#ready for silva to not recognize you at all-

[the-silver-chronicles]

5 Songs and 3 Outfits

Tagged by @g0dspeeed @nightbloodbix @voidika @onehornedbeast @inafieldofdaisies and @strafethesesinners

Tagging @socially-awkward-skeleton @direwombat @softtidesworld @adelaidedrubman @strangefable @turbo-virgins @cassietrn @carlosoliveiraa @corvosattano @josephslittledeputy @josephseedismyfather @afarcryfrommymain @megraen @minilev @starsandskies @deputyash @deputy-morgan-malone @dephellseed @derelictheretic @chazz-anova @snake-in-the-garden @cloudofbutterflies92 @florbelles @foofygoldfish @fourlittleseedlings @gaeadene @henbased @ladyoriza @la-grosse-patate @skoll-sun-eater @shallow-gravy @thewanderer-000 @titiagls @trashcatsnark @vampireninjabunnies-blog @shellibisshe @wrathfulrook and @aceghosts + anyone else who wants to join.

RULES: Post 5 songs associated with your OC(s), followed by 3 outfits they would wear.

Gathered Silva Omar, Kamski Neon and Ernesto Stallone for this one. Read under the cut:

SILVA OMAR (FAR CRY 5)

Dream -Bishop Briggs

"I wanna break down where your heart gets So torn it's almost breaking mine I wanna lay here, lost and bitter So long, I feel like I could die I wanna tell you what my truth is But it's buried down inside."

Last One Standing - Skylar Grey ft. Polo G, Mozzy, & Eminem

"Now you see me standing in the lights But you never saw my sacrifice Or all the nights I had to struggle to survive Had to lose it all to win the fight I had to fall so many times Now I'm the last one standing."

Safe And Sound - Capital Cities

"I could lift you up I could show you what you wanna see Take you where you wanna be You could be my luck Even if the sky is fallin' down I know that we'll be safe and sound."

Heat Waves - Glass Animals

"I just wanna know what you're dreaming of When you sleep and smile so comfortable I just wish that I could give you that That love that's perfectly unsad Sometimes all I think about is you Late nights in the middle of June Heat waves been fakin' me out Heat waves been fakin' me out."

Somebody That I Used To Know - Gotye ft. Kimbra

"Now and then, I think of all the times you screwed me over But had me believing it was always something that I'd done But I don't wanna live that way Reading into every word you say You said you could let it go And I wouldn't catch you hung up on somebody that you used to know."

Note: The women in the images below are not Silva's faceclaim and I unfortunately could not remove them. I had done my best at removing their features but if you notice a difference between the women and Silva's faceclaim, please ignore it and focus on the clothing instead. Thank you for your understanding.

Below is Silva's dress which she pretty much only wears at home, a longer version of the deputy uniform, and her casual clothing (plus that of which she wears during the Reaping). Yeah, she doesn't like to show off a lot of skin.

Another note: These are not the right colors.

KAMSKI NEON (FAR CRY 5)

[No Faceclaim Acquired Yet]

Enemy - Imagine Dragons ft. J.I.D

"Oh, the misery Everybody wants to be my enemy Spare the sympathy Everybody wants to be my enemy Look out for yourself!"

Whatever It Takes - Imagine Dragons

"Whatever it takes 'Cause I love the adrenaline in my veins I do whatever it takes 'Cause I love how it feels when I break the chains Whatever it takes You take me to the top I'm ready for whatever it takes 'Cause I love the adrenaline in my veins I do what it takes."

Some Nights - Fun.

"Some nights I stay up cashing in my bad luck Some nights I call it a draw Some nights I wish that my lips could build a castle Some nights I wish they'd just fall off But I still wake up, I still see your ghost Oh, Lord, I'm still not sure what I stand for, oh."

All The Stars - Kendrick Lamar ft. SZA

"Tell me what you gon' do to me Confrontation aint nothing new to me You could bring a bullet Bring a sword Bring a morgue But you can't bring the truth to me Fuck you and all your expectations I don't even want your congratulations I recognize your false confidence and calculated promises All in your conversation I hate people that feel entitled Look at me crazy cause I aint invite you Oh you important? You the moral to the story? You endorsing? Motherfucker I don't even like you Corrupted mans heart with a gift Thats how you find out who you dealing with."

Spirits - The Strumbellas

"I got guns in my head and they won't go Spirits in my head and they won't go I got guns in my head and they won't go Spirits in my head and they won't go But the gun still rattles The gun still rattles, oh."

Kamski's clothing mostly consists of a worn doctors uniform, however he does use a pedestrian disguise with a mask if he's going to do something illegal or a regular casual clothing (in the habit of dressing up for winter and refuses to break habit even in the worst of Summer) when going to do legal groceries.

ERNESTO STALLONE (FAR CRY 5)

[No Faceclaim Acquired Yet]

Bad Feeling - Jagwar Twin

"They say! Everything's perfect here And the sun is shining Hey! Hey! Everything's perfect here There's nobody crying Oompa loompa doompety do I got a bad feeling about you Oompa loompa I don't know, dude I got a bad feeling about you."

Hot Girl Bummer (slowed + reverb) - blackbear

"Fuck you, and you, and you I hate your friends and they hate me too. I'm through, I'm through, I'm through."

I'm A Wanted Man - Royal Deluxe

"They didn't know it when they turned me loose I shot the sheriff and I slipped the noose The law ain't never been a friend of mine I'd kill again to keep from doing time You should never ever trust my kind I'm a wanted man I got blood on my hands Do you understand? I'm a wanted man."

Bad - Royale Deluxe

"I'm bad As bad can be So bad That it's hard to believe Oh what they say about me I'm bad, I'm bad As bad can be I'm bad Take a look and see So bad That it's hard to believe I don't care what they say about me."

Bloodshot - Sam Tinnesz

"I'll take another hit to the backbone I'm picking up the heat Like an atom bomb No time on the clock It's a bloodshot 3, 2, 1 You got me bloodshot Maybe I'm a good guy Standing on the wrong side Maybe I'm a sweetheart Trying to make my own scars Don't know what it looks like Just know what it feels like Scared to let it outside Scared of what I just might find."

Stallone doesn't have that much change in clothing besides two changes in his dark blue Courser Guard/gunslinger uniform and his disguised Chosen clothing (for when he infiltrates Eden's Gate).

[cant-get-no-worse]

I like that some sensed people are still able to recognize that whether Erling Haaland or Leo Messi take the award home, it's valid. Changes from all the others ~ wave hand in a general direction ~ people. Not even to mention how past and current football figures agree on it too. Soothes my mind.

Honestly I'm just tired of talking about it, since 1) it's silly 2) it's settled 3) it's simple. Let's make it plain.

"Why not just put the goals?"

There are awards for the best goalscorer. This isn't one of them.

Brief comparison

Haaland had a maddening records breaking season, won the treble, but didn't show up for the semi and finals of those. Messi did an average club season (equal to, if I remember correctly, the "excellent" season of Antoine Griezmann so, there's that.) and an all-time World Cup campaign. It's a WC year; it has since after 2010 (year of change of criterias + voting participants) weighted on the BO's results.

The reason it's a close call this year is cause of the treble (huge weight) balanced by the ghosting of Haaland during those crucial points vs WC all time balanced by the average club season of Messi. Haaland being a 9 means that when he's not there, he doesn't do anything for the team. Stems from his position. Whereas if Messi doesn't score, he still has his passing and playmaking which, picture me surprised, actually make him having more impact as a player for his team.

Look at the pic. Make the needed mental gymnastics. To get to the conclusion that one of them is robbing the other is mental. Both are deserving.

WC's weight

It's ultimately this and the WC's weight (and I sure ain't about to get into an argument comparing the treble, insane achievement that can be achieved every year, to the WC, insane achievement that can be achieved once every four, and being the MOTT of said tournament) that makes it tip towards Messi, even though I expect the votes to be close. The WC has been held over Messi's head for more than a decade. Everyone knew that if he put a consistent season and a good WC campaign, he'd been a strong contender. He had a consistent season and had an all-time, MOTT WC campaign. Point's made.

Criteria : Vital role

Another point: the "vital role in the team and honours" criteria. Haaland makes this City team dominate, not a shadow of doubt. But Kevin de Bruyne is the one that's vital to it. Take away KDB and Haaland isn't there (once again: stems from his position. He's a 9.)

Due to his national team not being in the WC (which once again : he's indeed from Norway, a NT which hasn't much WC history. But, in 2018, Messi single handedly drew Argentina to the WC. Haaland wasn't capable of this.), he couldn't prove himself to be crucial there either. So, Haaland is important but not vital to this City team, whereas Messi was important in PSG (a-fucking-gain, 40 G/A, this isn't an argument) and vital for his NT. There you go, one criteria more.

Sweet sweet "robberies"

When you got R9, Wenger, Henry, some France NT (Griezmann and others, can't recall), Hazard, Silva and co - current/former players who played and know the weight of the WC - saying Messi deserves it; the club coach of Haaland saying they'd both deserve it ; and you arrive to the conclusion that Messi is robbing Haaland (or, for that matter, that Haaland would be robbing Messi), then the true reason of your positionning can't be clearer.

And finally,

Those are what you call robberies. Can't be one when both deserve it. Haaland will be just fine and will have plenty of WC-free seasons to destroy every records available and show up at crucial points. Chill. I'm done talking about this, people are to stuck to their own opinions to be changed atp.

This is a fun night, I'm so ready to make fun of everyone's fit and awkward talk. It ain't that deep. Hope everyone, whether for Haaland, Messi or bloody Musiala has fun!

[sl-newsie]

Query: Q x 00 Agent- Ch. 7: Something To Celebrate

“Up and at ‘em, 0011.”

Q’s wake-up call jolts me from a restful sleep. I see he’s showered and dressed in a new suit, making me a tad frustrated that I can’t stand up to clean myself yet. I’ll have Eve help me later.

“Good morning, Quartermaster. Sleep well?”

“Like the dead. You?”

I chuckle darkly. “Like I’m a 00 agent who’s being hunted.”

He hands me a blueberry muffin, which I have no doubt he baked himself. “I wish I could help, but I’m afraid the only way to assure your identity can be wiped clean is the capture of Silva.”

Is he actually showing empathy? Q really must have gotten a good sleep for him to be so laid-back. 

“Ready for work?” I ask as I devour the muffin.

Q brings over my wheelchair and helps me into it. My leg is already showing improvement.

“Sure am. I’m hoping there’s news from Bond.”

I let out a heavy sigh as he pushes me out the door. “You and me both. No doubt he’s destroyed something.”

Q groans. “If I have to repair that radio transmitter again…”

We take another company SUV (Q must have pulled some strings) and arrive to work half an hour early. The minute we enter I see Mallory is waiting for us.

“Good. You’re here. Q, where is Bond?”

I can’t see Q’s face, but I can tell he’s trying to construct a lie. “Like I told you yesterday, sir. He disappeared off our radar.”

Mallory isn’t convinced but gestures for us to pass. Deep down I’m glad to know I’m not the only one being left in the dark. Soon enough we see Eve walking towards us.

“M’s dead.”

Q stops dead in his tracks and spins me around so we’re facing her. I’m not supposed to form attachments, but M was one of the first people to welcome me into the MI6. She made me learn that you don’t need a family to have a good life, you just need to find a purpose for yourself. And mine was to serve my country.

“This world has lost a brilliant leader,” I mutter. “Who’s in charge now?”

“Mallory. The new secretary is Moneypenny.” Eve winks. “You might recognize her.”

She pivots and walks down the hall towards Mallory’s office.

Q sighs. “M was a remarkable woman. I’ll miss her.”

“Let’s hope Mallory is half-decent. Let’s go meet this new secretary.”

We follow where Eve disappeared to. Q opens the door and pushes me in, where we both find- Eve? 

The lady behind the desk smiles. “Hello, 0011.”

“You got promoted? Congratulations! We have got to celebrate after work.”

Q is just as surprised as me. “Goodness, wow. Not that it’s a hard choice, you’re clearly well over-qualified. Congrats!”

“I say we go out to the K Bar. I hear their wine list is divine!” Eve Moneypenny suggests.

“What do you think, Quartermaster?” I look up to flash Q a wide grin. “Am I allowed to drink during my recovery?”

The lanky geek smiles, leans down and whispers: “We’ll keep it off the records, eh?”

Tonight’s going to be spectacular!

Since my apartment’s been compromised, I’m not allowed to live there anymore. Which means all my belongings have been moved to the spare closet in the basement.

“Sorry about this, Q. I promise I’ll find a place and be out of your hair as soon as possible.”

The computer geek has been incredibly helpful with helping me move. At first I thought he’d be annoyed at me invading his space, but he’s been more supportive than I'd expect. Yet he still can't help but complain about how many clothes I have.

“You’d better! This closet looks like a stuffed tick that’s about to pop. What’s in this tote anyway? Cinder blocks?”

I look away to avoid his gaze. “It’s shoes, actually.”

“Shoes?”

“What? I never know what shoe I might need! Pumps, kitten heels, boots, sneakers-”

Q sets the tote down and gives an exasperated grunt. “I get it, I get it!”

I wheel myself closer and give him a pat on the shoulder. “Thank you. Now would you help me pick out a dress for tonight?”

He looks down at me with a new smirk. “You look stunning in everything, Mrs. White.”

“Well thank you, Mr. White.” I arch an eyebrow. “I’m looking forward to seeing you gussied up as well.”

Q looks over my collection of dresses, all the while looking very serious as if deciding on buying a house. After a few moments he holds up one of my favorite blue evening dresses.

“I like this one.”

“Then we each have good taste,” I smirk as I’m handed the dress. “I think we’ve all earned a celebration after all this chaos.”

The hours tick by and soon enough it’s already quitting time. Eve helps me into the gorgeous dress and supplies me with some makeup. She herself is wearing a simple black dress.

“Very classy, Moneypenny.”

“Thank you! I’m-” She looks around to see if we’re alone, then whispers: “I’m going out on a date after our dinner!”

I gasp. “A promotion, and a date? You lucky girl!”

She giggles and begins pushing me to the exit. “I know! I’m so excited! Just try to keep it low-profile, alright?”

I mock-zip my lips shut. “Your secret’s safe with me. Now let’s get the K Bar so I can finally have a drink.”

“You’re starting to sound like Bond,” Moneypenny teases.

“I'll take that as a compliment. Although I do wish to keep my dignity intact.”

We take Moneypenny’s car to the bar and discover Q already has a table for us. He’s chosen a basic dress shirt and slacks, yet to me he’s the most handsome man here. Wait. What?

“Good evening, ladies.” The computer geek raises a mug of (no surprise) Earl Gray tea. “I took the liberty of ordering you some drinks of your own.”

On que, the waiter shows up with a tray of martini glasses. I see Moneypenny has a simple red wine and mine is-

"You ordered me a plain lemonade?" I ask, bewildered.

"Strawberry lemonade, actually," Q informs. "You said you're not a fan of alcohol."

How can this man be so thoughtful and annoying? 

I pick up the colorful drink with a grateful smile. "Thanks, Q."

We each take our glasses and raise them to a toast.

“To M, the strongest and most fearless leader the MI6 has ever seen,” I announce in a rousing tone. “And to Eve, or should I say Moneypenny, who will without a doubt shine as our new secretary!”

No matter if Bond gets back or not, I know we’ll keep an eye on things.

[cloudninetonine]

I shared this on the server but im also sharing it in here, enjoy the angst muajajjajjaj --------------------- Lily knew something was wrong when they found a new resting place in the catacombs, last time they were in this part of the kingdom it wasn't there, that zone was full of blighted of all types, always coming back, no mater how many time's the Umbral Knight, Siegrid or Silva killed them. They send a quick glance to the spirits, deciding that it was better to sit in the bench before continuing to the next room, because for some reason they felt something evil coming from there, something worse than any blighted they had to fight, including the Blighted Lord. After some minutes of being seated and watching their companions speak with each other, they decided to advance to the next area of the catacombs, hoping that they gut feeling was wrong. They felt the air escape from their lungs the moment they saw what or more correctly, who was awaiting for them in the room, they could recognize that blue scarf everywhere they go, their expression become one of horror once they really looked at the captain. His armor appeared to be fused to his skin, his tunic it looked like it has lost it's colors in some part's, in other's it was torn to pieces, with some part's of the cloth hanging, the worst part of it was his face, his hair had gone from that golden color to one that made it look like he had earth scattered all around it, his eyes where all black, with what look like blood around them. They noticed that Warrior's (or what was left of him) didn't realized they had entered the room, but that was short lived, because after they got close enough, they heard him mutter something that sounded like a name, seconds after he looked at their direction, letting a cry out (of anger or anguish? that will be forever a question on their mind) and launched himself with his sword to attack them. Lily, already knowing this was going to happen, let the headless defender out among other spirits, ready to fight the one that they once could consider a brother. ------------------------------------ They stood in front of the petrified body of the hero, it was a difficult battle, even more when it was revealed that he had a monster form, one that made him look like Silva and Siegrid in that form, but still looking like himself. They let a silent sob out, not wanting to attract the attention of their companions, before extending their hand, letting it rest in the forehead of Warriors, felling the blight starting to abandon his body, absorbing it and with it the last memory of the hero before they become this "monster". It showed him running, trying to escape from the rain and getting separated from the other hero's, it showed the speed of how the blight took over his body and it showed how he ended up in the catacombs, alone and with none of his brother's to help him.Once they came back to themselves, they heard him say something, this time being able to identify what he said. -Thanks, kiddo........ After that they realized that life left the petrified body, but they also felt a spirit joining them, looking at a side, they could see Warriors standing next to the Umbral Knight, he send them a little smile, but Lily could see that the other spirits didn't find him very funny after how he hurt them during they battle, sighing, they decided to just go back to the bench in the room before this one and rest.If they founded Warriors already consumed by the blight, they didn't want to imagine the states of the other members of the Chain. --------------------- (Cloud look, I am over the writing block, are you proud of me ? /j)

I'M VERY PROUD OF YOU SILVY I'M SO GLAD YOU GOT THROUGH IT!

AND YOU GOT MY DAMN FEELINGS, WHY CAN'T YOU JUST LET PEOPLE BE HAPPY SILVY!? /j

[axolotl-in-highheels]

HXH HC

Controlling adult trio w/ a s/o who is stronger than them

Summary: Our lovely adult trio, consisting of Illumi zoldyck, Hisoka Morrow and chrollo Lucilfer, want to control their darling only to find out that said Person is mentally and physically stronger than them.

Warnings:

Yandere behaviour

Bad spelling

Maybe ooc

The trio getting their ass handed to them

Gn reader (they/them)

HISOKA

Hisoka knew from the Start that you're not weak

After all you Managed to get his attention enough for him to get obsessed

After you two lovebirds Start dating his intentions slowly started to Show themselfs

He starts to try and cut you off from your friends and in General everyone that has some type of connection to you

you ,knowing what Was going on from the get go, confront him about it

Of course He denies it and tries to gaslight you into thinking you're insane

But no no, you Tell him to cut the crap and treat you as a normal human being with rights

Mr. Clown didn't like that, so He got cold towards you, showing no trace of affection

That's the point where you said: ,, either treat me right or i'll leave"

Thats when He physically Held you back and tried to force you to stay

You saw Red and beat him into a bloody pulp.

You left, not caring if you killed him or not (He ended up being fine)

After that little incedent, He stalked you until that Same Thing happened again

So in the end, He had to learn the Same lesson twice

ILLUMI

Originally, you and him met trough hisoka

He liked you, since you were well spoken and somewhat quiet

And because of that, He never wanted to have a spar

You also got weak and Fell in love dumbass

Soon after that, you two started dating.

Naturally, illumi brought you to meet his family

They liked you and that sealed it for him. You're gonna be his spouse

But for you, all of that was moving too fast. You weren't even Sure if you want to enter a long- term relationship and He imediatly wants marriage? No.

So naturally, you told illumi that there was no Engagement, no marriage no relationship. He wasn't happy about it, not only that but illumi wanted to force you to stay.

On the night of your breakup, He kidnapped you and dragged you to the zoldyck mansion

It was a terrefying, but not for you,no. For everyone unfortunate enough to be around you

The Moment you fully woke up, around 4am, you noticed a very unfamilliar room and New illumi was behind it

Being the timid Person that you are, you went to confront him. Or rather tried to. Butlers were in your way and stating illumi ordered them to make you stay.

Usually you were against hurting people who just have to obey orders but it was time to send a Massage

So every Single Butler that stood in your way got slaughtert

It wasn't quiet so illumi came to handle this by himself but wasn't prepared for the Monster He had caged

You didn't kill him, but enough damage to send him into a nice one week coma Was dealt

Originally, his Plan was to go after you again but Silva ordered him not to, since He was pretty Sure the next time you'll kill his son.

CHROLLO

Ah yes, Our loved spider daddy~

So, you two lovebirds met in a Café that was near a library, which contained one of the oldest books ever

It all started when you recognized each other from the library

Chrollo was suprised that He found someone that was so much like him. A hopeless bookworm on the hunt for knowledge

Soon, one accedental Meeting turned into regular dates and eventually a lovefilled relationship

At first everything Was amazing. You two talked hours on end about anything and everything, you understood eachother. Overall Chrollo was the light of your life and vise versa

...until one night

It was normal at first, a nice dinner followed by talking and sexy time.

But as you two were laying in bed, ready to fall asleep, Something snapped inside of chrollo. As He was holding you in his arms his mind began to wander

What if you get hurt? What if you get taken away from him by someone?

From that night on, he started to treat you very diffrently, chrollo started to spoil you and constantly talked about you

Of course you picked up on this almost instantly and you hated it. No more long conversations about books or theorys, no only about you

It only got worse from then on. He started to put you in a golden cage. Giving you everything material you aked for, but no more real love

After enduring this for a while you sat him down and told him all of that. The fact that you want your old lover back

Chrollo took the news silently and vanished for a while after your talk

It didn't worry you though, you knew he would come back, and lo and behold, he did

To your suprise he seemed to have did a whole 180 and was his old self

Both of you were happy again.

But one of the new things he wanted to "implement" was training to make you stronger and protect yourself

The spider boss was very taken aback when he got his ass handed to him the first time he wanted to spar

So yeah, here's your happy ending

Thank you for reading♡

K, end of post

[thoughtfullyrainynightmare]

Hi, me again! Can you please make a one-shot about Nozel's thoughts about looking for his sister who is fighting Megicula until the part where he and Noelle finally defeat Megicula? Thank you! :))

Hiya,

Ah, more Silva angst, and filling in gaps that canon left. Which is the very purpose of fanfic XD You're very welcome dear

Characters: Nozel Silva & Noelle Silva Genre: general/angst Fanfic type: oneshot Length: ~0.6k Warnings: references to Acier's death, mentions of war, angsty mood

The guard demons had been left behind, and the Spade castle was up ahead. The ground was covered with frost and snow; the air heavy with the mana that seeped through the ground, the cracks of the seal to the world below. But what Nozel felt the most, was the creeping sense of dread. The worry, laced with ice that had collected around his train of thought back in Clover.

It was so strange, that he didn’t know what to think. There was the role that he was supposed to fulfil. In fact, he had many roles to fulfil. He was a captain, and thus he had the role of being a strong, capable mage who’d do his part in keeping Clover safe, along with saving two fellow captains.

He was a Silva, and thus he had a role in avenging his mother by battling against the culprit, who had brought such travesty to his family; who had killed his mother. He had a role in bringing his mother’s soul peace, in the afterlife.

But he was also a brother. And… though his methods had been wrong, the goal was still the same; to keep his siblings safe. Especially the youngest, the one who was there, at that battle as well.

Why is she here…? Yes, she is strong, and yes she wishes to avenge our mom the same but… it was never her battle. He thought to himself while flying forward as the demonic mana grew stronger with each second, along with another.

She really does take after mom too… So, she wouldn’t agree to stay back, even if told so. But it’s still not her responsibility! It is mine! Because I am the oldest. I should be the one to keep her safe, keep all of us safe. I should be the one to go up against Megicula.

I should be the one…

There was another source of mana, one that flowed, roared like the wrath of an ocean. And he knew that mana. There was only one person it could belong to.

If someone is going to bear the price of failing to protect our family, it should be me. Not my sister.

There was a source of malicious mana, one that he could remember so well, even if the memory was from over a decade ago. The memory, the foul stench of that demonic mana would never leave his mind; he’d never forget it, for as long as he lived. Because that demon had taken so, so much from all of them.

Not my sister…

The swirling of the mana, like a vortex, ready to gulf ships into the depths of the oceans, was quieting down; because even an ocean grows tired.

But there was another kind of storm, a raging tide of all the grief, mixed with hatred, that he had harboured for all these years. The grief that had so desperately wanted to shield the family he had left, was boiling over.

“Not my sister…” he uttered to himself, under his breath, barely recognizing it, as he stood on the darkened sky, held up by his mana, and his mana alone. Like a forgotten god, cast down from the heavens, ready to push down the weight that pulled him to the ground once upon a time.

Though he didn’t feel like one. And he didn’t care to feel like one.

All that existed was the fury against the demon, from the depths of the underworld, that was trying to rob him of a family member yet again.

But not this time.

Not this time.

Not ever again.

[unknowntoyou2205]

Scared and alone (2/12)

Info: Y/n goes to see Riven and Sky but it doesn't go as planned, leaving y/n to wonder how to deal with her loss and fear possibly on her own.

Pairing: Sky x Riven x Reader(Platonic)

Warnings: Mentions of death, Loss of parents, harm to self

Masterlist

Y/n looked around the halls as she made her way to Sky and Rivens dorm. Seeing a picture she stopped, recognizing it as her mother on her graduation day, beside the picture her fathers graduation picture. Looking at them with a sad smile she swallowed thickly as tears came to her eyes.

"Y/n?" She turned to see Silva standing at the top of the stairs close by. "Headmaster Silva." Y/n nodded, rubbing her eyes slightly. "You ok? What are you doing out this late?" He asked as he walked towards her. "I umm, was going to Sky and Rivens room." She said truthfully as she looked down. "I'm going to ignore what you said with all that's going on." Silva stated, pointing at y/n as she glanced up and gave him a soft smile. "How are you feeling anyway?" "Umm, I'm not sure how you expect me to answer that." Y/n shrugged as a tear fell from her eye. "Things will get better y/n, just takes time." "Doesn't seem like it." She said, looking down again. "I know." Silva sighed, placing a hand on her shoulder. "I'm going to go see the boys before late." Y/n sighed before leaving Silva standing in the hall alone.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Y/n turned the bend near the library to see Riven talking to some girl. Watching them, she seen him take a smoke from a cigarette before the girl came closer to him, inhaling the smoke from his mouth. Y/n looked down and sighed before leaving in the opposite direction, making sure not to be seen.

Walking towards the boys room she stood there for a minute before putting her hand to the door. Knocking twice she stood and waited. Not hearing anything, she sighed and knocked again as she opened the door.

Looking ahead her mouth opened in shock at what she seen. Sky was wrapped in Stella's arms, both asleep. She sighed and looked down as tears came to her eyes, thinking both had forgotten.

Wiping her eyes to avoid the tears coming out, she turned only to bump into someone. Looking up she smiled softly as she seen it was riven. He looked down at her in confusion.

"Y/n?" He asked, looking around before sighing seeing Sky in bed with Stella. "What are you doing here? It's late." "Y/n? What's going on?" Y/n and Riven turned their attention to Skys bed as he woke up. "I'm not even going to comment on that situation." Riven stated, pointing at Stella. "Shut up Riven. Y/n what's wrong? I thought you were coming after dinner." Sky asked, grabbing a t-shirt as he went to get up. "I got held up, doing things." Y/n stated with hesitation. "Okay well, what did you want to talk to us about? He asked, sitting up fully. "Oh, umm, it's okay. Clearly you both are busy. I better get back to my room before Silva sees me here. See you tomorrow." Y/n stated, deciding against telling them. "It sounded important." Sky said with a frown as y/n looked down, willing the tears that were building to not fall. "Yeah, just missing home." She replied with a half lie causing Riven to pull her into a hug. "Itll be okay. It's just first day." Riven said in a soft voice as he kissed her forehead. "Yeah your right, its nothing. I'll see you tomorrow." Y/n smiled, heading out to door. "Want me to walk you back to your dorm?" Riven asked. "No it's okay. Night guys." "Night y/n" The boys smiled and waved as she left, not knowing she was swallowing down tears.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Y/n closed the dorm door slowly, avoiding it slamming before heading to her room. Getting ready for bed her eyes caught a glimpse of a picture of her parents. The two were smiling at the camera while her mom held a toddler y/n. Tears filled y/ns eyes and she flipped the photo facing down before falling onto her bed, allowing the tears to fall.

She tried to stay silent as she let down the tears she had been holding in all day. She cried for the loss of her parents, the lack of support she felt from her friends (partially her fault), the feeling of being alone and the fear of the frozen ones coming for her.

Wishing to have someone, especially her best friends, with her, she heard her phone ping, causing her to look at her phone, hoping for a message from Riven or Sky only to see it being the weather. Thunder and hail, much like her feelings, a never ending storm.

[atlas-of-a-human-soul]

Heyyyy! I dunno if request are open, but if they are... could I request a Saul Silva x reader, could be anything, just want some Saul love in my life! I really like your blog!

Pairing: Saul Silva x reader

================================

“Please don’t go”, Y/N held his hand firmly, hoping to keep him rooted by her side. 

“I have to.” Silva clenches his jaw, avoiding eye contact. If he saw the tears glistening in her eyes, he’d be on his knees. He couldn’t let his emotions get the best of him; not when he’s about to walk into a forest filled with Burned ones.

“I should be going with you”, she stands, “I’m your fairy. A fire fairy.”

“I’m well aware”, Saul yanks his hand out of her hold, narrowing his eyes. 

He wished she wasn’t so stubborn, that she loved him less even at his own expense because maybe then she wouldn’t be begging him to stay whenever he had to step into danger. Maybe then she wouldn’t suffer in this relationship he was never quite sure was right for her and more specifically, if she loved him less she wouldn’t be as hurt when the inevitable happens and he dies in the line of duty.

Silva is a practical man, he never fooled himself with daydreams of a long life with a wife and children. He knew tomorrow was never a guarantee. Not for him. One of these days, he would die and he wasn’t blind to the fact. 

“So why do you ignore that?” She snaps at him, using both her hands to push him back into a wall. “I’m yours in every possible way and you still refuse to accept it!”

Inhaling, he recognizes the sweet vanilla scent he learned to tie to her presence. It reminds him of the taste of her soft lips that bring him back to memories where he could kiss every inch of her body and they were so blissfully happy. 

“Because you’re carrying our child”, Silva reminds her and she staggers back with his sobering words. In all their arguing, they were often on opposing sides yet their physical need for one another never wavered.

“You know?” She breathes out, her lips quivering. She wasn’t sure when she’d tell him, especially because Saul Silva had promised her he would never father children or take a wife. She learned to accept she’d never be a wife, but a mother? That was a sore subject that caused a drift they never really bridged. 

“Were you ever going to tell me”, Saul takes a step closer, his heart in his throat and his head ready to explode. He can’t decide how he feels about the baby made of his own flesh and bone nor about the woman he loves more than the oxygen he breathes. 

He wished he loved her less because maybe then he’d be able to let her go sooner. Maybe if he loved her less, he wouldn’t watch the life drain from her with each day she spent by his side. Maybe if he loved her less, he could have been her partner only. But Silva realized he was too selfish to ever deny himself a moment by her side. 

Despite it all, he does love her. He loves her stubbornness and he loves her defiance and bravery. He fell in love with her fierceness, her sharp with and her ability to make time stand still whenever she was in his arms.

“Yes”, she mutters as a tears slides down her cheek. She isn’t blinking, stunned by the way his eyes narrow ever so slightly as if she is the enemy. “I was scared how you’d react.”

Inhaling sharply, Silva runs a hand down his face. “I’d be happy. I am happy”, he decides. “It isn’t what we planned, but I wouldn’t scream at you for it.” Licking his lips, Silva cups her cheeks. Brushing a tear with his thumb, Silva presses a kiss to her forehead.

“Do you really have to go?” Her shaky voice tugs at his heartstrings, making him force a smile for her benefit.

“Yes”, he sighs as her face falls, “But I will return. We have a lot to talk about.” Pressing another kiss, this time to her lips, Silva tightened his hands around her. 

“I love you”, she whispers against his lips and Silva could have sworn he felt fire licking at the back of his neck where her fingertips rest. 

“I love you too”, Silva steps back with a heavy heart, “My Phoenix”. 

[doubledgesword-2]

Expectations

This is a request from someone on wattpad! It was before the announcement so I will reiterate it since this has to do with it: Due to some personal reasons I will not be doing extra mega super ultra explicitly detailed smut. Smut will happen but it will be more implied than anything and there will be no more character x character fics. I will focus more on one character x readers. I apologize if these teas are not everyone’s cup, I understand, but I’m doing it for me and I will still deliver amazing teas no matter what flavor they are!

No warnings! Soulmate au enjoy!

To say you were nervous was an understatement; you were almost sweating bullets.

"We're going to my parents, as my soulmate and wife, you have to meet their approval," Illumi told you one day in the middle of training.

You stopped mid-punch and got a swift and powerful kick to your stomach, making you fall backward a couple of feet away. Illumi was in front of you in a second, questioning why you left yourself open right when you were about to attack.

But there was no answer, except your pants and heavy breathing.

Illumi raised a fine eyebrow, letting out a breath as he picked you up in his arms, coming inside to the cottage for a nice bath. After all, you had to be presentable and at your best to meet your future in-laws.

He set up the warm water while you were undressing. You let out a groan when taking off your shirt; the huge purple and already forming bruise on your stomach hurt quite a lot. Illumi turned once the water was warm, and all the soaps were mixed with it. His unwavering and monotonous eyes scanned your body. You have become stronger under their tutelage, but that didn't take away your pain resistance. Your overall physique had improved monumentally, but your body was scarred and bruised from training. He didn't mind in his eyes you were perfect, and he knew in his mates' eyes you were gorgeous. The corners of his lips quirked up in a gentle yet small smile as he looked at you. You didn't notice though, you were too busy trying to rub on your stomach.

When Illumi noticed your actions, he knew it wouldn't be long before he tried to take you to bed. Just imagining you rubbing your growing belly with his child inside sends chills down his spine. But now was not the time. He needed to get you ready.

You didn't notice when Illumi was standing right in front of you; you were looking down at your ugly bruise. That's when Illumi took your hand in his, making you look up. His was expressionless as always, but in his eyes, you could see the amount of tenderness and desire he felt towards you.

He guided you to the bathtub letting you sink under the warm water. It was oddly relaxing. The nice smell of lavender, mixed with the water's perfect temperature, not too warm to boil but not too lukewarm to disappoint. You let out a sigh, eyes close and leaning back against the porcelain. It was cold, but you didn't gasp at that; you gasped at the lingering kiss Illumi placed on your head.

"You have nothing to worry about, my love. I'll be with you" he gently whispered like a secret lover, his hands scrubbing your arms with care.

Another kiss to your neck as he washed your chest.

"No harm will come to you as long as you do as I say. They will never lay a hand on family."

Illumi grabbed your face in his hands, and that made you open his eyes to look into his ever swirling ones. He kissed your forehead.

"Finish here. I will prepare your clothes, and then we leave."

And that's how you find yourself here, in between Hisoka and Chrollo looking at Illumi. The limousine was nice, but the luxury and the entirety of the situation were so overwhelming you couldn't focus on the finer details. That's why you didn't notice Hisoka's hand on your thigh rubbing circles on it.

"Hisoka" Illumi's voice sounded annoyed for once, and Chrollo lightly slapping Hisoka's hand away woke you from your anxiety.

Hisoka shrugged his shoulders, giving Illumi a playful look, eyes closed, and a close lip smile.

"Whatever did I do?~"

"Hisoka, don't play games now. Our little darling is frightened enough."

Chrollo opens his hand, laying it palm up and offering it to you. You took it and clench it hard while this thumb rubbed your knuckles.

"That's what makes it fun; she's too tense. Wouldn't it be better if I loosen her up?~" he asked Chrollo, tilting a bit forwards with his finger on his lips as if questioning things.

"No. Now sit back. We're almost to the mountain. If you behave, I'll reward you."

"Mmmm," Hisoka licked his lips. "Oh goodness~."

Once Illumi opened the huge stone doors, which left you aghast, the four of you walked inside, getting into another car. This one was less spacious, but it was still luxurious. But none of that mattered. Every ride and minute that passed brought you closer to them. Dread settled in your stomach like a boulder, pressing down on your stomach. Chrollo never let go of your hand as you all came to the mansion.

There was no time to think, no way out, and no matter how much you wanted to run in your (color of choice) lolita dress, you doubted you would even make it far inside that dense forest. Not to mention the huge wolf you saw stalking the SUV as you all made your way to the mansion.

Your breathing hitched when the butler opened the door, and Chrollo exited, holding your hand to help you out. Hisoka placed his hand on your shoulder once he was out.

"Don't worry, little fruit, you'll be fine," he whispered.

Illumi came behind you, putting both of his hands on your shoulders. You thought it was out of comfort, but he merely straightened you and rubbed the wrinkles away. Your hand clenched Chrollo's, who chuckled and let go. They all thought you looked adorable, being stressed and nervous when in reality, you seemed as stiff as a cat who just got dumped in the water.

As you were contemplating everything, you noticed the old man standing in front of the enormous house. He had an amused look on his face, and his whole demeanor screamed he was more powerful. That just made it worse.

Illumi pushed you forwards, and the four of you walked towards his grandfather.

"Afternoon, gentlemen, miss," you gave him a small nod/ curtsy; your nervousness was blatantly obvious, and it amused him greatly.

"Silva is expecting you," he stated and opened the door with all of you right behind him.

At the mention of Illumi's father, you thought you would die.

After a series of turns through different hallways, you arrived at a nice garden area. There was no denying the place was stunningly gorgeous and breathtaking. The pond with the fish, the nicely cut grass, the different flowers with all the colors you can imagine, and even the cement wall covered in a blanket of vines added a touch to the paradise-like place. You let out a breathtaking everything in and didn't even notice the small smile gracing your lips; the trio did.

"Illumi," an authoritative voice pierced your bubble, and it reminded you why you were here. "We're glad you could make it; your mother and I are anxious to meet your soulmate."

Your breath hitched as Illumi approached his father and left you in between Chrollo and Hisoka. His father was so tall, much taller, and stronger looking, and you thought he would disintegrate you the moment he looked at you.

"Illumi!" A shrill voice called, and this time you turned to look at a woman approaching quickly. The way she was dressed made you think you were all in a Jane Eyre novel, now your clothing choice made sense. She came to her husband with practiced grace.

"My dear beloved son! Illumi, mother had missed you deeply. Ever since most of my children have left me alone, it has been dreadful. Oh, why must everyone leave!"

You raised an eyebrow at her. 'What the heck,' that's when she turned to look at you as if you had called her.

"Who is that, and what are those criminals doing in my house?"

Both of your eyebrows were raised as she approached you, and her aura didn't give you good intentions.

"Mother, they're my soulmates. All three of them."

Silva's eyes widened for a split second before his lips turned up in a greeting smile. He knew who Chrollo and Hisoka were. He had fought the first one and had seen the second one lingering about his son. But you, he didn't recognize, and that intrigued him as well as annoyed him.

"Why all three of them?! This is unacceptable, not at all respectable. What would everyone think about the Zoldyck family when they hear our son has three soulmates!"

"Kikio, that's enough," Silva's authoritative voice resounded, and Illumi's mother stopped dead on her words. "Outside these walls, they're whatever they may be, but here they're Illumi's mates as well as our guests. So behave accordingly."

"Yes, darling," her honeysuckle voice came back as if nothing had happened, and she grabbed your hand, leading you to a nearby table already set with tea and pastries.

"Have the butlers arrange another pair of chairs and refreshments for our guests."

"That would not be necessary, sir. If you excuse us. We will be fine in the lounge, after all, we have met before, and our darling is the one you don't know. It will be better if you four converse." As refined as always, Chrollo replied, making Hisoka pout. He dragged the jester away, who follow a butler inside the house.

Alone amongst strangers. That's how you felt; even though you knew Illumi and have been with him for almost a year now, it still felt weird.

"So dear, what's your name?"

"(Y/n-n), sir."

Silva chuckled at your nervousness "there's no need for you to be nervous. After all, we're family."

You nodded. Illumi grabbed your hand under the table, and you felt a bit relieved.

"Dear, I must say your dress is quite lovely. At least my dear llumi's mate knows how to dress," Kikio chuckled afterward, "do let me take you out to my best tailors. You simply must have a dress made by each of them."

"That would be lovely, ma'am" you sipped a bit of the tea even if you felt you couldn't stomach anything at the moment.

"I'm sure you will look beautiful for our dear son. So tell me (Y/N), Why is there no information about you anywhere?" Ahh, here come the important questions.

"Oh, I understood my soulmates' jobs and didn't want to intrude in their lives. After all, anyone could've used me to get to them. So I simply disappeared from the system."

"Interesting"

"Well, now we know. If anything were to happen to you, no one would know," Kikio giggled gracefully after that statement, and even if she meant it as an apparent joke, you were terrified.

"When are you going to marry? You certainly must be married to ensure the Zoldyck legacy carries on. What about children? Silva and I are very excited to have grandchildren, now that you can actually have them."

"Kikio, you're going to overwhelm her" you were already on the verge of hyperventilating.

"We will marry very soon, and we will carry on with the Zoldyck legacy, mother. You have nothing to worry about."

"Lovely"

After that particular conversation, you felt faint. Children? Marry? What? Once the conversation ended, and you were approved by the parents, all four of you were lounging around. The parents had given you an entire wing of the mansion during your stay. Chrollo and Hisoka had their own rooms since Kikio was aghast at fate. You and Illumi shared a room as fiancé's should. While you were breathing normally for once today, Illumi was putting away some of his clothes he had brought from his room.

"Now, what?"

"We get married, of course."

"But Illumi I-I don't exist, there's-"as you turned, Illumi was in front of you. You gasped and looked up into his eyes. He grabbed your face.

"We will marry, all of us, accordingly, and when we do, we will continue the Zoldyck legacy as it's expected from us..." he kissed you tenderly. Still, you felt the underlying fierceness and possessiveness.

"Without complaint, hmm?"

"Without complaint," you mumbled back as he hugged you close.

Thanks you! Request might lag a bit since these two coming weeks I’m gonna have a lot of school work! But don’t despair!

Remember this is the last adult trio together in a relationship fic I will make due to personal reasons.

[imkylotrash]

Night Hunting

Pairing: Saul Silva x reader

Request: She met him in pub, after one of the hunts and they've kept in touch. But he didn't tell her where he's from and she didn't tell him that she is a hunter. Things change when one of the hunts goes wrong and reader somehow gets to the Alfea. One of the kids get hurt and reader is suspected, but she recognizes which monster it is and goes on a hunt. Anonymous

Tagging: @grey-girl @intoanothermind @anreeixcobra @kingunder221b @lflores2008 @alexiapayne12 @quuenofblacks @quarterback-5 @estelmei @bitchwhytho @music-of-melody @artsyle​ @baueoud @glowingatdawn @shadowhuntyi @alice-the-nerd

"You're looking awfully lonely," you state sitting down next to the stranger in the bar. You're lucky enough to have the evening to yourself as you wait for Sam and Dean to return from the library. You only just got to town and Sam was already doing the research while Dean had been dragged along much against his will.

"I have company," he says holding up his beer. He sounds grumpy and like he's looking for a distraction. You can definitely be his distraction.

It's not the last time you meet the stranger called Saul. It becomes somewhat of a tradition to meet up whenever you're in town. And with a face like Saul's, you make sure you're in town a lot. You admit to Dean why you're always so eager to return to California because he's your twin and you've never been able to hide anything from him but Sam remains in the dark. You don't need two brothers teasing you about your little crush.

"You know what it'll cost you if I'm going to keep your secret," Dean says very matter-of-factly.

"What?" you ask already regretting the decision to confide in Dean.

"My music plays for all of four months in the car with no objection. And you buy me every piece of pie I even look at," he says and you groan in protest. It's the one thing you've always disagreed about. You both hate each other's music taste.

"Deal," you say somewhat begrudgingly before getting ready for the hunt. You're already wishing for it to be over so you can meet up with Saul. You have no idea what goes wrong but the wendigo gets you with its claws. In the chaos of the fight, you stumble through a portal of some kind leaving behind the tiny town of Gardenia and your brothers only to find your way to a forest. You try to head back but the door refuses to budge which concerns you a little because Sam and Dean are still back there with the monster.

It's the screeching noise that convinces you to move away from the shed and into a world, you didn't even know existed. It's pure luck that you make it through the forest to find some huge mansion. It's eerily quiet in the darkness of the night which makes you feel even more uneasy. Where the hell did you end up? Blood is still pouring from the gash and you have nothing to bandage it with.

"Shit," you mumble as you spot the lights of a car heading your way. You hide behind a tree feeling yourself grow weaker from the blood loss. The last thing you remember is someone saying your name before you pass out.

When you come to, you're lying in a soft bed that you definitely didn't find on your own. It takes you a few seconds to realise that this is not a good sign. You have no idea where you are and how you got here. Dean would be disappointed in you. The hunter in you takes over as you quietly get to your feet ignoring the throbbing pain in your abdomen. You're about to open the door to take a peek at what's outside of this room when someone beats you to it.

"Saul?" You don't believe your eyes. What is he doing here?

"What are you doing out of bed?" he ushers you back to bed and he means it nicely but you're already wondering how you could miss that he wasn't a normal human being. There are about two dozen theories running through your mind as you try to remember every little detail of what's happened up until now.

"How did you find this place?" he asks more serious than you've ever seen him. You keep quiet not wanting to give away your only advantage right now. You know

"Look, I know this is all very scary but I need you to talk to me because right now, I've got people on the other side of that door suspecting you of almost killing one of our students last night. And I'm trying to convince them that you're not that type of person." Your eyes open wide from pure shock. The wendigo must've followed you instead of the guys. But how did the student get away from the wendigo? It's near impossible to win over a wendigo at night.

"I didn't hurt anyone. But I think I know what did." He doesn't stop you this time when you get out of bed. Instead, he lets you lean on him for support.

"I need to see the student before I'm sure," you inform Saul and he takes you to the infirmary right away leading you past a man and a woman who looks ready to murder you.

"Friendly crowd," you mumble and Saul has to contain a smile.

==

"It's definitely a wendigo. I was hunting one last night and it must've followed me here." Imagine your surprise when all they do is look at you like you've gone completely crazy. It's so weird being around people who are not used to this life. If this had been Sam and Dean, you'd already be out looking for it.

"Care to elaborate a little?" Saul asks. The student is completely passed out but you still feel weird talking about it in front of him.

"Maybe we could go somewhere private then? I need to sit down anyway." You need to gather as much strength as you possibly can if you're going to go out and kill a wendigo - and time is ticking. The sun will go down in a couple of hours and you're not hunting that thing in the dark.

"What's a wendigo?" It's the first time the woman has spoken directly to you and you sort of wish she would've continued not talking to you. Her appearance scares you more than most of the monsters you've hunted.

"To keep it short, it was once a human and now it's a monster feeding on human beings. It normally hibernates with enough victims to keep it fed. Fire is the easiest way to kill it but I assure you, it's not as easy as it sounds." You still want to know how the hell the student got away from the wendigo considering they've never faced one before. How is he not dead?

"Have you killed one before?" the woman asks and you just nod.

"It's not easy. That kid in there should feel lucky he survived. I've never seen a human escape the claws of a wendigo." The tension is thick enough to cut it with a knife. Saul clears his throat ignoring the pointed look from the woman.

"We run a school for fairies. The student is a fire fairy. We're assuming he used his powers to escape." Fire fairy? This is definitely not good.

"Farah, we'll need to close off the school until we find it." The woman, who you now know is called Farah, agrees. She hurries off with the other man leaving you alone with Saul.

"You're a fairy?"

"No. I'm a specialist." You have so many questions but you sort through them only asking the most vital ones for now. The clock is ticking and you need to get out there.

"You can't hunt like that," Saul protests but he has no idea that you've been in much worse shape than this.

"I'll be fine." You lean in and kiss him because it's been a weird day and you need just one normal thing to happen. Kissing Saul is that normal thing.

"Just in case I don't get to do that again," you say but you can't keep a straight face. Saul looks about ready to chain you to the bed just to make sure you don't go anywhere.

"You need to learn how to take a joke. This is what I do for a living, Saul. I'll be fine," you chuckle but it's clear that you out there hunting definitely doesn't seem like a good idea to Saul. Lucky for you, you won't have to go out there alone. In the blink of an eye, your brothers and Crowley have teleported into the room. Dean immediately pins Saul against the wall.

"Are you okay?" he yells making you roll your eyes.

"Let him go, Dean. That's Saul." It takes a second for Dean to realise what you're saying and even longer for Crowley and Sam.

"He's sort of my boyfriend ish. We haven't really discussed the terms yet." Your cheeks turn red as you lock eyes with Saul. You've just thrown the b-word but he doesn't seem bothered by it at all.

"Wait, how did you even get here?"

"I'm the King of Hell, love. It's my job to know about all realms." There's going to be a long conversation between you and Saul to explain everything but right now the focus needs to be on the wendigo.

"Let's go hunting."

[numinous-vagary]

Anonymous asked:

It's a dream, Ven, but it feels so strangely real. You're back in the arena, the crowd is roaring around you. You feel right at home, waiting like an animal for whatever pray happens to fall through the door on the other side.

The doors open, and a burly figure shoves another forward: A lanky, purple and red tiefling, who looked equal parts confused and terrified, clutching a simple quarterstaff and.. nothing else. It was Talyn. You recognize him in the back of your head, but you're in the arena. He was your opponent and this was a fight to the death.

You move toward him, ready to tear some flesh apart, and you can practically smell the fear on him as you back him into the wall. He's crying, begging for you to stop. It's him! It's Talyn! Don't you recognize-

It doesn't matter, there's blood on the ground anyway.

The crowd cheers.

mention: @silva-vinandi​

The cheers are deafening, just how he likes it.. the roar matching the thundering in his ears, the approval and support absolute- the only kind that was ever given to him, his reason for being.

He tastes the bitterness of copper and acid on his tongue, the forked appendage poking out to lick at blood smearing his lips.. he can feel it, on his hands, his clothes and weapon, his face... HE is a weapon, death and destruction incarnate- the personification of rage and vengeance, and this is his domain... Ven’s eyes dilate rapidly, breathing heavy and expression no unlike a lion looking at a gazelle it plans to tear to shreds. he’s a predator, a hunter and a killer and he has no need for anything else..

Vendetta stalks around the lankier man, huffing and growling- hyping up the crowd as his weapon drags on the ground next to his lashing tail. only vaguely in the back of his mind does he recognize him.. the look of fear in his eyes not one unfamiliar to him. It’s cute, almost.. in how a mouse is cute when it hides from a cat.

..no, wait- something feels wrong. something’s hazy about.. everything, it doesn’t feel normal. and theres this lingering feeling of dread, of regret- like he’s about to do something wrong. but how could it be wrong.. this is what he does, this is all he does- this is what he is, he is the beast they made him to be- he needs their approval- he needs-

Ven huffs, snarling, shaking his head like a dazed animal and pawing at his face- the cheering is suddenly so loud that it hurts- his head fit to burst. He growls, hunching over in pain and taking a step back- different angles of his mind at war with himself, and everything is so bright- so loud-

“..Run, Rabbit.” He manages, his eyes distant as he looks back up at the familiar man. He doesn’t want to fight him, it’s wrong- he shouldn’t do this, but he can’t- control himself- His legs step forwards again on their own, and he snarls- damn near feral. “Run.”

Ven lunges at him, but changes his angle and slams into the wall. it only takes a moment before he rights himself though, reaching out with sharp claws and bared teeth and-

THUD

... His eyes open, chest heaving as he catches his breath. It’s dark, and cool, and certainly no where near the city.. He fell out of bed, it seems, and is lying on the floor with one of his legs tangled in blankets. a dream.. right. a dream. Vens head falls back to rest on the ground, and he huffs in irritation as a hand runs over his face. what the fuck..

[tokoyamisstuff]

Betrothred Ch. 1 - Illumi Zoldyck x Reader

Chapter 1: Bride

Summary: After making your choice, there’s no going back from it.

Warnings: Blood, Murder, Threats, Angst

Words: 2390

Story Masterlist

A/N: This first chapter is kinda angsty but it gets better, I swear!

Today is the day.

Even though only mere hours would separate you from becoming a part of the Zoldyck family, the whole situation still felt very much surreal to you.

To be invited and welcomned on their property was one of the greatest honor of all, but to be considered a fitting consort for their eldest son was just unimaginable.

One of the butlers was harshly braiding your hair, trying to get it in a position you’d usually never wear. Another one would be working on your make-up, something you’d usually find unnecessary considering your profession.

Why would an assassin care for their physical appearance anyway? Well, all of this was probably part of some kind of tradition or ritual.

No matter how roughly they were tearing and tugging on you, trying to modify your body until you wouldn’t even recognize yourself in the mirror, you’d take their invasion of your personal space in a calm demeanour.

Because that’s how you were raised.

Obey, endure and function.

Your bloodline had a long history of both feared and powerful Head Hunters, for decaded being third place of all known assassin families - with the Zoldycks claiming the indisputable top.

Torture, poison and death were your fellow comrades throughout your whole youth, even though there were limits:

Only the most promising children would be chosen to become Head Hunters. The others were free to choose their way as they wished.

Your upbringing was strict, yet loving. And it was forbidden to break your free will. Serving the family should be an honor, not a burden.

Other than the Zoldycks, your family believed that emotions could become the surce of strenght.

There were other moral standarts: Murdering children was off limits, for example.

And your ‘carreer’ was just about to begin when it took this unexcpected turn.

You had met your soon-to-be-husband after finally completing your formal training, now allowed to take on the Hunter Exam.

Already accustomed to the basics of Nen, it was easy for you to see behind the disguise of the man calling himself Gittarackur.

At first being rather passive, even as the two of you completed the Trick Tower together, he soon stated to be impressed by your exceptional strenght and capability.

Truth be spoken, you always thought yourself to be mediocre at best. So that sudden compliment hit you off guard, especially after he casually revealed his true identity and heritage.

Immediately after the exam, you gathered all of your courage and asked Illumi to teach you in the ways of a true assassin - so you could grow and become the next leader of your clan.

And much to your surprise, he instantly accepted, not even wanting anything in return. You were useful to him and his missions, he stated. That would be enough.

After that, it wouldn’t take long until the stoic man announced that you’d make for a formidable spouse, asking your father for your hand in marriage.

Even though you weren’t quite sure if you made the right decision, his proposal alone the greatest honor for your kin and you just couldn’t disappoint them.

Illumi had always been very reserved about anything else than his work, making you doubt he was even capable of feeling anything else than the joy of killing.

Yet he was a reliable ally, both smart and strong - and admittedly very good looking. You were convinced that he wasn’t the monster most people saw in him: He had just been molded to be the perfect assassin.

And because of that, he would make for a good husband as well.

“Well, don’t you look beautiful?” The voice behind your back was Kikyo, dismissing the servants with a single gesture of her hand.

You wanted to stand up and make a curtsy as a sign of respect, yet felt her palms on your shoulder, pressing down so you’d remain in your seat.

Looking in the mirror, you saw your mother in law behind your back, her visor making it hard to read her intentions. Her aura gave it all away, though.

Illumi’s proposal surprised her just as much as yourself, and she obviously wasn’t content with it. You actually doubtet that she’d ever consider someone good enough to marry one of her children, so you didn’t take it personal.

The pressure would only help you grow.

“You’ll become the perfect partner for my son, won’t you?” Her fingernails dug deep into your flesh, but you didn’t even flinch. “Of course, honorable mother.”

“Good.” Apparently your answer didn’t calm her fury, since her fingermails only turned in the wounds they dug into your flesh. She only stopped when she realized that the blood was staining your clothes.

“I don’t expect any less from a lowlife like you are.” Seems like you should stay alerted around her. But that was no surprise, and it didn’t scare you either.

You knew what you were getting yourself into. And it was worth it.

To prove your worth, you’d go even beyond your limits.

“It’s time, Y/N.”

Up until now, you hid your emotions very well - but hearing that familiar, monotonous voice, you couldn’t help but smile.

“Illumi!” Kikyo shreeked out, “You’re not allowed to see Y/N before the ceremony!”

“Unnecessary superstition” he retorted quite unaffected, approaching both of you.

Kikyo stepped back, revealing you fully. He took in your appearance, rather observing than anything else. “Is that your blood?”

“Nothing worth mentioning.”

He grabbed your ankle, forcing you up from his seat to look at him. “How did this happen?”

You didn’t dare answering. It was not your place to drive a wedge between your fianceé and his mother, even though you highly doubtet that he would care at all.

Illumi turned around, his blank stare now directed to his mother, who defendingly put her hands into the air. “I-I was just advising-”

“No need for that” he cut her off. “I can take care of any business concerning my partner myself.”

Now she got all hysterical again, just as you got to know her. “B-but-”

“Never touch them again, or I’ll kill you.”

Kikyo relented, then having a mental breakdown for excactly 5 seconds, screams and cries filling the room.

The air had gotten incredibly thick, the unsettling atmosphere making you wish to just disappear right on spot.

“Oh, Illumi!” she exclaimed, sounding jubilant all of a sudden. “Being so cruel to your own mother...You’ve grown so much!”

What a weird fucking family.

“Show me your arms” Illumi demanded after he told his mother to be left alone, yet you flinched away.

“I apologize for having provoked an argument” you spoke all humble, “My wounds are of no concern. Don’t worry.”

“Starting today, I’m expected to take care of you. So you should obey and let me patch this up.” You sat down with a small sigh, exposing your shoulders and presenting them to him. “It would be a shame if you get scarred by something else than a honorable battle.”

Eventually you found time to appreciate your fianceé’s exterior: Illumi had his hair braided back, wearing a fully black suit with a white shirt and a bow tie.

It was the first time you ever saw him in formal wear, and it actually suited him very well.

“You’re very handsome, Lumi” you absentmindedly blurted out as you watched him bandage the wounds on your shoulder.

And Illumi would acknowledge your looks in his own way. “Your appearance is very adequate for this occasion as well.” That counts as a compliment, right?

“Glad you like it” you smiled, “But sadly the stains won’t get out. And we have no time to clean off the blood.”

Illumi swiftly helped you on your feet once again, vaguely explaining “Don’t worry. It won’t stand out after the ceremony.”

You linked arms with Illumi, who led you to the main room as you still pondered about what exactly he meant with that statement.

The celebration would be a small one, not even your own family being allowed to attend. When you entered the generously decorated hall, there were only Silva, Kikyo, Zeno, Kalluto and Milluki.

“Welcome, Y/N” Silva spoke in a way more welcoming tone than his wife earlier. You bend your head as you stood in front of the table where the family had gathered, greeting them politely before making your way to the altar.

Zeno would be the one to confirm the bond. You were actually glad that it was him, because he had already grown fond of you.

“Are you ready?” the old man wondered, noticing how you were trembling.

“Far away from it” you chuckled without doubt, adding “But I’m prepared to do anything.”

“That’s a honest but brave answer, young adult” he paised in an attempt to calm you down, then arranging both you and Illumi to stand facing each other. “And just what you need to become part of this family.”

One sign of Silva and the door swung open, a Bunch of butlers dragging in a terribly inured human.

Much to your shock, the person was not dead - not yet.

“So it begins” Illumi whispered as he saw the man wince in pain, begging for his life, and he almost cracked something like a smile.

“Wha-” Before you could even comprehend what was happening, it hit you like a brick: You were supposed to finish that person off.

That was what Illumi meant. A few blood stains on your wedding dress really were your smallest problem considering what awaited you from this day on.

“That man invaded our property with the intend to kill us” Silva explained to you, his stare bringing across his demands. “You’ll prove your loyality through ending his life.”

At that moment, you knew that you’ll disappoint them - because you were frozen in place.

You had taken and destroyed so many lives, yet always had the full information on them and could decide through your own standarts. But now?

What if it was a lie? You didn’t know that man, why he was here or if he deserved death.

Maybe he had family or came for revenge. Goddamn it, he could even be a reporter who just sneaked in to snatch a photo! Or they had presented you a completely innocent man, seeing if you were the undoubting slave they wanted to have!

Madness runs in this family, apparently.

It was a test. You knew that much. Quite fitting for someone from a family which was only rank three, known for their rather humane way of working.

“No Nen allowed” Kikyo completed the task, “No guns or similar either. You may only use your bare hands or close combat weapons.”

Yes. It was way harder, imprinting your soul to kill that direct way. How you’d deal with the situation was crucial for the outcome of this wedding. 

But were you really ready to throw all of your morality abroad just for your own sake?

“We won’t kill you if you decline the order” Illumi cut off your brooding. Was it out of sympathy? You had no idea. “You’ll be considered unfitting, but you are free to leave and no one will ever bother you again.”

“N-No” you stumbled across your own words, “I’ll do everything for the family.”

“Interesting” Zeno stated. “I never doubtet your spouse, Illumi, but I thought they'd take longer to decide.”

"I think Y/N will make for a great companion.” Silva’s wide grin streched across his face, making his eyes wrinkle a bit. “In both family and business.”

When all was said and done, Illumi grabbed a knive that was placed on the altar. “Let’s do it together, then.”

You almost felt guilty that you became flustered in a moment like this, but couldn’t help it as Illumi genuinely smiled at you, taking your hand as you took firm steps towards the enemy.

“P-Please have mercy!” the man pleaded to no avail, and determination swelled in your chest at that intense moment.

Taking someone’s life together - it would connect two people in a cruel yet beautiful way.

Whatever else could be more fitting for the marriage of two assassins? 

It would be an easy kill. He was unable to flee or fight back. Just a single strike, ending his life quick as act of mercy.

“You should’ve known better than to mess with my new family.”

Both of your hands intertwined, wrapping your fingers around the handle of the knive before thrusting it into the victim’s chest.

And then it dawned to you.

“A needleman?” you sulked, ripping out one of Illumi’s needles out of the stranger’s head, while the others broke out in boisterous laughter.

“Yeah. He was already dead” Illumi shrugged. “I know you don’t like burdening yourself with victims you didn’t choose yourself. But we needed to test you anyway. It’s a tradition.”

Was he actually respecting your boundaries?! What the-

“I like your guts!” Silva attempted to pat your back, but it felt rather like he was going to break your spine. “Sorry for our harsh methods. I know it can be a bit much at the beginning. You’ll get used to obey our rules slowly, don’t push yourself.

Even Kikyo embraced you, now almost convincing motherly. “Reminds me of my first kill for the family!”

It almost felt like those people could actually feel compassion for others. They at least had undoubtingly strong bonds with each other, even if their way of living together was rather unusual.

Stiff movements as always, Illumi placed his hand on your head, almost as if a robot was trying to mimick human interaction. “I’m proud of you. I knew I chose well.”

The rest of the ceremony was just as you expected it: No vows, no rings, no music, no kiss. Just you and Illumi hearing to whatever Zeno had to say about bringing honor and wealth to the family, bearing strong offsprings, and other things that were the exact opposite from romantic.

“Blood for blood” Zeno stated now instead of “You may now kiss”, and every family member repeated it.

You took the knife from the altar once again, cutting your palm until it drew blood without any hesitation. Illumi would now do the same, then reaching out his hand for yours to hold.

As your fluids mixed before dropping to the floor, you unsucessfully searched for any hint of emotional reaction in your husbands expressionless face.

His eyes however would never leave yours, his hand firmly squeezing yours before Zeno announced:

“Your fates are now inextricably connected.”

____

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[music-of-melody]

A Fanatic Heart

Author: @acotazriel

Word Count:  7k

Rating: T {canon-typical violence & language}

Relationships: Riven/Musa 

Summary: What if all the Winx fairies were specialists and all the specialists were fairies? What if Riven doesn't realise how he feels for Musa before it's too late? What if he never has another chance again? May be continued into a series.

A/N: So this started out as a simple picture but ended up being an entire universe thanks to the amazing @acotazriel - Skye you have been honestly incredible throughout this all, especially given that I gave you like 3 sentences to work with so all the kudos to you! It has been a joy editing this and being a part of the creative process!

Riven hovered on the balls of his feet as he scanned the forest clearing. The woods were far too silent, with no noise in the way of birds, insects, or even a breeze among the treetops. The forest was waiting, like him. He scowled, feeling familiar eyes on his back but not turning around to face them. The Burned One had disappeared only thirty seconds ago; he knew it couldn’t have gotten far. He took the brief moment of respite to wipe the sweat from his brow as his eyes raked over the stand of shrubs, seeking any and all movement that might betray his quarry’s presence.

A twig cracked to his left and from the corner of his peripheral vision he caught sight of a charging, blackened figure. He whirled and dropped into a crouch just in time for the Burned One’s misshapen claw to swipe uselessly at the air above his head.

It fucking snuck up on him. How the fuck had it done that?

Riven didn’t waste time wondering; instead, he leapt backwards away from the swinging, venomous claws. The Burned One snarled and snapped but still Riven danced backward, drawing his opponent onto the offensive, forcing it to take the lead. After several seconds of distanced swipes, it took his bait and pounced forward—just as Riven anticipated. He timed his own leap to react to the Burned One and took the smashing blow right in the center of his reinforced chest plate.

He smirked even as he staggered two steps backward from the force of the blow. Right where he wanted.

The Burned One was strong, and in the following second Riven focused his mind on that kinetic energy it had imparted on his chest plate. He lifted his hands upward with his palms out and then let forth that same force in a wave of energy, blasting right at the Burned One’s approaching figure.

Riven grinned as the Burned One immediately tumbled backward, heels over scaly head, until it finally rolled to a stop forty feet away. “Thought you’d like that,” he taunted.

It slowly got to its feet, baring jagged fangs at Riven as it straightened to reach its full height. Riven sank into a crouch and raised his hands, palms outward again, and focused on the Cinder at its core.

It charged, screaming its demonic yowl, legs striding faster and faster over the uneven ground. It was thirty feet away and closing fast. Riven’s leg wobbled beneath him, still sore from the wild kick it had landed on him when it had first jumped them from above. At least it hadn’t broken his skin—he wasn’t Infected.

Yet. He reached out with his mind and felt the Cinder as it smoldered within the approaching Burned One—hot to the touch and full of dark energy, friction, and hatred.

Fifteen feet away now, screeching for all it was worth, reptilian feet pounding over the earth as it lunged. Riven drew a deep breath and visualized the Cinder bursting into smithereens.

Nothing.

The Cinder stayed intact and still the Burned One charged. Riven exhaled sharply in frustration and rolled to his right to dodge.

The Burned One spun on its heel to follow Riven’s progress, and he braced himself for the bite of its claws into his left shoulder—

Just as Musa leapt over his head and slashed her staff downward with both hands against its neck.

It screamed again, that horrific squall that chilled Riven to the bone (though he’d never admit it), Musa’s staff splitting into the three sections with which she fought as she charged the Burned One. She was a blur of forest green and ivory, her staff appearing as three pieces or as one when it suited her, leaving no place for her opponent to dodge or avoid the striking metal. Riven watched with satisfaction as she struck its head, its gut, its thigh, and its neck in quick succession. It slumped to its knees in agony, its maw gaping with an unheard scream of pain, and Riven raised his hands again and closed his eyes.

The Cinder beat like a defective heart, seething and bubbling with aimless rage. Riven clenched his fists as if squeezing the Cinder from the outside and Musa raised a forearm to cover her eyes. The Cinder exploded into a thousand fractals of light and energy that ricocheted outward through the forest and faded harmlessly into nothing.

When the reverberation deadened, Riven opened his eyes to see Musa bracing a booted foot against the Burned Ones’ corpse to roll it onto its back.

She jerked her staff upward in the snapping motion that folded the three pieces parallel to each other and lifted her gaze to him. “Thought you were going to take that one down by yourself?” she asked in a mock casual as she sheathed her staff into its quiver on her back.

“I had it under control,” Riven said with a grin as he straightened up. He scanned his body quickly, looking for any tears in his armor or breaks in his skin. Coming up empty, he cocked his head towards the unmoving corpse. “Just didn’t want you to get lazy.”

She huffed a laugh. “Right,” she said, voice dripping with sarcasm. “Yeah, I’d be a real couch potato if I didn’t have to jump up and save your sorry arse every five minutes.”

“I was fine. I could have taken it,” Riven said. One of these days he’d take one down all by himself and prove to Farah he didn’t need Specialist support. Prove to himself that he didn’t need anyone.

“Whatever. Toss me the sampling kit.” She knelt to the ground beside the Burned One while Riven unclipped the small leather pack at his belt. He tossed it to her and she caught it deftly, unzipped it, and withdrew Professor Harvey’s biosampling tackle.

He watched her scrape some of the Burned One’s scorched flesh into a vial and wished he’d paced out his cigs better. Now he was restless and directionless until they could return to camp. “Maybe I’ll just let it get you next time,” Musa said after a long beat. He arched an eyebrow at her. “Once it Infects you and I have to kill it, maybe you’ll see why Farah wants everyone to fight in teams.”

“Yeah, Farah’ll really go for that,” Riven scoffed.

“Farah says mutual trust—”

“It’s not a question of trust,” Riven cut her off. He crossed his arms over his chest and leaned back against a tree trunk with his eyes narrowed. “It’s a question of you doing your job, and me knowing that you’re gonna do your job.”

He’d lost count of the number of times he’d had this conversation. He avoided her frustrated expression and uncrossed his arms to withdraw the small throwing knife he kept in his boot, running his thumb over the blade to test its sharpness. He checked that Musa was still busy with the sampling kit and made another notch in his leather chest cuirass. “That makes nine,” he announced.

She wrinkled her nose. “I thought it was eight?”

“No, I’m counting that one back in the moor for us.”

She huffed another laugh. “Sure, just don’t tell Silva that—I already saw him tally it up in his count.”

Riven shook his head and clucked his tongue. “He really lets getting chosen by a dragon get to his head, doesn’t he.”

Musa laughed, for real this time, her chestnut brown eyes glinting with glee. “You’re just saying that because he’s the only fairy to beat you in hand-to-hand combat.”

“That was a technicality—” Riven had just begun his retort when a loud shout echoed behind them. They both whirled, Musa already jumped up and her staff drawn and ready, studying the surrounding woods for the source of the noise.

“There,” Musa pointed out. In the far distance Riven could just make out a couple of trees that were swaying back and forth in an unnatural motion—not from the trunks, but from the roots. Another cry—this time a feminine scream.

They broke into a sprint at the same time. “I think it’s Flora,” Musa panted as they darted between trees and over shrubs.

“Nah, that’s Brandon’s style,” Riven refuted, thinking of the motion of the tree trunks. “Besides, I got way too good at recognizing Stella’s screams back when she was with Sky—”

Musa shot him a glare, but they both saved their breath as they ran through the woods. They reached the top of a ridge and paused when they caught sight of two Alfea uniforms—one Specialist, one fairy.

Brandon was down, lying on his side with one hand clutching his stomach and the other outstretched in front of him. Stella’s twin swords flashed in the sunlight as she hacked and parried the Burned One in front of her. The ground beneath their feet rippled and rolled like waves on a pond—every time the Burned One raised its arms, it stumbled on the erratic ground while the forest floor beneath Stella remained as steady as a rock.

But she was hurt, too—Riven could see from the way her left arm lagged behind her right, and sure enough, within a few seconds the Burned One managed to knock her left blade from her hand.

Musa and Riven didn’t wait another moment. They charged down the hill, Riven already reaching his palms outward, making sure to stay two steps behind Musa’s staff.

This one was bigger than the one they’d just killed - it towered over Musa’s compact form, although he knew this just played into her strength: speed. She was a flurry of flashing metal and darting green as she dodged the Burned Ones’ swipes and claws.

Riven reached Brandon and crouched on his haunches. “It got you?”

“Fuck me, yes,” Brandon hissed, and pulled his hand away from his stomach for long enough for Riven to see a smear of red blood and black Burned One bile webbing outward from the wound. “Got Stella too.”

“We’ll take care of it,” Riven promised. He rested a steadying hand on Brandon’s shoulder and turned to look back at their Specialists. Musa and Stella had already managed to bring it to its knees, and within a blink, Musa drew back with a powerful swing and leveled the Burned One with a furious strike to its neck. It keeled backward, and Stella raised her right sword with both hands and stabbed it downwards into its chest, pinning it to the ground.

Riven approached, palms outward again, and now—with little danger from the lifeless form—cradled the Cinder in his mind, then crushed it with minimal effort, squeezing his eyes shut as the energy rippling outward nearly surged through them.

Stella let out a slow, rattling breath as the Burned One’s life force drained away. She staggered back, catching her breath, and then immediately hurried to Brandon. In the span of seconds she reached his side, knelt, and rolled him onto his back. Riven and Musa approached as well, Riven drawing forth his first aid kit from the pack at his belt.

“I’ll be okay,” Brandon said thickly. His breath was ragged and both hands clutched at the wound in his stomach. His eyes never left Stella’s. “I’ll be okay.” Riven had the sense that his words were more of a plea than an assurance.

“Of course you’ll be okay,” Stella shushed him as she cradled his head in her lap. “It’s dead, we just have to get you fixed up.”

“And you’re okay, Stel?” Musa asked, running a questioning hand along Stella’s left arm.

“Fine,” Stella answered absently. “Just nicked my wrist, that’s all.” To justify her nonchalance, she extended her left hand out to show Musa and Riven. Her sleeve had torn and there was a line of blood where her forearm met her hand, but it didn’t appear serious.

Riven handed over gauze and healing potions. “Think you can walk?”

“I’ll be okay,” Brandon repeated. “Just give me a second.”

Musa took Riven’s forearm and pulled him backward to give Brandon and Stella space. They watched from behind Stella, handing her additional bandages and tinctures as she tended to her fairy. Within a few minutes, the color returned to Brandon’s face, although he couldn’t hide the pain that flicked over his features when he tried to stand. Riven offered an arm to help Brandon limp back to camp but the other fairy brushed him off. “I’m fine, I’ll just go slow,” Brandon said.

Stella looped Brandon’s arm over her shoulder so she could help him walk. “We’ll see you guys back at camp,” she said. “And thanks for the assist.”

“Yeah—thanks,” Brandon forced out before Stella led him forward.

Musa and Riven watched them walk away for a long beat before Musa collapsed her staff back into thirds, sheathed it, and then ran a hand through her hair. “That was a little scary.”

Riven shook his head dismissively. “I’ve been telling Brandon for weeks he leaves his core too exposed when he fights. And I’ve heard you yourself telling Stella she needs to tighten up her left side.”

She glared at him. “That’s harsh, Riv. People make mistakes—that doesn’t mean they deserve it.”

“I didn’t say they deserved it—and we don’t make mistakes,” he grinned. “We haven’t lost yet. Not with real ones, anyway.” The simulation Burned Ones that they’d faced back when they were still training didn’t count.

“Yeah, but…” Musa’s lips formed a thin line as she stared after Brandon and Stella’s receding forms. “Sometimes I wonder if you’re going to be saying that shit behind my back if I ever make a mistake.”

He hissed an exhale in frustration. “You think I wouldn’t have done the same for you? I’m doing my job, Musa, which means I’m not leaving you on the ground to die.”

“Even if I left my core too exposed or didn't tighten up my left side?”

She threw his words back at him, her tone mocking, and he stopped short and turned to face her. “Fine, you want me to say it? I do. I do care about you. You’re a fucking good fighter and I don’t want anyone else at my side.”

Her mouth curved into a mischievous grin. “So you do trust me.”

“That’s not what I said.”

“That’s what I heard.”

He huffed a sharp exhale through turned-up lips that ruffled his quiff. “Whatever. Let’s just keep patrolling.”

Before he followed her forward, he notched another mark on his cuirass.

===

They returned to camp a few hours later. The first thing they did was check on Brandon in the infirmary tent being tended to by Harvey, and then Musa went to wash up while Riven headed to the mess tent.

He loaded up his tray with as much food as he could fit before looking for Sky in the fairy tent.

“Heard you had a productive morning,” Sky asked from his cot, looking up from the throwing stars he was cleaning.

Riven nodded through a mouthful of stew and puffed out his chest to show the two new notches he’d made. “Told you we’re the best team,” he said with pride after chewing and swallowing. “What did you and Bloom do?”

“Killed three, actually.”

"Bullshit!" Riven exclaimed, but Sky just chuckled and shook his head.

“Ask Silva.” He stood up. “Actually, I’m heading that way, you should come with. He asked me and Bloom to try out his new idea—”

Riven's eyes narrowed, projecting his disappointment as irritation. "What about our debrief hike?"

Sky’s gaze dropped back to his hands and the pile of cleaned throwing stars at his feet. "Can't today—I already promised Bloom I would."

Scowling, Riven picked up his bread. "Right, can't compete with a shag now, can I?"

Sky frowned and glanced back up. "It's not a competition, Riv. I'm just moving our mates time, I'm not bailing so I can get laid."

"Right—you're just bailing and getting laid."

Sky rolled his eyes, set down his rag, and grabbed his cuirass from its hook over his bed and pulled it over his head. “You’ve got a letter, by the way,” he changed the subject and pointed at the desk against the far wall.

Riven lowered his head to his lunch and shrugged, ignoring the spike of inadequacy at its likely contents. "Don't care." Sky fastened the straps on his cuirass with a puzzled expression that made Riven's ears burn. He hated pity, and in his desperation to fill the silence with anything else he spoke again. "It's probably just Dad telling me not to come home next time we get leave."

"Riven..." Sky's tone was so full of unsolicited sympathy that it further frayed Riven's already irritated nerves.

"Read it, I don't care," he said through another bite. "Go on."

Sky finished tightening his chest harness, walked to the desk, and slit open the envelope. "'Dear Riven, you are most welcome at home in two weeks,'" he read, his voice rising hopefully. Riven raised a hand for him to read on, and Sky looked back down at the letter. "'...however your stepmother and I will be on holiday in Melody. You can let yourself in. Write soon.'" He finished, deflated, and dropped the letter back onto the table, at a loss for words.

Riven shrugged to prove to Sky that he didn't care. At least it was longer than his father's usual letters, he thought dryly.

"I'm sorry, Riv.” Had Riven been less peeved then he would have appreciated the sincere apology in Sky's voice. "Let's do our hike when I get back."

"Yeah, sure," he replied dully. "Enjoy spending time with your ball-and-chain."

"She's not my ball-and-chain, Riven," Sky sighed, exasperated as he laced his boots. "She's more than that... she's my lifeline."

Riven made a retching noise in the back of his throat, gagging at Sky's sentimentality, but after Musa’s comments this morning, the comment hit closer to home than he thought it would.

"Right, well, see you when we get back." He left the tent, leaving Riven to finish his meal in silence.

===

As soon as he was done Riven tossed his tray back into the mess tent and shoved his hands into the pockets of his uniform. As much as he didn’t want to admit it, he couldn’t help but feel let down by Sky. Sky was the one who’d dragged Riven on these hikes at first, a way for them to have some time to themselves away from the girls, just the two of them like before. Riven had gone along begrudgingly at first but had in the last few months found himself looking forward to them—a chance to compartmentalize and destress with his best friend from the furor of battle and camp life.

And now, Sky had blown him off.

He set his jaw as he paced through camp. He knew that Sky didn’t mean anything by it, but it still niggled angrily in the back of Riven’s brain. He kicked a rock in the path, savoring the sweet agony in his toe because it distracted him from the nervous energy in his mind. He could have that relationship with Musa if he wanted—he just didn’t want to. They were soft, all of them, and if Riven knew one thing it was that the people you trusted always let you down in the end. If you gave them a piece of your heart, it was inevitable that they would crush it.

“What is it?” A voice in front of him spoke and Riven looked up, surprised to find himself in front of the infirmary. Musa looked up at him from where she knelt in Professor Harvey’s herb garden. “Does Dowling need us?”

“What? Oh, no,” Riven said quickly, silently cursing himself. He knew better than to connect the dots that thinking about Musa led to him finding himself arriving at one of her usual haunts. “I, uh— how’s Brandon?”

To his surprise, instead of a simple answer Musa glanced back into the tent, then stood up and brushed the dirt from the knees of her trousers. “Let’s talk out there,” she said quietly.

Riven nodded, falling into step beside her as they paced along the path and out through the temporary barrier erected around their campsite. “Huh, I didn’t know it was bad.”

“It hit his aorta,” Musa admitted, pushing aside the underbrush as they walked vaguely north. “He’s not Infected or anything, it’s just going to take him a lot longer to heal than they thought.”

“That sucks,” Riven agreed. Still sensitive about Sky’s comment, he chose not to offer any more opinions about Brandon’s form—in fact, he regretted his previous remarks. He thought back to his earlier conversation with Musa and cringed. “Stella must be pretty cut up.”

“She definitely feels guilty,” Musa admitted in a low voice.

Riven pressed his lips together, holding a branch out for Musa to walk beside him and not get whacked in the head. “She shouldn’t—it wasn’t her fault. The one they knocked heads with looked like a nasty bugger.”

Musa allowed a small smile up at Riven. “It was—and someone’s being generous,” she teased. “Did Riven grow a heart?”

“Wow, say something nice about a guy on death’s door, and suddenly you’re a saint,” Riven shot back. “Brandon’s a damn good fairy. We need him.”

“Ah, that’s right,” Musa said, her tone dropping from teasing to mocking. “He’s just doing a job.”

“That’s not what I meant—”

“That’s what I heard,” she said again. She drew up short and turned to face him. “Tell me, have you ever trusted anyone?”

He stopped as well, feeling a twist in his gut. He didn’t want to continue this age-old conversation, but for a different reason than usual—he was alarmed that she was upset. He didn’t want one more person to push him away. “Why does it matter to you?” he asked. “Why do you care so much about trust when we should be worried about Burned Ones and Rosalind and fucking psycho Beatrix—”

“Because if I’m just a job to you, Riven, then I can’t do this.”

His lips parted and he stared, dumbstruck.

“If you can’t trust me then I don’t want to do this. I’m going to ask Dowling to be paired with someone else.”

His brain sagged at her announcement, briefly flashing through his life if he didn’t have his Specialist next to him. Having to start over with someone new… someone likely less capable… someone worse. Someone that wasn’t her.

“Musa—”

“No, don’t, Riven—”

An otherworldly scream cleaved the air above their heads. Riven flinched and looked upward in time to see a Burned One drop from a tree above their heads.

Fuck.

He reacted instantly with his training and skittered backward, stumbling at first and then more skillfully as his training took over. The Burned One had missed them in its initial lurch, but it was already upright and snarling towards them as they hurried to overcome the surprise.

“Got a shot?” Riven shouted as he ducked beneath a swipe of its jagged claws. He rolled to his feet and glanced quickly at Musa—thankfully she had kept her staff with her, and it was already twirling in her hands, a blur of metal and ivory.

“Take it,” Musa yelled back, and Riven acknowledged with a quick “Aye!” She was asking him to use his energy absorption powers to take a blow and then reverse the energy back onto it. Riven straightened up and danced backward, taunting the Burned One to prowl forward and away from Musa while she got her bearings. “Come here, you little fuck,” Riven shouted, hoping to distract it.

It lunged and Riven leapt sideways to take the brunt of its force on his breastplate. It struck true and Riven almost laughed in delight as he focused that energy back through his palms, and blasted the Burned One twenty feet backward.

With some breathing room now between the pair and the Burned One Musa charged. Her staff was a spinning twirl of silver and white as she advanced and struck forward as the Burned One pushed itself to its feet. Her staff struck over and over at any exposed areas the Burned One left open, causing it to keel backwards in pain. Musa rained so many blows on the creature that it keeled backward, stunned by pain, and if it had been anything but a Burned One Riven would have felt sorry for it.

Riven advanced with palms out, his mind sharpening on the Cinder at its core. Musa struck out again and again on Burned One while he located that beating mass of rage and hatred. He closed his eyes and focused on it, imagining it bursting into smithereens.

“Now,” he called out, their sign for her to shield her vision, and the Cinder exploded in another blast of light and energy.

The silence that followed the Burned One’s destruction felt more weary than usual. Riven dropped to his knees, cowed by the surprise and viciousness of their sudden fight, and opened his eyes to see Musa shakily folding her staff by hand into thirds before glancing over at him.

“Fuck, they’re getting bolder,” she said, and he nodded.

“Got to be on guard.”

“Luckily we’re ‘the best,’ right?” Musa said with a jittery chuckle. Riven’s lips thinned—they’d been caught by surprise. Only their training had saved them.

“Yeah, the best.” He righted himself, dusting off his uniform where he’d rolled on the mossy forest floor. Despite himself, he couldn’t help replaying Musa’s earlier words from that morning in his head—so you do trust me.

He knew by any other metric that’d be true. Riven finally forced himself to admit it. If Bloom was Sky’s lifeline, then he knew Musa was his. He could call it whatever he wanted, but it was trust.

The thought of admitting it to Musa made his gut twist again. It went against almost everything he stood for, to admit that he was wrong—except for his number one principle: honesty. If that meant admitting to Musa that he trusted her, then that trumped everything.

He opened his mouth.

Musa cocked an eyebrow at him—waiting for his smarmy retort—but before he could speak the brush behind her solidified from thorny oleander to the shape of a Burned One.

His words died on his lips, replaced by a silent scream.

The Burned One struck out at Musa from behind—her staff lay limply in her hand and her eyes were fixed on Riven. On him. Instead of herself and her back and the slim body that he should be defending.

It was like she recognized what had happened before he did. Her chestnut eyes sought his as the Burned One’s claw sank into her back, and he felt her scream on every level—physically, mentally, psychologically—and even fucking deeper than that. He felt her scream in his very bones.

He watched her fall almost in slow motion, her arms raising first in reaction to the pain, the staff falling from her grip and clattering uselessly to the forest floor—then her legs as she pitched forward, knees buckling, and the rest of her body followed, a rag doll to the deep wound from the Burned One’s dagger-like claws.

And her face. Her fucking face. Warped in surprise, with pain glossing over her features in a slice that made Riven feel as much if not more pain than she. His Specialist, in pain—attacked.

She crumpled. The Burned One stood over her body, crowing victory in its nonverbal tongue and still slashing at her body, and Riven felt a fire that he’d never felt before alight in his veins. It spread from his heart to his gut to his extremities, carrying surprise and rage and a loss that he had never before felt in his life.

Musa. It had hurt Musa. It had hurt Musa to the point that she’d collapsed and he was still standing, and he ceased to be Riven—he became a pillar of furor and mania.

It had hurt the one person who had fought by his side the last six months.

It had hurt the one person who was always there when he needed her, conscious or not.

It had hurt the one person who knew him inside out and still chose to fight beside him.

It had hurt his Specialist. His Musa.

He screamed in guttural rage and it felt as though his voice ricocheted through the entire forest.

Suddenly, in the midst of his fury, pain exploded between his shoulder blades. It wrenched through him with enough violence to cut short his cry, and he staggered forward as if pushed by an invisible force. Beneath the anger and passion he felt something else—something kinetic and physical, something fundamentally different about himself.

He fell forward onto his knees and pressed his hands to the dirt, blinking back tears of pain as something huge—something massive erupted against his back, ripping his shirt in half at the back seam. He crawled forward on his hands and knees, seeking to escape the burden on his shoulders, to slither out from beneath whatever-the-fuck-it-was now weighing him down and pressing him against the earth. It had to be a Burned One—another had snuck up on them, and gotten Riven this time, and this was what it felt like to be Infected, to have the venom coursing through his body, paralyzing him—

He wouldn’t be able to help Musa.

The thought made his head fly up and face her, every atom in his body resisting that thought. He had to save her. He fucking had to.

He grit his teeth through the pain and dared a glance behind him. Another yell escaped his throat at the sight—this time from surprise. Indigo talons twice the size of an eagle’s hovered over his shoulders, almost dagger-like in shape, connected with a lighter purple webbing—

He choked as he connected the pain between his shoulder blades with the apparition in front of his eyes.

Wings. He had fucking wings.

Riven fought to regain his breath as he pulled himself to his feet, stumbling a little as he compensated for the additional weight on his back. His shirt and reinforced breast plate fell from his chest but he barely noticed. He had wings.

More than that, he realized—he had power.

He could feel it thrumming through him—where before his magic had been a murmur, now it was a roar. It vibrated against his bones and he could feel it crackling at his fingertips. Power.

He barely had to focus—the only thing in his mind was Musa, collapsed at the Burned One’s feet, and Riven simply raised his palms.

The Burned One took a step backward, daunted by the change in Riven’s appearance. He flexed muscles that sixty seconds ago he didn’t know he had and spread his wings as wide as possible to make himself appear larger and more intimidating.

It recovered from its fright and charged at him in a frantic frenzy, but Riven found his reaction times halved by his normal standards—each swipe of the Burned One he met with a slap of his own hands, swatting it away before it could puncture his skin. It yowled in frustration and tried to clap its hands together around Riven’s torso but he simply ducked, leaving it hugging itself in a bizzare embrace. He closed his eyes—almost lazily—and within milliseconds cradled that Cinder in his mind—He didn’t need to concentrate on his focus nearly as much as before.

He focused that rage and energy onto the Cinder and felt it explode into nothing, from boiling hatred to empty peace, and then he opened his eyes.

It was gone. The Burned One had disappeared but Musa still lay on the ground. He knew she wasn’t in danger of Infection, but like with Brandon’s injury there was no time to waste. He scooped her into his arms bridal-style, and when her head lolled against his chest he felt a plunge of something deep in his chest, near where his wings had taken root.

Musa. His Specialist. He needed her.

He didn’t even know how he knew to take flight, but he just knew. His wings carried him through the forest, low and darting as a dragonfly over the brush and through the trees. His shoulders ached with the exhaustion of muscles weak with lack of use, but Riven didn’t care. He forced himself forward, not stopping until he reached the barrier, and even then he pumped his wings forward until he reached the infirmary.

He landed awkwardly on his feet and barrelled inside, Musa still in his arms, knocking aside equipment and paraphernalia left and right with his wingspan. He didn’t care. The only thing he cared about was the seep of her blood onto his shirt and then the floor, and how he had to stop it.

He had to save his Specialist. The one he trusted with his life.

Professor Harvey straightened up from Brandon’s cot, his eyes as large as saucers as he took in the sight of a winged Riven holding Musa’s limp body. A healing fairy stood in the back of the tent behind him, her jaw agape, gaze locked on the violet daggers of Riven’s wingtips.

Riven lifted Musa towards Harvey as if presenting a macabre offering. They weren’t helping. They weren’t moving. They just fucking stared.

“Help!” he bellowed at Harvey. “Help her!”

Harvey blinked but the spell finally broke. He leapt forward to take Musa from Riven’s arms and the fairy behind him hurried over as well. Riven and Harvey lowered onto a cot, her back and the worst of her injuries facing upward. Riven sank onto his knees and ran his hands through Musa’s hair, then over her face as if he could stroke life back into her. Her face was paler than he’d ever seen—even her lips looked desaturated. Her eyes were closed and looked far too relaxed, as if she was asleep, but he couldn’t think that because that’s always what people said when they d-

He forcibly stopped that thought and clutched at her head. “Musa,” he choked. “Musa, wake up—”

“Riven, I need to get by you,” Harvey said above him. Riven felt a pressure on his right side somewhere unusual and realized that Harvey was trying to lean over Musa through his still-flexed wing. He shifted two steps to the left so he was at the head of the bed, but he felt a hand on his arm.

He looked up at Sky, concern written all over his blue eyes. “Riven, come with me—”

“No,” Riven said, clutching closer to the metal frame of Musa’s cot. “No, not without her—”

Sky’s hand closed more firmly around Riven’s arm. “Riv, you’re in the way—let the healers work.”

Maybe Sky was right—the healing fairy squeezed past his wingspan to reach the supplies above his head—but he couldn’t leave her. It was his fault she was hurt, they’d been arguing—he should have protected her.

But Sky wasn’t leaving him a choice. Silva appeared next to him, and between the two of them they grasped Riven’s upper arms and pulled him from the tent, his errant wings still knocking bottles from shelves and curtains from their rods. Riven’s vision stayed fixed on Musa, dread pooling inside him at how small and frail she looked on that cot.

He didn’t even realize they had dragged him into the strategy tent until he blinked and Silva was snapping his fingers in front of Riven’s eyes to rouse him.

“Riven,” Silva said. “What the hell happened?”

Riven stared at Silva, but he wasn’t really seeing him. He saw Musa, her face torqued in pain, the way her knees and elbows bent as she fell, her brown pigtails splayed out against the earth. His fault.

“Riven,” Sky reached out with a hand and turned his chin to force eye contact. “Riven, are you alright?”

He swallowed thickly and jerked his head downward out of Sky’s grip to stare at the ground. “Burned One came out of nowhere—we killed it, but then there was another—camouflaged somehow. It got M—” his voice caught and he stopped, unable to finish.

“But you killed it?” Sky prompted, and Riven managed a brusque nod. “Musa’s gonna be fine, Riven—she’s hurt but not Infected.”

He screwed his face up at that. Sure, she wasn’t Infected. She was just unconscious with pain and incapacitated for who the hell knew how long, and it was his fucking fault.

“Riven.” He wished they’d stop saying his name. He didn’t want any of them—he wanted to be alone. With her. With Musa.

He felt another hand on his arm and tried to pull it away, but the hand clenched harder, forcing him to look up. Silva stared down at him, expression full of something akin to sympathy. “I know you want to blame yourself, but it’s possible to make no mistakes and still lose. That doesn’t mean you’re a bad partner—it means you are alive. That’s life.”

Riven shook his head, but as he ran the fight back through his head, he found the smallest bit of solace in Silva’s words. He drew a shaky breath and gave Silva the barest hint of a nod.

Silva released his grip on Riven’s arm and nodded back. “Want to tell us how you got those?”

Pushing aside his guilt about Musa meant that the sensations of his body all came roaring back, and Riven grimaced in pain. His shoulders ached at the notch of his wings, his chest was sore from taking the Burned One’s blow, and he felt a general sense of exhaustion from his flight back to camp. “When the Burned One got her,” he said and lifted his gaze to observe the tendrils of purple reaching above his head. “It just happened. I was so angry—and then they just burst out of me. It hurt like hell.”

“Looks cool as hell,” Sky said with a grin, circling Riven to admire the wings from all angles.

“What else happened?” Silva asked, and Riven turned back to face him with a quizzical expression. Silva gestured to the wings. “Anything besides these?”

“Yeah,” Riven said slowly, recalling that thrum of energy that had surged through him. “Power. It was like my magic was twice as powerful and half as easy. I’ve never killed one so quickly. Not on my own.”

Sky wolf whistled in admiration and Riven allowed a small grin.

Then his grin vanished, replaced by a grimace of pain. He stumbled forward and grabbed Sky’s shoulder to keep himself upright as his back muscles wrenched and contorted. A keen of pain escaped his clenched teeth—it felt like his back was splitting open between his shoulder blades. He gasped and sank to his knees, pulling Sky down with him, his legs unable to support him in his agony.

As suddenly as it started, it stopped. Riven stayed on the ground, hands on his thighs, breathing away the memory of the pain. He felt lighter and somehow lesser—more muted. He looked up and confirmed what he’d suspected—his wings had vanished, receding inside him.

“Now that was cool,” Silva chuckled.

Riven grimaced again and used Sky’s shoulder to haul himself back upright. “Does this mean I can go back now?” he asked, looking from Silva to Sky. “I can stay out of the way.”

Silva and Sky exchanged a glance, at which Silva nodded. At the smallest motion Riven immediately turned for the tent flap and hurried forward.

Sky came with him, for which Riven was silently appreciative. Even though he didn’t want to talk, he didn’t want to be alone with his thoughts either, and Sky was his best friend. He would be a silent companion if that’s what Riven needed.

Harvey begrudgingly let Riven back inside and Sky left Riven in an out-of-the-way corner, an agitated but quiet spectator to Harvey’s ministrations. He returned a few minutes later with water and a clean shirt, both of which Riven accepted gratefully.

They waited long into the night, Riven’s gaze never leaving Musa. Sky’s head drooped against his shoulder and he reflected on what his friend had told him earlier, about his Specialist being his lifeline. Fuck, he’d been right.

===

Some color had returned to Musa’s cheeks, but she was still weak from loss of blood and the extent of the Burned One’s claws in her body. Riven only left her side to eat, which Harvey did not permit in the infirmary. The other teams came in at various times to wish her well and congratulate Riven on his transformation. He always hated when they brought that part up. As impressive as it was (so they said), it was without a doubt the worst twenty minutes of his life.

After a few days’ recovery she lay on her stomach with the white bandages still wrapped around her torso while Riven perched on a stool beside her cot, one foot up on her bedframe and the other tucked on the crossbar of his stool. “I’m still mad I’m the only one who never got to see them,” she sighed and rested on hand beneath her chin. “Stella says they wouldn’t have been out of place at a spring fashion show.”

“My wings were extremely masculine, thank you,” Riven said, and Musa laughed hard enough to grimace in pain and clutch at her ribs. They fell silent and Riven ran a thumb along the seam of his trousers, still unable to think back to that time without flinching. “Maybe I’ll learn to control them, but until then I honestly hope you never see them.”

She gave him a bracing smile, and he knew she understood without him having to say it—that if it took Musa getting mortally hurt for his wings to appear, he’d rather never transform again.

She reached her hand out and he took it, thumbing a wide arc over the back of her hand. His Specialist. His partner. His life.

[kuronanox]

Your Knight - Leopold Vermillion

"Leo." (Your Name) calls waiting down the hill for him waving her hands as the wind blows through the air, and the autumn leaves fly around them as he runs towards her with excitement, his smile ear to ear.

"I'm running away from my brother!" He tells her as they grab each other hands and run to the field where they would play together. "Princess and Knight?" Leopold asks her as she nods her head with a smile.

It was a cute little game they played often where the usual the knight saved the princess and there was a happy ending. "Wow your magic is so strong!" She says with sparkles in her eyes as he shot a baby fire out into the sky.

"You should see my brothers it's way better." He says as it explodes and they looked up to the sky to mesmerize it.

"You won't get in trouble being out here?" (Your Name) asks as she picked at the green grass and threw it into the air.

"Not if I don't get caught!" He chuckles as he slightly pushes her and she runs after him. "Hey that's not fair! I'm not fast." She pouts chasing after him.

"Huh?! Lame Leopold I didn't know you were one to play with commoners!" Solid shouts from afar with a smug smile on his face. (Your Name) gasps as she hid behind Leopold and watched Solid walk towards them.

"Come here little girl!" He says snatching her roughly away from the youngest Vermillion and threw her onto the floor. "Commoners like you don't get to have the luxury to hang out with us royals, got it!" He sneers kicking dirt on her dress as she looks down and lands hard on the floor.

"Leave her alone!" Leopold yells and threaten to use his magic on Solid but the older boy just scoffs and places his hands on his hips and chuckles.

"It's okay Leo, he's right. Commoners shouldn't speak to royals." (Your name) says trying to get up from the floor. Her voice was soft and shaking as if she was about to break down in tears.

"Shut up peasant! Who told you to talk!" Solid yells kicking her back to the ground as Leopold punched him in the face.

"What's little 8 year old Leopold going to do? Go snitch on me?" Solid taught as he laughs and dodges the punch before swinging his own fist hitting Leopold right on his cheek as the younger boy fell on the floor across from (Your Name). The two children look at each other with sadness written in their eyes.

"That's enough!" They heard a deep voice yell from behind as 22 year old Fuegoleon was watching with furious eyes and his mana flaring, carefully he picks up (Your Name) from the ground and looks towards Solids direction.

"Go home now!" He sternly says to Solid as the boy grew in fear and ran back to the Silva estates.

Fuegoloen holds (Your Name) as she starts to cry and wipe her tears as she says "I'm sorry Lord Fuegoleon I won't play with Leo no more."

Leopold runs besides them and sits on the ground next to them feeling ashamed he couldn't protect her from Solid and he didn't try his best to prevent it from happening.

"What is your name?" Fuegoleon asks kindly as he kneed down eyes to eye with her.

"It's (Your Name)." She sniffles as Leopold takes a hold of her shaken hand.

"It's a very pretty name, don't let anyone tell you who you can be friends or not friends with. We are all the same. I am thankful you let Leopold comes home everyday safely." He tells her with a smile as she looks up to him and nods with determination.

"Leo is my best friend I would never let him get hurt!"

"And I am thankful for that. You did take on a powerful kick."

Leopold squeezes her hand as she squeezes it back.

"Let's get you home now." Fuegoleon says carrying both Leopold and her in his arms.

"Aniue! I'm 8 years old I can walk myself!" The boy pouts as his older brother drops him and continues walking with (Your Name) on his back.

Once they reached her home she gave Leo a hug and Fuegoleon a shy smile before saying a farewell.

"Leo, I'll teach you have to defend yourself. How will you be her knight if you can't even protect yourself." He lectures as Leopold looks down ashamed, he kicks the ground and clench his fist with frustration. "Imagine if your sister was here."

"How do you know about that?" Leopold grimly says playing with his feet avoiding eye contact from his older brother.

"Don't think I don't know where you run off to everyday." Fuegoleon scolds as they walked back home together.

Now 8 years later Leopold was becoming a grown man and learning his full potential. He hadn't seen (Your Name) in a few years since she moved to the country side. He achieved so much after the fight with the elves and preparing for the fight with Spade Kingdom he was proud to say he was 100x stronger than he was years ago.

There were times he missed her dearly, someone he could run to and talk to about his royal problems or how training went but she was gone and all those feelings were kept hidden in his heart.

Although he was a happy kid he did have times where he fell into the dark. Like sometimes being the shadows of both his siblings.

"I miss her." He says sitting on the open field where they use to play, starring into the scenery and slightly cringing at himself. They were both children with imaginations never did he think he would ever be anyone's Knight but he was thankful it was to (Your Name).

Knitting his brows he wondered if she was doing alright, he remembered a time where he ate dinner at her house. Her parents were poor and they ate soups most night but he never had ill thoughts towards there life style.

Leopold remembers his younger self sitting next to (Your Name) as they ate potato soup and bread. The last of the bread her family could get. They offered him the biggest piece but he refused and let them have all the pieces. He finally realized how good of a life he was born into. As he drank the soup he remembers a feeling of warmth go down his stomach.

He realizes it was made with hard work and dedication, her family poured their heart and soul to support a roof on their heads. That night before he left home he hugged her tightly for a few moments longer as she questioned what was wrong with him. "I promise you won't have to suffer when we get older." he says seriously to her as she just laugh.

"Don't worry Leo, we were just born into different classes, some people have it worse than me."

Leopold smiles to himself as he made that silly promise that he wish to make come true, maybe in another lifetime it was worth trying. He couldn't even find out where she was at now.

"Leo let's go." Fuegoleon says from behind the younger boy, recently he would find him at the field whenever he had bad days or if he wanted to get out of the city. Fuegoleon wouldn't say much but take him home every night.

(Your Name) had returned to Clover Kingdom after a few years away, her parents making enough from farming to move back to the city. The place was still the same, nothing changed much besides some rebuilding from the damage that the elves had left behind.

"I wonder if I can see Leopold again?"  She wondered looking at the capitol before going back into her family business.

"Why don't you go visit him?" Her mother said to her that night as she got ready for bed but she shook her head and remembered the brief memory of solid telling her they don't belong together.

"We are on a different level with royals, I was just a kid."

"Still, you guys were inseparable."

Walking into her bedroom she closed it slightly and laid in bed. Would Leopold still be the same boy he was years ago. People change and out grow sometimes. For all she knew he could have turned out snobby but that was not likely.

One early morning Leopold ran after a thief that he caught early as he was heading towards the fields. "Stop right there!" He yelled chasing the hooded figure as civilians were pushed onto the ground and caused a commotion around the city.

(Your Name) turned her head to find the hooded figure running towards her and the basket of bakery goods fell on the floor as she gasp and tried to get out of the grasp of the thief. "Let me go!" She shouted as she was lifted into the air with a rope around her neck.

"Let her go!" Leopold shouts from below with his fire spilling out of his hands, his face filled with anger.

"Leopold!" She yelled surprised to see him. He was tall, his hair more spiked and his tooth was growing out.

"(Your Name)?" He says confused, he didn't recognize her. She was a women now. "How many years has it been?"

The thief pulled the rope around her neck as she tried to get out of the grasp only to be dragged around as it choked her. "Help her!" Someone yelled from behind Leopold as he froze in place.

He trained for this, he had to show her how much of a man he became. He wasn't the little boy back then that couldn't fight back. Her cough echoed in his ears as tears fell from her face from not getting enough oxygen. "Fuck it."

Charging towards the hooded thief he threw a row of swirling fire as it went down a few yards and the place was fired up to where everyone had to evacuate.

The ropes burned off her neck as he grabbed her hand to safely. Only to grab the hooded figure and punched him onto the floor. Sitting over the thief he punched him one after another till his knuckle was bloody and bruised.

"Leopold stop! Your going to kill him!" (Your Name) echoed, pleading him to stop.

Focused on punishing the thief he was blacked out but was awake in his own world.

"You tried to kill (Your Name)."

"This thief tried to kill her."

"He tried to take her away!"

The thief was on the floor not moving as she touched his hand only to flinch back. Leopold body was burning with heat. He was angry. His eyes had murder written on them as she pulled his body back not caring how hot it was burning her.

"Leo!" She screamed as he looked back up to her.

"(Your Name)?" He says as she looked down at him with fear, glancing at the man on the floor not responding he lifted his fists to see them marked with red and purple.

"Stop, that's enough." She tells him as he looks around them. The place was covered in smoke and ashes. "You saved me it's enough."

Embarrassed he couldn't control his anger he yelled into his hands as she led him back to her place a few streets down.

After he settled down a bit, Leopold couldn't look into her eyes. "You must think lowly of me." He says with a whisper as she shakes her head. "No I don't, it's just scary how violent you got."

"It's only cause he was going to kill you! I had to protect you! Don't you know how it works here! The weak die unless they are strong enough and I wasn't going to lose you again!" He yelled as her eyes widen, Leopold had never yelled at her before.

(Your Name) had to understand they were older now, they weren't kids in a daydream anymore.

"I'm sorry." She says as he felt his stomach drop. Walking towards her he pulls her into a hug and dropped his head on her shoulder.

"I can't lose you again. You don't know what it's like to be the shadow of both my sibling and carrying the burden of the Crimson Lions when my brother was in a coma and when I had to fight the elves and train for the upcoming war with the Spade kingdom, it's just so much going on. I didn't have anyone to tell or go to."

(Your Name) wrapped her arms around his body and embraced him lovingly. He had grown up so much over the years she couldn't believe it.

"Leopold, I'm not scared of you, just shocked. I know you would never hurt anyone with out a reason. And I'm here now. I'm not leaving again." She rubbed his back as he hid his face by her neck. Like a baby cub he was yearning for warmth with the only place he found comfort. In her company.

"I'm no princess but I'm glad my knight showed up." She chuckled as he slightly smiled and embraced her tighter.

"I'll always be your knight and shining armor." Leopold says with a smile on his face.

(Author note: Leopold looks so good with the skip time! My baby ;-;)

[lyranova]

Children of the Future:

Chapter 5: Reunions

Hi guys! So here’s chapter 5 i’m sorry it took so long, also there isn’t any Zobra in this chapter which I apologize for, the next chapter will have them in it I promise! Anyway I hope you all enjoy 🥰!

Word Count: 2,829

Warnings: None

Taglist: @eme-eleff @jovialnoise @crazyclownthanos @talpup (because Yami’s in it hehe) If anyone else wants to be added please let me know!

———

Yami sighed as he and the others flew back to his and Charlotte’s newly shared home, now they were supposed to be going back to their respective hideouts, but at the last minute Julius had a thought.

“ Hey, since Josslyn seems to know Hikari, why don’t you all stay together? I mean, I’m sure the house is big enough for all of you to stay there comfortably. Plus it’ll help us be able to keep an eye on them.” Julius had explained to them before they walked out of the office.

Yami shook his head, leave it to Julius to come up with a crazy idea like that! But when he thought about it, it made sense for all of them to be staying together even though none of them liked it very much. Zora had gone back to the Black Bulls hideout to get some of his things while Nebra and Nozel went back to the Silver Eagles to get her things as well. So Yami was left in charge of Josslyn and Ace for a little while, which he wasn’t looking forward to too much. He already had how many teens/young adults to look after?!

The three landed in front of the house and he heard Josslyn chuckle.

“ This is it? It looks like a complete dump.” She muttered as she looked the house up and down.

“ I think it looks nice.” Ace said with a smile as he grabbed his older sister's arm and dragged her inside the house. “ Come on Josslyn I wanna see what it looks like inside!” He added as he pushed open the door, Yami tilted his head; the boy had been so quiet and shy earlier, but now that it was just him and his sister he seemed a little more energetic. Yami followed them inside and closed the door behind him.

Ace looked around in silent wonder; this place wasn’t nearly as nice or as big as his home, but it was still nice! It seemed warm, cozy, even inviting! Plus, this was the start of a new adventure! Sure he didn’t have any of his friends with him, but he did have his big sister with him so he wouldn’t have to worry! He looked up at his sister and saw her still wearing that scowl on her face.

“ Are you ok?” He asked her softly, she nodded before crossing her arms.

“ Fine. This just puts a wrinkle in my plans, the sooner we can get back to our own time the better.” She muttered before looking around the common room again.

“ But, we don’t even know why or how mom and dad sent us here in the first place. So how are we supposed to get back home?” He asked her softly, he wanted to get back home just as much as she did, but a small piece of him wanted to stay long enough to see how different this time was to theirs.

“ I haven’t figured that part out yet. But I will, I promise Ace, I’ll get us back home come hell or high water.” Josslyn said determinedly, Yami walked past the two and sat down on one of the couches.

Yami looked around and frowned; where were Charlotte and Hikari? He figured they’d have come out when he got back. As if on cue he sensed someone coming into the room and when he looked over it was Hikari.

“ Oh you’re back, is everything ok-?” Hikari paused as she saw the red haired boy and pink haired girl. “ Ace? Josslyn?! You’re here too!” She asked as she walked up to the two. Josslyn crossed her arms and smirked.

“ Well look what the cat dragged in. You’re a sight for sore eyes Sukehiro.” Josslyn teased, Hikari laughed and shook her head.

“ It’s good to see you too Josslyn. It’s good to see you as well Ace.” Hikari said with a smile on her face, she hadn’t been expecting anyone else to be coming from her time. She thought she was the only one. A small piece of her was thankful that she wouldn’t be alone here, another part of her hoped that maybe some of the others were here too!

“ Hi Hikari!” Ace said cheerfully, he had met the young Sukehiro many times before since Josslyn and her were best friends.

“ So you two were sent back here as well?” Hikari asked, she noticed Josslyn look over at Yami with a small frown, Hikari recognized that look; she didn’t trust him.

“ We’ll talk about that later.” Jossyn said shortly, but Hikari nodded in agreement. Hikari trusted the Yami and Charlotte of this time, but Josslyn didn’t. The only one’s she trusted were herself, Hikari, and Ace.

“ Where’s Charlotte?” Yami asked suddenly, Hikari looked over at him.

“ She was called over to the Blue Rose Knights. She said she would be back in a couple of hours.” Hikari explained, he nodded before standing and getting some wine to drink, after today he really needed it.

“ We’re going to my room to catch up.” She said before walking with Josslyn and Ace to her room, Yami nodded before taking a sip of his wine.

“ Alright, I’ll call you when dinner is done.” Yami muttered, to which Hikari nodded before the three kids walked down the hall. Yami suddenly choked on his drink as what he said sunk in; it hasn’t even been 24 hours and he was already starting to sound like he was her dad! He took another gulp of his drink, what was going on with him?

Yami didn’t consider himself very ‘paternal’, maybe an Uncle or a Big Brother, but not as an actual parent. Yet here he was, telling Hikari that he would call her when dinner was ready, threatening Finral for flirting with her. He sighed and leaned back in the chair with his eyes closed, what was going on with him?

———

Hikari closed her bedroom door behind her and sat down on her bed across from Josslyn, who sat on one of the other beds with Ace. She looked her friend up and down, she couldn’t believe she was actually here!

“ So you two were sent back here too?” Hikari repeated her earlier question, Josslyn nodded shortly and leaned back on her arms and sighed.

“ Yeah, mom and dad sent us back shortly after you did I assume. They didn’t tell us why though, I’m assuming yours didn’t tell you anything either?” Josslyn asked, when she shook her head the pink haired girl sighed. “ Why the hell would they send us here without any information?”

“ I don’t know, it’s odd. Usually my parents tell me everything, well, everything they’re allowed to tell me anyway.” Hikari said, pulling her legs up to her chest.

“ Do you think we were under attack?” Ace asked as he grabbed a nearby pillow and hugged it, the two girls looked at each other for a moment.

“ It’s possible, but unlikely since they’ve never sent us away when we were under attack before.” Josslyn told her brother as she put a thoughtful hand under her chin.

“ Unless the threat was just that dangerous.” Hikari pointed out, Josslyn nodded in agreement as Ace’s face blanched considerably. Silence fell upon the three at her words, it was something they were all thinking but didn’t want to say out loud.

“ It’s still unlikely though, we haven’t been attacked seriously in years. Plus, what kind of threat would be dangerous enough to warrant this? Our parents got rid of most of the devils decades ago, so there’s no way there could be a bigger threat than them.” Josslyn argued, Hikari shrugged, either way they would find out eventually.

“ Hey Joss,” Hikari started after they sat in silence again. “ Do you think the others may be here as well?” Josslyn ‘hmmed’ in thought.

“ Could be, especially since the three of us are here. Are you asking for a reason?” Josslyn quirked an eyebrow slightly, and Hikari shook her head with a soft smile on her face.

“ No. Not really.” She sighed before looking away and rubbing the back of her head nervously. “ I guess I’m just hoping he’ll be here too.” She added softly, she looked as the pink haired girl snorted.

“ Who? Pretty boy? Pfft. Please, I doubt he’ll be here. He’s Mr. Chivalrous, remember? Plus he’s the type of guy who’d willingly stay behind and sacrifice himself for the sake of others. Even if they don’t deserve it.” Josslyn said. “ He’s an idiot.” She added, causing the dark haired girl to frown.

“ He is not an idiot, he’s far from being an idiot and you know it.” Hikari told her seriously, she didn’t like it when people spoke ill of him. It always irritated her and made her angry, although she wasn’t sure why.

“ I know that geez lighten up.” Josslyn looked away and rubbed her neck in embarrassment. Hikari sighed.

“ Sorry I shouldn’t have snapped.” She said with a soft laugh. “ Anyway, even though he is all of those things you mentioned, except him being an idiot, I do think he would leave. Especially if his father told him too.”

“ True, he really only listens to his father,” Josslyn smirked a bit. “ Or you, apparently.” Hikari blushed at the statement and looked away, what was Josslyn insinuating? Sure he listened to her whenever she would offer some advice or things like that, and Hikari would do the same when he offered advice as well. They were best friends, so why wouldn’t they listen to each other?

———-

Yami opened his eyes when he heard the door open, he saw Charlotte walk in and he sighed again before closing his eyes. She frowned before closing the door, walking over to him, and sitting down across from him.

“ Rough day?” She asked leaning forward a bit, she noticed the wine glass on the table which confirmed her suspicion.

“ Oh yeah. Apparently, Zora and Nebra Silva have two kids together. Both traveled here just like Hikari. They’re in the bedroom catching up.” Yami told her before opening his eyes and looking at the blonde. She was looking at him with wide, surprised eyes.

“ So, there’s more kids out there?” She asked in shock, Yami chuckled. She was more worried and surprised by that than about Zora and Nebra, but then again, she didn’t really know either of them too well to form an opinion.

“ Apparently. But we don’t know if anymore have traveled back, and if they did, how many.” Yami said softly, Charlotte sat back in her chair; how many more future kids could be out there right now? Lost, alone, frightened? She shook her head to clear those thoughts.

“ Did you tell Julius about what Hikari told us?” She asked, leaning back and crossing one leg over the other as Yami nodded.

“ I did. It concerned him just as much as it did us. He was curious about the Time Gate, but I think he pushed that away when I mentioned our future selves being worried and dragging Hikari through said portal.” Yami said with a sigh before pinching the bridge of his nose. “ Julius said to keep him informed of any changes, but he’s pretty worried about it too.”

Charlotte nodded as the room fell silent, she couldn’t help but be anxious about all of this. If multiple parents sent their children back in time to avoid a threat, how big and dangerous was it? Did everyone send their kids back or was it just the mighty few who had powerful connections and a high status such as themselves? She stood up quickly, she didn’t want to think about all of that right now.

“ I’m going to get started on dinner. I’ll admit it’s been a while since I last cooked so I can’t promise it’ll be very good.” Charlotte said with a small laugh before walking into the kitchen.

“ I’ll come help, we’re going to need to make extra since there’s 7 of us.” Yami stated before standing and following her into the kitchen.

“ 7?” She questioned before turning around to face Yami, he looked away sheepishly as he explained what Julius had done. Charlotte’s face turned a bright red shade, irritation and anger clearly on her face.

“ WHAT!!!”

————

Julius stared thoughtfully at his desk. These children were very peculiar. How were they able to travel back in time? Did they have a time mage like him? If so, how come they were able to open a Time Gate and he wasn’t? He was both perplexed yet curious, if he ever got the chance he really wanted to meet this time wizard or the mage who invented the gate! He stood up quietly, ready to turn in for the night, when he suddenly froze on the spot.

“ My, when did you get here? I thought I sensed someone’s mana, but I just assumed it was my imagination.” Julius said with a laugh, talking to the person hiding in the shadows. He had sensed this mana for a while, but he wanted to see what the mage was going to do before commenting on it. But the mage didn’t move, not one bit. He turned to face where the mage was hiding.

“ I know you’re there. So why don’t you please come out so we can have a conversation?” Julius offered kindly, even though he was treating this intruder kindly, he wasn’t about to let his guard down. For all he knew, it could be the threat Yami told him about.

The ‘intruder’ walked out from their hiding spot in the shadows and they stepped into the light. Julius wasn’t normally surprised, but once he saw their face he couldn’t stop it from showing slightly in his eyes.

A young man, around Hikari’s age, appeared before him. He was tall, lean, and wore a warm smile on his face. His hair was short, white, and messy, his piercing blue eyes stared kindly at Julius and his smile looked so familiar, and yet so different, what really struck him though were his clothes; they were the Golden Dawns uniform.

“ Ah a member of the Golden Dawn. Welcome, although I don’t believe your Captain knows you're here and usually I have to be the one to summon you.” Julius said light heartedly, the young man nodded and laughed.

“ Yes sir you’re right about those, although my Captain does in fact know I’m here. So it shouldn’t be a problem.” He shrugged, his smile staying in place. Julius analyzed him. His posture was calm, warm, and non-threatening, as though he were completely comfortable in the Wizard King's presence. The boy carried himself proudly, but not in an intimidating way, he smiled and was so far treating him as though they were old friends.

He wasn’t here to hurt Julius. That much was clear.

“ You’re one of the kids from the future, aren’t you?” Julius deduced rather quickly, surprising the boy in process.

“ Wow. You really are as smart as they say.” He laughed in surprise. “ I didn’t think you would figure it out so quickly.”

“ Well you don’t get to where I’m at today without picking up a few tricks.” Julius said kindly before sitting back down at his desk. “ Why did you come straight here?”

“ Because I thought this is where my father would be today. But I guess not.” The boy said scratching the back of his head nervously.

“ Your father?”

“ Ah yeah,” the young man laughed again, apparently that was a nervous habit of his, to laugh when he was either uncomfortable or nervous. “ usually this is where I find him most days. But I guess he’s different in this time.” He added with a small sigh.

“ Most likely. People grow and change over the years, we adapt and evolve. That’s just how things are.” Julius said with a nod before tilting his head.

“ Y’know, you seem to know a lot about me. This office. This entire building in fact since you were able to bypass all the security and Magic Knights. But yet, I know so little about you. What’s your name? I’m Julius.” He introduced himself to the young man with a warm and kind smile, the boy looked at his hand before looking back up at his face. He quickly took his hand and gave it a firm shake.

“ My name’s Alistar Vangeance. It’s a pleasure to meet you Lord Julius. But I think we need to call my father and tell him that I’m here, don’t you?”

———

*squeals* My baby boy is finally here hehe! I love Alistar so much 🥺, I hope you guys like him too! Thanks for reading and I hope you all have a good day~!

[vermillionflames]

part 3. working on a title. can also read here

one: i do not like writing fighting scenes, one was needed so i bull shat my way thru it, sorry

two: it gets really fluffy at the end (and spicy if salt is too spicy for you)

nozel x oc

warning: language, mention of blood during a battle, fluffy nozel, cliffhanger?

enjoy!

“You sent her to the Black Bulls?!”

“Are you questioning my judgement?”

“Yes, obviously. You sent your sister to live with a bunch of heathens. I understand she can’t be with us, by why not just not make any arrangements for her?”

“Because if I had done that she would go to the entrance exam… and make a fool of herself in front of everyone. I have to prevent any embarrassment for our family.”

I lean back into my desk chair and look up at Nozel.

“The Black Bulls… are so unbearable.”

“Perhaps I’ve spoiled you.”

“Don’t you hate Yami? What did you say last time you had a captains meeting… foreigner??”

“Yes, he’s a foul-mouthed, filthy foreign-”

I crossed my arms and smirked.

“Then what, pray tell, am I?”

“I must leave now. I have some things to complete before the exam tomorrow.”

“Why? I mean you’re not gonna recruit anyone who attends the exam and we’ve reviewed every eligible royal and high ranking noble.”

“Captain duties, you wouldn’t understand.”

“I understand that you’re avoiding the question.”

“Seraphina, I really must go now,” He turned and walked towards the door.

“Wait, am I a foul-mouthed, filthy foreigner or not?”

“Foul-mouthed? Yes. Filthy? I should hope not considering how much time you spent in the bath.”

“Oh, so now you have a problem with how much I bathe?”

“Don’t forget to review that mission for me,” and with that he left. Note to self: ask how many baths everyone takes. ---- Nebra went to the entrance exam with Nozel. Solid was too busy being Solid… which meant I had to go with Rob and Curtis to Nairn to investigate rumors of Diamond Kingdom spies influencing commoners. Commoners upset with royalty? Not unusual but not something I wanted to deal with. I could not come up with anything brilliant to say to make them happy, handing out money felt like a facade, and how many times could I subject myself to be known as “the pretty one who hugs old men and kisses babies.” Oh, and there were the spy rumors. If there really were Diamond Kingdom spies we would probably have to fight them, and I don’t know if three of us in the middle of a populated area would be the best idea. Nonetheless, duty calls.

I made Rob and Curtis eavesdrop around the town while I went to the church to ask the sisters if they knew of anything suspicious going on. Of course Sister Theresa was not gonna let me off easy.

“Why are you asking me?”

“Because you live here.”

“Why do you think I would know anything?”

“I don’t know, because you try to protect these orphans.”

“Why hasn’t Fueggy come to visit me?”

“Do I look like I talk to Fuegoleon?”

“Did you at least bring a donation… for the children?”

“I always do.”

“Where is your husband?”

“Suffering at the exams, hopefully.”

“Why don’t you-”

“Sister, I appreciate the conversation but time is of the essence. If there are spies here we really need to take care of them before they cause physical harm.”

“Fine, but you’ll have to tell Fuegoleon to come visit us.”

“I’m sure he would be delighted to. Now, I know you were once a Magic Knight. What have you seen?”

“They meet at the bar and talk to the alcoholics, bless them, about uprising and taking down the Magic Parlament, attacking nobility and royalty, standing up to the Magic Knights.”

“Oh good. Just the kind of thing I wanted to deal with alone.”

“You’re going to deal with them now?”

“I might as well! Thank you, Sister.”

I didn’t run into Curtis or Rob on my way to the bar so I decided to go in alone. Didn’t make an effort to take off my Silver Eagles robe or House Silva insignia, which I will later regret, no doubt.

I walked up to the bar and ordered a beer. It became so quiet you could hear everyone breathing.

“Are you sure you want a beer… your highness,” the bartender asked. There was some poison in his words.

“Yes, please,” I smiled and dropped a few too many coins on the counter, while also taking a seat on the bar stool.

He comes back and sets the stein in front of me.

“Thank you,” he watches me take my first sip. “Is something wrong bartender?”

“Yes,” a voice from behind me says. I turn around and see three Diamond Kingdom spies and that the rest of the patrons have left. Uh oh.

“Oh hey, I was actually looking for you,” I get my grimoire out, “Would you mind coming with me?”

“Like hell I would,” they also pull out their grimoires. I’m not good at combat when I also have to be careful about civilians. Before I can cast a spell they attack me and I’m forced to be defense. I used my magic to create a barrier to protect me from attacks, but one of the Diamond guys grabs it and absorbs my mana, sucking it out of my hand.

“Well, that isn’t good.”

He gets close enough to grab my chin and forces me to look at him. Ew.

“You’ll be a nice prize back home,” he continues to suck my mana out of me, “I’m really sorry we have to do it this way. I’ll make sure to keep enough that you live… then we can have some real fun.” Double ew.

Against my better judgement I try to go for a physical attack and bang my head into his. He lets go of me and I get a raging headache plus blood from breaking our skin, but I don’t have enough mana now to move and I fall to my knees.

“Oh, you want it to be that way huh,” he grabs my wrist and pulls me up. I’m dizzy and seeing black dots. Next time, don’t slam your head so hard into some guys jaw, you fucking idiot.

I can feel a mana empowered fist go into my side before the dizziness gets to be too much and I black out.

----

I feel cold, silky sheets all around me. I’m too tired to open my eyes. I can sense some bodies are around me.

“She’ll be fine, she just needs rest.”

Oh I recognize that voice, thank god, those creeps didn’t take me.

“Captain, we didn’t know the spies were there and ready to attack or we wouldn’t have split up-”

“No one knows what mages from other kingdoms will do, what’s important is that you were able to stop them. The Wizard King is interrogating them as we speak.”

“Captain.”

“You two are dismissed. Thank you.”

“Captain Nozel,” I hear the doctor speak again, “I wasn’t able to fully heal her broken bones, I’ll come back tomorrow to finish the treatment. They’ll be sore and she-”

“That’s fine, she can be sore.”

Tough love, oh how I missed you husband.

“Alright, I’ll take my leave as well.”

I could feel him staring at me and decided I did not want to deal with whatever he was plotting so I went back to sleep.

When I opened my eyes again it was dark out. Someone had put me into a silk nightgown… God, my body is sore. And it’s fucking cold in here. I reached out to grab more bedding to snuggle into and hit my hand against something fleshy instead. I looked over and saw Nozel sleeping next to me. Um? Excuse me, this is my room. We have a deal. Actually… I’m cold, he’s radiating heat… I’ll just cuddle into him.

I don’t allow myself to think anymore before I lay my head on his chest and reach across his body with my arm. He doesn’t flinch so I know he’s in deep sleep and will not say shit to me about this.

I guess through the night we had managed to get closer because when I woke up my legs were tangled with his and his arms were holding me. I laid listening to his heart beat. Please don’t wake up, please don’t ruin it. I had to enjoy my affection in short lived moments so I always pray he doesn’t stop once he starts.

But I live in an unfortunate reality where Nozel does wake up. I turn my head to stare at him. He stares back. Now either I hit my head so hard I became stupid or I am in a coma. Because instead of getting off I lean my lips towards his and kiss him. And he kisses me back. Something he does like once every 3 years.

He puts his hands in my hair and deepens the kiss. Oh I like this. He flips us so that I'm on my back and he’s hovering over me. I’m feeling very, very hot. I put my hands on his cheeks. He doesn’t pause so I take it as a sign to continue and let my hand drop down to the top of his shirt and pull on it. He breaks away.

“That’s enough for now,” he gets up from the bed and I groan. Dammit.

“Why?”

“Because I said so. Owen will be here shortly to look over your injuries again. I would advise getting dressed or putting on a nightdress that is… less revealing.”

“Who cares about Owen? I want whatever that just was.”

“Perhaps another time,” Nozel was at the door that connected his room to mine, “Now when I come back with Owen please be presentable.”