#smiles me too king him and I understand each other in a way none of you can actually the loml

[mazojo]

Haruna ghost wrote this

[drakoneve]

A Dragon's Wrath

Request: hello hello, how are u? Idk if u write for Harwin Strong, but I'm obsessed with this man, so if you're not taking requests for him, forgive me for being rude. So I wanted to make a request where the reader is the younger sister of Rhaenyra Targaryen, also daughter of Aemma and Viserys. She married Strong, and lives a dream life with him (they love each other very much, so please, Rhaenyra's children are not his 🫠) and the legitimacy of their children was questioned, of course the queen would never imagine that Harwin had a birthmark, which none of his brothers inherited from Lyonel, he being the only one to have it and ALL THE CHILDREN OF HARWIN AND THE PRINCESS HAVE THAT SAME BRAND, JUST LIKE THE FATHER'S. Maybe I went on too long and was stupid, sorry, you can do whatever comes to your brilliant mind, I just really wish the legitimacy of the children of the OC was proved by legal means and gave no right to be questioned even by the queen. Thank you for your attention, I understand if you don't want to do it 🤍.

pairing: harwin strong x targ!fem!reader

word count: 3k

warnings: mentions of childbirth, alicent being snakey

a/n: first harwin fic, harwin girlies lmk what you think!! for the sake of this fic, Rhae's children have Targaryen silver hair

In all the years the pair were married, King Viserys and Queen Aemma were blessed by the Mother with only two healthy, living babes. First born has been your elder sister Rhaenyra, whom you followed two years later.

Growing up the two of you remained close through your lessons and dragon riding, but as Rhaenyra grew older she would end up spending more and more time with her lady in waiting Alicent Hightower. Rhaenyra and Alicent being two of the only other girls your age in the Red Keep and their refusal to have anyone join them in their activities, you felt somewhat dejected by your sister's budding friendship.

This is what led you to find solace in the Red Keep's training yards. Day after day you watched knights, and knights in training, battle it out in the yard while you worked on your studies. It was there in the yard you saw him for the first time- your future husband, Ser Harwin Strong.

At the time you had no idea you would end up marrying him, of course, but you should have.

You'd heard all about Ser Harwin Breakbones, son of Lyonel Strong, one of your father's most loyal council men. Harwin's reputation truly preceded him and was rightfully earned.

You hadn't noticed it at the time, but you'd abonded your books and parchments in the stands by your supervising Septa as you approached the rail separating the stands and the training yard in an attempt for a clearer view.

Harwin stood taller than his opponents, shoulders back, sword in hand ready to defend himself. He watched his opponents carefully, calculating their next move. His short brown curls were halfway pulled back out of his face with a tie, exposing Harwin's jawline, much to your own enjoyment.

That afternoon you watched Harwin take down man after man without so much as a proper blow to his own body. He wielded his sword as if it were an extension of his arm in fluid, rushing movements.

When he had finally finished for the evening you applauded him, finally grabbing his attention as he had held yours.

"You are quite the swordsman, Ser Harwin!" you call out to him. "I feel much better knowing there are knights as skilled as you protecting my home."

Harwin grinned largely at your praise, twirling his sword in his hand for show as he approached the rail you supported yourself on. "I mean only to ensure you are safe at all times, my princess."

You smiled down at him now that he was almost right below you. "Well I have no doubts of your capabilities, Ser. I have a feeling you will do great things here, should you wish."

"You are too kind, princess," he chuckles. Then he looks up at the sky, towards the sun on it's way to set. "It is getting quite late, princess. Shall I escort you back to your chambers?"

The excitement and hopefulness in his face brought butterflies to your stomach.

"I would like nothing more, Ser."

After that night it was scarce the two of you weren't side by side, which all but pushed your fathers to wed the two of you.

Now you stood in those same stands, watching Harwin in the yard yet again, but now he's joined by your two eldest sons. Maevor has just passed his tenth and second name day, and Daeragon his ninth. Your two youngest babes, however remained with you and your maid and close friend, Malina.

Malina had first been assigned to you after your marriage to Harwin, and she'd stood loyally by your side as you birthed all of your children.

Malina's elder brother Ellion, a knight of the City Watch, stood closeby on the order of Harwin. He'd been one of Harwin's best men as you'd heard him compliment the younger knight on many occasions in the past. Being a Targaryen princess and wife of the Lord Commander in such uncertain times in the house of the dragon could be dangerous, and Harwin meant only to protect you and your babes.

Your first daughter, eldest of your month old twins, Naelora cooed softly in your arms as she played with the loose sleeve ends of your dress. You indulged her for a moment, raising your arm to lift the sleeve from her reach to tease her.

She gurgles in laughter, stretching her chubby little arms to grasp your sleeve once more.

The moment is over by the approach of Queen Alicent's lady in waiting, Talya.

"My apologies, Princess," Talya bows to you first. "But the Queen has requested Malina's presence for this afternoon."

Why would the queen need Malina specifically? Surely she could find another maid within the Keep to aid her?

Malina looks to you, pale brown eyes silently asking to stay. This isn't the first time something like this has happened, of course. After giving birth to your second son Daeragon, Queen Alicent began requesting Malina's presence more often.

Still sore from your labors, Harwin had taken the day off to aid you and watch over Maevor to allow you to rest.

You watched happily from your spot on the bed as Harwin held little Daeragon, to introduce him to his elder brother. Maevor, a boy of three years, stood as high as he could on his toes to get a peek over Harwin's bulk of an arm to get a glimpse of his brother.

Then your chamber doors open and Malina returns to your side after serving the queen all day. She approaches the foot of your bed, hands clasped together in front of her with her eyes cast slightly downwards.

"Malina, you needn't worry about me," you begin to dismiss her kindly. "I'm sure the Queen-"

But Malina shakes her head, brown curls following her, still refusing to meet your gaze. "I need to speak with you, Princess. And you, Lord Harwin, in privacy."

You share a concerned look with Harwin, who's joyfulness has been replaced with worry. In the time she's served you Malina had never been afraid to look you in your eyes.

He wastes no time escorting Maevor to his chambers just off your own, and placing little Daeragon in his crib next to your side of the bed. Harwin returns and stands dutifully on the other side of you as if protecting you.

"What is it?" you ask, and pat the bed in front of you for Malina to sit.

Malina makes no move to sit on your bed. "My princess," her voice wavers nervously. "I have served your for near half a decade now, and I know you to be the most true and kind person I have ever had the pleasure of serving-"

"Malina," Harwin interrupts sternly. "Speak it plain, what have you heard of my wife?"

Your heart thudded hard in your chest as you instinctively reached for Harwin's hand. He intertwined his fingers with your in an attempt to comfort you.

Malina takes in a deep breath before finally looking up to meet your gaze. "Queen Alicent requested my presence after your labors today for questioning."

"Questioning?" you tilted your head slightly. "About what?"

"Your sons," she answered swiftly. "She... She wanted to know if this babe looked like Harwin or..."

Harwin pulled his hand from yours, placing it on the hilt of his sword. "Or who, Malina?"

"Ellion," Malina whispers. "The Queen seems to believe that you spend too much time with Ellion, princess. She asked if I knew of any relations between the two of you, but I swore to her you are deathly loyal and would never-"

You move from your spot on the bed to bring yourself to stand. Harwin aids you as you steady yourself, then reach for Malina's forearm.

"You needn't explain yourself to me, Malina," you assure her. "I know you to be true to me, and you are one of the kindest ladies I know. You should go, retire for the night. We shall do the same."

Malina apologizes the whole way out your chamber doors despite your assurances. Harwin begins to strip his armor as you settle yourself back into bed.

Daeragon's crib sat just off the side of your bed, close enough for you to have a view of the newborn's little face.

Harwin soon joins your side clad in his nightclothes. You can feel his gaze on you, but you refuse to meet his gaze. Emotions ran rampant through you. You knew it must be the strain and high emotions of you and your new babe surviving the day, but you couldn't stop the rush.

It's when the tears begin to fall from your lilac eyes that Harwin wraps you up in his arms and pulls you back against him.

"My love," he cooes. "Sweet girl, do not worry yourself with the opinion of a misguided, jealous woman."

He raises his right hand to show off the inside of his right wrist, showing off the small, discolored patch of skin he inherited from his father, Lord Lyonel. A small, almost missable, seemingly insignificant patch of skin both Maevor and Daeragon had inherited.

Harwin leans in close, placing his lips against the shell of your ear. "We know I have fathered your sons, my love. Do not worry yourself with this, it is not worth it."

"You're right, husband," you hum, settling into your husband's arms for the night. "I'm just glad he's here, and healthy."

He kisses your temple softly. "You did that. You made him the healthy babe he is."

As you promised Harwin that night, you did your best to ignore the rumors pursued by Alicent. In the years following Daeragon's birth you'd heard more whispers within the court questioning your son's parentage, though you said nothing.

You tried your best to pay them no mind, other days they really got to you. But for now you simply obliged to the queen's wishes.

"Ser Ellion," you motioned your friend forward with one hand. He looked much like his sister as they shared the same nose, and brown curly hair, though Ellion's eyes were an elegant green. Still, no man in the Seven Kingdoms could come close to Harwin in your eyes.

"Would you mind taking my sweet Raemor from your sister? I'm afraid I cannot tend to both babes at once."

Ellion nods and leans down slightly to make a peaceful transition from his sister's arms. He wore an awkward grin on his face as he cradles the blanket wrapped babe the best he could in a full suit of armor. "It is an honor, Princess. Though I'm not certain he will be comfortable against such steel."

Malina bows and takes Talya's arm in her own. You know Malina's dislike for the woman, and you can only guess she's done this to ensure Talya is led away from you and your family.

You shake your head in response to Ellion yet keep your attention on your daughter in your arms. "It is no issue, Harwin holds them in his armor every day. He has with each of them."

A moment passes in silence and you look up to your husband and eldest children. Maevor's brown curls are just long enough on the top to be tied back while leaving some down thus his hair is relatively tame. Daeragon's, however, is tousled and absolutely untame.

Both boys are breathing heavier now, their cheeks flushed. But the beautiful, pure look of excitement on their faces melted your heart. They knew their father was Lord Commander of the City Watch, and that Harwin worked hard for his family at his very important job, and they treasured their father for it.

After taking them to see Harwin train with some of the new recruits of the City Watch two fortnights ago had been a mistake on your part for the boys had not shut up about training themselves. At first you had been hesitant, of course other Targaryen princes had been taught to fight years before your boys, but you were afraid of the things they might encounter so instead you encouraged them to spend time in the libraries and their respective dragons.

As a result the boys were extremely well read and years ahead of their pupils in their studies. Maevor is practically fluent in Valyrian now, and Daeg is not far behind.

Their insistent pleading had wore on you though, and you gave in to them with Harwin's reassurance he would personally oversee their training. In the end, Maevor and Daeg's immediate joy at being granted permission made it worth it in the end.

Harwin and the boys were cleaning their training gear and putting it away.

Ellion clears his throat, pulling your attention from your family. "I fear something is happening, Princess."

"What do you mean?" you ask, standing from your seat and brushing your skirts with one hand.

"I have been approached twice now," he explains carefully, watching who was sat in the immediate area. The closest people sat on the complete opposite of the training yard in those stands. "Once by a fellow knight, and then by Talya herself. I only mention this as a warning, Princess."

Harwin and the boys are nearly there and you don't want the boys to hear such slander.

"Thank you, Ellion," you force a smile to give him. "And I apologize for what has been whispered around court these last years, but I plan now to make it right."

Harwin approaches you then, slinking one arm around your waist as he presses a kiss to your temple. "Come, my love, the boys need to bathe and our littlest ones must be ready for their nap."

Maevor perks up, "Mother, may I carry Naelora back to your chambers?"

Your hearts melts at the question, Maevor ever the doting older brother. You grant your son permission, gently reminding him to hold her head carefully.

"And I shall take Raemor from you, Ellion. I thank you for your services for today."

He bows respectfully, "Tis my duty, and an honor."

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Once the twins are down for their naps and the older boys off to the bathhouse with Malina you informed Harwin of everything that had transpired this afternoon while he trained with the boys.

His thick brows furrowed almost immediately, angre written upon his face. Harwin had shed his armor by now, settling for more comfortable leathers for the evening. His sword however, stayed attached to his hip with one hand gripping the hilt.

"I am sick of hearing your name and reputation tarnished by fools!" Harwin seethes, angrier than you've ever seen him. "I have half a mind to slay them all down for even thinking such things of our children, of you."

You shake your head softly, approaching him to cup his face. You press your forehead against his own, something you've always done to comfort him.

"I have a plan, my dutiful husband," you assure him. "I happen to have a wonderful relationship with my father by law, if you must know. And I just so happen to know that a Small Council meeting starts in mere minutes."

Harwin eases a little, but now he's wrought with confusion.

"What have you planned, my love?"

You smile mischievously and press a sweet kiss to your husband's lips. "Just you wait husband, I first require our Maevor."

The boys are back from their baths by now as you can hear them bustling about Daeragon's chambers, which is the adjoining room to your own.

You knock before you enter as you always do, to the sight of your boys on Daeg's bed, books sprawled open before them.

"What have we there, byka zaldrīzoti (little dragons)?" you ask as you join them on the bed.

Daeg pulls the leather bound book to cover his lap to show you. "The Histories of Old Valyria!" he chimes. "Maevor was reading it to me in Valyrian."

You stroke Daeg's plush cheek with one hand, still able to see the babe he used to be in his face, and take Maevor's hand in your other.

"He's smart, your brother," you 'whisper' to Daeragon. "I would study hard, my Prince."

Maevor breaks his hand away to rustle his brother's brown curls. "Muña's teasing, Daeg. You are smarter now than I was your age."

You swoon, heart melting at the relationship between your boys. "Oh my sweet Maev," you kiss his temple. "Might I borrow you for a awhile, I have something important to discuss with the Small Council and I need your help."

Maevor's brown eyes widened slightly, "Of course, mother."

"Have no fear, sweet boy, I have a plan."

And you sure did. Once you explained what you could to Maevor while sparing his innocence best you could, he'd been more than willing to join you.

You squatted down to be closer to your son's level, Harwin by your side. "You are special, Maevor," you explain to him. You grab Harwin's right hand and Maevor's to put them side by side. Both birthmarks were near identical save for Harwin's being larger and slightly darker than his son's. "Each of my babes have this mark, all from Harwin, who inherited it from your grandsire, Lyonel. Do you understand?"

He nods, but says nothing. Harwin crouches down next to you, reaching to cup his eldest son's face.

"I wish we did not have to burden you with such a task, my boy," Harwin admits grimly. "I want you to know we are only doing this because we love you children, and I love your muña too much to let people speak of her in such a way any longer."

So the three of you set off, accompanied by Ellion as Malina had stayed behind to watch the twins and Daeragon.

Despite the Kingsguard outside the meeting room of the Small Council, you march right past them and push the doors open yourself.

Each member of the council turns to you now silenced. Otto sat up straighter in his seat as he looked towards his daughter. Alicent looked shocked to see the group of you, and you noted her visible nervousness.

Lyonel stands and comes to Harwin's side, demanding answers most likely. Harwin begins whispering in his father's ear, explaining the situation.

"Sister," Rhaenyra stands, hand placed over her round stomach. "What is wrong?"

You cross your arms over your chest, eyes blazing as you glare at the Hightowers at the table. "Since the birth of my Daeragon I have endured vile slanders against not only myself, but my marriage, and every one of my children."

Alicent shifts uncomfortably in her seat.

"Princess," Otto pokes in. "I can assure you-"

"Assure what?" you snap, slamming down on the table to lean towards the Hand. "Alicent has been the one to pull my ladies from me just after giving birth to insinuate my babes have been fathered by knight of the City Watch who is not my husband. Even now, a month after having my twins, I am approached with more blasphemy. No more."

You usher Maevor forward, who happily extends his right arm before you have to ask. Harwin joins you, followed by Lyonel, both of whom put out their wrists as well.

Alicent's mouth widens in shock before she grits her teeth. Even Larys' wears a look of shock as he checks his own wrists, coming up with nothing.

"I am tired of my children being put under scrutiny," you say finally. "And of my loyalty to my husband being questioned. Now, if you all do not mind, I would like to enjoy the rest of the day with my family undisturbed."

You step back from the table to leave when Rhaenyra wraps you up in a hug. "I am so sorry, sister," she whispers.

You assure her with a simple kiss to the side of her head before reaching for Maevor's hand.

The boy is practically bouncing on his feet as the two of you make your way back to your chambers, both Harwin and Ellion following close behind.

"She is very scary, your wife," Ellion admits to Harwin lowly. "I would to want to be on the receiving end of her wrath."

He only chuckles, "No, nor would I."

[wicchyy]

—0.4 snow & bubbles ; james potter

sum: snow, foam, steam, bubbles - you and James share a moment in the hot tub / bestfriend!James

warnings: none rly

notes: best friends James again bc I’m obsessed w them. they’re practically dating but it’s okay

You knew exactly how many rooms Sirius had in his family cabin. 2. His parent’s room and the one that belonged to him and his brother. The cabin hadn’t been used by his family for years since they had a falling out. Sirius had the key, and it turned into a winter tradition that the four of you took part in.

James, Remus, Sirius, and you. Sirius offered a few nights to wind down at his cabin before you’d all continue to celebrate Christmas with the Potter family. Every year, Sirius and Remus took his parents room that had the plush king sized bed and amazing view, which also had a fireplace of their own.

While you and James shared Sirius’ room. You didn’t mind it really. Not when you and James had been best friends for so long, sharing a room, a bed, and a shower felt all too natural.

Your other two friends had a hard time believing you and James were only best friends. They’d seen you cuddling together, sleeping together, hell they’d even been in encountered you both at this moment.

…

It started with Sirius wanting to have a relaxing evening. He’s set the toggles on the hot tub at the back of the cabin. Put some light foam in and made two cups of hot cocoa for himself and Remus to enjoy. Then, Sirius had distracted himself with snogging around with Remus around the cabin that he’d ultimately forgotten about the romantic gesture he’d set up for his boyfriend.

The window from his parents room had provided a clear view of you and James. James in nothing but his swim shorts and you in your white bikini enjoy on the very tub that he’d adjusted for his own comfort.

James was already inside, stretching his legs out and holding a hand out for you to grab as you slowly walked down the short 3 steps to join him in the hot water.

Steam was coming out of the tub and the jets were making you even warmer. The instant breeze of the snowy winter air no longer affected you.

You were tucked warmly in a foamy tub with your best friend, James. He looked over at you in admiration, not helping himself with the thin material of your choice of a bathing suit. He wanted to reach out and tug at the strap on your shoulder, but you had interrupted him by putting a hand on his bare chest.

“I love winter. Do y’know that this is my favourite season, Jamie?”

James smiles and pulls your hand closer to his lips, pressing a light kiss on it. Just things that best friends do with each other.

“I know, sweetheart. You’ve said it a bunch of times on our way here and when you took photographs of me in the snow with your muggle camera.”

“Right. I did that.”

“I still don’t understand why the pictures won’t move, though. Is it the unadvanced technology or muggles simply like the way things are, boring.”

You leaned your head on his shoulder, “Well, James. I’m not quite sure but I think I’ll go with both.”

“Hm.” He hummed, a hand wrapping you even closer. James let his head fall gently atop you, a sign that let you know he wanted your fingers to mess around with his curls.

You wrapped your hand around his shoulder too, your palm connecting with his head and instead of playing with his hair, you dumped water atop him. “Honestly, Jamie you couldn’t have not expected me to do that.”

James’ laughter filled your ears, clearly having the upper hand as both of his hands kept you in place while he shook his head towards your face. Foam and water splashed at you and you couldn’t help but join in on his delirious laughter.

“Oh, James!” You shouted, trying to get out of his grasps but realizing that he only tugged you harder into the water.

When you surfaced up, your cheeks were hot and foam covered the top of your head. “Sorry, sweetheart. Should’ve known the consequences.”

“Christ I really can’t enjoy a peaceful evening with you.” You poked his chest, a small smile playing at your lips.

James pulled your face closer with one of his hands, his lips making haste of a cheek kiss on you. At the same time, your hands gripped his shoulder to attempt another splash in the foamy water but your body was pulled closer by James’ other hand to put you atop his lap.

“Hello, there.” He smiled up at you. His hand was still on your hips, fingers grazing dangerously close to the region below your belly button.

“Jamie. C’mon let me off.” You didn’t really want to be let off his lap. But you had the intrusive thoughts knocking at your brain that reminded how you were straddling him basically. You didn’t want to go out of the boundaries of your friendship. You didn’t want James to be uncomfortable.

“Just a moment, please.” He pointed those beautiful hazel eyes at you he knew you loved. “Y’so warm, sweet girl.”

Well. You didn’t dare deny him. He was practically begging for you to be there. And there wasn’t an ounce of awkwardness between you two. Even if you were in a questionable position with your best friend.

“Alright then. Just a few minutes. Siri and Remus can’t see us with all this foam can they?”

“Course not. They won’t be able to see anything.”

Of course it wasn’t the matter of them just seeing, you just didn’t want them to bug you with yet another reason why you and James aren’t purely best friends.

“Y’look so pretty in this thing, y’know.” James grinned, poking a finger into your side to tease you.

“And you .. look fine in your usual swim shorts.” You laughed, lightly pouring on water at his top half so his shoulders weren’t freezing.

“Thanks, sweetheart.” James did the same. His hand scooping water to pour over the skin of your body which wasn’t in the water.

“I’m really looking forward to this week, Jamie. With our friends, with your family.” You sighed comfortably, relaxing your weight atop James.

“Mhm. Me too.” James replied simply. He didn’t know what else to say when he had his beautiful friend sitting on top of him. Talking so softly that his heart was pounding nervously. He was worried he’d say the wrong thing or do the wrong move. He was even more afraid of his lower half possibly waking up and freaking you out. Though he shouldn’t have pulled you in his lap if he didn’t want that to happen.

James’ thoughts were just scattered right now, with the steam and the foam clouding his judgement. All he really knew was he wanted to kiss your lips and pull you closer and closer to him because all he’s ever wanted is to savor every moment with you.

“Jamie!” You pinched his cheek, “You were staring blankly at me. What’s wrong? Am I making you uncom—“

“No!” James rushed to say, “No, no. You’re perfect, sweetheart. Not making me uncomfortable. Not at all.”

“Alright. Is there something wrong?”

He settled his hands on your back, bringing you just a few inches closer to him. “Nothing. I’m also very excited for you to be visiting. Though I don’t think mum will let me share my room with you.” He chuckles.

You roll your eyes, finally deciding to rest your hands behind James’ neck, circling them like you’re in a position to kiss. “Then I guess we’ll have to savor the days you can share a room with me.”

“Believe me, sweetheart. I want to savor every day I can share with you.” James flirts, his heart beating faster. “Here.” He takes one of your hands from the nape of his neck and directs in to his chest where his heart is. “This is the effect you have on me.”

“You have the same on me.” You smiled shyly. James smiled and pulled your face even closer again, this time to press a little kiss on the tip of your nose.

The little moment has you fluttering. This kind of thing, it makes you want to risk the means of your friendship by pulling him and letting your lips land on his.

“And you’re so warm. Y’make me so warm. Can you be my human furnace?” He teases.

“If anything, you’re my human furnace.”

The hot water, the steam, the foam made the moment between you two even special than you’d ever had with anyone else. Your thoughts consisted of James, James, James.

Suddenly, the mood changed as a shout came from behind you. “Hey! Prongs, Y/n! You’re joking!”

“Pads, it’s fine. Christ let them have their moment.” Remus interrupted from behind.

“No! I set this all up for Moony. And now you two shitheads are eating it all up.”

You were quick to roll your eyes and just lean further onto James, hugging him with your hands landing on his shoulders again. “Leave us alone, Pads.” James groaned, his hands traveling to your back.

“If you both don’t get up, I’m jumping in.” Sirius demanded. Which, he unsurprisingly did. Making quick work of his clothes until he was left with his boxers on.

You snicker as you heard Sirius make his way into the hot tub. Leaning onto James’ left side so you could see Sirius’ angry face side eyeing the both of you, the position you were in.

“You’ve got to be actually fucking with me. I’m so angry right now, but the water is so relaxing.”

James chimed in, “I know. Now shut up. Moony! Get in, already. We’re having a friendship moment.” James grinned at his two friends.

Remus didn’t object and did as James said. “Right. A friendship moment, indeed.” He said with a knowing look, making eye contact with you.

“Hm. I’m loving this trip.” You smiled. James looked up at you and pressed another kiss on your cheek, agreeing with what you’ve said.

💌 thanks for reading lovie! support me by reblogging <3

[bestpigeon]

Any chance we can get a Lucifer x platonic sinner reader who sees the king of hell as a father figure? Perhaps reader was like Lucifer’s personal guard/assistant who arrived in hell over a century ago, and has been loyal to the Morningstar family, over the years seeing him less as his king but as a father? And during Lucifer’s mega depression time, always gave his best to cheer him up. Reader never admits it, as he feels he must know his place, and not overstep, but Lucifer starts to view reader as family too.

This is an amazing idea omg, thank you sm! Also, I did see your other request, this will be x platonic male!

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-A NEW FATHER-

Lucifer x platonic male sinner

Warnings - none?

Words - 1.2k

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I have been working for King Lucifer for a long time. Around a centry to be exact, so a long time. Im simply just a worker. I pass on messages and help Lucifer when he needs. Kind of like a personal assistant. When i first fell upon hell, i landed in a pickle. I landed and crushed, two out of multiple imps. They weren't pleased and started attacking me, Lucifer was quick to the rescue. I've been working with him every since.

Lucifer had just received a call from his daughter, Charlie, and is currently walking around his room rapidly. He's stressed, worried, excited, and clearly overwhealmed.

"Charlie wants to see me! but what if i mess up? oohh no, i can't. i have to impress her-" He says. He was basically talking to himself. i walk towards him in an attempt to comfort him.

"Sir? There's nothing to worry about, i can assure you, everything will be fine." I say as a hand moved to his shoulder. He sighs and stands sationary, finally. I smile at him, and he just rubs his forehead.

"Yeah - yeah, just dont want to embarrass myself, yknow?" He says, i think for a while before opening my mouth to speak, but i get quickly interrupted.

"ooh! what if you join me? Im sure Charlie would want to meet you, and you always help me calm down." He says as he moves to put both his hands on my shoudlers and pulls me down to his height. I didn't really mind the idea, but i didn't want to be a burden.

"i mean, sure? But i wouldn't want to get in the way-" I say before he shakes me rapidly.

"It'll be fine! Go get your stuff, " He says as he walks out the corridor and into his bedroom.

"My daughter wants to see meee!" He says as he dissapeares into his room. I smile and leave to go pack. I couldn't help but feel excited. i mean, I've always wanted to meet Charlie, and it's like a free vacation! Me and Lucifer have been close for a while now, so him picking me to come with him is understandable.

I pack my stuff and me and Lucifer leave together. He opens a portal and knocks on the front door to a hotel. I've heard Lucifer talk about this place a lot. He breags all the time that his own child runs it, and he's proud of her. I couldn't help but appreciate his passion and love for Charlie. I've never really had any type of parental figure, or at least we dont talk to me anymore. I dont even know where they are. they could be in heaven. Either way, i can't help but feel attached to Lucifer. Almost like he's replacing my father. He treats me with care, and i just can't help but feel like he's more than my boss, a father almost.

Of course, I'd never tell him that.

The door opens, and Lucifer walks in. He automatically hugs Charlie and looks around. I step in quietly and just observe. I make eye contact with Charlie, and i smile. I turn to her while Lucifer is on the ground talking to a cat.

"Hi, Lucifers told me lots about you Charlie, its nice to meet you." I say as i extened my hand out for a hand shake. She smiles widley and grabs my hand, and rapidly shakes it.

"Hi! It's nice to meet you!" She says with a big smile smothered on her face. It gets interrupted by Lucifer standing between us, putting a hand on each of our shoulders. He smiles widley at us. This trip is going to be fun.

-3 days later-

It's me and Lucfiers' third day staying in Charlies hotel. It's been quite pleasent so far. Appart from the Lucifer and Alastor tension. Me and Charlie have been hanging out a lot too, talking, walking, laughing. I enjoy being around Charlie, shes lovley, probably too nice to be hell, but i probably shouldn't judge a book by its cover. We are currently chatting in her office, mainly getting to know each other and sometimes throwing in a bit about how lucifers been.

"So, my dad saved you, and you've worked with him ever since? wow, you're really loyal." She says as she leans on her elbows on her desk. I smile at her and nod.

"Yeah, he treats me like a friend." I say, Charlie nods and sighs.

"Thank you for taking care of my father.. and are you sure you just see Lucifer as a friend?" She says as she tilts her head while keeping eye contact with me. I sigh and look down at the floor.

"Um, well.. i mean, he's like family to me? a father, maybe." I say. Charlies expression softens, and she smiles.

"That's okay! I mean, you being my brother sounds nice. Why dont you tell him? You're basically family to him anyway. He normally isolates himself." She says as she leans forward. We keep eye contact for a while before i smile and then nod.

"That.. dosent sound bad. I dont think he sees me as a son, though, so can we keep this a secret for now?" I say as i stand up. It was quite late and i needed some sleep. It's been a long day.

"Yeah, of course! Go get some sleep, todays been exahasting." She says as she waves at me. I smile and wave back before leaving and shutting the door. I get jumpscared but Lucifer, who appears around the corner.

"Hey! You and Char-Char seem to be getting along!" He says as he approaches me and puts a hand on my shoulder. I smile at him softly. He really is the best father figure i could ever ask for.

"Yeah, we have. Were good friends." I say. Lucifer smiles at me. He yawns, and i chuckle at him. I could see the eye bags under his eyes.

"That's great, and I'll see you tomorrow, goodnight, kiddo!" He says as he walks away.

"Night d- Lucifer." I say, quickly correcting myself as i go towards my room.

-Next morning-

I awake and walk out of my room. I walk into the lobby and grab water from the fridge. I see Lucifer and Charlie chatting on the sofa. I make eye contact with Lucifer, and in unison, we smile. "Morning," He says.

"morning dad" I say as i drink the rest of my drink. I didn't even notice what i said. Lucifers eye widened, and he said something to Charlie before approaching me.

"you- why did you call me dad? do you see me as a father?" He says as he taps my shoulder. I panic as i realise what i said. We just stare at each other in silence before i finally speak.

"uh- yeah..i didn't mean to, i didn't want to make you uncomfort-" I say before i get interrupted by being pulled into a tight hug. I gasp, and my eyes widen slightly. I look at Charlie, and she gives me a thumbs up.

"It's fine! You're like a kid to me, my kid! I dont mind, " He says as i hug him back. I smile and chuckle. What a father figure i have, huh?

Charlie approaches me and joins in with the hug.

"I've always wanted a sibling! And a brother, now i have both, how exciting!" She says with a smile. I chuckle, and so does Lucifer.

"And I've always wanted a son,"

___________________________________________

Thank you for the recommendation! This was a good one.

[mattmurdock-wife24]

From a boy to a men

Author's note: hi sweetie! Hope you like this one, have a good reading ✨️

This was a request

Warning: none, just pure soft and fluff stuff, and kisses

He hears his name shouted, adored, praised. He's never felt better, to be idolized, loved. He was raised for this, to be the sparkle in people's eyes, but all the lying and pretending didn't go down your throat.

You are the princess of the kingdom allied to Kenji's, promised to each other from birth. And you couldn't understand why everyone loved him so much, he's arrogant, petty, careless, a complete idiot and you hated him for it.

Today you'll meet him for dinner at his house, with your parents and his father. Where he'll ask for your hand in marriage, since your 18th birthday was not too long ago.

So you put on your most breathtaking dress, tidy up your wavy hair and put a cute bow in it, and drape a blouse over your dark skin. You enter the castle to be greeted by a warm embrace from the king, Gedde Wanatabe. Your eyes meet Kenji's, which have a wicked, dark glint in them.

The dinner itself was peaceful, but as it drew to a close, everyone became tense, and King Wanatabe handed Kenji a little black velvet box. Everyone got up, and Kenji knelt down in front of you, who were still sitting there in shock - it was really happening. You could hear your heart in your ears and you feared that Kenji would hear it too. The ring fit perfectly on your finger.

Everyone smiles, relieved, and leaves the "bride and groom" alone. You put your hands on your waist, trying to get as far away from Kenji as possible after the wedding, you hear him laugh and you grimace. "Why are you always so fucking mad at me?" He exhales.

"Because you're an idiot "And?" " because you're irresponsible" "And what, princess?"

You get angry and your body makes a sign to leave and he grabs your arm.

"I know you think I'm an idiot, but this idiot here is going to become the king" you sigh, annoyed "Your title doesn't matter, what matters is your heart, if you even have one! " you sigh " if you want to be a good king, a good husband. Become a man first, because all I see here is a bruised, asshole boy."

Your words hurt him in a way he had never felt before, it was like a bucket of cold water. He felt dirty, guilt rising through his body, so he was determined to do better, for you, for the kingdom.

He began to work harder, pulling all-nighters to resolve royal issues. He treated his subordinates with modesty and even his relationship with his father had improved, now all that was left was for you in his hands to love and care for... forever.

The big day had arrived, and you were on edge. You hadn't seen Kenji since that night. You look at yourself in the mirror, watching as the beautiful white lace dress dances down your curves. You're startled by the knock on the door, but you open it anyway.

You meet Kenji, who stares at you in amazement. You see a certain desperation in his voice when he says that you two need to talk.

"What do you want? The ceremony is about to start." "I did everything you asked, I changed, for you, for the crown, for my father. I worked until I couldn't anymore. And you were right, I was a piece of shit" you stare in disbelief at his words, this certainly wasn't the Kenji you knew "please"he whispers in your ear "be mine"

You were at the altar, with Kenji by your side, staring at you with a passionate look, which only made you even more nervous. When the priest said "till death do you part" Kenji grabbed you around the waist and kissed you deeply. Part of you felt embarrassed by the number of people watching, but another part of you just wanted to enjoy the moment, enjoy this new Kenji. "I'm already yours, I always have been" you sigh back into his ear.

hiii lovely soul, hope you liked it!

My requests are open and I write for several characters, and sometimes I can make an exception haha

Likes and reblogs are very much appreciated 😊✨️

[allkordelia]

Keep Me Near Your Heart 19

"Jaenara, why are we here." Aemond asked as he was pull along by his wife while he glance around the castle with a look of discomfort.

Jaenara didn't answer him as she turn down a corner before walking towards a door, she opened the door and sigh in relief at the familiarity, she let's go of Aemond's hand to walk further in with a faint smile.

Her old chamber in High Tide.

It been so long since she been here, only venturing there to escape her mother or just to get away. Her grandfather was so happy when she first visited, Corlys didn't have a very close relationship with some of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Rhaelle's elder children loved their grandfather, but since Aeron and his family live so far away along with his statue as king, they couldn't visit him as much and Rhaelle kept her children with Daemon away from her father after years of no contact.

Corlys's relationship with Jaenara and her brothers was basically none existent until she started spending more time at High-Tide, Jaenara could never understood the drama between her elder relatives, mostly because none of her cousins know what happened so many years ago to make our family walk on egg shells around each other.

"We should get back." Aemond said from behind her as she goes over to pick up a lute, "I have no doubt my mother have sounded the alarms for our disappearance--we should definitely leave." Jaenara stop playing with the strings before turning towards her husband with a frown.

"Why?" She asked sadden, "This is the pefect place to get away and at the perfect time, we need to be alone to talk about what we gonna do to Rivers and your mother." Jaenara explains, she place the lute back where she got it before going to seat on the end of the bed.

Aemond crossed his arms with a uncomfortable look.

"I rather not talk about her...or my mother for that matter," Aemond sighs, "I rather more to forget--" Jaenara made noise causing Aemond to look at her.

"No, no more forgetting or ignoring the problem." Jaenaea snaps getting up, "We must face this, I am tired of being push around by your mother and I'll be damn to be push around by a bastard harlot."

"And what do you wish me to do about it, hmm." He raised his brow in a sarcastic way, "I can't command her to leave, she won't listen, and my mother refuse to listen to caution." Jaenara walks to her husband grabbing his hands with a smug smirk.

"That is why, sweet husband, I have a plan."

Aemond furrow his brows curious.

"You do?" Jaenara nodded her head.

"Yes, I do. But, we must stay here in order for it to work."

Aemond look at his wife with a grimace, making Jaenara's smile falter a bit at the look on her husband's face.

"Must we? Can't we just stay at Dragonstone instead--"

"No, that would be the first place they will look for us."

"But...not here?" He drawls out, furrowing his brows.

"I mean, it depends on my aunt and grandfather," She comment, Aemond glance away from his wife with an unsure look.

"I don't thi--I don't think its a good idea to stay here." Aemond admitted, it was Jaenara turn to furrow her brows.

"Why?" She frowned confused, Aemond look at his wife with a conflicted look before sighing.

"Please, don't make me say it."

Jaenara became even more confuse, she didn't understand the problem with laying low in Driftmark for a few days, it's was a perfect paradise to getaway and relax with a brilliant view.

"Aemond, I'm not going to spend these next few days arguing with you about this, so just say it." Jaenara took her hands backand folded her arms under her chest and look at her husband with a fretful look.

Aemond lock his jaw and squeeze his hands into fist nervously, Jaenara caught the movement making herself ease down.

"Jaenara, I..." He stop as he stare at his wife, and memories he buried away  slowly start to resurface, causing him to close his eye and shake his head before looking at her, "I cannot say it, it is too much...it is too painful for me to revist, can't we just go somewhere else. We can go to Braavo like Alys or maybe Lys." Awmond recommend, but Jaenara wasn't hearing it as she roll her eyes.

"You know what, forget it." She says, making Aemond look surprise only to feel nothing but relieved, "Why don't you go back home, and I stay here." Aemond frowned.

"Jaenara, you know I ca--"

"Yes, you can Aemond, because if you don't than these next few days are gonna be hell...for you." She threatened, "So, you have a choice you either stay here with me and your unborn child..." she starts as her hand move along her round belly catching Aemond's eye, "Or go back home and destroy our marriage again." She shrugged, Aemond look up at her with a frown.

"You think I would do that to you?" Aemond asked hurt before looking upset, "After everything we been through--"

"Don't be draft, my love." Jaenara counter back, "Your mother is obviously unhinge and I wouldn't put it pass Rivers to not try something, so..." she steps close with a small smirk, "That's why we must stay here, away from those vultures, so we can keep our marriage intact and at the same time teach them a lesson." Jaenara grin at her husband, but Aemond look at her unsure, he didn't feel comfortable staying here but he also didn't want to make his wife mad than she already is.

"I...I guess your right, my love." Aemond said reluctantly as his eye stray from her.

Jaenara snarl with an eyeroll, she ignore his reluctance and instead grab his sleeve and turn them towards the bed.

"Do not fret, sweet husband." Jaenara purr after pushing Aemond onto her bed, "Atleast we have each other as our plan thaw out," Aemond glance up to look at her face as she climbs on top of him.

"Our plan?" He asked, Jaenara smirk a little as she straddle his hip.

"Of course, darling." Jaenara purr again, moving her hand to slide down Aemond's chest, before she leans forward to start kissing his neck, "You are the key for this plan to work, as long as you are by my side, you will never have to worry about that wench again." Aemond shudder once Jaenara's hand slip through his breeches and grasp his semi hard cock.

"B-But, what if...they find us?"

"They won't," she promise, "I trust my family to keep your mother in the dark  until our return." Aemond let out a pathetic whimper.

"But--" Jaenara tighten her grasp a bit causing Aemond to choke and moan at the same time, Jaenara lift her head from his bruise neck to look down at her husband.

"What is wrong, husband?" She cock her head to the side, her hand starts to move up and down making Aemond grasp her forearm, "Don't you trust me?" She pout, Aemond open his eye with a frown as he gaze up at his beloved wife.

"I-I do." He strutted, Jaenara move her hand a bit fast with hum.

"Good," she whispered, she leans down capturing his lips as she use her other hand to unbutton his vest.

「                            ⊹₊♚₊⊹                           」

It had been three days since Jaenara and Aemond arrived at Driftmark, and it has been going absolutely terrible.

Aemond has begun to sulk around the castle, something about missing his mother and their tea time, Jaenara roll her eyes and tone him out at the time.

Jaenara has become rather ambivalence towards Aemond lately, it feels like everything he does annoys her. Just him sitting next to her reading a book makes her blood boil and her heart beat with resentment, while other times she wants to fuck him. She beginning to think she's going mad, she can't tell if it's her own feelings or the pregnancy making her feel this way.

Either way, Jaenara didn't seem to care in the end, and neither did Aemond.

It felt like a power trip, she never imagine stooping so low like Alicent and Aemond, she always thought her compassion and kindess was a way to show how better she was than them. But, when she belittle or order Aemond around, a little feeling in her chest she realize was giddy lock away all those thoughts and she took a little joy in making Aemond's days here hard.

Jaenara notice her change behavior the day after they're arrival, she would snap at him for the stupidest things and call him names when she get fed up with his sulkening. At first, Jaenara was shock and confuse, shock at herself with how cruel she was being to Aemond and confuse because Aemond just took it.

Jaenara also notice that he begin to do it a lot lately, it reminds her of the little stray pups in fleabottom always pawing at her gown for food.

She had more sympathy for the small pups than her weak husband, but maybe, she shouldn't be mad at the fact but be proud. Her husband has finally crumbled, he was no longer that scary man she feared a year ago, but rather a pathetic boy wanting nothing but  her attention and love.

"My love." The sound of Aemind's voice snap Jaenara out of her thoughts.

She didn't move to look up at him as she knits her son a new hat.

"What."

"Can we talk?" Aemond asked, making her stop and look up at him finally, he wasn't in his usual casual clothing but rather in his dragonriding attire.

"Where are you going?" She asked ignoring what he said.

"To clear my head," he answered as he took a seat on the armchair next to her, "I wanted to talk to you before my departure, I think it's time...we talk." Jaenara raise her brow at Aemond.

"About what."

"Rivers--" Jaenara look away from him with a roll of her eyes.

"Aemond, what did I say yesterday when you ask me this." She inquired, Aemond gulp before clearing his throat.

"This isn't about the plan--"

"So, this is about you leaving me for her again, then?" She stop to look at him again, making the corners of aemond's mouth curve down.

"Of course not, you know my heart only belongs to you--"

"Good. So, are we done with this convention now." She asked flatly, Aemond parted his lips to say something but clasp them shut when she gave him a look he become all to familiar too.

Aemond bow his head before nodding.

"Lovely, because I am famish and i would like some peaches." Jaenara demanded, putting her needles and hat aside, Aemond stood before helping Jaenara up.

"I'll stop by the kitchen--"

"No!" She snapped, pulling away from him, "Have a servant do it, the last thing I need is for you to bring me plums instead of peaches...again." she glower, moving the covers to the side before taking her book from the side table and got into bed.

Aemond bow his head at the tone in his wife's voice, "Apologies again, my love." He said as he lift his head to look at her, jaenara clench her jaw to keep her from rolling her eyes at how pathetic he is being.

"That's not the apology I wanted yesterday," she sass, making aemond look embarrassed.

"I told you I couldn't...I couldn't get it up that night." He murmur the last as if their was others in the room.

"Or this morning or during tea time, it's as if your cock and eye stop working at the same time." She snickered as she shook her head and turn to the last pashe she was on in her book.

"Hmmm."

Jaenara look up at her husband to find him standing there with solemn look, Jaenara sighs and lay the book open on her stomach.

"Do not look so fretful husband, I was just jesting." She says, Aemond looks at her before smiling timidly.

"I know, my love."

Jaenara smiled up at him.

"Good, because I expect you to pleasure me once you get back from your ride, a woman can only go so long without what she needs."

Jaenara looks away and pick up her book missing the disappointed look that shadow Aemond's features.

"Of course," He utter before step close to lean down and press a kiss to her belly before moving to peck Jaenara's forehead making groan in distaste.

Jaenara wave him away when he tried to kiss her on her lips, Aemond frown at the irriated look on her face.

"I'll be back before dinner..." Aemond trails off, moving away from the bed towards the door before turning to Jaenara, "...I love you, jaenara." He says in the softest voice that had Jaenara glancing up at him.

"Mm-hmm."

Aemond frown again as he wife turn her attention back to her book, Aemond didn't say anything before he left. When the door closed, Jaenara closed the book in her hands and toss it across the room as her mood shifted from irriated to bothered.

She hated when he goes soft like that, she hated it and carved it, sometimes she wish she didn't feel anything at her. Her emotions was all over the place and it was beginning to be draining to figure out what she wanted, why is it that when she's truely alone she starts contemplating her whole life.

Jaenara turn on her side and close her eyes, she ended to stop thinking and start relaxing. The whole point of coming here was for her to get away from all the crap going on back at King's Landing, she needed peace and calm, maybe tomorrow she go out for a walk on the beach, the snell of the ocean always calms her.

All she got to do is make sure her insufferable husband won't be there to ruin her day.

[lexsssu]

Good Little Girl (Marshall Lee)

TAGS: Mashall/F!Reader, Original child character, parenthood, fluff Ao3 ver.

“Mishael Linus Abadeer, get your sorry butt down here already before your dinner gets cold!”

“Jeez, I’m coming down already, Ma”

“If you don’t hurry up I’ll eat your portion of fresh strawberries, kid~”

“Dad, don’t be so unfair when you already have your own portion!”

“Not my fault if you’re a slowpoke”

A handsome dark-haired youth flew into the humble dining room hurriedly, seating himself at his designated chair and clutching the small bowl of strawberries to his chest as if they were a priceless treasure. His skin had a grayish hue to them, pointed ears peaked from his ebony tufts of luscious hair while a pair of sharp fangs poked from his lips. The scowl he wore didn’t make him look menacing, but rather even more attractive than he already was in the first place.

“Now, now, now. Stop teasing our son already, Marsh. You know how he gets when it comes to his strawberries and besides, aren’t you already too old to be competing with him over food?” You stifled a laugh as you raised an eyebrow at your husband who merely grinned, shrugging in response.

“It’s survival of the fittest, babe. If our own kid doesn’t understand that then he doesn’t deserve the plump and juicy fresh strawberries you’ve painstakingly grown, picked, and washed straight from our garden”

The vampire king wrapped his arm around your waist and pulled you closer, landing a quick kiss to your hair as your preteen son gagged at the public display of affection. “No spawn of mine will grow up ungrateful to their beautiful, amazing, spectacular, wonderful mama~”

Dinner passed by without much fanfare aside from the playful teasing your family generally engaged one another with. Though mainly it was just Marshall being the big bully that he was, something Mishael had already grown used to ever since he was young.

While you washed the dishes, you spotted your son fumbling with his phone as he floated back up to his room. A bright smile lit up his face as a tinge of red gave his cheeks some much needed color and contrast from the grayish hue he’d inherited from his father.

“Lemme guess, he’s probably hung up on Fiona & Evan’s kid...Evie, right?”

Years of being with Marshall had trained you to anticipate his sudden appearance at all possible times that you didn’t even flinch anymore when you hear his voice and feel the warmth of his breath on the back of your neck.

“Mhmm, he’s got it quite bad from the looks of it. Kinda reminds me of another lovesick vampire I knew back in the day…” The corners of your lips quirked upwards in a smile as memories of a time not so long ago flashed in your mind like a cinematic movie.

“Whaddya mean you ‘knew’ back in the day? I’m still very much YOUR lovesick vampire until the universe itself collapses and time ceases to exist, thank you very much”

Placing the last plate upon the dish rack, you wipe your hands dry on the dry dish cloth before gingerly taking the raven-haired male’s face into your hands and pecking his nose. “And I wouldn’t have it any other way, my bad little boy~”

A tender looked slithered its way onto the hybrid’s face, snaking his arms around you until your front was pressed flush against his own. You both floated a few feet off the ground, arms around your waist and your own around his neck as you stared into each other’s eyes.

Marshall Lee had his fair share of relationships over the course of his immortal life, but none had ever enamored him the way you do. None had ever made him want to come home so desperately, even if you were the one who gave him all the freedom he wanted to go off on adventures while waiting patiently for him. His once cold, unbeating heart felt the warmest, the liveliest as long as he was with you.

“Forever’s a long time, ‘ya know? But I’ll be more than happy to let you feel why being MY good little girl is worth it~”

[jarondont]

These Actions Haunt My Days

Odysseus was used to getting weird dreams. But this one was different.

Someone was watching him.

“Athena?” he called into the dream-void.

A soft chuckle came from behind him. “Don’t mistake me for one of the immortals, Laertides.”

Odysseus whirled around as a man’s figure faded into view. It was someone he recognized, but couldn’t quite put a name to. “Who are you?”

“I’m just a man.” The figure raised a hand and gestured to him. “Like yourself.”

Odysseus’s hand flew to his waist, then he remembered that this was just a dream. He can’t hurt you. And you can’t hurt him.

“What do you want, stranger?” he spat.

“You call me stranger, yet you too triumphed over my fallen body.”

So he was a ghost. An enemy … Odysseus almost didn’t dare ask. “H—Hector?”

The Son of Troy smiled—a gentle smile, although his eyes held a controlled rage. “No respect for your opponent, it seems. It took you that long to recognize me.”

“Why are you here, prince?”

His smile faded as his expression hardened. “I wanted to talk to you, one father to another.”

Oh.

“If this is about your son—”

“You did it to protect your own. I understand that. But…” He sighed. “You and I are not as different as you might think, Odysseus.”

The tactician titled his head, cautious but curious. “Oh?”

“You are a king, fighting for your country. You fight for your wife, who awaits you back at home. And your son, who you want to see grow up to live a glorious life. And you will do anything necessary to protect those you love the most.” Hector stepped closer and softened his voice a little. “I, too, fight for my people. For me, my city is my first love. I did everything in my power to try and protect it, but my efforts were in vain.”

Odysseus lowered his eyes.

“My wife, my Andromache—she longed for an end to that terrible war so that we could be happy together. But I told her … I told her that I might not come home—as surely you must have told your Penelope.”

“You—”

“And my son. All I wanted was for him to grow up to become a good prince—Lord of the City, as we called him.” His eyes filled with sorrow. “He was an infant, Odysseus. I understand that it was between you and him, but … he didn’t deserve that. He didn’t deserve to be slaughtered in such a dishonorable way. You were given a choice, Odysseus, you—” his voice caught in his throat. “You could have raised him; you could have given him the life I never could. But you didn’t. You chose the easy way out.”

“Easy?” Odysseus’s temper flared. “You think it was easy to hold your son over the walls of Troy, all while looking into his eyes and only seeing my own? You think it was easy to ride inside that horse into the city as the people celebrated, knowing that their joy would be short-lived? You think it was easy to watch the city burn as the people screamed for mercy, calling for their loved ones so they could breathe their last in each other’s arms? All while knowing full well that it was your fault this entire massacre occurred?” Tears were running down his cheeks now, staining his chiton. “None of this was easy, prince. It haunts my every step; occupies my every thought. I wish—how I wish I could have prevented this, but in the end, it was never up to me.”

“No,” Hector whispered. “But you could have tried.”

Odysseus’s heart ached. “I did,” he choked. “I really did.”

“There’s blood on your hands,” Hector said softly. “And there will be more. But whose blood—that remains up to you.”

With that, Hector’s figure disappeared, leaving Odysseus to fall to his knees and cry, each sob clenching his heart with guilt.

[riddle-me-ri]

I've just found your blog and read just about every penguin x reader I could find man! I gotta ask for more (I'm so sorry if your askbox is closed or anything again so sorry ignore this if it is) how do you think they'd handle a chubby short reader feeling insecure? Since I know you did one for reader comforting the colony on their insecurities

Either way have a good day/night/whenever you read this, take care of yourself, and get hit with the self care and seld love beam or so HELP ME :D

a/n: awww this is so sweet, nothing like reciprocated love and support, cause if there’s any rogue that understands these insecurities it’s definitely a handful of the pengys. I hope you enjoy!

Content Warning: none

The Penguins Comforting Reader's Insecurities

Arkhamverse Penguin:

- Oswald understands all too well how you feel…

- He wishes he can just get rid of those thoughts for you.

- Oz mostly uses actions rather than words to try and reassure you.

- He will spoil you with clothes that he knows will compliment your body.

- Oz will wrap his arms around you or squeeze you.

- He will solidify his actions with words if he can tell you’re still not convinced.

Reevesverse/Farrell Penguin:

- Needless to say, this Oswald compliments you…basically daily.

- He does everything he can to put your insecurities at bay.

- Oz will fill your ears with sweet honeyed words about how much he loves to touch and hold your plump skin.

- He will tell you how your chest is his favorite pillow to nestle into.

- As his words get sweeter, his grip around you gets tighter and he pulls himself closer to you to kiss you.

- Just the warmth and sincerity in his voice may just be enough to make you convinced.

Gotham Penguin:

- Oswald hears you out, and it hurts him to hear how you feel about yourself.

- He instantly wants to know if there’s anyone in particular that said something rude or judgemental to you.

- However, even Oswald himself doesn’t know how to take care of an enemy when it’s their own person.

- Oz will want your full attention when he tells you that he wouldn’t change a thing about you.

- A king always knows what he wants, and he only ever wants the best.

BTAS Penguin:

- Oswald wishes he could find the words that could cease your insecurities for good.

- The way he compliments you is like something straight out of a poetry book or romance novel.

- He holds your hands and squeezes them reassuringly before kissing them, just adoring you the only way he knows how.

- He will spend the whole day with you, never letting you out of his sight.

- Oswald assures you that you're just the perfect beautiful dove and that you two were always meant for each other, no matter what others say or feel.

- Pretty soon, your feelings will slowly be replaced with love and contentment.

Telltale Penguin:

- Ozzie's first instinct is to go fists to cuffs with whoever said anything to you or made you feel that way.

- However, when he realizes it's just your mind…he can't help but understand somewhat.

- He knows what it's like when your mind goes out of it's way to make you feel like shit.

- Oz isn't always the most physical when it comes to affection, but in these circumstances, he pulls out all the stops.

- He rests and nestles his head on your thighs or chests, where else would he rest his weary head if you weren't generously chubby there.

- You shouldn't have to worry about your height, he's got all the height you'll ever need.

- And you'll always be the only person he will ever need.

One Bad Day Penguin:

- Oswald can tell you’re feeling insecure by just how hesitant you become.

- You don’t want to go out sporting a new dress, you don’t want to embarrass Oz, or see people judging you.

- Ozzie racks his brain trying to find a way to make you see what he sees.

- He begins flirting with you, teasingly so, not too far off from how he actually first approached you when you first met.

- You can't ignore the butterflies in your stomach or the soft smile stretching across your lips.

- Out of all the beautiful people that were in and out of the Iceberg Lounge…he only had eyes for you.

The Batman (2004) Penguin:

- Ozzie's first remedy for your insecurities is to make you laugh.

- He’ll make fun of conventionally attractive people and/or skinny people (totally not also because he has a grudge against them)

- They aren't as fun as you are, they aren't as amazingly beautiful inside and out as you…

- Before either of you realize it, he somehow goes from joking to sincere-

- He just wanted to see you smile and happy again, but he means everything he says.

- Ozzie wishes he can more, but he always hopes that his words are enough (they are)

Batman Unlimited Penguin:

- Oswald is hesitant and unsure what to do despite desperately wanting to help…

- How does he reassure someone of something he often struggles with that's only left him bitter and resentful.

- It breaks his heart to hear how you dislike your physique.

- He tries to deter them with his own words, how lucky he feels to have you…(especially…given his own appearance and age…)

- Not to make it about him but as a means to let you know he can understand and relate…

- But he has been able to be more secure in himself because someone as beautiful as you loves him for who he is and what he looks like inside and out.

- And he hopes to return the sentiment tenfold with his words and undying devotion to you.

[starlight-archer]

Since AO3 is down, here's my stevetember fic!! (will be up on AO3 too as soon as possible)

The Case of The Not-So-Evil Seagull: Part 1

This was not the first report of 'evil seagulls' in Port Townsend. However, it was the first report of such obvious severity.

It started out simply enough, with a letter from Tragic Mick, who had contacted the Dead Boy Detective Agency in London, via the Ghost Post about the theft of a specific magical item from his shop. An item that could cause quite the calamity in the wrong hands.

“Are we sure we want to go back there after what happened?” Charles asked, full of well-meaning concern.

“It's Mick! We have to go!” Niko protested. “I wouldn't have been able to come back to you guys without the bear totem he gave me.”

“I do believe that Niko is correct in this matter. Mick has asked for our assistance and I think that it is fair to say that we owe him.” Edwin reasoned. “Besides, Esther is gone and therefore cannot hurt any of us anymore.”

“Esther's not who I'm worried about, mate.” Charles pursed his lips in irritation as he remembered that infuriating feline menace. “It's that bloody Cat King.”

“But he helped me and Crystal!” Niko jumped to the cat's defence.

“That's true. He did give us some pretty vital info that helped us figure out how to take Esther down.” Crystal added. “But we don't have to interact with him, especially if he might make you uncomfortable, Edwin.”

“I appreciate that, Crystal, but I assure you there is no need to worry. I parted from the Cat King on good terms. By the end, I believe that we came to understand each other. Besides, I have no reason to think that he would do anything to purposefully hinder us, given that none of us have slighted him as of recent.” Edwin replied, and, as he recalled the way he had kissed the Cat King's cheek, he felt relieved that ghosts lacked in the ability to blush.

“Alright, if you're sure,” Charles reluctantly agreed. “but if he tries any funny business, I won't hesitate to knock his block off.”

“I cannot say I approve of such measures, but I do appreciate the sentiment.” Edwin smiled fondly before turning to Crystal and Niko. “Given our previously successful experimentation with the backpack, I believe it would be more efficient for the two of you to use it so that you might come with Charles and I, via the mirrors.”

Edwin circled the desk and stood, ready, by the mirror.

“Okay, okay, sure, that's great and all, but Niko and I are gonna need to get at least a backpack of clothes together before we go all the way there.” Crystal gestured between the two of them while Niko nodded enthusiastically.

“Fine… just don't take too long.” Edwin sighed.

Having to accommodate the living was still something to get used to after thirty-odd years of just doing everything on a whim. He was getting there. That didn't mean that he wasn't going to complain about it, though.

-----

When they got to Port Townsend, it was sunny and bright, still in the morning hours of the day. It was one of the more convenient things about the eight-hour time difference; it meant that they had the whole day ahead of them to work this case.

As soon as Crystal and Niko had managed to clamber back out of the backpack, they headed over to Mick's.

When they arrived, the shop was strangely quiet. Cautiously, they shared a look between themselves and stepped inside.

Mick was not in his usual seat behind the counter, so they ventured a little further until a loud crash sounded out from around the corner.

Simultaneously, they hurried to the source of the noise, only to find Mick swinging a broom at a frantically flapping seagull. The bird flapped its wings and tried to land, the space between shelves being too small for it to comfortably fly.

The four of them watched on in mild horror as the bird nipped at Mick's trouser leg, only to get whacked in the side with the broom and sent careening towards them with an indignant squawk.

They stepped back, giving the bird and the frustrated ex-walrus as wide of a berth as they could in the confined space between aisles.

“Get it! Get that evil seagull!” Mick turned about and followed through the gap in the shelves.

The seagull cried out and hobbled towards them, one of its wings visibly injured. It jumped twice and scrambled as it was knocked in the tail feathers again with the broom, and tried to hide behind Edwin and Charles' legs.

“What in the blazes is going on here exactly?” Edwin asked, confused and startled.

“That there is one of those evil seagulls that's been terrorising my shop.” Mick pointed at it in accusation with the broom. “Coming in, flapping around, knocking things over. And, trying to eat my lunch.”

They stared for a moment and the seagull let out a rather pathetic squeaking noise.

“While that is certainly very irritating, what is it about this exactly that warrants our intervention, specifically?” Edwin questioned, slowly, still taking in the situation.

“I already told you. It's an evil seagull.” Mick reiterated.

“Right. Well, I'll just take this little guy outside then.” Charles said, turning to try and scoop the bird up into his arms.

The bird screeched out in pain as pressure was put on its injured wing and it snapped, biting at Charles' fingers with its sharp, yellow beak.

“Oi!” he protested. “I'm just trying to help, mate!”

“I think its wing might be broken.” Niko stepped closer, looking sympathetically at the bird.

“Shit, that looks bad.” Crystal agreed, wincing.

“Hang on a tick.” Charles finally managed to scoop up the seagull and noticed something. “This guy's got pink legs. That's a Herring Gull, right, Edwin? Aren't they usually only in the UK?”

The seagull squawked in what sounded like agreement.

“That's right, Charles. They're endangered, actually, if I am recalling correctly.” Edwin turned to examine the gull himself. “What are you doing so far from home?”

The gull tilted its head, curiously.

“What exactly was the magical item that was stolen from you, Mick?” he turned back to their friend.

“The sheet music that summons evil seagulls.”

“Hang on. Is that the same sheet music that we almost tried to use to make that giant fish go back to sleep?” Crystal wondered, aloud.

“A'yup.” Mick confirmed with a solemn nod. “Good job you didn't, too, or this would have been an even bigger problem.”

“I wonder who would want to summon evil seagulls...” Niko reached out to gently touch the seagull's head. It nipped at her fingers, but with no real intent to cause hurt. “This one seems too nice to be evil.”

“Now don't let it fool you. That thing has been coming in and wrecking my shop daily. For a week.” Mick complained, though he did set his broom aside and take up his usual seat at the till.

“Do you have any idea who might want to do this?”Crystal asked, though she was pretty sure that there was no real point in asking it.

“Not a clue. That's why I called on you. You helped out all those ghosts while you were here and you dealt with those other evil seagulls for one of 'em. Surely this is within your area of business.” Mick looked between them expectantly.

“Of course! We can start right away! Right, guys?” Niko agreed, excitedly.

“Thank you! Thank you all. You can choose an item from my shop as payment, just get rid of those seagulls!” Mick seemed to be caught between relief and concern as he leaned back in his chair.

It had looked for a moment, as though Edwin had been about to object to Niko's eager agreement for the lack of negotiation over a method of payment, but he quickly accepted it at the prospect of being able to pick something out from the vast assortment of magical and enchanted items inside the shop.

“Right. Well. Let us get to work, then.”he said, cornering a glance down at the herring gull- which was looking awfully sorry for itself in Charles' arms – before turning briskly towards the exit.

“Right, we'll get this sorted for you, Mick, don't you worry.” Charles smiled cheerily as he pet the seagull's head with his index finger. “This little guy doesn't seem all that dangerous.”

“Just be careful.” Mick cautioned them, and after all the times he had helped them, they were inclined to listen.

“Sure.” Crystal offered a one-shoulder shrug.

“Don't worry, Mick. We'll be careful!” Niko assured before she hurried after Edwin, shortly followed by Crystal, and Charles (who was still focused on petting the gull and looked as though he may be about to start cooing at it).

Once they were all outside, it occurred to them that they didn't really know what to do with an injured bird.

They could not simply take it to a vet, considering that it was allegedly evil and most likely a magical creature of some sort. Being any kind of magical or supernatural tended to mean that normal doctors and vets, and the like were out of the question.

They also, however, could not spend the entire investigation carrying it around like some sort of handbag. Attempting to place it into the backpack could also result in some undesirable issues, not limited to the action potentially exacerbating the bird's injuries.

“So what do we do with it?” Crystal voiced their collective thoughts.

“We have to help it.” Niko said, sympathetically.

“But how? We don't exactly have access to any supernatural veterinarians, do we?” Crystal snarked, without any real bite.

“Well, as much as I'd love to, I can't really keep carrying him around with me, can I?” Charles agreed, though he looked reluctant to part with the seagull.

“Unfortunately not.” Edwin agreed. “Though I am rather uncertain of what alternatives we have at our disposal.”

Niko gasped. “What about the Cat King?”

“What do you mean?” Crystal immediately questioned.

“He's a magical animal too, right? Maybe he can help!” Niko explained her idea, happily.

Charles visibly recoiled at the plan, he felt a bit bad about his obvious distaste, but said distaste was overruling it.

“Oh, do stop pouting, Charles. Niko is right. He may just be the only one capable of helping us with this specific issue.” Edwin chastised.

He worried for a brief moment over the prospect of seeing the Cat King again, after their parting in the alleyway. He fought a blush at the memory of his bold actions, and at the knowledge that he still possessed the white lily that he had been so thoughtfully gifted. He had pressed and dried the flower in order to preserve it, and it was – at that very moment – sitting in a small frame, atop his desk.

The only person that he had confided in about the flower's origin was Niko, and he had a sneaking suspicion that although her intentions were good, she had another distinct purpose for suggesting that they seek the Cat King's assistance.

Nevertheless, he truly was their best option.

-----

The welcome that awaited them at the entrance to the Imperial Pacific Cannery, was… not in the least bit warm.

A clowder of hissing cats eyed the seagull with varying levels of seething, loathing, and hunger. They could not seem to decide on whether they thought of it as a threat or a snack.

“What the fuck are you doing back here again?” it was the same cat that Edwin had leashed on their first visit. He couldn't say that he blamed it for its disdain.

“We are here to seek an audience with the Cat King. Kindly move aside.” Edwin answered coolly.

“Fuck you!” it sneered. “I've got no idea why the Cat King even likes you.” it complained, but moved aside anyway.

“Thank you.”

Edwin walked past and the others trailed in behind him as he stepped inside the cannery.

As he approached the dais where the Cat King sat in his throne, in his cat form, Edwin could practically sense Charles' want to grab his cricket bat for protection. Such measures would be unnecessary, but he could certainly understand why his inability to access it would cause unrest. It was almost like a comfort item; it made him feel safer.

In a flash, the Cat King vanished, and reappeared in his human form in front of Edwin, running a hand over the lapel of his coat, adjusting it, though he was otherwise keeping a bit more of a respectful distance than he usually maintained.

“Edwin~” he purred. “What a pleasure it is to see you again~”

Edwin straightened up and cleared his throat. “Likewise.”

“Likewise?” Charles' spluttered next to him.

Edwin chose to ignore this.

“So, what brings you to my kingdom? Did you miss me?” the Cat King inquired, stepping a little further into Edwin's space at the positive reception.

“We require your assistance with an evil seagull situation, actually.” Edwin said, gesturing to the bird. “Though, that is not to say that I didn't miss you.” he hastened to add, upon noticing the Cat King's falling expression (which quickly brightened again).

“Oh. Well, since you came all the way here, I suppose I can do a favour for my favourite ghost.” the Cat King smiled and eyed Edwin flirtatiously as he spoke.

“So, if you're done with the foreplay, can you just tell us if this is actually an evil seagull?” Crystal reiterated, growing irritated at the time that they were taking.

“Ugh, you're so impatient.” the Cat King backed up, not bothering to hide his annoyance. “Do you want my help or not?”

“Sorry your highness. Please help us out.” Niko apologised on Crystal's behalf.

The Cat King lost a bit of his bluster at that. He had a soft spot for Niko, seeing as she was one of the only members of their little Scooby Gang that actually showed his position any respect.

“Fine, fine.” he pretended to be put out by it as he turned flippantly to the bird. “It's not an evil seagull, at least not by supernatural standards. It is a supernatural seagull though.”

“It's supernatural?” Charles repeated in question.

“I just said that, didn't I? Keep up.” the Cat King responded sarcastically, rolling his eyes. “Why don't you transform yourself, huh? You think they'll be nicer to you if you keep playing up the whole poor defenceless birdie shtick?” he leaned over so that he was eye-level with the seagull.

The gull wailed loudly in protest.

The Cat King hissed in irritation as his cats scattered and puffed up on high alert. “Shut the fuck up, will you? No one cares! Hurry up and transform already.”

All of a sudden, the bird disappeared inside a thick grey swirl of fog and before any of them could fully comprehend what was happening, it had reappeared in Charles' arms. As a young man.

Charles' immediate response is to push him away and scramble backwards away from him. “What the hell?”

“Don't be like that! I thought we were becoming friends!” the seagull- man- thing whined in what was surprisingly, a British accent.

He was tall (maybe a couple of inches taller than Edwin and Charles) and toned with soft features that were undercut by a sharp jawline. His hair was a riot of grey, wavy curls. His skin was smooth and dark, and his eyes were a piercing yellow, giving away his true nature.

“You did just transform while still being held.” Crystal pointed out.

“My arm is broken.” the Seagull protested. “I could hardly fly down with a broken bloody wing, could I?”

“Oh my god there's two of them.” the Cat King looked exasperatedly between the Seagull and Charles.

“Oi, sod off! No there isn't!” Charles snapped back.

“Why are you so offended? I'm perfectly nice, I'll have you know.” the Seagull pouted.

“Why are you British?” Niko broke the tension with her confusion.

Crystal's eyes widened. “Oh my gosh, Niko, you can't just ask people why they're British.”

“Your friend… Charles… guessed right earlier. I'm a Herring Gull.” he replied with a shrug, carefully guessing Charles' name and hoping he was right. “We're native to the UK and Ireland.”

“What on earth are you doing in Port Townsend, Washington?” Edwin inquired. “A little bit out of your usual migration is it not?” It was easier to ask these questions now that the gull had taken on a human form.

“Is that where I am? Thanks for telling me! You're the first one to bother to tell me anything. I did wonder why everyone here sounded like the TV people.” the seagull smiled widely at Edwin (oh good grief he had dimples). “Last thing I remember, I was flying over Hastings beach looking for anyone eating chips out in the open and the next, I was flying straight into a tree in the middle of an unfamiliar place. My nose still kind of hurts.” He moved his good arm animatedly as he explained it and even made a little 'exploding' motion for flying into the tree.

“I have… so many questions...” Crystal shook her head as she stared, mystified.

“That sounds like it hurt!” Niko sympathised.

“It did!” the seagull agreed. “And now I have a bruised nose and a useless broken arm!” he gestured to the offending limb. “That mean walrus man kept chasing me with his broom. I only went in because I could smell battered cod.”

“Of course you did.” the Cat King looked as though he was finding all of this hysterical. “This is too good.”

“Can you not use your magic to heal your arm?” Edwin asked. He had pulled out his notebook and pen from his breast pocket and was poised at the ready to start documenting any and all information that he could gather.

“Well, I think I can only transform. The only other thing I can do for sure is see ultraviolet light, innit? But all herring gulls can do that, so it's not really special.” the gull answered.

“You think? Can you at least tell us what sort of magical being you are if you are not an evil seagull?” Edwin continued, raising a brow at the gull's uncertainty over his own capabilities.

“Not a clue, mate. Definitely not evil though.” he sniffed. “Any of you got any food? I'm a bit peckish.”

“No...” Crystal replied.

The seagull looked a tad downtrodden at that, the most upset he had been thus far, even when he had been talking about his broken arm, which was still hanging limply by his side.

“Hang on a tick. Rewind a bit. You don't know what you are?” Charles was utterly baffled by the prospect.

“I guess I just never really thought about it.” the gull shrugged again.

Everyone in the room just stared at him for a moment, blinking. Every time he spoke he said something that managed to completely threw them for a loop.

“That's sad.” Niko broke the silence.

“I mean, I don't think so. I don't really think I need to know, you know? I don't know why I exist or what I'm supposed to be, but here I am! I actually think it's pretty cool! I get to be whatever I want.” the seagull grinned again. It was almost rudely charismatic.

Niko smiled happily in response, relieved that being in the dark about his own origins wasn't something that made him feel down.

“Jeez. I can't fucking take this anymore.” the Cat King gestured and in a puff of purple flame, the seagull's arm was secured in a cast and sling.

“Holy crap! Thank you!” the seagull cheered and abruptly drew the Cat King into a crushing hug. “My arm is all fixed! You're the best!”

When he let go, the Cat King stood stock still with a startled expression. He was only snapped out of his stupor by Charles and Crystal's snickering at his expense.

“It is absolutely not fixed. It is still very much broken. It is simply in a cast. Please do refrain from excessive movement if you want it to heal correctly.” Edwin chastised.

“Awww, thanks. You really care a lot don't you? You're so nice! Looking out for me an' all.” the seagull was almost painfully sincere.

They might not have known what the true nature of this seagull-man-thing was, but one thing was for certain.

This was definitely not an evil seagull.

[sporesgalaxy]

good morning on this fine friday at 5am my time! circe clawthorne jumpscare.

I truly think this is very very close to final, moreso than usual lol. I'm quite happy with this

I really can't tell if it would be more difficult for me to try and convert this into proper paragraphs or make it a comic...

well here it is. but wait there will be more!

•••

?: [distantly] Philip?

?: [closer] Philip!

?: Philip Wittebane!!!

P: [weirded out cuz hes in the middle of the woods] What in the–

C: [running up to him excitedly] Philip!!! It’s SO good to see you again!!!

P: [backing away] See me again? Do we know each other, Miss?

C: !

C: Come on, Philip!

C: Surely the King of the Witch Hunters can recognize the Dread Witch Beezelbella when he sees her!

—

P: …

C: [smile falters nervously] ...

[Philip bolts]

C: Wh- Philip!

[He sprints through the woods as fast as he can, but weaving between the trees slows him down.]

[Circe suddenly cuts Philip off, riding on her staff]

P: [flinches away from her so violently that he falls on his ass] GAH!!

C: What are you running away for?!

P: [shielding his face, peeking at her erratically, as if afraid to look directly at her for too long] You’re not real!! You’re some cruel illusion!!

P: Sent to– to torment me, or tempt me to forfeit my soul to the devil!

P: Well it WON’T WORK!! So– gh– [flails his hands in her general direction] BEGONE!

–

C: No no no no! No tricks, I promise!

C: [REALIZES SHE IS LEVITATING] Ah!!! Er…

[she jumps off the staff and holds it behind her conspicuously, too frantic to remember to store it as a palisman]

C: [smiling nervously] I meant to save that for later!

P: [STARING]

C: Here. :) [holds out her free hand to help him up]

P: [looks somewhere btwn angry and scandalized]

[Philip pushes himself further away from her before standing up on his own. He struggles a little because he now seems reluctant to take his eyes off her. Circe looks saddened but not entirely surprised.]

C: Really, I--

[tries to gesture, but is still holding the staff in one hand, and ends up accidentally swinging it towards Philip.]

[Philip flinches again, and stares at it like it might explode.]

[Circe quickly reduces the staff to just a bird and pockets the palisman in her cloak]

C: [smiling apologetically, holding up palms to show she’s unarmed] I’d never dream of hurting you!!

C: [looking at him and still smiling but with pleading, sad eyes] You know that, don't you Philip? No matter how we've changed, I...I'll always love you.

P: [mentally recalculating] …I...see.

C: [beams] Yes!! I pinky promise! [holds out pinky for a second, but quickly drops it]

P: [less defensive body language, but still clearly a little wary] Hm…

–

C: [a bit nervier] Ah-- before we go any further, I need to re-introduce myself!!

P: [skeptical] Re-introduce?

C: [trying to stay chipper but looking more stressed] I know I look different, but it’s…it’s still me!! [she pulls her hair back into a ponytail, looking a bit uncomfortable] See?

P: The…Dread Witch Beezelbella.

C: [frustrated] Your sis– your sibling!!! You know, the one who raised you?? Who spent all those years putting gruel on the table??

P: [frowning] The one who died seven years ago.

C: Er– well– I had to...go away for a while. But I’m here now!!

C: [trying to bulldoze through it] And really hardly anything has changed!

C: I've simply learned I’m much happier being your sister! That’s not too complicated, is it? You understand, don’t you??

P: I…suppose–

C: [bulldozing again] Spectacular!!!!

C: So, you’ll call me Ci– [seems to realize something] Er…just C.C. is fine for now! [nervy smile]

[Philip gives her a perplexed look]

C: Probably easier and, er…good for an Adjustment Period! [nods to herself]

P: [mostly just baffled] …C.C.

C: [nodding more] You've got it!! Same person, new gender! None of the old name and no man words, pretty please!

P: --

C: [before Philip can reply] Great!!!

C: Now, with all THAT out of the way: It’s YOUR turn! [stepping closer to him, as though she wants to hold his hands] Tell me everything! How are you?! What’s happened while I was gone? What have you been up to??

–

P: [leaning away] Oh. Er…

P: I’m…doing very well. I… [“thinks”, bringing a finger to his chin a little too theatrically]

P: …Goodness, so much has changed, I’m not even sure where to start!

P: Really, you ought to just visit the house with me and see what’s changed for yourself. [grabs her arm and gently tugs]

C: [Withdraws, very nervous] Oh, no no no, I can't go into town.

C: You and I of all people should know how–!

C: --!

C: [Squints]

P: …Is something the matter?

C: [Squints harder]

C: ...Do NOT Witch-hunt me, Philip!!!!

P: I have no idea what you’re talking about. I'm only trying to show you--

C: Oh for goodness' sake, NO!!!! I will NOT set foot in that town EVER again!!

P: ...Then you should wait here for just a moment, and I'll return shortly– [beginning to walk away]

C: [Grabs his arm to stop him leaving] [exasperated] I am not an idiot, Philip!!!

C: [sighs] Look, I know this is going to be difficult for you to accept, but magic didn't turn me evil! I'm still just ME!

P: [MAIDENLESS STARE]

–

[Circe continues holding Philip’s arm to keep him there, and for now, he lets her.]

C: As it turns out, you DON’T have to sell your soul for magic! We were completely wrong about it!

P: [EXTREMELY skeptical] Is that so?

C: [frustrated] It’s true! I could prove it to you!

C: ...Well, I guess I can’t PROVE that I still have a soul. Not that I know of. [to herself] I wonder if there’s a spell for that…

P: [extremely sarcastic] Perhaps we ought to enlighten the entire town to the existence of this fascinating *benign sorcery*.

C: [annoyed] Really, Philip?

P: Well, why not?? Since you can *prove* that it’s harmless, let's go prove it to everybody! It would make our lives *so* much easier…

C: Stop it.

—

P: Why, no one would have to do chores ever again!

C: Philip!

P: Maybe we could all be in one big witch’s coven together--

C: ENOUGH!!

C: You've been clear enough already!!!! You still don't like magic, and you don't trust me!!!

C: [takes a deep breath] ...

[Gently, Circe lets go of Philip's arm, which she had been gripping rather tightly.]

[She watches as though expecting Philip to bolt again, but he doesn't.]

[She fidgets with her sleeve as she continues.]

C: Philip, please. Just...just listen to me for a moment.

P: [Opens mouth, looking indignant]

C: [cutting Philip off] You don't have to believe me! I know that you...probably won't. I had hoped--

C: [doesnt finish that thought, looking bitterly sad]

C: ...There's something I need to tell you, but I want to know you'll listen.

P: [scoffs] Why bother if you know I won't fall for it?

C: Because...! Because I have to do something!

C: ...Philip--

[She reaches toward him, and he shrinks back.]

P: You've been gone for nearly a decade.

C: ... [confirmingly guilty face]

P: It took you that long to-- to bother telling me anything?!

P: Why in the hell would I want to believe that?!

—–

P: How could I?!

P: How could I possibly believe that you’d *vanish without a trace,*

P: and then– *reappear out of thin air,* just because-- what, the whim finally struck you???

C: No--! It-- it wasn't a whim, Philip, I would never--!

P: [pulling at his hair] AGH!! Then where have you *been??!!!* Why come back *now??!*

C: I-- it's difficult to explain--

P: I spent YEARS trying to hunt down that *witch*–!

[Circe grimacing/wincing rxn shot]

P: [gesticulating wildly] YEARS hopelessly wondering what might’ve become of you!!!!!

P: I WASTED my LIFE searching for answers!!!!

P: Of course I don't want to believe this!! That you could have come back this whole time, but-- [voice breaking]

P: ...But you chose not to.

–

C: 😟

P: [still angry, but quieter now] And what a cruel joke it would be, for you to finally be here.

P: [hand gravitating towards knife on belt] After I’d finally managed to give *up* on you.

[Circe wants to hug him. She wishes he were still small enough that she could pick him up and squeeze him with all her might. But she thinks better of it. No matter how much she loved Philip, she couldn't afford to trust him right now.]

[Philip's hand is hovering over the spot where Circe knows his knife sheath to be. She feels her heart break a little more.]

[She steadily meets his eyes and keeps her hands at her sides, ready to pull out her staff if necessary. She won't be able to hurt him the way he's apparently resolved to hurt her, but she could run away.]

[She had desperately hoped that Gravesfield's claws wouldn't be sunken so deeply into him, but she knew what it took to survive there. And he had been forced to survive it even longer than her.]

C: ...I’m sorry, Philip.

P: ...

C: I'm sorry for leaving you in Gravesfield alone.

C: I didn't think I had a choice.

[Circe shifts her weight uncomfortably. It feels wrong, measuring how she speaks to Philip, her brother, the person who knew her better than anyone not too long ago. But he isn't the only one she's protecting anymore.]

C: ...truthfully, I…

[It feels loathesome to admit after so many years of spending so much of her energy hiding it.]

C: …I thought you would be better off without me.

—

P: [genuine confusion] ...What?

C: You're a genius, Philip. I knew you could do anything you put your mind to. Make a real future for yourself.

C: But I-- I could barely even keep us fed until we--

C: [looking terribly guilty] ...started working together.

C: I thought that once you could take care of yourself...

C: You could have a normal, happy life. Without me.

P: [pissed] And how do you know that you couldn't be a part of it!? You ran away before you even tried!!

C: I tried for years!! All my trying ever did was put targets on our backs!!!

C: [bitterly] Because I couldn't hold down any job but the most dangerous in Gravesfield.

---

P: What targets?! We were heroes!

P: If you had just stayed, if you had never listened to that witch, we still would be!!

P: Did she say I'd be better off without you?! Is that how she convinced you to leave?!

C: [low, serious] No.

C: I... [ashamed] ...I made up my mind before I met Evelyn.

C: I had already decided you were better off without me.

C: [intense] She's the reason I'm still here to discuss it with you.

P: [shocked, unsettled, doesn't want to process that]

P: That...that can't be true! Everything was fine until she came along!! This was all her fault!!

P: You'd still be normal if it weren't for her!!!

C: [angry on Evelyn's behalf] No!!! I was never normal!!!!

C: And you were the only person who couldn't seem to tell!!!

C: [tearing up] It was going to get us both killed, sooner or later!!!

C: *I* was going to get us killed, because I'm like this!! Because *I* can't live a normal life!!

C: I wanted to protect you. To make your life easier than mine had been, but--

P: You were protecting me just fine before you ran away!!!

P: And what's this nonsense about us getting killed?! We were heroes! We saved the whole town from evil!

C: We were never heroes! We weren't saving anyone!

C: We punished people who didn't fit in!

P: Didn't "fit in??"

P: We punished monsters!! Demons who tortured our neighbors!!

P: Any one of those witches would have sacrificed all of Gravesfield to the Devil had we not stopped them!!

C: And what about us, Philip?!

C: Is there anyone in Gravesfield we wouldn't have sacrificed, had the court willed it?!!

C: [crying] We were such hypocrites!

C: The suspicion, the accusations-- it was exactly the way they used to treat us!! We were outsiders, too!!

P: [falters. that kinda gets to him but he wants to pretend it didnt]

C: [miserable] I justified so many awful things to myself. To you.

C: All because I was too scared to see the truth.

C: And once I finally did...I was too gutless to ask you to face it.

C: We were never any better than anyone else.

C: All of it...

C: It was just murder.

P: [not as much conviction] Don't be ridiculous--!

C: Don't be naive!!

P: ...

C: ...

C: ...I am truly sorry, Philip.

C: I'm sorry that I got us into this mess.

C: I'm sorry that I couldn't protect you like I was supposed to.

--

C: I was rash. And stupid. But I only ever wanted to keep you safe.

C: ...I still want you to be safe. I'd hoped you could understand, but...

C: [difficult for her to give up on him] ...if you refuse to listen...there's nothing that I can do.

P: [trying to not want it to be real] ...

[Philip looks conflicted, frustrated, trying to find his anger and righteousness again]

P: I-- rrgh!! You're impossible!!!

[He begins to walk in one direction, pulling at his hair, then suddenly turns on his heel and walks the other way again]

P: [exasperated, tring to convince himself] Literally! This is-- this is all impossible...!

[He buries his face in his hands and plops down on a log with an angry grunt]

[Circe watches him, wondering what he’s thinking now.]

[After he just sits there with his face in his hands for a moment, she slowly approaches and sits carefully next to him.]

P: [he is resting his elbows on his legs. He clasps his hands, uncovering his face, forehead against his intertwined fists.]

P: ...

[shot of Circe looking at him sadly]

–

C: …Are you happy in Gravesfield?

P: [Hands still clasped, his eyes open, looking into the woods] …

C: Philip?

P: [flatly] That doesn’t matter.

C: [Leaning forward, trying to look in his eyes] …It matters to *me*…

[Philip unclasps his hands but remains hunched over. He instead holds his elbows, which still rest on his legs. Does not look at Circe.]

P: [cold] So you say.

[Circe shrinks back]

[the two sit in silence for a moment. Birds chirp, and the bare tree branches sway in the breeze above them.]

–

C: [quietly] …are the trials as bad as they used to be?

P: …

P: [even tone] Less frequent.

C: [hopeful] That’s good.

P: … [furrows his eyebrows]

C: Do you still–

P: Yes.

C: [saddened] …

P: I am protecting people.

P: I’ve prevented what happened to you from happening again a dozen times over.

[Circe pales. Philip still is not looking at her.]

P: [clearly bitter about something] I’m *careful.* [seeming more vexed than proud] I’ve done more research than *anyone.*

C: [examining his face] …Research?

P: …

C: [dawning ] Do they *understand* that’s what your doing?

P: [intensely, looking only at the ground] It doesn’t matter. I can prove it.

C: [scared] Philip, are you in danger?

P: [breaks a twig off a branch on the fallen log with his left hand] [curtly] *No.*

P: [looks annoyed at the stick momentarily. passes it to his right hand] Because *I* am not a witch.

P: [slightly hesitant] …obviously.

—-

[Philip starts doodling in the dirt with the twig]

C: [losing patience with his stubborness] Do you honestly still believe that only real witches get accused? Get *punished?*

P: [stops drawing. gives her an angry sideways glance. then glares at the dirt again] …

P: …*Yes.*

P: As long as you do it *correctly.*

C: [furrows eyebrows] ……

[Philip resumes, scratching the dirt more forcefully.]

C: But–

P: Witches die because they are born doomed.

[as he says “doomed,” Philip finishes drawing The Belos Mask with a final, forceful scratch]

C: That’s what we were *told*. That doesn’t mean it’s true.

[Circe looks at Philip, expression somewhere between grim and pleading, but he won’t look up from his sketch]

——

P: [darkly] What does that mean for you, then?

[Circe is taken off-guard]

P: Do your witch-friends know what you used to do?

P: Or are you lying to them, too?

C: I–!

C: …

C: [quieter] …Not all of them know.

P: [snidely] Hmph.

C: [with a bit more conviction] But the ones that *do* know…

C: They know that I was scared. And trying to keep us safe.

C: There are people who understand that I truly thought I was doing the right thing.

C: [guilt] That I would give anything to undo it now…

C: [focusing on Philip again] They trust me, and love me, even though I’ve made…terrible mistakes. Even though I’ll *always* make mistakes.

C: [trying REALLY hard to get through to Philip] *Gravesfield isn’t all there is.*

P: …

[Philip scratches out the doodle forcefully.]

P: [unhappily] Good for you.

—-

[a prolonged beat of silence, save Philip’s stick scraping against the ground as he scribbles slowly, randomly on the spot where the doodle used to be]

C: ...If you want–

[suddenly, Philip throws his stick to the ground and turns to Circe]

P: [frustrated noise] Would you just get this over with already?!

C: [taken aback] What?

P: For Christ's sake, I don’t care what you want anymore!! Just take it!!!

P: You win! Enough with this awful vision!!

C: [baffled] Wha–! I-I’m not–! You still don’t believe that I’m real?!

——-

P: You *can’t* be!

P: [breaking a little] I only *want* you to be real!

P: I *want* you to be *alive*!

P: I don’t *want* to be *alone* any longer!!

P: But you insist on dragging out this awful charade!!

P: [becoming more desperate than angry] Why can’t you just lie to me?!

P: Tell me that you never wanted to leave at all!! That you're back for good! That nothing’s changed!!

P: *Something*– *anything* that’s actually easy to go along with!!! Isn't that what you're supposed to do?!

[Circe looks hurt]

P: Don't I even get to die thinking that I could be reunited with– with you?!

P: [losing steam] …What could you possibly want that you haven’t had the chance to take from me already…?

[a beat. Circe’s expression has closed off considerably. Philip rubs his face for a moment, then looks up again.]

P: Please. Get it over with. Kill me, or whatever it is you came here to do.

P: Or for God’s sake leave me be.

[wide shot of them sitting in unhappy silence]

——

C: [very quietly] …Alright.

[Circe stands, brushes her skirt off. Philip remains sitting, not looking at her]

C: I suppose I’ve done all that I can, then.

P: …

C: I won’t disturb you again.

P: …….

C: I’m still thankful that I could see you one last time.

P: ………..

C: [trying to keep composed] Please…stay safe. Take care of yourself.

P: ……………..

—

C: I love you.

P: …………… … …

C: [offscreen] Goodbye, Philip.

[she walks away]

[a beat passes]

[Philips resolve breaks. As he looks up–]

P: Ca– C.C., I–

[–he realizes he is alone again.]

P: ….

P: [slowly, he stands. brushes his jacket off. walks away.]

[ravensliterature]

Poison to My Lips

A/N: Posting again!

pairing: Thranduil x Reader

warnings: Mention of Blood

w/c: 2341 

Prompt: You are a half-elven servant who has fallen in love with the king and entered a secret relationship. How will you both deal when others torment you for your heritage

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

Thranduil waited for you in the gardens where you both were to meet in secret. Sitting on a stone bench, he gazed at the roses that bloomed around his feet, the flowers glinting under the moonlight, making them look like stars. He couldn’t help but wonder what it would be like if things were different, if they could be different. The garden doors opened, and Thranduil stood as your familiar face stepped but of it.

“I have been expecting you here, my love,” he said, but the smile on his lips faltered when he saw the tears streaming down your face. “What happened? What has upset you so much? Tell me what it is I can do to make it better?”

You looked up at him with red-rimmed eyes, tears running down your cheeks like rivers. “It's nothing, my darling. Some of the fellow maids poured water upon me. It was in jest.”

He frowned slightly, concern lacing his words. “Why did they do such a thing? Surely there must have been an explanation.”

You let out a sigh. “I take it they still do not like a half-elven's presence…”

Thranduil shook his head. How could people be so cruel? Why would they want to hurt you? His chest tightened knowing your levels of distress. “This behavior will not be allowed. Please tell me who has done this.”

You smiled softly up at him, wrapping your arms around his waist. “If you insist, then I shall tell you, but please do not be too cruel. They are simply ignorant.”

His eyebrows furrowed even more as he held you close. It wasn't fair that anyone would treat you so cruelly. He would do whatever it took to make sure none of them hurt you again. He pulled away and cupped your cheek, his thumb stroking your skin softly. "Tell me.”

“Liriel and Ariya."

His eyes widened before narrowing into slits. "I will discuss it with them later. For now, I wish to enjoy my evening with the one dearest to me."

A smile appeared on your face as your hand found its way to rest against his cheek. “As you wish, my King."

You bent forward and placed a soft kiss on his lips.

You were walking through the corridors of the palace holding laundry in your arms that needed a good washing. The halls were dark, only the occasional lantern lit the path in front of you, casting shadows of yourself moving quickly down the halls as you moved from room to room. As usual, the halls were empty except for a few servants scurrying back and forth as they prepared for the night shift.

The sound of voices booming ahead of you alerted you, causing your curiosity to spike. The voices were coming from the throne room, but Thranduil often wrapped up his duties by this time. You paused outside of the door and waited patiently, listening carefully to find out what they were discussing. After a while, you heard the voice boom again.

"What makes you think this is alright to do in my kingdom?" The king demanded.

"But sire—"

"No! This behavior cannot go unchecked." The king snapped, his deep baritone echoing through the hallways, sending chills down your spine. "This goes no further, nor does it ever again. Is that understood?"

"But my king, she..."

"Silence!"

You froze, clutching the basket tightly in your hands. Your heart hammered wildly, pounding harder as each moment passed without hearing another word.

"Do not speak about this subject anymore or so help me I will banish you from my sight," Thranduil said coldly. "Understand?"

"Yes sire," a female voice mumbled weakly.

Footsteps walked your way towards the door and soon after the heavy door slammed open. Your breath hitched in your throat. There was so much anger contained within those words, the sheer amount of rage and disappointment behind them. You hid behind the large door seeing who would approach. Liriel and Ariya. You could feel your heart begin to race, feeling the anxiety and fear bubble inside of you like lava, slowly growing hotter until it exploded inside.

"I can't believe the king would defend that half-breed." Liriel spat, her voice sounding angry, almost disgusted. "She has no place amongst us. She should never be allowed here at all."

You closed your eyes, unable to watch, the heat growing unbearable. Your breathing grew heavier as tears welled up in your eyes. You wanted to run away but you didn't want to alert them of your presence. Ariya scoffed, "I agree but I don't think there is much we can do now. She has somehow managed to bewitch the king; she is dangerous."

You felt sick to the stomach. Liriel huffed. "Well, she deserves worse than being cast aside like garbage."

"That may be true but how far are we willing to go to get rid of her?"

The two women continued speaking, leaving you standing there frozen until they eventually walked away. With a shaky breath, you composed yourself, entering the throne room. The two guards were kneeling before Thranduil, their heads bowed low. Thranduil spoke softly, "Please leave us."

You stood rooted to the spot, watching as the guards nodded and left the room. Once they were gone, you stepped forward, your eyes meeting Thranduil's.

"My love, what are you doing here?" He asked, his voice laced with worry.

You swallowed hard, trying to keep your composure. "I came to see you."

He sighed, "Is that so?"

You nodded, taking a tentative step closer to him, "Of course I did."

Thranduil lifted himself off the throne and made his way down the steps to meet you. He reached out gently, cupping your cheek, brushing your hair out of your eyes. "Are you okay?" He whispered, kissing your forehead tenderly, "Did something happen today?"

You looked away, your eyes scanning the floor. "Come, love," he took your hand, leading you to the bench, "tell me what happened."

Your brow furrowed. "Nothing bad." You insisted, looking up at him. "Just a little tired. Need to find a gown for the Feast of Starlight."

Thranduil raised an eyebrow, "Really?"

You nodded, "Yes. But it isn’t anything important…"

Thranduil leaned forward kissing you lightly. "Nonsense. I will have a dress sent to your chambers."

You blushed faintly, resting your head against his shoulder. A warm glow settled in your chest. Thranduil loved you unconditionally and he was always kind and loving to you. You would not trade him for the world. He kissed your forehead once more and squeezed your hand. "Go bathe and rest. I shall see you tonight."

You smiled up at him, squeezing his hand in return and turning to leave the throne room.

"Tonight! We celebrate!" Thranduil yelled to the full ballroom. You watched as hundreds of elves danced throughout the ballroom and tables covered in food. You were dressed in a flowing silver gown that Thranduil had picked for you. You wore a crown of flowers and small diamonds adorning your hair. The silver jewelry sparkled under the light that shone through the tall windows. The jewels gave off the illusion that you could see stars.

"Y/n!" Legolas called to you from across the room as he made his way over to you.

He grinned, hugging you tightly, "You look like a star in the sky."

You chuckled lightly, "Thank you. And you look quite handsome as well."

Legolas flushed slightly, a smile playing on his lips. "Truly? I am glad to hear that."

You giggled, "Yes, indeed."

He smiled brightly, "Thank you."

Slowly, he leaned to the side of your face and whispered in your ear. "My father wishes me to inform you that he has made a private evening for the two of you when the feast is over." You blushed heavily, "Oh...um...thank you!"

He pecked your cheek teasingly, "Of course, he is quite fond of you. I hope you are both able to provide each other with eternal happiness." He then turned on his heel and began making his way through the crowd as you watched him in amusement. Soon your eyes landed back on Thranduil. He was talking quietly to the nobles of Mirkwood who demanded his attention, occasionally glancing over to where you stood with a subtle longing gaze.

You smiled to yourself until you spotted Ariya heading toward you, her blonde hair pinned atop her head, a flower necklace around her neck. She approached you with a bright grin, her blue eyes shining with excitement and two glasses in her hand, "Hello Y/n! How is the feast finding you?"

You shrugged, "Fine, I suppose. What do you need of me?"

Her eyebrows shot up, "Nothing at all. Well, actually, I wish to apologize."

Your eyes widened slightly, taken aback. "You would?"

"I have been most unkind to you." Ariya apologized, "And I know you must be hurt."

You shook your head, "No, it is alright. I mean…It did hurt..."

She sighed and sat down on the stone steps beside you, "Nevertheless, please accept my apology and please drink with me."

You stared into her eyes before nodding with a smile, accepting her apology. She slid one glass to you and saved the other for herself.

"Drink up," Ariya said, lifting up her glass.

You nodded, holding your cup up, "To new beginnings."

The two of you drank the alcohol in unison before finishing your glasses. "May we enjoy tonight as if it is our last?" You nodded, taking another sip of the drink and gazing at Ariya's bright and vibrant blue eyes, "Sounds perfect."

The night continued for hours and it wasn't long till the party grew in merriment. Everyone was drunk, dancing to a lively melody and singing songs of victory and celebration. It was quite beautiful and you couldn't help but smile whenever you caught your lover's eye as he stood amongst the crowd, watching the festivities from afar.

Finally, he made his way toward you. You smiled as he nodded to you, his eyes saying all the things he wished he could.

"You look very beautiful, Y/N." He murmured whispered to you. Your eyes lit up, "You as well, my king."

His eyes gleamed. "How has the feast faired you?" You shrugged, "It has been wonderful. Ariya even apologized to me and brought me wine."

He laughed lightly placing a kiss on your forehead, "Then dance with me and celebrate this news. Let loose for a while and forget everything else." You grinned widely and nodded.

He grabbed your hand and lead you towards the crowd, swaying to the music as he held onto you closely. Suddenly Thranduil stopped in his tracks causing you to stumble backward.

"What is it?" You mumbled nervously, staring at him with concern.

His eyes widened with fear, "Blood. There is blood running from your nose." You felt a chill run through you as you touched your nose quickly. Your eyes widened in horror when you realized the blood had dripped from your nose and had stained yours. Quickly you wiped it away as your head began to feel light.

Thranduil frowned, "Darling, you alright?" You blinked slowly, "I'm fine.."

Your legs suddenly buckled beneath you and a strong arm wrapped securely around your waist catching you before your head hit the ground. You let out a small whimper, closing your eyes and feeling tears begin to stream down your cheeks. "Stay awake, Y/N." Thranduil urged, "Look at me."

Your vision blurred, "Thran…"

"Y/N!" He yelled, grabbing your chin and forcing you to look at him.

You tried focusing your eyes only to see nothing but blackness.

"Don't close your eyes." He commanded urgently.

You felt yourself being hoisted up in his arms.

"I need a healer!"

"Y/N, please wake up." Your eyelids fluttered open, blinking multiple times to try and get rid of the dark clouds that threatened to engulf your vision. You squinted your eyes at the figure above you. As soon as they focused you recognized them as Thranduil. Your eyes widened.

"Where are we?" You asked shakily.

"We're in the healer's room." He answered softly, leaning closer so that you could hear him better.

"What happ-" your words died on your lips when you took in your surroundings. You were lying in a bed, covered in white sheets, with curtains drawn shut surrounding your bed.

"Liriel and Ariya poisoned you. I am currently holding them in the cells." You looked up at him in shock, "Are you going to kill them?"

He scoffed, shaking his head, "I wish…"

"My son urged me to banish them. He knew you wouldn't have wanted their deaths." His voice was laced with pain, his jaw clenched tightly.

You swallowed thickly before reaching up to touch his cheek gently. "I am sorry to have scared you, my love"

His eyes filled with sorrow, "You almost died. I almost lost you."

A tear rolled down your cheek, "But I'm still here, aren't I?"

"Yes." He murmured softly, wiping your tears away.

You hummed softly and laid back against the pillows.

Thranduil moved back to lay beside you and placed a tender kiss on your temple. He rested his head against your shoulder and closed his eyes.

You gazed at him thoughtfully until you heard him say: "Marry me." You gasped softly.

Your eyes opened wide in disbelief, "What?"

Thranduil opened his eyes and met yours with determination, "Y/N, marry me. Please."

"But-"

He lifted a finger to silence you, "I will not allow anyone to tell me what I can or cannot do. I almost lost you, I intend to enjoy every moment with you I can as my wife."

You bit down on your lip, a nervous chuckle leaving your mouth. "I cannot imagine being any happier than I already am now."

"So will you marry me?" He asked again.

You nodded slowly, biting your lip, trying to hide your growing smile, "...yes."

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[hauntedwitch04]

Never better

Steve Harrington x reader

Words: about 1,8k words

Warnings: none, just fluff and idiots totally in love with each other

Author’s note: Hi everybody! Here the second day of my Halloween party! Hope you like this!

Requests are open I Ask

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🎃Halloween party 🎃

DAY 2: “You really did this for me?” "I made one for every single person I love, but your is the one I did first because you were the first I thought about."

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.

Fall has finally arrived.

You have been waiting months for this moment, and finally looking out the window you can see the first trees turning orange. The air has grown colder, and the rain more frequent. You smile as you bake your second pan of cookies, having spent an entire afternoon making snacks to eat this evening at the movie night being held at your and Steve's house. You have just moved in and thought there was no better way to inagitate than to have an evening with all your closest friends.

You didn't realize, too immersed in your thoughts that in the meantime your boyfriend had entered the house, with bags full of Halloween decorations and candy.

Steve watches you hum David Bowie's "Starman" while icing the last of the cookies and can't help but smile. He still doesn't understand how he was lucky enough to get your love after being treated very badly in high school, believing he was king of the world at the time. Years later, when you met again and together with all your friends managed to survive the upside down, he apologized a billion times for how he had treated you and asked if there was any way he could make it up to you, and you, after thinking about it a few days told him that maybe there was a way, and he was taken out to dinner after going to the movies to see the new movie with Winona Rider, "The Heaters."

By the end of that date you had kissed each other passionately in the rain, just like in one of those old movies you saw as a child with your mother. It had been just perfect, and you hadn't been able to help but say yes to going out one more time with him, and one more time until you decided to get a house together, and try to see how living under the same roof would go.

You turn around and see Steve looking at you as he smiles at you, and you can't help but smile back. You wipe your hands on your apron before taking it off and walking over to your boyfriend, and hugging him as he lays a gentle kiss on your hair. You breathe deeply of the scent of his sweater, impregnated with the perfume you bought him the Christmas before, thinking it particularly suited him. You remain a few moments in silence, entwined in the middle of the kitchen, you with your head close to his warm chest, and he with his chin resting on your head, breathing in the scent of your shampoo. Eventually he is the one who breaks the silence.

"Baby, you made cookies for an army." He comments, looking around and seeing that everywhere there are cookies popping up as far as the eye can see.

"Harrington don't talk nonsense, this is barely enough to feed you and your brown bear metabolism that needs to hibernate." You respond jokingly as you punch him lightly in the chest.

You break away from the hug, starting to comment aloud about how there were still a lot of things to prepare before your friends arrived, when you feel a hand settle on your wrist, and you feel the boy draw you back to him.

He looks at you seriously enough to scare you, and immediately you think something bad is going to happen.

"Steve, you're scaring me." He comments, since he had not yet uttered a word after bringing you back to himself. With one hand he strokes your face, then runs his thumb over your lips. Suddenly he comes closer and leaves a light kiss on your lips, then asks you to wait for a second in that room with your eyes closed. You are increasingly confused, but nevertheless you nod and close your eyes, waiting for the boy to return.

You hear noises, as if something has fallen down the stairs, and then a few seconds later you hear Steve enter the kitchen. With your eyes still closed, you giggle, hiding your smile with your hand.

"Did you fall down the stairs?" Ask amusedly.

"I was in a hurry, and it's no laughing matter, I got discreetly hurt." Says Steve, but you hear him chuckle anyway. "You might as well open your eyes now honey." He continues, to leave a kiss on your cheek.

You open your eyes, and see the man you love smiling, a little breathless and his forehead a little red, being probably where he fell, however, what you are curious about is that he is hiding something behind his back. You move closer to leave a kiss on his forehead.

"So you get over the pain right away." You say smiling, as you would to a child.

"The best painkiller in the world." The boy replies, smiling.

Then slightly you move to look at what he is hiding, but he moves ahead of you and moves as well.

"No peeking." Your boyfriend takes you back, as he gestures for you to sit down, with a smile. You see him take a deep breath, before he starts talking again. "So, I was actually going to give you this present for Christmas, but I can't wait any longer, and anyway I think it might be useful to you already, and I'm always in time to give you another one as a present, so here, I hope you like it." He says quickly, as he moves the mysterious object in front of your eyes, and you can't help but be shocked by what's in front of you.

Steve holds in his hands a sweater, handmade, in your favorite color. Immediately you feel the tears forming in your eyes, unable to control them, as you take that still perfectly folded object from his hands and bring it to your nose, feeling that it has both his scent and the smell of your favorite perfume, and you can't help but dip your face into it, before turning back to look at your boyfriend, who has meanwhile been silently watching you, with a smile.

"Did you do that?" You ask unsurely, and he merely nods as he scratches the back of his neck, as if almost embarrassed.

"Did you really do this for me?" Ask again, not believing that a person could spend so much time doing something for you.

"I made one for every single person I love, but yours is the one I did first because you were the first I thought about." He says, looking at you, then continues. "Because you are the person I love most in the world." He finishes, kissing you softly on the lips. You can't help but drop a few tears as you thank him, and return those affirmations of affection, but Steve is apparently not out of surprises.

"But you still need to see why I can't wait a second to show you." He says, arranging a strand of hair behind your ear. "Open the sweater, and read what it says." He continues, and you confusedly do as he asks.

You raise your arms and spread your sweater like a cloth between you and your boyfriend, and immediately you feel your eyes about to pop out of their sockets as wide as you open them.

On the sweater, clearly and prominently are a few simple words that take your breath away.

<<WILL YOU MARRY ME?>>

You feel your heart stop for a moment as you pull down your sweater to look Steve in the eye, to ask him if he is serious or a joke, while in your brain you can't process a thought that wasn't totally steeped in the joy of seeing those simple words written on that gift made with so much love. Steve is no longer where I was a few seconds ago, though; he is now kneeling before you, a ring in his hand.

It's not exactly the brightest or the biggest ring you've ever seen, but at the same time you're convinced it's the most beautiful ring in the world.

You fall to your knees in front of him in your turn, still holding the sweater in your hands, clutching it to your chest as you look at him. Tears now run down your face relentlessly, but you can see that his are getting wet, too.

"I love you, I've always loved you, but somehow I was so stupid and blind that I didn't realize it. When I realized it, I was convinced I couldn't have even a shred of hope, but you were always too good and gave me another chance. At first I couldn't believe my luck, so I made up my mind and realized that I had to treat you like the queen you are or I would lose what someone up there gave me. I love you, and selfishly I cannot do without you. I've been thinking about officially asking you to be mine for months, nay years, but each time I tell myself that it's not the right time and that you deserve everything to be perfect, but enough is enough, I love you too much to wait just one more second, so would you do me the honor of being my wife?" Steve asks you through tears, having held them back throughout his speech. You can't help but hold back your joy, and with the sweater still clutched between your fingers, you throw your arms around his neck, sweeping him off his feet.

"Yes, a thousand times yes idiot, you don't even have to ask." You respond with a whisper in his ear as he pulls away slightly to place the ring on your finger. Looking at your face, he runs a hand under your eyes and wipes away your tears, before kissing you passionately.

You kiss back, and then you remain tightly embraced on the kitchen floor, locked in your own little bubble of happiness, as you forget about the world little by little, until a voice brings you back down to earth.

You both turn around and see all your friends looking at you worried or scared. Eddie still has what spare keys you gave him in his hand.

"You weren't responding, so we came in because we were afraid something had happened to you." Dustin says, on behalf of everyone. "But are you okay?" Max asks, increasingly confused by your happy expressions.

"Never better." Steve replies, leaving a kiss on your forehead, and you can't help but smile, only increasing your friends' curiosity.

[writingamongther0ses]

Hell to Pay

Summary: Chiron spills some tea about Zeus, someone's spilled tea on R.K.'s rug, and Mercury spills tea about the situation. None of this helps Megara.

Inspired by @flashfictionfridayofficial's prompt of "Spill the Tea"

-_-

A young student trotted up, her cheeks flushed with a wide smile. She had to have been no older than six. "Chiron?"

"Yes, Amelia?"

"Daddy's here."

A look swept over Chiron's face- confusion, relief, and then dread. “Where, my dear?”

“He’s in R.K.’s office. He said he wanted to talk to him,” She pointed at Megara, who suddenly felt very small. There was no needed explanation to who “him” was. A god was here, despite Olympus having suddenly shut down. And he wanted to talk to him.

“I see. Thank you, Amelia.” The little girl walked away, still smiling happily. Chiron straightened with a hum. “That is unusual. Hermes is the last person I suspect Zeus would allow to come here.” He started to walk away, leaving Megara to scramble to catch up. “Still, he must’ve heard something…”

“Why wouldn’t Hermes have been allowed?” Megara had to ask, despite the feeling of having said the wrong name. “Isn’t he the messenger of the gods?”

Chiron nodded. “He is, but Zeus feels like Hermes has taken too much interest in this case.” He sighed as they reached the elevator, pressing the up button. The elevator opened silently, allowing Chiron to step inside with Megara trailing behind. He pressed the fifth level. “Let me tell you something about your father, boy. He does not understand love. He understands lust, but that is his own lust. He does not understand why the gods love mortals.”

Megara fought back a face. On one hand, he probably should’ve been defending Zeus. After all, he was his father. On the other hand, he didn’t know Zeus. Maybe that was for the best.

The door opened, revealing a hallway. Unlike the other levels, this had no windows. Torches lit the way, revealing beautiful tapestries that led down to a grand set of double doors. A small plaque revealed that this was the Hall of Graduates. “Her office is on the right, the door next to the headmaster’s office,” Chiron said as Megara stepped off.

He nodded and began to walk.

The tapestries were elaborate, each showing the student in some pose, dressed in ancient Greek dress, surrounded with what had to be symbols of their achievements. One tapestry was of a woman, presenting a DNA strand. Another was someone who had to be Elvis, singing into a microphone with the iconic hair. Another was another woman, looking up at an old-fashioned airplane, next to another woman holding up a set of scales.

The one right next to the last door to the right depicted a familiar face. Megara found himself coming to a stop, studying it. The tapestry had caught R.K.- who else had blue eyes like that- standing on a ship, mid-lunge with a grey sword, aiming at the face of a giant man with glowing gold eyes. She wore a helmet decorated with feathers, a shield hefted up with the face of the Minotaur. His head ached for a moment and he tore his eyes away.

He knocked on the door.

“Come in,” a voice called from inside. Megara stepped inside and felt himself immediately taking a knee.

A man sat behind the desk. He was handsome, with golden hair and grey eyes that cut him to the bone. An air of cold solemnity made the office feel tense. Shame, because it was a pretty office- fine wood furniture, a large window that allowed sunlight to light up a tank full offish. Photos and trinkets decorated the shelves next to books about mythology. A sword holder sat, waiting for a sword that hadn’t returned yet. On the desk, there were four stacks of letters.

“Ave, Megara King.”

“Ave, Lord Mercury,” Because that who this was, not Hermes. Megara wasn’t sure how he knew, but he just did.

“Rise, boy,” Megara did, keeping his eyes firm on the floor. It helped him realize that there was a stain, like someone had stained tea and hadn’t cleaned it up in time. “Your father sent me to correct an error that I made.”

“An…error, my lord?”

The chair softly moved back. “Yes, an error,” A hand grasped his chin and forced his eyes up. “Three months ago, I made you swear an binding oath to never speak of Rhea-Kore Calimeris,” He twisted his hand back and forth, seeming to consider his features. “Something not needed. After all, R.K. kept the fact that she had met you secret for over eleven years.”

“Wait…we met?”

“Yes, once. I’m sure you don’t remember. She had been very badly hurt at the time, but I digress.”

Another thought popped in. “Will I remember more?”

“I do not know,” Mercury admitted as it pained him to say. “I do not know who cast this spell on you. I believe it might be Juno, but with her missing-”

“Wait, she’s missing?!”

“Why do you think there’s a lockdown?” Mercury didn’t let Megara answer further questions. His hand slid up to grip his forehead and he whispered something, too low for him to make out. He felt the pulses of magic though, wriggling into his brain. Something unlocked, just as Mercury’s eyes flew open.

“...my lord?”

“She stole your memories,” Mercury’s cold nature seemed to have fractured, revealing shock and then fear. He yanked his hands away, seeming to mutter to himself. “...what is she thinking…if she did this to him, then…” He grabbed what looked to be a small fidget toy, gripping and fussing with it as he seemed to think.

Megara tried to think, but nothing came to him. Nothing of his past, nothing before he woke up on the bus…no. Wait. His memory of R.K…

“I really shouldn’t be talking to you.”

SLAM.

Mercury had slammed the toy down on the desk. “If Juno has done what she has done to you to R.K., Uncle will have hell to pay,” he said, not looking back at him. “Now, get out.”

Megara wasted no time.

[annoyinglandmagazine]

Caranthir the financial advisor from hell

The guards of Nargothrond glanced from side to side as if to ask each other ‘Is this allowed?’ They’d had three Feanorians staying with them for a while now but they were still unclear on the protocol for dealing with one of them just turning up at the gates. Nonetheless, they parted to let him through with little protest once their commanding officers gave them the go ahead.

He did not respond to their hesitance, to their great relief, none wished to be on the receiving end of that glare of his. He strode forward with a simple nod of acknowledgment to their general, his boots clicking evenly on the marble floor and somehow managing to echo through the corridor despite the background noise of a bustling city. Did all their nobility have some kind of powers when it came to being excessively dramatic? They’d thought their king was overly theatrical but the Feanorians all seemed to be as well, albeit in different ways.

He made his way straight through the corridors to the ongoing council meeting. This was concerning for numerous reasons, not the least of which being that everyone was fairly sure he had never been to Nargothrond before, so how could he possibly know their floor plan, let alone their schedule? Nevertheless, he flung open the doors and stood in the doorway, his glare at his cousin perhaps not as intense as his father’s but enough to terrify most into submission.

‘Moryo!’ Celegorm began to grin, the sight not even remotely reassuring to anyone. The two other sons of Feanor seemed way too at ease, but then who could ever claim to understand what was going on with that lot? Caranthir shot a far harsher yet somehow fond glare towards his brothers, ‘Tyelkormo. Atarinkë,’ he replied with little enthusiasm. ‘It’s been years, would it kill you to write, brother!’ Celegorm teased jovially. ‘I wasn’t aware you could read. Brother.’

A little snort broke the tense silence and the only grandson of Feanor beamed at his uncle through his amusement, ‘It’s good to see you uncle.’ Caranthir shot his nephew a quick smile and softened his tone, ‘A pleasure as always Tyelpe darling.’ He now brought his focus back to Finrod who was apprehensive as if he knew what was coming, the same as the Feanorians who were all giving each other conspiratorial glances. ‘Ingoldo. Findarato. My dear cousin.’

‘I have recently received your yen’s expenses report.’ ‘Holy shit,’ murmured Celegorm under his breath though still very much audibly, the grin on his face growing to troubling levels. ‘You have truly outdone yourself. Really.’ Finrod was turning gradually paler. ‘Why do you have access to documents from Nargothrond’s treasury?’

‘Because all our relatives have been delegating financial matters to me since I was forty. You didn’t think Fingon could actually draft a budget for his army himself did you? And Nelyo can’t barely do long division. They may say that something is for the king’s eyes only but what they really mean is it’s for Fingon to send my brother in between some graphic sketches and love letters and then for Nelyo to send to me once he’s exhausted his energy for calculations.’

‘And I have to wonder if you have a single person in your council capable of basic budgeting skills or if you simply regularly ignore expenditure plans to support your jewellery problem. I’m guessing the latter. So I have taken the liberty of drafting a comprehensive plan for all your financial dealings for the next yen and I expect you to follow it.’ He slammed a heavy tome onto the table, ‘I’m trusting Curufin to make sure you don’t deviate too far.’

‘Caranthir, it’s hardly like you’re living in some austere shack yourself!’ Caranthir shot a cold glare back, ‘Unlike you I manage my money. I am giving you the chance to do the same and I advise you take it.’ He stalked over to his family and accepted a kiss on the forehead from Celegorm before placing one on Curufin and Celebrimbor’s. ‘Three Cs for life!’ Celegorm called after him, still way too pleased to see his cousin get scolded. ‘That’s never going to catch on!’ Came the synchronised yells of Curufin and Caranthir.

[oldwitcheshat]

Steddie Angst - No beta, we die on this hill

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

Rationally, Steve knew this all made sense. Eddie was one of the people he and his friends picked on in high school. He was, after all, King Steve. No matter how hard he tried, that's all he has been and all he ever will be. But it still hurt.

The way Eddie looked at him now -With shock and confusion and disgust - proved it. Steve thought he read the signs correctly. Even Robin agreed with him. Hell, even Nancy asked him about it. But none of that mattered now. 

Steve just confessed to Eddie. Knocked on the new government-issued trailer Eddie and Wayne lived in, with flowers in hand, and confessed. It felt like weights were lifted off his chest. For once, in a long time, Steve felt hopeful.

“Wow Steve,” Eddie said after Steve finished, “This is a new low for you”

All the weight that was lifted off of Steve’s chest just crashed back down. He would have sworn that after all the pain from Nancy that he would be used to handling the pain by now. He was wrong.

“What do you mean?” Steve choked out. Surely this was joke. Eddie would laugh and smile and take the flowers and everything will be fine. 

“You actually had me going for a bit there.” Eddie said, “I genuinely thought that after everything you had changed.”

“I don’t understand” Surely, Steve was missing something.

“Of course you don’t. Look, just fuck off man.” Eddie said stepping back into the trailer and shutting the door in Steves face.

Steve stood there for a while. Flowers still in hand. Eyes opened wide. Staring at the door. Mouth agape. It wasn’t until a car door slammed shut did Steve snapped out of it. He glanced at the flowers in his hands and tossed them in front of the door. They were meant for Eddie anyway. 

Steve drove home and parked his Beamer in the driveway of the big, empty house. It had always felt lonely, but now it felt worse. There was nothing for him in there. No family, no friends, and certainly not Eddie. Steve accepted it as what he deserved. After all, everyone kept leaving him unless they needed him for something. As soon as the next best thing came along or someone else filled his role, he would be back in the same spot. Sitting in front of his empty house, too pathetic to get out of his car. 

This all happened the same way too. After being discharged from the hospital, Eddie needed help to heal and Wayne couldn’t keep taking days off of work. Everyone else had school or a job to keep attending, but Keith had finally gotten tired of Steve’s antics that he fired him with the Earthquakes being the excuse. Of course, Keith kept letting Robin work there though. She was always the more competent one out of the two. Naturally, Steve became Eddie’s caretaker. He had the time and some knowledge from having to take care of himself from past Upside Down encounters. 

At first, it was awkward. They had barely gotten to know each other between demobats and Vecna. This was also the first time they had ever spent one-on-one time together. Gradually though, the tension melted, and teasing and - at least Steve assumed it was - flirting filled the space. Even after doctors passed him with flying colors, Steve still went over. If he wasn’t with Robin, he was with Eddie, and if not one or the other, then usually both.  Steve finally realized his feelings when Robin pointed out how obnoxiously in love Eddie and Steve were with each other. At that point, Steve blew right past a gay panic and into acceptance at a rate Robin was jealous of. But after hearing how Steve and Tommy used to spend time during sleepovers at the empty Harrington house, she realized why. 

Despite flying through his identity crisis, it took forever for Steve to find the courage to admit to Eddie how he felt. He had gotten it wrong so many times in the past, he felt so unsure now. Robin kept nagging him though - kept pointing out the ways Eddie would flirt back and how his eyes always fell on Steve. She even went as far as dragging Nancy into it. Nancy picked up on it right away. She asked how long Steve and Eddie had been dating after the first time they all hung out together.

Little did they know how it would end up. Steve gripped the steering wheels hard and made up his mind. He backed out of the driveway and drove straight to Family Video. Robin was wrong about everything and he needed to tell her. 

When the bell rang, Robin glanced up to give the normal “Welcome to Family Video” greeting she hated but she perked up as soon as she saw Steve.

“Steve! What are you doing here? I though you and Eddie would be sucking face right about now” She joked

“You were wrong,” Steve said and marched up to the counter.

“What do you mean?” She asked. The humor in her eyes quickly disappeared.

“You were wrong,” Steve said. His eyes were burning. The last thing he wanted was to cry. “Eddie doesn’t like me back. He's not ‘obnoxiously in love with me’. He still sees me as King Steve.”

It was Robin's turn to look confused. “That doesn’t make sense. He has been all over you and flirting back.”

“That doesn’t matter Robin. It was all fake.” Steve said and threw his hands in the air. “I told you too. I told you he didn’t like me back and it didn’t fucking matter.”

“Oh Steve,” Robin said softly. Her face showed her concern and Steve knew why. Despite all his efforts to stop them, the tears were rushing down his face. 

“I don’t understand” Steve whispered, his shoulders sagging. All the anger he had briefly felt left him. All that was left was a deep sadness and the reminder that no matter how hard he tried, he was still unlovable.