#return of the dragon slayers spoilers

[queers-gambit]

Sweetest Devotion [ part two ]

PICKS UP INSTANTLY WHERE [ part one ] LEFT OFF [ alternate ending one: Kin Slayer ] [ series masterlist ]

prompt: exhausted by the war efforts, your husband does what he can to protect you. but maybe in the end, it'll be you who saves him.

pairing: Aemond Targaryen x Velaryon!wife!reader

fandom: House of the Dragon

word count: 8k+

note: this is the final, people!

warnings: major book spoilers. cursing, some angst, some comfort, author projects a little lot, major alternate timeline ending. ❗️SPOILERS

Yet, he didn't forget your words or worries, collecting you the following day to interrogate the acting Lord of Harrenhal. As you anticipated, Ser Simon plead his innocence and insisted he gave over Harrenhal to Daemon because there was no possible way he couldn't gone against his dragon, Caraxes. Aemond, brimming with anger as his children were in the hands of the enemy, sentenced Ser Simon to trial-by-combat to prove his innocence, and you had to pull him away into the private hall.

"Have you gone mad? Ser Simon can barely wield a sword, my love, he cannot possibly defend himself," you argued.

"He can name someone to fight in his stead," Aemond spoke stiffly. "But I will have retribution. This was a trap, my love," he grit, "this was all a trap. We never found Daemon's whore, he had word of our movements and evaded us. Whether the whore or House Strong, someone will hold responsibility."

Your eyes teared up, asking, "Are we not responsible, too?"

"Hey?"

"We were played for fools, do you truly feel no guilt?"

"I feel nothing but guilt," he reached for your neck to hold, "and for that, I will have justice. We will not lose our children, I will not allow it, but there must be a price paid."

The trial was hardly that. As you suspected, Aemond easily overpowered Ser Simon Strong and in a fit of rage, began to hack his body into parts. Cole instantly reached for you to wrap his arm around your shoulders, turning you from the sight as your head only bowed; listening to each swing of his sword.

Aemond was panting in anger, nodding at his work. He called for a tarp and loaded the pieces onto it, then dragging the body parts out to Vhagar and let the old girl feast.

Cole did not want part of Aemond's wrath and chose to simply stand back as the deranged One Eyed Prince returned to the court room. He took one look at you, who still stood obediently, and felt something snap in his soul. "Bring me every Strong there is," he commanded. "I want every single one of them. Nephews, sons, uncles, grandsires, bastards, grandchildren - bring them all to me."

"My Lord?" A nervous servant asked with shaking hands.

"Bring them all here," Aemond snapped, making the servant rush off. He told Cole, "Call the men. Twenty will suffice."

"Prince Aemond, I don't think - "

"I do not ask you to think, I ask you to do as I bid!" Aemond raged. "Twenty men in this room - now!"

"Just go," you whispered, nudging the Hand off. He nodded and left the room, leaving you to slowly step through Ser Simon's blood pooled on the floor; gown's skirts sending streaks across the floor. "Aemond," you spoke slowly.

"I do not need a lecture now - "

"No, no lecture," you nodded, slowly reaching for his hand. "Please look at me." You waited for a few moments before he met your gaze, "I know you are angry, I am, too. But do you not think it better we turn our sights back to the capital?"

"Until we have a solid plan, we stay here," he sighed, nodding stiffly but squeezing your hand. "My love, you should leave. You do not need bear witness - "

"You mean to execute them?"

He sighed, dropping his eye to the floor before admitting, "Yes. I will not leave a single Strong alive."

You nodded, "All right, then. I will stand with you. But you must promise me, after this, we will figure out how to get back to Olyver and Brinna. Please, Aemond, our babies - "

"You do not need to beg," he turned to face you and take both hands, "because I will not rest until we have them back."

"Thank you," you whispered, letting his forehead meet yours. When Cole returned, twenty Green soldiers took posts around the room as the gathered Strongs were slowly herded into the room. You hated the fearful looks they held but refused to show emotion, holding your husband's arm as he surveyed the room.

He had the old men line up first. Then the middle aged men. The young men. Then, all the bastards - men and women. And finally, the children of House Strong.

Each were beheaded.

Yet, curiously, there was one woman - striking in appearance - who started to plead for her life, claiming being a Strong bastard woman left no room for the bloodline to continue. To your earnest shock, Aemond appeared weakened by her plea and contemplated her request as the bodies lined up before her thumped to the floor.

"Aemond," you growled, tightening your hand, "don't be foolish."

He sighed, nodding at you as his free hand moved over yours anchoring on his bicep. The woman, who revealed her name as Alys Rivers, still begged and your husband had to look away to not feel swayed to her begging. You held eye contact with her, finding a hateful gaze; her body positioned on her knees at the end of a long line - resting before the hearth.

Before the fire...

"You'll lose," she sneered, "without me, you'll lose this war!"

"I don't think a Strong whore can change the tides," you mused gently, her flinching when there were only three bodies left before her own.

"I-I am a servant to the Lord of Light," she still begged. "I see in the flames - you cannot win without me!"

"Oh, the flames, is it?" You asked, feigning curiosity.

"Yes, Lady!" She sobbed, breathing panicking.

"And yet, they did not warn you of this?" You smirked, another body hitting the floor; head rolling over stone only to be added to the ever-growing mountain. "Should we take you head, Lady, or would you prefer to met your end through fire? My dragon's hungry."

"Love," Aemond whispered, and you swore he swayed on his feet a little. You grew suspicious, slowly stepping in front of him so Alys could only focus on you.

"Your witchcraft does not work here, bastard," you feigned sympathy. "The Dragon is not so easily swayed as fire runs in our blood. I will give you one last option - " the body next to her dropped - "to meet your Lord without your head, or through my dragon's flames."

Her chest heaved and black hair glistened in the firelight. She didn't have an answer, either, so, you chose for her.

"Ser Criston," you called, still holding eye contact, "bind her hands behind her back, Kasta likes fresh prey."

Alys begged Aemond again, crying out that her Lord can help win the war; saying she saw much and would tell him anything should he spare her life. But your husband refused her gaze and stoically followed you out of the hall as you lead the way outside to where Kasta rested.

"My Emerald," you called in High Valyrian, making the great beast's head pick up, "I've brought you a snack." You presented the woman Cole was struggling to restrain as she fought back. "She's offered me great disrespect," you smirked lightly, making Kasta bare her teeth as she rose to her feet, "by offering unsavory looks to my husband."

Now, Kasta growled as she stood to her full, towering height.

"Step away, Ser Criston," you called, Aemond stood at a safe distance as you were at Kasta's shoulder, "if she runs, Kasta will give chase."

"My Prince, PLEASE!" Alys sobbed as Cole kicked out her knees and sent her to the ground. "I can win this war for you, please! Do not let her jealousy cost you!"

"Kasta," you spoke clearly, "dracarys."

"PLEASE!" Alys screamed again as Kasta let her mouth slowly open to show off the fire swelling in her chest and throat. "Your children will die - I've seen it! Please - I know how to prevent it! PLEASE! PLEASE! For the sake of Olyver and Brinna!"

"STOP!" You commanded, and Kasta's mouth snapped shut as you surged up to the bound woman at the same time as Aemond. You fisted the front of her tunic, growling, "What did you say? You offer threat to our children?"

"No," she sobbed, "I offer solution to their perils! I've seen it, Lady, I swear it!"

"Why wait until now to say?" Aemond snapped, seemingly out of whatever trace he had slowly fell into around Alys.

"I-I," she stuttered, "I saw in the flames t-that Rhaenyra will use them against you - and in the process, they will lose their lives."

"Hmm," you nodded with a smirk, "whether true or not, you just played your last hand. The fact you did not say this first tells me it is barely true." You stood up, shoving her back, "Aemond?"

"C'mon," he nodded, taking your hand and backing up again. When beside Kasta, you gave the command again, and Alys Rivers died, screaming, the very flames she claimed to speak to her Lord through. While watching the body burn, Cole had left you both to clean up the hall, and Aemond asked quietly, "How much truth do we give her words?"

"I think we'd be foolish to write them off completely," you sighed. "Yet I cannot say for sure... Aemond," you turned to him, "I know you do not like it, but you and I both know that I am the only one who can negotiate our children's safe return. My mother will not dare harm me and we need our babies back before this gets worse. Please."

"I will think on it," he promised, "but for now, I think we need rest. The Lannisters will be here soon..."

Aemond eventually found a suitable room for you both and by himself, got the fire started to warm the cold stone castle. You had limited belongings with you, but a servant had brought you someone's barely-used dressing gown to change into. You aimlessly brushed through the knots in your hair, staring out the window as a pair of arms wrapped around your waist.

"Are you angry with me?" He whispered.

"For what?" You asked, pulling your hair over one shoulder to slowly start to braid it loosely for bed.

"For my actions today," he breathed, hand slowly starting to bunch the material of the night dress at your hip.

"No," you assured, "I fear I cannot blame you, so, I will not. We are both angry and there are limited ways to let that go... And I suppose, in war, often times, Houses are wiped out all together."

"I am sorry you were present."

"I am not," you turned to him. "I am not a child, nor some delicate flower. I have lost just as much, if not more, in this war, and I would like to see retribution, too. But in this present? I just want our children."

"We'll have them," he promised, forehead pressing to yours. "I have to admit, the witch's words echo in my mind."

"As they do mine," you nodded, both hands pressed to his chest. "Is it selfish to admit that I am tired of worrying? At least for tonight?"

He smirked gently, pulling back to caress your cheek, "No, love, it's not. How about I provide you distraction?"

"Please," you whispered in agreement, and the next second, his lips were on yours. Time always slowed with Aemond and his kisses both slowed and sped everything up; making you dizzy. Hands held onto his neck as he swiftly turned to direct you back towards the bed, tongue sweeping against yours, and doing a valiant effort to distract you. Overcome with emotion and laying bare beneath your husband, your hands pulled him closer to whisper on his lips, "Put another baby in me."

Aemond paused to try and gage how serious you were, chuckling, "If it takes, I'm flying you across the Narrow Sea myself to keep you safe."

"Only if you come with me," you smirked, letting his tongue slip against yours with a singular moan.

"I'll follow you anywhere," he promised, easily slipping inside you, and resulting in a tiresome night that seemingly felt as if his cock was never out of you.

Days turned to weeks of fretful planning passed dully. You and Aemond did your best to keep level-heads, but it was near impossible when Cole was arguing with you both around every corner.

It left you both to bask in late nights and early mornings alone; leaving you both alone until midmorning, back pressed to his chest as your head laid on one of his straightened arms as the other traced idle patterns on your bare hip. Yet, despite your best efforts to create it yourself, peace never truly found you anymore; and soon, Cole was banging on your door - begging for Aemond.

Your husband valued your opinion, and after mutely wiping your cunt of any leaking cum, let you get dressed before meeting Criston Cole in another strategy room. News had reached Harrenhal of the most bloodied battle known, being dubbed the Fishfeed, as the Battle by the Lakeshore saw the entire Lannister forces massacred.

It was the single push you all needed to take action. Actions that would all turn the tides of this war.

It was universally agreed that Harrenhal could not be held nor defended from the encroaching Northern forces. Together, you all agreed to abandon the castle but you were all to scatter.

Ser Criston Cole acted on his own vocation and marched the Green army South to meet with Lord Ormund Hightower.

Aemond, feeling scorned, defeated, and outplayed, let his anger take over and made the decision to burn the Riverlands using Vhagar and because he worried more than he should, he insisted you go with him. Yet, he didn't know your own plan was set in motion and decided to quietly go with him.

Kasta never once shot fire and instead just aimlessly tailed Vhagar as Aemond burnt the countryside to a bloody crisp. He did not care for who, or what, he burnt, he just wanted to take his anger out on something. Late one night, he'd admit to you that he felt utterly useless and defeated in this blood-bath-called-war, and while you held your sobbing husband (who held you in a death grip), made up your mind about your own plan.

Aemond would rather pretend his tears never happened because he knew they were safe with you; being raised to be a fearsome Prince that feared nothing, and once more, took Vhagar out to wreck havoc. You couldn't bare to watch him blame himself and roll in self-loathing, so, early one morning, you woke with him. He was briefly confused when you pulled him in close for a heated kiss, but did not protest when you easily rolled him over and mounted his cock.

Aemond groaned, and grunted, and moaned, and hissed as his hands held yours with an unimaginable strength. With one hand holding your strength up on his thigh, your other yanked at his neck to draw him closer.

"Aemond," you breathed against his lips, smiling lightly and took both his hands to cradle your descended stomach, "it stuck."

He was confused for a moment, gulping his moan before understanding your words. "You're pregnant?"

"Yes," you grinned, leaning in to kiss him. You yelped into his mouth when he flipped you both around; pressing you into the hardened mattress to push deeper into you.

"You bless me, my wife," he promised, rutting faster. "I thought your body changing, but did not think... Oh, Gods, maybe we will have twins again, yes?"

"We'll never fuck again if we do," you warned, chuckling after when he laughed; hiking your leg higher on his hip.

"Oh, my beautiful girl," he muttered, picking up his pace. "I pray we see the end so I might bask in your glory - swollen with my seed. Fuck," he hissed, face dropping to your neck.

"We will," you promised, holding him to you as your eyes stared at the ceiling and felt your tears mount. He had no idea what you planned and knew, after your news, he'd go absolutely ballistic. "We will, my love, the Gods protect us."

"You're so fucking perfect," he whispered in your ear. "Always so fucking perfect for me." But he heard your sniffle of guilt, pulling back as his hips still moved; reaching to sweep a tear away, "What is it? What's wrong?"

"I just love you," you nodded, letting tears slide from the sides of your eyes. "So fucking much, Aemond, I love you."

He grinned, "I love you, sweet girl."

His lips met yours, tasting salt and spit... Never catching the guilt and fear and apology you tried to convey. He finished with a shout inside you, leaving you both to bask in the rickety inn you sought refuge in. Aemond's head rested on your chest, hearing your hammering heart, and pressing a kiss to your sternum.

"Must you go?" You whispered, pulling him up to your face. "Please? Aemond, we can just leave - I will find a way to get Olyver and Brinna."

He sighed, "Soon, my love. We will see the end of this."

When Aemond mounted Vhagar, he did so under the impression you wanted to rest for the day before taking flight and soaring off towards Claypool. Your hand clutched a message that wrote how Daemon was waiting for Aemond in Harrenhal - demanding a one-on-one combat and knew it was a challenge your husband would accept. You knew that in order to do something, it was now or never.

You watched your beloved go with tears in your eyes and mounted Kasta with your own plan in motion. You left the innkeeper a note to give to your husband, explaining your intentions to fly to King's Landing and bargain for your children back. You promised to see him again, you swore you loved him, and you wrote that you would pray everyday he forgives you. In addition, you left the message from Harrenhal because it was his choice to make, not yours.

You own decision was made, and if lucky, your husband won't have to face another decision like this again.

With a roar, the Great Emerald took to the skies and surged for King's Landing as tears streamed down your cheeks. Worried for the babe in your belly that was growing in noticeable size, you prayed for an amicable meeting with your mother, and knew, you wouldn't ever have to worry. You were her darling girl and though caught in this war, she would never bestow blame for you doing what you needed to in order to survive.

When Aemond returned that night, he was met with an empty room and trembling innkeeper who only held out two scrolls of parchment. He was unsure of the emotions he felt, but fear was at the forefront.

In the time it took Aemond to buck up the nerve and fly Vhagar to Harrenhal, you had flown into the Black-held Red Keep. Kasta bellowed in rage and landed in the courtyard, thrashing through a few stone pillars and roofs.

"Burn any who approaches," you told your dragon, who growled in agreement. "Blacks!" You barked in the common tongue, addressing those who littered around the yard with weapons. "The Queen has my children - bring them to me!"

"Princess - "

"BRING ME MY CHILDREN!" You screamed, your dragon giving a deafening roar after to shake the ground. A few servants ran from the yard and you waited, impatiently, and Kasta's tail swept around to knock into whatever she could. Her hulking form and wide-wings took up the entire yard, and her head swung around to glower at anyone who dared to approach.

The barely-two-year-old twins were brought to you in the arms of your mother, making you shudder a breath and dismount Kasta in haste. "Sweet girl," your mother greeted, eyeing Kasta with mistrust, "why the theatrics?"

"I need them back, I cannot allow room for them to be a bargaining chip," you told her, tears filling your eyes as Alys River's words echoed in your mind. "Mumma, give them to me, please. I-I can't do this anymore, please, I need my babies."

She looked at you with mild confusion, "What does that mean, sweet girl?"

"I can't fight this war, Mumma, please, my babies deserve at least one parent," you sniffled, arms held out. "Mum, please, 's been so long since I've seen them - give me my babies, please!"

She nodded and started forward but Kasta growled with aggression. You worried when she sniffed at your mother before humming when the scents of your babies wafter in her nose. Kasta let your mother pass, and you rushed the rest of the distance to take your daughter in arms as she made grabby-hands for you.

"Mumma!" She cried.

"Oh, my girl," you breathed, holding her tightly. "Oh, my Gods, thank you, thank you, thank you, you're safe, you're safe. Oh, my girl, you're safe," you let the tears of relief fall.

"Mumma," Brinna whined a little.

Your mother smiled sadly and presented Olyver, who held his arms out impatiently. "Mummy," he cried, "mummy!"

"Hey, hey," you let your daughter stand to hold your leg, taking your son into a tight hug. "I'm here, I'm here, baby, I'm right here - I'm back. Mummy's right here. I've got you, and I'm never letting go. Mummy's so sorry for leaving, baby, Mummy's so sorry."

"Mumma," Brinna pulled at your leg, "where's Daddy, Mumma? Where's Daddy?"

You felt emotion tighten your throat but managed to tell her as softly as you could, a hand dropping to caress her head into your thigh, explaining, "Daddy's busy fighting in the war, baby. But that's why Mummy's come to get you, it's time to go."

"Where?" Rhaenyra asked softly, watching the entire interaction with an air of sadness around her.

"Across the sea," you nodded with a sniffle. "They will be safe, being far from the war..."

"Could I call upon you when it's all over?"

You nodded, "Of course. Should you be able to find us," you teased with a small smile, hoisting your boy to sit at your hip comfortably. "I can't risk them being found."

"I understand," she promised, then waving you forward, "come inside. I've a parting gift, my sweet girl, nothing more. Please, let me do this one last thing for you."

You sighed and nodded, relenting, "I should pack some of their things, too."

"Come," she waved you forward. Your hand was taken by Brinna as you kept hold of Olyver, following your mother into the Red Keep for the final time. She sighed as those you passed offered strange looks, but Rhaenyra lead you to your old rooms. "I did not touch anything in here... It reminded me of you."

"Thank you," you whispered, rushing around to pack whatever was needed for you and Aemond, and all three kids. If your mother noticed you packing baby items, she did not make mention.

Your mother then lead you through the castle and to an unknown chamber you've never been in, offering you a solemn smile before opening the heavy, iron door. She revealed the royal vault and you froze in shock. She went in and put together a rather hefty bag of gems, jewels, gold - anything you could use to barter for your successful comfort.

Then, she put together three smaller bags.

"Here," she presented you all four; stuffing them all into a single rucksack that could hang off your shoulder.

"What's this about, Mum?" You sighed, taking the bag. "What's this?"

"I put you in the middle of all this. It's only right I see to it that you're out of it, too."

"You did not put me here," you frowned. "I made the decision to stay with Aemond, but I wanted the best for my kids - the best for everyone. I should've come home."

"No, you were where you needed to be, but now, my girl," she smiled through her tears and reached for your cheeks, "it's time for you to only do right by yourself and your family. I will be okay," she promised.

"But you're alone."

"Joffrey and Aegon are here," she sniffled with another sad smile. "Daemon's... Daemon's gone to Harrenhal, my love."

"I know, I-I received word just before I flew here," you whispered. "He wants to fight, Aemond, Mumma."

"He does..."

You smiled sadly, trying not to give your next actions away, "The kids deserve better."

"All three will have a bright, new life, my love, I know they will," she promised. "This," she held up the rucksack, "has money for you and Aemond to settle down, and the three other bags are my gift to your children... To my sweet grand babies," she smiled fondly at the two hugging either of your legs.

"Mumma..."

"I know," she smiled brightly, "you carry so beautifully, my love, I could tell the moment I saw you. Take it," she insisted, letting you accept the bag, "and do not forget the love I have for you."

You let your emotions crash over you, settling everything in you arms and shoulders to the ground - leaping into Rhaenyra's arms as you wept. "I wish to the Gods things were different," you whispered, "I would not have to leave you."

She held you tightly, "We always knew our family would be divided with Viserys naming me heir. I never wanted you caught in this." She took a sobering breath, "But let me this opportunity to get you out of this. My heart would shatter if I ever learned I lost you, my darling, sweet girl. You... You are my life, and I cannot keep you. You have to go, for the sake of your family and my sanity." She paused, whispering, "You deserve happiness with your husband and children."

You read between her words and understood... She knew your intentions to go back for Aemond and seemingly gave her veiled blessing.

Parting from your mother was harder this time than anytime before because you knew you'd never see her again - whether she won the Iron Throne or not. Your kids deserved better and across the Narrow Sea, they could thrive without the looming pressures of being a Targaryen. So, you latched all packs to Kasta's saddle as your mother hugged her grand babies goodbye - hugged you one last time - and then watched you take to the skies.

"Mummy?" Olyver worried, holding you tightly despite the added harness you attached for them.

"Mummy's got you," you spoke softly.

"I want Daddy," Brinna sobbed, tears leaking into your riding leggings. "Mumma! I want Daddy!"

"I know, baby, soon," you promised her. "We're going to get Daddy now, okay? We're gonna get him back."

There were five different (stolen) dragon eggs in one of the saddle bags, hoping your children could have their birth right of mastering a dragon. You held your kids tightly and promised it was okay the whole flight, and soon, Kasta was flying so smoothly that they were actually giggling. Not for long, though, as you approached Harrenhal, noticing the thundering commotion in the skies above The God's Eye - battle over the lake. Two dragons were locked in a fight and you landed Kasta to safely leave your children on the ground, under a tree, hidden away with instruction to keep still, keep quiet, keep safe.

They cried shrilly for you as you returned to Kasta, your precious Emerald taking off again. Without instruction, she barreled directly into the two feuding dragons to knock them off one another. Aemond noticed the green dragon first and felt pride bubble in his chest before overwhelming panic and worry, but the chaos of the day was far from over.

"DAEMON!" You screamed as all three dragons hovered. "Please! This is not the way!"

"LOOK AT THE DESTRUCTION HE'S CAUSED!" Daemon bellowed back at you. "THE LIVES HE HAS TAKEN!"

"Don't do this!" You begged.

"Will you fight me, daughter?" He challenged, breaking your heart. He's never once referred to you as his daughter, and of course, he chose now to use the title.

"If I have to, I will," you nodded. "I will not let you harm him, now, please, let this be done!"

"It's not done until it's over," Daemon grit, and in the next moment, Caraxes was charging through the air again.

"NO!" You screamed, encouraging Kasta forward when you saw Daemon brandish his sword. The three dragons clashed again, and the time for the end had come.

Kasta turned swiftly and let her teeth sink in a leathal attack on Caraxes' neck, and in a moment of adrenaline, you rose from your saddle and pulled your own blade from its scabbard. Leaping from your dragon onto Vhagar, caught in Caraxes' jaws, just in time to drop to your knees at Aemond's side - using your blade to defend against Daemon's Dark Sister.

Your step-father looked shocked by your blockage, but even more so when you snarled and heaved your arms upward; forcing him stumbling over Vhagar's back. "So..." He panted, "This is how it ends, is it?"

"I gave you an out," you reminded, swinging your sword in hand. "But it seems this is it, step-father. For what it's worth, I am sorry for how this will play out."

He sighed sadly, "So am I."

Then, his glare hardened and you understood the challenge, letting him lunge first and defending both you and your husband for your life on a fucking moving dragon. Often, you lost balance, and Vhagar would roar with ever pierce of your blades through her hide.

You fought against Daemon, your step-father, your mentor, your trainer, your great-uncle with ferocity for the sake of your own life.

For Aemond's life.

For your children's lives - both living and growing.

Long gone was the training yard - this was to the death. Master finally facing student, and it was a battle worthy of an epic story. Ballads should be written about the power of love being enough to go against blood family, being enough to leap onto a moving dragon in an effort to protect lives. Histories should account this battle, and yet, when it is written, your name will never be mentioned.

It was an intense battle that had your children screaming in worry from the ground, and for you to try to balance on the ever-moving backs of dragons as you hacked your sword fatally all while dodging opposing attacks. But you were young and determined, your step-father was older in age and feeling his strength weaken from the brutality of your swings.

Caraxes and Vhagar snarled at one another, and hell rained over you all when Kasta joined in; sending all three dragons to the ground. The movement made you jolt and Daemon tried to swing at Aemond's neck, but his balance was knocked off and the momentum allowed you time to parry and then shove your sword straight through Daemon's eye socket; pinning him into Vhagar's spine.

You both screamed in anguish.

The injury, along with the body found pinned to Vhagar's, would then go on record as being the Prince Aemond as many would speculate that Nettles, Dragonseed who rode Sheepstealer and your step-father's newest paramour, came back for him to escape to Pentos.

Through your panic, you had lost your grip on your sword and rolled off Vhagar - only then to be caught in Kasta's paw. You felt whip-lashed from the jolt as your beast pulled up at the last second to only skim the water and gently splash your face. Vhagar crashed into the water to slowly sink, taking two white-haired men with her. Kasta turned sharply to then land on the shore, opening her paw to let your roll out of her grip across the dirt with a small grunt.

Beyond your dragon's stripping form, Caraxes was crawling away in an effort to find a peaceful end. However, you couldn't focus on anything except the Lake, where your One Eyed husband had yet to surface. "Kasta," you demanded.

Kasta understood your command and as your children rushed over, screaming, crying, and shouting for their Mummy and Daddy, she took you up in her paw again to soar over the Lake. She released you around the air bubbles of Vhagar's sinking body, and with your form held rigid and straight, managed to cut straight through the water to sink deeper.

You swam for the sinking, bleeding dragon and caught the sight of white-blonde hair through the darkening water and tried to swim faster. Aemond was just recovering consciousness and panicked when he realized he was still chained to Vhagar; choking on water.

However, your hands held his cheeks to alert him of your presence as you yanked a dagger from his belt and used it to dig at the saddle so you could free him. The chain holding him to the saddle was damaged and Aemond was running out of time, slowly losing consciousness again but obviously tried to fight and stay awake. When free, your teeth held the dagger as you took hold of Aemond and pushed off Vhagar's body with your feet.

You yanked him with you as your exhausted legs kicked, and kicked, and kicked towards the surface. When you broke free, Kasta gave a roar but would not leave the shore as she was stood protectively over your twins. You had to swim backwards to keep hold of your husband; one arm used to swim as the other held his chest tightly.

When you finally reached the shore, you struggled a bit to pull Aemond with you and when set, instantly unlatched his armor. Starting compressions on his chest, you used your mouth to push air into his lungs like the Maester's taught you to. "C'mon, c'mon," you panted as you went. "Don't leave me, my love, please. I need you. Okay? Hear me? C'mon, Aemond, I need you, please."

"Daddy?"

"S-Stay with Kasta, Olyver, please," you begged, never stopping your compressions. "No, no, no, c'mon, my love, come back to me - aha!" You gasped, flinching back when he started to cough. "Oh, Seven Hells, you're okay, I got you," you helped roll him onto his side to better expel water, freeing him from choking. "There you are, yeah, all right, you're all right, I've got you. I'm here," you panted, petting the crown of his head gently as he twitched from shock.

He choked on air for a moment, laying uselessly as you pet hair off his face still. "L-Love?" He asked in wonder, looking up at you and sighing. "Oh, thank the Gods, it's you. I-I thought you left."

You chuckled gently, "No, I had to come back for your dumbass, though, looks like I was a bit late, hmm?"

"Always here when I need you," he whispered, resting in the soft mud of the shore. "D-Daemon?" He shivered.

"Dead," you informed. "C'mon, Aemond, you need to get up, we're not safe here, my love. We have to go, please."

"V-Vhagar," he panted, eye barely seeing.

"She's dead, too, love, I'm so sorry. But Olyver and Brinna are safe, I got them back, but you and I cannot stay here so you have to get up. Please, Aemond, my love, please, we have to get out of here."

He nodded and let you help him to his feet, arm tight around your shoulders as you helped him towards Kasta; stumbling the entire way but your hold was firm. Your dragon easily lowered herself to try and limit the height of which you had to climb, and though it was a challenge, you managed to get him in the saddle. She still growled in mistrust of Aemond, almost wanting to buck him off.

All at once, you tried to soothe your sobbing children on the ground, help your injured husband, and angered, battle-worn dragon. You felt yourself starting to crack from stress but refused to break; leaving Aemond to only dismount and grab your twins. You got them into their places on the saddle and into their safety harnesses.

"Can Kasta handle the weight?" Aemond worried breathlessly, wobbling in the saddle as his children instantly clung to him with horrible sobs wracking their little lungs.

"She'll have to," you nodded, making sure everyone was latched to the saddle as your dragon shifted her weight to get used to it. "Kasta, please, stand still," you begged with a small snap in High Valyrian. "I'm almost done, my girl, please, a moment more."

"Mummy," Olyver cried.

"What, baby?" You hummed, tightening his straps.

"Can we go home?"

You sighed, sharing a small look with Aemond before answering, "No, baby, not yet. Mummy's gonna get us out of here and we're going to find a new home. Hmm? Just for us."

"Why?" Brinna now whined, holding her father's leg tightly as his hand smoothed along her back.

"Because it's not safe here, baby," you frowned gently, reaching out to caress her cheek. "So, Mummy and Daddy are gonna protect you and leave this place."

"We can't just leave, love," Aemond worried slightly, "we're in the middle of a war."

"And now it's over for us, Aemond!" You snapped at him. "This is all over. We're done, do you understand me?"

"How can we just be done?"

"I got our kids, I got what I could," you pointed to the saddle bags, "and I made sure our life would be cushioned when we start it across the Sea. Then, I came here and made sure you survived this so we can finally have what we're owed - a new start. Happiness, Aemond. A proper life with our babies - together."

"What?" He asked, breathlessly.

"We should've left years ago," you admitted. "But I can see clearly, this war will claim us all and I have to protect my family. So, you can either sit back and let Kasta get us to safety, or, you can jump back in that lake I just risked my life and that of our baby's to save you from."

He nodded, "No, you're right. I just - it cannot be this simple, love."

"We will make it this simple," you promised. "Are you with me? Or do you wish to die for your brother still?"

Aemond glanced around at the carnage, admitting, "I'll go anywhere with you, my love. You know I will."

"Good. So, you're choosing us?"

"Always," he promised.

"Good," you quipped, "because our kids need their father, I cannot raise three on my own."

"Mummy," Olyver giggled, "there's only two!"

"Mummy's pregnant," Aemond smiled to his kids. "Hear that, loves? Mummy's growing a baby in her belly."

"Mummy's gonna get fat!" Your son hissed to Brinna - making you and Aemond laugh.

"All right, that's enough," you chuckled, turning in your place at the pommel of the saddle. "Everyone secure?"

"I've got them, love," Aemond promised, keeping tight hold of the kids' straps. Then, when sure they were stable, he let his arms wrap around you from behind to make sure you were tight against his chest. His lips tickled your ear as he spoke, hands pressing to your lower belly, "Thank you, my love."

"I didn't do it alone," you teased, taking up the few ropes you had to aid in handling Kasta. "On your feet, my precious gem," you commanded gently, feeling Aemond's arms retract to hold the clinging kids while Kasta found her feet. You checked everyone was still okay before giving the command for your Emerald to take flight. You mentioned to Aemond, "If we're careful, we can cut between King's Landing and Dragonstone."

He nodded, "We trust you."

You breathed a little deeper as Kasta let her wings spread, beating to surge higher in the sky. The higher you went, the smaller you appeared from the ground, and with luck, you would fly undetected - all the way to Pentos.

The sounds of waves crashing caressed your ears from your home on the seashore. You hummed softly from your place in a suspended, wooded swing; slowly rocking as the sea breeze carried salty sweetness to your nose. You softly caressed the wriggling babe in your arms, smiling when your husband stepped up the porch stairs.

"Hi, pretty girl," he whispered, leaning down to press a kiss to your forehead. His hand gently caressed the top of your son's white-haired head, leaning down to press a kiss to his forehead, too, with a whispered, "Hello, my son."

"Sit with us, my love," you whispered, smiling when he easily claimed the seat beside you. You took note of how relaxed he was in Pentos, long gone the leather jerkins and instead, opted for loose-fitting tunics that showed off his toned chest. His arm extended over the top of your shoulders and easily drew you into his embrace; making you readjust your son to you both could gaze down at him. After a moment, you asked, 'Where are Olyver and Brinna?"

"On the shore."

"They know not to get in the water, yes?" You worried.

"They're gathering seashells," he smirked. "They want to make you a necklace. "

"Awh," you cooed with a small pout. "That's so sweet."

"They're good kids. We're blessed. Surely, they cannot be ours."

"Surely," you teasingly agreed. "They've far too good hearts. Maybe this one will take after us, hmm?" You smiled slightly, raising your son in your arms to let your nose dust over his tiny one.

___ giggled wetly, chubby fingers grabbing your cheeks.

"Did really good, love," Aemond praised, leaning in to kiss your temple. "Thank you for this. For our children, for getting us out of Westeros... Nursing me to health, securing this beautiful home..."

Your head turned to gently smile at him, "You're welcome. But speaking of home, have you heard any news?" When his throat bobbed and his gaze turned towards the sea, you perked up and asked, "What is it?"

"War's over, love," he whispered.

"Just about three years, wow," you mused slowly, caressing your baby to your chest. "What other news?"

"I do not wish to relay it."

"Please tell me," you whispered, snuggling deeper into his side. "I can handle it, trust me. Just tell me, please."

Aemond found his voice, "Your mother did not survive, but neither did Aegon or Helaena. Your brother, Aegon the Younger, has been crowned the new King..."

"A child of ten?" You snapped.

"Apparently," he nodded, pecking your temple. "Think we'd have any claim is we returned?"

You scoffed, "Neither of us want that king of responsibility, not that life for our children. We left Westeros for a reason, my love."

"I know," he agreed, "I was teasing."

You hummed as your son started to fuss and knew he grew hungry. As you unlaced your gown to pull your tit free, you asked, "What of everyone else?"

He sighed, "Mother survived but has been banished to Maegor's Holdfast. Both your half-brothers, Aegon and Viserys survived... So did your grandfather, Corlys. Hmm, but get this."

"Hmm?"

"Ser Larys Strong was executed on suspicion for murdering my brother."

You hummed, letting your son latch to your nipple as Aemond's hand deftly traced patterns on your bare shoulder. "Is that all?"

"All the letter wrote," he nodded. "Do you ever regret it?"

"What?"

"Leaving."

You smiled softly, "Look at the baby in my arms, Aemond." You paused to look from your son to your husband, "And listen closely, you can hear our children laughing on the beach. No, my sweet husband, I do not regret leaving - not when I am surrounded by reminders that I made the right decision." He nodded and pecked your forehead, pausing for a moment to lean his against yours. Then, you asked, "Do you regret choosing me?"

"Never," he promised with a strong tone. "Anywhere you go, pretty girl, I'm coming with you. We'll never be apart."

"Good," you whispered, "because I don't think I could be without you ever. 'S you and me, my love."

"Always has been," he agreed with a smirk. "Never gonna be without me, sweet girl - it's you and I for life."

"For life," you agreed, the sounds of waves crashing and your twins laughter filling the air. Aemond readjusted you closer so your head leaned into him, legs pulled up to the empty bench seat beside you. Aemond held you as you held your son while he nursed, and relished in the feeling of family - never regretting your choices that lead you here. You deserved this.

Nearly 200 years after Rhaenyra Targaryen was named heir to the Iron Throne, nearly 200 years after the Dance of the Dragons, nearly 200 years after Princess Y/N Targaryen escaped Westeros with her husband, Prince Aemond Targaryen and their children, Princess Daenerys Targaryen was smuggled out of Kings Landing with her brother, Prince Viserys, during Robert Baratheon's Rebellion.

Across the Narrow Sea, the two white-haired children were taken in by Illyrio Mopatis, Magister of Pentos, and housed in the very same home that their ancestor, Princess Y/N, had commissioned to build for her family. It was a magnificent place of rest, of peace, of openness and cohesion; where love was incorporated into every brick and smear of concrete. The home still held small remnants from the Targaryen age, but most relics had been ransacked and sold off.

Scattered across the known world, likely never to be found again.

And yet, there was one thing so well hidden by Y/N and Aemond that none but Illyrio could find. When Princess Daenerys was in the home, she felt oddly at place with the sea breeze; finding the home vastly beautiful and often imagined her ancestors wondering the same halls that was full of giggling laughter.

History recorded that Y/N and Aemond Targaryen arrived on a wounded dragon with their twins and son in her stomach, only later to give birth to two more children while living in Pentos.

Daenerys read accounts by historians, only one taking an honest interest in the Targaryen royalty living across the Narrow Sea, like she was, and recorded the devotion, love, and unwavering support the couple showed each other. They were part of the reason Pentos began to flourish, aiding in trade and business of the port city. According to the writings, the couple was well-involved with the city and eventually won favor of the Prince of Pentos, where both husband and wife earned their place as Magisters.

They brought the city to life with culture, color, respect, and order.

Additionally, they had a total of three dragons that aided in the vast expansion of the city: the largest being pure, shimmering green, the second a coppery-gold, and the third, the color of high noon's sun.

Five dragon eggs had been brought to Pentos, but three of them never hatched. It's written that the night the Prince and Princess passed from this world, in a stroke of pure luck, strength, and determination, both Aemond and Y/N rose from their death bed and hid the three petrified eggs. They were later found on a chase lounge, Aemond's withered arms wrapped around his sweetly devoted wife, both looking peaceful to meet their end in old age.

Olyver and Brinna had been the ones to find them, and Kasta, who, too, grew older in age, had the honor of burning their bodies in a tradition Targaryen funeral. The histories record that same day, the Great Emerald was seen flying from Pentos to make for Old Valyria; where she was never seen again.

When Daenerys was accepted as Khal Drogo's bride, Illyrio Mopatis thought it the perfect opportunity to present the Princess his gift. When the chest of three petrified eggs were placed before the Princes, the Magister explained Princess Y/N and Prince Aemond had hidden them carefully - and it was only right that Daenerys have her familial brith right.

Whether petrified or not, Illyrio Mopatis thought the Princess should have the last reminder of her family's vast, long, devastating reign. And in an odd way, the man felt at peace once the eggs handed over - as if he had fulfilled a long-standing tradition that felt more than full-circle.

🍒 fin

[ part one ]

[ alternate ending one: Kin Slayer ]

[ series masterlist ]

[commanders-sole-braincell]

SPOILERS FOR WHAT LIES BENEATH (and gw2 in general)

I know it won’t happen but I’m possessed by the thought of a cutscene where we get Yao or someone post battle scoffing and going “yeah, like the Commander would attack us” (because so far we haven't, we’ve attacked other things in the hallucinations, but not them), and then everything to go slow mo and you see Rama or Finn yanking them back as our main weapon slides within inches of them, cutting a lock of hair or there’s a small line of a cut. Like just 100% No noise, not a sound; a blow to remove a threat as quickly as possible. 

I imagine we’d of sparred with Dragon’s Watch at times, and with Destiny’s Edge/people from earlier in the story, but they’re not here now. This isn’t playing sparring with Braham were halfway through the holding back punches turn into trying to wrestle and telling the worst jokes. This isn’t Kas throwing a shield at us mid wrestle cuz it got too rough for her liking, just to be safe. This isn’t Rytlock with a shoulder to ours when we’re getting a scolding for using 75% of that strength in a spar, only because he returned it, and he’s charr - that’s how they do, he says, a grin that’s all teeth and understanding. 

This is the one who ended the Cycle of Dragons that has been ongoing since before the universe, who slayed a God, a Lich so unkillable the previous attempts resulted in entrapping them. Who died and made Death itself offer a deal out of respect. Who’s the one the world throws at it’s problems for the past decade. The living definition of the someone yelling “again” when you go down. 

The unkillable god-slayer, lich-ending, ender of the dragon cycle and parent to an Elder Dragon has decided you are a threat. You are damn near alone with them. And you are a threat. Death makes no sound as it approaches in the eyes of your friend and all you have is someone on a comms unit screaming in reply to whatever it is your friend is saying

[notyour-valentine]

You don't stop loving someone just because you hate them

You don't stop loving someone, just because you hate them ~ (Aemond Targaryen x Rhaenyra's daughter)

(I wrote as vaguely as possible but still maybe a little spoiler warning for House of the Dragon)

There had been long standing rumours about Prince Aemond and his niece, born to Princess Rhaenyra between the Princes Jacaerys and Lucerys. These were most prominently spread by Mushroom, who claimed the Prince and the Princess, close since childhood, had secret meetings on an isle off the coast of Stonedance with the Prince even hoping to take her to wife. Septon Eustace only ever mentioned that Prince Aemond danced repeatedly with the Princess at the feast for King Visery's return to health in 127 AC until Prince Daemon decisively put an end to it. The reaction of the Princess to Prince Aemond's toast is not recorded.

Whether or not the claims are true can only be debated. What is known is that while the grieving Princess and her dragon set the entire fleet to torch, Prince Aemond refused to take flight with Vhagar, even if the young Princess and her dragon would have proved little challenge, as unlike the Prince's mount, the young dragon had not yet faced another dragon in battle. Indeed, it is even claimed that when archers took aim and loosened their arrows, Prince Aemond threw them off the battlements to their deaths in a fit of rage, threatening any other would-be-dragon-slayer with Vhagar's fire. This change infuriated Lord Borros, but with the Princeling unmoved, he had to watch his ships burn at the Princess' hand.

In late 129 AC Mushroom claimed that Prince Aemond sought to the meet with the Princess once more, but to no avail, as she had long vowed revenge on him and his brothers.

All that speculated youthful affection, however, would be well and truly forgotten when the two claimed lovers met again- on dragonback.

~ Archmaester Gyldayn in Fire and Blood, Being a History of the Targaryen Kings of Westeros

[someawesomeamvs]

Warning: Flashing lights, sexual imagery, violence, potential spoilers

Title: Anime Heroes

Editors: HyperKNIGHT, Okara

Studio: Fox Den Media

Song: Cartoon Heroes

Artist: Aqua

Anime: A Certain Scientific Railgun S, Akame Ga Kill, Amagi Brilliant Park, Attack on Titan, Azur Lane, Baka and Test, BEN-TO, Black Lagoon, Carnival Phantasm, Cautious Hero, Code Geass R2, D-Frag!, Date-A-Live, Digimon Adventure tri 1 - Reunion, Dragon Ball Super, Dragon Ball Z - Battle of Gods (film), Fairy Tail, Flip Flappers, Goblin Slayer, Good Luck Girl!, Gurren Lagann, Haganai, High School DxD Hero, Hyperdimension Neptunia The Animation, Is this a Zombie, JoJo's Bizarre Adventure - Stardust Crusaders, KEIJO!!!!!!!!, KILL la KILL, Konosuba - Gods Blessing on this Wonderful World, Monster Musume, My Hero Academia Movie 1 - Two Heroes, My Hero Academia S1, My Hero Academia S2, Naruto The Movie - The Last, Nichijou, Noragami, One Piece, One Punch Man, Panty and Stocking with Garterbelt, Pokemon, Pompo the Cinephile (film), Pop Team Epic, Problem Children, Sabagebu! -Survival Game Club!, Sailor Moon Crystal, Shimoneta, Soul Eater, Spirited Away (film), SSSS.Gridman, Strike Witches 2, Sword Art Online, The Cat Returns (film)

Category: Comedy

Awards: Anime Central 2023 - Comedy Finalist Anime Expo 2023 - Fun & Play Finalist

[midnightostara]

Rúni

Title: Rúni

Fandom: God Of War

Relationship: Heimdall/Kratos

Characters: Heimdall, Kratos, Freya, Sif, Odin, Thrud, Thor, Atreus, Sindri, Brok.

Tags: Mpreg, childbirth.

Note: Originally, I wanted to put a scene that was from House Of The Dragon, where Rhaenyra holding her newborn son in her arms and going to Alicent after she requested to see the baby. But I scratched that idea.

Also spoilers!

It’s been four days since Heimdall was forcibly back to Asgard, taken by Odin while he was under the guise of Týr to fool everyone. He had informed Atreus, after he smacked the boy against the wall at Sindri’s house, that he would take Heimdall and in return favor of Kratos giving him the mask.

As an exchanged.

When he brought the blonde back, the all-father was enraged at him, calling him all sorts of names after slapping him that caused him to go onto the ground; ‘good for nothing-slut’, ‘a disgrace of a son’, ‘the purest of the Aesir was now tarnished’, etc. Along with that, he slept with the enemy and thus having the god slayer’s seed within him, carrying a bastard’s child. Revealing he was the one that changed parts of Heimdall’s body, thinking it would deter the Greek away from him, but it didn’t work in his favor.

It was true; Heimdall, watchman of the Aesir, was pregnant with Kratos’s child.

Once Odin was done lashing out at Heimdall, he paced in the workshop in front of the god of foresight, muttering to himself that he would figure something out about the situation that Heimdall now put himself in. As he paced, Sif came entered the workshop, wanting to speak with the all-father.

The all-father stopped his fury pacing to look over to Sif, telling her whatever she has to tell him can wait and told her to take Heimdall to Modi’s room, the Aesir diplomat looked down to the god of foresight in confusion until she saw the noticeable bump and the red mark on his cheek. Before she could give a say, or tell him off about slapping Heimdall while expecting, once again Odin told her to not argue with her and just take him away.

She did as he was told.

Walking among the other Aesir towards Modi’s room, it was torture, due to how he could feel the animosity the others had towards him when they laid their eyes on his stomach and some scoff in his direction. He could hear their thoughts about him, all filled with scorn.

The blond guess the All-father wanted to place him in Modi’s room to torture him to hear all the scathing thoughts others had about him.

And now? Here he was, sitting in Modi’s room on the edge of the bed, trying to calm the unease in him that he was going to be forced to birth in Asgard. Sif had Thrúd, after they met her in the halls, to get the healers to check Heimdall.

To prepare for the upcoming birth, Sif had asked Thor to retrieve a crib, which now sat in the room. Heimdall recognized it as the one used by Baldur after his own birth. Although the healers in Asgard were not as skilled as Freya and Eir, he knew they would do their best to assist him.

He was already 36 weeks pregnant, nearly ready to pop, he had a feeling that labor would start soon since he felt pain in his lower back and aches. When he did reach 36 weeks, Brok when commenting on him that he didn’t look as big as Thor’s rotound stomach. Which was true, he didn’t look entirely big, but there was definitely a belly on him.

“I could sneak out when it is dark for us, little one. I could ask Thrúd to help us sneak out to go to the stables. Have Gulltoppr take us to Vanaheim to Freyr’s camp to be safe. But the all-father has eyes all around with his ravens. I might get caught leaving.” Heimdall said, softly, as he glided his hand against his stomach. The baby responded with a kick.

“I don’t want you to be born here in Asgard, where Odin could possibly do harm to you… Or use you as leverage to have Kratos give the mask to him. But we don’t have a choice, do we.”

“Heimdall?” Sif’s voice called from the other side of the door. The door creaked open to reveal the long haired blonde goddess. “Can I come in?”

The blonde gave her a nod, she came in, closing the door behind her. She had stopped as she gazed around Modi’s room, looking forlorn but gathered herself. She approached the god of foresight before stopping next to him, she gently put her hand on his shoulder..

“The healers will be on their way to check up on you. To see if you and the baby are well.” She said, softly, to him. While raising her hand from his shoulder, she hesitated before laying her hand against his cheek and gently rubbing the delicate bone structure with her thumb. “Do you want me to stay while they check up on you?”

The blonde remained silent. He turned away from the goddess of Wheat, Earth, Harvest and Family, contemplating if he wanted her there with him when the healers checked him.

He wanted nothing more than ever. He wanted the presence of Freya to check him, along with Kratos by his side.

But they were not here with him. Squeezing his eyes to hold back the oncoming tears.

“Yes, stay.” He responded with a shudder. A tear rolled down his cheek, which Sif wiped away.

********

To his dismay, or as he knew it would happen, he went into labor at dawn. The pain he experienced took him off guard, as it seemed to wrap tightly around his stomach, pulsating in waves. Each wave of pain gave him a momentary break before returning with renewed intensity. The pressure he felt on his hips was particularly agonizing, making him feel as though a heavy weight was bearing down on him, making movement difficult.

The smell of lavender was comfortable on his skin, where he rested on the expanse of the bed, wearing nothing but a linen shift that made it half-way down his thighs. The room was intentionally kept dim, with warm lighting, to create a soothing atmosphere for Heimdall to be comfortable. The quiet room was filled with reassuring murmurs and the soft rustling of busy motion. Sif held onto his hand, rubbing her thumb against his knuckles to soothe him before pressing a wet cloth against him to cool him off.

When the pain started, he let out a moan and gripped Sif’s hand. He held his breath as the pain gripped him before letting go, exhaling to relax.

Upon examining him, the healer reported that he had dilated about 4 centimeters. Heimdall groaned in frustration, wishing for the process to accelerate. The pain had become overwhelming, making every passing moment an ordeal.

“Babies take their time, my Lord.” The healer said, softly to him, she rubbed his leg before heading back to the other healer in the room.

The Goddess of Wheat, Earth, Harvest and Family gently coaxed him to get up from the bed to encourage him to get up and move to distract himself from the pain. Holding his hand, the two walked around in the room, he cradled his mound. When the pain started, the blonde gripped Sif’s hand and let out a whimper.

Sif, comfortingly, squeezed his hand in response to his whimper. She understood the difficulty he was going through, empathizing with the process he was enduring. Having experienced the births of her own children, Ullr, Modi, and Thrúd, she knew firsthand how challenging and intense the process could be. However, with time, she had become familiar with the stages and the anticipation.

Sif remained steadfast by Heimdall's side, providing both physical and emotional support throughout the ordeal, she gently brushed a lock of golden hair away from Heimdall’s sweaty face. Heimdall leaned into Sif's touch, grateful for her presence and comforting words. He closed his eyes for a brief moment, focusing on regaining his composure. Sif gently rubbed his back, offering a calming gesture, as she continued to support him through this challenging process.

One healer approached them, gently asked to have check upon Heimdall’s progress so far, Sif gently guided Heimdall back onto the bed, helping him lay down comfortably. As Heimdall settled onto the soft bed, he felt a sense of relief wash over him. The mattress offered a comforting support to his tired back, easing the burden of his physical exertion.

The healer placed a gentle hand on Heimdall's knee and proceeded to assess his dilation. After completing the examination, she announced that Heimdall was now at 6 centimeters dilated. This measurement indicated that Heimdall's cervix has opened to a certain extent.

Another healer, Morið, approached the bed holding a silver chalice in her hand carefully. Sif helped Heimdall in a sitting up position. Heimdall looked at the silver chalice and the albugineous liquid inside with curiosity. The aroma that wafted from it was faint but pleasant, calming his nerves to some extent. He glanced back at Morið, his eyes filled with questions.

“This will help take the edge off with the contractions.” she informed him, she brought the chalice to his lips. He took a small sip from the chalice, feeling the liquid's coolness as it slid down his throat.

Almost immediately, Heimdall sensed a subtle warmth spreading through his body, easing the tension in his muscles. The pain didn't vanish entirely, but it became more manageable, allowing him to focus on his breathing. Morið turned around to walk back towards a barrel to put the chalice down and go to the other healer.

Sif gently hunched over, stroking Heimdall’s cheek. “Since Morið has given you the concoction, take a moment to rest. You need to save your strength for when it is time to deliver the baby.”

The god of foresight nodded to her, his eyes closing as he sought much-needed rest. Conserving his energy for the impending delivery, he allowed himself to succumb to the embrace of slumber.

In his resting state, Heimdall's mind went to Sindri's home, nestled in the realm between realms. The atmosphere was bustling with activity as preparations were underway for the anticipated birth of his and Kratos's baby—a somewhat joyous occasion that could have been, if he was not forcefully taken back to Asgard.

He could almost feel the warm furnace of the older god's muscles against him, soothing him the best he can since he has been through it twice with two different wives, Freya taking charge as the midwife, ensuring everything was in order for the arrival of the new addition to the family. With her expertise, she carefully organized a birthing area that was private for both Kratos and Heimdall.

Loki asking lots of questions to Mimir, who is trying to answer but can’t really, while holding the excitement of being a big brother.

Sindri, having an aneurysm of everything, Heimdall could almost visualize the gears turning in Sindri's head as he fretted over the upcoming mess. While Brok handed out drinks to everyone in the house as a ‘congratulations!’.

He was resting a bit, till it struck him; Another powerful contraction-the strongest one yet. Heimdall jerked out of his rest to let out a scream, Sif, Morið, and Jensa immediately went over to the god of foresight after his scream made them stop discussing things. The Aesir diplomat, gripped his hand, her other gently cupped his cheek to soothe him, telling him to breathe through the pain and wiped the tears that poured down his cheeks.

Morið checked him to see how much he has dilated, after checking she announced Heimdall was at 9 centimeters dilated and the baby was really low now. She immediately told Jensa to get everything prepared for the birth, which the brunette nodded to the other woman.

Another contraction took hold of Heimdall, but something new joined in with it. A burning sensation, that was new and frightening for him, though he knew what it meant; his would be holding his baby.

The Aesir diplomat helped Jensa to adjust Heimdall, by turning him to face the direction of the midwives, gently, Sif crawled onto the bed and behind Heimdall.

“Do not push until you have too, my lord. Breathe through this part, the baby’s shoulders are passing through the pelvic bone.” Morið told him. “Your body knows what it is doing.”

The god of foresight did as the healer told him. Breathing through the pain, letting out some slight moans. Jensa stood by Morið’s side, holding a towel in her arms, she handed one to Morið, as she stood between Heimdall’s legs. Suddenly, every fiber of his being screamed; PUSH!!

Heimdall, grasping behind his knees, taking a gulp full of air, pressing his chin to his chest, gritting his teeth, and pushed with all of his might.

“Just like that! Keep repeating what you are doing, m’lord!” Morið praised, she looked up to Heimdall then back to pay attention to between his legs.

His heart pounded in his ears, there was nothing else in his existence beyond the heavy, burning sensation in his loins and the reassuring voices around him.

Another push, another breath; and another still. He felt like this was going nowhere till he felt his folds spread apart and his skin stretching.

“Keep going, m’lord! The baby is finally crowning, Just a few more pushes and it'll all be over with."

Heimdall let out a moan, his mind retreating somewhere safe, as he continued to push. Once in his mind, he had thoughts of Kratos, hearing the old god’s deep voice reassurring him and encouraging him to keep pushing. Hearing Freya’s voice in his head, encouraging him as well, and repeating what Morið was telling him.

On the next two pushes, the head came out and then on the last, hardest one – the shoulders popped out. Heimdall let out a scream as he felt the baby slid out of him into Morið’s arms with the towel, collapsing against Sif. Jensa quickly kneeled next to Morið’s side and cut the umbilical cord.

Morið, with Jensa, rubbed the baby dry with a towel, gently. There was silence for a moment, till the baby let out a cry. To Heimdall, that was the most magical sound he heard, the healer rose to her feet, and gently she handed the baby to Heimdall that was swaddled in blood-stained towels.

“It is a boy, m’lord.” Jensa announced, giving a smile to him.

The god of foresight, gently took the baby in his arms. His heart swelled with joy as he cradled the newborn in his arms, feeling an overwhelming surge of love and protectiveness. Tears of happiness welled up in Heimdall's eyes as he gazed down at the baby, taking in every precious detail. The softness of the baby's skin, the tiny fingers curled into fists, and the innocent expression on their face filled his heart with an indescribable warmth.

Sif, she looked over his shoulder to gaze at the little one in Heimdall’s arms, memories of when she first held Ullr and Modi in her arms after they were born filled her mind. The Aesir diplomat carefully lifted the linen shift he was wearing to expose his chest. The tiny baby boy’s cries lessened, and he nuzzled over to Heimdall’s chest and instinctively started to suckle.

It tickled, but to Heimdall it was worth it. He delivered the afterbirth while still attentively watching his son have his fill.

“Does the boy have a name, m’lord?” Morið asked, she tied the cloth with the afterbirth in it so that she could bury it. The blonde was silent, he and Kratos wanted to name their son after he was born, once looking at him. His heart hurt as he thought of his beloved Kratos, how he missed on the birth of their son due to he was forced back into Asgard.

“Rúni… His name is Rúni.” Heimdall responded, tiredly.

“A strong name for a strong child. I will let Odin know of the birth.” Jensa announced, she left the room.

After Rúni had his fill of warm milk, Morið gently took the baby from Heimdall's arms, allowing Sif to help Heimdall lie down on the bed to rest. Once Heimdall was comfortable, Sif returned the baby to his father's arms, completing the tender moment.

[zazter-den]

Top 5 anime not including BNHA. And if 5 is too little, then top 10 lol

Thanks for the ask Neon! Bending the rules and going with my top 6!

❖ Demon Slayer, is my number 1 anime for the animation and music. The way the techniques are animated leaves me on the edge of my seat every time even if I have to wear blackout shades for flashing scenes. But the music OMFG. There is only one person I truly Simp for, and that is soundtrack composer Yuki Kajiura. She is my Hans Zimmer, and has had my soul since .Hack//Sign OST, she's also done Mai-Hime and Madoka Magica. When I heard the Akaza theme I flipped my shit because I instantly recognized her work, and I can't wait to hear what she does with the rest of the series. If you haven't watched yet Do It- the art will surprise you. Not even gonna get into my thirst for Tengen and Rengoku.

❖ Blue Exorcist. Such a great show over all! Shiemi was so important to me growing up as chubby traditional girl. Seeing her and Rin overcome their challenges, really pushed me to be more myself.

❖ The Cat Returns Movie. I was weak for Cary Elwes' Westley in Princess Bride, and I love his dapper cat character in this. Kiki's Delivery Service is a close second- but this is my favorite Ghibli movie. ❖ Apothecary Diaries. Newly added to the list! Wasn't what I expected but I love this little cat-coded detective with a love for poison. Much more adult than I thought but if you're ok with darker content elements, you should give it a try! Also Jinshi's english voice actor is also Gojo. ❖ Kaleido Star. This was my absolute favorite anime as a kid. When I was young, I thought my flexibility was a great thing and was convinced I was going to join Cirque du Soleil when I got older (spoiler alert, it was Ehlers-Danlos). It hasn't stood up to the test of time as well as other anime. But I believe that with updated animation- this would do amazing as a reboot in the Sports Anime category. There's this one scene where the main character's lit by the rising sun as her costume transforms and it still takes my breath away. (AMV that has the best quality shot of the scene at 2:34) ❖ A Vision of Escaflowne. One of my favorites, I'm sure I have nostalgia goggles on (the actual series, not the Fox Kids slice n dice), but I feel this one would do *So Well* as a reboot with updated animation and va. An Isekai with everything: ancient tech robots, secret royalty, hybrids, dragons, alternate worlds, steampunk. I would be lying if my fantasy/barbarian Bakugo were not heavily influenced by Van's opening fight scene in the movie. This AMV does a pretty good job of summarizing the series! CW: Flashing Lights, Blood

[miki-kaname]

Introduction

Hello everyone. I'm not new here, but I did start over. I'm setting everything up in the meantime, so I'm introducing myself as a returning blogger.

For this blog, I will be posting anime content, mostly Madoka Magica. I have a second blog, @sayakasreblogcorner which will focus on reblogging anime content. Warning: spoilers for anime you haven't seen as well as uncontrollable spamming. You have been warned.

Here are the animes I am into.

Puella Magi Madoka Magica

Hunter x Hunter

Dragon Ball

Fruits Basket

Jujutsu Kaisen

Attack on Titan

Demon Slayer

Fate series

Nichijou

Mob Psycho 100

My Hero Academia

Spy x Family

Bocchi the Rock

Date a Live

That's all the shows I can think of. I don’t guarantee I’ll get everyone, I’ll just focus on Madoka the whole time. There are more, but they are either ones that I seen once or twice or the ones I don't love anymore, but I'll probably post some of them if I'm in the mood.

Anyway, welcome aboard and let's be friends.

[glowyjellyfish]

Is there still a Ducktales fandom here? Most of the blogs I followed around the 2017 times have either changed subjects or gone quiet. Well, anyway, if anybody’s still here:

I started rewatching Ducktales 2017 over the holiday, with the intent of finally finishing the last few episodes! I’m in the middle of s2 and very excited. So I went through and started editing my playlist, which hasn’t really been updated since season 1. And I’m wondering if any other fans out there have any song ideas. I’d like to have a fairly equal amount of songs for each major character, and so far my favorites tend to be over represented.

Here’s what I have so far:

General amusement songs:

Ducktales theme song

Quack Quack Quack! Donald Duck

The Three Caballeros Song

Scrooge

The Saddest Story Ever Told by The Magnetic Fields

Hazy Shade of Winter by Gerard Way

Feel It Still by Portugal. The Man

Inside Out by Eve 6

We Are the Champions by Queen

Donald

Trouble Loves Me by Morrisey

The Worst Day Since Yesterday by Flogging Molly

Come With Me Now by Kongos

Battle Cry by Ludo

Return by OK Go (although it’s about Della, from his perspective)

Della

Song of the Sea by Cake Bake Betty

Got to Fly by Marian Call (the best Della song)

Rocket Ship by Kathy McCarty

Huey

The Trail We Blaze by Elton John

Overkill by Colin Hay (I kinda want to replace this one)

In Too Deep by Sum 41

Everything is Awesome by Tegan and Sara

Dewey

Ready for Anything by Skyway Flyer

A Little Less Conversation by Elvis Presley (the Megamind cover)

Ghost by Mystery Skulls

Louie

Plan B by Five Iron Frenzy

Heist by Ben Folds Five

Here It Goes Again by OK Go

Natural by Imagine Dragons

The Future by Mystery Skulls

Webby

Kids in the Dark by All Time Low

I’m Ready by Angela Michael

Try Everything by Shakira

Beakley

Have You Got It In You? by Imogen Heap

Launchpad

Crash Goes My World by Cadence Grace

Flying by Blue Rodeo

Mr Blue Sky by Electric Light Orchestra

All Star by Smash Mouth (the best Launchpad song)

Bud Like You by AJR

Holding Out For a Hero by Bonnie Tyler (favorite recent addition, it’s both perfect and hilarious)

Learn to Fly by Foo Fighters

Gyro

Build the Robots by Doctor Steel

Still Alive from Portal

Fenton (should note that his section is a bit of a mess and may include songs that don’t work very well because I was just tossing songs in there to see what would stick)

Rocket Man by Elton John (although it works better for Classic Fenton than 2017 Fenton)

A Better Son/Daughter by Rilo Kiley

Freaking Out by Mystery Skulls

The Safety Dance by Men Without Hats (haven’t tested it yet, but the idea amused me)

Hero by Chad Kroeger

Little Lion Man by Mumford and Sons

Mighty Little Man by Steve Burns

Consequences by Buffering the Vampire Slayer

We Are by Ana Johnson

Lena

Opheliac by Emilie Autumn

Glomgold

Opportunities by Pet Shop Boys

Reprehensible by They Might Be Giants

Mark Beaks

Whipped Cream by Ludo

Welcome to the Internet by Bo Burnham

Gladstone

Life Has Been Good To Me by Randy Newman

…and that’s it. As you can see, it does not feel like a complete playlist, covering neither every character nor any full arcs. …except maybe Launchpad who’s pretty well represented with some good and great songs for him. My sister has suggested I try Let the Games Begin and The Good Part by AJR, as well as You Won’t Make a Fool Out of Me by Flogging Molly for Donald, but I would like some songs I haven’t heard by different artists, if possible. Also, please note that I haven’t seen the last five or so episodes of the series yet; I have approximate knowledge of The One Thing, but otherwise am avoiding spoilers until I finish.

Any ideas?

[arnieb95]

Do you mind if I ask your top 10 favorite characters (can be male or female) from all of the media that you loved (can be anime/manga, books, movies or tv series)? And why do you love them? Thanks....

Thank you for asking me! I'm so happy to have this chance to rant about my favorite characters.

So, I anticipate this is going to become obnoxiously long, so I will start with the list, and continue with my explanations below the cut. I will also limit myself to just one character per piece of media, otherwise I could rant for hours on just one or two shows.

In no particular order, except first place:

1. Weiss Schnee (RWBY)

2. Rayla (The Dragon Prince)

3. Rue Kuroha (Princess Tutu)

4. Nia Teppelin (Gurren Lagann)

5. Kaguya Shinomiya (Kaguya-sama wa Kokurasetai/Kaguya-sama Love is War)

6. Rukia Kuchiki (Bleach)

7. Winry Rockbell (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)

8. Shallan Davar (The Stormlight Archives)

9. Kanao Tsuyuri (Kimetsu no Yaiba/Demon Slayer)

10. Toph Beifong (Avatar: the Last Airbender

Alright, to begin my explanations, I want to preface that I very much have a type when it comes to blorbos I obsess over, so much so that my mutuals will often recommend me a new piece of media, along with the likely candidate for my newest blorbo and they are usually correct. So, I usually fall in love with princess-esque characters, who often initially come across as cold and mean, have backstories riddled with family trauma, and who turn out to be completely full of love for their friends and found family. I also tend to really love tsundere characters and characters who see themselves as unworthy of other’s love and affection. Whenever I see a character like that, I just want to love them so much and make everything ok for them.

That being said, if you are familiar with the media these characters are from, you can likely see why I fell in love with the characters I did. There are a few times I will stray further from this description, but for the most part, this fits all of my blorbos to some degree. If you are not familiar, I will avoid spoilers, for the most part.

Beginning with my all-time favorite, Weiss Schnee, I cannot say enough to express just how much I love her. When RWBY starts, she is very much cold, mean, arrogant, stuck up, and in general a really bad person, earning her the nickname "Ice Queen." However, she quickly changes, the love of her friends begins to thaw her frozen heart, and she overcomes the mindset with which she was raised. So much so does she change that by halfway through Volume 1, she has accepted Ruby, whom she had claimed to hate just a few episodes before, as team leader and promises to be the best teammate Ruby will ever have, the two then become incredibly close friends. by the end of Volume 1, she overcomes her father's instilled hatred of the faunus and warmly welcomes Blake back into the team. And by Volume 3, she goes so far as to sacrifice herself for Yang, with whom she usually bickers constantly. And these are just some of the many highlights of her growth throughout these volumes.

Then, in Volume 4 we see just how abusive her home was, her father's psychological, emotional, and even physical abuse, had very much been the cause of her earlier behavior. But she is not the same person now, her life has forever changed, and so she runs away from home and returns to her team. This trend continues throughout the rest of the series and she is constantly shown to be incredibly loving towards and protective of her friends, even if sometimes she hates to admit it.

This peaks in Volume 7, when, once again, she confronts her father and explains that she ran away for "Not just friends. Family."

Onto the next one, Rayla, my adorkable elven assassin. So, to start with, The Dragon Prince was the first show that I really became obsessed with as an adult and really reintroduced me into fan spaces. Because of this, and just how good the show is, I have a very special place in my heart for this show, and Rayla is, without a doubt my favorite character in the show.

Rayla grew up in a village of Moonshadow elves and was raised by her parent’s friends, as her parents were called away from home when she was younger to be a part of the Dragonguard and protect the egg of the Dragon King and Queen. This resulted in serious issues with abandonment and a lack of self-worth, since she felt she wasn’t good enough to keep her parents around. To top this off, she was trained to be an assassin in a culture where one is taught to live as if they were already dead, their life does not matter.

However, as depressing as this sounds and in fact is, Rayla remained a very determined and kind person, with an incredibly good heart. She was unable to kill an unarmed guard on her first mission and later befriended her target and his brother and went on a mission across the continent to return the missing egg of the Dragon Prince to his mother. Along the way, she fell in with Callum, the older prince, and became like a sister to the younger crown prince, Ezran.

Over all, while, her issues of self-worth remain, and her self-sacrificial tendencies are extreme, she is motivated by that same love that is the very center of her being, even though her ways of dealing with things are not the best.

Now for my beloved Rue, she is a complete disaster and I love her so much. Again, we have a girl with an incredibly abusive father, this time an evil giant Raven, who gaslights her constantly into thinking she is unlovable and that the only person who could love her is the fated prince who loves everyone, for only “he could love someone like her.” Now, this results in some very serious trauma and it affects her personality and actions to an incredible degree, and she is an incredibly mean and manipulative person for most of the story, becoming the evil Princess Kraehe

However, as time goes on, she begins to become more self-aware and wakes up from the spell that has made her forget who she is really is and her true self begins to emerge. In the end, she is an incredibly loving girl, who, though she never once had known love in her life, became capable of the truest love. “The more she loved, the more she suffered, and she couldn’t even seek help from anyone. But she never tried to stop loving…”

Nia, my sweet girl Nia, is an absolute precious sweetheart. Again, she was raised by a very mean and unloving father (look, I told you there was a theme), who literally threw her out in a crate, despite being the princess. However, she is the kindest and sweetest character ever and really becomes the loving heart of the team. She is soft, and sweet, and pure, but will also not hesitate to stand up to injustice and put her life on the line for her friends.

In the end, her love is even strong enough to resist the very nature of the being she was made as.

Number 5, Kaguya, is, again (surprising no one), an initially cold girl from one of Japan’s most powerful families. However, despite this cold exterior, which earned her the nickname “Ice Princess Kaguya” (noticing a theme?), is actually an incredibly sweet girl MADLY in love. This love is all consuming and greatly contributes to her change in character, and while she may sometimes revert to her former ways and look down on herself for it, ultimately, she wants to make others happy and see them smile.

Rukia is a very recent addition to this list, as I only just finished Bleach, after starting it 13-14 years ago, last month, but my love for her character is still intense. She’s a little firecracker in the beginning, but despite her attitude, is also shown to be very kind and affectionate to her friends. What sealed the deal for me though, again, her backstory.

Winry from FMAB is another favorite, and one of the ones who doesn’t fit my normal type quite as closely. However, one thing that is consistent for her throughout the series, and the thing I love most about her, is her genuine kindness and love, no matter what happens. Her relationship with Ed and Al and the promises they make to each other are some of my favorite parts in one of the best pieces of media ever made.

Shallan Davar is honestly one of the best written characters I’ve come across in one of the best written book series I’ve ever read (even though I’m still only at the beginning of book three after several months since I started that book). Again, she has an INCREDIBLY traumatic backstory, in fact she takes the cake when it comes to the characters on this list. This affects her so much that she selectively forgets all about it and only remembers it again in pieces as the story goes. As my friend who got me into it can attest, each chapter that had more of her backstory had me screaming and crying.

However, despite this all, she is an incredibly good and principled person, and an incredibly complex and compelling character. Her humor and relationships with the other characters are highlights in an amazing series of high fantasy.

Kanao is an initially emotionless person. Her life has made her suppress any desires in her heart and she only follows orders, either given by her superiors or from the flip of a coin. However, thanks to the influence of Tanjiro, she begins to listen to the voice in her heart and become her own person. In the end, she is incredibly passionate about avenging the loved ones she has lost and protecting those she still has.

 And finally, we have one of my favorite characters from when I was younger from one of my all-time favorite shows, Toph. Toph is an incredibly funny and tough character, but she is also incredibly kind and loves her friends so much, just don’t say that to her out loud XD. Again, her parents didn’t truly understand her and tried to make her into someone she was not, and it made her very unhappy. It was only in embracing who she truly was and helping others that she found real happiness, and friendships that last more than a lifetime.

[mysmashplaythroughs]

Fire Emblem Shadow Dragon Playthrough

Fighter: Marth.

Game: Fire Emblem Shadow Dragon, Wii U Virtual Console (Nintendo DS). First Released on August 7th 2008.

ENTRY WARNING: This post will contain spoilers for Fire Emblem Shadow Dragon, I do my best to avoid spoiling plot elements of the direct sequel but I do infer one or two things that will become important in that game.

Fighter Bio.

Born prince of the Kingdom of Altea on an island in the continent of Archanea, Marth was the son of King Cornelius and Queen Liza and the brother of Princess Elice. The royal family is descended from Anri, the first King of Altea and slayer of Medeus the Shadow Dragon who was the founder and Emperor of the Dolhr Empire that plunged the continent into war hundreds of years before Marth’s birth. Medeus was later resurrected and rebuilt the Dolhr empire ready to invade Archanea. Marth’s Father, King Cornelius led his forces along with the forces of the allied nation Gra into battle wielding the sacred blade Falchion, the weapon used by Anri in the previous war. He faced the forces of Dolhr and their allies, Grust’s Sable Order of Knights. Cornelius put up a good fight despite overwhelming odds, however his ally King Jiol of Gra betrayed him and this broke Cornelius’s forces which led to his death. Before he died Cornelius sent Cain his only surviving knight to return to Altea and inform Marth of what had happened and to tell him he was now the last hope for Archanea. Gra’s other forces did not take long after the battle to invade Altea and attempt to wipe out the remaining royal family. Princess Elice being the older Sister forces Marth to flee the Kingdom with a small force of knights by teleporting him with a staff out of the castle before she and her Mother are captured by the invading forces. Marth reluctantly escapes with a small force consisting of himself, Frey, Abel, Jagen and Cain, knights on horseback, Gordin an archer and Draug an armoured knight. In order to escape, Frey volunteers to remain as a decoy to buy them time which Marth is upset by but cannot argue against.

Following their escape Marth and his remaining forces are given sanctuary on the small Island nation of Talys home of his childhood friend princess Caeda who rides a Pegasus. Following an invasion a few years later by pirates which Marth’s forces fight off they decide the day has finally come to take on Dolhr, Grust and Gra’s forces, reclaim the stolen Falchion blade and free Altea. Marth meets many characters on his journey with many joining up with him from a variety of places including allied nations and even soldiers who defect from enemy nations. Some of Marth’s new allies include princess Nyna of Archanea the biggest country on the continent, Aurelian commander Hardin, Red Dragon Princess Minerva with her trio of Pegasus Knight sisters and Tiki of the Divine Dragon Tribe, the daughter of Naga the Divine Dragon. Following the defeat of Gharnef, the dark priest who is the driving force behind the whole war having resurrected Medeus and who is using his forces for his own ends, Marth reclaims the Falchion, he also learns before this that his Mother was killed by the commander in charge of Altea. Marth’s forces take down many foes including King Michalis, Minerva’s brother and Camus of the Grust Sable order of Knights. Marth comes to realise that many of his foes are not pure evil and fight for more complicated reasons beyond simply seeking power. Due to this, Marth tries his best to use words and other strategies to turn enemies into friends which is sometimes successful, however he still has the will to fight those who he has no choice but to. Defeating Medeus the war is ended and the continent of Archanea returns to peace. Marth is crowned King of Altea and is loved by his people for his heroic efforts, however this peace does not last long.

Marth is kindhearted, skilled and a good leader, he is also very idealistic holding himself to the virtues he believes in such as his sense of duty and honouring the historic ties his country has to others such as Princess Nyna of Archanea. Having seen Frey and his Sister sacrifice their own safety and possibly lives for him to escape years ago has led Marth to do absolutely everything in his power to ensure the survival of his allies. Marth’s idealism is both his biggest strength and weakness, it is through this idealism he has been betrayed before but it is also through this he has managed to turn neutral parties and enemies into devoted allies and kept his friends very loyal to him. Despite his popularity Marth is fairly humble and often seeks reassurance from others in his decisions which can make him waver sometimes but also allows him to keep an open-mind and take on others opinions. As a unit Marth is of the lord class which allows him unique access to rapiers, a sword that is strong against cavalry and armoured enemies. Depending on the version of the game Marth is either one of the strongest units or one of the weakest due to changes in how weapon matchups work. Marth can only use swords which are not good against lances which both cavalry and armoured units use, this means despite his advantage against those types of enemies he’s often at a disadvantage when it comes to weapon types they typically wield. Marth is also the only one who can visit villages on the maps and this therefore often requires him to travel quickly into dangerous territory he would probably be better off avoiding. Marth receives the Fire Emblem in his quest from Princess Nyna, this allows him to open chests just like a thief unit can and therefore makes him useful in cases where a thief would take up a precious spot in the party. When Marth receives Falchion it does improve his abilities and allows him to have an advantage against dragons, however he can still struggle due to his other weaknesses including in the final battle against Medeus even with his stats boosted as much as possible.

Friends: Marth builds an army of allies who all respect him enough to follow him into battle, due to this I won’t list many of those who can be counted more as allies even if many of them do speak with and have a good relationship with Marth. Those closest to Marth include his family with Marth loving his older Sister and being extremely relieved when he rescues her. Marth’s relationship with his Father and Mother isn’t very explored although he is distraught by their deaths but put his own feelings aside to do what he sees as his duty in leading the army in the war. Marth’s closest relationship is with Caeda who he has a great fondness of and can be somewhat overprotective of, he wishes Caeda would not put herself at risk but accepts her decision to do so reluctantly. Jagen is an old knight who Marth greatly respects often seeking his advice along with Malledus who is his tactician that helps explain a lot of the history of Archanea to him. Merric the mage is a close childhood friend of Marth and his sister Elice. Hardin is not particularly closer than most other allies to Marth but sees him as a genuinely worthy leader of the army fighting Medeus to the point of denying Marth’s claims that Hardin is a better choice to lead the army. Whilst Hardin respects Marth he does have a small sense of jealousy deep down that Marth was chosen to wield the Fire Emblem by Princess Nyna whom Hardin harbours feelings for. Despite this jealousy of Marth, Princess Nyna does not actually have feelings of that nature for Marth respecting him strongly and being eternally thankful for his help, Nyna however is in love with Camus the leader of the Sable order of Knights which puts her somewhat at odds with Marth in facing him although she reluctantly agrees there’s no other way. Finally Tiki has a great amount of fondness for Marth referring to him as Mar-Mar and develops a childish crush on him for his protection of her after she was brainwashed and forced to fight Marth’s forces which could have led to her death at their hands. There are various other female allies who also have a lot of affection for Marth however he is mostly oblivious to all but Caeda.

Enemies/Rivals: Marth is compassionate and does not enjoy fighting avoiding it when possible as much as he can, however he also acknowledges it is required and will not back down against enemies who cannot be reasoned with. The worst of Marth’s foes are Medeus whom Marth has little interaction with since he is essentially a prisoner in his own castle throughout most the war and Gharnef who’s the true driving force and therefore the true cause of all the pain in Marth’s life. Of the enemy commanders probably the most personal enemy of Marth’s is Morzas the Mage Dragon who murdered Marth’s Mother and King Jiol who’s treachery led to King Cornelius’s death and the fall of Altea. Marth sympathizes with Camus although this does not make him hold back in fighting and defeating him despite trying to find alternative ways to resolve their differences. Finally Marth is willing to fight King Michalis and Michalis believes Marth will kill him, despite their being enemies if Michalis dies he often will entrust Marth with protecting his Sisters who are part of Marth’s army and shows him a level of respect.

Crossovers with other Smash characters: The Fire Emblem series tends to cover different worlds with different entries in the series and therefore characters from the same series aren’t from the same world and don’t crossover in canon. Marth’s world is the same one where Fire Emblem Gaiden/Echoes takes place as well as Fire Emblem Geneology of the Holy War and Thracia 776 although in different time periods and on different continents. Fire Emblem Awakening takes place in Marth’s world but thousands of years in the future with his descendants being a big part of the story. The Fire Emblem series has had a few crossovers with the whole series although they are rarely canon to the plots of the main series, the only case of this that is arguably canon is the Einherjar which are cards that form into spirits that are recreations of various Heroes from the Outrealms which are other dimensions outside of the world of Fire Emblem Awakening and often house recreations of locations from the many worlds of the Fire Emblem series. It is through this Marth appears as an Einherjar and can interact with the cast of Fire Emblem Awakening, including Robin, Chrom and Lucina who are all in Super Smash Bros and other Einherjar such as Roy and Ike who are also from Smash. Due to their existence as recreations rather than the true characters this is not technically a full-on crossover, however the characters from Awakening who are their true selves do get to interact with an approximation of these characters and therefore I count it as an interaction. In Fire Emblem Fates however Amiibos allowed Marth, Ike, Lucina and Robin to appear within the My Castle area and meet Corrin who could battle them, recruit them and receive accessories and weapons from them. In this case these versions are implied to be real rather than recreations or something although interestingly they imply from dialogue that they’re specifically from Super Smash Brothers rather than their own games canon. In Fire Emblem Echoes Shadows of Valentia a similar situation takes place with the ability to summon Marth, Ike, Robin, Lucina, Roy and Corrin, however in this case they’re explicitly said to be illusions taking on their forms. Finally for the main series the upcoming game Fire Emblem Engage has special spirits known as Emblems that take on the form and personality of Lords from throughout the series with Marth being the most prominent one in the story it seems. These Emblems acknowledge they’re not the actual characters so are similar to the Einherjars.

Fire Emblem Heroes and Fire Emblem Warriors are part of their own canon but involve a variety of characters from across the series being summoned to help the worlds unique to those games. Due to this every Fire Emblem fighter in Super Smash Bros has made an appearance and had a chance to fight against or with each other, although for Warriors Byleth, Roy and Ike do not make an appearance. Through Amiibo Marth and some other Fire Emblem characters have also made appearances in Code Name S.T.E.A.M. and as costumes in Super Mario Maker. The most major crossover outside of crossovers with his own series Marth has been in is Dragalia Lost, a mobile game which has now ended service and where Marth made an appearance alongside other Fire Emblem characters. This appearance was more specifically a crossover with Fire Emblem Heroes and therefore the versions of the characters are more based on that than their original games canon. In this crossover two other Super Smash Bros fighters from other series appeared being Mega Man and Joker. Outside of this Marth has not crossed over with other series outside of Fire Emblem.

Why this game?

If I were to choose the game which is the most definitive story of Marth then I would likely have gone for Fire Emblem 3 Mystery of the Emblem, there are two issues with that however, the first is that the game has never been released in English and where possible I’ve tried to play the official releases of games, the second is that game is a remake of the very first game with a second half which is a sequel (called Book 1 and Book 2 respectively). The remake of the first game however in Mystery of the Emblem seems to have taken out certain characters and chapters which makes it not the definitive experience of Marth’s first adventure. Due to this I went for Shadow Dragon as it is a remake of the first game with all the content from the original game plus some additions (which are somewhat controversial and I will go over later). Sadly the sequel on DS which was a remake of Book 2 and expanded upon it a lot was another game that was only released in Japan and therefore the events of Marth’s second game still have not been officially released outside of Japan to this day. I do plan to later play through that game although sadly I have little hope it will receive an official release outside of Japan now.

My past with this game.

So I guess the time has come to delve into Fire Emblem. My story as someone who played Melee when I was younger is probably predictable to begin with, I heard about Marth and Roy being in the game and how they were from another series I had no way of playing since their games had not left Japan. I didn’t know at the time that Roy was actually in Super Smash Bros Melee before his own game even came out. At the time I had a very limited knowledge of RPGs based really just on Pokemon and Paper Mario, to the point I believe at that time I’d think of them more as ‘games like Pokemon’ than RPGs (I also remember seeing Zelda often called an RPG which muddied my understanding back then even further) What interested me the most with Marth was always his trophy in Super Smash Bros Melee. There were some odd trophy descriptions in the game that sounded pretty dark for games I’d not heard of, I believe one was for a Custom Robo trophy talking about a characters ‘Tragic End’ vaguely and Ayumi Tachibana’s trophy talking about her murdered friend (Which having finally played Famicom Detective Club now isn’t that accurate on a whole beyond the murdered friend). Marth’s trophy description sounded like a standard fantasy story, but then ended sounding like after all his hardships Marth loses and his country is wiped out or something. I understand now what events were being described but at the time I remember this description made me think Marth’s game was extremely dark and tragic. Eventually in 2004 the very first Fire Emblem released outside of Japan came out on GBA. This post isn’t about that game specifically so I’ll hold off saying too much on that, but I thought as had commonly been the way with things before then that this was ‘the Fire Emblem game’ that Marth and Roy were from released here because of the interest from Smash Bros. Due to this I remember believing for a time that Eliwood was Roy and of all characters, Hector the axe wielding blue haired lord was Marth. I remembered thinking it was simply a case of them changing their names for the actual game’s release from what they were called in Smash rather than them being totally different characters and it wasn’t helped by me not beating the game for a long time and therefore never seeing Roy’s appearance in it. As to how I learnt the truth regarding it I’m not sure, possibly I read it in a magazine at the time (which was my most common resource back then) or I found out through early internet. The most likely source I can think of for the information is the Spriters Resource which I would use a lot back then and I feel I probably saw sprites for Marth and Roy’s actual games on and therefore came to realise my mistake. 

Either way, for a long time Marth and Roy’s games weren’t released here and it wouldn’t be until 2008 that Marth finally got his first official appearance in a Fire Emblem title outside of Japan. I hadn’t played Fire Emblem since the first GBA game by this point but I decided to do so since I’d always been curious about Marth. I forget now if I knew the game was a remake of a Famicom title, I think I did as I feel like I cut it a bit more slack than I’ve seen a fair few people do with it being a remake of such an old game. With that said, out of the two I definitely didn’t enjoy it as much as Fire Emblem on GBA and after playing it for a bit I gave up on it. A fair few years later I was on holiday staying at a small cottage we rented when seeing my grandparents and I had I think my 3DS at the time with a load of games in the case I have. I was looking through ones to play and for some reason I picked out Shadow Dragon again and somehow, it was just the perfect set of circumstances that resulted in me playing it a lot. I really got into the game, not for any real reason other than I was just enjoying it, I still can’t really remember what I found so good but I finally played through a lot of the game getting towards the last few chapters. The main chapter I vividly remember playing was the Wooden Cavalry which is probably the most memorable of the game to me. I think following the holiday I then finished the game finally at home and that was it. Overall playing a fair few Fire Emblems starting with Awakening’s release I realised it was probably my ‘least favourite’ Fire Emblem game, but at the same time I somewhat liked it. From what I’ve heard since I think the sequel which never left Japan improved on much of the game so it really sucks we never got that, but that’s pretty much my history with this game.

My Smash Playthrough.

For this playthrough I decided to play the game on my Wii U rather than my original DS copy, the main reason being I could get screenshots through Miiverse. This playthrough was the first where I realised I had a lot of characters available to me besides just Marth and I wanted to have some sort of guideline for who to use as being close to a ‘canonical Smash Bros playthrough’ so to speak. Luckily I had such a guideline thanks to Fire Emblem Awakening, something that I’ve used in every Smash playthrough I’ve done of a Fire Emblem game since. With the previously discussed Einherjars in Fire Emblem Awakening some were released through DLC whilst others were through free Spotpass teams that could be summoned. Each game in the series would have 10 characters from it that could be summoned to fight, recruit or buy from. Due to this I decided that since these had been chosen as the representatives of the games and this was the only thing that really had a selection of specific teams from earlier games like this at the time I started that I would focus on these characters. Most often one of the characters in these 10 for each game weren’t playable usually being one of the main villains, in the case of Shadow Dragon that was Gharnef with Princess Nyna also not being playable in Shadow Dragon but they were both in the Spotpass team. For the others I would try to set them up as they were in the spotpass teams, although I wouldn’t avoid promoting them if they were unpromoted in Awakening as I didn’t want to limit myself too much.

For this playthrough therefore I focused mostly on Marth, Caeda, Ogma the mercenary, Navarre the swordsman, Merric, Linde a mage, Minerva and Tiki who were all part of the Shadow Dragon Spotpass team. Alongside this, three fairly iconic characters in the series debuted in this game also and appeared as DLC characters in Awakening so I decided to also give them some focus as well, those being the Pegasus Sisters Palla, Catria and Est who are unique in that together they can perform a Triangle Attack (although this arguably is more trouble than it’s worth I believe). Now, I will be the first to admit that whilst I’ve beaten a fair few Fire Emblem games I am far from good at the ins and outs of them, I understand the basic way of playing and can usually make my way through the games after a fair few tries, but I definitely couldn’t give advice on the stats, growths and viability of specific characters etc. All I can say for this playthrough really when it comes to specifics is, I managed to beat it without losing a single member (and I recruited everyone I could in the story through that method). I really appreciated the new feature of the save point on maps in this game and I definitely relied on a fair few cheap tricks for the final maps of the game such as using teleports to try and take the final boss down quickly.

One of the key features of Fire Emblem games is that when one of your characters is defeated they die in the storyline and you cannot use them again. Later games included an option for newer players to play the game without this feature and there were workarounds even in the original game with a special staff that can revive a character but it’s very rare and usually can only be used for one or two characters max in the whole game. The most controversial aspect of this game I believe is the alternate chapters which were new additions. In these alternate chapters brand new characters are available who can be recruited, what’s controversial about them however is that to get them you have to have lost specific units or be below a certain amount of surviving units earlier in the game, so in a sense the only way to see this new content is to actually sabotage yourself by purposefully losing characters. I believe the idea behind this was to not get rid of the permadeath but provide replacements for characters you lose since a fair few of the new characters can serve as replacements for units lost. Another reason this system isn’t great however is that Shadow Dragon is notorious for how big of a cast it has with many of the later units often being alternatives for units that are gotten earlier in the game with some being outright pallet swaps of each other, which therefore makes having these exclusive new characters who are also possible replacements even more redundant. Either way, due to this and from what I know of the new characters canonically appearing in the second DS game and seeming to confirm that they didn’t join in the first DS game, I decided in this playthrough to simply ignore the extra chapters and characters and focus on recruiting everyone in the regular story and keeping everyone alive.

Due to my decision to keep each character close to canon, I admittedly avoided probably one of the most fun elements of this specific game which was how customizable the units are. Each character has their original class from the original game and can promote into a more advanced class, however this game introduced a new feature which allowed every character in the game to be reclassed into something else. This can lead to some pretty funny and unique playthroughs where a character like Wrys the bald priest who has a healing staff can be reclassed into a Myrmidon which is a fast swordsman class that focuses on critical hits. It’s probably one of the most interesting features of the game overall so it was a shame to not play around with it in this playthrough but equally it wasn’t that big of a deal.

Of the most notable chapters for me in the game, probably the ones I remember most are the Wooden Cavalry, a chapter where almost every enemy is a Ballastician who can’t move far but can fire from a very long range making for a very unique chapter, The Battle for Altea which has Marth free his homeland, Manakete Princess which is the chapter where Tiki must either be fought or recruited, Camus the Sable which has Marth battle Camus the leader of the Sable Knights who is one of the most notable boss characters in the game, A Knight-Filled Sky which involves fighting against King Michalis’s forces which consist mostly of Pegasus and Dracoknights, the Dark Pontifex which is the battle with Gharnef to reclaim the Falchion sword and finally my personal favourite the Dragonkin Realm which is the last map before the final boss and has you fighting across Dohlr to reach the castle where Medeus resides. This map has many enemy Manaketes but with the Falchion Marth is now able to fight them fairly well. I’m not a particularly big fan of the final map as it has your group all split up into different parts of the map with very powerful enemies approaching and I found myself that I’d often have at least one or two groups who didn’t have a particularly strong unit who could withstand more than one attack, it was due to this I strategized more around using the warp staff but even that was risky as no character had the power to take Medeus down with ease. Probably the best aspect of this final chapter is gaining Gotoh who is the most powerful default magic unit in the game and has his own unique tome he can use making it feel like getting Gandalf or Merlin to join the party in the final battle.

One final point I want to go over is the music, it’s mostly pretty good but there are a couple of standouts overall to me with the first being Tiki’s theme (which has appeared many times in the series now and is always good to me) and For the Tomorrow’s Sake which is the opening music to the later chapters of the game and had a lot more impact to me than the earlier chapter’s music which helped make it feel like momentum was building in the story. Anyway, overall replaying the game I still enjoyed it but once again it still remains probably my least favourite Fire Emblem game so far. With that said, unlike its main competition for that title, at least one thing I can say goes in its favour is it isn’t overly long enough to outstay it’s welcome. I still now get a kick out of seeing how it adapted a lot of the things that were quirks of just how old the original game was, such as characters who were pallet swaps, but beyond that I’d say it’s only worthwhile as a curiosity today rather than one of the must play games in the series even with Marth in it. Here’s hoping someday we might get a remake which puts it together with its sequel to make one definitive game for Marth.

Specific aspects about the game relating to Marth in Smash.

Well, this was probably the easiest of any Fire Emblem character to do because of how simple this game is in comparison to later entries in the series, simply put I equipped Marth with Falchion. Marth cannot promote in this game so I didn’t have to worry about what class he was and there’s not any supports like other games so storyline wise I didn’t have a set canon I wanted to follow. I mentioned in my playthrough section but probably the best map for as close to the Super Smash Bros version of Marth as you can get in this game is the Dragonkin Realm map as Marth has all he needs equipment-wise to fight as he does in Smash and the stage is in my opinion fairly close to the Castle Siege stage in setup (I’ll detail that more when I get to talking about stages.) That’s it pretty much.

 Credits.

For information on this game including dates of releases I must give credit to the Fire Emblem Wiki and Serenes Forest for additional information such as Spotpass Teams in Awakening.

The screenshots in this post are taken by me from my Miiverse during my playthrough of the game.

[queers-gambit]

Sweetest Devotion

[ part two ] [ alternate ending one: Kin Slayer ] [ series masterlist ]

prompt: exhausted by the war efforts, your husband does what he can to protect you. but maybe in the end, it'll be you who saves him.

pairing: Aemond Targaryen x Velaryon!wife!reader

fandom: House of the Dragon

word count: 9.3k+

note: two parts because total word count was at 17k. also, this is the final, people!!

warnings: major book spoilers. cursing, some angst, some comfort, author projects a little, major alternate timeline ending. ❗️SPOILERS

The storm had followed Aemond home to wreck havoc over King's Landing, flooding the streets and homes in Flea Bottom and low bearing homes.

You weren't sure how long you sat in silence together, but your heart was weeping, and you had no earnest idea on how to move forward from this moment. Your baby brother, the sweet Prince Lucerys, had met his end from your husband's ruthless pursuit of revenge.

Though it was his dragon that did the slaying, he is still Vhagar's rider and wanted revenge; though he would've settled for an eye, the dragon did not understand.

Aemond was silent beside you, the storm heard from the Dragon Caves as water gently leaked through cracks in the foundation. You thought the weather matched your mood and did little to quell the raging tempest that built in your chest and head; if anything, it spurred your anger onward. Tears leaked from your eyes with no sign of stopping; legs remaining bent to keep your arms tight around them. You also could not meet his gaze, nor look upon his face without picturing your baby brother screaming in terror.

You sniffled several times as you couldn't do much else but cry, but then, you made a swift decision. Jumping to your feet, you muttered, "I must go."

"Wait," Aemond stood after you, following you to your saddled dragon. Kasta raised her head and narrowed her eyes in threat, growling when Aemond reached for you. "Sweet girl, please, just hang on a second - "

"No," you sneered, wheeling around on him - meeting his eye at last. "You did this. You killed my brother, and what I need right now, is fucking space."

"How do I know you're not leaving for good? Fleeing to tell your mother the news?" He asked hopelessly. "Please, my love, understand that I cannot let you leave me. I cannot bare it."

"You cannot keep me here," you whispered in return. "You said you'd smuggle me out of the city if I wanted. Well, this is what I want - to fly with Kasta, and to be rid of your presence for now."

Tears filled his violet eye, "Please tell me you will return?"

"What if I don't?" You sneered. "Will you get on Vhagar and follow me, too? Hunt me down in the skies, maybe? Let your dragon eat Kasta and I for her main course?"

The emerald green dragon positioned above you glowered, and bore her teeth as if to dare your husband to do anything.

"You know I'd never hurt you," he whispered, but reached for your arms. "I need you to step away with me, please. We need a word."

"A word? A word? You need a word with me? Where was that courtesy for my brother? A boy of only ten and four!? Hey!?"

But you silenced yourself when Vhagar lifted her head from her alcove and swung it to watch the three of you - making Kasta go on the defense. "Kasta," you demanded in High Valyrian, "enough. Do not engage."

Your dragon growled still, standing rigidly above you as Aemond's hands tightened over your upper arms. "Listen to me," he begged still, making your glare turn back to his lone eye, "and believe me, please, none of this was my intention."

"You've made that clear. Yet what I can understand, is that you antagonized a child and your dragon does not understand limits nor bounds. She does not understand you only wanted to torment and scare the boy, and when his dragon reacted in an effort to protect his rider, you lost control."

"Why is his dragon understood and mine crucified?"

You scoffed, "Truly? What business did a 10-year-old child have claiming some 180-year-old dragon!?"

"Now that is on trial!?"

"Aemond, what are you expecting here?" You snapped, ignoring the way your skin seared under his touch. "You and your fucking dragon killed my brother, end of story, end of sentence, no other room for judgement. This is your sin to bear, not mine, though I am now burdened with knowing my husband claimed the innocent life of my brother! How could you?" You whispered, stepping closer as your voice lowered but still rang clearer than the storm raging outside. Both hands tightened over his biceps, begging, "How could you do this? To me? To us? To my Mother? If it was an eye you wanted, you can have mine - both if it would satisfy you."

His head shook, "No. No, I would not - do not twist this on me."

"I am assuring you that there were any other way to solve this, and should you remember correctly, we married so that your pride might be soothed. As payment for my brother's actions, my hand was offered, and your father accepted that proposal. Pray tell me how that was not enough? After all this time?" Your arms laid over his to grab the muscle above his elbow; his grip tightening on your waist. "Why did you do it? Why did you push for this? It is by your selfishness that my brother isn't even allowed to be buried!"

"Say the word and we will go find him now," Aemond shook his head.

You scoffed, then nodded solemnly. "Truly?"

"I would do anything to right this terrible wrong. If it meant you stayed, if it meant I kept you, I would do anything."

You nodded again and tried to smile, but your tears made it difficult. Before Aemond could blink, your hands reached for his belt and yanked the leather free; grabbing his long-sword in hand and shoving the weapon into his chest - which forced him back two steps.

"Gut your dragon," you whispered into the eery silence.

"What?"

"Gut Vhagar and pull my brother's body free before the acids have time to dissolve him further," you sneered, pressing the sword harder.

"My love," he begged softly.

"No? Is that refusal?" You goaded.

"You know I cannot."

"Then there is nothing more I want from you than to be free to take my dragon into the skies. I cannot look at your face longer, knowing what I know now. I need time to think."

His hand softly folded over yours, pausing a moment to ask, "Is there any way you could forgive me?"

"I need to first find a way to fully stomach what you've done, then we might ponder if I can forgive you. I would not hold my breath if I were you, though."

His hand tightened over yours, nodding as he repeated to you your words from earlier that day in High Valyrian, "I will wait for you forever, if I must. But do not make me... Please."

You snorted through your nose, shaking your head, "Do not do that. Do not try to romance me now. You cannot possibly have love for me if your dragon ate my fucking brother."

You pulled away from him in full to make for Kasta again. Sword laid forgotten in the sand as he called after you, "Just be careful, my love, please. There's a storm tonight."

"Yes, I've ears to hear with, thank you!" You snapped over your shoulder. "I will be fine."

You wanted to tell him you'd return, but in truth, you were unsure if you were able to. You wanted to go back before today, before the love of your life had killed and eaten your little brother. Well, his dragon did the eating, and while that's not Aemond, and beasties are allowed to be wild from their masters, you were disgusted looking at him.

Kasta purred when you got to her side and easily climbed on top of the saddle, sparring Aemond only a single look before encouraging your dragon from the Caves under the Dragon Pit.

Aemond had to flatten himself against the Cave wall as Kasta surged past him - bursting into the frigid air, and spreading her wings to beat once, twice, three times, and rise into the air.

You soared higher and higher; darkness swallowing you as it had your brother, letting the storm encompass you whole. When Kasta was level, your hands let go of the saddle to sit back and choke on your sobs, arms going lax as your strength to hold yourself together gave way. And through the storm, what better way to release your rage?

You let your tears mix with the water splattering on your face. For the thunder to drown your anguished screams. For the lightning to flash away the images you unintentionally conjured when you thought of your husband and brother.

You let the vapid, sideways rain pound over you. For the wind to howl and create a legion of goose flesh to form over your shivering form; though you did not feel it. For the storm to become one with you.

Your pain was tangible. Your anguish known.

You flew for miles, unsure where you were heading because the storm demanded the forefront of your attention - but you weren't willing to give it. Kasta chose to fly aimlessly as she just wanted to stretch out, and for a moment, you considered just flying across the Narrow Sea. Head for Essos, where you would escape this petty stupidity. Where you would not have to choose between your beloved mother and adoring husband.

Between Green and Black.

Between rightful succession, and well... Tradition. You hated the thoughts when they registered in your head, but the truth of the matter is that after centuries of tradition as naming first-born males the heir, you were not stupid and understood your shit-stain-brother-by-law, Aegon, held a 'legitimate' claim now.

You were desperately confused, you had no honest idea what to do, and the further you flew in the storm, the more your exhaustion rose. As your dragon's pale green wings cut through the air and she took charge of your flight, you weighed the pro's and con's of each action.

If you stayed, you got Aemond - and that was enough of a pro on its own.

If you left, you'd be able to salvage whatever time you have with your brothers, Jace and Joffrey. Plus your step-sisters, Rhaena and Baela, along with half-siblings, Viserys II and Aegon III.

If you stayed, your dragon would be on the frontlines only due to her sheer size... And that sounded more like a con.

But! But! But! If you left, you knew the message you bore - that was sure to reach your mother's ears with or without you - would be reason enough for Rhaenyra to wage war. If you returned to your mother, you'd be thrown into her war, and with Kasta, who still grew in size and ferocity, who was to say you wouldn't be used on the frontlines there, too?

If you stayed, Aemond would always protect you. Not that you needed it but it was a comfort to know you'd not be alone.

You'd hopefully get to see your siblings all marry, too, if you went home.

Your child would know its father if you stayed.

You screamed into the night again.

Sobs ransacked your lungs, demanding oxygen be sucked in with a shuddering, stuttering inhale. You were restless and distraught, and even when time passed, the storm did not; nor did your heartbreak. But Kasta understood your pain, letting you sob into her hide as she flew you higher, higher, higher... Before breaking free of the storm to give you a view of the just rising sun.

You breathed in shock as you sat up off her shoulders. With your arms keeping you upright, you gazed with swollen red eyes to the beautiful sight before you; relishing in the swirls of colors that only brightened with each flap of Kasta's wings.

She hovered a moment to let you gaze at the clouds and rising sunlight, patting her shoulder as you praised in High Valyrian, "Good girl, my sweet Emerald. Good girl - thank you. Thank you," you whispered, hearing her purr as she beat her wings to keep her body suspended.

You took a sobering breath and sat up tall. With nobody around, you were left with only Kasta to speak to, and maybe, that'd be your saving grace in time. You spoke, "It is more than myself I need to consider. You are my priority," you smiled, stroking her neck, "but I also now have a baby growing in my womb, and I have to take them into consideration, too. Where we go, I have to think of you two the most - because I cannot let you suffer for human selfishness."

She gave a loud purr.

"Yet we have two options, my girl. We stay in King's Landing and we would fight with Aemond, only. We are loyal to him, not his usurping weasel of a brother."

She snorted, almost nodding her head. You saw her lips flutter and knew she bore her teeth in distrust of Aegon.

"If we return to Dragonstone, we are subservient to our Queen, my Mother, the rightful ruler and heir to the Iron Throne. Surely, with Daemon's influence, we would be expected to fight."

Saying it aloud again made you slump onto her shoulders, groaning, "Oh, Kasta, what the hell are we doing? We should just take our chances in Essos."

She huffed.

"No? Maybe Pentos?"

She growled.

"Then where should we go, pet? Where? Where you are safe and so is my baby?"

Kasta whined lightly, unsure of your decision either.

"I care little for my own safety, but you, my precious girl, are entirely dear to me and I will not risk you in open war. I could not ask that of you, you are not at fault for the deceit my people show. But we have to chose which side we are to take, love. Where I took vowels to be loyal to Aemond, we know Rhaenyra is right and true, but with Luke's death, she... She cannot be thinking levelly."

Kasta lowly whined in agreement, turning in a circle to keep her blood pumping before coming to another halt. You had a view to a sea of sun-soaked clouds, finding rolling hills of different colors; all painted on fluffy canvases.

"She'll need me now more than ever," you whispered. "She cannot do this alone, and... And the Greens have Vhagar. The Blacks have Meleys. Yet if I take a position, I will still have to fight the ones I love, the dragons you grew with."

But Kasta gave a small snarl.

"You know I mean Aemond," you chuckled lowly. "He's the best trained with a sword and rides the largest dragon... He'd be sent off to battle, and to meet him, I'd wager Daemon would not hesitate to send us with Melyes and Rhaenys. What would hurt more, Kasta? Fighting my step father and mother's cousin? Or fighting the man I was sworn to love and be loyal to before the Gods? Who sires my children? But... The man has killed my brother and I fear I'd be unable to forgive him. What do I do, Kasta?"

She whined again.

"I made vows to him," you whispered brokenly. "I do not think I can leave... Mother would surely use us to fight, but at least Aemond would protest Aegon's command, try to keep us safe..." Your tears streamed down your cheeks, making you nod, "All right, yeah, come now, my love, we need to go."

Kasta anticipated this and turned to dive back into the storm; your eyes closing from the whipping wind stinging your eyes as Kasta dove at an angle straight down. You held on tightly and trusted her, and when she leveled, you cracked your eyes open to see your dragon flapping her wings straight for the distant Red Keep.

"Mumma's sneaky girl, aren't you?" You chuckled at her, patting her neck with an affection hand. She gave a roar of announcement as she swiftly circled the Dragon Pit and descended; landing with a trembling thud before she was hurrying under cover from the still-raging storm. You held on until she came to a halt in the Caves; pausing to let you slide off your saddle. "Good girl," you praised, letting her forehead caress the scales of her cheek. "Good girl, thank you. Always my good girl, yes," she gave a small snort of contentment, almost leaning into you.

"Thank you for returning my wife safely, Kasta," Another voice purred in smooth High Valyrian, and you sighed when you recognized it instantly. It was a voice you longed to hear, but not yet - not so soon. You did not think he'd still be here at this hour.

"I've only just returned, Aemond, are you truly that dull or does the concept of time and space just not register in your head?" You leered to Aemond from over your shoulder.

"I needed to see you were safe with my own eye," he sighed, watching your dragon patter (read: took thundering steps) into her alcove for rest; leaving the two of you as alone as you could be.

"You see me now," you snipped. "Now leave me be."

"We should talk - "

"The only thing I've left to say is that I'm done," you nodded. "I'm not leaving you, don't bother even trying to lock up Kasta - she's been biting lately. But I can't stay with you anymore."

"What does that mean?"

"That I still need time and space to think about this, it's not a decision I can come to in a single evening," you sighed. "Look, I'll move out - "

"No, wait," Aemond stepped towards you but you held a hand.

"It's for the best," you backed off a step. "I can't live in our room anymore, not when you are everywhere. I'll suffocate."

"I'll move out."

"Do you not listen?" You groaned lightly. "You're all I see in that room, and I need time apart. I understand what happened with Vhagar, I do - and while I'm sorry you feel guilt over losing control, I still need you to have accountability for the actions taken tonight. You've started a war - both in life with my mother, and in my heart with my head."

Your words planted his feet as his stomach plunged; letting you slip past him only just - your ears catching his whisper, "Will you ever forgive me?"

You paused but did not look at him. "Time will tell," you alluded, unsure of what to tell him in truth. You left after that, the storm thick and making you stick to back allies of King's Landing to reach the Red Keep again. Seemingly out of respect, Aemond did not follow, and from your shared quarters, you made a beeline for the one thing you wanted. The rest of the room and all contents shared some kind of memory attached to your husband.

You only took an ornate jewelry box your mother had gifted you years ago and quickly fled the room in favor of locating Amira. From there, she helped you locate a new room, and together, you shoveled clothes into trucks, and with another maid, Clara, carried two full trunks between you three.

You lead, holding one handle, Amira in the middle, both hands holding an end of a trunk, and Clara at the rear; a single rucksack strung around yours and Clara's shoulders. You ignored the bewildered looks of others to quickly head for your new room, somewhere far from Aemond to avoid accidentally running into him.

Your two maidens helped you unload your trunks with two jugs of wine - the night long, and given your status, you could 'relieve' the two women of their daily chores. So, they spent the night with you, and you didn't dare open your mouth about what happened.

You told them you and Aemond had a terrible fight and you needed space to think. They understood and while you saw the way Clara wanted to push, Amira was sending her stern looks that silenced the younger girl. They did not linger after the sun broke the horizon, but Amira did return to bring you something for breakfast.

You didn't realize this would become your new normal.

Weeks upon weeks went by with Aemond keeping his distance and it drove you up the bloody wall. On one hand, you were frustrated because you were alone, but also angry, because he killed your brother. You craved his affection, his touch, but still felt repulsed by the sight of him. He liked to send you flowers; filling your room with sickly sweetness that made your anger almost solidify, but the reminder of the act of kindness went farther than you were willing to admit; and though you'd not admit it, each little card that came with the flowers were saved in a small, carved wooden box.

On the loneliest nights, you curled up in bed, caressed your still-growing bump, and reread his declarations of love and loyalty. His words that read how much he missed you, and prayed for you daily.

In order to maintain appearances to both his family and the public, you and Aemond attended official royal events together. However, the silence between you and Aemond echoed across any room; earning the attention of his family.

They were well aware by now of Luke's demise and could only assume you knew, as well; but nobody ever confronted you about it after Aemond threatened physical harm to any who dared. When Aegon threw Aemond a feast to celebrate his 'accomplishment', not even the arrogant boy-King questioned your notable absence. Especially after teasing he'd go collect you himself - and earned Aemond's venomous glare that rooted him in spot.

For weeks, you slept alone, mostly ate alone, couldn't bare to sit with Helaena and her children anymore. You were heartbroken and feeling sick from stress, isolating yourself in the hope of figuring out your emotions and next steps forward.

You tried to rationalize in your head that in times of war, casualties were inevitable; but you were frustrated because it was the first punch, and never knew where to place your emotions. Granted, you could've considered Aegon's coronation provocation towards war but your mother was trying to be calculated in her movements; almost now forced into the fray following the death of Lucerys.

Despite this understanding, nothing in your mind cleared.

Until enough was enough when the next storm struck the city. You flinched awake and felt your chest tighten with memories of your baby brother as the storm had tapped into your subconscious to make you dream of him. It felt more like a haunting now.

You were left alone to pace the cold, stone floors, the hearth stoked to life, flowers slowly drying from a vase on the spare table, but the thunder made you tremble and rub your palms together. Your mind did not stop, nor did the frantic, vapid beat of your heart; anxiety flaring with each flash of lightning.

You flinched when there was a pounding at your door. Not a knock, but four beats of a fist in rapid succession that nearly made the whole door shake off its hinges.

Gulping any nerves, you reached for the handle and opened it a crack; curious as to who would call upon you at this late hour. But what you saw surprised you, making you blink a few times. "You're soaked," You whispered, leaning on the door you held, taking note of the rain water dripping off Aemond's form.

"There were matters I had to attend to, so, I was outside for a time," he explained with a nervous nod. "I was just returning, and only wanted to come by and check on you..."

"Why?"

He shrugged some, "The storm, and because I love you. I didn't want you feeling so alone. I know you grow weary."

You nodded as another crack of thunder rumbled, making you ask softly, "Do you want to come in?"

"Yes, thank you," he whispered with a curt nod, watching you step away to push the door open and grant him passage into the smaller room. When he stepped over the threshold, you gulped nervously and shut the door securely. "You rearranged," he noted with a small chuckle. "Like you did in our room."

"I think I am nesting," you smiled, smoothing a hand around your swollen belly. "Times I am stressed, I can curl up in bed with a book."

He nodded, "Good."

The bookshelf was in a new place than the first, last, and only time he's seen your new room, and the bed was pushed into a corner where you had piled a mountain of pillows to create a literal nest. You watched him for a moment, offering, "Do you want to change? You might catch a cold in that."

He nodded, "Uh, yeah, yes, that would be much appreciated. Thank you, sweet girl, but I have clothes in, uh, our room..."

You smiled softly and went to the wardrobe to find him something new, warm, and suitable to change into. "I kept some of your clothes, they're comfortable to sleep in," you explained, slightly defending yourself as you didn't like feeling so vulnerable under his luminescent gaze. "What were your errands?" You wondered gently.

He sighed, "I had to visit the Storm Lands again, Aegon had a new message for Lord Borros."

"How fairs your intended?"

He laughed, "Oh, my beautiful girl, you still think that's happening?"

"Is it, Aemond?"

"Not in the slightest," he sighed, nodding with assurance when your eyes met his with skepticism. "I told Aegon now wasn't the time for strife between my wife and I, and I wasn't available to do his bidding nor make his alliances."

You considered his words, then asking, "Is there news?"

Aemond cleared his throat, nodding as you presented the clothing and sat it on the bed. Then, your hands took hold of his jerkin and started to undo the latches and laces - as if no time had passed. He sighed, "Your step-father claimed Harrenhal and the Lady Arryn and Lords Manderly, Sunderland, and Stark, maybe another, have declared for your mother's side."

You nodded, peeling the wet leather from his form. "And your news to Storm's End?"

"To break the engagement in person, but Borros did not seem too disheartened."

"You think he would abandon the cause?"

"No," he sighed. "He's smarter than that."

"Uneducated, though," you mused gently, peeling his tunic free from his damp chest. "Hang on," you paused, moving for the heath to pull off a towel from a drying rack. When you returned, you asked, "And how are you feeling now?"

"Exhausted," he whispered. "But I was worried about you, Princess, when I came home and saw the storm was here, too."

You nodded, "You do not need worry - "

"Of course I do," he snarled gently, "you are most precious to me, my love," he frowned as his tone tapered off, shaking his head. "'S been killing me trying to give you space."

"Thank you for it," you nodded, sweeping over his skin to dry it before handing him the thin, white tunic. "But um..." You paused with nervousness, nudging his booted foot with your bare one. "Take those off."

"What were you truly going to say?"

You rolled your eyes some, silently cursing him for knowing you so bloody well. "That I do not wish to be alone tonight... Maybe you'd like to stay?"

"You'd want me?"

"Of course," you nodded, gently unlacing his trousers and stepping away to let him change completely into drier pants. "I told you I didn't want to be alone."

"You've been so angry."

"With reason."

"I know," he nodded, eye tinging red from restrained emotion. "I'm so sorry - "

"For what this time?"

"All of it," he reached for you, changed finally. "But I swore you wouldn't be alone, and here, I just left you."

"I wanted to be alone," you reminded softly.

"Did not mean you should have been," he whispered, letting his forehead meet yours. He let out a sigh of relief, "Let me fix us."

"I think time apart has sickened my stomach... And your child misses the sound of your voice," you admitted. "I don't want to be without you anymore, but your brother oversteps himself."

"I know - "

"He threw you a feast for killing my brother," you reminded, stepping away. "He mocks my pain."

"I will have a word with him - and with everyone. You will not be caught between this war, you are my wife, and I will protect you against them all."

"I am only loyal to you," you sighed. "So, whatever you ask of me, I will do, but only that. I am not your brother's subject - "

"Hey," he quipped, slipping his hand over your mouth and giving a suspicious glance around the room. "I hear you, pet, I do, trust me, but the walls have ears now. Please..."

You sighed, rolling your eyes at him before opening your mouth and boldly licking his palm. He tasted like leather, and just like you wanted, he recoiled in shock from the feel of your tongue. "Wash your hands, husband," you chuckled, moving to sit on the edge of the bed.

"Because you don't know where you've been, wife?" He teased, pulling a soft mug at his soiled hand before stepping away from you to head for the wash basin.

"I haven't really left this room, Aemond," you sighed.

"I know," he admitted, washing his hands and forearms, "I was worried about you isolating yourself but Amira kept saying you needed space to think."

"She's a good friend," you smiled gently, watching him. "Can we be done with this?"

He offered a look of shock, "What? With what, love?"

You sighed, quelling his worry by responding, "This fight? The distance between us? I don't... I don't want space anymore. I just want you, Aemond, I want my husband back."

His shoulders gently slumped with relief as he dried his hands. "Yes, good, we're done, it's at an end, my love. You have me, you always have - and always will."

"I'm still working on forgiving you but I think, all things considered, we can start... Moving on..."

He nodded, "Many are lost in war, but I am so sorry he was the first. And that it was by my hand."

"Thank you for saying that," you nodded at him, finding his accountability refreshing. "Come to bed, please?"

"In your nest?" He chuckled, letting your hand reach for his and lead him to the mattress.

"Yes, it's cozy," you defended. "And you made me sleep alone, so, I made do with what I had."

"Fight's over, love, that's all done now," he promised with a sigh, settling into your nest and readjusting a few times. "Hmm," he considered, glancing around the mountain of silks and fluff. "I don't think I hate it completely."

"Shhh," you hushed as you moved to curl up at his side. The hearth had died a bit in flame, but the warmth was enough that you only needed a thin sheet for comfort. You smiled when his hand laid to your belly, rubbing gently as if in fascination.

"Missed you so much, sweet girl," he whispered, kissing your forehead. You sighed against him, promising you missed him, too; then deflating into his chest as sleep tugged at your form. You still flinched into his embrace on a few particular hard claps of thunder rattling the walls and windows, but Aemond was there to soothe you back into gentle submission.

Yet, by morning, there was nothing but chaos.

"MY PRINCE!" Someone banged at the door, making you and your husband flinch awake. "PRINCESS!"

"The hell?" Aemond muttered through a haze of sleep, hand tightening on your waist.

"MY PRINCE! PLEASE! PRINCESS! WAKE UP! WAKE UP, PLEASE! MY LADY! LORD! LORD, PLEASE!"

"That's Mira," you realized, sitting up in shock. "Come in, come in!"

"Love," Aemond reprimanded, yanking the bedsheet over his bare hips after feigning being too hot in the night to spend it in your cunt with you still in your singlet.

The door barged open and Amira entered with a pant, "You both need to come quick!"

"What's happened? Are we under attack?" You worried.

"No, no, well, I-I don't - I don't know anymore," she panted, using her hands to reiterate her words. "Something has happened - "

"Tell us plainly," Aemond demanded.

"The Queen - y-your mother, s-s-someone broke in a-and bound her," Amira told you both with a tremble; making you grab Aemond's hand as if it would quell his growing temper. "Th-They killed the hand maiden and your sister arrived with all three of her children, like they do every night - t-to say goodnight to their grandmother."

"No," you whispered.

"The door was barred," Amira's tears started, "an-and the Queen was made to choose which of her sons would die."

"For the love of the Gods," Aemond cursed, looking down as if to prepare himself.

Amira gulped.

"Tell us," you encouraged.

"S-She named Maelor... But they killed Jaehaerys instead." You felt the tears swell. "They took his head, and fled the Keep," she whispered.

"What?" You gasped.

"But, wait, wait," she saw both your temper and Aemond's flare when his head lifted to burn her with his glare. The missing eyepatch allowed his sapphire to leave her unnerved. "One of the assassins was caught. He's been brought to the dungeons."

"The dungeons?" Aemond nodded.

"Yes, my Prince. Your brother is being informed and anticipated he'll call for you," she explained. "Your mother is being seen to, she is well-enough, and the Lady Helaena was not harmed... But she is beside herself with grief."

"Rightfully," you nodded, watching Amira sniffle.

"I'll go, but perhaps, Lady, you should remain... You do not need to bear witness to the King's justice," she spoke softly.

"I will go with my husband, thank you, Amira," you nodded at her, letting her turn for the door in haste. "Aemond?" You turned to him, reaching for his cheek to direct his attention to you. "Hey, hey, stay in the present with me; take me through your thoughts..."

He shook his head, leaning in to sigh when his head rested in the crook of your neck. "I do not even know," he admitted. "What am I supposed to do right now? What am I to think? What - What if they came for us? Came for you?" His hand secured to your belly. "This is retribution for Lucerys, this is my fault - my doing. They could've come for you, my love - "

"They did not because they know I am under your protection, my sweet love," you muttered, caressing the back of his head. "Nobody would be so foolish."

"Then perhaps I need to keep you close," he frowned, lifting his gaze. "So that I can protect you at all times." You nodded, letting his hand caress your belly in soothing circles. "I-I am ashamed to admit I cannot stop thinking about it. If they came for you."

"Aemond," your hand reached for his jaw; fingers fitting between his ear to thread slightly into his hair. "Do not burden yourself with the unknown, please. The hypothetical, it-it will not serve us now. When we're alone, yes, my love, please, grieve and be upset and tell me what thoughts plague your mind. But we need to hit pause because there's business to attend right now."

He sniffled and nodded some. "You're right. Come with me, please."

You agreed, and together, got from the bed. After changing from your singlet, you both hustled through the castle to make for the dungeons - your husband armed with his long sword and two different daggers. Your hand was tight in his, trying to help keep him level headed as you met Aegon and witnessed the murderer, 'Blood', be tortured for answers.

He admitted to a partner, a rat-catcher named Cheese, and that he was on his way to collect payment for the Prince's death from your step-father, Daemon. Aemond's arm constricted around you when he heard, trying to prevent any residual anger be directed your way.

Yet, it never came.

Blood confessed to being told this ransom by some 'whore', nicknamed Misery - and you stilled at the familiar name. Only Aemond noted it, and he would question you later - where you'd admit to knowing the name of the White Worm because she was Daemon's paramour - before focusing on the interrogation.

The rest was a frenzy.

Over a two week period, Aegon hung every single rat-catcher in the city after being unsuccessful in locating this 'Cheese' character. In truth, they could not find your step-father's woman, either, but finding Cheese was much more important - since he fucking murdered the Prince. To be sure, all were executed and Aegon had their heads mounted on spikes around the Red Keep's fortress walls, and the Hand, Otto, had cats shipped into the Keep to take over the catcher's old job.

You and Aemond sought comfort in each other's arms the night you found out the truth of his sister's state. She had locked herself away and threw herself into a deep depression, unable to care for her children, and absolutely refusing to care for Maelor - after she named him to die. In response, Aegon had taken up residence in another room and gave his mother, Alicent, care of the baby after deeming his sister-wife unfit.

It made the both of you outrageously grateful for one another and all feelings of hardship truly evaporated. He held you close, letting his fingers run over your flesh; relishing in the warm feel of your curves. He liked kissing your forehead, holding your baby bump, letting calloused fingertips trace the contours of your face.

Yet the worst was yet to come.

The blows kept coming.

Aegon had seemingly lost the support of the mainland, the Riverlands, and left him in a drunken despair following the murder of his son. He grew tired of waiting and denounced his grandsire, Otto Hightower, as Hand before anointing Ser Criston Cole.

You and Aemond had shared looks of mistrust when the ceremony occurred to announce the change of position - both feeling as if Aemond was being cheated out of a natural position.

Yet, he did not voice anything and did as he was bid.

He did not let you on the frontlines despite his brother's nagging and pushing for such. Aemond worried for the babe in your womb and refused his brother every time - telling him to condemn both you and he as a traitor for it, then.

Aegon never followed through and actually left you be. Yet, as if in retaliation, he sent Aemond on constant errands and missions.

One day, when your husband returned victorious from his latest mission with his brother, who you could not see, because Ameond was rushing for you waiting at the gates of the Keep, and seized hold of your hips. "Come with me," he ushered, trying to lead you away.

"What's wrong?" You worried, hearing the crowds gather in the city streets. "Aemond? 'S goin' on, love?"

He sighed, and then you saw it over his shoulder. "Oh, Gods, no, no, no, no, no," you whispered, a large wagon carrying the head of the Red Queen, Meleys, who was your Grandmother's dragon. "What happened?" You rounded on Aemond. "Tell me what happened!"

"It was a fair fight," he assured softly, avoiding your gaze. "But..."

"Please, just tell me," you whispered, one hand to your lower belly as if to support the babe growing in your womb.

"Meleys perished and her head was brought back to encourage the commonfolk. Sunfyre was severely wounded and had to be left behind in Rook's Rest, and Aegon is gravely wounded, he'll be seen by the Maester's, and..."

"Please."

"Your Grandmother, Princess Rhaenys, did not survive. Or, so we think. There was a body too charred to identify found with the Red Queen."

"Gods," you sighed, wrapping your arms around his waist to rest on his chest. You whispered sadly, "It just follows us now, doesn't it? Everywhere we look..."

"What does?"

"Death."

He frowned and leaned down to kiss your head, giving a tight squeeze. "I'm so sorry," he whispered to you.

But the blows didn't stop.

Rumor reached the Keep of your brother, Prince Jacerys, collecting Targaryen bastards - offering a knighthood to those who could conquer any of the six, riderless dragons left on Dragonstone. Apparently, many tired, many failed, and only four were conquered - including King Jaehaerys' dragon, Vermithor.

The Greens were vastly outmatched.

You grew nervous and Aemond often spent his nights mindlessly tracing up and down your spine to assure you he was still there. He was still alive. He was still with you.

The blows kept coming.

Your two half-brothers, Viserys II and Aegon the Younger, were being transferred across the sea when the Green's navy found them. No ships were left untouched and rumor had it, only Aegon III survived - clinging to the neck of his injured dragon. However, there was no way of confirming if he ever washed ashore or not, so, the idea of him being lost to the sea sank your stomach to new depths.

Over the Gullet of Blackwater Bay, your brother, Jace, had apparently flown too close to the water's surface when he descended to avenge his half-brothers. He leapt from Vermax' back as the dragon crashed and died in the accident, leaving the Green's navy defenses to take aim and shoot the Prince to the death.

He was never pulled from the waters. Again, another brother with no body to mourn or burn.

However, the men Otto recruited from the Stepstones made landfall and sacked Spicetown before laying siege to High Tide. Apparently, they burnt the whole of it, and all of your Grandfather, Corlys', treasures were lost. In addition, a third of his fleet was set ablaze - and you felt guilt for the small relief you felt.

Maybe the end of the war was soon upon you.

By a stroke of nature, you went into labor following news of your brother's demise. It was the smallest semblance of happiness the Greens could find, and they paced at your door; curious for the new addition to the family. Husbands weren't usually allowed in the birthing chambers but Aemond left no choice; holding your hand through it all and using a cloth to dab sweat from your forehead and brow. He paced with you, sat behind you when you needed to squat, did not let anyone touch you when you did not wish to be touched.

He was encouraging, soft, loving, and mostly, worried. The labors of birth was not for the weak of heart, and Aemond had to remind himself several times to be strong for you.

A full fucking day and a half in labor, and you and Aemond were then laid in bed holding a pair of twins. A boy, who looked just as his father does, who his mother named Olyver, and a little girl, who liked to wriggle around in her father's arms, who he named Brinna.

"You did so good, my love, so good," Aemond whispered from beside you, supporting your weight on his shoulder and weight of his newborn daughter in his arms. "Look at them. They're beautiful, aren't they?"

"Mhm," you assured softly.

His mother and brother visited to offer good tidings, leaving both of you surprised by Aegon's presence. Helaena never showed. But Otto did, offering you both congratulations.

Aemond was awe-struck, holding his children carefully; thanking you repeatedly for giving him the gift of fatherhood. They were gorgeous babes with stark white hair and bright purple eyes that slowly darkened with the passing weeks.

Aemond was obsessed. He liked their cribs at the base of your bed - in case they needed anything - and was always first to hop up to offer them care or comfort. Except when they were hungry, then he had to wake you, but he liked sitting behind you as you nursed the twins one at a time, on different breasts.

He couldn't stop showering you in compliments, truly in awe over what you both had created. He didn't like maids or midwives around the babies, often shooing them away in favor of either of you. Following the Blood and Cheese incident, he was overly protective and did not like your twins far from either of you. However, he was the first to call for aid when the long nights took a toll on you; leaving you to rest undisturbed while the babies slept in a separate room.

Any night your husband wasn't home, you were laid in bed with your twins with a wall of pillows around the edges. Aemond was named Protector of the Realm in his brother's absence - Aegon recovering from his severe broken bones and burns obtained at Rook's Rest. This only meant your husband was extremely busy as of late, but every night, no matter the time, he still came back to you.

You preferred knowing he was in meetings and strategy sessions rather than out on the frontlines with Vhagar - never allowing you to know of his safety. It was a gamble if he came home, which resulted in a passionate reunion, yes, but the anxiety you felt wasn't truly worth it. Now that he ruled in his brother's stead, you knew he'd come to bed eventually and started to settle down easier.

But then, when your children were under two, Aemond came to you with a proposition; late from a war strategy meeting, and slipping into bed behind you. He gave a tight squeeze to your frame, making you hum as you woke up fully from your sleepy daze.

"My love," you muttered, reaching up to caress the back of his neck as his lips pressed into your neck several times. You sighed in contentment, small smile on your lips.

"I need to ask you something important, sweet girl. Are you awake?"

"Mhm. What's wrong?" Then, you shot up to twist around and look at him with a crazed expression, "Is it the children!?"

"No, no," he soothed quickly, slowly coaxing you to lay down again. "C'mere, please," he sighed, slowly guiding you back into position. You tried to relax but his words made you suspicious; letting a hand lace with his that was resting on your stomach.

"What is it, love? Worrying me a bit," you sighed, feeling his breath fan over your neck and shoulder.

"Could you ride Kasta with us?" He sighed into your hair, being the big spoon.

"Where, my Prince?"

"To Harrenhal," he revealed quietly. "We mean to move on Daemon from the East and the Lannisters from the West, and in truth, I would hope he'd at least yield if he saw you. Or, more like, if he saw Kasta."

You nodded softly and turned in his arms so you could see his worried expression, reaching out to trace a fingertip over his face. You asked in a whisper, "You would spare him?"

"I have been the cause of enough of your grief, my love," he whispered, "I would try to undo some damage. Yes, I would take him alive, spare his life."

You sighed, "All right."

"We march at dawn after Cole and his men," he informed.

You sighed in agreement, "All right. Then, you're not fucking me, we're going to sleep if I'm to leave bed for long."

His grin was felt against your lips, and just as he planned, your resolve crumbled easily to let him flip you back around and slip inside you, but he still left time for you both to rest. What a gentleman. When you rose, both you and Aemond dressed for the excursion before kissing your children goodbye.

With your husband at your side, you both mounted your dragons solemnly before letting them take to the skies - the armies long-gone with Cole at the lead. They were easy to catch up with, and unknown to any of you, your step-father knew of the Green movement and flew Caraxes to King's Landing to meet your mother on Syrax.

None of you would know of the damage until it was too late.

After a 19-day march through mud and rain, that was met with only few battles from lesser Lords, you were surprised to find Harrenhal empty. Abandoned. There was only the weakened bodies of House Strong left, and all were taken prisoner. You eyed the castle wearily after Aemond had called you from the skies, feet crunching over charred dirt as you went.

"What's happened?" Aemond wondered gently, looking around with you in skepticism.

"He fled," you noted with suspicion, eyes meeting your husband's gaze as you slowly reached for his hand. "He wouldn't unless for something bigger, Aemond."

He nodded mutely as a grinning Cole approached you both, informing, "The whole place is abandoned. Word must've reached him of our numbers and he didn't want the fight. I imagine he's already back at Dragonstone."

You hummed, "Maybe, but it's not like Daemon to flee. We're talking about the same madman who took the Blood Stone Island singlehandedly - "

"Until he was overrun and your Grandsire rode to his aid," Cole cut off, sighing at you. "Daemon's past triumphs are of no use nor concern here. The truth is, he's fled the fortress and it's been reclaimed in the name of King Aegon."

"No, something's not right," you insisted, still glancing around as if to expect a message that would tell you where Daemon had gone. "He wouldn't just give up, not without the Queen's explicit instruction."

"Could his Queen have given another order?" Aemond wondered, and Cole had to physically restrain himself from snapping that Rhaenyra was the False Queen - and that Alicent and Helaena were the rightful leading Ladies of the Realm.

You paused to consider his question, muttering, "'S possible. But what was said? And when?" Your head shook, "No, something's not right. Can't you feel it?"

"They say this castle is haunted, Lady," Cole sighed.

"No, it goes beyond that - and fuck off, Cole, ghosts are real," you snipped, waving him off. "I don't think we should stay, I-I think we should return to the capital. Love?"

Before Aemond could answer, Cole did, "No, we need to hold the fort."

"With respect," you spat at Cole, "but this is not the easy win you think it is. How much would you wager there's been a spy?"

"Impossible - "

"Improbable," you corrected, "but very much possible."

This lead you three to make for one of the strategy rooms to argue, nobody truly knowing what the next course of action should be.

That was, until the late hours, when a bloodied and soot-covered messenger arrived. "Love," You gasped when the man burst into the room, grabbing onto Aemond in shock.

"Who are you?" Aemond demanded, hand to his longsword.

"I-I come - I come from the Keep, my Prince," the man panted. "I carry grave news."

"What's happened?" Cole demanded.

The message was simple: after they had all left, Rhaenyra and Daemon flew their dragons over the city and your Grandsire, Corlys, sailed into Blackwater Bay - seizing it. Any messenger was caught and arrested, anyone trying to send ravens, too. Yet, your messenger only managed to escape through the back tunnels under the Keep; but could not avoid the panic of the city.

"What of the King?" Aemond demanded.

Larys Strong had managed to smuggle Aegon, his daughter, Jaehaera, and Prince Maelor out of the city. He sent the children to different places, and did not say where Aegon was sent. You'd only learn later he was planted in Dragonstone.

"Where is Larys now?" Aemond muttered, being told the man simply disappeared and there was no further news of him.

"And the Queen?" Cole needed to know.

Alicent had been spared, but her father, Otto, your husband's grandsire, had been beheaded - and any remaining Greens surrendered to Rhaenyra. The city was sacked in less than a day.

"What of our children?" Aemond demanded with a tremor to his voice, his arm around you tightened with each passing second as you waited for an answer.

Allegedly, Alicent had been found holding your babies tightly to her chest, trying to protect them - begging they be spared when finally caught. But Rhaenyra thought the little girl looked oddly like Laena Velaryon, and upon closer inspection, discovered the twins to definitely be your children. They were spared and being taken care of by your mother, now; apparently being under strict watch.

"Oh, Gods," you breathed, starting to pace as panic cemented your stomach. "I-I should not have left. Oh, no, no, no, Gods, please, no, what have we done?"

"We don't know if your life would've been spared, my love," Aemond argued, turning to grab onto you and halt your pacing, "better you were here with us then left to the unknown. We will get our babies back, I swear to you."

"No, no, this is my mother we're talking about, Aemond," you snapped. "She would not harm me - "

"She would if she thought you Green," he pointed out. "I know you're worried, I am, too, but we will find our children soon. We are not abandoning them, I promise you."

"I just want our family together," you whispered tearfully, feeling stressed beyond belief. His arms encircled around you, letting you rest against his chest and almost forgetting the present company.

"My Prince?" Cole asked.

"We march for the capital," his head turned to look at Cole and nod, arms never loosening from around you. It was as if he thought his arms protected you, but it wasn't like you wanted to leave.

"No, no, we should join with Ormund Hightower and your brother, Prince Daeron!"

"Our family needs us," Aemond argued. "Our children, Cole! Where is your head, how can you think there's any other choice of action!?"

"The country needs us - and Daeron is your kin, so are the Hightowers!"

"Our children are in a sacked city, Cole! They're left with the enemy!"

"Which is truly unfortunate, but there is nothing - "

"LIKE HELL THERE ISN'T!" Aemond roared, letting go of you to stride up Cole in anger. "Our children will not be sacrificed! If it takes every life of every man at disposal, then that is what we will do!"

"You're all ignoring the biggest point," you snapped, reddened eyes glaring at the two men as the messenger was given leave to rest. "I told you Daemon did not simply leave - he was tipped off. There's a mole amongst us and someone is sharing secrets."

Aemond's head snapped to look at you, "I told you I did not trust him..."

"Who?" Cole asked.

"Ser Larys Strong," you sneered. "I do believe we need to have a conversation with Ser Simon Strong."

"For now, Lady, we should feast," Cole nodded. "It's been a long journey and the men are tired. Please, for tonight, allow us reprieve from turmoil."

Aemond nodded in agreement, and while you rested from pure exhaustion in a hard, cold bed, your husband took part in the night's festivities. You heard rumor later of him boasting how Daemon grew weary from their numbers and strength, but never once gave mention to the suspicions you shared.

[ part two ]

[ alternate ending one: Kin Slayer ]

[ series masterlist ]

[lovelypurplefox]

Updates.

Sorry guys if I have been quiet.

I'm not on social media much like I used to. College is important to me and I've made some nice friends irl. I'm actually getting close to graduating which is exciting! I might graduate next year. I have an Anthropology midterm coming up and I'm so not ready for it. I recently typed up a 3-page paper early before the due date in February. Anthropology has a lot of reading... jeez... but I'm taking it for my Natural Science credit.

Besides college, I'm so behind on the games I've been playing. Like, I am way behind on part 2 of the Pokémon Scarlet DLC (I'm at the part where I have to battle the Elite four and when I saw that they were all double battle I couldn't do it; I'm currently making my team stronger and changing Pokémon in my team). And also, Detective Pikachu Returns. I think I'm on Chapter 5 (?) and haven't played since October, I believe. I just don't want to see spoilers on those games because I want to be surprised. I rarely play video games now; It feels like I'm tired of modern Pokémon games now. It's hard for me to get into stuff like that.

Even getting into newer anime is hard too. I've been watching old anime, some which are currently getting fansubs including Magical Taruruuto-kun and Dr. Slump. I don't hate modern anime, I still watch them such as Demon Slayer & the recently released Shaman King Flowers (it's good so far).

I'm super excited (and worried?) about Dragon Ball Daima. I really hope this time, Launch returns. I wonder if they will make her into a kid like the others. It would be so funny seeing kid Blonde Launch with a gun and using it so well. I think we're supposed to get new info this week. Fingers crossed for my girl returning! She already made a cameo in Super Dragon Ball Heroes last year. And I hope she appears as a playable character in the new fighting game. She's playable... in 2 mobile games: Dokkan and Legends but she needs to be in a REAL fighting game.

I know I haven't been interacting and checking my timeline because I'm just busy now and I want to avoid spoilers on stuff I love. I just post my art on my sideblog and reblog it here and leave. But if I ever get the chance, I will come back to checking my timeline and reblogging other's posts. I miss you guys though.

My ask box is currently closed, but check back again if I ever open it; I love reading your asks!

Take care! :)

[hollowwhisperings]

When Queer Love Was The Plot Twist (or otherwise Story Relevant

Kingdom Hearts

Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories

Kingdom Hearts 2

Honkai Impact 3rd

Kingdom Hearts re:Coded

Kingdom Hearts: Dream Drop Distance

Dragon Age: Inquisition

Kingdom Hearts 3

Life is Strange

Life is Strange: Before The Storm

Life is Strange: True Colors

Monstrous Regiment, Sir Terry Pratchett.

Good Omens, Sir Terry Pratchett & Neil Gaiman.

The Scum Villain's Self-Saving System, MXTX.

Tiān Guān Cì Fú, MXTX.

Aristotle & Danté series, Benjamin Alire Sáenz.

The Mortal Instruments, Cassandra Clare.

The Iliad, Homer.

The Odyssey, Homer.

Twelfth Night, Shakespeare.

Sherlock Holmes series, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

Lord of the Rings, JRR Tolkien.

The Sandman, Neil Gaiman.

Wonder Woman

Birds of Prey, Gail Simone.

Gotham City Sirens

Deadpool & Cable

X-Men

Death Note

Homestuck

Sailor Moon

Cardcaptor Sakura

Tokyo Mew Mew

Mulan (1998)

Adventure Time

She-Ra: Princesses of Power

Steven Universe

Voltron: Legendary Defender

Yuri on Ice!!

Star Trek: The Motion Picture

Some Like It Hot

Singing In The Rain

Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Angel: The Series

High School Musical 2

HBO's House of the Dragon

MCU's Captain Marvel

MCU's Captain America: The Winter Soldier

that one Harry Potter play

BBC's Merlin

Supernatural

The Untamed (webseries)

Carmilla (webseries)

Nothing Much To Do (webseries)

Welcome to Night Vale (podcast)

Alice Isn't Dead (podcast)

The Bright Sessions (podcast)

Can you think of any other examples?

Note: though labelling these works as Queer (intentionally or otherwise) IS inherently "spoilering", please leave any elaboration within tags: while this post is largely intended to Inspire fans to return to these works with a fresh lens, some of these works are Ongoing or are too long to consume in a single sitting.

[certain-death-awaits]

Ronodin when he hears people calling Seth “dark” and holding him responsible for the fall of Wyrmroost:

[fairyqueenofthedragons]

I don't wanna buy the new dragonwatch book what happens 👀

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

Spoilers beneath the cut.

Look, if you want anyone other than Seth to do anything of importance you're gonna be sorely mistaken. Like super major disappointed.

Like good for Seth, he's a literal angel and has new powers and renounced the dark, but he's also the only one who does Jack shit.

Kendra did a whole quest that turned out to be perfectly useless, the dragonslayers did barely anything.

Knox needs to die and I'm infuriated that he didn't. He went crazy and almost killed Seth while wearing the giant crown.

Tess had a plot point specifically contrived for her that if Kendra had not gone on her (perfectly useless) quest would've fit her perfectly, but no, we gotta give Tess some attention cause she's done nothing of note at all otherwise.

Ronodin asks Kendra to marry him prompting a rather hypocritical discussion of how he's too hold considering she goes back to crushing on Brakcen three seconds later.

The Fairy King willingly submits Ronodin, his nephew who he was close to we learn in the backstory, to eternal torment. Ronodins name wasn't even on the page till the asshole opened his mouth.

Also the Christianity comparisons are blatant. When I say Seth is a literal angel I'm not saying he's sweet, I'm saying he has white wings, denounced darkness, and now brings peace to wraiths and shit.

Just overall I'm incensed. How dare this be the finale. There wasn't even a resolution! We don't get to see their parents! They have magic water that heals everyone but Vanessa! And then Bracken is suddenly a mortal and kissed Kendra and that was the end of the book!

Ahhh

I hate it!

I'm infuriated!

This sucks!

He didn't give anyone but Seth the spotlight and like akfbakfnqjg I'm proud of Seth but he's not the only character?????

I'm gonna have to rewrite the damn book! I'm already plotting out my whole rewrite for this shit I'm so akfnakfbkafbajnfns

In the gif my roommate sent me when I complained about the book to her:

I'll do a better review later but rest assured, I'm enraged.

[warrenessa]

Return of the Dragon Slayers Reaction Post

I tried to be as vague as I could, but here is a final warning:

spoilers under the cut!!! Do not read if you haven’t read the book!!!!

What the fuck is this why are we starting with Knox?

Seth is a badass and I am here for it but he’s hurting so much and I’m sad

fairyprincesskendra prepared me for the fact that warrenessa is barely in the book at all which softened the blow but I am still sad and will now be writing all the fix it fic

On that note - TWENTY THREE CHAPTERS (the utter agony) BEFORE THEY MAKE AN APPEARANCE AND WARREN MAKES A BLIND JOKE I CANT RIGHT NOW

Oh boy mull found a way to make Knox even more intolerable. Forget intolerable I mean he made Knox flat out disgusting.

Ronodin no. Just…no

Can someone remind me of the timeline here doesn’t dw take place a few weeks after KTTDP did Kendra’s birthday happen off page or is this a typo this is not computing

Lizelle is my favorite

So that’s how the fairy king fell afjdjsjsjsjbn

MULL STOP HURTING SETH HAVENT YOU PUT HIM THROUGH ENOUGH?! LEAVE HIM ALONEEEE

well that explains why Muriel was in the book trailer

a mother of all narcoblixes? Wait what tell me more

Virgil no.

Would die for glory and noble

Would die for all the dragon slayers.

Look when I said I wanted Trask back I didn’t mean just name dropping him in a scene to indicate he’s present there. And also Mara?? Um…hello? Where’s my girl at she’s also canonically able to withstand dragon fear this does not compute

S E E E E E T T T T T H H H

So…we’re really not going to give Kendra more to do here??? WTF

“warren seemed more crushed by the news than Vanessa did.” Excuse me I need a moment

BRACKENDRA BRACKENDRA BRACKENDRA *screeches into the void*