#king of scars fic

[thecrxwclub]

zoyalai fic rec list because i’m always in my brainrot era for these two and there aren’t enough fics about them 

i will continue to update this because i’m always finding new fics that i want to tattoo in my brain

dedicated to feentanz for making up like 80% of the ao3 zoyalai tag i’m your biggest fan

CANON-COMPLIANT

Ocean Eyes by feentanz (T) 2.6k

“You know,” he said into the silence. “With all those suitors now asking for your attention, I could begin to feel slightly neglected.” Zoya raised her head, narrowing her eyes ever so slightly. “I think your ego can handle it.” “My ego perhaps, but what about my poor heart?” She smiled at that, brushing some hair back from her eyes while she approached him. He still hadn’t quite gotten used to this version of Zoya, the version who wasn’t hiding from him, who didn’t have to pretend.

wondering if you knew by tsaritsas (NR) 1.5k

Zoya tells Nik how she knew she loved him.

Dearly Beloved by storm_dog_pirate (G) 5.1k

So what should he give to a woman who already had everything? He found that it was difficult to answer. Had he still been a king, he would have offered her plenty, and those words and sweet nothings wouldn't have been empty promises. But he was just Nikolai Lantsov now, barely having anything in his name besides the former royal title and the scars and nightmares he bore.

Zu Ende by feentanz (T) 1.9k

And so she rolled her eyes, following the king into the parlor. “You really like losing, don’t you?” Zoya commented, sitting down at the table where Nikolai had already set down the chessboard. She refrained from commenting on that. He was smirking, sitting down across from her. “Only to you, Nazyalensky,” he replied, and Zoya felt a weird sense of hurt at those words. “Then I hope your wife doesn’t know how to play,” she said, already moving her first piece.

The place in our hearts where we hide by disjointed_scribblings (M) 5.5k

"Someday we’ll see an end to war, and then you and I will take a nap together."

In the days after the peace, four beds where Nikolai and Zoya nap (or "nap").

in the tongue and teeth of old by peterpan_in_neverland (E) 1.2k

“I’ve had an illustrious life, Zoya,” she tells her. His hand skates higher, brushing the conclusion of her sternum, and it makes goosebumps break out between her breasts. “I once slept in wildflowers. A whole field of them.”

The thought of it sounds nice, but admitting that to him feels too close to telling a secret, and she is not yet there; he has her heart and her ribbon in wholes, but the rest of her is coming slowly. She is revealing herself in ebbs and flows like the tide.

“I can't imagine the bugs,” she says.

Somehow We’ll Get There by orangeslices4scott (NR) 1.2k

In the aftermath of the civil war, Nikolai’s injuries take their time in healing.

When the Party’s over by feentanz (T) 1.4k

Nikolai still looked unbothered, her words failing their mark once more. His calmness made it even worse. He didn’t even care enough to react. He didn’t even care enough to explain himself to her. “I thought we were a team,” Zoya added under her breath, despising herself for the weakness. For even saying those words out loud. For even bothering. Apparently he didn’t return the sentiment.

mornings like these by noorakviigmohn (G) 1.1k

Nikolai sighed dramatically and rolled over to the side, so that they were laying side by side again. He threw his arm over his face and groaned. "I need a fucking break."

or, a domestic early-morning scene for our favourite royal couple

Emerald by orangeslices4scott (G) 1.5k

Zoya brings Nikolai back after an episode, but the demon doesn’t want to give up his host.

I Do Aim To Please by StripeySocks (E) 1.5k

Zoya tells Nikolai she's had better lovers. He's determined to give his Queen the ride of her life.

ribbons in her hair by bendingwind (T) 4.2k

Nikolai was laying on the floor in a pool of light, face turned to the ceiling and eyes shut against the sudden intrusion of light.

She stepped inside and shut the door.

Zoya's POV of the cargo hold.

as the morning comes by awanderingtortoise (G) 1k

"Nikolai, at this moment, has decided on two things: the first being that he is a hopelessly lost cause for Zoya Nazyalensky, and the second being that he does not think he will ever stop smiling again."

POST-KoS (before the release for RoW)

our first lifetime  by laurore_stormwitch (NR) 1.9k

Nikolai reflects on the aftermath of the war, enjoying a peaceful moment with Zoya, and finds the courage to voice his hopes and dream for the future.

Too Afraid by feentanz (T) 2k

The bed moved as Zoya shifted beside him, some of her hair brushing over Nikolai’s arm. He felt his entire body tense at the touch, not even quite certain why. How had he ended up here? To be precise, he did know how. Nikolai and the Triumvirate had been on a mission to Northern Ravka when a nearby village had been attacked, and his general had very recklessly decided that she should be the one to defend it. Without an army, just her alone. Naturally Nikolai had followed her, and so they had ended up here, in a small cabin in a deserted village, caught up in a snowstorm. And the small room only had one bed, and no heating.

This is me Trying by feentanz (T) 5.2k

“Nikolai-” she began, but the music had stopped, and everyone around them had stopped moving. There was something on his face that she couldn’t quite read, something that looked almost like… longing. But then Ehri was there, and Kirigin was back at her side, and the moment was gone. 

Nostalgia Cycle by feentanz (T) 2.9k

She raised her head now, seemingly waiting for a reply. Her hand was still resting against his chest, and yet her face was now directly in front of his own, her eyes imploring. “Don’t tell me you don’t have a plan,” Zoya said quietly, voice barely more than a whisper. “I expected better, Your Highness.” A small smirk played around her lips, and she looked so beautiful that Nikolai could barely breathe. “I like to improvise,” he replied, but his voice was raw and didn’t sound like his own. He couldn’t look away, couldn’t break eye contact. He almost wished Zoya would turn away, putting him out of his misery. He didn’t wish to long for something he could never have. 

CANON-DIVERGENT

This is me Trying by feentanz (T) 5.2k

“Nikolai-” she began, but the music had stopped, and everyone around them had stopped moving. There was something on his face that she couldn’t quite read, something that looked almost like… longing. But then Ehri was there, and Kirigin was back at her side, and the moment was gone.

all i ask by awanderingtortoise (T) 2.8k

Bravado comes easier than honesty, though tonight the late hour and glasses of wine make the latter seem far more real a possibility than should be. He suspects he’s had a bit too many drinks; head light and lips loose and an excess of truth brimming in his throat.

Capital Letters by feentanz (T) 3.7k

Genya is doing her very best to bring Nikolai and Zoya together, of course unaware that they are already secretely seeing each other. Until something goes wrong, and the secret dares to be exposed.

Nostalgia Cycle by feentanz (T) 2.9k

She raised her head now, seemingly waiting for a reply. Her hand was still resting against his chest, and yet her face was now directly in front of his own, her eyes imploring. “Don’t tell me you don’t have a plan,” Zoya said quietly, voice barely more than a whisper. “I expected better, Your Highness.” A small smirk played around her lips, and she looked so beautiful that Nikolai could barely breathe. “I like to improvise,” he replied, but his voice was raw and didn’t sound like his own. He couldn’t look away, couldn’t break eye contact. He almost wished Zoya would turn away, putting him out of his misery. He didn’t wish to long for something he could never have. 

AU

How to be a Heartbreaker by feentanz (T) 8k

As Head Girl and Head Boy of Slytherin, Zoya and Nikolai are used to working together - although it is different, once they have to attend the annual Yule Ball together. Although of course, neither of them is interested in the other. Right?

Ne bis in idem by ThisQueenShallConquer (E) 7.3k

Working side by side with him was a difficult thing at the best of times, but there would be moments where he'd roll his sleeves up his toned forearms, or undo the first few buttons of his shirt, and she would find her self-restraint slipping.

Or, a Zoylai Lawyer!AU where everyone's sleep deprived and Zoya really deserves to get laid.

Cruel Intentions by feentanz (E) 8k

Nikolai stopped in front of her, resting his arms on either side of her head. Zoya’s gaze was resting on him, that dangerous spark still in her eyes. “Scared?” she commented, pursing her lips. He couldn’t think straight like this. Nikolai stepped away, already opening the door to the cage. “No one has ever won against me, Nazyalensky.” Zoya rolled her eyes dramatically, slipping into the fighting ring before him. “Always so cocky,” she drawled, turning around to face him again. Some strands of dark hair had fallen into her face, and he fought the urge to tug them behind her ear. 

like real people do by storm_dog_pirate and wafflesandkruge (T) 20.2k (5/15)

Paris, 1961.

Zoya Nazyalensky was left with no choice but to work for the organization that held her family's fate in their hands. Even as she rose through the ranks and gained respect, failure was still inevitable. And when she happens to blow one crucial mission because of her poor judgment, the reputation she’d worked so hard to build crumbles to nothing.

Nikolai Lantsov prided himself as an expert of "complicated acquisition", until he was caught by the CIA and offered an ultimatum: work for them or spend his life behind bars. But after failing the last mission that would have finally let him walk free, his contract with them is extended.

Coffee At Midnight by herewego19 (G) 1.3k

Nikolai takes Zoya on an adventure.

[silverskye13]

DEADNAME! as a hk song? both referring to wels and previous champions? not a perfect fit but it kinda matches his vibe

You are absolutely correct DEADNAME! Is a great song for him, however I cannot put that song on his playlist because it is also on my Nonbinary Jams playlist, and he WILL become nonbinary if I do that, and I cannot switch pronouns mid plot--

[grishaverse-chaos]

hmmm something about dominik haunting the narrative in king of scars. everything nikolai does is at least a little bit for him. he learns about the life of average ravkan people by meeting dominik's family. he starts gaining influence in politics just so he can improve dominik's life. and then he promises dominik that he won't let ravka break him.

that promise fucking haunts him. it follows him wherever he goes. it's the driving force behind everything he does, every step he takes to heal the centuries-old wounds in ravka. it's what drives him to do better, be better.

dominik is always there, in the back of his mind: this country gets you in the end. always pushing him to do more, because he couldn't save dominik and so he has to save ravka (for dominik) (because he promised) (because he loved him)

[bladeinthedark]

Pairing: Nikolai Lantsov x female!reader Request: hi! could i request a nikolai x heartrender reader where the reader helps comfort/take care of nikolai after he turns back to himself after turning into the monster one night? tysm! <3

Summary: When everything is falling apart around Nikolai, you’re there to support him and bring more peace into his life. Words: 4k Warnings: mentions of blood/injuries, lots of angst

You had been in the King’s service for quite a while. When you had first joined the Second Army as a child, you never imagined to one day find yourself in the King of Ravka’s inner circle, but now you were one of the first to be called to the King if he needed help. 

The help you could offer was mostly connected to the powers gifted to you. Being a heartrender secured lots of different tasks in the King’s service for you, but there was one task given you that was the most important.

Countless times you had sat on the King’s bedside, your fingers moving over his palm as you slowed down his heartbeat. Nikolai’s dishevelled blonde hair was spread over the pillow, his eyes losing focus again and again as he desperately tried to look at you. “It’s alright, moi tsar,” you whispered, your voice reflecting the desperation inside you. It hurt you to see him like this. Over and over again. 

When his eyes closed, his heartbeat slowing to a sleepy rate, you stayed for a bit longer than needed. How many times would you have to do this again?

Today had been a slow day at the palace. Genya had left this morning to head out to a First Army camp, Zoya leaving to take a ship to Kerch for some private business she had. That meant you and Nikolai were basically alone in the palace for a few days. At least when it came to your friends. 

David was still there, but he didn’t like to come out of his workshop anyway, unless Genya made him. 

However, just because your two closest friends were away didn’t mean you didn’t have any work to do. You had a heartrendering lesson to teach today, out on the grounds of the Little Palace, with the teens this time. You didn’t have a preference when it came to teaching different age groups, but all of them had a different way of listening to you and then learning from the moves you made. 

It was a stormy day today and the clouds were dark, heavy with the upcoming rain. You liked to train outside and teach with the fresh air around you. It was a calming atmosphere for a lot of students and for you as well.

Yet your time was cut short. It soon started pouring rain, thunder roaring in the sky and you quickly directed everyone to get back inside the palace. “We will continue the lesson tomorrow,” you assured them. You wanted to teach a new unit and it wasn’t worth it trying to gather everyone in a room again. Until silence would have settled, your time would already be over. 

So you spent the rest of your day going over letters that had been sent to you in your office. You cut them open neatly, read through them and then made two different piles. The one on your left would be for letters that didn’t require a response and the one on your right would be the ones that you had to get back to at some point. The right pile ended up being much higher than the first one.

You dipped your quill into a small bottle of ink, starting to write your letter to a Commander of the First Army. He had requested a few Second Army troops, but you couldn’t give him what he wanted at the moment. 

A knock on the door made you look up from the parchment. “Come in,” you said, but you already knew who it was. You would recognise that heartbeat anywhere. It was the one you so frequently looked for, calming it, gifting this heart a well needed rest. 

“Moi tsar,” you greeted the King when he closed the door behind him. He was wearing his uniform, blond hair slightly dishevelled, a few strands hanging down onto his forehead. He pushed the sleeves of his brown jacket up as he made his way over to you. Your desk was standing by the window, the lightning outside illuminating the scene every now and then. 

“You still call me that every time,” Nikolai chuckled, pulling the chair from your dressing table over to the desk. He sat down opposite of you, a grin on his face. “What is my favourite heartrender working on, huh?” He seemed to be in a good mood. Just a few nights ago you had visited his chambers to free him from his pain again. To free him from the hold the monster had on him even after it visibly disappeared.

Nikolai had become more than just your prince or your king over the years. He had become a good friend, a best friend. You trusted him with your life and he trusted you with his. 

After the monster had settled inside him after that fateful fight, he came to you for help. He knew you couldn’t make it go away, but you could grant him a little peace every time that dark storm raged inside him again. He trusted you, to make this your shared secret and to look after him in some way. This situation made your bond even stronger, unbreakable. Whenever his body ached, his heart dared to burst out of his chest and he was haunted by visions and nightmares, you were there to bring him calm, like the sound of soft ocean waves hitting the shore or the birds singing outside of his window. 

Nikolai wasn’t too sure if what he was feeling in his stomach sometimes, when he looked at you, was only the feeling of relief, someone coming to help him. It felt more like something that reached a lot deeper. 

He had so much admiration for you. Even when his limbs were filled with pain, when his hands felt like they were on fire, shivers sometimes ran through his body whenever you touched him. Your soft fingertips running over his skin left a mark on him no one else could. He wanted to carry that feeling around all day, at all times. 

“Just answering some letters. There have been quite a few letters from the First Army,” you explained to him, but placed the quill down to make sure Nikolai knew he had all your attention.

“And what is my favourite king doing on a stormy day like this?” You asked, a smile on your face. Talking to Nikolai always felt so easy, so natural. There were no secrets between you two.

Except for the yearning deep inside you. The urge to kiss his forehead whenever you helped him fall asleep. The desire to lace your fingers together whenever he put his hand out to you. His pink lips looking so inviting when you came to check up on him in the morning. 

Everything about Nikolai was admirable. His looks, his personality, even the way he carried himself. Yet you felt like giving in to these feelings, your deepest desires, would be a death sentence for your friendship. 

For you, Nikolai was a good friend. For others, he was their king, representing a country that had been divided for centuries. He had more important things to do than form a deeper relationship with a heartrender in his service. There was enough space for you in his life to be a friend, but your love might be too big to fit his chest in times like these.

You could still dream about it at night though. Every now and then.

“I’m your favourite king? I didn’t know there was another one,” he chuckled and then picked one of the grapes from your fruit bowl. You always kept something to eat around when you were working on your desk.

“I started to-” he said with a full mouth, but then paused to speak clearly again. “I started going over some documents as well. Was really boring though, so I’m here now to check up on you.”

Nikolai did complain about his work load sometimes, but you knew that he would do even more if he had to. He would do anything for this country and make it a peaceful, balanced place again after all the chaos it had to endure over the years. The Darkling’s terror was over, as was the horrible irresponsibly of his father. The young king was here to put things right again. 

“Well, I’m glad you’re keeping me company. The palace is a lot more quiet when Genya and Zoya are gone, don’t you think?” You leaned back in your chair, crossing your legs while Nikolai continued to eat some of the grapes. 

“Yeah, it is. I don’t see David getting dragged around as much as usual.”

You let out a chuckle at his answer, crossing your arms in front of your chest. “He needs to get out of the workshop sometimes, you know that.”

“I do, I do,” the blonde man insisted, eventually playing with the letters you had deemed as unimportant. “So, will you join me for dinner tonight?”

Dinner? You didn’t know when you had dinner alone, just the two of you, for the last time.

“Just us. Won’t even drag David out of the workshop.”

A tingling sensation spread in your stomach. A dinner for just the two of you sounded almost too good to be true. But it was surely a thing between friends. Catching up on recent work, enjoying a day inside since the weather was so horrible…

“I would love to,” you agreed eventually, nodding reassuringly.

A grin spread over Nikolai’s face and his eyes lit up. Not only due to the lightning that basked your room in light again. 

“Then I will see you at the usual time, my favourite heartrender.”

Then he was gone, leaving you with a fast beating heart and the urge to count down the seconds until dinner. 

Dinner with Nikolai never came.

You sat in the dining hall at the long table, in your usual spot, right next to the King’s seat at the head of the table. The rain was still splattering against the window rapidly, the candles on the table were reflecting their light onto the polished plates in front of you. 

Your hands fumbled with the sleeves of your red kefta, a sigh leaving your lips. 

The white and golden walls of the room were starting to make you feel trapped in this room. Guards were standing outside, but the room itself, it was empty, except for you. 

The eerie silence was only interrupted by the pitter-patter of the rain and the thunder roaring outside. Your gaze travelled over portraits and expensive furniture, over all the gold and glamour you were surrounded with.

Anything to distract you from the pressure in your chest.

Did Nikolai just forget about your meeting? No, he wasn’t someone to do that.

Did he deem something else as more important? Maybe, but he would have told you. He would have sent someone to inform you about any changes in his schedule, especially if there was something planned with you.

Did something happen to him? 

The thought alone sent a wave of nausea through you. Your fingers tapped against the polished table, feeling continuously nervous. You couldn’t just sit around here all night. 

You pushed back the chair and then stormed towards the large double doors that led back into the hallway of the palace. 

“Miss-”

It was probably one of the guards wanting to stop you from leaving. He probably had some kind of excuse on his lips why you should stay, but you knew that something must have happened if Nikolai didn’t appear at the promised time. 

Too much time had already passed. He could be dead by now. And you had been sitting around, waiting for the food to be served. 

When you turned the corner, wanting to head straight to Nikolai’s office to look if he was there, David came rushing towards you. His hair was even more dishevelled than usual, sweat was pooling on his forehead and he was out of breath by the time he reached you. 

“Where is Nikolai?” 

It was all you said. He must know. 

“He’s in his chambers. I was about to call you for-” 

You didn’t need another explanation. Without waiting a second longer, you left David standing in the hallway and your feet took you to Nikolai’s chambers as fast as you could. The walls around you seemed to be spinning by the time you arrived in the other wing of the palace, standing in front of the king’s chambers. 

“Saints,” you breathed out, already being able to hear Nikolai’s rapid heartbeat. 

You slipped into his room, locking the door behind you. 

Nikolai was sitting on the edge of the bed, blood running down his temple, claws still present on his hands. He was shirtless, his chest filled with bruises and scratches. 

Your heart almost stopped. You didn’t like to see him in pain. Then there was the overwhelming urge to take it from him, to tend to his wounds somehow, even if you weren’t a healer. 

“Nikolai,” you breathed out and he turned to look at you. He seemed to look right past you for a moment, until his eyes seemed to fill with tears. “My favourite heartrender,” he croaked, lifting his arm to reach out to you.

In a few big steps, you were by the bed, in front of him. 

You knew he had turned into the monster again. He had probably fought with an animal, maybe losing himself between tree branches again, their sharp ends poking through his skin. Your hands found his and he visibly tensed up again. 

“The claw-” he started, but you were quick to interrupt him. 

“I don’t care, Nikolai. I don’t care,” you whispered, voice breaking as tears welled up in your eyes as well. All this pain for a young man with already too much weight on his shoulders.

For a moment, you closed your eyes, focusing on his heart rate once more. As you had done so many times before. His heartbeat was a familiar sound in your ear, a sound following to your dreams as if it was pounding exactly like yours. 

Nikolai relaxed, his heart slowing down once more and his breathing regulating again as well. 

“It’s alright,” you whispered and kneeled down in front of him. His claws slowly disappeared and you watched him close his eyes for a moment. His jaw unclenched and a single tear ran down his cheek, but you were quick to wipe it away.

“Everything’s alright,” you reassured him, slowly getting back onto your feet and grabbing a towel from the nearby dressing table. With precision, you wiped the blood off his temple, before sitting down next to him on the bed. 

Nikolai didn’t look at you for what seemed like an eternity. His gaze was fixed on his hands as if they were displaying a horror he had never seen before. His breathing stayed the same but you could feel his heartbeat slowly rising once more. Your hand found its way onto his back, trying to keep him calm, using your powers to assist that goal. 

The lightning outside lit up the room again. You could see more blood stains on Nikolai’s arms and his chest. His blonde hair was darker from dirt gathered in it. A sign of his journey, of the fate he was haunted by. 

The monster would always be a part of him.

And comforting him would always be your priority.

“Want me to run you a bath?” You asked softly, fingers gliding over his bare back. Under different circumstances, you would have used the time to enjoy the view in front of you. Seeing his bare skin, his hard chest and wondering what it would feel like to let your lips meet his soft skin.

But this was far from any of the scenarios you wished for in your head.

A nod from your king. 

You left him in his bed for a moment as you prepared the bathtub in the adjacent bathroom. You also got some fresh towels ready as well as some thin pants for Nikolai to sleep in, together with his night robe. 

By the time everything was prepared, Nikolai was standing in the door already. He seemed a bit more collected now. “I need that bath,” he mumbled and started opening his pants. You turned around, staring at the wall in front of you with burning cheeks. 

When you heard Nikolai settle in the bathtub, you dared to turn around again. The bubbles and foam were covering enough so you could only make out parts of the man’s chest. It still didn’t stop your own heartbeat from rising. Tending to his wounds was usually less intimate than watching him lean back in the bathtub, arms resting on either side of it. 

“I will wait in the bedroom,” you assured him, but you were just by the door as his voice sounded through the room again. 

“Stay here.”

You turned around to face him and there was a desperation in his eyes you hadn’t seen before. They seemed to be pleading with you to stay, to not leave him alone. 

“I will.”

His expression relaxed once more and then he reached out for you. Your legs felt weak as you made your way closer to the tub, eventually letting your hands meet. His fingers intertwined with yours easily, as if they belonged into that position. Your eyes met again and the pain in them was gone. It had made space for something else – adoration. 

His hazel eyes closed for another moment and when he opened them again, tears were dwelling on the edges, but a smile was on visible on his lips. “Thank you for doing this. For… all of this,” he whispered, his voice almost being drowned out by the sound of the rain outside. 

You slowly knelt down to bring yourself to about the same height as Nikolai in the bathtub. Your other hand went to cover his as you kept it in a strong hold. You could feel the pulse in his arms, the loud beating of his heart and you knew that he was enjoying this moment just as much as you were. It just raised the question inside of you where all of this would go eventually. Would you be able to confess your feelings for the King? For someone you had sworn to protect and serve, but had found a good friend in instead? 

His hand let go of yours and for a moment, you felt disappointment sink into your stomach. But Nikolai’s hand soon found the back of your neck, warmth spreading there and goosebumps making their way to every part of your body. You held your breath for a second as you felt a slight pressure on your neck. Nikolai moved you just a bit closer as he leaned forward as well. You were able to feel his breath on your lips, a shiver running down your back. You were so close – close enough to kiss. 

“Can I?” His voice was barely more than a whisper. 

The words were stuck in your throat, so all you did was nod, too afraid to destroy the moment and the silence between you. 

Then his lips were on yours, light as a feather, but it seemed to shake you to your core. It felt wonderful, almost like flying, and as if a heavy weight was finally taken from your shoulder. The heat in your cheeks was rising, your hand finding its way into Nikolai’s blonde hair, slightly wet from the bath. 

The pressure on your neck increased, so you moved forward a bit, enough to make it easier for the kiss to become deeper, more passionate. Kissing someone had never felt this good and when your hands cupped Nikolai’s cheeks, you could practically hear his heartbeat jumping. His hand stayed in your neck, a sign that he didn’t want this to end. Maybe ever. 

Only when you had to breathe again, did you dare to pull away. His eyes were darker, filled with a tint of lust, but more importantly, his breathing had changed. It was faster, like his heartbeat. “You don’t know how many times I had wanted to do this.” 

His confession was unexpected, but very welcome. “Me too.” It was just fair that he knew your feelings as well. For a moment, you regretted not saying something, or doing something, sooner, so you could have enjoyed this a lot earlier. But everything was perfect the way it was. 

Slowly, with wobbly legs, you stood up again, but your eyes never left Nikolai’s as you walked over and grabbed a bathrobe and towels for him. “As much as I like kissing you, I think you need to wash all the blood off and get into your bed. Then maybe, you can get another kiss?”

A grin appeared on the King’s face at your words. It was filled with love, adoration and most importantly, he seemed happy. His shoulders didn’t look as tense anymore and the horror in his face had left, traces of the monster inside him fully retreated. 

“Then I must get to bed immediately,” he agreed and as he slowly lifted himself out of the tub, you turned around to give him his privacy. 

You watched the lightning outside, seeing the branches of the trees shaking in the wind. It was a beautiful sight, but you shivered at the thought of Nikolai being out there earlier, flying through the storm, coming back with wounds and blood all over him. 

Arms wrapped around your waist, Nikolai’s head resting on your shoulder as he pulled you closer against him from behind. The bathrobe felt soft against you, but his breath at your cheek was enough to make your legs feel weak as well. A kiss was planted onto your cheek and you could feel Nikolai’s heartbeat slowing down more and more. He was relaxing, finally getting some emotional rest. But you would have to get him to bed as well, so he can let his body regenerate. 

“Let’s go to bed,” you whispered, before turning around in his arms. Hands found their way to your hips as you looked at the man in front of you. The smile was still apparent on his lips, the same excitement and love in his eyes as before. “I can’t even say no to you when you say it like that,” he smiled, taking your hand again as he walked back into his bedroom, eventually getting into bed himself. 

You sat down on the edge again, taking his hand into your own and moving two fingers up and down on his arm. “Are you going to make me sleep again?” His voice was soft and you would have thought it might indicate that he did not want to sleep yet, but his tired eyes, now struggling to stay open, spoke another story. 

“If you want me to,” you answered, not forcing anything upon him. When the beast didn’t let go of his heart, making it race over and over, and he wasn’t able to calm down, then you did force him to sleep once or twice. But Nikolai seemed alright now, not in need of heartrending-induced sleeping. 

“I do. But only after you’ve given me a kiss,” he demanded, sitting up a bit in bed again as he leant forward to you. A smile on his lips, he pursed his lips, expecting a kiss from you. 

You were certainly not going to deny him that. 

Leaning forward, your lips met again, the same intoxicating feeling making its way through your body. Your hands cupped his warm cheeks, smiling into the kiss as you fully enjoyed the goosebumps, the shivers, all the sensations this was giving you. Nikolai’s lips felt like heaven, there was no doubt about it. 

When you pulled away again, his cheeks had turned a darker colour, but he let himself drop into the pillow with a satisfied smile. 

“Goodnight, my favourite heartrender,” he whispered, smile on his lips as he closed his eyes.

You couldn’t hold back your own smile and the content feeling in your stomach become even more apparent. 

“Goodnight, Nikolai.”

You sat there for another moment. You would always keep him safe.

[hagnoart]

It’s finally time to share my first piece for the @grishaversebigbang

The art is based on a fic by @dregstrash @wafflesandkruge and @rietveldbrothers (they’re all freaking legends istg, this story is insane!). You can find the fic on ao3 it’s a Zoyalai Top Gun Au… need I say more?

Materialki: @iri-lynx (xx) and @mfrov95 (xx) their art is so so wonderful, go give them some love!

[frost-queen]

For the picking (Reader x Nikolai Lantsov)

Requested by: @lareinaa007 Forever tag:@missmelodramatic, @merlin-dahlia, @alex--awesome--22 @elllie-does-the-posts, @floatlosers, @merlieve, @queen-of-books, @glimmering-darling-dolly@denkisclown, @wildieflower, @meyocoko, @bubblybrianna, @justanothercoco@subjecta13-thefangirl, @m-rae23, @harleyquinnswifeyfrfr, @swampthing07, @melsunshine, @panhoeofmanyfandoms, @venomsvl, @the-uncoordinated-house-cat, @rosecentury,  @imagines-by-her, @vviolynn, @evilcr0ne

Summary: I altered the storyline a bit I think cause I haven't read KOS yet sorry. Reader is one of the potential brides for the King. She doesn't like him, thinking he is stuck up for bringing all these princesses here to pick from. After he saves you from drowning, you have a heart to heart by the fireplace.

Wheels toggled over the gravely road. Picking up dust with it’s speed. Carriage wobbling around as those inside got shaken. You sighed annoyed spreading your arms to held yourself in place. – “Only a few more miles.” – One of your father’s loyal servants said. Practically his right hand, signed to accompany on this trip of potential marriage with the king. The wheel hit a rock, bouncing you up in the carriage. You landed back down, tiara moved forwards on your head.

It made you groan loud puffing some hair out of your face. – “You’ll have plenty of time to fix yourself once we arrive.” – he spoke adjusting his gloves. As if not effected by the rough terrain. You reached for your tiara, pulling it out of your hair. The second you raised it up, he clicked his tongue waving his finger in disagreement. – “It is already ruined.” – you puffed out. He gestured for you to set it back down.

“Do you truly wish for the king to see me like this?” – you mocked with a sarcastic smile. He cleared his throat making you roll your eyes. You set the tiara back down, handling it as best as you could around it. Tugging some loose strays aside as best as you could. Exhaling deep, you leaned back against the seat with your arms crossed. Osmo sighed briefly. – “Perhaps you could admire the view?” – he suggested with a gesture at the outdoors.

You brought your chest up a bit, taking a peek outside. Nothing but the same boring old road in sight. – “No thank you.” – you answered letting yourself fall back. Osmo sighed again pinching the bridge of his nose. – “Princess you have to work on your enthusiasm. How do you expect the king to pick you with this attitude.” – he said. You raised your eyebrow quick. – “Perhaps that is my goal.” – you answered with a sneer. Osmo straightened his posture, folding his hands together on his lap.

“Princess I hope I don’t have to remind you of your duties and the stakes?” – Osmo narrowed his eyes, mimicking a glance that reminded you of your father’s scowl. You sighed out obediently. – “No, I have not forgotten why I am here.” – you told him pulling your glove by your elbow a bit up. – “Meet the King, seduce him, become Queen and live an unhappy marital life with a king who chose me for simply how I look or how pretty I talk.” – you declared making Osmo clear his throat in disagreement.

“Princess!” – he slightly rose his voice making you raise an eyebrow. He apologized with a deep sigh only a father figure could. – “I am well aware of your disproval of this potential marriage but think of your duties. Think of our people, think of the alliances it could bring. Our lands are being threatened by Grisha. We cannot fight them.” – Osmo declared hitting you with regret and remorse.

“You are right.” – you answered folding to your duties. – “It doesn’t mean you should like it, but please try to see all the good from it.” – he reached his hand out to take yours. – “For our people.” – he gave your hand a good squeeze making you smile faintly at him. Having Osmo around was both a curse and a blessing. A curse for he would make sure you offer yourself to the king, not giving you any chance at escaping. A blessing for you had known him your entire life.

He had been there ever since you were born. Whenever father was busy with his duties Osmo would take the time and either entertain you or calmly tell you that now was not a good time to disturb your father and that he would make sure he’d come see you after. If there should by anyone by your side right now, it should be him. Your father’s most trusted friend and advisor. Osmo let go of your hand, turning his attention to a little notebook he pulled out of his pocket. You took a deep breath, looking outside. Your doom approaching closer as you saw the waters in the distance.

Once where the fold was far behind you. The carriage came to a stop by the castle. Osmo got out first, offering you his hand as you stepped out. The sight of many other eligible princesses, you swallowed nervously. – “There are so many.” – you whispered to Osmo who placed a hand on your lower back. Perhaps to keep you in touches range so you wouldn’t run. He guided you closer to the slowly growing larger crowd of princesses and their guardians. Some were personal maidens as others were captains of the guard. A few lords with a high status within the inner circle as you recognized the pin clipped on their uniform.

Each and all likeable in their own way. Osmo pushed you closer to a girl in a red dress. She glanced briefly to you with a whiff of attitude. It made you roll your eyes. – “Don’t pay attention to them.” – Osmo whispered to you. You coughed loud, waving your hand in front of you when a girl walked passed consumed by an overwhelming perfume. – “How can I not.” – you coughed out as the sensation tickled your nose. Osmo simply gave you a stare to not be so dramatic.

It made you shrug your shoulders as another carriage came to a stop at the castle. Osmo furrowed his brows, taking out his pocket watch. You peeked curiously at the time. He tugged it away once more, clearing his throat. – “What is it Osmo?” – you asked seeing him trying to overlook those standing before him. – “Why are we not greeted yet? Brought inside? Where are the king’s manners?” – he mumbled to himself. You didn’t agree mostly with Osmo, but now you were wondering it too.

“Perhaps he has already found a bride and we are simply gawking here catching flies.” – you said with a chuckle. Osmo sighed loud at your foolish attempt of a joke. – “I’m sure it won’t be long till the King comes and greet us.” – he answered. Looking around you noticed some others were getting suspicious of this unusual greeting. Perhaps he had forgotten he had invited so many eligible princesses from all around in the hopes to find a wife among them.

You were about to convince Osmo to leave as nothing was budging when the large doors opened slowly. In the midst of it appeared a figure in a blue uniform. You stared questionable at him as he stepped through the doors, clasping his hands together. A cocky smile on his lips. – “Princesses.” – he addressed rubbing his hands together. Some giggled at the attention of being addressed. – “It is an honor to all see you. I hope your travels have been well.” – he said as you immediately got from it that he was King Nikolai Lantsov. Some princesses answered.

“It has been well, your majesty.” – a girl in a green dressed dropped into a curtsy. Nikolai smiled pleasingly at all the attention. He clapped loud in his hands startling a few girls. – “Let us get to know each other. If you would all follow me.” – he gestured with his hand behind you. You and many others turned to see what there was. The king walked amongst the princesses as they made way for him to lead the way. – “Your majesty… are we not being welcomed inside?” – a bold one dared to ask him as she strutted beside him.

Nikolai smiled. – “You are all to be welcomed, just not inside.” – he gestured once more for everyone to follow him. Osmo nudged you to follow the king. A princess puffed loud beside you. – “He’s taking us outdoors. Doesn’t he know this weather is making my skin humid.” – she whined out pulling her gloves higher up than possible. The servant she was with started fanning her. The kings intention of meeting outside wasn’t much appreciated.

Many princesses were huffing and puffing at the hike they were forced on. You looked at Osmo with a glance how foolish this was. Osmo tried not to sigh loudly at that. – “He’s maybe an alternative type?” – he whispered to you not sure what to say to this idea. You hummed mockingly in agreement. You sighed loud at the sight of the sea. Nikolai smiled presenting everyone with his ship. – “Let’s all get on board.” – he said happily as some princesses groaned. – “Is this why we hiked almost through all of Ravka for a ship?” – you heard someone complain. – “My feet hurt.” – another one complained.

Osmo placed a hand on your shoulder. – “He’ll never pick them with their whining. The chances are growing in our odds.” – he told you making you roll your eyes. Even now he still only thought of your duty. All of you board his ship with the help of him. Nikolai was waiting at the top, offering his hand to every princess to help them on his ship. Osmo bowed to the king as he got on, helped out by one of the crew. You were just behind Osmo when a hand got practically shoved in your face.

“Princess.” – he said ever so sweetly it made you nauseous. You kept your hand by your side not needing his assistance. Certainly not from such a bloated king. Nikolai furrowed his brows when you ignored his hand attempting to get on it yourself. He saw you struggle a bit, placing his hand on your lower back. – “Allow me to help you.” – he spoke taking your elbow as well. With a shove, you pushed his hand off you. – “I can assist myself!” – you called out. Nikolai moved his hands back watching you try to get up.

“Are… are you sure you don’t need any assistance?” – he asked as you looked over your shoulder to him with a glare. The king swallowed laying off. Osmo came to the rescue pulling you on board. – “Don’t.” – you told him before he could give you a lecture. Osmo simply sighed deep as if once again unable to handle an untamed daughter. You joined the others gathering around on the ship. Once everyone was on board, got you lined up. Your guardians standing a few paces behind you. Nikolai went down the line, greeting each and every one in person. You puffed loud with a roll of your eyes.

How conceited you thought he was. This wasn’t a marital allegiance; this was a fair where the best looking animal got picked out to win a prize. You felt like a toy waiting to be possibly picked up by the king who wants to play with it. You heard Osmo clear his throat behind you, making you straighten your posture with a sigh. You couldn’t hide it away. You didn’t want to be here and it kind of showed. The king was nearing you as you tugged at your gloves. Nikolai said his goodbyes to the princess as his eyes met up with yours. He stepped to the one beside you, yet his eyes rested on you. You ignored his stare too stubborn to give him any attention.

Nikolai started speaking to the girl beside you but with haste. He didn’t take his time as he did with others. He took her hand, pressing his other hand on top of hers. He then moved on to you. – “Your majesty.” – you said dropping into a curtsy. – “I’m glad you have made it aboard my ship.” – he answered with a chuckle.

You found him anything but funny. Wanting to have this greeting over as fast as possible you introduced yourself. – “Princess Y/n.” – curtsying again. Nikolai whispered your name in repeat with a smile. – “Tell me Princess Y/n what are some of your likes.” – he asked making you snort loud. He raised an eyebrow with a funny smile. – “Am I that amusing?” – he replied chuckling. You favored him with a sarcastic smile. – “Is this the base you will find a wife upon?” – you asked him without any shame. Nikolai’s funny charade dropped. You clasped your hands together between the folds of your dress. – “Tell me my king am I pleasing your choice with my beauty or has this gathering given me the wrong impression?” – you leaned a bit closer to him with a big smile.

You could practically hear Osmo restrain himself from strangling you there and then. Nikolai chuckled nervously. You dropped into a curtsy letting him know to move on. He cleared his throat moving on, yet his eyes lingered on you. You caught him staring, trying not to give in to it. Once the King had spoken with every princess, the line scattered. Small groups of princesses got formed as the King mingled from group to group. You stood a bit aside with Osmo near the railing. Osmo sighed deep pinching his nose bridge.

“Y/n! Honestly did you truly have to make such a fool of the King?” – Osmo scolded with disappointment. You swallowed nervously, knowing he only used your name when he was truly cross or disappointed with you. – “There is too much at stake. Can’t you for once put your pride aside. These prejudices against the King have to stop.” – he told you.

You lowered your gaze, shoulders untensing. – “My apologies Osmo.” – you said softly. You never liked it when he was cross with you. The feeling burning hard through your veins. Osmo took a deep sigh grabbing onto the railing. – “This isn’t a game Y/n.” – he said looking up to the blue skies. Barely a cloud in sight. – “When will you grow up and take up your responsibilities?” – he breathed out as his words cut you deep. Blinking quickly you hoped to keep your tears at bay. – “I…I…” – you started wanting to apologize when Osmo tapped the railing hard. – “I’ll go fetch you a drink. Remain here.” – he spoke out taking his leave before you could finish your words. – “I’m sorry.” – you whispered out.

Grabbing onto the railing you exhaled loud. Out of the corner of your eye you saw a dazzling figure approach. The princess who had stood beside you in line was smiling rather wickedly at you. As if she had a devilish plan in her head, still debating to give in to it or not. You straightened your posture to her. – “Yes?” – you asked direct as she giggled amusingly with a hand on her chest. – “Why are you here?” – she asked bluntly. – “Same as you.” – you answered with a gesture. – “To woo the king in marrying one of us.” – you replied with little intention to mock her. She scoffed loud. – “Is this a joke to you?” – she called out crossing her arms.

“Why are you here when you are clearly not interested.” – she said loud untangling her arms again. – “Forced?” – you replied with a shrug of your shoulders. The princess turned her head seeing the King look your way with a certain glance in his eyes. It made her grit her teeth. You weren’t even trying yet it seemed the King was interested in you. – “Unfair!” – she suddenly called out giving you a little shove. – “Hey!” – you called back in shock. The moment she saw that Nikolai was occupied in a conversation she grabbed you by the arms. – “Let me go!” – you said trying to break free.

“You don’t deserve the King.” – she grunted out pushing you hard against the railing. With a bit more force was she able to toss you overboard. You lost your balance, toggling over the railing into the cold waters. A splash washed up when you hit the water. The splash caught everyone’s attention. Nikolai’s gaze flashed in your direction immediately spotting you were gone. He quickly pushed some people aside wanting to reach the railings fast.

Grabbing the railing hard, he stared over it down to the waters. The vibration of the water letting him know something had disturbed it. He didn’t hesitate to jump after you. There were loud gasps when Nikolai jumped over the railing into the water. Your head emerged above the water, sputtering out water. Waving your hands around, you felt yourself sink more at the weight of your dress. Your head went under again, water clouding your vision. – “Princess Y/n!” – Nikolai called out swimming over to you.

The moment you went back under, he took a deep breath, going under. The water was cold, colder than he expected, yet it didn’t stop him. Underwater he saw you sink deeper into the emptiness of the waters. Nikolai swam and dove down after you. He scooped his arm around you, kicking his feet to change his position under water. Head upwards, he started kicking his feet to reach the surface. He felt the weight of your dress in his arm, but despite it he didn’t let go. His breath was nearing as he needed to breath fast. His head emerged above water, gasping loud.

Your head came above water too as he wiped his hand over your cheeks in a useless attempt to dry you. – “Princess Y/n. Princess Y/n can you hear me?” – Nikolai spoke staring desperately at you to give him a sign of life. Your chest spasmed as you coughed up water. Nikolai straightened your posture a bit so you wouldn’t choke. – “Thank the Saints.” – he breathed out brushing his thumb against your cheek.

You slapped his hand away, teeth clattering. – “Get me out of the water!” – you called out, seeing the spectacle from above. Nikolai noticed them as well, nodding. He helped you swim closer to the ship where you both got helped back on the ship. Water drenched the deck where you stood, dripping from down your dress. Osmo dropped his drink at the sight of you drenched. – “Y/n!” – he shouted running up to you. Nikolai snapped his finger as two of his crew ran over with blankets. Nikolai took them from him, placing one over your shoulders. – “Saints Y/n, What happened?” – Osmo asked in a panic.

You were shivering to the bone as Nikolai draped his blanket over your shoulders as well. – “We need warmth.” – he said placing his hands on your shoulders. Another blanket got brought for the King as Nikolai accepted it. He guided you off the ship, Osmo close. Leaving his other guests unattended. They all whispered and blinked confused as they were requested to safely leave the ship and gather back on the mainland. You were rushed into a carriage with the King and Osmo.

You were still shivering as the King ordered the carriage to go faster. The moment you arrived at the castle; you got pushed around by Osmo who followed the King. – “In here.” – Nikolai said standing by the door. Osmo pushed you inside. – “She needs to get out of those wet clothes.” – Nikolai ordered with a point. Osmo nodding pushing you behind a screen. The King went across the room disappearing behind a screen as well. – “I can handle it.” – you told Osmo who wanted to help to a certain point.

You shoved him back as he bowed and left. You started undressing, pulling the weighed down dress of you. It dropped with a loud thud to the floor, leaving a small puddle of water. There was a knock on the door as it opened. – “New cloths your majesty.” – a girls voice came through. You saw a pair of hands appear behind the screen offering you clothing. Never once you saw a face. She then hurried over to the King to do the same. – “You better get dressed warmly.” – you heard Nikolai say from across the room.

The dress was rather simple compared to the one you had been wearing. No jewels embroidered on it or any sparkles in sight. Dressed, you came from behind the screen at the same time as King Nikolai. He gave you a smile gesturing at the fireplace. You sat down before it as Nikolai came sitting beside you. Holding his hands out to warm them. – “Are you warmer?” – he asked as you slightly shook your head. He looked around for something, spotting one of his jackets he wore on his travels. You watched him get up and return with the jacket. Laying it over your shoulders. He then came sitting back beside you.

You took a deep breath, wiping your cheek a bit dry. – “This is not how I imagined to stand out.” – you sighed out. – “Oh standing out you sure did.” – Nikolai answered with a chuckle. You shot him a glare making him smile even more. You sighed again, pulling his jacket closer by your chest. Nikolai swallowed softly. – “You know… I have a feeling you don’t want to be here.” – he asked cautiously making you snort loud. – “Understatement.” – you answered. Nikolai looked with pity at the flames. – “I never met anyone who could make finding a wife feel so unpersonal.” – you added sparking his curiosity.

“I do have to admit it is an easy way. Simply invite every eligible princess in all of Ravka and she’s ready for the picking.” – you chuckled softly staring at the fires. – “Tick off a few boxes, illiminating those you don’t find pretty or smart enough.” – you didn’t mean to laugh, but it was rather funny to you. Nikolai hummed deep. – “You are right.” – he said making you turn to look at him surprised. – “I was ticking off boxes… I guess I lost the care when the pressure of finding a wife increased.” – he continued.

“So this was not your idea? To pick and take the Princess of your liking?” – you asked. – “No.” – Nikolai laughed out. – “I was far from thinking about marriage… but duties…” – he sighed out. – “Tell me about it.” – you responded. Nikolai glanced at you, nudging your shoulder with his to cheer you up. It made you smile. – “I like your smile.” – he said catching you off guard. – “It’s real. Not formed, twisted, or turned but genuine.” – he added.

Slowly your heart started to warm up to him. Something you didn’t think possible in the beginning. – “I like yours too.” – you responded. – “It’s simple, playful and honest.” – you told him as a smile formed on his lips. – “Are you any warmer Y/n?” – he asked as you hummed staring lost in his eyes. Nikolai stared right back at you guiding his hand to yours as he took it.

-----------------------------------------------------

Read more of my fics on my Masterlists!

[barrel-crow-n]

harde har har do you have any hc tidbits for our fic?

Kaz fabricates a persona for his time on the Volkvolny. He still goes by Kaz but he drinks and play fights with the crew. He's kinder than Ketterdam Kaz. Nikolai does a complete double take.

The crew are kind of scared of Kaz because of his scrappy and cruel fighting techniques

Kaz kind of unnerves Nikolai but Nikolai doesn't let it show

Kaz wins all the drinking games because he has a scarily high drinking tolerance

Tamar teaches him how to fight with swords and axes and stuff

Tamar teaches Kaz how to spin and twirl his weapons

Kaz and Tolya recite poetry to each other (the crew groans)

Kaz insists that the hates the dog that is a part of the crew but one time Nikolai saw him napping with it

Nikolai loves to annoy Kaz and Kaz just walks away from him

Nikolai and Kaz scheme away in Nikolai's captain's headquarters

Kaz gets told about all of Sturmhond's ruthless acts and loves it then is disappointed when he finds out that Nikolai always throws up after doing them and doesn't plan to recreate anything

Kaz also does ruthless things on the sea that scares the crew into respecting him a lot more but he doesn't throw up after doing them, and is completely unaffected

Kaz does magic tricks for the crew

[goblins-riddles-or-frocks]

Discord Server: The Gregs

18+ Grishaverse book specific server! All ships and sides of fandom are welcome, just keep things civil. I’m aiming for a chill environment so please also keep canon bashing to a minimum.

We’re currently partly through a series read through! We’re starting Siege and Storm tomorrow!

Feel free to message me for a link

[zoyaofthegardvn]

Kinktober 2023 Day 3 - Praise (Zoya Nazyalensky x reader)

A/N: Day 3 from my Kinktober masterlist! Smut!!! (18+ plz)!

Look, I know that it's January of 2024, but I TOLD YA'LL I WOULD FINISH KINKTOBER 2023 NO MATTER HOW LONG IT TOOK ME SO HERE I AMMMM!!!

Kinktober 2023 Masterlist

"Just like that, baby, making me feel s'good, fuck" Zoya coos, smiling down at you as you pump two fingers in and out of her wet heat, your tongue flicking along her throbbing clit. Your cheeks heat at the comment, and one hand lifts to rub against the powerful thigh she has thrown over your shoulder, her other holding herself up as she leans back against the bedroom door. She hums at the pleasure, "my perfect girl, always knows exactly how to make me fall apart." The praises tumble from her lips, and your fingers and mouth work harder with each comment.

You'd wasted no time after your meeting had ended, and what a sight it must have been, the two queens of Ravka fleeing their council room as if a war was to be fought and won at once. But when Zoya had seen the gown you'd chosen, the modest crown you'd had set in your hair, she'd been unable to stop herself from gushing about how gorgeous you looked, how you were all for her and her alone. Her fingers stroked your cheeks and her eyes lit up like she'd just discovered a long-sought treasure, awe and passion swirling in the blue of her gaze. And nothing gets you going like Zoya's praise.

Zoya cries out as you begin to curl your fingers, stroking that spot deep inside her that you know well. You hum when she threads her fingers through your hair, tugging as you wrap your lips around her clit and suck.

"Mmm, Y/N, always so good for me, aren't you, pretty girl?" She manages to raise her head from where it had fallen back against the door so that she can smile sweetly down at you, but her eyes are hooded and her chest heaves with pleasure. The heel of her foot digs into your back, and her free hand gropes her own bare breasts. She's close, and you'd do anything to get her there.

Gently, you insert a third finger, and when her eyes roll to the back of her head and she cries your name, you smirk as you begin pumping at a rapid pace.

"Saints, baby, feel so fucking full, so good, m'gonna cum," she near shouts, her legs trembling as she struggles to keep herself standing as her orgasm quickly takes hold. "Right there, baby, s'good, mmm," she cries, chants of "yes" and your name follow as she tips over the edge.

You pump and lick her through her climax as her back arches off of the door. She cries out as her fingers roughly grip your hair, and you moan at the knowledge that only you can make her fall apart like this.

When she comes down from her high, you withdraw your fingers from her fluttering walls, placing a final kiss to her heat before she slowly pulls her leg from over your shoulder.

"C'mere, beautiful," Zoya rasps, grabbing your upper arms and pulling you up to her height. Her lips meet your own and she moans at the taste of herself on your tongue.

"That," another kiss, "was," another, "amazing," her breath is hot across your face, and you giggle as she peppers kisses across your cheeks and chin.

"I aim to please, my queen," you whisper in her ear, squealing as she grasps your ass in response.

"You're so good to me, my love," she looks into your eyes, her gaze quickly shifting from loving to mischievous. "I think it's only fair that I return the favor."

[sailor-lunala]

maybe that's all that we are

She can’t decide if she wants to look at him—hair dripping wet from the rain, immaculately tailored suit and perhaps, eyes fixed either on the skyline horizon or down, at just how far there is to fall—or if she can’t.  Maybe she’s afraid that if she does, she won’t be able to look away. 

- chapter 2

(for maybe that's all that we are on ao3: aka the zoyalai orchestra au)

[merlinssaggyyfronts]

merlin probably has the craziest sleeper build in all of camelot 😭

[lunarthecorvus]

Imagine what would happen if you put Kaz, Inej, Nikolai, and Zoya into the same room. They are some of the smartest, badass, influencential people in the world and there interactions would be so funny. They could take it over, ahh the possibilities...

[tirkdi]

The Dragon and the Loneliest Boy in the World

Saw that, while the fandom has some Darkling/Juris fics, there were no Darkling/Juris/Zoya fics. I fixed that for you.

The Dragon and the Loneliest Boy in the World Rating: M Word Count: 3.7k Relationships: Darkling/Juris, Darkling/Juris/Zoya

Summary: Zoya takes Juris to visit his old friend. She learns more than she’d bargained for.

On AO3

[ricardian-werewolf]

Fanfic Masterlist: Finished Fics:

Rating: Mature Status: FINISHED 5/9/24. Cw/Tws: heavy discussions of mental health, prices of religious trauma and sainthood. Lots of mentions of attempted assassinations by Vasily. Sexual assault mentions, smut in later chapters, graphic depictions of violence, but canon. merzost being used anti-canonically.

Ao3 Link: Masterlist

Stars 'round his wrists.

When I am King, you will be first against the wall.

Take My hand, I'll drown you with me.

But your profile could not hide the fact you knew I was approaching your throne.

The world is lying fallow and you are apart from me.

Holy Water cannot help you now.

Still, I follow the Heartlines on your hand.

Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap.

The Cost of the Crown.

I am a world's forgotten boy.

Once More unto the Breach.

The Sun's turning Red.

Everytime I see you falling, I get down on my knees and pray.

True Faith

Just our hands clasped so tight.

****

Non-Grishaverse FINISHED FIC.

Synopsis:

Atlantic City, 1921. Prohibition has come in with a bang, and the bootleggers long to profit off of people’s desire for spirits. But some of their intentions and creations come with nasty consequences. Sometimes, liquor really can kill. And for Nucky Thompson, that’s a gamble he’s willing to take. Even if federal agents are snapping at his heels, and people are dying in the streets, Atlantic City, is after all, the world’s playground.

Chapter list:

Blood stained sheets

The ivory tower

The tin soldier

A Wolf, a man, and a plan

Every little thing she does is madness.

Leave before the sun comes up

Burning for you

Death Race

The darkest hour is before the dawn

Don’t turn your back

Series: Profunda Venae - Deep veins. 

Chronicling a split off of English history during the weeks after Victoria’s coronation, this series explores the What-Ifs of the English Industrial revolution and the idea of vampires being representative of the ruling class. It also dives into the ideas of class revolution, Nuclear Winter, the usage of productive power to control the narrative, and more. It is also mainly a narrative of just how dangerous controlling the reins of who tells history can truly be.

Written during the hardest years of my life, this series was created to be a distraction from the mires and misery of Neurodivergency in a common-education experience.

Book 1 is set in a world much like our own with certain shifts. Book 2 is a world that starts out similar and quickly becomes quite different. Book 3 is a world that is far in the past and far in the future all at once.

Book 1: The Lineaments of Malefaction: [Finished 2022]

Synopsis:

1838 - the house of Hanover and the United Kingdom are at last stable. Queen Victoria has taken to the throne with Lord M at her shoulder as her beloved Prime Minister. However, as always, those left in the shadows squabble and plot.

For what more of a travesty can there be than a sweet queen of 18, and a human one at that?

Wrongs must always be righted, regardless of who is in the way. Sometimes those means are more dastardly than anyone could imagine. As someone once said, family is not stronger than the blood that is spilt on the battlefield of power.

Chapter List, with dates of publication:

Pills and plans (2022-03-11)

Blood in the water (2022-03-12)

A murder of politicians (2022-03-13)

Ballrooms and bites (2022-03-13)

The Revenants of Pemberley (2022-03-17)

Lifting the veil (2022-03-17)

Burning down the castle (2022-03-28)

Shadows, the stars, and you. (2022-03-28)

Oh Noel (2022-04-02)

For the Queen (2022-04-02)

If we burn, you burn with us (2022-04-07)

recovery and revolution (2022-04-07)

Paint it black (2022-04-07)

A wedding and a honeymoon. (2022-04-07)

All that ends well (2022-04-07)

Book 2: The Evils of Darkness: [Finished 2022]

Synopsis:

1848 - the house of Kingsbridge and England have enjoyed 8 years of relative peace and quiet. Victoria and Lord M are at last united in matrimony and state, and those who opposed their rule are defeated or interred. Yet, plans always abound to take down those some see as unpopular.

For vampires aren’t fit to rule humans. Even in a place like Great Britain, wrongs must be righted, and balance must be restored.

No matter the personal cost.

Chapter List:

A bad beginning

Hold tight London

The Threads of eternity.

The War Game

When the wind blows

The Day After

Protect and survive

Operation square leg

Do no harm

Nuclear winter

Babylon

Unfinished FICS:

Book 3: Dum Pugnatur, Bellum Amittitur [ongoing - stagnant updates based on fixation]

Synopsis:

1865 - the thrones of Queen Victoria and King William are lost to the wastelands. The House of Kingsbridge is no more, and in its place, factions plot and squabble to rule the destroyed land once called England.

But that is easier said then done, for England herself is a place of ruin and starvation. For the nuclear winter that ripped the royal family apart has rolled its citizens back to the Middle Ages. But for those who have survived the hell of 1858, there is a new threat on the horizon that may blot out even 1848 - America has been at war with itself for going on 4 years, and there is whispers abounding that the Royal Family may be amongst the evacuees who fled on the steamship, the Kerberos.

All of these whispers and plans within plans make for a perfect firestorm to be set upon England's starving lower classes, for as someone once said: fealty is not stronger than the blood that is spilled on the battlefield of power.

Chapter list:

1. Now Is The Winter Of Our Discontent

2. Ravens feathers and Mozart

3. Paternoster Row

4. The Evil Genius of the Republican Party.

5. A Plea To Fate

6. Marian

Fear and Delight, or how I learned to stop worrying and wear gloves to hide my trauma. {ongoing - abandoned until new season comes out and interior worldbuilding kinks are solved}

Synopsis:

* Set During Season 2 of the Gilded Age - does not follow central plot by the beats*. Title taken from Dr Strangelove. ***** The Russell's Newport mansion could be called many things. The New York Times called it “Grandiose - a paragon of modern architecture.” The Post deemed it: “The newly-built mansion is a sign of the shifting tides of New Money upon our cities elite,”. More attention was paid to the ongoing Opera War waged by Bertha Russell and her arch nemesis, Caroline Astor. Astor had the boxes at the Academy of Music and dealt them out like generals awarding medals to soldiers who’d survived a conflict: rarely given and precious to only a few. Bertha Russell had set up the enemy camp with her Metropolitan Opera house (still undergoing building and desperately needing funds), and sought to gain some of the broken backs of the Academy’s patrons. The more soldiers - patrons - Mrs Russell could win over in advance of the Met’s opening, the better. ***** Robber Barons, The Crows, a Princess who is in America to settle an old Score, all for one very mediocre production of Faust.

Chapter list:

Washington Square

Old Money

Abstract: Set in an alternate timeline of the Grishaverse where the country of Ravka very closely resembles the Western Front of the Great War, this is a fic that sets out to explore an idea: What if First Army developed their own order of Saints, and how this affects the war effort. Part reflection on Religion, War, femininity, and social propaganda movements, part war-story Straight from the early 20th century a la the writings of Will R Bird. All angst. Characters: Nikolai Lantsov, Dominik Vertov, Olga Kylov (oc), Will R Bird, Alina Starkov, and others! Pairings: Nikolai x OC. Rating: Mature CW/TWs: War, mentions of extreme violence, universe typical prejudices, heavy discussions of religion. Later chapters go into period typical sexism of the late Victorian period, and share cases similar to that of the Red Army's female soldiers of ww2.

Chapter List. 1. Over There

[thatsadbietch]

How the Mighty Fall

When your and Scar's bickering about how to rule the Valley gets tiresome, the Fairy Godmother seems to have an idea, though its not exactly traditional.

My usual warnings: no spoilers this time, and it is a tickle fic! Enjoy <3

“Scar! You may not eat the sunbirds in the plateau, we’ve been over this at least a dozen times!”

“It’s not my fault.  What kind of leader lets their people starve? If I were in charge-”

“Not gonna happen!  Even if I wanted to give it to you, the other villagers wouldn’t allow it.”

“Oh, nonsense, they would love me as their Ruler,”

“You tried to eat some of them!”

This bickering between Dreamlight Valley’s current ruler and the fallen lion king went on, as it had been more frequently as the stress of leadership and dealing with the Forgotten ran more rampant on your agenda.  Scar, seeing the opportunity to try to break you, resulted in these arguments more often than not.  The remaining residents were getting both worried and annoyed: sometimes these arguments could be heard all the way from Dazzle Beach.

“That’s it!” Merlin shouted from his home and, using his magic, teleported in front of Scar’s cave, where the two royals were continuing on.  The Fairy Godmother must have had the same idea a few seconds prior, as she was already there when he arrived, trying to soothe both parties.

“Now, now, tell me what happened,” she asked calmly.  Merely her presence was enough to calm the torrent in your mind, and you took a deep breath.

“I have to keep telling Scar not to eat the sunbirds.  Or Remy.  Or literally anyone else in the Valley.  If he wanted to be a Ruler, he’d have to be smarter than that.” 

“Oh it has nothing to do with my intellect, I assure you.  It’s in my blood.  I’m a natural hunter.”

“What about Simba and Nala? I don’t have to tell them not to eat villagers!”

“If they’re so inclined to deny the nature they were born with, that is their choice.”

“All right, enough! From both of you!” Merlin intervened.  You were shocked at first; you’d never really witnessed your friend and mentor unleash his temper.  However, you also knew he had a particular sore spot for Scar.

“Merlin,” the Fairy Godmother started, “let’s calm down.  Not make matters worse, yes?” Merlin looked at her.  You may have been a quick learner with magic, but she and Merlin were born with it, and they understood each other.  She seemed to be able to calm him as well, and you were thankful she’d arrived.

“Yes, I agree, my apologies.  But what are we to do?  This behavior cannot go on.” Merlin spoke in front of you and Scar as if you two were not there.

You suddenly spoke up, “We used to be friends, Scar.  Or, at least friendly.”  Scar went from scowling at Merlin to looking at you, almost laughing.

“I don’t believe we’ve ever seen eye to eye on Valley matters, Ruler.” 

“Maybe not, and I don’t remember everything.  But I used to be friends with everyone.  I don’t know how I know that, I just do.”

Merlin and the Fairy Godmother looked to each other.  “Merlin, I have an idea.”

“Yes, m’lady, let’s hear it.”  The Fairy Godmother’s smile grew sweeter, which somehow made you more uneasy.

“It would be best if I just showed you all.”  You and Scar did not like the sound of that.  But before either of you could object, she began her spell:

This bickering and fighting just won’t do,

Try seeing from another point of view.

Repair these broken, severed ties,

Until then, they remain by your side.

You braced yourself, but only felt a fleeting and gentle pulse of magical energy.  Did the spell not work? Scar scoffed.

“I have no time for this, I have other matters to tend to,” the dark lion growled, and began making his way back inside the cave.  That is, until you both felt a forceful tug and, like a fishing rod, reeled you and Scar back together.

“What do you WANT?” Scar growled at you.

“Nothing to do with this, believe me.  I think this is Fairy Godmother’s spell at work.”

“Yes dear, it is!” she almost cheered, “You two will not be able to be more than two meters apart until you reach an understanding of each other.”

“What if I ate them?” Scar asked.

“WHAT?”

“You can try,” the Fairy Godmother replied, almost as if she dared him, “but my spell won’t allow physical harm to fall on either of you.”

As if he didn’t believe her, Scar went to swipe at you, his paw freezing in place a few inches from your shoulder.  He couldn’t even bear his claws.

“Now then, if we’ve moved past the arguing for today, I suggest you go about each other’s day.  See what daily life looks like for our dear Y/N, Scar.  And you for him, young one. Walking in someone else’s shoes is a good first step to understanding them.”

“Oh, I see,” you said, and turned to Scar.  “We’ll be stuck together until we make amends.” Scar rolled his eyes dramatically and, dripping in sarcasm, he spoke.

“Perfect.”

************************************************************************

You decided not to let this hinder you, so until you could come up with a way that satisfied Fairy Godmother’s spell, you tended to the village as usual.  Merlin and Fairy Godmother had already taken the Forgetting off your shoulders for the time being: you seemed to be at a standstill of the magic variety that they offered to figure out while you were with Scar.  

The first few days went about as well as you would have expected: the villagers were confused, some scared to approach with Scar tailing you. You both bickered about sleeping quarters until you both reached an agreement to trade off houses every other night.  You hoped this compromise, and a compromise to let Scar nap for an hour each afternoon in the plateau, were steps toward a resolution.  But, he was still pretty sour about the whole ordeal.

“Can’t you reverse this nonsense? Surely if you created the Valley, you can undo this treacherous enchantment.” Scar complained, lying lazily at the ground a few feet away while you tended the village vegetable garden.

“Believe me, I’ve thought about it,” you admitted, “but to reverse a spell that a powerful person like the Fairy Godmother cast, it would take more time than it’s worth.  We may as well do as it dictates.  Trust me, I’m as happy about it as you are.”  He huffed in response, and after a few beats of silence you were approached by Moana and Remy, a pairing you hadn’t at first thought would create such a strong friendship.

“Hey Y/N! We wanted to thank you again for helping me out with getting all those coconuts for me and Remy the other day.  The cakes we were able to make were amazing!”  You remembered this favor fondly, as Moana and Remy have started to bond over cooking with her home ingredients in all kinds of different ways.  When Remy told her about making coconut cakes and frosting, but not being able to pick coconuts himself, she nearly sprinted to you with her boundless energy in excitement.

“If Remy’s cooking, you don’t have to ask me twice! It's no problem,” you replied, smiling up at them from your kneeling position.  The two know also that, mostly at night when all the favors are done and most are asleep, you’re awake with Merlin and Fairy Godmother, talking all things Forgotten, Night Thorns, and the darker magic that’s tried to buckle Dreamlight Valley.

“We saw you looked busy and thought we would come help, if you’d like.” Remy asked, planting seeds being well within his range of capabilities. The worried glance in Scar’s direction didn’t go unnoticed.

“You guys don’t have to, no need to worry-” you stopped short when you realized they mostly asked as a courtesy, but planned on helping you regardless as they got to work alongside you.  Gardening was not your favorite task by a longshot, and your smile broadened.

“You didn’t come planning to take “no” for an answer, did you?”

“When was the last time you turned someone away that needed your help?” Moana asked, poking at your ribs to enunciate her point.  A few giggles came out with your response.

“Ohohokay, I gehet it.”

After the task was finished and the sun began to set, you said your goodbyes and headed toward the Peaceful Meadow, more specifically where the Pillar of Friendship stood.  Scar, reluctantly following, looked at you curiously as you sat on the ground in front of it.  He laid again on the ground and waited for you to say something, but you didn’t.

“What are you doing, exactly?” he asked, after enough silence had passed that he was genuinely confused.

“This is the first pillar I was able to restore when I came back to the Valley.  So I made it into a peaceful place.  I’m sure you remember I’d asked all the residents to keep this area of the meadow specifically quiet, clean, and comfortable, in case someone just needs a place to breathe for a minute.” You looked to Scar, and were surprised that you still had his attention. “I think we need to breathe for a minute.  Or, at least I do. I think it’s going to take more than daily tasks and afternoon naps to understand each other.”  

Again, he surprised you by not offering a sarcastic retort or a mild insult. Instead, he posed a question.

“Why do you go among your followers the way you do?” You studied his face but saw he wasn’t insulting you: he truthfully didn’t know. 

“What do you mean?”

“You do dirty work, the constant favors, the nagging. You even let them touch you.  Is this not meant for someone below a ruler?”

“That depends.  I’m sure there are rulers who reign much differently than I do.  The way you would, it sounds like, would be much different from my approach.  But I don’t see you all as “followers” or “beneath me”.”

“Is that not the reality?”

“As far as my responsibilities go, there are certain things only I can do.  But that doesn’t make me or what’s important to me any more significant than someone else or what’s important to them.  I like to think that this makes the difference between a leader and a tyrant.” Scar scoffed.

“You think of me as a tyrant?” To his surprise, you threw your head back and laughed.

“I absolutely consider you a tyrant!”

“What’s funny about that?” he asked, clearly not amused, “Your subjects need to know their place, and yours.”

“You don’t have to be demanding or instill fear to earn respect.”

“...What other way is there that does not show weakness?”  You met him at eye level, feeling as though the next thing you say could make or break the conversation.  This was, after all, the deepest conversation you two have had since being magically bound.  Maybe ever.

“There is strength in showing vulnerability.  We all have weak points, Scar, whether we care to acknowledge them or not.”  He was silent, contemplating this for a moment.

“Before Simba’s time, I was well-respected in the Pride Lands.” You fixed your gaze on the Pillar, freezing and listening, as if sudden movement would make him stop speaking.

“I was appointed leader of the Lion Guard under my insufferable brother.  We were tasked with keeping the Pride Lands safe and the Circle of Life in balance.  Once on patrol, I was approached by a lion I’d never seen before, stating I was the rightful ruler of the Pride Lands.  I had always agreed with that sentiment and… it became the beginning of my undoing.”  You chanced a look in his direction and he also was not looking directly at you; he was also looking at the Pillar as he spoke.

“I trusted this lion’s word only because he’d said what I wanted to hear.  Next thing I know I have a venomous cobra attacking my eye, and fortunately I find the strength to fend them off and keep them from ever coming near the Pride Lands.  I just wanted some recognition for it, and do you think Mufasa,” he uttered the name in disgust, “gave me that satisfaction?”

“He could have been a better brother to you, then.”

“To put it lightly, yes.” A few moments of tense silence passed before you responded.

“Scar… I’m so sorry. I wish I’d known.” you replied, to which he sighed.

“You were but a cub the last time you ruled.  I wouldn’t have expected you to understand.”

“Merlin may have.  And the other Villagers.  And they still can, but you have to allow them.” He scoffed.

“I’m serious, Scar.  You don’t have to tell them everything.  You don’t have to tell them anything, but you at least can’t threaten to eat them all the time.”

“...I’ll give it some thought, oh gracious leader,” he retorted, though you detected no malice. 

“I’ll take it.” you responded and, not thinking about it, pet Scar’s mane.  Simba and Nala don’t mind when you do this, but realizing your mistake you quickly retracted your hand.

“I didn’t mean-”

“How dare you pet me like a common housecat!” he said, more confused than angry.

“You’re right, I wasn’t thinking-”

“How would you enjoy it if I just touched you as I pleased?” 

“I just said you were RIHIHIGHT, Scar!” you cackled, Scar haphazardly poking and pawing at your side.  He looked at you curiously, then maliciously.

“I suppose you actually quite enjoy it.”

“That’s nohot what I- OOF!”  For someone as lazy as Merlin claims, Scar was able to stand and pounce in one quick and fluid motion, effectively pinning you on your back.

“I suppose if I can’t use my claws, this will have to do,” he reasoned, sounding annoyed.  However, the gleam in his eye and smug smirk told another story.

“Wahahit Scar, noohohoho!” You pleaded, and you weren’t surprised when Scar completely disregarded your cries.  Being a fully grown lion, his two paws were nearly the size of your torso, meaning he could knead into all parts of your ribs at once with relative ease.

“Scaahahaharr! Dohohon’t!” You spat in the midst of wild cackles.  In response, he kneaded faster and with more vigor, effectively rendering you helpless in your own belly laughter.

“Oh, dear, Ruler, we spoke of weak points, but I hadn’t imagined yours being so easily exploited,” Scar taunted, kneading down your sides and relenting just above your hips.  Residual giggles spilled out as you spoke.

“Scaahahar, wahahait!”

“For what, your majesty? I’ve seen the others torment you in such a way, this is your fault for allowing such foolish behavior,” He replied, dragging a claw across your belly from one hip bone to another. He hadn’t expected such a squeal to come from you, and smiled rather evilly, lazily tracing his single claw randomly across your belly and up your sides, occasionally using his other paw to skitter his claws lightly on your hip bones, keeping you guessing.  

“I suppose I can draw my claws, so long as I don’t hurt you.  How convenient. For me.” You doubted Fairy Godmother anticipated this when she bound you and Scar together.

“Ohohohoho, greheheat! AH HAHAHAHA, SCAHAHAR!” you shrieked, feeling light traces scurrying rapidly over the thin skin protecting your hip bones.  It seemed with each swipe your body wanted to kick your legs out, but being trapped under Scar’s body, the ticklish sensations had no other outlet than the grip you reflexively had on Scar’s wrists. He tutted at you, mocking sympathy for your situation.

“You poor thing, like a field mouse captured by a bobcat,” he teased, “Exactly how much of this can you endure?”  Coupled with the constant torment of your hip bones, the question had amplified your giggles and deepened the blush across your features.  You weren’t sure how much more of this you could take, but you had a feeling Scar would test that boundary. He wasn’t exactly known for mercy.  However, he relented, but kept his paws threateningly on your hips.

“Why do you allow your followers to torment you in such a way? Is this not demeaning?” You caught your breath and wiped the mirthful tears from your face.  Your breath then hitched upon feeling Scar’s paws tense, threatening the sensitive area.

“I expect an answer this time.”

“You’re *huff* getting one *huff*,” you finally said, and Scar actually waited a beat.  He also wasn’t usually known for his patience.

“Who you call my followers, I call my friends,” you started, “I let them for a lot of reasons.  Because I trust them, and they trust me.  And because that’s how some of them play or show affection. Or that’s how they express when they want to be ornery,” you glared up at him at this, and he scoffed, but his eyes appeared thoughtful. “When you create a bond with someone, it’s quite the opposite of demeaning.”

“I would not allow such behavior from my subjects.”

“I know, and that’s okay,” you stopped, debating internally about what you say next.  It could lead to your utter demise, but knowing you weren’t going anywhere yet anyway, you decided to rattle the cage. “Some just simply can’t take what they dish out.” Scar’s eyes widened at your impish grin.

“What did you say?” he growled, his glare sending a chill down your spine and anticipation in your belly.

“Although that could be pretty tyrannical as well, doling out punishments you couldn’t handle yourself.” 

“I’ll show you tyrannical, dearest Ruler,” Scar bellowed, willing his paws to dig with renewed vigor into your hip bones.  The squeal you elicited was probably not considered “quiet” as you like to keep it around this Pillar, but as there was not much you could do about it, you laughed madly, futilely bucking and squirming underneath Scar’s weight.

“Having regrets about challenging me yet?” Scar tormented, allowing himself a sinister smirk, featuring his fangs, at your expense.

“Noohohohohone!” You tried to remove the nearing desperation in your voice, not wanting to give Scar that satisfaction.

“Oh reeeaaally?” he asked, dragging out the question as if to emphasize how much he didn’t believe you.  “Let’s try this, then.”

You hadn’t the clarity to even imagine what he could be up to, but cackled and wriggled wildly as he trailed upward, letting one paw scurry with his claws haphazardly up your side while the other kneaded up until he reached your ribs.  He snickered at you, as if he could tell your body didn’t know where to go or what to do… that is, until he kneaded further up, toward your underarm, to which your body clamped both of its arms tightly to your sides.

“Oh dear, what could this be?” he relented, making sure you could hear him and how curious he was about your sudden defense.

“Scahahar, plehehease,” you wheezed through residual giggles. “I cahahan’t-”

“Now, now, that’s not the attitude to have.  Supposedly you can do anything you set your mind to in this Valley, yes?”

“You know this is different!”

“How about a game then? I know you like those,” he started, and freed you from under him.

“A game of cat and mouse. I’ll let you go and count to ten, then if you can keep away for ten minutes, you win.”  You were surprised at this, and wondered what the catch was, but then he started.

“One, two, three…” you scrambled up and tried to bolt it, but were instantly pounced on, landing on your chest.

“SCAR!”

“...Seven, eight, nine, ten. Oh look, I’ve caught you!”

“You cheated! I should have figured.”

“You wound me, Y/N,” he started, “I laid the rules quite clearly for you.  I counted to ten and you didn’t keep away.  I said nothing about being unable to count and hunt.  Now, where were we…” Being on your belly, you were even more powerless under Scar’s weight, and he wasted no time wriggling his claws in the hollows of your underarms.  You hadn’t stood a chance; even though you expected it, you still shrieked in surprise before devolving into hearty belly laughter.  You reflexively clawed at the ground in front of you, which made Scar snicker.

“You still think you can escape me? How pitiful,” he teased, using his claws to skitter under your arms as opposed to the vicious kneading.  

“NAHAHAH, SCAHAHAR!” you squealed, and it was about the last noise you made before your laughter fell silent.

“Oh, I suppose you’ve had enough.  This time, I’ll grant you mercy.”  This time he kept his word, removing his weight from you to lay where he originally was in front of the Pillar of Friendship.  Was the light that bright earlier? He couldn’t remember.

You allowed your giggling to cease and your breath to be caught before returning to where you also were sitting before you were viciously “mauled” by a usually grouchy lion.  This same lion though looked rather proud of himself… and strangely at ease.

“This is supposed to be a peaceful place,” you scolded, half-heartedly.

“I’m aware.  It was you disturbing the peace with your incessant giggling and carrying on.” Your banter continued and you spent a good portion of the evening in this spot before turning in for the night, tonight being a night in Scar’s cave as part of your rotation.  Funnily enough though, when you woke the next day, you stepped outside and realized you were too far from Scar for the spell to still be in place.

[darjeelinh]

“My heart can beat once again.”

Dominik had told him while pulling him into a crushing hug when they reunited.

Now, holding Dominik’s lifeless body in his arms, Nikolai knew that his own heart will never beat the same again.

He sacrificed himself to save his king. And his king personally stared his murderer in the eyes before delivering the final bullet.

Yet there was no satisfaction in the king’s eyes. Only pain. For there could be no revenge, no bullet that could bring his heart back.