#perhaps the realest

[embryoed]

“Gale Hawthorne is a complex character” I say into the mic

The crowd boos, I slink off the stage in shame

“They’re right” says a voice from the audience

I turn, and there in the stands is Suzanne Collins herself

[eiralivered]

everyone’s always going on about wanting to fuck that old man but when mr blanky wanted to fuck that big ice creature no one said a word. society

[vvienne]

I literally woke up in the middle of the night like God will dark rise is so fucking screwed. The line that’s like. “Everyone wanted to kill the Dark King.” What’s the part where he looks at Violet helplessly, haunted, almost pleading for mercy? But of course he reveals nothing of substance to anyone. Elizabeth is too young to understand but the reader knows what “Her relationship with that boy was…unnatural” can mean. Tying him to bedposts? Failing to strangle him? What else? Never not even once seeing beyond a mythological identity Will himself didn’t know he had? What did he think was the reason? That he was just intrinsically hateful? Of course he says nothing. Of course Violet can’t trust him- he’s given her nothing as painfully real as what she’s given him. So he gives her the sword hoping at least he can die at the hands of someone he loved, but even that doesn’t work out - she gives the sword to a Visander still furious at SARCEAN. The pattern continues; no one looks at Will, who vomits when he realizes what’s happened to James, Will who is much of a liar and killer and sneak as Elizabeth accuses but nonetheless wants to be different. Even when he doesn’t remember his own past. There’s no way out for him that doesn’t hurt. Hope this obsession passes soon given the one and a half years of waiting required for book 3

[gregmarriage]

have you seen him? now you have!

[makerpreservethatass]

if you men wanna apologize for male dominated fields, you can start by letting me dominate you

[but-the-desserts-were-okay]

Look I’m not saying you have to like Mother Mother’s sound, lyrics, or appearance, I’m just saying that if your response to people making art that is so openly and honestly about mental illness is “lol cringe, this is cringy teenager music” maybe you should examine why it is you feel that way and why you think internal suffering is merely a performative act by the immature

[thedevotionaltour]

i think I need to stop trying to have carrds and real abouts when this image sums up everything you need to understand about how i operate as a person in one go really

[flourescencia]

Black Sails XVIII ...

[strawberrydaydreams]

best and perhaps realest part of dungeon meshi is sits down right away senshi

[wing-ed-thing]

I Guess You Don’t Love Me Anymore (Gaara x Reader)

Synopsis: Your normal nighttime routine with Gaara

Word Count: 0.8k

Tags/Warnings: Fluff, Gaara puts his whole weight on Reader, Fluffy Couple Things, Reader is Picked Up/Tossed

Notes: On the Gaara brain rot train

When it came time to turn in, Gaara wore his nightshirt. The garment, traditionally worn by men of Sunagakure, was woven out of a light, tan fabric and featured three white buttons that led up to a scoop neck collar. Gaara pinched the front of it, almost to remind himself of the shirt’s looseness as he fanned himself. You watched as he cracked open a window from your shared bed, musing to yourself over how the fabric draped over Gaara’s shoulders. He always seemed more relaxed at night, like he could finally breathe after a day of work as Kazekage. Perhaps it was from wearing his armor all day…

“What?” His rough voice cut through your thoughts. You blinked, locking eyes with Gaara as his forehead crinkled in acute curiosity. “What are you looking at?” You sat up, leaning on one arm as you tugged him forward by the hem of his shirt. You leaned up to kiss him.

“Am I not allowed to admire my handsome fiancé?” you said, a playful vibrato in your voice. Gaara planted a firm peck on your lips. You fell back onto the thin sheets and Gaara unceremoniously plopped the entirety of his body weight on top of you. You let out a dramatic groan and the corners of Gaara’s lips twitched upwards from above you.

“You are,” he conceded, his nose touching yours. His elbows dug into the bed around the opposite sides of your head and he rested his cheek on his palm. “But you’re a mischievous one. I don’t know what goes on in that head of yours.” He gave your temple a light tap with his opposite hand.

“I was thinking about your shirt.” Gaara’s lips formed a tight, misshapen line. A light puff of air escaped his nose: Gaara’s rendition of a snicker.

“My shirt,” he repeated, stretching as he lifted himself off of you. By the time you sat up, he was already beginning to settle under the covers. “What about my shirt?” A hint of mischief of his own glinted in his tired eyes.

“I think it’s a nice look for you.” You flung the sheets over on your side and rested your head on Gaara’s shoulder. You tossed a leg over his. “It’s very… farmer.” You looked up at him, dragging your cheek across the light cotton of his nightshirt as you nodded. He looked down, chin beginning to scrunch up by his neck.

“Is, uh… I reckon that’s a good thing.” You couldn’t laugh at the innocently lost look on his face. No one had ever really joked around with Gaara before you. Between the stigma around his Jinchūriki status as a child to his drastic promotion to Kazekage, you figured that most of the villagers thought of him as too serious.

“I’ll have you know that farmer-Gaara is easily in my list of top fifteen Gaaras.”

“Ah, I see…” He hummed, straining to reach over to the bedside light. You always said things like that to him and he never understood. But he liked you, and so he had long since learned to simply roll with it. You wrapped your arm around his middle as darkness suddenly overtook the room.

You both shifted. You nestled deeper into Gaara’s side as he traced the outline of your ear. Gaara kissed the top of your head. The silence of the night filled the air. It had been a long day for the both of you.

Gaara’s chest rose steadily as he breathed. You played with the buttons on his shirt, his heart beating like a metronome in his chest. His fingertips drew little circles on your skin as the night grew darker.

As time passed, you couldn’t tell if you actually fell asleep. But in a half-awake trance, you felt Gaara move. He turned on his side, taking half of your portion of the blankets with him. You looked over at his broad shoulders and his messy hair. You clutched onto what little blanket realestate you could.

“Oh, I see how it is.” Your tired voice cut through the stillness. “I guess you don’t love me anymore.” Even just barely awake, you still found ways to joke with him.

Almost immediately, Gaara shot up in bed, resting his weight on his elbow away from you. He paused, almost as if he had to take a moment to process what you said. You giggled quietly to yourself, always one to be amused by your own jokes. But your laughter was quickly knocked out of you as Gaara, now laying flat, snaked one arm under you. And with one movement, he flipped you completely over his body. With you now on his left, he turned back on his side, holding you to his chest and burying his face in the crook of your neck.

“Go to sleep,” he muttered and held you close as the both of you fell asleep.

Thank you to all who liked, reblogged, followed and otherwise supported. Your support means so much and is greatly appreciated. 

Notes: I think I once found a tweet that was like “When your partner turns on their side in bed and it’s like wow I didn’t know you didn’t love me anymore.” Ever since I showed my boyfriend that I say that every time he turns over until the one time I did it to him and he went “... wow I didn’t know you didn’t love me anymore” hahaha

[buckybarnesss]

bail organa is the realest motherfucker in the entire franchise. he’s a bad bitch. he’s the unsung hero of the whole saga.

he does what he can, he helps who he can and protects perhaps the greatest secret in the galaxy like it ain’t no thing. 

him helping, protecting ahsoka, being gentle with her knowing how bad she’s hurting and he cannot tell her anything all the while offering her that comm for the future -- you a good one bail organa. 

[trendywaifus]

hey!! i saw that your reqs are open so i'd like to request hc of eula, hu tao, beidou and baal comforting their s/o who thinks that they're annoying and a burden because of their past relationships who made them believe that. e.g the s/o is afraid to talk about their interests because they feel like they're boring and annoying them. thank you so much in advance if you decide to write my request!! i hope the holidays are going well for you!

i like this one! remember everyone, don’t let anyone make you feel like you’re a less of a person. you’re more than they will ever be and you deserve more respect. someone who truly who loves and appreciate you will prove it! doesn’t even have to be a special someone, it can be family and friends. i’m also here for you whenever you feel like you’re at your lowest. (sorry for any errors and whatever im sleepy!)

— eula understands how you feel. coming from a widely—hated clan without any outside support, use to do a number on her. you feel as though nobody isn’t interested in how you feel or your interests. they look at you from outside lens and judge you without personally getting to know the real you—she understands. but don’t worry, she’s here to listen and unfold everything you’ve been wanting to say. she’s not good at comforting others but since it’s you, eula will do her best.

— you think you’re a burden? nonsense, don’t ever think like that; you make her darkest days bright. your smile, your laughter, it’s always engraved in her mind each time she fights and dances under the moonlight. you are one of her main sources of motivation, remember that. she’ll protect you with her life if she has to.

“ (name), that’s rather interesting, i could see you doing that, “ she says with a warm smile as you shyly tell her one of your interests. “ why didn’t you tell me sooner? “ you play with your hands nervously, gazing into her curious eyes, “ well, i’m use to others disregarding my interests. so. .i don’t really bother anymore.”eula’s face cutely scrunches up to a look of disdain and reaches out to hold your hand, her gloved fingers gingerly skimming across your palm. “ how unreal. my love, perhaps you should tell me who these others are? shall i enact vengeance on them? “

— like with eula, she understands how you feel in the realest level. she’s like the clown of the town, constantly getting talked about, judged, all of that stuff. yes, there’s times where she felt alone but she remembers her grandfather, zhongli, the traveller, and the friends she met as she breathes each day. there’s also you, how could she forget you? her special someone she dreams of so often.

— so when you tell her that you felt like a burden to others and to her, her usual cheery mood is gone from her face and hu tao’s serious. she listens, uncharacteristically quiet as she soaks in your words about your history with individuals who showed a lack of interest in you as a person. despite what was told about hu tao, she is a great listener.

“ my butterfly, all of what they said isn’t true, not at all.” her palm touches your cheek tenderly, she frowns. “ your voice is gentle to the ears; it managed to reach down and warm the cold, darkest feelings i’ve buried deep within my heart.” hu tao leans in to kiss between your eyebrows and pulls back with her signature smile. “ aiyah, you’re my muse after all. “

— as someone who’s been fighting for her life ever since she was a child, she understands how cruel teyvat and the people can be. she had to fight for respect and people to look in her direction. but now, she is a powerful captain with an excellent crew. she also has an amazing partner, a invaluable treasure that she would never give away and will protect with her life.

— when you spoke about your hesitance at revealing your interest to others, afraid of being seen as boring and uninteresting, beidou was shocked however she quickly recovered and continue to listen to you until you were done. she tells you how much she loves you with that toothy smile of hers and empathizes with how you feel.

she takes you into her strong arms, rubbing your back in a smoothing manner. “ sweetheart, you’re a strong person for openin’ up to me. don’t let anybody tell you otherwise, you’ve impacted my life in a positive way, i look forward to seein’ and hearin’ you talk everyday about anything and everything. don’t give those fool’s words anymore weight in your head than they already have, let it all be dead weight that you gotta start sinkin. “

— ei would genuinely be confused. it’s more like why could anyone mistreat you when you’re such a wonderful being? no matter how much she pondered at the thought of it even happening, she thinks the possibility is close to 0 and if it does happen, she will wipe the poor soul from existence.

— she is rather ignorant to social cues and not very quick in noticing human behavior unless it’s fear and anger. you have no reason to fear her and there’s nothing she has done to anger you. but when you show clear reluctance in telling her about your past and feelings when asked, she was worried but patient. when you finally unravel everything, ei felt terrible. how could she had not notice the signs? after this, ei’s more obliged to be more attentive towards your needs.

“ i. . see. “ ei grabs your wrist and gently guides you closer to her. her other hand places itself on the back of your neck and she rests your head against her chest in a comforting manner. “ i’m ashamed that i did not ask you this sooner and not being aware of your struggles. i will do whatever i can to make you feel how you make me feel, dear beloved. that’s one promise i will keep until i fall victim to erosion. “

[queers-gambit]

Can you please write something where the reader (the same reader in your series) is spending memorable time with her grand sire and he asks her “will I be remembered as a good king”. 🥺

oh, my heart! yes, my love, this was too good to pass on and i need a bit of a reprieve from my life. thank you so much for sending this in, i hope i do you justice!!

note: it got a way angstier than anticipated and i'm sorry, but i promise it works, and there's "plenty" of fluff.

3 Times He Didn't, 1 Time He Did

prompt: by day, she's the attentive granddaughter Viserys deserves in his failing years, and by night, she and her husband wipe away each other's tears.

pairing: Aemond Targaryen x Velaryon!wife!reader and grandfather!Viserys x Velaryon!granddaughter!reader

fandom masterlist: House of the Dragon

word count: 7.9k

note: this can be considered part of the [ WPMP series ]

warnings: cursing, angst, fluff. lmfao it has smut, too, 'cause why the fuck not? author projects really, really, really hard. broken family dynamics. mild violence. half edited. ❗️PLEASE NOTE ❗️- this story will contain certain details about the emotional turmoil pertaining to caring for ailing family members. please, value your self-comfort and do not engage if this topic triggers you. i love you, i empathize deeply your pain, and there is no shame in scrolling away. sometimes self-love is the realest love.

The room was quiet, soft in the early morning before the sun rose and anyone had time to wake-up and ruin the peace. Your head was left on your husband's bare chest, snuggled in the crook of his neck while one of his calloused fingertips traced over your skin in light patterns. One of your hands laid against his breast, gently raking your fingernails around his nipple as your eyes had trouble focusing due to the burn for sleep.

Aemond sighed deeply and tightened his arm so you were pulled closer to let his lips press against your forehead. Peaking up to gaze over porcelain skin, you smiled and reached to caress his jaw, asking, "What're your plans for today, my love?"

"I've lessons all bloody morning, training this afternoon," he mused, "and perhaps, dinner with my wife this evening?"

"Are you asking me?" You cooed gently.

"I am," he chuckled. "Whatcha say? Hmm?"

"I'd love to go to dinner with you, love," you promised with a whisper, "I shall find you later in the day, yes?"

He nodded, hand tight over your hip, "And your plans? For today?"

"Oh," you smiled gently, "um, well, I was to visit Alicent for tea and breakfast, then... Well... Okay, look, just promise you won't get upset."

"Depends," he spoke honestly, "how bad is it?"

"Well, it's not bad, per se," you worried gently, unable to meet his eyes so you just nuzzled closer into his neck, "but it might make you feel something."

"'S all right, pet, just tell me," he nodded, cheek grazing your forehead.

"I'm visiting with Viserys today," you spoke softly. "Your Mother told me he had requested to see me - "

"He doesn't name names anymore," Aemond pulled back to stare down at you incredulously. "My love, you thought I'd be upset that Father has asked to see you? By name? No, no, my sweet girl," he smirked gently, reaching to caress your jaw and cheek, "that's something akin to a miracle."

"Yeah?"

"Yeah, love," he nodded but dropped the smile in confusion. "What did he call upon you for?" He guided your head back to his chest, making you sigh lightly as you both relaxed once more.

"Alicent did not list specifics, only that he wanted to see me."

"Hmm."

"I'll tell you what he speaks of, but in truth, I worry he'll forget about his request by the time I arrive."

"If he does, I'm sure seeing you will still brighten his day," Aemond cradled you closer in his arms. "Surely, you brighten my days, my sweet girl."

You chuckled, feigning annoyance as you stretched against him, "I forget how clingy you are in the mornings."

"We're both going to be busy today, pet. Let me savor these last moments before we are both exhausted from the day."

You hummed, reaching to hold his cheek and nuzzle your nose up his as your chests pressed together. "Well, who could say no to that?" You breathed, leaning in to kiss his lips slowly. His arm constricted around you as the other shot up to hold your own cheek, smoothing skin under his thumb. "We should rise," you whispered.

"We've time," he promised, moving to lay you on your back to hover over you. His unbound silver locks cascaded around his shoulders, hanging to gently tickle your skin as his hands grabbed at the meat of your hips and waist, slowly dragging up. You quickly reached for him, bringing him in closer as your thighs squeezed around his hips to keep him anchored. His lips moved with yours in a searing kiss and the moment a hand seized the meat of your breast, you both moaned as his bare cock twitched to life against your moistening cunt.

"Oh," you gasped when he started to dryly hump into you, just feeling your wet heat; your body; the way you felt under his hands. "Love, I-I... Shit."

"What do you want, my love?" He purred against your lips, still just teasing you justly; hips swirling to smear the gathering wetness. "C'mon, tell your husband, pretty girl, you know I love pleasing you."

Your bottom lip was trapped between your teeth to hold in the slew of purely animalistic, wanton moans. "I just want you," you managed to whisper, trying to preserve some dignity. "All of you, Aemond," you smirked gently, reaching for him again, "and maybe if we're lucky, our efforts will not be in vain. Hmm? Maybe this time will stick."

"Surely," he mused, swooping in to press another kiss to your lips while grabbing a handful of your bottom to encourage you to move slowly with him. Sure, the pair of you had gone a few rounds the night before but in truth, you often craved sex when your cycle was soon to start - and your husband lived to please you.

He had no trouble then settling one of your legs out with a hand locked to the back of your knee, keeping the other leg close on his hip as he guided his stiff cock into your cunt. No foreplay needed, you were ashamed to admit you might've woken with a slick between your legs; and for some reason, his light touches that morning had made your spine tingle. Aemond seethed gently as he pushed further into your tightness, securing his hands over you - sure to leave bruises behind - and letting his forehead drop to yours.

His moans and groans were music to your ears, the only thing you wanted to hear the rest of your life.

You felt like you were slowly being spit in two but in a deceivingly pleasurable way. You clung to your husband with tight hands, encouraging him to drop into your neck as his hips rutted against yours. His balls were pressed against you with every painstakingly slow stroke, both of your mouths open to brush your lips together and breathe as one.

"Oh, oh, Gods, wow, okay, fuck-fuck-fuck," you whined when Aemond had to readjust to better thrust into you as his orgasm was quickly mounting, caring little for your own as you craved his seed in your womb. Though, you weren't opposed to the mounting pleasure that coiled in your stomach.

A faster tempo was met just as a knock at the door sounded - making you gasp lightly.

"Ignore them," Aemond panted above you. "I've got you, Princess, focus on me. Just on me - fucking look at me."

You nodded with another breathless whine, holding his neck as he let his lips meet yours; pushing his tongue into your mouth to sloppily slide together with yours as teeth gently knocked around from his frantic ministrations.

There was another fucking knock.

"FUCK OFF!" Aemond snapped, glaring at the door; silver locks swinging as he never faltered in his thrusting. The gushing squelching sounds filled the tense air around you, your giggle following after.

"C'mon, love," you whispered with a smirk, reaching to caress his stones and give a light (but increasingly tightening) squeeze. His head snapped back to look at you, picking up his pace mindlessly. "Please, put a baby in me, Aemond, please. I need it."

"Yes," he grunted, "it'll take this time, I know it," he panted, thrusting into you harder so your hand had to let go to let his balls slap into your moist center. "Keep makin' those pretty fucking noises, pet, c'mon, please," Aemond smirked, licking at your lips, "know they drive me fuckin' crazy, hmm? C'mon, my love, make me a Daddy." When your pupils dilated, he repeated in a hiss, "Make me a fucking Daddy."

Aemond, usually a man of little words, loved to hear your voice above all others and liked to surprise you with his surprisingly suave dirty talk. So, after a flash on insecurity, you were encouraging him harder, faster, your thumb hooked in his mouth as you reminded him only he could make you feel this way, and that if he wanted to be a Daddy, he had to fill you to the brim. He was so close and one more surprise squeeze of his stones had him cumming in your cunt with a shout.

"Oh, fuck," you panted, nodding at him as he tried to sit back but couldn't. So, with reluctance, he pulled out only to crash into your side, panting lightly against the crook of your neck. You happily snuggled closer before he was perking up to grab a set of pillows and insist you lift your hips. He had you lay down with it under you after hearing rumor it would help his seed take to your womb easier.

Gravity and shit.

It was a blissful few seconds before the knocking at the door sounded yet again, Amira shouting, "Are you both quite done, yet!? Fuck's sake! Some of us have responsibilities to attend to!"

"Oh, for the love of the Gods! We're seeing to our marital responsibilities, Mira, fuck off for a few more hours!"

"I know you're not talking to me like that, boy! I don't care you're a Prince, you can still - "

"Hey, okay, come in, Amira! Cut it out!" You called back with a chuckle, pulling the sheets closer to you both to save her from seeing more than she wanted (or needed) to. When she stepped in with a glare, you laughed, "Are you quite done, yet?"

"Tell him to behave," she slitted her eyes.

"Behave," you mused to Aemond, knocking your hand back to his chest - making him scoff in humor.

She sighed, "Well, do I come back or what? Are you ready to get your day started, or not, Princess?"

"Sun's not even up, Mira," you whined, head crashing to the arm Aemond had under you.

"Viserys wakes early and naps early," she shrugged. "You're also to take tea with the Queen, so, uh, get up."

"Surely you can give us an hour to rest," Aemond refuted.

"Or getting up now would mean riding your sleepless-high only to go to bed early tonight," she shot back.

You groaned, "She has a point."

Aemond sighed, leaning in to let you peck his lips before watching you climb from bed - bare as the day you entered this world. He watched you get ready from the safety of the bedsheets, bidding you a good day when you meant to leave his side. With a small pout, you whispered you loved him and would find him for dinner, hearing him hum in agreement before you kissed him in parting.

After you met with Alicent that morning to break your fast together, you let her escort you to her husband's chambers. She warned you, as she always did, that Viserys' mind and body was deteriorating; watching you nod in understanding before opening the doors.

When you slowly entered, Viserys was very much awake, but only offered a cautious, confused look. "Alicent?" He asked nervously.

"Good morning, Lord husband," she greeted softly, laying a hand to your back. "You know your granddaughter, Y/N, don't you?"

"I have a granddaughter?" He whispered through a haggard breath.

You frowned, "Yes, Grandfather, my name is Y/N... My mother is Rhaenyra?"

"Oh, my child," he smiled, eye only half-open. "My daughter."

"Yes, I am Rhaenyra's daughter," you softly explained. "I'm your granddaughter."

"Oh," he breathed, "that is good."

"Yes," you whispered, slowly stepping towards his bedside. When you sat beside him and took his withering hand in your own, you couldn't help but whisper, "Don't you know me?"

But he didn't answer.

"Why don't you read to him, sweet girl?" Alicent offered, seeing the tears brimming in your eyes.

You nodded and fought down your emotion. She handed you an old, leather-bound book; waiting until you started reading the passage to vacate the room. It was where you remained for a time, and when the Maester's came in, Viserys visibly tensed.

"No, no," he refused Milk of the Poppy, "I don't want to sleep, I want to listen. Th-This sweet girl is reading to me."

You frowned slightly before nodding to the Maesters, "Leave it, I will make sure he has a dose if the pain exceeds his comfort."

"Of course, Princess."

You continued reading, and to your surprise, Viserys even asked a question or two. When tea was brought in, he let you help him sit up in bed and ask, "Do you want to sit in your chair, Grandfather?"

"Oh," he panted, "n-no."

"Okay," you agreed. "Do you want your tea?"

"Please... An-And would you read to me again?"

"Of course," you nodded, holding the back of his head to help him take a sip of the tepid drink. "Do you want the same story? Or a new one?"

"Same one," he nodded, eye slowly drooping. You frowned, gulping down your emotion at the sight of his depleting energy.

You took your position again, and read from the same book. You would watch him on occasion, slowly realizing his energy was depleting. "Grandfather," you stood to your feet, "it's time for your medicine."

"Is it?"

"Yes," you nodded, glancing out the window, "it's almost sundown, do you want to eat something first?"

"Oh... Perhaps?"

"Okay," you smiled, knowing he didn't eat all day from lack of appetite. "Okay, good, do you want anything special, Grandfather?"

His head shook and you nodded, leaning in to kiss his wrinkled forehead, promising to be back in a minute. You easily located a handmaiden and told her to fetch the King his supper - watching her head off before returning to Viserys' side.

"Do I know you?" He asked, being the one to take your hand. "Your face is a familiar one."

"Yes," you nodded, thinking he knew you, "yes, yes, Granddad, it's me. It-It's me - it's Y/N."

"Y/N? No, I-I don't think so. Y/N is on Dragonstone. Where she belongs."

"No, Granddaddy, it is me," you whispered, squeezing his hand, "I've been here, in the Red Keep - and I'm here with you, now. It's your Y/N, it's me, Granddaddy, please..." Your voice broke with desperation.

He was quiet for a few beats, making you think he might've dozed off, but then he asked, "Y/N? You know my Y/N?"

"I am your Y/N. Granddaddy... Please."

"No, I don't think you are."

You sighed, "Okay, all right. Are you hungry?"

"Hmm," he considered, "yes, I think so. Are you the new nurse?"

"Sure," you agreed, knowing sometimes, it was easier to agree with what his mind told him instead of trying to change it. "I'm here to help you."

He nodded, "Thank you. Not everyone is so gentle."

You frowned, "They are rough with you?"

"Maybe not as nice as I'd like," he admitted. Your heart cracked down the middle.

When his dinner was brought in, you made sure to lay a cloth napkin across his chest before spooning bits of stewed vegetables into his mouth. A bit of ground of chicken with rice, too; side of smashed apples with it; all of which he accepted with little fight.

As the sun slowly sank, you handed off the plates and platters to the handmaiden before pouring Viserys' medicine in a small chalice. Again, you held the back of his neck to then tip the drink over his tongue, and when you laid him back, his eye was already closed.

"Would you come back...? Tomorrow?" Viserys wheezed, voice dialed to a meek whisper.

"Of course," you promised. "Goodnight, Grandfather. I love you."

He did not respond because he did not know you - but you didn't mind. You were used to this by now, his flighty memory. At least he could remember your mother, his daughter, Rhaenyra, and his wife, Alicent; though, his other children were lost to his mind.

When you moved through the castle, you felt your emotions bubbling like hot stew in your stomach. Forgetting your promise to seek your husband, you ventured to your rooms instead; slamming the door shut and letting the sobs overtake you as you only truly meant to only take 20 minutes to regroup and get your shit together. You just wanted to be alone, digest all that had happened; all you felt.

It's where Aemond found you about an hour later, your form already changed for bed; nestled under a blanket on the floor before the fire you had stoked to life by yourself. His brow furrowed, slowly approaching you as if a skittish deer; asking gently, "Love?"

You sniffled, glancing up at him, "Oh, uh," your eyes cast back to the fire, "did I miss our engagement?"

"Well, yes, but that's all right," he took a seat beside you. "Something happen today, my sweet? Why the tears?"

You nodded sadly, admitting in a whisper, "He does not know me... Not anymore. I don't think he'll know me for quite sometime... If ever again. My name is familiar to him, maybe my face in fleeting moments, but I saw today that... That he does not know me anymore."

Aemond sighed and let his hand drag up to hold the back of your neck, letting your head fall into the crook of his neck as your emotion was overwhelming for a moment.

"I've got you," he promised.

"What if that becomes us?" You asked in a whisper. "What if we get to that point, Aemond? Where you don't even know me? What if I don't know you, anymore? I-I don not think I could bear if I ever forgot you!"

"That won't happen. Ever, not in this lifetime."

"How do you know?"

"Because I would always recognize my heart," he replied fiercely - no changing his mind. "You are not so easily forgettable, my love."

"We cannot stop time," you almost growled, pulling away. "He did not plan for this - to waste away into nothing as his brain melted into soup! T-To forget the family he built - the country he's protected and lead through peace. He did not ask for this, there was no stopping it, either. What if that happens to us?"

He sighed, leaning his head to your own, whispering, "Our children will never let us forget our love. We will teach them the meaning of family and we will never have to worry about when we are aged and forgetful."

"We've no children, Aemond."

"Well, yes, not yet, but I've faith," he smirked. "I do not mean to downplay what is happening, but I've watched him whither into this state for years. I understand it can be jarring, I do not mean to take away from your fears or worries or pain... But there is nothing we can do now, love, but ease his passing."

You sighed, nodding, "It's just..."

"It's sad," he agreed, cradling you to his chest. "Are you hungry?"

"Think I've lost my appetite," you admitted, "though, if it makes up for tonight, maybe we can have breakfast tomorrow before I go back?"

"You're going back?"

You nodded. "Maybe you'd like to stop for a visit?"

"Perhaps, we shall see," he sighed, pecking your forehead. "Bed, my love?"

"Please," you whispered, letting him help you stand and make for the bed. You settle in comfort as he changed under your heavy gaze, leaving his chest bare with only a thin pair of trousers on for sleep; literally hopping into bed beside you. "Oh, Aemond! Gods!" You groaned through your laughter when he jostled you both around the mattress.

"Hi, love," he sighed, conforming around you to press his body to yours.

"Hi."

"I'm sorry for today..."

"Don't be," you reached back to caress his cheek, "it is not your fault. I want to be there, he deserves kindness at his end."

"He does," he agreed, "and who better than my sweet girl?"

You chuckled, "Hush, it's been a long day. I want to sleep."

"Hmm," he considered, sighing, "all right, fine, I'll fuck you in the morning, then."

"You're insatiable."

"Good thing you love me like this," his grin was felt against the shell of your ear.

For months, you would dedicate three-to-four days a week to visit Viserys which slowly morphed into you fully-caring for him on those days. He was calmer with you, and though he didn't know you in full, he still felt at ease under your gentle hands.

"Good morning, Granddaddy," you greeted softly.

"Is it morning already?"

"It is," you nodded, "do you want to sit up?"

"Yes, please," he wheezed, wincing when you had to practically heave his body up - his strength not up to par anymore. "Is there tea?"

"Yes, of course," you rushed to get him a cup, returning and nursing it to his mouth. As the morning went, you felt Viserys' eyes on you from time to time and tried not to let it unnerve you as you had opted to read one of your textbooks to him - doubling your time to study.

"Do I know you?"

You looked up, sighing, "Yes, Grandfather. I'm Y/N, your granddaughter."

"No, Y/N's with her mother," he chuckled some, "but you do look like her. Do you know her?"

"I do, actually," you chose a new tactic. "She sends her love and regards, my King."

"Oh, she's always been a very sweet girl," he half-smiled. "I miss my family. Are you my new maid? My new nurse?"

"Yes, Your Grace," you whispered, reaching for his hand. "Is there anything I can get you?"

But like a timer-reset, Viserys' eyes turned confused. "Do I know you? Who are you? How did you get in here?"

"Your Grace, it's Y/N," you tried once more, reaching for his hand and squeezing it. "Please, Grandfather, it's me. It's your sweet girl - it's Y/N."

"How can that be?"

"I married Aemond, I married your youngest son," you explained softly. "I live in the Red Keep with you, with your family."

"No," he wheezed, "no, no, my family is not here - Dragonstone. They're on Dragonstone!"

"No, Granddaddy, y-you have family here, too," you rushed. "You have a wife - "

"Aemma."

Bowing your head, your forehead rested on the back of his hand as you had to hold your breath to restrain your emotions. Sniffling, you looked up to see his eyes closed and a soft smile on his lips. "Yes, Granddaddy, Aemma... Your wife."

"My love."

"You had a child, didn't you? Do you remember?"

"Oh," he sighed, "my daughter. M-My daughter..."

"Rhaenyra."

"Yes," he smiled. "Yes, Rhaenyra. Where is she?" His eye opened and turned to you, allowing you to, once more, stare straight into the decaying flesh of his face. His eye darkened in confusion, "Who are you? Where's my daughter? Where's Rhaenyra?" You could see he was getting upset, heart breaking as he yanked his hand away, "What have you done!? What have you DONE!? Where is my daughter!? Where is Aemma and Rhaenyra!? Where is my family!?"

"Grandfather, it's me, it's Y/N, please, please, it's Y/N, I'm family, I'm kin, I'm your blood," you tried to reach for him, but he thrashed in panic - and you backed off because the quickened movements would surely cause searing pain and torn skin.

"NO! I don't know you! I don't know you! HELP! GUARDS! GUARDS!"

"No," you whimpered, backing off as the doors burst open.

"Oh, Princess," Ser Erryk sighed, reaching for you.

"Please, just help him - call the Maesters," you nodded, watching as a pair of guards rushed in to restrain the King.

"NO! THAT GIRL!" He pointed at you, "She's done something! Where is my family!? What did you do to them!?"

"She is family, Your Grace," one guard grunted as the Maesters arrived on the scene with the only thing that would help now: Milk of the Poppy. Viserys needed sedated as his mind lapsed into melted confusion, causing distressing panic that his body and mind was no longer equipped to handle.

"What have you done!?" He wailed, "Who is she!? I do not know her - why is she here!?"

Your hands pressed to your stomach as you were forced to supervise the Maesters sedate Viserys - and within ten minutes, you were ushering everyone out of the room to leave him in peace.

"Lady - "

"It's all right, Ser Erryk," you assured with a hand held up, not wanting pity in that moment. "These things happen. I will give him time to recover, and shall return next week..."

He nodded, "Of course."

"Goodnight," you bid, turning on your heel, and darting down a separate hall. Not knowing where you wanted to go first, your brain only registered you wanted your husband and tried to wrack in your mind where he might be.

Your feet picked up pace as the library was found empty, and the stable, and the bloody Dragon Pit. Luckily, as you jogged into one of the Keep's courtyards, the sounds of ringing metal greeted you and all but screamed the answer to your question: Where was Aemond?

"Good!" Cole barked, the two worked down to their tunics as the summer heat beat on them in the last, lingering hours of light. "Move your feet - quicker, my Prince! Quicker! You'll lose a leg like that! There you go - good!"

You came to a pause, realizing how deep into their lesson they were and suddenly felt incredibly selfish for feeling the need to interrupt. Instead, you located a spare weapons table and moved towards it, clearing daggers to the side to slide your body onto the top of it and watch. As if to keep your mind occupied, you idly twirled a dagger between your fingers - something Aemond had taught you once upon a time.

You winced as Cole was taking damaging, almost fatal strikes against Aemond, but your husband was much quicker to dodge around and parry the Knight's blows. You thought it a bit unfair their weapon choices, but figured in times of battle and war, not all weapons were equal and it was best to know how to defend yourself against any foe.

So, you watched. Drew your knees into your chest. Chin on top, and heart weeping without ever giving away anything on your face.

When their session came to a panting-end, you perked up some as Cole caught sight of you first and smirked. He nodded over Aemond's shoulder, who turned to look, and smiled in greeting when he caught sight of you - before frowning when he really looked at you.

Sheathing his sword, Aemond nodded at Cole before jogging over to you. "Hey, pretty girl," he greeted. "What're you doing here? Thought you were with Father all day?"

"I would've been..."

"Ah, shit. What happened?"

Glancing around, you lowered your voice, "Perhaps this is a conversation best made in private."

"Are you all right?"

"In truth, I do not know," you admitted. "But I understand why you do not want to visit him anymore..."

Aemond stiffened and nodded slowly, "Did he yell?"

"He did... Accused me of," you shrugged, "doing something to his family. T-To Aemma and Rhaenyra."

"Oh, love," he sighed, letting his hands smooth around your thighs to draw them down and open you to him. "C'mon, let's go to bed."

"No," you sighed, straightening your spine, "I think I owe my husband a nice dinner together."

"You owe me nothing," he whispered with a frown. "You're upset, my sweet girl."

"It's all right, I think I honestly need time to simply digest what happened today," you reached for his waist, pulling him closer to rest your head against his stomach. "Can we go to dinner and pretend today was normal?"

"All right," he agreed, giving you a squeeze. "C'mon, my love: a normal, boring dinner between normal, boring spouses it is."

"I didn't say boring," you whined lightly with a small laugh, letting him step back and fluidly pull you from your perch.

Aemond chuckled and let his arm wrap around your waist, leading you to your rooms so he could clean up from the day; change from his training clothes, then lead you to a private dining room.

However, it didn't remain private for long. Helaena stumbled upon you and you couldn't resist inviting her to join you. And not 15 minutes later, Alicent and Otto, on their way to their own meal, found the three of you and agreed to join.

Sure, the table originally set for two became crowded with the five of you, but the close quarters provided ample room to joke around and exchange pleasantries.

You managed the whole meal without talking about your day, but Alicent was then asking, "How was Viserys today, sweet girl?"

You nodded, "Oh, yeah, um, he... He just... Yeah."

She frowned when you adverted your eyes, trying not to let reality sink in. "He had a bad day," Aemond covered, hand moving to your thigh to hold tightly in support. "Y/N did what she could but he needed to be left alone."

"I see," she nodded, offering a saddened look.

When back in your rooms, Aemond watched you change for bed silently with a frown before welcoming you into his arms. You all but dropped into his embrace, melting into his warmth. It was easy enough to word-vomit over him, telling him in detail what happened with his father; tears slowly choking you as you had to admit, there wasn't much time left with him.

Aemond held you tightly, lips to your forehead and a hand flat to your cheek to keep you caressed into his chest. You felt fucking useless, laying there in tears, but you needed the relief from the stress of your day. And what better way than in your loving husband's embrace?

He took the following day off to spend with you, doing what he could to offer distraction from the family turmoil. He took you riding on horseback, bathed with you in candlelight, even locked the library doors for privacy to read you old stories from old books.

You didn't return to Viserys' bedside out of nervousness, stomach churning with every thought of upsetting him again.

It took you about a full week before Aemond convinced you to return, promising to stop by for tea - but insisting you weren't to remain for dinner. He liked boundaries and seemingly ending your day earlier was his compromise.

Imagine your surprise when you arrived that morning to find Viserys sitting up already. "Good morning, sweet girl!" He chirped, watching as you froze mid-step; eyes wide and shock coloring your face. "What? What's wrong?"

"You know me?"

"Of course," he smiled, "my sweet granddaughter. I called for you yesterday."

You wanted to tell him that was nearly a full year ago but only smiled, shut the door, and moved for his side. "Yes, yes," you sniffled, taking his hand, "I am here now - how are you feeling?"

"I am well," he nodded with a small smile. "You look well. How are you? Are you with child, yet?"

You sighed gently, "Not yet."

"Oh, well, surely, the Gods will bless you soon," he spoke with such assurance, you nearly had whiplash. "How fairs married life? Your wedding was beautiful."

"You remember?"

"I do."

You nodded back, smiling through your tears, "Life is well with Aemond. He is a sweet and kind husband, Your Grace, you should be very proud of your youngest son."

"I am," he assured, "just as I am proud of you."

"You are?"

"I am," he smiled, taking you hand. "Why do you look so shocked?"

You gulped, offering softly, "I am just happy to see you in high spirits. Maybe you'd like to sit in your chair today?"

"I think, perhaps, the balcony?"

"Really?" You beamed, nodding swiftly, "Yes, yes, that's a great idea. I will help you, we can have tea on the balcony together."

"Maybe some eggs? I feel a bit famished."

"That's good, yes, I'll get you some eggs, too," you nodded, aiding him in standing. You didn't mind helping him into a dressing robe, one hand holding his cane as the other held your arm tightly in his weakening grip as he hobbled. When you both shuffled onto the balcony, you were quick to sit him in a large, plush chair before darting out to find a maid.

Placing an order for breakfast to be delivered with fresh tea, you returned with a new book in hand. Viserys smiled at you, looking more alive than he had in months, offering, "It's a beautiful morning."

"Yes," you agreed, sitting beside him. "Are you feeling all right?"

"I am, love," he chuckled, "you worry too much."

"Or perhaps, not enough?"

He considered for a moment before slowly turning to you, "You feel guilt... For all that's happened."

"In a way," you nodded. "Though, it's in the past."

"Then why do you still bear these burdens?" When you adverted your eyes in shame, he sighed, "I know you worry for me, but what has come to pass is not your doing - nor responsibility."

"You deserve a helping hand in this," you argued gently.

"Perhaps, but it is not your burden to bear," he reminded. "And what happened to Aemond was not your fault, either."

You shifted in discomfort, "I wasn't quick enough to prevent the damage inflicted."

"And that is not worth allowing to weigh on your soul," he nodded slowly. "You saved his life that night."

"I honestly find that hard to believe."

"The boy could've hemorrhaged, bled out," he reminded you, "and did not because you were quick to hold pressure."

You sighed, "Surely, I cannot be the only one who holds weight."

"Surely, you're not," he chuckled.

"What weighs on your soul, Granddaddy?" You asked softly, leaning in to gently wrap your arms around one of his and let your chin rest on his bony shoulder.

"Much," he mused, staring off the balcony. "Mostly, these days, I wonder how I will be remembered."

"Hmm?"

He paused, the silence echoing around you for a moment as two blue birds landed on the stone bannister. They tweeted and chirped to one another, hopping around, almost mimicking the way Viserys' mind whirled.

"I wonder... If I will be remembered as a good King to my people, the courts... My family," he admitted. "And here, looking over the city, I wonder if I did all I could for the people I was sworn to protect."

"Do you know what they call you?"

"What?"

"Viserys, the Peaceful," you told him softly. "No qualms in the realms, no wars, no conflict... You have guided this country from King Jaehareys' reign into your own, where your people have only known you to be peaceful and protective. There is reason they call your daughter the Realm's Delight."

He chuckled, nodding, "Yes, I suppose you make a point."

"If your people did not approve, they would not bestow such a title to your offspring." You paused, squeezing his arm, "But for what it is worth, I will oversee the histories that I can - and make sure, your name is never without title of Peaceful."

He sighed, leaning his head to the top of yours, "You were always too good for this world, Y/N."

You let a few tears fall - hearing him say your name so confidently enough to squeeze your heart. When tea and breakfast was served, you and Viserys dined together before he leaned back and smiled at you, requesting a story, and listening intently. He was much more attentive today and asked you about your studies, picking up on you reading from a textbook - one he had favored in his youthful education. So, it made for good conversation, and for a few hours, it was like you had your Granddaddy back. The real him.

The man you'd remember him as.

No matter how the end turned out; no matter how melted his brain seemed and how aggressive he might've turned, he was your soft, loving Granddaddy... And you were trying to savor and cherish these fleetingly lucid moments with him.

So, when the day passed on the balcony, Viserys asked to go back inside to rest for a bit before he felt dinner was a good idea. When you settled him back in bed, you asked, "Would it be all right if I come back? To dine with you?"

He smiled, "I'd like that. Would you bring Aemond, too?"

"Of course," you nodded with a bright grin. Unable to resist, you leaned down and pressed your lips to his forehead, "I love you."

He sighed softly, smiling up at you and holding your hand in a tight, long-finger-nailed grip, "I love you, too. I don't know if I've ever done it before, but thank you for what you've done for me. Your presences is comforting."

You smiled, "I am glad you think so. I will return this evening."

"Good," he nodded with a smile - one you missed dearly.

You drew his curtains to block the sun and took your leave, unable to stop yourself from rushing to the courtyard first. You caught yourself on the stone bannister over the courtyard, surveying around it before locating the fan of silver locks. "Aemond!" You called, unable to fight off your grin when he turned swiftly in alarm.

You rushed down the stairs and he met you at the bottom, lilac orb blown wide in panic as he reached for you, "What's wrong? What's happened? Are you hurt?"

"No, no, no, it's good - it's good news," you promised, holding onto his shoulders as he kept you two steps up. "I-I am sorry for interrupting, I just - I got a bit excited and - "

"Breathe," he chuckled, watching your face scrunch in distaste before huffing a breath. "Good... Now, tell me what's happened."

"Um, well, now, I might be a bit embarrassed," you glanced over his head to the courtyard, who were mostly staring at you both in confusion. "I did not realize how many people were here."

"Ignore them, tell me your news, pretty girl," he caught your attention once more. "Your husband wants to know - do not deprive me of information now."

With a breath, you told him your news - grin bright and joyous as you filled him in on the day you had with your Granddaddy. The term of endearment always made him smile and chuckle in amusement but he was far too distracted with how overjoyed you were.

And when you told him Viserys requested he, Aemond, join you both for dinner that evening, he only stared at you in shock.

With nervousness, you asked, "Is that all right? I know you said tea, but he's resting and requested we dine with him."

Blinking a few times, he nodded, "Course... Yes, of course... He does not name names, so, I would be foolish to refuse."

"Aemond, if you're not comfortable, we do not have to," you tried, making him nod.

"No, it's okay," he assured, "we'll go."

You smiled, "Thank you."

"Mhm, but first, we'll clean up," he nodded, leaving you on the stairs to return his weaponry to the racks - bid Cole a good day - and collect your hand again to lead you up the stairs once more. Once in your rooms, he seemed distracted and a little confused by your information; wondering, too, if Viserys would even remember his request by this evening.

You bathed quietly together, relishing in the moments alone as he would continuously sigh in contemplation. Your fingers would rake through his hair in soothing motions, being the big spoon in the tub to let him rest back on your breasts. When the time came, you both dried off and dressed for the evening; sending Amira to the kitchens with supper orders before heading for Viserys' chambers.

You both paused before the door to take nervous breaths in, glancing at one another. "You ready?" You whispered.

"As I'll ever be," he answered, sparing you a softened look before knocking and opening the door.

When you arrived, Viserys was being assisted to a table by a set of nurses and only looked up when he was seated. "Ah!" He panted, nodding and waving you forward, "Good, yes. You're here."

"Good evening, Granddaddy," you smiled, pausing to kiss his cheek. "How was your rest?"

"Very nice, thank you," he smiled, letting you take the seat beside him as Aemond stoically approached. "Oh, Aemond," Viserys nodded, "it is good to see you, son."

"Father," he greeted, offering only a hand on his shoulder before swiftly moving to take the seat on your other side - being furtherest from his father.

You were pleasantly shocked when Viserys asked Aemond about his education and training. He listened as intently as he was able to, a tremor starting in his neck and hands that made you reach over to cut up his meal for him.

"Thank you," he whispered, obviously slowing down in energy.

"Of course," you answered, sitting back to reach for your goblet.

"I hear Y/N's been reading to you," Aemond mentioned, Viserys focused on forking a bit of potatoes into his mouth.

He considered for a moment before looking up to Aemond, and in that moment, you saw the distant look return to his eyes. "Who is Y/N?" He asked, and it was the final nail in the coffin for you.

Aemond glanced at you in worry, looking back at Viserys, "Father, it's us - it's Y/N and Aemond. We've been dining all evening together."

"Have we?" He asked. "I don't think I know a Y/N."

You sighed sadly, "I'm Rhaenyra's daughter."

"No, my daughter's not married," he refused, glaring at you. "You mean to say my daughter has been defiled? How dare you lie to me! Insult my family! How dare you!"

"Okay," Aemond whispered, dropping his cutlery and wiping his mouth.

"Granddaddy, please," you reached for his hand, but he flinched back.

"Who are you!?" He demanded, glaring between you and your husband. "How did you get in here!? These are private chambers! Private, royal chambers! You cannot be here! Guards!"

"Father - "

"I have no son!" Viserys roared, standing in panic that sent his chair toppling over; holding the edge of the table for balance. "I have my daughter! My only child! And this bitch insults her! Calls herself my daughter's seed! My daughter is unmarried!"

Aemond moved swiftly, yanking you from your chair just as you stood in shock when Viserys picked up his plate and hurled it at your body. Aemond used his body to protect yours as Viserys hollered in fright and panic - claiming neither of you as his family because, in his warped mind, Rhaenyra was still fifteen.

"Your Grace!" The Maesters finally arrived and had to work with the guards to fully restrain the King - who had discovered a channel of untapped strength.

"Please!" You whimpered when another dish shattered against the wall behind you, Aemond's hand around the back of your head to keep you pressed protectively into his chest.

"Help him!" Aemond raged, keeping you turned from the sight. When he was assured the guards and Maester's had a hold on Viserys, Aemond was turning at a break-neck pace to lead you from the room and did not release his hold until in the hall.

"Wait for me here, I just want to make sure they get him down," he breathed, hand on your wrist tight.

"I can - "

"No, you've done more than enough, my love, let me do this," he nodded. "Just stay here."

You agreed softly and waited, listening through the opened door as Viserys still cried and wailed and panicked - getting worse when Aemond arrived back on the scene.

"YOU'RE NOT MY SON!"

"My King!"

"WHO IS THAT!?"

"H-he is - He is Daemon's son," one of the Maester's rushed, and it slowly settled. The lie that Aemond, Viserys' own seed, was his brother's offspring cut deep and you waited impatiently for them to get His Grace back in bed.

The guards exited first, then the Maesters, and after a full minute, Aemond exited last and made sure to shut the doors with three guards on post. "C'mere," he whispered, reaching for you. You both made for your rooms, and the moment you were there, the door slammed and Aemond whispered, "We're not going back."

"Aemond - "

"No," he refused, "you've done more than you ever should and tonight proved... No matter if kin or not, he does not understand, and it's time to let the nurses and Maesters step in full-time."

"They already do - "

"You cannot possibly endure this for longer," he shook his head, reaching for your cheeks, "do you understand? You mean more to me than life and I saw tonight that it does not matter how soft and gentle and loving your helping hands are - he's already gone. You hear me? I'm so sorry, but he's gone. It's only going to hurt you more to endure this, so, please, do not go back. For me, do not return."

You were silent as tears sprung to his eye.

"Please," he repeated, readjusting and tightening his hands on your cheeks.

You nodded, "All right, love... I won't return."

"I know it is unfair and it is not right of me to ask - "

"You are only looking out for me, and I have tried to ignore what you can see so clearly. He's... He's not there anymore." Your words were the nail in Aemond's coffin, who leaned forward to trap you in a suffocating embrace as his emotion overwhelmed him. "Oh, oh, my love. My sweet love," you whispered, caressing the back of his head.

"Father's gone," he whispered. "Does not have a son... Let alone two."

"Don't," you pulled back, catching his eye, "that is not fair to you, nor him. His... His brain is a puddle of memory, love. He does not realize what's even happening, it's not his fault. Nor is it fair you had to hear that, and I am so sorry you did. If I would've left you alone, respected your wishes to keep your distance - "

"it matters not," he assured, "it happened and we endured together."

"We did," you agreed softly, smiling sadly.

That night, you laid in one another's arms; facing one another in the nude as fingertips traced muted patterns over each other's skin. It was quiet, and for a moment, you forgot the turmoil your family endured as your mind replayed the significant events over the past year; the three times Viserys didn't know you, and the one time he did. Your heart didn't want to accept it, but you would come to agree that keeping distance was best for everyone invovled.

The next and final time Viserys was lucid was when your mother, his beloved daughter, Rhaenyra, returned from Dragonstone with the intent of defending her youngest son's birthright to Driftmark. And in the end, you were grateful for these moments; whether he knew you or not, you would cherish any time spent with your grandfather because before you would know it, there'd no longer be opportunity for time together again.

[ series masterlist ]

requesting rules and masterlist

HOTD masterlist

[fairycosmos]

i think i'll pace my apartment a few times and fall alseep on the couch. perhaps the realest lyric of all time

[greentrickster]

@caspertheloudassghost How does the original PIDW verse play into this au?

For starters, there's the question of 'is the original PIDW verse real in this setting'? Which is important, because the answer to it lies somewhere between yes and no.

When Airplane first arrived in the space that would become the SVSSS universe, the PIDW universe wasn't real, it was just another story. As to how it became somewhere between real and unreal, well... that, as it happens, was unintentional.

And it was because of the systems.

Because the great god Airplane is very powerful and, after doing the job for so long, can even be described as decently wise... but he's not all-knowing, and he's certainly not infallible.

It has been mentioned that he accidentally made his own system on the meaner side.

He also accidentally made Shen Yuan's system a little too powerful (but it had to be that powerful, to call a soul from another world, it had to be-!), with not quite enough detailing into what it could and couldn't do (he loved transmigration stories as a teenager, but that was so long ago, and his memory for anything but the story isn't perfect-). The punishment protocol where Shen Yuan had to endure Shen Qingqiu's torture at the hands of Bingge? Yeah, that should never have happened, the punishment protocols were meant to be spurs and warnings, not actually traumatizing or torturous. Part of that was from the 'coding' being a little too loose, part of that was that no one expected it to be Shen Qingqiu who stepped up to offer his everything in exchange for a chance that the world could be saved.

But intentions are not actions, and what happened has happened. And the result was Shen Yuan's slightly-too-powerful system creating... let's call it a sub-reality, a place where PIDW was just real enough to be used in the punishment.

And the realest part of it all was Bingge. Because Shen Yuan's system was a bit too powerful and because, for all his monstrosities, Bingge has always been the character that Shen Yuan loved best. And it's such a strange, terrifying power, love, especially in such a world as SVSSS. Powerful enough to make the barely real that much realer. Enough to let this almost-but-not-quite real Bingge try to cut his way out, steal himself a kindly Shizun, grab what he desperately wants with both hands in the only way he ever really learned how, only to be forced back to his own loveless, unfulfilling, not-quite-real world.

How horrible must it be, to be trapped in a world, in a life, that you have only just learned is a tragedy, for it lacks the one thing you desire above all else, have always desired above all else? Where nothing even feels quite as real as that other, kinder, most tantalizing of worlds did? How could one stand it for very long, watching insubstantial people and events play out? How long before the dissatisfaction led one, perhaps, to abandon it all, seek out something, everything, anything, so long as it led to somewhere better than this?

And how long then, I wonder, would it take to travel nine roads?

The Heavenly Officials are the highest ranking, most powerful beings in this world, save Airplane himself. And, for all that he is so much younger, for all that he is still so bitter and spiteful, that includes their newest member.

And there is nowhere the systems can go or access that the Officials can't follow.

Lord Luo finds a man who is not the kindly Shizun of the other world, nor quite the cruel Shizun of his own. He's a little taller, face a slightly different shape, he- the differences between this man and the other two Shizuns remind him of nothing so much as the differences between himself and that crybaby Binghe from the other world. And he does not dress as the Peak Lord of Qing Jing, but in fine robes of tatter-coloured grey white, even as he looks over Lord Luo with a familiarly poison-green gaze. And he does not flinch, even at the sword to his throat. He's a Heavenly Official, and he can see the gaps in the reality making up this fury-feared man before him, the places a knowing hand to reach in to twist and unravel.

But he also knows that the ninth road cannot be found by anyone unwilling to pay whatever price it takes to walk it. So he does what has become second nature to him by now.

He offers his hand.

And, as he has learned perhaps a bit of kindness since he began this new life, "Drop your sword. You will not find the Shizun you want but, if you come with me, I will lead you to a place where you will be loved as you wish to be loved, and it will be real."

And, for all his madness, for all his blackened state, at the heart of Bingge there still remains a young boy who wants nothing more than to be truly loved. He can always summon Xin Mo to him again if he really needs to, and he is no longer in the habit of denying himself anything he wants. So why not? Why not reach for what he desires most and grasp it with both hands, as he is so used to doing?

He does not notice the changes at first as they walk. Indeed, the mist amongst the ninth road's bamboo is just beginning to brighten into sunlight when Bingge suddenly realizes that this man-who-is-and-isn't Shen Qingqiu... doesn't he seem so much taller than he had at the beginning of all this? Or- no, he's not taller, it's Bingge who's smaller, younger than he was, weaker than he was-!

And, with the story of PIDW being what it is, of course he assumes he's fallen into a trap and starts trying to pull his hand free.

He gets bonked on the head with a folded fan for his troubles. It's not hard enough to even really hurt, but the sheer shock of it, of being scolded likes some- some unruly child when he's Luo Binghe, Emperor of the Combined Realms-!!!

"Stop fussing; if I let go now, you'll unravel entirely."

-...what?

The man (who is still holding his hand) gives an extremely put-upon sigh, then turns to glare down at him. "The world you come from isn't properly formed, and as a result neither are you. Luckily, you were willing to give up everything to come with me, because there isn't enough proper 'reality' in you for a normal fully-grown man, let alone one like you. So now you can either come with me and get what you want, or I can let go of your hand and none of this will be a problem because you'll stop existing all together. Now which one do you want?"

Bingge wants bloody, bloody retribution at the moment, but he's smart enough to know not to screw around too much in between-places like the one they're currently in. And he can be patient when it comes to grudges, if he needs to be.

He continues to follow the God of the Ninth Road.

By the time the bamboo is full of sunlight and the end of the road is in view, Bingge is seething and also quite small, perhaps a little older than he'd been when his mother- (no no, don't think of that, never that) -and, while his demonic side is still unsealed, there's barely a thread left of the great power and cultivation he spent his lifetime gaining. And while his memory is intact, even his thoughts feel more- childish, for want of a better word. Younger. As though his mind has changed shape to match his body.

"Beyond the bamboo there is a house," says the god, who is still holding his hand, "If you want the love you crave, go there and tell the people inside that you arrived by the Ninth Road. When you are of age, go to the nearest sect, and accept the offer of the first peak lord who invites you to be their disciple."

And he lets go, and Bingge is alone, small and powerless in a place he doesn't know.

He can't quite help it.

He goes to the house.

(Five years ago, a demon woman walked the Ninth Road towards happiness and family, and it led to the human man who is now her husband of four years. The happiness they have mostly found in each other, for all that they are physically unable to have children together. It is a happiness that will increase at the knocking of a strange mixed-species child on their door, as will their family they have wanted.)

(And, in the distance, near enough to be the closest, but not enough to see, a god comforts a Heavenly Official in Cang Qiong Mountain Sect...)

[pansyfemme]

mayor of simpleton is perhaps the realest song of all time. all your friends think im a dumbass and they’re right i am really fucking stupid but thats ok because i still love you. god