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74demonking · 3 years

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Chapter 2

-Kellen-

The sun had not yet risen when Kelln woke the following morning. He had stayed awake late into the night trying to narrow down what it was that was troubling him, yet he was no closer to identifying what it was that had him so vexed. Regardless, he did not wish to put off his visit to Imperium, to this powerful Queen. To have another Hell realm as an ally would be a benefit. If he could at least keep her from coming to war with them, that would be the least he could hope for. Kellen rarely aimed for the least of anything, and that was true in this instance as well.

Grae had been tasked with ensuring that they would be welcomed and procuring the necessary gifts that were customary when dignitaries came on such diplomatic visits. Kellen had no worries that these had both been seen to. At least those items were not ones that he would have to attend to; his focus could be solely on the new Queen and ensuring that the first impression was perfect. For her to have assumed the throne and subjugated both of the powerful males she had, she had to be quite the female. That made her a female Kellen was very interested in.

Kellen selected his black suit carefully, along with the fur trimmed cape that would go over it. Refined in its cut and fit, but exuded power in the intricate embroidery that decorated the front. Once clothing was set aside, Kellen started his grooming, his almost black eyes carefully studying every small detail about himself in the mirror as he did. Nothing was too small to escape his notice this morning, this meeting was too important of a meeting. He would not let anything go wrong with it. Not. One. Thing.

-Grae-

The velvet box sat on his desk. The gift had been carefully chosen by one of the courtesans whom he implicitly trusted. As always, he had been entrusted with procuring the gift to be presented, and for some reason he had gotten the impression that Kellen wanted to particularly impress the Queen that they were going to visit. Maybe the King had decided to give up his lecherous ways? There was always hope. It would certainly make life easier. However, from what he had heard of Queen Gabrielle, she was not an easy nor meek woman. Grae already liked her.

He had heard from a fae that Kellen was dressing in his customary black, so Grae dressed to match in a black morning coat, vest, and trousers. A black ascot was tied formally at the neck of his shirt and secured with a diamond pin. Formal, but not so much so as to outshine the King. Grae liked his head on his shoulders and wanted to keep it there.

Before going to meet Kellen, Grae raised the lid of the velvet box. The courtesan had done wonderfully, the piece was perfect. Before sending her on the task, Grae had been able to make some discreet inquiries of those who had met the Queen and discovered that she was more of a warrior Queen than a prissy one, something he was still looking forward to seeing Kellen handle. Rarely was she seen in gowns when not receiving formal guests or hosting formal functions; more often than not, she was in fighting leathers and could almost be mistaken for one of her legion, if it were not for her height, which was diminutive. It was based on that he had given instructions to the courtesan to find something unique, not overly flashy, and something that would represent their realm more than impress with the value.

Within the box lay a necklace, the center of which was crescent moon shaped, the points facing upwards. A large oval cabochon of Uffernium Opal was in the center, two smaller circular cabochons on either side more towards the points of the crescent. There were no other stones, and the metal was silver rather than golden colored. If the Queen was anything like her reputation, then this would be much more to the female’s liking than the normal diamond encrusted gaudy pieces that they had bequeathed in the past.

-Kellen-

Kellen had just finished dressing and having his groomsman gnome adjust all the details of his outfit when there was a knock at his chamber door. He was sure it was Grae so he called for him to enter. It was getting close to the time they were to go to Imperium, and while he would have liked to go earlier, he also knew that showing up too early would not give the correct impression either.

“Let me see it,” Kellen ordered when he saw the deep burgundy velvet box that Grae bore. He was anxious to not only know what had been chosen, but also to know how the Queen would receive it.

When Grae lifted the lid, Kellen’s brows knit together in confusion. Surely this was not what his top advisor had decided was what should be given to the Queen. It would not fit her station! It would be an insult and embarrass him. What could Grae have been thinking?

“Is this a joke? Something to break the mood because you know I am unusually tense regarding this visit?” Kellen asked, trying not to swat away the dark fae that was putting the last touches on his jacket. His expression was one of clear displeasure and his voice was the exclamation mark on that.

-Grae-

So, it was clear the King had not done his homework. It was a good thing he had, but why Kellen hadn’t confused him. For some reason this visit seemed to mean more to the King than others that they went on purely for diplomatic or curiosity reasons. Grae found it hard to understand why then Kellen wouldn’t have asked about the Queen and known that the normal gifts would not be her style.

“No, it is not a joke.” Grae watched Kellen’s features darken, as well as the room slightly, at his response. He continued undaunted, “however, in my inquiries regarding Queen Gabrielle, the normal jewel and diamond encrusted pieces would not be to her liking. She rarely is seen in a gown or with her tiara on. More often she is in leathers, or human clothes and with her guard or the other Horsemen. In truth, I was more inclined to give her a blade than jewelry, but was not sure I’d survive your reaction to seeing that. The gift is for this woman to appreciate that you have looked into who she is, or at least for me to have since you did not know what I did.” The last dig was possibly a bit much since Kellen’s features were still clouded with confusion, but since the darkness had lifted from the room, Grae was pretty sure he was no longer about to kill him.

-Kellen-

“I thought that to be all rumor, or that when she ascended to the throne that had changed. I did not consider that it would not have.” Kellen’s eyes remained on the piece; a piece that was perfect for the woman it was intended for, Grae had done well. He, however, had not and it bothered him that his advisor had interpreted the intel they had received better than he had.

“I was wrong, this is the perfect gift.” His eyes rose from the necklace to look at Grae, “and skipping the blade was a smart move. Giving her a blade at first meeting might be a bit presumptive. We might save that for the second meeting.” His expression softened and he gave a slightly weary smile. Now he was more troubled than before. It was not like him to mess up. He could not ruin this.

“Grae, what is wrong with me?” He demanded finally. When his advisor looked at him warily and confused he continued, “I was up late into the night. Something is nagging at me about this visit. And now, you have better judged someone that we are going to meet than I have. So, I ask again, what is wrong with me?”

-Grae-

“Leave us.” Grae’s chin rose definitely and an air of authority came to his voice. The two fae flitting about putting the finishing touches on both of them exited the room quickly. A wave of Kellen’s hands and the doors closed and were locked so that no one could come in.

“You are afraid you might finally meet your equal.” For the first time in their long friendship and working relationship, Grae saw surprise on Kellen’s face. “Come now, you must have realized it, Kellen.”

Grae closed the velvet box and set it on a nearby table then turned back to his friend to talk. “There are few beings in creation that have the same type of power as you, most of them male. I’m not sure we’ve run into a female that has even been close, outside of the Greeks and you’ve pissed all of them off. But, Gabrielle, she could be and I think you don’t know how to handle that.” He was frank with his friend. He’d wondered how Kellen would handle it. Not well would be the answer.

-Kellen-

Kellen scoffed and turned away. “Don’t be absurd.” But Grae wasn’t, and that is what bothered Kellen more than anything. It was quite possible he was right. Then what would happen? What if she was as powerful as he? Or, if she was more powerful? Was that what had been nagging at him?

He began to pace, his fists clenching and unclenching as he did. Grae smartly stayed off to the side and observed. “If she is as powerful then we must secure her as an ally. We have a war already Grae and I cannot support one if she can bring to bear the kind of power I can. If she would stand at our side, well that would give us a tactical advantage. Yes, it would help us greatly and increase our standing in the realms.” Kellen nodded, starting to resolve things in his head.

-Grae-

“And if she is as beautiful as they say?” Grae brought Kellen to a full stop with one sentence. Had his friend really not considered that, or worse not gotten that intel from whoever was providing it to him?

“Powerful and beautiful. You are going to tell me that you haven’t even considered that, my KING?” Now he was prodding Kellen to see how the other male would react. If Gabrielle was powerful and Kellen was going to be playing a romantic game with her, it could lead them to complete ruin.

-Kellen-

His back was to Grae, but Kellen didn’t need to be facing him to know the look on his face and why he’d asked the question. “Then she will be as beautiful as they say.” He was lying to both of them and he knew it.

Turning, he faced Grae. “We are not going there in order to romance her, if that is what you are thinking.” It was true, it was not the reason for the visit. What he didn’t say was that if she lived up to everything that he’d heard about her that romancing her would be a pleasure, and one he would take very seriously. However, whether the petite woman he’d heard so much about was worth all of the praise that had been heaped upon her was still yet to be seen, and Kellen was skeptical.

“We are going there to find out exactly who and what she is. I’m also hoping to see Lucifer and Abbadon on leashes.” A smirk came to Kellen’s lips as he considered even the thought of that, not that he could get lucky enough to see either male in that position. “And we’re also going to make sure that she knows the power that resides within Uffern as well.” Kellen’s face sombered. “If she is not as powerful as they say, then we don’t want her thinking that her badass reputation gives her the right to try to come in here and boss us around. I believe it is now time, let us go and see exactly who this Queen Gabrielle is.”

@74hybridangel

@kellencythraul

#UffernChronicals #ShadowKing #QueenOfHell #DeathRider #PreparingForAMeeting #Chapter2

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coffeecomicsgalore · 3 years

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With The World On Her Shoulders

Ao3

@marinettemarch

Chapter 25: Idols

Marinette eyed the dress that Adrien’s father would be lending her for the event. It was an A-line style dress that had a low-high cut design to showcase the strappy gold kitten heels that she would wear for the night. The dress was a deep burgundy color, perfect for a fall gala, with golden applique floral designs embroidered throughout. She loved the fact that it had a sweetheart neckline with thick drop cap sleeves that ended right at the edge of her shoulders.

“Do you have any issues with the design or the gown, Miss Dupain-Cheng?” Gabriel’s intrigued voice boomed over her as she took in everything about the dress.

“No, sir.” Marinette began, looking up at Gabriel to give him her undivided attention. “I was simply taking in the intricate details of the embroidery. It’s gorgeous and I’m honored to be able to wear something so extravagant to the event.”

“Thank you.” He stated, pleased at her compliments. “When Adrien requested to bring a guest, I was quite concerned with who he wanted to bring. His taste in friends is… peculiar to say the least.”

Marinette held off from rolling her eyes as much as she could over the ridiculousness of his choice of words. But she knew that if she did anything, or say anything “peculiar”, it would ruin Adrien’s chances of having any other friends join him in future events. She looked back at the gown to avoid confronting him, tilting her head as she thought about Adrien and his outfit.

“What will Adrien be wearing, if you don’t mind me asking?”

“I don’t mind the question at all.” Gabriel brought his hands behind his back, a small smirk curling his lips as he turned towards the dress. “He will be matching the gown of course. Black suit with gold pinstripes, a burgundy vest with pencil tie, and a pocket square to match. His shirt will also be black, and the vest will have the same applique design throughout.”

“Wouldn’t the suit jacket cover the design element?” She said without a second thought, quickly swallowing the words when she noticed his arched eyebrow. “I mean—what I meant to say is that—”

“Hmm…” Gabriel hummed out, circling the gown before turning towards Marinette. “You do have a point. Nathalie!” He called out, and Marinette watched as Nathalie entered the atelier waiting for his word. “Please have Adrien dress into the suit for the gala and bring him in. I would like to show Miss Dupain-Cheng the elements first hand.”

Nathalie nodded her head and walked out to do as she was told. Gabriel eyed Marinette for a few moments before Gabriel turned away.

“Mr. Agreste?” Marinette asked meekly. “The gown has a lot of details. How would you like me to wear my hair and makeup? What about any accessories that I should worry about?”

“Nathalie will hash out the details with you after this meeting, but I understand that you like to be prepared. Monica and Fredrick, our hair and makeup stylists, will be handling your look for the night. Adrien’s bodyguard will pick you up and drop you off at your home, and then we will provide the transportation to the event. You will be wearing a simple gold necklace, bracelet, and earrings, and you will also carry a gold clutch for the evening.”

Marinette nodded at the request, and mentally prepared how she would hide Tikki and her earrings on her person in case an akuma weas to appear. She would talk about specifics with her kwami later.

“Thank you, Mr. Agreste. I appreciate you telling me the details—”

A knock on the door interrupted her sentence, but her breath hitched at the sight of Adrien wearing the suit. She blushed when he smiled at her, and barely acknowledged the sound of Gabriel’s voice asking him to stand before them.

“As you can see, Miss Dupain-Cheng, the applique travels high above the suit’s buttons. Adrien will actually be wearing the suit unbuttoned for most of the night, only doing so after the first hour. It is a design element that indicates a surprise, but it is tasteful and elegant for an event of this stature.”

Marinette nodded and braved her idol’s bold gaze, choosing to step around Adrien and investigating the design herself.

“May I?” She asked Adrien, pointing to the buttons on his lapel. Adrien nodded, allowing her to use her fashion instincts to shine through. She looked at the suit jacket buttoned, but then carefully unbuttoned it to expose the vest, and she hummed as the thoughts swirled around in her mind.

“I can see what you are saying Mr. Agreste. The design is perfect on its own. I know it’s not what you asked, but if I may say one thing?” Marinette looked towards the older Agreste, and he nodded for her to continue. “Thank you. What I would have done is add the gold applique to the lapels too. Like in this case, I would create a gold pinstripe edge to the lapel, leaving a bit of black to separate the edge of the lapel and the gold line. Then, I would add the smallest design of the applique, like these flowers here,” she pointed to the spot on the vest’s embroidery that she was referring to, “and I would place it here,” then pointed to where she would place it on the lapel itself. “It gives viewers the chance to appreciate the suit’s simple design with a hint of an intriguing piece, but then be wowed when the jacket comes off to reveal the applique on the vest.”

“Hm…” Gabriel hummed, finally lifting his head as he turned towards the blue-haired girl. “I didn’t doubt your design input, Miss Dupain-Cheng, but what you have said has merit. I appreciate your thoughts on the design. I will… take it to consideration.”

“Thank you, Mr. Agreste.” She turned to Adrien who shot her a bright smile. “Thank you.”

#marinettemarch2021 #marinettelove2021 #ml fanfiction #marinette dupain cheng

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empressofmankind · 5 years

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The Lion in Winter - Part I: Departure - 04. Tywin I

Fandom: A Song of Ice & Fire Major Character/s: Kevan Lannister Sr, Tywin Lannister, Loren Lannister (mentioned), Cersei Lannister (mentioned) Minor Somebodies: Miana Hill, Brynmor Royan (mentioned) Location/s: Casterly Rock Premises: ...but what if I made you feel for Tywin? Mood: There were probably emotionally healthier ways to deal with things but then Tywin wouldn't be Tywin Warnings: N/A NOTE: Part I of The Lion in Winter is set shortly before King Robert Baratheon, Queen Cersei Lannister and their family set out for Winterfell. It therefore takes place a little bit before the start of the first book, ‘A Game of Thrones’. The Lion In Winter - Part I: Departure - 01. Kevan I // 02. Loren I // 03. Jaime //

Lord Tywin strode out onto Casterly Rock's twilit inner bailey and into the pouring rain. Down the narrow way between the beacon and the western wall, he went, ignoring the late summer storm. The watchman sat huddled leeward of the twelve feet stack of soaked firewood. No flame but wildfire would light it now. The wind seized Tywin's thick crimson cloak as he came around the beacon, throwing the heavy damask about like a living thing. He ignored it like he ignored the rain pelting his face, seeping into his golden side-whiskers and drenching his quilted burgundy doublet. He held a square of fabric in his fist, water running in rivulets between his knuckles to soak into the faded embroidery. He went up the stone steps, worn concave down their middle from centuries of sentries doing the same. The western wall was the tallest of Casterly Rock's myriad defences, the drop down to sea-level sheer safe for a small ledge.

Tywin stood upon the western battlements and surveyed his storm-torn domain. Far below, the lighthouse of Lannisport cast its fire across the raging black sea, guiding its fishermen home. The storms were ever wild at the tail-end of summer. It would be wet, and then it would be cold. His gaze turned north, to the Iron Isles. The beacon at Faircastle was dark, even the Ironborn had deemed to stay ashore. But summer was drawing to a close, the lean months of winter approaching. They will come before long.

Lannisport huddled amid the rugged hills, shrouded in a curtain of grey. A dismal port along a desolate stretch of limestone cliffs and shingle beach, its shoulders in brooding old-growth and its toes in dark tidal waters. But Tywin knew how it could be, when the wretched weather rolled back and all glistened in the morning light. White shores, before a colourful port. And beyond, a green cloak of broadleaf forest. The limestone crest of the Rock pearlescent under a swift sunrise, setting fire to its gleaming battlements. The Westerlands were his home, and always would be.

“My Lord.”

Tywin ignored the call as his gaze wandered inland, to the mountains and the Golden Tooth, just visible behind the old quatrefoil keep. Beyond them, the deltas of the Riverlands, the forested Crownlands and the supposed jewel in Westeros' benighted crown: King's Landing. A presumptuous name for a hive of intrigue and petty crime. Yet Tywin's gaze lingered, even though he much preferred viewing Lannisport at dawn. Kevan would be a squire, soon. A boy of ten and a child not for much longer. He could remember the day he'd held his son as a mere babe as if it were yesterday. Small and blond and freckled, like his mother. Tywin smiled. He'd make a fine Lord, one day.

“Tywin.”

The rains were becoming more frequent. Tywin could smell it, the vague scent of damp never entirely leaving these days. It lingered in the wood and draperies, rotted rushes within the day. They marked the change in the season. Winter would be upon them before long. Not a cold snap, like the frost spell out of nowhere six years ago, which the smallfolk called ‘little winter’. But a real winter, one that would last years rather than nine moons. Tywin pursed his thin lips. Kevan would be fine, he was a vigorous child. Like himself, Kevan had been born towards the close of winter, braving its tail-end as a babe. Tywin clenched his fist, squeezing water from the strip of cloth he held. They'd had to bury Kevan’s baby brother together with the uncle the babe had been named for. Tywin did not miss his brother Tygett.

“Brother.”

‘Brother!’ Tywin could hear Gerion’s flippant call and laughter as if he’d never left. His gaze returned to the choppy sea and the shrouded lands beyond the horizon. Gerion was out there, somewhere. He ought to have been born a Lannisporter. ‘Look to the sea’ their words were. Tywin clenched his jaw. Gerion would return one day, laughing and swinging Brightroar in jest, mocking their concern as he swaggered down the docks. Laughing, always laughing. Tywin’s gaze lingered. Make haste, little brother. Winter will soon get into the sea.

Tywin had never thought he must steer their House through another winter. He’d always believed Jaime would, considered even that Tyrion might. Jaime... Tywin’s gaze found the pass across the Golden Tooth, the first rays of a watery dawn lighting the jagged peak to honour its name. In a few days, Kevan would be a squire. One more winter and Kevan will be old enough to do it in my stead, Tywin thought. He could do one more. His grip on the cloth tightened. He must. It would be his sixth winter. It would be his last.

Ser Kevan reached for his older brother’s face with both hands and turned it towards himself. “Is there any particular reason you are out here in the rain, trying to catch consumption?”

Tywin glanced at the beacon. The watchman was gone.

Kevan Lannister was a large man of modest stature with broad shoulders and a thick waist. In that, he took after their father. “He was just doing his job, Tywin.”

Tywin pursed his lips. Perhaps, not only in that. “His job is watching the beacon at Faircastle.”

Kevan sighed. “Come inside, take a hot bath. Lady Loren will have both our heads adorning these battlements if she returns home to find you bed-ridden.”

At the mention of his wife, Tywin’s gaze returned to the Golden Tooth. Kevan’s squiring was eight days hence. The ride down the gold road would take six days, even at haste. Loren wouldn’t rest beside him for another fortnight.

“Come on.” Kevan put a hand against his brother and Lord’s back, urging him towards the keep.

Tywin let him.

The venerable keep of Casterly Rock was old and known precisely so, as the ‘Old Keep’. Its correct name, if ever it had one, was lost to time. It squat on the westernmost tip of the limestone promontory, the summit forming a natural motte. Erected from pale, quarry-faced ashlar, delved right beneath its ancient feet, and crowned with smooth red shingles, the keep sat quiet and dignified in the storm. The Casterly’s had built it in the Dawn Age, but its four-leaf clover shape suited the person that had winkled it from them: Lann the Clever, not for no reason, also named Lann the Lucky. Some considered him a son of Floris the Fox, daughter of Garth Greenhand, but Tywin was not a man who put stock by tales that banked on fancy for veracity alone. For that matter, he doubted their eponymous golden-haired ancestor had existed at all.

“Why have you not left for King’s Landing?” Reproach edged Kevan’s tone.

Tywin put his hand to the pale stone as they entered, the seaward face of the Old Keep worn smooth by the unrelenting gales. It was cold and slick from the rain. “No one wants me there.”

Men-at-arms in the red cloaks of their household guard stood inside, sheltering from the dreadful weather. Tywin ran their faces past his recollection, putting names to each as he glared at them in turn. Ser Harren. Donyllo. Briella. Ser Marreo. Selvin. Young Selvin glanced away as Tywin caught her gaze, her sallow cheeks tinging red. So, you were on watch.

“I dare say your wife would like you to be there.” Kevan pulled the hood of his mantle down and ran a hand through his short, blonde hair. Water dripped from his close-cropped beard.

“Loren knows better than to wish for foolish things.” Tywin made no effort to prevent the trail of water he tracked onto the flagstones. The household guards closed the crimson doors behind them with a boom, and he dismissed them with a flick of his hand. Ser Marreo and Briella took up posts by the door while the others retreated to the guardrooms beyond.

“Don’t tell me you honestly believe she’s safer without you nearby?” Kevan pressed. He put a hand to the limestone column as they ascended the spiral stairs.

“Loren can handle herself.” Tywin scowled. She couldn’t uncover what they needed to know with him around. The tourney of his grandson Joffrey’s name day had shown the sorry truth of that.

“I’m not suggesting she can’t.”

Tywin paused. “Then what are you suggesting?”

Kevan squared his shoulders, filling out the narrow stairwell. “Ride for King’s Landing. You can still make it.”

Tywin started back up the stairs. “Loren can handle herself.”

“What about my little nephew? Your son? What about Kevan? You don’t think he wants you to be there on the most important day of his young life?”

Tywin’s jaw moved, but he didn’t speak. When he had left King’s Landing a fortnight past, his young son had asked if he’d make it back in time for his squiring. He’d given the boy a non-answer. His mother needed as much time as he could carve out for her.

“You can still make it,” Kevan insisted. “Ride out now. Ride fast. Send a raven ahead.”

They emerged into what had once been the Casterly’s great hall, long since turned into a solar. It was dominated by four paired limestone fireplaces, protruding proudly from the walls on either far end of the hall. The seaward side comprised seven tall archways with leonine capstones, the middle one twice the size of any of the others. They were shuttered with bloodwood from the Summer Isles now, but on fairer days they provided a view of the sunset sea like no other. Across, a semicircle dais marked where the high table had once been. The earliest Kings of the Rock had carved out the Grand Assembly, and they had moved their court there. Comfortable couches, upholstered chairs and even a claw-footed divan from far Qarth now occupied the place of honour. Among them, distinctly down-sized but equally well-made furniture. An assortment of wooden toys laid spread between them, including a gnarled, flaking dragon whose wings would flap when tugged along on its wheels. It had been a gift from King Aerys Targaryen, many years ago. The dais was flanked by a pride of true-to-life limestone lions. The roaring one had a crimson table runner thrown across its back, like a make-shift saddle.

Overlooking the solar from that fair vantage point hung the life-size portrait of a noble lady resplendent in crimson and gold. Regal and arresting, she sat frozen in time upon a divan just like the one standing before her likeness. Her dress was of luxurious, red damask and edged with ermine, the fine needlework and delicate fur beautifully rendered in paint. A golden pendant, shaped into a stalking lioness with ruby eyes, graced the curve of her pale collar bones. And many rings, crowned with pearl and ruby and a crest of two lions entwined, sat around her long, slender fingers. Her gentle, oval face was framed by hair as burnished gold that fell well past her waist in tender waves. It seemed in paint as silken as it had been in life. Her emerald eyes smiled at him.

Joanna. Tywin paused in front of it, as he always did. Loren had hung it here, during the Little Winter. ‘It saddens me to think that she can only ever hear our little cubs from her dark bed below,’ she had explained. ‘Now she can see them.’

“Brother?” Kevan’s hand rested on his shoulder. There was a question in his sea-green eyes, but he did not ask it.

Tywin shrugged his touch and turned abruptly from the portrait. It was paint on panel and merely shaped into the likeness of his late wife. It couldn’t see or feel any more than the old tree in the Stone Garden could. He shook his head. A streak of bear-blood ran through the Lannisport cadet branch of his House and, some times, he could feel the breath of the Old Gods roll off Loren like a half-recalled memory of the Long Night. Such as when she spoke of portraits keeping watch over their offspring. He pursed his lips and shook his head. Hrm. No.

“Kevan is the first boy to squire at nine since Aegon the Unlikely,” Tywin said, not without pride. He’d been right to decide his son page with his brother, for his namesake had taught him well. He ought to have insisted on the same for Joffrey.

“He is eager to become a knight of great renown and live up to his Lord Father’s fame,” Kevan said as they climbed one of the twin stairs flanking the portrait.

Good, Tywin thought. His son would be Hand to a worthy King, one day. He would make it so. The tourney had been the perfect opportunity for Cersei to showcase Joffrey’s qualities to his future realm, but she hadn’t. A frown creased his brow. It wasn’t like her not to preen.

“He reminds me of you, you know, when we were younger,” Kevan added, stirring Tywin from his thoughts.

Tywin’s eyebrows rose, amused. “Does he, now?”

“Mhm. The intensity with which he sets to mastering something new.”

Tywin glanced at his brother from across his shoulder as they ascended the stairs. You don’t exactly lack in tenacity yourself, Kevan, he thought. Kevan had hounded him about King’s Landing for four days now. Genna, too. He wondered when his siblings would resolve to gang up on him.

“You remember that?” It had been a goodly while ago. He’d been twelve, or so. Maester Hrothan was no longer with them. He regretted it now, for Creylen was not nearly as competent. They ought to demand a substitute from the Citadel. Or, perhaps, Loren could winkle Maester Ainsley from Lannisport.

“You hammered the quintain through the dead of night for a fortnight,” Kevan said as they stepped into a smaller solar, though not less sumptuously furnished than the hall below. A fireplace, its limestone arch fashioned into twin lions, protruded from the oak panelling and dominated the secluded chamber. The dawn crept in through the diamond-paned bay window, filling the room with warm, filtered light that set sparkles to the gold-thread in the red samite hangings. “I dare say we all remember.”

Tywin had met Ainsley on occasion, a diligent man and an expert on the histories of the Westerlands. Tion sorely needed a proper tutor and currently wanted nothing more than to learn the origin and purpose of every pebble and peasant in their fief.

“I am glad it healed well, in the end,” Kevan added.

Tywin crossed the solar and strode into his study, a private office where he might retire and work in peace, undisturbed by courtiers or claimants. He flexed his right arm. “I am still not as proficient dexter as I should like.”

Kevan lingered at the door, his hands behind his back and his gaze on an elegant painting he had beheld a hundred times before. It depicted Lord Tywin, standing stately complacent holding his then 2-year-old son Kevan. Lady Loren stood beside him, a delicate hand in the crook of his elbow. The finely rendered sparkle of amused satisfaction in her soft gaze betrayed that whoever had supervised the painting of her, knew her well. The same could not be said for Casterly Rock. The picturesque landscape behind them evidently meant to depict their family seat but had clearly been rendered by someone who had never seen it.

Tywin made for the cluttered, dark wooden desk dominating his study. He produced a small, bronze key from the pouch concealed at his hip, opened a drawer and took from it a bijou coffer of elegantly carved ivory. Lions danced along its finely worked panels. Before opening it, he glanced up and found his brother diligently studying the painting King Robert Baratheon had gifted him for his 50th name day. Then he pressed the concealed indents on the small strongbox. It opened with a soft click to reveal a lining of faded crimson velvet within. Tywin folded the cloth he had been holding, still damp with rain, and laid it on the velvet pillow. It was threadbare from age and handling, the neatly embroidered heraldic lions having long since lost their gold-thread lustre. The shadow of a smile flitted across his face. Their attitudes had been arranged to make it look as if they mated. After a moment, he snapped the box shut, put it back and locked the drawer.

“A fine gift, this painting,” Kevan said, as ever.

Tywin straightened and pocketed the key. “I am fond of it.”

Only after Tywin had spoken did Kevan turn to him. “Our King is generous.”

Tywin pursed his lips. With my coin.

A girl with thick curly black hair, no older than eight, in the ruby livery of their House, entered with a pitcher of wine. She made a curtsy, holding the pitcher perfectly straight, her pinky lifting free off the handle as she did so. The dainty obeisance made Tywin think of Helaina mimicking her older sister and Queen. “Milords Lannister.”

“Only water,” Tywin said.

Kevan smiled at her. “We would break our fast with warm toast and egg, boiled well, Miana.”

Tywin paused. Joanna liked runny eggs. ‘I want it to bleed when I stick it with my knife,’ she’d joke. Gerion would invariably make a rejoinder unsuited to the dinner table, as to why she preferred her egg so.

“Straight away, milords.” Miana left as swiftly as the full pitcher allowed her, to arrange the command.

“I’m not hungry.”

“Joy’s friend, isn’t she?” Kevan said, ignoring his comment. Tywin suspected his wife had instructed Kevan to hound him over it if need be.

Tywin frowned. Joy was a pale, sallow-faced girl whose light hair was akin to straw more than spun gold. She was his little brother Gerion’s natural daughter. Loren had all but adopted the girl, diligently heeling her into the lady she might have been had his brother bothered to wed first. Tywin had seen the two girls play on occasion. They would go to the stables and braid the manes of every horse in sight, and of every young man that didn’t flee fast enough. “I’ve seen them at play, yes.”

“I wasn’t aware Ser Brynmor had wed,” Kevan said. Miana’s resemblance was more than passing and not purely because of her warm brown skin which seemed to hold the sunshine of the Summer Isles. She had the same, soft, round features. Her small, broad nose and high cheekbones framing bright, intelligent eyes the stormy grey of her father’s.

Tywin’s frown creased with disapproval. “He hasn’t.”

Kevan’s expression fell. “Oh, I see.”

A few years ago, Lord Gawen Westerling had sold the deed to the hamlet of Westerbridge title-and-all to the Royans, in an attempt to bind one of his last remaining banners to him. Like so many things Lord Gawen undertook, it had fallen sorely flat. Lord Lloyd Royan, the newly minted petty Lord of Westerbridge, had sent his sibling to Casterly Rock faster than a dead-whipped runner boy. He’d charged Ser Brynmor with swearing fealty directly to Lord Tywin himself instead of Lord Gawen. Tywin had accepted and formalised the penny-sized fief. Ser Brynmor had chosen to stay as part of their Household guard.

Tywin entered his bedchambers to find a bath had already been drawn. He had no doubt the temperature of the water would be as he preferred it. The corner of his lips twitched as he entertained the notion of his wife drawing up precise instructions for his siblings and their staff alike before they left.

“Loren noticed when she saw her as a toddler,” Tywin said as he undressed. His wife was prudent in her caution towards strangers. Ser Brynmor had still been a new face among their guard at the time. She had kept the girl at hand, should anything unfortunate occur. Though these days, Miana’s uncle was a fixture among their vassals and her father had been commended by the assiduous Ser Gnaeus.

“You don’t approve of her friendship to Joy?”

Tywin pursed his lips. Even trueborn daughters of their respective Houses would not be friends for much longer. “Not all bastards are begotten equal.”

Tywin reached for the golden bowl and rinsed himself shoulders to toes. The plink of water drops falling from his limbs carried Tywin’s thoughts to the balnea, where bronze pipes brought water up to patter down from the ceiling like salty summer rain. They plinked just so on the warm ceramic tiles of the bathing hall. It was a feat in engineering. Tywin’s grandfather had built it for his Lady Alysanne, who had been of delicate health. It was well-loved by all the women of his family, and plenty of the men besides. After Joanna had… After she had gone, he had not used it in near two decades. Until he’d wed Loren. She loved it there, too.

“They grow fast,” Tywin said as he rinsed himself. Though the water was a pleasant temperature, it failed to soothe the cold that had seeped into his thoughts. “Before long, Kevan will be a knight and a man grown.”

“Aye, time used to seem so slow, didn’t it?” Kevan agreed. “It feels like yester morn that I held my Lancel as a swaddled babe. I remember it so well.”

Tywin did, too. When the twins had been born, Maester Hrothan had given him his little girl. So small and quiet, she’d been. Unmoving as she laid in his arms. Until she took in a breath and came alive, opening her emerald eyes for the very first time to see him. The maesters said life resided fully formed in the seed, but he didn't think so. He had seen life come into his firstborn when he held her. Joanna had said the same about Cersei’s twin. Two children in one, they’d never dared hope. But then his thoughts clouded, and he frowned. Thrice-ten-and-two this year. A knight and a Queen they had become. Yet Cersei hadn’t been herself when they arrived for Joffrey’s name day.

“Kevan will need a suitable match soon.”

Kevan’s voice broke through Tywin’s pensive mood. He focused his gaze on his brother, who held out scrub and cloth. He took them, belatedly. “We have spent some thought on it.”

“Banners?” Kevan said as Tywin had known he would. Tywin had never meant to remarry. He knew there were, and no doubt are, those among his banners who were peeved he wed the daughter of a second cousin, rather than one of theirs.

“Perhaps a Kenning of Kayce, or a Farman of Faircastle,” Kevan suggested. “It can never hurt to strengthen those ties.” His brother was shrewd, for these matches would please Loren too. The two fortresses stood vigilant between the Iron Isles and Lannisport. They formed the first line of defence against the Ironborn.

“A Marbrand,” Tywin said as he cleansed himself. The Marbrands of Ashemark were an ancient and powerful family, and their allegiance went back centuries before Aegon’s conquest. Lady Jeyne, their own Lady Mother, had been a Marbrand. As was Darlessa, the wife of his late brother. “Its been long enough that they’ve suffered our brother as their last tie to us.”

Kevan frowned at his words. “Longer for the Farmans. And Lady Alysanne is great mother to none of us.”

Tywin pursed his lips. They were not shy for choice. “Has Loren said anything to you on the matter?”

“No, she has not.” Kevan shook his head. “And even if she had, neither of us is served with her feeling she cannot tell me something, you will not hear of too.”

Tywin frowned. He didn’t like the notion of either of them withholding information.

Kevan handed him a heated cloth. “What do you think she would want for your boy?”

“What does every woman want?” Tywin said as he climbed out of the bath and took it. “He’s her firstborn. She’s ambitious. She’ll want a dynastic marriage.”

Kevan stared at him for a long moment. Amusement flitted across Tywin’s face as he dried himself.

“That’s why you came home.”

There were various reasons he’d come home. Tywin frowned and reached for clean garments: a long, black tunic of finely tanned leather with a subtle pattern of lions embossed across the shoulders, and dark braies and chausses to match. Loren needed more time. Cersei hadn’t been herself. Her poise had been fragile, her willingness to demonstrate Joffrey’s capabilities hesitant, and that was nothing like her.

Kevan squinted, though amusement crept onto his round face. “You didn’t accompany Loren so she might mingle at court. True, enquiries such as these are more becoming for women to make.”

“I came home because Tion is too young to stay at court.” Tywin pursed his lips. Too young and too troublesome, for now. It was offensive enough Tyrion had insisted on staying.

Kevan’s expression turned thoughtful. “The Tyrells, the Starks… even the Martells, they all have girls in the right age range. Stannis Baratheon, too.”

“Shireen? Cersei is wed to Robert.” Tywin said as he dressed. He doubted Loren would double up ties. He knew her well enough to know she’d want to forge her own path, iron out a new alliance. To show that she could.

“The Martells? That’ll turn the court on its head.” Kevan’s smile turned wry. “Though not unthinkable.”

No son of mine will be a hostage to Dorne. Tywin fixed his brother a look. “I’d sooner perish.”

Kevan chuckled, though there was no genuine mirth in it. “Oberyn will be happy to oblige, I imagine.”

“The red viper is mad, and welcome to try,” Tywin said. The comment made Kevan frown, but he said nothing about it.

“What about the Starks?” Kevan said instead, shifting the topic away from Dorne. “There’s precedent.”

“Arsa Stark?” Tywin frowned. She’d been sister to Lord Beron Stark and had wed their grandfather, after their grandmother had disappeared. No children had come of it.

“Yes. And Lord Tion was betrothed to one of her brother’s daughters.” Kevan’s expression darkened, for their uncle had broken the betrothal. “Though that ended poorly.”

Tywin shrugged on his tunic. “Poorer for the Reynes.”

“It would be good to re-acquaint those ties,” Kevan said. “The North is a powerful ally in trade, politics and defence against the Ironborn.”

Tywin’s frown deepened. He’d heard that argument before and, at the time, it had made him consider agreeing to wedding Jaime to Lysa Tully or Lyanna Stark. “The Starks never come to court.”

“Which is a shame. Last they came south, they had two fine girls,” Kevan said. “One of them is around Kevan’s age if I am not mistaken. The other is only a little older, though she may already be betrothed.”

Tywin straightened his tunic before fastening his sword belt. “That leaves the Tyrells, and they’re kin through her brother’s wife. Aliyah is sister to Lord Paxter.” Brokken and Aliyah’s eldest daughter, Lynara, had become one of Loren’s ladies-in-waiting the previous year. “Margaery? How old is she now, five-and-ten?”

“I believe so. You think Loren will sue for an older maid?”

Tywin crooked an eyebrow as he finished dressing. “Maybe. Lady Rowenna was twice-ten when she wed Lord Gerald. Loren herself three-and-twenty when she was betrothed to the Greyjoy boy by them.”

“Unhappy unions, both,” Kevan reminded him as he followed Tywin from his bedchamber.

“Indeed.” Tywin crossed his study, back to the small solar. Perhaps not Margaery, then.

“A banner marriage would be wise,” Kevan said as they descended the stairs once more. The sweet scents of toast and sugar drifted up to them.

Tywin’s hand trailed the limestone column, absently counting the terminal rondels as they went. He wondered who Loren would set her sights on. No doubt, he’d hear before long. A smile tugged at his thin lips. They’d argue about it, but he didn’t mind. He hadn’t wed her for her placable nature.

“Unless she can convince you otherwise,” Kevan added as they reached the bottom of the stairs and stepped into the grand solar once more. He turned to Tywin and gave him a searching look. “Can she?”

Tywin pursed his lips, but it could not hide his amusement. “Maybe.”

Warm morning light flooded the erstwhile great hall, revealing flecks of gold in the pride of limestone lions. The one in repose had a crimson table runner thrown across its back like a make-shift saddle. Tywin crooked an eyebrow. It was the roaring lion that was the children's favourite to play knight-of-mine with. It's concave back and scuffed flanks were a testament to its suffering. When Cersei had been little, she would perch sideways on it, brushing her long golden hair and waving daintily at imaginary crowds. Tywin remembered how she had sat sideways on Robert’s warhorse at their wedding, waving just so at the gathered smallfolk, and he almost smiled.

The round, oaken table near the furthest of the archways, and pleasantly close to one set of fireplaces, had been laid. The shutter beside it had been opened, a isinglass pane replacing the red wood. It allowed the soft, orange light of dawn to filter through but kept the rain at bay. The petulant patter against the mica the only sound on this quiet morning. Fresh rushes had been spread, here and their, the last scents of summer trying to chase the damp reek away. Tywin eyed the flaking wooden dragon toy sitting among horses and knights. The mark of a friendship he had thought would last his entire life. Every time he saw it, the urge to throw it out the nearest archway was real. Tion would be inconsolable.

“Have you decided for Lancel?” Tywin took the place he always sat when breaking his fast, his back to the wall and the sea to his right. His nephew would come of age soon.

“No, wish that I had," Kevan admitted as he seated himself on Loren's place, nearest the lions and toys.

“What did Lord Emmerick say?” Tywin studied his brother as Miana poured each of them a glass of water. Had the seat been an idle choice?

“He was civil but ultimately declined.” Lord Emmerick Prester was the widowed Lord of Feastfires, his only child and heir his daughter Alynne. “Dorna was disappointed. The Presters are kin to her through her nephew Jared.”

The Presters are kin, to us, too, Tywin thought. Through Joanna’s mother. Kevan never spoke of her. And so, neither did he.

"Boiled well, milord," Miana said as she moved to serve Kevan.

"No, no," Kevan said and placed his hand across his platter, before indicating Tywin.

The girl flinched but recovered admirably. She swiftly moved around the table towards him. "Apologies, milord."

Tywin inclined his head a fraction. After serving him, she returned to Kevan.

“Lord Emmerick has only one match. No doubt he means to make the most of it,” Tywin said. Whomever wed Alynne would be the next Lord of Feastfires. Tion was only three, but he committed the footnote to memory, regardless.

“Lord Gawen approached me, regarding Jeyne, his eldest daughter.”

Tywin cut his toast in precise squares, revealing the hard-boiled egg inside. It stayed where it’d been put, as it well should. "Reject him."

Kevan looked up. “Gawen is a good man and the Westerlings have always been loyal to us.”

"And he had a good wife in Rona of Lannisport." Tywin pointed at Kevan with his knife, a square of toast pricked on it. "But no children came of that."

“Lady Sybell was very courteous." Kevan spread his runny egg across his toast. Tywin glanced away from it. ‘I want it to bleed when I stick it!’

"Of course she was courteous," Tywin said as he caught his brother’s gaze. "If she isn't even that, she has nothing at all." House Westerling was not what it had once been, and it had been a poor match for Loren's aunt, even then.

"I said I would give it thought."

“Don’t." Tywin said. "Sybell Spicer is the daughter of a commoner. And any betrothal to those baseborn children of theirs is an insult to the name Lannister." Tywin held his brother's gaze. He wouldn't allow his young children's prospects to be tarnished by a poorly wed cousin.

Kevan glanced away. "I will write them."

"Gawen should never have married her." Tywin pursed his lips. "The Westerlings always did have more honour than sense."

Kevan gave a dejected nod.

Tywin poured Kevan and himself another glass of water. It had been some time since one of them wed a Crakehall. A maternal grandfather of Loren, if memory served him. “Lizl Crakehall, daughter of Ser Tybolt. She’d be a good match for Lancel."

Kevan looked up and smiled. “I shall write them, too.”

Maester Creylen appeared with young Tion at his side. The three-year-old boy never failed to conjure up memories of Tywin’s father, Lord Tytos: short, soft, round, with a head of golden curls and those ever-smiling eyes. Tywin pursed his lips. The boy wore a red samite tunic that reached near his ankles. It was trimmed with soft squirrel because fabric edges bothered him. A fine little belt that matched his small boots gathered it around his waist. His hair was tied into thin helmet braids like his favourite knight, ever willing to let him ride his high shoulders or yeet him into the nearest hay bale, much to Tion's delight.

"Lord Tywin, Ser Kevan," Maester Creylen said with a bow. Creylen was a gaunt young man, a peer to Loren and the twins. A stark contrast with ancient Maester Hrothan.

"Lord Papa, Ser Uncle." Though only three, Tion's speech was clear and precise. And not remotely like the terrifying mess his brother had made of talking until he was nearly five.

"Good morning, Tion," Tywin said as he put his knife down. "How was your lesson?"

"Boring."

Tywin looked at Maester Creylen. "Is that so?"

"He is a smart boy. A very smart boy, my Lord." Maester Creylen clasped his hands and dodged his gaze.

Tywin made a dismissive gesture with two fingers and a flick of his hand. He would speak with Loren regarding Ainsley. "Leave us."

"As you wish, my Lord."

Tion climbed onto the dais and plopped down amid his toys. He picked up the flaking dragon and made it fly around him.

“I am told the Spicers are wealthy but the Crag remains a ruin,” Tywin said, picking up their conversation.

“Deeds to the eastern copper mines have been written while you were away.” Kevan picked up the glass and drank from it. “Envoys are en-route to pledge fealty.”

“Who were they sold to?” Tywin said as he resumed eating his breakfast. The copper mines were some of House Westerling's oldest and most profitable holdings.

“Ser Teron Worting,” Kevan said. “And Dame Miriam Hill, now of House Worting of Silverbrook.”

"Daughter of Ser Gerrit Closter, is she not?" Tywin shook his head. The old tourney knight had too many children and none of them by his wife.

“Aye, one of the elder ones, I think.”

“The northern shores are splintering among a dozen petty Lords while the Crag lays a ruin.” Tywin scowled. Something had to be done. And soon. “They’ll squabble before long, and the moment they do the ironborn will stir. Those sea rats smell weakness like a shark does blood in a pond.”

“One of them will prevail over the others,” Kevan said. “And if not, a cadet branch could marshal them.”

Tywin frowned. Little Tygett would have been the right age in a few short years. “It’ll be two-and-ten long years before Tion is old enough.”

“You have another son.”

Tywin's scowl deepened. And none did ever let him forget it for very long.

“Why not give this task to Tyrion? Let him stand on his own two feet.”

Tywin looked up to find his brother studying him. There was tension in his shoulders.

“Perhaps.” Tyrion was cunning enough, Tywin didn’t doubt that. He frowned as he observed his brother. Loren had suggested something rather similar, not too long ago.

“If little Kevan is to be the one to follow in your footsteps, you will need his older brother settled before long.” Kevan choose his words carefully. “He may be younger than the twins but not by that much, and not for very long. He’s five-and-twenty, its not too belated to wed yet.”

“It’s past time.” Tywin rubbed his fingers past his lips, considering it. But to who? Perhaps Loren had an idea. It was as his brother had said: enquiries such as these were easier for women to make. Kevan shifted in his seat, drawing Tywin’s attention. What are you two up to?

"Lord Papa?" Tion stood beside him, that benighted dragon under his arm.

"Yes, Tion?" Tywin said.

Tion reached out his small arms to him, dragon-and-all. Tywin shifted his chair back and picked the boy up, sitting him on his lap. "Are you hungry?"

Tion eyed his father's near finished breakfast. There were still some choice bits left.

"Do you want the yolk?"

Tion turned away from the table, his nose against his father's tunic. His eyes never left the plate, though.

"Here," Tywin said as he picked up his knife and pricked a bit of the hardboiled yolk to it and held it near his boy's lips.

Tion took the bite, smacking a little and snuggling closer against him. Tywin shifted, removing the dragon’s wooden wing from between his ribs. Tion’s grip on it tightened as soon as he touched it and Tywin ground his teeth as the thing was squeezed against his side once more.

"Studying is hungry work," Kevan said.

“Indeed.” Tywin pricked another morsel on his knife and fed it to Tion.

Kevan smiled as he watched the boy, then turned to Tywin. “Castamere could be rebuild and used as a cadet seat, it’s stood empty—”

“And so it will remain,” Tywin interrupted. Castamere served a purpose and it would remain as it was: a shell of the proud fortress it had been.

“The woodlands surrounding it could provide the boost in charcoal we need,” Kevan pointed out. “And the silver mines may not be depleted even if the gold mines are.”

“They are, they loaned heavily from our Father.”

“Debts he always cleared. They lend because they could, we don’t know that they needed to.”

Tywin’s frown creased deeper.

“Tailyn wishes to lead a prospecting expedition to the old mines.” Kevan laced his fingers. “She is confident that if there’s still silver there, she can find it.”

“Out of the question.” Castamere had stood crumbling for soon twice-twenty years. For all they knew what was left of it would collapse as soon as it was disturbed.

"Can I see the mines?" Tion sat up, putting his dragon on his own lap. He was a curious boy, and an intelligent one too. He already knew his letters.

"Absolutely not."

Tion looked up at his father, his bottom lip trembling.

Tywin crooked an eyebrow.

Tion scowled. "Down."

Tywin obliged and put his son back down on the ground. Having finished their breakfast, Kevan and he rose as well and moved to the dais.

“She’s very adamant that there might be silver yet,” Kevan said.

“Loren's sister is adamant about everything.” Tywin sat down on the divan beneath Joanna's portrait. Tailyn was as stubborn as she was skilled. He frowned. She’d been skipping dinner of late, taking her food with to the forges. So, that was what she was up to.

“She seemed certain, Tywin.” Kevan sat in a chair at his side and leaned forward as he spoke.

“You’re fond of her.” Tywin followed Tion from the corner of his eyes as the boy moved around the solar. He knew Kevan was wont to humour Tailyn's outlandish ideas. It made him suspect his brother missed having a daughter to dote on.

“As are you of Loren. Does that cloud your ability to gauge the merit of her words?”

Tywin’s scowl returned. Think carefully before you go there, brother.

Kevan sighed in response.

They sat in silence, for a while, watching the boy play.

“I go outside,” Tion announced.

“No, you will not,” Tywin said.

Tion turned, regarding his father. He took a step towards the shuttered archways.

Tywin’s eyes widened in warning.

Little Tion pouted, a crease wrinkling his button nose and his small chin jutting forward as he squinted at his father in defiance.

“No.”

Tion's bottom lip trembled but this time, it was real. Tywin could tell. "The weather is poor, you'll be swept off the balcony."

The fascinated look the boy gave the shutters was precisely the opposite of Tywin's intent. "Come here, " he said, beckoning him.

Tion picked up his dragon, and a lion for good measure, before going to his father. "For you, " he said as he held out the lion.

"Thank you, Tion." Tywin accepted the lion, which had once been a stair baluster top. Its gilding had long since flaked and it's garnet eyes had been removed for safety.

“Up?” Tion stretched out his arms.

“You’re a big boy, come climb on here yourself,” Tywin said. The divan was low enough. Tion scowled, his little nose wrinkling. Then threw the toy-shaped block of wood into his father's lap.

“Tion.” Tywin scowled as the dragon struck him square in the stomach.

“King Dragon is bad at flying,” Tion said before clambering onto the couch.

Tywin could scarcely wait for the day Tion would bore of the toy. He’d have it fly right out the window.

Tion snuggled against him, the dragon lodged between them. Tywin picked up the lion. It had less pointy parts. He shifted, intending to swap it with the dragon. However, as soon as he placed it between them, Tion latched onto it. The boy wrapped his arms around the wooden toys and curled closer, now nestling both hard objects into his father's ribs. Tywin sighed. It wasn't worth the tantrum. He was still so small, even though he sounded wise. He had risen very early for his lesson about the night sky and it had disappointed him, which angered Tywin. His bright little boy deserved the best tutor they could find.

"You can still make it in time, " Kevan said.

Tywin glanced up.

"To King's Landing, " Kevan added.

"Yes."

Tywin’s thoughts drifted back to the tourney. His daughter was scheming, he could tell. He’d always been able to tell. What are you up to, Cersei, he thought, for the first time in a long while.

Kevan smiled and nodded. “Good. I am glad.”

The rain pattered against the isinglass as the morning light crept across the solar. Tion's eyelids fluttered. He tethered on the edge of sleep, his thumb in his mouth and faint suckling noises escaping him. Can you see them? Tywin's gaze found Joanna's face, her emerald eyes smiling at him. He is as clever as his mother. Only three and he already knows his letters. Tywin stroke Tion’s curls, golden as the sun in the filtered morning light. Loren is proud of him. I am, too. He gathered the dozing boy closer and hummed the dulcet tones of a song he’d once danced to. Its words came to him despite himself, and he sang them softly to his sleeping son: “I loved a maid as fair as summer, with sunshine in her hair.”

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#tywin lannister #joanna lannister #gotfic #asoiaf #valyrianscrolls #a saga of bears & lions #imperial fiction #tywin hasn't dealt with joanna's death in twenty years and he isnt about to start now #why deal when you can marry someone pretty similar and pretend you're fine?#I swear Ser Kevan is the only functional adult in this entire fanfic #yes you needed Tywin with ickle wickle kids in your life #dont fucking lie to me

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onwardintolight · 5 years

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Han x Leia, ESB, Trip to Bespin, angst, hurt/comfort, fluff

Summary: ESB from Leia's POV. A journey from despair to hope, a blossoming, an opening to vulnerability and love.

Warnings: Deals with some heavy themes, incl. working through trauma, depression, self-harm, attempted sexual assault. Each chapter will be individually warned.

Note: I’m currently in the process of reposting the first nine chapters here in full, since when I first wrote this fic, I only shared links to the chapters on AO3 and FFN. I will try to post at least weekly. In the meantime, if you’d prefer to binge-read it, the entire fic is posted in full on AO3 and FFN.

Part: Masterlist | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | Epilogue

~~~

No one had seen Threepio since they left the platform. Leia’s dread was back with a vengeance and steadily rising.

“I’m sure he’ll turn up soon,” Han reassured her. “Probably went to check out that droid spa Lando mentioned on the way here.” 

«Perhaps he has gotten lost,» Chewie suggested. «Lando told us our room location. If he can’t find his way here, he will comm soon.»

“It’s just not like him—” she stopped abruptly, giving that a second thought. On the contrary, See-Threepio seemed to run off quite a bit. “—to not comm,” she finished. That was slightly more true. She sighed, defeated. “Okay, we’ll wait. And Han? Chewie?” She caught them before they headed out the door. “Not a word to Lando—or anyone.” Better to avoid drawing more attention to ourselves, she thought darkly.

“Not a word,” Han repeated.

Soon, the pair returned from the ship with their travel bags, and Leia retreated to the bedroom to freshen up. Before she began, however, she quickly scoured the room for recording devices. There were three. She grimaced. Disgusting as it was, she hoped it was the work of some lecherous janitor—that would be better than a few of the more nefarious possibilities looming in her mind. Carefully, she removed the bugs and dismantled them. Grabbing one, she opened the door to the main lounge and tossed it across the room to Han. He caught it, frowning. “Two in the bedroom, one in the ‘fresher,” she said. “Check the rest of the suite.”

“We’re on it,” he said.

Shutting the door again, she banished for a moment all thoughts of the bugs—they’re not exactly rare; it’s nothing, she told herself—and turned her attention to the closet. Her eyes were drawn to an elegant, flowing tunic and pants in warm, rusty burgundy. A cream-colored cape lay over the top, embellished with delicate embroidery. She usually tried not to think about it while caught up in Alliance affairs, but she missed wearing outfits like these, with such rich colors and flattering shapes. Feeling pretty was a luxury she rarely had time for anymore, and she was almost ashamed that she wanted it at all.

Well, she supposed, there was no need to be ashamed today.

Quickly, she removed her jumpsuit and boots and slipped on the new outfit instead, fastening a matching belt around her waist and sliding into the delicate but comfortable slippers. Then, grabbing the travel bag with her hairbrush and makeup, she set herself up in front of the ‘fresher mirror. After reviving her face and tinting her lips with a stain that complimented her outfit, she twisted her hair into a bun and two looped braids. It was a simple style—she didn’t want to advertise her status—but she thought it rather chic and lovely.

There was a thump from the other side of the wall. She jumped, but it was followed by a roar, and she relaxed again, annoyed with herself. It was only Chewie, searching the second lounge like she had asked. She was letting herself get way too worked up. If she couldn’t figure out a way to loosen up, she wouldn’t be able to enjoy her time here with Han. And that was something she wanted terribly much.

After the last pin was in place, she headed back out to the lounge. Her eyes slid over to the bed again as she went.

I’m in over my head anyway, she thought. Would one night really make that much of a difference?

She tried to silence those thoughts; at the moment they were only serving to make her more agitated. But contemplating the mystery of Threepio’s disappearance wasn’t any better. It had been, what, an hour? She frowned. Too long.

She emerged from the bedroom, ready to argue her case, but the look on Han’s face when he saw her stole all her words away. Speechless, he rose from where he was sitting and walked towards her, stopping far enough away to take her in.

“Leia,” he murmured, her name like honey on his lips. “You look…” She raised an eyebrow, and he shook his head, apparently unable to find the right word. She closed the rest of the gap between them. “…Gorgeous,” he whispered, taking her in his arms. “I mean, not that you don’t normally; you always look gorgeous—” Leia laughed and kissed him, cutting off any further remarks.

Chewie groaned. «I’m right here,» he announced. «Don’t forget.»

They broke off quickly. Leia frowned, abruptly remembering what she had been about to say. “Still no word from Threepio?” she asked.

Han and Chewie glanced at each other, and Han shook his head.

«I think it is time to look for him,» said Chewie.

“Dumb droid,” Han muttered under his breath. “Chewie’s right.”

“I was worried about telling the authorities,” said Leia, “but I’m beginning to think letting him wander is riskier.”

“I know what you mean. Yeah, he’s got good intentions, but it’s just a matter of time ’til he blows our cover.”

Quickly, they came up with a plan of attack. Chewie headed out to examine the area surrounding their path from the Falcon, while Han volunteered to stop by the droid spa to see if Threepio had detoured for an oil bath. Meanwhile, Leia commed the concierge, Cloud City Security, and Lando to advise them on the missing droid.

No one she talked to had seen him. “We will certainly keep our eyes peeled,” Lando told her when she finally got him on the comm. His voice still oozed charm; she stifled a gag. He didn’t offer any more help.

“Thank you,” she said shortly, cutting off the communication.

Han commed her a second later, informing her that Threepio had not been seen at the spa. “No one’s giving us much useful information, and I don’t like it,” she said, telling him about her brief conversations with Lando and the others.

“I’m sure they’re doing what they can. I think I’m gonna go down to the platform and see if I can get an update on repairs.”

“All right. Don’t be gone too long,” she entreated him, trying not to sound too desperate.

She stood still for a moment after flipping off the comm, considering whether there was anything else she could do. Her mind drew a blank. Sighing, she sat down to wait for Han and Chewie’s return. A minute later she got up again, restless. Walking over to the window, she looked out over the city. The pleasant blue of morning lit up the sky, and all the towers sparkled in the sun. Traffic was light, and everything seemed so pretty and peaceful, at odds with the unsettled heaviness she felt. Was she making too much of a big deal out of nothing?

She began to pace, trying to work out the puzzle. Why would Threepio just disappear without a word? If he was lost, he would have certainly found a way to contact them by now. Could he have been kidnapped? The thought seemed absurd, especially in such a seemingly genteel place. On the other hand, there weren’t many other explanations that made sense.

Her apprehension grew. The more she thought about it, the more vaguely nightmarish it all felt. Even the pleasant light outside seemed off in some way she couldn’t put her finger on. Was the city’s beauty just a veneer, hiding something much darker underneath?

Suddenly, she wanted very much to leave.

The door slid open, and Han walked in. “The ship’s almost finished,” he announced. “Two or three more things and we’re in great shape.”

“The sooner the better,” she said, walking towards him. “Something’s wrong here. No one has seen or knows anything about Threepio, and he’s been gone too long to have gotten lost.”

At the sound of the tension in her voice, Han reached out to her, gently kissing her forehead.

“Relax,” he said. “I’ll talk to Lando and see what I can find out.”

“I don’t trust Lando,” she replied, sitting down on one of the cushioned benches.

Han sat down on the other side of the bench, angling his body so that he faced her. “Well, I don’t trust him, either. But he is my friend.” He leaned in close enough for her to feel the warmth of his breath, and she fought off the urge to get rid of the space between them entirely. “Besides,” he continued, “we’ll soon be gone.”

And there it was, the other fear.

“And then you’re as good as gone, aren’t you?” she said quietly.

Han looked down for a moment, taking her hands in his, before turning his gaze back up to her face. His eyes were soft and pained, tinted golden brown in the room’s natural light. Leia had rarely ever seen him look so unguarded, and she saw in him a desperation that mirrored her own. “Leia,” he murmured, his voice torn.

“I’m sorry,” she said, shaking her head and looking away. “I shouldn’t have said that. I know you have to go.”

Han reached out and cradled her face, turned it back to face him. “This isn’t the end,” he promised. “I swear it. I’ll come back.”

She blinked away tears. “I know you’ll try,” she said simply.

Sometimes, though, trying wasn’t enough. Sometimes you lost people no matter what.

Han gently brushed away the wetness under her eyes with his thumbs. Then all at once, as if in mutual agreement, the distance between them finally collapsed and he was kissing her, savoring her as if he might never have the chance again. She responded in kind, letting herself melt into the sensation of his lips on hers, her tongue on his, her arms reaching out to pull him even closer. For a moment they parted, though they stayed only millimeters away. There was mist in Han’s eyes, too.

Maybe some regrets are worth it, she thought.

“Han, I…” she began, unsure.

The door slid open abruptly, and they both straightened up as if nothing had happened.

«Found him,» Chewie announced grimly as he walked into the room, a box in his hands.

A box full of Threepio’s parts.

“What happened?” Leia rose in alarm, walking over to take a closer look as Chewie set the box on the floor.

«Found him in a ghhrraarkhr. Ugghhhnaur-men were going to throw him in the fire.»

“Where? Found him in a junk pile?” Han repeated incredulously.

“Oh, what a mess,” Leia said. How in the universe had Threepio ended up there? Thank the stars Chewie had discovered him in time; they might never have seen him again. “Chewie, do you think you can repair him?”

The Wookiee shrugged, letting out a noncommital roar.

“Lando’s got people who can fix him,” Han offered.

“No thanks,” said Leia tautly.

A chime sounded, and she turned towards the open door to find the subject of their disagreement walking in. She stiffened.

“Sorry, am I interrupting anything?” Lando asked.

“Not really,” she replied.

Lando grinned at her, shaking his head. “You look absolutely beautiful,” he said, looking her up and down. “You truly belong here with us among the clouds.”

“Thank you,” she replied, gritting her teeth. She would have much preferred to discourage him from ever ogling her again, but losing his goodwill could be hazardous, she considered, especially in light of their situation at the moment.

He held out his hand to her. “Would you join me for a little refreshment?”

«Food?» Chewie rumbled eagerly, looking up from where he was fiddling with Threepio’s sole silver leg. Leia glanced back at Han, unsure.

“Everyone’s invited, of course,” Lando continued.

Han nodded, getting to his feet. It had been awhile since their last meal, after all, and she suspected they were all hungry. Chewie, especially, was eager to go. She politely took Lando’s hand for a moment, then switched to Han’s arm as he came to stand beside her.

Lando frowned, looking down at the box of droid parts. “Having trouble with your droid?”

Han’s face was a mask. “No,” he replied, his eyes shifting briefly to Leia. “No problem. Why?” With that, he walked her to the door. She bit her lip to keep from laughing—the deflection was obvious, ridiculous, and so classically Han. I guess that’s one way to deal with it, she thought.

The mood seemed a little less heavy as they walked along Cloud City’s corridors, light streaming in from innumerable windows. Lando was explaining how the mining colony had managed to thrive under his leadership. “So you see, since we're a small operation, we don't fall into the… uh… jurisdiction of the Empire.”

  “So you’re part of the mining guild, then?” she asked, curious.

“No, not actually. Our operation is small enough not to be noticed—which is advantageous for everybody since our customers are anxious to avoid attracting attention to themselves.”

They turned a corner into another wide, pleasant hallway with colored panels filtering light through the windows. Out of nowhere, Leia felt a wave of near-panic. It enveloped her for a moment like a storm before she managed to calm herself down again. I must really be going crazy, she thought. Maybe it was all the city’s echoes of Alderaan.

“Aren’t you afraid the Empire’s going to find out about this little operation and shut you down?” Han asked. They turned and walked down a short side hallway towards a set of grand double doors.

“It’s always been a danger, and it looms like a shadow over everything we’ve built here,” Lando replied. “But things have developed that will ensure security. I’ve just made a deal that will keep the Empire out of here forever.”

A deal? Leia felt another surge of alarm. Lando pressed the button to open the doors, and they swept open, revealing an elegant dining room. At the far end of the table sat a tall, masked figure in black.

Leia froze.

No.

Everything seemed to be moving in slow motion. She watched as if in a dream as Darth Vader rose to his feet and lifted his palm, deflecting the blaster bolts Han was shooting towards him. Han had caught her hand in his free one, she noticed, and she gripped it as if it were her only hope, her only defense against the nightmare.

No.

Not again.

Han’s blaster sailed through the air to land in Vader’s outstretched hand. “We would be honored if you would join us,” the monster said, its deep voice reaching into her memories, the echoes of her own once-screams and desperate pleas joining with it in chorus.

Behind him, another figure stepped out of a side door. She recognized him from the holos; a bounty hunter, Boba Fett. More footsteps sounded from behind them, and they turned to find a squad of stormtroopers blocking their way out.

“I had no choice; they arrived right before you did,” Lando said, his voice flat. “I’m sorry.”

Leia didn’t even have the capacity to be angry. She gazed up at Han, and he looked back at her for a moment, devastation in his eyes. He seemed to sense her paralysis and grabbed her hand again, squeezing it supportively as he turned back to Lando. “I’m sorry, too,” he said coolly. From beside them, Chewie let out a mournful howl about friendship and betrayal.

Han turned back to Leia, his shoulders squared and his eyes steely. In that moment, Leia knew: he would do everything he could for her, to keep her safe—everything except betray what she stood for. If she could feel much beyond fear, she might have cried. As it was, a tiny flame of courage flickered to life inside her; unsteady, but enough. Squeezing her hand once more, Han led her into the room, Chewie and Lando following behind. The doors shut firmly behind them.

#Han x Leia #HanLeia #Han x Leia fic #HanLeia fic #Trip to Bespin #ESB #Bespin #Cloud City #Chewbacca #Threepio #The Opening #SW fanfic #SW fic #ESB fic #Star Wars fic #Star Wars #my writing #my fic #thoughts

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moodyvalentinestories · 5 years

Text

O Thomas Hunt, Wherefore Art Thou My Professor? | Chapter 60

Summary: Rachel gets to spend some time with a friend… and needs to make a decision.

Notes: This is the dumbest chapter ending ever but I have big plans so just let me have this. Thanks. 😅

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I didn't believe Hunt would follow me, but I made sure to put some distance between me and the bar before calling Chris nonetheless. He was the only option I had at this point. After what Addison had just pulled, I did not feel up to talking to her.

He picked up after the first ring and agreed to let me stay with him right away when I asked. Of course he did. He was much better of a friend than I deserved.

The hotel wasn’t far from where I was so I figured I’d just walk. A decision I regretted pretty much immediately. Hunt had been right – it was freezing outside. But I much preferred the sting of the cold night air on my skin over wearing a jacket, knowing it was his.

Not much later, I was standing in front of a lavish building. I shouldn’t have been surprised at that. After all, why would Chris Winters not stay at a luxurious hotel?

I entered the lobby that was just as impressive as the exterior but, in all honesty, I was just glad to have escaped the cold.

Chris had been waiting for me in one of the armchairs that were scattered around the room. Once he saw me, he came to greet me with a hug.

“Are you okay? You didn’t sound so good on the phone,” he said then took a look at my outfit. “Isn’t it a bit cold out to wear that?”

“Oh, shut up,” I said. “And I’m fine.”

He obviously didn’t believe me. But he was no Hunt, and he accepted that this meant I didn’t want to talk about it. So he let it go.

“I’m actually really glad you called,” he said as he led me to the back of the lobby. “There’s something I wanted to show you.”

“Um… Chris…” I said when I realised that we were walking straight towards an elevator. “Could we maybe take the stairs?”

I did not want to step foot into one of these hell boxes for at least another ten years.

He raised an eyebrow. “Rachel, I’m in a penthouse. On the 55th floor.”

Oh. “So… stairs are out of the question then?”

“I doubt they have any that aren’t emergency stairs. Since when are you afraid of elevators?”

“I’ve never liked them,” I said. “But I may have been stuck in one just last night and I’d prefer not to repeat the experience.”

Well, at least it wouldn’t be with Hunt!

Chris smiled. “I promise we won’t get stuck.”

“You can’t promise that. You don’t know that.”

He crossed his arms. “Rachel, how likely is it that you get stuck in an elevator two nights in a row?”

“I don’t know, I’ve been having a lot of bad luck lately,” I grumbled but followed him. What choice did I have, really? It was either get in the damn elevator with Chris or go back to my hotel. And the latter was absolutely not an option.

We stepped into the, admittedly quite spacious, elevator and I closed my eyes as soon as the doors closed. I heard Chris chuckle, then he put a hand on my shoulder in an effort to calm me down. “You’ll be fine. I’m right here.”

It didn’t help much. Luckily, though, we didn’t get stuck and were out in less than a minute.

“See? I told you,” Chris said as we stepped into the hall. “You had nothing to worry about.”

“Whatever,” I mumbled. I still didn’t trust the stupid things. I probably never would again.

“Come on, I told you I wanted to show you something,” he said and took my hand, leading me to his suite.

His incredibly large, incredibly luxurious penthouse suite.

“How rich are you exactly?” I asked.

He chuckled. “Would it be bad if I told you that I don’t quite know?”

Oh wow. “So you’re saying I should definitely not buy you a drink ever again, huh?” I teased.

“I’m pretty sure I’ve paid for your drinks more times than you have mine.”

Probably true, actually. “I never asked you to.”

“I think it’s pretty clear that I don’t mind. Speaking of… stay here. And close your eyes,” he said with a smile and disappeared into an adjacent room.

I did as he told me, and even though I was curious about what he was up to, I kept my eyes shut until he’d returned and placed something in my hands. Fabric. Oh, dear god. He hadn’t, had he?

Opening my eyes, I saw that it was exactly what I’d thought it was. A dress. No, a gown.

“Scarlett invited us to her after-party and I thought… well, I thought this would look great on you,” he said, scratching the back of his neck. “I do hope I got the size right.”

I held the dress in front of me and turned to the window to see my reflection. It was a gorgeous burgundy dress made of velvet, covered in golden embroidery. It would probably look good on anyone, really.

“I can’t accept this, Chris,” I said, turning back to him.

“Didn’t we already establish that I can afford this?”

“But–”

“No buts. Please, I would love to see you in it.”

I bit my lip. Honestly, the dress was beautiful. And even as someone who didn’t know a lot of fashion, I did love a good evening gown. “Fine.”

Chris’ smile widened. “You’ll be the most beautiful girl there.”

I blushed. “Chris…”

“I’m sorry. I know, I know. You’re into–”

“No,” I said. I wasn’t going to let him speak his name. “I’m done with Hunt.”

“You… are?” he asked in surprise. “But just last night…”

“Things are different now,” I shrugged, trying to sound like I didn’t care.

Chris took a step closer. “Does that mean you’re… available now?”

Absolutely not, a voice in my head said. I ignored it. “I suppose so.”

“Look, I don’t want you to do anything you don’t want, but… would you like to officially be my date tomorrow evening?”

“I don’t think–”

“I’m not saying let’s dive into a relationship right now, Rachel. I’m just saying, let’s give this a shot. See where it goes. And if it doesn’t work out, it doesn’t work out.”

It wouldn’t work out. I knew damn well I didn’t have any feelings for him. Saying yes wouldn’t be fair to him.

But before I could give my answer, my phone rang. Thank god. A welcome distraction.

At least that’s how I felt before I saw who was calling. Layla, who would no doubt was going to ask me to come back.

“Do you need to get that?” Chris asked.

Did I? I definitely didn’t want to. But I also didn’t want to have to answer Chris’ question. “Yes.”

“I’ll give you some privacy then,” he said and disappeared into the other room again.

“What do you want?” I asked, sounding more hostile than I’d intended.

“Please tell me that you’re with Professor Hunt right now,” she said, sounding panicked.

“Um… no. And don’t expect me to be anytime soon,” I replied once I’d got over my surprise. I didn’t care – didn’t want to care, anyway – but my curiosity got the better of me. “Why?”

There was a moment of silence before another voice spoke. Priya Singh. “Miss Fields. Professor Hunt and I had an appointment this evening but he didn’t show. Now, I have it on good authority that he went out to find you. So you had better tell me where he is.”

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Tags: @silversparrow02 @hopelessromantic1352 @alleksa16 @lilyofchoices @trappedinfandoms

#wherefore art thou my professor #professor hunt #thomas hunt fanfic #rachel #hwu #hwu hunt

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godess-ofthe-underworld · 6 years

Text

See You Again (A Harry Hook x reader story

Alrighty guys new part coming at you!

Pat 10

Summary: When Hadley, Daughter of the feared ruler of the Underworld Hades, is sent along with her 4 best friends to Auradon Prep she must leave behind a certain pirate who stole her heart. Will she be able to keep the promise she made to him or will it all go up in flames?

Disclaimer: I do not own any characters in Descendants. Hadley and the plot between her and Harry are mine.

The next afternoon Hadley sat doodling in rg101 not listening to a word Fairy Godmother was saying.

Towards the end of class, FG called for everyone's attention

“ As you know, this Friday is family day here at Auradon Prep, and seeing as your parents can't be here due to…uh.. distance” she laughed. “ We have arranged for a special treat.” she clapped her hands together and walked backwards towards one of the two screens at the front of the room. FG pressed a button and the screen popped to life.

Maleficent's face was obnoxiously close to the screen trying to figure out the new technology.

“ I don't see anything, nor do I hear.” Maleficent's voice booked through the speakers.

“Kids!” FG waved the five over.

They all stood, sharing glances as they made their way to the front of the classroom.

When Maleficent retreated to her spot back on the couch in between Jafar and Cruella, Hadley noticed an absence of blue fire.

“Is it.. is it.. can I please see a remote?!” Maleficent yelled.

Evil Queen handed her one from beside her.

As they kept babbling about how the thing wouldn't work, Hadley couldn't help but feel disappointed that she didn't see her father among them. Some hwo they got their screen to turn on.

“Oh Evie!it's Mommy!” EQ waved to Evie “oh look how beautiful. You know what they say, the poison apple don't fall far from the tree.” Evie blushed.

“Don't you mean the weeds?” Maleficent shot back.

“Eww! Who's the old bat!?” Cruella asked pointing to FG.

“This is Fairy Godmother.” Mal said.

“Still doing tricks with eggplants?” Maleficent laughed and the rest followed suit.

“ I turned a pumpkin into a beautiful carriage!” FG defended.

“You really couldn't give Cinderella till 1am?” Maleficent shot again “ What? Did the hamsters have to be back on their little wheels?!”

“They were mice!” FG shot back “ she turned to the five behind her. “They were mice” before leaving the frame she said it again.

“Fairy Godmother?” Hadley asked moving over to where she now stood.

“Yes dear?”

“Where is my father?” Hadley played with the sleeves of her jacket.

“Oh that's right! I'm so sorry dear but your father couldn't make it. Something came up in the Underworld that he had to take care of.” Hadley looked down understanding.

“But, one of your teachers graciously told of of some other people we could call for you”

Fairy Godmother moved around the first screen and towards the second one a few feet away. Hadley curiously followed.

When Fairy Godmother pressed the button on the keypad of the second screen Hadley's eyes lit up and she let out a small laugh.

Sitting,squished together on a battered old burgundy leather armchair, where two of Hadley's most favorite people.

Harry and CJ where both fighting over the remote to turn their screen.

“Fork it o’er ya runt!” Harry grunted trying to pull the remote from his younger sisters hand.

“No!I wanna do it! She's my friend too!” She fought back. For being only 11 she's pretty strong.

“But she was mine first!”

CJ is Harry's youngest sister she's a tall, slender girl with golden brown eyes, tanned skin and dirty blonde hair that is always tied into a heavy ponytail with blue,red and green beans braided in. CJ wore a red thigh length coat with gold embroidery, much like her father's. Her white ruffled shirt was tucked into her dark shorts with golden legging underneath. Her legging were embroidered with maps of Neverland and they were tucked into knee high high-heeled boots.

Harry was absent of his hook, long red coat and hat. His will mop of dark hair flung around and his eyes were lined by thick black liner, making them stand out more than normal against his tanned skin. He wore his ripped up white undershirt, which exposed parts of his torso from the many training sessions on the ship.

In the process of them fighting, one of them pressed the right button and their screen turned on.

They both froze when they heard Hadley laughing.

“ Do you two ever stop fighting?” Hadley asked crossing her arms.

Both rushed at the screen, almost falling off the chair.

“Hadley! We miss you” CJ shouted.

“ouch quiet down you. She ain't deaf!” Harry said rubbing his ear that she'd screamed in.

“I miss you guys too.”

“When are you comin’ home Hadie? We all miss you round here. Even Uma.”

“ Yeah I seriously doubt that.” Hadley rolled her eyes. “ But there's a big coronation coming up so maybe sometime after that.”

“When?” Harry raised an eyebrow.

“Saturday. 10am. The whole schools invite so…” Hadley gave a small smile.

“Do we really have to wait that long?” CJ whined.

“ I'm afraid so.”

There was a long pause between the three where they just looked at one another.

CJ suddenly looked behind Hadley, noticing that everyone else was leaving.

“Looks like you're friends are leaving.” She said pointing towards the back of the room.

Hadley looked behind her her face falling when she realized CJ was right.

“Guess that means I should be going to.” Hadley frowned, turning back around.

Both Harry and CJ's faces fell.

“Are ya sure haddie?” Harry asked.

“Yeah. Got a lot of homework to do.” She winked.

Harry and CJ smiled.

“I'll talk to you guys soon. Hopefully.”

“Ok haddie”

“Bye Hadley!”

“Ouch! Will ye quit screamin’?”

Hadley laughed and waved to the camera.

“Bye guys. Tell your dad I said hi”

“Will do!” CJ smiled sadly.

“Bye.”

“Bye”

Hadley clicked a button on the keypad and the screen went dark. She stared at it for a few moments before returning back to her desk and collecting her things.

“ Thank you Fairy Godmother” Hadley smiled.

“ You're welcome dear.”

When Hadley caught up to the others they were halfway down the hall.

That night the five gathered around the table in Jay and Carlos's room, Mal's sketch of the wand was placed in the center and a map of the coronation hall.

“Ok so we all know what this looks like?” Mal's asked tapping the picture. “ It will be up on the dais under the Beast's spell jar. Then we will be coming in from here, I will be in the very front. You all will be up in the balcony. Carlos?”

“I'll find our limo to break the barrier, then we'll get back on the island with the wand.”

“Perfect. Evie, you will use this to take out the driver” Mal Heald out a blue perfume bottle out to Evie. “ Two spays and he will be out like a light.”

Evei nodded her head. The five looked at each other before leaving the table.

Hadley and Evie noticed Mal looking through on of the pages in her spell book.

“M! You wanna break Ben's love spell?” Evie gasped.

Mal looked up at the two in shock.

“Yeah… you know for after.” Evie sat down next to Mal at the table and Hadley stood behind her and placed an hand on her shoulder.

“I've just been thinking, you know when the Villains finally do invade Auradon and being to loot and kick everyone out of their castles, and imprison their leaders,and destroys all that is good and beautiful… Ben still being in love with me just seems a little extra… cruel.” Mal shrugged Hadley's hand off and bolted from the room before anyone could say anything. Hadley and Evie looked to each other before linking arms and bidding goodnight to the boys.

That night Hadley had a hard time sleeping, she kept tossing and turning, her blue and white hair splayed out over her pillow in all directions.

She sighed looking up at the canopy above her four poster bed. Sitting up, Hadley threw the covers off and grabbed her notebook. She sat down at her window and opened it.

She touched the pencil tip to the paper and let her mind wander.

Hours later she looked to the alarm clock next to her bed. 4:30am flashed in red numbers across the small screen. She looked back to the drawing she made. It was the back view of two small children holding hands. One, a girl with tall fire like hair, her free hand alight with a swirling fire and dark swirls of smoke billowing at her feet. The other, a boy in a long oversized coat with a pirate hat, carrying a large hook in his other hand.

Hadley's mind had wandered to the day was left on the isle.

Flashback:

A small girl, maybe five or six, stood on the busy cobblestone streets of the surface world. Her fiery blue hair blew around with he passing people. She wore a long tattered grey dress that swirled a dark cloud around her bare feet. She rushed to the side as she tried to avoid being stepped on by the passing people. Tear tracks made their way down her dirty cheeks as she slid down a dark alleyway wall. She clutched her stuffed dog to her chest and sobbed into her knees. She was alone and scared.

After running around the Underworld with her father Hades, he sent her up to the surface after she accidentally released a few souls from the River Styx, causing a small zombie problem in Charmington. Up until that point she was raised mainly by her father's minions, Pain and Panic. The two tried as best they could to keep the girl out of trouble. Inevitably, she always found a way and everytime she got in trouble, they would too.

She sat up against the wall and sniffled gazing at the stuffed animal in her hand.

As way to try to keep her out of trouble one day, Pain and Panic suggested to make a stuffed animal with the girl.

After hours of Pain getting poked by the needle and Panic making sure the girl was out of reach of the sharp object, Cerby, the three headed stuffed likeness of the Underworld guard dog was born.

Down the alleyway at the other end a small boy of seven was lurking. He wore a long red overcoat and a small black pirates hat that hid most of his dark hair. He held in his left hand a silver hook that was far too big for him. His bright blue eyes searched high and low for shiny trinkets to swipe.

His ears perked at the sound of crying at the other end of the alley. Being a curious lad he followed the narrow alley all the way down. His eyes shifted through the darkness, landing on a small hudled form against the wall.

“Why are ye crying?” He asked. His accent was thick, something the small girl had never heard before.

The girl jumped at the sudden sound of his voice.

“ What's it to you?” She snapped wiping her eyes with the back of her hand.

The boy raised his arms up.

“ Sorry, jus askin. The names Harry. Harry Hook” He extended a hand.

“Hadley.” She looked up at his hand for a moment then him before taking his hand.

“ well Hadley I ain't never seen ye around here before.”

“I live in the Underworld. At least I did.” She replied sadly.

“The Underworld? What's a lass like yourself doing down there?” He laughed.

Hadleys anger flared as the boy laughed. Her hair glowed a vibrant blue and her ice colored eyes lit up in the dark alley.

“i happen to be a goddess. I'm Hadley, goddess of the Underworld and of chaos, my father is Hades God of the Underworld.” Hadley yelled.

Harry shrunk back a few steps his blue eyes blown wide as he stared at the ball of fire before him.

“Easy there flame thrower, I didn't mean anythin by it! I was jus askin!”

Haldey calmed enough for her hair and eyes to maintain a low glow.

“Sorry, my dad just left me here. I have no idea where I am, or where I'm going to go.”

Harry thought for a moment before an idea popped into his head.

“ Why don't ye come with me back to my house?” He asked

“Why would you help me?”she snarked sitting back down against the wall.

“Cause even though I'm a villain kid, I still know when to help someone who needs it.. so what do ya say?” Harry held out his hand again.

Hadley looked up at him for a moment before grabbing his hand and nodding.

“Hey that fire trick sure can come in handy for taking things.” Harry said as they walked out of the alley and into the busy street.

Hadley and Harry walked away laughing as fire erupted from Hadley's hands and hair.

Hadley smiled at the memory looking back out the window towards the Isle.

(Hadley)

A million thoughts in my head Should I let my heart keep listening? 'Cause up 'til now I've walked the line Nothing lost but something missing I can't decide What's wrong, what's right Which way should I go? If only I knew what my heart was telling me Don't know what I'm feeling Is this just a dream? Ah oh, yeah If only I could read the signs in front of me I could find the way to who I'm meant to be Ah oh, if only If only [2x] Every step, every word With every hour I am falling in To something new, something brave To someone I—I have never been I can't decide What's wrong, what's right Which way should I go? If only I knew what my heart was telling me Don't know what I'm feeling Is this just a dream? Ah oh, yeah If only I could read the signs in front of me I could find the way to who I'm meant to be Ah oh, if only Yeah Am I crazy? Maybe we could happen Yeah Will you still be with me when the magic's all run out? If only I knew what my heart was telling me Don't know what I'm feeling Is this just a dream? Ah oh... If only I could read the signs in front of me I could find the way to who I'm meant to be Ah oh... If only, yeah [3x] If only [3x]

Slowly her eyes shut and she fell into a dreamless sleep.

I can’t believe were already at Part 10! There are only a few more parts left to this story so stay tuned cause shit is about to go down. ;)

If you liked this part and want part 11 please like, comment or reblog! this story is also on my Wattpad (@phelpsphan). if you would like to be tagged in this series to know when i update it please message me. Love ya!

Tag list: @sexyshortie-universe // @haroldhookwriter // @highladyjel

#harry hook x reader #harry hook #daughter of hades #mal jay carlos evie #disney descendants

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littlefeatherr · 6 years

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Prompt fill for @maroucia : Mail-order bride modern AU. In a modern Westeros, the North is much poorer than the South and Sansa is lured by all the riches and temptations of the south and so, she decides to offer herself as a mail-order bride. Of course, she catches Sandor’s eyes who himself has turned to the idea because he hates dating seeing that his face is burned and all, but he still would like to find a wife. Read more below or on AO3 here.

Chapter 1

Settling down with a mug of tea, Sansa needed to take a break from job hunting. Opening her tablet, she decided to indulge her favorite escape: perusing vacation blogs, pretending she was planning a visit to the southern countries of Westeros.

While the south was full of cities bustling with diversity, plenty of jobs to be had for the asking, and mild weather, the north never recovered from the war. And the ten year winter season was a burden itself.

The poor economy denied basic resources for northerners, especially since King Joffrey placed tariffs on all the products exported from there as part of a trade war. In the past year, many industries closed. And families that Sansa had known all her life were moving away.

Since her father passed away five years back, there had been huge financial burdens on the family, and Sansa couldn’t bring herself to leave them. So she settled on a local university to continue her dream of becoming a custom dressmaker.

Bran’s snowboard accident happened not long after; in-home physical therapy and medical bills further strained the family funds. Sansa had to quit school and work two jobs. Since their mother spent her time working and caring for Bran, Arya and Rickon grew wilder by the day. Winter had come with a vengeance for the Starks.

Sleet rattled against the windows, shaking her of her recollections. Gods, what she wouldn’t do to be on a southron beach right now. She was determined to reach her dreams, one way or another. She just needed a plan.

Sansa tapped her finger on the bookmark of her favorite blog. Escape to the warm, sun-kissed beaches of King’s Landing! Sansa wished for nothing more. Life seemed so carefree for the people who lived there. The sight of the wealthy, young, tanned and fit men and women frolicking in the waves sent a pang of envy through her.

Sansa couldn’t remember the last time she had a vacation, could barely remember a time when she felt the effortless contentment in the people smiling back at her through the screen of her tablet.

Eagerly she moved onto the second one. The beautiful shores of Port Lannisport, one of the largest, richest cities of Westeros. Come to visit and see it’s prosperity for yourself!

More beautiful, tanned people, Sansa complained inwardly. This time they were wearing swimsuits that barely covered their most intimate places, enjoying champagne under burgundy and gold cabanas of the exclusive Casterly Rock Club.

Yes, Casterly Rock Club was very elegant, but she would feel too out of place there if they even allowed shabby northerners into the place. Every one of the guests was surgically enhanced and dripping in gold and diamond jewelry.

Swallowing hard, her hand instinctively went to the silver and sapphire direwolf charm at her neck, the last nameday gift she had received from her late father. It was a reminder of better times, and the ones she prayed to the gods were ahead for her. She fingered it while whispering a quick prayer to her father before tapping on the next bookmark.

Shop the opulent Lannisport Outlet Mall, your one-stop destination to luxury! Oh, she would much rather visit there! Ever since she was a little girl, Sansa loved embroidery, sewing, and designer clothing.

The scenes showed happy families laughing while eating southern delicacies, bringing up a bitter lump in her throat. Young people in the latest summer fashions carried designer Dornish leather handbags as they shopped and flirted under a shaded canopy.

Wrinkling her nose, Sansa glanced down at her sweats and ratty sweater. When was the last time she went shopping? Aside from The Wall Mart, there weren’t many places to shop near Winterfell - and none of them fashionable. She would definitely need to do some serious online retail therapy if she ever visited Port Lannisport.

Faintly Sansa could hear her mother speaking to someone. On to the next region, she said to herself as she tucked her feet under her legs.

Visit the rugged hills of the Westerlands, the richest lands in Westeros. A landscape dotted with golden, rolling plains and caves from which gold and silver mines pour forth deep veins in astonishing quantities. Abundant gemstones and precious metals mean lower prices on all your jewelry needs!

With widened eyes, Sansa clicked on the pictures of black fertile fields, apple orchards, Pinot grape vineyards, and Black Mission fig tree groves. Further inland lay dense maple forests that opened up to crystal blue lakes and river rapids, reportedly renowned worldwide for whitewater rafting.

Gemstones of all kinds, gold and silver jewelry, beautiful log homes in the verdant foothills all caught her attention. Oh, she would definitely visit the Westerlands first! The featured delicacies and riches were sensational!

But how could she go? The family barely had enough money to get by; not many opportunities presented themselves as of late. Her gaze fell on a bookmark icon for a mail-order bride broker she had set up months ago. Missandei’s Marriage Brokerage Suite. Let us help you find your perfect match with a beautiful, northern bride of your choosing.

That’s one way to get south. And if I’m chosen, I could put my husband’s fee in a trust for Bran. From what Sansa had seen on the website, Lannisport and King’s Landing was teeming with beautiful women, but the farming areas surrounding them were not heavily populated. The men there depended on agriculture and vacationers for their incomes – jobs that left little time for meeting potential partners.

Her mother’s voice pulled her out of her fantasies - and back to the dreary reality of life. Stern Aunt Lysa was impatiently tapping her foot; Sansa had been so caught up in her musings that she didn’t realize she’d entered the room.

“Sansa, are you daydreaming again? Put down the tablet for a moment, please.”

Her mother had a way of saying “please” that sounded anything but polite, especially when she was about to lecture to one of her children.

No wonder Arya and Bran are nowhere to be found. Suppressing a sigh, Sansa braced herself and turned to face them.

“I cannot understand for the life of me why you haven’t yet settled down with someone and moved out,” Catelyn began. “I was married for four years at your age.”

“Mother-“

“It’s all I can do to keep Winterfell let out, and food on the table for Arya and Rickon, and Bran with all the medical bills, I can’t afford to feed you too.“

“Mother, I know,” Sansa struggled to remain respectful. Ever since she turned eighteen, this had become a well-worn topic between them, and at twenty, Sansa had already said all she had to say on the subject.

Enter Aunt Lysa.

“That is why I started college,” Sansa pulled her mother close, “so I could make real money, not just the little I bring doing housekeeping and selling on Etsy.”

“And what good did it do you? You knew from the start that we could ill afford it, but you were determined to waste what little money your father left you on it.“ Aunt Lysa interjected. "And here you are, squandering your days on that damned tablet!”

Her words stung. “I wanted to help the family by having an actual career. I thought maybe I could open a clothing store and help the local economy, but there aren’t any opportunities here.” Sansa stepped away and wrung her hands.

Exasperated, Aunt Lysa shook her head. “Always with the dreams. Well, it’s time you grew up. Take your educated self south, Miss.”

“I would love to go, but since I, as you say, wasted my money on education, I don’t have a way.”

Aunt Lysa and her mother exchanged a look. "Uncle Petyr lives in King’s Landing in the famed Red Keep and he’s offered to take you in. You could work with his showgirls’ costumes-“

Tears stung Sansa’s eyes, for this, too, was a familiar and unpleasant topic between the three of them.

“No, absolutely not! He’s not my uncle, so I wish you both would stop with that! And they aren’t showgirls, Aunt Lysa, they’re sex workers!”

"Ungrateful child!” Aunt Lysa sputtered. “This family has no better friend than Petyr, especially since your father and Jon both-”

Sansa rolled her eyes.

“Sansa that is just a terrible rumor started by jealous people trying to discredit him.” Catelyn insisted.

“So that’s the official party line he has you two repeating.“

Catelyn gaped at her, but Sansa went on, “He’s always staring at me in the grossest way. Sending me friend requests on my social media. He’s a stalker.“

“Sansa, that’s your college third wave feminism talking! Petyr is old-fashioned, and he’s not about to hide that he’s interested in you. What’s wrong with that?” Aunt Lysa fumed.

“What’s wrong is that I’ve made it clear that I don’t want his attention - and yet he refuses to take no for an answer!” Sansa set her jaw. “If you like him so much, why don’t you go live with him and leave me alone?”

Catelyn pinched Sansa’s arm. “By the gods, Sansa, you can be just as willful as Arya at times!”

She jerked away from her.

“You don’t have many options. So, it’s either go with your Uncle Petyr, young lady, or get in touch with a marriage brokerage.”

“A marriage brokerage? To offer myself as a mail order wife?” Sansa’s nervously considered the possibility. It was an honorable way to find a husband and definitely a good opportunity…

“Petyr offered to do it himself, but I don’t like your attitude, so you just do it on your own!” Aunt Lysa hissed. "Just go on and become a mail order bride on one of those bargain sites and see what kind of monster you end up with!”

“Whoa, wait just a minute - Petyr offered to buy me outright, didn’t he?!” Sansa shouted. “And not just for my sewing skills!”

Catelyn side eyed her. “Don’t be so dramatic.”

“Mother-”

“I married your father as a mail-order bride.” Her mother arched her brow.

Great, another guilt trip.

“And I married your Uncle Jon as one, the Seven rest him.” Aunt Lysa added, even though Sansa had turned her back to her. “You have a duty to your family. It’s time you made good on it.”

“We need the money, Sansa, and there aren’t many prospects up here-“ her mother gestured to the shabby conditions around them, “and Bran and Arya and Rickon need me. What would you have me do?”

“Stop being so selfish, Sansa!” Aunt Lysa shouted.

“Good gods, Aunt Lysa, even the marriage agencies give women the right to choose their husbands!”

Squeezing her eyes shut, Sansa fought to calm her temper and think rationally. Perhaps if I joined up with one of the free sites, I will find a nice man, settle in with him and who knows? Love might follow. It worked out pretty well for my mother. Less so for my aunt.

Biting her lip, Sansa thought it over. Could she really muster up the courage to reach out to a strange man? To be his wife, and share his bed?

Sansa had already looked at a few sites, and they didn’t seem so bad; each one had ways and means to ensure successful matches. The only caveat was the marriage had to be consummated the day of the wedding, and if they didn’t get along by the end of the trial period, Sansa would need to return the money - and to the north.

Excitement and a bit of fear took hold of her, while Sansa’s silence increased her mother’s unease.

“Stop that lip nibbling, Sansa, it’s unladylike and a disgusting habit you picked up from Arya. So what will it be: go stay and work with Uncle Petyr, or become a mail order bride?”

Sansa had so little ownership of her own life since her father died. Yet today she would regain control, snatch it out of thin air, all for herself.

“Fine, Mother, I’m going to do it my way. I’ll meet with a marriage brokerage as soon as possible.”

Without a word, she picked up her tablet and left the room, leaving her mother crying over her ungrateful daughter and her aunt harping on her duty to the family.

#sansan #sansa x sandor #sansa stark #sandor clegane #sansan fanfiction #loong post

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anythingfanfiction · 5 years

Text

Ben Solo, the One and Only

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3

WARNING: This chapter does contain some smut at the end. If you’re not comfortable with that, you can stop reading when Ben says, “Don’t worry, I’ll make sure she gets home safe.” Aside from that, I’ll mark the stopping point with three stars (***). Take note that there is more writing under the gif & please don’t forget to read some notes all the way at the end of the post. Happy reading everyone!

Chapter 4

After their first kisses on the night of the festival, Ben and Vivian never left their meetups unscathed; there was always a bruise peeking out from underneath his collar or a mark behind her ear. It didn’t take long for Leia to see a few of her son’s hickeys and she sadly assumed each was from a different woman. In hopes of deterring him from picking up girls at bars, she gave him more missions. They were long, difficult, and keeping him away from Vivian.

It wasn’t for another three weeks until he could fly out to Viktas and by then, he had grown what he believed to be an impressive amount of facial hair. Although he spoke with Vivian nearly every day, Ben desperately missed her and wondered if there could’ve been anything that changed for her over the past few weeks. He also considered the possibility of telling his mother the truth about where he was going. Perhaps, if Leia knew it was to visit his girlfriend, she’d go easier on him. Ben smiled at the word, Girlfriend, huh.

He landed the Falcon with ease and raced to the garden where they’d usually meet. But to his surprise, she wasn’t there. It didn’t make any sense, her work shift should’ve been over by now and she should’ve been there. Ben walked a few laps around the garden and started to panic when he still couldn’t find her. He called her and thankfully, she answered.

“Ben?”

“Vivian, where are you? I’ve been scouring all over the garden for you!”

“I know, but you missed a spot.”

“What?”

“Look up,” she instructed and he did, only to find her waving at him from her apartment’s balcony. Beside her, sat her brother, Vincent. Even with the distance, Ben could see the grim expression shadow her brother’s face.

“I’ll be down in a minute, just let me finish up here, ” she told him before promptly hanging up. Ben saw her say something to Vincent before leaning down to kiss his forehead and ruffled his hair. Moments later, the two left the balcony and met up with Ben on the ground level. The men greeted each other but Ben could tell there was something off about Vincent. The latter didn’t stay for long and all Ben could care about was Vivian’s quickly making her way to embrace him. Nothing had really changed about her, though he thought she looked more beautiful than ever. He kissed her on the cheek, then on her lips and lastly, kept busy with her neck. What satisfied him most was seeing her cheeks flush red as she gasped and pulled on his dark locks.

She then reached up to curiously scratch the hair on his chin, “This wasn’t here three weeks ago.”

“I guess you can say it grew on me,” he joked, “You like it?”

“If I’m being honest, I’m not a fan. It doesn’t necessarily look bad but I prefer seeing you without it. This only covers your lips and doesn’t allow me to entirely see your handsome face.” she said while tracing his lips and face with her fingertips. “I also didn’t like how it scratched my face when you kissed me.”

Her words were enough to make him sigh and make a mental note to shave later when he got back home. She noticed his displeasure and added, “On the other hand, it does give you a more rough and rugged look than usual, maybe you should keep it until the wedding.”

Ben’s eyes lit up then looked confused, “Wedding? What wedding? Are you proposing to me right now?”

“I’m not, but Vincent is.”

“Vincent wants to marry me?” he sarcastically quipped.

“No, silly! He’s going to ask Cecilia.”

“I figured; the poor kid looked so pale I was about to ask if he turned into a ghost.”

The two decided to take a stroll to the market as they continued their conversation. While Vivian was observing a fruits stand, Ben asked her, “Are you okay with the whole thing?”

“Well, he actually wanted to propose around two years ago when they first started dating. They had been friends three years before that in school; I knew he was madly in love with her from the start and she wasn’t far behind. But I convinced him to hold back for a bit. At least now the two of them are working and they’re a little older, so I much rather them getting married now as semi-adults versus back then.” she explained, “I’m happy for him.”

Ben made a fuss about carrying her bags, insisting that it was the gentlemanly thing to do, but she could tell it was to impress her and she let him do as he pleased. They came across a tailor who had several garments displayed on mannequins and a sign that read, “Francine’s Fancy Fashion for Men”

Vivian stopped, looked up at Ben and smiled, “Do you have a suit?”

“Vivian, I already own a suit.”

“I know that, Ben. You’ve mentioned it several times already. But I was thinking that you should have a suit from Viktas; made from the land’s fine materials and traditional style. It would be the only appropriate thing to wear to the wedding! And besides, it looks so good on you!” she squealed.

“Ah! You two getting married, how lovely! My sister in shop next door can make you pretty dress to go with suit,” Francine, who was currently adding pins into Ben’s new suit, was a plump older woman with thick purple rimmed glasses and choppy English. Vivian could only assume it was due to learning it as a second language.

“Thank you, but we aren’t the ones getting married. These are for my brother’s wedding,” she said, pointing at Vincent who was sitting on Francine’s couch with his already finished suit in hand, “The bride and I already got our dresses yesterday from your sister.”

“Good, good,” was all the seamstress said as she took Ben’s suit into a separate room to make the final alterations.

When Vivian satisfyingly viewed the final product, she paid for the two suits and invited Ben to the apartment for lunch, mentioning that she had a surprise for him. He had been to the apartment on a few occasions, mostly to pick her up for a date, but he had never really been inside. It was a simple and clean space that mainly consisted of monotone colors, such as white and pale greys, that gave the home an overall modern feel. On the left, there was a medium sized kitchen featuring the needed amenities pair and a kitchen island with four metal stools. Past that was a glass topped dining table that could seat up to six people.

On the opposite side was the living room with a white sofa, a bookcase, glass coffee table, two love seats, and a viewing screen built into the wall. Beyond that main section, there was a hallway that led to 4 closed doors to which Ben assumed were bedrooms and a bathroom. Despite the plainly colored walls and furniture, there was colorful life coming from just about everywhere from the many flowering plants Vivian had on every table or shelf. Everything in the apartment looked so lush and lavish that it made Ben wonder just how much a doctor’s salary paid.

Before going into the kitchen to prepare lunch, Vivian disappeared into one of the rooms only to reappear seconds later and leave Ben a small, metal object in his hands. It was a razor. She reached up to kiss his cheek and patted on his chest, “Bathroom is in the first door on your right.”

All Ben Solo could do was sigh heavily as he walked over to the bathroom -thinking of how to say goodbye to his epic facial hair.

The ceremony was held two days afterward under a gazebo in the middle of the forest. It was such an intimate setting that Ben was surprised he was even there. The only other people attending the service aside from the bride and groom was Vivian and Cecilia’s parents. He stood by Vivian who was tightly pressed and embracing his left arm - not that he was complaining. She was wearing a layered floor-length burgundy colored gown with simple golden embroidery scattered throughout the bust and hemline. The dress had a plunging neckline that provided Ben with quite a view of her breasts and a fading mark he left a few days ago on her collarbone.

Vivian nudged his head away when she caught his stare and signaled that Cecilia was already making her way to the gazebo. Ben stole a glance at Vincent to see him shedding tears of joy. Vivian smiled, leaning her head on Ben’s shoulder, hugging him tighter than before.

The customs progressed as they would on most other planets; an introduction, some prayer, followed by exchanging rings and so on. What Ben wasn’t expecting to happen, was for the officiant to take out a golden dagger and silk white scarf. Vivian squeezed his arm before letting go and approaching the couple. She was handed the scarf and wrapped it around Vincent and Cecilia’s hands. Then, she took the small blade and pricked at her index finger allowing for a single drop to stain the fabric.

“With my blood, I bless your marriage and give you our bloodline’s approval. I wish you both happiness in your married life,” she declared. Soon after, Vivian was joined by Cecilia’s parents who followed the same actions. Once they finished, everyone returned to their original positions. Vows were exchanged and the union was finally sealed with a kiss.

While pictures were taken around the gazebo, Ben asked about the whole blood dripping situation. “It’s a tradition here,” she explained to him, “you’re supposed to get the permission to marry from the oldest member in your family. That person will either attend the wedding themselves or dictate another two people to represent them for the ceremony. The blood is a sign of the family’s acceptance of the marriage and symbolizes all of the those who contributed to the bloodline. It’s something almost everyone looks forward to when getting married.”

By nightfall, all the pictures were taken and the area around the gazebo was set up for the party. Lights were strewn between the trees, while shimmery round tables with seats were scattered across the ground. There had been over a hundred people who arrived, each manifesting their desire to party. About an hour into the festivities, Vincent cleared the dance floor, announcing that he and his sister had prepared something special for Cecilia. Ben gave Vivian a questionable look to which she smiled mischievously in response while taking off her shoes.

She stood next to her brother and gave him a nod. They simultaneously lifted their arms in a slow pace to be brought down by the beat of a drum. From then on, their dance consisted of fast pace, energetic movements that were all coordinated with the percussion. Vivian and Vincent had one arm held out and another close to their chests as their bodies swayed backward. Ben had never been so mesmerized. She looked so happy to be jumping around with her brother; laughing to the downbeat with a smile so radiant it could've blinded anyone if they looked for too long.

There was a moment were Vivian picked up the sides of her dress and pushed them back and forth, similar to a bird flapping its wings. She repeated the action in different places so that she’d make a full circle around the audience while Vincent stood in the middle staring at Cecilia as he continued with his own dance. When Vivian reached where Ben was standing, he felt his heart stop. Her smile seemed to grow wider as she locked eyes with him. Her movements seemed to be more expressive, more meaningful than before. Her time there seemed to be longer than with any other part of the audience. She was dancing for him and wanted everyone to know it. Yet, she had to leave him at some point and join her brother at the center again. They ended their routine with a series of pivots and turns to land on their knees facing Cecilia with their arms outstretched.

The audience erupted with loud cheers and chants while Cecilia burst into tears and ran to the siblings on the ground. She first embraced the two then kissed Vincent many, many times causing the audience to holler at them. This gave Vivian the chance to escape to get something to drink and catch her breath. Ben followed her to their seats as she suspected he would and sat next to her. She touched her forehead to his and whispered, “Did you like it?”

Ben cupped her cheeks in his hands and kissed her deeply as his response. When they let go, she ran her fingers through his hair and said, “I’ll take that as a yes.”

The party continued for hours, but it wasn’t tiring. Ben was enjoying his time with Vivian and danced with her throughout the night. After all the other guests had left, Vivian and Vincent said their goodbyes. The latter warned his sister that it was late and to be careful on the way to the apartment.

“Don’t worry, I’ll make sure she gets home safe,” Ben promised him and the two couples parted ways. ***

Yet, when the time came for Ben and Vivian to separate, they couldn’t find it in themselves to do so. He had her back pressed against her apartment door as he kissed her. Their lips moved in sync as desperate attempts to savor the taste of each other. Though neither of them mentioned it, he had a growing bludge in his pants that was begging to be set free. For just a moment, they broke apart to catch some air and Ben realized the situation, “I should probably go; it’s late and -”

“No.” Vivian interrupted, “It is late and maybe you should go, but I want you to stay here tonight.”

Though he had always wished for it, Ben never expected for this moment to come. She opened the door and he lifted her off the ground.

“Second door on the left,” she breathed and resumed their kiss with her fingers laced around his neck.

Once inside, Ben paid no attention to his surroundings and set her down on the center of the bed without breaking their kiss. She slid her hands underneath his jacket and took it off, giving Ben the impression that she wanted him to do the same for her. So he slipped his hand to caress her legs and began lifting the dress off her body. Her breath quickened as he moved his mouth to the base of her neck; she called out to him, “Ben.”

No response. “Ben, I need to tell you something.”

“Can’t it wait?”

“No. I need you to know now.”

“Fine,” he answered and hoisted himself off to sit beside her.

“I’ve never done this before. Not just sex, but the whole boyfriend thing. You’ve been my first everything so far. First date, first kiss and now, first time,” she confessed.

“Do you want me to stop? We don’t have to do this.”

“No, gods no, I want this. Just know that I’m doing this without really knowing how to satisfy you and that it might not be enough,” she silently sighed, looking away from him with an ashamed frown.

Ben felt different now to everything he has done with Vivian and to what they were about to do. He would be the one to take her virginity, her last remains of innocence. It gave him an immense feeling of pride, further arousing him, “You’re more than enough for me and it seems as if I can never get enough of you. Don’t be scared, I’ll try to be gentle.”

Vivian nodded, encouraging him to continue where they left off. In one swift movement, he stripped her of the burgundy dress and saw that she wasn’t wearing a bra. How naughty, my sweet little virgin. She quickly covered herself with her arms and Ben tsked. He grabbed her arms and forced them above her head, lacing his fingers with hers.

“Why would you hide such a beautiful, perfect body?” he asked and that beautiful, perfect body writhed beneath him. Ben took his time staring at her, trying to memorize as much possible before lowering his lips to one of her swollen nipples. He licked it, teasing the nub, preparing it for his teeth to scrape across her bare flesh. She whimpered loudly, thrusting her chest closer to his face. In return, he gave the same treatment to the other breast.

“You’re still dressed,” she complained, “I want you to see you.”

“So demanding,” he chuckled in response, “How about you strip me?”

Before Vivian could say anything, Ben let go of her hands and switched their positions so that she was now on top of him. She looked flustered and out of place, but still leaned over him and stroked a finger along his chest. Painstakingly slow, Ben’s shirt had come off and he felt her hands graze over his stomach, nearing the belt on his trousers. She left her hands on his groin in a way that made his pants strain even more. Her eyes shifted to his and he gave a reassuring nod. Vivian then proceeded to unbuckle his belt and remove his pants.

“Good girl,” he praised and shifted their positions once again; taking his turn in caressing her. From her breasts to the base of her ankle, he left a kiss on every inch of her skin. He spread her legs to witness the staining wetness her fluids were causing and tore her panties apart. She gasped at the sudden exposure and moaned even louder as Ben shoved his face between her legs. Her fingers tightly pulled on his hair, wanting more, while his tongue explored through her folds. He let out a deep groan that shook her entire body as he found what he’d been searching for - the most sensitive and precious thing inside of her. Ben licked on the nub harder to each of her screams; he could tell that she was so close.

But at the last minute, he removed himself causing her to whine and complain. He wanted her to finish the way they started. He took off his underwear to reveal his massively huge, throbbing cock. Vivian’s eyes clouded with lust, her thoughts contemplating all the ways he could penetrate her. Ben pumped himself a few times before positioning at her entrance, his hands clasped hers and, like before, were put on either side of her head. For a few seconds, they stayed like that, anticipating the next move, and then, he thrust into her.

The sound that came out of Vivian’s mouth was foreign to them both; a combination of mewls, moans, and pleasured screams filled the bedroom. Ben waited for her body to adjust before pounding into her, breasts bouncing along with their pace. She’s so damn tight. He then let go of one of her hands and plunged it inside her as well. It didn’t take long for her to scream out his name and reach her climax. At the sound on his name, Ben followed her shortly, filling her up with his warm seed.

When they came down from their highs, Ben nuzzled his nose into the crook of her neck. “I love you,” he whispered. It was soft and even he was shocked when it came out of his mouth. It was also true and he held no regrets in saying it.

He removed himself from her causing her to whine in disapproval. She curled up to his side, resting her head on his arm and a hand on his chest.

“Ben,” she panted, “I love you too.” Her words were out of breath, but she seemed to have more to say. It definitely stroked and boosted Ben’s ego knowing that she couldn’t properly speak because of him. “Use your words, my love.” he teased.

“That was amazing,” she said, but hesitated to continue, “Can we… can we do it again?”

Ben wholeheartedly laughed and crawled his way on top of her again, “Sweetheart, we can do it as many times as you want. No matter when, how, or where you want it.”

He said this while leaving kisses on her neck that would surely bruise the next day and said to him, “Then I guess we’re in for a very long night.”

A/N: Another chapter completed! This one is actually longer than the first three combined! Hope you guys enjoyed this one & if you did, please like it + comment on your favorite parts! It took me some time to get it done but I hope it was worth the wait. The dance Vincent & Vivian did was inspired by a choreography done in my favorite musical (Once On This Island) but I’m no good at describing dances so Here’s a link to the video if you would like to see it! (The actual dance starts @ exactly 2:25).

#ben solo x reader #kylo x reader #kylo ren #kylo ren x reader #star wars #ben solo x you #ben solo #smuggler ben solo #smuggler ben #kylo ren x you #star wars fanfiction #star wars fic #leia organa

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sin-cognito · 7 years

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The first bonus winner for my 500/600 flollowers raffle is @geminiguardian ! Their request was so beautifully worded I instantly wanted to write it ! I actually finished it a week ago but decided to wait until Valentine’s day to post it because while the story doesn’t take place in February, it’s still very romantic and fluffly and cute and sugary and yadda yadda yadda. I hope you don’t mind geminiguardian ! I originally planned to write just a little drabble, but I kinda got carried away... Ahem.

Hmm ? Did I say the first bonus winner ? YES I DID. There is another prompt that caught my eye... I won’t tell more until it’s done ! ♥

Read on AO3.

As lazy as he was, Sans had been ready for nearly two hours.

Tonight was the big night. Sans had waited all year long for the prom bal. Two months ago he had had the courage to ask his childhood friend and crush Papyrus to go with him to the party and since the other had accepted, Sans was nothing but an impatient and excited mess.

Tonight he was going to ask Papyrus to slow dance with him.

Sans was sitting on the couch, nervously fidgetting with his bowtie and smoothing for the umpteenth time the invisible wrinkles on his shirt. He was glad he had decided against wearing the whole suit because he was already drowning in sweat without the jacket on. The wait was killing him but Papyrus wasn't supposed to come for another good 20 minutes. It left Sans with not enough time to actually start something to pass the time, and way too much time to get anxious and nervous about this evening.

As he once again checked the time on his cell phone, he was surprised to notice he had received a message from Papyrus.

'I AM COMING IN TEN MINUTES ! I HOPE YOU'RE READY !'

Ten minutes ?! Wait, when did Paps send the messa-

Ding dong !

Fuck fuck fuck ! Sans wasn't ready !

A gentle yet tonic knock on the door echoed through the door and set Sans in motion, reminding him it wouldn't do to keep his friend standing outside. Exhaling a last steadying breath, Sans opened the door and was immediately crushed by a familiar hug.

"GOOD EVENING SANS ! HOW WAS YOUR DAY ?" Papyrus all but shouted.

"great paps but... youre crushing... me" Sans chuckled.

When Papyrus disentangled himself, Sans' breath caught up in his throat. Unlike Sans, Papyrus was wearing a perfectly tailored burgundy suit with golden embroidery all around the collar and the lapel. While simple-looking at first glance, the shirt was elegant and trendy, its mandarin collar delicately wrapped around Papyrus' neck. Instead of a tie, the collar was held together by a copper pin that matched in color the waistcoat.

Sans couldn't tear his eyes from the other's dazzling look.

A long silence settled between them, until Papyrus quietly coughed, bringing Sans back from his reverie. Shit, he forgot to compliment Papyrus ! Was it too late to say something ? Not saying anything would be rude, right ? Sans could clearly see all the efforts Papyrus had put into choosing his outfit. He scrambled to find the right words to sum up what he thought of the other's outfit without giving his feelings away...

"YOU LOOK BEAUTIFUL !" Papyrus cheerfully said.

Despite his efforts not to appear flustered and uncool in front of his crush, Sans couldn't help the burning blush growing on his cheeks. Quick, quick ! Answer, you dimwit !

"th-thanks paps" Sans blurted out with difficulty and before he had the time to add a heartfelt 'you too', Papyrus grabbed his tiny hand into his larger one and was pulling him towards his car.

Deciding to let his body go on autopilot while his mind was busy storing all the details of Papyrus' suit for... later purpose, Sans sat in the passenger seat and buckled up. He knew he was supposed to come up with some kind of light conversation but he couldn't for the love of him find his voice. Once again, Papyrus speaking up freed him from his internal struggle.

"SANS ! LET'S GO !"

Sans turned his head towards the other and felt his blush come back full force at the sight of Papyrus' bright smile.

Was it a small orange blush on Paps' face or was it Sans' hopes speaking out of turn ?

Papyrus started the car and focused on the road.

After a quiet drive, they arrived at their school, which had been decorated for the event. There were long flower garlands hung above every window of the building. They were of all the colors of the world and made the school look like a huge and bright rainbow. Several spotlights illuminated the facade and highlighted the huge banner banner above the entrance of the school.

Some students had already arrived but Sans had no choice but to admit him and Papyrus were way too ahead of time. Once the car was parked (a benefit from coming so early was that it hadn't been difficult to find a free space), the two skeletons silently walked towards the school entrance. Sans' fingers twitched with the need to intertwine with Papyrus' hand, but he kept his thoughts in. Tonight was the last occasion he would have to dance with papyrus, and he wasn't about to blow things up just yet. Instead, he just buried his trembling hands into the too small pockets of his trousers. He regretted not wearing the jacket. Its pockets were bigger.

At a loss of what to do, sans blindly followed Papyrus to the buffet that was still full of food and drinks and still clean... He watched as Papyrus poured some juice in two cups and blinked when he handed one cup to him. Once again, Papyrus had beaten him to courtesy. What was it that always made Sans act dumb in front of his crush ?!

He took the cup and muttered a flustered 'thank you'. Papyrus smiled and stayed quiet, waiting for sans to actually start a conversation. It took him too much time to find a topic to talk about and once again silence fell over them.

"SO. SANS."

"ye-yeah ?"

"ERRR... ARE YOU EXCITED TO BEGIN YOUR NEW JOB OUT OF TOWN ?" Papyrus asked as quietly as his naturally loud voice allowed him to.

and be away from you forever and hear about other guys hitting on you while im away ? no thanks.

"yeah. a lot."

And then Sans didn't know how to continue the conversation, letting his last answer float in the air between them. Normally he would have returned the question to Paps, but they had already talked about their future plans so many times before that Sans knew everything by heart now. Sans had found an interesting internship in a large company. And Papyrus...

Papyrus was going to leave the country and live abroad for two years. He had been ecstatic when he got accepted into this prestigious foreign university and hadn't wasted any time in telling sans the 'good' news. Of course, Sans had congratulated him. He was truly happy for him.

But.

He knew that also meant they were going to drift apart and slowly forget each other. Papyrus would make new friends, create new memories, live a new life... Maybe he wouldn't come back after two years at all. That was why Sans hadn't bothered confessing his feelings to Papyrus. What was the point ? He'd rather part as very good friends than end their relationship on the sour note of rejection.

Cutting through the silence like an axe through butter, loud music suddenly exploded from the nearby speakers, surprising both skeletons, who dropped their cups, spilling juice all over the not so clean anymore buffet. The ballroom filled up with more and more students and several began moving to the beat while others gathered around the buffet.

As Sans and Papyrus moved away from the sudden increase of people around the food, the taller skeleton began to jump arounf giddily, unefficiently hiding a smile behind his hand. Sans briefly wondered what made Papyrus that happy all of a sudden until he heard the first notes of a melody he was familiar with. He recognized it as Mettaton's new hit song when he heard the robot's singing is his trademarked autotuned voice. Sans didn't hate the robot idol per say, but he just wasn't a fan. Papyrus on the other hand...

Sans turned around to see Papyrus in the middle of the dancefloor, eyes closed and a sweet smile on his face. He was moving his arms left and right in rhythm and the way his hips swayed almost made Sans drool. He couldn't tear off his gaze from the sight. Not even when Papyrus opened his eyes and shot him a look that Sans couldn't quite place. Papyrus extanded his hand toward Sans, who reached out before even thinking about it. He didn't consider himself a good dancer, but it didn't matter as long as Paps was there. The other was skilled enough for the two of them anyway.

They didn't even realize they had been dancing for one hour when the music lowered and Undyne's voice echoed in the ballroom. The bright lights tooks on a dimmer blue hue and everyone fell silent while the fish monster spoke in the mic. It was the first time Sans had heard her speak with such a gentle voice.

"Thank you everyone for coming today ! I hope you're all enjoying your evening so far. Though after so much exercise, you'll all agree it's finally time to rest our bodies and souls with some slow dance. RIGHT GUYS ?!"

'way to go to prepare people for a slow dance fishdyne...' Sans mentally chuckled.

Quieter music started playing and couples began coming to the dancefloor, where Sans and papyrus were rooted to the ground, unknowing of what to do with themselves. It was a now or never chance for Sans, but the chaos in his head prevented him from speaking up.

"WAIT ! I'M NOT DONE !" Undyne spoke again. Or more like shouted. "I want to take advantage of having the mic to ask something to a very special someone to me. Erm... I know I'm not perfect but if you'll do me the favor of dating me, I promise I'll treat you as best as I can !" Anonymous monsters began cheering her, which visibly made her, made Undyne, blush. Next to Sans, Papyrus clasped his hands over his mouth. "It's the last chance I'll have and I won't let it pass ! ALPHYS !" She took a deep breath and all but shouted in the mic. "DO YOU WANT TO BE MY GIRLFRIEND ?!"

Everything fell silent again and everyone seemed to forget about the music as all gazes turned around to the nervous lizard monster, who was now more red than yellow. When Undyne got down from the stage, Sans stopped paying attention and instead focused on Papyrus. If Undyne could do it, there was no reason he couldn't ! He weakly called out over the thumping noise of his soul.

"paps ?"

"Y-YES SANS ?"

Sans felt himself blushing again. He glued his gaze on the lace of his left shoe, suddenly very interested in how it weaved through the holes.

After yet another silence, Sans thought that maybe Papyrus had given up on hearing the rest when the tall skeleton spoke up again.

"That was very cute."

"wh-what ?" Sans squeaked. Did he mean...

"UH ! UNDYNE I MEAN ! HER CONFESSION ! YEAH. UM. UNDYNE... I was talking about her."

It was very troubling to hear Papyrus stumble over his words. It was generally when he was preoccupied by something.

"yeah... it was" he whispered. It was now or never. Come on Sans ! You can do it !

"pap ?"

"YES SANS ?"

"would you like to..."

Come one ! Just three little words !

"dance with me ?"

"YES !"

Sans snapped his head up. Had he heard well or was it his imagination giving him false hope once again ? His soul gave a tentative thump of relief when he saw the pleased look on Papyrus' face.

"YES, I WOULD LOVE TO SANS."

Before his mind had the time to process the information and find a lame excuse to back off, Sans delicately took papyrus' hand in his left one and placed his right palm on the other's shoulder. He repressed a shiver when he felt papyrus' free arm wrap around his waist with surprising gentleness. Sans couldn't tear his gaze away from papyrus' eyes, who looked at him in return with an undescribable gleam in his eyes.

As if they were one, they began moving slowly from left to right, swaying gently in tandem. Their movements were so natural, so instinctive, Sans didn't find it in himself to be embarrassed about not being a good dancer. Why in the world had he been anxious about asking Papyrus to dance again ?

At some point, Sans dropped his head on Papyrus' shoulder and let out a pleased sigh when he felt the other's chin rest on the top of his skull. They stayed like this for what seemed like forever, not even paying attention to the music and even less to the other monsters around. They seemed happy to just sway and hold each other close. Sans could hear, no, he could feel Papyrus' soul thumping in his ribcage and unconciously buried his head closer to the lulling sound.

"Sans, can I tell you something ?" Papyrus whispered, his hot breath brushing his skull. His voice was hushed but Sans had no problem focusing on the harmonious tone he loved so much.

"yeah ?"

"I'm glad I got accepted to the university I wanted to go to but... It would be a lie if I said I wasn't a bit sad to go abroad."

Sad ? Sans thought. Nervous, maybe, excited, certainly, but sad ? Why-

"Sans... I'm going to miss you."

At Papyrus' words, Sans couldn't help but snuggle even closer in the other's embrace.

"me too paps. even just thinking about it... makes me..." his voice caught up in his throat. He felt his eyes began to water but he didn't want to cry in front of Papyrus. Especially not now that he had finally found the courage to ask him for a dance.

"There's something else I wanted to tell you... I've been meaning to tell you for a long time but... As great as I am, there are things that are still difficult, even for me. Sans, you're my best friend and I know I can tell you everything... I'm truly happy with how things are between us now, and yet... I cannot help but want more. I didn't say anything because I will leave the country soon but I don't want to go away without having told you how I feel."

Sans couldn't believe it. He hold his breath. It almost sounded like Papyrus was about to conf-

"I love you Sans."

Alphys is at the same time the happiest and the most embarrassed monster in the world by Undyne's public confession. I couldn’t resist adding some Alphyne in this, I hope you won’t mind.

I tried my best for the description of Papyrus’ suit and I’d love to see how people imagine it ! I’m so curious !

#cognito fic #sans #papyrus #highschool AU #kinda #fluff #and more fluff #it's fluffy #beware the fluff #alphyne #love confession #dance #slow dance #my contribution to the valentine hype

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livingcorner · 3 years

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The Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses That Are Seasonal and Stylish

Not sure what to wear? We’ve got you covered.

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You're reading: The Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses That Are Seasonal and Stylish

With so many seasonal dresses in stores and online, it can be overwhelming to choose what to wear to a winter wedding. Winter wedding guest attire often includes dark hues, rich fabrics and longer sleeves. But there are other things to consider when choosing a winter wedding guest dress, like the formality of the affair, your budget and your taste. You may want to rock the trendiest number on the market or go with a timeless cocktail dress. No matter your personal style or that of the wedding—from black tie to dressy casual —we’ve taken the guesswork out of deciding what to wear to a winter wedding. Here, we’ve rounded up the best winter wedding guest dresses on the market, as well as our top tips for narrowing down your outfit search.

What to Wear to a Winter Wedding

Before you start shopping, it’s important to know the etiquette behind what to wear to a winter wedding. Winter wedding outfits should be fit for the occasion—the weather and the dress code of the event should both help dictate what you wear. An upscale evening winter wedding will require a formal outfit, while a casual look is acceptable for a less formal daytime event.

When browsing winter wedding guest dresses, don’t forget to shop practically. While you might want to wear a slinky mini dress or an off-the-shoulder gown, consider how the weather might affect your fashion choices. A cozy wrap or shawl can easily winterize a look while keeping you warm, so consider investing in a coverup for all of your winter events. Fabric and color are also two important components of your winter wedding guest outfit. Deep jewel tones and rich fabrics like velvet and satin are great choices for weddings in cooler months. And when it comes to length, more fabric may help you stay warm, but don’t count out sleeveless outfits altogether. If you love to spend time on the dance floor or chatting it up with other guests, you might be more comfortable in a short-sleeve or sleeveless option.

To help you find a great winter wedding guest outfit, we’ve rounded up our favorite styles on the market. Keep reading to find our favorite winter wedding guest dresses, from formal gowns to casual frocks and trendy jumpsuits.

In this article:

Formal Winter Wedding Guest Dresses

Casual Winter Wedding Guest Dresses

Formal Winter Wedding Guest Dresses

Not sure what to wear to a wedding with this particular dress code? Below, find our favorite formal winter wedding guest dresses, which range in style, silhouette, length and color. The only thing you have to do is choose the winter wedding outfit that feels totally you. A budget-savvy idea for getting an upscale formal gown is renting one from Rent the Runway. Or, check out affordable retailers like ASOS, Lulus or Nordstrom. Browse the best formal winter wedding guest dresses, and snag yours right on the spot.

The easiest way to dazzle at a winter wedding? A shimmering one-shoulder dress dripping in sequins. Pair it with bold metallic accessories to make it shine even more.

Badgley Mischka Constellation gown in Navy, $100 for a 4-day rental, RenttheRunway.com

Winter wedding guest dresses come in all different colors. This gown’s deep sangria shade is seasonally appropriate, as are the long sleeves and tiered skirt, making it a great winter wedding guest outfit.

City Chic Pretty Tier maxi dress in Sangria, $99, CoEdition.com

It doesn’t get more chic than this. A high neckline adds a glam touch to this fitted maxi dress—and the ruffled one-shoulder detail brings a hint of drama to the winter wedding guest look.

Lulus Margaux one-shoulder maxi dress in Black, $84, Lulus.com

Want a flirty outfit for upcoming winter nuptials? This velvet long-sleeve faux wrap dress should fit the bill.

Bardot Morgan long sleeve velvet faux wrap dress in Burgundy, $119, Nordstrom.com

You’ll get tons of mileage out of a classic wrap dress, especially during winter wedding season. Dress it up with drop earrings and metallic heels.

Lulus Evolve wrap maxi dress in Navy, $68, Lulus.com

Shimmering sequins are stunning for winter weddings held near the holidays. Bonus points: The cape-like sleeves on this one are totally on-trend.

ASOS DESIGN midi dress with cape kimono sleeve in Scatter Sequin Khaki, $119, ASOS.com

Make an unforgettable statement in an electric peacock dress, which has a ruched bodice and puff long sleeves.

A.L.C. Isabella dress in Peacock, $750, Shopbop.com

This satin size inclusive number gives us major retro vibes thanks to the trendy bishop sleeves. For winter weddings, pair this midi with stunning accessories that are just as glam.

ELOQUII bishop sleeve wrap dress in Caramel, $120, ELOQUII.com

This sultry black lace number is perfect for formal winter weddings. Just add a pair of black heels, and your winter wedding guest outfit is complete.

Dress the Population Emery long sleeve lace cocktail dress, $228, Nordstrom.com

This chocolate-colored fitted maxi makes the perfect party dress—and a wonderful choice for your next winter wedding guest dress.

Vesper Plus square neck belted midaxi dress in Chocolate, $92, ASOS.com

For a conversation starter during cocktail hour, wear this stylish off-the-shoulder maxi. You can totally pull off this stunning look at a modern winter wedding. If the burgundy shade isn’t your fave, there are a variety of others to choose from.

Lulus Aveline off-the-shoulder maxi dress in Burgundy, $94, Lulus.com

For a vibrant winter wedding guest outfit, rent this embroidered long sleeve mini dress with a bold color palette.

Badgley Mischka embroidered mesh dress, from $75 for a 4-day rental, RenttheRunway.com

The pleated skirt on this black kimono gown will make this your new favorite thing to dance in.

ASOS DESIGN Curve kimono pleated maxi dress in Black, $64, ASOS.com

Get in on menswear-inspired trends and opt for a tuxedo dress. For winter weddings, pair it with a faux fur shawl or coat and you’ll be set.

Jay Godfrey Sylvia strapless tux gown in Black, $375, Revolve.com

Jumpsuits are a comfortable, chic option for winter weddings, and this size inclusive design is glam enough for formal affairs. Add a pair of sparkly earrings and sky-high heels to dress it up.

Apiece Apart Meru jumpsuit in Black, $395, 11Honore.com

With black lace and a ruffled skirt, this gorgeous maxi gown is perfectly festive for winter weddings.

Adrianna Papell black scallop gown, $80 for a 4-day rental, RenttheRunway.com

Navy embroidery and a fun flare skirt make this gown a boho-glam guest outfit for a winter wedding.

Alex Evenings illusion fit and flare embroidered midi dress in Navy, $190, DavidsBridal.com

Shine on the dance floor in a shimmery long sleeve cocktail dress—a foolproof pick for a formal winter wedding guest dress.

City Chic Bright Lights dress in Gunmetal, $109, CoEdition.com

Even though this dress isn’t floor length, it’s still fancy enough for a winter wedding with its structured look, elegant off-the-shoulder neckline and rich teal color.

Cinq à Sept teal Jolie dress, from $45 for a 4-day rental, RenttheRunway.com

Go for a bold pattern if you have a fun sense of style. This long sleeve black frock has silver stars and ruffles all over, making it an exceptional winter wedding guest dress.

Fame and Partners Kye dress in Star Print, $249, Shopbop.com

This sleeveless velvet jumpsuit is comfortable and chic. And for guests who love to get down on the dance floor, it’s an easy option for showing off your best moves. Another reason to love it? The rich color is stunning for any winter wedding.

Vince Caputo surplice sleeveless velvet jumpsuit in Hunter, $168, Nordstrom.com

If you have any holiday-themed evening affairs or winter weddings coming up, you’d be remiss not to wear this floor-length golden gown with a cowl back.

Badgley Mischka gold Dara gown in Gold, $100 for a 4-day rental, RenttheRunway.com

We love the sheer neckline and embroidery on this knee-length winter wedding guest dress. To complete your winter wedding look, pair it with dark heels and gold accessories to complement the metallic details.

Tadashi Shoji Cardea embroidered tulle dress in Starry Night/Black, $288, TadashiShoji.com

You can’t go wrong with a dark floral print for a formal winter wedding. This one has sheer cuffed blouson sleeves, an open back and twirl-worthy fit-and-flare skirt.

Reformation Milena dress in Arcadia, $388, TheReformation.com

A ruched polka dot midi will turn heads. The off-the-shoulder neckline is on-trend and perfectly suited for a formal winter wedding guest.

ASOS DESIGN Curve mesh ruched bardot midi dress in Polka Dot, $51, ASOS.com

Dance the night away at an upcoming winter wedding in a mini with a stunning high neck, long puff sleeves and mixed lace pattern.

Bardot Taylah long sleeve lace cocktail dress in Black, $159, Nordstrom.com

A show stopping look for a formal winter wedding is this shimmering jumpsuit with structured organza sleeves. You’ll never want to take this glittery number off.

ELOQUII organza sleeve sequin jumpsuit in Rose Gold, $170, ELOQUII.com

A bold one-shoulder neckline makes this cocktail dress feel ultra-special for a night out. The deep navy hue is perfectly suited for a winter wedding guest outfit.

Eliza J off-the-shoulder scuba crepe cocktail dress in Navy, $128, Nordstrom.com

You don’t have to spend a fortune on a formal winter wedding guest dress. This design includes gorgeous pleats and a wintery cape detail that makes it stand out.

Buxom Couture pleated cape dress in Black, $75, CoEdition.com

Can you say, va-va voom? Pair this sweeping off-the-shoulder trumpet gown with minimal accessories and you’ve found what to wear to your upcoming winter wedding.

La Femme off-the-shoulder gown in Red, $358, Nordstrom.com

Satin is always an elegant option—especially if the gown comes in a jewel-tone hue and has flutter sleeves like this one.

Flounce London exclusive plunge satin maxi tea dress with flutter sleeve in Navy, $103, ASOS.com

Having a winter wedding outfit meltdown? We’ve got you covered. A caftan is an easy choice—not only is it super comfortable, it can easily be dressed up. Pair this fuchsia style with glam accents and heels to make it winter wedding-worthy.

Baacal midi caftan in Fucshia, $498, 11Honore.com

An embroidered white neckline makes this plus-size winter wedding guest dress a total standout for a formal event.

Alex Evenings embroidered side ruched gown in Black White, $185, Nordstrom.com

Give your LBD the night off and go for something different. Look picture-perfect in this short and sweet ivy green mini for your winter wedding guest dress.

ML Monique Lhuillier lace dress in Ivy Green, $85 for a 4-day rental, RenttheRunway.com

Casual Winter Wedding Guest Dresses

Figuring out what to wear to a casual winter wedding can be tricky. Have no fear—with this extensive list of winter wedding guest dresses, you’ll find the perfect winter wedding outfit for your laidback affair.

A high neck midi dress is the perfect addition to your winter wedding wardrobe. Pair this romantic number with dark heels and a structured jacket to stay warm.

Lulus Evalina mock neck midi dress in Navy Blue Floral, $72, Lulus.com

Jewel tones are perfect for winter weddings. And when paired with rich puff sleeves like this style, your outfit will feel fancy, chic and warm.

ELOQUII puff sleeve dress in Green Lake, $130, ELOQUII.com

A fitted lace look is a stunning fashion statement you’ll go back to again and again for winter weddings. Pair with a black leather moto jacket for an edgy touch.

Paper Dolls high neck lace midi dress in Taupe, $92, ASOS.com

Go for a muted look at your next daytime winter wedding. We’re so into this ruffled midi, which has a mock neckline and belted waist.

Anthropologie Madeleine midi dress in Iris Blue, $168, Anthropologie.com

Swiss dots add subtle texture to any design—and when paired with sheer fabric and ruffles, it creates a look that’s simply unforgettable. We love this black midi for a winter wedding.

Torrid mesh midi dress in Black Dot Diamond, $80, Torrid.com

Wear an unexpected winter wedding guest outfit by choosing a rare color like this hue. Loose kimono-inspired sleeves give this an effortlessly elegant vibe.

Standards & Practices Candice georgette wrap dress in Smoke Grey, $88, Nordstrom.com

The sheer puff sleeves on this shirred V-neck number offer a more casual vibe that’s ideal for a daytime winter wedding guest dress.

ASOS DESIGN shirred dobby midi dress in Forest Green, $60, ASOS.com

This short velvet dress can definitely be worn to a daytime winter wedding—pair it with black tights for added warmth. Plus, we can’t get enough of the subtle leopard print.

ModCloth Dramatic Depths velvet dress in Black, $119, ModCloth.com

Want something sassy yet sweet to wear to your next daytime winter wedding? Go for this flared skater dress. It comes in 19 colors, but we love glitter black or burgundy for a wedding wedding guest look. Pair it with tights to winterize the ensemble.

ROMWE A-line swing flared skater cocktail party dress, from $29, Amazon.com

For daytime winter weddings, you really can’t go wrong with a lace mini dress. Chiffon ruffles lend a feminine touch to this sheath that’s trimmed at the waist with a velvet band.

Chelsea28 Velveteen belt lace sheath dress in Navy Sapphire, $149, Nordstrom.com

Consider wearing an elevated sweater dress for a super casual winter wedding. This one has an adjustable waist sash and surplice bodice.

Lulus Literary Lover wrap sweater dress in Dark Green, $54, Lulus.com

You’ll be red hot—even during the coldest months. Pair this wine-colored winter wedding guest dress with a black leather moto jacket for an edgy-yet-classy sartorial statement.

City Chic Lace Love dress in Bordeaux, $169, CoEdition.com

Tiered ruffles elevate this shirtdress enough for a casual winter wedding. Wear it with a pair of high heeled boots if you’re feeling bold.

Topshop smocked poplin dress in Black, $55, Nordstrom.com

More florals? For a winter wedding? Groundbreaking, indeed. This long sleeve mini dress has delicate details, like a center front tie and a ruffle edged neckline, that make it a pretty choice for your casual soirée.

Reformation Remi dress in Vittoria, $218, TheReformation.com

This comfy velvet dress is fun without being too formal for a daytime winter wedding. Style it with black booties for an easy winter wedding guest outfit.

& Other Stories belted midi dress in Blue Print, $129, Stories.com

Having trouble deciding what to wear to a daytime winter wedding? Consider a playful look, like this mini dress that has a lace-up back. Bold statement sleeves elevate the minimal design and make it formal enough for a wedding.

H&M back-laced dress in Black, $30, HM.com

A bright, bold dress like this is exactly what to wear to a winter wedding. The gold leaf print is great for a guest who isn’t totally sold on a traditional print like floral or polka dots.

London Times Rhea fit-and-flare dress in Black Gold, $100, CoEdition.com

Don’t forget about seasonal plaid. Dress this winter wedding guest outfit up with heels and simple gold hoops.

ASOS DESIGN high neck tuck sleeve mini dress in Check, $72, ASOS.com

Dress to impress in this lace winter wedding guest outfit. A long sleeve bodycon dress is always a reliable option—and if you’re willing to break the mold, go for a memorable print like leopard. Just don’t forget to pair it with warm outerwear!

Leith brushed long sleeve mini dress in Beige Layered Leopard, $49, Nordstrom.com

Even a comfortable jersey material can be winter wedding outfit-appropriate. Pair this moody jumpsuit with strappy heels and gold accessories for a casual party.

ASOS DESIGN jersey x front wrap long sleeve jumpsuit in Dark Plum, $51, ASOS.com

The LBD, upgraded. It’s all about the details with this winter wedding guest dress, which has chic pearl cuffs on the long sleeves.

ELOQUII pearl cuff dress in Black, $110, ELOQUII.com

When a dress won’t do for a daytime winter wedding outfit, opt for a fashionable jumpsuit instead. This pretty purple option has side cutouts and airy flutter sleeves.

Lulus Toast to You flutter sleeve cutout jumpsuit in Dusty Purple, $85, Lulus.com

If warmth is an important component of your winter wedding guest attire, consider this affordable long sleeve ribbed jersey mini. The bustier-style bodice adds a sultry vibe to the simple style.

ASOS DESIGN Curve off shoulder rib panelled long sleeve midi dress in Caramel, $45, ASOS.com

Feel pretty and confident in a high-neck chiffon dress at your next winter wedding. We recommend pairing this with a dark jacket, tights and booties to complete the look.

H&M A-line chiffon dress in Dark Gray/Patterned, $50, HM.com

Want a winter wedding outfit that no other guest will have? Select an unexpected option like this structured blazer dress. With a belted waist and lapel details, your sophisticated style will stand out for good reason.

Zara belted blazer dress in Black, $90, Zara.com

This subtle animal print looks as chic as can be against a dark green background. If you’re not sure what to wear to a winter wedding, this look could be it.

& Other Stories relaxed belted midi wrap dress in Animal Print, $149, Stories.com

A burgundy lace skater dress is a stylish day-to-night look for a daytime winter wedding that’s followed by an evening reception.

Torrid brushed floral lace skater dress in Winetasting, $76, Torrid.com

You can’t go wrong with a short, teal-colored lace dress with a flattering silhouette for a daytime winter wedding guest outfit. Dress it up with patent nude pumps and a clutch to match.

ML Monique Lhuillier Ella dress, $30 for a 4-day rental, RenttheRunway.com

Keep things simple in this minimal green velvet mini dress. To tie your winter wedding guest outfit together, wear it with black tights, heels and a few jewelry pieces to elevate the look.

ModCloth It’s a Swing Thing mini dress in Green, $59, ModCloth.com

This jumpsuit is a great choice for nuptials that err on the side of casual. With a lace bodice and long sleeves, this chic look also has pockets—a major win in our book.

ELOQUII lace wide leg jumpsuit in Black, $150, ELOQUII.com

This romantic winter wedding guest dress will leave everyone starry-eyed. The dusty rose hue is a great winter-appropriate alternative if you’re not into moody hues traditionally associated with the season.

ASOS DESIGN Curve kimono sleeve pleated wrap midi dress with tie waist in rose, $60, ASOS.com

Source: https://livingcorner.com.au Category: Outdoor

source https://livingcorner.com.au/the-best-winter-wedding-guest-dresses-that-are-seasonal-and-stylish/

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