send him to perform in front of soldiers? Like, really, who went “you know exactly what will make soldiers happier? A dancing man with a pretty title”. No one can be that stupid, yet people always surprise me.

Note to self, buy red boots like Steve, cause they’re not only emblematic but extremely cool. I need them.

Going back to the movie. I love Steve’s drawing, because it’s the perfect representation of what he is at the moment, a dancing monkey. Peggy Carter is more than just a physically strong woman. She’s intelligent, capable, courageous, and not only that, she is a damn great friend. She knows exactly the words Steve needs to hear, and I believe she knew they’d have more impact if they came from the one person who didn’t judge him in the past.

For the longest time, it was always Steve and Bucky. Their friendship went on to the 2020s, and his face when he learned that most of the 107th, Bucky’s platoon (is that the word? Am I using it right?) had been kidnapped or killed, well, I would have done something illegal too if I’d just found out that my best friend was kidnapped or killed. I get his pain.

I had not forgotten about fondue, but the scene is so freaking ridiculous I love it. And yes, that’s all I’m gonna be talking about the plane scene, because the rest is just me wondering how they didn’t get shot down the moment they got into enemy territory.

Steve Rogers, if you see this from the underworld, were you really made a Captain, or was that just your show title? I need answers!

Zola impresses me. There is no other way of putting it. To have mastered what SHIELD couldn’t, to have made the Tesseract work at his command, basically, it’s impressive. I need a peak at his mind. I need to know more.

The scene of Steve in the cargo truck gave me big Natasha in Civil War vibes, when Crossbone tosses her onto a truck. And basically yeeting someone with just one shield hit, gold. Steve Rogers isn’t a stupid man. He is actually extremely intelligent, and such a gifted strategist. I would trust this Steve to save me if I’m ever kidnapped. (I’ll talk about future Steve later).

I’m leaving it here, dears. I’ll continue in the next part, because this is gonna be longer than I expected it to be. If you read it up till here, I love you and thanks for reading it.

#captain america #the first avenger #mcu #marvel cinematic universe #steve rogers #character analysis #peggy carter #bucky barnes #y'all #i honestly thank you if you got here #hope you enjoy this #love y'all

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ikevamp-annalyne · 4 years ago

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Annalyne Sonata [IkeVamp OC]

Hey guys! I am so verry happy to finally being able to officially introduce my IkeVamp OC, Annalyne! ٩(●ᴗ●)۶

This is a very long post, but I hope you won’t be discouraged and will enjoy learning a bit more about her, and the story I imagined for her (^.^)ゞ

I also commissioned the MOST AMAZING ARTIST EVER @lemonsqueazie for drawing my baby OC! ღවꇳවღ She is my favourite artist, and also an amazing human being that I love very much. She is so attentive to what you tell her, always doing everything to meet your ideas and make the best art for you! I highly recommend to check out her blog @lemonsqueazie alongside her Instagram and her DeviantArt post about her commissions! You can also find all the infos here.

NOW, ON WITH THE OC! (๑ゝڡ◕๑)

Name: Annalyne

Last name: Sonata

Nicknames: Anna, Nana, Lyn

DOB: June, 19, 1995 (25 years old)

Origin: French

Languages: French, English, Spanish, Italian, German, Japanese, Korean

Height: 160cm (5.25ft)

Sexuality: pan

Job: freelance fashion designer, blogger, gamer

Passions: fashion, drawing, eating, baking, cooking, videogames, reading, music

Phobias: larvas and maggots, bugs (except ladybugs)

Lover: Leonardo Da Vinci

"Heh? What is this? Kinda like a storage room?"

Annalyne is a very chill woman, taking things at her own pace and working hard towards her goals and dreams. When she doesn't work, she becomes a lazy slug chilling with a good book or videogames -part of why she is also a gamer-.

Her most prominent traits are definitely: her kindness, her humour -made of bad puns and references-, her caring side, her clumsiness and her supportive behaviour. Number one fan of her family and friends.

She will always go out of her way to make her loved ones feel loved, supported or just important. She can also easily throw hands if needed. No one messes with her or her close ones without getting punished.

She has a hard time trusting people. It looks like she is close to everyone, but she hardly confides in people. It takes a hecking long time to build a relationship of trust with her -due to some childhood traumas-

She is strong-willed and -way too- a tad stubborn. But she compensates by being very sweet and cute. She can be very anxious but eating calms her, explaining her chubbiness. Also, count on her for helping everyone.

She is very good at cooking and baking, and loves making things herself. She loves dogs, but honestly, she loves almost every animal ever. She has a talent with them, understanding them beyond reason: animals love her.

"Call me the PUNisher."

She is easily triggered by disrespect, racism, homophobia, bullying and abuse. She can kick your ass off if needed, being very rude and violent when angry -she already broke the arm of a racist, and slapped Shakespeare...-

Comte is the one engaging conversation with her, asking her if she likes this painting. She is hyper excited talking about it and Comte cannot help but giggle, finding a Da Vinci's fangirl in modern days being pretty rare.

How she met Comte:

Annalyne lives near Paris and absolutely loves museums. Therefore she spends a hella lot of time in the Louvre, especially contemplating Da Vinci's works. She meets Comte in front of Da Vinci's painting Saint-Jean-Baptiste.

They spend some time debating and chatting over Leonardo Da Vinci's life, works of art and other controversies. He smiles a lot throughout the whole chat, since he wonders how his old friend would react.

How she ends up in Comte's mansion:

Comte bids her goodbye after they have finally seen Mona Lisa from up close. She thanks him for the delightful conversation, happy she has met someone as knowledgeable as him on her favourite historical figure.

She is taken aback, quite surprised, and thinks the mansion is a storage room. Maybe the man is actually an employee? She is curious though so she walks through the hall and stares at everything in awe.

When he leaves, waving his hand, his pocket watch falls and Annalyne picks it up. She chases after Comte all over the museum and sees him going through a door. She opens it and ends up in the mansion's hall.

Who she meets:

While discovering the hall, she stumbles upon Leonardo who's asleep. She doesn't want to wake him up but God, she stares for a good minute at the sleeping man. "I have never seen such a gorgeous man..."

She walks past him and continues looking for Comte. But then, Napoleon appears and asks her who she is, and what she does here. She tells him she wants to find the gorgeous blonde man to give him his watch.

He offers to give to him in lieu of her. But she is wary of him, a stranger. And Comte appears, the noise having caught up his attention. He recognises Annalyne and is surprised she is there. She gives him the watch.

The first dinner:

Comte gladly accepts the watch and asks her if she wants to dine with him and the residents of this mansion. Mansion? She stares at him, dumbfounded, and frowns. "Mansion? Isn't that a storage room or something?"

Comte giggles and promises to explain it all over dinner. Her trust for Comte and her love for food makes her accepting the offer. How surprised she is upon seeing all these people gather around a huge table!

She sits down and gets served by Sebastian, under all the surprised looks. Comte then proceeds on explaining it all to her: how all the residents in there are famous historical figures, and how she is the past.

How she reacts:

She is surprised, but she believes in timelapse, magic, etc. So she just stares in surprise and shock but is soon overexcited to meet all these people who changed history and inspired her throughout her whole life.

She will ask a bunch of questions to each of them, questions she has always been curious about, like the rumours and alleged controversies. Even when she hears about not being able to go back in her time, she is strangely chill about it.

"Well, there's no helping it! I will come up with a lie when I go back there!" But she will write letters and leave them -along jewels of hers- in places she thinks her friends or family could find them in the future.

Meeting her soulmate:

Sebastian shows her her room and then tells her to explore the mansion if she wants to. What she does! She then remembers the man sleeping in the hall? He must be a historical figure as well, but who can he be...?

She wants to know so she goes to find him and stumbles upon him, nearly falling on top of him. He seems awake since he is sitting on the floor. He had heard her footsteps so he smiles at her. "Well, who do we got there, Cara Mia?"

She smiles at the Italian nickname and tells him everything about her being here. He is surprised she is so chill about it but he smiles and introduces himself. "Well Cara Mia, nice to meet you. I'm Leonardo Da Vinci."

Upon hearing the name, her eyes widen and her breath catches in her throat. She stares, her heart beating faster every passing second. His smile is intoxicating and she cannot help but blush and stutter.

"W-well, nice to meet you, Leonar- huh Sir Leonardo? How, how should I call you?" He laughs."Leonardo is enough, Cara Mia." He smiles and pats her head before standing up. "Watch yourself, Cara Mia."

Her reaction upon the vampiric reveal:

After having talked with Comte and decided to stay in his mansion, she actually wonders how he could resurrect them. She decides to ask Sebastian, her new colleague, and he just shows her the Rouge and Blanc bottles.

"What's that?" She asks, pretty curious."Take a look and you will understand." She first goes for the Rouge and recognises the metallic smell of blood. She stares at Sebastian. "What is that supposed to mean?"

"They are all vampires. Except I, who is human." She widens her eyes, sueprised, and then goes "Aaaaah, that's how he did! Makes sense!" She smiles. "Is Comte the one who transformed them all or no?" "He did, yes."

"So, is he like, a pureblood vampire? A superior vampire who can turn humans into vampires?" "How do you know about this?" "Oh please, Sebastian. Cinema, animes, mangas and books are full of vampires."

Sebastian stares at her, bewildered. "And you are not afraid? They could easily feed off of you, even kill you." "Oh please Sebastian, they're more like puppies than wolves! If they were capable of this, you wouldn't be here!"

"Plus," she says while flashing a big dumb grin. "If they wanted to eat me, they would have already bitten me and emptied me of all my blood. They are not dangerous." Sebastian is shocked at how chill she is.

Her relationships with the residents:

She gets close to every resident ofthe mansion pretty fast, especially since she is not pushy, funny, kind, calm and knowledgeable on a lot of matters. They all grow a soft spot for her, even shyer and harsher residents.

Napoleon: they bond over cooking and baking. Also, since she is French, she can tell him about the impact he had on her country.

Mozart: music is common ground for them. She knows a lot about him and will sing for him, being allowed in the music room.

Arthur: writing sessions together, in his room or hers. They tease each other a lot and she is quick to react to his flirting.

Vincent: they are very close, bonding over drawing and painting. They talk a lot about art and have art sessions.

Theodorus: she doesn't let him win with his harsh replies and he likes that. She is strong and adores Vincent: he likes her a lot.

Isaac: she isn't pushy and gives him room so he likes talking with or teaching her a few things. They often meet in his room.

Jean: he likes how pure she is but she doesn't let him avoid her. She will do anything to befriend him and he gives in.

Dazai: sharing writing ideas brings them closer. They also laugh a lot because they are both airheads amd chaotic walking memes.

William: she likes his work but hates him. She will always avoid him, or shoot sharp daggers glares at him.

Comte: the father figure. She loves going to him to talk or when she needs some calm, and having tea together.

Sebastian: always laughing and teasing each other. She will flick his forehead when he assumes things for her.

Her relationship with her soulmate:

She is a Da Vinci's fangirl so of course, she is a mess around him. At first, she just blushes a lot, stutters a bit around him and she fangirls when he is not around. "Omg I can't believe I witnessed him sketching!!!"

They bond very easily since they both love arts. And Leonardo is very curious about her fashion style, her job, and basically how the world works in modern days -she spent an entire night talking about phones-

One day, he finds her sighing in her room: "what's the problem?". "Ah, nothing, I'm just, not comfortable in Comte's dresses. I'm more into trousers or skirts from my time." He is curious so she tells him about modern day fashion.

"Ah, so women wear pants and shirts. Whatever they want." She nods excitiedly."Yeah, and I hope one day men will be able to do so as well! Wear skirts and dresses and heels. But toxic masculinity is still pretty deep..."

"Wait for me, Cara Mia" and he dashes off the room, to come back later with a stack of shirts and trousers. "Here, take these. They're mine but for now, it will do. Tomorrow, we're going shopping for you."

And they do go shopping the next day, buying loads of men clothes alongside jewels and shoes. Also, they buy fabrics, needles and everything for Annalyne to sew her own clothes. He loves seeing her so happy.

She spends the next days adjusting Leonardo's clothes and the ones they bought to her chubby curves. And Leonardo surprises her by wearing a dress. They go have dinner like this: her in men's clothes, him in women's clothes.

Legend says every resident nearly choked themselves of either shock or laughter. And Leonardo and Annalyne really enjoyed it a lot and decided to do this at least once a week -Leo enjoyed the dress, actually-

The purebloodness revelation:

She catches very early on that he is a pureblood, without him even telling her. She is extra sensitive so she kinda feels auras and saw how Comte and Leonardo's eyes are similar. His genius made even more sense.

"Leonardo. Are you like Comte, a pureblood vampire?" She asked him while they were shopping for fabrics. Leonardo nearly fell out of surprise. "What are you talking about, Cara Mia?" "Well, you know..."

"Same eyes as Comte, genius who can do anything, super strong and intimidating aura. Open-minded as if you've already seen everything, and laziness that can be explained by already having done everything possible..."

He stares at her and then laughs, patting and ruffling her hair. "You're awfully clever and intuitive, Cara Mia. Yes, I am a pureblood. Does it change anything between us? "HELL NO!" she shouts. "But I've got questions!!!"

She drowns him under questions on everything he's done, seen, lived. They spend almost all of their time together, teaching each other about their lives and their knowledge. Residents are jealous of the Leonardo monopoly.

How it "ends" between them:

She is a strong woman and will go back to her time. But she promises Leonardo she will find him, right after returning to her time. He asks her what day it was, when she entered the mansion. "March, 15th, 2020."

When she leaves, while everyone is crying, Leonardo calculates. "Okay, gone for a month in her time, so she'll be in the Louvre in April, 15th, 2020. Ah. My birthday." He smiles. Almost 200 years, but it will be so worth it.

When she passes through the door, she is back in her time. Asking a guide what day it is. "April, 15th, 2020". The day they agreed upon, and Leonardo's birthday. She smiles and then proceeds to rush out of the Louvre to look for him.

But then she passes in front of Saint-Jean-Baptiste. Her favourite painting. A tall and gorgeous man is standing there, in a blue shirt and blue jeans. She feels it. She goes to the man, pats him on the shoulder, and asks: "Leonardo...?"

The man turns around, a huge grin on his face, bright golden eyes shining with love: "Was about time, Cara Mia..." she cries and throws herself at his neck; he spins her, crying as well, burrying his face in her neck.

"I missed you so much. Never do this again. 200 years was worth it but it was too long." She is a mess while crying. "I, I pwomiss Leo, I will neba leaf you again-" he laughs at her messy face. "Look at you, silly girl." He kisses her.

"I want you to see how much I love you in my eyes. They speak on my behalf."

Trivia facts:

She has a tiny water spray bottle she labelled as "Holy Water". Whenever a resident smiles or laughs, she opens it and "collects" their happiness. Thus, when one is talking shit about himself, she sprays the water on them.

"There, you have been blessed with Holy Water. Now love yourself or I agressively hug you." -the mistake on the label,on "thoughts" is intended, as it is is a mix between thots and thoughts, bitch thoughts she's gonna spray away.

She hates Shakespeare, Faust and Vlad. Whenever they pass by the mansion, she grabs the garden hose she labelled "Garden Hoes" and splashes water on them. "Oh no, you walking sin, stay away from my babies!"

She eats A LOT and puts shame on Theo when it comes to eating sweet things. They have pancake-eating competitions -and guess what, she wins-. She will be snacking 24/7 when nervous, anxious, sad and basically under negative emotions.

She listens to every type of music. She really enjoys any kind of rock music, and is also very knowledgeable on classical music. She likes to dance on Kpop and sing on Disney songs: her favourites are definitely I’ll Make A Man Out Of You and Why Should I Worry -in French-

She used to practice martial arts so she can beat the crap out of anyone being a little sh*t with her or her loved ones. She also has a very scary aura when furious, leading to most people just running away from her wrath.

She loves gossiping with Arthur. Whenever she knows about some rumours, or when she needs to talk about something that upset her, she goes to his room with coffee or tea. They both irradiate chaotic gossiping energy when together.

She is the mom friend, and becomes the mom of the mansion. She already told Jean to “get his bottoms in the living room to eat with all of them”, else she was going to kick his butt so hard he would be unable to sit or practice fencing.

All the animals LOVE her. Chérie is missing? She is cuddling with her in the patio. Lumiere is not under the bed? He is sleeping on her laps while she reads. King is nowhere to be found? She is playing with him in the garden. Snow White vibe.

She loves flowers and will put some all over the mansion. She puts one every day in front of every resident’s door, with a message written on a tiny piece of paper, something like: “You are a sweetheart and you deserve the best, keep going, dearie!”

#Ikemen Vampire #IkeVamp #ikevamp oc

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pseudofaux · 4 years ago

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Tracassin {Comte/MC}

Nothing scandalous, but the desire is heavyyyyyyy. Kinda angsty. Please enjoy if that sounds like your thing! This gripped me in one of those creative MUST DO MAKE WORDS WRITE LONGING fevers. It’s been awhile, so I was happy to let it happen!

“Is it... Marcel?” she murmurs, back to the game they have been playing for weeks, always with much more space between them.

Rumpelstiltskin, Tracassin, she had suggested in the garden on one of her first happy days in the mansion, if you will not tell me your name, then let me guess! He had agreed, so eager to indulge her and feeling some relief that the game put him in the villain’s place. He could be her entertainer and friend, and of course he would protect her. But he could not orbit her like a lover would. They’d smiled companionably over their cups from the fine set of Limoges, the brilliant white space in the pattern reminding him of her unpointed teeth. He had been confident she would never guess his name. And he had thought it such a neatly-arranged way for her to pass the time, close but not too close.

She is being shockingly bold, but moreover needy, she is needy over his body there in the chair in the hourglass room, and she has said her need is for him, good Lord—

“Comte,” she whisper-whines, plump lips moving softer than her word over his cheek, his jaw. He would have sworn before this moment that he knew what it was to suffer, in life and in lust. Of course she would be the one to show him better. She has revealed so many of life’s joys to him already, clarified tastes like lemon juice in jellies and lifted cloche after cloche off the delights of Paris he may never have found without her. How could she do anything but make his despair a sharper, deeper cut? What will be left if all his rules bleed out of him through the split she is making in his heart? That is the true and most dangerous question.

Because it is so dangerous, he will resist her, he will gently extricate himself from the chair and he will get up and usher her out or leave the room himself. He will... he will remember his plan as soon as she moves her mouth from his jaw, the very second she stops sowing a soft line of kisses there, so precise that the gardeners of the Grand Trianon would weep to see the elegant devastation she is working against him. He has not felt flush on his own skin in such a long time but it is there now: inelegant, blotchy, lurid. A mockery of mortality. It makes him nervous in a way that is juvenile, as he remembers the first time he ever courted, the fumbling declarations, the warmth of love in youth, tender and unwise. Her face interposes itself between memories of learning to dance and kiss. He wants to groan but worries if he makes a single sound, he will break more than his own silence.

“Is it... Marcel?” she murmurs, back to the game they have been playing for weeks, always with much more space between them.

She is quite close now, the expanse of her skirts allowing the knee she has put on his chair to cage him in. The wingback could hide them from the world, if they were really lovers. Her body leaning to his, the sweet honesty of her seduction, these things have stunned him.

She pauses for his response, but before he can use the time to gather himself and move, she moving herself, shifting over his lap and making another guess. “No, not Marcel. Adrien?” She exhales a little laugh. The sound blooms from her throat, below the blood place. He can smell it, precious as butter and salt, and he is grateful he has never needed to see Lear’s folly to know the value of these things. Le comte de Saint Germain knows what makes a table and a feast, and though he will not have it, he knows exactly what he wants spread out before him on the lacquered rosewood surface where the mansion takes its meals.

There is a kindness to her hum, a milky sweetness, when she lifts away from his skin. Only far enough away for the lonely beast in his heart to yelp pathetically for her return, please, anything, go far away or come closer and truly ruin me and it is all silenced with her words. “I don’t think that’s a yes,” she says. “But you are not giving me any real answers at all...” And she returns to kiss his jaw again, her bold but ever-gentle hand cupping the other side of his face. He is surrounded by the feminine pressure of her, but he cannot surrender and he absolutely cannot allow his thoughts to list toward any consideration of feminine pressure.

He feels her arms under his hands, the slight supple muscle of her upper arms tense from contact that has surprised them both, and he is grateful his body is faster than his mind. Her name is a warning on his breath, but it is so heavy with his own need he must yet again keep himself from groaning. If he heard her say his name with as much passion, nothing would keep him from her.

“No more guessing tonight, ma chèrie beauté,” he begs her as he pushes her away. “You must rest.”

She is looking at him with an assessing sort of fire in her eyes, but still she is kind. She has kept her hand on his cheek even as he moved her to stand on the floor in front of the chair.

“Will you tell me?” she asks with transparent, honest hope. If timeless ones had her grace, their lives would not be ones of melancholy.

“I would not take away your game,” he says. Her gaze becomes reproachful.

“It is our game,” she whispers, and she moves to lean in again, has even closed her eyes. But his hands hold her. The hurt in her face wounds him. He wishes it only wounded him. He is not good enough to receive her, let alone reject her-- that is why he must lean on the crutch of this farce and play at disinterest. He releases her arms to pat them and the second time manages to make it more of a quick touch than a caress.

“Shall I call Sebastian to take you to your room?”

He hates himself. For a moment she looks like she hates him, too.

“Non,” she says with emphasis, suddenly French to her toes, and it is a new torture not to smile at her. He tries to focus on not moving forward as she finally draws her hand away, fingertips sliding over the muscle in his jaw that jumps to maintain contact with her. He wonders if even she has limits to her grace, if she is doing this on purpose to twist the knife in his heart.

It is there as a plug, that yelping animal whines, craving her understanding as much as her self. It is there to keep you safe.

She does not look at him as she walks away, but at the door she turns. She is reproachful and a little prim, but no longer angry. “In my time, women take lovers,” she tells him. “If you do not want me for one, it is courtesy to tell me so.”

“I have told you I do not want you for a lover,” he says immediately, and the syllables are so wooden and lame he can see every way her face transforms from pique to victory.

“Goodnight, Monsieur,” she says softly. The door traveler is gracious in her laurels.

He bids her the same, and asks her to forgive him for remaining seated. She only nods, sparing him further ruin. When the door clicks closed, he counts her slippered footsteps as they soften to silence in the hallway of his home. At twenty, he allows his hands to destroy the rests of his chair, splintering the fine frame underneath leather and stuffing.

Rouge and Blanc are both in reach, and both completely unappealing. He shakes the dust from his palms and undoes one cuff. Cleanly, he rolls the sleeve to his forearm, cream against his skin. He thinks of going to find Leonardo for company instead of being so maudlin, but decides against it. Melancholy men find one another eventually, and he’s convinced the other man loves her, too. They all do, damn them. For tonight, he’ll keep his hurt and his blood and his regard for her to himself. He has a terrible sense of dread that these things will see sunlight long before he would like.

She did not touch his sleeve, but her scent is unmistakable over his own, perhaps haunting the air around him. Butter, salt, lemon, lilacs, life. He sucks it in through his nose as he pierces the vulnerable skin inside his arm. The adoration for her is too strong to even imagine biting her and he can taste his own blood so it would be useless to try, but the smell of her stays with him as he punishes and soothes himself. She is the golden light of summer, unavoidable as midday sun. If hers could be the only sunlight to see how weak he is for her, he might dare to reveal himself. She will burn him if he is not careful, and oh, she makes it so hard to be careful. But without her in the room he is cold, and desires her warmth like a winter beggar, even more than when she was there.

#ikevamp comte #ikevam comte #ikevamp fanfic #ikevam fanfic #twisting that knife in my heart too ya big beautiful desire-denier #hi sometimes I DO make words

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qoreprojects · 4 years ago

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The Party Whip, or Lilith in the 11th House

Not long ago, I paid a visit to my 11th house to speak with Lilith. She lives there, along with my South Node - a tiny golden compass that points toward the past. It was the past that I wanted. Lilith had lived in this house alongside it for so long that I believed she’d be able to help me understand what it meant.

“You thought that I would be angrier?” she laughed sharply.

Lilith was perched on a window seat, half her face bathed in the single stream of light in an otherwise shadow-filled room. She wore a simple red shift dress. Her hair was loc’d and tumbled towards her leather-belted waist on one side of her head, exposing a shaved opposite side to the dappled sun. She held an orange and a pocket knife in her hands.

I nodded slightly. Every movement in this room could be felt in ways that did not exist in the material realm. Palpable waves rippled away from the tiniest gestures. Shadows danced in the corners. The air was possessed, and every shift had meaning.

“That’s funny,” she said, flicking a peel onto the floor, “I don’t know why people only recognize Lady Regret when I am in my war clothes.” She used her own title with a touch of irony.

Several crows called to one another outside, and a light breeze stirred the distant treetops. This movement agitated the shadows in the room. All was as it should be - in flux.

“You are here because you want to know about your greatest regret,” Lilith stated presently.

“I suppose so, yes,” my breath rippled away from me in the cool, dark air. “At this point, I’ve run out of reasons not to know.”

Lilith smiled a lop-sided smile and continued peeling, one foot on the sill and one on the floor. “Are you familiar with the term ‘true believer’?”

“Yes,” I said quietly, knowing where this was going. I could feel the conversation as a tangible thing, like a strong westerly wind. The shadows and the dust particles organized themselves accordingly. Lilith tilted her face to look me directly in the eye. “What about the term ‘party whip’?”

The wind of conversation changed directions, and the shift was slight but sudden. I marveled at the subtle switch, and a sense of dread overcame me. The life inside the room absorbed my response as an addition to its moving chorus of shadows.

She paused to eat one section of orange, and then began peeling again. “The party whip is a different thing, isn’t it? Let’s examine the two…”

The True Believer and the Party Whip

The life of a True Believer can easily be confused with personal sacrifice on behalf of others. This is because, from the outside, it looks as if the True Believer is willing to give up a great deal for their party. They may give up relationships, time, effort, money, or freedom to make certain lifestyle choices. Observers who consider the party a worthy cause call the True Believer “self-sacrificing” and “a saint”; people who dislike the cause say the True Believer is silly and “voting against their own interests”.

In truth, the True Believer sacrifices little for the party because the party’s goals and the True Believer’s goals are almost exactly the same. If a True Believer does sacrifice anything for the party, it is minor and without much pain or hesitation. There is no real conflict between their motivations and that of the party. The True Believer may recognize some problems or contradictions within the party, or they may lack the critical perspective to do so. In either case, the flaws of the party and the flaws of the True Believer are largely the same. There can be a kind of innocence in that.

A Party Whip is not the same thing as a True Believer. (A Party Whip can also be a True Believer - but for the purposes of this conversation we will consider them separately.) Unlike the True Believer, the Party Whip does not necessarily align with everything the party says and does on a personal level. They may notice glaring flaws and issues within the party. They may believe that the party’s words and deeds do not match. They may long for previous versions of the party, or hope for future ones, while considering the present party to be a mere shadow of itself. They may think of the party’s goals as good general rules that will benefit the world, but that should not be applied in every situation without nuance.

The only things necessary for the role of a successful Party Whip are a sincere belief that the party is the best way to get things done - to have a hand in the creation of the world, to make things happen - and that the ends of this goal justify the means. For the sake of those two beliefs, the Party Whip can modify their own behavior and offer themselves up to be ‘borrowed’ by the party, in the hope that they can ‘borrow’ the party’s collective power for themselves at a later date.

Say, the leaders and vanguards of the party have decided that its collective goals will be best served by oranges. Under no circumstances can there be apples. Other fruits are fine, though less than ideal - but absolutely no apples. The Party Whip shows up to work and receives the party line: everyone in the party is to vote for oranges, and it is the Whip’s job to ensure this outcome.

The intelligent Whip has their finger on the collective pulse and can understand exactly why the party agenda is supported by oranges. They also know that competing parties are out there voting for other fruits - sometimes even apples. This is unacceptable. The party must win, which means that oranges must win and apples must lose.

The skilled Party Whip may not personally enjoy the taste or texture of oranges. They may even feel sympathetic to apples. However, the Whip is quite accustomed to viewing their own tastes and desires as a secondary concern to more important matters: the party line. They know how to either conceal or surgically remove the parts of themselves that are not convenient to the party and its goals - unlike the True Believer, who has never had to change very much about themselves in exchange for membership.

Therefore the Party Whip is assigned a role: to go out among members of the party, keep track of everyone who might vote for another fruit, and get them to vote for oranges instead. To accomplish this, the Party Whip is going to use whatever tools they already use to keep themselves in line with the party’s interests.

These tools vary, and may include:

Shame and guilt

Reasoned arguments

Coercion

Information

Misinformation

Bribery

Cost-benefit analysis

Promises of future reward for current sacrifice

Appeals to duty, loyalty and obligation

Not all of these methods are equally ethical. A Party Whip is only able to be as ethical when whipping the rest of the party to consensus as they are when whipping themselves in private.

Lady Regret in the 11th House

Your biggest regret is being a very skilled Party Whip.

You were good at living your life according to the party line. This earned you such compliments as ‘inspiration’ and ‘example’, which made you feel safe and valued. You were gifted at being able to distance yourself from your own instincts so thoroughly that parties rewarded you with protection and support in exchange for your skill at keeping their dissenting or individualistic members in line. This was not questionable for you - you participated in this exchange because you believed it was good and righteous, and that the party’s ends justified the means.

You privately exulted in your own savvy. You believed your differences from the True Believer - your ability to perceive the group’s flaws and issues with a bit more perspective - made you more ethical. In reality, it made you more culpable. Your clarity was a gift meant to inspire you to take risks and speak up, valuing the truth over any attachment to the party’s reaction.

You did not speak up.

You chose to improve the party by sacrificing your unique perspective in exchange for access to the collective’s power; you were shocked when improvement never came. When push came to shove and the party’s power was threatened, for one reason or another, they abandoned you. Perhaps the abandonment was purposeful. Perhaps they simply no longer had enough clout to protect you. In any case, the party name was no longer able to get you into the rooms you wanted to enter. Your persuasiveness on others’ behalf was no longer in demand. The recognition in strangers’ eyes when you flaunted your membership card dwindled. Circumstances may have even become so drastic that mentioning the party put you in danger rather than keeping you safe.

A lone, displaced ruler must rely on personal power and instinct. They cannot rely on an ever-present council or party membership to get things done. You were suddenly alone - the sole authority of your life. You were not prepared for this. The years, or even lifetimes, you spent living outside of your own will have taken a toll. You don’t even know how to have a thought or emotion without examining it for its usefulness to some group, even when there is none present. You walk around barefoot and in rags with panic behind your eyes. You roam the streets waving a saw and rasping through dry lips, “I will saw off anything for friends in high places! Fingers, feet! I will cut off anything for friends in high places! Eyes, face! I have experience, will work for connections!”

Most people are horrified and cross the street when they see this display. Some see you as a temporary tool and take advantage of you until you have nothing left to give. Some people see your true heart better than you do and try to connect with it, but by this time you are jaded and assume that all anyone could want from you is your skill as Party Whip. They try to love you, but you are too preoccupied with trying to dutifully serve their interests in exchange for power and validation.

Dreams shrivel and die like old fruit under these conditions - again, again, and again. This is the loop, the hoop that must be mended.

Resolution

Lilith rose from the windowsill. Her full height compelled the room’s darkness to rearrange itself. Dead orange peels lie on the floor at her feet, glowing in the patch of sunlight that streamed through the window.

“Who are you when you are alone?”

I sat down on the dusty floorboards and stared into the shadows.

“What are you capable of creating - or destroying - when you only do so from your heart?”

The shadows gave me nothing but constant shifting in return.

“As long as you sacrifice your dreams for others’ out of fear that you cannot accomplish them alone, your efforts will go to waste. Parties are not forever; empires fall and agendas shift like the wind. Learn to build true alliances based on raw love - which can only happen when you are clear and unashamed of your own desire.”

I looked up just in time to see her toss me the last slice of orange. My hand shot up to catch it, and I carefully considered its juicy ripeness against my fingers.

It felt delicious.

#11th house #lilith #south node #astrology

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claryaastark · 4 years ago

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Endlessly

04162020

March 25, 1920

Dear You,

I am writing this letter just to let you know that I still miss you so much, my love. Being far from home is not easy, I made a lot of adjustments here in our dormitory. We do a lot of scheduled daily tasks, also the housemistress is very strict. I cannot eat my mom's special calderata, I don't really like the foods here, the amount is small and it tastes way too different from my mom's cooking. I miss the smell of my father's brewed coffee as I woke-up every morning. I miss the sound of the water from the Estero and the cool breeze of the wind from my window. I miss Binondo, and most importanly, you.

It's 8:30 in the evening, the housemistress will do the head count and evening checking at 9. Writing this letter for a short span of time is not easy, especially now that I am expressing how much I long for you. I still remember the first time that we met. I was riding the Kalesa with ate Maria, on the Calle Escolta. And I saw you lifting a sack of flour on the famous Pan De Sal bakery. You held my hand and help me get down from the Kalesa to get the orders from your shop. And that moment of time, I fell inlove with you. I remember the times when I used to sneak from our house's window during dark and we are going to ride the boat and roam along the Estero de Binondo. You are holding my hand, and we are both hoping not to get caught. As we look at the stars above, and the moon shines through us. We used to do a morning walk on the Calle Real Palacio and enjoy the scent of the fresh Kalachuchi. You also love to pick a pink gumamela, and put it beside my ears while telling me how lovely I am and how much you want to be with me.

I can't also forget the time that you held the guitar and sing for me in the Plaza Moraga during the town's feast. I was so happy that time and I feel like I was the luckiest woman in the world. You held my hand, and asked for the permission of my parents. And we danced. We danced under the stars while you speak to me, telling me how beautiful I am that night, telling me how much you appreciate me. After that, you ask me to marry you and I said yes. We were just so happy.

But the world is uncertain and things always change. Two months before our wedding day, a letter came to me. I was accepted by my dream university here in Baguio City. This is something that I've been waiting for a very long time, this is my dream. But chasing this dream for myself also means losing you. And I don't want that to happen. I tried not to chase this dream for myself and just be happy with you. But you pushed me, you pushed me to do this for myself. You made me choose this dream instead of you. It's hard, but you promised that you will wait for me. Even if it takes forever.

But promises are meant to be broken. I know that you won't read this letter and there is no chance of seeing you again. But I want you to know, that I still mourn for you. That I will never have the chance to move on and get over from that night. That night when a letter came to me telling that you died from an accident. It still feels like a dream to me. All our hopes, all of the things that we planned together were just gone, in a snap. I can't do anything, I can't force things to happen. It hurts, I still cry every night my love. I miss you so much. And writing this letter is just my way to live in a dream. A dream that you and I are still together. Maybe another place, maybe another time. Till then, let's say goodbye I see you in another life. You will always be my love, my life and my everything. I know that will meet again, someday. Someday.

Forever Your Love

Today is March 25, 1970. It was so weird that I saw this letter out of nowhere while cleaning my dorm. And upon reading this, I didn't notice that I was already crying. I can feel the pain of the woman who wrote this. I don't know who this person is, nor the ending of their story but I hope that she found her happiness.

I pick the letter and put it on the box of my stuff. I insert my newly purchased CD on the Sylvania console stereo. This is a gift from my father before I left Cebu to study here in Baguio city. He knows so well that I love music so much and it was some sort of magic that makes me feel comforted. I played Let It Be, the last song that was released by my favorite band, The Beatles. Two weeks had passed since Paul McCartney stated that he is leaving the band. It was heart breaking especially for me, who is a big fan of this band. Sadly, I prepare for my morning class while listening to their last song.

Long day was over. Everything is just typical. Acads, people, routine. Though it was still tiring. I am a Fine Arts student in University of The Philippines here in Baguio City. Living an independent life is not easy. I miss my family so much, I miss my mom's cooking, my dad's silly joke as we spend our time under the mango tree during siesta. I miss my friends in Cebu, the sea, the farm. I miss everything about my home. The sun is setting and I am walking along the busy street of the Session Road while wearing my earphones. I decided to eat my dinner alone on Inihaws, my favorite restaurant here. While eating my dinner, I noticed a boy who keeps staring at me. I tilted my body to block his view, it feels awkward and creepy. As I continue to eat my food, I can see on my peripheral vision that he is still staring at me. I heaved a sigh and look directly to his eyes, I waved my hand and patted the seat beside me. Asking him to come and sit.

“What are you staring at?" I asked arrogantly.

He pouted his lips, pointing my plates and artworks. Ah, so he's looking at my artworks.

“What about them?" I asked him.

“They're nice and classic, I love them. Fine arts?" He talks so manly and attractive, uhh?

“Yup. There is just something that I saw this morning which inspired me for my plate today"

I explained as we both looked on the sketch of a woman riding a Kalesa, and a man who is holding her hand, they are both alive and smiling. They are the people on the letter that I read this morning.

The conversation went smoothly. I found out that he is an Architecture student on Saint Louis University, we are both into arts. I got no stuff to do this evening, so I decided to go with him as he asked me to have an evening walk along the Session Road. We talk about our interest, arts, music, things that we are fond of. We got a lot of things in common. He talks a lot, and I like how quick-witted he is as he tells a lot of jokes. We didn't notice the hour, it was already 10 in the evening. I do not as well, but I don't feel scared on this man that I just met few hours ago. I feel comfortable and we have this sort of connection like we knew each other on the past. We spent the night telling each other's story. We went to his small art room, and he painted me. He ask me to hold a plastic flower as I smile while he is painting me. It seems like I met a stranger, and this whole night is like a fairy-tale.

It was already 3 in the morning, we are sitting on the grass while we look on the city lights below. It was so beautiful. As well as the man beside me, he is lovely. I didn't ask for his name but it feels like I already know him so well. He tilted his head on my direction and caught me staring at him, he smiled and out of nowhere, his face turns sad.

“I'm married" he said.

I was shocked. I was hurt, and there is something that stings on my chest.

“I know you since we were freshmen, I first saw you sketching on the Inihaws. You are alone and you seem so committed with your passion. I find it so adorable, the way you move your hand, the way you put your hair on the side of your ears. The way you frown your forehead as you make some mistakes. I fell in love with you, the first time I saw you. Since then, I always follow you. I see you walking on the street while wearing your earphones. I always see you eating alone on the Inihaws. I always see you smiling on the street vendors, you are adorable as you say your good morning to them. And when I finally decided to introduce and show myself to you. My mom from Sagada called me. Asking me to come home. That day, I went home to Sagada. I saw my ex-girlfriend, and she has a child — our child. We were a stubborn, inlove teenagers during high school. We broke up just like a typical puppy love story. But I didn't know, that I got her pregnant. My son is already two years old when she showed up. She can't raise our child alone, so she decided to tell it to me and my family. Two months after, we get married."

My heart is aching as I listened to his story, I feel bad for him, I feel bad for us. I didn't speak a word. I just let myself stare on the city lights below. I can't process my thoughts right now. Feels like the fairytale is finally over. Surprisingly, he held my hand.

“I love my son, he is the reason why I am working hard to become an Architect. I love her mother, but not the way that I love you from a far. I fell in love with you and you deserve to know it. I was so happy loving you from afar, and thank you for that. Maybe another place, maybe another time. Till then, let's say goodbye I see you in another life, Stella"

He called my name, and he left.

Those were the last thing that he said that night. And I never saw him again. Maybe, maybe someday we will have the chance to love each other not just from afar. We will be together, someday.

March 25, 2020. This is it, this is the day that me and friends are finally seeing each other! After one year of not meeting everyone because of College, we're finally going out today. We chose the art exhibit as a venue for our date today. I'm excited! I kissed my mom as I went downstairs for breakfast, she teased me that our plan for today will be cancelled because of my excitement. I love my mom so much but sometimes, I hate her for ruining my moments hmp. I eat my favorite egg roll and decided to ignore her.

The time is 2:30 in the afternoon. I am already prepared for today's meeting. I drove the car and play my classic OPM playlist. I love music so much, and I can't live without it. Kamikazee's Tagpuan is currently playing, I bang my head and sang along with the melody of the song. It's 4 in the afternoon when I arrived at the venue. It is odd because I see no familiar face here. I opened my phone to ask where they are, and found out that the exhibit plan was cancelled during the last minute. And they decided to just eat on the restaurant nearby our place. I don't know what to feel, I feel bad for not checking my phone before leaving the house. I feel bad for being excited, mom is right. I don't know but I kinda felt lazy to go on the restaurant near our place because I traveled to get here for 2 hours. My excitement just all went down. I get in the car and think. Upon fighting with my thoughts I decided to just stay here and continue the exhibit plan, alone. It is a new experience though.

I went inside and everything feels amazing. I’m not an artsy kind of person, I don’t have any talents in art but one thing is sure — I really do appreciate art. I love to spend my time on looking at the green grass outside, the blue sky above and the beauty of nature. I do love aesthetic things because it reminds me that despite of being cruel, beautiful things on this world still exist. The ambience is nice, the people are few but I can see that they are enjoying the paintings inside the hall. I walk and took a photograph of the artworks. After that, I posted it on my instagram story and send it to our group chat to tell them that I can’t make it on our dinner anymore. And I decided to just stay here and stick to the original plan.

I roam around the hall and appreciate the beauty of art. While walking, a painting caught my attention. It was a woman with curly hair, and she was smiling from ear to ear. She was wearing a floral dress and holding a piece of rose. The woman seems so happy and I can feel the genuine emotion of the one who painted it. Is her boyfriend the one who painted her? It was romantic. Suddenly, I feel something weird and unexplainable on my chest, I can really feel something on this painting. Something that is connected with me.

“It was nice and classic, isn’t it lovely?”

I was shocked when someone has spoken out of nowhere, I tilted my head on the direction of the voice, it was a man. He was wearing a black shirt, and he is holding a camera. He is smiling sincerely while looking at the painting, weird but it seems like the voice came from the painting itself.

“Uhh yes. This painting feels so real and sincere. I can feel the emotion of both the painter and the subject” I said while looking directly at the painting. And I was smiling.

Our conversation went smoothly, and it seems like I found an instant date. He talks a lot and I found out that we were on the same University. He is an Engineering student, and he loves to play the guitar. I felt fascinated because I was attracted with men who are inclined to music. We roam around the hall and we were just so happy. Finally, long day is over and we bid our good byes. But before that, he asked for my phone number.

Oh shoot. I forgot to ask his name. But nevermind, I still have a lot of chance to meet him again. I smiled as my phone beeps and I got a text message from an unknown number.

“Take care, I had a good time. See you around” -Mr. Engineer

That’s the text message. I went home with a big smile on my face, the date with my friends have been cancelled. But I found a new experience today. Something more happy, and amazing. I lay in bed and look at the ceiling of my room along with its fake galaxy. I smiled as I remember the man that I met few hours ago. While giggling, I replied on his text message.

“Good night, Mr. Engineer! Had a good time too” -Ms. Psychologist.

To sum it up, we talk on the phone everyday. He always made my day, he always make me smile. He jokes a lot and he had a lot on his mind. He is quick-witted and very manly. After a few weeks of talking, I admit that I already had a crush on him. Along with that, we decided to spend our time together. And as time passed by, I am knowing him more and more.

We had the same interest in almost everything. We watched the same movies together. We listen to our favorite songs. We eat our favorite foods. Though we never share any of our favorite foods, especially him who can fight with anyone who touches his food, even me. We travelled places to taste various delicacies. We went to church regularly to pray. He became a part of my everyday. He loves picking a flower and putting it on the side of my ears. He loves playing the guitar for me.

It was really nice, to found someone who appreciates every little thing on you. Someone who can lend his ears and shoulder to listen. Someone who can cheer you up whenever you are feeling down. He loves kissing me, but loves hugging me more. I felt home and safe on his arms. It was weird but there is something that is telling me, that we really had the connection and we knew each other a very long time ago. All that he made me feel was something new. It was my first time, to fall inlove with someone. I had no doubts and regrets.

But the world is always uncertain, there are lots of things that we are unsure, so is us. We are just happy, and then in just a snap we parted our ways, and we fell apart. Maybe another place, maybe another time. Till then let’s say good bye, I see you in another life. I know that he is a blessing from God, and whatever it takes. We will meet again, someday.

Parang isang panaginip, Ang muling mapagbigyan, tayo ay muling magkasama.

Panatag na ang kalooban ko, At ika’y kapiling ko na Kay tagal kitang hinintay

I smiled as this classic song by Spongecola played on my car’s stereo. Today is 25th of March, 2025. And I am finally seeing him again. I smiled, a nervous smile mixed with excitement.

It was weird because last night, as I was fixing my stuff in our Ancestral house in Bagac, Bataan, I saw an old box . It was a collection of CDs, some of the albums are from The Beatles. And I saw a very old letter, the pen was already disappearing and it was already stained. The letter was from March 25, 1920. It was very old ; a hundred and five years ago. Along with the letter, I also saw an artwork. A sketch of a woman riding a Kalesa, and a man who is holding her hand, they are both alive and smiling on this artwork. I asked mom about this stuff, and she said that it belongs to my great grandmother, Stella. It was her stuff during her college days on Baguio City.

Anyway, after the very long wait. I am finally seeing him again.

The hall is full of people. I am wearing a red polka dots dress, I know that black is his favorite color but I want to show him something new. It seems like I was lost in the crowd and I can’t see him anywhere. But as I was walking through the sea of people, someone held my hand and whispered.

“You look so beautiful, baby. You never changed” I got teary-eyed as I heard his voice. Oh God, I miss him so much. I miss this man. The man that I lost and the same man that I found again. The long wait is over, we finally have the chance to be with each other. I hugged him tight, the only man that I ever loved, love and I will love wherever and whenever.

“Baby, I’m no angel, I’m just me. But I will love you endlessly” those were the words that I whispered through his ear.

“We parted our ways together, we fell apart but fate will always make a way for us. Time will always tell. In another place, in another time, we will always be together, our love is endless”

Words that I said, while directly looking into his eyes.

It’s 25th of March, year 2030. And today is our wedding day.

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teamhook · 5 years ago

Text

A Chapter Day... Savage Heart CS AU

This story will be finished by the end of the month. :)

A love story between a pirate and his savior. An innocent, beautiful, selfless woman meets a man with no manners, no formal education and not even a last name. Will Emma fall in love with Killian once she discovers that beneath his tough exterior lies a heart-wild, but a heart of gold? This is a Captain Swan AU

Beta-ed by the awesome @ilovemesomekillianjones

Cover by @xhookswenchx who is the sweetest!

|AO3| |FFN| previous chapter

|AO3| |FFN| current chapter

Chapter 12: Everything We Need Is Right In Front Of Us

The next morning Killian walked confidently towards the dining room for breakfast. He isn't surprised to see Emma already sitting at the table. He wonders if he should mention to Emma his conversation with Cora. He notices the way she is looking at him. The mistrust seems to be back in her beautiful emerald eyes.

"Good morning, lass. Sleep well?" He tries to act as if things are the same as yesterday.

"Good morning," she answers, refusing to hold his gaze. No smile or emotion, so unlike the day before.

Killian sighs and shakes his head. "I see we are back to me being the villain in this story. I thought I was starting to win you over," Killian says with a bit of hurt in his features.

"Why are you really here?" Emma asks.

"I thought we had gone over my intentions yesterday? Let me guess, the lovely lady of the house, Cora paid you a visit after she left my room and tainted our new found friendship?" Killian sits down in the closest chair to her and studies her lovely face for a reaction to his inquiries.

"Yes, she did," Emma sighs, she has a feeling he will be able to tell if she is lying.

"You know what your problem is, Saint Emma? You have the soul of a martyr, you are willing to face off with anyone to protect August. You have put up with my insults and my presence just to prevent August the shame of knowing that his wife is a whore. Don't you notice that the others take advantage of you?"

"Are you taking advantage of me?" Emma asks.

"No, I'm trying to open your eyes," Killian tells her, and Emma can tell he is sincere. "What did Cora tell you of our conversation?"

"Nothing. She just insists that you are not a good person."

Killian stands up from the table defeatedly. "It seems she has convinced you." He begins to walk away and suddenly stops, he doesn't even turn to look at her when he adds, "Emma, I thought we had reached a new level in our relationship but I see that I was a fool. It only took a single conversation with Cora to make you question me. I have lost my appetite. I will go check on the patient."

She wonders if she should go looking for him as a sadness seeps into her. She's lost in thought and misses Cora walk in.

"Good morning," Cora tells her with a tight smile, then calls for Enith to serve them.

"It seems I missed Mr. Jones. Such a pity."

"He seems very fond of you. I can't help wonder though, with such an unlikely friendship we may have an advantage. I'm not judging, dear. Do you by chance happen to know why he accepted the position here?" Cora asks.

"He says he wants to become an honorable man and perhaps even someday find a woman to marry. I think he is sincere."

"Oh. Do you know if he may have set his sights on anyone? Perhaps with my support, we can help him move along faster in his quest. I just want him to leave before he can do any real damage to this family."

Emma studies Cora carefully. There is something she is not telling her, but she knows better than to push for answers. "I don't believe there is anyone in particular. "Please excuse me. I must go check on the injured man we came across yesterday."

"Of course, dear," Cora answers and doesn't even bother asking how the poor man is doing.

Emma gets up and quickly finds her way out of the dining room, she feels she can breathe once she is out of the house. She knows there is something that she is not being told. Walking absentmindedly around the property, she suddenly collides with a very solid wall. She looks up and is met with stormy blue eyes.

"Oh, I'm sorry; I should have been paying attention to where I was going." Emma apologizes profusely once the shock of being in his arms wears off.

"So how was he?" Emma asks as she pulls herself away from the warmth of his body. "I was on my way to catch up with you."

"His name is Michael Thomas. I bet no one here, including you, love, has even bothered to learn that poor man's bloody name. He is so beneath the lot of you." Killian walks past Emma and keeps his strides long and purposeful to put distance between them.

Emma stands there trying to process what just happened between them. Wait did he just call her love?

She finally starts to move and heads back to the house. She is dazed and confused about her own feelings. Why does it bother her so… if he is upset or how he sees her? Sure she was raised in a sheltered environment, but she does care for others. In her education, she was never taught that women could make a difference. Sure there was an exception to the rule like Cora Booth, but she inherited her position with the death of her husband. At least until August, the man of the house would take over.

Killian is furious as he enters the house, he heads to his room. He's inexplicably angry that she assumes the worst of him just because she had a bloody conversation with Mrs. Booth. He should tell her exactly what that horrible woman offered him. Money and a bloody wife. Yet she assumes he is the scoundrel in the story. He knows his reputation is not the best but he had enjoyed their conversations and he thought the feeling was mutual. He shared with her some of his innermost thoughts. Thoughts that he had not shared with anyone, insecurities he has not revealed to anyone. He will not even entertain the real reason her opinion matters to him. He is about to reach for his door and suddenly hears his name.

"Mr. Jones. Have you decided to accept my offer? I can sweeten the deal for you. I'm sure I can guarantee a wedding with Emma," Cora says.

Killian freezes as he listens to the woman. Did she really just offer him, Emma? Does this mean Emma mentioned an interest in him? He turns around to face the older woman. "Excuse me?"

"Oh, you heard me perfectly, Captain. I'm offering money and Emma. I know Emma well; I know she will make an excellent wife. Sadly my son did not see the value in her he seems to see in her cousin but I have a feeling you might see her worth."

"Since when do you address me as Captain? I thought you only saw me as a rogue. And as far as Emma is concerned, only her feelings matter not mine."

"Isn't that how you are so well known in town? A scoundrel and a womanizer who just happens to have a soft spot for a very specific blonde. You chose her. If you want her, all you have to do is accept my offer."

"You are so eager for me to take the same woman you had invested so much in to become your son's wife. Me, a lowly pirate. Does she even know that you are offering her like she is a commoner? Why are you so eager to be rid of me?" Killian asks as he steps closer to Cora.

Cora stands proud and simply replies, "You have not turned down the offer. Hmm. You like the possibility, the thought that someone of her class could be yours for the taking." Cora smiles and turns to go, leaving him standing in front of his room.

He sighs as he enters his room. Could he be so selfish to accept? The problem is that he wouldn't be so tempted if it was just any other high-class woman but the idea of it being her, Emma. No, he wants her to want him. That thought scares him and confuses him. No, he is here for Milah. He knows Emma loves August, but just the idea of having someone love you in that capacity makes him curious. He envies August; he has Milah and Emma's devotion.

Archie knocks upon the door to the Booth estate and greets Enith who answers the door. "Good day, could you please let Mr. Jones know that I'm here?" He had decided this morning was a good chance to see how the adjustment has gone, but he is also there to check up on Killian after hearing that Dr. Whale had been to the residence to treat an injured man. He hopes it is not something Killian did, he knows the man has a temper.

After wandering for a bit longer, Emma finds her way to the house after her disconcerting encounter with Killian. She knows it wouldn't be proper for her to go to his room and attempt a friendly conversation with him, but she feels so guilty. She sees Archie arrive and enter the house just before her. This will give her an excuse to go look for Killian and start a new dialogue with him, hopefully avoiding the whole disaster of the topic of their last conversation. She smiles and rushes in and is just in time to hear Archie asking Enith to retrieve Killian.

"Enith, I will retrieve Mr. Jones for Mr. Hopper. You can go back to the kitchen and get Mr. Hopper something to drink," Emma tells Enith as she smiles to Archie.

"Emma I don't want to impose. Enith can go get him," Archie says softly.

"It is no trouble and besides there are a few things I need to discuss with him. Please make yourself comfortable. We will be with you shortly," Emma says as she hurries to go looking for Killian.

Emma finally arrives at Killian's door and knocks. There is some scuffling and then the door opens.

Killian is surprised to see Emma standing in front of him. "How may I be of assistance Saint Emma?" Killian asks.

"Mr. Hopper is here to see you. But before you go to see him, I just wanted to apologize for my behavior earlier. I just cannot seem to stop myself from offending you," Emma says to him and gives him a hopeful smile

"Thank you," Killian says and tries not to read too much into her apology. He swiftly walks past her to find Archie. He knows that when it comes to Emma he is in trouble. He had a simple plan, gain trust and access to the Booth fortune. He's got that, but somehow it has lost its appeal. The moment he arrived at the estate and found out that Milah had left on her honeymoon he was angry and upset, but somehow or perhaps it was because of someone, he had forgotten of Milah and the plan. He needs to keep his distance from Emma to keep a clear mind.

Emma just stares at his back as he gets further away from her. Racing, to catch up to him, she swiftly reaches for his arm.

Killian is startled at the contact as he turns to face her.

"Killian, I just apologized for my behavior from earlier and you just walk past me? I know I made an error in judgment, But this is me telling you I want to try to see the best in you. Seriously, what is wrong with you?" Emma asks frustratedly.

Did she really call him by his first name? Killian had stopped walking as soon as he had felt her touch.

Emma realizes why Killian is gaping at her."Oh, I'm sorry. I just... I didn't mean to overstep. I know we have never been properly introduced. My name is Emma Nolan. I just want to start over, go back to before the whole misunderstanding. Mr. Hopper and Tink seem to care for you a lot. I think maybe we can be friends," Emma says looking at him so hopefully.

She is truly making an effort. Could it be so bad? He couldn't avoid her forever. They would be living in the same place for the foreseeable future.

"Killian Jones at your service, my lady." Killian bows slightly and grabs her hand to bring it to his lips without losing eye contact. He hears her breath hitch and smiles softly at her and adds, "I accept your proposition." He can't help wondering about the other offer that concerns the blonde in front of him.

Killian and Emma are walking side by side when Archie sees them approaching, and he knows he has never seen Killian with that glow.

"It was nice seeing you, Mr. Hopper. I will leave you two," Emma says and walks away.

"Killian, if I remember correctly when we were at the convent I recall asking you if you two knew each other and you answered no. There seemed to be a familiarity between you two. I really think this could be a good thing," Archie adds.

"Archie, you know her parents. Do you really think they would approve anything between Emma and me? Let us not forget the fact that she is a novice. Even I have some respect for the habit." Killian says to his old friend. Sure he has made an improper comment here and there but he is not a complete scoundrel. But if she were to change her mind... he really needs to stop thinking this way. It must be all those insinuations and comments that Cora Booth has made.

Archie smiles and says, "I will drop that subject for now. I just stopped by to see how things were going. I heard Dr. Whale stopped by."

"Aw, so that's what this little visit is about. You are here to check up on me." Killian can't help feeling a little hurt. "To satisfy your curiosity, I will answer. First, Emma is here being my host, per se. While on tour of the grounds we found and injured man. If you would like, Emma could confirm my story. The good Doctor was not needed because of my actions."

Archie looks fondly at his friend and says, "Emma? You two are on a first name base? Killian, is it Emma, the one you are trying to be a better man for? I'll gladly offer you my last name and you can marry her. Her parents would not object. We are good friends an-"

Killian rolls his eyes. Didn't Archie just say he would drop the subject of Emma and he has just started again? Killian interrupts before he can finish what he was going to say, simply stating, "I have realized that all I want is for the woman I choose to want me for me. I want her to accept me as I am, simply as Killian Jones." He ignores and chooses not to correct his longtime friend's assumption about his feelings toward Emma.

"I was wondering if you could help me with something. I want to legitimize my business. Could you help me with that process? Perhaps my employment with August Booth can help with the transition. The man we found, when he gets better, I would like to offer him a job. I believe I can provide him with a better work environment."

"Killian, do you really think that he will regain his health?" Archie asks. The man had pneumonia and was badly injured maybe he shouldn't be so hopeful about his recovery.

"Emma was taking care of him. She has hope he will mend and that is enough to get me to believe as well," Killian says.

Archie looks intently at Killian. Does he not see what it is so obvious? He will not keep mentioning Emma because he notices how Killian tries to deflect his comments and questions. Yet Killian keeps talking about her like she is a savior. For now, he will stop pushing. "I will take care of setting up the business for you. Just remember, if you need any help here just get the word out to me and I will be over as soon as possible," Archie offers. "Have you had any issues with Cora?"

"Nothing I can't handle," Killian says.

"Good to hear. I should leave now. You have given me much to do. Please say goodbye to Emma for me. And, Killian? Emma is special, please never discard the idea."

With those final words, Archie Hopper leaves Killian Jones pondering if his future will involve a young, beautiful, blonde woman. One that he knows he will certainly never be good enough for.

Tagging:

@hookedonapirate @kmomof4 @searchingwardrobes @seriouslyhooked @profdanglaisstuff @let-it-raines @revanmeetra87 @snowbellewells @hollyethecurious @kymbersmith-90 @branlovestowrite @thejollyroger-writer @shireness-says @ilovemesomekillianjones @thisonesatellite @thesschesthair @winterbythesea @stahlop @resident-of-storybrooke @superchocovian @lfh1226-linda @artistic-writer @thislassishooked @shardminds @winterbaby89 @xhookswenchx @ultraluckycatnd @gingerchangeling @laschatzi @wellhellotragic @xemmaloveskillianx @courtorderedcake @pirateherokillian @optomisticgirl @darkcolinodonorgasm @sherlockianwhovian @andiirivera @djlbg @nikkiemms @jennjenn615 @scientificapricot @officerrogers @imlaxdris71 @therealstartraveller776

#teamhook SavageHeart #Captain Swan #cs ff #CS Mafia #CS Crew

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golddaggers · 6 years ago

Text

untouched || prologue

pairing: mainly alpha!thor x omega!reader, but others might come along.

warnings: okay, so this contains descriptions of violence, assault, swearing and some dialogues i cannot believe i brought myself to write. well. i also feel like thor should be a warning, have you seen the chest on that man? hahaha.

a/n: hmm, okay. so this is new. i’ve been cooking up some new series about him and i needed to get this whole alpha thing out of my series, so bear with me. fasten your seat belts, bunnies, you are in for a bumpy ride with this one.

word count: 2,4k+ (don’t get disappointed, it’s intended to be short)

song to this chapter: blue jeans by sofia karlberg

The incredibly warm, summer day was nearing its end, pink clouds enveloping a descending sun now so close to kissing the horizon, when the peacefulness of a huge property, far from the city, the home of the most powerful, elite-like pack of werewolves of California, was broken by suffering screams. Ones that showed nothing but fear, that would scratch the very soul of any person listening to them - like a puppy dog cry.

After so many years of being tossed around like she wasn’t worth a penny, coming from a poor family made sure she had a series of setbacks throughout her life, she should be prepared to this day, when higher ranked werewolves would decide to take a claim of her. The worst of it was that she couldn’t do anything but comply, her legs showing no strength whatsoever to run from those two men. Slip away from their dirty grip. Her only hope was that someone would show up and take pity on her.

Highly unlikable, she thought bitterly, sobbing and complaining when one pulled her hair back, exposing her neck. A shiver crawled her skin, her insides twisting in utter fear. Only Alphas could take claim of an Omega like her, only them could bury their teeth deep into the soft nub on her neck - their awful smells, however, revealed they weren’t it. Nonetheless, no Alpha would take interest in an Omega that had been bitten by a Beta. They were scorned.

“Please.” She whimpered, two distinct laughs being heard. “Don’t do this.”

There was a sour taste in the back of her mouth, a sense of guilt washing over her. If she had just stayed at home none of this would have happened. These men wouldn’t have preyed on her and brought her to be- Ugh. She didn’t want to think about it, tears staining her cheeks continuously, head growing heavier and aching like there was no tomorrow.

They had shoved her inside a van, one driving and the other making sure she was well-behaved in the back. Blood dripped down her face along with the tears, a stinging cut just below her eyebrow. Her body was in no better shape, her ankle hurt like she had sprained it, arms tingling due to the strength they used to bend her to their will. Anyone who saw her in that state would never recognise her as the same sweet girl who would bring flowers to the elderly or feed the homeless.

A spark of courageousness shot through her, who squirmed under the taller man’s touch, finally fighting to break free. The one in front of her had his deep, honey brown eyes pierced on the girl, a malicious, wicked grin that made even the tiniest muscle on her body tremble in a dread she could never fathom feeling before. Her mother taught her when her body began to develop, she couldn’t be more than twelve years old at the time, that men would see her as an easy way to relieve some tension and that not always she’d enjoy that.

“Oh Louis, look at that, puppy is a tough one.” The one gripping her from behind, her wrists tied together with a tight rope, said, tightening his touch around her arms, squeezing so tightly she yelled in pain. “You are an insignificant little thing, don’t you know that by now?”

“You don’t have to do this.” She struggled to voice, shaking. Her tone was pleading. “I won’t tell anyone, just let me go. Please.”

“And who would care about you, puppy?” Now it was the one in front of her who had spoken, a long, skinny finger running down her neck, puncturing a hole on her skin with his sharp nail. “Don’t you know that your only purpose is to be fucked? Mounted by strong men and carry more pups than your belly withstand to make sure our species go further?”

“Please…” It was a hopeless, pathetic weep. “I-I haven’t done anything. I’m not even on Heat.”

“We need to get over with this, Johnny.” Louis’ tone was stern, ignoring the girl altogether. “If our boss catches us here, he’ll have our heads.”

Using nothing but a rough pull, she was thrown on the ground, howling in agony. Were the people inside the house deaf to what was happening to her? Didn’t they care at all? It was obvious she had no worth to those rich, snotty people, still, she didn’t take them for the cruel type. Apparently, she was wrong because no one was coming for her. Nobody would save her.

The Johnny guy sat down on her hips, his weight nearly crushing her bones, and ripped off the soft fabric of the shirt she was wearing, letting out a disappointed smack of lips when he caught the sight of her beige bralette. That didn’t stop him from kneading her breasts, squishing them with much more vehemence that it was necessary.

Louis crouched forward, holding her arms down while Johnny slid down to take off her jeans. In that second, despite not having any spiritual beliefs, she prayed for God to help her. Prayed that they wouldn’t abuse her in such way. She wasn’t deserving of it. She wasn’t a saint, but she was a good person. A good daughter, regardless of everything that had happened. Regardless of the fact her father was as far as a good parent as it gets. Oh, if he was here, he’d renounce you for letting yourself fall into this situation.The word of what they were doing to her would never creep into her mind without bringing a pained quiver.

“Why me?” She questioned, more to herself than to the men above her, noticing the sand prickle her back, thighs, feet, pretty much every bit of her body when she was fully exposed to them.

“You smell real fucking good, Omega.” Johnny murmured, milliseconds before being thrown away off of her.

She looked up confused as to who had been responsible for finally releasing her from that torment. The girl felt delicate, skinny arms wrap her in a motherly hug while a woman whispered that everything was going to be okay now, that they were going to take care of her and she shouldn’t worry. Loud growls startled her, who shrunk into the woman’s embrace - Unaware to her, Natasha Romanoff had been in her shoes before, so she knew how fragile it could make women feel to be in such state and she was happy both her and her boss had got there to help that poor Omega.

Whoever was up there in Heaven, the girl thanked for sending those people to her aid. Out of pure concern, Natasha propped her up, noticing a limp while they walked inside the huge mansion stacked in the middle of the property she had been forced inside, leaving behind the chaos. Once the fight was out of her sight, she felt a little bit better, suddenly calmer as a sense of peace hugged her. It had to be that beautiful woman, the one with bright red curls and a nice, welcoming smile. She had to be exuding calming pheromones to help her through the fear she was reeking off.

Meanwhile, Natasha guided her through the house, the girl’s senses were floating back and forth, which rendered her completely to that stranger, although she sensed that particular woman wouldn’t hurt her at all. It was only when she was sat in a nice couch, the leather feeling particularly good under the flesh of her thighs, that she came back to herself, sight, smell, taste… The red hair let off a strong azaleas and orchids odour, a perfect mix of them. It felt nice as she inhaled her scent deeply.

“Hey, you,” She smiled tenderly, “I’m Natasha, by the way. How are you called?”

She mumbles her name unsure, unexpectedly acknowledging what had happened to her in the last hour. From her kidnap to her being rescued. It was an experience that forever would be tied to her brain.

“Alright. Would you like some tea? Or maybe water? I’m going to get you some clean clothes in a bit.”

“Don’t-” Her voice shakes, dying out after, “-Don’t leave me alone, please.”

“I won’t,” Natasha puts a strand of her hair behind her ear, the trembling of that poor thing’s hands not going unnoticed, “You’re safe here, feisty one.”

“I’m not feisty at all.” Face dropping to her chest, she feels the most vulnerable she’s felt her whole life. “It’s my fault. I let those guys-”

“Don’t say that. It’s not ever your fault, darling.” Cutting you off, Romanoff is serious when glaring at you, “I’ll wait until my Boss comes around. He’ll protect you while I’m gone, okay?”

“Please, no. I-I, I don’t feel safe, what if he too thinks I’m just a toy to-”

“Natasha?” A deep, masculine voice calls one of her saviour’s out, his tall, imposing frame causing her to shift uncomfortably, shoulders recoiling, “Is she okay?”

“Hmm, she just needs a shower and clothes.” The woman replies, hand warm against her cheek. “Care to watch her while I fetch her some tea?”

“Yes, of course. Is she okay with my presence though? It can’t be easy to be around males after something like that.”

“She’ll be fine as long as you keep your distance, Boss.”

At first, she feels a nagging sensation at the pit of her stomach when he walked inside, the long, blond hair falling in dishevelled locks on his face, which was also covered by a thick layer of hair, a beard that elicited respect. His blue eyes caught her attention too, the sympathy in them brings out a comforting sensation. Still, what steals all of her focus is his scent. It’s like fresh green leaves moist in the garden, petrichor, morning dew, thunder, lightning… That alpha smelt like a thunderstorm.

“You smell good,” She suddenly says, unable to hold herself back, not quite perceiving as to why her inhibitors were so low. Normally, she was a pool of quietness, never speaking unless she was spoken to, the only exception being when she was around the elderly women she usually took care.

He chuckles, taken aback by her bluntness.

“You smell good too, little wolf.”

The nickname warms her up, his presence making her feel free and careless. She knew he was probably doing the same as Natasha, providing her with fresh calm pheromones. In the back of her mind, she took back what she had thought, that they weren’t nice people. In her entire life, she had never had anyone who nurtured her like that. It was refreshing to be treated decently.

Wearily approaching her, he stood at a certain distance, but close enough for her to be staggered by his size. He was big, shoulders broad enough to fit a small child on top of them, his biceps and thighs also very much thick. Even his feet had a size that possibly made hard to find shoes. She doubted ever seeing someone as enormous as him before.

“Can I…?” She nods briefly and feels his weight push down the cushions of the couch. He stares at his large fingers for a while before raising his gaze at her. “Are you cold?”

“A little bit, yes.” There’s a hint of bashfulness when she answers, it’s shrugged off quickly when he strips from his large jacket and drapes it around her shoulders. In doing so, he sees himself forced to picture anything to block the sight of her nudity.

Something about wearing his clothes triggered her, his fragrance filling her up, it was so overwhelming she had to close her eyes, enjoying the euphoria it provided. She wasn’t sure as to why that particular smell came so strong on her, like a shot of whiskey, burning down her nostrils.

“What happened to you, little wolf?” Thor questions, after sitting back again beside her.

“I-I…” The stuttering makes him regret asking about it. His emotions are easily caught by her, his scent changing slightly. “It’s okay. They… They grabbed me when I was walking home, pushed me inside a car and brought me here. I couldn’t… I couldn’t move, I swear.”

“I believe you.” Kindness and understanding drip from his voice. He has to refrain the urge to wrap her in a soothing hug, the fear stench bothers him more than it should. “Have you ever encountered them before?”

“No, never. I don’t really know anybody around, I’ve arrived only a couple of weeks ago.” Tears stream down again as another wave of guilt hits her. “I should have just stayed home. It’s my fault and I’ve brought issues to your pack, I’m really really sorry-”

“You have absolutely nothing to be sorry about.”

He’s just inches away from her and, although she should feel frightened, she allows him. Being around that strange man it’s plain nice and easy, like walking or speaking. Thor has a pinching curiosity flooding his brain as he inhales this Omega’s scent, which gets him high and, once more, he finds him holding back the will to hold her. It awfully weird how his instincts just tell him to take care of that girl.

“Are you feeling any better?”

Natasha’s voice snaps the both of them out of their frenzies, both splitting like a bolt of electricity imploded on the couch. It doesn’t go unnoticed by the red hair, who quirks a brow at her superior. He knows he can’t be involved with anyone, not now when they were so close to a war, it would be unfair to him and anyone in the middle.

“Yes, thanks.” The red hair puts a cup of tea between the Omega’s hand, to which she gains yet another praise of appreciation.

“Hmm, that’s good, little wolf.” Thor mumbles reassuring. “Make sure she is well settled, okay, Natasha? And give her some food too.”

“Yeah, sure, Boss.”

He turns to the door, ready to leave, until he hears a hesitant breath, her scent stinking of doubt. Fuck. Since when do Omegas out of Heat affect him so much? Right that second, all Thor wanted to do was rub his face on her smooth neck, teeth the soft nub he noticed unmarked and make her his. Wipe out this awful arousal that got uncomfortable inside his pants.

“Wait.” It’s barely a whisper. “You never told me your name, Alpha.”

“Oh, I’m sorry.” Swallowing thickly, not wanting to reveal the extent of his intoxication by her, he turns his head only. Catching the puzzling glare Natasha gives at him. “It’s Thor.”

“Okay.” She smiles shyly. “Thank you, Thor.”

“Yeah, you’re welcome, little wolf.”

And as he leaves the living room, his only thought is that he has to find out so much more about this little wolf.

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