#she's showing up to the first in her full ceremonial robes

[bunni-v1]

hii, can I request "First Years Finding Out Your A Girl" with sebek and ortho please?

Ortho and Sebek Find out You’re a Girl?!?!?! (NOT CLICKBAIT!!!)

TW: Swearing (as usual lol); Ortho being creepy; Misogyny mention <3; Reader goes by she/her and is biologically female; Book 6 spoilers (very light, but still there); Bunni hasn't read Book 7 and therefore doesn't know what they're talking about :)

Info: Ortho x Reader; Sebek x Reader; Fem!Reader; Platonic

🍓Hi. If you’ve read the first part of this, I copy pasted the intro. Not because I’m lazy or anything (I’m a little lazy, but I’m a full-time college student who also has a part-time job, so I think I can be excused.) It’s mostly because… It’s a good intro. If people are just discovering this stuff then they can read it, but if you’ve read the first part you can just skip to the good good yk. Anyway, long-ass babble session, but I didn’t include Ortho and Sebek initially because they’re kind of new to the First year group so idk. Felt weird including them. Also, I haven’t read book seven so Sebek I bullshit a lot lol. Anyway, they’re here now, and I absolutely ADORE Ortho, so sorry if my favoritism shows.

First Years

Second Years

Third Years

Dorm Leaders

-Okay so, I know we’re all wondering, how the hell do you get away with hiding your gender for so damn long?

-Firstly, those ceremonial robes do great at hiding the figure. The only tell would maybe be your hair, but feminine men aren’t unwelcome at Nightraven College, so you mostly get a few questioning stares and that’s it.

-Secondly, Crowley wants to save his own fucking ass. He already has to hide from the press that he has a MAGICLESS student from ANOTHER DIMENSION here, he doesn’t need the fact that you are a woman ALSO on his plate. So, obviously, he helps you hide your gender from others.

-Grim knows, of course, and he keeps his mouth shut for a few yummy cans of tuna (and threats of being expelled from Crowley <3)

-Even when you were just a janitor, he couldn’t have the rumor that he put a “helpless” young woman to work. (Like it wouldn’t be expected.)

-So how do you two do it?

-Baggy ass uniform. Crowley gave you at least three sizes too big.

-Your figure is completely hidden. Sure, you look completely homeless, but at least you’re hidden.

-For your voice, you simply deepen it. After some point, you blackmail Crowley into giving you a potion to help with it, since it's so taxing on your voice. (Or maybe your voice is naturally deep!)

-Sam provides you (for an unfairly pretty penny (not too different from your original world…)) any feminine hygiene products you might need.

-Honestly, you’re set for being cared for, but it’s the adjustment period that’s the hardest part. 

-Truly, it’s very jarring to suddenly be thrown into both a magical world and be isolated in a man's world with nowhere to hide.

-At least in your world you had other women who could understand your struggles. Here though? You’re completely alone.

-You notice how… messy some of these guys could be. How some of them smell… really rancid. -How rough they were with you and each other.

-Honestly, it’s kinda eye-opening. The way men show affection to each other is oddly refreshing to watch and experience!

-Ace and Deuce specifically are a good… trial run.

-That’s not what we’re here to talk about though…

-For the most part, it's incredibly easy to hide yourself for the first while on campus. Everyone on campus is so self-absorbed that they don’t bother questioning you.

-Your only real risk factor is Savannaclaw, but it's easy to avoid those guys (minus Jack, of course).

-However, you can only hide your gender for so long… It’s mentally draining to keep up this facade all the time around people you care about.

-So… how do they find out?

Ortho 

-Okay, so Ortho is a little creepy weirdo. He’s a highly advanced robot who likely has autism, and loves his big brother a whole fucking lot. 

-(Side note: Can a robot, child, or thing have autism? Does that mean Idia programmed Ortho to be autistic? How silly of him.)

-It’s my personal head cannon that Idia DECKED this kid out in as much high-tech gear as he could get his hands on. 

-He’s equipped with some of the most complex medical features, therefore he has access to a database of all students at NRC’s medical files. (This is not legal, but he does not care for the law.)

-“But Bunni, what does that have to do with the prefect?” Well, Ortho is ALSO equipped with the latest medical scanner on the market.

-Think like Baymax, yeah? He can scan everyone one time and know every piece of medical knowledge readily available.

-Well, Ortho, the sweet little creep he is, automatically scans the medical information of any new person he sees/meets into his database — just in case it may come in handy.

-So, before he even KNOWS you. Before he speaks a single word to you, he knows you’re biologically a female.

-He scanned you without thinking and just shrugged his shoulders at it.

-You’re not from here, and you got thrown into this, so you being a woman doesn’t really matter too much to you being at NRC. 

-It honestly could’ve been anyone getting stuck here, so why should he question it?

-However, he notices that you are referred to with exclusively “male” pronouns, so he marks in your file that you are trans and moves on. 

-Again, who cares? He’s a magical robot guy based on his brother's dead brother. Who was he to judge?

-When he finally ACTUALLY gets to interact with you after being welcomed into the first-year squad, he’s very respectful of your gender.

-You are a man to him, therefore he refers to you with exclusively masculine pronouns.

-However, everyone in your little group already knows, and they assume that Ortho knows. So when they speak about you, they use feminine pronouns.

-Ortho, sweet as he is, immediately questions everyone as to why they’re misgendering you.

-Protective of the people he cares for at heart, he doesn’t like the idea that your so-called closest friends are misgendering you behind your back.

-Doesn’t believe them completely when they explain, so he goes to you because you’re the only one who knows who you really are.

-“Prefect!”

“Hey, Ortho! What’s up? Miss me?”

“Of course I do, but I have a very important question.”

“Sure, what do ya need?”

“Are you a woman?”

-At this point 90% of your friends know, but there is a handful that doesn’t… and you can’t be having that.

-You, of course, assure Ortho that you are not only a woman, but that your friends are not misgendering you behind your back.

-Relieved, he takes several of your friends off a hit list and removes the trans man label on your medical chart.

-Asks why you hid your gender in the first place.

-Promptly adds Crowley to a hit list (again).

-Ortho, out of EVERYONE at NRC, has absolutely zero behavior changes toward you. 

-He’s equally protective as he was before, he spends the same amount of time with you as usual, he doesn’t suddenly have some weird crush on you, and he’s still trying to set you up with Idia.

-Honestly, everyone should take notes from Ortho. He’s the best at this whole thing.

Sebek

-On the other hand… do not take notes from Sebek! He sucks at this! He sucks really badly!

-Out of all the first years, Sebek is not only the least close to you, but he is also incredibly mean. So you just… feel no obligation to tell him.

-In fact, you kind of… sort of… actively leave him out of the loop for a really long time.

-I mean, it's not an unreasonable thing to do. He is constantly berating you and putting you down for being human. You have no idea how he feels about women and you don’t want to find out first hand.

-In all honesty, he is the only person (other than Azul and the twins) that you’re really scared of finding out, and take extra precautions to ensure he doesn’t find out.

-However, you attend NRC, and nothing ever goes your way at NRC.

-Despite every precaution you take to keep your gender under lock and key, you overlook one thing.

-Malleus Draconia.

-His complete and total lack of social awareness is your downfall here. He finds out, and despite everything telling him to keep his mouth shut… he doesn’t. Because of course, he doesn’t.

-At this point, you’ve gone through most of your misadventures, and most — if not all — of your friends know you’re a girl.

-Hell, even Silver knows now. Everyone BUT Sebek knows.

-And he finds out because Malleus casually mentions it over dinner. Not even directly about your gender, he just uses she/her pronouns.

-Sebek, being Sebek, respectfully asks Malleus if he meant to say he. Malleus, of course, says no without a second thought.

-The shock and horror on Silver and Lilia’s faces was enough to be further confirmation.

-And Sebek’s world shatters.

-He was completely left out of the loop and also has a moral conflict now.

-As much shit, as I gave Sebek (as everyone gives Sebek) he RESPECTS women. His queen is a woman, and his mother is a woman. 

-In his eyes, women are some of the strongest people around. Regardless of if they’re human or not.

-You, on top of being a human from another realm who had successfully quelled several of the strangest students at NRC’s OVERBLOTS and came out on top, was also a woman.

-If that wasn’t strength, he didn’t know what it was.

-However, his bias against humans strongly clashes with his respect for women in this case.

-And it just… messes with his head. 

-He doesn’t treat you worse, in fact, he’s just… really awkward around you now.

-He doesn’t know if he should apologize or berate you for being a human, so he just stays stiff and glares at you.

-It's honestly more scary than him constantly talking down to you.

-However, once the two of you actually befriend one another, he apologizes to you. For everything, and explains where he’s coming from. Why he acted the way he did, how he really feels about you, and all that sweet shit.

-Afterwards, he is genuinely the best at keeping your secret (if he even needs to at this point).

-If there is anyone you can trust to keep his stupid mouth shut at NRC, it's Sebek. 

-His honor and pride force him into silence when it comes to secrets he promises to keep.

-In fact, if anyone is on your trail about it, he’s the first one to jump in the way and scare them off/shut them down.

[thecampjuicebox]

To have and to hold Pt. 3 (End)

Pairing: Tav(f) x Gale x Astarion

POV: 2nd person (Reader is Tav)

Rating: 18+ Minors DNI

Warnings: Marriage (throuple), smut, fluff, fingering, oral (f receiving), potential game spoilers (mostly just character names)

This is the end of "To have and to hold" as a story, I really hope you all enjoy! It's going to be a long one so I can do this ending justice. Let me know if you want more stuff like this in the future!

Gale paces back and forth nervously, little beads of sweat pooling above his eyebrows. He guides his hands over the front of his pale blue robes, the smooth fabric flattening beneath his trembling fingers. Tonight's the night. And you're late. Astarion rests comfortably against the wall of the temple, fiddling with the end of his coat, soft silver hair jostling ever so slightly in the autumn breeze. He traces the silver filigree around the bottom seem and admires how it sparkles in the light of the full moon. The newly rebuilt Selune temple stands tall at the end of a long cobblestone bridge, the outer edges of the bridge decorated with grand displays of flowers, tall metal arches adorned with moonstone turning the bridge into an extravagant tunnel. It's truly breathtaking, and it still does nothing to calm the wizard's anxiety. Everyone is already waiting inside, bards at the ready. Gale continues to pace. Back and forth, back and forth, mumbling little "Where is SHE"s and "I'm going to kill her"s to himself, earning an amused chuckle from Astarion.

"Calm your nerves, Wizard. She'll be here soon enough."

"Gods, she'd be late to her own funeral."

Quick footsteps thunder towards the two men and Gale whips around at the noise. Karlach barrels towards them, waving her arms. to shoo them into the building.

"Both of you! Inside! Now! She's coming!"

Gale throws his arms up in frustration, grabbing Astarion by the elbow and they rush into the temple. Wyll and Halsin are already waiting at the altar, hands folded neatly in front of them. Gale peeks around the corner to assess the size of the crowd, air catching in his throat when he sees just how many people showed up for the ceremony. The late, and not at all shocking, news of the addition of Astarion to the ceremony didn't seem to dissuade any of the guests. He breathes a sigh of relief and motions to Volo to start the music, Volo excitedly swinging his arms about at the bards. Lutes, lyres, and flutes all play in a beautiful harmony, Alfira singing softly to welcome Gale down the isle first, Astarion following not far behind. They both take their places on each side of the altar, the white haired cleric of Selune, Isobel, exchanging kind smiles with each of them.

You stand outside, large bouquet in your hands, the soft green ivies and hanging bell flowers nestled amongst the Selune's Tears and Crocus flowers trickling towards the ground, contrasting against the pale blue silk of your dress. Your last second dress change was Shadowheart's idea and you couldn't thank her more. Silver filigree and moon symbols adorn the bodice of the dress, silver velvet cloak swaying behind you in the night time breeze. You shiver lightly, wiggling your fingers beneath the heavy foliage of your bouquet. Shadowheart asses you carefully, poking and prodding at the neat plaits of dark hair that encircle your head. You giggle and hold still for her. She carefully places a small moon hair pin in the back of the braids, fixing its position a few times before settling on a spot she agrees with. She smiles to herself, gently stroking your back for a moment before stepping away and mumbling a quiet "Perfect." Karlach takes a small handkerchief from her back pocket and wipes under her eyes, hot tears threatening to stain her cheeks. You poke out your bottom lip and fight back tears of your own, gently reaching up to stroke Karlach's cheek, soothing her.

"I'm just so happy for you, Soldier. You're really doing it. And you look so beautiful."

"Oh! I almost forgot!"

Your head cocks to the side at Shadowhearts sudden exclamation, watching as she pulls a thin silver necklace from a pouch beneath her skirts, unclasping it and bringing it around your neck. A small silver moon pendant with a teardrop cut moonstone dangle rests against your pale skin, sitting snuggly between your collar bones. You gently run your fingers over the cool metal and smile, closing your eyes to savor this moment. It's actually happening. You're about to marry the loves of your life. You truly couldn't be happier now. All of your fear falls to the wayside, doubt being swept away by the autumn wind.

"Onward."

Karlach huffs quietly and moves to the handle of the left door to the temple, Shadowheart following suit to the right. You nod at them both and they swing the doors open, stepping inside before you. You hear the music swell, Alfira singing sweet melodies as Shadowheart and Karlach walk arm in arm down the isle towards the altar. They both settle to the right of the cleric on Astarion's side. Halsin waves to them excitedly, quickly straightening back up when Volo's voice thunders through the temple.

"Esteemed guests, I now present to you, the bride."

You inhale sharply, feeling as though you should hold your breath and you walk forward, breeching the temple doors. The crowd stands. Candles light the isle as you walk, the entire room of friends and family from each side settling their gaze on you. The music softens to an ethereal tune and Alfira simply hums, carefully strumming at her lute. The sights and sounds are enough to bring Gale to tears and he quickly swipes his thumbs under his eyes, Astarion chuckling at him once more until his gaze finally falls upon your frame. He scans your figure and gulps, mumbling a soft "Gods..". His breath catches in his throat, immediately choking him up. The two keep their eyes fixed on you as you walk, your cloak and the small train of your silk dress trailing being you. No goddess could compare to the way you look right now. You smile and blink tears away from your brown eyes, lashes coated in little droplets. Little gasps and coos flutter through the crowd and you approach the altar, Shadowheart reaching out to take your bouquet from you. You carefully hand it off to her and smile, your bottom lip catching between your teeth. She gives you a reassuring nod and you blink slowly. Isobel steps forward, raising both of her hands to instruct the crowd to sit and they obey, little sounds of feet shuffles echoing through the temple room before all falls silent.

"Welcome friends, family, lovers. Tonight we gather under the light of the Moon Maiden Selune to unite these families. Tav, Gale, Astarion, please join hands and kneel before me."

The three of you join hands, Gale capturing your left and Astarion capturing your right. You all kneel on the step of the altar carefully, Astarion and Gale helping to adjust your dress so you don't crumple it beneath your knees. You give each of them a sweet smile before turning your attention back to the cleric. The witnesses at the altar all lower their heads, eyes falling shut as they listen. The cleric sings in an unfamiliar language, raising her hands to the open ceiling of the temple, the full moon shining down on you and all of the guests. You sigh quietly and give Gale and Astarion's hands a gentle squeeze. They return the squeeze and your eyes flutter closed, a sense of calm washing over you while you listen to Isobel’s hymns. Her voice fades out, the room falling silent once more. A cool breeze sweeps through the temple, rustling your hair and cloak, making you shiver. The cleric stares up at the sky, eyes glowing with the bright light of the moon.

"She is with us.. Moon Maiden, hear me. Grant your love and protection over these souls as they unite under your light. Embrace them in your warmth, oh mother. Lead them through darkness, through sickness, through blight. Fill their hearts with your patience. Show them the way. So it shall be."

The crowd quietly mumbles in response "So it shall be". Isobel turns to a small table on the altar, two silver chalices shimmering in the moonlight placed with purpose in the middle of it. Your fingers tremble with excitement in your lovers' hands. The cleric raises the chalice carefully to the open sky, mumbling in the unfamiliar language again before instructing you to stand. You release Gale and Astarion's hands and approach Isobel.

"Moon milk, for protection, abundance, and fertility. Drink, my child. Accept the Moon Maiden into your heart and into your womb. Allow her to guide you. So it shall be."

You accept the chalice from her strong hands, raising it to the sky and mumbling "So it shall be" before taking a small sip of the milk, the cool liquid coating your throat and you sigh. She encourages you to finish the chalice with a small wave of the hand. You oblige, tilting your head back and swallowing the last of the sweet drink. You hand her the chalice carefully and she places a hand on your abdomen, mumbling quietly to herself. Astarion raises an eyebrow. Gale swats at his hand and the vampire grunts quietly. The cleric eyes the two men before tracing the symbol of a moon into your forehead, finally releasing you to join your lovers once more. She then motions for the two men to join her and she raises the second chalice into the air, mumbling a new prayer to the open sky.

"Wine, for protection, abundance, and patience. Drink, my child. Accept the Moon Maiden into your heart. Allow her to guide you. So it shall be."

She hands the chalice to Astarion first. He eyeballs the liquid inside. White wine. Certainly not his favorite. He closes his eyes and raises the chalice to the sky. "So it shall be." Taking a small sip, his body trembles at the taste, the unfamiliar burn making him cough lightly. Halsin chuckles and Wyll nudges his shoulder to shut him up. Shadowheart shoots eyes like daggers in their direction and they turn their attention back to the display on the alter, cheeks burning with embarrassment. Astarion hands the cleric the chalice and she then hands it to Gale, the ritual being repeated exactly the same way. The cleric clasps her hands together and smiles at the three of you, motioning for you to join hands one more and you obey.

"Family, friends, witnesses. By the power of the Moon Maiden Selune, I now declare these three to be wed. You may now share a kiss."

Astarion wastes no time pulling you to him, his lips crashing to yours and the crowd of guests cheers. Volo quickly motions for the group of bards to play "Bard Dance", Alfira strumming happily on her lute, spinning in little circles and dancing about with the others. Gale keeps hold on your hand, impatiently waiting for Astarion to stop the theatrics before he pulls you over to him. He embraces you gently, pressing his lips to yours in a sweet kiss, much less desperate than Astarions. You sigh against his lips and the vampire scoffs, crossing his arms over his chest, a small smirk hanging on his wet lips. Shadowheart, Wyll, Halsin, and Karlach all rush down to the three of you, embracing you in a tight group hug. You giggle, smashed between all of the warm bodies and Astarion groans out loud.

"Gods, you're all too much!"

...

The long and exhausting night of festivities comes to a close, family and friends bidding your their final farewells as they seek the inns for sleep. Halsin throws a drunken Shadowheart over his stocky shoulder and she beats against his muscular back in protest, small hiccups leaving her before she finally gives in and goes limp in his grasp. Karlach stumbles into Wyll, laughing loudly, her bright flames burning a deep shade of purple and she wiggles an eyebrow in his direction. Wyll sighs, pinching the bridge of his nose between his thumb and his index finger. You giggle to yourself, your own wine buzz sending tingles up and down your spine. You eye your new husbands, both seemingly tired of the shenanigans that they've watched all night. The trek to your tower is short, filled with giggles and little kisses, reminiscing about the nights' events.

Astarion scoops your small frame up bridal style once you reach the front door, chucking at the small yelp he earns from you and he carries you past the threshold of the quaint wizard tower, Gale following close behind with your cloak in hand. He watches you both with love drunk eyes, carefully closing the front door behind the group and he tosses your cloak onto the bench below him. Astarion places you on your feet and you smooth your dress down carefully, reaching back to remove the moon hair pin that Shadowheart had given to you. With a swift tug, the pin releases your hair, the thick dark braids on top of your head falling with it and the plaits unravel themselves. You shake your head to further release your hair, the locks falling in perfect waves down your shoulders and back now. You reach your hands up to soothingly scratch at your scalp, sighing in pure pleasure at the relief taking down your hair has given you. Gale moves behind you now, hands resting on your hips, rubbing soothing circle into them as he leans down and buries his face into the side of your neck. He inhales your scent, the perfume you chose for your wedding night standing out to him distinctly. Rose water and orchid, a flowery scent he wasn't used to smelling on you. He sighs against your skin, peppering the area with the softest little kisses. Astarion steps toward the two of you, pressing his torso to yours, his hands resting on top of Gales at your hips. He pecks a kiss to your forehead, leaving a trail of kisses to the opposite side of your neck from Gale and he takes inventory of the knew smell as well. You shudder at the sudden overwhelming amount of sensations, your entire body breaking out in goosebumps. Gales fingers move to your back, fiddling with the corset lacing holding your dress on your body.

"Why don't we.. Get this off."

He tugs at one of the laces, loosening the ties. The dress drapes on your frame and Astarion reaches his hands up to slide the silk fabric down your shoulders, bodice moving down your torso to expose your breasts, nipples already hardening at the temperature change. You hiss at the cold air now assaulting your chest and back, both men making quick work of sliding your dress the rest of the way down your shivering body. Two pairs of lips latch to your skin, Astarion's sucking little bruises on the flesh of your breast while Gale works the side of your neck, tongue lapping at the skin there sweetly. You lean back into Gale, pulling Astarion closer to you, your mouth falling open. The vampire's right hand comes up to grasp at your breast, kneading the sensitive flesh as he kisses and licks on the other, tongue occasionally flicking over your painfully erect nipple. You buck your hips backwards, ass meeting Gale's growing bulge. You groan in excitement, completely unsure of what to do with your hands. Reaching forward needily, you gasp at the front of Astarions coat, fumbling with the silver metal buttons.

"Hm, a needy little thing, isn't she Gale?"

Astarion's honeyed tone makes your knees buckle. Gale nods in agreement, fingers toying with the plush skin of your thighs now.

"I think we should take this upstairs."

Gale lifts you into his arms and begins to ascend the stairs, leaving your wedding dress in the middle of the floor. You lace your arms around his neck, gazing up into his hungry eyes. He looks forward, determined to make it to the bedroom quickly. Astarion follows close behind, sliding his coat off and tossing it behind him, fingers working on the buttons of his silk shirt next. He smirks at you over Gale's shoulder and you eye him carefully, bottom lip trapped between chattering teeth. You let out an audible gasp when Gale suddenly tosses you onto the bed. You sink into the soft pillows and blankets, the smooth fabrics against your naked skin feeling absolutely delicious. Astarion steps behind Gale, helping him remove his coat and shirt, the two men standing in only their leathers now. You peer up at them, arousal burning between your thighs. Astarion steps in front of Gale and traces his fingers around the mark of the orb, earning a shuddering moan from Gale's lips. In a swift motion, Astarion captures Gale's lips with his, his hand sliding up and into the back of his hair. The two men press tightly together, hips grinding into one another feverishly. You groan at the sight. Gods, they're beautiful. Gale pulls away reluctantly and chews his bottom lip, eyes fixed on Astarion's before moving to you, your naked body causing him to salivate. He moves to the bed, reaching down to run his fingers over the soft silk of your underwear. He was surprised you'd worn any at all.

"Off with them."

His tone is commanding and unfamiliar, but you obey him, thumbs sliding into the corners of the fabric. You drag them down your thighs and kick them off. Astarion raises an eyebrow in amusement at the wizard's new found courage, hands resting on his hips.

"I'm impressed, Gale. What else can you do?"

Gale scoffs. Astarion takes a seat next to you on the bed, moving up and behind you so your head can rest in his lap and he strokes your soft hair away from your face. Grinning up at him, you pucker your lips playfully and he chuckles. Gale settles at the end of the bed, fingers tracing lazy shapes into your thighs, a quiet yawn stretching his mouth open.

"Careful, wizard. You'll catch flies."

"Gods I'm so happy I married you, Astarion."

You giggle at their banter and pure joy engulfs you in warmth. This moment is perfect. You are happy. Never did you think you'd be wed to both Gale and Astarion, a fantasy most ladies in Faerun wouldn't dare mutter in public. You feel so lucky. Your thoughts are halted suddenly as Gale slides his fingers up your inner thigh, pressing your legs apart and into the bed beneath you. You gasp loudly at the force of his grip. He smirks up at you from between your legs, brown eyes glowing in the lanternlight. Watching hip lick his lips at the sight of you makes your body weak and you slump back against Astarion, his toned arms pulling you up and into his lap gently, hands pushing your thighs apart for Gale once more. You chew on the skin of your bottom lip, picking little pieces off and drawing blood. Tiny droplets dot your lips and Astarion catches on to the scent immediately, lids lowering. He inhales deeply through his nose. "Mm.. A treat." Your lips flatten into a smirk. Gale sits up on his knees, reaching his fingers out to trace the top of your mound. You hiss and shudder. Astarion nuzzles his nose into your neck, breathing heavily against the sensitive skin there, tongue flicking out to trace the barely healed pierce marks from his last feeding. You obediently tilt your head to the side to expose more of your neck to him. With a quiet groan, he sinks his teeth into your tender flesh and begins to suck, earning a steady stream of crimson. You grasp onto the soft sheets beneath you, pain like shards of glass making you tense until the familiar numbness sets in. You go limp. Gale watches closely, taking advantage of your boneless state to swipe his fingers through your slick folds. You react quickly, hips bucking forward at the new sensation. Astarion pulls away to lick the remnants of your blood from his lips. He grins.

Your legs tremble with excitement and you wiggle your hips, silently begging to be touched again. Gale grants you temporary relief with another swipe, this time lower. He collects your slick on the tip of his finger and spreads it around your clit, rubbing agonizingly slow circles. You mewl in response to the gentle friction, rolling your hips upwards to push against his fingers. He backs off, shaking his head at you and you whine.

"Patience, my love."

"Yes, patience, pet."

Astarion smirks and licks a long stripe up the side of your neck, sliding a hand up into the back of your hair and giving your head a forceful tug back. You yelp in pain, gritting your teeth. The low growl that rumbles in Astarion's chest makes your hips buck upwards and Gale chuckles, fingers meeting your core once more. He circles his fingers around the outside of your clit, dipping down to collect more of the slick that's pooling beneath you now, a puddle forming on the sheets.

"Hm.. So messy. Just for us, Astarion."

Gale groans, sliding a finger into your aching cunt and you cry out into the night air, Astarion leaning in close to your ear to coach you through the sensations. He whispers softly, making your cheeks and chest flush deep red.

"That's it.. So good. So good."

You spread your legs wider for Gale, writhing in Astarion's tight grip. He hushes you, fingers tightening around your tangled locks. He pushes your head forward, forcing you to watch as Gale inserts another finger, pumping in and out slowly, not giving you any time to adjust to being filled by his thick digits. Gale grinds his hips into the mattress and moans at the small amounts of friction his leathers provide. Astarion watches intensely, eyes flicking from you, to Gale, and back again, his own erection straining painfully against his leathers. He reaches a free hand down and palms at his bulge. Gale curves his fingers upwards inside of you, your walls fluttering at the change of position and you melt into Astarion's lap now, moans silencing to strained gasps. Your mouth hangs open. Gods, he's torturing you. The pale vampling behind you releases his grip on your hair, smoothing the tousled locks back into place, his eyes fixed on Gale's hand now, digits pumping furiously in and out of your cunt. That knot tightens in your belly, threatening to snap at any moment. You grind your hips up against Gale's palm and whine his name loudly, hands now resting on Astarion's thighs and you use them as leverage to push yourself up further towards Gale.

Astarion leans back on his hands, perfectly content with watching the show. It's no secret that Astarion finds so much pleasure in watching you be pleasured. Whether it be by him, yourself, or someone else. The sight and sounds alone are enough to completely unravel him. You learned this during your encounter in the Underdark and you think about it often. The way he's comfortable just sitting back and watching Gale touch you. Gale has learned the same habit in the couple of weeks the three of you have lived together before the wedding. A few nights were spent with Astarion between your legs and Gale just watching. Enjoying. Savoring the moment. You always offered to reciprocate, and they both often refuse. This moment is no different.

"G-Gale, I'm so close.."

Gale leans in quickly, the flat of his tongue pressing firmly to your clit, rubbing back and forth against the swollen nub while his fingers continue to pump into your cunt, arousal coating his hand. Your hips find a steady rhythm and you grind upwards, pleasure bubbling, bubbling, bubbling, BURSTING inside of your gut. You gasp loudly, clinging to Astarion's legs on either side of you, riding the tidal wave of your orgasm as Gale continues to lick at you furiously. His fingers slow their motion and he carefully slides them out, your jaw falling open again at the sudden emptiness. Your walls flutter around nothing, swollen clit pulsating. You bring your knees to your chest, curling up into Astarion's abdomen, wanting nothing more than to be simply absorbed by him. He chuckles at the closeness and lies down on his side, tugging your back to his torso. He snakes his arms sleepily around you, Gale following suit to snuggle up to the front of you. Both men hold you and each other tightly, exchanging sleepy kisses and rubbing noses with one another. Your eyes meet Gale's and you mumble softly.

"Is there anything.. I can do? For you?"

Gale shakes his head, hand lifting to cup your still flushed cheeks and he strokes your high cheekbone with his rough thumb.

"Nothing at all."

He smiles down at you and you offer the same question to Astarion. He ponders for a moment, unsure of how to answer. He's never been asked what he wants. Not in situations like this, anyway. He contemplates his options. He could obviously ask you to pleasure him. Get on your knees and let him rut into your mouth, let him use your holes like any other woman that's ever lusted after him. He shakes his head and grins, pressing a loving kiss to the top of your head.

"You've given me the one thing that no one else ever has, my love."

You quirk an eyebrow in confusion, turning your head to face him. Gale yawns, crawling out of bed to quickly check all of the curtains in the room, pressing any two together that he thinks might let in a little too much sunlight in the morning. He smiles to himself once each window is sufficiently covered and climbs back into bed, pulling a blanket up over the three of you. You watch Astarion for a moment before quietly asking.

"And what is that?"

He sighs happily, nuzzling his face into your warm neck, pressing you impossibly close to him. A quiet yawn escapes him and his lids flutter closed.

"A choice."

[angstysebfan]

My Roommates Boyfriend - Fin

Pairings: Bucky x Female Reader AU: Modern

Chapter Summary: And they all lived.... Chapter Warnings: Fluff and maybe cursing cause ya know... lol, also several flashbacks

Flashbacks in italics

Series Masterlist

--

2 years later

You’re pacing around the room trying to get your emotions in check. Today was the day your life will change forever. Nat walked in, wearing her navy blue tea length dress. 

“Y/N, you've gotta calm down and get dressed already!” she scolded.

You take a deep breath and look at the floor length mirror. Your hair and makeup were done to perfection and you were standing in your white silk robe.

“What if we're not meant to be? What if this is all a huge mistake?” you say, panic evident in your voice.

It was the day after you and Bucky finally talked it out. He planned on taking you out on a proper date this time. He told you he would pick you up at 7, and at exactly 7, you heard the buzzer.

You were running around like a chicken with your head cut off because you'd gotten out of work late, which never happens. You buzz him in and quickly run into your room to slip your dress on.

You heard the knock on the door and started to panic because your hair was a disaster and you didn’t have time to reapply your makeup. You run to the door, looking slightly disheveled. You open it to see Bucky looking as handsome as ever.

Bucky furrowed his brows seeing the panic on your face.

“You okay, baby?” he asks.

You shake your head as tears start to form. “I-I got out of work late, and so I haven’t had time to fix my hair or my makeup and you planned this whole night and now I’m ruining it!” you said, choking on a sob.

Bucky quickly embraced you and kissed the top of your head. “Y/N, I don’t care where our first date is. I just want to be with you. If we miss our dinner reservation, we can go to the diner or get pizza. It's ok. Please don't cry. And by the way... you already look amazing.”

You look at him for a moment before you pull him close and kiss him deeply. Bucky was taken aback at first, but then wrapped his arms around you. When you pulled back you looked at him with determination.

“Give me 10 minutes, and I’ll be ready,” you said softly before going into your room.

You knew at that point that Bucky was the one for you. Always and forever.

Nat took both your hands and made you look at her. “Do you love him?” she asks. You nod. “Do you want to be with him for the rest of your life?” she asks, and again you nod. “Then shut up with the stupid questions and get your ass dressed! You need to be walking down that aisle to your man in 10 minutes!” Nat said with authority. She pushed you toward your dress and smacked your ass.

Once you were in your white strapless floor length gown, that showed all your curves perfectly, you felt slightly more confident. Your mom and dad walked in and gushed over how beautiful you looked. Your mom gave you a hug and left the room with Natasha to get ready to start the ceremony. Your dad offered his arm and led you out of the room.

Bucky was waiting at the end of the aisle with Sam and his other best friend Steve. When you entered the room with your dad, he couldn’t help but watch you walk toward him in awe. He can’t believe you were finally going to be his forever.

You'd been dating for a year, and it honestly was the best year of your life. Bucky had moved into your apartment, especially after you gave him a key again, after a month of dating. You both were the happiest you had ever been.

You were planning your next visit out to Nat in Seattle in the next month or so. You both cuddled together on the couch looking at the computer to purchase plane tickets. Bucky has his arm wrapped around you, and every few minutes kisses you temple, cheek and grabbing your chin he kissed your lips.

What started out as innocent, turned into a full blown make out session and then passionate love making. Your plane tickets forgotten. As you both lay on the couch, calming down from your exertion, Bucky turns your face to him.

“Marry me?” he asks softly, as he brushes the hair stuck to your face from sweat.

You smile and tears come your your eyes. “Oh my god! Bucky, yes of course I'll marry you!” you shout as you wrap your arms around his neck.

Bucky smiles and kisses you softly. “I was going to wait until Seattle, but I just couldn’t wait anymore. I love you, Y/N. You're everything to me. We were truly meant to be from the moment we saw each other, and I want nothing more than to spend the rest of my life with you.”

You can’t help crying tears of happiness. “I love you too, Bucky, so fucking much. I can’t wait to spend the rest of our lives together!” You say as you bring him in for another kiss.

Bucky and you were more then lovers, you were best friends. You told each other everything and anything. You barely fought anymore, though there was the occasional disagreement. You both swore to never go to bed angry, and that also pushed you to settle your quarrels quickly. Plus you couldn’t stand to be away from each other. 

Nat was your cheerleader all the way through your relationship, which is why she is proudly standing by you as your maid of honor. She met her current boyfriend Bruce at work, and the two have been together for a year. She's never been so happy.

You and Bucky make frequent trips to Seattle to see Nat, and she visits New York with Bruce often. You’re so glad that the distance didn’t change your friendship. You know none of this would have been possible without her.

“Oh my god!!” Nat screamed as she saw your ring! She ran up and gave you the biggest hug, squeezing you so tight. “I can’t believe you guys are getting married!” She said as she hugged Bucky.

“Nat, none of this would have happened if you hadn’t pushed us to stop being stupid. So… will you be my maid of honor?” you ask. Nat jumped up and down screaming YES!

You look at Bucky as you get closer to him, and you can’t help your wide cheesy smile. God you loved this man and you can’t imagine what life would be like without him. You don’t even remember what life was like without him. As you finally make it to Bucky, your father shook his hand and gave you away.

After your vows were said, you finally heard the words you were waiting for, “You may kiss the bride”. Bucky pulled you to him and crashed his lips into yours. To say you were the happiest people in the world would be an understatement. 

After a fun reception, you said goodbye to your family and friends and went up to the honeymoon suite of the hotel. You both had to be up early to catch your flight to Bora Bora, but you spent the entire night entwined in each other. Bucky showed you how much he loved you over and over. 

Six months later you get another surprise. You’re pregnant! Bucky was beyond happy, and you both decided that it was time to start looking for a house and leave the city. You found the perfect home in the suburbs that was still close enough to the city for work and your friends. 

“Bucky? Are you home?” you shout from the bathroom in your apartment.

“Yeah baby, I'm in the kitchen. You okay?” Bucky called as he walks toward the bathroom.

You take a deep breath and hand him the stick. He looks confused at first, but then, slowly, a huge smile appears on his face. “You’re pregnant?” he asks in disbelief. You nod.

Bucky shouts with joy as he sweeps you off your feet and spins you around. You both are laughing as he stops and just holds you.

“I can’t believe I’m going to be a daddy.” He says.

You smile. “I know! And I’m going to be a mommy!”

Bucky kisses you softly. “Well, I think we need to move out of the city. I want my kids to have a big backyard with a pool and swing set.” Bucky says as he walks over to grab his laptop.

Shortly after the move you gave birth to your son, Matthew James Barnes. He was the spitting image of his father, and you hoped he would turn out just like him. After an easy birth, you and Bucky sit on your bed holding your son. Bucky continues to kiss you head and thanking you for his son.

You look up at Bucky with tears in your eyes. You think back to that terrible first year of knowing each other, and then the terrible drive to Seattle. You can’t help but laugh to yourself that all of that craziness led you to the best thing in your life. Your loving husband and son. You wouldn’t want it any other way.

--

Chapter 9

And thats that... Thank you for reading!

Permanent Taglist: Permanent Taglist:  @rebekahdawkins @marajade1974 @missvelvetsstuff @phillygirl77 @pattiemac1 @winterslove1917 @vampire7595 @unkasworld @midnightramyeoncravings

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[kingofthe-egirls]

MONSTER TRIO BROTHEL AU WHERE ALL MY SLUTTY MEN ARE PROSTITUTES

this would be MY brothel where everything is feminist and fun and joyful (and luxurious and playful and full of velvet cushions, sake, and satin robes)

so many situations for y/n to be in

she could be the brothel madam (like me hehe) and get exasperated with her crew's stupidity/playfulness

Robin and Nami could also be artists there, Nami as a findom (who never lets clients touch her) and Robin as a quiet, lovely soul who will actually get to know you and read you interesting sections of books

Robin does tea ceremonies ugh (and Wano fan dances like omg)

there's a lobby area where the bar/music/dancing happens, with VIP booths where big name clients come to hang out before going back upstairs to their artist's boudoir (everyone gets their own room set up how they like, w security and everything. also everyone gets paid so much)

big name clients like Shanks, Crocodile, Law, Mihawk, etc. who all hear about the brothel's prestige and start to build their own special connections to you, as the madame or as a new artist, ugh whatever your little y/n heart desires

there's a lil fortune telling area bc i'm me and i'm a tarot reader

i am also a camgirl/porn star irl so like. don't come for me saying this is abusive or whatnot. it's litcherally not,,, this is a sex/sex work positive blog and im sorry but puritans aint welcome here

Sanji......always surrounded by a group of girls that literally never leave him alone. he's in heaven.

i'm so obsessed with whore!luffy like i'm so ill. him in his red kimono jumping around having fun, talking to people and showing off, running in and out of the building at full speed, definitely taking over the dance floor at all times

im obsessed w this plz ask me for requests im dying over here

y/n as a shy, first time client

y/n as a special client who requests all three of the monster trio

getting absolutely destroyed in their bed

like.....yeah

[therosehost]

ShuririWeek: D1

Fluff + "Don't Go"

cw: allusions to nsfw content

Shuri doesn't hear the humming at first. She's too frustrated.

She isn't Queen, nor is she the heir anymore, but the Elders hold her hostage in meetings and at inane ceremonies for hours as if she still were. It grinds at her skin like sandpaper.

Especially because Shuri knows why they do it. They care. They've watched Shuri grow from a glimmer in her mother's eye to a white-draped shadow by her casket. The elders care for her, Shuri knows this. But that doesn't make the overbearing attitudes any less irritating.

Today's latest antics had involved them - particularly Elder M'Kathu - insisting that every member of the council attend the Prayer of the Hymned Beetle. Shuri had wanted to throw her chair out the window with herself inside.

That biannual prayer had started in the river tribe as a joke ceremony. It was just an excuse for people to be off from work and drink themselves to incompetence.

It had never been taken seriously, that is, until Elder M'Kathu got it into his head that Shuri singing the Hymned Beetle's lament would somehow make her happier.

HA!

By the time Shuri escapes (just barely) and returns home, she's still wallowing in incredulous anger. She doesn't hear the humming, but when she yanks the bedroom door open she definitely sees the dancing.

Riri, as usual, is beautiful. And she's even more so as the golden silks she currently wears make her glitter in the setting sun.

Positioned in the center of the small garden's inner courtyard, Riri's prayer forms are uncertain. Sometimes her knees don't bend all the way they're supposed to. And at one point her arm doesn't extend to the full ninety degree angle the instructions scrolls describe.

But that doesn't matter because of why her beautiful talented dedicated genius girlfriend is praying. Or rather, to whom.

Shuri knows the prayer that slips low and careful from Riri's lips. She knows every note and syllable. It is her mother's funeral hymn. The Honor of Ramonda's is a celebration of her mother's birth and life, and a bitter bemoan of her death. There's a promise there at the end, humming with a grief that Shuri knows in her heart will last all her life.

She had poured her soul into creating a prayer dedicated to her mother. When Riri sings it, Shuri almost wants to cry.

It's beautiful. Her girlfriend is beautiful. Her girlfriend singing the prayer is beautiful.

Shuri moves forward, past the door where she's stopped in her tracks, and stops only a foot away. Riri's robes swirl around her, a red whirlpool of gauze that stops short when Shuri comes into sight.

Riri watches Shuri with wide eyes, lips parted to express her surprise.

"Your form is all wrong," Shuri says and then wants to shove a fist in her mouth. Damnit.

Riri puts her hands on her hips and laughs, her blouse rising up at the movement. "How are you this awkward?" The skin of Riri's stomach peaks out. Shuri stares. The blessed oils make the skin glisten. Shuri bets if she steps closer she could smell the spiced lotuses.

"I'm not being awkward." It's a distracted mumble instead of the annoyed tut she intended but Shuri can't bring herself to care. She wants to lick Riri.

Riri narrows her eyes, crosses her arms under her breasts, and gives a fox like grin when Shuri licks her lips. "Oh, you not?'" she laughs again. "Then what would you call it?"

Shuri pouts. "Giving constructive criticism, of course".

"Criticism." Riri says the word slowly as if tasting the letters. "I think I've heard of that before but I'm not real familiar. Why don't you stop hovering over there and come show me."

It sounds like an invitation to fight or fuck. Shuri is willing to do either or both of it means she can touch her girlfriend. But-

Shuri shakes her head and moves back towards the threshold. "I want to let you finish though."

"I thought my form was shit?" Riri raises an eyebrow.

"It was, but that doesn't mean I don't want to see you pray." Shuri's words are a lovesick trill.

Riri snorts but presses a hand against her own cheek like she does when she's trying to stop blushing "Nah, see, now my feelings hurt. It was supposed to be a surprise but I don't even want to do it anymore."

"Ok, I apologize. I take it back. Finish the prayer."

Riri hums, rocks back and forth from heel to toe, and then reaches for the towel on the stone bench behind her. Shuri flails.

"You have completely mesmerized me and I want to watch you dance forever," She almost gets on her knees. "Please please please finish."

Riri clucks her tongue, watching Shuri with a sly smile as she backs away. "Naaaah, I lost the motivation. Maybe I'll go hire an instructor instead."

Shuri huffs, rushes forward, and catches Riri around the waist. It startles a laugh out of Riri and Shuri huffs again. "Don't go. I'll help you. We'll pray to my mother together. Just, please, dance for me." She makes her voice as soft as her heart feels.

Riri cups Shuri's cheeks, rubbing a thumb under her eye and kissing her. It's a light brush against the lips really, but it's enough to send Shuri's heart into a frenzy in her chest.

"If you're so desperate," Riri says, her voice is sultry, smile teasing, "then I guess I'll entertain you a bit."

"Yes. I am very desperate." Shuri nods firmly.

Riri wiggles out of her hold with a groan. "Don't do that. I feel guilty for being mean when you get all earnest and shit."

"I like to when you're mean to me though."

Riri groans again and throws the towel she'd dropped at Shuri's head. "Shut up and help me already." Her plush lips form a pout around the words.

Shuri laughs and catches the towel. "Anything you want, my love."

"Uggggggggh. Please stop!"

a/n: this is rushed as shit and mostly unedited. but, ya know, fuck it. i really wanted to participate in shuririweek at least one day so here it is!

@shuririweek

[asnarkyandironicusername]

Day 28 of @remadoramicrofics - Outsider POV

Andromeda Tonks watched as her daughter and son-in-law dressed her grandson for the ceremony. Remus was trying to slip shoes on him, but Teddy was kicking his feet so fiercely that he was only marginally avoiding failure. Nymphadora merely stood by and giggled as father and son wrestled. 

Moments like these spurred mixed emotions in Andromeda. Ted would have loved his grandson, and she missed and mourned him every day. Of course, she still had some hesitancy towards Remus. To his credit, for well over a year now he had been the most attentive husband and father she could ask for her daughter or grandson, but she’d never forget the way Nymphadora had practically rotted in her bed during the week he had disappeared. Nymphadora had been quick to forgive, but Andromeda had made Remus earn her forgiveness; she had to be sure he could take care of her daughter.

Remus had gotten the other shoe on and proudly hefted Teddy into his arms. “Are you ready, Andromeda?” he asked as Teddy messed with the collar of his robe.

“Yes. One day, Remus, you won’t be able to get the upper hand on him so easily.”

“Let’s hope he’s dressing himself by then,” Remus chuckled.

“Wait until he starts walking,” her daughter said as she clapped him on the back before she apparated to the school grounds.

Andromeda followed after her. A few moments later, Remus arrived, Teddy in one hand and a child’s shoe clenched in the other. “A short victory,” he said as he raised the shoe to them. They followed the crowd across the grounds to the large memorial that stood on the horizon. 

When the memorial had been unveiled, it had drawn a crowd every bit as large as this one. It was a marble structure with four columns wrapped in the house colors. Inside, the one room building was filled with portraits of the fallen; Sirius, Ted, and many others filled frames and told their tales. When they had first come, Nymphadora had drug her and Remus and Teddy to Ted’s frame, proudly showing off his grandson before scurrying off to show Sirius and the rest of Remus’s friends.

Today wasn’t a day for catching up, though, she thought as she took mercy on Remus and wrangled the shoe back onto Teddy’s foot. He thanked her with a bashful smile as Nymphadora stared at the crowd. “She’ll be like raising a second child sometimes, Ted was the same way,” she warned him as she eyed him tentatively.

“Oh, she isn’t that bad,” he chuckled. “I don’t have to put her shoes on, and I suppose that some nights after a full moon I’m rather reminiscent of a child.”

Andromeda had seen the way her daughter doted on him after a full moon and she was inclined to agree, but she had also seen Remus, after his impromptu vacation as Nymphadora called it, take care of her daughter through her pregnancy. The meals he’d make just to have Nymphadora turn her nose up almost on a whim, the sick mornings and cranky evenings, she wasn’t certain she’d heard him say no once in those nine months and his attentiveness had lasted well through the birth. When Nymphadora said jump, Remus asked how high.

Like this; Remus had wanted to skip the ceremony, citing general displeasure that he, a werewolf, would receive an Order of Merlin, First Class. Andromeda had to admit she was surprised, but she supposed, personal misgivings aside, he deserved it as much as any of the other Order members. It had been all through the press; at first, he was the only Order member not to receive one, but Harry had convinced everyone else to refuse theirs unless Remus was recognized. He had insisted they were making a big deal over nothing, but eventually the Wizengamot had relented.

When the invitation for the recognition ceremony had come, he had all but insisted that Nymphadora and she come and receive their awards and that he would stay home with Teddy, but Nymphadora wouldn’t have it. At one point, she had told him it would be unfair of him to miss because it would leave her and her mother five awards – Their respectives ones as well as Ted’s, Sirius’s, and Remus’s – to care for and no amount of Remus’s insistence that Harry would want Sirius’s could convince her otherwise. Finally, he had relented and agreed to come.

Ahead of her, Remus shifted Teddy to his other arm to wrap Harry in a hug. He immediately took the boy from his arms. “You’d better not be planning on keeping him forever,” Andromeda teased. For the first week after the war, she was almost certain that he had come over everyday to see the boy, asking Remus and Tonks several times if they were certain that they wanted him to be Godfather.

“Wouldn’t dream of it,” he said as he bounced the young boy.

“Don’t worry, Mum, Remus won't let him get away with it. Think he used to be jealous he couldn’t feed him.”

Remus rolled his eyes, but his reddening cheeks gave him away. “I wasn’t jealous, Dora, I felt bad that you had to get up every time.”

Harry laughed before turning back to the stage. “Think we should get going?” he asked.

Remus watched the officials taking the stage. “Perhaps.”

Harry handed Teddy back. “I’ll come find you after.”

Remus nodded, but his eyes were still glued to the stage, a look of worry creeping over him. The look he got when he wanted to run. Before Andromeda could say anything, her daughter looped her arm through his and tugged them forward. “Oh no you don’t,” she said.

“Hm?”

“There’s no backing out now.”

“I-I wasn’t –”

“Great,” Nymphadora said as she linked her other arm through Andromeda’s, “then let’s get on with it.” Teddy may carry her husband’s name, but she most often saw him in their daughter and her endless love. 

[raplinesmoon]

Man of The Year (MYG x GN!Reader)

pairing: single dad!Yoongi x gn!reader genre(s): pure fluff, very minor angst au(s): graduation au word count: 2.7k warnings: some swearing, Yoongi is a little nervous, Yoongi is bad at flirting, this is so cute I could cry

rating: PG

summary: For the longest time, it’s always been Yoongi and his daughter, celebrating every milestone of life together. But today, that could change.

a/n: omg isi updating back to back fics? who is she? anyway this is inspired by that viral post of a little girl proudly taking pics of her dad on graduation day. thank you mars @joheunsaram​ for showing me the post and also letting me use her idea! i hope i did this justice. also inspired by one of my classmates who brought their little one dressed in a cap and gown to walk across the stage with them (so cute)! and big congrats to the class of 2022, i’m so proud of all the graduates, you deserve the world!!

listen to: man of the year by logic

A bead of sweat pools at the back of Yoongi’s head, sliding down his neck and into the special black robe he’d adorned. A heavy sigh escapes his throat. He’d probably have to get the robe dry cleaned. Another $10 spent on an item he’d never keep after today, and he knows money had been tight for the last little while. He’d barely been able to squeak by and pay Eunha’s school fees this month, begging his PI for a last-minute raise, who’d reluctantly acquiesced, knowing Yoongi was graduating soon anyway.

Yoongi resists the urge to scratch the itch that popped up mere moments ago and has now bloomed into a painful nuisance. Why were these outfits so damn scratchy? He’d never understand it.

“Appa,” his ears perk up at the small voice, the tiny hand clutching his own, and his fingers wind tighter around Eunha’s. “I have to go to the bathroom.”

Yoongi’s heart begins to pound even harder, and he feels like his world is caving in on itself. The meticulous plan he’d had for today had already begun falling apart at the seams, its delicate threads taunting him amidst the air conditioning of the auditorium.

He checks his watch. 9:50. The ceremony was supposed to start in ten minutes. No time to waste.

He scoops up Eunha’s tiny body in his hands, mind racing as he rushes out the doors, excusing himself when he bumps into random family members and friends of his fellow graduates. He can feel their stares, some of them full of pity and others full of scorn, but he pays them no mind. He was used to the scrutiny that came with being a single father, especially at his age.

“Eunha, baby,” he sets her down by the restrooms. “Can you go in all by yourself? Appa will be outside waiting right here for you, okay?”

If Eunha sees the desperate look in her appa’s eyes, she doesn’t say anything, giving him a firm nod.

“I’m a big girl, Appa! Don’t worry,” she reassures him, and Yoongi chokes back a few tears. His little girl was growing up, and it felt like life was moving chaotically fast. Soon enough, Eunha would be starting second grade, and then she wouldn’t need Yoongi to tie her shoes anymore, she wouldn’t need him to drop her off at the bus anymore, she wouldn’t need him to hold her hand when they went places anymore. The thought of it makes Yoongi’s heart hurt.

It was hard for Yoongi to remember life before Eunha. Her mom had been an old fling, one he’d forgotten had even fallen into his bed after a few rounds of shots. Until months later, when she’d shown up with a baby in her arms that she’d thrust upon Yoongi, who was young, stressed and yet to graduate college.

The moment Yoongi had picked up the little bundle in his arms, it had been love at first sight, her big eyes looking up at him as her pink gums broke out into the biggest smile. And from that day, he was no longer just Yoongs, Yoongo, Suga (his college friends’ stupid nickname for him). He was someone’s Appa. Someone so small and tiny and helpless, this little girl who trusted him with every fiber of her being, who had no one else. And so he became everything to her. Her caretaker, her best friend, her closest confidante.

His years, the prime ones of his youth, were no longer spent chasing money, girls, or booze. Instead, they were spent chasing after his graduate degree with Eunha by his side; busy mornings with the both of them rushing, her hair in two sloppy braids, as Yoongi dropped her off for the bus, silently cursing because he was late to class. His nights had been spent in the research lab, extracting and interpolating numerous data points while Eunha spun around on the rotating chairs, Yoongi sending up a silent prayer every five minutes that she wouldn’t choose an expensive piece of equipment to play with. But he wouldn’t change it for the world.

And no matter how many people told him that today was the best day of his life, he’d shut them down with a gentle smile, clutching his baby’s hand tighter, refuting their claims because it didn’t even come close to the moment he’d met his Eunha.

“Appa,” he jolts out of his daydream, finding Eunha standing next to him, looking up curiously at him. She giggled, a boisterous and beautiful sound echoing off the high ceilings, at the far-off look in his eyes. “Did you fall asleep?”

“No baby,” Yoongi reassures her, crouching to her height to smooth over the creases in her outfit and brush her bangs out of her eyes. “Appa was just thinking.”

“Thinking about what?” She questions him, but it was at that moment Yoongi chose to look at his watch again. 10:01. Shit. Storytime would have to wait for now, they had a graduation to get to.

“Eunha, no matter what you do, don’t let go of Appa’s hand, okay?” Yoongi says nervously, the size of the crowd that had begun to accumulate in the auditorium grating on his nerves. It was so easy to lose sight of a child in here. That’s why he had to be extra careful.

“Oooo-kayyy Appa!” Eunha says loudly, and a few heads turn in their direction. 

“Oops,” Eunha says, clamping a hand over her mouth. “Inside voice, I forgot.”

Yoongi gives her a fond smile, ruffling her hair, never letting go as he leads Eunha to their seats. Just two of them in the long row that seemed to stretch on forever. He sets his nerves aside for long enough to remember to let Eunha take the aisle seat, just so she’d be spared the awkward interaction with any one of his classmates who wondered why Yoongi had brought along a six-year-old girl with him. Shaking his head, he wishes his parents had been able to attend today. Their flight had been unexpectedly delayed, because nothing could ever seem to go as planned in Yoongi’s crazy, chaotic life. His eomma had been so upset, fussing that he’d have to spend his special day taking care of Eunha, but Yoongi had reassured her they’d be fine. They always had been, always would be.

Surprisingly, Eunha holds it together for most of the ceremony. Yoongi knew how difficult it was to keep children's attention, and even he found it hard to keep his eyes open through most of the unnecessary speeches. Or maybe he’d just skipped his morning Americano in the flurry of getting himself and Eunha ready. He looks over at her, her tiny figure leaned over in wonder, eyes trained on the stage, and is taken aback by the swirl of emotions on her face. He wasn’t quite sure Eunha understood what graduation was completely, but she seemed to grasp that it was a special, important, and emotional day for many people in the audience, and Yoongi couldn’t be prouder.

The announcer drones on, calling through the alphabet listlessly, and one by one, people disappear from the crowd to have their shining moment. Soon, the Ms arrive, and Yoongi’s nerves kick in. He couldn’t just leave Eunha alone in the audience when it was his time to go. No, that would not work at all. What if someone scooped her up? Or she started crying wondering where he went?

“Appa,” Eunha whines softly next to him. “My hair.”

He smooths through her tresses until they lay perfectly, twirling each long strand so delicately, that he almost misses the drone of “Yoongi Min” from the announcer.

“Yoongi Min?”

“F—” Yoongi starts, and then remembers his company. “Fiddlesticks! C’mon Eunha baby, let’s go up.”

In the most unexpected move of the night, Yoongi grabs his daughter’s hand, walking with her as she skips down the aisle, clad in a matching hat and robe similar to her father’s, and the two of them make their way up onto the stage.

Yoongi hopes he doesn’t trip, or that his hat doesn’t fall off when they hood him, or that for once, there are no quiet whispers, like the ones that plague his mind when he lies awake at night, wondering if he’s doing enough. If he’s good enough. But none of that happens.

Instead, thundering applause greets his ears, and the oohs and ahhs of the audience are apparent as he and Eunha walk across the stage, Yoongi clutching his daughter, his lifeline, as close to him as possible, while Eunha shyly buries her head in his chest. 

They’re clapping for him. He knows if he turns and looks at the crowd, he’ll see teary faces full of love and admiration, some of them standing on their feet, and his mind is unable to grasp that it’s all for him. Him and his Eunha. For once, Yoongi doesn’t feel like a subpar dad, or a struggling student. As the applause goes on, and Yoongi reaches the dean, he scoops up Eunha with one arm, shyly accepting the piece of paper he’d worked so hard for, both the loves and labors of his life finding him in this one moment.

“Congratulations Min family,” the dean says to Yoongi, his own tears pooling in his eyes. “You deserve it.”

“Appa! Smile please!” Eunha stomps her little foot in frustration, hauling her bee shaped bag over her shoulders like she’s a middle-aged mom asking to speak to the manager and not Yoongi’s daughter.

“I thought I was smiling in the last one!” Yoongi protests with a laugh, reaching out to pinch her cheek, but she turns away with a scowl.

“Appaaaaa! The pictures aren’t good,” she wails in exasperation, reaching out to show him his phone’s camera.  Yoongi had to admit, the photo was awkward, his smile nervous and his hands hovering in a strange position. He never knew what to do with them.

But he couldn’t throw in the towel, not when Miss Eunha was staring him down, hands on her hips, determined to get one good picture of her Appa, the proud graduate.

Yoongi smirks, giving the camera a slight wave, and hears a click-click-click, the shutter going off. 

“Better!” Eunha yells. “Be happy Appa! Today is a happy day!”

Something in Yoongi breaks at her joy, and the smile comes naturally and perfectly, and he knows they’ve gotten the shot.

“Do you wanna see Appa?” She holds the camera out to him, and he crouches to her height, squatting on his knees as the two of the study the picture.

“Excuse me?” A voice interrupts them, and Yoongi looks up to see the figure of a stranger, blocked out by the rays of sunlight, approaching them. He braces Eunha protectively behind him.

“Would you like me to take one of the both of you?” The voice asks again, and Yoongi realizes it belongs to a stranger. A very pretty stranger, in an outfit that was way too fancy to belong to a college student.

“I’m so sorry to intrude,” you continue, smiling brightly. “But I saw you both from way over there and you’re just too cute! You have to get a picture together!”

He sees you pause, and he prepares himself for what’s coming next, the question that’s always at the tip of everyone’s tongue. But it never comes. Instead, you offer him a dazzling smile, your previous offer shining with sincerity, and he feels himself flush under your gaze.

“I, uh, uhmmm,” he spits out, and somehow wonders how he’d made it through an entire PhD defense when he can barely utter two words in your presence. Maybe he’s more out of practice than he thought. After all, it wasn’t like being a dad and a grad student offered much time in the way of dating.

“Yes you can!” Eunha answers for him. “My appa grad-u-nated today! It’s a happy day!”

You coo at the cuteness of the little girl, her pride and admiration for her father shining brighter than the sun on this warm summer day. 

“Wow!” you remark. “Graduating is an amazing thing for sure! I bet your Appa is very smart and hard-working.” Yoongi blushes harder at your compliments. There’s a strange lilt in your voice, one that he hasn’t heard in many years. Could you… possibly be flirting with him?

“He is, he is!” Eunha agrees with you, shrieking in excitement. “My appa is the smartest person I know!”

“That’s awesome!” you reply, giving her an enthusiastic high-five. “You should be very proud of him.”

Looking up at the man, his eyes are still trained on the ground, almost like he’s embarrassed by being gushed about in this manner. Well, you think to yourself, he shouldn’t be. From the couple of moments you’d spent in his presence, it was clear that he was incredibly smart, and an amazing father. Not to mention incredibly handsome, his raven-colored locks shining in the light, a soft gummy smile appearing when he looks at his daughter.

“I’m proud of you Appa!” the little girl echoes, and you hear a choking sound, one that sounds like the man trying an awful lot to hold back a sob, You have to try hard to contain your own tears at the precious, tender moment you’d become privy to.

“Well,” you say, rubbing at your eyes. “How about that picture?”

The man and his daughter pose together, hugging each other tightly, bright smiles on both their faces, and you can’t help but giggle happily at how perfect they look, clicking a photo for them.

“It’s beautiful,” the man says quietly, staring fondly at the photo on his phone. He looks at you, and you’re taken aback by the deep emotions swirling in his eyes. Pretty, you think. Just like the rest of him.

“Thank you for this,” he says, reaching his hand out for you to shake. “My name’s Yoongi, and this is my daughter Eunha.”

Taking his hand in yours, there’s a million questions you want to ask him: is he alone? where is Eunha’s mom? why do his eyes look so sad?

But you keep them to yourself. The answers didn’t matter anyway, it was clear the two of them loved each other more than life itself.

“I’m ___,” you don’t know what prompts you to introduce yourself back to him. After all, it wasn’t like the two of you would ever see each other again.

Or maybe…

“___!” Eunha says enthusiastically, grabbing your hand. “Appa and I were going to have a pizza party to celebrate his grad-u-nation! You should come too!”

“Eunha!” Yoongi chastises, his cheeks redder than a tomato. “I’m sure ___ is busy, and besides, it’s supposed to be straight to bed after dinner, baby. You have school tomorrow, remember?”

“Appa pleeeeaaasee! I want ___ to come! Maybe you can have a new friend,” Eunha whines, the hidden implication of her words lost on her innocent mind.

“I, uh, oh gosh, I’m so sorry, she’s normally not this outgoing, I swear, I don’t know what’s gotten into her today,” Yoongi rambles nervously, eyes flitting from side to side. “You don’t have to join us at all.”

Taking a deep breath, you resign yourself to the fact that Yoongi doesn’t want you there. 

“Okay,” you say softly. “But celebrate lots for me, alright? You should be proud of yourself.”

Turning on your heel, you walk away, making your way down the campus path. Not even a few moments pass by when you hear the pounding of heavy footsteps behind you, lighter ones following in their wake.

“___,” Yoongi’s rich baritone calls out, and you turn to see him, flushed and sweating underneath his dark robes. 

“I, uh, fuck,” Yoongi continues.

“Appa!” Eunha chastises him. “Bad word.”

“Sorry,” Yoongi says sheepishly, scratching the back of his neck. “I, uhm, wanted to ask if you’d reconsider joining me and Eunha for a pizza party.” 

The words tumble out in a rush, and he looks at your puzzled expression, quickly adding:

“Only if you’re free, of course.”

“Only if you promise to let Eunha have extra cheese,” you answer him with a wink, watching the way his throat bobs. From behind you, Eunha claps her hands excitedly.

“Okay,” Yoongi says, his gummy smile making another rare appearance. “Okay, extra cheese on me. After all, today is a happy day.”

A/N pt. 2: Thanks for reading! As always, any feedback or comments are much appreciated, but I appreciate you all anyway. Lots of love, Isi 💜

[thebiscuiteternal]

For the writing jam: perhaps Nie Mingjue interacting with post-canon Lan Xichen or Nie Huaisang? Could be some time travel fuckery or like a scenario where they meet in a sort of state like dream. How would he react? Would NMJ know how different they are while they pretend as if they're still fine? Do they tell them about JGY?Depending on if this NMJ was before or after the Sunshot Campaign, it'd be a really interesting to see you write it!

So... you might regret this, because you've given me the perfect opportunity to resurrect a very old, very evil idea.

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

He can tell something is off as soon as he opens his eyes.

When he sits up, the sheets feel... older than he can remember. Stiff, as if the bed had been made and then left for a very long time.

Like they were the first time he'd forced himself to move into the room after Fuqin's death.

But this is his room, with the desk he'd moved from his old one, and Baxia's stand beside the-

Wait.

Baxia isn't there.

Where-

This better not be some prank by his brother, he thinks as he gets out of bed. He's been in even less of a mood for putting up with Huaisang's childish nonsense since the war ended than he had been before.

As he walks into the hall, he registers that it's... oddly quiet.

They'd been busy with sending out building crews to damaged villages and re-stocking supplies for winter and a thousand other things-

-so why is it so quiet?

He opens the door to one of the porch hallways, but what he sees only adds to his confusion.

There are people bustling about, going about their tasks, but not only can he not hear anything that's going on, he has never seen a good number of them before, even though they wear the colors of the sect and he had been the one to initiate the new members and staff.

Shaking his head, he spots a face he does recognize when their sect's resident pharmacist approaches, but she never so much as looks up from her lists in response to his call.

As she walks past, he sees the silver streak in her hair.

What is going on?

He decides he should find his brother. Even if Huaisang doesn't know what's happening either, it's better that they not be separated until they do.

He turns to head for the aviary that he constantly has to drag Huaisang out of, but doesn't make it more than a few steps before a prickling chill goes up his spine.

No... not there.

His instincts, for some reason, instead pull him towards the main hall.

Crossing the open main grounds, he notices other things that are... different. Things that could easily be chalked up to just the repairs that had to be made because of the war, but...

When he shoves open one of the great doors, he's hit with a blast of air that's positively frigid, cutting through his summer clothing like the worst of their winter gales. It passes with the same speed, leaving a chill settled in the air that only ratchets up his unease.

For a moment, he's relieved to see a familiar white-robed back, but as he gets closer, he pauses.

Xichen looks... old.

His face is still smooth and unlined, his hair still full and black, but his eyes...

Guilt and pain and weariness make him look aged in ways that aren't showing in the rest of him. He doesn't stand as straight as he did the last time they'd been in the same room, as if the weight of those same emotions is bowing him a little. His mouth is pressed into a thin line as if he's holding back tears.

Why is he-? What could possibly make him look like this, when just days before, he'd been almost radiant as a result of the sworn brotherhood ceremony?

For the first time since he woke up, he hears the click of footsteps on stone, and when he turns around-

"Huaisang?" he asks, stunned and disbelieving at the sight of the man in front of him.

Because it is Huaisang, and yet he has changed even more than Xichen has. Gone is his bright-eyed and round-cheeked brother in robes with ink and paint-stained sleeves, and instead-

Like Zhang Min before, Huaisang never even notices his presence, and when his brother stalks right through him, he suddenly gets it.

He's dead.

He's... he's dead and it's been long enough that-

The oppressively silent argument makes his insides twist to watch, Xichen's aching pleading and Huaisang's icy venom -the source of the chill in the room, he is now sure- making him feel like he might drop to his knees to vomit.

Never... Never has he seen Huaisang like this, thin and pale, practically gaunt, spitting words like needles held behind his tongue until they're at the perfect angle to wound.

He was wrong.

He has to be.

That can't be his brother.

That can't be his brother.

He stares numbly at the guan and ribbon in his hair, at the clothing that more resembles his own than that Huaisang had always preferred, and he wonders...

He wonders...

His health problems have been increasing exponentially since the war had begun, but especially since what had happened in the throne room of the Nightless City. He knows he doesn't have much more than a decade at the absolute most before he will completely lose himself to Baxia.

Had his health been worse than he'd believed? Had Huaisang become like this as a result of having the sect dumped on him before he was ready?

Or... worse... had... had he made his brother this way, the saber spirit driving him to similarly drive Huaisang too hard to be prepared?

He doesn't know.

He doesn't know-

He snaps awake.

He is back in his room again, but now it's... right.

It's the way it should be.

It's the room he fell asleep in the night before, rather than the aged, musty, almost grave-like room he'd been in. He can feel Baxia thrumming in her stand, just where he always puts her at night.

He remembers having woken up from that same nightmare before.

Once... three times... maybe more.

Always that same chill, that same argument he can't hear, that same-

He sits up and rakes a hand through his hair to ground himself and fight back a wave of nausea as it all floods back to him.

"Zongzhu?"

He jolts in surprise, then blinks at the servant who was standing just inside the door.

"Yes?" he asks, then has to clear the roughness out of his throat with a cough before adding "What is it?"

"Lan-zongzhu has arrived for your lunch meeting, as scheduled."

"Lunch?" He looks over at the window and sees that the sun is indeed high. How long had he been stuck in that nightmare, to have slept this late?

Rubbing his eyes, then his temples, he pulls back the bedding and gets up. "Please give him my apologies for not being ready. I will be there shortly."

"Of course," the man says as he bows, then leaves.

He makes short work of getting ready, not bothering to go with the elaborate sect leader braids since this is mostly an informal meeting.

As he heads towards the hall he usually recieves his- oldest friend in, he can't help himself from looking through one of the aviary windows.

His brother, as usual, is there, this time tending to an injury on one of their small falcons under the curious observation of its handler.

Huaisang laughs at something the handler says, and he feels his heart clench as his mind involuntarily overlays that happy image with the memory of the Huaisang with his metaphorical claws and fangs bared.

He keeps walking.

"There you are!" Xichen says, smile warm and eyes sparkling with amusement as he enters the hall. "I hear you actually slept in for once in your life."

He suddenly sees those eyes go dim, that smile vanish- then he shakes his head slightly and suddenly Xichen is himself again. "I suppose it had to happen eventually," he says as he sits down. "What was it you wanted to talk about?"

"I hope it wasn't an imposition, but I discussed a little bit of your condition with Shufu. Not the matter of the saber spirits," Xichen quickly clarifies. "Just that you'd been having some troubles with qi regulation as a result of all the fighting. He agrees with me that we might be able to ease the worst of it with spiritual music."

He frowns. He has never been a fan of "borrowing" from other sects, and if this is something that would have to be done on a repeated basis, then he would be the one imposing.

Then the image of the Huaisang from his nightmare flickers through his mind again. If spiritual music really could help-

"Mingjue-xiong?"

He shudders, then swallows. "Sorry. Would you mind telling me more about it?"

[yatorihell]

Noragami Reread Volume 14-17

Heaven arc in full swing and a lot of foreshadowing

Vol 14

52

'The world he sent her back to' final chapter line?????

Yato reaction to not knowing Hiyori's birthday, it's probably not something that would cross his mind since birth isn't a thing in his world

We never actually see what Yato does for her birthday party????

Kazuma forshadowing his betrayal to Yukine

Ebisu could've just called Kunimi when he got lost lol not a single thought in that head

Bishamon refusing to release Tsuguha is so stupid it's the only way to save her

'If I could just stay with Hiyori and Yukine that would be fine by me' hnnnn

God's exist for people vs Yato saving Hiyori at his own expense

People can only be truly saved by other people vs hospital arc vs recent chapter I hate this manga

Yukine sending Hiyori letters and Yato eating them

53

Just a fun little chapter, bit of Kazubisha and finding out the artist is actually Hiyori's brother at the end

54

Yato showing up to Masaomi and bynpinf into Hiyori after avoiding her for 2 months

'Just friends?' Yato what did you expect

For grandma Iki it's on sight she knows bad vibes when she sees them

Wonder if the Iki family can be like Father's lifeline for Yato

'Even one so immaculate and become bewitched by evil' Yukine downfall forshadowing

Grandma Iki asking will you protect my grandchildren vs recent chapter I hate life

'You've been my god of fortune for a long time' I'm so sad Adachitoka you make me so sad

55

Nora warning Yukine about Kazuma lol

Tsuguha breaking and that whole aftermath was... yeah

Saku suppressed his names with a spell but he's still out if it tbh

Kazuma be like lol I might be indebted to Yato but I'll still betray you

Vol 15

56

Time for Heaven arc

Yukine tells them Kazuma has betrayed them

Bishamon crying over surviving her shinki like babe she could've survived too if you released her

8 millions gods? Stop breeding

'I exist only for Viinas sake' get you a man who loves you this much

Yukine starting to have dreams about his past hnnnnnn

It must've been a ballache to draw the robes in heavens arc rip Adachitoka

57

It was a different shinki who got Ebisu, I wonder what form they take

Yato unsure of joining Heaven after Ebisu's death

Yato talks of defying heaven lol not foreshadowing at all

Then immediately asskissing to keep his god status

'I'd rather be a piece of shit' you are <3

Yato and Hiyori encouraging reconciliation between Yukine and Kazuma

Yato inviting Hiyori to heavens party

Tenjin didn't choose human guidepost because he knows they can betray you

Bishamon pissed Kazuma used resound on Yukine

Where's Suzuha's grave hmm I guess the cherry tree is it tbf since they visit it

Wish we saw more Bishamon and Hiyori

Yato as an obvious wolf in sheep's clothing

'To be blessed is to be buried' Yukine took it seriously

Foreshadowing of a god possessing a hafuri going rogue

58

I think this was the first chapter that released once I caught up with the manga

Everyone's so cute in their formal gowns, I like how Yukine's is blue and Hiyori's is probably red

Takemika being a little bitch to Ebisu

Popularity contest of the Gods and Stationmaster Tama appearing was such a nice touch

Matchmaking ceremony

Yato face when Kofuku says Hiyori's soulmate hsnbd

Yama is with her soulmate already that's cute

Hiyori literally watching her future being decided for her

It's so funny that all the soulmates are just like Yato

Oh Kofuku why did you tie it do you know what happened I'm so sad

Kiun vs Yukine

Hafuri sealed away foreshadowing

Takemika fight foreshadowing

Obtaining a hafuri requires an enemy which is why Takemika is so eager for a chance to fight

Bishamon gone missing and then it's like 2 years of stress

59

Hiyori wondering what it means that Kofuku tied thier plaques hhaaaaaa

Emishi bear god is so cute he won't kill you

Adachitoka working native gods in and their subdued nature with heaven, being happy to just live on their own land, being cultivated from reincarnation to make sure they don't defy again

After everything when asked his nature Yato still thinks of why he was born

Hafuri mono lore

Oh Kiun is so small circling Takemika in his little dragon form

Takemika needs to fuck off a bit no wonder you don't have a hafuri with that attitude

Yes Takemika you are pathetic whining for a hafuri

Oh no he's getting horny just thinking about getting a hafuri

Bishamon promising Heavens head to the hafuri

Marilyn Monroe moment for Bishamon I really love that dress

Shikki is such a look, our Batmon

Vol 16

60

Once again the serve on this outfit? Deadly

One year since they all met and it's Yukine's birthday (I'm ignoring what's about to happen)

Hiyori prayer to all be friends again hnn

Bishamon knowing how to track the Sorcerer from eye contact

Quick Father flashback, it's funnier knowing that he caused her death by driving her away

Heaven shows up so quick compared to the final arc lol

61

High treason declared against Bishamon

Ebisu trying to veto the subjugation order

Kofuku dead

Wonder what the other 7 unpardonable crimes are

Nora playing up to yukine to make sure Bishamon dies

Why did they change my balls are tingling

Ysto soft spot for Bishamon

Yukine having 50 aneurysms about yato revealing himself

62

Yatobisha dreams crushed they don't want a happing ending together

Yato can't reincarnate? Father stop gaslighting

Hiyori coming in with the steel chair on Father go girl

This is the most battle intensive we've been since like yomi

63

Hiyori showing up and fixing Yato's arm

Yato not abandoning Bishamon and wanting to live her innocence

Yukine crying because he wants to keep Yato safe

Vol 17

64

Kazuma offering to take Bishamon’s place for execution

Yato really is such a good fighter

'You aren't capable of truly loving people' Kazuma is self aware Bishamon doesn't feel that way (or does she)

'I will see him again' oh we didn't believe this for so long it took like 7 years

'He'll realise that he can't save anyone' vs recent chapter

65

Child Bishamon being punished by Father

Kazuma spell to help Yato and he's not even made up with Yukine yet

Bishamon god of calamity image

The Reveal that Nora knew her past already had us so shook

Nana past revealed and she was able to overcome it gave us so much hope for Yukine

Kazuma really thinks highly of himself lol of course they don't want a shinki to die instead of the traitor

66

Takemika being banned from lightning ad a child because of his nature

Mad how Takemika died from like a thousands cuts since the shinki slashed him to death along with the ayakashi

Takemika hiding his lightning and Kiun does it for him, they're such a good match

Yato Sekki bondage

Kiun puts himself in harm to make Takemika act and it works (not instantly)

Oh go crazy Takemika

67

What a form Takemika let him be a dragon

Yato shielding Sekki from the lightning because he's breaking a little

Once again the art is insane this entire arc

'I can't let Yato die no matter what' vs recent chapter

DO YOU THINK I'LL LET YOU TAKE HIM FROM ME

I WILL DO WHATEVER IT TAKES TO PROTECT YOU

Kazuma is such a psycho I want one

Damn kazuma stayed in human form for 5 years never being called

Bishamon asking for a pet name

Kiun stuck on the shinki are objects for the god narrative

Takemika got that female rage go girl

God remember when he cut Yato's neck and we freaked this actually reminds me of Yato and father

'But mine will always be on my side'

That line up of Yukine's eyes with Yato's face

Splitting the dragon in half

Kiun bowing and allowing Takemika to be who he is

[charmsandtealeaves]

@jilychallenge | Partner: @theresthesnitch | January 2023: Firsts, Promises and New Beginnings

Prompt: First dance at their wedding + “I made a promise and I intend to keep it” / “I just meant to tell you that I’m having trouble breathing, with you, looking like that”

Read it on AO3

One and One is Two

James had not been able to stop beaming at his new wife since the second he saw her coming down the aisle. In short, Lily Evans was breathtaking, there was simply no other word for it. There was never a doubt in his mind that she would be, as she had always been beautiful, but there was just something about seeing her coming toward him wrapped in white lace that had made his heart skip several beats. He had giddily run through his vows so quickly he’d probably tripped over most of them, not that she had seemed to mind in the slightest. Lily was alight with happiness when he slid her wedding band onto her finger. Officially taking her from Evans to Potter. Their friends and family had cheered in delight and thrown flower petals above their heads as they’d marched triumphantly back down the aisle hand in hand. Well, for the most part anyway. There was the glaring aspect of the empty seats in the front row. Where Lily’s family should have been. In contrast with the already small number gathered to celebrate their union, their absence was stark. 

But today James would not dwell on that fact. It could not form a stain on today of all days in his memory, and he’d be damned if he let it dampen hers. This would be the happiest day of his life he knew, it could not be tainted with disappointment, grief or any other negative emotion. On another future day, James would easily find it in him to be angry at Petunia for doing this to his beloved on her special day. Especially knowing how much it would have meant to her. He’d been nothing but civil at Petunia’s wedding to Vernon despite their previous misgivings. Would it have been so hard for her to just show up for her own flesh and blood? To show her the same kindness? If for the ceremony if nothing else? But if James had learnt anything since meeting Sirius Black, it was that you had the option to choose your own family. Those who Lily needed to be here were, her chosen family, and that was all that counted. 

“Please allow me to introduce to the dance floor, for the very first time; Mr and Mrs Potter!” Sirius’ voice had come booming over a roar of applause. He’d been a fantastic bestman and MC for the evening. Using all the power and grace his presence allowed, for controlling the small crowd seated at their respective tables. 

James led his new bride by the hand to the centre of the dance floor, before wrapping one arm around her waist and pulling her in close to him. He attempted to murmur sweet nothings to her. But his breath tickled her ear and Lily giggled like a schoolgirl.

“What was that?” she asked, pulling away slightly so she could hear him better as they swayed together to the music. 

“I just meant to tell you that I’m having trouble breathing, with you, looking like that.”

“Always with the charm, Potter.” Lily teased playfully. “You’re quite dashing yourself in dress robes. Though I think they’ll look much better later… off.”

“Don’t you know it, Mrs Potter.” He leaned in and gave her a few long and lazy kisses.  

They whirled their way around the dancefloor, perfectly in sync with one another, despite the little practice they’d been able to squeeze in between missions for the Order. Lily flush against him, pressed chest to chest, cheeks rosy thanks to champagne and the warm evening air. If he could freeze time and go back to a blissful moment in his life James knew it would be this one he’d choose. A room full of people, and yet it was like no one else was there. Just the two of them in step. Merlin, he hoped Peter caught a good photograph of this so he could look back on it as he grew old and withered. Show it to his own children and maybe even grandchildren. Their younger selves constantly dancing, twirling and laughing on a page. 

The music slowly began to fade, signalling it would soon be time for the next dance. Which customarily would have been a father-daughter dance. It was the first time James saw the corner of Lily’s mouth twitch from smile to frown. It was barely a second but it was noticeable nonetheless. He’d promised her their nuptials would run smoothly despite what raged around them, and that he’d have her swept off her feet. There was no way James was going to let that slip now if he could help it. Over her shoulder, James signalled wordlessly to Remus, who rose from his seat and hurried along to the table where the older Potters were seated. 

As the last melody died, Fleamont Potter took to the floor. His elegant mauve dress robes flowing out behind him. He approached the happy couple and bowed politely to Lily as James handed her off to him. 

“I made a promise and I intend to keep it Mrs Potter. I know it’s not customary, but I do hope dad will suffice.”

Tears welled in Lily’s eyes that threatened to fall in heavy droplets. James dabbed at them with his pocket handkerchief to save ruining her makeup. 

“Dad will more than suffice. I love you both.” 

[tsukikoayanosuke]

I swear this fucking fandom is drinking their dumb-dumb juice too often for my liking.

Let’s talk a little about The Phantom Bride, possibly one of my favorite event. You know why? Because it’s supposed to be a comedy. 

Back in its first run in JP Server in 2020, this was possibly the best event pre-Pomefiore. It’s possibly the funniest event so far and I know Eliza is not everyone’s favorite, but gosh darn, she steals the show.  Like remember in Frozen when Anna wanting to marry Hans and Elsa said “you can’t marry someone you just met”? Yeah, Eliza is basically Anna but take it to the extreme because Idia doesn’t want to get married. Really, Eliza is just making her “Imagine marring your favorite TWST boys prince charming” headcanons come true? Eliza is the parody of the classic “love at first sight”, and the dev managed to make it so entertaining.

But of course, once it comes to the EN Server, it suddenly become a massive problems. Yeah, I don’t see anyone complaining back in 2020, why are we complaining about it now? 

But let’s see one of the biggest complaint:

“The boys are so rude for not wanting to save Idia.”

To start this, I want you to imagine this: Imagine you have a group project and there is this one kid. The kid was always in class but they never talked to anyone, preferring to text rather than speak. You never talk to the kid or at least rarely but they seemed to be scared at you when you’re trying to be friendly. When the team already agree on the date of when you’re gonna do the project, that kid didn’t come, but prefers to go through zoom call when they can just come...? And the reason why? It’s because they don’t like group project and a shut-in like them don’t do well with crowd. When you tried to argue, they screamed back. But, it the end, you managed to finished your project with a B+ and you still write the kid’s name so he would also get a grade and doesn’t repeat class. But the kid said: “this project suck.”

Okay, you got that? How would you feel about it? Annoyed? Frustrated? Hurt? Surely this would put a damp to your relationship, right?

Now, go read Idia’s ceremonial robe vignette. With Idia shut-in nature, imagine how hard is for others to talk to him. Riddle had to use reverse psychology to make him go to the entrance ceremony. In addition, read Ortho’s ceremonial robe vignette, because it covers the same story but from Ortho’s POV.

Okay, but that’s too far, let’s just look at the main story, from Prologue to Octavinelle. Have we ever see Idia anywhere? Well, we see his tablet twice, once in the entrance ceremony and the second time in the housewarden meeting. Considering both meetings are important, why can’t Idia go there in full body? If this is a real school, this will only bring your reputation down.

So, if we can’t imagine the whole canon cast, go with the smaller scale with the housewarden. Imagine their feeling when one of you don’t come to your meeting? Heck, even Leona, the lazy lion who sleep in the botanical garden and repeated year just because he doesn’t want to come home, actually attend the ceremony and the housewarden meeting. “oh but Malleus also doesn’t come.” Yeah, because he wasn’t invited. This can be a pass for Malleus who doesn’t know, but Idia knows but deliberately decides to only come through VC when he can just get out of his room.

Again, question: will you still willing to help this kind of kid if they’re ever get in trouble?

If yes, then I salute you, but I know many who wouldn’t do it because the sour relationship.

This is the base of The Phantom Bride. This is the cast’s current relationship with Idia. Can you really blame them for not wanting to save someone they barely know?

It’s even said in the event on Chapter 5! And you still blame them for not wanting to save Idia?

(Twisted Wonderland Wiki, English Server)

(Kibadreams’ translation back in 2021, Japan Server fantranslated)

Okay, but they did ended up trying to save him. But with Eliza high standard and nobody really knowing what to do (what do you expect them to do? Acting like your TWST x Reader headcanons?), they got slapped.

And this is Idia’s respond:

(Kibadreams’ translation back in 2021, Japan Server fantranslated)

Now, raise your hand if you don’t feel offended or hurt. Can you really still blame the other students for not wanting to save Idia? He’s fucking lucky that Ace, Riddle, Epel, and Rook still want to try and actually succeeded.

Idia is not completely innocent. He’s not your uwu otaku gamer boy. Because he rarely go outside his room, even in important events, his relationship with others is flimsy at best and nonexistent at worst. And when other tries their best to help him with limited resource and knowledge, he calls them “useless”. Again, can you really still blame the other students for not wanting to save Idia?

Do I also need to remind you that, putting aside they’re inspired by villains, that all of them are teenagers? This is what teenagers would normally do! They often act selfish because it’s what make them happy and they can hold grudge or sulk pretty long when it doesn’t go their way. Just, imagine your teenage years and imagine interacting with someone like Idia.

[i-fondued]

Ghost | Sinners in Secret - Chapter 4

Chapter Four - The Dinner Incident

Pairing: Cardinal Copia x Reader/Sister of Sin x Papa “Terzo” Emeritus III

Rating: Explicit

Warnings: Plot, smut, etc. See AO3 for full list of tags!

A/N: I almost held onto this for one more day just so I could make it longer but I liked where I stopped here so get ready, there is actual plot now LOL

Chapter One - HERE

Chapter Two - HERE

Chapter Three - HERE

AO3 Link - HERE

“Prime Mover?” I repeated back to Imperator, looking at Nihil for a moment as he took a deep breath from his oxygen mask. “I don’t think I’ve heard of that before, no.”

“The Prime Mover, Sister.” Sister Imperator spoke, her voice almost soft which freaked me out even more than her being her normal self. “They are very rare, only a few Sisters of Sin are selected to become Prime Movers.”

“What does this have to do with me?” 

“We are under the impression that you have been selected by His Dark Grace himself.” Sister continued gently. “You see, prime movers are very essential to both the clergy and the papal seat. Historically speaking, the prime movers have been the official companions and wives of both the Papacy and the heads of the Clergy.”

My heart thudded in my chest, hands fidgeting in my lap as I tried to process what she was telling me. I could tell Sister Imperator wasn’t quite sure how I was feeling about the whole situation as she paused, clearly waiting for me to either bolt from the room or speak. 

“I-I see.” I didn’t see, but I continued on. “How was this discovered, I don’t remember any tests being done.”

“This phenomenon is so rare that we test every Sister of Sin after her first ritual service.” Nihil spoke up then, my eyes turning to him as he continued. “At the time, Papa Emeritus II was in charge of the ceremonies, yes?”

I thought back to the night I swore myself to service to the church, it was at least five years ago and just prior to Terzo taking over for Secondo. I remember thinking he was terrifying, his stoic face locked on mine as I sliced my palm and dripped the blood into his chalice. I remembered him tucking it to the side, continuing on with the Latin prayers and thinking it odd we didn’t do anything with my blood. Clearly, something was done just not in front of me. 

“I had wondered what my blood was needed for…” I grumbled, crossing my arms like a petulant child before Imperator cleared her throat. 

“There is more. Secondo had indeed used your blood along with the others in your group to test to see if any of you could possibly be a Prime Mover. You had been the only one from that entire year.” She held out a worn looking book, scratchy handwriting visible. “He noted here what had happened when he tested your blood.”

I read the lines she pointed to myself, my heart thrumming in my chest.

Positive/Negative - Positive; see notes

Had an odd vision with this one (Sister no. 160) His Darkness himself appeared momentarily before two distinct shapes emerged from the shadows. One had a mitre, the other wore robes of red. When asked for what this could mean, the Dark One shook his head and did not reply. Will need further clarification prior to PM Ritual.

“B-but what could this mean?” I cried, anxiety building in my chest. 

“That is the nature of the question, Sister.” Impertor sighed, moving the book to the side. “There are varying opinions of what it could mean, the only way to truly find out would be to have you perform the blood rite yourself so you could possibly ask His Darkness himself.”

“What is the point of asking him again? It is clearly meant to show she is going to bear Papa two sons.” Nihil grumbled, shaking his head as Imperator glared at him. 

“We do not know that for sure Nihil.” She narrowed her eyes at him before looking back at me. “Some of us think this could mean you are meant to service both the Papal line and the Clergy line.”

“Meaning..?” My breath hitched in my throat, heartbeat thundering in my chest.

“You’d be sworn ritual style to both the current head of the Papalcy and the current head of the Clergy.”

“Terzo and Cardinal Copia…” I whispered

“Precisely.”

“Nonsense, Seestor. Papas do not share their prime movers, it cannot mean he will need to share his wife with another man. How is she supposed to bear Terzo’s children if she shares her time with another?” I’d never seen Papa Nihil this worked up as he coughed before taking deep breaths in his oxygen mask.

“Papa Emeritus III and Cardinal Copia have a long history and, without insisting myself into the situation of the Sister, it seems like after last night's dinner display they already have their own suspicions of who she is to them both, Nihil.” 

As they both bickered back and forth, I felt like my brain was going to fall out of my ass. Prime Mover, wife, companion, mother…children. The floor felt like it was shaking under me, like the foundations weren’t solid anymore.

“Sister, why don’t you take the day off? Find some time to relax and come back to see me once you've done your own readings. You don’t have to decide about the blood ritual right now.” Sister Imperator’s voice pulled me from my panic spiral, I nodded at her before dismissing myself from the room and blindly wandering out of the Abbey. 

It was a surprising sunny day, a slow breeze rustling the falling leaves, a perfectly mild October day. I couldn’t help the small smile that appeared on my face as I watched my other Siblings go about their days, some heading to and from classes while others did yard work. I saw the gardens to my right and saw the familiar shape of Primo as he moved among the rows of his impending fall harvest. I came to kneel next to him as he dug at the roots of some of his pumpkin crop, one that would be harvested before the annual pumpkin carving contest. 

“Sister.” He greeted me simply before handing me a pair of gloves and sheers, his way asking me to help him with his gardening. Silently we worked together to prune the plants and weed the plant beds, something I hadn’t done in years with him. “They finally told you, didn't they Piccola?”

“They finally told me.” I sighed, sitting back on heels and wiping the sweat and dirt from my brow. “Did you know, Primo?”

“I did, but I didn’t think it was my place to tell you.” He chuckled. “Anyone watching those two last night make fools of themselves just for your affections would have been able to figure it out with the right information.”

“What should I do?” I whined, feeling like a child as he sat back and smirked at me. 

“What do you think you should do?” Primo spoke softly, slipping the gloves from my hands and holding them in his own. His hands rough from years of hard work tending the garden and his time in the papal seat. My brain wandered to the last few nights before I blushed and looked away from him, unable to tell him what I thought I should do. “Judging by your reaction, I think you already know.”

“But what if it's the wrong call?”

“I always am a strong believer in studying everything one can to make an educated decision. Look into everything, Sorella, commune with the Dark Lord and see if he will gift you his wisdom.”

“Primo..?” I started hesitantly, my hands fidgeting in my own lap. 

“Yes?”

“Di-did any of the other Papas have Prime Movers?”

“Yes. I did.” He spoke softly, hands back in the dirt as he looked away from my shocked face.

“What happened to her, if you don’t mind me asking.”

“She died in childbirth when Secondo and Terzo were young, they do not remember her either.” He said simply, my heart panged in my chest at the thought.

“I’m so sorry, I shouldn’t have pried.”

“It’s quite alright, Sorella.” He paused, looking at me with a wistful look in his eyes. “Sometimes I wish more people asked about her, sometimes I feel I am the only one who remembers her.”

We continued working in silence, my mind whirling with the possibilities and new information about the eldest Emeritus brother. After some more work, my shoulders were aching and I knew I needed to see if I could find some more reading about the Prime Mover phenomenon. I gently put my hand on Primo’s shoulder, he looked over at me as I smiled warmly at him.

“Thank you, Primo, for hearing me out.”

“Anytime Sorella, or should I call you Primo Motore?” He teased as I stood, I covered my face with my hands and shook my head. 

“Sorella is fine for now, please…”

…

I’d spent most of the day outside, basking in the sunshine on my skin. My nose and cheeks were tinged pink and I had found myself a comfortable spot under a large tree while I watched the occasional leaf drift lazily down to the ground. I was reading one of the books Primo had recommended to me about the history of the position of Prime Movers; my fellow library Sister who helped me find the books I had borrowed looked at me suspiciously as I tried to over-explain why I needed them. 

I paused reading when I felt someone sit close to me, looking up to see Cardinal Copia sitting stiffly on the ground. His eyes wouldn’t meet mine as I watched his hands fight a silent battle before he took one of my free hands in his, rubbing the back soothingly. 

“I had been looking for you, Sorella…” Copia’s voice wasn’t as sure as he normally was, I knew this confrontation needed to happen before anything continued. 

“Did you know, Copia?” My voice came out steadily even though my heart felt like it was going to explode as it pounded away in my chest. 

“I-I had heard a rumor, Si…”

“Then why didn’t you tell me?” I had meant for it to come out casually but instead it sounded accusatory and sharp. Copia looked down at our hands as we sat closer together. 

“At the time it was being whispered about the clergymen, Papa had not shown any interest in you Sorella…” He spoke, voice low and controlled as he massaged my hand gently. “I-I did not think anything of it till after the other night. I had always assumed he was destined for another.”

“Copia, if this thing is going to work long term we will all need to be honest with each other going forward.” I sighed, leaning slightly to rest my head on his shoulder. 

Someone cleared their throat and I looked up to see Terzo standing in front of us, his hands in his pockets as he looked at us sheepishly. 

“May I?” He pointed to the empty side of me and I nodded as he came to sit next to me. He took my other free hand from my lap and mirrored the action of Copia, rubbing at the fingers and muscles in my hands. I couldn’t help but ask him the same questions I’d asked Copia only moments ago. 

“Did you know too?”

“Si, I had always known.”

“Then why wait till now to start this game between us three? Why didn’t you tell me?” 

“I saw the happiness the Cardinale brought you and I didn’t want to break you up to stake a claim on what Secondo saw that night. Lucifer willing, he could have meant anything with that vision…” Terzo turned to look out over the lawns, before continuing. “Being the compagna of Papa, well.. it is not always the easiest position. When I saw how happy you were with the Cardinale, I assumed that mio fratello was incorrect.”

“And now?” 

“I have always had a soft spot for you, Tesoro…” He purred, leaning in to press a soft kiss to my cheek. 

My face flushed slightly before Terzo moved to lay his head in my lap. Without thinking, I began running my fingers through his hair, brushing the strands away from his face. He practically purred in my lap, eyes closed and looking relaxed for the first time in a long time. I rested my head on Copia’s shoulder and he pressed a kiss to the top of my head. 

“Whatever you choose to do, Stellina, we will be here with you.” Copia murmured into the crown of my head and I shivered at the words. 

“Si, Cardinale is correct. It is ultimately up to you, Tesoro. We will follow your lead.” Terzo spoke, one eye cracked open as he leaned to the side to press a kiss to the inside of my palm.

The thought of having both of these extremely powerful men at my side, spending time together and building a life together made my stomach do flips. I looked down at the book I had been reading, now sitting in Copia’s lap as he skimmed over the passages and I knew I had made up my mind. I leaned back against the tree trunk and looked up at the dwindling collection of leaves, sunlight filtering through them.

…

“Sister Imperator?” I called, knocking on her office door that was opened slightly. 

“Come in, Sister.” 

I stepped inside, smiling shyly at the other woman as I came over to sit in the chair across from her. 

“I’m sure you know why I’m here.” I stalled, flush to my cheeks as I squirmed under her sharp gaze. 

“Are you willing to attempt the ritual, Sister?”

“Yes I am.”

“Excellent, we will have you review with Papa Emeritus II since he was the one to do it in the first place and Terzo isn’t exactly an unbiased party in all this.” She muttered darkly before smiling again at me. “This is a major step for you Sister. I am proud to see you’ve taken it in stride.” 

“I don’t really have much of an option, I’d like to have a clearer picture before I make any official decision if I’m being honest Sister.”

“I hope that in time you can grow to love the new role you’ve been given. It's quite an honor to be given this chance to serve the Dark Lord in this way. The timing couldn't be better, we will need to wait for the next blood moon for the connection to be the strongest. It looks like the next one is in 2 weeks, on Samhain.”

“I’ll prepare till then, Sister.” I bowed my head slightly, thinking about all that needed to be done before then before Imperator continued. 

“There is another thing, Sister. Now that you’ve decided to move forwards with the process of becoming a Prime Mover,” She spoke so firmly I couldn’t find it in me to correct her that I hadn’t agreed to becoming anything but she continued. “I’d like to offer you the rooms dedicated to the Prime Movers, it would be connected to Papa Emeritus III’s rooms however Cardinal Copia’s rooms are directly across the hall from yours.”

“Of course, Imperator.” My mind filled with all the ways I could use this to my advantage and I had to hold myself back from squirming in my seat.

After being shown by Imperator herself where my new rooms would be, I walked back to my room and packed up the tiny space. I looked around, trying to memorize the tiny space before handing the boxes to the ghoul who was helping me move my things. After all my things had been delivered to the new rooms I took my time exploring the space that would become mine. 

Entering through the main doors first, there was a little sitting room with a large fireplace on one wall and the other had a large set of bookshelves. There was a little desk by the set of large lattice windows that overlooked Primo’s garden and the several acres of forest beyond the stone walls of the abbey. Through the pair of sliding pocket doors was a small kitchen with a little dining table, off of the kitchen was a hallway with three doors. One led to a small bathroom clearly meant for guests, one was a very old style nursery and I couldn’t help but slam that door closed quickly, the last was my new bedroom with its own en-suite bathroom. 

The bedroom was in rich blue tones, a large four poster bed against one wall and a fireplace directly across from it. The furniture had a Victorian feel with deep mahogany tones to the wood, a soft cream accent color bringing a more feminine touch. The bed itself was massive, clearly big enough to fit another five people along with myself, and I laughed at the image of the poor sibling who’d have to change the sheets for a bed like this. I had a whole closet to myself, my current Sibling robes sitting in there along with more formal clothes and dresses. 

The bathroom was really the best part of the entire space. White italian marble everywhere the eye could see, clean and classic. I had a massive shower that could accommodate all five people from my bed and probably have some room to spare, there were shower heads above me and on the wall next to me. A massive mirror and vanity with built in vanity seating, two sinks and plenty of fluffy towels in the closet. But the best part? A massive claw foot soaking tub right under a beautiful stained glass window that faced the sun all day so the bathroom would be filled with multicolored rays of sunshine. I was frothing at the mouth at the idea of getting in the bathtub but I knew I wanted to unpack first. 

It wasn’t like I had very much to bring with me, my old room being so cramped, but I found places for the trinkets I had brought with me to the abbey and collected over the years here. I managed to fill some of the bookshelves in the living room, vowing I’d just have to buy more books when I got the chance. I heard someone knocking on the only door I hadn’t investigated, the one that I had assumed led to Terzo’s rooms. The door opened a crack before Terzo poked his head in.

“Ah, Cara mia! I’m happy to see you’ve moved into your new camere. How you like? Is everything the way you want? If not, I can have the ghouls redecorate for you.” Terzo seemed buzzed by nervous energy, I took his gloved hand in mine to center him back to me before speaking. 

“It’s perfect Terzo, I couldn’t ask for more. I’m not quite sure what to do with all the space if I’m being quite honest…”

“I can think of a few ideas, Tesoro…” Terzo purred, eyes flooding with heat as his hand came to settle on my waist. “Che ne dici di passare le serata a battezzare i mobili, si?”

He leaned down, cupping my chin and pressing his lips softly to mine. I tilted my head back to him, whimpering slightly into the kiss as I squirmed. He chucked, tongue slipping into my mouth, as he backed me up against the back of the sofa. I sat on the edge and Terzo stood between my legs as he hungrily devoured my mouth. I felt him rock slightly forward, his hips grinding into mine as our movements became more demanding. A knock at the main door made us jump apart, cheeks flushed and looking at anywhere but the other. 

“C-come in!” I called, picking at non-existent lint from my robes. I smiled brightly when I saw Copia step into the room, shutting the door closed behind him. “Cardinal, have you seen my new room?”

“I have, Stellina. Everything to your liking? Papa was very worried…” Copia teased, eye locking on Terzo’s flushed cheeks. “I did not interrompere, si?”

“N-no!” 

“Actually…”

“Terzo!” I cried, my face instantly hot as I looked at both men. 

“It is okay, Stellina. I actually was coming over to escort you down to dinner…” Copia offered me his arm and I paused slightly, looking back to see the kitchen in the other room. I dreaded the idea of sitting by myself surrounded by the glares again.

“Why don’t we stay here for dinner? All three of us?” I countered, pointing towards the kitchen. “I’m sure if one of you asks for a sibling or a ghoul to bring up a meal, nobody will think twice…”

“I think this is a wonderful idea, Tesoro.” Terzo spoke, his face smiling but there was something predatory as he locked eyes with Copia. There was a small nod between them and I knew I was screwed. “Let Papa and the Cardinale handle the meal, you get the table ready Sorella.”

…

Twenty minutes later I found myself sitting at my small dining table with a full spread. There was a tray of pasta in a pesto sauce, roasted herb chicken, and a mix of sautéed broccolini, zucchini, and summer squash. My mouth hadn’t stopped watering even after I had begun to eat, letting out happy moans at the flavors. Terzo popped open a bottle of wine for us, one from his private stores in his room. He poured each of us a glass before standing and clearing his throat. Begrudgingly I paused eating, picking up the glass as he held his out for a toast. 

“Un toast; for health, happiness, and many more sinful evenings like this.” He joked before clinking his glass to ours. “Salute!”

“Thank you both for indulging me with this,” I spoke as I sipped my wine happily, probably a little too much to drink when I hadn’t eaten much that day. “The dining hall has become a little too hostile for me recently…”

“Colpa mia…” Terzo at least had the decency to look a little ashamed of himself, but the smirk on his lips told me he planned to do it again. “Once things have been solidified and you have made a decisione I am sure the other siblings will understand more.”

“I’m not so sure Papa…” Copia sighed, sipping from his glass before leaning back in his chair. “Sorella’s position…it is unique, even for us Satanists.”

“Si, but if Papa decides it then they have to follow.” Terzo shrugged as he twirled his pasta onto his fork. 

“It’s hard to believe even for me, and I do most of the translations for the rituals.” I sighed, tucking my legs up under me. “To think I was hand picked by Lucifer himself for even one person is a lot, never mind the possibility of both of you.”

Both men’s eyes locked, silently communicating something to each other before they both came to kneel on either side of me. They each took a hand, kissing my knuckles and pressing their cheek into my palm.

“It must be overwhelming, Stellina.” Copia purred, his mustache gently scratching my palm as he spoke and pressed a little kiss to the inside of my wrist. 

“Si, I cannot imagine what you are feeling.” Terzo sighed softly, pressing his cheek to my hand like an oversized cat. “I remember being terrified when Papa Nihil told me I was to ascend the papal seat. Now Satana himself has picked you…”

“Tell us, Sorella.” Another kiss to my palm from Copia.

“What can we do to help you?” Terzo mumbled against the skin of my forearm as he started kissing up my arm. I shuddered

“Si, how can we release you of this stress?” Copia’s lips grazed the edge of my ear and I couldn’t help the gasp that came out of my parted lips. 

My cheeks flushed, from the wine or from the heated looks they were showering me with, I wasn’t sure. I squirmed under their mismatched eyes, unsure what to do with myself. I felt Copia’s leather gloved fingers trail from my arms to gently brush my thigh and my head fell backwards against the back of the dining chair. Terzo’s soft white gloves trailed up from my hip as he leaned forward to press a soft kiss at the corner of my lips. 

“I-I think we need to set some ground rules first.” I panted as both men slowly pulled their gloves off, eyes locking with each other before smiling like little sinful children. “For now, I’d like to make sure neither of you feel the other is getting p-preferential t-treatme-ah!”

I stuttered before I gasped as I felt Terzo slip under the table, his warm bare hands traveling up my bare calves and pushing the hem of my robes up as he went. Heat brewed in the pit of my stomach, my core flooding with an aching warmth. His fingers gently massaged my legs as he went before I felt Terzo’s warm breath on my thighs. Copia was sitting on the tabletop, dinner long forgotten as he pushed my chair back so Terzo could look up into my eyes as he pushed my dress up so he could pull my underwear off with his teeth. 

“Continue, Sorella.” Copia’s voice was stern but steady as he slipped two fingers under my chin to tilt my head back and look him in the eyes. “Do not let Papa distract you.”

“I was thinking we should start a-a schedule of s-sorts.” I whimpered, my hands gripping the arms of the dining chair as I looked down at Terzo. His eyes were locked on mine as he brushed his fingers against my dripping wet slit, fingers slick instantly from my arousal. “That way everyone gets one on one time while we f-f-figure out what to do.”

“Hm, I see.” Copia spoke; he made a point of making a thinking face as he watched Papa tease me, my hips rolling forward to try and catch more friction. I moaned quietly, eyes slipping closed for a moment. Copia’s hand gripped my chin as he looked at me darkly. “Eyes open, Sorella. I would not want you to miss out on Papa’s prestazione…”

My eyes locked on the man on his knees between my legs as he pushed my thighs open, pulling me to the edge of the chair so he had better access to my center. I panted as I watched him, eyes locked on his movements and gentle touch. His fingers spread me open almost reverently as he pressed a gentle kiss to my inner thigh. I couldn’t help but reach out with one hand to thread my fingers through Terzo’s hair. 

“Tesoro…” He murmured as he pressed his lips against my core, tongue slipping out to gently caress my clit. I gasped, rolling my hips against his face as I looked at Copia with a deep flush on my cheeks. 

Copia’s eyes lingered on my face before looking down at Terzo, his hand absentmindedly tracing over the outline of his cock under his heavy chassock. I shuddered as Terzo began to lap at me, his fingers teasing my clenching cunt that seemed desperate for something to fill me. Copia once again looked at my face before he leaned down to press a soft kiss to my lips. I groaned into his kiss and my free hand reached for him, pressing against the bulge in his trouser insistently. 

“Copia…” I whimpered, his lips hovering just barely above mine as I writhed against Terzo. I felt over and underestimated at the same time, desperate and needy for more. “Let me…”

“Stellina, this is about you. Enjoy it.” He crooned, his hands wandering to cup my breasts as my chest heaved from my panting. “She enjoys two fingers inside her while you assaggiala, Fratello…”

Terzo made a humming sound that shot right to my clit before he followed Copia’s instructions, fingers slipping right inside me as I gasped his name, head thrown back against the chair, as he sucked on my clit and curled his fingers towards him. My hand on Copia’s cock squeezed slightly as I tried to undo his trousers, desperate and needy for both of them. I looked down and locked eyes with Terzo, his missmatched gaze pinning me from between my legs. 

“Terzo…” I panted, grinding against his face as the lust in my belly began to build. “Don’t stop.”

“Oh he won’t Stellina. Terzo is a good boy and a quick study.” Copia murmured, his hips rolling against my hand as I slipped into his trousers and pulled him out of the tight fabric. “He has always been eager to please…”

I felt Terzo groan which, feeling the vibrations against my core, made me keen with an inhuman sound. I tugged on his hair as I shuddered, my thighs pressing against his face. He reached up and pried my thighs away from his head and curled an arm around one to make sure I couldn’t crush him. I felt the coil in my belly pull tight as Terzo picked up speed, his tongue making long lazy shapes against my clit as his fingers thrusted in and out of me. My hand curled around Copia’s cock, pumping up and down as I writhed in the chair. 

“Tell me, Sorella…are you close?” Copia purred, his hips thrusting into my hand roughly as his fingers tangled in my hair, pulling the braid as he tilted my head up to look at him. “Are you going to come for Papa?”

“I-I’m so close, Cardinal. Papa. Please…” I whined, squirming under the heat of both sets of eyes. 

“Ah, brava ragazza, Sister.” Copia chuckled darkly as he moved to press his cock against my open, panting mouth. “Prove to us you have earned Il tuo premio…”

Keeping with the tradition of never having to be asked twice, I took him as deeply as I could manage. I moaned deeply as I looked down at Terzo. His hand, once wrapped around my thigh, was now pressed against his straining cock in his trousers. I panted as my head bobbed up and down Copia’s cock, the man himself mumbling vaguely something like italian. I was too far down the rabbit hole to even care at this point, all I knew was the tight feeling of my orgasm in my core. 

I felt Copia’s hips stutter in the pace he sat, already close, and I knew I wouldn’t be allowed to finish till he had. I let my free hand move to cup his balls as I deep throated him, gagging slightly as my nose pressed against his stomach at the base of his cock. He groaned, hand in my hair tugging sharply to keep me in place as I squirmed under the attentions of the two men. After a few more thrusts I felt Copia’s cock twitch in my mouth as he spoke gruffly. 

“Ingoialo, Sorella…” He grunted, hand moving to my throat to keep me steady as he thrusted lazily in my mouth, coating my tongue with his seed as I panted. “She may come, Papa. You may not.”

I felt Terzo whine, his eyes locked on Copia’s from between my legs and my whole body shuddered at the thought of Copia dominating us both like he had in the library. The Cardinal leaned back against the table, eyes floating between myself and Terzo. Terzo’s fingers curled to press against that spongy spot inside me and I felt my toes curl, fingers tugging sharply on his hair as I came undone. The force of my orgasm rocked through me, my hips having a mind of their own as I rode out the waves of pleasure on Terzo’s face.

When he finally pulled away, I was boneless in the chair and panting. My eyes felt heavy as I brushed the hair away from Terzo’s face, heart clenching as he nuzzled into my hand. My cheeks flushed as he wiped off his face with his hand before licking his fingers clean. 

“For what it is worth, Sorella, I agree we should all have one on one time with each other.” Copia’s voice was light, a slight blush on his cheeks as he spoke. “I spent last night with you, it is only fair that Papa gets you tonight. As a reward for all his hard work just now.”

I looked over at Terzo, who was still between my legs, and I felt the heat of his eyes pool in my belly as I squirmed. He looked positively sinful; his paints smeared, his hair falling in his face, no gloves on, and the obvious bulge in his trousers making it painfully clear how much our interaction together affected him. 

“So I will see you tomorrow then?” I asked, looking up at Copia again who had paused to finish his glass of wine. He pressed a kiss to my temple before taking my underwear that Terzo had held out to him. I blushed as he stuffed them in his pocket. 

“Of course, I imagine you will need an escort to breakfast in the morning, Si?” He smirked at me, eyes soft before turning them on Terzo. “Be kind to her, Fratello, or I will take it out on your hide.”

“Ooh is that a promise, Fratellino?” Terzo teased, coming to stand and offer me a hand as well. I rolled my eyes, pushing the two men apart slightly.

“I’ll see you out, Copia.” I groaned, not needing them to start arguing. 

I walked with Copia to the door, pausing to take his hand in mine, a soft smile on my face. “Thank you for this…”

“I mean what I said, Stellina. I am with you, no matter the decision you make.” Copia smiled back, kissing my hand before slipping out the door. “Good night, Amate.”

“Good night, Copia…” My heart squeezed painfully and I couldn’t help but wonder how he felt about sharing me like this, it was one thing in theory but a whole other thing to do it in practice. Another part of me wondered if I picked them both, would he be willing to stay?

“Tesoro…” I heard Terzo purr as his hands came to rest on my arms, rubbing them up and down gently as he pressed a soft kiss to my temple. “Ho bisogno di te…”

I felt him grind against my ass, his cock rock hard, and I let my head fall back against his shoulder as he rolled against my body. My eyes closed as I took a deep shuddering breath.

“Your bed or mine?” I mumbled and felt Terzo chuckle behind me. 

“I did say we should christen the new furniture, no?” He sighed, hands coming to grip my waist as he pulled me against him. 

“Let me at least freshen up first.”

“No.”

“No?” I turned in his arm, eyebrows raised as I looked at him. “What do you mean no?”

“I mean I like you like this, Sorella.” He shrugged, a slight blush to his cheeks, as he tugged me by my hand to my bedroom.

He kissed my neck as he backed me up into edge of the bed, sliding me backwards till he could crawl up onto the mattress with me. He loomed over me, eyes dark with lust, before he leaned down to kiss me and I pulled back slightly. 

“Terzo…I had another man’s cock in my mouth. He came in my mouth. The one you want to kiss.”

“Si. I know.” He squirmed under my incredulous gaze and suddenly it felt like I found the missing piece in all this. 

Oh. Oh.

Apparently, it was not just other sisters of sin they had shared. My face had turned bright red, I knew it without even having to look at Terzo’s face. Suddenly any and all images came to my mind and I bit my bottom lip to hold back the moan that threatened to spill from them. For a solid minute all I could think about was running across the hall and dragging Copia back by his cock, the thought of watching them together absorbing every other rational thought. 

“Tesoro..?” Terzo’s voice seemed unsure at first and I looked back at him with a smile, cupping his cheek softly. He nuzzled in and we flipped on our sides, facing each other. “You do not have a problem with this, si?”

“No, Terzo. I don’t have any issues with it at all…” I squirmed, face flushed and he seemed to relax. “Though it does give me a few ideas…”

“Tonight, Sorella, is all about us.” Terzo smiled, his legs tangling with mine as he cupped my cheeks pulling me in for a tender kiss. “Voglio fare l'amore con te fino al sorgere del sole…”

I whimpered and pressed myself into his arms, my leg slung over his hip, and tangled my fingers in his hair as we kissed. Terzo brushed my bottom lip with his tongue and I gasped, his tongue coaxing mine to slip into his mouth. I felt Terzo’s hands push at my robes, exposing more of my bare skin to his naked hands. The heat of them intoxicating as he rolled on top of me, fingers slipping under my bra to pluck at my pebbled nipples. I arched into his hands, groaning into the kiss, and my hand tugged at his suit. We broke the kiss long enough for each of us to tug our clothes off, tossing them to the side of the bed, before coming back to each other. 

Our breath mingled, Terzo groaning as he tasted Copia in my hot mouth. I whimpered at the feeling as he tried to devour me, one hand in my hair to tug and force my head into the position he wanted. I broke away from him, burying my face in his neck and moaned as he dragged his tongue across my neck, sucking and leaving small marks all across my chest and collarbones. My fingers tangled in his hair as I held him to me, grinding my hips against him as we sought out pleasure in each other’s bodies. I let my hands wander from his neck, down his chest and through his chest hair. The pads of my fingers teasing a trail down his stomach, muscles clenching as I followed the trail of hair to the waist of his trousers. 

“Terzo, please…” I begged, my belly swirling with lust and quivering as he touched my waist.

“Please what Tesoro?” He teased, slowly undoing his trousers and kicking them off gracelessly. I felt his cock against my aching core and I moaned, my nails digging into my palms as he teased me. 

“Fuck me.” I groaned as his ear rocked forward, pressing into my tight cunt as he rested his forehead on shoulder. “I want you…”

“Anch'io ho bisogno di te, amore mio.” Terzo groaned, his lips brushing against the shell of my ear. I shuttered, wrapping my arms around his shoulders as he rocked slowly in and out of me. “Let me bring you pleasure, the Cardinale has his ways and I have mine…”

In the past, my moments with Copia and even the few with Terzo had been frantic and wild. We didn’t have a space to call ours, where we could take our time to explore each other. No, in fact part of the thrill was the chance we would be caught. I didn’t want to waste this chance now, even though I had no plans to go anywhere. Copia was demanding, intoxicating, and commanding, Terzo was his opposite. 

He was gentle and soft with me, his kisses fluttering across my skin like butterfly wings. His fingers teasing brushing against my sensitive spots that Terzo figured out made me shudder and my toes curl. He spoke words of adoration and love in both English and italian. He spoke of a future he could imagine of us, with Copia or without him, and he spoke of the children we would have and the ways he would treat me with love and how much he would treasure me. He was soft in a way I didn’t expect from the eternal flirt, my heart clenched as he began to snap his hips more urgently. I curled around him like vines, holding him close as we panted into each other’s mouth. I felt the coil of my orgasm plucked tight and tears pricked in my eyes at the intense feelings I was having while Terzo rolled his hips into mine. 

“Terzo…I’m close.” I whimpered, my hand slipping between us to furiously tease my own clit. “I’m going to come.”

“Vieni per me, Tesoro.” He grunted, hips snapping more furiously as he sucked at my neck. I cried out, legs wrapping around his waist as my orgasm rolled over me in slow tingling waves. 

Terzo followed me in his own pleasure shortly after, his cock twitching as he filled me with his seed. He couldn’t keep himself off me however, resting his head on my sweaty chest as we caught our breaths. He pressed soft kisses to my chest and between my breasts. I hummed in pleasure as my hands rubbed his back and brushed sweaty strands of hair away from his face. 

“Terzo?” I spoke, voice quiet as we soaked in the afterglow. 

“Hm?”

“W-will you stay the night with me?” My face flushed, looking anywhere but his eyes. I felt his hand come up to tilt my chin to look at him in his mismatched eyes. He had a wry smile as he spoke.

“Naturalmente, Sorella.” He kissed me softly, and I felt butterflies in my stomach. 

Oh I was so screwed with these two

[deepspacedukat]

Praetor’s Pride - Part 1

This fic is inspired by a poll made by bigblissandlove1 which can be found here. So uh...yep. I have no idea exactly how many parts this will end up being, but I have a vague outline, and at absolute minimum, there will be eight. This could easily end up longer than that if my brain gets verbose about it. And we all know that’s very possible, so... Romulan words found via my usual source here.

For anyone checking my masterlists, this will be on the TNG Masterlist since Nemesis was a TNG movie.

Cross-posted to AO3 here.

~*~

Praetor Hiren (ST: Nemesis) x Reader

[A/N: Later chapters will have smut, so 18+ ONLY, MINORS DNI!!!]

Warnings: Swearing, mentions of a Human/Romulan relationship, Letant is a good wing man, first meetings, first impressions, Hiren is from “Nemesis,” but this isn’t set during “Nemesis.”

~*~

Hiren stepped behind his bride and draped the thick, midnight blue fabric of his outer robe over her bare shoulders - the final step in a Romulan state wedding and the one that officially marked his claim to her. The color contrasted beautifully with the white dress that adorned her - a Human custom that had been added to this ceremonial tying of two cultures.

When he circled back around to her front, she looked up at him with such open admiration that he couldn’t suppress the urge to cup her cheeks in his palms.

“Before all of Romulus, the Federation, and the rest of the galaxy, I declare you husband and wife,” the officiator announced as Hiren’s forehead touched hers. “You are now of one life, one heart, one future. May your bond be strong.”

Hiren felt his wife’s hands come to rest on his chest, and his joy drowned out the sound of applause from the crowd. The world narrowed to just the two of them.

“Jol-ao au.” She whispered the words against his lips - words that had taken so long for her to say the first time. Hiren treasured them every time they spilled from her lips, clutching them greedily to his breast even as he assured her most ardently that he felt the same.

“Jol-ao au, e’lev,” the Praetor murmured capturing his wife’s mouth with his in a passionate kiss. That was one Human custom which Hiren believed more Romulans should experience. It had taken quite some time for her to become comfortable enough with him to allow such intimacy. There wasn’t a single doubt in his mind that she was worth the wait. After all, a single year was a small price to pay, especially for a Romulan.

-- One Year Earlier --

“I still don’t understand why I have to attend this function. Why would it matter if one less Federation diplomat shows up? There’s a veritable herd of them here already. I doubt the illustrious Romulan Praetor would even notice one less Human,” I groused as I fidgeted with the sleeves of my dress uniform.

“Our presence honors the growing relationship between Romulus and the Federation,” Lojal stated in his ever-logical manner. The hum of the turbolift underscored his calm demeanor, and I took a deep, slow breath.

“I know, but I just hate crowds, especially those at stuffy state functions,” I murmured. Lojal looked at me with a raised eyebrow. “I’m perfectly aware that it’s an illogical position to take given my profession, but I can’t help it. I enjoy the negotiating and the cooperation it takes to solidify relations between two groups of people, but I just don’t like being forced to listen to a room full of arrogant bureaucrats posturing and making speeches.”

“Understandable. The posturing can become...tedious,” the Ambassador admitted as the lift opened. “However, this alliance is essential for the stability of the quadrant. On the ‘bright side,’ as you call it, with the plethora of people in attendance, you will likely not be required to do more than nod politely and consume your dinner.”

“That’s true. You always know just how to lift my mood, my friend,” I said with a small smile at the Vulcan at my side. We walked the final few feet in silence together to the transporter room.

Beaming down to Romulus’s surface was no small accomplishment. Very few outsiders had been allowed to do so prior to this alliance. I’d met with several Romulan Senators since the war with the Dominion, but as far as I knew, nobody from the Federation had met with their Praetor. All anyone knew was that his name was Hiren and that he would be in attendance tonight.

Stepping onto the transporter pad with Lojal and four other diplomats, we blinked and found ourselves being greeted by Romulan centurions. In short order, we were escorted to the banquet hall and to our respective seats. Lojal was seated to my left, but the seat to my right was empty thus far. A few long moments passed before it was filled by someone I was quite familiar with. We spotted each other at the same time.

“Why, hello again, my friend! Welcome to Romulus.” The Senator exclaimed as he lifted my hand to his lips. “I had hoped I would be graced with the pleasure of but a few minutes of your company this evening, but it seems as though I am much more fortunate than I had anticipated.”

“Senator Letant, what a pleasure to see you again.” For once when speaking to a government official, I meant it. Letant was one of the more entertaining people I’d dealt with in my career. He never hesitated to speak his mind, allowing his wit and acerbic humor to come out to play with almost inappropriate frequency. One of his favorite activities was trying to draw laughter from me when stoicism or respectful silence were required. He was often damnably successful at it, too. “Perhaps I’ll survive this event after all.”

“I shall drag you through it kicking and screaming - or I should say giggling,” he promised with a mirthful little laugh. “Besides, there is a close friend I’d like to introduce you to–”

“Oh no, not this again,” I groaned. Letant had tried to set me up with several of his colleagues, but none had been quite right. To be more precise, most had been disgusted by my humanity.

“Where is the harm in me showing off my beautiful, intelligent, unbonded friend to those whom I believe might be good matches? As a Senator, I have the ears of many eligible, unbonded Romulans. I admit, my previous attempts were with people who turned out to be wholly unworthy of you, but–”

“No, Senator. Forgive me, but I don’t want to be humiliated again.” The firmness in my voice made his smile droop a fraction. No doubt he was remembering the last time one of his suggestions had called me a hevam and sneered at me as though I was no more than pond scum. I suspected for some time that the reason the man had gone missing was my friend’s ire on my behalf, but I didn’t have any proof. “I don’t relish being told that I’m a poor substitute for a Romulan woman yet again. You know as well as I that that is likely the only sentiment I am going to inspire in any Romulan men.”

“Now, that is utterly ridiculous. Were I looking for a mate, I would consider myself quite fortunate to have your attention for even a few moments. I am not asking you to marry him or even to share a drink with him. All I ask is that you allow me to introduce you. You needn’t even converse with him beyond a greeting if you find he is not to your taste,” the Senator murmured, drawing a sigh from deep in my chest. Letant knew me well enough to recognize the resignation seeping from my every pore. “If you don’t like him, I promise you, I’ll drop the subject.”

“Fine. I’ll do this for you,” I capitulated, “but if this is another failure, you owe me a drink.”

“And if I’m correct, you’ll come to dinner at my home in two days’ time when there’s a break from all this pomp and circumstance,” he bargained, and after a moment’s hesitation, I offered him my hand to shake on it. A gleeful smile made his dimples even more evident. “You won’t regret it, lovely.”

“Easy for you to say,” I muttered just as a hush began to fall over the crowd. Our eyes all shifted to the double doors as they swung open to reveal the President of the Federation and a gray-haired Romulan in opulent, dark green robes walking side-by-side.

“All rise for Praetor Hiren of the Romulan Empire and President Inyo of the United Federation of Planets.” The announcement nearly echoed through the room, and the shuffling of chairs and fabric heralded its observance by all the attendees. As I got to my feet, Letant leaned close to me and whispered in my ear.

“That’s him.”

“That’s who? What do you mean?” I replied curiously.

“Hiren. He’s the one I want you to meet.” I turned my head so sharply I nearly gave myself whiplash. Searching his face for any sign that he was teasing me, I was astonished to see nothing but sincerity.

Letant was serious. I turned my gaze back toward the procession of high-ranking officials only to find Hiren’s eyes already on me. We regarded each other for barely a moment, but when he looked away, I let out a breath I hadn’t realized I’d been holding and noticed my cheeks were burning.

What the hell was that?

“I take it you aren’t opposed, then?” The Senator sounded smug as usual, even though I didn’t deign to answer him. We resumed our seats as the speeches began, and, falling into our usual routine, Letant and I took turns attempting to break each other’s stoic resolve with whispered quips while Lojal gave us the occasional disapproving glance.

My attention shifted, though, when the Praetor stood to give his welcome address and officially begin the evening. Letant muttered something in my ear as he normally did, but for once I didn’t hear a word.

“...as we stand together, resolved to solidify the friendship between our people. To each acknowledge the strength of the other and offer support where weaknesses may appear.” Hiren’s voice was strong, authoritative, and oddly pleasant to the ear. The way his voice traveled over words, placing emphasis and importance with his mere cadence sounded almost musical. What would it be like to hear him speak Romulan without the aid of a Universal Translator matrix?

I was roused from my thoughts as the audience began to applaud, and I belatedly joined in. As Hiren took his seat once more, a swarm of servers entered the hall and began placing food before all the present dignitaries. His eyes swept over to our table again, and I looked away quickly so he wouldn’t catch me staring.

“Well? Your assessment?” Letant asked with a hint of mischief in his tone.

“He’s...well-spoken.” To say any more than that would have been extremely revealing. After last time, I wasn’t sure I was ready for that sort of vulnerability again.

“Is that all? Your eyes were practically glued to him for the duration of his speech. Come, come, am I not your friend? Give me your true opinion,” he cajoled as he graciously poured a glass of Romulan ale for me. When I did no more than remain silent, he smirked. “I shall proceed one aspect at a time then.”

“Letant, I am not discussing the Praetor with y–”

“His appearance?” He really wasn’t giving this up tonight. “Indulge me just this once.”

“It’s never ‘just this once’ with you, Letant, but fine,” I muttered. “He looks distinguished and not quite as harsh as I would’ve expected.”

“Tell me about his voice. You seemed quite focused when he was speaking.” The Senator’s eyes practically sparkled as he took a sip of his ale, the bastard.

“It’s nice. Smooth, strong...” I trailed off not wanting to admit my curiosity about hearing him without the translator, but Letant didn’t give up. He could tell there was something I was holding back.

“He’s looking forward to meeting you, you know.” I froze with my glass halfway to my lips and looked at him for an explanation to his casual statement. “The Praetor is a busy man. I assumed he would enjoy at least a small conversation with a beautiful woman, so naturally I told him about you and your accomplishments. He was quite intrigued even before I showed him your picture. Naturally, he was quite happy to ensure that he left sufficient time in his schedule tonight for socializing so that he might meet you.”

“You showed him what?”

“Well, he needed to know who to keep an eye out for. He said you were quite possibly the loveliest woman he’d laid eyes on in all his years,” Letant crowed triumphantly, and I let out an exasperated sigh. “Forgive me if I overstepped. I simply wished to present you in the best light possible. I owe you that much at least, my dear. For now, though, put it out of your mind. Tell me what I’ve missed since I saw you last.”

The rest of the dinner was filled with pleasant conversation and plenty of Letant’s own stories, as well. As soon as the time to move to the reception hall and mingle came, however, the Senator had me on my feet almost quicker than I could blink.

“What are–?”

“My Lord Praetor, it is an honor to see you this evening,” Letant said, but the older man let out a low, velvety laugh that sent a rather pleasant shiver up my spine. I hadn’t even been aware of his approach, yet there he stood. He was taller up close than I’d anticipated.

“You know you needn’t address me so formally, old friend,” he said grasping Letant’s shoulder amiably. His gaze shifted to me and he stood a little taller. “Ah, am I to assume that this is the lovely woman you wished me to meet?”

Vaguely I heard Letant conducting the formal introduction, but all I could seem to focus on was Hiren as he took a slow step closer to me and gave me a warm smile. His eyes were so...kind. Oh no. That spelled trouble for me.

“It’s an honor to meet you, Praetor,” I stated giving him a polite nod, but a warm smile stretched his lips as he waved me off.

“Please, call me Hiren, lhhei,” he said with remarkable deference considering that he was the head of an empire. I’d only heard such a formal address when I first met Senator Letant. Perhaps my friend was right. Maybe he wasn’t like the other Romulans I’d been introduced to thus far. “Letant has told me much about you. Perhaps before the night is through we could spend some time discussing philosophy? I understand that you studied the subject extensively.”

“Yes, I did. I’d enjoy that, but only if you have the time. Running an empire makes you quite a busy man, and you’re going to be in high demand tonight.”

“I’m never too busy to entertain such an enchanting lady. Forgive me, I must make my rounds - diplomatic obligations, you understand - but I will find you again before the night is out, lhhei.” His eyes sparkled as he brought my hand to his lips. It wasn’t the traditional kiss to the knuckles that I expected, but rather what I might expect of someone who had only ever seen kisses depicted in movies. He touched my fingers to his mouth for a long moment, keeping his eye contact constant as he did so before releasing me. A bolt of warmth wound its way up my spine just before he let go.

It was charming in a way. He had clearly made an attempt to learn something of Human customs even if he hadn’t quite gotten it right on his first try. That was better than any others Letant had introduced me to by a long shot.

Damn it to hell, I didn’t want to like him, but he was making it very difficult.

“...Your opinion on him now, my friend?” Letant murmured smugly in my ear as we watched him disappear into a crowd of eager ambassadors and cultural representatives. I didn’t need to answer. He of all people would know exactly how I felt from my expression alone.

“He made a good first impression, so...tentatively positive for the moment,” I replied, and the Senator looped his arm with mine.

“Excellent! Now, let’s get the rest of this accursed socializing over with and free ourselves of our obligations all the earlier.” Accepting my fate, I allowed Letant to drag me through the crowd with him.

~*~*~

Romulan Words:

Jol-ao au = I love you.

e’lev = dear, darling

hevam = human (derogatory)

lhhei = madam

[peony-pearl]

@sleepyghoststories @prodogg pls enjoy this part 2 X3

************************

Ursa was smoothing out Azula’s hair. Zuko was lowkey trembling.

Ozai still wasn’t there.

“There’s so many people,” Zuko murmured. He’d already seen the Fire Sages frantically preparing on the other side of the curtain.

This was no longer just a transfer of power. Azulon had sent word out quite effectively to everyone in the capitol that the announcement had become far more than just that. The sea of people that awaited the word of the Fire Lord was immense and uncountable.

Azula continued to stew in Ursa’s words from earlier. Ursa took little notice, or at least, if she did, she didn’t say anything.

Zuko then quickly snapped to attention. “Dad!” He said. Ursa jumped and Azula ran from her mother, blindly over to her approaching father.

Ozai absent-mindedly patted her back, not stopping to greet her as he walked.

Zuko was feeling brave. “Good morning, Da-”

“And what’s so good about it?!” Ozai hissed.

Zuko’s bravery diminished. Ursa pulled him close as Ozai and Azula walked off to another part of the waiting area backstage. Why was everything so stressful?

“I always thought that a blessing would be a happy time,” he said, looking up to his mother, his golden eyes full of tears. Ursa took pity on her boy as she knelt down to his level.

“It... It’s going to get better. I promise,” Ursa insisted. She was thankful Zuko never took the time to question her.

The Fire Sages bustled backstage to wait for the Fire Lord and the crown prince, as well as to get their first look at the new princess. They murmured amongst each other, nervous and excited. Such a blessing, an amazing thing that the spirits had finally deemed the future of the Fire Nation as the true deliverer of the world, and as the rightful, superior element.

A small commotion caught their attention, and Lo and Li were entering the backstage area, followed by Azulon, who, even in his ripe age of 95, was able to navigate himself just fine with the use of an ornate cane. Followed by him was Iroh, now wearing ceremonial robes. Still in his arms was the newborn blessing herself, swaddled tightly as she slept through the ordeal. Iroh’s care for the child was already palpable by anyone who looked at him as he regarded his daughter with caring, tender eyes.

Zuko almost felt the wind current from the Fire Sages rushing forward to look at the baby. They also had yet to witness Iroh’s condition, and within moments they were staring at the hole in his chest, confirming the oddity of the situation.

“Let us begin,” said the first Fire Sage as Iroh fixed his garb. The family stepped out from behind the curtain, facing the mass of people in the crowd.

Azulon stepped to the forefront, and was met with the bows of his people.

“Nearly two months ago, my family was struck with a great loss! As my son, Iroh, claimed Ba Sing Se, his only child, Lu Ten, second in line for the throne, was taken from us! A noble, diligent, and loyal prince; his death is a tragedy that has been felt rippling far beyond the palace!

“This morning I was prepared to make a most heartbreaking decision!”

Ozai fought to not show his emotions too much.

“With Lu Ten’s untimely demise, I was ready to name our own Prince Ozai as next in line for the throne, so to be inherited by one of his children.

“And yet, by a miracle, by a decision far beyond myself... Iroh returned home this morning a father again! Not by the blood of a mortal womb, but crafted by the spirits themselves, using Iroh’s own blood alone!“

Murmurs in the crowd began to lift into earshot as Zuko listened to his grandfather’s speech. Several Fire Sages walked towards Iroh, each of them holding something. As Azulon continued, one placed an ornate headdress upon Iroh’s head.

“My son, who gave his time and strength and body and only son to conquer Ba Sing Se and claim the Earth Kingdom! My son, who returned home with a broken heart can now begin to mend it, as the Spirits have taken his pain, and have created from it our future Fire Lord, and a new little blessing to grant him a second chance at fatherhood!”

Another Fire Sage placed a ceremonial tapestry over Iroh’s shoulders.

“It is my privilege and duty to announce not only an impending royal, but a being amongst the ranks of Agni in our midst! To guide and lead the world to a true paradise of the Fire Nation! To herald this true new start! Not to finish what Sozin began, but to continue his vision and reign with glory unlike anything we’ve seen!

“With the blessings of the spirits, with the sacrifice of my grandson, and the honor and burden placed upon my firstborn to raise this child, I am thrilled to announce the new second in line for the throne, and the eventual leader of a new world!

“Her holiness, Fire Princess Zion!”

With one final touch as a Fire Sage finished anointing Zion’s face with ceremonial makeup, Iroh lifted his daughter into the air as the crowd went wild. It was unlike anything Zuko had ever seen. Azula watched with her own wide eyes, still embittered by her interaction with her mother earlier, and by watching Azulon shower praise on this baby who had nothing but her existence to offer, and yet Azula and Zuko were there, healthy and powerful. Well, at least Azula was powerful.

Ursa stole a glance towards Ozai. He stared out to the crowd, not entirely focusing as he tried to maintain his composure. She could tell that returning home after all of this was going to be... eventful.

Iroh lowered Zion back into the safety of his arms, and Azulon smiled at the two. He dipped his hands into the makeup that had been dabbed onto Zion, and he decorated Iroh’s face with great care and pride, painting a series of shimmering symbols onto his beloved son’s face, with a final touch of a flame amongst Iroh’s receding hairline.

Azulon then looked out to the crowds, the happiest they’d ever seen him.

“I decree this, my granddaughter’s birthday, to be observed as a holy day! This following week shall be ripe with celebrations! I want to see joy through the Fire Nation at this momentous occasion!”

With a further cheer from the crowd, the day, and following week, commenced as ordered. The streets were full of food and fun; streamers and ornate kites floated in the air. Lanterns were lit and music was heard all throughout the Fire Nation. Artists created tapestries, paintings, and songs for Crown Prince and General Iroh and his Little Blessing.

Meanwhile Azulon’s second son didn’t leave his chambers until there was nothing left of the celebrations.

[librosamarillos]

passed down like folk songs

chapter 12: a wreck when I'm without you

Maegor Targaryen x OC

Also on Ao3

chapter index

Tags: hurt/comfort, friends to lovers, angst, mature themes, targaryen incest, violence, Maegor is a red flag himself, characters are ooc probably, MINORS DNI

More of a filter chapter, but I hope you guys enjoy!

The morning had been so hectic for Aenys, from rehearsing his speech, to getting ready, making sure the children were also ready, he barely had a moment to breathe. He could see Alyssa was also overwhelmed, but she tried to comfort him with a smile. It didn’t help much. Between the several servants getting him dressed into his regal coronation robes, the back and forth of getting baby Viserys to stop crying, he noticed Maegor walk in.

“Everything is ready. They’re waiting for you.” he said formally.

Aenys noticed him squinting at the chaos in the room, but he said nothing more before turning around and leaving. He was clearly not pleased, but he did appear to walk with eagerness, something he never saw his brother do, ever. Perhaps it was a sign for him to relax, if Maegor of all people seemed, dare he say, excited?

The ceremony was grand, the throne room being full of lords and ladies, all here to swear to him as their King. The crowd parted so that he and his family walked in, making their way to the throne. On the base of it stood the now dowager Queen, his aunt, who had that unreadable expression that scared him. His brother stood next to her with that same haunting expression his mother had. His goodsister by his side was the only one who gave him a small smile, as if sensing his worries. 

He approached the throne, Alyssa guiding their children to the side. For a brief second Aenys froze while looking at the throne. He first sat atop the throne as a babe, in his father’s arms. He thought this day wouldn’t come for many, many years. His father was supposed to reign until his old age, his sudden death shocking him to the core. His coronation was a huge affair, but he was not in the headspace to enjoy it, or to truly process what it all meant. He slowly started climbing the stairs. The throne he grew up on went from familiar to intimidating, sharper, scary even. The cape of red velvet draped over his shoulders suddenly felt like it weighed him down, suffocating him around the neck. The golden ornate crown on his head was heavy, too heavy for him to bear. He wasn’t ready, he couldn’t do this without his father. But he had to. His wife and children were watching him, his aunt’s cold stare was on his back, thousands of eyes waiting. Finally he turned around to face them all.

“King Aenys of house Targaryen, first of his name, King of the Andals, the Rhoynar, and the First Men, Lord of the Seven Kingdoms and Protector of the Realm” proclaimed the High Septon in a loud, booming voice, causing the crowd to erupt.

“Long live the King! Long live our King!” he could hear them cheer.

He breathed. This relieved him greatly. The lords and ladies loved him, just as they did his father. He would not let them down. He would show them he was a worthy King. What choice did he truly have?

Seeing her again was like finally coming up for air after he was drowning. She stood amidst her cousins as her uncle, the head of their house, swore to the new King. Gods be good, had it truly been almost a year? She looked as beautiful as ever. He missed her so much.

Her absence was one he could not escape, not that he ever wanted to. He wanted to talk to her, the only person who could understand him to his core, who would understand the turmoil he was in about the chaos this past moon. He felt like all his anger would explode if he didn’t speak to her, for at least a little bit. He wondered, did she also dream of him? Did he also haunt her every thought, the way she haunted his? Did she know how much he wanted to leap into her arms and cry under the desk the way he did when they were eight? He missed her voice.

With the lineup finally coming to an end, people were ushered outside for the feast, Maegor tried to look for her in the crowd, but it seemed she and her cousins already made their way to the gardens. Aenys walked toward them all, picking up his youngest son. Viserys. It soured his tongue to even think about saying it. All three children were named after the three conquerors, to honour them. But it was the name of his mother, the name he wanted to use for his own heir. The heir that was yet to make an appearance despite his efforts. Ceryse was also disappointed whenever he came to visit her in the night and she had to tell him that her moonblood had come. Again. 

He was told by the Grandmaester that it takes moons, sometimes even years to conceive and to be patient. Ah yes, his best quality. His serene patience. He had to admit he was getting frustrated. He longed for fatherhood, and for his half-brother it had come so easily, why not him? He tried not to blame his wife. Tried. It was a business deal between them, and both were getting nervous. Part of him was glad. Seeing her pregnant would send him into melancholy, not to mention how he would ever face Rowan again. It would hurt her deeply, he knew, just as it would hurt him. But it was necessary for the throne.

The royal family joined everyone in the gardens, mingling with the crowds before food was served. Aenys and Alyssa thrived in events like these, while Maegor didn’t enjoy the polite chats. His mother was not opposed to them, especially if the company was good. His mother gave him a slight look. He knew where she wanted to go. He’d be damned if he didn’t take this chance to get close to her again.

He followed his mother to where the Evergreens stood, Ceryse following as well, like a proper wife would. He hoped she wouldn’t but he knew it would look bad in front of her uncle and family. His mother’s presence was felt, the chatter amongst them dying when they turned to face them. 

“Your grace, we extend our deepest condolences for your loss.” Lucas Evergreen spoke first.

His mother nodded at his words. She looked at the family in front of her with a faint smile.

“Thank you, Lord Evergreen. You are most kind. Lord Duncan, may we speak for a moment?” she asked.

Lord Duncan nodded and followed his mother to the side, far from earshot. From what he could see, she was confiding in him something personal. His mother was not trusting of many people, save for a select few, the red haired man next to her being one.

Maegor turned his attention to the family in front of him.

“I’m so sorry for your loss, my Prince. I cannot imagine.” she said, her melancholic green eyes were on him. 

But oh, you know. You’ve always known me and how I am, like no one else.

His sweet girl, there she was. She was formal, way too formal for his liking. Hands clasped in front of her ever so properly, her curly hair in a braid. He wanted to reach out to her, to ask her to hold him.

“Thank you.” was all he could muster to say.

“Will you and your father remain at King's Landing?” Ceryse’s voice almost startled him, he had to stiffen to avoid looking surprised.

“I think we shall know soon.” Rowan smiled slightly, turning to look at her father and his mother who were still deep in conversation.

Maegor tried to not grimace. They were friends, he had to remember that. It didn’t mean he had to like it. He felt possessive over Rowan, not even wanting Ceryse to talk to her, as ridiculous as it was to feel this way. But what could he say? He could only stand there, completely still while his wife asked her to join her for tea. 

“Is it true you claimed Balerion?” the polite conversation was interrupted by the voice of little Archie, who was looking up at him in awe.

He hesitated for a second before nodding. He hadn’t spent much time with Rowan’s family, but five- well, now six year old Archie was attached to her side, he got to follow them around back when he and his mother visited the Evergreen manor. He was a shy boy at first, barely speaking to him, preferring to instead eye him from the safety of hiding behind Rowan’s dress. Rowan had told him that the two youngest boys loved to read about dragons and they might annoy him about them if they got over their shyness. Lewis had asked him a few things, but Archie was too shy to do so. It seemed the change of scenery gave him some bravery, making him smile a bit. He had a chance to show off in front of his love.

“It’s true. I did.” he said, standing tall.

His positive response gave little Archie more confidence to continue.

“What was it like?” he asked, eyes full of wonder.

Rowan placed a hand on his shoulder, silently urging her youngest cousin to be mindful of the questions he wanted to ask. Oh, his sweet girl, was she worried it was a sore topic? He wished to cup her face and tell her not to worry, to tell her in detail how incredible it was, to invite her to fly with him.

“Unlike anything else. It’s unreal.” he answered with pride.

“Really?” Lewis finally joined in. “And did you get to fly over the clouds?” 

“I did.” he gave a smile. “Clouds feel soft, if that’s what you wish to ask next.” he said, his eyes moving to Rowan for a split second, silently offering to take her to feel for herself.

“Could you fly to the moon?” Archie asked again excitedly.

“Now boys, let’s not pester the Prince.” Lady Maura’s voice was a comforting but also commanding one, which he guessed was necessary with raising four sons.

“I do not mind. It’s too high up to reach, even with Balerion.” he nodded.

Everyone seemed to relax a bit more while Maegor made pleasant conversation with the two youngest Evergreens, occasionally stealing tiny glances of his love, who was still catching up with his wife. His mother and Lord Duncan returned soon after, and she urged them to return to Aenys’ side soon. He stole one final glance, not missing the fact that Erin grabbed Rowan’s hand, perhaps for comfort. His love was hurting too.

The sept was quiet at this hour. Rowan’s father was showing her cousins around the city and she found a moment of silence from the noisy unfinished castle. With so many lords and ladies coming to swear to the King, it was a bit overwhelming to be around so many people. She knelt in front of the statue of the mother, where she visited the most. She prayed to all of the faces of the god, but something about being in front of the mother was especially comforting. 

In hearing of the death of Maegor’s father, she could recall the days leading up to her own mother’s death vividly. She prayed to the mother for mercy upon all, for health, for comfort. And now she was lighting candles and praying for the mother to lift the pain in Maegor’s heart. Losing her mother was like part of her was ripped off, she knew he was feeling something to that effect, despite how much he hated him, she knew how much he craved his approval and affection. She wished she could help, to hold him in her arms again. But now all she could do was pray the mother would.

She felt someone kneel next to her but didn’t look up right away, finishing her prayer instead. She only lifted her gaze when she felt a pair of eyes on her, the eyes of Ceryse, who seemed relieved to see her.

“I’m happy to find you here.” she whispered, giving her a smile.

“Yes, I needed a moment of prayer.” Rowan said, her hands still clasped.

“Me too. I find myself here more and more lately.” she admitted, looking up to the mother. “You lost your mother as well…” she started.

“Yes.” she followed suit, her eyes travelling to the statue as well.

“Forgive me if I’m overstepping, but does it ever get easier?” she asked, turning her gaze to Rowan.

She paused at the question. Ceryse had lost her mother two years ago, she lost hers eleven years ago. But she couldn’t say she ever got over it, not entirely.

“Easier… I suppose. It hurts me still, I think of her all the time, but I’ve learned to make space for that pain, I got used to it. It doesn’t stop me from feeling happy at least.” she finally said after a moment of thinking. 

Ceryse nodded, her lips forming a small smile but her eyes betraying sadness. Silence fell inside the sept again, both women deep in thought, deep in prayer. She wondered what the Lady Hightower was praying for. She didn’t feel it was her place to ask, but away from the curious eyes of court, she let her guard down in front of the gods, thus revealing how troubled she looked and felt. Something was worrying her.

“Are things alright in court, Ceryse?” she whispered, pulling the woman with the golden hair back to reality.

Ceryse hesitated. She opened her mouth to speak, but didn’t, instead turning around to scan the sept. After seeing it was completely empty, she turned to the candles in front of them. 

“It would appear I do not have much company… nor much favour with my goodmother.” she finally admitted. “I do not know what I’ve done to displease her, but both she and Maegor expect a child soon and it seems I’m having problems with fulfilling that. I fear I might displease them even more.”

Rowan grimaced, saddened at how Visenya was treating Ceryse. She was jealous, she could not lie. Truly, what she’d give to be in her position instead, but that only made her guilt sink in deeper. It was a well kept secret that only Visenya, Maegor and herself knew of, but treating Ceryse this way over something she had no control over? The thought killed her, but this was her friend. She’d pray the mother would bless her with a child.

“I know the dowager Queen is quite private. I’m sure it is nothing you have done, perhaps she just needs a chance to get to know you better.” Rowan said, placing a hand over her friend’s for comfort. “My father will stay in court for a few moons, so will I.” 

“Thank you. I’m glad to hear you’ll be staying.” Ceryse gave a sad smile. “I don’t know, times like these, I just wish I had my mother with me, you know?”

“Believe me, I know.” she said with a sad chuckle. “I wish she were here all the time, when I’m happy to share that joy with me, when I’m sad so she can guide me though it all, always.”

Another moment passed in silence.

“Would you join Lana and I for tea? I’m supposed to meet her now.” Ceryse asked.

“I’d love to.” she smiled.

Both women rose to their feet, Ceryse took a moment to hold Rowan’s hand.

“Thank you. Truly.” she said, squeezing her hand before leading her through the booming city all the way to the gardens of the keep.

Rowan was smiling, but her heart weighed heavily. She felt responsible for Maegor and Visenya’s treatment of her friend. She felt guilty for her envy, hating how it made its way into all her thoughts. Even when they were exchanging pleasantries, sudden thoughts of Maegor’s hands all over Ceryse or of them happy together as a family plagued her. She had to shake her head free of them. He was never hers. It was not her place to be this jealous over her friend’s husband. It felt sinful to do so. Ceryse had done nothing wrong. She would make a lovely mother and Maegor a lovely father and Rowan would eventually marry, hopefully somewhere where she’d never have to face either of them again, far, far away.

She wished to avoid speaking to Maegor, as it only hurt them both even more, but she wished to speak to Visenya. She never wanted to scold her, but she was frustrated at her. She also knew Ceryse did not want this, why make her life more miserable? Rowan wanted to help make things easier for at least one person in this misery.

“My parents tried for two years before they got my brother, you’ll be fine.” Lana reassured Ceryse, picking up a slice of lemon cake.

“Yes, things like this can take time. I’ll pray to the mother for her to bless you.” Rowan added, licking the honey residue after stirring it in her cup.

“Thank you two, really.” Ceryse seemed more relaxed. “Let’s please speak of something lighter now.” 

“Well, I seem to have caught the eye of a certain lord of the Vale.” Lana smiled mischievously. 

“Oh?” Rowan asked in amusement. “And? What are you thinking about doing?” 

“Well, I don’t know how much I’ll enjoy living in the Vale, buuuuut… he is quite handsome. So I might just compromise.” she said, taking a bite of the cake.

“Just because he’s handsome?” Ceryse laughed.

“Well, the position of the Lady of the Vale is a lucrative one, despite the gloomy weather and depressing scenery. So while it’s not the most effective way to choose a husband, if he’s handsome, my eyes can rest a bit.” she laughed along. 

Rowan joined in the laughter. She missed the lighthearted conversations the three would have in the past when they met by chance, so these intentional meetings were more than welcome. She was happy to see them again. Lana seemed happy, much happier than her and Ceryse anyway. At least one of them was.

“What about you, Rowan?” the playful brunette asked.

“What about me?” she asked, raising a brow.

“Has any handsome lord caught your eye?” Lana asked, giving her a suggestive smile.

Rowan suddenly tensed. She was a terrible liar, she hoped she wouldn’t raise suspicion.

“Not yet. I still wish to wait a bit before settling down.” she answered as honestly as she could muster. It wasn’t a complete lie.

“You’re far more patient than I, I’ll tell you that.” Lana laughed. “Have I told you two what I heard about that Tully squire?”

“What has he done now?” Ceryse asked in amusement.

“Wait, wait, now? Why? What has he done before?” Rowan protested, taking a bite of lemon cake, leaning in closer.

“Ohhhh, I haven’t told you! For starters, he was seen around the stables quite late at night.”

“Well… he is a squire, is it not his job?”

“But he was not alone. I heard a certain lady was with him.” Lana added. “Remember Eleanor? Lord Stokeworth’s daughter?”

“I do! But you’re sure? Where did you hear it from?” Rowan asked.

“The kitchen maids are very talkative.” Ceryse added with a smile. “So what did he do now?”

“Well, Lady Eleanor seemed to have caught the eye of his older brother, when they came to swear to King Aenys. He followed her to the stables and caught their rendezvous, threatening to tell their fathers if they did not stop. I suppose he was hoping she was visiting him instead.” Lana added, sipping her tea slowly.

“How dangerous, to keep visiting him in the night. Is she not aware of the rumours?” Rowan asked, concerned. “I heard Lord Stoeworth is not a kind man.” 

“He is most unpleasant. But Eleanor would be the one to know how much she could push things before he caught wind of it all. I also heard she visited the maester for some tea.” Lana added, giving them a knowing look.

Ceryse and Rowan let out a gasp at the gossip. Lana, in turn, laughed at them.

“Gods, you two are such prudes at times!” she cackled. “They’re two people in love!”

“Doing something stupid.” Ceryse laughed.

“Not to mention dangerous.” Rowan added.

“Lady Evergreen.” 

The three women rose immediately at the sound of the dowager Queen’s voice.

“Your grace?” she asked, not wanting to appear too comfortable with her.

“Your lord father is looking for you. Come.” she said, before turning away.

She didn’t even give her a chance to speak before walking back to the keep. Rowan apologised to Ceryse and Lana, excusing herself, before trailing behind Visenya. She looked back at her friends, giving them an apologetic look. They didn’t appear too surprised, she could hear Ceryse explaining to Lana of her father’s council of the Queen and how he involved her sometimes too. But what was the reason her father was looking for her? She had told him where she would be and he was supposed to give their family a tour of the city.

She recognised where Visenya was leading her to and realised her father was not looking for her at all. She was just looking for an excuse to speak to her without raising much suspicion. In truth, despite her frustrations, Rowan had missed her dearly. Visenya closed the door of her drawing room with a sigh of relief.

“Forgive my interruption, it’s just that I had no other time to find you. Aenys has been keeping me quite busy.” she said, taking a breath.

She looked so regal, despite being so overwhelmed with grief. She thought of her at Dragonstone, all alone, having to deal with all her pain, while making plans for her nephew to ascend the throne. It must’ve been so overwhelming. Rowan approached her, embracing her without a word. Visenya relaxed in her arms, sighing and pulling her closer. She didn’t speak, she did not have to. 

She had so much to tell her, so much to ask her. But for now, they could just be. 

taglist:@heartstalked@stupidocupido@discowizard88@slytherisstuff

[stoopid-turtle]

BTS in Order July Pt 2

From this bb playlist

June Pt 2 here

7.16 ggdd MOAR XUANWU CAVE. (A full hour of it) - Dd tries to show gg his legs - They tickle each other's knees. - Big hurt/comfort scene after they kill xuanwu - Wrapping gg in plastic wrap - BONDAGE CONVO

7.16 also some group scene on the blue screen set..dd blue robes. Nmj enters and everyone bows. - Gg tries to shush DD with a finger to his mouth, but DD just grabs his finger and keeps talking.

7.16 inside scene with ggdd jc and tied up xue yang. Bunch of cast gathered in circle going over the script. - Scene with ddgg jc and jl sitting in a row. Ggdd are glomped together. The camera focuses on jc and jl. In bg, DD lays flat on his back and then gg joins jc and jl's convo.

7.17 ggdd. Shirtless and wet DD scene, post-timeskip edition. - Gg helps(?) dd do shirtless pushups. - Then we are doing the wet scene for the cloud recesses era. - Gg makes his sword pee. Actually, he's just being incredibly cute throughout this scene. He's in a good mood. - Ah, I think he also injured his foot here? But the playlist doesn't have those clips. Iirc, DD initially teased gg for getting injured, then felt bad and apologized.

7.17 Ggdd outdoors evening. Director between them. Sunshot campaign era . They're talking thru a scene. - Both on the roof. - AND THEN ONLY DD IS ON ROOF AND HE'S TRYING SO HARD TO GET GG's ATTENTION (alt 7.21)

7.18 Dd w lxc at first. Then gg and jc join then. - Gg and jc stand across from DD and lxc between scenes. Gg and DD are chatting about something and gg points at jc at one point. When he sees the camera, he says go away in English a couple times, then puts his hand over the lens. - At one point, gg refers to some shot he took earlier and says DD should see it. Dd asks, "you love making me look at you this much?" - I've also seen this scene dated 5.22, but gg wasn't near that annoyed at the camera that early

7.18 ggdd blue screen set. Cloud recess costumes. - I'M NOT TALKING ABOUT WWX I'M TALKING ABOUT XZ. - Right before that is the clip where DD mouths "I like it" to gg and gg makes a weird face. - DD's v flirty this day. - Jc and wq join then on the blue screen set eventually. They're filming the caiyi demon bit. - Wq is telling something to jc and ggdd and they're all getting a laugh from it (I think she's talking about all the rumors about her). Gg eventually notices the camera and points at it in annoyance. - Ggdd do a complex mating dance of shoving their fans in each other's faces and contorting into odd poses.

7.18 ggdd have hot pot with other cast that night.

7.19 gg only. Wire work. - Falling to his death. - This has the clip of gg rolling his neck while ppl touch up his makeup and adjust wires and hold his fan and such. - And then his fall into burial mounds - Scene with jyl

7.21 ggdd in forest. DD blue robes - also has a big group cast/crew drone shot with the director holding a bunch of sunflowers. Not sure what the occasion is. - Oh, there's cake.

7.23 post time skip. TRASH BOYFRIEND - Gg gives DD gooey stare across the table - And then the WeChat for men + girl friend English jealousy conversation!

7.27 bazaar photoshoot and interview attempt (alt 7.28)

7.28 shared flight

7.29 another booting ceremony? (that is what it's called, right?) - Cloud recess lectures, classroom scene. - Yb and jc hop on one foot and try to knock into each other? 7.30 gg only. Outside. Filming fight between wwx and jc (played by a double). Gg leans back on wires and spins around