#oh girl this is no neigh that's a whinny

[meirimerens]

cleaning out this account of last night's ruckus because posting when sleep-deprived & going along with (even gentle) egging is Not productive and frankly did not do much beyond rallying people to heehee and haha and feel a sense of moral superiority which was not something i meant to & should have fostered by continuing to engage, cos that was not going to give us anything.

i do apologize firmly and fully for last night's mess and noise. i should have cut it short, should have said less, should gotten my ass to bed because I was in no state of mind to attempt cool-headed discussions, and it is my fault for not having had the discipline to sleep on it. it wasn't then, and it is not now, any kind of witch-hunt. i did not name names and i did not show anything on purpose, but i should have said even less, for one of my tags, which did not strike me as potentially too identifying for comfort when sleep-deprived, made them pretty identifiable, and i firmly reiterate my apologies for it should not have happened. people deserve to be left alone to do some reflecting and growing, and i have repeated it as such. this thing should be talked about as a wider problem and not be pinned on individuals, even if it easier. from what i had remembered, the artist/s had already been made aware of how unsavory the depictions were, and had just kept going, but this is something i should have checked for myself. I didn't, and for that I'm sorry.

i do very much stand by the fact that only drawing the one non-white guy like Wreck-it-Ralph when he canonically is profoundly average beyond being tall, while all the white characters get to have normal proportions (if comically smaller than him) is, at the very least, "sus", and worth interrogating even within the context of heavy stylization, because it's not like stylization has never been used to racist extents. this is an opinion i hold and am not particularly inclined to budge on. i do not believe it is conscious, or comes from a will to harm. but i think it's real silly and deserves reflection. this is a trope i've seen spanning fandoms, that every fandom with a white guy x nonwhite guy popular ship has to reckon with at some point, and every time you got people who think it's sus as fuck, nonwhite people who take the time and effort to explain how and why, and people, including nonwhite people themselves, who think it's not a big deal. i have both my own personal opinions on caricature (which are that you can do so while still not falling into racialized depictions) and no power nor desire to change anyone's minds. those two opinions can and do coexist, and even people who will relate to burakh on the same basis will have varying degrees of tolerance for this, and their opinions on the matter. let's just say there's room for everyone.

discussions from indigenous russian &/or central/east asian people on how the fandom treats artemy as the one nonwhite guy in one of the most popular pairings have been going on for years: i was coming across them before i even got here. but my personal experience of 4 years of seeing such depictions and reading them be criticized by people it affects and my personal exasperation towards mischaracterizations bordering on racism developed from seeing a constant stream of them, and them being identified as such, is not the experience of people who just got here, and a discussion spawned from a "woe the hounds be upon ye" imgflip meme does not particularly lend itself to 4 years, tens of posts, tens of threads and more strewn-around discussions of nuance.

I reiterate my apologies for the noise, the ruckus, and for the pointedness that had no business being here, especially considering how long stuff like that has been going on for; it was uncalled for and callous for it to fall on specific people when it is more productive to talk about it as tropes and a wider fandom problem than to point fingers. I should have had the discipline and the discernment to cut it out and go to bed. i didn't, got way in over my head, and truly and fully fumbled. i apologize for making a circus out of this. thank you for reading, and hope you're well.

[georgiapeach30513]

Rumplestiltskin, Part 4

Summary: Andy invites you to the ball

Pairings: Prince!Andy Barber X Reader

Rating: explicit

Warnings:  language, explicit sexual content, unprotected sex, PIV sex, first time, voyeurism, creampie, 18+ ONLY

Word Count:  2.8K

Previous

Series Masterlist

Hearing Walter hoof the ground, and blow out an aggravated whinny, you look out your window.  A white horse.  And that only meant one thing.  Smoothing out your skirt, you try and make yourself look more presentable, before your father storms into the cottage, “He is back.  This needs to stop.”

“He’s just came for you to look over Clementine.”

“She got new shoes last week,” you roll your eyes, going to meet Andy outside, “Keep him away from the well.”

“I can’t help it that he gets thirsty,” you smirk at him, but continue your mission to greet Andy outside.  He wasn’t wearing armor, but he was a decorated man.  Nobility.  More than just the King’s guard.  Walter blows at you, his nose pushing you forward a bit.  “You quit, you silly creature.  I can never tell if you like him or you despise him.  Quit pushing,” stomping your foot you turn to glare at him, but he only neighs in return.

Andy smiles as he jumps off the horse, already taking her to the stables, and you follow, but not too closely behind.  Smiling at how comfortable he was around the barn.  “She looks like she needs some oats.”

“Yeah, she’s a good girl.  I’m afraid that I’m here for some royal news.”

“Why does royal news need to travel so far?”

“It seems…Well, you see,” he looks out at the barn when Walter stands in the doorway glaring at him, “Well, I’ve been keeping something from you.”

“Oh?” You didn’t like the way that sounded.  Didn’t trust where this was going, and you were afraid.  But then his hand brushes against yours.  Holding it tighter, before bringing you closer to him.  “Andy, what’s going on?”

“I’ve not exactly been truthful with who I am.”

“You’re not Andy?”

“No.  No, I’m Andy.  Officially, I’m Prince Andrew Stephen of Palmona, the future King,” you stumble back from him, shaking your head.  “Miss, I’m sorry.”

“Why are you here?”

“To see you.  It’s always to see you.  I’m having to choose a wife,��� you scoff at him, and pull his hand off yours.  Your brows furrowed, and his expression never changes.

“You’re wasting my time.”

“No, I’m not.  You’re getting an invite to the ball being thrown in my honor.  A hope of finding a suitable wife,” you weren’t suitable.  You weren’t anybody.  Definitely not someone that a royal would marry, even if they could.  You want to kick yourself for being so foolish.  “I’m delivering the invitation personally.  You’re the only one getting a personal one, the others were sent by courier.”

“So I get a front row seat of you choosing a proper lady to be your wife?  Sounds like a riveting time, Your Highness,” Andy’s nostrils flare with the formal greeting.  “Give your horse some water, and be on your way.”

“No.  You are getting this invitation,” reaching into his side, he pulls out a beautiful golden invite to his ball.  “It’s a masquerade.”

“How rich is that?  Hide your mistress behind a gilded mask.  I won’t be someone’s second option, Your Highness.”

“If you call me that one more time, Miss, I won’t be so kind,” he takes a deep breath, softening his features, and even his voice.  “You have never been my second choice.  You have been my only choice.”

“A fool’s game.  One neither of us will win.”

“Go to the ball.  Let me dance with you in the open.  In front of my parents.  Let’s show them that I only want the one, and that one is you.  My father has power to change this stupid rule, and I can marry you.  And if he won’t, I won’t marry until I am king, and then I will.”

“And should you become king in your old age?  And I can’t give you an heir. Then what?”

“My father is old.  Much older than my mother.  She was his fourth wife.  He’s tired, and doesn’t want the crown past the jeweled ornament that sits on his head.  Should I want you, I will have you,” you flinch away from him, and Andy shakes his head, “That is not what I meant, Miss.  I want you.  And I can sacrifice the time to have you properly.  I can’t give up the throne.  My brother is not fit to be King.  But I can be a wife-less king, until you marry me.”

“But, what will I wear?” You grin at him.  Your cheeks heat up at the thought of you amongst the elite and proper members of society.  Already getting nervous of people around the crowd, and people that would look down on you.

Andy’s face lights up at your question, pulling you into his embrace, he presses his lips gently onto yours, “Andy, I’m serious.”

“I’ll have you a dress made.  Send you everything that you need.  The only thing I need,” he starts, bringing his lips directly over yours.  Making you feel his heated breath, and every word he speaks, you get the soft pillows of his lips pushing against your own, “Is you.  Maybe, we should make a wish into the well, and you will grace me with food, since I have traveled so far.”

“Andy?”

“Hmm?”

“Don’t wish for me to kiss you, okay?  I will do that without a wish.”

“Don’t worry,” his hands skim down your sides, settling much too low on your back for a proper lady, but you did not care, you were no proper lady, “I’ve got some ideas on things to wish for.”

No one told you this mask was going to be so difficult to see through.  Andy forgot to mention that he wanted you to arrive late.  Wanted that grand entrance.  Your gown with layers upon layers of the finest silks, the color of the purest gold, and you looked like royalty.  Even stepping out of the carriage, you could feel their heated gaze.  The whispers of who you were, and where you came from.

Walking into the palace ballroom, you smooth out your dress.  Worrying your lip as you glance around.  There were smiling faces everywhere.  Jovial dancing, an orchestra, and compared to most in the room, your dress stood out, and was much more grand and intricate than anyone there.  Andy had wanted you to stand out.  The other dresses were smaller skirts in pastels, while every inch of you was covered in gold of some sort.  Your dress, shoes, jewelry, even paint on your skin.  Andy had made sure that you were the belle of the ball, and now you couldn’t even find him.

His father sits up straighter as you descend the stairs.  Glancing around the room to find Andy, because it was as if people created a pathway right to his son.  Spreading out as you wandered through the crowd, “Who is she?” His mother asks, catching a glance at her son who pushes through the throng of people.  He had spotted you, but you were still a lamb amongst wolves.

Your chest heaving, and you wonder if this was a mistake, “I have no clue,” his father answers, zeroing in on the small golden tiara on your head, and even a golden pendant laying against your chest.  He watches his son, who disregards every maiden in his path.  “He’s going to her.  He has been spending some time away from the palace.”

Your lips turn up into your sweet smile, when you finally spot him.  Your gait speeding up as you rush towards him.  The second that you reach him, he pulls your hand to get into position for a waltz, “Andy, I don’t belong here.”

“Nonsense,” he purrs, whirling you around the room.  Everyone moves away from the two of you.  Staring as Andy twirls you around, “It’s them who don’t belong here.  You are right where you’re meant to be.  In my arms, and the envy of the entire ball.  You look breathtaking.”

“I think you did well.”

“I didn’t choose this,” you cock up an eyebrow at him, needing to know more, but he’s keeping it a secret for some reason.  “A little birdie told me that he had something for you that was gold, and you should wear gold.”

Reaching to the pendant around your neck, you can’t believe it.  “My father?  He’s but a simple ferrier.”

“He is a ferrier, but I doubt he’s as simple as he plays.  Gold is your color.  When you become queen, I want you to wear gold everyday.  You will be lavished in the color and the metal,” you give him a giggle, not even notice that you had caught everyone’s eyes.  All of them were curious as to who you were, but more importantly where you came from, and how you got here.  Most already deciding that you would be Andy’s future.  “You’re every bit as regal as I am, Miss.  Don’t forget that.”

You stand outside the ballroom, waiting on Andy to return, and needing a breather.  Skin glowing and sticky with sweat; these skirts were not made for such movement.  Dizzy with happiness and the nonstop dancing, not to mention how handsome Andy looked.  Perfectly coiffed and looking every bit like the prince he was.  It was more than the crown that sat atop his head, he was oozing a just and fair leader.  People noticed him.  Praised him, and were excited to see what the future held with Andy at the forefront.

They had noticed you as well, and you gave them comfort, because their future king had found a wife.  Your eyes get heavier.  Your heart and head pounding with the music and the prolonged high of happiness. You wander down the hallway whence Andy had left, wondering where that silly man had gone.

Walking past a door, you gasp when a hand covers your mouth, and pulls you into the room.  “Shh, Miss, I just wanted some privacy.  Waiting a long time for you to follow me,” spinning around the room, you wonder who’s bedroom this could be.  It was beautiful.  Bigger than the entire cottage, “It’s mine.”

“You lead me to your room?”

“I’m the only one with a key,” dropping your hand, he walks over to the door, locking it.  Maybe it was the dancing and spinning.  Maybe it was the champagne.  Possibly how handsome that Andy looked in his suit.  But maybe, just maybe, you were tired of waiting on things to happen.  Waiting on everything to line up to where you could make Andy yours.  

Watching him saunter towards you, his hands slide around your waist, and it’s you that backs up to the bed.  Getting a disapproving growl from Andy, but you don’t listen.  Your knees hit the mattress, and you pull him down with you, “Miss?”

“Will you wait on me?”

“I will?”

“You will make me your wife?” He nods his head, letting his weight start to settle over you, “Then we should do as married people do.  You will be my husband, and you will always be my king.”

Andy removes the mask off your head, letting it fall to the floor, and then starts kissing down your body, stopping at the swell of your tits, and you take a deep breath, “Do you know how to tie up a corset?”

“My queen will not be leaving until tomorrow,” sitting up, you let him pull at your laces, “And my queen will have a different dress by then.  My queen also needs to just breathe.  You’re going to make yourself pass out, and I won’t be making love to your unconscious body.  Just.  Breathe.”

He removes your top, and starts working on your breasts.  Leaving you gasping, and whispering at his name with the way his tongue was moving on you.  He’d deal with the skirts in a moment.  Right now, he was enjoying your unsullied body.  

Little did Andy know, that his mischievous brother did in fact know a way into Andy’s room.  The perfect Andy had gone missing from his own ball, no less.  His lip curls up into a snarl as he watches the great and wonderful Andrew bed a maiden.  He could barely see your face, but he heard your whimpers.  Andy’s hand drifts up your skirts, and you yelp at the feeling, you were as pure as his parents had assumed, but here he was using you.  He knew that Andy wasn’t so perfect.  

Careful not to let his brother notice him, he sneaks out, locking the door again.  Ransom wasn’t sure how he was going to use this information, just that he knew it was going to be of use to him.  

“Andy, just touch me.”

“I am.”

“No,” his head pops up from your many layers with a devilish grin.  “I want to properly feel my king,” you start undoing his buttons, sighing when your hand presses up against his hard chest.  “Andy,” you mewl, “I want to feel you all over me.  Ruin me for anyone else, because I’m only yours.”

An animalistic power overtakes Andy.  Your beautiful self looking vulnerable and meek, needed him to claim you.  He rushes in removing his suit, and helps you out of those ridiculous layers.  The two of you timidly bring yourselves closer, before he crashes his lips into yours, laying you back on the bed.

His legs go in between yours, and he pushes them further apart.  Licking the length of his hand, he buries it in your warmth.  You were soaked.  Pressing two fingers into your cunt, both of you moan.  You were tight.  “Andy,” everything about you was like a drug, and he was addicted.  “Andy!”

“I need to get you ready to take me,” with his cock heavy on your thigh, you were not thinking about his fingers.  You needed him, and he was going to give it to you.

“I don’t care,” you pout at him.

“As you wish, my queen,” pumping his length in his fist a few times, he lines himself up, and you gulp.  Nodding your head as confirmation, and his bulbous tip breeches your entrance.  A blinding sting heats up your pussy, and he tsks at you for forgetting to breathe again, “I will stop,” he playful scolds as he sinks slowly into your body.

“Don’t you dare,” you pant out.  Your hands squeeze at his back, and Andy hisses through his teeth.  Glancing down at where the two of you connect, you felt like he was in your guts, and there was so much length still to go.

“Changing your mind?”

“No!” You yelp, and he quickly pushes another inch.  “Andy!”

“I’m not going to last long with how you say my name.  You feel amazing.  Delicious even,” his eyes watch as he pushes the final two inches in.  Balls deep into your quivering cunt, and he has to center himself.  You were hugging his cock perfectly.  Your walls throbbing over him made it hard to concentrate.  A deep desire just to fuck into you, but knowing it would be a bit more painful to you.

“Andy,” it’s the only thing you can say.  The only thing you can think.  Knees bent, and legs spread wide to accommodate his thick body, and even thicker cock.  “Andy…An…”

“Shh, I’ve got you.  Let me take care of you,” with a nod of your head he pulls out a bit.  Your skin stretching around his cock, has him needing to push back into you quickly.  A sob of his name, has him caressing your glistening skin.

“Fine,” you assure him, and he moves again.  Slowly picking up speed with each thrust into you.  Your body relaxes a bit, and Andy rushes into you.  Doing it again, and when your face lights up with pleasure, he takes that as a sign.  Changing to rut into you.  

You don’t care about the sting.  You had Andy.  Your king.  You revel in how he had a part of you that no one would.  The steady build up over these past few months, and what Andy assumed was courting you, accumulating in this very moment.  He wanted to see you every night in his bed, taking him just like this.  Baring his children, and being the queen that the kingdom deserved.  He would make him a better man and ruler with you by his side.  

“Andy, I love you,” those simple words take his breath away, because you were just too perfect.  It was destined in the stars for the both of you.  He had made enough wishes into that well of a happy and long life with you by his side.  

“And I love you,” his lips crash into yours as he swallows every sweet sound that moves off your lips.  He needed this all the time.  Everyday.  He would make an excuse to bring a different horse a day if he had to.  Commission another cottage in the woods for just you and him, he didn’t care.  All he cared about was you, and you alone.  The life that you were meant to have with him.  You were going to be the perfect, kind, fair, queen.  His parents didn’t realize how you didn’t need to have a title, because you were and would always be his.  His miss.  His queen.  His equal.  His partner.  His.

Next

Masterlist

Taglist: @tis-thedamn-season @marveloustaylortot @pono-pura-vida @sstan-hoe @peaches1958 @whimsyplaty92 @xcaptain-winterx @bambamwolf87 @lavender-annd-lilac @thedarkplume @duuhrayliegh @rebekahdawkins @johndeaconshands @whiskeytangofoxtrot555 @feyfantome @athena-penrose @royalwritersoftheuniverses

[skyward-floored]

Ocarina of Time - oneshot

Another fic crossposted from ao3, partially in honor of oot’s birthday! Man oh man do I adore that game. Poor traumatized Link though... at least he’s got Epona with him :)

————————————————————

Rain dripped down Link’s face, causing his bangs to lay sodden across his eyes.

Water snuck down his collar as he traveled down the road, the droplets leaking in no matter how tight he had it cinched. All of him was soaked pretty much completely through— he wasn’t sure why he was bothering to try and keep it out. Epona plodded steadily through the rain under him, not even a neigh of complaint escaping her as the rainfall grew heavier, making it rather difficult to see.

Her hoof suddenly slipped in a puddle that had been deeper than it looked, and she whinnied in surprise, Link immediately pulling her back. He gently stroked her neck and soothed her as she shied, keeping his voice gentle.

“Ssh, hey girl it’s okay,” he murmured, blinking the rain out of his eyes.

They’d reached a fork in the road, the slight dip of it causing the water to pool and form deeper puddles. A signpost stood at the fork as well, and Link drew Epona closer to read what was written on them.

The small road to the left that he’d been following went to places he didn’t recognize, but when he read where the other led he hesitated, something in his heart lurching.

Hyrule.

He was closer to the kingdom then he’d been in almost three years.

Link drew Epona to a stop, staring intently at the sign as if it would give him answers. Of course it didn’t do anything but sit there, but he eyed it anyways.

He’d already combed Hyrule for Na... his friend, he’d been to nearly every inch of the place he could. There wasn’t any point in going back right now, especially since nobody remembered him anyways. It would only bring up painful memories, it’d be better to just keep going.

But...

Zelda kicked her legs, sending a couple of drops up from the fountain in the middle of castletown.

They’d spent the day together just messing around, playing the games in town and exploring all the nooks and crannies Zelda had never seen before. Ganondorf was taken care of (again), and Impa had told them they needed a day without having to worry about anything and had practically commanded them to get out from the castle for a while. Which Zelda was more than happy to comply with.

She looked over at Link sitting next to her, setting sun casting a golden light onto her face and lighting up her hair. It looked a lot redder in this light, and Link shook himself as he realized he’d been staring at it.

“You’ll be leaving after this, won’t you,” she said quietly.

Link nodded.

She met his eyes, and Link looked back at her, gaze so familiar and yet completely and achingly not.

“Are you sure you don’t want to stay a little longer?”

He shook his head.

“No. I need to go find someone. She’s... missing. And I’ve done what I needed to do here.”

Zelda nodded slowly, dipping her feet in the water again.

Then she turned and gave him a hug, which he had not been expecting at all, giving him a warm squeeze as he blinked in surprise.

“Thank you Link. I have a feeling you’ve done more for us than anyone even knows,” she whispered. “Thank you for helping Hyrule, and me.”

Link hesitated for only a minute before letting himself hug her back.

The next day she quietly showed him off, with nobody witness to their parting except for Impa watching them from a short distance away. She gave him the ocarina and a few parting words before teaching him the song already engraved into his very being.

And then he left.

Link swallowed, wiping some water from his face.

What was the point of going back just to see Zelda? She didn’t remember him from the alternate timeline, she didn’t remember herself from the alternate timeline. She knew nothing about all of what they’d been through together.

Plus he was a different person after Termina and that stupid war he’d ended up in, she barely knew him at all!

And yet...

Epona nickered gently at him, and Link realized he’d been lost in thought for a while.

“Sorry girl,” he apologized, rubbing her neck again. “I just...”

He looked up at the sign, his stomach twisting a little.

“I don’t know what to do,” he whispered, realization curling into him.

Epona leaned her head around, nuzzling his hand almost as if to say that she was willing to wait for him to make a decision. Link swallowed, and wiped some more water off his face.

He just didn’t know.

How ridiculous was that?

He’d spent the last two years making split-second decisions on the daily; anything but decisive action would’ve killed him long ago and it was pretty much the only option in Termina. He simply didn’t have time to waffle about decisions there, and in the war it was what got people killed.

He just... had to pick. Easy. Left to keep looking in places he didn’t recognize, which had a much higher chance of holding what he was looking for, or right...

I’ll never forget the days we spent together in Hyrule...

Link grit his teeth. Why couldn’t he decide?! It was just a stupid crossroads, he’d probably find another one only a little ways down the road, why was it that this one was giving him so much grief?!

Enough was enough.

He glared at the sign, swiping some oddly warm rain off his cheeks as he remounted Epona and went down the left-hand road, ignoring the way his throat tightened as he turned from the fork.

Zelda didn’t remember him. Not like he remembered her.

It was better that he stay away from Hyrule and continue onwards, away from a country that didn’t care about its hero or anything that he’d ever done for anyone. Every meeting has a parting, and there was no point in getting attached to these people again just to have them forget—

Epona neighed and abruptly quit walking, digging her hooves into the thick muddy road.

“What’s wrong girl?” Link asked, voice coming out a bit thick, and she neighed again, tossing her head.

Link knocked his heel against her side, urging her onward, but Epona shook her head and refused to go another step no matter what he did.

“Epona! Come on!” he said sternly, and his horse finally started moving again.

...in the wrong direction.

“Epona stop it, what’s the matter with you?” Link grumbled and pulled on her to try and get her to turn. But she suddenly kicked her heels up and galloped back the way they’d come, slipping a bit at the crossroads, but recovering and immediately turning down the right fork instead.

Link felt a jolt go through him.

“Epona!”

The rain lashed against his face as Epona switched to a canter, Link practically holding on for dear life as she charged down the road. He had no clue how she wasn’t slipping on the mud— how could she even see with how fast she was going?!

He wasn’t sure how far they’d gotten, several miles from the sign probably, before Epona slowed her frantic pace to a steady walk, turning her head and giving him an almost stern look.

“What are you giving me that for?” Link huffed, crossing his arms as he blinked rain out of his eyes. “We’re going the other way Epona. Turn around!”

She started to trot instead of walk.

“Turn around Epona!”

She neighed at him, letting out a firm snort.

“Epona just turn around!” he shouted, rain getting in his mouth, “we’re not going back to Hyrule! They don’t care about us, they don’t remember us! Why won’t you just—!”

Epona leveled him with a gentle look, and the fight went out of him in an abrupt rush, his hands falling to his sides.

He slumped in the saddle, bowing his head.

Epona finally stopped moving.

“You just want to go home, don’t you girl,” he said quietly, only just loud enough to be heard over the rain.

Epona gently nickered and tossed her head.

Link let out a shaky sigh.

“I do too.”

He wiped some more rain from his face, rubbing Epona’s neck as an apology for snapping at her.

“But I don’t have a home to go back to,” Link whispered, still rubbing. “Hyrule is the closest I’ve got, but nobody... they just don’t know Epona, they don’t know any of it.”

He sucked in a shuddering breath.

“I don’t know if I’m ready to try again.”

Epona pressed her face against his, and Link let out another sigh as the downpour continued on.

He slipped his hand down into his pocket after a moment, pulling out the deep indigo colored instrument inside. He stared at it, rubbing the ocarina as drops of rain pattered against it, and almost felt soft hands brush his as he fingered the mouthpiece, gloves covered in blood and dirt that clasped his hands and gave them a squeeze before pulling away.

She would want him to try, wouldn’t she.

He took a deep breath, pulling back from Epona as he held the ocarina to his lips, fingering the holes with a practiced motion as he blew a slow, gentle lullaby into the rainy evening. The song warbled a bit in the downpour, less smooth than he would prefer, but soft and comforting all the same.

As the last note faded away, Link breathed a slow sigh, feeling rather wrung out.

Epona gave an encouraging toss of her head and Link smiled at her, running his hand through her mane. He wiped the rain from his face yet again, feeling something in his chest ease just a bit as he looked down the road.

And he made his decision.

[bridgertonbabe]

Could we pretty please get a snapshot of Penelope, Eloise, Phillip and Lucy discover their daughters are Whores.

PLEASE!!!!!

So while Benedict, Colin, and Gregory had taken the gaggle of girls out for the day, Penelope and Lucy were having a playdate at the Cranes with their secondborns. Phillip had just got back in himself from picking the twins up from a friend's birthday party when there was a desperate knock at the door and he opened it to find three of his Bridgerton brothers-in-law.

"Hey, thanks for taking Penny with you." Phillip said as his daughter and her cousins rushed through with their stuffed dinosaurs. "Hope it wasn't too stressful a day out with the four of them." he remarked as he caught sight of just how wearisome the trio of brothers looked as they entered the threshold.

"Mummy! Mummy! Mummy!" Agatha trilled as she and her cousins galloped into the living room.

"Hi, sweetie." Penelope smiled at her daughter. "Oh, is that a dinosaur you got?"

"I'm a whore!" Agatha declared, flinging her dinosaur to the floor.

"I'm a whore too, Mummy!" Katie eagerly informed Lucy as she bounced on the balls of her feet.

"We're all whores!" Penny jubilantly announced before she and her cousins started prancing around the sofas whinnying and neighing.

Wide-eyed and bewildered, Penelope, Eloise, Lucy, and Phillip all turned their collectively unimpressed gazes towards Benedict, Colin, and Gregory in search of an explanation.

"Hyacinth." the three of them said together in identical deadpan tones.

"Oh." Penelope, Eloise, Lucy, and Phillip all sounded in understanding - as soon as the youngest Bridgerton sibling's name had been mentioned, no further context was really needed.

[monminimage]

Sicktember 2022 day 7

Prompt - a cry for attention

(Set before Sunset part 7)

Why was this happening? Why was Twilight's injury not healing? The fairies' magic always worked, always brought them back from the brink of death. And yet it wasn't working!

What was it about this black lizalfos that caused this to happen? What was it about this injury that repelled any sort of healing ability?

What was going to happen to Twilight? Was he going to die? After all he's done for Hyrule, was this how he was going to die? But what about his family back home? How would they handle the news of his death? Would they even be able to tell his family about this?

No. No, Twilight was going to be okay. They just had to believe in him. And Hyrule.

But Twilight was so... pale. So weak. Twilight was ready for whatever was going to happen.

Four grit his teeth, clenching his fists at the thought of Twilight giving up. He had to leave the room, giving Time, Hyrule, and Twilight their space to work uninterrupted.

But now, Four was alone, pacing in the inn, muttering to himself. His mind was swirling with questions and concerns, emotions jumping from one extreme to another. The thoughts were beginning to mix together in a dizzying headache.

He barely noticed the inn keeper calling out to him.

"Boy, young boy with the blonde hair."

Four stopped pacing. "Oh. Sorry. Did you need something?"

"You doing okay?"

Four nodded. "Yeah. Just... thinking."

The inn keeper gave a nod before speaking again. "You and your..." the inn keeper paused for a moment, "...brothers?"

Four nodded, not caring enough to correct him.

"You and your brothers checked in a horse at the stable, correct? A large, chestnut female horse?"

Epona? "Yes."

"Can you go check up on her? She's been making a bit of a fuss."

"A fuss? Is she causing trouble?"

The inn keeper waved a hand. "No, she's just been a little noisy and restless. Starting to spook all the other horses."

Four let out sigh. "Oh, okay. I'll check on her."

"Please do. And if she's causing all that racket because she's hurt, let me know. I know where you can find someone to help."

Four blinked, the thought of Epona being injured never occurring to him. He shook his head, making his way to the stable. "Okay. Thank you."

As he approached the stable, he could hear the whinnies and neighs of a single horse. He found Epona rather quickly, the horse pacing back and forth in her small housing, her tail flicking every so often.

The moment Epona saw Four, she quieted down, sticking her head out of the open window.

"...Hey there, girl." Four held up his hand, letting Epona make the first move. She nickered softly, placing her nose in his palms. "Are you doing okay? Are you hurt?"

A shake of her head, a small little snort, and the insistence on getting pet was the reply from Epona.

"You seem fine to me." Four muttered, patting her neck. The smithy pet her gently, standing on his tippy toes as he looked over her body. Everything seemed to be all right. No visible injuries.

But still.... There was something wrong with Epona. Four may not know much about horses, but even he could tell Epona was troubled by something.

Then it occured to him.

"Oh. You're worried about Twilight, aren't you? Worried about Link?"

Epona let out a low whinny, her ears drooping and flickering.

"I know. I'm worried, too. He's not... doing so great right now." Four hugged Epona's neck, his arms barely able to reach around her. "The fairy can't heal him, the potions aren't doing a thing, and whatever Hyrule is doing isn't working.... I don't know what..."

Epona interrupted him with a strong snort, blowing warm air into his face.

Four startled, stepping back. Epona stared at him, ears pinned back, and hooves stomping in irritation.

"Oh. Sorry. That's probably not what you want to hear, huh?"

A shake of her head and a snort.

Four smiled sadly, reaching out to Epona once more. "Twilight is strong. You probably already know that. He'll be okay. Hyrule is doing everything he can to heal him. He isn't going to give up. He won't let Twi give up. We just have to... do what we can, right?"

Epona shoved her face into Four's cheek, nuzzling him with a whinny. She let him pet her a few times before gently shoving him in the chest.

"Okay, okay I get it!" Four took hold of her face to stop the shoving. "I'll go do something to help. I'll try going around town. Maybe someone can help."

Epona, satisfied at the change in mood, snorted again, nuzzling Four once more.

"Thanks, girl." Four pet one last time before letting her go. "I'll be back to check on you later, okay?"

Four went to comfort Epona, but Epona ended up comforting him. She's a good girl.

And just like Four, I don't know much about horses or their behaviors. But Epona is a smart girl. She knows how to communicate with others.

This was actually pretty hard to write, but I wanted to write about Four and Epona. I'm writing all of these without a plan. Pretty much typing these on the day of, lol

[violetjedisylveon]

Amnesia Chapter 7 - Mess

Summary: Omega strays too far with her new friend Xillyn and winds up in a mess of trouble.

Word count: 3.6k

Warnings: child iniury, blood, mentions of blood, fire, flashbacks, fighting, violence.

A/N: Omega is a baby lesbian/feminine attracted, and she is going have a lil crush on a feminine leaning person. Enjoy the baby gayness! Happy pride month🌈✨! Also I got diagnosed with Autism🎉

Amnesia AU link here.

________________________________________________________________________________

Freyu glanced up from cleaning her crossbow, she hadn't had to use it, but cleaning it always calmed her. Omega and Xillyn were fawning over the two new foals in the paddock.

The pair of four day-old horse's trotted happily around the protected area, whinnying and prancing up to their mother. They wobbled slightly with every step, the weight of their rapidly growing horns causing them to be unbalanced. Their tail spikes would catch up and balance them soon enough so there was nothing to worry about.

Mayar still watched her foals closely, it was to be expected. The birth had been difficult for her so she wanted to make sure her foals were safe.

One of the foals, the bolder of the two, trotted up to Omega and licked her cheek. Omega giggled and patted the foal's neck. The foals had been hesitant, so far, around Omega, she was a stranger to them, and had a much weaker connection to Massanii than a Massii like Xillyn or Freyu herself, but they were warming up to her.

She'll be showing like someone born here soon enough. Massanii had that effect on people, it changed them by giving them a closer connection to the planet, it worked faster on younglings and those with open minds.

"They're so wobbly, how do they avoid predators?" Omega asked.

"Their herd protects them, mares go off to have the baby and bond with it, the herd follows an hour or two after, usually the mare can protect them too, they're very deadly when they want to be." Cai explained.

Asichi neighed in agreement. Freyu patted the mare's side and scratched the spot on her back she could never reach.

"Yes, you're very lethal." She cooed.

Asichi flicked her with a tentacle. Freyu rolled her eyes and went back to cleaning her crossbow and keeping an eye on Omega.

The pair of younglings were still fawning over the foals when Narvae came up to the fence.

"Xillyn, have you cleaned your bow yet?" Narvae asked the young Massii.

"No." Xillyn said with a pout, xir teal and yellow spotted ears drooping with disappointment.

"Well go clean it, you know you have to do it every day." Narvae reminded her gently.

Xillyn huffed and gave xir soon to be uncle a glare. Narvae shut down any of the typical Massii thoughts coursing through xir head.

"No b.s. Xillyn, you've gotta do your chores." Narvae said with a much firmer tone than before.

Xillyn sighed exasperatedly but started making xir way out of the paddock, Freyu could sense her thoughts circling back to the mischief and frankly, asshole, response that Massii had to anything they didn't want to do.

"Why don't you show Meg'ika how it works? I'm sure she'd like that." Freyu called out.

Xillyn's ears perked up and xe ran over to Omega.

"Wanna see it?" Xe asked excitedly.

Omega glanced back at her, Freyu gave the girl a shrug and went back to her own bow.

"Sure, it sounds cool." Omega said nervously.

"Oh it is the coolest!" Xillyn exclaimed.

Xe went into an excited ramble all about how cool xir bow was and all the things it could do. Xe wasn't talking too fast, Omega wouldn't have much trouble keeping up.

"Thanks, Freyu, I owe you one." Narvae thanked her.

Freyu just shrugged, she was Massí too, she knew how they all thought, Omega would make the chore more enjoyable for Xillyn and keep Narvae safe from the wrath of a Massii child. Some of the most vindictive little shits in the galaxy.

"I know how kids think pretty well, it's been what, a thousand years since you've been one, right?" She teased.

"You're off a couple hundred years but, point taken." Narvae shrugged.

A little further out on the field, Xillyn was showing Omega her bow. A Massii made crossbow, a more common weapon for children since it took less skill and balance to shoot it while riding.

"Check this out!" Xillyn loaded a new type of energy bolt and fired it towards a distant rock.

The energy casing split and a loud boom erupted from it.

"Sonic arrows! Isn't that the coolest?" Xillyn asked.

"It's loud is what it is." Omega grumbled.

Xillyn didn't hear or didn't care about Omega's complaint, already engrossed in telling Omega all about it.

"It does way more than that, wanna see what else it does?" Xillyn asked.

"Sure." Omega shrugged.

Xillyn smiled and took in a deep breath.

"It's so cool! It has energy arrows, sonic blasts, a stun setting and I can use actual arrows with it! Those are really cool, they can have all sorts of uses and add things that don't work with energy cause, it energy. The ones Freyu makes are the best! They can do a bunch of cool things with poisons and toxins and it's really super cool! I'm not allowed to use those yet cause I'm not old enough, but it'll be so cool when I can!" Xillyn said enthusiastically.

"Freyu makes poison?" Omega asked, tilting her head.

"Oh yeah, it's part of her job, working with the plants, she makes medicines and ointments and stuff, but she also uses them to make toxic substances, it's a thing her family's been doing for a while. She's really good at it." Xillyn smiled.

I need to be more careful about what I drink.

"So what do you use that for?" Omega asked.

"Well, mostly to help herd and gather food, if we run into trouble I can help protect the herd." Xillyn answered.

A sly, impish grin crossed xir lips and xe grinned at Omega.

"You wanna try?" Xe offered.

Omega hesitated in her answer, Freyu hadn't gotten to teaching her much more than hand to hand, Tesi said it was inadvisable for her condition. She didn't know if she'd ever used a weapon before.

"Uh, it's not that hard to use, is it?" She asked.

"Eh, sorta? I can set it up so it's easy for you and show you what to do, if you want." Xillyn said with a happy trill.

Xe looked so happy at the idea that Omega didn't want to disappoint xir.

"That… I'd like that." Omega mumbled nervously.

Xillyn let out a happy purr and hugged her. Omega could feel xir vibrating from the force of xir purr. It was cute.

"This will be so fun!" Xe exclaimed.

Xir tail made a szip sound as it beat against the grass.

Xe handed xir crossbow off to her, the weapon was lighter than it looked, the weight of a weapon in her hands made her uneasy about it. It was capable of killing, yet it was so light, it didn't make sense, she always thought deadly weapons would be heavy, by the weight of the action they were used with. She knew that weapons could be whatever weight they needed to be for their maximum efficiency.

She knew Freyu's vibro sword was made like that. It had a blending of two special types of metals, they had similar properties and were compatible. One was beskar, that gave it strength, it was 'properly forged beskar' in Freyu's words, her family was Mandalorian so they knew how to do it. The other was something called songsteel, it gave the blade a lighter weight without sacrificing strength.

Personally, Omega loved the way Freyu's vibro blade looked, it was shimmery and pretty and the conductive grooves in it were lined electric blue. Despite it being made of stiff metal, when Freyu used it it might as well have been fluid. She wanted to be able to fight like Freyu did.

A clawed finger tapped her nose. She blinked and looked up.

"You alright? You've been staring at it." Xillyn pointed out.

"Oh, uh, it's pretty…" Omega trailed off.

Her cheeks heated up at being caught lost in her thoughts. Xillyn's amber and purple eyes flicked down slightly and xe smiled.

"I didn't know humans could change colors!" Xe chirped.

Okay, now her cheeks were burning.

"C'mon, I'll show you how to use it!"

Xillyn grabbed her hand and dragged her father out into the field where there were a couple of old stumps and posts with faded targets on them in a rough semi circle, extending out. There were stains on the targets and bushes around them.

"My uncle used this arena to teach Ikurrece how to work with Nahi, and then he taught Freyu. My mom and o'pa taught me here too." Xillyn explained.

"Who's Ikurrece?" Omega asked.

"He's Freyu's older brother."

"The Jedi?"

Xillyn shot her a slightly confused look then shook xir head.

"No, Ikurrece is the other brother, she's got two big brothers." Xillyn said.

"She's got two brothers?!" Omega gasped.

"She's got three actually, one little brother." Xillyn nodded.

Her Jedi brother is dead but, why haven't I seen the others? Omega wondered.

"Has she not told you about them?" Xillyn asked.

"No, I just know about the Jedi and a sister." Omega answered.

Xillyn's expression briefly shifted to something darker, but it faded quickly and xe smiled.

"I guess she'll tell you when she wants to." Xe shrugged.

Xe brushed the conversation off and shoved Omega in the direction of a flat round stone.

"That's where we stand, you'll aim for the nearest one." Xillyn pointed to said target, it really wasn't too far.

It was marked by thousands of burn marks and dents and scratches from years of use.

"First step is to find the safety, the arrows will only leave a small mark and it's what we all use for training. We could use physical cause we can recollect them but I don't have any on me." Xillyn instructed her.

Omega found the safety switch easily and turned it on. Xillyn stood behind her and adjusted her arms and fingers as necessary, the same way Freyu did when they were training together. It wasn't really that different, only Xillyn was about her height and fuzzy.

"Once you have the target in the crosshair you can fire." Xillyn said.

She nodded and lined up the shot to the best of her ability, she got it as close as she could and let the energy bolt go flying.

The purply pink arrow flew through the air and hit the edge of the target.

Omega blinked in surprise. She was sure she'd have missed or messed up in some way.

"Hey, that was pretty good for your first time. I missed my first shot, it hit the trunk." Xillyn congratulated her.

Omega beamed at the praise, it was kind of like when Freyu said she did a good job, but different, her face was warmer as Xillyn smiled down at her.

"Wanna try again? I can help you aim better." Xillyn offered.

"Yes! Er, that sounds fun." Omega said.

They spent and hour practicing, by then they'd both gottwn a little bored and Xillyn suggested a Massii game for them to play. Omega was told she didn't need a tail for it, she just needed to be able to climb.

Xillyn scratched xir claws on an old tree trunk, sharpening them to xir liking.

"It's really fun, you can only do it with the trees that have vines, there aren't many out side of the forests but I know where one is near by." Xillyn told her.

Xe took her hand and lead her through the tall grasses to the tree. It was really tall and had vine covered branches that swayed in the gentle breeze. Xillyn parted the vines for her.

"These trees are easy to climb, I'll help you if you need it." Xe said.

Omega walked around the trunk until she found a good foothold. She clung to the trunk until she reached the branches, then started climbing, Xillyn was right behind her, ready to help if anything went wrong.

She reached as far up as she could safely go and looked back down at Xillyn for further instruction. Xillyn flashed her a grin and grabbed one of the vines, then xe flung xirself off the branch. To Omega's surprise, the vine was stretchy and bounced Xillyn onto a lower branch safely.

"C'mon, you try!" Xillyn shouted.

Omega hesitantly grabbed a vine, and wrapped it around her arm like Xillyn had done, she didn't look down when she jumped off.

She shouted out as the wind whipped past her and then giggled as she was shot back up. She landed next to Xillyn.

"That was really fun!" She said breathlessly.

"Told ya!" Xillyn beamed.

"Let's go again!" Omega shouted.

She jumped onto her feet, forgetting she was on a tree branch for a moment, one foot slipped off. Xillyn caught her and steadied her, xir hands were gentle yet firm. Her face warmed again.

XXX

Asichi softly snorted into Freyu's ear, she covered her eyes and sat up slowly. She had fallen asleep resting against Asichi's side. She yawned and stretched her arms.

"Something up?" She asked the mare.

Asichi gestured in the direction Omega and Xillyn had been playing in. They weren't there. It was late in the day.

"How long?" She asked, getting up in a hurry.

The answer of hours didn't make Freyu feel any better.

"Cai! Where are the kids!" She shouted.

She got everyone's attention

"What is it?" Cai asked her.

"I think something's wrong, where are the kids?" She repeated.

She stumbled forwards, wincing at the firey pain shooting up her thigh. Alask caught her before she could fall and held her steady.

"Don't push it." She warned.

Freyu shrugged her concerns off.

"I'm fine, something is going on and I need to find Omega before something happens to her!" She accidentally spoke too loudly.

She hadn't meant to shout, she really hadn't. Alask would understand, she knew how she was, she still felt bad for shouting at her friend. She could apologize later.

Asichi whinnied, high and shrill, she had found what was wrong. Asichi charged towards her, without a second thought Freyu seamlessly mounted the horse from her standing position and rode in the direction of trouble. She ignored all protests, hyper focused on reaching Omega.

Asichi took her to a large tree that was just outside of the security system's warning, it was a tree she had spent many hours playing on.

A bounty hunter stood at the base of the tree, using the tree to hide from Xillyn's attacks and trying to shoot the pair of children down. Freyu was relieved Omega was alright and enraged at the hunter for attacking them. Omega saw her from her spot clinging to the trunk for dear life.

"Freyu!" She shouted.

The hunter turned to face her, frowned then smiled.

"O'asisk. I've heard about you. One of you fucked a Mando a while back, right?" The hunter said.

Freyu glared at the human hunter, it might have been someone she knew, but there were so many human bounty hunters and this one wasn't distinct enough. He was old enough to know about her buir. He didn't look very tough, bottom of the list type.

"We are Mandalorian." She growled.

The hunter nodded and glanced Asichi up and down.

"What's with the horse?" He asked.

"Shut up." Freyu ordered.

The hunter dropped the pleasantries and pulled a blaster on her. He wasn't the quickest draw, she was a lot faster and had the advantage of foresight.

Was it cheating? Like Hell she cared.

She was off Asichi and in the hunter's face before he could process her movement. She smirked and snatched the blaster out of his hands. He swung a punch at her, it was sloppy but since she was so close, it did connect with her previous blaster injury.

She swore and kicked the hunter away from her. He pulled a smaller blaster out, she rolled her eyes and avoided the shot. This guy was going to be annoying to kill.

She didn't have a blaster of her own at the moment, but she had her sword and a couple of poisoned knives, which would certainly do the trick nicely.

The guy was a sloppy shot once he lost his confidence. Her subtle influence on his balance was making him clumsier, not that he knew, nor anyone else.

She slowly closed in, looking for the right opportunity to strike. The hunter was looking for any opportunity to avoid her, or distract her. She had a gut feeling he was going to pull something.

Detonator

She always trusted her gut.

"Get down!" She shouted.

The hunter tossed his detonator at her, she ran towards Asichi, signaled the mare then shut her hearing aid off to block out the excess noise.

The detonator went off in a fiery explosion. Xillyn hissed at the assault on xir sensitive senses and covered xir ringing ears.

"Freyu!" Omega screamed through the smoke.

She leaned down and stared into the fire below. Xillyn shoved her back against the tree then squeaked as a bolt grazed xir arm. Omega stared at the small spots of pale blood welling up and dripping through xir fur.

Xillyn's blood wasn't red, Massii didn't have red blood… Why is it red?

"Xillyn?"

Instead of amber and purple, Xillyn's eyes were a rich brown… Xillyn didn't look like xirself.

Omega didn't know who she was seeing, most of it was blurry.

A sharp pain struck her head. She cried and grabbed it, accidentally knocking into Xillyn in front of her.

Xe lost xir balance and scrambled back along the branch.

Omega heard a noise below, she turned and saw a bright blue light before it hit her and sent a dizzying sensation all over her body. Everything went dark, but the pain persisted.

Omega's limp body toppled off the tree branch, Xillyn jumped off and grabbed her by her arm before she could hit the ground, xe grunted at the strain on xir tail and injured arm.

The bounty hunter below chuckled at their plight. Xillyn closed xir eyes and sent qa cry for help to the Mother Forests through the tree.

The flames from the explosion were dying down when Xillyn opened xir eyes. Among the flames there was a mass of plants in an unnatural formation. The plants receded with a triumphant neigh from Asichi.

"Nice work Asichi." She complimented.

Asichi wiped her forehead with a tentacle, it stung a bit.

That's bleeding. She rolled her eyes. Alask will never let this go.

"Freyu! Help!" Xillyn's panicked cry brought her back to the present.

The young Massii was dangling from a branch by xir tail, holding onto a limp, unconscious Omega. Below them, the hunter had noticed she was not dead, much to his surprise.

Before he could react, Freyu sprung forwards and punched him in the face the stabbed his arm.

"Disarm him for me, would you?" She requested Asichi.

The horse eagerly obliged, she grabbed the hunter by his foot and shook him around. Freyu turned her attention to the kids.

Xillyn was straining to hold onto Omega, xe had a wound on xir arm. Freyu knew xe wouldn't last much longer and briefly debated what to do. Maatsu always said she had to keep it a secret, nobody she didn't trust could know. But…

There's no one here who doesn't know already. I can just kill the hunter once I'm done.

She made up her mind and walked under the pair of younglings.

"Xillyn! I need you to drop her!" She shouted up.

"What?!" Xillyn screeched down.

"I'll catch her, she'll be fine!" She insisted.

Xillyn frowned, debating the best course of action for the moment, then nodded.

"Okay! Tell me when!" Xillyn shouted.

Freyu held out her hands and focused on Omega. In her mind, she imagined navigating Omega through the tangle of branches down to her position. She could do it, she knew she could.

"Now!"

Omega barely had a chance to fall, Freyu caught her with the Force and safely guided her to her. She released her hold on the girl once she was firmly in her arms. She was a limp dead weight but she seemed relatively unharmed, the only major injury was her right shoulder, it had been pulled out of its socket when Xillyn stopped her fall.

Freyu held her close for a moment-

Blaster

She ripped the back up weapon from the hunter and tossed it out into the dwindling flames. Asichi snarled and pressed the hunter against the tree, razor sharp horns against his throat.

"What are you here for?" Freyu asked.

"The kid, you blue skin witch!" The hunter spat.

A knife landed right next to his head, less than an inch from his temple. Freyu sauntered over and pulled it out, mentally apologizing to the tree, then held it against the hunter's pale face. With a flick of her wrist, she sliced his cheek open. He shouted and swore at her, he was definitely a bottom tier hunter.

"Would you like to say that again?" She asked.

The hunter eyed her knife warily, but didn't say anything.

"Good. Now, why are you here for her." She wasn't asking.

She focused on his mind. It was weakened with plenty of cracks, and she could be like water. She wore down his will until he cracked.

"Kid's wanted. Alive. Pretty penny for her safe delivery to some lab, my bet's the kid is someone's escaped experiment, and they want it back." The hunter sneered.

Freyu glanced at Omega, the poor girl had already been through who knows how much, she didn't want her to suffer anymore.

"How did you find her?"

"Contact said there was a kid who looked like the one I was after, he was undercover with Black Sun, though I figure he's dead now, he said something about their camp getting attacked." He gave her a long look.

"Said there was a crazy bitch with a sword like yours." He observed.

She didn't like where this was going.

"Did you kill my friend?"

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Cliffhanger!

I'm graduating tomorrow. And it's gonna be hot.

It does mean summer and I can do a lot more stuff, right now I'm just trying to finish all the sketches I have before making new ones, so that may take my whole summer, or a month, but hey, I get to draw non stop!

Anyone want to see a story about some defective clone ocs I made, they aren't defective like the bad batch, they are straight up accidents, and two of them are trans but that's not what makes them defective. I'm gonna do it anyway cause it's really fun to explore the lives of these clones who are defective in a not useful, very obvious way and have to grapple with the fact that one man's favor is keeping them alive.

*Massii(it's pronounced mass-e btw) means from or of Massanii, hence why the creatures are as Massii horse for example, they are from Massanii. However, people born or raised or on Massanii long enough are called Massí, it sounds the same but the spelling is different to distinguish between original inhabitants of Massanii and the people who moved there and have thus become aclimated to the culture and the Massii behavior, i.e. being an asshole when forced to do something, being a chaotic shit and playing pranks are all fairly transmissible Massii traits. Freyu's family has been on Massanii for a long time, so there's a lot of that influence on her. When she's really pissed (not extremely pissed cause if you make the mistake of getting her that mad you are just dead, she'll just shoot you) it really shows, lots of sarcasm, rudeness, brutal honesty and generally being difficult to work with, it works most of the time. That habit is why no one really wants to mess with Massii, they're a weird species who's hard to kill, good at fighting and very annoying not really worth dealing with them just for a planet where everything else does the same thing.

Anybody else graduating this year I hope you aren't as nervous as me!

You all have a good day, whatever that is for you!

VJS Out!

[monstermaster13]

Corey and Oats in…

Cinnamon: Princess of the Flowery Forest

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It’s no secret Oatsie loved feminine things and he loved to play female roles, he loved being a ‘mommy’ to his unicorn family, he loved being a nurse, he loved being a model, and he loved being a princess. His biggest desire was to be beautiful, beautiful enough to be admired by other horses, he would go out of his way to request clothing that was as pretty as possible including flowing dresses, pink bikinis for the summer, pink hats, and he even wanted to have his mane dyed pink.

He loved sniffing flowers and wearing some in his mane and on his dress, he wasn’t an actual princess but he always felt like one and on the afternoon of December 10th, 2022 he was going to meet another princess, you see there was this princess who had her eye on him and she was a pony and her name was Cinnamon, she was a very beautiful pony who neighed, whinnied and talked in such a cute way.

Oats and Corey sat together singing a special birthday song with Mel as they were excited to celebrate, that’s where they saw her entering…the lovely Princess Cinnamon, the flowery equine princess had caught glimpses of Oats and she liked what she saw. ‘You must be Oats, I am a huge fan of yours.’ ‘Oh my goodness, it is her…it is Cinnamon.’

Cinnamon galloped over to Oats as she picked up some flowers and gave them to him, he smiled and thanked her. Corey introduced himself to the pony princess as he and Oats both asked Mel to take them on an adventure, and Mel replied with yes. ‘Since Cinnamon is our guest, she should get to choose the adventure.’ ‘That sounds amazing, Cinnamon, would you like to show us a magical adventure?’ ‘I sure would.’

Cinnamon pulled out a special magical wand from inside her stable and used it to create a special pathway which led to an enchanted meadow and flower patch with lots of flowers and adorable pony princesses in floral dresses. ‘These are all beautiful, I wish as pretty as those girls.’ ‘Oh Oatsie, you don’t need to be anything but yourself.’

“Definitely, you are fine as you are.”

‘Yaaaay!’ Oats cheered as he hugged Cinnamon as she showed him around the garden, picking flowers and singing happy equine songs together. She showed him and Corey to her palace where they were given a special royal tour, and they got to explore the palace and the garden. Cinnamon invited them over for a tea party and they had some lovely tea sandwiches and cakes, and even had cookies. Oats took part in a gardening session with the flowery pony as he frollicked around.

The duo came across a pond with wishing stones and Oats tossed a stone into the pond and made a wish, he didn’t tell Cinnamon what his wish was but he felt like he didn’t need to, because it had come true already, which was to have a friend, a special friend.

“Cinnamon, you’re the prettiest pony ever.”

“You’re also really pretty, Oatsie.”

An hour later Mel gestured for the duo and Cinnamon to come home, as a flowery carriage materialized and they hopped inside it and it took them back to their house in 28 Rosemary Avenue, when they got back they had lunch and some carrot cake for afternoon tea which Oats shared with Cinnamon.

When dinnertime came around Oats and Corey sat at the table and had dinner, after dinner they relaxed and had fun, listening to music and playing webkinz. They had some treats for dessert, which theyl oved.

They ended their sessions at around ten thirty that night when Jill and Mel told them it was time for bed, when it was time for bed, Oats and Mel put on their nightclothes and got into bed along with Corey and all of the microbes, their fun day came to an end but they never forgot their magical adventure with their new friend, they listened to Radio NZ Concert as they drifted off to sleep and had sweet dreams.

This may be over but that doesn’t mean their adventures for this week are, stay tuned for several more specials and a few new upcoming stories including a new 2022 holiday special.

[mandareeboo]

Just imagine Wammawink and the other Centaurs translating Horse’s neighs and whinnies to help her communicate with Rider

Horse, losing her damn mind: oh wow I've always wanted to do this!!!! Hi, Rider!!! I'm your horse, Horse. Oh, but you knew that. Right. Because you named me! And I like that name! Just like I like yours! They're so simple and blunt and that makes me happy and-

Rider, listening to her horse screeching: what is she saying?

Zulius: Couldn't tell you girl, she's spiraling HARD.

[dapandapod]

Child of surprise

So my darling gremling @geogrewife were supposed to help me pick a Wip to work on but made me write this instead. Please enjoy!  On Ao3 here

Warning: fluff. so much fluff. Like, fluffy fluff.

“Somethings wrong with Roach.” Geralt frowns at Jaskiers words. They have been staying in a cottage all winter, deep in the forest away from prying eyes. They found it when the first hint of gold appeared in the trees, and they decided that this is a good a place as any. It has been restful. No big bad monsters around, just the normal inhabitants. Roach has been away a lot, roaming the forest but always returning unharmed at nightfall. The cottage didn’t have a stable so they simply made a new door to the cottage, making a pen out of one of the corners. Geralt can be a handyman when it comes to the comforts of Roach and Jaskier relentlessly teases him about it. This is one of those nights they spend in peace, wind whistling among the trees and hard rain falling on the roof. “No?” Geralt protests, because he can see nothing wrong with her? And he is clearly the superior horseman out of the two. “Uh, yes? Geralt, I know I know very little of horses but something is clearly different? Can’t you tell?”

Geralt puts down his gwent cards and gets up from the wooden chair he sat on. Roach is ignoring him, munching on her hay in her corner, resting one hind leg as she does when she is relaxed. He walks up to her, hand on his chin and eyes squinting. He looks her over but sees nothing obvious, so he focuses, letting all other sounds fade away. Geralt rarely uses his witcher senses on her, but she smells like usual? He senses no wounds, no pain, nothing sticking out. Her fur is all shaggy now in wintertime, but that’s about it. “I can’t see anything.” Geralt mutters, returning to the table. “Did you look at my cards?” Jaskier scoffs. “I don’t need to look at your cards to win. Just. Let’s keep an eye on her?”

Time passes slowly. Winter is dark, and every day Roach wanders the woods. Geralt is out hunting for dinner but stumbles on her tracks among the trees. He is very far away, he wasn’t aware Roach made such long trips. He suspects Jaskier might be right. Something is off with Roach. She is getting slower, sometimes in the mornings her legs get a little swollen. Geralt massages her and tries to keep her warm and well fed but he will not be in the way when she wants out. But it’s probably time to see what she is up to. It seems like this stretch is well walked, many hoofprints covering the ground in both directions. Geralt follows her tracks and stops mid step when he notices where they lead. Up ahead is a clearing, a frozen creak glistening in the sunlight, snow heavy on the branches. It looks magical. On the other side of the clearing stands Roach. Only, she is not alone. Next to her stands a white horse. So white it almost can’t be seen against the snow. It has long white mane with grey streaks and the body is powerful. And it’s a unicorn. The horn is long, sharp. Dangerous. The unicorn could easily kill Roach with it. But it doesn’t. They are standing peacefully next to each other, her dark fuzzy fur a stark contrast. They use their muzzles to push away the snow to get to the grass underneath. Geralt barely dares to move, barely dares to breathe. As far as he knew there were no unicorns left. Obviously he was wrong, and it has taken a liking to his Roach. Geralt tries to back away quietly, stepping into his own footsteps, so that he doesn’t startle them. But the unicorn must sense him, his head shoots up and then runs away. Roach startles and looks around, but when she sees Geralt she relaxes. Well. “Hi girl.” He greets her. “Uh… sorry. I didn’t mean to startle your... friend?” Oh. Ooooh. That’s why she’s been away so much. That’s why there was more than one set of hoofprints. Probably. He wonders how long they have met out here in the woods, and he feels oddly protective of her. Roach makes no effort to walk up to him so he leaves her there in the clearing.

When he returns to Jaskier some time later, two winterbirds under his arm, he realizes Jaskier was right. He kicks his boots on the doorframe on the way in, ridding himself of most of the snow. “You were right.” He calls as a greeting, and Jaskier hits a sour note on his lute. “‘Scuse me?!” Jaskiers eyes are huge, startled. “Did you hit your head while hunting?!” Geralt chuckles and hangs up his outer clothes. “You were right about Roach. There is something up with her.” “OH! Yes, I told you so! You know what it is?” Geralt settles down to pluck the birds. “Yeah. She has met someone.” Jaskier picks up his playing again, plucking on the strings in a soft melody. “Oh really? Are there more horses in the woods? Or a nymph perhaps?” “Unicorn actually.” Again, Jaskier makes a sour note on the lute and Geralt cringes at the sound. “Sorry, but. Did you just say you saw a fucking unicorn?!?” Jaskier gapes, not believing a word he hears. “Yeah. It got scared of me though and ran away.” “THIS IS WHY I NEED TO COME WITH YOU GERALT!!!” Jaskier abruptly stands up from his chair, dragging a hand through his hair. “I MISSED A UNICORN!” Geralt smiles again, fingers still working on their upcoming dinner. “You will never let me out of your sight again, are you?” Geralt says fondly and Jaskier huffs. “You are absolutely right!” He plops back in the chair again but lets his lute hang from his hand and rests on the floor. “I can’t believe this.” “Don’t pout. I’ll bring you with me in a few days.”

And so he does. They let Roach get a headstart of a few hours, but it takes two months before they see it again. By then Roach has eaten through a third of their collected hay for the winter. Her legs are still swollen and her back seems to sink a little. Geralt is starting to suspect he knows what is wrong with her.

They follow her to the clearing, this time walking with her instead of sneaking behind. They see her go about her usual routine, scraping a hole in the stream to drink and them starting to push the snow around. It takes almost an hour before she raises her head and she whinnies towards the woods. There is a deep rumbling neigh in return. And there he is. He trots up to her, his neck curved and tail raised.

Because it is a he, Geralt realizes. A stallion. And there is nothing wrong with Roach. She is with foal.

Beside him Jaskier draws in a breath, mouth open with awe. It’s like a picture from a fairytale, the snow glistening, the world holding its breath. The unicorn nuzzles her thick fur, and they start scratching each other's backs. Next to him Geralt can hear Jaskier sniffle, and he is not far away from breaking a tear himself. The unicorn sees them, ignoring Roach buffing his side to continue, and stares. Geralt really, really hopes he won't attack. He is not sure he would be able to flee it, and that would mean fighting it. Luckily it seems to decide they are no threat and turns away. The two horses go back to inspecting the other and then walk off into the woods without a backwards glance. Jaskier and Geralt stay in the clearing for a while longer, breaths as clouds in front of them.

“Wow.” Jaskier finally manages, wiping at his eyes with his ungloved hands. “Too bad I can never sing about this.” he smiles, blinking up at the afternoon skies. Geralt sees the reasoning in that too. The moment rumors of a unicorn comes out there will be people hunting it. He takes Jaskiers freezing hands in his and leads them back towards the cottage.

When the first spring flowers peak through the snow Roach is heavy. It’s clear they won’t be going anywhere for a while. So they prepare to stay for even longer. Geralt leaves for two weeks, trekking towards the closest village. They need more supplies and food, and getting there by foot and back is going to take some time. To Jaskiers surprise (and Geralt's despair) he returns through a portal, Yennefer close behind. She stays for a few weeks, cooing at Roach like she never had before, lovingly petting her down and spoiling her absolutely rotten.

She comes back in the middle of summer. Because it’s time. During the night Roach is restless. She walks around outside the cottage, snorting and panting. Geralt, always the light sleeper wakes up and goes out to her. There is no need for her to sleep indoors during this time of year, and she leads him towards her clearing. It takes another hour for her to lay down, and by then both Jaskier and Yen found him by her side. Roaches sides are slick with sweat, and the small hoofs sticking out from her are just as brown as she is. Geralt wasn’t sure what to expect of this foal, if it would be white or brown. But it would seem that it’s brown. When the first early rays of sunshine filter through the leaves the foal, a little stallion, takes its first steps. His eyes are pale blue, his body a dark brown like his mother, and his mane a shade paler. There is no sign of a horn and Geralt can’t decide if he is relieved or disappointed.

They stay for some time longer, making sure Roach is alright before retreating back a bit. By now they have learned the unicorns habits a little better. Geralt and Jaskier double back to the cottage to bring some breakfast back. Jaskier squeeze his hand all the way there, and when they get inside the door Jaskier pulls Geralt close. He smiles at Geralt, pressing a soft kiss to his lips. “Why do I feel like a proud parent?” He asks and Geralt chuckles. He couldn’t agree more.

Jaskier decides to name the foal Pegasus. The little thing is feisty, he nips after them even though he doesn’t have any teeth yet. He kicks and he bucks and he flies over the grass. His father didn’t come on the first day, nor the second. But when he comes there is a full show of sniffing and buffing. When Roach thinks he is too rough on Pegasus she steps between them, ears slicked back and teeth on display. She turns around and half heartedly kicks at the unicorn and Geralt swells with pride. When they calm down Pegasus tries to imitate his parents, doing his best with his short neck to bend down towards the grass. He can’t quite reach and stumbles. “I can stay here for hours.” Yen says softly, a soft smile on her lips. Geralt knows how she feels.

And they do. They stay for hours and hours to watch Pegasus and Roach, sometimes around the cottage and sometimes in the clearing. Still no horn in sight, just a small bump in the middle of his forehead. Pegasus seems to have taken a great liking to Jaskier. Whenever the bard sits in the grass, leaning back on the wooden wall with his lute, Pegasus scampers over to inspect. He pulls at his clothes, steals his expensive hat and tries to nibble at the lute.

They talk about what they should do. Yennefer comes and goes, unable to stay away from the little menace of a foal. She claims she wish to study him, if he got any magical abilities, but they all know better.

Perhaps they will make their way towards Kaer Morhen. The area isn’t perhaps the safest for a horse, but at least there won’t be any prying eyes in case Pegasus actually shows any abilities. Jaskier speaks of the coast again, and about Lettenhove. Traveling with a foal however is not the safest nor the most practical thing. But the summer is still young.

They have time.

[amazingmsme]

A Bard’s Broken Heart

AN: This is yet another 10k+ post mountain fic about Jaskier. I have a bit of a problem, but I promise it’s good! Jaskier’s sad and fed up so he sings! The songs in this fic are Fair by the Amazing Devil, I've No More Fucks to Give by Thomas Benjamin Wild, Farewell Wanderlust by the Amazing Devil, and No Worries by Robert Hallow.

Jaskier's ears were ringing, his mouth slightly agape as he stared in horror at the man he once thought was his best friend, who he had loved, but who clearly didn't love him.

"If life could give me one blessing, it would be to take you off my hands."  The words were the harshest that have ever been thrown his way. His voice was a deep and angry growl that sent a chill up his spine, and not the good kind. It took him a moment to gather himself enough to speak, and he couldn't be more grateful that Geralt had turned his back to him. If he had to look at him he knew he would burst into tears.

"Right. Uh... Right then... I'll- I'll go get the rest of the story from the others..." He knew he wouldn't. "See you around Geralt." Except he hoped he wouldn't. He could go the rest of his life without seeing this bastard and it would be fine by him. Except he'll miss him... fuck everything hurts so damn much.

He turns and slowly makes his way down the mountain. Why is it that whenever your sad, you're slow? He wanted nothing more than to be as far away from the mountain as possible, and yet his feet drug in the dirt. He finally made it to the lower level of the camps where everyone left their horses, and that's when he saw her.

A sob caught in his throat as he realized he would never get to see her again after this...

He trudged over to Roach, her ears perked towards him as she tossed her head. Hot tears streamed down his face and a trail of snot dripped from his nose. He reached up with his handkerchief to blow. She gave a concerned whinny, gently bumping his shoulder with her head to comfort him. He only cried louder. He wrapped his arms around her neck and cried the hardest he had since he began his walk. Gods, he could barley breathe.

"Goodbye girl. I'm gonna miss you so much." He pulled back, and Roach nickered in distress, pressing into him more. Jaskier stroked her muzzle as he spoke around sobs. "I have to leave, and I'm afraid I won't be coming back." She snorted, as if questioning him.

"I know, I don't want to either. But you know how Geralt is, and he made it clear he never liked me." Call him crazy, but he swears she shook her head. He sighed, "It's true I'm afraid. I'd tell you what he said, but it hurts too much to repeat. So I guess this is goodbye," he sniffled, pulling out an apple he had been saving, just for her. He gave her one last, tight hug and a few pets before turning and going.

Roach pulled on her tether, trying to follow him. The farther he walked, the more distressed she became.

Why was Jaskier leaving them? Why was he so sad? What did Geralt do? Surely this isn't the last time she'll see him, she had really grown to love him, almost as much as she loved Geralt.

Jaskier's crying increased tenfold as he heard Roach's neighs of distress. She pawed at the ground, throwing her head back as she brayed. Jaskier didn't dare look back. He didn't need his heart broken a second time today... Truly he would die.

It was well past nightfall when he made it to the closest town near the base of the mountain. He knew if he camped on the mountain it would only increase his chances of seeing Geralt or Yennefer, and that was the farthest thing from what he needed.

It was barely past midnight when he stumbled into the inn's tavern, weary and weak. He sat at the bar and ordered the first of many drinks. He needed to forget. He needed to be numb. Someone noticed his lute case and came up demanding a song. He looked at them with bloodshot eyes and answered in a broken voice, "I'm not working right now, sorry. I've had a rough day." But they were insistent and even more drunk than he was.

They grabbed him by the collar, lifting him off of his stool. The barmaid eyed them wearily, unsure of what to do.

"I said, play us a fucking song."

"Are you perhaps deaf? I'm not playing anything, I simply wish to have a few drinks and a bite to eat before I retire for the night," he clarified, shoving the man off.

"I ain't deaf! Now if you know what's good for you, you'll play a fucking song or else!"

Jaskier was done. There was nothing left to fight for, he just felt empty. Nothing mattered anymore. "Oh so maybe you're just stupid then. My mistake." He stood to go to his room only to be shoved back down in his seat. Before he could do anything, his head was slammed into the bar. He burst to life, ready to unleash all of his hurt onto this man who picked the wrong fight.

This is what Jaskier needed. A good adrenaline rush! He craved to feel bone crack under his fists, to have blood on his hands, both from this poor sucker and his own cracked knuckles. Only some bastard came and stole that away, delivering a swift punch to the side of the head, knocking him out. The barmaid had ran and gotten the owner, and the assailant was thrown outside. Jaskier huffed. Seemed he can't even have the pleasure of getting the shit beat out of him. It would sure feel a hell of a lot better than what he was currently feeling. And it would've been a nice distraction.

The man sat down next to him, and Jaskier refused to look up. He just took a few large gulps from his tankard before speaking.

"I would've handled it you know."

"I don't doubt it, but you look like you've had a rough day."

Jaskier snorted into his glass. "You have no idea," he muttered. He glanced to the side, taking him in. He was tall, maybe even taller than Geralt. Shit, no, don't think about him. You can't let this stranger see you cry. He allowed himself to turn his head more, studying him. He had dark hair, just past his ears and ended near the nape of his neck. His face was handsome, even if he had a huge scar running down his right side and caused his lip to curl, almost in a sneer. And how could he possibly miss those striking gold eyes.

Jaskier winced, finishing off his drink and gesturing for another.

"No offense but the last thing I need is to be saved, especially by some witcher,"  he was decently drunk, his words slurring but he managed to get just the right amount of discontent in his voice. The witcher held up his hands in mock surrender.

"Never said you did." He was just about to leave, but a strange part of Jaskier wanted him to stay. Maybe so he could tell him everything he wishes he could tell Geralt now.

"Y-you know, you aren't so great-" he started. The man tilted his head in curiosity, settling back into his chair to listen. "With your stupid potions and swords. I mean yeah you guys are strong but there's plenty of strong folk out there. And FUCK all that "witchers don't feel" bullshit, I know it's a damn lie!" He pointed an accusatory finger at him. The witcher only smirked and put his hand back on the table.

"I mean who the hell do you think you're fooling? Yourselves. I mean you guys are so emotionally constipated you can't even bring yourself to call someone a friend after they've been traveling with you for two fucking decades! And not once in that time did I hear a thank you Jaskier, you're not as useless as I once thought Jaskier. No, it's always you're such a fucking nuisance, and you ruined my whole life." He deflated after his little rant, hunching over his drink in shame. The witcher held out his hand.

"Eskel," he greeted formally. Jaskier took it in a loose handshake, not having the energy to put effort in it.

"Jaskier," he mumbled.

"So, emotionally constipated, huh? Pretty grumpy from the sounds of it too," he pondered aloud. Jaskier looked at him, puzzled. "And let you travel with him for 20 years. Take in the consideration that fine gentleman demanding you sing for him... you were with Geralt," he concluded.

"You're good."

"So, what the hell did my dumbass brother do now?"

"What didn't he do would be a better question. I can't believe I stayed with him after all this time. I should've never started singing his praises," he lamented.

Eskel shrugged, "You sure did help the rest of us out. Thanks for that." Jaskier stared at him with wide, hopeful eyes. Tears barely held back.

"Y-you're welcome."

"Look, Geralt's an idiot, especially with his feelings. But what I know is his bark can be a hell of a lot worse than his bite. He probably didn't mean whatever it was he said," he tried to comfort him. Jaskier shook his head.

"You weren't there. In all the time we've been together I've never seen him so angry. And it was all directed at me. You wanna know what that bastard whoreson said to me?" Eskel nodded. He was very curious.

"First he snapped and blamed me for all his life troubles, simply because I was there. Then he said, he said..." he trailed off, a lump in his throat preventing his speech.

"Hey, it's okay. You don't have to tell me if you want."

"No, no I need to. Need to get this off my chest, share the burden, you know?" He took a shakeup breath to brace himself. "If life could give me one blessing... i-it would b-be to take you o-off my hands," he barely managed to say. He couldn't hold it back any longer and the tears began to flow once more. He turned away from Eskel.

He was shocked to say the least.

"Wow... Geralt you really fucked up," he said in disbelief.

"I never want to see him again," Jaskier spat out.

"I don't blame you."

"But... is it wrong that I also do? Want to see him?" he asked. Eskel shook his head.

"Not at all. Like you said, you traveled together for 20 years. Hard not to get attached to someone during all that time."

"Not hard for Geralt apparently," he snarled. Eskel placed a firm hand on his shoulder.

"Fuck him."

For the first time that day, Jaskier gave a small, albeit sad smile. "Yeah, fuck him." They clinked their mugs together, chugging the rest of their drinks. Eskel ordered two more.

"You've had a shit day, let me pay for it," he insisted.

"Thank you," Jaskier said. "Not just for the round, but for everything. For listening."

Eskel shrugged, "What can I say? You're fun to listen to, even if you're sad as hell right now. Bet you're a hell of a guy when you're not all torn up like this."

Jaskier was floored. Maybe because it was the most genuine compliment he's ever received, or maybe because it was a witcher who said it. Or maybe because Geralt had never said anything half as nice to him.

He put a hand over his heart, "Wow, that's- that's the nicest thing a witcher's ever said to me." He was only half joking. Many drinks later, and they were both sufficiently drunk. Jaskier leaned against him, resting his head on his shoulder. It had been... years, decades even, since someone touched Eskel like this. No traces of fear, hatred or disgust on his scent. He wasn't paid to hold him like this. He just simply treated him as though he were normal. It made his head spin, and not just from the amble amount of ale he had.

"I can't believe I lo-hic-loved him," he slurred, interrupted by a hiccup. Eskel's eyes widened at the confession. "I'm just a ssstupid, hopeless romantic who fell in love with someone who- who can't even admit, at the very least! That they like me!"

He patted his back in a mimic of comfort. "Hey, uh- I'm sure you're not those things. Romantic yes. But stupid and hopeless? I don't think so." Jaskier reached a hand up to pat his cheek, his scarred cheek, in thanks.

"Oh you poor stupid witcher. If I am anything it is stupid and hopeless." Eskel rolled his eyes.

"You said loved, as in past tense."

Jaskier sighed, sitting up on his own. Eskel almost felt sad. "Yes well, it's hard to love someone after they say something like that. But I already miss him. Yearn to see and touch him again. But I can't let that happen."

"Why not?" Eskel tilted his head in curiosity.

"Because I'm weak," he said, his voice so small. So utterly broken. "I'm weak for him. I already know that if I even catch a glimpse of him I'll come crawling back, begging for forgiveness." His voice was wet and heavy now.

"You're not the one who should be begging for forgiveness."

"You see, my brain knows that, but my heart tells me to try and get him back. I feel, torn. Why do I still want him even after he shoved me away in the worst way possible?" His eyes glistened with unshed tears as he looked to Eskel for an answer.

"Uuuh, look kid, if you're looking for a real answer, I don't have one. I may understand feelings better than Geralt, but they're still a mystery to me," he admitted.

"Yes, I suppose so.

Eskel was staring into his mug when he spoke. "Winter will be here before you know it. Normally we all head to the keep and wait out the bad months. I'll probably see Geralt, want me to, I don't know, pass on a message? Teach him a lesson?" he asked. It wouldn't be the first time he beat him up, and he always had fun doing so. And Lambert always liked to watch.

Jaskier snorted. "I don't know. Make him feel guilty though, if you can. Tell him he blew it."

Eskel nodded solemnly. "I can do that. Anywhere specific you're planning on going?" he questioned. Jaskier eyed him suspiciously.

"Depends. Do you plan to tell Geralt where I ran off to?" he asks. Eskel shrugged.

"Depends on how sorry I think he is," he answered truthfully. Jaskier didn't really like that answer but at least it was honest. "I won't tell him if he hasn't learned his lesson. You have my word."

Jaskier hums. "I don't really know where I'll go from here. Wherever I feel like going, I suppose. I might go back to Oxenfurt and teach for the winter." Eskel nodded.

"Right, well. I'll be on the lookout for you. Stay safe." He clapped him on the back as he rose from his seat, heading out of the tavern doors and into the night. Jaskier went up to the room he rented and cried himself to sleep.

~~~~

Geralt realized his mistake, and shame washed over him. His anger at Jaskier had been misplaced, and he didn't deserve his harsh words. But it was so easy to blame him instead of taking the fault as his own. As he walked down the mountain alone, he began to feel worse and worse about what he said to Jaskier. He always had good intentions, even if things didn't always work out. He was pure at heart and tried his best. Geralt should've tried harder. He needed to find him and apologize. And hopefully it wasn't too late for Jaskier to take him back.

When he made it down to Roach, she seemed less than pleased with him. As she saw him approach in the distance, she snorted angrily and tossed her head, looking away from him. It didn't take long to figure out why. The closer he got to her, the more he could smell Jaskier. His scent was all over her, mingling with salty tears and bitter sorrow. Geralt frowned to himself, knowing he was the reason Jaskier had left in tears.

Roach didn't meet his eyes, even when he tried talking to her. He stroked her mane apologetically, but still received the cold shoulder. He sighed.

"I promise, I'll make things right with him." She whinnied as if to say, "You better."

At least that had been his plans. But the bard was surprisingly hard to track. The trail had gone cold by the time he had made it to the small town at the base of the mountain. This would have to wait. He was running low on coin and needed to find jobs.

~~~~

Jaskier had no idea where he was going. He drifted with the wind, a truly lost spirit unsure where he would turn up next. He supposed he could continue on the path, drifting from town to town like he normally did. However, that increased his chances of running into Geralt... He could head to the coast alone, but that would just remind him more of his rejection. It was too early to head back to Oxenfurt, summer only just around the corner. Hm, the road it was, he supposed.

He sat on the forest floor, idly strumming his lute. He needed new music. Something to help sort out the mess inside his brain.

"Damnit Jaskier! Why is it whenever I find myself in a pile of shit these days, it's you, shoveling it?"

"Well, that's not fair-"

Fair. Nothing in this word was fair. He inhaled deeply, breathing with the grass and sighing with the trees. He began plucking a few chords, testing the waters of a new song.

"It's what my heart just yearns to say, In ways that can't be said. It's what my rotting bones will sing When the rest of me is dead."

His fingers gained more confidence, strumming more clearly as he continued.

"It's what's engraved upon my heart, In letters deeply worn. Today I somehow understand the reason I was born."

Images of Geralt flash before his eyes. A dazzling bright smile, so rarely seen. A voice that could be so gentle when he tried to be. Soft golden eyes, warmer than sunshine and sweeter than honey. His hair was surprisingly soft for everything that happened to it. Maybe monster guts are a sort of conditioner.

But he also remembers his lips curling in hatred. Evil words spat his direction, ending 20 years worth of friendship. Well, friendship on Jaskier's part.

He thought of Yennefer, and everything she took from them both. Things had been relatively fine until that fucking djinn. But... maybe Geralt did care after all, at least a tiny bit. He had seemed so desperate to find someone to save him... But of course he could never compete with Yennefer. She was powerful as all hell with the beauty and grace to match. She knew the control that kind of thing had over others, and used it to her advantage. He couldn't really blame her. He probably would've fallen at her heels had she not been so utterly terrifying. They were perfect for each other, he thought sadly. She was a heartless witch in search of something she may never have and he was a clueless witcher who cared very little about anything else and denied the fact he had any sort of emotions. They are timeless beings, similar to himself. Oh if only Geralt knew... maybe he wouldn't have been so quick to choose her.

"Cos outwardly he says I try so hard to make you laugh at me. And she, she does, She laughs as though she not heard the joke ten thousand times before. And he adores her, He watches her get dressed as though she's hurtling through time. Oh darling please be mine."

That was a good verse. Most people will assume it's about some lost love, a fair maiden who was swept off her feet by another man. Well, that was half true. A few more verses, then he reached the chorus. He let some of his magic seep into his words, having filled his heart and overflowing from his mouth. He didn't know what good it would do, but it felt right on his tongue.

Elven magic was a bit different than the kind that mages typically used. It drew its power from the earth, and in return the magic would breathe life back in the world. He remembers his grandmother's lectures that he had brushed off at the time. You have to pull from your core, whatever that meant. He hadn't tried in years, and when he had, he could never tell a difference.

"It's not fair, It's not fair how much I love you. It's not fair, Cos you make me laugh when I'm actually Really fucking cross at you for something. And he'll say- Oh how, oh how unreasonable. How unreasonably in love I am, with everything you do. I'll spend my days so close to you cos if I'm Standing here, maybe everyone will think I'm alright."

The words felt hot in his mouth, tasting like a sweet smoke. He didn't notice how the life around him teemed, seemingly growing towards him. He had always had an affinity towards nature, as most elves do. In this moment, the whole forest grieved with him. As he continued to sing, a doe and fawn wandered into the clearing. A small fox raised its head from where it was bedded down. He debuted his newest song at the next tavern he stopped at.

It was late, and the patrons that were left were tired and very inebriated. He had played some upbeat crowd pleasers and now, all their excess energy was spent. They were bound to be much more accepting of a slow song by now. He pulled up his stool and sat down, adjusting his lute as he did so.

"Alright, one last song. It's a new one I've been working on, so I hope you enjoy it." His eyes locked on a table full of young, good looking women. "This is for anyone out there with a broken heart." And just like he knew they would, they swooned.

The song was very well received; as he traveled the continent, so did his song. Followed by another and another.

His latest was an upbeat jaunty little tune, that left courtrooms and taverns alike in stitches. It was one everyone, no matter who you were, could relate to. He even thought it was more popular than Fishmonger's Daughter, which was saying something.

He stood in the ballroom of some palace in Vizima. It was the Duke's birthday, so of course they had requested only the best bard in the continent to come and play. And with flattery like that, how could he refuse? All around him beautiful people talked and ate, flitting about the room. He was pulled from group to group, engaging in both thrilling and dull conversation. He grabbed his lute from where he had set it aside, strumming the strings a bit to gain the room's attention. With everyone staring at him, he smiled, wide and dazzling.

His fingers set to work, playing the bouncy tune as he bobbed up and down. The crowd erupted in cheers upon the recognition of the song.

"I've tried, tried, tried, and I've tried even more. I've cried, cried, cried, and I can't recall what for. I've pressed, I've pushed, I've yelled, I've begged, In hopes of some success. But the inevitable fact is that it never will impress!"

He jumped into the chorus, spinning around the room as everyone danced and clapped along.

"I've no more fucks to give My fucks have runeth dry I've tried to go fuck shopping but there's no fucks left to buy! I've no more fucks to give Though more fucks I've tried to get I'm over my fuck budget, and I'm now in fucking debt!"

Laughter and cheers rang through the air. Men and women hooked arms and twirled around in circles before changing partners. Skirts twirled across the floor and feet stomped in time to the beat.

When Jaskier had written the song, he didn't expect it to grow so popular. He had been so fed up with life. So unequivocally done with his very existence. Of course he was still upset with Geralt. He never knew if he would ever really get over that. And Yennefer's utter bitchiness any time they were in the same vicinity fueled his fire. His talk with Eskel stood out in his mind, and the thought of possibly seeing Geralt both thrilled and terrified him. Oh how he hoped the bastard was sorry. Lately all of his love endeavors ended in either failure or nothing more than a one night stand. And overall he just felt like anything he tried backfired. He was tired, hopeless, and fed up. All of this swirled in his mind until it was just too much. He scribbled down the very first thing his angry hornets nest of a brain could spit out, and this was the result. It was cathartic, and he had sure got a kick out of it. He played it in a seedy tavern as a joke, but they absolutely loved it. Begged him to play it again and again until his fingers bled. Now wherever he went, it was a sure thing that he would have to play that song.

Not that he was complaining though. It was a hell of a lot better than when he was forced to sing Toss A Coin.

He finished with a flourish, holding out the last note and strumming the lute strings a bit faster, a gesture of finality. Everyone roared with applause and cheers, coin and even a few flowers tossed his way. Hm, they looked strangely similar to the bouquets acting as table center pieces... Regardless, he reveled in the praise all the same. Even went as far as to catch a flower in mid air- with his teeth. The cheers grew louder at that, and he shot a wink towards the crowd.

He was stolen away from his glory by a countess who dragged him to a quieter corner of the room.

"Your musical skills are most impressive," she complimented, taking a sip from her goblet. "Though I'm sure you're used to hearing that by now," she teased gently. Jaskier chuckled.

"Oddly enough, I don't hear it too often. But I suppose I don't need to, I'm quite aware of my talents," he said, testing the waters. She raised a brow, seemingly intrigued.

"Oh? And what are your other talents?"

"I am a professor at Oxenfurt. Many of my students graduate with honors. And of course you're aware of my musical skills," he said, plucking at his lute, making her giggle. "But I must say most of my other talents are only shared in closed quarters." He licked his lips, awaiting her response. She flushed beautifully, adverting her eyes as she tucked a lock of hair behind her ear.

"Well, I must say. As forward as that was I am most intrigued." She opened her fan, wafting air over her face. She couldn't seem to help the smile on her face as she pulled on his arm, leading him down a corridor and into an empty bedroom. After an hour and a half of pure bliss they returned to the party, satisfied and smitten, if just the slightest bit disheveled. This time, he was pulled away by a viscount.

"I'm glad you could make it Julian!" Jaskier didn't bother correcting him. After all, it was what the man had first known him as, and he supposed he was too old to learn anything different.

"I am too. This is quite the party," he said, taking a drink.

"So, where's your witcher?"

Jaskier nearly choked, sputtering his drink and coughing slightly. The man patted his back to help.

"Come again?" he asked, hoping he was just hearing things.

"The witcher you always sing about. He usually accompanies you to these things, does he not?" Great, just when he was doing better, just when he was starting to forget and began enjoying himself, he was reminded of what would never be again. His heart clenched in his chest and his stomach turned in knots. A lump caught in his throat. He struggled to speak around it, to act like everything was fine.

"He's on the path on his own at the moment. But when I see him again I will be sure to give him your regards," he said with a fake charming smile. Oh he'll send his regards. He'll send them right up Geralt's ass where they belong. He excused himself, going off to find a bathroom. He tried to stop himself, but hot tears flowed from his eyes, and he did what he could to keep his makeup from running. In the end he had to do a quick touch up, but when he returned to sing once more, he looked fresh as a daisy.

~~~~

Months go by, with no possible leads on where Jaskier, or his child surprise, could be. Just songs sung in taverns that he's heard the bard sing too many times before. But oh what he wouldn't give to hear that voice right now.

The bard at the inn he was currently at wasn't terrible, but they just weren't him. He had a voice unlike any other, and though he had never admitted it aloud, he really did like it. Why he never told Jaskier was beyond him. Maybe he thought by distancing himself, he wouldn't get too attached. Maybe at first, he really did hate his singing. Or maybe he was just afraid to acknowledge his own feelings. Witchers didn't really do compliments. After all, most of the affection he showed his brothers was through insults. It's one of the only ways he knows how to show he cares. But Jaskier didn't know that. He probably just thinks he hates everything about him. All because the one time Geralt should've kept his mouth shut, he erupted like a volcano. Hot, angry, and destructive.

The song they sang was one he hadn't heard before, but it sounded undeniably Jaskier. Everything from the chord progression, the range, the tune, the excessive swearing, to the hilariously relatable lyrics, just screamed Jaskier. He didn't need to ask who wrote it. He knew.

Winter was drawing near. It was time to make the yearly trip to the keep. Geralt had hoped that by this time he would've found Jaskier and made up. Wished for him to stay the winter with him and meet his brothers. Oh well. There was always next year he supposed.

The journey was just as harsh and bitter as he remembered it always being. But when he arrived at Kaer Morhen, he had three happy faces waiting for him. After the exchange of bear hugs and hair ruffles, Vesemir left them to chat amongst themselves. He couldn't help but notice that Eskel had been giving him the stink eye ever since he had gotten there. They were currently in a large den area, seated close to a fireplace.

"Okay I'll bite, why the fuck are you glaring at me like I just kicked Lil Bleater?" he asked, none too kindly. Lambert shifted in his seat, settling in for the show. He looked to Eskel, eagerly waiting for his response.

"Hm. I assumed you'd know," Eskel said in an even tone. Lambert's head snapped over to Geralt, ready to hear what he had to say.

"What the hell did I do to you?" he asked. Lambert nodded.

"Yes, please tell. I'm dying to know."

Eskel met Geralt's eyes with harsh judgement. "It's nothing that you did to me." Oh this was positively juicy. And Lambert was eating it up.

"The hell's that supposed to mean?" Geralt snapped. Eskel just shook his head.

"Nothing. Just means you blew it."

"Blew what?" he asked. He was tired of beating around the bush. Eskel just shrugged, infuriatingly.

"If you can't figure it out, you're an even bigger idiot than I pegged you for." Okay that was it.

Geralt slammed his fist down on the table. "Damnit I'm sick of your cryptic ass bullshit! What the hell are you talking about?" Eskel's face finally showed a hint of emotion. His scar curled lip quirked up in a smirk that could only mean trouble. And a playful malice danced behind his eyes.

"A little lark told me," he began, noticing how stiff Geralt became. "All about your little mountain breakup." All of a sudden Geralt surged forth, gripping Eskel by the collar and shoved him against the nearest wall. Lambert stood to get a better view of the action.

"You saw Jaskier and didn't tell me?" he growled. Eskel shrugged with a cocky smile.

"I'm telling you now, aren't I? And it's not like he was eager to see you. And from the sounds of it I'm shocked you'd want to see him either. Geralt's eyes widened in shock, his grip loosening ever so slightly. "If life could give me one blessing-"

He smacked a hand over his mouth, slamming his head against the stone just a little harder than necessary. Eskel didn't fight back, only raised his eyebrows. Behind them, Lambert let out a low whistle.

"So you finally fucked up the one good thing in your life? Can't say I'm surprised," he mused. Geralt whipped his head around to look over his shoulder.

"You want to be next?" Lambert held his hands up in mock surrender.

Eskel reached up and slid Geralt's hand from his mouth so he could speak. "He was pretty torn up when I found him." Geralt looked to the ground in shame. "Pissed as all hell, sad fucker too. You really did a number on him." Geralt's eyes were full of regret.

"I should've never said those things to him." He let Eskel go, arms hanging limp at his sides. The heavily scarred witcher crossed his arms.

"Yeah no shit. You really need to do better."

"I know. He was my best friend," he admitted. Eskel's expression softened.

"Why didn't you ever tell him that? He made it sound like you only ever insulted him."

Geralt sighed. "I wasn't as nice as I should've been. Any time I tried I just. Froze and said some stupid shit."

Lambert clapped him on the back. "Oh Geralt, you always do that." A ghost of a smile flashed on his face as he brushed off his hand.

"What was it that made you throw two decades worth of friendship down the drain?" Eskel questioned. Geralt sighed even deeper.

"The dragon hunt was long and tiring. Too many people wanting to kill the dragon, protecting it was harder than I thought. Yen and I fought. I told her about the last wish I made with the djinn and... she didn't take it well. Needless to say we're through. And then- Jaskier was right there and he was talking like he always does, and I. I lashed out. I just felt like hurting someone the way I was just hurt."

Eskel rolled his eyes. "You're a fucking moron. Just because you don't know how the hell to handle your emotions doesn't mean you get to take it out on other people. Especially those who had nothing to do with it."

Geralt wholeheartedly agreed. "I know. I just want him back."

"You better hope you know how to make this right."

"I tried looking for him, but his trail went cold. I need to apologize. I need him to know that I never meant those things, and that he's my friend," he said, sounding defeated. He took a few steps back, collapsing in a chair.

Eskel eyed him, a funny look on his face.

"What?"

"You sure he's only just a friend?"

"Of course he is! What else would he be?" he asked, brows furrowed. Eskel smirked, pacing the room in an aloof sort of way.

"I don't mean to go around telling secrets that aren't mind, but knowing you you'll never figure it out on your own." Geralt growled as Lambert snickered. Eskel cut them both off. "But it seemed like a lot more than just friendship, at least on your bard's end."

Geralt perked up, leaning forward in his chair. "Wait really?"

Lambert nudged him. "Careful, you almost sound excited. Don't tell me my big brother has a crush," he teased, locking him in a headlock. Geralt easily threw him over his shoulder, making him flip over his lap before landing on the hard ground.

"Shut the hell up, this is serious."

"Oooo you do have a crush!" his teasing increased tenfold. He wrapped an arm around his ankle, shaking his leg slightly. Geralt moved so the sole of his boot pressed against his cheek, effectively keeping him pinned.

"Ah! Hey let me up!" Geralt rolled his eyes and lifted his foot, setting him free. He turned his attention to Eskel.

"What makes you think that?"

"Aside from... everything about him?"

"Eskel get to the fucking point!"

"He was broken hearted, easy as that... And he, uh, told me himself," he said, looking away. For some reason he felt a sting of guilt. He wasn't betraying Jaskier, not really, but it felt like something the bard should tell him himself. But on the other hand, Jaskier said to make the clueless bastard feel bad, and he knew if this were a fight, that would be the final blow.

He leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees and buried his face behind his hands and let out a low, suffering groan. "He probably never wants to see me again."

"With a face like that, who could blame him?" Lambert joked from his spot on the floor. Eskel kicked him semi gently and shook his head at the youngest wolf. He then turned his attention to Geralt.

"Well don't get me wrong, he was very upset. But it had just happened, so he might've cooled off by now. And even then he was conflicted about whether or not he wanted to see you. I say give it a shot," he encouraged. Geralt rolled his eyes.

"But how will I find him again? I mean, where do I even start?"

"Well he's a bard ain't he?" Lambert said, finally sitting up. "Just follow his songs."

Eskel's face scrunched up in confusion. "The hell does that mean?"

"No, no Lambert has a point. If he's been performing then chances are other bards will be singing his songs in places he's recently been. Then I can follow the trail from there," he said.

"See? I have good ideas!" Lambert stuck his tongue out at Eskel, who rolled his eyes. He reached out and grabbed his tongue, pulling on it. Lambert's eyes bugged out and he made a strangled noise before biting his hand. Eskel recoiled and snarled at him in warning.

Geralt paid them no mind, instead thinking of how he would win back his bard.

~~~~

When the months turned cold, Jaskier tucked his tail and holed up in Oxenfurt. After a life on the road, teaching just wasn't as thrilling as it used to be. He still loved these kids, saw their blooming potential. But he also saw too much of himself reflected in those faces, with their wide hopeful eyes and innocent naïvety. They idolized him. He achieved what so many could only dream of, had seen amazingly horrific beasts and lead a life of wonder and adventure. But that was over. At least he could relive those glory days vicariously through his songs...

Winter came and went. His students were all talented and lovely people, and he earned the title of the fun, hot professor. And while he might would have hooked up with a student or two when he was younger, the thought no longer appealed to him. His heart and mind were elsewhere.

As the snow began to melt, he set off. He had bought a nice and sturdy steed for his journey ahead, being tired of traveling on foot and finally acquiring enough coin for one. Bruno was a beautiful smokey gray with a white mane and tale. He didn't seem to mind his singing or his rants, and offered the occasional neigh in response. Jaskier suddenly understood why Geralt talked to Roach as if she were human.

During his time at Oxenfurt, he was productive and debuted a few new songs. Now as spring fast approached, he was ready to share them with the rest of the world. He was currently in some small village not too far from the academy, a mere pit stop on a long journey.

After performing a particularly successful set, he sat at the bar to wet his whistle in preparation for the rest of the night. He only glanced at the body that sat down next to him, going back to his drink.

"Nice songs, they all yours?"

Jaskier swallowed and nodded. "Yes, I normally only play my songs. They're quite popular and people expect it. But if I get a request by someone else I won't turn it down. Why, you want me to sing something?" he answered, turning to look at him. He was quite handsome if he said so himself.

"No I can never remember the songs or how they go." Jaskier hummed into his glass in lieu of a real answer. "So uh, what was that last one called again?"

"Her Sweet Kiss," Jaskier said, lip curling in saddened amusement.

"Oh yeah, I remember. What's it about?" he tried.

"Just a... an old relationship that didn't quite turn out."

"Sorry to hear that mate. If you don't mind me asking, what happened." Jaskier snorted and shook his head, staring at his reflection in the liquid.

"Let's just say they didn't choose me." The man shifted in his seat.

"I'm Lambert by the way."

"Jaskier, pleased to meet you," though his voice didn't sound all too enthused. Lambert licked his lips.

"My brother's looking for you." Jaskier's head snapped over to look at him. Really look at him. He had a scar over his eye, short brown hair, two scary looking swords strapped to his back, and a wolf medallion hanging on his chest. Another witcher. He didn't know whether to be grateful or disappointed that it wasn't Geralt.

He decided to play dumb. After all, maybe he didn't know. "Eskel?" he asked in feigned confusion.

Lambert rolled his eyes. "No dumb ass. The other one." Jaskier tilted his head.

"I'm sorry, but how do you expect me to know who your brother is when I've only just met you?" he asked. Lambert snorted and folded his arms.

"Well you know Eskel. Geralt was right, you really are a smug lil smart ass."

"That's funny, a second ago I was a dumb ass."

"Hey I'm not afraid to hit you," he threatened.

"Nor am I," Jaskier countered. Lambert wore a shocked half grin, eyebrows raised.

"Huh. Okay then."

"So what, did Geralt send you? Am I too close within his vicinity that I'm fucking up his destiny yet again?" he asked bitterly. Lambert looked him up and down, judging his next words before he spoke.

"No, I found you all on my own thank you very much. Though I bet he'll be pissed that I also found you before he did," he mused. This seemed to peak the bard's interest as he turned to face him. Lambert leaned in to say more. "He's looking for you ya know."

"So you said. Why though?" he asked. Lambert shrugged.

"Wants to apologize I guess. Make things right," he said. Jaskier just looked... lost. Then his face morphed into one of amusement as he doubled over, letting out a stream of shrill, slightly manic laughs.

He wiped away a few tears as he spoke. "The day that man apologizes is the day he dies. He's much too prideful and stupid to do such a thing."

Lambert rolled his eyes. "I know he is, but he also really seems to care about you."

Jaskier snorted. "Funny. Normally when someone cares about you they don't blame you for all their life's problems and tell you to get fucked," he spat out.

"Look, I get he may be a stubborn horse's ass, but he really is sorry."

"Thanks but I'll believe it when I hear it from him. If you'll excuse me I need to get back to work." He pushed off from the bar, walking back to his stool and lute. Lambert leaned back in his seat, allowing himself to listen to the music. As he drank himself into a stupor, tales of heartbreak and anguish washed over him. But there was also a deep seeded sense of longing, a yearning so strong it almost hurt Lambert to listen to. But it was there that he saw a glimmer of hope for his brother to win him back.

~~~~

Things never went as planned. For some reason, destiny liked to fuck with Geralt as much as it possibly could. It seemed as though he was finding everyone except the man he was trying so desperately to find. The first to come to him was his child surprise, who he had also been searching for and had been given the most importance in his mind. Good, one thing crossed off the list. He knew they were bound together, so they would find their way to each other eventually, but with the fall of Cintra he much preferred sooner rather than later.

She was kind, but also had a fierce bite to her personality that reminded Geralt of her grandmother. He could feel the untapped potential of her magic sizzling beneath her skin and sparked under his touch. She was curious and talkative in a way that emphasized the hole that Jaskier had left behind.

And then, much to his chagrin, they met up with Yennefer during the middle of a contract. It would be hard to miss the way she stared at Ciri, with a want so strong and a hint of jealousy that Geralt had been gifted what she could only dream of having. Even with his knowledge of magic, he would need someone with stronger abilities to help train the princess. And as much as he had regretted it, he was now thankful that he had tied his and Yennefer's fates. She seemed to be more forgiving now, but made it obvious that whatever romance might have been blooming was now long dead. He was okay with that. He was just glad to have her back in his life. They were good friends, and as a witcher, that was hard to find.

It was dangerous to travel with Ciri, what with the state of the continent. Nilfgaard was on the prowl for the lion cub of Cintra, and would stop at nothing to try and hunt her down. They were still a long ways from the witcher's keep. Only then would she be truly safe to begin her training properly. They had cut her hair to just below her chin to change her appearance enough so she wasn't instantly recognizable. Geralt gave her a thick black cloak to further hide her face. Her old blue cloak was just as much of a dead giveaway as her hair. But no one paid much mind to a veiled child at the side of a famed witcher.

They knew better than to call her by her name, at least in public. Instead they would call her Ella or Ellie, Yennefer claiming that it suited her. Ciri didn't seem to mind. They had been traveling nonstop for a week and were completely exhausted and starving for a real meal. A bath wouldn't hurt either. They came to the inn in search of some much needed rest for the journey ahead. Warm light spilled from the windows and into the darkness outside, a welcome sight. Music and excited chatter met their ears as they approached, greeting them as Geralt held the door open for them.

Avoiding as much attention as they could, they slipped into a booth in the far corner. Ciri sat on the inner seat near the wall, Geralt's large frame mostly shielding her from view. Yennefer sat across from them.

Geralt was tired and worn, otherwise he would've instantly recognized the voice drifting through the air.

"I'm the hardest goodbye that you'll ever have to say-" the last note drug on and scooped continuously into the next word, earning a couple of impressed cheers.

"You don't know it yet, but I'm the Cupid of things That you just don't get, that you struggled to say." The music continued in the background as a waitress took their orders. Once she moved out of their way, Ciri gasped.

"Oh my gods, that's Jaskier!" she said in excitement. Yennefer calmly turned her head to the side while Geralt whipped around, eyes frantically searching for the bard. There he was, swaying to the music as his fingers plucked and thrummed the strings. "I have to say hi!"

"But like rubbing wine stains into rugs, it's my curse. To try and make it right, but by trying make it worse."

Geralt was about to speak, but Yennefer beat him to it. "Ah ah ah, I don't think that's a good idea," she warned.

Ciri shook her head adamantly. "No, he's a good friend! He played at all of my birthdays and our banquets! Believe me, we can trust him." When they both stared at her dumbfounded, she continued. "I get it if you're a bit star struck, I mean he's the best musician on the whole continent."

Yenn snorted. "Who told you that? Him?" Ciri jumped to his defense, but Geralt was too preoccupied to know what she said. His eyes were glued to Jaskier.

Jaskier's voice was raw with emotion as he sang. Deep and guttural around certain words, sensual and alluring with others.

"I'm the heartbreak that aches far too much to be shunned. All those letters unsent and that garden ungrown. I'm the captain of courage that you've eternally lacked. I'm the Jesus of wishing to Christ he'll come back."

Jaskier looked up at just the right moment, at just the right spot to lock eyes with Geralt. He froze for barely a second. Geralt could hear him swallow thickly before he continued, as though unfazed. His eyes never breaking their gaze.

"Because farewell wanderlust, you've been oh, so kind." His voice was so soft, so tender as he sang the words. Then ramped up in intensity as he continued, finally tearing his eyes away.

"After he finishes this song I'm going to go talk to him," Ciri said with a finality that can't be challenged. Geralt only just now caught up with the conversation.

"No. I will." Yennefer was doing a poor job of hiding her amusement. He shot her a glare. Ciri looked at him with an incredulous look.

"I'm practically like family to him, I get to go first," she left no room to argue. Geralt stared at her in slight shock. "You can wait your turn."

"Hm." He would do as she said, but that didn't mean he was happy about it. But at least it gave him time to gather his thoughts and try to form a proper apology. He looked up to see Jaskier's eyes burn holes through him, an angry bitterness woven into his words.

"I'm the tales that the guests will applaud and believe. I'm the child that you just didn't have time to conceive. I promise you I'm not broken! I promise you there's more! More to come, more to reach for, more to hurl at the door."

Ciri leaned forward in her seat to see better. "This must be a new song. It's kinda sad, I wonder who it's about." Yennefer shot Geralt a knowing, accusatory look. He finished, holding the last note of the song for as long as the chord faded out. Everyone burst into applause, tossing coin his way. He made a beeline for the bar, taking the route farthest from them and maintaining that distance. When Geralt didn't move to let her out, too entranced, Ciri crawled underneath the table and made her way to her old friend.

Jaskier leaned against the bar, his head in one hand, a tankard of ale in another. "Melitele's tits I'm too sober for this," he muttered to himself.

"Jaskier!" Before he could turn around he was bombarded by a small figure and enveloped in a hug.

"Wha- hi hello," he said in confusion, tentatively wrapping his arms around her.

"Jaskier, it's me!" she said, and tilted her hood back to reveal her face to him. His eyes widened and mouth dropped in shock. He smiled down at her, scooping her up in his arms and spun her around.

"Gods I was so worried about you! When I heard about what happened I couldn't stop thinking about you! I'm so glad you're okay," he said, smothering her with love and affection that she soaked up like a sponge.

"Come on, I want you to meet someone," she said, tugging on his arm. He pulled it back reluctantly.

"Ah, I'm afraid I'm not quite ready yet," he said, tossing a nervous glance Geralt's way.

"It's okay, he's nice," Ciri assured him. He chuckled.

"Maybe to you."

"What?"

"Well I really should get back to work. I'll talk more after I'm done, I promise," he called as he made his way back to his instrument. Ciri stood there, dumbfounded as she made her way back to the table.

"That was weird," she said sitting down at the table. Geralt tensed.

"Why? What did he say?" he asked, slightly too eager to be considered normal, especially for him. Ciri looked at him quizzically, picking up on the strangeness of it all.

"Um, well at first he was thrilled to see me, then I mention introducing him to you both and he suddenly starts walking away saying he has to work," she said, trailing off.

"Don't take it personal, like you said, he's very popular. People want to hear him sing," Geralt tried to comfort her in the knowledge. She sighs, placing her elbow on the table and resting her chin in her palm.

"I know but he seemed. I don't know, weird? Off? Definitely not like himself," she noted. Yennefer smirked, and looked Geralt up and down. He tilted his head, furrowing his brows and fixing her with a warning look. He was barely holding back a growl. If she said anything...

"You sure it has nothing to do with how you dumped him on the dragon hunt?" she said slyly, smirking with a dangerously arched brow.

"Yennefer!" he snarled her name. He wanted to move past that, he had apologized to her, now he needed to do the same for Jaskier. And now Ciri was glaring at him with real heat behind her eyes.

"Geralt, what's she talking about?" Despite the fire that burned behind her eyes, her voice sounded ice cold. Okay she was definitely spending too much time with Yennefer.

"Nothing of your concern," he said firmly, glaring daggers at Yennefer for telling. The child had no reason to know.

"It is if you hurt Jaskier!"

"I didn't-" he started only to be interrupted again.

"Not physically," Yennefer said slyly, taking a drink. Geralt sighed in defeat.

"Yes I did, okay? But I regret it, and I need to make it right," he said matter of factly. Ciri's expression softened. She reached out and held his hand.

"It's okay, I'm sure he'll forgive you. But just so you know, he's a sucker for grand gestures," she said with a wink. The tavern had erupted with chatter and song requests. Jaskier seems to have finally settled on one. His fingers worked fast upon his instrument.

"Don't think You're mighty cos I said so. It's fine you've got no time to make it home."

Jaskier's voice was deep and smooth, just like Geralt remembered. He caught Jaskier staring his way before the man turned his gaze away as quickly as he noticed.

"And every question's a creeping doubt. I wanna stop the pain, but I don't wanna freak you out. Oh horror the house is shaking, Take it easy. 1, 2, 3, No worries no, no not from me."

Geralt was entranced. As he listened to him, dozens of memories flashed before his eyes. Visions filled with happiness, laughter, fear, singing, anger, screaming... Some of the best memories Geralt has, especially in recent years, are shared with Jaskier. He longed for those times. He wanted nothing more than to wake to blue eyes and a blinding smile. Jaskier moved to the chorus, still beautiful and slower than some of his other songs, but still peppy and upbeat. Most of the tavern's patrons seem to be affiliated with the tune enough to confidently sing along.

"One life to trade away, No use in keeping much I say. Your heart's not mine to weigh. And I'll have words with fate. This earth is burned but I'll sing rain."

Geralt liked this song. As he sat there listening he wondered how he composed it. How many different words bounced around inside his mind before settling on the right ones? How many scratches and scribbles marked in his notebook? He used to have the privilege of knowing, but had never truly appreciated what he had until it was gone. He would never make such a mistake again.

He sang a few more songs, running on requests and ale. But the hour grew later and more patrons retired to their rooms. Jaskier could only put it off for so long, but as long as one other table was there, he would play. The people that did fill the chairs were getting tired, not as eager to hear loud and upbeat music. When a young man requested he play his song Fair, he faltered.

"Uh, perhaps you'd prefer a different song," he tried, casting a nervous glance in Geralt's direction. The song was not only about him, but Yennefer as well, and he wasn't too keen on playing it with both of them here, let alone one.

"Please? It's my birthday and that's my favorite song," he said, batting his lashes prettily. Jaskier sighed, "Well then, how could I say no to that? C'mere," he gestured with a single finger. His eyes darted towards Geralt's table. He was staring at him intently. Good, he wanted him to see this. Jaskier pulled the man closer by his collar and planted a kiss upon his cheek. In that moment they locked eyes. Geralt's burned with regret and jealousy. Jaskier's were smug and a little scared, with the smallest hint of rage.

"Um Geralt? Your mug's leaking," Ciri pointed out. Geralt immediately let go of his grip, realizing too late he had been clenching his fist a little too tightly around his tankard. He wiped up the spill and called the waitress for another.

The boy was flustered and blushing, touching his cheek with delighted awe as he watched Jaskier play his song.

"She promises to fight them all when it all becomes too much. And he, he curses at the world for Leaving him behind and he's falling out of touch. And she is stronger than he's ever been he knows. And she brushes her hand through His hair, he's got so much fucking hair."

Jaskier is glaring at him, Geralt knows it. He dips his head down, unable to meet the gaze. However, he still feels the heat of his stare burn holes through his back. Ciri watched curiously.

"And he holds her close just to keep the world at bay. And when they're sure no-one can hear them. She'll turn to him to say, she'll turn to him and say-"

Yennefer listened with her head tilted, taking Jaskier in fully. He had been broken, barely hanging on and searching for a new purpose. He had been lost, found, and lost again. The strange fuzzy feeling of magic that had fizzled so faintly within him buzzed with a bit more certainty, even if he wasn't aware of it himself. After all, she hadn't known what lie beneath her skin until Tissaia forced her to unlock her potential.

"It's not fair, It's not fair how much I love you. It's not fair, Cos you make me laugh when I'm actually Really fucking cross at you for something. And he'll say, Oh how oh how unreasonable. How unreasonably in love I am with everything you do. I'll spend my days so close to you cos if I'm Standing here maybe everyone will think I'm alright."

It's funny, she thought. He used to be scared of her, or maybe intimidated was a better word. Threatened. They had been competing for the same thing after all. Well for what it's worth, he can have it.

"I've seen enough he says I know exactly what I want. And it's this life that we've created, Inundated with the fated thought of you. And if you asked me to, if you asked me I would lose it all Like petals in a storm, cos darling I was born."

How dare they come to him like this? What are they now, some happy little family? Geralt gave her the child she always wanted, surely she'd never leave him now. He can only imagine the disgustingly amazing sex they probably have when Ciri wonders off. Did they find him so they could rub it in his face, or was it a complete accident? Was this the princess's idea? Did they seek him out for help? So many questions whirled through his head as he finished the song. He figured it was time to get some answers. He bid what was left of his audience goodnight before making his way to the table.

Yennefer wore a judging, knowing look as she watched him come closer. Geralt still looked to be in a state of shock, and, was that jealousy on his face? Jaskier liked to have thought he could read witchers, especially his witcher, extremely well. He had only kissed the boy to distract himself, to show Geralt he was just fine without him. That he could move on. But both Eskel and Lambert had seemed insistent that Geralt was regretful of his actions, so perhaps he did care. He smirked at the thought. He would make this as difficult as he could then. If he really did want him, he'd have to earn him back. Walking towards them with a renewed swagger he hadn't felt in months, he threw his arms open.

"Darling, I'm so sorry about earlier. Let me give you a proper greeting," he said as Ciri barreled into his arms. She tucked her head against his chest, grinning from ear to ear as she squeezed the breath from his lungs. Ah, so she'd been training.

She let him go, suddenly feeling the tension in the air. She faltered for a moment before speaking. "Um, Jaskier this is Yenn. And I uh, I think you know Geralt?" she said with such timidness it was more of a question than a statement. Jaskier put on his fakest smile, the one Geralt knew was fake.

"Why yes love, we do. Geralt, care to explain?" he asked and cocked his head. Geralt huffed out a breath of annoyance, with a possible hint of amusement. Jaskier's heart ached.

"Why don't you sit down first?" he asked and motioned them over with his hand. Before he knew what was happening, Ciri rushed past him and slammed herself in the seat next to Yennefer, thus forcing him to sit next to Geralt. He crossed his arms and popped out his hip.

"I will only sit next to the child," he said sternly. He didn't know what they were calling her now, but he knew better than to use her real name. Geralt rolled his eyes.

"Jaskier don't be ridiculous, sit down," he said. His eye looked almost pleading, his pupils swelled up like a begging cat. It was utterly adorable. He nearly wanted to do what he said. It seemed so tempting... But no. He wouldn't let him win.

He placed his hands on his hips and raised an eyebrow, turning his nose up the slightest bit. He even went as far as to look him up and down with a smirk, "Make me."

Before he could think better of it, Geralt reached out and grabbed a hold of his wrist, yanking him down to the seat. Jaskier was caught off guard and stumbled, falling right into Geralt's lap. They both stared, flustered as their eyes met. Ciri snickered from behind her hand, and even Yennefer gave a small chuckle. They both gathered themselves and Jaskier scrambled out of his lap and in the seat next to him. Jaskier still looked a bit dazed. Geralt leaned closer to him. He didn't pull away.

"Made you," he said, and when Jaskier turned to look at him, he looked so damn smug and cocky. That bastard.

Jaskier brushed himself off and cleared his throat. "Okay then. Uh where was I? Oh um-you were just about to tell her how we know each other," he said, clearly flustered. He was looking anywhere but to his right.

"He's my bard. And my best friend." Jaskier's head jerked upon hearing those words.

"Sure as hell didn't show it much," he argued. Geralt sighed heavily.

"I know, and I should've never treated you that way. I'm sorry for the mountain, and the djinn, and only ever letting you ride Roach if you were hurt, and every time I was cruel or harsh with you. I'm more sorry than I've ever been." His words dripped with truth, forged after hours of regret and meditation. These words were carefully formatted and hand picked just for him. If Jaskier had been standing, his knees would've buckled. He let out a strangled squeak. Geralt continued.

"It was wrong then, and it's wrong now, so I, uh, understand if you're still mad." This time it was Jaskier's turn to hum in lieu of words. "But I want you to know you're my best friend and it won't happen again. I promise," he swore. There was so much emotion swirling in those golden irises. Jaskier believed everything he said.

He took a breath to steady himself before he spoke. "Okay. I accept your apology," he said. He didn't dare say more for fear of revealing his hand. Geralt didn't hint at stronger feelings for him than just friendship, so neither would he. He was content with this, had always been content with this. He could still have his witcher and the life on the road that he missed dearly. He just had to bury the burning love in his chest. But he was used to that. What he wasn't used to was Yennefer's unwavering presence. He wasn't looking forward to it. The way she loved to jab and mock him, flaunting her relationship with Geralt in his face. She was always devilishly smart and cunning, much like a raven. They didn't get along well, or perhaps they did. It was almost like a game between them, to see who can ruffle the most feathers.

But the smirk she wore wasn't smug or triumphant like she won something. It was something softer, more akin to fondness, a sort of teasing glimmer in her eyes. She knew something he didn't. That wasn't new. Geralt was avoiding his direct gaze. He was tired of the stretching silence and spoke.

"I'm assuming it's an accident that you happened upon me. Or was it intentional?" he ventured to ask. Geralt blinked.

"Yes and no? I mean, I was looking for you, but I didn't expect to find you here. We're on our way to the Keep," he explained. Jaskier leaned back in the booth, an amused, surprised expression on his face. His arms were folded over his chest and his lips quirked up in a smirk.

"Huh, he wasn't lying." Geralt narrowed his eyes.

"Who?"

"Lambert. He said you were looking for me. Didn't believe him at the time, but I guess he proved me wrong," he said, chuckling. Geralt's jaw dropped as he stared at him. Ciri giggled and Yennefer watched on in amusement.

"Lam- fucking Lambert found you before I did? How long ago was this?" he asked. Now Jaskier was the one squinting at him.

"Only a few months, maybe three at the most." His smirk grew.

"Damnit, how many witchers have you met since I saw you?" Geralt wasn't the best at expressing his emotions, they all knew that, but he was even worse at hiding them when they fought to rise up. Geralt was jealous and Jaskier was drinking it up.

"Ah, so I suppose Eskel had his little chat with you." His eyes sparkled with mischief as he turned to look at Geralt. He could feel the heat radiating from his body, his nostrils flared out. He looked utterly delicious. Jaskier slipped on a charming smile. "Good. You know, I think he was my favorite. Charming, nice, and extremely handsome-"

"Jaskier, can I talk with you?" he cut him off, voice a deep growl. A pleasant chill ran up his spine. Oh he liked jealous Geralt.

"You already are darling," he said, voice sugary sweet. He's gotten underneath his skin already. That didn't take long. Geralt rolled his eyes.

"I meant somewhere private." He stared at him, hoping he wouldn't have to explain himself. Jaskier made an O with his mouth and slid from his seat, allowing Geralt to follow him. The larger man lead him outside and around the corner of the tavern, close to the stables.

"Oh is Roach here? I've missed her terribly, you wouldn't believe-" Before he knew what was going on, he was slammed against the wall with Geralt's body pressed against his. He promptly shut up, a blush creeping up his cheeks.

"W-well I certainly can't say I haven't imagined this," he breathed out in an airy chuckle.

"Come with us," Geralt said.

Jaskier was shocked to say the least. "What?"

"Come with us. To Kaer Morhen. Ciri likes you, and right now we need to keep her safe. A-and you're a professor, and you're smart- she's gonna need a teacher." Jaskier deflated.

"Is that all?" he asked, trying to mask the disappointment in his voice.

"No." Jaskier jerked his head to look at him. Geralt moved his arm from where it was leaning against the wall to caress Jaskier's cheek. He shivered. "I want you to come with us. I missed you Jaskier. And I know I'm not- I'm not good with this. Emotions, and talking about what I want. But I'm trying and-" he looked at him, pupils wide and eyes pleading. "I want you."

"Fuck Geralt, you don't know how long I've wanted to hear that." Geralt surged forth, planting a surprisingly sweet kiss against Jaskier's lips. Jaskier pulled him closer, deepening the kiss. He didn't want to be able to breathe, he was hungry for this and wouldn't waste another second. Their teeth clanged and clashed as their tongues danced together as one. When Jaskier was satisfyingly breathless, they pulled apart, still held in each other's embrace.

"I want you too." These words sparked another passionate make out. Then Jaskier pulled away, remembering, "Wait, but I thought- you and Yenn-"

"Just friends." Jaskier couldn't help the smile that broke out on his face. He grew himself at Geralt, who easily caught him. He wrapped his legs around his waist, carding his fingers through his hair. He surged forth and caught his lips in another kiss. Geralt spoke around his lips.

"I don't have to worry about you and Eskel, do I?" Jaskier chuckled.

"I like it when you're possessive," he said, thrusting his hips forward. Geralt growled as he dove in for another heated kiss. And just like that, Jaskier's torn heart began to mend.

[contemplativepancakes]

stay lost in this moment forever

nearly 11k of pure, unadulterated horse girl geralt fluff. read on ao3 here.

in which they head to the coast, and get away for a while.

Geralt’s not quite sure what to do with himself, here. There are no monsters, just a rocky stretch of a beach that’s all theirs. At least, that’s what Jaskier had said, his mouth hot near Geralt’s ear as he took him in hand beneath the stars. Geralt hadn’t had the will to question him. 

He looks at Jaskier, scribbling furiously in his notebook, the quill Geralt gifted him flying across the page. Geralt stretches languidly, but Jaskier doesn’t look up at him. “Jask,” he says, and no, he doesn’t whine. 

Jaskier hums in acknowledgement, and Geralt fights the urge to throw a pillow at him. 

“I’m bored.”

“What happened to the whole no emotions schtick?” Jaskier asks instantly, not turning his attention away from the page. 

This time, Geralt does throw the pillow, and finally, Jaskier looks at him. “Needy this morning, are we?” Jaskier asks, the scent of satisfaction drifting off of him unbearably. 

Geralt grunts in protest. He’d never be anything as undignified as that. 

“Sure,” Jaskier says skeptically. He looks back down at his writing, and Geralt huffs and gets out of bed. 

He takes his time getting dressed, and he definitely does not stretch to reach the top shelf, knowing the way it makes his back muscles ripple. There’s not even a rustle from behind him. 

Geralt gets dressed and wanders out of their little shack. If Geralt was in a more generous mood, he’d call it a cottage, but alas. Geralt tries to walk as quietly across the stones as he can, the habit to be light footed ingrained in him even if there’s nothing that he is trying to hide his presence from. 

Geralt makes his way down the beach, to where the rocks finally give way to grass. He walks a bit farther still, until trees start to sprout on the horizon, and he sees Roach. He walks up to where she’s grazing, in a pasture he fenced off. 

Jaskier had been interested in him that day, at least. “Do you know what a sight you make, all sweaty and good with your hands?” Jaskier had whispered into his ear. 

Geralt hummed. “I think you had better show me.”

And Jaskier did. Repeatedly. 

He’s jerked out of his reverie by Roach nudging him with a snort. Geralt combs his fingers through her mane and leans on the post he had driven into the ground. Jaskier hadn’t been able to hold in his comments on that particular action. 

Geralt huffs. He wishes Jaskier was here, that he wasn’t too busy composing to pay attention to Geralt. He’s distracted by a horse’s scream somewhere to his right. He wrenches back from Roach, who has her ears laid back flat. 

Geralt looks toward the tree line, but nothing seems out of place. It’s not like he can ignore a call for help, though, so he unsheathes his sword and makes his way into the woods just beyond Roach’s pasture. He almost hopes he finds something amiss, just so he can tell Jaskier that keeping his swords on him wasn’t overkill. He’s a witcher, he can’t just walk around unarmed, no matter how many times Jaskier insists they’re on vacation. Witchers don’t just take vacations, he protested, but Jaskier paid him no heed. 

He scans the woods as he walks farther in, but in the end, he almost steps right on it. There’s a horse lying in a copse, panting shallow breaths, his belly slick with blood.

Geralt’s face pinches, and he crouches down. The horse whinnies in agitation, but he’s not exactly in a position to refuse Geralt’s help. Something’s torn the horse’s stomach open and left it here for dead. Geralt’s stomach turns. He hates seeing needless suffering. He probes the wound with his fingers, biting his lip and trying to decide if the horse has a chance to make it, or if Geralt should put an end to the misery. The horse hasn’t stopped nickering since Geralt got there, so Geralt’s not going to take the choice away from him. Geralt sits down next to him and pets the horse’s snout, reaching into his satchel and pulling out a sugar cube that he keeps for Roach. The horse’s lips close around it, and Geralt convinces himself that the horse is going to be okay. 

Geralt pulls out a flask, just a standard disinfectant, and pours it over the wound. The last thing they need is an infection, and Geralt thanks his paranoia for keeping him prepared. The horse neighs in pain, and Geralt runs two fingers over his soft nose. “It’s okay,” he croons. “You’re doing so good.”

Geralt looks at the wound, thinking. There’s really nothing left but to stitch it up. Stitching wounds is bad enough on humans who understand what’s going on, much less on an animal that doesn’t understand he’s trying to help it. He smooths a hand down the horse’s flank, murmuring nonsense and hoping it’s soothing. 

The horse turns his head to nuzzle Geralt’s hand. 

“Geralt? Geralt!” comes a call from out of Geralt’s view. 

He doesn’t want to startle the horse, but he can hear the worry in Jaskier’s voice, so he replies, “Over here!” trying to be just loud enough for Jaskier to hear. 

He hears Jaskier grumbling, then there’s a crashing through the underbrush. “Seriously, Geralt? What are you—oh. Oh.” 

Geralt looks up at Jaskier, who looks down at all the blood before he looks back at Geralt, his eyes wide. 

“I‘m glad you’re here,” Geralt says, “I could use your help.”

“Oh, joy.”

-

“What’s his name?” Jaskier asks finally, after a week, when it’s starting to look like the gelding is staying. 

“Roach.”

“Geralt, you can’t just name all your horses Roach. That’s ridiculous.”

Geralt shrugs. “It’s worked out so far.”

“Yes, but two at once? They’ll be confused.”

“They’re smart,” is all Geralt says. 

Jaskier throws his hands up and walks away, but Geralt coaxes him back soon afterwards. Jaskier gives him a begrudging kiss and smiles against his lips. 

-

“Geralt,” Jaskier whines, “Pay attention to me.”

Geralt doesn’t glance up from he’s brushing Roach down, with the other Roach nosing against his arm. Roach has been standoffish ever since Geralt introduced her to the second Roach, and he’s starting to think Jaskier might have had a point about the names, but Geralt’s not going to admit that to him. 

“Geralt,” Jaskier says again, drawing it out. 

There’s a smile playing at Geralt’s lips, but he finally looks up, Jaskier himself winning out over Geralt’s desire to give him a taste of his own medicine. 

Jaskier is right there beside him, and when Geralt looks at him, he wraps an arm around Geralt’s waist. “Having fun?”

“Never,” Geralt deadpans. 

“Never? Really? Never? Have you forgotten last night already?”

“I think I need a reminder.”

“I can probably arrange that.”

Jaskier mouths at Geralt’s neck, but Geralt pushes him away.

“In front of Roach?”

Jaskier rolls his eyes and pulls him back in anyway. Geralt doesn’t offer any more protests. 

-

“Geralt, stay here,” Jaskier says plaintively, tugging on his arm. 

Geralt shrugs away from him, lacing up his pants. Jaskier wraps his hand around Geralt’s wrist from his spot on the bed. Geralt looks down at him and almost gives in, but he needs to check on Roach. His stitches have been healing well, but he has a troublesome habit of trying to chew them out if Geralt doesn’t change his bandages often enough. 

He’s already had to restitch some of them, and Roach made Geralt plenty aware of his dislike of that situation, so Geralt would like to avoid a repeat. 

Jaskier huffs and lets go of his arm. “Fine. I’ll just...wait here, then.”

A smile tugs at Geralt’s lips. “Insatiable, hmm?”

Jaskier leans back against the pillows and sighs, looking at his lap pitably. 

“I’ll be back soon,” Geralt promises. 

Jaskier throws an arm over his eyes and turns over, making a rather uncalled for dramatic noise, if you ask Geralt. Geralt rolls his eyes fondly, trying not to let them catch on the planes of Jaskier’s back or the way the blanket drapes over him just so… 

Geralt shakes his head and makes his way out the door, blinking his eyes against the cool early morning air. He walks along the rocky beach until the paddock comes into sight. He squints to see both Roaches leaning against each other as they sleep, and he smiles to himself. Roach had neighed and nipped at the intruder when Geralt had first introduced them, so he’s glad to see they’re getting along now. Jaskier would probably say it’s his fault they didn’t get along for rubbing his surly nature off on his horses, and Geralt would be inclined to agree. 

As Geralt gets closer, he notices the sound of snapping twigs coming from the woods on the other side of the pasture. He stops and scans the tree line, but he doesn’t notice anything amiss. Probably a deer. He swings open the gate and latches it shut behind him as both Roaches blink at him sleepily. 

“Good morning,” Geralt greets as he gets closer, stooping down to tug up a patch of clover to offer in his outstretched hands. 

Roach gets to her feet instantly, snuffling into his left hand, and the other Roach follows her lead, sniffing at Geralt’s right hand tentatively. He starts to nibble at the purple flowers. When they’re done, Geralt examines the scraps of cloth, pulling it back so he can look at the stitches. It looks like everything is healing cleanly, and Geralt hums in satisfaction. 

He stays with his horses for a little while longer, watching them navigate each other and making sure neither is being too ornery to the other. He huffs a soft laugh when the gelding prances around Roach in circles, until she headbutts past him to continue grazing without disturbance. 

The sun is just breaking over the horizon when he starts to make the short trek back to the cottage, looking forward to waking Jaskier up properly. 

-

Jaskier groans and blinks awake again at a banging on the door. He squints his eyes, trying to avoid the early morning light as he grabs his robe and stumbles toward the door, figuring Geralt has his hands too full to open it. He’s probably bringing home a fawn to nurse back to health, if the pattern holds. Jaskier snorts to himself at the thought. He wonders if Geralt could be talked into stew instead, but he imagines the pleading eyes Geralt would aim at him and already finds himself softening. 

He swings the door open and is met not with Geralt and a deer, but a man with a scar and a rather portly goat. 

The man scowls at him. “Where’s Geralt?”

Jaskier pulls his robe tighter around himself as his hackles raise. “Who’s asking?”

“That’s none of your concern. What is your concern is what I’m going to do to you if you don’t tell me. This place reeks of him.”

Jaskier raises his eyebrows. “You’re a witcher?” he asks. He looks at the man’s scar more carefully, then back down at the goat, munching contentedly on a stray dandelion growing through the stones. “Eskel?” he guesses.

He opens the door wider, gesturing for Eskel to come in. He does, hesitantly, and Jaskier waves a hand at the table, telling him to take a seat. Jaskier frowns at the goat that’s trailed in after them. “Geralt’s checking on his horses, but he should be back soon,” Jaskier says. 

“And who are you?”

“Geralt’s…friend.”

Eskel looks him up and down skeptically. “Right. I’m sure Geralt tells all his friends about me.”

Jaskier’s cheeks burn, so he turns around and pulls a pot down from a cabinet before picking up the fire iron and poking at the embers. He throws a handful of wood chips onto the hot spot, and blows a gentle breath on them. They light, and Jaskier piles on some larger twigs. Once there’s a happy blaze crackling, he throws on a large log (that Geralt looked very handsome while chopping) and looks back to Eskel, who’s watching him carefully and petting the spot between the goat’s horns. 

“Breakfast?” he asks weakly, willing Geralt to hurry up. 

Eskel nods his assent, so Jaskier cracks some eggs into a bowl and slices some bread to toast. 

“So. What are you looking for Geralt for?” Jaskier asks conversationally. 

Eskel shrugs. “Haven’t seen him in a while. He didn’t come to Kaer Morhen last winter.” Eskel looks at Jaskier accusingly, and the tips of his ears turn red to match his face. “I heard he was shacking up somewhere around here, and I need help with a contract, anyway.”

Jaskier stirs the eggs more vigorously. “Oh?”

“Pack of drowners; more than I’d like to face alone. Besides, it’s perfect that you’re here, actually, you can watch Li’l Bleater for me.”

“Li’l—excuse me?”

“Li’l Bleater. She’s pregnant, so I don’t exactly want her in the thick of things.”

Jaskier looks at the goat’s rounded stomach more carefully, noting the way she’s starting to bag up. He scratches his neck. “Well, Geralt’s really the one who’s better with animals. I don’t think—”

“Nonsense. You won’t even notice she’s here.”

“Not until she gets placenta all over my floor, I imagine.”

Eskel scoffs. “She’s not due for another couple weeks at least. She’s not nearly wide enough.”

Jaskier can’t see how she could still walk around if she gets wider, but he’ll take Eskel’s words at face value. 

“Besides,” Eskel continues, “she eats the placenta.”

Jaskier feels faint at the idea. He turns around and pokes at the eggs, deciding they’re done. He scrapes them onto three plates and puts toast beside them, feeling proud he didn’t burn anything for once. 

He’s just setting the plates on the table when Geralt bursts in. His face immediately twists into delight at the sight of Eskel, and that dashes any hopes Jaskier had of them not gallivanting off together..

Ah, well. He supposes it will be good for Geralt to get out; he avoids the tiny village and its market like the plague, and Jaskier can’t say he doesn’t know why. 

Even when Jaskier goes by himself, he’s still greeted with whispers and drawn faces, so he can see why Geralt prefers to skip it altogether. If Geralt did go with him and anyone dared to say anything to their faces, Jaskier would be forced to make a scene, and he doesn’t think Geralt would appreciate that very much. 

He jerks his attention back to Geralt and Eskel, where Geralt is leaning down to give Li’l Bleater a hearty scratch, because of course he is. Jaskier plunks himself down in the wooden chair and sullenly eats his eggs, mollified when Geralt’s hand lands on his thigh and starts to rub circles into it with his thumb. 

“—Shouldn’t be gone more than three days,” Geralt is saying as Jaskier bites into his dry toast. 

It tastes like dust. “When are you leaving, then?” 

Geralt looks to Eskel. “As soon as possible,” Eskel answers. 

Jaskier wipes his hands on his pants and stands up, sighing. Geralt shoots him a concerned look, full of questions, and Jaskier is sure he’s two seconds away from saying he doesn’t have to go. Jaskier knows the itch under Geralt’s skin has been intensifying, knows that for all Geralt isn’t meant to stomp from contract to contract, never taking a break, he’s not built for being just a farm hand, either. 

Jaskier shoots him a reassuring smile and tentatively pats Li’l Bleater on the head. “I’m sure we’ll be able to manage without you for a few days.”

Geralt and Eskel stand up, too, and Geralt closes his hand around Jaskier’s wrist. “Don’t burn the place down,” he says. 

A smile twitches at Jaskier’s lips, because that’s proof Geralt is coming back. He’s not going to go out and get the wanderlust from his younger years, he’s going to return to Jaskier. Good thing, too; Jaskier can barely take care of himself, much less the animals Geralt is amassing. Now they’re up to three for sure, and Jaskier is fairly certain he’s seen a dog trailing around behind Geralt. As long as it doesn’t end up at the foot of their bed, Jaskier is content for Geralt to do whatever makes him happy. 

Jaskier glances at Eskel, who’s staring at them both, but he’s not going to let Geralt run off without a kiss. To his surprise, it’s Geralt that leans in to press his lips against Jaskier’s. Geralt pulls back, tugging at his hair and giving Jaskier a bashful grin. 

Jaskier pushes playfully against his chest. “Be safe, you sap.”

Geralt grunts, the tip of his ears turning red, before he drags Eskel out the door. The door slams shut behind them, but not before Jaskier hears Eskel teasing Geralt. “Is that your boyfriend?” he sings.

There’s a solid thwack sound, and a, “I’m just jerking your chain, Geralt,” before they’re out of earshot, and Jaskier turns to Li’l Bleater. 

They stare at each other until she creeps forward to nibble on the edge of Jaskier’s doublet. 

He sighs. He can deal with a chew-happy goats. As long as she keeps her kids inside of her until Eskel returns, they’ll be fine.

read the rest on ao3 here!

[noirewrites]

Shipping Jelsa

The Man of The Moon is an ardent Jelsa shipper. How does he convince his old friend, the Spirit of the Ahtohallan, to ship Jelsa too?

Fandom: Rise of the Guardians + Frozen

Rating: General Audiences

Warnings: No Warnings Apply

Categories: F/M

Pairing: Jack Frost/Elsa and a pair of random ships we mnade on JHaven Discord Server

For @victortky and @ariddletobesolved

Ahtohallan knew one thing for sure.

 Had Manny been on Earth, she would have frozen that round face of his and made it the best  exhibit of her temple.

Then again, his face was too round to be showcased — it would just roll away and knock down the icy pillars, something she was sure she would regret.

 It wasn’t everyday that one of your girls rebuilt your entire house in just a matter of 15 minutes, was it?

 The Mother Spirit had been relaxing in her freshly-reconstructed home, the ice glimmering around beautifully as Nokk rested beside her. It was all calm and serene — Northuldra and Arendelle were at peace, the bridge between humans and magic finally restored. The Spirits were happy to get their missing member back in the family, and Nature was finally at peace.

 No more siren cosplay, no more singing. Just peace, calm, serene —

 A light, cold tingle on her cheeks had made Ahtohallan turn her icy-blue gaze to the entrance. A few autumn leaves fluttered in, as the cool air brushed against her face and tickled her again, her snow-white hair with blue highlights flowing lightly behind her. Giggling, the regal woman waved her pale hands lightly, whispering, “There, there Gale, I know you are happy to have found the final Spirit family member.”

 The stray leaves rapidly circled her head for a moment before sifting out of the place. Sighing, Ahtohallan let her gaze travel around her home again, before settling herself down on the  oh-so cool  ice. Nokk moved over to wrap himself around her and with a soft smile, Ahtohallan rested her head on its belly, petting his mane as he whinnied in delight.

 The soft neighs of Nokk, the light tingles from Gale and the overall peace had relaxed her so much that it wasn’t long before golden sand filtered into the glacier. With a happy smile, the Mother Spirit allowed the dream magic to work upon her, lulling her to a much-needed peaceful sleep.

 A peaceful sleep that was interrupted by the stupid man with white and blonde hair who had decided to ruin her peaceful Spirit life.

 It was first the strong beam of moonlight that hit her eyes. She merely turned around a bit, burying her face in Nokk’s soft and comfortably damp fur.

It hadn’t been two minutes of enjoying the new darkness before —

 “Knock. KnockKnockKnock. Knock. ”

She ignored it, a soft sound of irritation escaping her lips.

 “Knock. KnockKnockKnock. Knock. ” Came the sound again.

Taking in a deep breath, Ahtohallan sang slowly to herself.

“Conceal, don’t feel, don’t let it show— ”

 Only to be interrupted by a cacophony.

“DO YOU WANNA BUILD A SNOWMMAANNNNNN?~~ ”

 Letting out a nearly frustrated growl, the woman pushed herself up and glared at the platinum blonde man who peeked at her from the roof, his cheeky grin reflected in the glacier as multiple images.

 “Your voice doesn’t match Anna’s at all, you know that right, Round Face?”

“Well then My Liege,” Manny chuckled, “ JUST LET ME INNNN~~ ”

 “Ugh! Go away Manny!”

“SHOW YOURSELF GLACIER LAD— HEY! ”

 Ahtohallan could feel Manny’s glare on her through the extra layer of ice she had added on the roof.

“It seems like you have been spending a lot of time with Dyn, haven’t you?” she teased him, a smirk on her face for she knew he couldn’t see her clearly — there was only a sliver of moonlight that was able to pass through the roof.

 “Maybe I am,” came his sing-song voice, before it turned to a teasing lilt and Ahtohallan could imagine the smirk he wore. “I guess someone’s all jelly-jelly~~”

“I AM NOT! UGH!!” Ahtohallan nearly screamed, stomping her foot in frustration.

“Well, well, whatever,” Manny said nonchalantly, “Aren’t you being a lot in Liv’s company too, Glacier Lady?”

 The Mother Spirit glared at the roof, attempting to burn a hole into it from her anger. However, knowing it wouldn’t work, she let out an exasperated sigh, waving her hands around to melt the additional layer of ice she had created not a few moments ago.

“I would rather prefer for you to state your business fast and scurry off to your weekly twirling around Earth, rather than eat my brains for your nightly snack. Come down here and then, let’s get this over with.”

 Moonlight beamed into the icy premises of the glacier, and specks shimmered in it, slowly coalescing together to reveal the form of a tall man, his posture regal and wisdom shining on his visage.

 Well, the wisdom lost its lustre thanks to that cheeky grin that was stretched on his lips.

 Ahtohallan gawked for a minute, before lifting a shaking finger at the man, “You—you—”

“Yes me?” the man, Manny drawled, wiggling his eyebrows a little.

 Ahtohallan took a deep breath, then nearly screamed, “WHY THE ICE ARE YOU IN AGNARR’S FORM?”

“Umm, ‘cause you look like Iduna?” he said, shrugging.

 “But—But that’s how I actually look!” Ahtohallan said, clearly exasperated. “You are supposed to look like a tiny, round old man! Not like, like—”

“A dashing, handsome royalty?” Manny offered, smirking, only to sober up at the icy glare he received.

 “UGH!” Ahtohallan harrumphed and stomped her foot. “You are just...just incorrigible!”

“Is that a compliment? I guess I will take it as a compliment.”

 Ahtohallan facepalmed and then asked in a frustrated voice, “What are you here for again?”

 “Oh right!” Manny said. “I heard you just got a female fifth spirit, one with ice powers?”

“I did. So? Is it wrong?”

“No! Everything you do is right, my liege,” he winked and then continued, “I have a male spirit, and what a funny coincidence that he has ice powers too! So, I was just going to propose that—”

 “No.”

“But why?”

 “Because your shipping attempts have always resulted in disastrous consequences, Manny.”

“I beg to differ! And I swear this ship would be the best!”

 “And why do you think so?” Ahtohallan asked, checking her nails.

“Well, they have cryokinesis powers to start with.”

 Ahtohallan looked up at the man, her eye twitching a bit. “So?”

“SO?” Manny said out loud, his jaw dropping open. “You ask so? C’mon Glacier Lady, they have freaking cryokinesis powers! As in ice powers! I-C-E ICE! Have these confines frosted that beautiful brain of yours? You should come to the Moon someday to get some fresh air!”

 “Is that—” Ahtohallan spoke slowly, her voice dangerously low, “Is that some weird way of yours to ask me out?”

Manny started tapping his fingers nervously, “I guess?” he squeaked nervously before masking the embarrassing tone with a cough. “Well, that’s not the only reason I have for shipping them, you see.”

 “Oh really?” The Mother Spirit raised a perfectly shaped eyebrow at him. “Enlighten me then, my old friend.”

 Furnishing a scroll from the inner pocket of his coat, Manny presented it to the Ice Spirit. She took it with confusion and opened it, her eyes going wide at the beautiful calligraphy etched onto the yellow parchment. 

 ------------------------------------------ It’s a very long fic, so I am just going to link the AO3 site here! Plus, you can find the pact that Manny is talking about on this Tumblr post :D

[monstermaster13]

Oats and Corey in…

The Magical Mall Adventure.

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

If there’s one duo that very much loves adventures, it’s Corey and Oats. The covid microbe and the lovable crossdressing equine went everywhere together and saw many things, they were inseparable and for many reasons one reason being that they were the best of friends and shared many things with each-other.

Every day they bonded and played together, being funny and quirky and having all kinds of fun. One morning…the duo were playing webkinz and having fun when Mel told them they were going on a magical mall journey which excited them. They had morning tea before-hand and had just had their breakfast before and had gotten dressed with Oats wearing his best pink dress and Corey wearing his favorite bat shirt and trousers.

“We’re going on an exciting mall adventure this afternoon.”

“A mall adventure?”

“Oh yes, come on…”

Mel instructed the duo to put on their shoes and coats, which they did as both of them got ready. An hour later a magical floating van materialized outside and the duo followed Mel over to it and stepped inside before putting on their seat belts, the van floated in the air for a few minutes before blasting off and taking them down the road, and all the way over to Glenfield Mall.

When they got there they jumped out of the van and made their way to the entrance where they went for a ride on the escalator, when the escalator stopped they jumped off and made their arrival at their first destination which was Toyworld, that’s where they headed down the plush toy section and saw a koala with expressive blue eyes, her name was Karli. Karli befriended Corey and hopped into the basket.

Which was followed by two Sylvanian families horses or rather ponies, one had brown fur and a black mane and the other had white hair and silver fur, the two ponies saw a potential mother figure in Oats as they trotted over to him and whinnied. ‘Hi, we’re ponies in need of a mommy, will you be our mommy?.’ ‘Oh my goodness, you’re both so pretty and precious.’ ‘My name is Vera and this is my bestie Gizelle, we love to neigh and look beautiful…we like to style each-other’s hair and we think you’re beautiful as well.’

The duo hopped in the basket, as one more addition turned up, that addition was a teenie ty unicorn named Fantasmo, Fantasma whinnied and examined his new owner as he saw Oats and felt he’d be perfect. He galloped over and jumped in the basket as they left Toyworld and headed to Whitcoulls where they picked up a TY unicorn named Fantasia and adopted her along with a puff-ball unicorn and a jelly themed unicorn.

They explored Whitcoulls and took on numerous forms and even had lunch at KFC with Mel, and after lunch the duo stopped over at Countdown and Oats got himself some iced belgium biscuits. After that they played around in the playground, Oats saw some pony-girls trying on dresses in one of the fashion shops and joined in, posing in supermodel poses.

Corey realized just how fun this was and participated in a number of fun games and even taking a look at the selection, when it was time to go back home they both followed Mel out of the mall and headed to the van, they hopped in the van and headed back home.

“That certainly was a fun adventure.”

“Sure was.”

“Come on…let’s go home.”

“Yaaaay!”

The van took off and when they arrived at their home in Nile Road they decided to relax and have fun, a couple of hours later Oats inducted the new unicorns into the family with a special ceremony. They had fun all through the afternoon, and even more so when they had a sing song session with Jeemo.

For the evening they had fun, relaxed and had dinner…and they all had a wonderful time. After dinner they relaxed and when bedtime came around they all snuggled up. But that is not all, stay tuned for the 2022 Halloween spooktacular, Bojack the Cyldesdale's introduction story, the Crazy Costume Caper and Celiac's Favorite Thing and more coming up.

[ask-cockanaya-repository]

Poke-ranch ch1

Mel is a Pokemon breeder. She breeds with Pokemon. (But she also takes good care of them and makes sure all their needs are met.)

Kay — 08/26/2018 "Well sir, yes, we do offer that service, even though it's not advertised." The man says something across the counter quietly and gestures to the Gardevoir behind him, which steps forward. Mel, proprietor of the Poké-Greens Recreational Center, just on the outskirts of Nimbasa City, steps around her desk and squats down to greet the guest. "Hey there! Mind if I get a look at the problem?" The Gardevoir nods and shifts some of its skirt flaps to the side. "Well, that certainly gives me a good picture. You head in back, enjoy the facilities, and I'll catch up with you later, alright?" She smiles and stands, gesturing for the empathic Pokémon to head through the curtained door. As it does so, she returns to the desk to get the trainer's personal info before sending him off.

Scanning the info, she "Hm!"s satisfactorily before setting the form back down and looking out the window towards some of the Pokémon currently at her facility, enjoying the outdoor playsets and each other's company. Her own personal Mudsdale is being ridden by several varieties of electric rodent as he slowly canters around the property. Just the sight of the Pokémon relaxing and relieving stress makes her so happy she started this business, she almost zones out too much to notice another customer entering with Pokémon in tow. Johnaya — 08/26/2018 "See! I told you this was the place." The first woman says as she enters the store, holding the door open for her compatriot to follow behind. Both of them were wearing pretty sporty gear. All they were missing were two pairs of pom-poms to complete the ensemble.

"I told you I knew that! I'd just never been before." She playfully stuck her tongue out at her friend as she stepped inside. Beside her was a graceful looking Rapidash, the fire mane running down its neck flowing gently, the sound of his hooves clacking against the tiled floor. Following closely behind him was a much smaller fire horse, a Ponyta to be precise.

As the girls made it to the counter they smiled broadly at the owner and casually leaned against the counter. "Hi!" The first one said. "I'm Carly and this is Emily." She casually gestured to her friend who waved eagerly, handing her trainer card to Carly. "We heard that you just, like, opened up this place to take care of Pokemon! That's super cool." A small smirk crossed her face as she mouthed 'take care of' with her mouth while air quoting, waggling her eyebrows while Emily giggled silently behind her. When she finished speaking she stood there for a few seconds before realizing she was being rude, putting both her and Emily's trainer cards down onto the counter and touching her forehead. "Oh duh! I totally forgot to ask your name. My bad." Kay — 08/26/2018 The hoof clopping drags her out of her reverie, and she turns her attention across the counter to engage her customers. Busy day. When they imply she 'just opened' the place she mutters "I mean, it's been a few months..." but the cheer ladies just keep going. She almost manages to speak up when there's the brief silence, but Carly puts their cards down too quick. Finally, she says something with a little laughter in her voice. "I'm Mel, nice to meet ya. I guess I do... take care of them while they're here, but it's more of an R&R thing than it is caretaking. Although I am part of the daycare network..." She trails off, looking to the side. "Anyways! I see you've got these fine equines out of their balls already, if they've got any. They here to de-stress?" Johnaya — 08/27/2018 "Oh." Carly looks at Mel for a second before getting pushed aside by Emily, a small whinny coming from the Ponyta as it jumps out of the way. The Rapidash is much more casual about it, not needing to worry about getting knocked over by the rambunctious girls.

Emily plants her hands down on the counter and smiles at Mel once more, her ponytail bouncing in the air. "Yeah! Sort of anyway. See while we would want to leave both of them here little Dodge here isn't feeling up for it. He's never been to a daycare before." The Ponyta lets out a small, embarrassed sounding neigh and is gently prodded by the Rapidash. Carly lets out a coo and crouches down to pet at the Ponyta's head, careful of his firey mane.

"We're planning on leaving Charger here..." She gestures to the Rapidash who has since picked up his head, shaking his head at mention of his name, flames nipping at the air. "but I just wanted a little overview of what you were gonna do! Carly is the one who knew about this place and I don't believe half of the stuff she usually tells me." A dull thud is heard followed by an ouch from Emily as Carly lightly punched her shin. "So what are you gonna do to our big guy?" Kay — 08/27/2018 Mel follows their antics with one brow up but perks up and stands straight when addressed. She loves talking about her business. "Well, that depends! Has he been getting into lots of tough battles? Have your lives had a lot of interpersonal drama lately? Do you know what he enjoys doing? I make each Pokémon's stay here as fun and/or relaxing for /them/ as I can, based on what you can tell me and what I can get from them!" She grins. "If you look outside you can see plenty of the current guests enjoying the playground, but we've got plenty of other things indoors, like the bathhouse." She doesn't mention how much she had to save to get a place this nice built. That's for her to suffer quietly.

Mel leans forward, crossing her arms with her elbows on the counter. "Fella like Charger could get plenty of excercise if he needs it, but I've got a nice bath and a comfy bed lined up for him for sure. Other than that, it's up to him and you, really!" She tilts her head a little and closes her eyes with a smile as she finishes up her speech. Gotta look enthusiastic! Johnaya — 08/27/2018 Emily looks stunned during all of Mel's spiel. She hadn't expected there'd be that much of a variety of stuff here. Man these Pokemon had it great. If only she could stay here too! Idly she wonders about asking if Mel had a position open when they come back but, for now, she just returns the smile with vigor. "Well that sounds pretty great! I think the big boy could use a nice, relaxing bath." A nicker comes from Charger as he nudges against her shoulder, causing her to chuckle. "Sorry! Big man." Charger shakes his head at her and she can't help but roll her eyes.

Meanwhile Carly has finished comforting and loving Dodge, standing up and smiling at Mel again. For some reason now it's pretty noticeable that she has a decent pair of tits. Probably because her shirt was clinging to them now, having started sweating a bit from touching a fire horse. "Yeah that seems like a lot of fun! Just... take care of him however you want then." She flashes a little wink at Mel, ignoring the annoyed sigh from Emily, and licks her lips. "He is a big man and could use as much as you've got. If you know what I mean.~"

Emily's sigh got louder and she spoke up. "Ugh. Okay. So. Rumor has it." She stares directly at Carly when she says that. "That you get a little... physical with some of the Pokemon." She stood for a moment before realizing what she said, covering her mouth. "Oh my god I'm sorry. I shouldn't have, like, accused you of that." Kay — 08/27/2018 Man, these two are energetic. Mel stands with her weight on one leg and a hand on her hip, mildly amused at Carly's continued innuendo. Until Emily panics, at which point she shakes her head calmly and raises her other hand. "It's fine! Y'wanna know how that rumor got started?" She pauses just a moment, looking between the two of them before continuing. "It's because I totally do. What worse stress is there than sexual frustration? ESPECIALLY for battle Pokémon! I don't advertise it, y'know, so the kiddies don't see or anything, but if Charger here is underperforming because he's too horny to think straight, well... He'll be thinking straight by the time you pick him up." Her demeanor remains steady and hospitable, almost too much so for what she's talking about. "Think he needs it?" Johnaya — 08/27/2018 Emily is immediately relieved when Mel doesn't freak out at being accused of fucking Pokemon, which is good. It would've been awful getting thrown out before Charger even got a bit of relaxing in. At the question though she pauses and thinks, looking over her companion and humming. "Uh..."

Carly interjects before Emily can think of a reply, unable to help giggling to herself. "Well of course! He's pretty horny from what I see." Unsurprisingly she's pointing right at Charger's horn. He is entirely unamused and lets out an annoyed neigh before tapping his front foot against the ground, looking directly at Mel. Another neigh and whinny come from him as he tries to indicate that, yes, he's a bit pent up. "Oh, uh, wow. I guess he is though. Jeez." Carly blushes and rubs the back of her head, feeling a tad bad for keeping him so pent up.

With the awkwardness in the air the two of them are a bit less energetic though are nowhere near what someone might call calm. The both of them were blushing, wondering which one was going to speak next, before Carly talks once more. "I guess he does so... If it wouldn't be too much to ask can you like, help him out and all? How long do you think that'll take? Should we just, like, leave him here the whole day while we walk Dodge around?" She idly wondered if maybe their Ponyta might need some help too but elected to not bring it up. Maybe when they come back. Kay — 08/27/2018 "Leave 'im as long as you think is appropriate! Like I said, I'm on the daycare network, so you just come back after however long and depending on how many services I had to provide, we determine the charge then. Obviously if you only give me five minutes we're not going to get anything done and I'll just have to charge you for the hassle, but give me a few hours, or a few days, and I can do my job juuust fine."

Mel makes her way 'round the counter and gives all four of her guests their first unobstructed view. Tight work jeans show off her wide hips and partially hug the crack of her round, moderately large ass, as well as displaying her decently developed leg muscles. Her top is a light red button-up, tied off at the bottom to show just a bit of her tummy and give you a little tease of her treasure trail. Her hair is dark brown, and tied into two large bunches just above her neck. And right now she's got a classic curved bill hat and thick gardening gloves on.

She walks the length of Charger's body, keeping a hand on him. Nice, tight musculature, but she can feel the tension. Oh yeah, he needs... 'release' for sure. She gets to the rear flank and just barely stops herself from getting a peek at some of his goods, instead patting his thigh and turning towards his trainers. "Sound good? There's a little sheet there on the counter to fill out, if you've got no protests. Contact information and any notes you think I need." Johnaya — 08/27/2018 When Mel steps around the counter the two of them can't help but stare. Okay now they were definitely jealous of Charger. Damn that girl had a set of hips on her. Carly can't help but lean down a bit when Mel walks past to get a nicer look at her rear, getting a small thwap on her own for her troubles from Emily. Charger whinnies playfully and looks at Mel as well, gently tapping his hooves on the ground. Dodge, who had been staying out of this for the most part, comes over to nudge against Mel's hips. No wonder she opened up this place. Pokemon just seem very comfortable around her.   After getting spanked Carly figures she should try to not be so lewd and take care of the form, her own bubble butt wobbling as she steps next to the counter and gets to writing, putting Charger's ball up on the counter.

"Well you've got no protests from me! If the big guy needs it, feel free to do whatever." Emily smiles and blushes a bit, trying not to think too much about the whole thing. Mostly so she didn't get her mind stuck on cock. "He loves spicy foods and really likes the base of his horn rubbed and scratched at." She hums as she tries to think of anything else before shrugging. "I think that's everything! We'll see you in a bit Charger, okay?" Emily walks over to the Rapidash and gently pets his side before running her hand gently up and down his neck, pleased neighs coming from him. Kay — 08/27/2018 Mel gives him another pat on the side of his butt before giving Dodge a little friendly rub on the snout. "If one of you wants my number, you can take one of my cards there. Alright Charger, make yourself at home!" Another butt pat, this time motivationally while pointing at the larger door leading to the back. "Head right in there and I'll be in in a minute to get you all washed up." She goes behind her counter to take the pokéball and give it a little lable. There's gotta be some trick to it, but Mel has never been able to figure out how trainers always remember which ball is which. That done, she stuffs it in a cabinet with the rest and puts her hands on her hips while she waits for the customers to leave. Johnaya — 08/28/2018 A pleased whinny comes from Charger as he nonchalantly trots past Mel, looking at the door briefly before looking back at his trainer. Emily just smiles and waves to her equine Pokemon who shakes his head happily before finally stepping through. The girls, meanwhile, finish up with all the stuff they need before saying goodbye to Mel and wishing her luck with Charger. Dodge canters after they while neighing, his small flame mane billowing behind him.

Once through the door Charger doesn't know exactly what he should be doing. It wasn't often he was on his own without either Emily or Carly around. The environment wasn't what he was used to either. Or maybe he'd just forgotten what a place like this looked like. It had been ages since he'd been to any sort of daycare. The smell of other Pokemon was on the air and he wanted to go meet them. But he did get told to wait in the room. He lets out a loud whinny and taps his hoof to the ground, trotting aimlessly around the room, waiting for Mel to show up. Kay — 09/05/2018 Charger isn't waiting for long, Mel brushes aside the curtain nonchalantly and gives him another quick once-over visually to make sure he's not wearing any collars or other such things. The hallway they're in has tons of hooks and stands for freeing Pokémon from any clothing or accessories their humans put on them. There's even a couple of pegs for saddles to sit on, with one approximately Mudsdale-sized one already there. Satisfied that she's not missing something, she puts a guiding hand on his shoulder and walks him in farther, directly through a perpindicular hallway into a tiled washroom, with a couple of differently mounted sprayers and different scrubbing and washing tools for many shapes and sizes of animal. Mel gently ruffles Charger's coat with her fingers. Rapidashes have a very short, tightly packed coat of fur.

"Hmm, don't seem particularly gunked up, just general sweat, dirt, n' oil. First thing's first I'll get this hair of yours cleaner than the day you evolved. Then we'll..." Her eyes trail in the direction of his crotch before snapping back. "Get you situated to have a nice relaxing time. How's that sound?" She gives him a firm pat. "Now I know your mane isn't too amenable to water but you're no Charmander, just sit still and I'll try to spritz it as little as possible. You won't be losing any HP." She gestures to the middle of the room, skipping over the switches for any of the wall mounted sprayers and instead grabbing a good old fashioned spray hose. Johnaya — 09/08/2018 He definitely looked grateful when Mel stepped inside, even if it hadn’t been that long. A small neigh comes from him as Mel brings him deeper into the facility. Feeling her hand on his side makes him shake his head gently, following along with her. Seeing the new location has him curious, taking a few steps forward to sniff at the large saddle.

Hearing her mention water has him snort and bend his ears back. But he listens more before getting rowdy. Another whinny comes from him as he gently nudges her, trotting to the center of the room. His tail swishes gracefully as he watches her in curiosity, letting out a small snort. Kay — 09/10/2018 Mel gets right to it, starting with Charger's neck she takes a coarse brush to his fur along with the spray nozzle and works out all the grime. She doesn't actually even spray right at the base of his mane to avoid irritating him, instead spraying lower and brushing up towards that fur while keeping her hand flat so the flames don't lick at her if she can help it. She moves down the neck and across the back like this until she gets to his flank on one side, then switches to the other side and does the same. Working top to bottom she gets most of his sides this way, until she's done both sides and she stops, letting her grip off the spray handle and seemingly considering something. "Hey big guy, uh... Can you lift your tail for me?" Johnaya — 09/10/2018 At first Charger was worried about getting cleaned, mostly because of water but also because it was just strange. Sure he’d been brushed before but never this thoroughly. It was surprisingly relaxing. He lets out a pleased neigh and shakes his head from side to side, gently rubbing his snout against Mel when she’s close. That isn’t for long though as she’s soon along his sides, scrubbing them down.

Her question, and trepidation, has him look a bit confuse. He turns his head to look at her, cocking it to the side, before letting out a little whinny and tapping his foot. Turning back around his tail slowly lifts, flames licking at the air, as his nethers are exposed.

He spreads his haunches a little to let Mel get a better view but it really wasn’t necessary. As a horse like Pokémon his genitals were huge. His testicles are, individually, about as big as a melon and his sheathe is thick and deep. Up from that is a bulging piece of darkened flesh followed by a fat, doughy anus that was a little larger than a donut or poffin, completely smooth and twitching gently. Kay — 09/10/2018 Once the tail is pointed straight up she gives him a thumbs up while she continues, getting his flanks and the whole area around the ass on either side. It doesn't even slow her down any to stare at his hole for most of it and make an impressed whistle. What does slow her down a little is how much the smell of his sweat wafts out from there, which she takes a few deep breaths of and feels some stirring in her loins. She never sprays any of it though. "Hah... whew, must get real sweaty around the back here havin' a tail made of fire, huh?" She lets the water die down and sets her brush down on the floor. She also puts her hat on a shelf nearby next to some cleaning products, for some reason.

"Well, no reason to let that stay dirty, right?" Hand on his flank, she stares down that horse poffin. "Brush would be too rough though, and I think the sprayer'll splash up and hit the tail. Gonna have to get in there myself I guess." Her gloves finally come off and the first thing Charger will feel is Mel's tough hands on either one of his ass cheeks, followed by a warm, soft tongue on his taint. Mel's eyelids flutter even while closed as she tastes the combo of dried and fresh sweat along with the smell being less than an inch away from her nose now. In fact, as she drags her tongue upwards her nose drags across the outside of, then briefly dips into, Charger's anus, and she can't stop herself from groaning deep in her throat. Johnaya — 09/10/2018 He feels a little strange when Mel starts caressing his flanks and back end. Mostly because it wasn’t often anyone ever touched him around there. Sometimes Emily or Carly but they always apologized. Not Mel though. Charger wasn’t complaining though. Her hands felt nice, a small whinny coming from him at her question. He lets out a little snort as he watches her move around the room, readjusting his stance when she’s behind him once more. Then he feels her dive in.

He throws his head back and lets out a loud neigh, kicking his foot against the ground. It was a strange sensation but it felt so nice. His pucker twitches more as Mel’s face is right against it and his taint. Wanting to help, and because it felt nice, he bends his legs a little and thrusts backwards, burying Mel’s face deeper into his taint. Another pleased neigh and nicker comes from him, his balls lifting up briefly in arousal. Kay — 09/10/2018 "MPH" Charger, with his horse strength, makes Mel move her foot back to brace herself when her whole face gets slammed with asshole. For just a moment she stays there and breathes it in. "Mm, careful, I still gotta breath air!" Her tongue starts at the underside of his donut and swirls around the outside of it counterclockwise. Once she's gotten the whole circumference of it twice she moves in, swiping her tongue into the hole itself and doing the same thing before she just digs in, lips pressed against the fat horse hole to get her tongue as deep as she can, swirling it in circles. Below, she's pitched a pretty visible bulge down the side of one of her pant legs, the tip of which is starting to get slightly darker with dampness. Johnaya — 09/10/2018 He can’t help but let out a little neigh and look back at Mel when she pulls away, pulling back some himself and making sure she was alright. Sometimes he forgets his own strength. When she’s visibly okay he swishes his hips back and forth teasingly. He knows that she’s cleaning him up but he can’t help but enjoy it. He wonders, briefly, if he’s supposed to and if she was enjoying it as well. That was until she dove back into his hole. He lets out a deep, needy sounding neigh as he starts to push back again. This time he’s very careful, barely moving himself back, just thrusting enough to help Mel out. His own shaft twitches in the sheathe, starting to slowly push its way out. Kay — 09/13/2018 She almost wishes she had the mouth diameter to fit the whole anus in her mouth, but she'll settle for just giving him a deep, thorough butt eating. She just keeps going at it, until a few minutes later she pulls off with her lips slick with her own spit and butt sweat, panting steadily to recover from only being able to huff horse musk. "Th... There, that oughta do that." She's actually sweating a little herself, the heat of the flames just above her weren't quite negligible it seems. "Not done yet though." Not even bothering to fully stand up, she leans back in and gets another slurp of Charger's taint before descending and, partially accidentally, smothering her whole face in the horse's sack. It's huge, of course with the huge nuts it has to be, but she hadn't realized just how large until it was blocking her vision in every direction if she didn't turn her head. "... This is gonna take a bit." Is all she says before taking a long tongue drag of nut sweat and moaning into his sack. Johnaya — 09/17/2018 When Mel pulls away again Charger reflexively twitches his saliva slicked anus, already feeling it dry, slowly, from his fire tail. It’s a strange but pleasant experience all around but nowhere near what Mel was doing before. He almost wishes she would dive back in, nearly thrusting his hips back, but stops himself. After all this was just for him to get cleaned right? Maybe she didn't know just how good it felt to him. He ignores that thought as she does go back against his genitals, letting out a needy whinny as her face nestles into his balls. The huge orbs sway gently from the motion and plap against her cheeks. Unable to help it he shakes his hips lightly and makes his nuts wipe against her face, another pleased neigh coming from as her tongue gets involved once more. She was just so good at this. Kay — 09/27/2018 It doesn't take long at all for Mel to decide she's not going to pretend to try actually cleaning this whole sack with just her comparatively tiny tongue, but she still lets herself have a few moments of fun. Both hands grasp the other side of one heavy horse huevo each and mash them against her face, feeling comfort in the heat. She opens her mouth and with a bit of suction gets a whole mouthful of thick sack skin, running over it with her tongue before letting it loudly 'pop!' out. Panting, she drops the nuts and pulls away slightly, maneuvering forward and around the sack now.

"Sorry big guy, even horny as we both are I just don't have the time for that, but I'll give you a little bit more before I finish your proper washin'!" Once on the other side, being careful not to slip on the wet floor, she takes a tongue drag of the seam between the nuts from the bottom working upwards until she gets to where it connects to charger's sheath, the bottom of the base of his cock bumping against her scalp. Her heart thumps at the prospect of it, but as a professional she knows she's got to go get some things done before she can tend to him properly. Her tongue continues dragging upwards, making her tilt her head back and get a good look at the dick above. Once she gets the taste of actual cock she withdraws her tongue, remoistening it, so she can go back and lap at the split between cock and sheath, then move on to all of the wrinkles and crevices on the sheath itself. Johnaya — 09/30/2018 Okay so she did know that it was making him aroused. That meant he didn't need to worry about trying to rut against her or whatnot. Feeling her suck on his sack skin is an odd but pleasant sensation, Charger letting out a few small whinnies when she pulls away. His nuts bounce briefly before drooping in the now wet skin, lurching up for a second as he flexes his shaft. He just about presses against her again before realizing she was going even lower, feeling her tongue against his sheathe. Another series of pleased whinnies comes out and he can't help but thrust a little, his shaft bouncing against her head. It was now starting to fully come out rather than just droop out, throbbing and pulsing as it pushed from his sheathe, almost seeming too big for the dark skin. The flare swelled momentarily as pre-cum drooled from the tip, Charger changing his stance to hopefully prevent himself from humping forward. At least until Mel was ready for it of course. Kay — 09/30/2018 Mel doesn't spend too long licking all the sweat out of those tough to reach spots, pulling away a few moments later and quickly picking the sprayer back up. Without warning she begins stroking his cock while spraying it with water, moving her hand to rub different parts of it every few seconds. Heroically resisting her desire to place her mouth at the end of his cock and suckle while she strokes with both hands, she gets the whole thing wiped off about as quick as she can before doing his torso's underside and then moving to his nuts, spraying them down- making sure to point downwards when she switches to the backside so as not to splash up at his tail- and then getting to work with a nearby towel to wipe them off. "Alright! Sorry for the tease but I want these /nice and full/ for later. A quick dry and then I'm going to have you wait for me in my room."

Standing back up, dignity only slightly marred by the horse sweat on her face, she grabs a hair dryer out of an electronics-safe little cabinet, plus another towel, to start lightly drying his fur the same order she washed it all in. A few minutes later she smacks him playfully on the ass and moves towards the hallway. "GLISCOR!" she cups her hands around her mouth and yells for one of her pokemon, who swoops into the room seconds later. "Show this lad to my room for me, will you? I gotta fill the feeders and greet that Gardevoir we got in earlier, she's probably a mite nervous." Gliscor snickers while Mel leaves, waiting for Charger to follow down the hallway. Johnaya — 10/04/2018 The sudden hand on his shaft makes Charger shake his head and whinny, looking back at Mel as she worked. He also resists his desire to thrust into her hand as she works. He wouldn't want to knock her over or anything. The warm water rolling over his genitals feels strange. Not just because he wasn't used to getting clean but he wasn't used to water anywhere near him most of the time. It was surprisingly soothing though. Hearing her comment about his fullness has him essentially roll his horse eyes at her, swinging his head again and nickering. He takes a few steps forward when she finishes up and nearly gets knocked over by the large bat like Pokemon, kicking his legs as he jumps back. Charger watches it circle around him for a few seconds before nodding to it and following along, the sound of his hooves echoing through the hall. At least it was spacious but he figures it has to be. No way could a human sized building house a Tyranitar or Rhydon. Luckily it lets him walk how he wants, head held high and tail flame out. Kay — 10/14/2018 Even though he's a bit of a smaller one Gliscor's still pretty damn big, but the halls here are made for pretty much any land-bound 'Mon short of a Snorlax to be able to move through, so when he hugs the ceiling there's still plenty of space for their guest to follow underneath. It's not exactly hard to find the right room, but Glissy (His nickname is Glissy) gets Charger there and holds the curtain open while he steps inside. Then, job finished, he swoops away again. There's a bed in here, but it almost feels like it's not a bedroom, what with the bed being big and having no blankets. Looks like it's only got what it needs to be used for love making. There's plenty of other features in here as well, of course, that make it pretty hard to mistake for anything other than a fuck shack. Toys of myriad shapes sparsely litter the floor as well as several shelves. Cushions are everywhere. There are multiple different sizes of what look like milkers for both breast and cock. For not advertising the service directly, there sure is a lot invested here into bringing Pokémon orgasms to all in need. And potentially some who aren't. Mel skedaddles off to get working, but it's a lucky thing she knows the work by heart and muscle memory, because the whole time her mind is elsewhere, specifically somewhere beneath Charger. She greets the Gardevoir and gets her situated in a private room for her nervousness, fills the food dispensers in the trees, under the log, in the water, and all the others before stowing all the food in the shed where it belongs. She smiles at, waves to, and pets a lot of the guests, making sure they're happy and have found a playmate they're getting along with. This takes... Longer than she would like, but she's not going to half-ass it, damn it, she loves this job. Finally, once she coerces the affectionate Linoone off of her shoulders, she makes her way back inside. With only a short detour to change clothes, she finally makes it to what she calls "the breeding room" and slips less-than-gracefully through the curtain.

"Alright hot stuff, sorry for the wait, but... How do I look?" Mel's swapped into some sort of Rapidash themed kink gettup, with a headband on that gives her horse ears and a cute, small horn. Her tits are hugged into tight spandex the color of Charger's fur, with Mel's hard dick and heavy sack also making notable bulges against her tummy and groin respectively. In the rear she's brushed the thong-like part aside to insert a buttplug with a tail on it that's clearly supposed to be "fire" themed but really it's just made of orange, red, and yellow fur. Maybe most silly of all however is that she's got on some sort of boot, also colored appropriately, that makes her tip-toe on hooves. Her legs are wobbling a little from balancing. "... Really silly right? I laughed at myself in the mirror a bit, but I figured I bought it I might as well let an actual Rapidash have a laugh at me in it." Johnaya — 10/15/2018 Having a Gliscor flying above him, even if temporarily, was a bit unnerving. Every so often he looked up to see a purple and black blur dart around in the air before returning to its previous position. He always wondered what it'd be like to fly, feeling his hooves hit the ground heavier for a moment. If only they'd found a Mega Stone to let him turn into some sort of winged horse. The idea makes him nicker gently as he walks through the curtain into the room, watching as Glissy flies off, letting out a whinny of appreciate before he fully disappears. He's careful as he walks around, staring at all the weird objects littered about the room, his eyes moving onto a set of candles sitting on a nearby shelf. Only then they start to move. He gives a small snort and the three Litwicks that had been sleeping in the room scamper off. Not knowing what else to do for the time being he just lays down on the mat sized bed, careful with his mane and tail.

He doesn't have to wait long before Mel returns and the sight makes him whinny again. It almost sounded like a laugh. Standing up from the bed he walks over to her and nudges against her shoulder with his snout before moving a bit to the side, nudging against the bulge in her suit. His eyes look at hers and he takes a step back, turning to the side to show off his flank again. Even though she'd only just gotten back his shaft is drooping out of his sheathe about as much as it was before. Regardless of how silly the outfit might have been he was still horny. Kay — 10/16/2018 Mel's bottom lip slips between her teeth and the tail-plug swishes just a bit from her asshole clenching. A few ungraceful clops later and she's squatting beside him, hefting his tip in one hand while the other gently squishes a testicle. "Damn... Heavy, both of these. Dense, I think." She says this as she squeezes him just below the head. While her second hand moves to the other nut, she slides in so his cock is resting on her shoulder and she licks, smooches, and sucks the side of it while it hardens, her hands simultaneously giving him a ball massage. "Mmmmah, I bet you'd be real popular with other 'Dashes. You've been nothin' but a gentleman, and I'm very certain you're packing extra heat even for a fire type. Above average at least." Leaning back, she runs her tongue from the middle of his length to the end, making a small 'O' with her mouth and suckles on his urethra, swabbing at it with her tongue. Soon enough however the growing tool pushes too far out and she has to duck out of the way, returning to how she was before for a moment until she ungracefully plants her face right in the valley of his nuts again with a moan. Johnaya — 10/23/2018 He lets out a surprised but pleased whinny when Mel's suddenly at his side and fondling his shaft and balls. He's careful not to move too much so he doesn't knock her over but can't fully help it. A few little thrusts come from him, sawing his cock against her shoulder, while she massages his balls. That quickly stops though when he feels her move around, sliding her tongue along the underside, before finally sucking on his tip. A deep neigh bellows from him and he pushes against her face briefly, flare squishing to her nose. As it keeps growing though she steps to the side and Charger is left with his cock swelling bigger and bigger. A needy ache forms in his nuts and he whinnies, tapping his front hoof while his shaft throbs. Having her motorboat him was definitely very nice but he wanted more. Maybe not right away since this was so enjoyable but he was weakly humping forward, inadvertantly whapping her face with his testicles. Kay — 10/29/2018 If anybody were watching, they'd probably be concerned with how long Mel stays in that sack, but getting positive feedback from her partner keeps her licking and sucking on it for a good while, occasionally cupping her mouth around the curvature of one nut. She doesn't have the time or patience to try to fit these suckers in her mouth right /now/... but maybe if his trainers take a while to come back. By the time she pulls away Charger's reached his full length and she whistles. She closes one eye, leans back, and makes a rough measurement with her arms from a distance. "Mmm... Yeah. I can manage that. And I think I got..." She stands, although she nearly falls over trying to balance on the silly hooves, and moves over to a nearby drawer of what seems to be a filing cabinet, although it has the same carved wood country-girl's-idea-of-a-boudoir look as everything else. It only takes her a moment to locate what she's looking for, pulling out a condom that would be comically oversized for a human. Branded of course with a few descriptors like [TYPE RESISTING], [FLARED, SHEATHE], and [LARGE] and apparently acquired from 'Ranger Union Surplus'. Definitely not typical Pokémart merchandise. She's none too patient getting it open, but her hands are very precise rolling it over Charger's tip. "Take a step forward for me?" Johnaya — 10/29/2018 Charger was still humping the air gently all through Mel's enthusiastic suckling session. It was agonizing just feeling himself get harder and harder while she worked on him until, finally, he reached his full length, letting out a deep nicker. When she pulls away his hips still pump, his balls now swinging freely, but he tries to hold steady when he notices her checking him out. He can't help but let out a whinny when she stumbles, stepping to the side. The motion causes his cock to swing back and forth enticingly, flared tip just barely rubbing against his soft underbelly. He almost doesn't notice what she's doing until she's back and slipping something cool and slick on his shaft. He cranes his head to look down at her for a moment before shaking it. Slowly he steps forward, feeling his flare get squished momentarily before the cool object practically snaps around it. A startled neigh comes from him but he doesn't pull back. He had no doubts about Mel knowing what she was doing. Plus he had to trust her after all that time she spent with his balls. He takes another step forward, to help with whatever she was doing, and waits for her to finish up before doing anything other than swish his tail. Kay — 10/29/2018 Mel holds the condom in such a way that it rolls down the Pokémon's shaft when he moves, getting most of the length just from his stepping forward. She rolls the rest down until it runs out just a touch in front of his sheath. "Ah! Perfect!" Grinning pervertedly, she hefts the shaft, now protected, with both hands and enjoys the heft of it. "Whew. This is... my favorite part of the job. Come on!" Leading him with one hand still on his dick, she moves over to what looks like just two sturdy wooden poles with slots on them, until she takes two metal bars out and slides one through the top hole of both and the other just a couple holes lower.

With a wink at Charger, she tugs on her tail and grunts rather cutely as the plug pops out, clean as a whistle. She clearly stays prepared for this, especially since her ass just quite doesn't completely close up. She's abused it far too much for that. "Now we don't know each other /too/ well yet but I figure it's a safe bet you'd like to take me the way you'd normally take another 'Dash, sooo~" Bending at the waist, she reaches out to grab the lower of the two bars, plump ass sticking out and winking at Charger, legs spread wide to stabilize herself. She looks over her shoulder at him and smiles. "Make me your mare?" Johnaya — 11/03/2018 So far most of this had been Charger's favorite part. Other than the water of course but Mel's motions were wonderful. He follows along behind her, humping forward occasionally to slide in her grasp. His eyes wander to the columns and sniffs at them, getting a strong whiff of something sexual. Mel can no doubt feel his shaft throb in arousal before he turns to face her again. Just in time to watch the plug pop out of her ass, a surprised whinny coming from him. His cock audibly thwaps against his belly as she gets into position, her ass staring him in the face. Okay he couldn't not. She had done it earlier for him.

Letting out a deep whinny Charger cranes his head down while staring right into Mel's eyes and plants his muzzle right in the crack of her ass. It takes him a few seconds but his thick, dextrous tongue pushes past his lips and against her gaped hole, lapping at it. The tip clumsily swirls around it before slowly getting better, even delving into the cavity on occasion but it doesn't get deeper. Not yet. He licks and toys with the rim of her hole for over a minute before a muffled neigh rumbles in her hips, followed by his tongue darting inside of her. It feels so skillful and constant that it's almost like he's part Haunter. His front hoof clops on the floor as his shaft throbs and smacks against his belly. Slowly his snout pulls from Mel's ass, thick strands of saliva snapping as he moves, and he looks at her to see how she enjoyed it. Kay — 11/05/2018 Mel's heart makes it very clear to her how heavily she's anticipating this, hard to ignore in her chest. Waiting so eagerly, she doesn't even think about him pausing until his mouth drops between her cheeks. "Uh, do you nnNNUUOOookay then!" Whatever she was asking is lost. While he re-lubes her her head rest on her left arm, watching him go on with her mouth hanging open just enough for her to breath slightly more vocally. Right as she's on the precipice of calling him a tease he finally sticks his tongue in, and her eyes flutter closed while her back arches down. "W-whew!" Mel's cock twitches in time with her ass flexing around the hot, slimy tongue, especially when he pulls out and her now cold hole sadly clenches around nothing. "H-hah, remind me to give you a kiss for that later." Johnaya — 11/12/2018 Good. She was definitely enjoying this. His eyes glance down to her nuts and he figures he might as well give a bit more before getting to the main event. Letting out a small whinny he nuzzles his snout against her sack before his tongue reaches out and laps at one of the fat balls, scooping at it like he would a Sitrus Berry. With just a few more flicks of his tongue her sucks one of her nuts into his mouth, followed swiftly by the second, his tongue continually running over the two of them. Once he's sure he was satisfied with his performance he pulls back with a pop, giving a final lick to the base of her cock. It took a lot of effort to not just dive back in but he had a much more pressing need at the moment.

Not that he's sure how he should go about it. His eyes keep glancing between Mel and the metal bars, wondering how best to go about this. While he really wanted to just walk forward and stuff his cock inside of her he knows he'd just bump against her with his chest and underside. No he was going to need some help with this. Letting out a loud neigh he decides to do what he can. Hoisting himself up he hooks his front legs on the metal bar and takes a few steps forward, making sure he wouldn't fall over and squash Mel. He feels his cock bounce against her ass, nearly at the hole but not quite there. Whinnying he pulls back a bit, realigns himself, and pushes himself forward. His flare presses against Mel's slick hole for a moment before slipping away. Charger tries a few more times, getting sloppier as he goes, before finally his tip pops inside. Neighing contentedly he gives a few short thrusts to make sure he's in her and to tell her he's ready for when she gives the signal. Kay — 11/23/2018 "Are you... Oh, oooh! H-hey..." Her sack clenches, dick swinging upwards, in response to the horse tongue on her nuts of all places. "Careful with those..." She breathes deeply and tries not to tense up too much, although she continues to flex her dick in response to the sensations. She hasn't had a 'mon do this without being asked before, and never getting both of them all the way in their mouth. Maybe she'll do a little more than a kiss she thinks to herself. "Nn!" The pop off makes her just a tiny bit sore, but then the tongue on her shaft distracts her enough with thoughts of fucking Charger's mouth, or any mouth really. She's actually about to protest, assuming that's what he's attempting, but he moves on quickly. When her partner neighs and rears up she faces forward again, bracing herself and grimacing a little when the upper bar bends just slightly under his weight. For there to be enough room he has to support himself on the equivalent of his ankles, so Mel pulls forward just a bit without moving her feet to make more and is rewarded by a large object glancing off the inside of one ass cheek. Seconds later her asshole feels the presence of some hot, wide cock ready to come in, but it's not quite ready to relent. There may have just been a plug in there, but that was smaller, and it wasn't nearly flat on the end. She draws in air through her teeth as the pressure builds but lets it out after the slip. She does that again for the following few attempts, until she finally relaxes further, breathes calmly, and feels the 'tip' of Charger's cock head catch on her hole, meaning that as soon as he shoves forward again her anus is pushed wide open, squishing quietly and tightly hugging the contours of him even despite condom. Cock twitching, ass clenching, toes curling, she bends her neck back and lets out a quiet and needy groan, about to push her ass back again when he thrusts a bit deeper and catches her off guard. "A-ah, that's the spirit.~ Now come on, does any mare ever want just the tip?" Johnaya — 12/10/2018 Charger's cock flexes energetically inside of Mel's ass, practically roaring to go, but he still needs to get a feel for just how tight she was. As much as both of them want him to ram his hips forward and sink it with one thrust he knows he can't do that. Even his little thrusts make her bounce lightly against her rest. Letting out a deep snort and whinnying Charger readjusts his stance again and starts to push forward once more. Feeling her tight insides ripple around his invading shaft have him breathing heavy already, his nostrils flaring open as he breathes. In almost no time there's a bulge against her belly that steadily makes its way up her front, Charger's flare visible every time he flexes. He almost forgets what he's supposed to be doing as he keeps mindlessly pushing forward but his medial ring popping inside reminds him. Letting out a startled neigh he quickly jerked his hips back, practically pulling Mel back with him, and causes his ring to pop from her behind. Having better control of himself he slowly, oh so slowly, puts it back in and gets to gently thrusting against her ass, stretching her out as much as he could at the moment. Kay — 12/22/2018 Mel's breath catches in her throat, but releases as a deep and lustful groan every few little thrusts that Charger makes. She's practiced, and had maybe the next size down, but this is the biggest dick she's ever had in her, and even just having the head pushing through her tubes like the plunger of a syringe is really doing it for her, not to mention the girthy shaft behind it. She clenches to as much of a degree as she can, but mostly just succeeds at gently squeezing him with her asshole. Suddenly there's another stopper, and she realizes his ring exists at about the same time that it slips in, and she moans upwards for Charger to hear when her hole swallows it. She's about to say something in praise when he pulls it back out, making her simply "woa-!" and slip back, headband clattering to the floor from the sudden movement. Ah well, it was silly anyways. She settles back into position as he goes again, a sharp inhale accompanying the return of the insertion. "Mmmmf, th-that's the ticket, big man. Just be careful and steady, I'll- ah, I'll tell ya if anything goes wrong!" Johnaya — 01/05/2019 Right now he was being about as careful as he could be with his current position. In his mind he knows he should at least be able to see whatever partner he was fucking but Mel was completely hidden under his belly, the only knowledge of her being there being the intense pleasure he was getting. He lets out a pleased snort as her insides ripple around, readjusting his front legs on the bar for a second as he starts to fuck her just a bit harder. He can feel her insides loosen and accept his massive member slowly with each little thrust. But he wants more and so does she. Letting out a whinny he takes a step back until just his tip is inside and then he decides to be a bit of a tease. Ever so slowly he steps forward, hooves clacking against the ground, as inch after inch are pushed inside of her. His medial ring pops back in and he just keeps going, feeling her get even tighter the deeper he goes. He closes his eyes in pleasure before letting out a deep neigh as his sheathe nudges against her ass cheeks, his pendulous nuts smacking into her thighs. He holds there for a few seconds, just enjoying the feeling, before pulling back out a bit to get back to fucking her. Kay — 02/03/2019 There's one quiet hissing inhale between Mel's teeth when she suspects Charger's about to try to get it all in one  thrust, but then he moves slowly. So, so slowly. Oh god is it slowly. Mel lets that breath leak out slowly as well, refilling her empty lungs with a gasp when the ring slides in again. "Mmm, come /on/." She whines, /very/ quietly. The horse makes a surprisingly good tease, eliciting a needy groan as the bulge of his dick swells up her torso just fast enough that she can't focus on anything else.

Eventually she is finally rewarded with his full length and the feeling of his now-familiar sack nudging her legs. Excited, she pushes back and pushes his sheathe in as well, making her "Ah!" and relent. Well, no satisfying feeling of having a groin pressed against her but for this size? Who cares! She basks in it for a bit while he does, rubbing her inner thighs together and clenching, making her cock flex as well. But she needs this dicking BADLY. "Whew, you know what you're doing, huh? Could drive a girl fuckin' wild..." She waggles her butt just enough to matter. "Fuck me ChargeEER!!!" And once again she's interrupted by him being a step ahead, and she's nearly pulled along for the ride by the strength of his cock before she tightens her grip on the bar again. "A-Aaah, hell /yes/!~" Johnaya — 02/28/2019 Having his sheathe slip inside of Mel's ass made him whinny in delight, his cock flaring up briefly inside of her. He cranes his head from side to side, flame mane swishing in the air, as he tries to look at Mel while he thrusts into her but to no avail. All he could see was the faintest hints of her hair. Mostly it was just so he didn't end up pushing her too hard with his movements and knocking her away. He gives up trying though when he feels Mel shake her ass against his crotch, letting out a little snort and clopping his hooves against the ground. After that his hips push forward and nearly knock Mel over before pulling back and thrusting inside again. Charger's sheathe pops from her rear before quickly being pushed back in along with at least six inches of equine cock. If he could see her belly he'd be getting an eyeful of his own cock stretching her torso well past what you'd think a person should be capable of. But she was a unique kind of Pokemon Breeder. She had to be tough to take a pounding from giant cocks like Charger's. Kay — 03/15/2019 There are times where Mel wishes she was stacked like a Hex Maniac, but now is not one of them, as her C cups don't even slightly obscure the bulge between them or its back and forth movement even as they swing. She lets her head dip as she begins to pant, and stays there to watch the show. The sight of his nuts as they smack her thighs pink isn't too bad either, but it's hard for her to focus on more than one thing at a time right now. Her legs lock as best they can, and they're the only thing saving her from losing her balance every time her new lover's underside impacts the top of her fat ass. With her own cock hard as a rock type and nuts taking a beating from his superior sack, it doesn't surprise her to see thick gobs of precum hanging from her tip and getting tossed every which way, but it does make her want to unload. /Desperately/. Johnaya — 04/03/2019 It wasn't hard to tell just how needy Mel was getting from Charger's pounding. He could feel her insides rippling and tightening around him every few seconds. Though, really, he could tell just by how loud and often she was moaning. Every thrust against her sent her voice tittering and Charger whinnied and neighed in response, gritting his teeth as he started going faster. Slowly his balls pulled up with every thrust, pinkening new areas of Mel's thighs. He could feel the tension building in his groin as he started to make shorter thrusts into Mel. His formerly controlled flames whipped about more wildly, bouncing with every motion until finally he let out a triumphant bray and rammed his entire shaft into Mel. Thankfully he didn't knock the two of them over from the force. His cock flared and swelled in her ass, bulging out her chest further, before seed starting pouring into her. Appropriately for a fire type it was hot even to their sweaty bodies, filling Mel's core rapidly with the warmth. Charger just held in place as he continued to unload, balls tensing every few seconds as a fresh rope of cum fired into Mel. Kay — 04/03/2019 Oh fuck. Mel's legs shake like they're resisting a Gust, and her arms fully extend, pushing her up so that when she throws her head back her scalp brushes Charger's torso. God that's hot, both kinds, and if she weren't already panting she sure would start now. But the damn 'Mon stopped moving right as she was about to go over the edge. Good thing she's a hard worker. She grunts, tightens her fists around the bar, and starts to slide back and forth by juuust enough, forcing out the words "Fffill! Me! Up!" on the first few bounces. After just a second of horse riding she feels it, the bulging cum blasts swelling out the tip of the now-slightly-distended cock bulge in front of her tits pooling up in the condom and making its own visible sloshing bulge that wobbles as she moves, as well as every time it inflates even further. She's glad she got the biggest size cum-collection condom they had available, but she still clenches hard, hoping that she can prevent it from slipping inside her if it hits capacity. Johnaya — 04/21/2019 Charger lets out a loud whinny as Mel starts to slide herself along his cock while he's mid orgasm, his haunches tensing in pleasure. If his eyes weren't on the sides of his head they would've crossed too. For now they settle on intermittently closing and looking at the ceiling, seeing his own flames bobbing out of the corner of his vision. His flare twitches and spasms inside of her with every fresh shot of jizz, feeling the warm, viscous goo pooling around it. As his orgasm drags on he starts to sharply thrust with every rope. Amid the two of their cries of pleasure he can hear the bubble of spunk bulging out her chest slosh. Faintly at first but getting louder as more is pumped inside. But, eventually, his orgasm dies down after a solid two minutes of spasming. He lets out a deep snort through his snout and droops his head, breathing heavily. While he kind of wants to move he also figures letting Mel do what she needs would make more sense. After all she did put that condom on it and he wasn't very tactful. He'd probably yank the thing off when he pulled back. Kay — 04/21/2019 She's still struggling to bounce at a consistent pace, so fucking close to cumming, when Charger starts properly fucking her again and instantly makes her burst, cock smacking against the bulge of his while spraying an impressive (for a human) blast of spooge across the floor, and then another one almost as strong, a testament to her pelvic muscles considering the usual weakness of anal orgasms. At that she stops moving herself, satisfied that Charger is reaming her more than enough as the continued filling and ramming drag her orgasm out for longer. And all the while she can't stop watching the ballooning condom, her body showing it with perfect accuracy as if she herself were the condom, or at least made of thin rubber. It's all so overwhelming she almost wants to tap out when her climax starts to taper off, but it's still /so/ good that she never even stops making noise.

The Pokémon above her beginning to slow down is welcome, if bittersweet, Mel uncertain how much longer her or the condom could have held out. It's already comical how much of a water balloon he's turned her into, and she makes an internal grimace thinking about carrying that all in her stomach. Hot, but she's got too much work to do for a load that heavy. When he stops, she just catches her breath for. A while. "That.... That was real... good. REAL good... Can we take a moment... Hoo..." The heaving of her chest while she breathes makes the reservoir wobble very lightly, and her heart jumps as well, afraid of getting Charger going again. Reaching back, she feels around her asshole and... "Oh thank fuck, the condom didn't budge." With a simple poke to confirm Charger's started getting a little softer, she pats him on the front thigh. "Alright. Pull 'er out eeeeasy. Don't pop nothin', don't yank if you get stuck." Johnaya — 08/02/2019 As Mel's insides clench around Charger's swollen cock he nearly gets the urge to start thrusting into her but controls himself. He knew this condom was on him for a reason and, despite how much they both probably wanted it, he could pop it inside of her. His hips do still give a few subconscious jerks though, loud squelching coming from Mel's rump and unmistakable sloshing from her belly. As his flare dies down he lets out a deep, contented nicker and cranes his neck forward a bit. He catches a glimpse of Mel in her afterglow before pulling his head back up and readying himself for the arduous process of removing his dick. His haunches tense as he twitches a few more times but he is still slowly softening. Not fully, otherwise the condom might fall, but enough that it'll be easier to pull out.

Slowly but sure he steps backwards, hooves clopping on the ground. For a moment he's worried when he unhooks his front legs from the bar and nearly pushes Mel to the floor. Thankfully he catches himself just as his belly brushes her back but he still looks down to make sure she's okay. Seeing nothing amiss he keeps pulling and pulling, hearing slick plastic crinkle as the condom is removed. When his cock itself is fully pulled out he pauses as he realizes the reservoir is still stuffed snugly in Mel's ass. Snorting he jerks his hips back just enough to pull some through before the rest follows, pooling anew at his tip and sagging from Mel's abused butt before plopping free and nearly hitting the floor. Kay — 03/21/2020 Mel squeaks just a bit but she doesn't say nothin', having been there herself and knowing how hard it can be to stop oneself from thrusting just a touch when you're balls deep in such a nice ass as hers. What does startle her and make her nearly protest is Charger dismounting the bar, afraid she'll get knocked down or taken along with him. Fortunately, just as she thought, he is a perfect gentleman and very considerately makes sure to respect her. As much as he can "respect" somebody who was just doing their best impression of a Sylph Co®? Quadruped Milker Deluxe™?.

"Thaaat's perfect, you're doin' great, almost there." Mel just worries about keeping steady breathing and not making any unnecessary moves. This is one of the most intense sessions she's ever had so her hole is /very/ sensitive and her cock is still rock hard. Once again she bites her lip when she feels him finally slip out, but her sigh of relief is interrupted by the realization that there is still something very large inside her, and she groans desperately as its tugged on. "A-aw c'mon, now..." Her cock twitches once again just in time for the hard earned payload of cum to pop free. She moans, a large glob of precum slapping the floor.

"F-fuck. Thank ya, boy." Finally relieved of duty, her legs bend and she lowers herself to her knees, fat farmer ass resting on her heels. Her panting is calm but rapid as she turns and hefts the cum balloon they've harvested, a little surprised even at the size of it. She whistles. "The Breeders' Union'll pay me a dang pretty penny for this one. Heck, I might even give your trainers a discount." Once she's finished catching her breath again, she takes a firm hold of the loose part of the condom and gently pats Charger's front legs. "Alright sir, if you could just take a few steps back for me we can get this thing off." Johnaya — 03/21/2020 Hearing Mel moan out as he pulls from her ass has Charger letting out a triumphant whinny. There was just something about human moans that felt more impactful than a equine whine. Still he's mostly just satisfied that he finally got to properly unload. He could feel his balls practically having shrank he let out so much. The wobbling mass of jizz continues to sag down his cock until it nearly pops off but, thankfully, Mel regains her composure just in time to grab it. He neighs and gingerly steps backwards, careful not to step on the condom or on any part of Mel, until eventually the tight plastic is removed. Free of his confines he decides he wants to take a good look at his handiwork.

Walking backwards once he's fully clear of her he moves to Mel's side and cranes his neck downwards, nudging into her cheek before looking at the condom. While he doesn't know the normal output of a Rapidash, or any other Pokemon, he can't help but notice that it is pretty big. If he'd gotten to see Mel with it inside of her he reckons that she'd have a belly big enough to be considered at least a few months pregnant, if not more. Still that wasn't what he was really interested in. Moving his neck more he dives back behind her and takes a gander at her ass or, more accurately, the gaping hole that was her ass before. Another pleased noise comes from him and he nudges his head against Mel's ass, turning to stare at her head on and wink. Winking wasn't easy for a horse. Kay — 06/04/2020 "Haha, hey." She gently holds his face when he nuzzles her, then watches as he checks her out. The wink is odd, but she takes it in stride and looks to see what she can of her- wow now THAT is a GAPE. "Sweet Giratina, so that's why I felt cool back there. You did a real number on me, huh stud?" She smiles at him and stands, only needing to stop to stabilize her shaky legs once, fortunately. "Hoo. Well. Damn. Damn!" She ties off the condom and slings it over her shoulder. "I gotta 'frigerate this and take a shower quick before anymore clients come in, but you, mister, should make yourself at home. There are some very friendly 'mons out in the pasture who'd love ta meetcha, I'm sure, but you're just as welcome to stay here if you want to have a liiiittle bit more fun when I get back. 'Kay?" Mel flashes her brightest smile at him before patting him on the shoulder and shakily trotting out. She's still not used to these damn boots... Johnaya — 06/04/2020 Charger shakes his head up and down at Mel's question, letting out a pleased whinny. That image of her being stretched out like that was going to be stuck in his head for a long time. He can feel his shaft still throbbing in arousal but it was slowly starting to wilt, retracting a little into his sheathe. More importantly though he can feel just how much less heavy and tense his balls were. Sure there was still some tension there but nowhere near as bad. Even his flame mane has shrank a little to coincide with how relaxed he was. Not wanting to be in the way as Mel does her thing he takes a step back and listens to her. He gives another shake to his head and glances at the curtain into the hallway, unsure of what to do just yet. Gently he nudges his head into Mel's side and stamps his hooves on the ground, following along beside her as she walks out of the room. Partly it was because he didn't know which way to go but it was also because he really didn't want her to fall over. Once he's sure of the way to the pasture though he disengages from her, standing a couple feet away and whinnying loudly before sprinting out into the lush field. Kay — 06/06/2020 ---

It's fairly late in the evening by the time the cheer gals return for Charger. Mel grabs his Pokéball from behind the counter (and removes the label before they notice that she doesn't know how to track which is which like trainers seem to be able to do) and guides him out front very calmly and with a pretty big smile on her face. They settle payment real quick, and then she puts her hands on her hips and stands proud.

"Well ladies, here y'are," she tosses them the ball "Your Charger has been an absolute darling, and I hope you either get him taken care of or let 'im take care of himself a looong time before things get that bad again. You're welcome here any time, and I can getcha a twenty percent discount for every visit if you happen to decide I'm the lady for the job again. You take c- Oh, hang on!" Mel comically bops her forehead with the heel of her palm. She turns to charger while closing in and says "Didn't I promise you a kiss earlier? C'mere." Johnaya — 06/20/2020 It had been a few days since Carly and Emily had been to the daycare, having spent most of the time just wandering around Nimbasa City. Mostly it was because they wanted Charger to be properly relieved when they showed back up. They also had talked it over and decided that Dodge didn't need to come in for that kind of service just yet. Maybe in a little while. Now though they were just happy to pick Charger back up, especially Emily who hugged Charger the moment he walked from the back to greet them. Carly catches the thrown ball in her steed. "Oh thank you, thank you, thank yooou!" As she disengages from Charger she can't help but latch onto Mel and give her a big hug as well, causing Carly to giggle behind her. "We'll keep that in mind! He looks great."

Charger turns his head up and arches it sidesways, showing off to his trainer how less tense his mane looked. Plus his coat was now immaculately clean, a consistent creamy color throughout. While he was having fun running around on Mel's ranch, getting to know the Pokemon she kept their normally as well as other attendees, it was so great to see Emily again. Just as he's about to trot over to her though Mel's words catch his ear. He'd nearly forgotten as well. Turning his head towards Mel he trots forward, eyes facing forward and locked onto hers. And then he turns his head while going forward, mouth open, locking it over Mel's. He's seen how humans usually kiss each other when they're passionate so he does just that. His muzzle flexes around her mouth and chin, nostrils flaring as he breathes deeply through them. Waiting for a moment to make sure she wasn't entirely caught off guard, or disapproving, he continues. His thick tongue presses against her small mouth, lapping over it before pushing inside. It's a little tight of a fit but he's sure Mel can take it no problem. He runs it along her teeth and then along her tongue, swabbing the inside of her mouth and snorting pleasantly. Taking a step closer he pushes deeper, his tongue pressing into the back of her throat, rubbing at it and tantalizingly getting close to just stuffing it down her throat.

"Woah..." Emily says breathlessly, blushing profusely at the sight. Kay — 07/18/2020 "Y- mm!" Charger is surprisingly confident about this, fine with Mel really, she just wanted to give him a smooch on the nose, but- oh, god, there it is. That thick equine tongue slips inside her mouth and the thing it reminds her of most immediately is a tentacool. When he pushes a little deeper Mel moans slightly, totally ready for him to just tonguefuck her throat right then and there, in front of the customers, not really all that worried about it.

But then he doesn't, pulling away and leaving Mel slightly blushing and very mildly embarrassed, trying to nervously laugh it off. "See? What did I say? A darling. I'll seeya round." Johnaya — 08/06/2020 As much as he wanted to keep kissing her, knowing how much she was liking it from the vibration around his tongue, he knows not to press the issue when he glances at his trainer and her friend's reactions. Softly pulling back Charger bows his head towards Mel and gives her a nudge to the shoulder, careful not to knick her with his horn. He can't speak but his appreciation for what she did is evident with how he's pressing against her and he looks quite content as he pulls back. A small whinny comes from him as he turns around and trots towards Emily who casually pats him on the snout as he stands in front of her, her blush still evident.

She tries to think of something specific to say but can't seem to find any words. She was still taken aback by what just happened. "Well... thanks again for helping him out so much. We'll try to stop by next month! And we'll be sure to tell our friends what a good job you did!" Emily flashes a peace sign at Mel as she walks out the front door, followed soon after by Dodge and Carly. Charger gives Mel one last bow before following along behind, his tail swishing happily in the air. Kay — 02/23/2021 Mel is happy to see Charger in such high spirits, tipping her hat at him with a genuine grin on her face. There's a pep in her step (and maybe a little bit of a hitch, she's sure given her ass a big workout the past few days) as she gets back to what few duties she has left before the sunlight completely fades. Many of the 'mons look at her VERY knowingly and she just smirks right back.

When she finally tucks in for the night resting her head on her Mudsdale, Cloddy, she sighs happily, and the last thing she mutters before losing consciousness is a satisfied "I love my job.~"

[freudensteins-monster]

The Governess and the Liesmith - Chapter Three

FIC SUMMARY: Sigyn finds herself accepting the position of governess to Prince Loki’s children. She quickly endears herself to them, despite her firm hand, but the closeness and trust she worked so hard for is threatened by the return of the children’s notoriously absent father. RATING: T AUTHORS NOTES: As promised, after four long years, here is a new chapter. Thank you so much for all your love and support, especially after so long. xoxox Like I mentioned in the last "chapter" I've only managed to finish one or two more so far, but who knows, if I keep chipping away at it, Sigyn might meet Loki in about five years :P

PREVIOUS CHAPTER

It took Sigyn longer than she would have liked to admit to find the stables again, and she hadn’t taken more than two steps inside a minute before the stablemaster, the same man who had laughed her out of the stables that morning, started barking at her.

 “You again? Get along, you stupid girl. There’s no work for you here.”

 “That’s alright,” Sigyn replied casually. “I’ve already found a new job.”

 “Then what the Hel are you doing here bothering me for?”

 “I have been hired as a governess to Prince Loki’s children. I believe one of them is here.”

 “It’s a horse, not a child. What are you going to do? Read it bedtime stories?” the man sneered.

 “The queen herself hired me to look after all of Prince Loki’s children. Sleipnir was mentioned by name, and so, Aesir or not, I shall be looking in on him from time to time to ensure his needs are being met. I would like to introduce myself to him, if you would be so kind as to show me to his stall?”

 The stablemaster growled, but spying the queen’s golden seal on the letter in Sigyn’s hand, pointed her in the direction of Sleipnir’s stall before storming off.

 “Sleipnir?” Sigyn called, smiling when she got a whinny of acknowledgement.

 As she approached the stall she tucked her letter of employment away and pulled out an apple. Sigyn couldn’t help but gasp when she saw him. Sleipnir was as tall as a draft horse, but with none of the bulk. His lean body was grey with a black mane and tail, and black socks on each of his eight legs.

 “So it really is true,” she whispered to herself before stepping within arm’s reach of the magnificent animal, holding out the apple to him. He sniffed it warily before seemingly turning his nose up at it. “Hello, Sleipnir. My name is Sigyn,” she said self-consciously, though she didn’t know why. It wasn’t unusual for her to have conversations with her family’s horses, after all. “Queen Frigga hired me to work as a governess, looking after Prince Loki’s children. Though you are all but grown she asked if I could check on you and make sure you are doing well. Would this be alright with you?”

 Sleipnir sniffed the apple again before greedily accepting it, devouring it in two bites. Sigyn took it as a sign that he wouldn’t mind her company and risked a step closer, reaching out to pat his nose, which he allowed. She moved closer and the horse began to sniff her clothes and Sigyn felt compelled to answer a question that hadn’t been voiced.

 “Ah, that would be Léttfeti,” Sigyn explained. “My father’s prized mare. She’s quite pretty and as fast as the wind. But… they say you are faster, the fastest in the Nine, even.”

 Sleipnir neighed again, standing up straighter and puffing out his chest.

 “Oh, you are, are you?” Sigyn laughed. “I would love to see you run one day.”

 Sleipnir nudged Sigyn with his nose before turning and drawing Sigyn’s attention to the tack room next to his stall.

 “You would like to go for a run? Now? Well… I suppose, as you are technically my charge it is my duty to ensure you are happy and healthy, and getting enough exercise…” Sleipnir nodded enthusiastically. “And it would make the stablemaster really angry.” Sleipnir laughed, as much as a horse could laugh. “Alright, you’ve convinced me,” Sigyn announced, moving to the tack room, gasping at the extensive collection of custom tack for the exceptional steed. She glanced at a huge, shining black leather saddle with gold detailing that took pride of place and shook her head in distaste. “I think we could do without the finery today, don’t you?” she asked aloud, getting a grunt in reply.

 Once her new charge was tacked up, with a blanket and a simple, weathered saddle, Sigyn turned her thoughts to how she was supposed to get up onto his back as the stirrups were far too high for her to simply put her foot into them and there didn’t appear to be a stool in the tack room. Sleipnir, seemingly understanding her plight, knelt down and waited patiently for Sigyn to get settled before standing and walking out of his stall, kicking the door closed behind him.

 “You are, most definitely, the smartest horse I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting.”

     Naturally    , he seemed to reply, happily trotting out of the stables, the pair of them holding their heads high as they passed the bemused stable hands.

 “Sleipnir has been kind enough to offer to take me for a ride,” she advised them, her hand straying to her bag and the queen’s letter therein in case one of them wanted to argue with her. “We will be back shortly.”

 Sleipnir trotted away from the stables until they were out of earshot, turning back to his rider, silently asking her opinion.

 “I think we’d best stay within the boundaries of the palace grounds, your grandmother was quite insistent on that,” Sigyn answered. “But as fast as you can,” she added with a smile, before holding on for dear life as Sleipnir bolted for the tree line.

   Hours passed in the blink of an eye and Sigyn reluctantly returned Sleipnir to the stables, laughing joyously. He had raced up and down the boundary of the palace so fast Sigyn felt like she was flying. It was the most amazing feeling and Sigyn wanted to keep going until they both tired, but alas, she had other charges to attend to. Sigyn would have been happy to have taken care of Sleipnir herself but the moment he trotted through the stable doors they were surrounded by grooms who insisted on doing it for her. From their nervous and insistent manner Sigyn had to assume it was on the explicit orders of the boorish stablemaster, wherever he was hiding. With Sleipnir’s assurance that he was fine with the arrangement, Sigyn dismounted and patted his nose, laughing as he kissed her cheek.

 “Thank you so much for accompanying me today, Sleipnir. I had a wonderful time, and shall tell anyone who will listen that I have the privilege of knowing the fastest steed in all the Nine,” she added with a warm smile. “I would very much like to visit you regularly, but I’m afraid I’m not sure how much free time I shall have, what with looking after your siblings and all.”

 Sleipnir snorted, offering his sympathies.

 “Oh, thank you for your vote of confidence,” Sigyn smirked before finally handing over his reins to the waiting groom. “Good day, Sleipnir. I will return as soon as I can, I promise.”

   Sigyn made it back to the nursery, with a minimum of wrong turns but more than a few odd looks. She was too happy to pay them much mind, but accepted that the sight of a masculinely dressed woman with windswept hair wandering through the halls of the palace warranted a second glance from the highly polished courtiers. The children would be in their seiðr lessons for another hour or so, leaving Sigyn alone in her new accomodations. She loitered awkwardly in the main room for a moment before going to inspect her rooms for a second time. There had been a few changes in her absence; a vase of flowers sat upon her desk and a small pile of clothes had been placed at the foot of her bed. She sorted through them, eyeing her new uniform curiously before deciding that a bath and a change of clothes would be for the best. She washed quickly, more accustomed to sharing hot water with eight others, but allowed herself to be momentarily distracted by the array of perfumed lotions and soaps that had been provided for her use. She dried and braided her hair before dressing in her new uniform, a simple grey dress over which she wore an emerald green apron, a woven gold belt cinched around her waist. The gold marked her as a servant of the royal family while the emerald green marked her as Prince Loki’s personal staff. She examined her appearance in the bathroom mirror for several minutes, bemused to think that she looked quite nice in servant’s clothes, and that they were probably nicer than her finest dress.

 Sigyn was putting away her spare uniforms when there came a knock on the nursery door. She quickly stepped into a pair of grey flats with a gold trim that she’d found tucked under her bed (in her size, just as her uniform had been) before going to answer it.

 “Syn?!” Sigyn exclaimed, pulling her wide-eyed, trembling sister into the room. “What are you doing here?”

 “You’re really a governess?” Syn squeaked, her hands squeezing Sigyn’s arms as if to test if the vision of her older sister was merely a figment of her imagination. “A palace ship came to the farm and a guard said you’d been hired as a governess for the royal family. It’s really true?”

 “Of course it’s true. Do you really think the queen would send a royal ship all that way for a laugh?”

 “The queen!” Syn gasped and Sigyn feared she might faint. Sigyn gave her a meaningful look and pulled her inside, allowing one of the guards to place a large flour sack that had been hastily filled with everything Sigyn’s mother had deemed important on the floor beside them.

 “Thank you…?”

 “Ívarr, miss. I have been instructed to escort your sister home when she’s ready to leave.”

 “Thank you. If you wouldn’t mind waiting outside.”

 “Of course, miss,” Ívarr bowed, his eyes flicking to the younger sister as he pulled the doors closed behind him.

 The moment she heard the doors click shut Sigyn took Syn by the hand, grabbed the sack and dragged them both into her room so Syn could have her panic attack in private.

 “Oh my goodness!” Syn exclaimed, turning in a circle to take in Sigyn’s new rooms. “Sigyn, this is… Does this mean I can have your room?” she queried before breaking into a fit of nervous giggles. “You must tell me everything!”

 Sigyn quickly ran through the events that had transpired in the hours since she had left home whilst her sister sat beside her on the bed, her eyes almost bulging out of her head.

 “And here I am. New job, new uniform, new room… and I haven’t told you the most ridiculous part.”

 “What could be more ridiculous than my sister bossing around Queen Frigga’s grandchildren?” Syn wailed, still shaking her head at the tale.

 “The queen will pay me five gold coins a day to do so.”

 “No, no, no…” Syn muttered, pacing the room. “This is all some bizarre dream, and I shall wake up any moment to be told that you went to the stables and instead of a job you accepted a marriage proposal. That makes more sense.”

 “Oh, Syn, why are you so upset by this? If anyone should be panicking, it should be me.”

 “I was expecting you home this evening,” Syn explained, her eyes welling up with tears. “And now you say you don’t know when you’ll be home next. What am I supposed to do without my big sister to confide in?”

 Sigyn hugged her sister, trying not to let her own emotions get the best of her, because if she started crying then there would be no end to it. The queen would find the pair of them huddled on the floor in a pool of salty tears and promptly have both of them escorted from the palace for making such a scene.

 “There, there, Syn, enough of that,” Sigyn scolded, wiping away her tears. “It will be alright. The queen said that once I’m settled that we can discuss me having a day from time to time to visit. Until then you shall have to have mother write to me, and I shall endeavour to improve myself so that I can write back. And I shall send almost every coin I earn home, I swear it.”

 “Oh no, Sigyn, you should keep it. Norns know you will earn it, looking after any child of Prince Loki’s.”

 “Hush,” Sigyn scolded, slapping her sister on the arm.

 “You must have heard the stories, Sigyn. They say Prince Loki was a mischief maker of the highest order in his youth. And a temper as volatile as the storms his brother wields. Oh, you will be careful, won’t you?”

 “I’m not the one running my mouth and speaking ill of the prince in his own palace. I shall be fine,” Sigyn remarked pointedly. “Now, I thank you for bringing my things, but I’m afraid you will need to return home now, sister dear. The little mischief makers will be back shortly and I’d like to get everything unpacked before then.”

 “Very well,” Syn huffed, hugging Sigyn once more before moving to the door.

 “Ívarr,” Sigyn called, pulling back when the guard appeared suddenly in the doorway.

 “Yes, miss?”

 “Syn’s ready to return home now.”

 “Yes, of course,” the guard nodded, his too-big helmet rattling with the movement. The sisters did their best not to laugh.

 “Goodbye Syn,” Sigyn said, hugging her sister one last time. “Tell the others I’ll miss them terribly, and tell mother and father not to fret. I’ll write soon, I promise.”

 “Goodbye Sigyn,” Syn replied tearfully as Ívarr moved to her side, barely restraining himself from offering her his arm.

 “That’s my favourite sister in your charge, Ívarr,” Sigyn called out as the pair headed down the long corridor. “Take good care of her.”

 Syn laughed and waved back enthusiastically as Ívarr led her around a corner, Sigyn’s smile slipping as her sister left her sight. She closed the nursery door with a sigh and returned to her room, emptying the flour bag of its contents and sifting through them. It was mostly clothes, which she put away, her new uniforms sitting atop them, and a few trinkets that had previously adorned a small ledge in her attic bedroom; a horseshoe, a seashell, and a squat clay vase. She looked each of them over before placing them on her new desk, smiling at the memories.

 The vase rattled in her hand and Sigyn tipped the contents out with a scowl; two pieces of silver which her mother had no doubt been saving for a rainy day. Sigyn put them back and vowed to keep no more than one out of every ten coins she earned and send the rest home. Her parents would soon enough be needing the extra coin to pay a new farmhand if the blush in Ívarr’s cheeks every time he had so much as glanced at Syn was any indication.

 Sigyn went to fold up the flour bag but stilled when she found two golden cuffs hidden beneath it. She turned them over in her hands, her fingers running over the spellwork that had been etched into them to bind young Sigyn’s seiðr. Used on more pure metal the spells could be permanent, but the dampening abilities of the cheap gold plated scrap metal in Sigyn’s hands had faded in a matter of years, just long enough for young Sigyn to get a handle on her abilities. Sigyn hadn’t seen them in years, had thought them long since traded away, and wondered at their inclusion. Perhaps they were meant as a warning, to caution her against losing her temper as she did quite often with disastrous results as a child. But perhaps they were simply a reminder of what she could do with a little help and sheer bloody determination. Sigyn smiled and wrapped the cuffs around her wrists, returning to the main room to await the return of her new charges.

NEXT CHAPTER

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[marvel-redemption-omega]

Of Outlaws and Family

Chapter Three: We Make a Good Team

A/N: Hello! I’m editin each chapter before I post them to do a final sweep an make sure it’s all good an not too screwy. Here is where we see Arthur an Scarlet’s dynamics as a team an some more of her personality!

Warnings: Cursing, typical gang violence, dangers of horse riding/breaking, sexual references/innuendos

Please enjoy! Hearts and repubs are appreciated!

My work is not to be posted elsewhere; I will post it to my AO3 and dA if I so choose.

Word Count: 8,432

Read from the beginning: https://marvel-redemption-omega.tumblr.com/post/620167374619951104/of-outlaws-and-family-chapter-one-new-beginnings

Previous: https://marvel-redemption-omega.tumblr.com/post/620241723748155392/of-outlaws-and-family

James and Jack are two of the first to be up and about. James takes it upon himself to teach Jack about some of the birds that are perching in the trees near camp. The younger boy is enthralled and asks lots of questions that James can mostly answer. Abigail and Arthur are the next two to begin roaming camp. Arthur watches the boys while Abigail wakes John and the other females. She comes to fetch her son once most of the camp is up. James shyly approaches Tilly and Arthur can hear him asking if she’ll teach him how to play dominoes as good as she does. He chuckles and shakes his head as he makes his way to Scarlet’s wagon. He hasn’t seen her yet, figuring she was still asleep.

“Scarlet? Miss O’Hara?” He calls when he sees two empty sleeping bags. He circles the wagon and sighs at the lack of her. James spots Arthur and catches his eye, waving him over.

“Ma’s over there,” he says, pointing to the hitching posts with Fancy and Smoke. Shamrock’s lying beside his mother, tucked nearly under her hooves, but the mare doesn’t seem to mind. Scarlet is between Smoke and Fancy, brush running over the mustang as Smoke sniffs at Scarlet’s back and nudges her. Arthur nods and thanks James before making his way over to them. Smoke nickers as he nears.

“Who’s a good girl? Huh? You are, my sweet girl. Such a good girl. You like gettin brushed an pets, don’tcha girl?” Scarlet baby talks her horse, laughing as Fancy bobs her head, her mane bouncing and falling into her eyes. “Yeah, that’s mah good girl.”

“Do you do this every mornin?”

“Shite!” She jumps at the new voice.

Scarlet tries to catch the brush before it hits the ground, but fails. She shoots a mock glare at Arthur as she bends down and snatches up the muddy brush. He chuckles and holds his hands up. He moves to his horse and strokes his nose.

“Yeah. I brush them both out in the morning an usually in the evenin too. Shamrock’s already done, he’s just an ass an prefers to be dirty,” she says the last part to the horse, which he flicks his ears back at her to show he’s listening. As if to prove her point, he rolls away from Fancy, wallowing in the dirt. “Smartass.”

“They’re quite the characters you have. Your boys are at least,” Arthur comments, patting Smoke’s neck and offering him a beet. He happily eats it and shakes his neck and head with a whinny.

“They’ve got flare with attitude to boot, no doubt. This old girl is my rock though. Fast, reliable, an sturdy. She can do all terrain an loves to race, even the wild horses we pass. I’m pretty sure she had her own herd when she was younger,” Scarlet admits and puts the brush on the post for later use. Fancy nibbles at her shoulder and nudges her. “Alright already, knock it off.” She digs in her pocket and gives Fancy a sugar cube for being so good for her.

“You ready? We might have a long ride ahead of us.”

“Gimme a sec, lemme talk to James before we go. I also wanna stop and see Shasta. I’ll need my saddle off him too. Can’t ride Fancy bareback for long with her age.” She agrees and ducks under the hitching post to meet her son. They talk for a moment before James wraps his arms around her and she brushes her hands through his brown hair. Arthur watches as she leans down and kisses his forehead and gently pushes him towards Abigail who is beckoning him, Jack calling for him. The two women exchange a short conversation and Scarlet nods with a laugh at whatever Abigail says before they wave and she’s making her way back to him.

“Good?”

“Yeah. Abigail asked if I could get something for her on our way back. Told her I would since she’s doin me a huge favor and watchin James. You ready? I’ll ride Fancy to the stable, we can get her saddled and I’ll check on Shasta then we can get goin,” she suggests and joins him between the two horses. Shamrock climbs to his feet and lowers his head under his mother’s neck, nibbling on Scarlet’s sleeve. “No, Sham. You’re staying here,” she pulls her arm away from him. He snorts at her and paws the ground. Fancy turns and nips his ear, making him yank his head back with a whine.

“Looks like your momma said no too, Shamrock,” Arthur unties Smoke from the post and tosses the reins over his head before climbing in his saddle.

“Sounds like it. Stay, Sham. You’ll be fine. Stay and watch James,” Scarlet tries to reason and the golden chestnut looks at the boy before nickering. “Good boy. I’ll bring you back some hay,” she praises and uses the post to climb on Fancy’s back. “Let’s ride.”

They ride in silence, each enjoying the sounds of nature. Their horses thunder along the beaten and worn path, side by side. Scarlet loosely holds to Fancy’s mane, moving in sync with the mare. Arthur adjusts his hat over his eyes, one hand on the reins and his other relaxed and hanging by his side.

They reach Valentine’s stable and she hops off Fancy, greeting the stable hand who leads her inside. Arthur leans forward in his saddle, arms crossed against the horn.

“We had to tie him to the fence to get his shoe back on and we checked the other three. He’s good to go, but he is grumpy. He’s been fed and watered and I took his saddle off last night. It’s in the tack room. Were you wanting to take him with you?” Scarlet pats the stall door the worker points out as Shasta’s and shakes her head at his question.

“No. I’ll take my saddle. If it’s alright I’m gonna leave him stabled for a bit. I’ll come by later this evening to check on him. I’ll probably need to ride him and wind him down for y’all,” she answers and coaxes the upset buckskin to her. He snorts and nips at her hand before nuzzling his face against her chest, blowing air out his nose on her. “Eww, gross. Punk, behave. Don’t you feel better now that you’re not missing a shoe? You be nice to these nice men and behave yourself. No trouble, ya hear?”

He tosses his head as if answering yes to her, head pulled up to stand his full height. He paws the dirt, knocking the bottom of the door with his hoof. Scarlet holds her hand out and he sniffs at it, nibbling until she slips a cube into his mouth. He neighs happily and nuzzles his head against her again, ears forward.

“Good boy. I’ll be back later for you,” she promises and kisses his nose before following the stable owner to get her saddle. He pulls it off the post and hands it to her upon her request.

“Do you have your horse here? We can get them in here so it’s easier,” he offers but Scarlet brushes it off.

“No thank you. She’s just outside with a friend. I’d rather not get her riled up just yet. I have a long journey ahead of me. We’re riding to Annesburg,” she says as she adjusts the weight of the saddle to get a better hold on it. She’s not sure if it’s a complete lie, but she doesn’t know which direction north of Valentine the horses were. The males whistle.

“That is quite a ride. Why not take the train? Or even the stagecoach?”

“Ahh, I’ve got several stops to make along the way. Easier for me to ride my horse than have to get off and wait for the next train. Plus it’s free,” she chuckles at their reactions. “Thank you again. He should be good until I get back. If he starts getting antsy and pawing at the ground or his door, just turn him out to the corral and I’ll get him.”

“Umm, you sure about that Miss? People are always looking to steal good horses, especially fast ones.”

“Oh don’t worry. My horses won’t allow anyone but me to ride them,” she grins at them, nodding as they open the doors for her.

She easily saddles Fancy as Arthur makes a trip to the post office. She’s hauling herself up as he comes trotting up to her, letter in hand. She raises a brow but he puts it in his side pouch.

“Ready to go?”

“Yeah. You meet up with the guy at the saloon?”

“Yep. Said he’ll lead us to his guys that are trying their hand at breaking them.”

“So despite already failing, they all wanna try again? Great. How many horses?” 

“About seven I think he said. I think they got a whole herd. Think we can break them?”

“Hah! I know I can, can you, Old Man?” She teases and turns Fancy to look at Arthur. He smiles and tips his chin to the saloon.

“Just who do you think broke the horses we use for our wagons?”

“I was thinking John. Maybe Dutch. Lord knows Micah would get thrown so fast. Same with Uncle and Bill,” she snorts in laughter as they walk to the saloon, horses in step.

“Very funny, Miss O’Hara. I didn’t know you were a comedian.”

“Ah well, Mr. Morgan, I’m just full of surprises.” She winks at him as they pull the reins to stop their horses. They wait in the saddles as the man Arthur talked to earlier meets them and climbs onto his Suffolk Punch.

“You two have warmer clothes? It’s known to get cold where we’re going,” the man warns. Arthur nods and pats his saddle bag. They turn to Scarlet who shakes her head no.

“Never went north. Prefer the heat of the south,” she excuses her lack of warmer clothing.

“Well, come on then. Can’t have you freezing on me. The store’s this way. Get you a coat and we’ll get on.” Arthur knocks her leg with his as they follow the man to the store. “I’ll wait out here.”

“Come on, Scarlet. Let’s get you something warm,” Arthur sighs as he slides off Smoke and offers his hand to help her down. They enter the store and Arthur stands off to the side as she browses the catalog, asking about the warmest jacket and pants they have and something else he can’t quite make out. He busies himself at the hat rack, looking over the different sizes and styles. The clerk ushers the pair to the changing spot at the back.

“This is the warmest we have. Wolf lined,” the clerk passes them to her. She thanks him and tries on the coat. It fits a bit big but she likes it so she sets it aside. She stares at Arthur, clearing her throat. He locks eyes with her and they stare at each other for a moment.

“Mr. Morgan,” she prompts, tilting her chin up slightly in gesture for him to step back so she could change pants.

“Oh. Right. Here,” he pulls the curtain closed and stands with his back to the makeshift changing room. He hears her shuffling and the curtain reopen.

“Whatcha think?” He turns to face her at the sound of her voice.

“They look warm. How do they fit?”

“Mm, not too loose. The fur helps. I’m sure they’ll work. It’ll get hot too once we start breaking the horses,” she agrees and runs a hand over the soft fur. “Alright, I’ll change into these when we get close. No need to sweat unnecessarily.” With that, she closes the curtain to change back and he walks back over to the hat rack. Scarlet finds him looking over them all, grinning when he spots her.

“Hey you,” he calls, picking up a black cowboy hat. It resembles his, just missing the strings he has around his.

“What’re you doing? That’s the children’s hats. You thinkin bout gettin one for Jack?”

“No. Not Jack.”

“James?”

He laughs softly and shakes his head.

“No, not James either.”

Scarlet raises a brow in question before he plops the hat on her head, minding her braid. He adjusts it until it’s sitting right and he nods. She scowls for a moment but it’s gone when he turns her to look in the mirror. Her green eyes widen at the sight, almost fully outfitted like a female gunslinger.

“Consider it a welcome to the gang gift,” he shrugs and declines her protests of his payment. The clerk smiles at them, ringing up the total.

“Ah how it must be, to be young and in love. You make a very cute couple,” he comments offhandedly as he hands Arthur his change. Both of them freeze and stare at him, pointing at the other.

“We’re not together! We’re just friends,” they announce, looking at each other with curiosity at their unison.

“If you say so,” the clerk shrugs, picking up a rag to wipe down his counter. “Best of luck where you’re headed.” They leave the shop, both a bit red in the face at the clerk’s blunt assumption.

“Alright, we’re ready. Let’s ride,” Scarlet suggests after she puts her new gear away on the back of her saddle, hat still on her head where Arthur put it.

They follow the rancher, says he goes by Jim, out of Valentine and east for a bit. Smoke and Fancy are both worked up, chomping at the bit for a chance to go faster than a gallop. Scarlet and Arthur share a look, both inwardly groaning that Jim has a Suffolk and not a race breed. They know their horses would leave him without care.

They pass through Emerald Ranch and cut a path more north east, taking a less worn trail. It’s a bit of a ride. When they start climbing into the mountains, Scarlet spots a few people up on a ridge, watching them. She notes by their clothes to be natives. She makes a mental note to ask about a tribe or reservation in the area when they get back.

They stop for a quick food break, the rancher offering some extra bread rolls he had. Arthur and Scarlet each take one, Arthur offering oregano game and Scarlet offering various canned fruits.

When she’s done eating she leads Fancy to a nearby river and lets her drink and wade around to cool off for a few minutes. The mustang paws violently at the water, braying as it splashes her chest and belly. Scarlet laughs at her and joins her, rubbing water down the mare’s legs. She nickers and leans down for another drink.

“She doing a’right?” Arthur’s got Smoke’s reins in hand and Jim isn’t far behind. Scarlet looks up to them and nods, patting her neck.

“Yeah, just figured she could use some water and cool down time before we head out. It’s only gonna get hotter from the looks of it. Doesn’t feel like rain this afternoon, maybe tonight but not soon,” she hums and scoops water into her hand, running it along Fancy’s stomach.

“It isn’t too much farther. We’re passed the Wapiti Reservation and in the mountains. There’s some inclines here and there but otherwise it’s pretty straight forward from here,” Jim announces, reaching the river with his horse in tow. “With any luck You two can break these guys enough for my men to ride a few back and have the others on leads.”

“Yeah, hopefully. Just when they’re broke, make sure you let others ride them. You don’t want them getting used to just one person on them unless they’re going to be for personal use. If you don’t, and you try to let someone else ride them when they’ve only known you and your weight, the horse will buck them off,” she advises and rubs water on Fancy‘s nose. Arthur rubs Smoke down with water too as he drinks.

“I take that’s from personal experience?”

“Kind of. My Ma broke this one's son,” she pats Fancy, “and since we’re about the same build I could ride him. When my cousin tried, he was thrown cause we were the only ones who bothered to ride and spend time with him. He even threw my uncle, despite knowing him well enough.”

“I like to think that a horse knows if you really care about it or not,” Arthur says, back in the saddle. Smoke walks around the water, pawing at it every now and then. Fancy looks at them and nickers, nudging Scarlet.

“Alright, alright. Let’s go then,” she mutters and pulls herself into her saddle. “Ready when you are, Jim.”

“This way.” They turn their horses and head back on the trail.

Jim was right, it wasn’t much farther. The mountains level off where they are and opens into a spacious clearing. A tall corral stands with several men surrounding it. Some on horseback, the rest on the top fence post. As they approach, Arthur and Scarlet can hear the whinnies and shrieks of the horses in the pen.

“Is this the man who thinks he’s gonna be able to break your horses, Jim?” A snide comment from one of the men. Scarlet side eyes him as she trots passed, letting Fancy circle around the pen. She slips off her mustang and starts undoing her saddle, letting it drop on the outside of the fence.

“Let her in there. She’ll calm them down and then we can get started,” Scarlet instructs as she moves the saddle. Fancy puts her head between the wooden posts and sniffs at the closest horse. He startles slightly but doesn’t back away from the mare. He tosses his head and neighs at her. She nickers back and swishes her tail.

“You sure it’s wise to open the gate?”

“You want these horses broken or not? The easiest way is letting my mare go in there, settle ‘em down, an then have myself a  my partner here go in an break’em,” she snaps and turns to glare at the same man who had made the rude comment about Arthur. She turns back to Jim and raises a brow, arms crossed and brow raised in challenge.

“What are you waiting for? You heard the lady! Open the gate!” He hollers at his men who stumble over themselves to get the gate open and form a line on either side of the opening as a makeshift corral in case any horses escape.

Fancy snorts and flattens her ears as a couple men take a step too close to her, reeling back when they take notice of her, and she trots in on her own accord. They close the gate behind her and watch in awe as she -more or less- prances up to the rebellious stallion, leader of the herd. He goes to rear but she beats him to it and uses her forelegs to kick him. He startles and drops back down, backing up to the fence as she approaches again. He bows his head to her this time, nickering and bobbing his head submissively. Smoke stands behind the stallion, just on the other side of the fence, watching the scene with perked ears. He lets out a snort and moves to see Arthur.

“Did she just-”

“Essentially, she just told him “I’m boss, you listen to me or get your ass beat”. She’s good at what she does,” Scarlet offers at the questioning looks and murmurs of astonishment.

“Well, I’ll be- She might be old but she’s still got fire, ain’t she?” Arthur whistles low at the sight. The stallion stands nearly two hands taller than Fancy but he had submit without much of a fight. Scarlet just smiles and nods as she clambers up onto the top fence post to sit.

“Yeah. I don’t think she was ever fully broke, just bonded, yanno? But she’s loyal as they come an she’s fast too. Even as a broody mare,” she laughs. She surveys the pen, counting eight horses; Fancy included. “Alright. There’s seven horses that need breakin. Arthur, you want three or four?”

“Don’t much matter to me. If one is hard to break we can both have a go at it. Or whoever isn’t as worn out,” Arthur suggests as he joins her at the fence, though he leans on his arms on the top frame. Smoke nudges his owner and is rewarded with nose rubs.

“That will work too I guess. Ok. Mr. Jim, I need you and your men to help us separate these horses. The corral y’all have here is big enough to section them in small fenced areas and leave a wide enough range to still break one or two on one end,” Scarlet motions to the end where Fancy is herding them from. The mare tosses her head and begins a trot that the others closely follow, the old leader behind her. Jim barks orders to his men, telling them that they are to mind anything she and Arthur tell them as far as the horses and corral go.

“Let’s see if Fancy will still do this,” she mutters to herself, taking a deep breath. She lets it out in a whistle that jumps in pitch halfway through as she moves her tongue. Fancy’s ears, along with the herd’s, shoot up. The bay mustang snorts and breaks into a gallop, bringing the horses back closer to them. When some of the others notice how close they’re getting, they start to buck, but with one warning bray from Fancy, they are back to galloping in a makeshift formation with her around the corral. Scarlet lets out a small huff of laughter, hand slapping down on Arthur’s shoulder. He glances up at her, hauling himself up onto the beam once she lets go of his shoulder.

“What was that you just did?”

“What? The whistle? That was somethin my Ma taught me. Said she used to have Fancy herd all her ma’s horses an she’d use that whistle. There’s a few different whistles she responds to. So long as they come from me, she’ll listen,” she explains.

“Like what?”

“Well, for instance, this one,” she demonstrates three short whistles of the same pitch and Fancy puts a little distance between herself and the rest of the herd before rearing and breaking into a run for the other end of the pen, just to spin last minute and race back to the herd. “That was sorta like a ‘hey go scout and come back’ kinda call. I’ve used it several times in bounties.”

“Any others she might remember?”

“Yeah, but one more. Can’t teach you all my secrets, Morgan,” she winks and whistles similarly to the first; normal, then higher pitch, then normal again. “That means come here if you can hear me,” she chuckles as Fancy gallops over, tail and head held high as she skids to a stop in front of Scarlet. The woman laughs and offers her a bit of hay she pulls from her pocket.

“Well, alright then. Let’s get these horses separated so we can get this done,” Arthur hops down into the pen with Scarlet at his side. The dark bay mare moves away and towards the herd who cluster behind her. She nickers and snorts at them, slowly separating them on her own. “She’s a bright one, huh? She really understands us doesn’t she?”

The ranch hands all help herd the horses into small sections, using posts to block them at one end of the corral. Fancy blocks the entrance to the space for two from the herd, a faux fence around the others,

“Acourse. She’s been with me for years. She’s known me since she was at least ten,” Scarlet holds up her hands and slowly approaches one of the remaining horses. Arthur does the same to the other, walking slow and speaking words of encouragement and praise.

“Easy girl, that’s good.”

“Yeah girl, no need to spook. There’s a good girl.”

“Atta girl. So good.”

“That’s it, easy.”

The horses nicker and prance around the two humans for a minute before settling enough to allow them to pat them. Arthur looks over the back of the mare he’s with, meeting Scarlet’s eye for a split second before her horse moves and the woman is blocked by the dapple grey mare. He pats the horse once more before he hauls himself onto her back, mane gripped tight in his hand. In his peripheral he sees Scarlet has mounted her mare as well.

There’s a rush of adrenaline through him as he calls for his mare to calm down. He can vaguely make out Scarlet saying something similar. “Whoah!” He hollers as he almost slips off his dapple grey. He quickly adjusts himself and continues to calm the horse.

Scarlet is faring just as well. She’s got a good grip on the mare’s mane, moving with her, spouting praises and soothing her. She grunts as the dapple grey throws her forward. She quickly recovers, adjusting herself farther back so she doesn’t fall if the mare throws her forward again. She lets out a laugh as the horse grunts under her, snorting at the unusual weight on her back.

Soon, the two mares are prancing sideways and nickering at each other as they test their ability to trot, gallop, and walk with the added weight. Scarlet steers her horse towards the gate, telling the males there to wait to open it until they have leads on the first two. She waits until there’s a rope halter on the one she’s on before slipping off and meeting Arthur in the middle of the pen.

“Two down, five to go. You ready?” She asks, breathing a tad heavier. He grins and nods, bending down to pick up his hat. He wipes the dust off and sets it on his head. She laughs, but it’s cut short as she tries to steady her heartbeat.

“O’course. You sound a bit winded though, you good?”

“Yeah. Gettin thrown into a horse vertebrae isn’t as fun as it sounds,” she jokes and nudges him. He shakes his head good naturedly and nods to the two new horses Fancy’s let out.

“Ready for round two?”

Scarlet’s face splits in a grin as she turns his innocent question into an innuendo. He glances at her, curious about her wide smile.

“Yeah, if you’ve got the stamina to match,” she shoots back, stopping and turning to look at him as he stumbles as her words sink in. She barks out a laugh as red creeps into his cheeks. He rubs the back of his neck and he points to the horses.

“Christ, Woman, I was talkin bout horse breakin.”

“So was I.” Her statement sounds more like a question to him. He groans quietly and motions for her to go first. She tips her hat covered head and they repeat the process for approaching the horses.

The next four horses are a little easier as they all have similar bucking patterns. Arthur and Scarlet learn quickly and find the fastest way to break them and get them calm before putting halters on them. When they’re down to the last three, Scarlet sends Fancy out and asks for one of the men to saddle her back up for her. The mustang takes up spot by Smoke; he sniffs curiously at the new horses’ scents on the mare.

They’re just bringing the last of the dual-breaking to the gate when they hear wood splintering. Scarlet turns and her green eyes widen. Arthur’s off the horse a split second behind her, yelling at the ranch hands to get out of the way. Two ranchers grab the most recently broken horses, a young colt and filly, as the stallion jumps the now broken fence. Both gunslingers whistle for their horses.

They’re in their saddles in record time, Fancy already starting to gallop while Scarlet swings up into the seat. She loosens Fancy’s reins and gives her her head as she kicks her sides, quickly transitioning to post with the running stride. Arthur is hot on her heels with Smoke as they chase the blood red stallion through the trees. Fancy snorts and almost yanks the reins from Scarlet’s hand in earnest.

“Whoah girl. Lemme untie them, then you can have your headway,” she soothes and busies herself with undoing the knot in the reins and tying it to her saddle, slack hanging loosely. “Alright, there. Hyah!”

The mustang whinnies and surges forward, leaving Arthur and his dark thoroughbred behind. He yells after her as Smoke pushes himself to go faster too. Fancy navigates her way through the trees, minding her rider when she jumps over knarled roots. They catch up to the stallion, who’s ran himself to a cliff edge, backed against the cliff behind him; he rears and kicks his front legs out as he realizes he’s ran himself into a corner.

Smoke and Arthur appear a few moments later, blocking the little escape the blood coated stud might have been able to slip through. The riders share a glance and slip from their saddles, letting their horses go block the path. The stallion snorts as they both walk slowly closer, his gaze trained on Arthur before switching to Scarlet. He paws at the ground before throwing his weight onto his front legs and kicking. They stop and wait for him to settle down again, murmuring soothingly to him as they approach.

It takes a solid ten minutes before they can pat him, but when they are able, they don’t immediately try to break him. Instead, they pet him and talk to him until he’s not anxiously prancing in place. Arthur steps away to make a rope halter as Scarlet rubs down the horse's forehead. He bobs his head before nudging her and sniffing at her pants. He nibbles at the pockets and she laughs, causing him to snatch his head back, ears half turned back.

“Shh, easy, Boy. Here. Look,” she slowly reaches into her pocket and pulls out what’s left of the hay. His ears flick forward as he sniffs at it when she raises it close to his face. He nibbles at it before taking it from her hand, leaving foamy saliva in place. She fake gags and wipes her hand on her pants, laughing again. “Gross....Atta boy. Good horse.”

“Here. Let’s see if we can slip this on him. Then we’ll try to break him.”

“Think he’ll be an easy break, Arthur?”

“Maybe. Hopefully. He’s calm ‘round us now so we can only hope,” he answers and passes her the makeshift halter. Together they manage to slip it on and into place, a lot of coaxing and reassurance being whispered to the stallion.

“I think you should break him,” Scarlet says after a moment. Her nose is scrunched as her eyes roam over the wild horse. Arthur shifts his weight to his left leg, popping his right out a little, and rests his hands on his belt, thumbs slipping between the belt and his pants.

“Why’s that?”

“He’s too tall for me to jump on. I don’t wanna startle him and I’d rather not climb on Fancy to climb on him,” she sighs softly as she pats his neck. “Such a pretty boy. Yeah, you are.” He nickers softly in response.

“Here,” Arthur’s on her in a flash, arm wrapped under her thighs as he hauls her off her feet and onto his shoulder in a seated position. She lets out a squeal as she feels her feet leave the ground. The trio of horses look at her as though she’s crazy before snorting at them. “Climb on now. I’ve got him.” And he does. He’s holding the rope halter in his hand so the horse won’t move. Scarlet glances down at him, but his hat is covering his face so she can’t see his eyes nor read the expression in them.

She shifts slightly on his shoulder and grabs the stallion’s mane, pulling herself onto his back. Arthur meets her eyes then, a silent question to make sure he can let go; She nods and he lets his grip loosen on the halter and fall away. He backs up as the stud rears at the added weight. Scarlet holds tight to his mane and squeezes her thighs against him until he’s back on all fours. He bounces on his back legs a few times, as though he’s going to rear again, but doesn’t. Instead, he kicks out his legs and bucks to the left. Scarlet shifts herself and holds steady until he starts going right. She moves with him, her body syncing with his wild antics. It’s faster than the other three she’s broken today, that much she knows. He kicks once more and settles, shaking his head and pawing the ground, his hoof scraping against the rock under foot making a clicking sound.

“Good boy!” She praises and pats his neck. He turns his head to look at her and snorts. Arthur steps back up to them and ties a piece of rope on the halter to use as reins. Once it’s secured to both sides, Arthur slips it over his neck and hands it to Scarlet.

“See there? That wasn’t so bad, was it?” His question is for Scarlet, but the stallion whinnies and shakes his mane out in reply. They laugh at him and shake their heads.

“Guess he’s a mind reader. Honestly I think this was the easiest break I’ve ever done,” she admits and tests out the reins. She has the stallion walk, turn, trot, slow down, and stop before she turns to Arthur. “I think we’re ready to head back. You think we should tie him to our horses?”

“No, I think you should ride him back. Keep him from spooking and I’ll follow on Smoke with Fancy. Keep an eye out for you,” he suggests and whistles for their horses. Both respond and walk up to them, Fancy greeting the now broke stallion. He nudges her back and lowers his head to her as she nips at his mane.

“Keep an eye out for me or on me?” She taunts playfully, locking eyes with Arthur. He chooses not to answer and mounts up instead.

“Come on, this way,” he says, clicking his tongue to signal his horse to go. She beams at his silence, giggling quietly at the realization that she might have made him uncomfortable.

They ride back the way they came in a content silence, Fancy trailing behind her as she rides behind Smoke as they look for the trail. She urges the stallion to keep pace with the dark thoroughbred and rests the reins where his neck and back meet. She knocks knees with Arthur and tips her hat back on her head.

“This was fun. We should do this more often.”

“What? Chase horses that break free from pens?”

Scarlet laughs at that. She shakes her head and uses her foot to hook the back of his leg, letting it go soon after. He finally looks at her, tilting his head in question.

“Nah. I meant this,” she gestures around them and then themselves. “Ridin together. We make a good team.”

“Hmm.” He turns his eyes back to the nonexistent path their horses pave, thinking. He nods in agreement. “Yeah. I guess we do. I’m sure Dutch will send you on jobs with me and some of the others too. We’re not just the Van der Linde gang, we’re a family,” he explains as they merge back onto a trail they come upon. They ride the rest of the way back in silence, hearing the whoops and hollers from the ranchers and hands as they near.

“Well I’ll be damned!” Jim greets them as they pull to a stop near the busted corral. He whistles low at the sight of Scarlet on the horse. He nods and digs in his pocket for the owed money. “Here, the money promised for breaking these guys. And for the trouble, why don’t you keep that one you’re riding there? Your mustang is up there in age ain’t she?”

“Yeah. Fancy’s my old girl. She gets me where I need to go, fast if we need to too,” she replies, leaning over and scratching behind the mare’s ear as she stands on her left. “Don’t you girl? Such a sweet old thing.”

“You sure? He’s broke now,” Arthur accepts the money but questions the offer for the horse. Jim just nods and waves him off. He shrugs and tips his hat to the man. “Well then, Miss O’Hara, you ready to head back to Valentine?”

“I guess so. Jim, sir, you have a good day. Take care of them horses now. They weren't easy to break,” she chides playfully as she turns toward Arthur. “Ready when you are, Cowboy.” Arthur rolls his eyes but smiles small anyway, spurring on his horse. The stallion perks his ears with a raised head as Fancy takes off after Smoke and he prances. “Well, we’ll be seeing you. Y’all have a good rest of your day,” she calls as she gives their new horse a light kick. He neighs and gallops to catch up to the other two. He only settles when Fancy allows him to pass and he’s riding side by side with Smoke.

“Seems like he’s taken a liking to us,” Arthur points out, once out of sight of the rancher’s camp. Scarlet nods and hums as she lets Arthur lead them back to the small, developing town of Valentine.

“Seems that way, don’t it?” She acknowledges as Arthur reaches over and pats the red stallion as they continue on.

By the time they make it back to Valentine, the sun’s setting. Scarlet yawns and turns into the town, headed for the stables. Arthur raises a brow and turns Smoke to follow her.

“Where ya goin?” He asks as she slows the stud to a walk as they approach the stables. The owner gets up from his seat and waves as she stops and dismounts.

“Gotta at least check on Shasta,” she mumbles and hitches the thoroughbred. He snorts and pulls at the tied reins until Arthur has Smoke stand beside him, Fancy joins on his other side to help settle him. Arthur joins Scarlet in the stables.

Shasta’s biting the stall door, ears pinned back until he smells his owner. He whinnies happily and tries to rear in the small stall. When he can’t, he huffs and presses as close to the door as he can, head reaching for Scarlet. Once she’s close enough for him to reach, he bites on her shirt and pulls her to him, nickering and braying softly as he nuzzles his chin against her back. She pats his neck, petting what she can reach until he lifts his head so she can move.

“Why you actin up? Huh? Why you chewin this nice man’s stall door?” She asks and ruffles the part of his mane that’s between his ears and fallen into his eyes. He blinks as she brushes it with her fingers, pulling it away from his eyes so he can see. “I thought I told you to behave.”

“He actually wasn’t any trouble, Ma’am. He just started that before you rode up. We took him out earlier and let him run the corral with some of the others. He even took to the salt lick we had out there,” the owner answers the questions for the Buckskin. Aforementioned horse pulls his lips back and whinnies at her, bouncing his head like he’s laughing.

“Yeah, is that so? You think this is funny, Boy? Makin me think you’re misbehavin?” She teases and scratches his neck. He leans into her touch, shifting on his feet. “If it’s ok I think I’ll leave him here again. I’ll probably bring one of my others too. I have four now and can’t ride them all at once,” she turns to the stable owner who nods and smiles at her.

“Always happy to help. He’s actually been helping with the other timid horses. I was afraid he was gonna fight the Dutch Warmblood we have but he didn’t. So that was good.”

“That right? Well, I’ve got some oats supposed to be comin in at the store in the next couple days or so. I can drop a bag off as payment for this door if you’d like,” she offers in apology. They shake on it and she leaves with Arthur, Shasta earning another night at the stables.

She scratches Smoke’s neck as she passes around his front and unties the new horse, tossing the rope over his head. He stumbles back, spooked at the suddenness. Fancy and Smoke move with him, boxing him between them until he allows Scarlet to get ahold of his halter.

“Such good horses,” she praises the trio, pushing on Fancy’s nose to get her to back up. She does as wanted, pulling her head back to glance behind her. Arthur pulls Smoke a little away and saddles up. He extends his arm down to Scarlet to help her onto the stallion. She takes it and between Arthur pulling her up and using her grip on the stallion’s mane she manages to clamber onto his back again. Arthur chuckles at the scene of her readjusting herself on the horse’s back, causing her to look up to him. “Something funny, Arthur?”

“Yeah. I think you like horses that are too tall for you,” he walks Smoke around her and pulls on the stallion’s halter. “Come on, let’s get back to camp and let Dutch know we got the money.”

“How much money y’all need exactly? To leave all this behind and such?” she asks once they cross the train tracks heading out of Valentine. Arthur sighs as he tries to figure that out himself.

“Honest? I’m not sure how much Dutch has set aside, so as far as right now I can’t say. I dunno how much it would cost to move us all either, wherever he even has planned, but I’m gon’ say it’ll be a lot,” he finally answers, keeping their pace at a fast walk. Fancy makes a habit of being on one side of Arthur and then rounding to Scarlet, as though keeping lookout.

They ride the rest of the short way in silence, Scarlet leaning back to look at the stars starting to come out. She lets go of the reins, trusting Fancy and Smoke to keep the stallion calm as she rests her palms on his haunches to lean back on them. He flicks his ears back to her at the weight shift on his back, but continues at their pace. Arthur side eyes her, reaching out to the new stallion to scratch behind his ear, taking in how peaceful and content she looks; the night casting shadows across her skin that the stars and moon banish with their light. He swallows thickly and shakes his head, eyes back on the path ahead as they turn under the crossed trees that mark the main entrance to the camp. Once the trio of horses are hitched, and Shamrock given his earlier bribe of hay, the duo make their way to Dutch’s tent.

He’s sitting on his bed, book in hand, muttering to himself. Arthur clears his throat and greets him, a small smile on his face. Dutch glances up and gets to his feet, meeting them. He gestures to the campfire and they follow obediently, all taking a seat. Arthur and Scarlet sit on the log while Dutch takes a seat on the box to their right. He rests his elbows on his knees, leaning forward.

“I was worried you two ran into trouble. You get them horses broke?”

“Acourse we did; have some faith in us, Dutch. There was seven of them to deal with and it was a long ride out there and back,” Arthur playfully jabs back at Dutch as he leans back on the fur covered log. “We got a little something out of it too. Pretty decent pay just to break some horses. Two hundred each and another surprise.”

Dutch nods and runs a hand down his face, eyes flickering to Scarlet. She reaches for the coffee mug by the fire and smiles upon feeling how full it is. She busies herself with getting her cup and pouring some in it before she quietly and carefully opens Arthur’s pouch and removes his cup. She fills his too and Dutch barks out a laugh. Hosea, John, and Javier join them, hearing Dutch’s laughter.

“Well despite that, you just got robbed, Arthur my boy,” he claps his hands down on his knees as Arthur gives him a confused look. Dutch just nods to Scarlet, who is holding up his cup in offering when he turns to her. His eyes widen as he sees two cups in her hands, her own and his. He mutters a thanks and takes the cup, basking in the warmth that seeps into his hands from it.

“How the hell did you get into my pouch without me feeling it?” He inquires curiously, taking a drink of the bitter liquid. She shrugs and lowers her cup, waggling her left hand at them.

“I’m pretty good with my hands,” she shrugs and winks at Arthur, getting another laugh from Dutch, the others snort in laughter as well. “Quiet too. Have to be when there’s a crowd,” she adds before taking another drink of the liquid energy. Arthur feels warmth spread across his cheeks and is glad that night’s fallen.

“Oh I like her, I really do. Don’t take this the wrong way now, Miss O’Hara, but I’m glad that we nearly collided when those O’Driscoll scum were chasing you,” Dutch proclaims, handing over his own cup when she prompts him. She fills his mug and passes it back as she listens.

“Well, thanks for the reminder that I nearly ran over the infamous Dutch. Please, humiliate me some more,” she sasses as she sets the half empty tin back down by the fire after offering it to the others who decline. “But always happy to be of service and pleasure.”

“Mama?” James calls as Abigail herds both boys towards them. Scarlet is off her seat in a moment, arms open for her son as he dashes away from Abigail. He hugs her tight and mumbles, something she can’t quite make out, into her shirt. She strokes his head, brushing his hair back as she leads him back over to her seat. He sits in front of her, between her legs as he recounts his day with Jack and Abigail.

“Thank you, Abigail. I didn’t think we’d be gone all day. I preshade [appreciate it], ya lookin’ after ‘im,” she thanks the only other mother in the gang. Abigail waves her off and gives her a look that says ‘let’s talk later’. Scarlet nods and leans against Arthur slightly, nudging him. “Wanna tell’em how you laughed at me fer ridin’ horses too big?” She taunts; James laughs, remembering his father having said something similar to the two of them the last time they went to visit him.

The rest of the gang trickle over to hear the story of how Arthur and Scarlet broke the horses. About how the stud they have hitched on the other side of camp broke the fencing and ran off; about their mini adventure on calming, catching, and breaking him. Scarlet notes that he’s leaving out details, like their banter and when he picked her up to help her onto the stallion, but she doesn’t point it out.

John and Bill make comments and jokes about Arthur needing help being re-broke, asking Scarlet if she thinks she can do it. Thankfully Abigail and Scarlet sent Jack and James off to bed by the time those kinds of questions start slipping out. Everyone waits for the answer as she and Arthur look at each other a moment.

“Ahh, I dunno. He’s kinda old,” she jabs, knocking her shoulder into his. “Kinda gruff and scruffy too.” He grins at that, shaking his head, thinking of a good comeback.

“Nah. She’s too green. Don’t know how to handle a real unruly and wild stud,” he replies, stretching his legs out in front of him. Everyone, including the duo in question, bust out in laughter at the responses.

Not too long after their story is retold do they bid goodnight to the gang, each headed to their respective wagons. Arthur grabs Scarlet’s upper arm as she passes, making her stumble back a couple steps. She glances at her arm where his hand is and then to his face.

“Arthur?” She asks, concern lacing her tone as she steps closer to him. He clears his throat as he lets her arm go, his hand holding onto her wrist light enough she could pull away if she wants. He nods, a gesture more to himself than her. She waits patiently.

“I just want you to know that you can come to me if you need help. Okay? With anythin. Just let me know. An, uhh, well thanks for bein there today. I don’t think I coulda done that by myself and still gotten back here before now without you an Fancy,” he supplies for his momentary silence. She nods and rolls her shoulders, shrugging as she goes to turn back to her wagon. “Hey, I mean it. Anythin. Any time. If I’m sleepin, wake me. Promise I won’t be mad.”

“Thank you, Arthur. You’re sweet. You really are a good man. Albeit one who’s done bad things, but haven’t we all?” She smiles at him, though he notes it’s a sad smile and it doesn’t reach her eyes. He goes to say something else but she cuts him off. “I’d ride with you again, if you ever ask. Just let me know and I’ll go.” She pauses and twists her hand in his hold, rubbing his forearm for a moment. “Goodnight, Arthur.” She squeezes his arm before letting him go as she turns back to her carriage, grabbing an extra blanket and cuddling with her son.

“Good night, Scarlet.”