#new nephew alert

[brainmuncher]

The emergency

A good number of members within the Justice League have children. Not all of those kids are biological or adopted but they are their kids nonetheless. Some of those kids are even old enough to be adult heroes of their own, but even then they are still their kids. And the other kids tend to take up heroism at a very young age to most people's chagrin. Although as shown by the original child hero, now going by Nightwing, it’s not as easy as telling the kids to stop.

It was learned through intense hardship that smothering the child heroes was just asking for trouble. Despite how much the older heroes wanted to stay close to their kids, it was seen as overbearing and a show of mistrust. They would act out with even less backup in retaliation, which would only bring even more stress.

So to satisfy the need for protection without stepping on any toes, two new emergency meeting signals were introduced.

One was for the kids to send off. Each one was gifted a small device that could be hidden in their person. The device had both a mic and a tracking chip that could be activated when they were in extreme danger. As soon as the device was active a signal would be sent to the league for an emergency distress signal with the details of who sent it. Due to an outcry from the kids, the device could not be activated by the guardian of the child. The mic and locator could only be activated from the device itself. It wasn’t nearly as protective as some of the more worried leaguers would like, but it was at least something. 

The second signal was one that the leaguer with a kid in danger could activate. This signal could be activated with a single code into the communicators that every member owned. If the member who sent out the signal didn’t specify what kid was in danger, every member would receive a generalized notification of the emergency alert for one of the kids. This wasn’t ideal, but it was learned early on that the guardian of the child was often too distressed to make the code more complicated. It was best to leave it simple and answer questions at the emergency meeting.

Which was great in all, until someone who doesn’t have a child involved with heroics in their care sends off a general emergency.

In places all over the globe, an emergency meeting signal message was sent by Hal Jordan, one of the lanterns. He didn’t include what child was in danger in the signal, meaning that it could be any of the underaged heroes. And considering he didn’t have a child in his care, that made multiple members panic.

When was the last time they checked in with the kids in their care? Who was the one he was sending the code for? What happened to the child he had noticed was in danger? Why is he the one that noticed? Where were their kids? Who was in danger?

Because of the nebulous nature of the call, it didn’t take long for multiple heroes to find the nearest transport to the watchtower and tumble in. What they didn’t expect was the absolute haggard appearance of their friend. He was standing in the meeting room looking like the world had been destroyed before his very eyes. The way he sat without even cracking a sarcastic remark made multiple members pause.

“Hal?” Wonder Woman called, her face pinched in concern. “What has happened?”

The aforementioned member looked over who had already arrived before settling on her face. It was at that moment she knew that he was only looking so collected through willpower alone. This wasn’t just any child of the league, this was personal.

“My nephew Danny has been captured,” He began, sending a wave of different emotions circling the room. “I’ve been trying to find where they took him for a week now and I can’t get any leads. I need your help.”

The unsaid questions and emotions were nearly palpable. Multiple members turned to one another or stared with a million questions. Nobody had known that Hal even had a nephew named Danny. Sure he mentioned someone named Jason at times, but he never indicated anything else. The fact that he hadn’t mentioned him or the fact that he’d been apparently searching for a week was strange.

“And why are you only telling us now? Why did you wait so long?” Superman asked, speaking up the question that was on multiple minds.

A fire of anger curled in Hal's eyes. It was fierce and protective. It was a mixture of appalment for being questioned on his decision and fury for the reasons why he had to do it in the first place. He stepped forward towards the center table, slamming his palms down and leaning into it.

“Because any person that goes against the group will be declared an enemy of the United States. I’ve already had my account and housing connected to Green Lantern seized,” He explained with a deceptively calm tone. “I also needed to make sure that they didn’t have any connections with the Justice League. They have their agents everywhere.”

Unsurprisingly, Batman appeared from the gathered heroes from seemingly nowhere. Despite the feud between the two of them, the Bat was completely zeroed in on the situation. While he had a decent amount of distrust in the lantern, mainly because of the parallax incident, he could tell that the man was genuine. And the Bat always did have a blind spot for children.

“Explain,” Was all Batman said, staring Hal down.

The lantern in question looked at him with a grim face. This was it. Now or never.

“They’re called the Ghost Investigation Ward, or GIW for short. They hunt down and either exterminate or experiment on anyone they deem ectocontaminated or a ghost,” Hal started to explain, his hand curling on the table in frustration. “My brother Jack faked his death and ran off to be with another woman. Those fucks deemed my nephew as ectocontaminated and tried to take him from his home. He ran from his family so that they couldn’t be arrested for knowingly harboring an ecto entity. Told me that he remembered my face from a photo his dad tried to hide in the attic and sought me out.”

If the fire in his eyes were any stronger, they would probably become physical and burn down the room. It was undeniable that Hal Jordan was understandably completely pissed off. This situation was terrible from down to the very root.

“I tried to hide him but they somehow found him anyway. Now my civilian name is being heavily monitored and Green Lantern is being hunted down,” He finished his explanation. “If you join me in this, be prepared to lose everything.”

This was so much worse than anyone could’ve predicted.

[eddiesxangel]

Fuck the Nice List| Santa!Eddie x Reader

Smutty Part 2 of Hey, Mr. Claus

Cw smut, Eddie is dressed as Santa for your nieces and nephews and you can’t keep your hands to yourself. Minors DNI

The night was wrapping up as you and all your loved ones were gathered around the Christmas tree at your brothers' house. It was the first Christmas you were spending with your new boyfriend, Eddie, and he wanted to make a good impression on your family. So, he volunteered to dress as Santa for the younger ones. He already had experience from his Mall Santa job and thought it would be a way to get into your family's good books.

You heard a rustling of wrapping and tissue paper as the kids were getting squirmy and anxious to see who was coming around the corner.

“HO HO HO! Merry Christmas!” Eddie belted in his lower register voice when he played the character. As he entered the living room, a sack of presents filled with gifts your family had bought prior was slung around his shoulder.

Many high-pitched cheers of joy pierced your ears as the young ones screamed. They all ran up to Santa Eddie, not knowing it was the man they sat beside at dinner. He had put much effort into his appearance to make it more believable.

His hair was tucked away into his hat that had a long white curly wig underneath it. A long, white, silky beard was attached to his face, and some makeup made him look a bit older and rosie.

Eddie sat and listened to each child on what they wanted, and then he gave them a single gift. He was attentive and aware of how important it was to each child. This would live in their memories forever. The “real” Santa was here just for them on Christmas Eve! What else could they want?

The way Eddie was being so good with the kids of your family was making you feel things. Your heart fluttered in your chest, your palms sweaty, and your lower belly area felt much warmer than it should at a family function. You couldn't wait to get your hands on the man you were falling for.

“When’s it my turn, Mr. Claus?” You bat your eyes at your boyfriend once you are alone.

Your siblings went to get their children ready for bed. Everyone was spending the night at your brothers' house so you could spend Christmas Day together as a family.

“Don’t tell me this is what you’re into, Sugar Plum?” He asked as you walk towards him

“So what if it is? You don’t wanna unwrap me like one of your presents?” You tug at his beard to bring his head down lower to kiss. “I think you’re going to like what’s inside,” you whisper seductively.

“You wanna ride on Santa’s sleigh?” Santa Eddie smirked as you ran your hands up his chest to his shoulders.

“More like his North Pole...”

Eddie groans as he lets his head fall back before grabbing your hand and guiding the both of you to your shared bedroom for the evening.

“I can’t believe you’re going to seduce me into fucking you at your family’s house.” He tugged you into the guest room and shut the door quietly, not to alert the others.

“Oh please, seducing you? All I have to do is breathe, and you want to fuck me,” you laugh before Eddie shuts you up with a searing kiss.

“Get undressed,” Eddie demanded before taking off his suit.

“Wait! Keep that on,” you smirk.

“Oh, so we are doing this?” He points between you and himself.

You bite your lip and nod, letting your dress fall.

Eddie’s eyes went wide as he examined your figure. You had on a matching lacy red set. The push-up bra hugged your breasts, and the panties sculpted your ass to look like the perfect little sugar plum.

Eddie backs up and plops on the edge of the bed without breaking his gaze. He was practically drooling at the sight of you.

“Come on, Snow Angel. Come sit on Santa’s lap and tell me what you want for Christmas.” Eddie bites his lip, beckoning you over.

You walk over and straddle Santa Eddie’s lap, draping both legs over his knees, landing your lacy cunt down on his already hardening cock. Eddie grips your ass, and you lean your weight into him.

“I want you to fill me with your cum this Christmas.” You whispered in his ear before nibbling on the lobe.

“Fuuuuuuuck baby you can’t just say things like that.”

“Why not? You asked me what I wanted. I’ve been a good girl this year I promise.” You pout.

“I don’t know about that Sugar Plum? I’ve heard from the elf’s that you’ve been naughty.” Eddie bit at your neck as your hips began to grind down in your boyfriend’s lap. “You you’re going to do everything I say to make sure you really are a good girl.”

“Yes, Santa. I’ll do anything to get on your nice list.” You drop your head to kiss Eddie’s plump lips. Well, you at least tried to because the fake beard got in the way.

“Ok, this has to go,” you laugh as Eddie removes the synthetic beard from his face.

“Oh, thank god,” he mumbles before peppering kisses all over your chest and breasts.

“Fucking perfect,” Eddie mumbles as he presses his face into your cleavage and takes in your sent. You smell of cinnamon, ginger and pine needles.

“Mmmmm baby,” you moan as you grip the back of his head, keeping his face in your chest.

“You wanna lick Santa’s special candy cane?” Eddie smirked.

You slinked down his body, and he unbuttoned his suit jacket. He wasn’t wearing anything underneath, and you couldn’t help but run your hands up and down his naked torso. Your eyes soaked him in as he undid his pants.

“Mmmm, I bet it’s the sweetest.” You ran your hand up and down the tented fabric of his boxers.

“No more teasing. You wanna get on Santa’s nice list, don’t ya? Open up a nice big present tomorrow morning?” Eddie bites his bottom lip.

“Yes, Santa,” you pull his big cock out and give the tip a lick.

“Good girl, good fuckn’ girl.” Eddie stroked your head as you took him entirely into your mouth.

You take as much of him as you can in your mouth before gagging. The weight of his velvety shaft was so soft on your tongue. You loved giving Eddie head; it made you so wet every time without fail.

“Fuck you’re way too good at this. I’m going to bust already,” he lets out a breathy laugh.

“Mmmmmmm,” you hum at the compliment and continue to bob and suck on his cock.

“Shit, shit, shit,” he pulls your head up so he doesn’t explode right then and there. He pulls you up into a deep, long kiss as he goes to lay back on the bed. You followed his lead and hovered over top of him. You graze your sopping clothed cunt over Eddie’s bare cock as you adjust your weight.

Eddie hissed as he felt the pool of wet heat graze his cock. “You wanna take that ride now, baby?” Eddie moaned.

“Yes,” you sigh, and you feel Eddie’s hand pull your panties to the side.

“You gotta work for it, Sugar Plum; show Santa how good you can be,” he cooed as he curled your clit with a gloved finger.

“Fuck” you sigh, and you grind your hips harder on Eddie's cock.

“What did I say about teasing? You naughty little elf,” Eddie gritted out.

“M’sorry Santa, maybe I wanna be your naughty girl.” You continue to grind your hips back and forth from his base to tip.

“That’s it!” Eddie couldn't take it anymore. He flips the two of you over so you’re flat on your back.

“No more playing around. Santa needs his milk and cookies” Eddie ripped your panties right off, and before you knew what was happening, his muscular tongue was entering your wet hole, and his bright red nose was nudging at your clit.

“Fuck baby,” you whispered, trying not to disturb the rest of the house. He sat up and replaced his tongue with two fingers. You’re not even sure when he removed the white gloves.

“Mmm, best cookie I’ve tasted all year,” he mused, and your pussy clenched.

“Oh, you like it when I compliment your cookie, don’t you?” He massaged his fingers inside you, making your hips jerk up.

“Baby, please,” you begged.

“Naughty girls have to wait, baby; only good girls on the nice list get what they want” His thumb curled your clit as his fingers pumped in and out of you.

“Baby fuck, I’m close,” you wined, and Eddie pulled away.

“Oh, she’s learning.”

“Baby I was so close-”

“Naughty girls only get to come when it’s on my cock.” He aligns himself up to your entrance.

“Fuck your so hot.” Eddie leaned down to kiss you. He kissed you hard, and it made your head spin.

Eddie slipped his tongue into your mouth, and at the same time, he slipped in his cock. You never got tired of the way Eddie stretched you out every time. He never failed to make you feel full. He knew how to take over your body. The way he would numb your mind, how he could literally fuck you dumb. You hadn't been together that long with Eddie. Only a month, really, but the way he knows your body, it was like he was made for you.

"Oh, you like that Sugar Plum? Do you like Santa's fat cock splitting you open? I wish you could see it, baby, the way your pussy swallows my cock is perfection." You must have been making noises of pleasure because you were already lost in your own little world of euphoria, and he had just started.

"Answer me, Sugar Plum. Tell me how much you like this cock." his hips slowed down in pace but never stopped. He will wait for your answer.

"I- fuck- I love it-ohhhhhhh," you cried as his head grazed your g spot.

"There's my good girl." Eddie's pace quickened. His hand ran up to massage your breast, still confined by the lacy red bra.

Your pussy clamped down at his words; you loved when he called you his god girl. It never fails to make your body tingle.

As his cock continuously slides against your g spot, your body tenses up at the oncoming orgasm Eddie is about to give you.

"More, please, I'm so close," You beg. You were so close to the euphoria that you would do anything for Eddie now.

"Sucha good girl letting me know. and you know what good girls get?" Eddie continues to thrust into your cunt while reaching down to open your legs up wider for him so that he could rub your clit. The new angle was just what you needed.

You quickly nod to Eddie's question before your body is ripped with a rush of serotonin.

"That's right, baby, they get what they ask for. Come, baby, you're doing so good for me." He talked you through your orgasm.

He followed not too far after you, finishing inside like you had asked. You loved it when Eddie came in you. He'd hug you close as he trusted his hips deep into your body that you felt so connected. Like you were made for one another. It didn't matter if the sex was silly or serious; you knew your souls were meant to be intertwined.

"I didn't know I had that many dirty Christmas analogies in me," Eddie laughed, shucking off the fluffy white and red suit jacket that made him a sweat bucket.

"Any now I have one more in me." you laugh, and Eddie can't help but fall in love with you.

Part 3

tag list: @allthingsjoeq @bettyfrommars @battymunson @onegirlmanytales @slutty-thevampireslayer @leelei1980 @tlclick73 @reidsbtch

[lizzy06]

Jujutsu Kaisen Fanfic Recs!!(AO3)Pt.1

Main Masterlist

[For part 2 -> Pt.2]

The Blind Date Show by NatoriousJANExo (Humour, Blind dates) Each chapter has a different blind date which they shoot in a studio.{ALL CAN BE READ STANDALONE}

No Pairing(The fic that nourishes/ destroys your soul)

The Burden Of Grief by Redwarrior2003 (oneshot, angst, family feels) Kong shiu gives megumi a clarity to his past.. [COMPLETED] Animals of regret by tteokcrossing (oneshot, toji tries to be a good parent) Toji lives. Neither teaching nor parenting are his strong suits, but he ends up stuck with both. [COMPLETED] Piano Joint by KatInnRotato (oneshot, Domestic fluff, humour) When Toji told Gojo his last wish instead of killing him, Gojo asked him to 'take responsibility' ...so now Toji's domestic life began. [COMPLETED] Father of Mine by oceansgrey (fluff, humour, toji tries to be a good parent)- Toji upon being left by his now ex-wife is stuck taking care of Megumi and Tsumiki and he also ends up getting the job of combat specialist at jujutsu tech [ONGOING] Blackout by Xhoi (Mystery, Toji as shikigami)- In an attempt to improve himself after his fight with sukuna, megumi summons a shikigami he has never seen before. It doesn't listen to him and acts on his own. Also he doesn't why his teacher is so scared and alert. [ONGOING] End of Beginning by may_aar (No curse au, Uncle sukuna, hurt/comfort)After the sudden passing of his brother and his wife whom sukuna hasn't met in 13 yrs, he has to take guardianship of his nephew.{This is so good!!} [ONGOING] Out of the Night That Covers Me by rainyconcrete (Angst, Hurt/comfort) An ancient necromancer resurrects Toji and Megumi is to acknowledge the loss of family along the way. [ONGOING] Terminal by jules(talefeathers) (oneshot, Angst, Hurt/comfort, death) Megumi Reunites with his family in after life. [COMPLETED] Yuji's adventure with his big brother Sukuna by semisEmi - sukuna did not know he has a brother until he turned 26... with the help of his friends he traverse through his new life.[ONGOING] In Another Life by Yunaminayuna (collection of oneshots, fluff and humour) collection of Fushiguro family drabbles and short fics [COMPLETED] Three times Toji apologizes to his Son by calmthyself (Domestic fluff, Hurt/comfort)And the one time Megumi apologizes to his dad.[ONGOING] The Problem with Ms.Itadori by PsychaoticButterscotch (Alternate au, toji trying to be a good parent, fushi mama lives) Yuuji's mother , she's weird - But Megumi doesn't say anything about it, Mama always said to not say anything at all if it's something not nice. [ONGOING]

Ryoumen Sukuna x Reader

Flowers for u- 1.Dandelion 2.Sunflowers by yuukiqwq(temporary unrequited love, love confession) 1.Dandelion- His heart beats only for you while yours beats for someone else, so he made a wish on a dandelion, hoping it would come true. 2.Sunflower- He only has eyes for you so why won't you look his way [COMPLETED] Not Many women by Lemon_Pepper_Fox (modern au, smut) you have a crush on yuji but you really like his brother sukuna. [COMPLETED] Blooming Cactus by poeeee(fluff, humour, idiots in love) Transferring schools in the middle of the year is never easy and then you are stuck with an uncooperative partner for history project. [ONGOING] Yuji's Caretaker | Sukuna by Sukunasuka (slowburn, family fluff) You are a new kindergarten teacher who loves your job. One of your new students, yuji, gets in trouble frequently forcing you to call in his caretaker quite often who also happens to be your neighbor. [ONGOING] With you, I Hurt. With you, I Love by VinVictory (High shool au, fluff) You are busy taking care of an injured Yuji as his caretaker and his older brother is busy falling in love with you. [ONGOING] Intrusive Thoughts | Sukuna/Reader by Visaliar (High school au , stalking, psychology) After becoming a forfeit to someone's bet, y/n is left heart broken. To add to her troubles, she has a mysterious stalker who daily send pictures he takes of her secretly. [ONGOING]

Gojo Satoru x Reader

Fair game by yemyem (Angst, Friends with benefits, Jealousy, Fake dating) Gojo is kind of your boyfriend but he fucks other girls too as he doesn't want anything serious so geto offers to help u out...that's fine..right? [ONGOING] Hello Again by MixyX21 () You are the new staff at jujutsu tech and one of your coworkers is Gojo Satoru, you ex fiancé who left you on your wedding day 10 years ago. [COMPLETED]

Gojo Satoru x Leiri Shoko

let us stand a chance by keouil (oneshot, fluff) gojo and shoko are invited to megumi's pta meeting.[COMPLETED] Close isn't enough by randsomprose (oneshot, getting together, making out) shoko confronts satoru about his stupid 'nobody will ever need to be alone again' comment before the fight with sukuna. [COMPLETED] To Say the Least This Is ... by starrybride (oneshot, slice of life, fluff) Shoko comes home a little too late for Satoru's liking. [COMPLETED] It’s past 3AM (I see you again) by moonlightsonata(mintedcaffeine) (oneshot, angst, hurt comfort) Both shoko and satoru can't sleep so they spend the night together. [COMPLETED] Sunny with a chance(with Gojo) by tiressian(fluff and humour, tooth rooting) Satoru comes back again.[COMPLETED] six step backwards by dickwackerlao (Time travel fix-it, sugushoko and satosugu on side, angst, fluff and humour) Shoko goes back in time and makes things different. [COMPLETED] Tale as old as time by starrybride(old japan, werewolf shoko) Japan is ruled over by three clans, descended from the gods, populated by humans and supernatural creatures. When one of those ruling clans kills Shoko's childhood friend, she heads to Kyoto to seek vengeance on the clan that killed him. Along the way she receives help in her quest from an unlikely source. [ONGOING] The Infinity Between Us by OddLittleSpider(Slice of life, Friends to lovers, slowburn) Gojo asks shoko to marry him, what exactly are his intentions? [ONGOING] Companion Proposal by jokerxpanther (Friend to lovers, slowburn, Domestic Fluff) Gojo asks shoko to marry him. [ONGOING] My Best Friend? by Kate_Loves_S4toshoko (friend to lovers, gojo is an idiot) [ONGOING] i hold the longing of the winter in my hand by Anonymous (friends to lovers, mutual pinning) Shoko saves satoru's life at the cost of her soul [ONGOING] COLLECTION: satoshoko mixtape by tiressian- standalone satoshoko stories in one place for our brainrot

[jamespotterismydaddy]

Lord Husband (Chapter 4)

Cregan x reader

A/N: new character alert

word count: 1,202 words

Series Masterlist

“Ser Steffon won’t accompany me to Winterfell?” You ask your mother. It feels like another strike in the gut. Steffon Darklyn has guarded you since you were a child. Apart from your family, he is your closest friend.

“He is a part of my Queensguard. He must be with me or…” You know why she trails off. Her or her heir are the words she is looking for.

“Jacaerys.” You finish the thought for her and you hate the undertone of jealousy in your voice.

“You may take as many of your handmaidens as you like and we will find more than suitable guards for you. I would never allow you to be not well accompanied.” She is trying to be reassuring but it is to no avail.

“Then I shall have nobody to care for me in the North?” You regret the words as soon as you say them because you know what her response will be.

“Your husband will care for you.” It doesn’t make you feel better. You don’t want the demeaning care from a forced spouse. You desire care from the man who has been like a second father to you.

“I want Ser Steffon.” You say, your tone almost desperate.

“It wouldn’t be proper.”

Improper or a waste of resources? You wonder to yourself.

“You will be protected.” She reassures.

“It isn’t about that.” It’s about everything that is being torn away from you.

“Help me to understand, sweet girl.” She sounds just as desperate.

“Why did you have to send me so far away, far enough to isolate me?” You ask softly.

“I promise I thought your match through. Cregan gives you control. Putting you in the North gives you a role, not to be a tool to create an alliance, but to be a Targaryen presence so far from the throne. You will be in a position of great influence if you can gain your husband’s trust.” She seems serious but you aren’t sure if she is just trying to make you feel important when you aren’t. Though, it works. “If you wanted to stay close, we would have likely had to betroth you to Aemond.” You cringe at that. You were close to Aemond when the two of you were younger but there is such strife between you now. You’re sure he hates you. “He wouldn’t allow you the same level of freedom.”

“I know that.” You sigh. “I require a moment to collect myself, your Grace.” You give her a nod of respect before leaving, Ser Steffon trails after you. He knows what the topic of discussion was.

You let the tension stew in silence between the two of you before you decide to speak up. “What am I supposed to do without you?”

“You are a woman grown, princess. I know you will excel in Winterfell.” He says and you turn to face him.

“But i’ll miss you.”

“I am flattered deeply and truthfully, I will miss you also.” He says tenderly.

“Well then perhaps if you told the Queen you wished to accompany me…” You trail off, knowing your suggestion is silly.

“Princess…” He says in a certain way and you can sense the pity. “There is something that may make you feel better, though.”

“And that would be?”

“My nephew, Robert, has just recently been knighted. He is by no means a seasoned knight but I had a great influence in raising him when he was younger. He is a good man and a fearsome warrior. Mayhaps having him as a guard could bring you some sense of comfort?” Steffon suggests.

“That is a splendid idea. I should like to meet him. Now.” You reply, feeling almost happy at the prospect.

“Now? Of course, princess. I believe he is training in the courtyard.” He tells you and you immediately begin to make your way there.

When you arrive at the courtyard, you notice that there’s more than a few men training, Aemond and Criston included, who you ignore.

“Point him out.”

Steffon describes Robert and where he is but when your eyes fall upon him, the description doesn’t do justice. Robert is handsome, lean and strong with hair as black as tar and piercing green eyes. He fights with ease and elegance, not relying on brutish strength. You decide that he will be more than fun to have around. When Robert wins his fight, you clap for him. He notices the sound because he didn’t expect eyes to be on him when the dragon prince is fighting.

“Princess.” He bows as you walk over, his competitor stumbling into a bow as well.

“Your highness, I introduce you to my nephew, Ser Robert Darklyn.”

“Pleased to make your acquaintance, Ser Robert.” You say with a little smirk.

“The pleasure is, of course, all mine.” He is clearly trying to stay confident but you can detect a hint of nervousness in his voice.

“You are a very skilled fighter.” You haven’t seen much but you’ve already decided what you want. You trust Steffon’s judgement. “And I am in need of a new guard.”

“Thank you, princess. I appreciate the recognition.” He manages to stay cool and calm. He has an easy way about his demeanour.

“Have you ever been to Winterfell?” You ask him.

“I haven’t been anywhere.” He replies, a man in need of something to free him from the monotony of being a second son.

“Perhaps you would like to come with me to Winterfell then, as my personal guard?” You ask him bluntly.

“I am honoured by your offer, your highness. I would like nothing more than to protect you in your new home.” He can’t seem to stop himself from smiling. For a man who seemed to be so stoic, the smile suits him.

“Good because we leave in three days. I apologize for the short notice but I wasn’t given much time to prepare for this change of plans.” You give Ser Steffon a pointed look.

Robert Darklyn has little time to respond before you turn on your heel, wanting to make sure you have everything you need for your travels. As you walk back to your chambers, you strike up conversation with Steffon again.

“I expect you to write to me. Perhaps once a week. Just to be filled in on how my brothers fair of course.” You say to him but you both know that all you want is to hear from him as much as possible.

“I think twice a week would be more appropriate. Your brothers do get up to lots of mischief and whatnot.” He says with a hint of a smile on his lips.

“I think that would be for the best as well.” You speak, a small smile on your face as you arrive at your chamber’s door. He holds it open for you. “Oh and one more thing, Ser… If I die in Robert’s care, I’ll kill you.” He smirks at that.

“He’s a much better knight than I was at his age. I promise the two of you will get along well.”

“Hmm.” You say, thinking about Ser Robert… very handsome Ser Robert. “I think we indeed will.”

Taglist(comment to be added): General: @valeskafics @urmomsgirlfriend1 @girlwith-thepearlearring @darylandbethfanforever9 @lovellies @juhdoche @papichulo120627 @watercolorskyy

Lord husband: @feyres-fireheart @possiblyafangirl @hb8301 @marihoneywk @youn-jo @velvet-spider @janelongxox @ninastyless @nyctophilic0vitnir r @m-a-s-h-k-a @delicious-xx @weepingfashionwritingplaid @happinessinthebeing @betelrus @joliettes @black-swan-blog27 @mxtokko @valeridarkness @karolalolla @satan-s-ass @synindoodles

[planetmimi]

PLEASE DONT TAKE MY IDEA and please vote :) 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

Y’all this criminal minds episode is making me want to write for Simon Riley. Like his entire family, a PREGNANT wife, two kids and two dogs , gets murdered (or kidnapped if I don’t wanna be too angsty) while he’s deployed. I don’t know if I want to do what criminal minds does where the fathers are alerted immediately….or! Not have ghost be alerted until his mission is complete and the absolutely loose his shit when he finds out that his higher ups hid this absolutely dire news about his family from him.

Of course you can’t forget that once he’s told about his families situation he’s sent back into that place, that time when his mother was murdered, his brother, his sister-in-law and nephew. If his family is killed most of the fic is going to be the after math, him completely leaving behind who Simon was and becoming less of a ghost and more of a Demon.

If his family is kidnapped the fic will be about how either he finds out weeks later and all hope seems lost, or how he “works with” the BAU (and it will be Hotch, Rossi, Emily, Spence, Derek, JJ and Garcia) to get his family back.

Ngl this’ll probably the next thing I post because I feel sooo connected to this, like I could write sooo well and detailed for this. But also so enthralled by this idea of having Ghost, an already tortured soul, be loved in such a way that he never thought would happen, just for him to get it taken, or almost, taken away from him forever. Yeah I have a looooot of ideas for this, it would probably be a medium sized fic too like maybe 3k-5k words long

[reallyromealone]

The demon and his son

Kokushibo x son! Reader

Warnings: fluff, male reader

♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️

(name) was a happy toddler, the little boy often seen watching his dad train or playing with his few toys his dad bought him.

Kokushibo sat on the engawa of their small home, enough space for the two of them as the demon watched his son a few feet before him play with his stuffed toys.

The boy had a plush doll of each moon, a gift from Doma after kokushibo left the other demon to watch his kid, the other surprisingly not bad at it.

It helped having countless loyal cult members fretting over the small child.

"Papa! Look!" (Name) said crouching before a beatle "what is it?"

"That's a rhinoceros beetle" his father said calmly as he stood beside his son "can we keep him?"

"No"

"Why?" (Name) pouted and the other stared "he has business to attend to" he said simply, having learned fast since he acquired the child as an infant it was easier to just lie with these things.

"Bye bye Mr beetle!" (Name) said as the beetle crawled off to go attend to his business.

It surprised the other moons and even Muzan that kokushibo had a child, the demon wasn't exactly the child rearing type but surprisingly he did well.

"You will be staying with Akaza for the next few days" kokushibo said to his son as he watched him eat his dinner, the demon couldn't eat and frankly food smelt like shit to him but his son needed it so he tolerated it.

Akaza lived in Tokyo, it was easy for him to get what he needed and people tended to leave him alone.

(Name) liked his uncle Akaza, the demon quite attentive with him and between his dad teaching him swordsmanship, Akaza taught him martial arts.

"Humans are weak so you need to learn to defend yourself" Akaza often said to the small boy, feeling a strange sense of pride when the boy who had claimed him as an uncle learned something new.

Kokushibo was usually gone for a few days to a week but he always came back with something for his son, usually a treat or a toy.

He knew he wasn't the most talkative and could be distant but he did care about his son as much as the demon could.

Stays with Doma were different, unlike Akaza Doma treated him like a doll in a way and enjoyed spoiling the boy.

Doma didn't have feelings, well not really but he did feel weirdly protective of the small boy.

Like he did with his petal, though he knew his "nephew" wouldn't do something to annoy him.

Or betray him.

Doma usually kept the tiny human in his lap and fed him treats or went about his business as the boy played with his toys.

The moons were on high alert though, slayers have been more active and thus Kokushibo was far more protective of his son.

(Name) could be an easy target.

And he was.

The slayer's believed the child was being held captive for some horrid reason and decided they were going to save the boy.

The demon slayers got the heads of the ones they sent back.

"Papa! You're back!" (Name) squealed as he ran to his dad, the demon silent but relieved his son was safe and handed his son some sweets "thank you papa" he said sweetly and the demon ruffled the boys hair "you're welcome"

[all-about-kyu]

Summary: After the ups and downs of being in the public eye throughout your pregnancy, the time finally comes to meet your little one. Pairing: idol!Seonghwa x model!reader Tropes: established relationship au, new parents au, idol au, celebrity au Genre: fluff Rating: PG Warnings: allusions to childbirth, happy crying, breastfeeding, language Word Count: 2,141 Note: part of the Desire universe and for my anniversary! (enjoy the nod to her display name as the title) thank you to @anyamaris for beta reading!!

Before You Interact

Seonghwa had been panicking all day. You had gone into labor around 3am but still didn’t start active labor until hours after arriving at the hospital. After hours of physically and mentally exhausting labor, your son was finally in your arms. Even after your doctor confirmed that both you and your son were healthy, your boyfriend really couldn’t relax. When you feed Yejun for the first time, Seonghwa finally relaxes and lays him down to sleep in the bassinet.

“We’re parents.” He sighs happily, squishing onto the hospital bed beside you.

“Yes, we are.” You chuckle, “You finally relaxed now?”

Your boyfriend nods, “It was a crazy morning.”

“Yeah,” you let out a breathy laugh, “I just spent 8 hours pushing him out of me.”

Seonghwa kisses your hair, “And you did an amazing job. He’s perfect.”

Seonghwa looks over at your sleeping son and smiles brightly. He’s so proud to call himself a father; your son is everything he could ever wish for and more. He then turns to you and cups your face in his hands. You smile softly at him, and he returns the look. Your boyfriend leans in and kisses you softly. The tender moment is disrupted by multiple notifications from your phone. When you glance at it, you notice that it’s only 1pm.

“Should we let the others know he’s here? I’m sure Danbi is pacing through your dorm right now, and Mingi is trying to get her to sit down.” You joke.

“You should rest.” He worries.

You shake your head, “I’m actually quite awake… I think I’m on some sort of adrenaline high.”

Seonghwa shakes his head at you and looks down at his hand intertwined with yours. He frees his hand a moment later and texts your group chat to let everyone know Yejun has finally arrived. It takes all of two minutes to have Eunji FaceTiming you. Despite your clearly disheveled state, you answer.

“Can we come?” She asks, skipping all courtesies.

“Hi Eunji, I’m great! Yejun and I are healthy and safe.”

“Can we come then?!” She questions again.

Seonghwa butts in, “Yeah, visiting hours end at 4pm tonight so if any of you plan to come you’re welcome to.”

“I’m meeting my nephew!” You hear Yunho yell in the background followed by a door slamming.

Of course, the rest of your friends were all holed up together in the Ateez dorm. You hear Yejun quietly whining, alerting you of his waking state. Quickly, you say goodbye to your friends, and Seonghwa tells them the maximum number of visitors at a time. You reach your son and see him slowly blink as he wakes up. You know he can’t see much of anything yet, but he knows it’s you. During your prenatal class, you learned that babies have an incredible ability to sense their parents without even really seeing them well. Carefully, you lift him up and hold him close to your body. You gave birth to him just over two hours ago, and already you can’t get enough of holding him. Returning to your bed, you feed him again, and Seonghwa offers to attempt his first diaper change. You both quickly found out Yejun does not enjoy them. 

Once he’s changed, Seonghwa carries him back to you. You both sit there for a while, holding Yejun and Seonghwa, wrapping his arms around you. Honestly, you don’t know how you’ve ever lived any other way before having both your boys. A soft knock sounds on your door, interrupting the domestic moment.

“I’ll go get it.” Seonghwa offers, “It’s probably our friends.”

You nod and look back down at Yejun, who is fast asleep again. Seonghwa is quietly talking with someone at the door, but you can’t be bothered to pay attention due to how enamored you are by your son. You hear footsteps growing louder, then feel Seonghwa’s hand gently curl over your shoulder. Looking up, you look at your boyfriend then see Yunho. You suppose his mad dash out of the dorm made him the first to arrive. It wouldn’t surprise you if he didn’t even wait for anyone else to get in the car before he left.

“Do you want to hold him?” You ask quietly after you notice Yunho’s shocked state.

The tall man nods and takes a few steps closer, “He’s so tiny.” He comments once you pass him the baby.

“He is only two hours old.” You laugh, “Of course he’s tiny.”

In Yunho’s hands, Yejun looks even smaller. His large hands are about half of your son’s entire body length. For a moment, you think your friend may cry. He’s been excited for you to have Yejun from the moment he found out about your pregnancy. You, Yunho, and Seonghwa chat for a while. Yunho holds your son as long as he can until Yejun grows fussy and Seonghwa takes him back. Suddenly, Yunho’s phone starts ringing in his pocket. He sighs when he sees the caller and accepts the FaceTime call.

“Hello, Mingi.” He says in a playfully annoyed tone.

“Mingi’s parking the car. Get your ass out of there. I need to see Yejun right now.” Danbi yells into the phone.

“Okay, okay. He’s fussy so have fun with that.”

You look over and see Seonghwa pacing while gently rocking him and humming quietly; the amount of love poring from his eyes makes your heart soar with butterflies. Yejun won’t calm down, though. You motion for your boyfriend to bring him to you. Instantly, Yejun calms and seems to be searching for your chest in hopes of milk. After that, Yunho dismisses himself to allow you the privacy of feeding.

“What?” You question when you notice Seonghwa watching you.

“Nothing.”

“Nothing? You’re staring at our son while he’s eating.” You tease.

Seonghwa smiles brightly and sits at the foot of the bed.

“It’s beautiful. You’re beautiful. He’s beautiful. I couldn’t imagine life without you both.” 

Another knock raps on the door. You quickly pull your hospital gown up and over your son as he continues to feed. Seonghwa pops his head out the door and then allows the guests in. Both your friends step into the room. Their boyfriends are nowhere to be seen yet.

“Where–”

“Currently latched to my chest.” You cut off Danbi, “He’s hungry.”

A few moments later, Yejun is done feeding, and you strategically move him from under the gown to lay him against your shoulder to burp him. Once he does, you hold him for both Eunji and Danbi to see. Danbi looks like she’s in some sort of elated shock. You don’t expect to see Eunji almost instantly break down in tears. She walks closer but doesn’t reach out to hold him due to her state. She had done her own research and didn’t want to risk him getting sick in any way.

“He’s so…” She tapers off.

Eunji steps into your bathroom and cleans her hands (maybe too thoroughly) before returning and asking to hold him. She looks at him as if he’s her world. On more than one occasion, she’s mentioned that she doesn’t want kids of her own. Luckily, Yeosang feels the same way. The two of them are more than happy being an aunt and uncle to whoever ends up having kids in your friend group. 

You look for Seonghwa, but notice he stepped out. He knew it was a raw and personal moment for Danbi and Eunji to meet your son. You’re thankful he gave that moment to them despite his papa bear mode already being present two hours into your son’s life. The door opens again, and You see your boyfriend walk in with Mingi and Yeosang in tow. Yeosang immediately wraps his arms around Eunji from behind and rests his chin on her shoulder. He looks at Yejun in her arms and smiles softly. The entire scene melts your heart. 

Despite not wanting to hand off your son, she reluctantly passes him to Mingi. Yet again, your son looks pea-sized in his hands. Danbi breaks from her excitement-induced stupor. She reaches over and rubs her finger along Yejun’s soft cheek. He thinks it’s a food source and tries to latch onto it. She lets out a quiet giggle at the action. Mingi has a goofy smile on his face. You know he’s happy, though. His eyes are sparkling looking at the infant in his hands. Since he panicked about finding your pregnancy tests in Danbi’s bathroom, he’s been vocal about his wish for kids in the future. Though, he and Danbi agreed, not for a while still. 

“The other four are blowing up the group chat, waiting to get in here.” Seonghwa laughs lightly, “I’m sure they want to meet him before his mother passes out on us.”

“I’m fine.” You protest. Your yawn betrays your sentiment. 

Danbi nods, “As much as we’d love to stay, I have a few exams to prepare for, and somebody has meetings tomorrow.” She comments, throwing Mingi a playfully annoyed look.

Yeosang looks at Yejun being passed back to you. His eyes are wide and shiny. Somewhere between concerned and enamored. As much as he loves your son already, him being just over three hours old now makes him scared that he’ll break him somehow. 

“Did we get the godparents title?” Eunji asks, eyes locked on Yejun.

“You know damn well you share that with all of us!” Mingi whines.

His volume causes Yejun to burst out in tears. Not used to loud sounds yet. You bounce him lightly and shush him. Yeosang’s concerned yet enamored face intensifies and the four of them quickly excuse themselves. (Much to Eunji’s dismay). After the door is shut again, another yawn escapes your lips.

“If you’re too tired, my love, we can tell Joong, San, Wooyoung, and Jongho to come by tomorrow.” Seonghwa tells you with a bit of worry in his tone.

You shake your head, “It’s okay. It wouldn’t be fair to them if everyone else got to meet him today.”

Seonghwa sighs, “It’s what your limit is, and his is too… if you’re too tired if he’s too tired… they’ll understand.”

“Seonghwa, we’re okay.” You offer a soft smile. 

Despite his lingering concern, Seonghwa leaves to retrieve the last four people who need to meet your little one. The moment the door knob clicks open, San is bursting through the door, with Wooyoung not far behind. Both of them look over the moon with joy and excitement. Wooyoung is the first to get to hold him. San whines about it the whole time. The slightly younger male rambles on and on in a quiet voice about how much fun they’ll have when he’s older. Eventually, San steals the baby from him and looks at him with a sweet, dimpled smile.

“He looks a lot like Seonghwa.” He chuckles, “Almost identical to the baby pictures we’ve seen of him.”

“You trying to say he looks nothing like me?” You tease.

San nods, “Exactly that!” He giggles, “Seriously though, you two are going to be amazing parents. I’m happy for you.”

Wooyoung and San hoard Yejun, Hongjoong, and Jongho hang back the whole time and quietly observe. That is, until, San passes the newborn to Hongjoong when he notices just how tired you’re getting and drags a very chatty Wooyoung out of the room. Hongjoong looks like a fish out of water, to say the least. Then, Yejun blinks up at him. His expression completely changes, and he looks as though he could melt at any moment.

“A new first mate?” He teases Seonghwa.

“Don’t push it. Make your own first mate if you really want one.”

Hongjoong laughs quietly, “But you’re so good at the job. I’m sure Yejun would be just as good.”

The two go back and forth for a while. In the meantime, Jongho pulls a chair closer to you. 

“You did good.” He states plainly.

“Thank you?”

“I’m serious. I couldn’t have imagined Seonghwa in this position a few years ago. You’re really good for him, and having Yejun showed me even more that you two are special. You know… when he first mentioned wanting to ask you out properly, he came to me for advice. I’m really happy he did. He loves you, and now Yejun, more than anyone on this planet or further. You did good.” He smiles softly at you.

“Jongho,” you pause for a moment, “Thank you.”

He nods, “Of course, I’ll hold him another time, okay?”

“Are you sure?” You question your maternal instincts, kicking in full force.

He nods again, “I can just tell how exhausted you and Seonghwa are. He’s just not letting it on. And I’m sure Yejun is exhausted from meeting people all afternoon, too. Get some rest. You all deserve it.”

COPYRIGHT STARLITMARK 2023© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED — reposting/modifying any fic or piece of original writing posted on this blog is not allowed. Translations are not permitted. 

Networks: @kwritersworld @k-vanity @cultofdionysusnet

Tag List: @sanjoongie @jaehunnyy @ericssmile @anyamaris @almondmilkeu @shinestarhwaa @northerngalaxy

[enchantedbarnes]

Uncle Buck • Part 4

Misterwives

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Single Aunt!Reader

Summary: Your nephew Benji overhears a conversation. Not liking what he's hearing, he takes matters into his own hands.

Word Count: 3.9k

Masterlist: One | Two | Three | Four | Five | Six | Seven

A/N: Sheeeeeesh. This one's longer than the other parts. Take this as my Happy New Years! treat I guess haha. Pt 1 just passed 4k notes and my mind is absolutely blown.

Everybody thank @kilikina34512 for our latest Benji hijinx 😏 Enjoy! and thanks again for all the love 🫶🥰

Bucky joined both of you at "The Screamery" that following day. A themed ice cream shop you and Benji both love that is decked out in classic horror movies.

Benji ate what seemed like his weight in ice cream. You caved and bought him a banana split sundae which Dracula dropped off at your table in a sundae boat the size of Benji's head. Strawberry syrup was drizzled on top to look like blood and a fake candy eyeball took the place of the cherry on top. You knew it would be too much for him to eat all of it, but figured you can always bring the leftovers home.

Benji pointed out all the memorabilia around to Bucky, filling him in on both his personal favorites and yours.

After arriving back at the house, Bucky stuck around for a cup of coffee and this was the point where you royally fucked up.

It's now a few days after, reaching midweek.

"We've decided we're just going to be friends," you explained to Nora as you sat on your bed.

"What?? Why? Was this his decision or yours?" Nora stood in front of you with her hands on her hips.

"Well, both..? I think…"

"You think??"

"He didn't disagree."

"Y/N! Of course he didn't disagree if you decided you didn't want to be with him."

"It's not that I don't want to be with him. I do really like him. He has been nothing but super sweet and kind with our insanity."

"Yeah, it's always a real bummer when a super hot guy brings you flowers and enjoys hanging out with you and your family," Nora rolls her eyes.

"Yeah, I get it. I'm an idiot, okay?"

"Why are you self-destructing? I've seen the smile he gives you, are you kidding me? Smitten. Same goes for you."

"I don't know! I panicked. Holidays are coming up soon. I didn't want to drag him into more nonsense than we already have. We've probably been way over the top and too much for him to want to deal with. We practically kidnapped the guy over the weekend," you ramble on, "Plus what you said with the whole super hot thing. Like come on, how are those cheekbones and that jawline-"

"The eyes."

"The eyes! How is he even real? It's ridiculous."

"No, you're ridiculous. Please explain how the conversation happened, did he tell you this was too much?"

"Well, no…not exactly. We were just talking and my brain kind of went into this red alert mode and I started rambling like an idiot about how nice it has been hanging out and I vaguely remember saying something along the lines that we make a great couple of friends."

"Couple of friends?! Are you for real right now? Did you hit your head and not tell us? What the hell is wrong with you!"

"UGH!" you shout while slamming a pillow over your face.

Benji overhears the conversation from the hallway and shakes his head. Making sure both his mom and aunt were distracted with their conversation he grabs his hat and gloves, putting them on and then grabbing his jacket and tossing that on as well.

He does one more look back when he gets to the front door and quietly makes his way out, closing the door at a glacial speed so no noise would be detected.

Bucky was seated next to Sam at a local bar, beer in hand. Bucky explains what happened last with Y/n.

"I don't blame her for not being interested in me."

"C'mon man, that can't be it. You couldn't shut up about the great time you had bowling with her and how awesome her family and friends were. I was expecting a wedding invitation in the mail by now."

"Now you sound like the small one."

"Love that kid. He really is something else. I hope there's a video out there of him asking you to marry Y/n at that event. That was the best thing I've seen in years. Oh! Maybe I should give him my address so he knows where to mail my invitation," he grins, "We could also play the clip at your wedding."

Bucky glares over at him.

"Who am I kidding, your glare is right. He probably already knows my address. Y'think the kids gonna take this news of you just being friends well?" Sam asks.

Bucky's phone buzzes in his pocket. Pulling it out the screen lights up alerting a new call, listing an incoming call from NYPD.

What could the NYPD want? "Um, I'll be right back, I'm just gonna go-" he holds the phone up slightly and points towards the exit.

He answers as he walks to a quieter area, "Hello?"

"Hello, is this Sergeant Barnes?"

"Yes, is there something I can help with…?"

"We have a Benjamin Barnes here, he was found at Chestnut Park when he approached one of our officers. He said he got separated in a crowd and asked us to call you. Is this your nephew?"

"Yup," Bucky sighs, "That's my nephew, alright. Is his mom or aunt not with him?"

"No, sir. We checked the surrounding area but he wasn't able to spot them. Your phone number was the only one he could remember. Are you nearby to come collect him, or do you have an address we can bring him to? He wasn't sure what his address was either."

How convenient he didn't know his address or mom's phone number, but could probably rattle off all 50 states with their capitals if you asked him.

"I can come and get him."

"Officer Mills is with him now, they are near the east entrance of the park."

"Thanks." Bucky shook his head as he disconnected the call. Walking back over to the bar quickly to close his tab, "I gotta go," he tells Sam as he places cash on the bar.

"What's up? You need some help?"

"Small ones at it again, he must have heard something. Just got a call that my nephew, Benjamin Barnes, is at the park right now. He conveniently got separated from his mom and my phone number was the only one he knows," he answers with a knowing look.

"This kid deserves an award. Please can I come? I'm begging. I need to see this for myself."

"No." Bucky rolls his eyes, starting to walk out without another word. He holds his arm up to flag a cab.

Sam quickly tosses his own cash down and grabs his jacket, running to catch up with the super soldier.

"Are you going to call Y/n?" Sam asks as he finishes adjusting his jacket after he finally catches up.

"No, Sam. I thought I'd collect the kid and take him in as my own," he answers sarcastically, opening the door to the cab as it stopped in front of him.

"Well, he would probably be an excellent member of the team."

"We are not a team."

"Whatever you say, blue steel," Sam quickly opens the other side and slips in.

Once they're close enough Bucky spots Benji next to a hot dog vendor, chatting with the officer. Benji looks over and spots the two approaching through the crowd.

"Uncle Bucky!" He grins, looking over at the officer that was waiting with him, "My uncle is here, Officer Mills," he announces while pointing over at Bucky.

"Sorry for any trouble this might have caused. Thanks for having someone call and waiting with him," Bucky shakes the officer's hand.

"No problem, Sergeant Barnes. Glad to help. I was surprised when he said you were his uncle. Maybe you guys should start workin' on teachin' this guy his address and stickin' with his guardians in a crowd," Officer Mills instructs, looking down at Benji at the last part.

"Absolutely, I'm certain his parents will have a lot to say," Bucky answers, also giving Benji a pointed look.

After the officer walks away wishing them a good evening Bucky pulls out his phone.

"Alright, nephew, where is your mom?"

"She's at home…"

"And why are you not at home with her?"

"I thought it was a nice day for a walk…"

"Uh huh. Does she know you're out for a casual stroll on your own right now?"

"...Not so much…"

Bucky shakes his head and starts to open the contacts in his phone.

"Does anyone know you're out here?"

It was Benji's turn to shake his head.

Sam sits down against the ledge of the wall next to Benji. "You can't be out here walking by yourself, little man."

Bucky goes to tap on your contact, his eyebrow raising when he notices your name now seems to be under "Future Y/n Barnes 💌" with a photo of you laughing while eating ice cream he doesn't recall taking. He looks up at Benji with an eyebrow still raised.

Holding the phone up to his ear, it rings a few times before going to voicemail.

Bucky glares at the phone. He's about to start a text when the phone starts buzzing, "Future Y/n Barnes 💌" pops up on the screen with the ice cream shop photo on full display now.

"Hello, Y/n."

"Hey, Bucky…Sorry I just missed your call. What's up?"

"Do you happen to know where Benji is at the moment?"

"He's been in his room for a while, why do you ask?"

"You sure about that?" He questions while looking over at the roughly 4'2" boy in front of him that is currently in an animated conversation with Sam.

"Well, I was until you asked me that…his room has been blasting Party Rock Anthem for maybe half an hour now, but as far as I know he was in th-" Bucky hears loud music suddenly playing from your end and Y/n mutters a Benjamin under her breath, "Please tell me you have him."

"Well, not sure if he's achieved a cloning system, but I certainly have a close look-alike standing in front of me right now."

"That little punk... I'm so sorry, Bucky. Where are you? I'll come get him," he can hear you starting to rush around as the music shuts off.

"We can come to you, we're not far. We should be there in a few minutes."

"Thank you so much, Bucky. I really really appreciate it. I should probably go tell Nora her spawn escaped. Damnit, she's going to flip her lid… I'll see you soon."

"Tell her he's fine. Sam is with us too, we'll see you soon."

Bucky hangs up and joins the pair, "Alright, pal. We're dropping you back home. Your Aunt Y/n is expecting us now, and she's telling your mom about your Houdini act."

Benji's shoulders slump, "Do we have to?"

"Well, you kind of live there, and you're 8 years old. You can't be walking around by yourself. Especially without telling anyone. It's too dangerous out here by yourself, bud."

"I know, but I really needed to talk to you."

"What was so important you had to pull this stunt? You know my phone number," Bucky fixes another look at him while crossing his arms which sparks a small giggle from the boy.

"My tablet was charging and I didn't have a phone available.. I heard Aunt Y/n talking to my mom," he starts to explain looking ahead of them as they start their walk back.

"Okay?"

"Please don't give up on, Aunt Y/n."

"Not sure what you heard, pal? But we're still friends?"

"Friends is so lame! She didn't mean it. She said she panicked, but she really likes you. Even mentioned how um, handsome you were," he adjusts his answer with a side eye, "Also, she was worried we were too much for you. You don't think we're too much, do you?" He looks up at Bucky with a pout fully engaged.

"Well, Benjamin Barnes," he jokes, "I can't say you've been flying low under the radar here, pal. You certainly know how to make a statement," he ruffles his hair and puts his arm around his shoulders as they continue their walk.

Sam laughs and offers a fist bump to Benji.

Bucky continues, "But no, I wouldn't say you've all been too much. Just an adjustment. A nice one," he adds.

"You've managed to make robo-buck over here smile more than I've seen since I've known him," Sam comments. "Did you know when I met him, he ripped the steering wheel right out my car from my hands? Punched right through the windshield," Sam makes hand gestures to go along with the story. He and Bucky both glare at each other, Sam's has a smirk to his however.

"Whoa!" Benji shouts, "Can we try that with the car over there?! I wanna see!!"

Bucky huffs and pulls Benji along.

"Ignore everything Samuel says. Pretend he's not even here. I know I certainly do," Bucky mutters at the end.

"I was talking to.." Benji pauses, "Prudence.. about reincarnation. She says you knew Y/n in another life, but you never got together in that life, so your hearts are like puzzles with missing pieces and when you get together the puzzle will be complete. I know this because I'm younger and pure, so I'm more in touch with cosmic forces."

"Wait, puzzles, cosmic forces… Why does that sound familiar?" Sam asks, squinting ahead in thought.

"BENJAMIN DAVID RUSSELL!"

"Dang, full government name. Nice knowing you kid," Sam lets out a low whistle.

They were still about 5 houses back, the front steps to their destination visible up ahead. Nora stood outside their doorway with her arms crossed.

"Get your scrawny butt in here, right now!" Nora points to the door.

"Farewell fellas, it was nice knowin' ya," Benji sends a salute and a wave to the pair as he slowly walks the rest of the way ahead of them.

"Inside, let's go," Nora instructs, "Straight to your room. You'll notice your speakers are no longer in there and the door is left open, keep it that way."

"But mom!"

"Nope, I don't want to hear it right now. Inside, move it."

Benji disappears inside and up the stairs.

"Thank you so much for bringing him home," Nora greets Bucky with a tight hug.

"Hi, I'm Nora," she introduces herself to Sam, "Thank you so much, truly I appreciate it," she pulls Sam into a hug as well.

"Great meeting you, big fan of your kid. Probably not what you want to hear right now though."

"Ha. Yeah, never a dull moment around here. Please come in and join us for dinner. We have some lasagna that's about to come out of the oven. It's the absolute least I can do to thank you both. You can fill me in on what scheme he pulled this time."

"Oh, we wouldn'–"

Sam cuts Bucky off, "We would love to!" He slaps Bucky on the back and then gives him a slight shove forward towards the doorway.

Y/n hears more voices and walks into the living room from the kitchen to join them as they file in through the front door. Following the same steps Nora had done previously, you greet Bucky and Sam with a hug while thanking them.

"Food should be ready in about 10 minutes. You guys wanna grab a seat in the kitchen? I'll grab some drinks. Theo should be here any second, you can fill us in on the latest shenanigan," Nora sighs walking over towards the fridge.

"I need more stories on this kid. Has he always been like this? I'm a little offended he didn't ask me to be his uncle," Sam jokes following Nora into the kitchen.

Bucky looks over at you.

"Hi…" you offer a small wave.

"Hi," he smirks back.

"Should I be worried about what has come out of his mouth this time?"

His smirk stays as he places a quick kiss to your cheek and walks into the kitchen without further comment.

Your eyes widen, "Wait, where are you going?? Bucky! What did he say??"

The adults all sat at the kitchen table.

Theo arrived home right as Bucky started his explanation of getting a call from the NYPD to collect his nephew.

"I spoke to him quickly before I went to talk to Y/n earlier. I should have known something was up after the 5th Party Rock loop. It just kept going. I assumed he was working on a dance routine or something," Nora looked over to Theo.

"Never trust Party Rock Anthem," Theo shook his head solemnly.

"Party Rock was not in the house tonight," she answers with a deadpan tone.

"Everybody just wants a good time," Theo continues while standing up, "but he's definitely gon' make us lose our minds.."

"We just wanna see you - shake that," Nora points over at him.

"Ev'ry day I'm shuff-shufflin'." Theo dances over to the staircase, "Prisoner number 6-2-4, your gruel is ready!" He shouts up the stairway.

Benji speeds his way down, "Hiya Dad, how was your day? You're looking great today. New shirt?"

"Wow, only butt-kissing level 5? You've done better than that. Let's go, menace." He walks back into the kitchen

"It's wild here and I love it. Hey Buck, we could be brother-husbands! …Misterwives? Co-husbands??" Bucky glares at him, "We can workshop it later," Sam sends him a wink with a nudge.

Nora laughs while your cheeks heat up across from them.

"Can I show Bucky something upstairs?" Benji asks as everyone cleans up from dinner.

"In your room?" Nora asks, suspicious of more shenanigans.

"Uh, yeah…? Please! It'll be quick."

Benji grabs Bucky's hand and leads him up the stairs.

"This is my room," he points towards the open doorway leading to his room as they walk by, "but this is what I wanted to show you," he opens a door at the end of the hallway that leads to another set of stairs going up to the attic space.

"Ta-daaa!" Benji flips the switch at the top of the stairs, turning on the soft string lights set up around the room. A blanket fort with lights was set up surrounding the large plush sofa, various pillows and piles of soft and fluffy blankets scattered along both the sofa and the floor in front of it. Fake candles and lanterns dotted around the area. A large stack of movies rests on the floor next to an empty bowl labeled "popcorn" and a dusty bottle of wine.

A large projector screen was set up across from the sofa fort with lights also surrounding it, and in the middle was a projector on top of a tripod facing the screen.

"This is our movie hang out room. I made some additions to it. You and Aunt Y/n should have a movie night!" He grins up at the stunned brunette.

"Pal, this is… wow.. This is a really cool setup you have here..."

Two sets of footsteps joining them can be heard, "Benjamin if I come up here and you have Bucky locked up or something, I swear- whoa," you stop short and look around, "What's all this??"

"A movie night for you and Bucky!" Benji bounces up and down, arms out wide.

"What the shiiii-zz," Sam corrects himself in present company, "This is incredible. Now I'm really doubling down on misterwives. Does that popcorn machine over in the corner work??"

After a heavy back and forth debate, Benji somehow convinced Bucky to stay for a movie and Sam to come back another night for the next family movie marathon.

Benji had grabbed Sam's sleeve and tugged him to follow back downstairs.

"Will you sign my Captain America car Bucky got me? What's your favorite kind of car? Do you have a car or do you just use your wings? Can I see redwing next time??"

"Good luck, Sam!" You called down to him.

"Night lovebirds!"

You look over at Bucky, "I'm sorry for self-destructing the other night… I didn't want to overload you. There's been a lot of schemes by an 8 year old going on," you motion around you.

"Well, friend," he gives you a cheeky look, "with how hard Benji has been working on his schemes, your avoidance skills have been understandable. I don't blame you for not wanting to be with some well past his time grump like me that has a questionable history an-"

"That's not what I meant. I just wanted you to have your own choice in all of this. I know how persuasive that little punk can be. I feel bad we've essentially kidnapped you multiple times now."

"Not exactly kidnapping if I've been willingly showing up. I'll let you in on a secret though. When we walked out at the start of that event, I noticed both of you before Benji even walked up to ask his question. Benji was fidgeting, tugging at your sleeve and you- and your hair," he chuckles, tugging at a rogue brightly colored curl, "caught my attention almost immediately. Something was already pulling me to both of you before the schemes even began and I'm honored for whatever crazy reason it brought me here."

You hold your pinky up, "Promise you'll tell us if the crazy gets to be too much?"

He hooks his pinky around yours and tugs you in, his lips brushing against yours. You eagerly return his kiss, pushing up on your toes slightly to better reach.

Bucky pulls back and smirks, "Do your worst."

"Don't let him hear you say that," you laugh pulling him back in.

-

You both moved to the sofa as you looked over the stack of movies Benji set aside, "Of course…such a punk."

"What?" Bucky asks, trying to see the titles you were looking at.

"I really should have seen this one coming. There seems to be a theme going on here with his selections for us," you turn the stack towards him.

The Princess Bride,

Arsenic and Old Lace,

The Wedding Singer,

Corpse Bride,

My Big Fat Greek Wedding,

The Proposal,

Just Married,

The Wedding Planner,

27 Dresses,

Bride of Chucky,

and Shrek.

"Arsenic and Old Lace? Is this a wedding movie too?"

"Kind of? It starts with a couple from Brooklyn eloping at city hall. Mostly it's about two older aunts poisoning men and shoving them in their window seat…Fun times. The back says it's from 1944, have you heard of it?"

He shakes his head, "I shipped out in '43."

"Right. Well, one of my favorite lines from it is highly relatable. He goes I probably should have told you this before, but insanity runs in my family…it practically gallops. I should print that on a custom welcome mat for our front door," you laugh.

He holds up Shrek next, "and this one with the green guy…?"

"I actually think you'll enjoy the friendship between Shrek and Donkey in that one. Their banter reminds me of another pair you may know," you give him a side eye glance.

"He's friends with a donkey? What is the green guy supposed to be? He doesn't marry the donkey, right?"

"Yup, we're watching this one. Pass the popcorn bowl, pleease. I'll go fill it." You grin as you kiss his cheek.

(😉🧩❤️ did you catch the reference? ☝️)

If you have any diabolical ideas, my asks are open. If it sparks an idea you just might get lucky to see more 😏

Thanks again for your submission @kilikina34512 🥰

"I’m so in love already with Benji! I could see this boy somehow getting lost at the park and telling a police officer, “Can you call my Uncle instead of my mom? He’s the Winter Soldier!” and having Bucky come get him just to keep from getting in trouble with his mom! 😂"

Next: Part 5 Meddlingpunkitis

Taglist:

@pono-pura-vida @bitchy-bi-trash @random-writer-23 @jvanilly @clintsupremacy @eatingtheworldsoffanfiction @firstcashheroathlete @stany0url0calwh0res111 @sjsmith56 @eliwinchester99 @tbhidkbutok @babymady @shaking-a-jar-of-bees @its-daydreamer23 @capswife @thecubanator2 @wintermunsonreads @buckybarnessimpp @moon-light1928 @emily-roberts @jeanbarton @ilovetaquitosmmmm @lottiehernandez @tellenically @trixxietat @imdoingbetternow @maximoffrogersslut @samsgirl93 @lovebittenbyevans @inwhichiramble @jbuckybarnesfan @daemonslittlebitch @marvel88 @spiderman-stilinski @marvelfreakgirl @tinkerbelle67 @assassinscross @foolishwaitersblog @jasminex12 @buckysbaby-doll

[sagesskies]

ᴛᴏ ꜱᴛᴇᴀʟ ᴀ ʜᴇᴀʀᴛ II

✒ ᴛᴏ ᴀꜱᴋ ꜰᴏʀ ᴀ ʜᴇᴀʀᴛ

✒ ʜᴇ ᴡᴀꜱ ɴᴏᴛʜɪɴɢ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴛʜᴀɴ ᴛʜᴇ ɢᴀʀᴅᴇɴᴇʀ'ꜱ ꜱᴏɴ, ᴡʜᴏ ᴋɴᴇᴡ ʜᴇ ᴄᴏᴜʟᴅ ʜᴏʟᴅ ᴀʟʟ ᴛʜᴇ ᴘᴏᴡᴇʀ.

ᴛᴏ ꜱᴛᴇᴀʟ ᴀ ʜᴇᴀʀᴛ I

ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛ ɪɴᴄʟᴜᴅᴇꜱ: ᴄʟᴀꜱꜱɪꜱᴍ, ᴘʀᴏᴍɪꜱᴄᴜᴏᴜꜱ ʙᴇʜᴀᴠɪᴏʀ ꜰʀᴏᴍ ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ (ᴍᴇɴᴛɪᴏɴᴇᴅ ᴏɴʟʏ), ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ ɪꜱ ᴠᴇʀʏ ᴀᴘᴀᴛʜᴇᴛɪᴄ, ᴍᴇɴᴛɪᴏɴꜱ ᴅɪꜱᴄɪᴘʟɪɴɪɴɢ ɢʟᴇɴɴ ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴀ ʙᴀᴅ ᴅᴏɢ, ᴍᴇɴᴛɪᴏɴꜱ ᴏꜰ ᴅʀᴜɢ ᴀᴅᴅɪᴄᴛɪᴏɴ, ᴍᴇɴᴛɪᴏɴꜱ ᴏꜰ ᴀᴅᴜʟᴛᴇʀʏ, ꜱᴡᴇᴀʀɪɴɢ, ᴄʀᴇᴇᴘ ʙᴇʜᴀᴠɪᴏʀ ꜰʀᴏᴍ ɢʟᴇɴɴ, ʙʟᴀᴄᴋᴍᴀɪʟɪɴɢ, ɪᴍᴘʟɪᴇᴅ ᴍᴜʀᴅᴇʀ

You were in the gardens, napping on the bench in a manner unbefitting of a nobleman, when you were alerted by his new attendant, Curtis’ nephew Samuel, that a man by the name of Glenn Alston was waiting for you in the parlor. 

You sighed, and rubbed at your weary eyes, “So, you just let some random man inside the estate without my permission?” 

Samuel flinched, “I… I apologize, my Lord…” He gulped, “He knew the guards, a-and they just let him in…” 

You glared at him. If Curtis were here, he would have made sure Glenn would be waiting not in your parlor, but rather outside by the gates, as was custom for those whose entrance wasn’t authorized. Unfortunately Curtis was on his honeymoon in the south with his new husband. 

You didn’t mind the fact that he was marrying a man, you just wished he sent somebody more capable as his replacement.

You sit up, “Alright.” You stand and stretch, “Tell him I’ll be there in a few minutes.” You may as well do it, now that he’s here. Sure, there’s the whole wanting to marry you shtick, but you can fix that somehow. You don’t really have an idea how but you never needed to plan ahead, ideas just came to you naturally and things always worked out. 

You walked at a leisurely pace to the parlor, deciding to take the scenic route this time. The scenic route being the route where you pass by all the old dusty paintings of your ancestors looking snobby. You still remember doodling on one of them with Glenn, who was absolutely mortified. 

You pass by the doodled-on portrait, a smirk forming on your face when you see the little stick man on the edge of the painting. You give it a small pat, and whisper a sorry to your great great uncle Bartholomew. 

You arrive at the parlor, only ten minutes later. Unsurprisingly, your brother James is also here, alongside your sister Ophelia. It’s silent in the room, as they all stare at you. You’re only looking at Glenn who has grown from an awkward 16 year old to a handsome man in his prime. His messy dark hair is coiffed and styled to perfection, and he wears clothes that aren’t as expensive as yours, but he wouldn’t have been able to afford the last time you had seen him. What hasn’t changed are his hazel eyes, which were as piercing as ever. 

You notice that at his feet, lies a polished leather suitcase. You wonder what could be inside.

“Good day, all.” You drawled, and go to settle in between James and Ophelia, who shuffle aside to make room for you. 

“It’s 3 in the afternoon,” James grumbled, then his voice dropped to a whisper, “I thought you said you wouldn’t let him in.” 

You roll your eyes, and don’t bother to whisper back, “It wasn’t me who let him in, it was the guards.” 

Ophelia groaned, “Ugh, we should really upgrade our security…” She buried her face in her gloved hands, “Why on earth would they let him in anyways.” 

You glance at Glenn, who gives you what you recognize as a lovesick smile. You resist the urge to gag. “Well? How did you manage to get in here Glenn?” 

“I grew up with some of the guards,” Glenn reminded you, “I was just lucky that the ones I knew were on duty.”  

His voice takes on a teasing tone, “You really should get better guards, I only had to ask and they let me in.” 

Samuel entered the room, and set down a tray that held a teapot, four cups, and a jar full of sugar cubes. He avoided the gazes of you and your siblings, as he poured you all tea. He bows deeply, you swear if he bows even deeper his head would touch the floor, and then quickly leaves the room. 

Glenn takes a cup, and sips, “Who is that young man anyway?” He glances at you, when he asks this, “Usually it’s Curtis serving tea.” 

You don’t deign to answer him, taking a sip of your own tea. 

“Curtis is on a honeymoon,” Ophelia opens the jar of sugar and puts a teaspoon of it in her own cup, and steadily mixes it, “We’re left with his nephew, Samuel.” You notice the way her eyes shine the same way it does when she talks about her horse Galadrielle. A small smirk forms on your face. It appears your little sister has a crush on the lousy servant. 

James grunts, “Curtis could’ve at least taught the boy how to make proper tea,” His frown intensifies, “Tastes like dishwater.” 

“How would you know what dishwater tastes like?” You raise a brow, sipping your tea that, while not the best, doesn’t taste like dishwater. 

Glenn clears his throat, “Anyways, I would like to apologize for my intrusion, and whatever shock I may have inflicted with my arrival,” He glances at you from the corner of his eye, no doubt wondering about your reaction. 

You simply raise your brow as he continues to speak.

“I am aware that you do not want me here, but I have come to propose an offer to you,” Glenn pulled out the suitcase, and set it on the table beside the platter. With a click, it opens and he pulls out a thin stack of papers, “I assure you, it is worth your time.” 

James takes the paper, and reads through it. Since he was young, James was always the most expressive of your siblings. So when you saw the whirlwind of emotions that went through his face, you braced yourself for what was to come. 

He passed the papers to you, his uncharacteristic silence worried you. Guess you’ll find out what all the trouble is about.

The first page was innocuous, it had his name, age, gender, date of birth, all the usual stuff. It was the second page that started to get interesting, it included his involvement in multiple famous cases, most of which you heard of in passing but you knew how famous they were even with your shallow pool of knowledge. What caught your eye however, was one near the end of the list of long accomplishments: 

12. Involved in the campaign for the legalization of same-sex marriage in the country of Ethain as well as the first to propose the notion to the high court, and is known to have written the Eros Papers, which aided in persuading the high court to approve of the legalization of same-sex marriage. 

Your eyes widened, but you didn’t allow yourself to react more than that. You continued to flip through, till your eyes landed on a text that stated that if you were to refuse to sign the papers, information would be released of the family's involvement in… less than moral acts. 

Your hands moved quickly as you read faster, how did he know all of this? Your cousin Maddox’s drug addiction, your mother’s affair, your own affair with the Grand duke, your grandparent’s stealing of the rights to Johnathan Shaffer’s patent. The family’s darkest secrets, all in a few papers. 

You glared at Glenn, “How did you know all of this?” You wanted to wipe off that expression on his face, preferably with your fist. 

“Know what?” Ophelia had a confused expression on her face. James’ reaction was concerning enough, but you actually showing at least a modicum of genuine anger was even more so. 

You handed her the papers, and got up from your spot on the sofa. You racked through your mind as you tried to figure out how Glenn discovered these secrets. Even when Glenn lived here, he was still only the gardener’s son, privy to the same amount of secrets as all the other servants. Which was none. Zero, zip, zilch, nada. 

Ophelia gasped, and dropped the papers. Her eyes, the same hue of [e/c] as yours, were widened in shock, “H-how?” She looked at Glenn, who lounged casually on the sofa he sat on, “What do you want from us?” 

Glenn smiled, it was beautiful, just like the rest of him. God, you hated how you were still so weak for him. Even after all this time, even after he left you without anything more than a shoddy note. 

“What I want from you, is the position as the family’s lawyer,” He paused, and then his smile grew as his hazel eyes locked with your [e/c] ones, “And [Name]’s hand in marriage.” 

You stifled the urge to groan. Glenn was always such a weirdo, and that still hasn’t changed, even if it’s been over a decade. You made your way back over to the sofa, and plopped back down, crossing your arms over your chest and glaring at Glenn who simply kept on smiling. 

This felt wrong, you weren’t used to not being the one in control. Despite how lazy you are, you’re always the one in charge in any situation, that’s just how things are when you’re from the [L/N] family. 

But Glenn, for all of his weirdness, was by all accounts a genius. He was always meant for something more than tending to the gardens, you knew that from the moment you met him. And it always made you feel so inferior. The current situation didn’t help negate that feeling.

Your hand in marriage was one thing, but the position of the family lawyer belonged to Glenn’s own uncle. Erik Alston. You didn’t remember him much, but he was always kind to you and to Glenn. 

“Do you really want to take Erik’s job?” You raised a brow at him, “He’s your uncle, if you recall.” 

Glenn shrugs, and then takes another sip from his tea, “That’ll be between me and my uncle,” He then asks you a question, “Do you want all your secrets to be exposed to the court?” 

You purse your lips. The [L/N] family was of a high esteem, despite simply being a ducal family. If the public knew about the crimes of your family, anybody bearing the [L/N] name would be shunned from the court, and you could be subjected to a public execution for your family’s crimes. 

“Why are you bringing this to us?” James asks, he stares at Glenn, “Why not our parents?” 

Glenn chuckles, “Your parents are… how do I put this?” He hums, “Well, they wouldn’t really care. Your mother is too busy banging Baron Hensley, and your father is too focused on tending to his hunting dogs to care about his own children.” 

He takes another sip of his tea, “Besides, they’re getting old,” Glenn sets his cup down, now that it’s empty, “And I don’t want anything from them. All I want, I can get from you, [Name].” 

You bury your face in your hands. A younger, more naive, you would’ve been thrilled to hear this. The boy you were in love with telling you all he wanted, you could give him. You would’ve thought it was so romantic. 

But now all you can think is that you’re so screwed. And not in the way you’d like to be. 

“James, Ophelia,” You lift your face from your hands, “Leave us.” 

Ophelia furrows her brow, “Are you sure, [Name]?” 

James gets up from his spot on the couch, and walks over to Ophelia, and pulls her up, “Let’s just listen to him,” He glares at you, perhaps he blames you for what’s happening right now. You can’t help but agree with that notion. “Maybe he’ll get us out of this.” 

James leads Ophelia out of the room, she sends you back a worried glance, and then the door shuts behind them. 

Now it’s just you and Glenn in this room. It feels like you’ve been caged in with a rabid dog, ready to lunge at you and rip into your jugular. In another world, if you were just a bit more classist, you’d be treating him like one. Perhaps this wouldn’t happen if you just beat him into his place, scolded and disciplined him like the bad boy he was being. 

Glenn gets up from the sofa, and makes his way over to you. He sits down where James was only earlier, and runs a hand down your cheek. Before, his hands were always warm and rough from a day of work. They were still rough, but they were colder now. Suddenly, Glenn’s hand grabs your chin, and you wince at the harsh feeling of his nails digging into your skin. 

“I missed you…” He breathed in your scent, “God, I fucking missed you.” Glenn released your face, and then pulled you in, arms wrapping tightly around you. He gripped you like a child would grip its favorite toy, it felt suffocating, and you hated how he smelled like leather. 

“You know, when I found out about your affair with the grand duke,” Glenn rests his head on the crook of your shoulder, “I was devastated. I was in the capital when I found out, and I wanted to march over to the duke’s palace and beat his smarmy little face in.” His grip tightened on you as he said these words. 

If he wanted you to be guilty about sleeping with the grand duke, he had another thing coming. Sure, Christopher Avery was a dickhead, but he was an attractive dickhead, and he was surprisingly good in bed despite his family being highly religious and always preaching about ‘marriage before sex’ and being vehemently against the legalization of same sex marriage. 

And unlike Glenn, you weren’t willing to wait a decade for him to come back. 

“But… I get it,” Glenn’s voice grew soft, “You were lonely, and you needed somebody to keep you company. I.. I can’t say I haven’t slept with others.” Now that’s surprising, you fully expected him to still be untouched. You always expected him to have saved himself for you, not because that’s what you wanted but because it just seemed like something he’d do. 

“Who did you do it with?” You asked. Was it with a prostitute? A fellow student? Perhaps some man he met at a bar? 

“I don’t know. All I know is that he looked like you,” Glenn’s arms wrapped tighter, his hair tickling your neck, “But don’t worry about it, he’s gone now.” He said that like he expected you to be relieved or something, but instead you were starting to feel unnerved. 

“Let’s get married,” Glenn unwrapped an arm, and brought it to your hair, which he played with, “Like we said we would, when we were younger.” 

You sighed, “Glenn, we were kids, you don’t actually think…” But he pressed a finger to your lips. 

“Shhh…” From his expression, you could tell he wanted you to keep your mouth shut, “The marriage will be good, for both you and your family. You won’t have to worry about managing the estate, and your family gets to keep all its secrets.” 

“And you?”

He smiled, looking so much like the boy you fell in love with, “I’ll get to be with you, and that’s all I want.”

You could care less about not having to manage the estate, that was already assured for you through James, who grew up wanting nothing more than to be the next duke. But keeping the family’s secrets secret, that… you’d kill for that. 

Perhaps it wouldn’t be so bad for you to be with Glenn. He was smart, good-looking, and no matter how long it’s been, he’s still the boy who stole your heart the day he left all those years ago. 

You shift your body, so that you’re now resting on his lap, legs wrapping around his waist, and you drape your arms around his shoulders. You’re so close to his face now, his eyes are wide, and his cheeks are starting to become red. You run a hand through his dark hair, and give him a peck on the forehead. Delighting in the way the red on his cheeks starts to spread to his ears. 

“Alright then,” You smirk. Although Glenn is the one holding all the cards, you’re still his greatest weakness, and that means you’re the one in control, “I’ll marry you, Glenn Alston.”

You press your lips against his, and smile, “Till death do us part.”

[enchantzz]

I tried something new. Writing a Middle Earth story about young Fili and Kili and Uncle Thorin. I was inspired by this amazing piece of art by @sugarsu Here is the link to the original post. If you like the artwork, please consider reblogging the original post as well.

In the woods of Ered Luin

Summary: Uncle Thorin is taking care of young Fili and Kili and they visit the woods in the area of Ered Luin, The Blue Mountains. Just a lot of fluff and a somewhat anxious Thorin at times, but we all know the boys, so we can't really blame him 😉

divider created by me

It was still early, but Fili and Kili had already been running around since their eyes had opened to a beautiful day in Ered Luin. Dis and Thorin were sitting at the kitchen table, quietly drinking their coffee and listening to the chatter and laughter of the boys. Thorin usually didn’t have a lot of time, so he valued these family moments very much.

Thorin had offered to spend the day with his little nephews. His dear sister Dis had gratefully accepted the offer and looked forward to having some time to herself. But as soon as Thorin had offered to take the boys, next to excitement a little pang of fear hit him. What mayhem would he encounter this fine day? Nothing ever did not happen, something always did.

Thorin mustered up his courage and got up to fetch the boys. When he saw a heap of pebbles, blankets, pillows and a cat on top of it, he wondered what had happened in the few minutes he had taken his eyes off of them. Shaking his head, he said, 'Come on boys, get your coats, put on your boots.’

The heap of blankets, pillows, pebbles and cat immediately came apart and two pairs of eyes looked at him questioningly. 'Where are we going uncle Thorin?' they asked. 

“You’ll see. Now come on, get ready,’ he told them.

Not long after, they entered the forest near the Blue Mountains. It was a beautiful day so far, but the big furry clouds in the distance promised some well deserved rain for the plants and wildlife in the forest. The leaves were softly rustling in the breeze, birds were chirping and singing, insects buzzing. The forest was so full of life, yet so peaceful. 

Kili was jumping and running around. There was so much to see. Flowers, plants, little rocks, insects. Thorin smiled. That boy never seemed to run out of energy. Fili was usually much more reserved and quiet. He was walking alongside Thorin, observing the woods, asking him all kinds of questions and Thorin was answering them patiently.

‘What animals will we see today uncle Thorin?’ Fili asked. ‘Will there be moose? And wolves? What about bunnies? Oh look, uncle Thorin, what kind of bird is that?’ his little fingers pointing at a bird with a bright red chest, singing its morning song on one the branches of a big oak tree.

Thorin cringed at the idea of encountering a wolf and the pebbles being in danger, but he didn’t have a lot of time to think about it, for Kili came running up to him. 

‘Look uncle Thorin, look what I have!’ he exclaimed enthusiastically. He was holding something in his tiny hands, careful not to drop it. Thorin crouched down. ‘What have you got there little man?’ 

Kili opened his little hands and a black spider crawled out. ‘You can have it uncle Thorin,’ he said proudly and with a big grin on his face. ‘I fetched it for you.’

Oh dear, how to get himself out of that situation.

‘I think the spider is …,’ he started

‘Ciaran’,  Kili said.

‘What?’ Thorin looked at Kili, confused.

‘It’s name is Ciaran,’ Kili explained.

Thorin raised his eyebrows at that and scratched his beard. Wow, he had only just found the spider and it already had a name as if it were part of the family and needed to be taken up in the Durin family tree.

The new addition to the line of Durin was quickly forgotten though, when a rustle of leaves alerted Thorin and he looked in the direction of the sound. The word ‘wolves’ still fresh in his mind, he grabbed Kili and told him to be quiet. He checked on Fili, who was crouching down beside Thorin, imitating his uncle and all three of them looked in the direction of the moving bushes nearby.

A little spooked by Fili’s question about wolves, Thorin wished that he had brought his sword. He held his breath, but he sighed with relief when a deer and a fawn appeared and not a big bad wolf. 

‘Oh look uncle Thorin,’ Kili pointed at the fawn, ‘A baby deer! Can we go pet it?’ he asked excitedly.

‘No, Kili,’ Thorin said, ‘They are erm … having breakfast. It’s best to leave them be.’ 

Kili sighed disappointedly and Thorin chuckled.

‘Come on boys, let’s go about our way. There is a stream not far from here.’ 

That also got Fili excited and both pebbles ran ahead, their chatter and laughter echoing between the trees. It warmed Thorin 's heart to see them so excited and happy. With a smile on his face, he followed his nephews in the direction of the stream. 

The clouds, which had seemed so far away at the start of their walk, now gathered above them, hiding the sun and making the forest a little darker. Drops of rain started to fall and the calming sound of the raindrops falling on the foliage and the fresh smell of wet earth had a calming effect on Thorin. All anxiety about wolves forgotten. 

He loved the woods, the sounds, the smells. He filled his lungs with a deep breath of fresh air and for a moment closed his eyes and held his face up to the sky, the fresh rain drops gently falling on his face, his beard and his long, dark hair, which was held back with a beautiful handcrafted clip in the form of a raven. 

He stood there, enjoying the moment, but then, at once, snapped back to reality. It had gone quiet. Even though shouting and noise usually didn’t mean anything good when the boys were concerned, neither did absolute silence. He quickened his pace and almost tripped over a boot and another one and another. He followed the trail of boots, picking them up. Apparently, the boys had decided that they no longer needed those. 

He approached the stream and saw Fili crouched down, his blue cape over his head and his chin resting in the palm of his hand.  Kili was perched on his hands and knees on a flat stone in the stream.  They were studying a black bird which was hopping from stone to stone in the stream. The bird paused, sat on a stone and curiously turned its head from side to side, seemingly as curious as the boys. It was altogether a peaceful sight, the dripping sound of the raindrops making little circles in the water, the gently flowing stream, and the boys watching the bird, watching the boys.

Thorin crouched down next to Fili and put his big hand on Fili’s tiny shoulder. So that’s why the little rascals had gone quiet, he thought and smiled.

‘Can we keep him uncle?' Kili asked, breaking the silence. ‘Can we take him home so that we can show him to amad?’

‘No my dear boy, your mother wouldn’t be very happy if you took a bird home. It lives here, in the forest, you know. This is its home.  Everyone and everything has its own place in this world and the woods is where the bird belongs. It would be sad if it had to leave his home. You don’t want it to be sad, do you?’

Thorin heard himself say the words and for a moment sadness hit him. His thoughts went to Erebor, his home, where he belonged and which he had been forced to leave and for which he longed with all his heart. One day, he would return to the Lonely Mountain. He was sure of it.

He didn’t have long to think about it, because a frog hopped out of the water, onto the stone chasing off the bird. 

Kili giggled and reached for the frog. ‘Can we take …’ he started.

‘No, Kili, we can’t take the frog home either,’ Thorin said sternly, but he had a hard time keeping a straight face. Kili seemed to want to take home every animal and insect he encountered. Thorin was sure that Dis wouldn’t appreciate a zoo in her home. 

After a moment, Thorin got up and said, ‘Come on boys, put your boots back on. Let’s go see if amad has something nice to fill your bellies ok? You must be hungry after all these adventures.’ 

With that, the frog was all about forgotten, the boys hurried to put their boots on and off they went with Thorin in tow. Thorin was quietly enjoying the walk back home, while Kili and Fili chased after butterflies, found treasures - read 'stones' - along the way, chased each other and left Thorin wondering if he, Frerin and Dis had ever had the same amount of energy as these two boys. 

The rain had stopped, the sun had broken through the clouds, its rays illuminating the way home and he couldn’t have been more relaxed.

By the time they got home, Thorin was quite proud of himself that so far, the day had passed without any incidents and mayhem under his supervision. He was grateful for the family time, but also, deep down, grateful to be handing them back over to their mother, his dear sister, whom he admired more and more, every time he looked after the boys.  But also deep down, he longed for another day with his nephews, whom he loved as if they were his own sons.

If you liked the story, please know that I appreciate reblogs and comments very much 💜

Please let me know if you would like to be added or removed from the tag list.

@linasofia @lathalea @laurfilijames @guardianofrivendell @legolasbadass @middleearthpixie @xxbyimm @i-did-not-mean-to @the-poldarkian @shiinata-library @annkdarar @frosticenow @blairsanne @sweetestgbye @kibleedibleedoo @turnitdownsometimes @deanwanddamons @aduialel @lordoftherazzles

[honey-minded-hivemind]

After they alert the others, and successfully get Reader back, they realize that caring for reader is going to be much harder and...weirder than they thought.

For one, Reader is covered in untreated injuries from the facility, from living in the walls, to living in the woods. (Those bloody footprints and hand prints? That was their blood. All the scientists and guards blood got washed away in a stream.) But anything with a screen immediately goes static or explodes in Reader's vicinity, so no heart monitor or anything like that.

Reader also needs new clothes. They've been wearing a stolen shirt of Logan's and shorts stolen from kitty, nothing else, and its torn to shreds. Both of them had been wondering wear their clothes went.

Reader's body has changed. Outside of the glowing eyes and spiked fingers, their teeth are razor sharp now and their tongue is long and spiked. Their hair seems to move on its own.

That's not even talking about their behavior. Even when they're unconscious, Reader is doing some freaky things. Sometimes they float, sometimes they sit straight up with their eyes wide open, sometimes black ink substance starts trailing down their face as they cry in their nightmares, sometimes their dreams will leak into reality.

Everyone is worried and doting over their poor baby. Doing whatever they can to heal them up and make them comfy.

No one is as worried as Storm is, when on her turn to watch over you, she gets up to get Reader another blanket when they grab her wrist and, fully awake, whisper

" Why did you bring me back? It's too dangerous for you. I can't be here."

She's terrified, to say the least. She's shushing Reader, pushing them back down gently, covering them in the blanket she got for them. It has little moons amd stars on it that glow in the dark, a gift she amd Evan picked out for Reader the day they got them back. She hopes they like it.

She knows Reader is... different, now. That their powers have spiraled out of control, that the experiments have affected their thoughts and the way they appear, she knows how they're struggling not to lose control. But she loves them, no matter what. They're one of her kids, they're someone who needs her, who needs them, and she can't abandon them to suffer again. None of them can!

She's careful tucking the blanket around and over Reader, careful of their claws and gazing quickly over the bandages wrapped around their body and neck. She needs to check with Hank and Logan if they've found any sedatives that work on Reader, or see if her nephew or Scott or the other teens have had any luck helping Reader feel more at home with them...

The shadows seem to curl around Reader as she goes to leave, amd she can't help but hope they're on Reader's side, and not another part of the torture done to them. She watches as those bright eyes follow her, like two lost little stars searching for the last ray of light in the dark. Deep down she hopes she brings them some comfort, even if it's just a small drop compared to what they need...

It may be hard, continuing to see Reader in this way, and having to keep them here where they can't be found, but if it means they're safe, and where they won't be hurt again, then it's worth it... Storm just hopes if Reader finds out, that they'll forgive them for it...

But for now, she needs to know what the others have managed to come up with, and if it will help Reader in any way... even in ways they won't appreciate at first...

(Yes, let's go even darker yet, shall we, @sugar-soda? Mwahahahaha~!)

[thatfanficstuff]

Broken Souls - Severus Snape

Pairing: Severus Snape x Soulmate!Reader

When Harry Potter was four years old, Dudley Dursley demanded a sibling. A sister to be precise. Petunia and Vernon immediately fell in love with the idea of a daughter to spoil as much as their perfect son and headed off to the orphanage, Dudley in tow. And while Dudley got a new sister that day, Harry got a cousin that didn’t treat him like shit.

Then in one of life’s great ironies, shortly after your sixth birthday (which was the day before Harry’s) you proved to be just as much of a ‘freak’ as your cousin when Dudley wouldn’t stop picking on Harry. Your hands fisted at your sides and your brother found himself suddenly twenty feet away as you screamed at him to stop.

Of course, your new family refused to believe that you had been the cause and blamed poor Harry even when you told them it was you. When one too many unexplained things occurred when he wasn’t around, they were forced to admit the truth. You, their baby girl, their sissy, were a ‘freak’. When your so-called parents tried to treat you with the same level of love and affection they showed their nephew, Dudley forbade it. You were still his sissy even if you had caught Harry’s freakishness. And wasn’t that a fantastic theory? Harry was to blame for it all. As such, it only made sense that he pay the price for your freakishness.

It was no surprise then that by the time the two of you received your Hogwarts’ letters that Harry hated you almost as much as the rest of your family. All in all, it made life rather lonely. Even when you came to Hogwarts, Harry immediately became part of the trio while you remained a loner. Then in your second year Luna Lovegood joined you in Ravenclaw and the two of you became instant friends.

At the beginning of your fourth year, Harry had been particularly nasty to you one afternoon. His hatred of the fact you’d spent most of your summer with the Lovegoods’ seeping into his sharp words. As usual, you said nothing in response, simply standing there and taking his abuse. Suddenly, Harry’s tirade cut off and a heavy hand fell on your shoulder.

“Twenty-five points from Gryffindor for verbally attacking another student, Potter.” Professor Snape’s rumbling deep voice eased some of the tension from your shoulders. Potions was your favorite class and you’d always liked the prickly professor for some reason. “Fifteen more for your language.”

Harry glared and his mouth twisted as he prepared to argue, but Hermione tugging on his arm stopped him. Giving you one last nasty look, he turned and stomped away.

You swallowed the lump in your throat. “Thank you, professor.” Your voice was soft, barely there as you tried desperately not to give into the threatening tears.

He made a sound of agreement before squeezing your shoulder gently. “Come with me, Ms. Dursley.” He left his hand on your shoulder and steered you to his office in the dungeons. Once you’d made it inside, he led you to chair. “Sit. Are you comfortable with me shutting the door?”

You nodded your head. “Of course, professor.” Not only did you trust the man implicitly, there were wards on the castle that immediately alerted the headmaster if a student should be attacked. Not that they seemed to do much good half the time, you admitted to yourself.

As he took the seat behind his desk, a tea service appeared and he poured you a cup before passing it over for you to prepare it to your taste. “Now, explain to me, Ms. Dursley, where this animosity between you and Harry Potter comes from.”

That was the first of many meetings you would have with Severus Snape over the years. At first they were infrequent, once a month or so but by the time you returned to Hogwarts for your fifth year, it had become a weekly occurrence. Now you were three weeks into your final year and you were avoiding Severus like the plague. He was bound to notice, of course he was. He wasn’t an idiot. But you had no idea how to go about having the conversation you needed to have with him.

While your seventeenth birthday had brought the expected magical maturity, it had also brought an unexpected creature inheritance. It had taken the rest of the summer for you to learn how to hide your ears and tail. Just as you thought everything was going to be fine, school resumed and it took exactly one half of a potions class to realize Severus Snape was your mate. Merlin. Sometimes you swore Magic hated you.

He should have come to the same conclusion when you did, if not before, but he’d said nothing to you about it. Maybe he wanted to ignore it, to pretend you weren’t his mate. The thought hurt more than you thought it would.

You were cleaning up at the end of another potions lab when the professor passed by your desk. “Remain after class, Ms. Dursley.”

You sucked in a breath and his heady scent swamped your senses. “Of course, professor.”

Once the room emptied, Severus headed toward his office as he motioned you to follow. He didn’t spare a glance in your direction. You sat in your usual chair and watched him prepare your tea the way you liked it. It was only after he leaned back in his seat with his own cup that his gaze met yours.

“Now, why are you avoiding me?” That smooth, sultry voice wrapped around you offering a comfort you didn’t realize you needed.

You coughed a little on your drink and shook your head. Your cheeks heated as you denied his words. “I’m not.”

He snorted. “Bullocks.”

You crinkled your nose in distaste at the expression which made him smile ever so briefly. You sighed and sat your cup on the edge of his desk. “Do you really not know?”

His brows lifted at that. It was obvious he had no idea what you were referring to.

Your hands tangled together in your lap as you cleared your throat. You tore your gaze from him as you revealed your cat ears and tail. He came to stand beside you in the long stretch of silence that followed. “May I?” he asked quietly.

You nodded in agreement though you weren’t entirely sure what he was asking permission for. That question was answered when his long fingers ran over the tips of your ears. They twitched beneath his touch. In a swirl of robes, he was back in his seat and you risked a glance at him. There was nothing but curiosity in his gaze. You bit your lip, drawing his gaze before he met your eyes again.

“Neko?”

“Shadow neko,” you corrected.

He sucked in a breath in surprise. “Those are incredibly rare.”

The corner of your lips lifted slightly at the awed tone. “I’m aware.”

“What did Gringotts say?”

You leaned back in your seat and crossed your legs. This wasn’t a discussion you wished to have with him. With anyone. Eventually, yes, but not when you were still coming to grips with it yourself. “Those tests are incredibly expensive. Well beyond the ten pounds in my pocket.” The only way you had even been able to attend Hogwarts had been through their fund for indigent students.

His brow furrowed. “Why didn’t you say? I would have paid for it. You need only ask.”

Your cheeks heated again. “You know why.” You were too proud to beg or even ask for help from a friend. It was a trait shared with the professor so you knew he’d understand.

“Very well,” he agreed after a moment. “None of this explains why you are avoiding me, however.”

You took a deep breath and dug up the little Gryffindor bravado you kept buried under your Ravenclaw smarts. “You’re my mate.”

If you hadn’t been watching when you said the words you would have missed the brief flash of warm hope in his eyes. As fast as it came, it was gone to be replaced with cold hatred. Your chest grew tight and your stomach sank.

“Get out.” His voice was so soft you barely heard it.

Fear flooded through you. He couldn’t reject you. He just couldn’t. You had anticipated him being unhappy. After all, you were student even if you were of age. And you were just you. There was nothing special about you. But the two of you had the greatest conversations. You got along well. You had thought – hoped – he liked you at least a portion of how much you liked him.

“Sever—”

“It’s professor, Ms. Dursley. Now, get out.”

You were frozen in your shock. “But, professor, I don’t understand. Please.” You hated the plea in your voice, the tremor in your hands.

“I had a mate and lost her many years ago the same night your idiot cousin somehow survived.” He gave you a moment to process his words. It couldn’t be true. He was your mate. You knew he was. Your head spun in confusion.

He fisted his hands on the desk and pushed himself to his feet to scowl down at you. “I thought better of you than to resort to such cruelty. I am unsure what you hoped to gain other than your own entertainment at my pain at being reminded. I feel no connection to you. No bond. At this moment I can’t even say I like you. In fact, I wouldn’t be your mate for all the galleons in Gringotts after this little stunt.”

With that, he swept from the room, obviously too impatient to wait for you to leave. You sucked breaths into your tight chest hoping for some relief. Hot tears flowed down your cheeks and dripped into your lap as a sob wracked your body. You stumbled to your feet and into a shadowy corner of his office. With a thought you found yourself in your room where you immediately collapsed on the bed and cried yourself to sleep.

In the days that followed you became another specter in a castle full of them. Your quiet figure would move from class to class, keeping yourself pressed against the walls as you went doing your best to stay out of the way. Luna stayed your constant companion but you didn’t seem to be talking to her either. You sat at the table during meals but pushed the food around on the plate, eating the minimum required to keep you functioning.

After a week you no longer bothered to conceal your ears and tail. It took so much energy. So much more than you could spare. Your scent also changed to the sweet scent of an unmated submissive to signal to alphas you were available. Not that you would pick any of them. Snape may be certain you weren’t his mate, but he was yours. Your neko wanted no one else. Would accept no one else.

You were on your way to class when you found yourself surrounded by five Gryffindors. Two of them were alphas but you couldn’t place any of them. You didn’t care enough to. One of the alphas stepped closer while his friends hemmed you in. “Hello, little neko.”

You curled in on yourself even more than usual. Your shoulders hunched in an effort to make you seem smaller than you already were and your arms wrapped around your waist. “Hello. Please move. I’ll be late to class.”

“Oh, you’ve got plenty of time. Don’t be like that. We just want to get to know you.” He kept his voice sweet, coaxing but the vibes you picked up from him were anything but nice.

When you ignored him and tried to push past, he grabbed one of your wrists and tugged you into him. You pushed against him, but his grip was too firm. “Let go.”

Before he could respond, a deep voice interrupted. “I believe she told you to release her.” Severus Snape to the rescue.

The boy immediately released you and took a step back, his hands up in a gesture of faux innocence.

“Twenty points from Gryffindor for harassing another student. A submissive at that. Each.” They groaned but dare not say anything as Snape would only make it worse. “And a week’s detention with Filch. Two for you, Thomas. Go.”

The boys scattered as you wrapped your arms back around yourself. You kept your back turned to the professor, unable to look at him.

“You must know that as much as the use of magic in the halls is frowned upon, you are allowed to defend yourself,” he finally said.

You gave a nod though you still didn’t face him. “Yes, sir.”

“Next time I expect you to do so.”

“Yes, sir.” You hurried off then, needing to get to your class and away from the man that already haunted your every moment.

In your potions class that afternoon, you kept your head down and focused on your brewing. The potion, while complex, was one you had brewed before. Professor Snape moved through the students, checking their work and lecturing when needed. He came to stand by your desk and you did your best to ignore him until he’d been there for several minutes without saying anything. “Can I help you, sir?”

“What. Is. This?” he bit out as he tugged back the sleeve of your robe to reveal the dark bruising around your wrist from your earlier encounter.

Your face heated as you covered the mark. “It’s from before. It’s fine.”

“It is not fine.” He swept away from you in a twirl of his robes. “Detention tonight, Ms. Dursley. Immediately after supper.”

“Yes, sir.”

At the end of the class, Severus’ gaze followed you as you left the room. He was still furious that you’d been injured to the point of bruising. His reaction was out of proportion to the injury. He knew that but couldn’t seem to do anything about it. It was taking everything in him to not track down Dean Thomas and teach him a lesson about how to treat a submissive. Especially one as precious as you.

The potions master groaned and dropped his head into his hands. He hadn’t lied when he told you that he felt no bond with you. There was no connection there. There couldn’t be. While some creatures may get the opportunity for another mate should the first die, Vampires weren’t one of them. One life mate for the longest lived species of them all. Oh, the irony. Of course, once the bond was complete, one mate wouldn’t outlive the other anyway, their lives and souls intertwined completely.

He had been less than truthful about his feelings for you, however. He’d always had a soft spot for you from the moment you first walked into his class. As you grew and changed, so did his feelings for you. For a time, he’d thought about pursuing you after you left the school but then you’d turned out to have an inheritance which meant you had a mate. He wouldn’t rob you of that. He couldn’t be that selfish. Not with you.

When you’d told him that he was your mate, he’d had a brief moment of happiness before he remembered that was a possibility that was taken from him many years ago. You weren’t the first student that thought it would be amusing to tell the dungeon bat he was their mate. Ha, isn’t that funny? But you…Merlin, that had hurt more than he thought possible. At the very least, he’d imagined the two of you were friends. But friends weren’t cruel to one another. The didn’t play with one another’s feelings.

He sighed and cast a quick tempus realizing he’d been brooding longer than he intended. Realizing the meal was nearly over, Severus requested a light dinner from a house elf. Once he’d finished eating and started brewing a batch of pepper-up potions for the infirmary, he realized you were late.

Leaving the potion under a stasis spell, he started for Ravenclaw tower. He was interrupted by the arrival of Dumbledore’s patronus summoning him for a meeting. He clenched his jaw in irritation but headed for the old man’s office. He arrived to find the other three head of houses but no headmaster. Severus rolled his eyes. Albus would be late for his own meeting.

He shifted his gaze to the diminutive Charms master. “Filius, one of your eagles failed to show for detention.”

Flitwick frowned. “Who?”

Severus crossed his arms and leaned against the wall. He didn’t wish for you to be in trouble with your head of house, but he was concerned for your wellbeing after the incidents of the day. “Dursley.”

“Ah, just who we’re all here to discuss. Thank you for bringing her up, Severus,” Albus said as he swept into the room and took his seat. “Lemon drop?” he offered and everyone shook their heads.

The Ravenclaw head of house bounced in his seat a little. “What about Ms. Dursley?”

Albus hummed. “Ms. Dursley has left Hogwarts for the time being. Hopefully she will return before winter break.”

There was a stunned silence until McGonagall broke it. “Left? What do you mean she left? It’s her NEWTs year, Albus.”

He folded his hands together on his desk and peered over the top of his glasses. “I am aware, Minerva. However, it was brought to my attention by a concerned classmate that Ms. Dursley’s mate has rejected her. As she is a submissive neko, you are all aware of the issues this can cause. Myself and Ms. Pomfrey felt it in her best interest for her to take some time to recuperate.”

Severus snorted in disbelief.

Albus arched a brow. “Is there a problem, my boy?”

“Ms. Dursley is operating under the mistaken belief that I am her mate.”

“Are you certain you aren’t?” Pomona Sprout asked.

“Of course, I’m certain. Do you think I would risk refusing her if I wasn’t?” Really, did his colleagues think so little of him?

“Severus Snape, what did you do to that girl?” Minerva snapped at him, but Severus didn’t answer her.

His attention was currently locked on the old man behind his desk. The one who winced when Severus said he was certain. The man who now wore a look that was a cross between shame and calculation. Albus pursed his lips and stared at his desk rather than meet anyone’s gaze.

“What did you do?” Severus asked. His voice was low but lethal.

Dumbledore’s eyes jerked up to meet the potion master’s. “Now, my boy, you must realize that I was only trying to help.”

“What did you do?” he asked again, drawing the words out this time.

The headmaster licked his lips nervously. “You have to understand that you were so distraught by the time I found you after the attack. I did what I thought best.”

“Albus,” Minerva said with a sour expression, “answer the bloody question.”

Severus gave her a nod of thanks before turning his attention back to Dumbledore.

Albus sighed. “I placed a block on your mate bond.”

Everyone in the room was deathly silent as they stared at the man in fervent disbelief.

He rushed to explain himself. “You were devastated after Samhain. Weeks passed and you were barely functioning. I thought if I blocked the link so you couldn’t feel it, it would ease some of your pain. And it did. You weren’t yourself, but you were so much better.”

“My mate died! Of course I was devastated. I had every right! You had no right to take my grief from me. No right.” Severus had never felt more disgusted at this old coot than he did at that moment.

The other three heads of house made noises of surprise. “Lily was your mate?” Sprout asked.

He closed his eyes and shook his head before looking back at them. “No. Cassiopea Lestrange. Bella and Rodo’s daughter. Aurors attacked and burnt the cottage they were living in the same night the Potters died. Cassie was a babe. She was in her crib on the top floor, right where the fire started. They couldn’t get to her. It’s why they attacked the Longbottoms. They were part of the raid that killed their only child.”

Albus winced and dread filled Severus. He didn’t want to ask but he had to know. “What?”

The headmaster cringed and curled in on himself as he tried to hide. “We couldn’t allow the child to grow up on the Dark side. For the greater good, she couldn’t be allowed to remain in that house.”

Snape staggered back as a feeling of absolute betrayal swamped him. “You ordered them to kill my mate?”

Albus’ brows shot up and he held his hands up. “No, of course not, my boy.”

“I think you better explain, Albus,” Filius stated with a furrowed brow. None of them were liking what they were hearing from their headmaster.

The old man sighed again. “Alice and Frank were working with the order. They took the child to a safe location and started the fire to make the Dark believe she was dead. Unfortunately, they were driven insane before they told anyone where they placed the girl.”

Severus’ knees went weak and he fell into a chair some conjured up beneath him. His hands trembled as he felt true hope for the first time since he’d lost his mate. “Are you telling me she’s been alive this whole time? She’s been alive and alone for sixteen years?”

“Initially I believed your grief to be for Lily Potter. It was much later when I discovered your mate was someone else. By then, it had been much too long. There was no hope of finding the child. I felt it was better to allow you to continue to believe she was completely beyond your reach.”

Tears fell from onyx eyes. “That wasn’t your choice to make.”

“You would have obsessed over her,” Albus argued. “You had other matters you needed to focus on. It was for the greater good.”

Snape snarled. “Fuck you and your greater good, old man. I’m not your puppet anymore. I quit. And get this bloody block off of me.”

“My boy—”

He shoved himself back to his feet. “I am not your boy. Remove it or so help me I will have you up on charges with the Ministry and the vampire council for interfering with a mate bond.”

Albus’ sigh was completely defeated. “Of course.” He moved his wand in a complex pattern and muttered several phrases in Latin. After a moment, Severus suddenly felt lighter, freer. Whole. Even if he could feel that annoying persistent ache telling him his mate was too far away. But that meant she was alive. Alive and very much his. Merlin, he was going to kill this old fool.

“Where is she?” he asked.

Dumbledore furrowed his brow. “I told you, we don’t know.”

Severus rolled his eyes. “Dursley.”

“She went home.”

He shook his head immediately. “She wouldn’t. She hates it there.”

“Perhaps Miss Lovegood would know,” Filius suggested. “I’ll ask her and get back to you as soon as possible.”

“Thank you.” And in a flash, Severus was gone, using his enhanced speed to take him to his rooms. He wished to be packed and out of Hogwarts as soon as possible.

 He was surprised to find your best friend sitting on the floor outside of his office. “Miss Lovegood?”

She gave him a dreamy smile as she got to her feet. “Hello, Professor. Or should I not call you that any longer?”

He had long ago ceased questioning how the blonde knew the things she did. “Where is she?”

Luna tilted her head and looked him over. Her eyes shone with a clarity she rarely possessed. “Why?”

“Please.” His voice broke with the word. He couldn’t explain this to her. Couldn’t get out the words through the knowledge that he may have irrevocably injured his mate. He just needed to find you. To confirm you were who he now thought you to be. He couldn’t let another day go by without you in his arms.

She hummed and shrugged. “She went home.”

He shook his head. “She wouldn’t return to the Dursleys.”

“That was never her home.”

“Your place then?” It had to be. There was nowhere else for her to go.

She gave another soft smile and shook her head. “She’s always welcome but daddy’s in South Africa looking for whumplesnuffles.”

Snape blinked. What in Merlin was a whumplesnuffle? “Then where?” He sounded desperate, he knew it, but he didn’t care.

“Daddy was most curious when her creature inheritance came through. Took her to Gringotts himself.”

His brow furrowed. “She told me she hadn’t been tested.”

“Did she?” she said before heading down the hallway. Severus could only watch her go as he tried to recall the conversation with you in his office but the exact words escaped him. Damn it. He huffed a breath and entered his rooms to pack. He had no desire to return here if he didn’t have to.

Mere hours had passed when Severus found himself standing in front of the gate to Lestrange manor. He hesitated, staring at the once familiar home. It had always been overly large in his opinion. Of course, Bella had thought so too. That’s why the family had been living in their cottage rather than here with Rodo’s father. Severus shook the thought away.

He hoped this is what Luna had been trying to tell him. That you were his Cassie and you’d come home. But what if he was wrong? That’s why he hesitated. What if you weren’t her? What if he never found her? But why else would you claim to be his mate? It was the only thing that made sense.

After taking a deep breath for courage, he laid his hand against the gates. Evidently, he was still keyed into the wards as the gate silently swung open to admit him. He made his way to the door which opened as he neared it. A familiar looking house elf watched him with a tilt of its head. “What cans Mopsy bes doings for you, Mr. Snapsey man?”

The corner of Severus’ mouth twitched. “Hello, Mopsy. I am hoping your mistress made her way home. I need to see her.”

The elf’s eyes narrowed. “They said Mistress Cassie was dead. Hows she come home if she dead?”

He hummed in agreement. “That is what they said. Is she here?”

“I thinks you better come in. Youse not well thinking dead peoples be here.” With that she stepped back to allow him in the house. “Youse waits here.” The elf disappeared with a pop.

Severus closed his eyes and tipped his head back with a groan. Mopsy hadn’t explicitly stated you weren’t here, but it wasn’t looking good. He pinched the bridge of his nose and sighed. Maybe you were just another student and his mate would be forever lost to him.

“Why are you here, professor?” Your soft, sweet voice startled him from his contemplation.

His eyes flew open and his spine straightened. He looked you over from top to bottom. How was it you looked so much worse than you had even that afternoon? His heart ached at the knowledge that he was the cause of your unhealthy appearance. But now that you were here in front of him, there was no question that you were his mate, his Cassie.

When the silence stretched, you wrapped your arms across your stomach and hunched your shoulders as if that could protect you from the world around you. Protect you from this man in particular. You kept your gaze turned from him, not wanting to see that look of hatred and sadness he seemed to don whenever you were around lately. And it would probably be worse as he’d obviously been sent to “fix” you.

You rolled your eyes at the thought and took a step back. “There’s no reason for you to be here, professor. I assure you, I will be fine in time. You can return to your duties.”

“Wait,” he said, his voice sharp, quick.

You jerked your head up in surprise and met his gaze. You couldn’t place the emotion on his face as he gave you a crooked smile. “Why?” you asked with a tilt of your head. If he was feeling guilty, you didn’t want to hear it. You had no interest in making him feel better when you still felt like shit.

He ran a hand through his hair and took a step toward you. When you made to move again, he held his hands up in a placating gesture. “Why did you tell me you hadn’t been tested?”

“I didn’t. I merely stated that the tests were expensive. Xeno paid when he realized what sort of creature I was. I wasn’t exactly thrilled to discover who my parents were. As if Harry needed another reason to hate me.” You shrugged and turned to head toward the sitting room. Severus could either follow you or not. When you arrived you made a beeline for the small bar at the side of the room and poured yourself a healthy serving of Dragon Brandy. “Help yourself,” you told Snape as you took a seat.

He lifted the bottle you’d used and sniffed it. He nodded in appreciation and poured himself a glass before sitting in the chair across from you. His tongue traced his bottom lip as he studied you for a moment. “You had to know I wouldn’t care about your parentage.”

“I had a feeling you wouldn’t and I intended to tell you after we’d dealt with the issue of you being my mate, and…well, you know how that went. Why are you here, Sev—professor?”

He shook his head. “Not professor. Not anymore. I tendered my immediate resignation.”

You arched a brow at that. You knew he hated his job but were surprised he’d leave it so abruptly. “Why?”

Severus took a deep breath and licked his lips before launching into the story of his mate and Dumbledore’s unwanted, bumbling interference. You were horrified by the time he finished.

“You thought me dead for fifteen years?” You’d been suffering thinking he’d rejected you but you couldn’t fathom thinking he was gone forever. The heartbreak you would feel.

“Sixteen.” His voice nearly broke and he cleared his throat. “It’s been sixteen years.”

He crossed the room in long strides and knelt in front of you, taking your hand in his. “When you told me that I was your mate, I had a brief moment of happiness before I realized it was impossible. My mate was gone. And as much as I might wish for you to be her, I thought it impossible. If I could chose anyone to be tied to for eternity it would be you.”

He lifted your hand and pressed a kiss to the inside of your wrist before laying your hand against his cheek and closing his eyes. “I am so sorry for the things I said. For not finding you all those years ago. I can only hope to make it up to you.”

You studied him for a long moment. “You hurt me, Severus.”

He winced as if the words physically pained him. “I know.”

You lifted your free hand to cradle his face. “Don’t do it again.”

Then your lips found his. You smiled against his mouth as pure euphoria flooded through you. If there had been any lingering question as to your identity it was long gone. There was no doubt you were the potion master’s mate.

With the connection between you affirmed, all the broken pieces of your heart settled back into place. It was still tender, still fragile, but for the first time since his rejection, you believed it could be healed. Severus deepened the kiss as he pulled you from the chair and into his arms. A moment later he was sitting on the floor with you straddling his thighs as the two of you desperately tried to get closer.

Finally, you pulled back and rested your forehead against his. “You can’t hurt me again, Sev. Not like that. I won’t survive it a second time. I thought I’d lost you before I’d even had you.”

He leaned back and lifted your chin so you were looking in his eyes. “I will cherish you every day for the rest of our lives.  Just love me and I will give you everything you desire.”

You grinned. “The only thing I need is you. Just you.”

He kissed you again, short and sweet. “And you have me, body and soul.”

[hawkeyetrained]

Bait

Derek Hale x Fem!reader 

Other Characters: Peter Hale, Stiles, Lydia, Scott, Malia (mentioned), Liam (mentioned)

Warnings: angst, fighting, cuts and scrapes

Summary: When girls are being killed in Beacon Hills, and looks just like her, she gives the idea of using herself as bait.

Word Count: 2,427

Summer in Beacon Hills brought on a heat wave this year, making everything in the supernatural world that much harder. Lydia and I had gone shopping a week or so prior, so the two of us had gotten lucky with some clothes prepared for the heat, but the rest of the pack didn’t think to plan ahead. Most of the boys had traded in their long sleeves and flannels for t-shirts fairly quickly, opting to get out of the werewolf heat along with the heat from the sun.

The pack and I had been close since Scott first turned. I basically grew up with Lydia as my best friend, and Scott and Stiles were always around. When I first met Derek, I was in the woods with the boys when they had lost Scott’s inhaler. Ever since that day, the former alpha and I had been inseparable.

Now, we were halfway through our summer break before senior year and facing the latest big bad that decided to terrorize our little town. Stiles had noticed the pattern far before any of us did, alerting us to the bodies of young girls who had begun turning up in the woods, all having one scary connection. The four bodies that had been found were all going into their senior year here at Beacon Hills High and had H/C hair and E/C eyes, just like me. When Derek heard of the connection, I was no longer allowed to go out into the woods at all or be left alone anywhere. I was to be watched 24/7 until we caught whatever was killing the girls. I was alright with his plan, wanting to make him happy, but I was also scared that I would be the next body in the woods that Sheriff Stilinski would find.

“Hey.” A voice snapped me from my daydream on the couch in Derek’s loft. “You alright?” It was Peter, knelt down in front of me, his eyes full of worry.

I nodded and gave him a soft smile. “I’m ok.” Of his relationships with the rest of the pack, he and I got along the best. Peter could sense the love Derek and I held for each other, basically from day one, and was very protective of that. He never snapped at me, would bring me what I needed if I asked for it, and had volunteered to stay with me when I worked or needed a ride if Derek happened to be busy.

“You’re lying.” Damn the werewolf hearing. “Your heartbeat changes when you lie, it almost literally skips a beat.” He had a soft smirk on his face to show me he meant no offense.

I ran a hand through the ends of my hair as the last of the pack finally showed up for the meeting. “Just worried, I guess.” He stood and held his hands out to pull me to my feet, allowing me to drift over to Derek’s side as the meeting began.

“Any leads?” The true alpha asked, earning shaking heads and shrugs from the rest of the pack.

The werewolves went back and forth for a while, exchanging ideas on how to catch the new creature, trying to figure out what exactly it was, while Lydia and I shared looks between the two of us, almost having a silent conversation.

So, when I spoke up, she wasn’t all that surprised. “We know what it goes after.”

“We do.” Peter nodded, trying to see where I was going with it and wanting to see if he’ll need to calm his nephew down when I made my point.

“What if we set up a trap?”

“And how do we do that?” Derek’s eyes locked on me with his arms crossed over his chest.

I took a moment to square off my shoulders and hide the fear creeping up in my body that nearly everyone in the room could smell. “You need bait, to draw it out.”

“We can’t just send some random girl from the school, that knows nothing of the supernatural, out into the woods and hope they don’t get killed before we find our monster.” Stiles retorted, throwing his hands in the air.

I rolled my eyes and watched as Lydia smacked the back of his head. “She doesn’t mean someone random.”

Her comment made every set of eyes land on my face, my cheeks going red from all the attention. “What? We know that whatever this is, likes girls going into senior year here with H/C hair and E/C eyes.” I waved my hands to my face. “I kinda fit the description if you don’t remember.”

“No.” Derek growled out quickly. “No way in hell are you going to play bait for this monster.”

“Derek’s right.” Peter agreed with his nephew.

I groaned. “I can’t just sit around and wait for another body to drop when I know there’s something I can do! I get it, I’m human and therefore have no chance against this thing, but I’m also not saying I’ll be alone. Scatter yourselves through the woods, keep an eye on me as I walk around. This could be the only chance we get to stop this thing before it kills another girl we’re supposed to graduate with!”

“Not going to happen.” Came from Derek again.

I was about to speak again when Stiles’s phone rang through the loft. He answered quickly and had a quiet conversation with whoever was on the other end. “So, that was my dad.” My movements froze and I could feel Derek stiffen up next to me. “There’s another body, a lot closer to town this time.”

“Who?” Scott asked.

Stiles shrugged. “Caroline Mathews, I think he said. She’s been missing for three days.”

Caroline and I had the same chemistry class back in sophomore year, we were even lab partners for the better half of the year. “I knew her.” I mumbled.

This was the first girl to die with one of us truly knowing her. It had just been newer girls to the school that we all hadn’t met yet, or ones that we never shared classes with throughout the years. “Really?” Lydia came over to my side as I gave her a nod.

“She was my lab partner in chem two years ago. We used to joke around with Miss Mitchel that we were each other since we looked so alike.” Lydia wrapped an arm around my shoulder comfortingly. My eyes flashed up to Derek. “Please, you have to let me do this. I don’t want more families suffering because their daughter was killed. It’s bad enough we’re up to five now. Please.” My eyes were wide, and my heart pounded in my chest, waiting for the next “no” to leave his lips.

He hesitated before dropping his crossed arms and grabbing my hand. “Can we talk a minute?” I nodded, taking his hand tightly and following him out onto the balcony and into the summer heat. “You really want to risk your life on something we can figure out soon?”

“I know you’re scared, ok, I’m scared. But I also don’t want anyone else dying when there’s a chance that I can help stop this. Please. I’ll do everything you say and stay within eyesight. I swear to you.”

A deep sigh left Derek’s mouth and he suddenly pulled me into his chest tightly. “You do exactly as I say, and we do this tonight and tonight only. Anything goes south, you yell for help, even if we’re right there.” I nodded into his chest, hugging him back before we both went back inside to tell the pack of the plan for tonight.

Six hours later, I had added a green jacket to my outfit and had begun walking around the woods. The sun was slowly setting, and the rest of the pack was spread through the woods, Derek and Peter closest to me, flanking both of my sides about 500 feet away. The rest of the pack was spread out, listening for any strange sounds that shouldn’t belong or any odd scents. My heart pounded in my chest as I wondered around the woods, trying to keep track of where I was and where I had come from. I knew Derek wouldn’t let me get lost, but I wanted to make sure that I could run if I needed to.

My phone buzzed in my jacket pocket, my fingers flying to the object and pulling it up. A text from Lydia lit my screen up. Anything yet?

I quickly typed a message back. Nothing.

A message from Derek was next, popping to the top of my screen. Take a deep breath. You’re safe. Only a little longer before we call it a night.

My eyes flickered in the direction I knew Derek was following me, my eyes searching impossibly in the dark for him. I left the message open, not really knowing what to say or how to tell him that I was absolutely terrified being out in the woods, even though it was my idea to start.

Suddenly, there were heavy footsteps coming up from behind me, and moving fast. I quickly locked my phone, trying to slide it back in my pocket. Just as I was about to yell out for Derek and Peter, a body slammed into mine, sending me crashing to the ground and my phone flying away. Fear gripped me like a vice, squeezing my chest tighter and tighter as my brain tried working on what to do. I knew I needed to call out for the two Hale’s in the woods, to get up and run as fast and as far as I could, but nothing was working.

Deep growls filled the woods next, hands gripping onto my arms and pinning me into the dirt. I finally managed to crack my eyes open to get a look at what was huffing loudly, only to come face-to-face with an unfamiliar werewolf. His face was shifted, deep brown hair ruffled around his face and fangs barred at me with glowing blue eyes.

My chest tightened as his claws started digging into my skin. God, where were Derek and Peter? I struggled in the wolf’s hold, trying to pull my hands free, kicking against his weight but it was useless. Then I remembered Derek’s rule; yell, even if I knew he and Peter were close.

Taking the deepest possible breath, I finally managed to get my head together. “Derek!” My voice came out as a shriek, piercing through the air. “Derek, Peter!” I screamed, pulling as hard as I could against the weight. The hand that had been wrapped around my right wrist was suddenly squeezing at my throat, cutting off any other screams.

“No one’s here.” The wolf taunted. “It’s just you and me.” A sick smile crossed his face, enhancing the supernatural features. His claws pressed harder into my wrist and throat, a gasp of pain leaving my lips as he seemed to toy with me. “No one’s coming for you.”

The clawed hand at my throat raised into the air above me, making to slash at my throat, but before he was able to, a body crashed into him. The strange wolf and someone else went tumbling a few feet away from me, allowing me just a moment to sit up and huff in a few breaths of air before hands were wrapping around my shoulders.

“No! No, let me go!” I screamed, smacking at the hands on me.

“Hey, hey.” A familiar voice soothed. “You’re safe. I got you.” Peter turned me in his arms, grabbing at my chin to make me look up at him. “Look at me. You’re ok.”

I took a shaky breath and finally looked up to him. “Peter.” My word fell as a whisper.

The older Hale nodded, pulling me against his chest as new growls filled the air. Peter pulled me a bit farther from the space he had found me in. I turned as we got to the side of a large tree, Derek, Scott, Malia, and Liam were all stood in a line between me and the other wolf. I could hear Scott trying to talk with the wolf, but Peter’s gentle hands on my wrists distracted me.

“Are you alright?” He asked, voice low and very quiet. I nodded shakily, glancing down to the half dozen moon-shaped cuts along my wrists. Peter’s arms were laced with black veins as the pain subsided, his eyes looking at the scratches on my neck.

“Thank you.” I shuddered, no longer liking my own plan, but I was glad that the pack had found the wolf, and not another girl I was to graduate with this year.

A loud roar seemed to shake the ground, and I managed to catch sight of Derek slamming the wolf into the ground. It seemed like he had tried making a run between him and Liam, aiming for me yet again. Peter was in front of me the moment he caught his nephew’s movement, his teeth bared and a growl rumbling his chest.

“Leave.” Derek hissed, his teeth shining in the moonlight. A threat that I couldn’t hear left his lips, the wolf on the ground seeming to come back to himself a little. “You three, make sure he leaves.” Derek pulled the wolf up and shoved him towards the werewolves and werecoyote. After the wolf and our three pack members were far enough into the woods, Derek finally turned to me, his fangs retracting and his eyes softening from their bright blue back into his usual eyes. “Are you alright?” He asked, coming up and instantly wrapping his arms around me.

I nodded carefully into his chest. “I am now.”

He pulled back and gently took my hands into his, turning them over to check the cuts. “He did this? He say anything to you?” His hand then cupped my cheek as he raised my head to look at my neck.

“His claws.” I answered the first question. “And nothing important. He tried scaring me more than anything. Said no one was coming.”

“I should have come faster. He set traps in the woods to draw our attention away.”

My head shook at him. “You saved me. I’m sorry I had this plan. I know you didn’t like it.”

“It’s fine now. But you’re never playing bait again, you hear me?” He started leading me out of the woods, back towards the pack.

“I hear you.”

@thetallassgirl @hallecarey1

[dandelion-blues]

I was Never the Gods’ Hero

Intro:

Percy Jackson just wanted a break. He didn't ask to be favored by ancient beings. He didn't want to be a hero, he needed to, but here he is expected to be a hero again! And in another universe already filled with heroes to boot!

Percy Jackson x DC crossover fanfic

Chapter 1

Gasping, clawing, trembling for air. He can't breathe! His hands are on his throat gasping desperately for oxygen. The all-encompassing pressure surrounds him from every inch of his body, suffocating and consuming him. It's a thick and oppressive void of blackness where there is no color, no light, and no hope. It's a parasyte waiting to consume, where it's solid in the freezing, crushing pressure that cracks his bones and liquid as it oozes into his skin and feasts itself in his blood and lungs and brain. It lets him feel everything all at once, all of his nerves alight with agony as they are targeted too slowly and individually, yet numbing his body in less than a second.

It is still too slow! It felt as neverending and unrelenting cycle of continual pain and torture. More torment than even Styx could give to her river.

Then, as the pressure finally grinds his bones and organs to sand, and freezes and suffocates him molecule by molecule, there is the blinding light, electrifying and raging. It renews his once frozen and distorted body instantly to energize him with a thousand suns, making his body a inferno of heat and agony. His numbness shocked back into awareness with a potency much greater than lightning that sears though his being. Only, for his eyes to see light before they burn away to husks of ashes along with his skin, blood, and bones.

Over and over again, this cycle of crushing darkness and searing light, all at once and yet separate at the same time. He feels as if he is dying and given life all at once. He is pulled apart then put back together again and again. His very atoms pulled apart and then back together.

If he were given even a second to breathe he might even notice how when he was torn apart and put back together he wasn’t put back the same… how he no longer bled red, and how his very senses and being enhanced; to be more than human. However, all he felt was the agony, shocking and suffocating and burning. Percy Jackson just wanted it to end!

Ichor

Red blood of mortality,

Tastes sweet with immortality.

Colors were in shades of gray,

Enhanced through his decay.

Gold was for the riches,

Now in his blood so much it itches.

A mother's son forever since,

Crowned a God's prince.

…………………………………………….

Percy woke up, tremors racking his body. A silent scream tore at his throat, his heart pounding in his chest.

What was that?!

He looked widely around the dark room, his body high on alert, but still he wasn't prepared for the being awaiting him the darkness behind him.

The being cradled Percy and forced him back to sleep, wiping the tears from his eyes.

“It's too soon,” the being whispered.

The ‘dream’ all but forgotten the next day as Percy awoke in the morning in his home in Manhattan, New York.

Still Percy’s nightmares weren't just in his dreams. They have been a part of his life ever since he was introduced, since he was born, as a half-blood.

……………………………………………

Percy Jackson was done with the Greco-Roman pantheon. He fought and won their wars, and watched so many people, kids - Hades he was still a kid - die around him and he almost died too many times to count while the Gods did the bare minimum to just save themselves, for him to deal with any of their shit again. Yet, here he was, packing up traveling bags to see his father in Atlantis. Oh, he might have forgotten to mention that his father is Poseidon the Earthshaker, Stormbringer, and Father of Horses (yeah, all horses are Percy’s thousand time removed nephews and nieces, but best not to think about that) and don’t forget the God of the Sea.

Percy was just celebrating his seventeenth birthday with his Mom and Paul in their apartment when his Dad just showed up! He’s pulled this before on Percy’s fifteenth birthday, but Percy thought that was a once in a life-time thing. Gods don’t just show up for their kids! Then, his Dad pulls him into his room and proceeds to invite Percy to Atlantis in a week in order to get to know his godly side of the family better and relax without having to deal with the stress of being a leader for both camps.

At first, Percy just wanted to tell him no and tell him to leave, because where was his Father when he needed him, but the little self preservation that Percy had told him that would be a terrible idea to anger one of the Gods that was on his side. Plus, Chiron sent him home to take a break and heal; that there was enough help at the camps to rebuild and he could tell Percy was not okay and needed a break from being a leader. Then, Percy also thought of Tyson, his little cyclops brother, and Percy caved. Thus, Percy told Poseidon that he’d love to come. Poseidon got a wide smile on his face, and hugged Percy and told him how excited he was for Percy to come. Then, Poseidon just transported away.

Percy remembered his Dad’s genuine excitement and warm hug, and that made him smile that maybe it would be worth it to go to Atlantis and be with his Dad. Percy was also excited to really see Atlantis, after all it’s been a while (a year) since the end of their war with Oceanus, and surely more would be rebuilt now. Restored to some of its former glory.

Some part of him, though, was incredibly worried about his step-mother Amphritrite’s, and his brother Triton's judgment even though they became closer after the second Titan war when he came to Atlantis on the weekends - it was only for three months a blink in the time of immortals. Not to mention Kym, she just tried to kill him! Then, Percy was angry, because what right did the Gods have to judge him and treat him like scum just because he was born and that he had to work extra hard just for them to treat him indifferently! However, Percy was raised by Sally Jackson and he would do his best to be nice and polite until they crossed a line, respect was earned after all.

(Also, Percy thought secretly, hopefully, that maybe he could have a big brother to look up to and train with, and a step-mother to confide in.)

Then, came the part of explaining the trip to Atlantis to his mother. Yeah, that was fun to explain to his mom, especially when this was the first time Percy has been able to see her in almost a year thanks to a certain Cow Queen (aka the Queen of Olympus, Hera). Luckily, Sally Jackson is a queen amongst women and understood that Percy needed a break, and that maybe this would turn out really good for him.

…………………………………………….

Sally saw how her baby came back littered with more scars, haunted eyes, and worn down from life that no one, especially a teenager, should feel. Gods, when Sally first saw her son at that door, she held onto him for dear life and they both ended up crying and falling asleep in each other's arms on the couch because they couldn’t let go of each other, at least until Paul came home and joined the hug pile. Sally quietly wiped a tear from her eye at letting Percy out of her sight so soon, but she knew a demigod’s life was never without chaos, and he deserved to get to know his father. Maybe he would confide in his father what was haunting him, that maybe Poseidon would understand and help. Sally heard Percy’s screams when he woke up in the middle of the night, and his flinches from sudden touches - flinches that were going away as reminders from that monster of ex-husband, Gabe Ugliano.

Gods, Sally Jackson wished she never married him. She thought that she protected her son by having Gabe’s horrendous smell protect Percy from monsters, then sending Percy away to boarding schools to be away from Gabe and his terrible influence, but no the real monster lived with them all along. Sally Jackson had to work two jobs just to make ends meet, and would often end up having to leave Percy alone in the house when Percy was home, and Gabe used that opportunity to abuse her son! She never saw the signs, she thought it was bullies or having to change schools every year, but no it was her ex-husband. She was too focused on protecting him from the divine world, that she wasn't able to protect him from Gabe! She could remember all clear as day when Percy, just having turned thirteen, and finished his first quest, flinched and curled in on himself when a loud drunk man walked by them when going home. She proceeded to question him when they got home, remembering all too well her own tells, and he told her how Gabe beat him, berated him, and humiliated him.

The next thing Percy says, Sally remembers word for word when she asks why he didn’t tell her, “I thought I was p-protecting you mom,” he sea-green eyes shined with tears, “G-gabe said that if I said anything to a-anyone he would b-beat y-you t-too,” he gasps and his breath hitches from crying and closes his eyes. Then, he looks up to Sally, and gives her a look that breaks her heart, “B-but I failed y-you, I saw you f-flinch, M-mom. I-I couldn’t protect you!” It was then that Sally knew that she failed as a mother, and proceeded to tell him that it was her job to protect him, and that she failed, that she loved him and there was nothing that he could do that could change that.

From then on, Percy and Sally began to confide in each other their traumas of Gabe, but Sally could still tell he was holding back, trying to protect her. He still barely told her anything of his quests, and Sally just wished that he didn’t inherit her stubbornness and selflessness, but Gods Percy made her so proud and heartbroken at the same time because he is so strong and so so good, and that is Sally's Jackson's son, dammit!

However, he is also Poseidon's son, and with that unfortunately comes monsters and tragedy that Sally can only understand the bare minimum of either through her own research or of Percy's own recounts, heck even when Sally sees the monsters they just ignore her.

'Hopefully, Poseidon can protect her baby. Afterall, hasn't he done more than enough, he deserves a break and to be with his father. I just hope this trip to Atlantis will be good for him,' thinks Sally as she watches Percy pack his things.

…………………………………………….

Percy finishes putting the last items in his bag and looks up to his mother. She has a few more gray hairs and wrinkles around her eyes and forehead, but she looks so full of life especially when Percy came back. He feels terrible for leaving her again even if she said that it was more than alright. Percy is just so tired of the divine world, but he still loves his father even when he's mad at him - he's just so tired of being scared and alone and wants to feel safe again! Safe like he felt in his father's cabin before Hera kidnapped him. Safe in his mother's arms from when he was young and she protected him from monsters and bullies.

Percy takes a breath, and says tentatively "Mom?" Sally's deep blue eyes look into Percy's and soften, "Yes, seastar?" Just with Percy's nickname he smiles, and states, "Mom, how… how do I learn to not be afraid?"

Sally blue eyes water, “Oh my baby!” Sally grasps Percy's hands, his eyes looking down at the floor.

“Sometimes that fear will always be with you,” Sally remembered Gabe's beer-filled breathe as he leered over her, but then she thought of her family, her son and smiled, “but then I remembered all the things, the people, that make me happy, and I know that they be there for me. That I am loved.” Sally gently squeezes her son’s hands, and he looks up at her, “And baby I love you, and I’ll be here for you no matter what. So will Paul, your friends, and your father. We are here for you Percy.”

Percy’s green eyes swim with tears and he runs into his mom’s gasp as she opens her arms. He hugs her, a few tears escaping his eyes, but he feels all so loved.

“Thanks mom,” Percy says wetly and smiles after it feels as if they hugged for hours.

“Of course seastar,” Sally smiles back, "I love you so much, and I'll be right here when you get back."

Just then, a knock on the front door is heard. ‘What timing?’ both think and smile once again to one another.

Sally goes to open the door, and Percy follows shortly behind with his bag strapped around his back, and Poseidon greets them both at the door.

“Hello my dear Sally, beautiful as ever I see,” Poseidon winks playfully at Sally. Percy is to say the least, mortified.

“Ah son I see you’re all packed and ready, then let's make haste, I have a celebration planned in Atlantis!” Poseidon exclaims.

“Celebration?!” Percy exclaims.

“Of course my son, the Prince, is visiting after so long, a celebration is due of course.” Poseidon states.

“Prince?!” Percy yells, what is happening right now?!

Luckily Sally intervenes before anything can escalate, “Now boys, I know you're excited,” she says pointedly to Poseidon, “but Percy would have appreciated being notified about what he is doing instead of just forcing him into the spotlight like that.”

“Also, what’s this about Percy being a prince?”

Poseidon looks sheepish, “I’m sorry my dear, well I was just really excited that Percy agreed to visit and well one thing led to another, and after all Percy’s done for us, we agreed Percy should officially be crowned a Prince of Atlantis.”

Percy looks faint, luckily Poseidon notices and says, “It’s just an official ceremony and announcing it to the kingdom officially, but afterwards we can keep the party small to just family and close friends.” Poseidon, despite seeming oblivious, did notice that his son was never comfortable with the crowds for Olympus’s parties.

Percy smiles relieved at his dad, “Alright, I think I can manage that.”

Poseidon claps, “Alright, it’s really time we should go.”

Percy nods and gives his mom one last hug, melting into her embrace reassured in her love, but for some reason he felt like this would be their last hug for a very long time. Percy shrugs this off, surely he’ll be fine in the heart of his father’s domain, especially with no war or anything worrying going on.

…………………………………………….

A chuckle escapes an ancient being, their laugh reverberating throughout the lives held so tightly by the Fates.

“My young dear always had a knack for his future, didn't he? So powerful, so pure.” Their laugh echoing through the stars and galaxies, all mortal’s hearts beating in tandem.

“He’ll forever be Destiny’s chosen, after all.” Another being wrys, her smile so much like a serpent, so wide it could eat the world whole, “Perseus, my destroyer of my fates. You never could be confined by their roles, and it’s almost time for you to break free, to grasp your destiny!” Her light fills the darkness, lighting her descendants precious tapestry golden.

“Indeed, it’s Time,” The other being states, their word ineffable as the universe, as the past, present, and future are all ruled by the passage of Time.

[klausinamarink]

One Kid Gone, Another Up and Vanished (part 2)

Part 1 (also your responses?? I’m!!!!!so happy!!!! nvm i changed my mind imma continue this) next: Part 3

The Hawkins police station is almost empty as Wayne marches inside. At the front desk, Flo looks up with any lack of surprise.

“Your nephew isn’t in the jail cell, Wayne.” She says in her way of greeting. With the several times of bailing Eddie out of here from his mishaps, she’s practically his next-door neighbour.

“I need to speak to Hopper.” Wayne says hoarsely. After an hour of calling Eddie’s name and walking around the area in the woods, he had drove straight to the station.

Flo blinks, her gaze searching him from head to toe. “How urgent is it to see the Chief? He’s out with Powell and Cahallan for the search.”

“Family emergency-urgent.”

Flo makes him sit down at the chairs as she radioes Hopper. Waiting patiently is usually his strong suit, but Wayne’s leg bounces lightly for the first time in his life. It might have to do with this rushing river of energy that’s keeping him more awake and alert than his coffee.

He knows that he’s gonna pass out soon when the hours catch up to him, but to hell with it. He’s not having any good sleep until Eddie comes home.

The sound of doors opening perks Wayne’s attention up. Chief Jim Hopper approaches him with a nod. “Wayne. What’s the issue here?” Direct as always. Wayne has a little good faith in the chief for that reason.

“Jim.” He stands up. “It’s about my boy Eddie-” he tries not to notice on how Hopper’s shoulders seem to deflate and how his expression hardens to irritation. “-he’s gone missing.”

“You don’t mean run off?”

“Strong word to use when I found his van crashed with blood on the wheel and my nephew nowhere in sight.”

That catches Hopper’s full attention. “Show me.”

Wayne drives back to Eddie’s van, Hopper’s police car right behind him. Predictably, the van remains as it is when Wayne had left it. He watches as the chief and two officers closely inspect the vehicle, inside and out, making comments.

“Keys still in the ignition. Engine’s juiced out.”

“Definitely a bloodstain on that wheel. Nothing else on the seats or dashboard though.”

“How fast was this kid driving?” “It’s Eddie Munson.” “Statement withdrawn.”

“Front’s not completely crumbled than I imagined.”

Wayne doesn’t tell them how loud they’re talking. Keeps his hands gripped tightly around his forearms. He knows police work is a long process, but he does want them to look up at him with an Eureka! and say, “We know where your nephew is.”

Wishful thinking is something new to him too.

“There’s blood on the headlights.”

“What?” Hopper walks over to officer Cahallan squatting at the front. Wayne does the same because he never saw any blood there. Only laser-focused on the wheel.

He still doesn’t see any until Cahallan points them out. Along the damaged hood and headlights are speckles of blood so dark it’s black.

A chill runs down Wayne spine. His first thought is that Eddie hit a deer. Those bastards know nothing about safe road crossing. But… that doesn’t make sense. If it’s a deer, then it could’ve been lying on the road or nearby where he could see it.

“The hell?” Hopper mutters, wiping a hand over his face. He stands up and faces Wayne, leading him away from the van.

“Well?” Wayne asks because he doesn’t want to ask the real question yet.

Hopper sighs. “I’m not entirely sure, Wayne. But with the scene here, I feel like Eddie just ran off, hid somewhere, and probably on his way home.”

“He didn’t come home last night, Chief.”

“Did you check other places where you know he likes to be? Like the high school?”

“No,” Wayne shakes his head, “I was on my way there but I saw the van- Jim, you know it doesn’t look-”

“It could be a hit and run.”

They both whip their heads towards Powell’s voice. He’s standing next to the half-open driver’s door, holding a small white bag with his fingers.

“I mean, van damaged at the front with dry blood on it? The tire marks on the road? Missing driver? This bag of pot I found in the back?” He sniffs, making a face. “It’s a hit and run, Mr. Munson. Textbook. And there’s no body because your nephew might’ve dragged the poor bastard out into the woods somewhere.”

The woods become so quiet that Wayne could probably hear the birds over at the Appalachians. He tries to imagine it. But he can’t because he knows Eddie is too kind, too gentle, too scared to even think of harming another person. Even it’s something by accident, Eddie would just run.

Eddie wouldn’t even do this.

Before he thinks twice, Wayne walks back to his car and restarts the engine.

“Wait, hold on! Wayne!” Hopper grabs the frame of the open car window. “Wayne, I have to take your statement at the station. We’ll still help look for Eddie, alright?”

Wayne glares at him. Without a word, he reverses his truck back to the road and drives off.

He silently prays that Eddie is at the high school so he can ground the boy for the rest of his life.

—

Jim watches Wayne Munson’s truck driving off before he turns around and stares a hot-metal glare at Powell. Cahallan has been muttering curses and pinching the bridge of his nose ever since Powell explained his hit and run theory.

“You,” he growls, making the officer shrink down, “are a fucking idiot. Who the hell gave you the right to sprout that bullshit in right of Wayne Munson?”

“I- well, I just thought-”

“Can I radio Morgan to tow the van?” Cahallan asks, sending his own glare at his coworker.

Jim nods, not moving his glare. “After we find Will Byers and Eddie Munson, you’re fired, Powell.”

—

Small hands are shaking Eddie by the shoulder as he slowly wakes up. He absentmindedly slaps them away as he gets up. “Yeah, yeah, Wayne, I’m up.”

But instead of his bedroom, he blinks his eyes open to a natural hollow of overgrown roots with a nightly blue light, weird floating snowflakes, and Will Byers’ face.

“Oh good, you’re finally awake!” Little Byers the Vanished smiles, relief clear on his face.

Eddie greets him with, “What the fuck.”

Little Byers blinks at him owlishly and shakes his head. He tugged on Eddie’s arm. “We gotta run. The demogorgon might come back to find us.”

“What the fuck.”

“The demogorgon? That’s what I call the monster. You know, from Dungeons-”

“What the fuck.”

Little Byers stops tugging and stares at him. Eddie’s never seen a twelve year look so judgemental of him. “You swear more than my dad.” The kid says in a tone that reminds him of Wayne and, shit, does that make him hurry to his feet.

He lets Little Byers grab his mostly uninjured hand and damn, the kid has some arm strength. Eddie lets him to do that because his legs feel a bit numb and he’s shaking badly as he gawks around the surroundings.

This is still the woods in Hawkins, he knows that. But at the same time, it’s not. He can’t stop staring at the snowflakes and vines, tripping over a few.

Fuck, he wants to go home and hug Wayne and never walk into the woods ever again.

“Hey, uh, where are we going?” It’s hard to ask when his teeth are chattering for some reason. Even though it’s November, the weather is warm enough to allow a light sweater and jacket. But here, whatever and wherever here is, it’s so cold that it easily seeps through his flannel and denim vest and below his entire skin.

“My house!” Little Byers says as they come across the road. There are more vines everywhere on the asphalt. And why the hell is everything so blue? “I’ve been trying to talk to my mom and I know she can hear me, but we-”

“Yeah, nope.” Eddie tries to yank his hand out but this kid has a strong grip. “I need to go to my place.”

Little Byers stops and looks at him. “Why?”

“Why? Well, Little Byers,” he runs his other hand through his hair, getting out some dead leaves and the snowflakes, “because I just got dragged into this weird place in the middle of the night after crashing my van and my uncle is coming back from his shift by now, so it would be a relief if I could just go home so he doesn’t freak out!” His voice pitches higher by the end of the sentence.

The boy stares at him with wide eyes. He looks over his shoulder for a moment - presumably to the direction of his house - and back at Eddie.

“Not saying that you should go with me! I mean, you said about trying to get to your mom, right? Like, maybe go to your house and I’ll go to mine and…” Eddie trails off when Little Byer’s expression changes to that judgemental look again. It makes Eddie’s insides shrivel up in shame because he’s finally registering too late the words coming out of his mouth and wow.

Solid plan, Munson. Just leave the missing kid you just found all by himself in this weird Hawkins nightscape and run off alone while a monster is running around wanting to kill you.

“Actually, you know what? I’ll just take you with me! Yeah, solid plan. Watcha think?”

Little Byers breaks into a smile, nodding vigorously. “Yes, that sounds good! We can try contacting your uncle too!”

Oh thank god I didn’t actually leave this kid behind like a fucking idiot. Eddie tugs the boy along by the hand this time to where the trailer park is. He hopes.

Because he gets lost again, he’s probably just going to curl up into a ball and cry like he should’ve done minutes ago.

— —

Taglist: @unclewaynemunson @steves-strapcollection @hellion-child @sidekick-hero @mmmmwaffles94 @demolitionjetstar @hbyrde36 @princessstevemunson @sirsnacksalot

[kaiser-author-san-iii]

In Pursuit of Happiness | Various Genshin Men x Reader SAGU AU

A/N: Hello everyone and sorry for the extremely late update. Real life has really decided to kick me in the butt. At this point, I’m not sure where the story is going to lead us because I don’t know where we’re going. I’m going to need a beta reader later or something. But in other news, I’ve been trying to make a discord server for anyone that’s interested in this story and sharing ideas, getting along, Simp for genshin characters share tips for the game. :3

Not beta read/proofed, we die like Signora

Word count: 3381

Tags/Warnings: Female!Reader, Child! nephew Reader, God!Reader, Cult AU, Fluff, Romance, Found Family, and many references to other fandoms

Masterlist

First>> Next>>>

Summary: The task of an aunt is no easy thing, especially towards a rambunctious and curious nephew who can not sit still. After a bad car accident, the two of them awaken in the world of Teyvat where Y/n must do her best to not only keep herself and her nephew alive to find a way back home but to also beat back all kinds of suitors and become the pseudo mother to every child she meets and her nephew befriends.

CHAPTER 3 – Meeting the Geo Archon

It wasn’t a good day to wear a skirt as the cool breeze was blowing more than normal. But that didn’t stop Y/n from wearing any shorts underneath. Little else mattered as she heard her nephew laugh, hearing it echo with the winds and making the lands of Liyue and Tevvat glow with joy as the two waltzed through the skies.

She had always wanted to try this out ever since she saw Howl’s Moving Castle, but it would be better to try it out with a handsome partner. One can only dream.

“Weee!” her nephew’s cries of joy and his glee were heard by Teyvat as it hummed. The land, skies, and seas were calm and watched their beloved creator and her heir slowly descending towards the ground, flowers and leaves moving to bloom fully to soften their landing. Thanking the plants and the winds, Y/n knelt to fix [Nephew’s name] clothes and hair, avoiding the childs playful swats.

“Auntie! I can do it myself!” he pouted and continued to push the young woman’s hands away as she smoothened the ruffled-up hair, earning a small chuckle.

“I know, but I want to. There’s going to be few chances left that I could do this when you grow up. You’ll grow big and won’t need me anymore.”

They might have struck a lot towards the child as he quickly wrapped his arms around her waist, enveloping her in a hug as his face reached only to her stomach, surprising the woman but welcomed the affection, gently stroking his hair and back.

“I think I’ll always need you.”

Living with him as made Y/n think he was a son to her. Out in public both back home and here, many thought they were mother and son. The amount of times she corrected people was laughable, but she couldn’t deny the warmth in her heart – how highly the boy thought of her.

Pulling away, she held his hand once more as they made their way back towards the Hilichurl camp hideout where the Hilichurls and Billy were waiting for them.

The first to notice their arrival was a Lawlchurl Y/n had affectionately called Mufasa. He made a slight noise that alerted the rest of the camp and saw the two as they all cheered and started to give out food even before the announcement.

“Well, it seems you’re all celebrating already but he’s in good health, everyone. Thank you so much for helping me take care of him.” The entire camp cheered, Billy the Hydro slime bounced up and down as he nuzzled against the young boy who was giggling. Teyvat showed their happiness by glowing and emitting more flowers that the boy enjoyed.

It was a blessing to hear the laughter and joy of the Divine Creator and their heir.

Amber eyes followed them, watching from a distance as he didn’t want to startle the Hilichurl camp. It was one of the biggest ones he’s seen, with towering huts and homes, platforms, and towers as tall as some cliffs he made during the Archon Wars. How was this able to escape detection, he wouldn’t know. He noticed that his camp was far from the main paths that led to the nearest villages and Liyue Harbor. It would have been easy to pass by the camp without knowing its existence. But he could understand the mass attempting to protect Her Eminence and her Heir.

For thousands of years, he has seen and cared for the numerous statues of the creator all around Teyvat (mainly Liyue) – one of the perks of being the oldest of the Archons. He has visited the shrines dedicated to their benevolent god. He had once been in their divine presence before and after so long of their absence, he could never forget the radiating warmth or the glowing of Her Eminence when she bestowed blessings or created life. He had seen her fight numerous times when otherworlders or even outer Gods attempted to take Teyvat for theirs – he wondered how it would be to fight alongside her.

He was Morax.

But…

How could he face her when he took part in the Archon Wars, the destruction of Khaenri’ah… events that he knew His precious Creator vehemently protested against. The death of so many of her creations by his hands due to misplaced grief…

“Auntie! Let’s play! Or we can go out again with the Hilichurls! Or better yet! Let’s hold a party!”

“Oh? What kind of party would it be?” Tilting her head to the side, the young woman decided to entertain her nephew, smiling as she knelt down to his height, right before he wrapped his arms around her, the woman picking him up with ease and spun around, earning a few laughs and giggles.

“A dance party! One with music and food! Lots and lots of food!” Though he was ecstatic, [Y/n] could see the sadness on his face and in his voice, looking back at the slimes and Hilichurls sensing the young boys want for friends to eat with them. This world wasn’t kind to monsters like them..

They disliked seeing the boy saddened by anything, he greatly valued their company and friendship from what the young woman noticed.

They’d have lived among cities and towns once but… she couldn’t accept how people treated the Hilichurls and slimes, some saying that they were simply monsters with no thoughts.. living among other people also meant that she accepted being a part of this world. Half of her did want to since she didn’t want to go back to such a mundane life where her life was just… average. Doing the same thing every day all year round and repeat. It wasn’t appealing. The other half wanted to go home as she missed many things, one of them being her family. And her nephew had to go back too for he sorely missed his parents even as he put on a brave face for his aunt.

Holding him close again, she hummed gently as Billy and a small Dendro Slime hopped alongside her as she walked towards their hut.

Zhongli smiled at the child’s desire. And frowned at the lucky Hilichurls and smiles that were around the Creator. It was natural for all creatures to gravitate towards the Creator, he was one of the lucky few that got so close long ago. He remembered her showing unconditional love and though some wished to be considered a favorite, she never chose anyone. These actions made everyone instantly love their Creator and dedicated themselves to follow them. He remembered during those times how he wanted to prove his loyalty to their World, their Eminence. What could he do to prove to them that he was faithful and loyal.

Some feared being selfish but would it really be bad to be selfish just once?

He saw an opening to get close and he made his move, making sure to be unnoticed as he had to have the two in his vision in fear of them leaving again.

“Auntie, why do we keep moving? I want to stay in Liyue.” The young boy laid his head against the womans lap, pouting as the said woman giggled, her hand running through his hair gently.

“Because soon people of this nation… the Qixing, the Millilith, and even possibly the adeptus will know that we’re different. Before we came here, I read stories where though some people appeared like their god, they were chased away despite being the real one. It’s my job as your guardian and aunt to keep you away from danger.”

He wouldn’t dare!

The thought that he or anyone in Liyue could turn away their Divine Creator would be preposterous. To dare harm or turn away the Creator was blasphemous!

“Do they think we’re bad people? Is it because we’re those Gods they talk about?”

“That’s part of it. But even if you are, don’t let it get to your little head. Remember, with great power-

“Comes great responsibility. I know, Auntie.”

The young heir was intelligent – a hope for the future. Though it was the desire of everyone to have him live happily, live innocently and never let him see the hardships that Teyvat has seen.

Seeing his chance, he made himself known as he quickly stepped in front, knowing that he’ll shock his beloved creator and her heir as they audibly gasped, the woman quickly holding her nephew close while the two slimes appeared in front and were waiting for their word to attack and defend – even going so far as to even let the Hilichurls know of the intruder before the man suddenly knelt to the ground, his forehead touching the ground.

This was his chance!

To show his unwavering devotion, his adoration. His love for the Divine Creator that helped him keep sane for so many years. And the glee to be the first of the seven to find her.

“Your Grace! Though I’m unworthy to be in your presence, please hear me out.”

[Y/n] held [Nephew’s name] close to her as the mysterious man appeared. Billy and the Dendro slime didn’t waver as they were serious in their job. [E/c] eyes stared down at the man that was basically kowtowing in front of her – the man was quite tall though she couldn’t be too sure just yet. His skin was fair, short dark hair with a long fringe to his right and amber tips. There was a section of his hair that ends towards his waist. But [Y/n] knew one thing….

HE WAS SEXY SEXY MAN!

He was handsome.

And [Nephew’s Name] knew it too as he was willing to hear the man out. Besides, he was a mission and he was sure that he may have found a worthy person to make his aunt happy. Wiggling out of his aunts grip, same as when they first met the Hilichurls, he hopped down and slowly walked towards the man as his head was still touching the ground. But [Nephew’s name] was quite certain that the mysterious man wasn’t going to hurt them. He raised his hand slowly and [Y/n] was behind him, watching with batted breath and to ensure nothing happened to the boy. The small hand gently touched the mans hair, curious as he ran his fingers through it slowly and patted him gently, the man moving to look up at them.

Seeing them this close, it was there that Zhongli finally shed tears.

His despair for many years have now been rewarded in seeing his God, his beloved.

Her glow, though dimmed by her mortal form, he could clearly see it – the envy of the stars and the moon in the night skies. Her stare – it was said to hold mass kindness and wisdom, a far away look that knew about the past, present, and the future and even beyond worlds.

Standing before him was the very God that he devoted his victories to in his younger years, the very God that made all of Teyvat and Celestia mourn from their disappearance.

[Nephew’s Name] was cheering in his mind as the man was indeed handsome. Gorgeous even! If he wanted to, he could set him up with his aunt! He had to play his cards right!

“Mister, are you okay?”

It wasn’t the words of his beloved but the voice of the child that brought him back.

The Heir.

The Divine Creator talked constantly about their relatives, about their siblings and how one of them gave birth to a child, the very child that was in front of him. A child that everyone agreed to be the God of Youth and Innocence.

He truly fit the role as he was bestowed with perfectly as there was childlike innocence in his eyes but he could see a hidden mischievousness too. How easy it was for him to see through his sorrow and the Divine Creator just standing behind the child and looking at him with concern. Concern for him, a lowly Archon that has worshiped her for millennia.  

The Geo Archon felt tiny fingers wipe away the tears from his eyes as he stared gently at the boy who smiled widely.

“There now! Hey, do you want to hear a story? Auntie always said that the tears always turn to gems or even become stars. I like stars so when I cry, I wish that they soon go so high up and hope that they shine the brightest so people can wish on them or even be homes to others!”

This wishful thinking earned a giggle from the woman, making the two slimes then relax a little as they then nuzzled against the boy who giggled as well.

“Well, its bad for a growing boy to hold back your emotions. Ah, sir, you may stand. I’m sure it must hurt your knees being in such a position.” Her Grace was benevolent just as he remembered!

He stood just as he was told, though amused by the child’s pout before he went back to his place beside his aunt, holding onto her skirt and hand as the two slimes stood at each side of the two.

“I’m sure you have plenty of questions, oh man of Liyue. Or… could I call you Morax? Or… what name are you comfortable with?”

In the year of being in Teyvat, there has been access to public libraries like in Mondstadt, and Sumeru. There was also the people of Liyue talking animatedly about the history and culture of the land and even the Gods that once roamed everywhere, but not so much as the Lord of Geo, Rex Lapis. But others tend to call him Morax as well and if her research was correct, the Mora of Teyvat was named after him.

One other thing that [Y/n] learned was that the Geo Archon was known to have many disguises but one tell of his was that each disguise had his signature Geo Amber eyes.

“Your Grace…” Though it shouldn’t surprise him, Zhongli was speechless. But then again, she was the Divine Creator. The Lady that created All should be the last one he should be surprised in their actions.

“I am still the governing Archon of Liyue. Rex Lapis will do. But I also go by the name of Zhongli.”

“I see. Well then. Zhongli, there is something I must ask of you.” [Y/n] smiled gently, the Geo Archon looking almost hopeful.

“Anything.”

“You must pretend you never saw us here today.”

He didn’t think it was possible to hear one’s own heart break until today. Could he have done something wrong? Surely not. He couldn’t have when he has been a faithful follower all these centuries. Could Barbatos and Baal say the same? Or even the others? Well, he could see the Dendro and Cryo Archons, but to his degree of devotion?

“Your Grace. I can’t do that. The people of Liyue… the people Across Teyvat. They are searching for you and the young Heir. Surely, someone of your stature and his deserve comfort and a safe haven other than in the wilds!”

[Y/n] sighed as she held onto her nephew, closing her eyes to think for a moment. She was sure now the Hilichurls heard their voices but she didn’t want a fight to break out.

“Yes. I understand that but…” Could she play around with the people’s faith here? This sounded sacrilegious. It could be just a coincidence that she happened to share the same face – the same likeness – as the great God of this world. If she waited long enough, maybe the real one will come and she could even ask if they could send her and her nephew home.

“But… I am not ready to take the mantel of being Teyvats God. It has been a year, yes. However I must think of my nephew. He is still young and confused of the responsibilities he will have one day. I don’t want to rush him towards that blind. Though I have full faith in all of you, there are just something where it needs to be me to tell him.”

‘Okay, that sounded mature and reasonable. Not sacrilegious either. Maybe he’ll take this answer.’

“But, Your Eminence! We are your faithful creations. Your burdens are our own and if there’s any way we can help, then we’ll gladly do so!”

‘Fuuuuuck!’

Faith is said to be strong, also depending on the person or being. Reading more, Morax or Rex Lapis was said to be one of the most, if not the most, faithful of all the Gods that still live among Teyvat. If anyone that was still alive in the time of the first appearance of the Creator that was faithful to the God, it would be Morax.

“And I am grateful for such loyalty. However, my nephew is my top priority. As I said before, pretend that you never saw us. But, that doesn’t mean that I have forgotten you and the others. May we meet again, oh Great Geo Archon.” Carefully holding onto her nephew, [Y/n] swiftly ran out of the hut, Billy and the Dendro slime following behind as the two soon took to the skies like earlier.

It didn’t seem right to give the Archon hope, but it were the words that might give him comfort. The following days, she has noticed that some powers were coming to her. And though she was in denial, that first day with the Hilichurls starting in Mondstadt with her blood being gold was an indicator that she was who the people of Teyvat say she is.

“Auntie, why did you leave him? He seemed so nice!” [Nephew’s name] cried out as he climbed onto her back and held on tightly. She glanced back and smiled gently.

“Because what he was asking of me was something I’m not ready for. Besides, the day that we must go home might be here sooner than you think.”

Isekai anime and manga taught her much to be weary of who to trust and how much to reveal. And if worse comes to show that she must be cunning to enact revenge. Hopefully it won’t come to that, but it never hurts to prepare.

“We’re going far away, nugget. We’re going to have to work on a disguise for each other. Think of it as Halloween all over again.”

“Yay! Halloween!”

The next stop of their adventure was the nation of Sumeru, where the green forests met with their vision and made them audibly gasp. They have been here before but every time they step foot in the forests, there was a singing being heard either by Teyvat themselves or the beings that inhabit the forest.

Unbeknownst to the two, a certain amber eyed Archon was running around Liyue in hopes to find the Divine Creator and her nephew. How could he take his eyes off of them and let them leave after he just discovered them?! Though he wasn’t in touch with Celestia, he was certain the higher powers that his beloved God was a part of would surely punish him.

He hasn’t been this frantic since the Archon wars, protecting his people and sheltering more ever since Havria was killed and her followers fearful for their lives. Every second mattered, every second with every action meant the difference between life and death as sought protection for the mortals he was caring for as well.

Though he was certain that Teyvat would care for his beloved God, there was the voice in his mind that spoke of the untold dangers that might come from extreme devotees or even, dare he say, sacrilegious zealots – people that were adamant that the Creator never existed. To them, he would show them the Wrath of the Rock. How dare they when he himself has seen Her. And he has seen Her with the Heir this time.  

He will remain hopeful of seeing her again. And the next time he will come across Her path, he will be sure that Liyue will be the home that they deserve – for it is said that wherever the Creator decides to descend will be showered with grand favor other nations will gladly go to war for.

A/n: Zhongli is going to be a simp but that's okay UwU What will happen next? Btw, I just now made it to Sumeru sooo~ will we meet Al Haitham? Cyno? Nahida? Kaveh? Who's to say~ We still got the men in Mondstadt, Inazuma and Childe. And the rest of Liyue cause we only met Baizhu and Zhongli. Everyone, good luck pulling for whoever you want! I'm pulling for Al Haitham~!

TAGLIST:

I tried tagging most of who I could but it wasn't letting me qwq

@axolotlboo

@crazypriestess

@gallantyss

@catjsjs

@lonelysoup

@yuii-v

@memema-exists-here

@sweetbills

@catjsjs

@shizunxie

@esthelily