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nixiefics · 3 months

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Fire and Runes - Chapter Three

Pairing: Aegon II Targaryen x OC (Reilla)

Tropes: Arranged Marriage

Warnings: Targaryen typical incest, smut, canon typical violence and death, swearing, drinking

The Great Hall of the Red Keep was a marvel of opulence and grandeur, transformed into a feast hall worthy of the newly crowned King and Queen Consort. Torches flickered on the stone walls, casting a warm golden glow that danced across the tapestries depicting scenes of Targaryen triumphs. Long tables stretched the length of the hall, laden with an extravagant array of dishes that spoke to the richness of the realm.

At the high table, Aegon and Reilla sat in places of honour, their chairs adorned with intricate carvings of dragons and their house sigils. Reilla's white gown shimmered in the firelight, the wedding cloak draped over her shoulders adding a touch of bronze to her otherwise pristine ensemble. Aegon, in his dark green tunic that nearly appeared black, exuded a regal presence, his eyes bright with the excitement of the day.

The feast had begun with a flourish, the first course arriving to a chorus of applause from the assembled lords and ladies. Platters of roasted boar, glazed with honey and cloves, sat alongside capons stuffed with chestnuts and figs. Freshly baked trout, swimming in rich almond sauce, and a whole roasted stag garnished with rosemary and lemons showcased the culinary expertise of the Red Keep’s kitchens. Bowls of exotic fruits from the Reach, wheels of cheese from the Riverlands, and baskets of warm, crusty bread completed the spread.

Servants moved gracefully among the tables, filling goblets with Arbor gold and Dorne’s finest wines. The air was thick with the mingling aromas of roasted meats and sweet pastries, creating an atmosphere of indulgence and celebration.

Lords and ladies approached the high table to offer their congratulations. Lord Baratheon, his face alight with pride, toasted the health and prosperity of the newlyweds. "To King Aegon and Queen Reilla," he proclaimed, his voice ringing through the hall. "May your reign be long and prosperous, and may your union bring peace to the realm."

Reilla smiled graciously, raising her goblet in response. "Thank you, Lord Baratheon," she replied, her voice carrying across the hall. "We are honoured by your presence and your kind words."

Lady Reyne, her expression warm and familial, approached next. "My dear Queen Reilla," she said, embracing her gently. "You are such a credit to House Targaryen – beauty, grace and fire enough to survive this lot at court."

"Thank you, Lady Reyne," Reilla replied, her voice filled with genuine affection. "Your support means a great deal."

As the night progressed, Aemond made his way to Reilla’s side. His keen eyes took in the bustling hall, always observant and calculating. "Congratulations, my Queen," he said, his tone respectful. "A splendid feast and an even finer match."

"Thank you, Aemond," Reilla replied, meeting his gaze with equal respect. "I trust the feast is to your liking?"

"Indeed," Aemond nodded. He leaned in slightly, his voice lowered. "But feasts aside, there are matters of the realm to consider. I have heard whispers of unrest in the Riverlands."

Reilla's expression grew serious. "I have heard the same. What do you suggest?"

"Sending envoys to reassure the lesser lords would be wise," Aemond advised lowly, eyes flicking to his brother. "Remind them of the benefits of unity under the crown. And an envoy with Lord Larys to secure Harrenhal – Daemon would be setting his eyes on it as a seat of power…"

Reilla nodded, brows furrowing thoughtfully. "I will speak with Aegon about it. Thank you for your counsel, Aemond."

Their conversation was interrupted by the musicians striking up a lively tune. Aegon turned to Reilla with a warm smile, extending his hand. "Shall we dance, my queen?"

"It would be my honour, my king," Reilla replied, her heart fluttering with excitement as she placed her hand in his.

The guests parted, creating a space in the centre of the hall for the royal couple. As the music swelled, Aegon and Reilla began to dance, their movements graceful and perfectly in sync. The hall seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of them, united in their shared joy and love.

Reilla felt a thrill of excitement as they twirled and swayed, her gown flowing around her like a silken cloud. Aegon’s touch was warm and reassuring, and his smile filled her with a sense of belonging and contentment. The guests watched with admiration and delight, raising their goblets in tribute to the couple’s happiness.

As the dance came to an end, Aegon leaned in to whisper in Reilla’s ear, his breath warm against her skin. "You are truly radiant tonight, my queen. I am the luckiest man in the realm to have you by my side."

Reilla’s heart swelled with affection and pride. "And I am the luckiest woman, to be loved by a king as noble and kind as you."

They returned to their seats, the hall resuming its festive atmosphere. The night continued with more music, laughter, and camaraderie. Lords and ladies approached the high table, offering their congratulations and well-wishes. Ser Criston Cole, with his stoic demeanour, gave a respectful nod. "Your Grace, Your Majesty," he said. "May your reign be strong and just."

"Thank you, Ser Criston," Aegon replied, his tone sincere. "Your loyalty and service are invaluable to us."

Lady Redwyne, known for her sharp wit and keen political mind, approached next. "A splendid match, Your Grace," she said, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "I hope you are ready for the challenges of marriage."

"Thank you, Lady Redwyne," Reilla replied with a smile. "I do believe we are."

Aegon leaned towards Reilla, his eyes filled with admiration. "You handle these interactions with such grace."

Reilla smiled warmly. "It helps to have a strong and supportive king by my side."

As the evening wore on, the feast continued in full swing. Plates were refilled, goblets never emptied, and the laughter of the nobility echoed through the hall. Aegon and Reilla found moments to themselves amidst the revelry, their connection growing stronger with each passing hour.

Aegon caught sight of Aemond speaking with a group of lords, his demeanour calm and authoritative. Reilla followed his gaze. "He is a formidable politician," she remarked.

"Indeed," Aegon agreed. "His counsel is invaluable. And I am glad you get along well."

Reilla nodded. "We understand the importance of unity in these times."

Later in the evening, as the musicians began a slower, more intimate tune, Aegon took Reilla’s hand once more. "Shall we dance again?"

Reilla’s eyes sparkled with delight. "I would love to."

They moved to the centre of the hall, the fellow dancers watching with admiration as they danced together. The music swirled around them, creating a bubble of intimacy amidst the grand celebration. Aegon’s hands were firm and sure, guiding Reilla through the steps, his eyes never leaving hers.

"This feels like a dream," Reilla whispered, her voice filled with wonder.

"It is real," Aegon replied softly. "And it is just the beginning."

As the dance came to an end, the guests erupted into applause, their cheers filling the hall. Aegon and Reilla returned to their seats, their hearts full and their bond stronger than ever.

The atmosphere in the Great Hall of the Red Keep was electric, buzzing with the excitement of the wedding feast. The lords and ladies of the realm had gathered to celebrate the union of Aegon and Reilla, filling the room with laughter, music, and the clinking of goblets. The air was rich with the aromas of the feast: roasted boar, spiced lamb, honeyed ham, and a cornucopia of fruits and sweetmeats that adorned the long tables.

As the night wore on, a particularly boisterous lord, well into his cups, called out, “To the bedding ceremony!” His declaration was met with a mix of cheers and laughter from the crowd, though a few raised eyebrows and disapproving glances were also cast.

Helaena, sensing the growing tension, stepped forward with a loud and deliberate clap of her hands. “Enough of that,” she said, her voice cutting through the din. “I wish to dance with my brother Aemond.”

Her interruption was perfectly timed, and the attention of the guests quickly shifted. The hall echoed with murmurs of approval as Helaena’s boldness provided the perfect distraction.

Taking advantage of the moment, Reilla leaned close to Aegon, her breath warm against his ear. “Now’s our chance,” she whispered, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

Aegon grinned, catching onto her plan. “Then let’s make our escape,” he replied, his voice filled with playful excitement.

Hand in hand, they slipped from the dais and darted through the crowd, Reilla leading the way. The corridors of the Red Keep stretched out before them, dimly lit by torches flickering in their sconces. Aegon, unable to resist the moment, slowed his pace, letting Reilla pull ahead just enough for him to start chasing her playfully.

“Where do you think you’re going, my queen?” he called out, laughter in his voice. “You can’t escape me!”

Reilla glanced over her shoulder, her eyes gleaming with amusement. “Catch me if you dare!” she teased, her heart pounding with exhilaration.

They raced through the winding halls, their laughter echoing off the stone walls. Aegon’s longer strides closed the gap quickly, but he allowed Reilla to stay just out of reach, savouring the playful chase. She turned a corner, her gown flowing behind her like a whisper of moonlight, and Aegon followed, his own excitement growing with each step.

Finally, Reilla ducked into a narrow passageway, her breath coming in quick gasps as she reached the door to Aegon’s chambers. She fumbled with the latch for a moment, her hands trembling with anticipation, before managing to push it open.

Aegon was right behind her, his eyes alight with the thrill of the chase. As they stumbled into the room, he caught her around the waist, spinning her in a playful circle before setting her gently on her feet.

“Caught you,” he murmured, his voice husky with laughter and desire.

Reilla’s laughter mingled with his, her cheeks flushed and her eyes bright. “It seems you have,” she replied, breathless and exhilarated.

They paused for a moment, catching their breath and savouring the shared joy of their escape. Then Aegon’s expression grew more serious, though his eyes still sparkled with delight. “You know, I’m going to get criticism from the lords for not completing the bedding ceremony,” he said, though there was no real worry in his voice.

Reilla smiled, a soft, knowing smile. “I have just the thing to cheer you up,” she said, her voice filled with promise. “Wait for me on the bed.”

Aegon’s curiosity was piqued, and he nodded, moving to sit on the edge of the bed. As he waited, he watched Reilla disappear behind the changing screen. The anticipation was almost unbearable, his thoughts filled with wonder and excitement at what she had planned.

Reilla shed her wedding gown as quickly as she was able and slipped into the nightgown Helaena had commissioned for her. It was a masterpiece of Myrish lace, delicate and ethereal. The fabric was sheer, adorned with intricate patterns that accentuated her curves and left just enough to the imagination. The lace hugged her figure, the fine material flowing gracefully as she moved.

When she stepped out from behind the screen, the sight of her took Aegon’s breath away. He had seen many beautiful things in his life, but nothing compared to the vision before him now. His heart pounded as he took in every detail: the way the lace clung to her, the delicate patterns that danced across her skin, and the way her hair cascaded around her shoulders.

Aegon’s reaction was immediate and visceral. His breath caught, and his pulse quickened, a deep, almost primal desire flooding through him. He had never felt such a powerful combination of awe, wonder, and sexual hunger. His body reacted instinctively, heat pooling low in his belly as he drank in the sight of her.

Reilla, for her part, felt a surge of confidence under his intense gaze. She moved closer, each step measured and deliberate, her heart pounding with a mix of excitement and nervous anticipation. When she reached him, she paused, her eyes meeting his, a silent question in their depths.

Aegon answered without words, reaching out to pull her gently into his arms. He could feel the heat of her body through the delicate fabric of the nightgown, and it drove him wild. His hands roamed over the lace, savouring the feel of it and the warmth of her skin beneath.

Their lips met in a kiss that was both tender and ravenous. The connection was electric, sending shivers up Reilla’s spine and making her toes curl with delight. Aegon’s kiss was hungry and passionate, a declaration of his desire. He kissed her deeply, his tongue exploring her mouth with a fervour that left her breathless.

Reilla responded with equal passion, her fingers threading through his hair as she pressed closer to him. The heat between them was palpable, a fierce and consuming fire that left them both yearning for more. Each touch, each caress, stoked the flames higher, filling the room with a heady mix of desire and love.

When they finally pulled apart, their breathing was heavy, their bodies tingling with the intensity of their kiss. Aegon looked at Reilla with a mixture of awe and adoration. “You’re incredible,” he murmured, his voice thick with emotion. “I don’t think I’ve ever wanted anything as much as I want you right now. Issa gevie ābrazȳrys.” Aegon whispered as he slowly reached out and ran his fingers over Reilla’s lace covered breasts. His hands slid the traps of the gown down her shoulders, marvelling at the soft, milky skin. (My beautiful wife.)

“Issa sȳz jurnegēre valzȳrys.” Reilla smiled up at him, tucking some hair away from his face. (My handsome husband.)

Aegon's breath hitched as Reilla's soft whisper reached his ears, her words igniting a fierce longing within him. The delicate lace of her nightgown felt tantalizingly fragile beneath his fingers as he pulled her closer, their bodies moulding together with an urgency that belied their previous playfulness.

Reilla's hands were hesitant at first, but as they found their way to Aegon's bare chest, her touch became more confident. Her fingers traced the contours of his muscles, marvelling at the smoothness of his skin and the strength she felt beneath her fingertips. She could feel the steady thrum of his heartbeat, a testament to the desire they both shared.

Aegon’s hands roamed over the intricate patterns of the Myrish lace, revelling in the sensation of Reilla’s body beneath the delicate fabric. His touch was firm yet tender, exploring the curves of her hips, the dip of her waist, and the softness of her breasts. The nightgown left little to the imagination, and Aegon’s imagination was running wild.

He kissed her deeply; their mouths moving together in a dance of hunger and need. His tongue traced the seam of her lips before delving inside, tasting her sweetness. Reilla moaned softly into his mouth, her hands sliding up to his shoulders and then down his back, feeling the play of muscles under his skin. His back was a marvel to her, each ridge and line fascinating under her questing fingers.

Their kiss grew more fervent, more desperate, as they lost themselves in the heat of the moment. Aegon’s hands found the hem of her nightgown, lifting it slightly to brush his fingertips against the bare skin of her thigh. The contact sent a jolt of electricity through Reilla, her breath catching as she pressed closer to him.

Reilla’s fingers traced the line of Aegon’s spine, her touch light and teasing. She felt him shiver under her touch, a reaction that sent a thrill of power through her. She let her hands wander lower, exploring the hard planes of his abdomen and the slight indents that hinted at his strength.

Aegon pulled back just enough to look at her, his eyes dark with desire as he murmured, his voice rough with emotion. “I want to remember every inch of you.”

Reilla’s heart pounded at his words, her cheeks flushing with a mix of shyness and boldness. “My body is yours, Aegon.” she whispered, her hands slipping around to the front of his breeches, tracing the edge with a feather-light touch.

Aegon groaned softly, his hands sliding up her back, pulling her closer until there was no space left between them. He kissed her again, this time slower, more deliberate, as if trying to memorize the taste and feel of her lips. Reilla responded in kind, her kisses growing more confident, more demanding.

Their hands continued to explore, each touch building the tension between them higher and higher. Aegon’s fingers slipped beneath the lace of her nightgown, tracing the curve of her spine, while Reilla’s hands roamed over his chest, feeling the rapid rise and fall of his breathing.

Their kisses became more heated, more desperate, as they clung to each other. Aegon’s hands found the soft swell of her breasts, his thumbs brushing over her nipples through the thin fabric, eliciting a gasp from Reilla. She arched into his touch, her own hands gripping his shoulders as she kissed him with a fervour that matched his own.

The room seemed to grow warmer, the air thick with the scent of desire and the sound of their mingled breaths. Aegon’s hands were everywhere, touching, caressing, exploring, while Reilla’s fingers traced the lines of his body, committing each detail to memory.

When they finally pulled apart, both of them were breathing hard, their bodies trembling with the intensity of their passion. Aegon looked at Reilla with a mixture of awe and desire, his hands cupping her face tenderly. “I need you, Reilla,” he whispered, his voice filled with raw emotion. “I need all of you.”

Reilla smiled, her own eyes reflecting the same need. “Then take me, Aegon,” she whispered back, her voice a soft promise. “Mark me yours.”

“I want to make you feel good,” your husband finally uttered in a whisper. Of course, she had heard the servants speaking of pleasure. That sometimes, if the man did ‘it’ just right, the woman would find bliss but she had never dared ask the question.

“How?” Reilla glanced at the space just above his breeches, where a small trail of blonde hair disappeared.

Aegon’s thumb caressed her cheek ever so softly, pressing on the supple plumpness under the pad of his finger. He had leaned away, not too far, just enough to gauge Reilla’s reaction. Her throat felt dry, and she longed for a cup of wine or water.

“Will you let me?” he asked.

Reilla nodded her head, untrusting of her own words. As his deft hands lifted the nightgown to her hips, Reilla fisted the sheets tight in her hands. She watched him as he watched her, or her womanhood, rather. Aegon’s tongue ran over his bottom lip, his eyes twinkling under the subtle warmth of the dimness in his chambers.

Reilla felt open… exposed. The urge to cross her legs threatened to overwhelm her, but Aegon’s hands caressing the meat of her thighs prevented her from doing so. He descended then, planting a trail of kisses down the inside of her thigh. Gooseflesh erupted over her skin, and Reilla gasped when he came close to her mound, making her grip his shoulder to stop him.

“Aegon…” she breathed out, eyes wild with panic.

“Let me do this for you, wife.” he whispered, taking her wrist to direct his kisses there. “Emagon pāsagon.” (Have faith.)

Reilla retracted her hand from his firm shoulder hesitantly, leaning her weight on her elbow to watch him. His breath was hot against her slit, which caused an involuntarily clench. He started with light kisses but soon progressed to little licks against her slit. His eyes flickered to gauge her reaction, where she had started to bite her lip to keep quiet. Two fingers parted her folds, baring her to his hungry gaze.

“Oh,” Reilla exhaled, tilting her head back, as his tongue delved deeper, penetrating her. With a surge of confidence, Aegon husband began to devour his little wife in earnest, licking and sucking. Sweet sounds, one he had never heard before in earnest, had started to spill from her lips.

A long finger soon replaced his tongue, entering her gummy walls as though it were his cock. He thrust it in and out of her the same way, and when he bent to feel up a rough patch within her walls, Reilla’s toes clenched as her spine bowed off the bed.

“Good?” Aegon asked sincerely. Reilla merely whined, the semblance of a nod greeting him.

His lips found her pearl, and then another finger joined the other. The king soon found a rhythm, one that had her writhing and moaning without shame.

Reilla could feel the pressure in her stomach build in a steady peak. It sparked her muscles to twitch in Aegon’s hold, growing convulsive as she was pushed closer to her precipice. Aegon watched as she finally came with a whine, her head thrown back into the feather mattress, grinning to himself at his accomplishment.

“Where did you learn how to do that?” Reilla asked, breathless. Black spots danced around her vision of him, swarming around the otherworldly sight of his flushed, glimmering lips and the loose silver strands that framed his face. It quirked into a small smirk as he regarded her, his arms caging her in between his hold. “No, wait don’t tell me.”

“It is of no consequence now.” Aemond responded. Reilla dared not ask what he meant, unwilling to learn who he had sucked and licked the way he did in order to be so proficient in the act, how he had learned to poke all the right places to earn such lewd sounds from her. Reilla merely hummed, tracing the line of his jaw in a trance.

His deft fingers had grabbed a hold of the straps of her nightgown, pulling them down to bare her fully to him. She let him, willingly so, encouraged by the look in his eyes that promised more. His gaze was fixed her breasts immediately before his warm, calloused hands took them into his hold. They fit perfectly in his palms, much their combined delight. Reilla bit her lip as he squeezed them, massaging the supple flesh and rubbing on your sensitive bud. Aegon could do this for hours, and if it weren’t for the throbbing in between his thighs, he would have.

He cleared his throat and stood, beginning to unlace and remove his breeches until he stood before her, cock stood stiff and weeping for attention. He was utterly handsome like this, bare and unguarded. She beckoned him closer, soft fingertips trailing his knuckles. “You are beautiful.”

He huffed in amusement, planting a kiss on her cheek before mumbling into her skin words she could not hear.

His stiff length was hot and heavy as it sat against her hip, a reminder of the fire that still coursed through their veins. Aegon pulled away, the look in his eyes taking a warmer, softer tinge. The smile on Reilla’s lips melted away to something sincere, hopeful. With a nod, she watched him take hold of his shaft, lining it upon her entrance. His breach was smooth but still, Reilla tensed.

“Don’t tense, love.” He murmured, kissing along her jaw before taking her lips in a passionate kiss to distract her from the pinching pain. Reilla breathed slowly, busying her mind with her fingers in the hair at the nape of his neck. He was pushing slowly, eyes shut tightly against the feel of her tight warmth around him.

“Fuck,” he growled when his hips settled flush against hers. He breathed out against her neck, raising more goosebumps. “Fuck, darling, please tell me when you’re ready.”

Reilla swallowed thickly and glanced down between them, where his cock disappeared. The pinching sensation had lessened and a blooming heat was spreading through her. He gripped at his shoulders and nodded at him, offering her mouth for a kiss.

Aegon’s hips took on a steady pace, rocking into her gently and slowly. It was nothing lewd or animalistic, but rather sensual, intimate. His face was buried into the crook of her neck, his grunts and moans traveling straight into her clavicle. Reilla was no better, her whines of building pleasure echoing into the quiet of the room.

Aegon took hold of her fisted hands and pried them open and intwined their fingers.

“Aegon,” Reilla breathed out. His nose pressed into the side of her face, breathing into the sweet scent of her dampening flesh.

“Say it again…” His voice was growing raspier by the second, but his tone was ever so soft. His lips closed around one of her nipples, sucking on the stiff bud in a way that made Reilla’s core clench around him.

“Aegon, oh, Aegon! My king,” she whined, holding onto the planes of his back as his pace hastened. His pubic bone rubbed on her pearl, sending shoots of fiery pleasure up and down her spine. She gripped him tightly, almost painfully, but he relished in it. He wanted to feel her everywhere, kiss on every ounce of flesh he could, she was his after all.

“My wife, my dearest queen. Will you come for me again? Spill around my cock, hm?”

Reilla nodded fervently at words, wanting nothing else to do exactly as he asked. His forehead was scrunched in concentration, lips barely an inch away from her. Their breath mingled and Reilla chased him when his tongue darted to lick a swipe across her bottom lip playfully.

She screamed his name as her release washed over her, moans swallowed by his hungry mouth. His length drove into her still, chasing his own release with the aid of her spasming walls.

Aegon pulled away to look at where they were connected, committing the sight of his cock, painted with a white ring around its base, disappearing into her sweet cunny. His pace grew rhythmless as his hips began to sputter. With a hand on his wife’s breast, the other on her jaw, Aegon came with an open-mouthed groan, spilling his hot seed deep into her womb.

When he collapsed by her side, she pulled him close to her chest, letting him lay on her breast with his softening length still nestled in her walls.

They lay there together in silence, comfortably breathless and boneless. His hand rubbed patterns on her waist, as hers ran over his back.

Slumber found them a while later, the heat emanating from Aegon’s bare body pressed against her in a comforting blanket.

Aegon and Reilla sat in the sunlit dining room of their shared quarters, enjoying a leisurely breakfast. The morning light filtered through the tall windows, casting a warm glow over the table laden with fresh fruits, bread, and various pastries. The room was adorned with rich tapestries depicting scenes of Targaryen history, and the scent of freshly baked bread and brewed tea filled the air.

Aegon looked at Reilla with a smile that hadn't left his face since their wedding night, his eyes full of contentment. "You seem to be glowing even more this morning," he teased, reaching across the table to take her hand.

Reilla laughed softly, her eyes twinkling with happiness. "And you, my king, look as if you haven't a care in the world."

Aegon chuckled. "That's because having you by my side makes all the difference. But truth be told, there are still matters that weigh on my mind."

"Are you nervous about Aemond leaving for Harrenhal?" Reilla asked, her tone gentle as she took a sip of her tea.

Aegon sighed, setting down his fork. "I am. Harrenhal is a fortress, but it's also a place of dark history and Larys Strong accompanying him puts me ill at ease, but the thought of Rhaenyra's loyalists trying to take it makes me angry."

Reilla nodded, understanding his concern. "Aemond is capable and determined. He'll do everything to secure it. Besides, Larys Strong is cunning and resourceful; he would never harm that hands that feed him."

He grinned at her words, knowing how much the man annoyed Reilla. She was too smart to say anything else, knowing that having Lord Strong at their side was a boon – he could easily decide that their cause was no longer his and disappear to Dragonstone to treat with Rhaenyra. “Soon he will be but a memory, darling.”

“Not a fond one.” Reilla muttered, chomping down on a strawberry as if it were Larys’ head.

Aegon leaned back in his chair, running a hand through his hair. "Mother mentioned looking at a betrothal for Aemond. She's been hinting at it for weeks, but there's been no announcement, not even a word in the Small Council meetings. It's unlike her to delay such matters."

"Do you have any idea who she might be considering?" Reilla asked, curious.

Aegon shrugged. "She hasn't mentioned any names. It's strange. She's usually so decisive."

Reilla pondered this for a moment. "I could ask her about it when I see her later. Perhaps there is something she's waiting for or some strategic reason for the delay."

Aegon nodded appreciatively. "I would be grateful if you did. Aemond deserves to know his future, especially before embarking on such a significant mission."

Reilla reached across the table and took his hand. "I'll speak with her. In the meantime, we need to trust Aemond's abilities and Larys' cunning."

Aegon squeezed her hand gently, his eyes reflecting a mix of gratitude and love. "Thank you, Reilla. Your support means everything to me."

Reilla smiled warmly at him. "Always, my king. Together we will accomplish great things."

After finishing their breakfast, Reilla excused herself to prepare for the day. She walked to her chambers, where sunlight streamed through the windows, casting a warm glow over the elegant room. On the bed lay the new dress Aegon had gifted her, its rich green fabric shimmering in the light.

The dress was a masterpiece of Westerosi craftsmanship, designed to flatter her figure and exude regal grace. Made of fine silk, it was dyed a deep shade of emerald green that highlighted her striking Targaryen features. The bodice was intricately embroidered with golden thread, depicting dragons in flight.

The neckline was modest yet elegant, trimmed with delicate Myrish lace, and the long, fitted sleeves tapered to her wrists with tiny pearl buttons. The skirt flowed gracefully to the floor, creating a subtle, mesmerizing shimmer with every movement.

The dress also featured a belt of braided gold, cinching her waist and accentuating her figure. Reilla admired the way it moved as she turned, feeling a sense of pride and excitement. Aegon's thoughtful gift was not just beautiful; it symbolized his affection and support.

As she donned the dress, she completed her ensemble with delicate golden earrings and a simple necklace, her hair cascading in loose waves down her back. With one last glance in the mirror, she made her way to her next task, feeling every bit the Queen Consort she had become.

As she made her way to her good mother's chambers first, she thought about the strange delay in Aemond's betrothal announcement. It was unlike Alicent to keep such plans to herself for so long.

Entering Alicent's chambers, Reilla found the Queen seated by the window, reading a letter. The room was decorated with an elegant simplicity, reflecting Alicent's taste. Alicent looked up and smiled warmly at her daughter-in-law. "Reilla, it's lovely to see you. How are you this morning?"

"I'm well, thank you," Reilla replied, returning the smile. "I actually wanted to speak with you about Aemond. Aegon mentioned that you were considering a betrothal for him, but there hasn't been any news. He is curious, and so am I."

Alicent's expression grew thoughtful. "Yes, I have been considering a few matches for Aemond. However, the situation is delicate. We need to ensure that the alliance is beneficial to our house and strengthens our position against Rhaenyra. There are many factors to weigh."

Reilla nodded, understanding the complexity of the situation. "I see. Aegon is concerned about Aemond leaving for Harrenhal without knowing his future. It would give them both peace of mind to know your plans, I think."

Alicent sighed softly. "I understand. I will discuss this matter with the Small Council soon. Aemond's mission is critical, and he should know where he stands before he leaves."

"Thank you," Reilla said, feeling relieved. "I'm sure Aemond will appreciate it."

Alicent reached out and touched Reilla's hand. "You've been a wonderful addition to our family, Reilla. Your concern for all my children is commendable."

Reilla smiled, feeling a warm sense of belonging. "I have found true family with you all here and I will always support that."

After their conversation, Reilla made her way to Helaena's chambers. She found her good sister preparing for their visit to the city, watching a gaggle of servants ready the baskets of fresh food they would be taking with them. The room was filled with the scent of fresh flowers, and Helaena's presence brought a sense of calm and joy.

The princess was dressed in a gown of soft lavender, the colour complementing her fair skin and platinum hair. The dress was adorned with silver thread work that glittered in the sunlight, depicting intricate patterns of flowers and vines.

As Reilla approached, Helaena's face lit up with a warm smile. "You look beautiful, Reilla," she said, her voice gentle and sincere. "Aegon has excellent taste."

"Thank you, Helaena," Reilla replied, returning the smile. "You look stunning as always. The lavender suits you perfectly."

Helaena nodded appreciatively, then her gaze grew distant, as if she were seeing something far beyond the room. "A wolf dressed in pale blue," she murmured, her tone softening considerably. "There will be a wolf dressed in pale blue."

Reilla frowned slightly, puzzled by Helaena's words. "What do you mean, Helaena?"

Helaena blinked and seemed to come back to the present, her expression softening. "I'm not sure," she admitted. "Sometimes, I see things. They don't always make sense right away."

Reilla placed a comforting hand on Helaena's arm. "Your visions are a gift, Helaena. We should always heed them. Perhaps the meaning will become clear in time."

Helaena nodded, her gaze steady and reassuring. "Yes, perhaps it will. For now, let's focus on our task for the day."

The two women shared a determined look, then set off together towards the city, ready to deliver food to the orphanage. The words of the prophecy lingered in Reilla's mind, a reminder of the uncertain future that lay ahead.

As they made their way through the bustling streets of King's Landing, Reilla felt a sense of purpose and fulfilment. The people they encountered greeted them with smiles and gratitude, their spirits lifted by the generosity of their Queen and princess. The streets were alive with the sounds of merchants calling out their wares, children playing, and the general hum of city life.

Reilla and Helaena distributed food to the children at the orphanage, their hearts warming at the sight of the little faces lighting up with joy. They spent time talking with the caretakers, listening to their needs and concerns.

"These children have so little," Helaena said softly, her eyes reflecting her empathy. "It breaks my heart to see them suffer."

Reilla placed a comforting hand on her sister-in-law's shoulder. "We are making a difference, Helaena. One step at a time. And we will continue to do so."

Helaena nodded, her resolve strengthening. "Yes, we will."

As they made their way back to the Red Keep, Reilla reflected on the day's events. She felt a deep sense of satisfaction, knowing that she and Helaena were making a positive impact on the lives of those in need. Reilla knew that she and Aegon had many challenges ahead, but with the support of their family and their commitment to their people, they were ready to face whatever the future held.

Back at the Red Keep, Reilla found Aegon in their solar, poring over maps and muttering to himself about strategy. He looked up and smiled as she entered, his face lighting up at the sight of her.

"How was your day?" Aegon asked, his eyes full of curiosity.

"It was fulfilling," Reilla replied, taking a seat beside him. "We distributed food to the orphanage and listened to their needs. It's heartening to see how much a small act of kindness can mean to those children."

Aegon nodded, his expression thoughtful. "You have a good heart, Reilla. Our people are lucky to have you."

"And I am lucky to have you," Reilla said, leaning into him gently.

Their lips met in a tender, lingering kiss, filled with the warmth of their mutual affection. Aegon's hand cradled the back of her head, fingers threading through her hair, as he pulled her closer. The kiss was soft and slow, a comforting embrace of lips that conveyed the depth of their feelings for one another. Aegon's other hand slid around her waist, holding her gently but firmly, as if he never wanted to let her go.

Reilla felt a shiver of delight run down her spine as the kiss deepened. She melted into his embrace, her hands resting on his chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart beneath her fingertips. The kiss was sweet and unhurried, each moment filled with the promise of their shared future. When they finally pulled apart, both were breathless, their eyes locking in a gaze that spoke of love, trust, and unspoken vows.

"You really do have a way of making everything better," Aegon murmured, his forehead resting against hers.

Reilla smiled, her heart swelling with pride. "I spoke with your mother earlier," she said softly, her fingers tracing patterns on his chest. "About Aemond and the betrothal she mentioned."

Aegon’s eyebrows raised in interest. "And what did she say?"

"She didn't give a definitive answer, but she seemed to be weighing her options carefully. I think she’s waiting for the right moment or perhaps the right match."

Aegon chuckled softly. "Matching Aemond’s intensity is no small feat. Did she hint at anyone specific?"

Reilla shook her head. "No, but she seemed thoughtful about it. I get the sense she wants to make a choice that will benefit both Aemond and the realm."

Aegon nodded, a thoughtful look crossing his face. "That sounds like Mother. She’s always thinking three steps ahead."

Their lips met once more, this time with a bit more urgency, a silent promise of their shared strength and unwavering support for one another. The warmth of their connection enveloped them, making the weight of the crown and the trials ahead seem just a little bit lighter.

The Small Council chamber was a grand and imposing room, its high ceilings adorned with intricate carvings and tapestries depicting the history of House Targaryen. The room was lit by the warm glow of numerous torches, casting flickering shadows on the stone walls. A large, polished table dominated the center of the chamber, surrounded by high-backed chairs reserved for the council members. King Aegon II Targaryen sat at the head of the table, his presence commanding respect and attention.

The attendees took their seats, their expressions reflecting the seriousness of the matters at hand.

Aegon cleared his throat, signalling the start of the meeting. "We have important matters to discuss today, the foremost being the departure of Larys and Aemond to Harrenhal to secure it against Rhaenyra’s loyalists."

Larys Strong leaned forward, his face a mask of calm calculation. "The task at Harrenhal is of utmost importance. Securing it will provide us with a strong foothold in the Riverlands and prevent any incursions from Rhaenyra’s supporters."

Prince Aemond nodded in agreement; his one remaining eye gleaming with determination. "We will ensure that Harrenhal is firmly under our control. Vhagar’s presence alone will serve as a significant deterrent."

Ser Otto Hightower, his expression thoughtful, added, "We cannot afford to show any weakness."

Aemond's gaze shifted to his mother, who seemed to be waiting for the right moment to speak. Alicent took a deep breath and addressed the council. "I have two viable options for Aemond’s betrothal, which will strengthen our alliances significantly."

All eyes turned to Alicent as she continued, "The first option is a daughter of House Baratheon. A marriage to one of Borros Baratheon’s daughters would secure his loyalty to our cause. Aemond, you may choose among the Baratheon girls as you see fit."

Aemond’s gaze flickered with interest, but he remained silent as Alicent presented the second option. "The second option is Rosyn Tully, the daughter of Lord Grover Tully. This marriage would not only solidify our hold on the Riverlands but also ensure that Harrenhal’s security is maintained. Additionally, if Aemond refuses Rosyn, Helaena could be married to one of Lord Grover’s younger sons, securing the alliance from another angle."

Ser Tyland Lannister, always calculating, leaned back in his chair, considering the implications. "Both alliances are beneficial. The Baratheons would provide strong military support, while the Tully’s would secure our position in the Riverlands."

Lord Jasper Wylde nodded in agreement. "We must weigh the benefits carefully. Aemond’s decision will significantly impact our strategy moving forward."

Aemond, who had been listening intently, finally spoke. "Both options have their merits. I will consider them carefully and will send my answer within a week."

Alicent smiled warmly at her son. "I know you will make the right choice, Aemond. These alliances are crucial to our success."

Aegon looked at his brother with pride. "Aemond, your judgment is valued here. Choose wisely, for the future of our realm depends on it."

The discussion then shifted to the logistics and strategies for securing Harrenhal. Ser Criston Cole outlined the security measures and troop deployments. "We must ensure that Harrenhal is fortified and that our men are well-prepared for any potential siege."

Larys Strong added, “Rumours indicate that Rhaenyra’s forces are spread thin, but we cannot underestimate her. With Vhagar at Harrenhal, we will have a significant advantage."

As maps were unrolled and plans scrutinized, the room buzzed with activity. Grand Maester Orwyle provided insights on the supply lines and the importance of maintaining them.

After a thorough discussion, Aegon turned to his council. "Is there any other business to address?"

Tyland cleared his throat. "There are reports from the western borders that require attention, but they are not as pressing as the matter of Harrenhal. We can address them in the next meeting."

Aegon nodded. "Very well. If there is nothing else, this meeting is adjourned."

As the council members began to rise and gather their documents, Alicent approached Aemond. "I trust you will make the best decision for our family and the realm."

Aemond met his mother’s gaze with determination. "I will, Mother. You can count on it."

The Small Council chamber slowly emptied, leaving behind an air of resolved determination as the Targaryens and their allies prepared for the challenges ahead. The future of the realm hung in the balance, and every decision made in that room would shape the course of history.

The Dragonpit loomed large and foreboding, its vastness filled with the echoes of ancient roars and the lingering smell of dragons. The air inside was thick with the heat of dragonfire and the musky scent of the great beasts. Stone corridors, worn smooth by centuries of use, twisted and turned, leading deeper into the heart of the pit.

Helaena Targaryen led Reilla through the massive stone corridors, their footsteps echoing softly against the cool stone floors. The faint light from torches cast flickering shadows on the walls, giving the place an almost ethereal quality. The anticipation built within Reilla with each step, her heart racing in both fear and excitement.

As they approached Dreamfyre’s chamber, the dragon’s massive, serpentine form came into view. Dreamfyre was a magnificent sight, her scales shimmering with hues of blue and silver, catching the light and reflecting it in a dazzling array. She lifted her head, her eyes glinting with curiosity as the two women entered her space. Her wings, though folded, hinted at the immense power they held when unfurled.

Helaena stepped forward, speaking soothingly to her dragon. “Dreamfyre, my love,” she murmured, her voice soft and melodic, like a lullaby. “This is Reilla, my dear sister by marriage.”

Reilla stood back, awestruck by the dragon’s sheer size and grace. Dreamfyre’s eyes, large and expressive, focused on her, and for a moment, Reilla felt a connection, a sense of understanding pass between them. She took a tentative step closer, her eyes never leaving Dreamfyre’s.

“Come, she will not harm you,” Helaena encouraged, her smile gentle and reassuring.

With a deep breath, Reilla stepped closer, her heart pounding in her chest. The dragon remained calm, her gaze steady and accepting. Reilla felt a sense of calm wash over her, the initial trepidation giving way to a strange comfort in the presence of the dragon.

Helaena watched them with a serene smile. “She likes you,” she said softly. “Dragons are more perceptive than most people realize.”

They spent some time with Dreamfyre, Helaena tending to her dragon and speaking in low, soothing tones. Reilla watched, fascinated by the bond between them, noticing the subtle, almost tender interactions. Dreamfyre would nuzzle Helaena gently, responding to her touch with a soft rumble of contentment.

As they finished, Reilla noticed another presence nearby. Aegon entered the chamber, his golden hair catching the light of the torches, and beside him was his dragon, Sunfyre. Sunfyre’s scales gleamed with an otherworldly brilliance, a striking blend of gold and red. His regal form moved with a fluid grace, his eyes sharp and intelligent.

“Aegon,” Helaena greeted her brother, “I thought it would be good for Reilla to meet Sunfyre as well.”

Aegon nodded, his gaze shifting to his wife. “Sunfyre, meet Reilla,” he said, his voice firm yet gentle.

Sunfyre’s eyes locked onto Reilla, and for a moment, the dragon seemed to assess her. Reilla felt a mixture of awe and trepidation, but she held her ground. The golden dragon lowered his head slightly, a sign of acceptance.

Aegon walked over to Reilla, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. “He likes you,” he said, his tone softer now. “Sunfyre can be quite discerning.”

Reilla felt a rush of emotions, a sense of being embraced by these magnificent creatures. “Thank you, Sunfyre,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Aegon placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. “You have nothing to fear from him. He knows you are family now.”

Reilla looked up at Aegon, a mixture of gratitude and uncertainty in her eyes. “I’m still getting used to all of this.”

Aegon chuckled softly. “It takes time, but you’ll find your place here. We’re all adjusting in our own ways.”

Helaena watched them with a serene smile. “Reilla has a good heart, Aegon. She’ll fit in perfectly.”

Eventually, Helaena turned the conversation to a more personal matter. “I’ve been meaning to ask you, Reilla,” Helaena began, her tone curious and thoughtful. “What happened to the dragon egg that was sent to you as a babe?”

Reilla sighed, her expression wistful. “It never hatched. I kept it close, hoping it would one day, but it remained cold and still. And with my upbringing at Runestone, claiming a dragon was impossible. I never had the chance.”

Helaena nodded thoughtfully, her fingers absently stroking Dreamfyre’s scales. “Perhaps you could try bonding with one of the castle dragons without riders. There are several that remain unclaimed.”

Reilla’s eyes widened in surprise. “I’m not sure about that, Helaena. I’m not much of a warrior, though I have had some sword training.”

Helaena smiled gently, shaking her head. “Bonding with a dragon should never be about fighting, Reilla. It’s about the connection, the essence it brings to one’s life. A dragon is more than a weapon; it’s a part of you, a companion.”

Reilla pondered this, her eyes drifting to the tunnels leading to the nests of the unclaimed dragons. “Which dragon would you suggest?” she asked hesitantly.

“Silverwing,” Helaena replied without hesitation. “She’s relatively docile and loved her previous rider, Good Queen Alysanne, very much. She might accept you if you approach her with an open heart.”

Reilla’s gaze turned toward the direction of Silverwing’s lair, uncertainty and curiosity warring within her. “I will ponder it,” she said softly, her eyes lingering on the darkened tunnels. The idea of bonding with such a majestic creature was daunting, yet exhilarating.

Aegon, who had been listening quietly, added, “Silverwing is a good choice. She’s wise and gentle, perfect for someone like you.”

Reilla looked at Aegon, a small smile forming on her lips. “Thank you, Aegon. Your confidence means a lot to me.”

Helaena reached out, placing a reassuring hand on Reilla’s arm. “Take your time. The bond with a dragon is not something to be rushed. When you’re ready, Silverwing will be waiting.”

Reilla nodded, feeling a deep sense of gratitude towards Helaena and Aegon for their understanding and support. “Thank you, both of you. Your guidance means a lot to me.”

Helaena smiled, her eyes reflecting her sincerity. “We are family now, Reilla. And family looks out for each other.”

As they made their way out of the Dragonpit, the anticipation and excitement of what lay ahead stayed with Reilla. The Dragonpit seemed less intimidating now, the shadows less foreboding. The notion of bonding with a dragon, something she had long thought impossible, now seemed within reach.

The afternoon sun cast long shadows as they exited the pit, the warmth a stark contrast to the coolness within. Reilla couldn’t help but feel a spark of hope igniting within her. The idea of bonding with a dragon was daunting, yet exhilarating, and she found herself looking forward to the possibilities that lay ahead.

“I’ll let you know when I’m ready,” Reilla said, her voice filled with determination.

Helaena nodded, a look of pride in her eyes. “I know you will, and I’ll be here to support you every step of the way.”

Aegon added, “And so will I. Together, we’ll face whatever comes.”

Together, they walked back toward the Red Keep, their steps light with the promise of new beginnings and the strength of their newfound bond.

The war table in Dragonstone's grand hall was surrounded by the key members of Queen Rhaenyra’s faction, the atmosphere tense and charged with anticipation. The news of Aegon’s coronation and marriage to Daemon’s estranged daughter, Reilla, had sent shockwaves through their ranks.

The chamber was bathed in a warm, ambient glow from sconces and flickering torches, their light casting dancing shadows across the stone walls. At its centre sprawled the Painted Table, an immense block of wood carved and painted meticulously to resemble the detailed contours of Westeros as it stood at the dawn of Aegon's Conquest. Settlements and landscapes were vividly depicted, yet without the confines of borders, offering a panoramic view of the realm's expanse. Near the representation of Dragonstone, a raised seat awaited, providing an optimal vantage point to oversee the entirety of the map. Over three centuries of varnish lent the table a rich patina, while nearby, an iron brazier crackled softly, adding to the chamber's warm ambiance, complemented by the gentle heat emanating from a hearth nestled in one corner.

Rhaenyra stood at the head of the table, her presence commanding and regal even amidst the turmoil. Her silver hair cascaded down her shoulders, and her violet eyes were steely with determination. Daemon stood beside her, his expression dark and brooding. His gaze flickered with anger and frustration, the tension palpable between him and Princess Rhaenys Targaryen, who sat opposite with her husband, Lord Corlys Velaryon.

Rhaenyra’s voice broke the heavy silence, steady but laced with anger. “Their union strengthens Aegon’s claim substantially,” she began, her eyes scanning the faces of her loyal supporters. “We need to act swiftly and decisively.”

Rhaenys, her eyes flashing with the same fire that burned in her husband, nodded in agreement. “Harrenhal must be secured. If Aegon sends forces there, it will cut us off from the Riverlands.”

Daemon slammed his fist on the table, making everyone jump. “I will gather an army and claim Harrenhal. Aegon will not hold it while I breathe.”

Corlys looked thoughtful, stroking his beard. “Borros Baratheon remains undecided. We need his support if we are to secure the Stormlands.”

Jacaerys Velaryon, Rhaenyra’s eldest son, stood tall and resolute. “I will fly to Storm’s End and treat with Lord Baratheon.”

“No,” Rhaenyra interjected, her tone firm. “You are needed to fly to Winterfell. We must secure Lord Cregan Stark’s aid. Lucerys will go to Storm’s End.”

Lucerys, though younger and less experienced, nodded bravely. “I will do my duty, Mother.”

The tension in the room mounted as the discussion shifted. Daemon’s face darkened further as the conversation turned to Reilla. Rhaenys brought up her concern with barely concealed contempt. “This marriage is an affront. Reilla should have been here, with us.”

Daemon’s eyes blazed with fury. “Reilla is a mistake, just like her mother. I would have bastardized her if Viserys and that snake Alicent hadn't interfered.”

Rhaenys stood, her voice rising. “You may despise her, but you cannot deny she is your blood. My sources say she is the spitting image of the late Queen Alyssa. Raised with the Royce intelligence for battle and political strategy, she would have been a powerful aid to Rhaenyra’s cause.”

Daemon’s hand went to his sword, his knuckles white with the intensity of his grip. “Speak another word about that child, and you will regret it, Rhaenys.”

Corlys rose to his feet, placing a protective hand on his wife’s shoulder. “Enough, Daemon. You will not threaten my wife. We stand united, or we fall.”

The room fell silent, the tension thick enough to cut with a knife. Rhaenyra’s voice broke the silence, calm but commanding. “We cannot afford to be divided. Our enemies are formidable, and we must stand together. Harrenhal must be secured, and we must bring the Baratheons and the Starks to our side.”

Lord Bartimos Celtigar, who had been quietly observing, spoke up. “We have dragons, Your Grace. They are our greatest advantage.”

Rhaena Targaryen, squaring her shoulders, added, “Silverwing remains in King’s Landing, but Vermithor is on Dragonstone, along with Sheepstealer, Grey Ghost, and Seasmoke. Cannibal is too dangerous to approach. Aemond’s dragon Vhagar is the biggest threat we face; she is powerful beyond measure.”

Daemon nodded, his expression hardening. “We have Meleys and Caraxes.”

Rhaenys squinted at her cousin shrewdly, clenching her hand on the arm of her chair to avoid saying something that would start an all-out brawl. “Baela and Moondancer will train with myself and Meleys as well, so that she might be ready for any circumstance.”

“We might search other avenues as well,” Jacaerys said trying not to let his nerves show. “We could enlist riders from outside the family-

“No dragon will accept a non-Targaryen rider.” Daemon scoffed dismissively.

“Dragonseeds have enough Targaryen blood.” Jacaerys said, eyes flicking to his mother. “Who cares where our fighting power comes from, as long as we have it.”

Maester Gerardys nodded in agreement. “The dragons are crucial to our success and there might still be some on the island with dragon blood…”

Ser Erryk Cargyll, cleared his throat and stepped forward. “I will have my men scour the island for information on any remaining Dragonseeds and descendants, Your Grace. The prince’s idea is a good one.”

Daemon’s jaw clenched and he stood abruptly, storming from the room without a second glance. Rhaenys shared a look with Rhaenyra, conveying her ire towards the Rogue Prince.

Rhaenyra took a deep breath, her gaze sweeping over her council. “We will move forward with our plans. Daemon, will prepare to take Harrenhal. Jacaerys, you will fly to Winterfell. Lucerys, you will go to Storm’s End. We must secure our allies and our positions.”

Rhaenyra turned to her sons, placing a hand on each of their shoulders. “Be careful, my sons. The fate of our House rests on your shoulders.”

Jacaerys and Lucerys nodded, determination in their eyes. “We will not fail you, Mother,” Jacaerys vowed.

The council members continued to discuss their strategies and plans. Rhaenyra spoke with Lord Bartimos Celtigar about securing additional supplies and reinforcements, while Maester Gerardys and Ser Erryk Cargyll provided updates on their intelligence and reconnaissance efforts.

The air was filled with a sense of urgency and resolve. They knew the road ahead would be difficult, but united, they were determined to reclaim what was rightfully theirs. The battle for the Iron Throne was just beginning, and they would fight with all their strength to claim it.

Taglist: @481theralicat

#fanfiction #fanfic #house of the dragon #hotd #hotd fanfiction #hotd fanfic #hotd smut #hotd x oc #aegon ii targaryen #aegon fanfic #aegon fluff #aegon smut #aegon x oc #house targaryen #tom glynn carney #aegon ii targaryen x oc #hotd aegon #oc: reilla

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bloodstained-porcelain-doll · 1 month

Text

The Kneeling Queen, ch 4 - Aemond Targaryen x OC

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Summary: Aemond Targaryen and Maelessa Velaryon were childhood lovers. They were each other’s only comfort in a world full of darkness. When they grew up, their love blossomed until they were the only thing the other cared about. Their lives get increasingly complicated due to the fact that they’re supposed to be on opposite sides of the war. Will their love survive or will it burn to ash as the war ensues?

Warnings: Angst, soft loving smut, canonical character death

Chapter 4 - A King's Death

“No! I won’t go! I want to stay here with Aemond!” Maelessa argued, grabbing onto the large stone column as if her mother would grab her by force and drag her out of the city. Rhaenyra, frustrated, reached out to touch her daughter’s arm.

“We are still your family, Lessa. Please. You’ve been apart from us for years now, we want you to come home with us. We all miss you. Come get to know your new siblings,” her mother urged with a smile. It was time for them to pack up and leave, and predictably a fight had broken out between Maelessa and her mother.

“No,” she insisted. “King’s Landing is my home, I belong here. With Aemond.”

“Aemond is not your husband, he is your uncle.”

“As Daemon is yours!” she snapped.

The Targaryen custom of marrying within the bloodline had been the thread Maelessa held onto for support. Her mother had married her uncle, and she was set on marrying hers. It would be a union for love, but also one to strengthen their house, and one to strengthen her own claim as a Targaryen. She was the blood of Old Valyria, despite not looking like it. Marrying a Targaryen prince and birthing his babes would put an end to the rumours and the doubts across the realm.

There was a moment of silence between the two women until Rhaenyra spoke again.

“Daemon and I-“

“Wed each other in an ancient Valyrian ceremony,” Maelessa cut her mother off. “Aemond and I want to do the same.”

Rhaenyra sighed and a look of resignation came over her as she looked at her daughter.

“I’ve truly lost you to him, haven’t I?” she asked, reaching out to take Maelessa’s hand. The girl nodded and her face softened slightly as she squeezed her mother’s hand.

“Many years ago. There was nothing you could have done, mother. Aemond and I are fated, even the king saw it. You’ve told me stories about you and Daemon in your youth, and truthfully I relate to them. We’re not that different, you and I. And Aemond and Daemon are two sides of the same coin… Your father couldn’t keep you and your uncle apart. Three different marriages couldn’t keep you apart. And nothing can keep me apart from mine. Not even this ridiculous family feud.”

Rhaenyra sighed again and pulled her daughter in close for a hug. The women embraced each other, and once again Rhaenyra allowed her daughter to stay in King’s Landing as she left with the rest of the family for Dragonstone.

Not many days later, the worst hours of Maelessa’s life took place. News broke that the king was dead, but before that was a day of silent plotting, and she wasn’t even allowed to witness any of it. The greens had agreed that Rhaenyra was the heir to the throne, but after the death of the king, they changed their minds. Alicent swore that the king had changed his mind as well, in his dying moments saying that he wanted Aegon to succeed him. But everyone knew that was false. She also changed her mind about Aemond and Maelessa’s betrothal, breaking it and insisting that Aemond needed to be free to marry a lady from another house. In a fit of rage, Aemond had thrown a flagon of wine against the window of his mother’s chamber, shattering it.

“She loves me above anything, mother,” Aemond spoke when he calmed himself, turning back to face his mother, who watched him with tear stained eyes. She had loved the king, and his death left her grieving. Now her one son was missing, and the other one furious with her.

“Perhaps when she was a child. Now we can’t be certain. She’s Rhaenyra’s daughter, we cannot trust her. Besides, you must be free to form a marriage pact. Borros Baratheon will need convincing that Aegon is the true king. He has four daughters.” Alicent sat down, clasping her hands in front of her. Aemond scoffed at the suggestion.

“Hmm. I will not wed another when I have a perfectly suited bride imprisoned in her own chamber as we speak. One that won’t even fault me for imprisoning her.”

“Gods, Aemond, if you could hear yourself sometimes.” Alicent shook her head. “She is a woman, not some object you can possess. You are a man. You can wed a woman and father her children, then spend your own free time with however many other women you want.”

“No.” He shook his head. “I won’t do that to Maelī- to Maelessa. She deserves more than to be my mistress, my whore,” he sneered. She would agree to it, he knew, she would do anything for him if he only asked. But it’s not what he wanted for her, or for himself. Yet his mother continued.

“She’s a bastard, Aemond. When Aegon is king she will find herself lacking in options. Besides, this decision is out of your hands, it’s already been decided.”

Maelessa knew nothing as of yet, when she had woken this morning she found the doors to her chamber barred. She was no longer a welcome guest, but a hostage to be used as a pawn in the green scheme for power.

Her dragon Catlys had just grown large enough to ride, and she supposed the greens thought she would flee if given the opportunity. They were wrong, though, as much anger as she now felt towards Otto and Alicent, she would never do such a thing to her future husband. Being betrothed to Aemond had been the biggest joy of her life. She opened a flagon of wine. If she couldn’t leave her chamber, at least she could get drunk. But then the doors flung open.

“Maelītsos,” Aemond greeted as he entered. She threw herself in his arms and he wrapped them around her tightly, lifting her off the floor.

“What’s happening, my love?” she asked. “Why am I imprisoned? Is it the king, is he dead?”

“Yes,” Aemond said. Maelessa’s heart dropped. She did not know her grandsire that well, but he was kind and he was peaceful, and he upheld her mother’s claim to the throne steadfastly. Yet she knew that everything had gone horrendously wrong. The green snake Otto Hightower plotted for his own house and power. “My brother will be crowned king at dawn. Rhaenys is imprisoned, same as you. Your mother will be considered a usurper if she crowns herself queen,” Aemond continued, confirming her suspicions.

She pulled back from his embrace and her eyes fluttered around the room as tears clouded her vision. So many conflicting emotions tore through her body. Fear and grief for her mother. Fury with the Hightowers. Sorrow for the king. Disgust for Aegon. Confusion. Aemond, he hadn’t been here with her. She had been all alone with her thoughts, without him to comfort her and guide her through it.

“I’ve been locked in here for hours, where have you been? Why didn’t you come sooner?” she asked. Tears fell from her eyes and Aemond wiped them away gently.

“I wanted to come as soon as I heard. But I had to find my brother. He was hiding from his new duties.”

“Ageon doesn’t want the crown?” she asked, and Aemond shook his head. “He’s an imbecile, he doesn’t deserve it. If it can’t be my mother it should be you.” She ran her hands down his cheeks, feeling the soft warmth of his skin and the sharp angles of his jaw. The act brought her peace, the feeling of his flesh against her reminded her that it would always be the two of them against the world.

“I know, my love. I have more news, regretful news,” he continued. “Following the death of the king, my mother and grandsire broke our betrothal. They claim that I am now needed to secure the support of Borros Baratheon.”

“No,” Maelessa cried, tears dripping down her cheeks and grief clawing at her chest. They were supposed to get married. It was supposed to be them against the world, forever. Not some other highborn whore. “No you can’t, you can’t wed someone else, it’ll kill me.”

Aemond pulled her in close and held her, resting his chin on her head.

“You alone have my love. You alone always will.” She sniffled into his black leather jerkin, devastated. She had never been so happy as she had the last few days, and now it was all being ripped from her again. “You understand, don’t you, Mae, that any marriage I may enter will be political only? My heart,” he paused and took her hand, placing it on his chest, “beats only for you.”

The reminder was sorely needed at this time. Whatever happened, he was still hers, and that’s what truly mattered.

“As mine does for you. I will wait here for you, I’ll remain loyal, I’ll make it work any way you want, but…” She trailed off and he wiped her tears again, gently holding her face as she spoke. “Our children… they’ll be bastards like me.” Aemond’s eye searched hers for a solution, and he seemed to come up with something.

“Run away with me again. When Aegon is crowned and all this is over, we’ll take Vhagar and fly somewhere, we’ll marry the old Valyrian way just like your mother and Daemon, like we always talked about. No one will know but us. I know it’s not what we wished for, but it’s the best we can do in the situation.”

Maelessa nodded, her tears finally drying.

“Yes. We’ll do that… I’ll wait for you, my love.”

“I’ll come for you, ñuha ozgūroti,” he promised. She frowned.

“Ozgūroti… what does it mean?” she asked. She thought she was fluent in High Valyrian now after all of Aemond’s lessons, but this word she didn’t recognise. A little smile grazed his lips and he ran his thumb down her cheek, resting it on her lower lip.

“Hmm. It means captive, or prisoner,” he said. She scoffed and smacked his chest.

“Even in a moment like this, you jest.”

“I do not jest. You are my captive. I’ve captured your heart and I intend to keep it forever.”

“In that case you’re my captive as well,” she insisted, and Aemond nodded.

“I am,” he said, leaning in to kiss her. She wrapped her arms around his neck and deepened the kiss, desperately needing him for comfort. He claimed her mouth with his tongue, and she gladly allowed it. When he pulled back she was breathless.

“Do what you have to do. I’ll wait for you.”

Aemond left and barred her doors again. He had left her with his dagger, telling her to use it for self defence if anyone was to enter her chamber while he was gone. She revisited her plan on getting drunk, now sitting on her bed with a cup of wine in one hand and the dagger in the other. Anxiety clawed at her when she thought about how they ended up here. Just a few days ago, things seemed like they were going to be fine. Their house was united, and her mother would be queen after Viserys the Peaceful.

The greens must have made plans long ago, because outside her window, people were moving around, scurrying, rushing and whispering. She drank her wine as she watched them all fuss around. Larys Strong looked on from a corner. Technically her uncle, yet she had barely ever spoken to him. Her thoughts drifted to her poor mother. Her throne was being usurped, and there was nothing she could do about it, because she didn’t know. The castle was so quiet, and Maelessa could only assume it was because the greens didn’t want the news of the king’s death to spread yet. They had to finish their plans first.

She had never loved Alicent. The green queen was stern and absent, never warm, smiling or welcoming. But she seemed to have a good heart and she, just like Rhaenyra, wanted peace. But her father Otto was another matter. Otto Hightower was a cunning serpent, whispering venomous words in the ears of everyone in a position of power. Maelessa’s best guess was that this plot was his doing.

The whole day passed, and it was only in the middle of the night that Aemond returned to her chamber. She woke not when he opened the doors, but when he climbed into her bed. He had already stripped all clothes from his body and his eyepatch as well. She stirred and opened her eyes, and he brushed her hair out of her face.

“Shhh…” he whispered, placing soft kisses all over her face. His fingers, gentle and careful, travelled down her neck and chest, pushing back the furs she slept under. “Ñuha gevives…” His kisses moved down her neck, to her chest and down her arm as he climbed in under the furs and on top of her. She shifted onto her back to grant him better access. “Ñuha gevie ozgūroti.” There was that word again. Captive. Prisoner. It held two meanings to them, sweet and evil. Aemond brought his hand up to her lips, and she sucked his fingers into her mouth, wetting them before he dropped his hand down to her womanhood, rubbing her softly until she was bucking her hips up against his hand, craving more.

”Kostilus,” she begged quietly. Aemond chuckled and slid two fingers into her, still placing soft kisses wherever he could reach.

“Ñuha buzdari…” he murmured, and she gasped. The more chaotic the world around them grew, the more possessive he became. “Mēre ñuha.”

“Aōhon,” she agreed, whining in pleasure as he drove his fingers in deep, curling them and working the spot deep inside her that drove her mad with desire. “Ñuha āeksio… ñuha dārys… ñuha jaes,” she moaned. At this, he captured her lips again and kissed her feverishly, pumping his long skilled fingers into her over and over until she threw her arms around him, digging her nails into his perfectly muscled back as she came for him, receiving praise once more.

“Syz riña… ñuha syz riña,” he whispered, withdrawing his fingers and sucking her arousal off of them, moaning at the taste.

“Mazemagon yeng,” she murmured against his lips when he kissed her again. So he did. One could be forgiven for thinking he ruled and made all the decisions in their relationship, but truth be told Aemond indulged Maelessa’s every whim, he never told her no unless it was for her own safety, and everything she wanted, he gave her if it was within his power to do so. He was enslaved to her just as much as she was to him.

She wrapped her legs around his hips when he entered her, moaning softly. He kept his hand on her cheek, looking into her eyes as he rocked his hips into her, claiming her with deep and slow thrusts. They both gasped and panted in pleasure, sharing sweet kisses in between his thrusts. He filled her up so perfectly and it didn’t take long before she was nearing that edge again, using her heels to pull him deeper inside her. She fisted her hands in his hair and he bit down on her neck just as she tumbled over the edge, crying out his name when she came for him. Seconds later he withdrew himself from her and with a breathless groan, spilled his seed on her thighs and belly. She couldn’t wait to feel it inside her one day.

Neither of them bothered with cleaning up the mess, and Aemond climbed back in under the furs. Maelessa pulled him into her arms this time, stroking his silky hair fondly while kissing his face and head. She sang him a song and he slowly began to relax in her arms, and that’s how they fell asleep that night.

When dawn came for them, he helped her dress. He braided her hair, she braided his, and he put her in a green gown despite her protests.

“Can’t I wear black? It would symbolise my mourning for the king. I don’t support your family, I don’t support Aegon. Only you,” she said and pouted as he laced the green corset tightly.

“No.” One word, that he barely ever used with her, was all he needed to silence her objections. He leaned in and kissed her exposed neck. “It’s only for show, Maelītsos. Don’t think too much about it. Everything will be alright, I promise.”

With a resigned sigh she allowed him to keep fussing around with her like a doll until he deemed her perfect. Then he offered her his arm and they walked together through the empty castle all the way to the dragon pit, where Aegon was to be crowned. As expected they received angry looks from Alicent and Otto when they showed up together. Alicent grabbed Aemond’s arm, stopping him when they passed her.

“Why is she here? She was supposed to remain in her chamber,” she whispered. Maelessa heard her of course, and smiled. Aemond had broken the rules of their plan only to have her here, and for that she was glad.

“Hmm. She looks pretty in green, don’t you think?” Aemond replied to his mother with a smirk, ignoring her question to take their places by Helaena who smiled shyly.

Commoners began to seep into the dragon pit, slowly but surely filling it up. Guards made sure to keep the order and soon, the pit was full to the brim with people. The bells of the city rang to signal an important event. When they stopped, it was Otto who spoke.

“People of King’s Landing! Today is the saddest of days. Our beloved king, Viserys the Peaceful, is dead.” Unnerved chatter broke out among the commonfolk. “But it is also the most joyous of days! For as his spirit left us, he whispered his final wish, that his first born son, Aegon, should succeed him!” The chatter turned from unnerved to exhilarated, and men of the city watch entered, forming a passage for the new king. Maelessa struggled to keep her face plain. She wanted to scowl and roll her eyes as Otto spoke, but she bit her lip to stop herself. She glanced over at Aemond who stood next to her, hands clasped behind his back.

Aegon entered, slowly, looking unsure of himself. He didn’t look like a king at all, but a sullen boy who shouldn’t be afforded power in any aspect of life. No matter how much you tried to dress up a pig, it was still a pig. Even Aemond couldn’t hide his thoughts as he swallowed hard, his eyes fluttering while he watched his brother take the stage. Then he caught himself, and resumed his stoic blank gaze.

Otto continued to speak, but it was Ser Criston who spoke the final words, placing the Conqueror’s crown upon Aegon’s head. When Aegon turned, first Alicent, then Helaena and then Maelessa, all curtsied. Aemond nodded his head, and then Aegon turned back to the public, who applauded him and cheered. It was then he seemed to realise that power came with adoration, and he drew his Valyrian steel sword. For the first time since entering the pit, he smiled. When the crowd cheered him, and he lifted the sword again, egging the smallfolk on.

It was then that the ground broke, dust and debris covering the entire room and a dragon’s screech was heard. The common folk screamed and scattered. Aemond stepped protectively in front of Maelessa and Helaena, who took each other’s hands as they watched the red scales of Meleys come into vision. Rhaenys sat in the saddle, having escaped her imprisonment in her chamber. Meleys roared, her huge claws and her snapping tail taking the lives of many a man as she gained footing and stomped forward to the royal family. As the commonfolk escaped through the opening doors, Rhaenys looked down at Aegon and Alicent. Alicent had stepped forward to protect her son, if Rhaenys were to rain fire on him. Maelessa stared with wide eyes, wondering if Rhaenys was bold enough to slaughter them all in here.

It would be bittersweet. If she slew the new king, it meant Rhaenyra could come to claim her rightful throne. But in dragon fire, none were spared, meaning she wouldn’t live to see it. Meleys roared again, her hot breath fanning over them all. Rhaenys gave Alicent a meaningful look, then she turned her dragon around and escaped, leaving them all shaken and scared, but unharmed.

Valyrian translations:

Ñuha ozgūroti - My captive/prisoner

Ñuha gevives - My beauty

Ñuha gevive ozgūroti - My beautiful prisoner

Kostilus - Please

Ñuha buzdari - My slave

Mēre ñuha - Only mine

Aōhon - Yours

Ñuha āeksio… ñuha dārys… ñuha jaes - My master… my king… my god

Mazemagon yeng - Claim/take me

Tag list: @magnificentsapphiresoul

#The Kneeling Queen #aemond targaryen #aemond one eye #house of the dragon #smut #prince aemond #hold aemond targaryen #Aemond Targaryen fanfiction #Aemond Targaryen x OC #aegon targaryen #rhaenyra targaryen #alicent hightower #aemond x oc

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peonierose · 6 months

Text

Losing Game (3/4)

Book: Open Heart

Pairing: Luna Auclair (F!OC) x Bryce Lahela (M!MC)

Rating: Mature / Angst

TW: Mental Health

Words: 3,000+

Summary: Bryce visited his dad in prison and now he and Luna are oceans apart, but after a scare during his surgery he can only think of one person to call.

A/N: In case you missed the parts before here they are: Part 1, Part 2

2nd A/N: I went a bit off canon with Bryce and what happened with his parents, just as an fyi. Also thank you for everyone for reading this story and giving it a chance 🩷

Side note: I also made a playlist for Part 3, the previous two parts include a playlist as well.

Maui, Hawaii

A few years ago…

Bryce

I sang along to some song playing on the radio, still pumped from a round of basketball with my friends. I kicked Kainalu‘s ass and ran laps around him. I still can’t believe I beat him this time around, he cursed throughout the game. But it was just a game between friends.

When I turned the corner to our house I saw blue flashing lights, alerting me that something was wrong. I put the car in park and slammed the door as I got out.

Did something happen? This is a pretty safe neighborhood. My parents made sure we had the best-equipped security system around. The best money could buy.

Several cop cars have pulled up in front of our driveway. I saw two police officers escorting my dad into a police car. My eyebrows rose high. Not able to make sense of this whole situation and what is unraveling right in front of my eyes.

I ran towards the entrance of our house where officers were carrying out some of our things. Such as computers, laptops, phones, everything, and putting them into evidence bags. I kept staring as if this was a nightmare I couldn’t wake up from.

When I wanted to enter our house an officer stopped me.

”You can’t get inside.“

”What do you mean I can’t get inside? I live here.“ I replied, with a sharpness I reserved for people who get on my nerves.

”Please Officer, that’s my son.“ My mom‘s voice came from the entrance. The officer looked me up and down and finally, after what felt like hours passed, he nodded and let me enter.

”Alright. He can enter. But don’t touch anything.“ He called out after me.

I got inside and my mom pulled me to the side.

”Let’s go to the kitchen.“ I followed my mom as if I were in a trance. My body moved, but my mind was somewhere else.

The questions kept circling in my head like hungry vultures ”What the fuck is going on here? Why are there cops in our home? Why did Dad get arrested? What did my parents get themselves into?“

I whirled on my mom, but she put her forefinger on her lips telling me with her eyes not to ask any questions that were burning on my tongue. Then she hugged me and whispered into my ear.

”Listen carefully, we don’t have much time. There’s a small bag in your sister's closet. Take it and get her out of here. There’s enough money that should last you for a while. Since I’m sure they froze all of our accounts.“

I wanted to break off the hug and look at my mom. But she held on tight.

”But…“

”Do as I say ku’uipo. Know that your father and I love you. Take care of your little sister until we figure things out. You hear me?“ My mom hissed. I nodded slightly. ”Good.“

We broke off the embrace and it’s as if I’m seeing a different mom. Not one who kissed my bruised knee when I fell from my bike as a seven-year-old, or who sang me Hawaiian songs when I had the flu.

She put her hand on my cheek as if she sought comfort from me. She kissed my cheek and a feeling of dread settled in my stomach. I let out a breath I’ve been holding in.

After a few seconds, I went upstairs. Before heading up, I took another look at my mom, tired lines had etched themselves into her bronze skin. I turned around, taking one last close look at her before I climbed the stairs leading to our bedrooms.

As I went up I looked for the bag my mom mentioned. Though Keiki is nowhere in sight. I sprinted to the closet and when I opened it I whistled when I saw all the cash, fake IDs, and passports inside the bag. Whatever they did, they must’ve had a backup plan.

I recognized a fake ID when I saw one. I used one to get into clubs and bars while still underage. This isn’t a simple bag, this is a run-for-the-hills, get-out-of-town for a while kind of bag.

I replaced the bag my mom prepared with my gym bag that was slung over my shoulder a few minutes ago. Making sure no one saw me swap the bags I went outside and looked for my sister.

”Kei-Kei?“ I went to my room, and there she was. Hugging her green sea turtle to her chest. I gave it to her last Christmas.

She was sitting on my bed. Scared to death if her tear-streaked face was any indication. Her dark brown hair was held in a ponytail by a pink elastic. I kneeled next to her.

”Keiks? Come on, let's go.“

She looked at me and I took her little hand into mine. Her hands were shaking and I covered them with mine to lend her some strength.

”Go where? I’m so scared.“ Her big brown eyes, so much like my own, were full of more unshed tears.

”I know you are scared. But I’ve got you Kei-Kei.“ When she hesitated I smiled and squeezed her hand.

”I’m scared too, Keiks. But why don’t we go to a safer place? Hmm?“

”Today is my birthday, Bry. Are we going to celebrate with mom and dad?“ She asked, looking up at me.

I closed my eyes. Shit. It’s her birthday. How do you explain this shit show to your six-year-old sister?

”We‘ll go to some friend's house for a few days. You and I will celebrate with some cake and ice cream. Mom and Dad will join us when they can, okay?“

”Okay. But I want a big cake. With mango flavor.“ She said excitedly.

”You got it Kei-Kei.“ I said and smiled at her. When she saw me smiling at her she smiled back, nodded, and wiped her tears away.

I put the bag over my shoulder and hoisted Keiki up, carrying her downstairs. She clung to me and I winked at her which made her smile. Officers were still taking everything and bagging it as evidence.

Damn what the hell happened? I’ll have to ask my parents another time. First I needed to make sure Keiki was alright.

Though from the looks of it, our lives would inevitably change forever.

Honolulu, Hawaii’

Present Day…

Bryce

With a start my eyes snapped wide open, looking left and right, seeing familiar surroundings, making me relax in bed. I reached for my glass of water on the white nightstand next to me, since my throat was all dried up.

I haven’t had memories resurface like this in a long time. Moments from when my parents were arrested. I’ve always wanted the memories gone and I’ve suppressed them. Guess they’re coming back in full force now.

I rubbed my tired eyes. When I turned my head I saw that Luna's side of the bed was rumpled. Though her side was empty.

I didn’t have to be at work until later in the afternoon. As I turned my head I looked at the clock at my bedside. The green numbers said 7.35 am and I just wanted to stay in bed all day, but I knew I’ve got to get my shit together and get out of bed. No matter how hard it is.

I rubbed my eyes again and got out of bed. I went into the bathroom to take a cold shower. Maybe that’ll wake me up.

15 minutes later I was dressed and ready to face the day. The first thing I noticed as I got downstairs was that the kitchen was empty except for Keiki and Evie sitting at the kitchen table talking in hushed tones.

After the flashback I just had, it feels weird to see Keiki all grown up now. As if you fast-forwarded turning Keiki 23, instead of 6.

When I entered they stopped talking.

”Good morning,“ I walked towards the coffee machine to get some coffee. Starting the day without coffee? Impossible.

”Morning Bryce,“ Evie said while Keiki kept herself busy with Cheerios and some mango slices.

Looking at me, her eyes full of questions I don’t have the answer to. I put it aside to answer later. Because as of right now? I don’t know what to say. Honestly.

”You know an apple would be good for you. Instead of all that sugar, you eat all the time,“ I said pointing to the bowl in front of her.

”How about no? Also, I have some mango smartass.“ She said and stuck out her tongue at me.

I grinned.

”Real mature Keiks,“ I replied and sat down at the kitchen table, across from Evie. Keiki's phone chimed and she went upstairs to take the call.

Evie scooted closer.

”Is everything okay Bryce? Luna is usually up before you. She’s usually in the kitchen preparing breakfast or ordering in and singing around. You know, since you and making breakfast usually almost turns into having to call the fire department,“ she grinned but her green eyes turned serious within seconds.

I chuckled but the sound was more hollow than rich with joy.

”It’s complicated. Let’s leave it at that Eves,“ I said, not really in the mood to hash out what happened last week. Too restless to sit, I get up and just lean against the fridge.

Evie got up too and she squeezed my arm.

”I get it, this is between you and Luna. And you want to solve this on your own. I won’t pressure you for details. But Bryce? You’re one of my favorite guy friends, well make that the only one. So if you ever need to talk, or just get wasted? I’m your girl. You went through a lot. I can tell. So if there’s something you’d like to get off your chest I’m here. Don’t bottle it up. When you’re ready we’re all here. For you and Luna. You’re family okay? You’re not alone,“ she aimed a watery smile at me.

I nodded and hugged her, not able to say more than that. She gave me another hug and grabbed an apple from the fruit basket.

”At least one person in this house eats healthy,“ I said teasingly.

”I heard that,“ came Keiki's shout from upstairs.

”Good,“ I shouted back.

I do what I always do when everything gets too much. I go to Manoa Falls when I feel upset. It’s my and Luna’s favorite place in the world.

Sitting there on the moss-covered stones and hearing the rush of the waterfalls? It’s like you’re one with nature. That peacefulness? Food for the soul. When I get there I let the silence and chirping of birds envelop me and ground me. My phone chimes with a text, my heart sped up and I think it might be Luna, but it’s just a Spotify alert. Suggesting a new song to one of my playlists. I unlock my phone to see which song it is. It’s , which must be for Luna she loves Maddie & Tae. I sigh when I lock my phone again.

Only too soon do I have to get back because my shift is about to start.

I got dressed for work and before I was out the door I heard Keiki calling my name and I turned around keys in hand.

”Hey are you guys okay? I could tell Luna was upset about something,“ she asked gently.

I nodded.

”We’ll be okay again. We’re just going through a rough patch. It’s all going to work out,“ I said and kissed my sister on the forehead.

She nodded.

I walked out the door to get to work. Hopefully, work will distract me from my problems for now.

Later that day…

Aubrey got out of the OR. Her brown eyes blazing.

”What the fuck is wrong with you Lahela?“ She asked me.

I leaned on the wall. Trying to get a breath out. But all that came out was a wheezing sound rather than an actual breath.

She noticed I was not saying anything and must’ve seen my face. Pale as a ghost.

”Deep breaths Lahela. Come on. You got this. Deep breaths. In and out,“ she instructed me and I did as she said.

My hands started to tremble earlier during surgery. Again. What the fuck is going on?

I tore the surgical cap away and threw it onto the floor. Tearing at my longer hair. Not seeing where the cap landed and not really caring at this moment.

”Okay talk to me. What’s wrong?“

When my breathing was under control again I looked at Aubrey.

I was breathing slowly, still not able to talk to anyone.

”I had a fucking panic attack. That’s what’s wrong.“ I said a heartbeat later.

”Okay. Just breathe and relax. Just stay here, okay?“ She said and left to give me some space.

This happened before but I didn’t see it as a panic attack.

I thought I just had some anxiety left from the day before when I talked to a family who were seeking answers for a surgery I couldn’t perform because it was too risky.

What if complications occur? They will blame me for it.

It’s a pretty complicated surgery and I didn’t know how well they would handle any complications or repercussions I told them about.

I sighed again. I didn’t even realize that I pulled out my phone and dialed Luna’s number.

”Hey B, what’s wrong?“ She said and I could hear other people mutter in the background. She must be at the store or something.

”Can you come to the hospital? I know we’ve fought, but I really need you.“ I said quietly.

”Of course, I’ll be right there.“ She said. It‘s as if our fight was forgotten.

I don’t even know how I got to the locker room as I’m sitting on the cold, hard linoleum floor. My head is resting between my knees.

As I’m trying to get my breathing and my heart rate under control.

Breathing exercises didn’t cut it. But slowly my heartbeat normalized and I could breathe freely again.

I didn’t know if she’d even come if I called her. After our fight, everything seemed out of balance.

But Luna is the only person I wanted to see. I just wanted to feel her soft touch and smell her guava shampoo. Knowing she’s close and I can hug her when my anxiety is high? Deeply comforted me.

I was still sitting like that on the floor when I felt soft hands caressing the hair at the nape of my neck.

I shivered and when I turned around I saw Luna’s concerned face.

”What happened?“ She asked and opened her arms for me.

I hugged her because I needed her. For the first time in a week after our fight, I felt good again.

It’s as if I‘m a functioning human being, who’s been deprived of human touch for so long. However weird that sounded, it helped to hug her. That physical contact from the person I love is exactly what I needed.

We barely talked, just exchanged a few words here and there. But it’s not like it’s usually with us. Jabs and teasing here and there. Laughter and kisses.

I missed her. I didn’t know you could be in the same room with the person you love, yet feel so lonely. As if you’re miles apart.

She stroked my hair and just whispered some lyrics of a song to me. I think it was ”I Have a Dream by ABBA“.

”My hands started shaking and I panicked during surgery.“

”Oh B I‘m sorry that happened, but I think ever since you visited your dad you came back differently.“ She pointed out carefully as if she wasn’t sure what my reaction would be.

”Of course I did. There are way too many emotions eating me up right now. I just needed to sort them all out.“ I remarked.

”B please tell me what’s going on. Please, I don't know how to help you if you don’t tell me,“ Luna whispered.

”I feel lost. Lost and sad and I don’t know.“ I admitted. I broke down. I wrapped my arms around her as I cried silently and she held me close, showing me she was right here with me.

”I’ll give you anything you want Bryce. I love you so damn much. I’d even eat some oatmeal.“ She shivered involuntarily. The disgust of having to eat oatmeal was evident on her face. She hates it. I laughed through my tears. She pushed some strands of my hair that had gotten longer out of my face and I squeezed her hand.

”Would you be willing to go to therapy? We could go together if you want. Or you could go alone. Whatever makes you feel more comfortable.“

To be honest I’ve been thinking of going to therapy for a while. I’ve been a wuss to go though.

”I’d like that. Know any good ones?“

Luna nodded.

”I do. We can make an appointment. And we can go whenever you feel like you want to go.“

I nodded and just kept leaning into her. I turned my head and looked into her blue-green eyes.

”I never meant to hurt you when I didn’t tell you I visited my dad. I…just don’t know…“

Luna took my face into her hands.

”It’s okay B. We’ll figure it out together. And if you want to spend some time figuring things out with your parents I support you.“ She said and after a heartbeat, she continued.

”I suffer from anxiety and depression. I know what it’s like when it’s getting too much and when I don’t know what to do with my emotions. When I want to scream and cry and just get out of my skin for a while. I get it. That’s what painting is for me. Maybe we can find something you can find comfort in.“ I smiled. Even now when we’re still not sure where we stand exactly, she tries to help and support me. I couldn’t love her more if I tried.

”I always liked working with my hands. Building things. I was always good at it. I once built a princess castle for Keiki.“

”That is so sweet. I bet it was pink.“ Luna smiled softly and I smiled back at her. If there’s one person who loves pink? It’s Luna. But it’s endearing and I love that about her.

”Maybe you can work something out with Adam?“ She suggested.

”You think he’d let me?“ I asked not sure if Adam would let me help with any of his projects.

”Of course. Adam loves you like a brother. He’d help you. Especially if he knows it helps you to feel calm.“

I admit feeling ashamed and mortified that my hands would start to shake again. Is something wrong with me?

”There’s nothing wrong with you B. Sometimes emotions boil over. It’s when you’ve bottled things up too many times. I know that. That’s why I’ve turned to art. When I create art it lets me get out some emotions I‘ve been feeling. We can do some painting together if you want.“

I didn’t realize I'd spoken out loud. I nodded, not able to look at her, afraid she’d see how emotionally exhausted I was.

First visiting my dad, our fight, and now this panic attack during the surgery. Maybe some vacation would do me some good. I‘m sure I can work something out with the chief of medicine. Alana is amazing and she‘s very understanding.

”I’m sorry I didn’t tell you about my dad. I just didn’t want to share it because I was scared that if you saw and knew everything you’d…“

”What? Run away? B there’s nothing that could make me run away from you. No matter what happens. Sure I was hurt that you didn’t say anything, but I understand that sometimes certain conversations aren’t that easy. Especially when it’s with a family member you haven’t talked to in a while. But whether we fight or if we have a make-out session all day, a relationship is never easy. But we work on it. We compromise, and most importantly we love each other. Come hell or high water.“

I looked up at her and I could tell from the expression in her eyes that she meant every word.

She hugged me again and I simply leaned into her, borrowing some of the strength that she was offering. We sat like that for another 10 minutes, until Luna had a pained look on her face and I could’ve slapped myself by letting her sit on the ground.

”B not to be rude, but can we maybe go somewhere else? I feel a bit uncomfortable sitting like this.“

”Oh my god I’m sorry of course. Here let me help you up.“ I got to my feet and helped her up.

”Thank you. For being there for me.“ I kissed her soft lips, giving you that warm, cozy feeling as if you were coming home.

”Always.“ She smiled tenderly.

I knew we’d fought, but things will get better again. I believe that.

#Losing Game (3/4)#Luna Auclair #Bryce Lahela #Keiki Lahela #Evangeline Auclair #Aubrey O'Neil #open heart #CFWC

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breitzbachbea · 11 months

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I'm curious. i might have already asked and forgot but

what made you ship Ireland x Sicily?

Short answer: I had an Ireland OC and my friend had a Sicily OC and we obviously had to mash 'em together.

Long answer: I did a little bit of research back then and Ireland and Sicily have a lot of superficial similiarities. Both predominantly Catholic, both predominantly rural for most of their existence, both having a strong sense of identity (be it something that only emerged in the last few centuries, because the (ethnic) Nationstate is a very young concept) and both having a long history of foreign rule. They're used as examples of backwardness and barbarism of neighbour elites, often ones they are politically/economically tied to.

I also, way back when, started a little AU story that was supposed to be a simple Art Trade for my friend whose Sicily OC it originally was. This has since spiralled wildly out of control and writing that AU has become my main hobby ten years later. During which that Sicily OC became mine, since my friend moved on from the fandom.

And I just ... I am very specifically in love with my Ireland and my Sicily, but you can imagine canon Ireland and Romano for all you want, if you want to get it. They're just so made for each other - loving, kind, and warm, embracing the whole world. Take no shit but do no harm. They also share a certain dark and fatalistic sense of humor, love to lament but ah well, in the end you make do.

I just love how Ireland and Sicily fit together like puzzle pieces. Sicily, shunted from the world stage in Hetalia, no longer even a prized crown jewel, a caged bird, just seen as a burden who happens to have a pretty house. And then Ireland comes along and says "I see you". Sicily doesn't even have to explain the years of hardship, the degradation, the loss of yourself as you see your people drift away because there's nothing left for them here. Ireland knows, but they don't have much of a shared past so there isn't baggage of millennia of sharing history. And Sicily understands too, understands how hard the price for freedom is and how desperate one is for it after being kicked down on. They work without words. They are each other's safe haven, gladly finding solace in their mirror image. Ireland has someone who looks up to him without being bitterly disappointed; without obscuring the man behind the myth.

And oagh, in LFLS. Harry and Michele see themselves as someone who's hard to love, who's too flawed to genuinely keep anyone around, and they effortlessly take each other's hands and don't let go. They're charmed by how stubborn they are in their own ways, they see how hard they work and how much they love their family and friends. They see someone who's beaming with pride, who knows their own worth, but also isn't so far up their own ass that they can't laugh about themselves. SicIre are just old men at heart. They are the perfect ship for sitting on the porch together and bickering about the neighbours and expressing their love in little sappy, gestures. They're just ... they're just so alike and yet different enough in how they express themselves that it never gets boring.

Also, also, just looook at them.

(Pictures respectively by @/modernday-jay, @/lieutkenny and @/c0ffinated)

#beareplies #maryeve #is this coherent? probably not #but I have no good answer other than I saw two characters similiar to each other and then blacked out #and woke up with them being tied together with the red string of fate in every universe. they just make sense to me.#aph #hetalia #hws #aph ireland #hws ireland #hetalia oc #aph sicily #hws sicily #sicire #aph sicire #hws sicire #storie nostre #harry #miche

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lcs-library · 2 years

Text

A Tiny Love(Sakuya x Reader)

Notes/Tags: Sakuya x reader, except mc only shows up a little bit at the end so I guess it’s technically Sakuya-centric but shhhh, canon compliant, Happy Valentine’s!!!, child oc(?)(idk I just slapped her together so 😗), takes place during act 3 but has no major spoilers

Summary: “Sakuya-sensei, will you marry me?” “Pardon?” A strange request from one of the young girls at the daycare Sakuya worked at sent his entire day haywire. Happy Valentine’s Day!! Have a Sakuya<3

“Sakuya-sensei, will you marry me?”

“Pardon?”

A strange request from one of the young girls at the daycare Sakuya worked at sent his entire day haywire.

It wasn’t uncommon for the kids to play house with him(even if they called him a ham), nor was it strange for them to play wedding with their toys, but for them to ask a teacher? That was new.

Luckily, he knew just how to respond.

“That’s really sweet of you, Ena-chan, but I’m already someone else’s boyfriend!” He replied sweetly, kneeling down to the young girl’s height.

“You won’t?” She looks like she’s about to cry.“But I worked so hard on the wedding! And I love you!”

“Oh, um…”

In that moment, Sakuya had no idea what to do, but having a crying child on his hands wouldn’t be the most fun to deal with.

“How about we have a pretend wedding? I’ll be your husband for that if you want!” He exclaims with a smile.

“Really?” Her face immediately lights up.

“Mhm.”

“Yay!” She cheers, turning back to her group of friends, “Sakuya-sensei said he’d marry me!”

The girls squeal with delight as Ena takes Sakuya’s hand.

“Come on, I gotta show you the wedding spot!”

She’s smiling so bright, clearly super excited about this, while Sakuya can only let out a nervous giggle.

What have I gotten myself into…

She takes him out to the yard, showing off an array of paper chains and glitter, with the small play house serving as an altar, a group of girls surrounding it.

“You gotta go up to the marrying spot, okay?!” She squeals, running to one of the back corners of the fence.

He complies, making his way up to the “altar”, trying his best to stay composed.

At that moment, around a million thoughts and questions swarm his mind, but are interrupted by one of the girls skipping up the the crowd, sprinkling grass in her wake.

A moment later, Ena walks down the aisle, carrying an array of questionable plants from around the space, loudly singing her take on a wedding march. She held her head high, her steps stiff and practiced, as if she were waiting her whole life for this moment and didn’t spring it on everyone half and hour ago.

And, looking at her, Sakuya can’t help but feel an odd sense of pride.

That one day, this will be real for her, with someone she loves, and he would have touched her life permanently at that point. Ah, the wonders of childcare.

“Sakuya-sensei! You gotta kiss me now!”

“Eh?!”

No, it wasn’t a surprise to him that she didn’t know how weddings worked and thought of them as a fancy way to get a kiss, but the fact that she was insistent on getting one was freaking him out.

“Um, h-how about a hug instead?”

“It’s not the same!” She whines.

“But it’s a way to show our love, isn’t it?”

Please tell me I’ll get to live today…

“Hmm…alright!”

Thank God, Sakuya thinks to himself as he breathes a sigh of relief.

And so the two embrace, and they all lived happily ever after.

Until a few hours later.

“Ah, Ena-chan, your mom’s here to pick you up!” Sakuya calls back into the noisy room, welcoming one of the parents in.

Just then, all hell broke loose.

Ena rushed over, clinging to Sakuya’s leg, almost in tears.

“I don’t wanna go! Sakuya-sensei married me, and I’m living with him!” She wailed, gripping tightly to his apron.

“Hey, Sakuya, is your shift over yet?” You asked, opening the door to the daycare.

You couldn’t have picked a worse time.

Sakuya’s eyes widened, a “help me” sort of expression on his face.

“What happened here?”

“Um-“

“I’m not going! Sakuya-sensei married me and we’re gonna be together forever and ever!”

You firmly decided that you didn’t even want to know what happened, but tried to come up with a solution.

“Really?” You asked, frowning.

“I was looking forward to seeing him today!”

“Too bad! He’s mine!”

Woah, a feral one.

Thankfully, Sakuya saw what you were doing and tapped in.

“Ena-chan, didn’t we learn that sometimes we have to share our things? Maybe you should share me with my friend here.” He gently suggested.

There was a moment of internal struggle in her eyes, but with enough pleading gestures from the two of you, she gave in.

“Fine! But you’re still mine!”

“Thank you, Ena-chan.”

“Thanks!”

She let out a small “hmph” as she took her mother’s hand, yet took the time to wave “bye-bye” to Sakuya.

Once the two left, you just had to ask.

“What was that all about?”

“Well,” he replied, taking off his apron and hanging it up, “she tried to marry me, so I suggested we have a pretend marriage to prevent this from happening. I guess she doesn’t know enough at this age, and it’s all real to her.” He finishes with a giggle.

You let out a mock gasp.

“You cheated on me?! Sakuya, I thought you were a good, honest man!” You complain, lightly smacking him on the shoulder.

“Hey, I didn’t want a crying kid on my hands, okay?” He defends, taking your hand in his as you exit the daycare.

The cold winter air greets the two of you, harshly nipping at your skin.

Thank God Sakuya is pretty much a natural heater, you decide, practically draping yourself on top of him, nearly toppling him over.

“Oh! I almost forgot!” He exclaims.

He plants a kiss on your cheek.

“Happy Valentine’s Day.”

#cue Azami crying in the corner #should I have saved this until June? maybe #do I like it better as a Valentine’s fic? yes<3 #also yes the title is the same title as Tsuzuru’s initial R backstage I’m very lazy✨#a3!#fanfiction #a3! x reader #a3! act! addict! actors!#act! addict! actors!#a3 game #sakuya sakuma #sakuya sakuma x reader #happy valentine's day #my fics

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the-loveliest-lotus · 3 years

Text

Current WIP Long-Fanfiction List

I suppose I should make a post for all of my big work-in-progress fanfictions rather than just my Metalocalypse one. List with plot descriptions and pairings below the cut. Works are for The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Phantasm, and Metalocalypse.

All of them are OC x Character pairings, and are all rated Explicit. Links are all to AO3 where there is more info about what is found in the story in the tags/chapter descriptions. I write smut with something of a plot, y’all. We don’t have horny jail on this island, we embrace the horny.

Texas Chainsaw Massacre: When You're Not Fed Love on a Silver Spoon, You Learn to Lick it Off Knives

Begins in late June of 1973: Nubbins hitches a ride home with some girls who are on ecstasy. One of them takes a liking to him, offers him some, and they quickly discover that they share some interesting kinks. They form a connection based initially on sex, but as they spend more time together they realize that they have more in common (spoiler, it's not cannibalism) and they start dating.

Or, Nubbins gets laid and then gets a nurturing connection that grounds him enough that he ~mostly~ gets his shit together, and Bobby doesn’t go completely insane because his twin survives.

Pairings (so far): Nubbins x OC ; Chop Top x (different) OC

BE MINDFUL THAT THIS ONE CONTAINS ~EXPLICIT~ VIOLENT GORE SCENES.

Phantasm: The Butterfly Effect

What if on the day of Jody's funeral, the Tall Man meets the reincarnation of his beloved from his life? What if because of this, the Tall Man doesn't uproot Jody's body immediately, and Mike doesn't fixate on the Tall Man? What if this leads to an entirely different future, wherein the Tall Man finds some ~eventual~ balance?

-OR-

A modern AU porn with a plot wherein the Tall Man finds his reincarnated love, and she's an absolute unconventional masochistic oddity in the best of ways. Despite some initial desire to repress his feelings, she manages to reacquaint him with some of his humanity. The story also draws on aspects of Ancient Greek mythology. (Think non-monogamy and various details from the Hades/Persephone myth as well as others interwoven, but Persephone is sexually empowered.) This summary is simplistic at best, but y'all get the idea.

Polyamorous Pairings: The Tall Man x OC ; Lady in Lavender x OC ; Reggie Bannister x OC

Metalocalypse: The Wicker Man

One day as the members of Dethklok were sitting around and surfing the TV channels, Pickles sees his long lost best friend from Wisconsin, Lucy Desmond, in a mug shot. The boys watch the news as she dances while her house burns, following the murder of her abusive husband. With a strong desire to help her get her life back, Pickles approaches Charles and asks for him to help his friend out. None of them could ever expect how well she's about to fit into their lives.

Another OC-focused reverse-harem Polyklok story (she will end up with all of them at least once), but heavy on the Knubbler/OC and Pickles/OC. There will be ~very eventual~ Magnus/OC. Canon divergent alternate universe while also trying to remain canon. This one is gonna be long, strap in for the ride.

This one has a Table of Contents that is updated chapter to chapter due to the sheer amount of pairings that there will eventually be.

#Texas Chainsaw Massacre #metalocalypse #phantasm #my fanfiction #fanfiction list

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batfamilysays · 3 years

Text

NUMBER NEIGHBOR

in which damian wayne meets his number neighbor

old draft of oc x damian

wc: 3468

GOTHAM CITY

TINSLEY'S APARTMENT

06:32 PM

Friday comes too quickly and Damian is nowhere near ready.

His lips are still busted open from the preceding evening’s scouting and his hairs grown out far too long, hanging in tufts right below his brow and curling the daintiest bit in a mess of matte black. Small dark rings kiss his tanned skin and tug at the lids of his jade eyes, dulling the color every so slightly to a muted green.

Nothing is right.

Every article of clothing in his wardrobe suddenly seems inadequate for meeting the girl he has been anxiously anticipating ever since he sent the text. He’d probably still be trying to decide on what garment to wear had it not been for Jason chucking a pair of jeans at him and telling him to leave.

Damian isn't dense, he recognizes he's quite aloof at first, he knows his demeanor is unsettling, so as he stood in front of her apartment complex, arm raising to knock, his mind begins to wander.

Was this worth it?

Was the prospect of her getting hurt enough to make Damian turn around, could that ever-growing cavity in his stomach be filled by someone else’s presence? Someone, he doesn’t care about half as much as Tinsley? Someone who didn’t fill it with maddening butterflies and a troublesome warmth. Or could perhaps Damian be allowed this? Allowed this small wedge of pleasure in a world that seemed to grant him nothing but iniquity and desolation?

Fortunately for everyone involved, he didn’t have time to decide for himself as the door swung open and a pair of arms encased his torso with enough force he stumbled back against the hallway’s stained walls and knocked his head against the plaster with a disquieting thud!

An instinct burned into him since childhood shouts, screams at him to push whomever this was away, and retaliate with tenfold that amount of brutality. Yet somehow he can’t quite hear outcries, they seem muffled against the vanilla and honey redolence that embraces him, filling that basin in his stomach to the brink with warm marmalade and crystalized sugar.

“Damian!” such a faint voice whispers, so soft the Wayne almost doesn’t catch it over his shooting heart at the close proximity with the girl he was only just now identifying as Tinsley Nolans, his number neighbor, ‘“Oh my god this is such a surreal experience.”

Hesitantly Damian returns the embrace, his hands engulf the shorter woman in his arms and the scent of her fragaria shampoo and conditioner saturating his senses in a wonderful mellow mix. Her hair blinds him and Tinsley couldn’t help but notice how delicately he was touching her, it was as though she was glass and he was a man destined to shatter it.

It was as though the lion had fallen in love with the lamb.

“You smell really good.” Damian says through a sigh, only belatedly realizing just how awkward that was after the words leave his throat, “Oh my god that sounds so creepy I didn’t mean it-”

“You smell really good too,” It wasn’t what Tinsley had planned to say but if it would make Damian less uncomfortable she was okay with scraping her original sappy speech - besides he really does smell good, “Like mint and smog.”

He knows the smokey fragrance is from the gas bomb he had used the night prior on a few of the riddler’s henchmen, but Damian lets that thought drift peacefully from his head as her hands began playing with the fabric of his shirt, her lips moving in small puffs as she says, “It’s really crazy to see you, it’s like I’m meeting my best friend for the first time.”

The reply he goes with is cheesy, but he can’t find it in himself to care, “I am seeing my best friend for the first time.”

Drawing away with a grin Damian allows himself this one self-indulgent act, allows himself to drink in the slightly shorter girl in front of him, her sandals adding at least an inch in height with their white chunky heels and strappy bases. Tinsley’s hair was laying in long strands across her shoulders, each perfectly curling at the end and crooking up at the base of her neck. A flannel was thrown indolently around her shoulders to add a bit of warmth to the grey cropped shirt and ripped black jeans and Damian couldn’t help but inhale at the peaks of bronzed skin that appeared with every movement she made.

Shaking his head Damian attempts to refocus on her smirking face, a smug look gliding across her eyes like koi fish swimming their deft routine. With the quick realization, he hasn’t said anything for a good two minutes, Damian quickly spouts out, “You look um-nice Ley,”

“You don’t look too bad yourself edgelord,” She adds a playful wink and loops their arms together with comfortable ease, almost as though she knows that’s how they’re meant to be, connected, “C’mon let’s go I’m dying for taco bell,”

Damian, without reluctance, permits his body to decompress, the tension and nerves seeping out with every warm glance she offered and the soft touch of her skin against his flesh, “I don’t know how you can stomach that garbage,”

“Tsk. Such a rich boy thing to say,” Stopping briefly to pop her head inside the flat Tinsley yells, “See you tonight!” To her mother - who roars a warning to Damian - and resumes dragging the much larger man down the corridor with her.

“I’d be careful with what you say, I’m the one with a license after all,” Damian simpers and extracts the keys from his pocket, wagging them in front of Tinsley face teasingly, satisfied with himself as she lets out a childish huff and pouts in a fashion he finds sinfully adorable.

“I regret telling you that wholeheartedly, besides I’ve got my redo in two weeks soo I’ll be the one driving you places, “ Tinsley snatches the keys from his arm and dashes down the hall, only turning back around for a second to stick out her tongue and wink, emitting a boisterous, “Race ya!”

With a playful roll of his eyes, Damian pursues her, knowing full well he can catch up to her with ease if he so chooses to.

He doesn’t.

Instead, he watches from behind as Tinsley twirls and titters as if a ballerina executing a routine only she knows of. Damian wasn’t religious by any means, but this - this was something eternal, something sacred. That carefree expression etched into her face as she reaches the end of the hall, those teasing insults she spews at him while walking to the elevator, the warmth of her skin against his own as she places the keys in his hands and climbs into the passenger side of the car.

It prompted a feeling to froth in Damian’s chest, a feeling he never wanted to be rid of, a feeling that made the pit in his stomach seem not so deafening after all.

GOTHAM CITY WAYNE MANOR 07:02 PM

Driving back to the manor was an experience - to say the least, and Damian found himself learning a few different things.

Firstly, She was a wretched singer, throughout the complete car ride her bellows of off-key glee songs left Damian to regret not insisting control of the aux.

Secondly, She really was awful on the road, she screamed every time the car went over train tracks and went on and on about being crushed by two trucks and becoming a truck sandwich if Damian ever got too close to other cars.

Lastly, Damian is absolutely smitten with her.

The sky had turned frigid in the half an hour it took to arrive at the manor, it lays across them like a white blanket of frost and punctuates each of their breaths with puffs of grey- something Tinsley took benefit of when doing her red hood impression with the mock smoke of a cigarette.

Damian walks up to the house, his hand interlocked with Tinsley’s for what he would never admit to being for anything other than warmth.

The manor really is quite fantastical, with noble pedestals of brown and beige driving up to the roof, complex patterns incised into the granite walls and alabaster steps, each window a darkened hue that makes them seem all the more ambiguous than Tinsley already thought them to be.

A key is fitted into the cold doorknob and Tinsley smiles as Damian yanks her inside, a small yelp leaving her lips as he does so with a probably unnecessary amount of force. Though, in his defense, he didn’t want to waste any time that could be spent inside with her instead of in the freezing night.

“I cannot believe you live here…” Tinsley allows herself to drink in the magnificent interior design, her heart swelling when she directs her gaze back at Damian, whose own eyes have been locked on her the whole time, the same expression coating his eyes when looking at her that she had looking at the structure, “I can’t believe you’re here.”

Damian swears his heart skips a beat, and so he rather than confront the emotions and pressure fabricating in his gut he releases her hand and walks over to the couch, his back turned to the dejected expression Tinsley holds.

“Soooooo,” Tinsley trails off and plops onto the almost comically large couch, the pearly white cushion sinking under her weight and fluffing out around her head, “I’m still a firm believe we should order Taco bell and watch Twilight.”

Setting next to her Damian kicks off his converse, facing her with one eyebrow raised, “Ah yes cause I’m a well-known vampire fanatic.”

Tinsley sits up and punches his shoulder without any malice, her fist barely being felt through Damian’s thick jacket, “Ya know what buckeroo it’s good! Yeah, the acting is less than subpar but the story arc is great!”

With a swift flick of his wrists, he grabs her hands in his own, “Doesn’t an 18-year-old end up with a literal fetus?”

Though Damian may not have been the biggest movie watcher he had read his fair share of cheesy romance novels - for research purposes of course - and twilight was most certainly included in that list.

“That’s not canon!” She argues, twisting so she was on top of him, arms still pinned to his.

“Didn’t the author write it?” Damian easily flips them a second time, the urge to be tender overwhelming despite the usual harshness in his fighting. But this wasn’t a fight - not really - and he needed to get used to that. Because with Tinsley it never would be a fight.

Scrunching her eyebrows together in thought Tinsley groans, pouting out her bottom lip as her list of arguments ran out, so instead a simple “Shuddup!” would have to suffice.

It was only then did Damian realize the position they were in. Tinsley pinned under him, her brown hair a makeshift halo under the fluorescent yellow lights and casting a yellow glow to her face, which almost seems to radiate pure rapture as she beams at him, such heat and affection it makes Damian want to cry.

He’s a murder. And murders don’t deserve this. No matter how much he wants too.

Getting up Damian turns his attention back to the screen, face heating up as he flicks the screen on, “So what do you want to watch?

GOTHAM CITY

CITY ROOFTOPS

12:57

Wind ruffles through his matte black hair and the cold brings his jade eyes to tears, the stinging of wetness against his eyelids burning like chlorine and sunscreen on a blistering summer’s day. Everything seems to anger him nowadays, the way the sun sets far too late on the horizon, how it barely caresses the moon and instead engulfs it, not a bit of fragility in the proficient routine they continuously dance. Even his telephone appears to be in opposition with him, invariably buzzing to life with sweet texts from the one person he refuses to be in contact with but so desperately desires to.

Perhaps he was a bad person, Damian, had mulled over this thought all of last night, the words replaying in his head until they didn’t taste correct on his tongue or sound right for his ears. They reappear at the forefront now, when he is dawned in his vigilante attire and perched on Tinsley’s rooftop with the claim to be patrolling for crime when everyone knows that was most certainly not the reason for him being there.

Seven Days. For seven days Damian has ignored every one of Tinsley’s persistent calls and texts, the fear of falling too deep for a girl who could most certainly do better than him devouring every bit of his soul. Eventually, the calls had trickled out and the texts became sparse until she finally cut him off altogether. He wanted to blame Tinsley at first, wanted so badly to make their devastating separation her fault when in actuality it was all Damian.

He had been the one terrified of getting hurt. He was the one who was scared she’d leave him. He was the one who knew she could do better. He was the one everyone abandoned. He was the one no one wanted. He was the one who had fallen in love with a girl on the internet.

Everyone had tried to help in their own ways, Bruce had tried for days to figure out what was wrong, even threatening to take him off duty if he didn’t tell him. Dick had taken him out for ice cream in the hopes of cheering him up. Jason took Damian to shoot things, Duke spared with him to let him relieve stress, Stephanie had bought him cat toys for Alfred, Barbra had gotten him a fresh set of katanas, and Tim had sat down and just talked with him. In a way Damian couldn’t explain, this warmed his heart and filled the bits and crevices of the basin in this stomach (Especially Tim who - in a weird way - Damian was closest to)

None of the attempted persuasions worked though and eventually, Damian stopped checking the messages and the hole in his chest expanded tenfold, so large and opaque he was fearful it would swallow him whole if he didn’t find something to fill it, this would likely prove to be challenging seeing as though only two people had ever been able to completely fill the irksome hole.

His mother was the first and most prominent, but after using him for years she threw him out, discarding the son to his father after training him to kill and feel nothing but a wave of numbness. After training him to be a monster. His father hadn’t wanted him at first, he was the product of manipulation and abuse, why would anyone want that? But Bruce had to take him, despite his original wishes, and even if Dick assured Damian that Bruce did love him the youngest Wayne couldn’t find it in himself to believe that.

Tinsley Elowen Nolans was the second. But now that she was gone Damian felt as though the hole had grown in size, the only parts in him unconsumed by the darkness where the spots reserved for his family. He knew that if he had simply allowed himself to open up to Tim, Dick, Jason, even Duke that they could possibly fill the cavity. But he didn’t want their warmth. He wanted hers.

Except he couldn’t have hers.

He watches silently as Tinsley walks up to the building, fiddling with her yellow keychain to find the correct one to unlock the apartment complex doors. This was the usual routine she took, what wasn’t usual was what she does next. Damian quirks a brow under his mask as she takes out her phone and types a quick message, only understanding when his phone beeps with a message

TINSLEY

i miss you.

He shouldn’t have checked his phone, not when Tinsley was collapsing to the ground with quiet sobs escaping her lips. Her hair had been thrown into a lopsided ponytail and her mascara was starting to smear down her face with every trail of snot and whimper of inner torment. Damian wanted nothing more than to forget their fight, forget his stupidity, and jump down and make her forgive him, make her stop hurting, make her stop caring about him.

It was exceedingly critical for him to help her, comfort her. However, just as he goes to support her something pulls him back, maybe his insecurities, maybe the knowledge he was still in his uniform. Or maybe a sympathetic group of orphans who look at him with too much pity.

With a scowl Damian shakes Dick’s grip off his shoulder, turning towards them with harsh eyes, blinking away the small tears that had managed to form in his irises. A disgruntled cough leaves his throat and he adjusts the black fabric of his mask to cover his bleary eyes, “Tsk. What is it? Don’t you all have neighborhoods to patrol?”

“Bruce - I mean Batman,” Stephanie corrects after a glare from Cassandra, “Told us you refused to patrol any town but this one and

it seemed suspicious so Tim and I looked into it and that building,” She juts out a thumb to the sobbing girl and blue apartment complex, “Is not-so-coincidentally the same place Tinsley lives.”

Huffing Damian crosses his arms, “You’re right, it is a coincidence. Now shouldn’t you be swapping spit with that ugly bastard,” despite the words he isn’t trying to be malicious - he was just genuinely upset with the situation he has found himself in and is lashing out in the only way he knows how. (Okay and maybe he said it a bit to be mean)

“Robin we just want to help,” Barbra tries, dawned in her Batgirl suit, “With everything that’s gone down we don’t think it’s healthy for you to be ‘patrolling’ here. You’ll never be able to move on from Tinsley if you’re constantly seeing her.”

“Oh please he isn’t trying to move on, he’s trying to get her back.” Jason cuts in, rolling his eyes and clicking a finger against his red helmet, “Which is the right thing to do considering she made him less … well ... him”

“Red hood don’t be mean,” Dick scolds, a pitiful smile on his lips as he turns to Damian and engulfs him in a forced hug, “Whatever you need we’re here for you little D.”

“I need you all to leave me alone!”

Tim steps forward and pries Dick off of Damian, mumbling a barely audible, “He doesn’t want a hug, you’re making him uncomfortable” before turning his attention back to Damian, “Okay well anything except that.”

“Robin, what happened between you two anyway?” Cassandra finally asks, easing the question on everyone's mind with a few words, “You seemed so ... I don't know … happy? Though I have to admit I’m slightly relieved you aren’t gushing over your phone during training sessions anymore.”

“Black Bat, you straight up skip training sessions what the fuck are you on about?” Duke’s eyes go wide as Cassandra throws a knife at him, his hand shooting up and catching it with ease, “Okay damn girl.”

Cassandra snatches her knife back and throws a glare at the yellow-suited man, “Watch it Signal.”

“Can we please get back to Robin and his saga of love?”

Damian can’t help it, the tears push heavily against his eyes and finally break free from the trap of his green irises, small uneven blobs of wetness trailing down his face and plopping onto the ground with a deafening noise. It wasn’t that loud, but Damian's fuzzy head and fast-beating heart augment the noise tenfold.

Everyone goes silent, possibly from a shortage of anything to say, or perhaps from seeing such a austere boy collapse down into pitful bewailings in front of them. His legs buckle and the dark haired man fallsl to his knees, arm covering his face in pure agony as every text he ever sent replays in his mind, a broken record forcing him to relive what he’s done.

So much pain he doesn’t notice the same rag tag group of orphans engulfing him in a hug

TAGLIST !!!

@pretendthisusernameisgoodd @dickgraysonhasanicebutt @multiverseofwonders @emmaleilani96 @mcgonagalls-witches @pleasestophoney @kurosstuff @liltleaderofthelameones @water248 @blackrippedskinnybeans @evalynanne

#damian wayne x oc

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alj4890 · 4 years

Text

Misfortune's Intentions

(Liam x OC*Elisse Millan) (Drake x Riley) in a Choices The Royal Heir fan fiction

A/N Time continues to go by. Riley is nearing the end of her second trimester. Liam and Elisse will have their first date in front of the court during a ball he is hosting. The two have managed to have a few private dates since that one on a sailboat. While they continue to fall for one another, concerns and words are shared by those closest to them. This chapter mentions a certain event that happened later in the TRH canon, but I added it now and of course ended it like I wished.

@gkittylove99 @krsnlove @kingliam2019 @texaskitten30 @hopefulmoonobject @yourmajesty09 @mom2000aggie @ofpixelsandscribbles

Masterlist

Chapter 4 Moonlight and Secrets

Cranborne Manor, Cordonia...

"Aren't you glad I had you bring this?" Amalas held up the black ball gown. "I know Liam will be."

Elisse's cheeks heated with color. "If I say yes, will you stop talking about my going as his date?"

"Why? I think it's actually sweet that he asked you." Amalas leaned down to smell the roses that had arrived earlier. "Even though I'm not a romantic like some people I know," she smiled at her cousin, "I can still be happy that you found someone that you actually like."

"I should have known you wouldn't be able to stop talking." Elisse teased. "I'm nervous enough as it is."

She snatched the card Liam had sent with the roses out of Amalas's hands.

"Elisse?" A wicked smile formed. "What did he write?"

"Nothing to concern yourself over." She dodged her trying to grab it. "Amalas! Is this any way for a queen to behave?!" She turned holding it as far away from her as she could.

All the commotion they made drew an anxious Felix into the room.

One look at the two climbing over furniture while chasing each other let him know exactly what was going on.

"Elisse!" Amalas dodged a bed pillow. "You would dare strike your queen?!"

"Without any regret whatsoever." Elisse tripped over the bottom of her robe and went tumbling down.

Amalas pounced, snatching the card away.

"Aha!" She held it above her head in victory.

Felix plucked it from her grasp.

"Felix!" She rounded on him. "Hand that over."

"Yes, your majesty." With all the seriousness he could muster, he handed it to Elisse.

"Ha!" Elisse held it against her heart. "Thank you, Felix."

"What is this treason?" Amalas had her hands on her hips. Her usual intimidating frown was ruined by her hair sticking up at odd angles.

"Forgive me your majesty," he bowed, "but I was under the impression you wanted it to go to its owner."

"In other words," Elisse loudly whispered, "Felix likes me better."

The cousins burst into giggles much as they used to before Amalas became queen.

Felix quietly shut the door before allowing a smile to appear on his face. After all that had occurred for his queen and lady, he had forgotten how infectious their happiness could be.

"Tell the truth." Amalas sat down on the bed. "You're falling in love with Liam."

Elisse sat down once more at her vanity. Amalas could see the soft glow on her face in the reflection of the mirror as she looked down at his card.

"He makes it impossible not to fall in love." She shyly admitted.

"Looks like whatever happens, I will still have an alliance with Corodnia."

Elisse glared playfully at her. "You're runing the romance."

"Then I guess Liam will have his work cut out for him tonight."

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

Cordonia's Royal Palace, Riley and Drake’s chambers...

"While they are here, maybe you could sneak over to Cranborne and see if you find anything that we should know." Riley whispered.

Olivia's brow furrowed. "I've been investigating Elisse. Nothing except for her time spent in America has been found. She has spent most of her life in Monterisso."

"I think if Amalas is planning anything, her cousin is not a part of it." Hana added.

Riley closed her eyes. She knew she was becoming obsessive over this woman. But after hearing Liam's confession of how he felt toward her and Drake. She owed him a lady he could freely love who wouldn't betray him.

Though she loved Drake more than anyone, she easily remembered those times she snuck off with Liam during his social season. The butterflies and sweet moments had caused her to fall for him as well as his grumpy friend.

She knew if Drake had continued to push her away, she might have given in and married Liam.

And how much more horrible would I have been to do that while longing for his best friend?

"This will be the last time." She told them. "If nothing is discovered of her time in America or that she and Amalas are planning something nefarious for Cordonia, then I will accept that Liam is safe with Elisse."

"Very well." Olivia stood up. "We'll let you know what we find."

"Or hopefully don't find." Hana added as she followed her out.

Riley dabbed at the stray tears in her eyes with a tissue. Between concerns over Elisse and Liam and having to keep from making an arranged marriage for her yet to be born baby was getting to her.

There were numerous times she secretly wished she had never agreed to have the royal heir. It is too much to deal with. Her pregnancy wasn't going at all like she used to dream about.

For one thing, it had happened much sooner than she had wanted. She would have loved to have had a year or two of just her and Drake trying to figure out how to be Cordonia's newest Duke and Duchess. Plus it would have been nice to enjoy being a newlywed that could wear lingerie and go out on fun, late night dates with her husband.

But to give birth to the, "chosen one," was driving her crazy. All the photos taken of her. The more than usually required doctor visits. The lack of privacy. The events. Having everyone with them with no time alone with her husband...

"Dammit!" She couldn't stop her tears. Her makeup was ruined.

"Riley?" Drake poked his head into their room. "What's wrong?"

She hurried into his embrace.

He rubbed soothing circles on her back. "Hormones?"

"Yes." She then shook her head. "No. I don't know."

He pressed a kiss to the top of her head. "You know you can talk to me." He swallowed nervously. "Even if it is about Liam?"

"It's not him." She reached for more tissues. "It's us. Me, you, the baby. Our life." She blew her nose. "No privacy. No time to take in the fact that in three months we will have someone to take care of."

He continued to hold her.

"And this whole royal heir business." She lifted her eyes to his. "Do you really want our baby to be in line for the throne?"

She saw the hesitation flicker in his face.

"We owe Liam so much." He said. "He has asked so little from us. This seemed like the least we could do and it is an honor he wanted our child for that position."

"Drake we are deciding our child's entire future without even meeting him or her." She reminded him. "What if the baby is like you and prefers to live a quiet life? We will have forced the one we want to protect into the very position that takes away every freedom they have."

Drake lowered his eyes. "I know."

She hugged him close. "What are we going to do?"

"I--I don't know." He held her tight. "I just don't know."

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

A few hours later, Cranborne Manor...

Elisse took a deep breath on the way to answer the front door.

"M'lady," Liam handed her a long stem red rose. "You look beautiful."

"Thank you." She let her eyes travel over him in his formal regalia. "You look very handsome."

His smile turned flirty. "Are you ready for our first ball as a couple?"

With a nod, she retrieved her clutch and took his hand. "Liam?"

"Yes?"

"Are you sure about this?" She whispered when they reached Bastien holding the car door for them.

Liam took both of her hands in his. "I am."

"Even though I can't--"

He pressed a tender kiss to her lips, cutting off her reason for doubting he should be with her.

"You're who makes me happy." He whispered against her lips. "Regardless of whether or not you can have children."

She cupped his cheek and pressed another tender kiss to his lips in quiet gratitude.

He smiled softly as she got into car's backseat then followed after her.

Once the vehicle turned a corner, Olivia and Hana sneaked out of their hiding place.

"Queen Amalas left with her bodyguard earlier." Olivia whispered. "We will have free reign to search the house."

Hana shivered in the cool night air. "I suppose we should be grateful for that."

She watched quietly as the duchess expertly picked the lock.

"After you." She waved Hana inside.

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

The Royal Ballroom...

Conversations were focused on one thing this evening: Liam had brought a date to the ball.

Regina went from group to group saying how happy she was that he had settled on a lady that she so highly approved of.

"It is rare to find someone who understands the pressure he is under. Lady Elisse is a pleasure to be around." She said while she and a few others watched the two waltz.

Nobles soon were murmuring praises and wishes to see Liam settle down with Elisse.

"Monterisso and Cordonia's alliance under their marriage would make us the envy to many of the surrounding countries."

"Seeing a young king settle down would add more reassurance to foreign powers about the stability of our country."

"They do make a cute couple." Penelope whispered to Zeke.

Amalas chuckled softly at overhearing this latest compliment. She caught her cousin's eye and lifted her champagne flute to her.

Elisse's blush responded to that.

Liam's smile was warm when he noticed it. He leaned closer to her ear and whispered something that caused her to laugh with a shake of her head.

Elisse then was seen looking up at him with an expression that could only be described as complete adoration.

"You've been busy."

Amalas took a steadying breath before responding.

"King Bradshaw." She inclined her head. "I think we have all been busy in Cordonia."

He hmphed. "Some of us though aren't wooing the king and parents of the heir."

She kept her face devoid of emotion while she sipped her champagne.

He narrowed his eyes at her silence. "I see you aren't denying it."

"I've yet to hear an accusation worth addressing." She smiled sweetly as she walked away. "Do give my best to Isabella."

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

Another hour later...

"Shouldn't you be making the rounds?"

Liam wrapped his arm around his date. "I should but I would rather stand here with you."

"You won't hear any arguments from me." Elisse closed her eyes when she felt his lips brush her cheek. "People will talk if you keep that up."

"It's about time I gave them something new to gossip over." He teased.

"I can hear them now. Our king has been captured by that wicked Monterisso viscountess."

He snorted. "I doubt they would use the word wicked." He tugged her closer. "Most likely conniving."

Her overly dramatic gasp made him laugh.

"I suppose I should be using my feminine whiles on you." She looped her arms around his neck. "But you, sir, are simply too distracting."

"A Monterisson noble unable to do her job?" He shook his head in mock pity. "I suppose I will have to keep you here rather than allow you to return home in shame."

"Why, your majesty. Is this a scheme to keep me at your beck and call?"

"You caught me, m'lady." His teasing smile turned tender.

"Ahem."

The two were surprised to see Olivia standing behind them.

"Liam, may I speak to you about something?" Her eyes darted briefly to Elisse. "In your study?"

Elisse stepped out of his arms.

"I'll be back." He promised her. He lifted her hand to his lips, enjoying the moment her smile reappeared.

With a nod to Olivia, he followed her out of the ballroom.

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

"You did what?!" Liam's eyes narrowed. "Who told you to break into their home?"

Hana fidgeted beside Olivia. "Riley was worried with all the secrets Amalas is known to have and--"

"And--" Olivia glanced at Hana, receiving a nod, "some of us were concerned since you seem to be close to the queen's cousin."

He paced before them, doing his best to not lose his temper. "I know better than most about Monterisso."

"Liam, they have a file on you." Hana explained. "Files on all of us!"

"That isn't that surprising." Olivia grumbled. "I had files on all the ladies during the social season." A brief expression of admiration appeared. "I would have done the same to Amalas and Elisse if we were visiting their country."

"I already knew about the files." He told them.

"You did?"

"How?"

"Elisse." Liam ceased his pacing and faced them. "She has been nothing but honest with me."

"Did she tell you that there is a chance she--" Hana hesitated, wishing she hadn’t read the letters from Boston. "She--"

"Can't have children." Olivia finished softly. "We saw some medical reports in her room." Her sharp gaze softened. "She went through an experimental procedure to--"

"I know all of that." Liam interrupted. "She...she was supposed to be a part of my social season." His features hardened with memories. "My father refused to let her after her medical exam."

He snapped out of those what if thoughts. "Now then. Go tell Lady Riley to back off. There is nothing--"

Muffled screams filled the air.

"What was that?!" Hana jumped when Liam ran out the door.

"Liam!" Olivia shouted, already pulling two hidden daggers out. "Wait!"

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

The Ballroom...

Everyone stared in horror at the drone that had crashed through the window. Queen Isabella trembled in her husband's arms with cuts along her face and arms.

"I recognize that." King Bradshaw pointed at Amalas. "This is one of the Spy Queen’s drones!"

Elisse surreptitiously made her way to Amalas's side and gripped her hand. The two remained calm as Bradshaw and Isabella riled the crowd up.

"I nearly died!" Isabella held up her arms with minor cuts. "My children could have been motherless all because she can't take a chance on Duchess Riley choosing us."

Riley paled as she looked from one ruler to another. Her hands slid protectively to her belly, wishing there was a way to get out of all this.

"I refuse to see Cordonia be threatened in such a fashion." Bradshaw straightened his shoulders. "Do not fear. My guards will--"

Liam appeared.

"King Liam!" Isabella cried out, tears streaking down her face. "Look--"

He held his hand up for silence as he examined the broken drone.

The whole court waited while he knelt beside it.

Bastien rushed to his side. "Sir, we need to get you to safety--"

"No we don't." Liam told him.

"Sir, it--"

Liam ordered him to be quiet as he turned the drone over. His lips firmed into a slight frown.

Olivia finally made it through the crowd, stopping in surprise at the piece of machinery on the ballroom floor.

"The Monterissons must be made to leave at once!" Isabella cried when Bradshaw quietly whispered to her.

"Unless you too want to be added to our list of enemies." Bradshaw warned.

Olivia's eyebrow raised. "Because of this?"

"That weapon nearly killed my wife." Bradshaw bit out.

"Strange." Liam finally said as he stood up. "One would think Queen Amalas would use one of her newer stealth drones instead of this one from five years ago."

Bradshaw and Isabella stilled.

"Given that you both say it attacked, I would have thought it would at least have been fitted with some type of weapon on it instead of an outdated camera." He continued.

The king and queen looked about at the crowd’s fear turning to confusion

"She's spying on us!" Bradshaw exclaimed. "All of us were being watched."

"She must be planning on eliminating all competition!" Isabella pointed at Elisse. "And that one was used to distract your king, Cordonia!"

Murmurs began again.

"They shouldn't be allowed to stay here." Godfrey muttered.

"What if one of us had been struck with that drone?" Kiara was heard to whisper.

"Did they see everything we have been doing? What if they begin to blackmail us?!" Adelaide added.

Bradshaw smirked at Amalas as the murmurs grew louder, demanding that she and Elisse be forced to leave.

Liam could feel a sense of déjà vu. Memories of his coronation ball came to mind.

This very crowd had demanded that Riley be thrown out of Cordonia and thus out of his life. He had stood by quietly and let it happen, thinking he was protecting her.

He knew whatever love she had for him had been damaged in that moment.

He could still see Drake demanding the King's Guards let her go. His volunteering to go to New York for her. His promise to look out for her once she joined the engagement tour.

I can't let it happen again. I can't lose Elisse. Not now. Not when I know I'm falling in love with her.

He stepped protectively in front of Elisse and Amalas while Felix guarded their backs. Liam could feel his lady’s fingers brush his hand in need of reassurance.

"This drone proves nothing." He said, cutting off everyone's conversations. "Queen Amalas and Lady Elisse had nothing to do with this."

"How do you know that?" Bradshaw demanded.

"Because," Amalas stepped forward, "this particular drone requries a remote operator to fly it." She patted her suit pockets. "Which I nor Lady Elisse could possibly have on us, given it takes two hands to even hold the controler."

"Your guard!" Isabella lifted a trembling finger. "He--"

Felix emptied his pockets without a word. He handed his coat to Bastien and allowed him to pat him down.

"Perhaps we should check Auvernal's many guards." Lady Elisse countered as she stepped up beside Liam. She maintained her calm demeanor while facing the two that threatened her. "There might be one or two who are not happy with their king and queen."

Amalas smirked. "I worry for the intelligence of this person. To use a drone that is now no more than a child's plaything." She chuckled. "Of course, Auvernal isn't known for their brilliant minds."

"How dare you!" Bradshaw shouted. "My wife--"

"Is unharmed." Liam spoke over him.

One of Bastien’s agents returned with an Auvernal guard.

Isabella quickly rushed forward, striking the man when the remote control was discoverd. "You will pay for attacking your queen!"

"But, your majesty, I--"

"Silence!" Bradshaw yelled over him. He ordered his personal guard to remove the traitor.

Liam slipped his hand in Elisse's when more murmurs rose around them. He knew it was time to turn the tables on the ones who still threatened the woman beside him.

"Honored guests," he turned to face the crowd, "given that an attack has occurred, I'm certain that King Bradshaw will wish to take his queen back to Auvernal." Liam's cold fury settled on the royal. "He would never wish to bring possible harm to those he wishes to make his allies."

Bradshaw gave a jerky nod. "Yes." He eyed Amalas. "I will go and quash this particular problem."

Regina joined Liam as she encouraged everyone else to also retire for the night.

"Liam," Elisse let go of his hand, "You shouldn't have gotten invovled in this. Bradshaw will not let that embarrassment go unanaswered."

He pulled her into his embrace. "I was not about to let them take you away."

Amalas held her hand out to him. "I believe I also owe you my own thanks for helping everyone to see reason, King Liam."

Felix gratefully bowed his head to him.

"I couldn't let mob mentality take over." Liam explained. "Bradshaw has been acting more agressive in gaining a foothold in my country. I refuse to let him do so."

Drake and Riley joined them once the last few guests of the ball trickled out.

"You should be resting." Amalas told her. "All of tonight's stress can't be good for you and the baby."

"I know." Riley replied. "Which is why I need to speak to Liam."

His brow furrowed when he noticed how pale she was. "Why don't we wait until morning? You--"

"I can't wait." Her eyes filled with tears. "It will only take a moment."

Elisse gently squeezed him in a hug. "Amalas and I should return to Cranborne." She smiled when he kept her within his arms. "I know you have things to take care of here."

Without paying attention to their friends and family around them, Liam kissed her goodnight. He cupped her cheek as he told her he would see her in the morning.

Once she was gone, Liam faced his friends and Regina. "What is it you need to discuss?"

Riley swallowed at the lump forming in her throat. "It's about our baby."

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

Liam's chambers at two in the morning...

After yanking off all the regalia and unbuttoning his shirt, Liam poured himself three fingers of scotch.

He took a couple of healthy gulps, closing his eyes to the decision that had once again upended his world.

He was back to being a ruler in a tenuous position.

A king without a wife. Without heirs.

His head dropped as he slumped into a chair.

Cradling the cut crystal tumbler, he thought of the conversation he had with his friends.

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

"Liam, I..." Riley swiped at her tears. "I don't want my baby to be the royal heir."

"What?" He took a step back in shock, just as he had when she told him she couldn't marry him. "Riley, I know tonight's--"

"It isn't just because of tonight." She interrupted. "It's everything. It's too much for us to deal with." She gripped Drake's hand. "I can't force my child into this type of responsibility."

"It was an honor that you chose us." Drake continued. "But the stress is eating away at us."

Liam slowly nodded. "I understand." He slipped his hands into his pockets. “We will have a press conference tomorrow.”

With a broken sob, Riley hugged him. "I'm so sorry I can't do this for you after everything you have given me."

He gently patted her back. "You don't owe me a child out of gratitude."

"I know." She sniffed and stepped back. "You will still be a part of our baby's life?"

He smiled softly. "Of course."

"Someone will have to teach our baby manners." Drake pulled Liam into a brief hug, slapping his back. "Thank you for understanding."

"It's what Liam does best." Riley added.

Olivia, Hana, and Regina remained with him once the couple left the ballroom.

"What will you do now?" Olivia asked.

"I...I don't know." He admitted.

"What will you do about Elisse?" Regina prodded. "If you don't choose another heir, you will need to have one of your own."

He ran his hands over his face. "I'm not losing Elisse."

"Dear, I know you care for her, but you--"

"I'm not losing her." He repeated harshly. "She is exactly what I need in my life."

Seeing it was fruitless to argue, the queen mother bowed her head and quietly left them.

Hana looked between Liam and Olivia, unable to think of something comforting to diffuse the tension.

"Liam." Olivia tempered her tone. "Regina's right. You still need an heir." She reached over and squeezed his hand. "Elisse will understand that you have to end--"

Without a word, he left the two ladies standing there.

#choices the royal heir #misfortune's intentions #liam x oc #trh liam #trh drake #drake x riley #choices stories you play

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thisweekingundamwing · 4 years

Text

This Week in Gundam Wing June 28 - 4 July 2020

Here’s this week’s roundup!

Remember to give your content creators some love! And join in on the events at the bottom!

~Mod Hel PS. So, I’m really bad at checking my email... I really need to get better at it. Some of these (which I’m sure will be new to a lot of you) are from long before this last week... whoops.

Fanfiction/Snippets/AU Ideas:

@bobo-is-tha-bomb

Five dates with Mister Handsome https://wingqueero.tumblr.com/post/622383229580771328/five-dates-with-mister-handsome

1xReader (gender unspecified)

reader-insert, second person POV, fluff, romance

He was sinfully good looking and he had agreed to five dates with an idiotic drunk who claimed one single kiss was worth five dates. You couldn’t help but wonder why.

@coffeetailor

Emergence (Ch. 11) https://archiveofourown.org/works/13322880/chapters/60710743

Duo Maxwell/Heero Yuy

Duo Maxwell, Heero Yuy, Quatre Raberba Winner, Trowa Barton, Chang Wufei, Sally Po

Crossovers & Fandom Fusions, borrowers fusion but don't call them borrowers, disturbing themes like people trafficking from the bad guys, Size Difference, Will probably be a series, alternate canon events, Macro/Micro

When the war ended, things went a little strange. First, Duo vanished after never having let them see him in person. Then, years later, a tiny race of people are discovered. And that's just the start of things.

Fun Curses with Catboys https://archiveofourown.org/works/25047898

Chang Wufei/Duo Maxwell

Chang Wufei, Duo Maxwell

magic transformation, Size Difference, catboy, Anal Sex, Post-Canon, Magic, wufei's a wizard, thar be porn

When Wufei leaves the Preventers, Duo goes snooping and finds out some things about his favorite (crush) loner. Like his hobbies in gardening, rare book collecting, and… magic? Probably shouldn’t have touched that, Duo. Good thing it’s a fun curse, and there’s a sexy wizard around to help out.

@chronicwhimsy

Strangers (Ch. 6) https://archiveofourown.org/works/24357013/chapters/60473569

Chang Wufei/Duo Maxwell, Background Quatre x Relena, Background Heero x Trowa - Character

OC - Oliver McGann

Long Lost Twins, this was meant to be hijinks but then I got reminded these boys have Issues, Pining, Duo is a stressed-out jerk who needs a holiday, Post-EW, Frozen Teardrop can do one, sex in later chapters because this is me who are we kidding

If you said the word "brother" to Duo Maxwell, he'd think of the other pilots.

If you said, "no, your long-lost brother" to Duo Maxwell, he'd think of Solo and be very confused.

If you said, "no, your twin brother you were separated from at birth, and he's now working with the Preventers as a lawyer" to Duo Maxwell, he would go and punch his doppelganger.

Duo Maxwell isn't good at dealing with things, but unfortunately this particular thing isn't going to go away that easily.

@destinysblackrose

It Takes a Legend... https://archiveofourown.org/works/25012021

Relena Peacecraft/Heero Yuy, Relena Peacecraft & Heero Yuy, Duo Maxwell/Hilde Schbeiker

Heero Yuy, Relena Peacecraft, Trowa Barton, Duo Maxwell, Duo Maxwell Jr., Hilde Schbeiker, Chang Wufei

Angst, Fluff, Domestic Fluff, Slice of Life, Duo's going to have his ribs broken, Gundam Wing children, #fatherhood, Fatherhood, Father's Day, Crass Humor, teenaged boy humor

“Listen, I can’t possibly imagine what it’s like to be you. You never had a childhood. And you never had a father—”

“No,” Heero shook his head. “I didn’t. I trained to fight, to kill from…as far back as I can remember.” The visible side of his mouth, from Aidan’s vantage point, turned down.

“It’s why,” he paused and picked up a wrench from the open drawer. “It’s why sometimes...I’m, I’m at a total loss…” He dropped the hand holding the wrench to his side. Aidan could see his knuckles change color where he throttled the metal implement.

“Your mom is so much, better at these things… At being there for you.”

@doctormegalomania

Introspective https://wingqueero.tumblr.com/post/622202012283584512/introspective

Implied 1x2, implied 3x4, implied past 2xH, past 1xR

self-exploration of gender identity and sexuality, reference to past sexual situations (non-explicit), candid conversations

Heero gives some thought to his sexuality.

Your Body’s Poetry (Ch. 20) https://archiveofourown.org/works/20438891/chapters/60737623

Duo Maxwell/Heero Yuy, Trowa Barton/Quatre Raberba Winner, Chang Wufei/Original Female Character(s), Relena Peacecraft & Heero Yuy, Duo Maxwell/Original Male Character(s)

Characters: Heero Yuy, Duo Maxwell, Trowa Barton, Quatre Raberba Winner, Chang Wufei, Sally Po, Relena Peacecraft, Lucrezia Noin, Zechs Merquise, Hilde Schbeiker

Past Relationship(s), Slice of Life, Post-Break Up, Slow Burn, Developing Relationship, Implied/Referenced Domestic Violence

Long after the wars, long after peace is established the Gundam Pilots discover one immovable fact: Relationships are hard work.

@duointherain

Beneath: All Those Sounds https://duointherain.tumblr.com/post/622765434690781184/beneath-all-those-sounds-11

Notes: The boys are 35. They are married and they live in Seattle. Heero is a physician and a research scientist. Duo is a stay at home dad and a best selling novelist. They have twins who are spending the holiday with their grandmother Maureen and their godmothers, Rey and Precious.

It didn’t take much. Neither of them said anything. The fireworks exploded outside their house, somewhere down by the water, far enough away that it was just a soft little press against the windows, against their souls.

Left on Read https://duointherain.tumblr.com/post/622787629087440896/fic-left-on-read-1

Duo Maxwell had decided, several years before, that he didn’t much like Preventers. At the time, he hadn’t know what he did like either. The therapist that Quatre had talked him into seeing had told him this was normal. Trauma would leave a person with little self, especially if the trauma had happened early and consistently. He had said quiet loudly, that day that he had plenty of self, everyone thought so! He was loud and brash and brave and drank too much, and had more lovers than she’d probably had in her whole boring life

@lemontrash

The Morning Brightens https://wingqueero.tumblr.com/post/622390770875465728/the-morning-brightens

4x5

established relationship, coming out fic, fluff

After a night of not sleeping on it, Wufei discusses something important with Quatre.

@lifeaftermeteor

Pride https://wingqueero.tumblr.com/post/622300166716833793/pride

1x2

pride parade, slice of life, fluff, asexual duo

Duo has only recently come to terms with his asexuality. It took him a long time to understand it, and even longer to embrace it as inherently part of himself. To celebrate, Heero takes him out onto the streets for New York City’s Pride.

@relenaforpresident

Just Love: Queerness in Gundam Wing https://wingqueero.tumblr.com/post/622292634598293504/just-love-queerness-in-gundam-wing

No ships but reference to both 1xR and 1x2

non-fiction, personal essay, self-reflection, gender, queerness, fandom

A personal essay on how the Gundam Wing series and fandom community helped me change my personal beliefs on love and gender.

@simulacraryn

Donguri https://archiveofourown.org/works/24733540

General Audiences

Choose Not To Use Archive Warnings

Heero Yuy, Odin Lowe

A short piece about Odin Lowe and his young protégé. This is an excerpt from a longer (discontinued) 2009 fic I once posted on ff.net ("Kaifuku"), but it can be read as a standalone piece.

Heero’s Inheritance https://archiveofourown.org/works/24658531

General Audiences

Heero Yuy, Odin Lowe

Illustrations, Headcanon

Just a short headcanon about Heero's past. Illustrated work.

TheManwell

A Season for Vengeance (Ch. 10) https://archiveofourown.org/works/22508074/chapters/53785717

Explicit

Trowa Barton/Duo Maxwell, Solo/Heero Yuy

Trowa Barton, Duo Maxwell, Catherine Bloom, Cathy's son (OC), Cathy's husband (OC), Heero Yuy, Zechs Merquise, Quinze (Gundam Wing), Solo (Gundam Wing), Nichol (Gundam Wing), Lucrezia Noin

dude in distress, Trowa for MVP, things that go boom, Backstory things, modern day AU, Sequel, alternating pov, Trowa POV, Duo POV

It's been over a year since Duo and Trowa escaped the pain and betrayal and danger of their pasts, went off the grid and started building a new life together. But when Duo's birthday comes and goes without a single obnoxious message from his older brother, they know something is wrong. It's time to break cover and check in. The only problem is that Duo's brother works for a powerful government agency, so making that call will put Duo and Trowa on their radar...

Fanart/Crafts/Photo Manips:

@antarespromise

https://antarespromise.tumblr.com/post/622394387634257921

Quatre Raberba Winner, fanart

@bettertasting

https://wingqueero.tumblr.com/post/622198278449168385/title-proud-artist-cindy-bettertasting

Gboys Pride Banner, @wingqueero, fanart

@bobo-is-tha-bomb

https://wingqueero.tumblr.com/post/622296415384764416/title-in-the-name-of-justice-and-love-artist

Pride Leo “In the name of Justice and Love”, @wingqueero, gunpla

@coffeetailor

https://wingqueero.tumblr.com/post/622303966073683968/title-special-delivery-artist-coffee

Duo/WuFei, @wingqueero, fanart

@daddywarbats

https://wingqueero.tumblr.com/post/622213395485229056/title-just-gals-being-pals-or-not-artist

Hilde/Relena, @wingqueero, fanart

@deathscythehell

https://wingqueero.tumblr.com/post/622209566153818112/artist-tami-deathscythehell-description-one

Duo/Quatre (best dads), @wingqueero, fanart (comic)

@deejayers

https://deejayers.tumblr.com/post/622482172907077632/and-wing-is-complete-talk-about-a-monster-this

Wing, gunpla

@gundayum

https://wingqueero.tumblr.com/post/622439861179351040/hi-all-gundayum-here-im-gonna-try-and-not-make

Important Thank You, and some partied out WuFei, @wingqueero, fanart

@gwfrozentears

https://gwfrozentears.tumblr.com/post/622495742005772288/por-siempre-mi-pareja-favorita

Heero & Relena

https://gwfrozentears.tumblr.com/post/622493743305621504/he-comenzado-a-dibujar-nuevamente-inspirada-en-el

Heero

https://gwfrozentears.tumblr.com/post/622494840371970048

Heero

https://gwfrozentears.tumblr.com/post/622499630050066432

Heero

https://gwfrozentears.tumblr.com/post/622548456296300544

Heero

https://gwfrozentears.tumblr.com/post/622507185094721536

Heero/Relena

@lokineko

https://wingqueero.tumblr.com/post/622205797731123200/title-quiet-happiness-artist-lokineko

Trowa/Heero, @wingqueero, fanart

lotopauanka

https://wingqueero.tumblr.com/post/622288883271467008/title-just-married-artist-lotopauanka-social

Heero/Duo, @wingqueero, fanart

@oekakimemo

https://oekakimemo.tumblr.com/post/622350648656134144/20200630-traditional-painting

Relena Darlian/Peacecraft, fanart

@page-of-wands11

https://wingqueero.tumblr.com/post/622379476560609280/title-colourful-kiss-artist-page-of-wands

Heero/Duo, @wingqueero, fanart

@seitou

https://wingqueero.tumblr.com/post/622394541550534656/title-pride-walk-artist-seitou-seitou-social

Pride Walk, @wingqueero, fanart

@tatakaumono

https://tatakaumono.tumblr.com/post/621743027371819008/happy-24-day-pride-dont-tag-as

Quatre/Duo, fanart

@theboringbluecrayon

https://wingqueero.tumblr.com/post/622387009366982656/title-family-pride-wip-artist-blue

Trowa/Quatre & Family, @wingqueero, fanart

Photosets/Gifsets/Screenshots/Manga Pages:

@bobo-is-tha-bomb

https://bobo-is-tha-bomb.tumblr.com/post/622708372721025024/never-though-they-would-come-in-but-here-they

GW OST CDs, photo

https://bobo-is-tha-bomb.tumblr.com/post/622456639940919296/always-nice-when-the-mail-man-stops-by

gw artbooks, and other merch, photo

@cuteciboulette

https://cuteciboulette.tumblr.com/post/622269950937186304/another-extract-from-the-cover-of-the

Heero/Duo, doujinshi “Toki no suna” by Sango Show cover

Fandom Discourse:

@2pcb has created a wonderful discord for gw artists who would like monthly prompts to get those creative juices flowing! DM them if you’d like to join!

@hanryuu would like to know whether anyone has translated the Blind Target drama cds. If you have any information on that we would be grateful!

Quotes:

@incorrectgundamwingquotes

https://incorrectgundamwingquotes.tumblr.com/post/622379465062924288/duo-why-do-bigfoot-hunters-try-to-lure-him-with-a

Duo, Trowa, & WuFei

https://incorrectgundamwingquotes.tumblr.com/post/622560690151047168/wufei-we-can-talk-about-normality-until-the-cows

WuFei, Heero, Trowa, & Duo

https://incorrectgundamwingquotes.tumblr.com/post/622470062887075840/heero-run-thisdoesntbothermeexe-brain-file

Heero

Calendar Events:

@gwcocktailfriday

Cocktail Fridays!

Post responses on Friday, during Happy Hour between 3 & 5 pm in your own timezone.

Here’s the prompt for Friday, July 10th! https://gwcocktailfriday.tumblr.com/post/622719166375493632/raspberry-mango-sangria-yield-1-pitcher-prep

In need of FALL/AUTUMN prompts!

@gwoc-october

GW OC October 2020!

Help pick out prompts!

https://gwoc-october.tumblr.com/post/621130082429337600/hello-gundam-wing-folks-thats-right-gw-oc

@seasons-of-gundamwing

Voting Results: https://seasons-of-gundamwing.tumblr.com/post/622566396369485824/looks-like-well-be-doing-a-hilde-week-thanks-to

Summer of Hilde!

In need of prompts! https://seasons-of-gundamwing.tumblr.com/post/622567839387271168/summer-of-hilde-prompt-call

@wingqueero

Gundam Wing Pride Party 2020

Come check out all the amazing works! https://wingqueero.tumblr.com/

#Gundam Wing #This Week in Gundam Wing #Weekly Roundup #June 28 - 4 July 2020

22 notes · View notes

atc74 · 5 years

Text

Honey Bee

Square(s) Filled: Michael!Dean for @heavenandhellbingo and Angst to Fluff for @spngenrebingo

Warnings: Slight canon divergence, Daddy!Dean, angel possession, threats to loved ones, Dean giving up, perseverance, loved ones never giving up, fluff. It’ll hit you in the feels.

Summary: Michael has taken over Dean’s mind and body, but Dean makes a deal to let him spend one last day with his family, so he can be there for his daughter on her big day.

Pairing: Dean x Reader

Characters: Dean, Michael!Dean, Reader, Sam, Audrey Winchester (daughter OC)

Word Count: 1595

Written for: @heavenandhellbingo, @spngenrebingo, and @mrswhozeewhatsis 2019 Louden Swain FanFic FanArt Project

Beta’d by: @amanda-teaches, thank you for always being there when I need you, in more ways than one! Also a huge thanks and much love to my beautiful Boo, @iwantthedean, for reading this over and boosting my confidence. Love you both to the moon!

A/N: I was taking a much needed break from cleaning this morning when Honey Bee started playing. While I love this song and have heard it a hundred times (or more), I took a moment to let the lyrics wash over me.

As often happens, scenes flashed before my eyes and I knew this would make a terrific Daddy!Dean piece with the feels we didn’t know we needed. Sacrifice is not out of character for our fearless hunter, and I expect his child to fight as fearlessly as her Daddy.

Like Dean’s scent? Buy it here from @scentsfromthebunker!

“No! I am not walking down that aisle until my dad gets here!” Audrey shouted, startling her mother and Uncle Sam with her outburst. “He promised he’d be here and he hasn’t broken a promise to me yet. Not once!”

“I know, baby. I know,” Y/N sighed, pulling her daughter into a tight embrace.

The last few weeks had been hard on everyone, but especially on Audrey. Her wedding was the next day and her dad, Dean, was currently in parts unknown, possessed by the archangel Michael.

~*~

“Daddy, don’t do this!” Audrey begged of her father as he faced off against the archangel.

“Honey Bee, it’s the only way to defeat Lucifer,” Dean pulled her into his arms. “I’ll be back soon. I won’t miss it, I promise. You’re going to be the most beautiful bride.”

“Daddy,” she cried, her head buried in the crook of his neck while he held her.

~*~

It was dark, trapped in his own mind while the archangel went about experimenting and burning through monsters.

“Let me out!” Dean screamed, banging his fists on the cage he was locked inside.

“Not yet, Dean. I’ve got some business I need to take care of,” Michael tsked as he watched the vampire perish. “Too much grace I guess.”

“Please, just let me go see my daughter. Then I’ll do whatever you want. I’ll be quiet if you just give me a day with her. Just one day. Please?” Dean begged from the recess of his cage.

“Oh yes. Your little honey bee is to be wed, if I recall from your memories. She is a very pretty girl, Dean. I’m sure she’ll be very happy to see me there,” Michael chuckled as he went deep into Dean’s mind.

~*~

“Daddy!” Audrey’s voice rang through the upper floors of Bobby’s house. Dean bound from his bed down the hall to her room.

“Audrey, what’s wrong?” Dean burst into her room, the nightlight, combined with the dawn, casting shadows about the room.

“The shadow man is here, Daddy,” she whimpered, crawling into Dean’s lap as he sat on the edge of her bed.

“Shhh, Honey Bee, it’s okay. Daddy’s the only one here. There isn’t anyone else, even the shadow man,” Dean cooed softly, holding her head and rocking back and forth. “Let’s have some water, that usually does the trick, huh, Bee.”

Y/N stood in the doorway, watching her husband and daughter. Within minutes, Audrey was sound asleep in his arms. He gently laid her down under the covers and walked over to his wife.

“The shadow man?” she whispered

“Yeah, that’s the third time this month. I’m going to have Sammy check into it, but I’m sure it’s nothing. Just her imagination and the shadows playing tricks on it,” Dean kissed her, pulling her back down the hall to their room. “Let’s get a couple more hours, huh?”

~*~

“Your little honey bee is a special one, Dean,” Michael taunted. “I’ve got plans for her as well.”

“You leave my family the hell alone! You’ve got me, you don’t need them!” Dean shouted.

“Oh, Dean. How else will I get you to behave?” Michael laughed.

“Give me one day with them, this Saturday, then you can have control back and I’ll do whatever the hell you want. Just give me twenty four hours, then you win,” Dean begged.

“Twenty four hours, then you’re mine forever, Dean. But if you trick me, I will end them. All of them while I make you watch,” Michael laughed, locking Dean away once more.

~*~

“Daddy! Look at me!” A three-year-old Audrey buzzed around the library, half dancing, half jumping in her bee costume. “I’m a honey bee!”

“You are the cutest little honey bee that ever was, Bee!” Dean picked her up in his arms, tickling her as she squirmed.

“Daddy, stop!” Audrey giggled, but she wrapped her hand tightly around her father’s neck.

He tucked her into bed later that night, still wearing her yellow and black tutu. “I love you, Honey Bee.”

“Love you too, Daddy,” Audrey yawned, her little fists rubbing tired eyes. “Don’t forget the nightlight.”

“Never, Bee,” Dean promised, flipping the bee nightlight on as he exited her room. He turned back to see her snuggled up with her blanket.

Dean tried to remember back to a time before Y/N, before Audrey. And, for the life of him, he couldn’t recall what life was like without them and he knew now it didn’t matter. They were all that mattered to him. His girls and his brother and his baby. That was all he needed, all of them safe and sound.

~*~

Dean woke suddenly at the world shifted around him. He was standing in front of the Bunker, still dressed in Michael’s stuffy clothes.

“Twenty four hours, starting now, Dean. Don’t make me regret this, because if you do, the last thing you’ll see will be the mangled bodies of your family while the world burns around them. Do I make myself clear?” Michael preached inside his mind.

“Crystal. Now leave me the hell alone, douchebag,” Dean commanded, knocking on the iron door. He composed himself as he waited. It felt like minutes had passed until he heard the slide of the heavy lock on the other side. The door swung open and he was greeted with a pistol and an angel blade, and his brother. “Hi ya, Sammy.”

“Dean?” Sam gasped, pulling his brother into a tight embrace. He didn’t know how, but he knew it was Dean, not Michael, despite the way he was dressed. “How? When? What are you doing here?”

“I made a deal for twenty four hours. I need to be here Sammy, then I gotta let him take me back,” Dean admitted, his face pinched at the thought of never seeing his family again, even if it meant they would be safe from Michael’s wrath.

“We’ll find a way, Dean,” Sam vowed.

“No. If he thinks I’ve tricked him, he’ll kill all of you. And, I can’t have that. It’s better this way, Sammy,” Dean explained.

“Better for who? Us or him?” The mumble carried up the staircase to Dean’s ears.

“Y/N? God, you’re a sight for sore eyes, Sweetheart,” Dean beamed, seeing his wife for the first time in weeks. His long legs carried him down to her in seconds, reaching out his arms for her.

“Don’t you ‘Sweetheart’ me, Winchester!” she shouted, poking him in the chest.

“Ow!” Dean flinched. She always was stronger than she looked.

“You think we’re just going to let you go without a fight? We’ve been looking everywhere for you, for any sign of you! And, you just show up here like it’s no big deal!” Y/N continued shouting at him.

“I know, okay! I’ve done everything I can think of, this is the only way!” Dean retorted, ripping the stupid hat off his head.

“There is always another way, Dean. You taught me that, now you’re ready to give up?” Y/N took a step forward, shoving him back again.

Dean’s eyes flashed blue and he spoke. “Y/N, it’s a pleasure to see you in the flesh. You’re quite lovely. Now, I made Dean here a deal and I will keep my end of it if he does. I let him out for twenty hour...twenty three hours and fifty minutes, and then he comes crawling back to me. No tricks, no traps, and you all live. If you attempt to free him, I will kill each of you slowly with his hands. Do you understand me?”

“Michael, I’ll kill you myself you son of a bitch!” Y/N screamed and lunged for the angel, but Sam held her back.

“No!” Audrey shouted from the library. All heads turned to her, glowing in her white gown. “Dad made his deal, mom, and we’ll have to live with that. If I can only get one day, I’ll take it.”

“Baby…” Y/N started.

“No, mom. It’s okay. Michael, please leave now. You’ll get him back in one piece, you have my word. Just let me have my dad, okay?” Audrey approached the angel, eyeing him carefully.

“Your father is right, Audrey. You are a most beautiful bride,” he uttered, then his eyes flashed blue once more. “Daddy?”

“Honey Bee?” Dean staggered toward her, her arms wrapping tight as he fell into them. “I said I’d be here didn’t I?”

“You never break your promises, Daddy,” she cried, her head buried into the crook of his neck while they held each other.

“Bee, it’s your wedding day, archangels couldn’t keep me away,” Dean chuckled through his poor attempt at humor. “Hang on my love, time’s running out. We’ll cherish the day, that’s what your life is about now. Hang on to him, Bee. Don’t ever let go.”

“I won’t, Daddy. You taught me how to love and how to fight and I will,” Audrey vowed.

“A brand new world awaits you, but you waited for me,” Dean marveled. “Thank you, Honey Bee. Now let’s go get you hitched.”

Michael sat back and watched the ceremony, bored and disgusted with all the love choking his meatsuit. He kicked back and closed his eyes, waiting for Dean’s time to expire. He drifted back to simpler times, when the other world was his.

A soft buzzing stirred inside his mind, rousing him from his slumber. Dazed by the sound, he inspected his surroundings. He found himself trapped in a warded steel box, and surrounded by millions of honey bees.

Did you like it? The nicest thing you can do for a writer is reblog their work and tell them, and others, how much you like it!

The Whole Enchilada: @iwantthedean @dolphincliffs @mrswhozeewhatsis @meganwinchester1999 @cherrycokegirls1 @closetspngirl @roxyspearing @flamencodiva @blacktithe7 @sis-tafics @just-another-busyfangirl @evansrogerskitten @amanda-teaches @hannahindie @wotinspntarnation @winchesterprincessbride @winecatsandpizza @kickingitwithkirk @wi-deangirl77 @hobby27 @mogaruke @gh0stgurl @paintrider13-blog @hunterscabin @alleiradayne @idreamofplaid @seenashwrite @crashdevlin

The Dean’s List: @jerkbitchidjitassbutt @dean-winchesters-bacon @maddiepants @thing-you-do-with-that-thing @adoptdontshoppets @mtngirlforever @supernatural-jackles

#heavenandhellbingo #spngenrebingo #Dean Winchester #michael!dean #2019 louden swain fanfic fanart project #Daddy!Dean #Dean x Reader

129 notes · View notes

nixiefics · 4 months

Text

A Tangle of Souls - Chapter 5

Pairing: Aemond Targaryen x OC (Jaena)

Tropes: Slow Burn, Friends to Lovers

Warnings: Targaryen typical incest, smut, swearing, drinking, canon typical violence and death

Neseya looked up from her desk, her dark eyes narrowing slightly as she saw Jaena. The woman, who had become her supposed mother in this grand charade, stood and crossed the room with deliberate calm. Jaena felt a rush of anxiety. Their relationship was new and built on fragile trust, having only known each other for two days.

"Come in, child," Neseya said, her voice measured. "We have much to discuss."

Jaena nodded, taking a seat beside the desk. Neseya returned to her chair, her movements precise and controlled. She picked up a small wooden box and opened it, revealing a collection of documents and a few pieces of jewellery.

"We need to make sure everything is perfect," Neseya began, her voice steady. "These letters must look authentic, the seals broken just right, and the handwriting impeccable. We cannot afford any mistakes."

Jaena leaned forward, examining the documents closely. "What about the pendant?" she asked, the pendant caught the light, its dark, smoky surface shimmering with an otherworldly gleam. The three-headed dragon of House Targaryen was wrought in exquisite detail, each head crowned with ruby eyes that glinted like embers.

Neseya's smile was thin, almost perfunctory. "That you will fill with your family," she said with practiced ease. "I have seen your talents with paint and I wish for you to miniaturize myself and Daemon within it. It will lend credibility to your claim, but it is the letters that will truly matter."

They spent the next hour meticulously going over the documents. Neseya pointed out the subtle details in the handwriting, the phrases and terminology that would make the letters seem genuine. Jaena practiced copying the script, her hand steady as she wrote out line after line under Neseya’s watchful eye.

"The risks are great," Neseya said after a while, her tone growing serious. "If we are discovered, the consequences could be severe. You must be prepared for any outcome."

Jaena looked up, meeting Neseya’s gaze. "I understand," she said firmly. "But I am ready. I have come too far to turn back now."

Neseya reached out, placing a hand on Jaena’s. The gesture was meant to be reassuring, but it felt awkward, forced. "You are brave, my dear," she said softly. "But remember, it is not just about proving your lineage. You must win their trust, their hearts; that will be the real challenge."

Jaena nodded, her resolve hardening. "I will do whatever it takes," she vowed.

Neseya’s eyes softened, and she squeezed Jaena’s hand gently. "I know you will," she said. "You have shown remarkable strength."

Jaena felt a swell of emotion at Neseya’s words. This woman, whom she barely knew, was taking a great risk on her behalf. Their bond was still forming, tentative and uncertain.

"Thank you," Jaena said quietly, her voice thick with emotion. "For everything."

Neseya smiled, a proud and tender expression. "You are now my daughter," she said simply. "And I will be proud of you, no matter what happens."

They continued to work, the fire crackling softly in the hearth as the night wore on. The documents took shape, each word carefully chosen, each seal meticulously placed. The pendant gleamed in the firelight, a silent witness to their determination.

As they finished, Neseya leaned back, her eyes tired but satisfied. "We are ready," she said, her voice filled with a quiet confidence. "Tomorrow, we will present these to the court. And we will see where fate takes us."

The road ahead was uncertain, fraught with danger and intrigue. But with Neseya’s guidance, she felt a sense of hope, a belief that they could succeed.

She rose from her chair, hesitating for a moment before embracing Neseya. "Goodnight," she said softly.

"Goodnight, Jaena," Neseya replied, her voice gentle. "Rest well. Hemtubis iksos nykeā arlie tubis." (Tomorrow is a new day.)

Jaena left the chamber, her mind racing with thoughts of the future. As she walked back through the quiet corridors of the Red Keep, she felt a renewed sense of purpose. The proof was ready, and she was prepared to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

Jaena stood outside Helaena's chambers, her heart beating with a mix of anticipation and nervousness. The invitation for tea had come as a surprise, but she welcomed the opportunity to connect with the enigmatic princess. She knocked gently on the door, and a moment later, it was opened by a maid who ushered her inside.

Helaena's chambers were a wonderland of curiosities. Shelves lined with glass cases displayed an astonishing variety of insects—brightly coloured beetles, delicate butterflies, and strange, crawling creatures. The room was warm and inviting, with a large table set for tea in the centre. Helaena sat there, a serene smile on her face, and beside her were her three young children: the twins Jaehaerys and Jaehaera, and little Maelor, who clung to his mother's skirts.

"Welcome, Jaena," Helaena said softly, her voice like a gentle breeze. "Please, join us."

Jaena smiled warmly and took a seat across from Helaena, admiring the meticulous arrangement of tea cups and the assortment of pastries and sandwiches. "Thank you for inviting me, Princess Helaena," she replied, her gaze shifting to the children, who were staring at her with wide, curious eyes.

Helaena reached out and poured tea into delicate porcelain cups, the steam curling upwards and filling the room with the scent of chamomile. "I thought it might be… nice for us to get to know each other better," she said, handing Jaena a cup. "You seem to have a genuine interest in the world around you, much like myself."

Jaena accepted the tea with a nod of thanks. "Your collection is truly remarkable," she said, her eyes wandering over the myriad of insects displayed. "I've never seen anything quite like it."

Helaena's smile widened, a hint of pride in her eyes. "They are my little treasures," she said, her fingers lightly brushing a glass case containing a vibrant green beetle. "Each one has its own story, its own place in the world."

Jaena leaned in, fascinated. "How did you start collecting them?"

Helaena's gaze grew distant, as if she were recalling a distant memory. "I began as a child," she said softly. "I was always drawn to the small, overlooked things. Insects, in particular, fascinated me with their colours, their patterns, their resilience. They remind me that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places."

Jaena smiled, feeling a genuine connection forming. "That's a lovely perspective," she said. "And it's true. Sometimes, it's the little things that hold the most wonder."

Helaena nodded, her eyes meeting Jaena's with an intensity that belied her usual quiet demeanour. "I often see things others do not," she said cryptically. "In my dreams, they come to me like whispers in the dark."

Jaena felt a shiver run down her spine at Helaena's words. "What do you see?" she asked gently, sensing the importance of the question.

Helaena's gaze grew unfocused, her voice dropping to a whisper. "I see shadows and light, fire and blood. But also moments of tenderness, of hope. It is a confusing tapestry, constantly shifting."

Jaena listened intently, feeling a kinship with Helaena's sense of being an outsider. "I know what it's like to feel different," she admitted, her voice soft. "To be unsure of where you belong. I came here with so many fears, so many doubts."

Helaena reached across the table and took Jaena's hand, her touch cool and comforting. "We are all searching for our place in this world," she said. "But you are not alone in your journey. Sometimes, we find allies in the most unexpected places."

Jaena felt a surge of gratitude and warmth. "Thank you, Helaena," she said sincerely. "It means a lot to hear that."

The moment was broken by a small giggle, and Jaena looked down to see little Jaehaera tugging at her sleeve. "Will you play with us?" the child asked, her eyes bright with innocence.

Jaena laughed softly, her tension easing. "Of course," she said, looking at Helaena for permission.

Helaena nodded, her smile returning. "They would love that," she said. "Jaehaerys and Jaehaera are always looking for new friends, and Maelor... well, he follows where the fun is."

For the next hour, Jaena found herself immersed in the world of the children. They showed her their favourite toys, shared stories, and even insisted she join them in a game of hide and seek. The sound of their laughter filled the room, a balm to the underlying tension of the castle.

As the afternoon wore on and the children grew tired, Jaena helped Helaena settle them down for a nap. She felt a strange sense of peace, a feeling of belonging she hadn’t expected.

Before she left, Helaena took Jaena’s hand once more. "Thank you for spending time with us," she said. "You have brought a lightness to my day."

Jaena smiled, her heart full. "The pleasure was mine," she replied. "I look forward to our next tea."

As she walked back through the corridors, Jaena felt a renewed sense of purpose. She had found an ally in Helaena, someone who understood the feeling of being an outsider. And in that bond, she found strength to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

Jaena and Neseya stood before the doors to Queen Alicent's private chambers, their hearts pounding in unison. Neseya cast a reassuring glance at Jaena, who took a deep breath, steeling herself for the confrontation ahead. The fabricated evidence they carried had been painstakingly prepared, and now it was time to present it to Otto Hightower and Queen Alicent.

A servant opened the doors, and they stepped inside. The room was dimly lit by flickering candles, casting long shadows on the rich tapestries that adorned the walls. Alicent sat at the head of a long table, her expression one of calm curiosity. Otto Hightower stood beside her, his face a mask of stern scepticism.

"Lady Neseya, Jaena," Alicent greeted, her voice gentle but firm. "Please, come forward."

They approached the table, and Neseya offered a respectful bow before placing a leather-bound box on the table. Jaena followed suit, her posture straight and her gaze steady. Otto's eyes narrowed as he focused on the box, a hint of intrigue flickering in his gaze.

"Thank you for granting us this audience, Your Grace, Lord Hand," Neseya began, her voice unwavering. "We have brought the evidence you requested to substantiate Jaena's claim."

Alicent nodded, her gaze shifting to Otto. "Very well. Lord Hightower will examine the evidence. Please, proceed."

Neseya opened the box with deliberate care, revealing its contents. Inside were several items: a small, intricately carved dragon figurine, a set of letters written in elegant Valyrian script, and a pendant bearing the sigil of House Targaryen.

Otto stepped forward, his eyes scanning the items with keen interest. He picked up the dragon figurine, turning it over in his hands. "This is exquisite craftsmanship," he muttered, almost to himself. "Where did you acquire it?"

"It was a gift from Jaena's father, Daemon Targaryen," Neseya replied smoothly. "He had it made for her when she was a child, to remind her of her heritage."

Otto placed the figurine back in the box and turned his attention to the letters. He picked up the first one, his eyes narrowing as he read. "These are written in High Valyrian," he observed. "A rare language, but not impossible to forge."

Neseya inclined her head. "Indeed, Lord Hand. But if you examine the seal and the handwriting, you will find it matches that of Daemon Targaryen. These letters speak of his love for his daughter and his regret at being unable to acknowledge her openly due to the political climate."

Otto's expression remained impassive as he continued to read. Alicent, however, leaned forward, her eyes flicking between the letters and Jaena's face. "And the locket?" she asked, her tone curious.

Jaena stepped forward and picked up the locket, opening it to reveal a small, painted portrait of Daemon Targaryen. "This locket was given to me by my mother, Neseya," she said, her voice steady. "It contains a portrait of my father, a reminder of my lineage."

Otto took the locket from her, examining the portrait closely. He then looked up, his gaze piercing. "These items are compelling, but they do not conclusively prove your claim," he said. "Why should we believe you?"

Jaena met his gaze calmly. "I seek no throne, no power," she said, echoing her earlier words. "I only wish to be acknowledged for who I am. The truth will reveal itself in time, as it always does."

Otto's eyes narrowed, and he turned to Alicent. "Your Grace, these items are indeed intriguing. However, we must proceed with caution. Further investigation is necessary to verify their authenticity."

Alicent nodded thoughtfully. "Agreed, Lord Hightower. But for now, let us give Jaena and Neseya the benefit of the doubt. We will continue to observe and evaluate their claims."

Jaena and Neseya both inclined their heads in gratitude. "Thank you, Your Grace," Neseya said. "We understand your caution and appreciate your willingness to consider our evidence."

Otto placed the items back in the box and closed it with a decisive click. "This matter is far from settled," he said, his tone stern. "But you have made a compelling case. We will see what further investigation reveals."

With that, the audience was over. Jaena and Neseya left the chambers, their hearts still pounding but with a sense of accomplishment. They had presented their evidence, and for now, it had been accepted. The road ahead was still fraught with uncertainty, but they had taken the first step toward securing Jaena's place in the Targaryen family.

Jaena's footsteps echoed softly along the stone corridor as she made her way to the secluded garden within the Red Keep. The servant who had fetched her on Daemon Targaryen’s orders had been tight-lipped, but his demeanour conveyed the gravity of the meeting. Her heart raced with a mix of excitement and trepidation. This would be her first meeting with Daemon Targaryen, the man she claimed as her father. She knew that her composure and sincerity were crucial.

The garden was a hidden oasis amidst the imposing fortress, bathed in the pale light of the moon. The scent of blooming flowers filled the air, mingling with the cool night breeze. Jaena took a deep breath, steeling herself as she stepped into the clearing. There, standing with an air of casual authority, was Daemon Targaryen.

His silver hair caught the moonlight, and his piercing violet eyes met hers with an intensity that made her pause. Jaena approached him with a mix of reverence and nervousness, her gaze unwavering. She felt a chill as she realized she was still dressed in her sleep clothes, a stark reminder of how sudden and urgent this meeting was.

"Prince Daemon," she greeted, her voice steady but soft.

Daemon studied her for a long moment, his expression unreadable. "Jaena," he said finally, his voice carrying a hint of anger. "You have kept yourself well hidden, but I have found you at last."

Jaena's heart skipped a beat, but she forced herself to maintain her composure. "I am here now, Prince Daemon. Please, hear me out."

Daemon's gaze bore into hers, a storm brewing in his violet eyes. "You claim to be my daughter. Tell me, why did Jason Lannister raise you in secret? What game is he playing?"

Jaena's throat tightened at the mention of Jason's name. "He believed in my lineage, Prince Daemon. He sought to protect me from those who would harm me or use me for their own gain."

Daemon's lips curled into a sneer. "Protect you? By hiding you away like some dirty secret? He has meddled in matters that do not concern him."

"I understand your anger, Prince Daemon," Jaena said, her voice barely above a whisper. "But please, do not let it cloud your judgment. I am here because I seek to claim my place among House Targaryen."

Daemon's grip tightened on the hilt of his sword, his gaze flickering to the sky above. "You have a dragon's blood running through your veins, Jaena. But blood alone does not make you a Targaryen. What proof do you have of your claim?"

Jaena's heart raced as she reached into the folds of her cloak, retrieving the unhatched dragon egg. Neseya had given it to her, nonchalantly, and Jaena had been keeping it in pride of place near the hearth ever since. Even though she knew it might never hatch, she still had dozens of sketches of the dragon she imagined would be borne from it.

She held it out to Daemon, her hands trembling ever so slightly. "This is all I have, Prince Daemon."

Daemon's eyes narrowed as he took the egg from her, studying it intently. "I recall this egg, though not from where. I merely remember flames surrounding it."

Finally, he looked up, his gaze meeting Jaena's once more. "If this is some trickery, Jaena, you will rue the day you crossed me."

Jaena swallowed hard, her throat dry. "I understand, Prince Daemon. But please, give me a chance to prove myself."

Daemon's grip on the letter tightened, his expression still dark and brooding. "Very well, Jaena. We shall see if your claims hold true. But know this, if you have deceived me, there will be consequences."

Jaena nodded, her heart heavy with the weight of Daemon's words. But she knew that she had no choice but to press on, to prove herself worthy of the name she had claimed as her own. And so, with a silent vow, she braced herself for the challenges that lay ahead.

Hey everyone!

I just wanted to drop a quick note about something that really helps me out. If you’re enjoying my fanfiction, I’m thrilled to hear it! However, simply hitting the 'like' button doesn’t help spread my work for others to see and enjoy.

If you could use the 'reblog' button and share your thoughts in the comments, it would make a huge difference. Reblogging promotes my work to a wider audience, and your feedback (both the good and the constructive) helps me improve my writing.

Thank you so much for your support and understanding!

Best,

💕 Nixie 💕

#aemond x original character #aemond x oc #aemond fic #masterlist #aemond fanfiction #aemond targaryen x oc #aemond targaryen #aemond one eye #oc: jaena

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xxwritemeastoryxx · 5 years

Text

Forgotten Alliance Ch. 25

Author: xxwritemeastoryxx

Pairings: Elijah Mikaelson x OC with other parings mentioned throughout.

Word Count: 3.7K

Warnings: Canon Typical things

Author’s Note: As a reminder, FA can be found on ffnet up to chapter 42. I am uploading chapters here on tumblr for convenience. I decided against tagging this until new chapters are posted. If you would like to be tagged please let me know! Chapters are queued and will be posted randomly. Chapter from here on out are not aligned with any episodes. Enjoy

"You're back."

"I'm back."

"And now she is in the house." Kol said with a slightly scared look. "If he happens to give you a tour of the house, just remember it is still a house filled with vampires." He shook his head and started for the stairs.

"Nice to see you too, Kol." Elizabeth said shaking her head with a smile.

"It is nice to see you Lizzy." He said looking over his shoulder before disappearing upstairs.

"Ignore him," Rebekah said with a smile as she walked over and gave Elizabeth a hug. "Now if you excuse me, I am going to take my niece and smother her in love."

Elizabeth laughed and watched as Rebekah picked up Hope and took off into another room with her. When she turned to look at Elijah, he had been standing right in front of her now. She smiled up at him. "I didn't think I'd get to visit you again."

He ran his hand through her hair as he smiled down at her. "Neither did I." He admitted.

After she had left the first time, Elijah had believed that they wouldn't get another visit from Elizabeth or Hope. They had accidentally found their way into this dream world with no real explanation as to how they had been able to. He and Freya had sat in the garden afterwards racking their brains as to how it was even possible. They had expected to be the only ones allowed into this world. There was no idea of knowing if the next time Hope and Elizabeth had tried to enter, if it would work at all the thoughts of not being able to have visitors, there she was standing in front of him. Just as the first time, he didn't believe that she was standing there in front of him. But being able to feel her emotions was proof enough that she was in fact that they had found a way back into the dream world.

He pulled her into a hug and held onto her tightly. She gladly accepted the hug and she wanted to stay in his embrace for long as possible. There was no telling how long they would be here this time. For all they knew, Rebekah could be walking back with Hope to tell them she was calling out for Hayley. It would be two soon for both of them.

"Why don't we go sit in the kitchen and have some tea?" Freya said as she stood from her seat and started to head into the kitchen.

"In a moment." Elijah said and Elizabeth chuckled as his hold on her tightened. Elijah had no intentions of letting Elizabeth go just yet.

"I promise I'm not just going to disappear." Elizabeth said smiling up at him. "I believe the warning system is with your sister." While Elizabeth wouldn't have minded staying like this the whole time, but she wanted to spend time with him and his more favorable sibling.

Elijah laughed and shook his head slightly before leaning down and kissing her softly. A moment later he pulled away and released her from his hold. While he had just released her from his embrace, she already missed it. She had felt safe and like she hadn't made the mistakes she had made while they were all awake and living in the real world. Elijah lead her into the kitchen and pulled out a chair for her at the table before taking the seat next to her. Freya walked over and placed a few cups down before pouring the hot tea into them.

"Now, before my siblings had interrupted our conversation," Freya said giving Elijah a look before looking over at Elizabeth. "We were talking about Hope."

"Right." Elizabeth said as she watched Freya take a seat across from them.

"I still don't see why I am able to come here with Hope, but with Hayley, she cant." Elizabeth said as she looked between Freya and Elijah.

"I am still curious as to how they are able to get visit." Elijah said.

Freya nodded and looked at Elizabeth a smile. "We had tried coming up with several different explanations as to how you two had been able to get passed that spell."

"I'd like to know as well." Elizabeth said. "Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love that we have been lucky enough to come and visit, I just thought it was supposed to be impossible."

"It was supposed to be." Elijah said before taking a drink from his cup.

"Hope is one of a kind." Freya said. "Maybe the spells work different with her?"

"There can be several explanations for this." Elizabeth said not knowing where they could even start on finding out why Hope had been able to break through Freya's spell."

Elizabeth watched as something clicked in Freya's mind. "Excuse me for a moment." She said before standing up and rushing out of the room.

An eyebrow raised on Elizabeth's face as she watched her leave before looking over at Elijah. He smiled at her and shrugged slightly.

"She is probably going to look for something in that room of hers." Elijah said.

"You make it sound as if her room is some wasteland." Elizabeth said with a chuckle.

"While my sister may be a witch, sometimes her room can be a bit stereotypical." He nodded.

"What about your room?" She asked. "Does it look exactly the same?"

"More or less." He said.

"Well that was before I decided to play interior designer and cleaned up the place." She said with a shake of her head.

"Was the place destroyed?" He asked with a raised eyebrow. It was then that Elizabeth realized she never did tell him that she had allowed the vampires to trash the place that night they had gone into their deep sleep.

"That night," She started, "I kind of allowed the vampires that were there to trash the place." She shrugged. "Technically, the compound was supposed to be condemned, but I pulled some strings and got it looking in the best shape it has ever been in."

He shook his head slightly. He would love to see what she had done to fix up the place. The compound had hardly change in his family's absence over the centuries except for the touches Marcel had added over time. But to hear that she had redone everything, it would be as if it was a new place entirely and he looked forward to seeing what touches she had added to it all.

"Besides redecorating, how is it out there?" He asked.

"I'm not going to lie to you," She said sighing. "It is a bit difficult out there. It feels like I have this weight on my shoulders and no matter what I do, nothing lifts it." She shook her head slightly. "I've been dealing with the city's problems as well as trying to fix all the wrongs I have done and find the cures. But around every corner that I turn, there seems to be something else that adds into the list and sets me back."

"I am sure this is just a momentary set back." He said trying to comfort her. "It will all work out like it is supposed to."

"Its almost been a year, Elijah. A year that you have been in this deep sleep. I thought I'd have the cures by now."

"What is the status on that?" He asked curiously.

"Freya's cure is close to being done. Lily has been more than generous when it comes to this." She sighed softly. "And I am still trying to figure out where to start on how to find your cure. There are endless possibilities of doing this, but choosing the right one is what makes it so much harder."

"Your afraid." There was something in the way she had sighed and the way there was the fear that had began to build through their bond. He hated that she was afraid of something. Even though she was now the feared one, he knew there were things out there that still had her afraid. It made him want to be out there with her instead of being in this dream world.

"I'm afraid of failing." She admitted. While she was afraid of a particular vision that had been playing through her mind lately, she wasn't going to tell him that though. "I'm afraid that I won't be able to find this cure and wake you up. I'm also afraid that I will mess up somehow and I wont get you back."

"You wont fail." He said placing his hand on her cheek. "I have faith in you." He kissed leaned in and kissed her forehead.

"You have to much faith in me." She said as she leaned into his hand and smiled up at him. He chuckled and shook his head. "I'm serious. I've screwed up big time and look where that has us."

"Imagine if it had been Marcel that still had the serum." Elijah pointed out. "It would probably be a whole lot worse."

"Or we would be in the same position just because of someone else." She shrugged.

"No matter how it would have played out, I'd like to think we are here for a reason." Elizabeth rose an eyebrow.

"Really?" She asked. "What reason is that?"

"To come out of this stronger." He said watching her. "This whole situation has brought my family a lot closer. While it may be that Niklaus is elsewhere, I am sure that when the cures are found and we are all reunited, we will be a stronger family."

Elizabeth smiled at him. Though it didn't reach the full smile that Elijah had been used to and he had noticed it right away. He opened his mouth to question why, but she simply shook her head. "That will be amazing to see, if I knew that it was soon." She said trying not to think of what the future held.

Elijah wanted to ease her mind in some way. "Maybe if you spoke to Jess?" He asked.

"I already know to much about the future." She said shaking her head. "Knowing more of the details isn't going to change anything." The closer she got to certain points in the visions, the more detailed they would be if Jess had showed her. While she would love a countdown for when she would find the cure for him, she did not wish to know when it would be that she would walk to the one place she knew was now inevitable.

It was then that Elijah knew what it was that Elizabeth was really afraid of. "You are afraid of that door."

She only nodded at first. "The longer I can stay away from it the better."

"Are you ever going to tell me what happened while you were there?" Elijah did want to know. He wanted to know why she was so afraid of a place that place. She only ever told him it was a place that had been the worse time in her existence.

"Maybe the next time I get the chance to visit." She said softly. She still wasn't ready to explain the horrible details of her past. "I promise." She made the promise not knowing when exactly when the next time would be. For all she knew it could be another two months before she was able to get back into the dream world. Elijah nodded taking her hand and kissing the back of it. Elizabeth smiled as she watched him do so. He smiled back at her and Elizabeth could see that he was thinking about something. "What is it?" She asked.

"I have to admit I miss being able to feel your emotions." He said as he ran his thumb over her knuckles. "I never thought I would be so used to it. In the last year, I have felt nothing except for when you arrive here."

"I just feel you sleeping." Elizabeth admitted. "I can feel that your body is asleep, but its not like before." She sighed softly. "Its like a heavier feeling, that I can feel that you are in this deep sleep, but I don't feel any of your emotions while you are in here."

"One of the many things I look forward to when this is all over is being able to feel your presence again." He said nodding.

"I'm looking forward to that as well." She said smiling at him.

"I think I got it." Freya said walking back into the kitchen with a grimoire. When Elizabeth seen it in Freya's hand, an eyebrow rose as she watched Freya sit across from them.

"You added copies of your grimoires into the spell?" Elizabeth asked.

Elijah laughed. "She couldn't resist."

"I can tell." Elizabeth said with a smile as she looked over to Freya. "Now what was it you've found."

"I think I've found the reason why you and Hope can get through the spell." She said as she looked down at the page. "I believe that since the spell required our blood to be linked and placed into this dream world, Hope having Mikaelson blood in her veins should give her the ability to come and go as she pleases."

"What is stopping her then?" Elizabeth asked. "She should be able to do it on her own or bring Hayley with her at least."

"I also made the spell so that no one else should be able to enter, especially witches." Freya said with a nod. "Which is why she cannot get here on her own."

"But that does not explain why when she is with Elizabeth, they both can enter." Elijah said looking at Freya.

"She's using Elizabeth as more of a loophole to the spell." Freya said.

"How?" Elizabeth asked confused.

"You were turned by Elijah's blood, Mikaelson blood. Which makes it a bit easier for you to enter. But the biggest thing that she is using is your bond with Elijah." Freya said with a nod. "If we weren't currently in a deep sleep as we are, you'd be able to enter his dreams. But since you cannot, you would need the help of magic to get here on your own. She's going through you to get the both of you here."

"She's a smart kid." Elizabeth said shaking her head slightly. "So blood is the key to this, isn't it?"

Freya nodded. "Pretty much." She said. "I have to give it to her, she already knows loopholes to centuries old spells."

"And she is also quite sleepy." Rebekah said walking into the kitchen with Hope in her arms.

They all looked over to see Hope was looking tired. Her lids were heavy and currently resting her head on Rebekah's shoulder.

"What do you think will happen when she actually falls asleep?" Elizabeth asked looking over at Freya.

Freya shrugged slightly. "I guess we will find out soon." Rebekah came and sat down at the table across from Elijah and Elizabeth as she kept Hope close to her. "But now that we know you two are able to visit, don't be a stranger, Liz."

"I'll try not to be." Elizabeth said with a smile before looking over at Elijah.

Elijah smiled at her and squeezed her hand tightly before they both turned their attention to Hope. They all had watched as young girl closed her eyes and looked completely comfortable in Rebekah's arms. It was a nice sight to see. A moment of peace and even though this was nowhere being close to the real thing, this whole time in the dream world had felt like a perfect visit. It was the piece of Heaven in the Hell that awaited for Elizabeth when she returned to the real world.

When Elizabeth opened her eyes in the real world, she looked down at Hope and seen that she was fast asleep on her shoulder. A smile played on Elizabeth's face as she kissed her forehead before looking over at Elijah. "Until next time." She said sighing before closing the lid to the coffin. She turned and walked back up the stairs. Elizabeth found Hayley sitting in the living room with a book and when she entered the room, Hayley looked up from it and seen the surprised look on her face.

"She fell asleep?" Hayley asked as she stood up.

Elizabeth smiled and nodded. "She had a little to much fun with her Aunt Bex."

Hayley raised an eyebrow before realization came over her. "You were able to go back."

"Yeah." Elizabeth said looking down at Hope. "Freya thinks she has the explanation as to why we are able to ."

"What would that be?" Hayley asked as she held out her arms to take Hope and Elizabeth handed her over. Hayley began walking toward's Hope's room and Elizabeth followed.

"When Freya did the spell, she connected them all by blood. Hope has the Mikaelson blood running through her veins. With her being a witch she should be able to see them as she pleases." Elizabeth started to explain.

"But when she tries on her own, she can't get there." Hayley said as she placed Hope into her bed.

"Which is where I come in." Elizabeth shrugged slightly. "I was turned by Elijah's blood and with our bond, I should easily be able to enter his mind, but with the spell up I cant do it on my own."

"But with both of you together, you can easily do it." Hayley said nodding as lead Elizabeth out of the room.

Elizabeth had only nodded as she followed her out. "Apparently, I am the loophole that Hope found to Freya's spell." Once they were back in the living room, they both sat on the couch. "If you could have seen her in there." Elizabeth said with a smile. "She was so excited to be there. And when Rebekah took her away to spend some time with her, she had this huge smile on her face."

Hayley smiled. "I suppose she'll always have a connection with Rebekah since she did raise her for the first year. How are they?"

"Having one long vacation." Elizabeth said with a small chuckle. "Freya put in a lake when she created that dream world."

"Seriously?" Hayley laughed. "It sounds perfect there."

"If you like spending every waking moment with your siblings." Elizabeth said shaking her head. "Freya says there are times she wishes there were others there with them."

"I bet." Hayley shook her head. "I cant imagine being there with no one else to talk to."

"But this whole thing is letting them sort out their differences and is making them whole as a family." Elizabeth said with a small smile.

"Maybe when they wake up, we wont see them at each other's throats." Elizabeth laughed at Hayley's words.

"Lets just hope they don't do something to really piss each other off after they wake. Or else it will be like nothing ever changed." Elizabeth smiled and rested her head back on the couch. "This is bringing us closer than I thought."

"It has." Hayley said with a nod.

Both women knew they had grown closer even though the visits were limited and spaced out as they were. At the beginning, they were pretty much against each other. While Elizabeth probably had earned the hate from Hayley in the beginning for what she had done, but now things were different. And if things kept going the way it had been, maybe when they got the cures and everyone was awake, they would be a close family. They would be able to handle whatever came after. They all would be stronger.

#The originals #the vampire diaries #forgotten Alliance #elijah mikaelson x oc

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riley-phoenix · 3 years

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Pairing: Nik X Reader(gender not specified) ... eventually

Canon: Choices: Stories You Play: Nightbound

Content: Murder, blood, depression, angst

Author's Note: This fic was written as a part of @nbappreciationweek, And is part 2 of 3. The story is told from NIK'S POINT OF VIEW. The reader of this story(*your name*) is NOT the reader of Nightbound, Alex(default name of Nightbound OC).

Chapter Summary: Nik and his new found ally play murder mystery as they interview suspects, find evidence and decode notes, sent to them by the sadistic serial killer: 'Smile'

"Why, exactly, are we in the middle of nowhere?", *Your name* asked, as the duo trudged through the foliage of the woods. "'cuz there's only two reasonable suspects from the supernatural side of this investigation, and this is where one of them lives", Nik replied, as he slashed his machete to cut down the tall bushes. "They live in the woods???... That's ridiculous the only person that would live out here would be a --" The detective stops short as the realisation comes crashing down. "WE'RE LITERALLY WALKING INTO THE WOLVE'S DEN!?".

Nik continues to cut away at the green bushes as a swamp comes into view. "We-- will be safe; 'cuz we-- have...". As they make their way into the swamp, a muscular, long haired man, approaches Nik with a sorrowful look on his face. "*Your name*... This is Cal, he's our guy on the inside with the werewolf pack.", Nik introduces both of his unlikely allies to each other. Cal sighs and turns to Nik: "I heard about Alex". Nik and Cal embrace each other in a warm hug as Nik exhales, "No bad blood?", He asks. "I don't think you should be suspecting Octavia, but I get where you're coming from, were good", Cal replies.

*your name* questions Nik as the three of them walk to the centre of the swamp. "Who's Octavia... And why's she a suspect?". Nik turns around just before a small, brick-built house. "Octavia Is the pack's alpha, she took over from Kristof". "What happened to Kristof?", *Your name* asks inquisitively. Nik seems Troubled, like a bad memory had just to returned to him, indicated by his faraway gaze, "Alex", he says, with a guilty look on his face. "She was the reason he died?". The detective asks, as Nik sticks his thumbs in his pockets. "There was a bloodwraith on Her. When it came after her, Kristof wanted to hunt it, said it'd complete his "collection" of supernatural creatures...it collected him instead."

A sorrowful look spreads over *your name*'s face as Nik explains why Octavia is a suspect. "So you think she did this to be avengeful?, Nik looks to the house, with a determined look on his face, "only one way to find out"

The two of them step into the modest house hesitantly, Nik, the first to greet the alpha as the detective sweeps the house for clues with trained eyes.

"Octavia"

"Ryder"

They greet one another with little embrace and a professional tone, and Nik wastes no time with introductions. "Octavia, this is my, ughhh... Friend, *your name*". Octavia stretches her hand out to the detective ,to which it is returned nonchalantly. "I assume you've arranged this meeting to discuss Alex?" The words hit Nik like a train, "Y-you know?" He asks Octavia. "Word travels fast, Ryder, especially with that of nighthunters", she says, as she lifts her wine glass to her lips

"You don't seem too upset", Nik says, glaring daggers into Octavia. Taking in his words, she sets down the glass, and her face becomes covered in an unreadable expression. "It wasn't me Ryder". "You saying you don't blame Alex for what happened with Kristof?", Nik says aggressively, Rising from his seat. Octavia rises from her seat as well, before raising her voice to match Nik's.

"Of course I blame Alex!, That doesn't make me a Murderer".

"Then where were you that night?",Nik asks, very much louder.

"Look Ryder, I, as well as my pack, have lives outside the supernatural world, and that's where the investigation is right now, outside the supernatural ,so if you want an alibi from me, you'll get it from my lawyers".

Octavia's words are firm, She signals towards the door, motioning for the two of you to leave. "C'mon, there's nothing for us here". Nik says, before the two of you shuffle out of the swamp, trying to avoid the eyes of the beta werewolves staring you down.

"is that True Nik?", *Your name* asks. "Is what true?", Nik asks in response. "Do all supernatural creatures have mondane world lives?". Nik, once again, looks troubled. His gaze shifts from one of focus to one that stares faraway into the distance. "Every last one... Even the head of the supernatural world, just so happens... She's our next suspect". The detective looks slightly confused as Nik speaks. "Head of the supern--our next suspect is..."

"Lady Smoke".

Confusion washes over the detective once again as Nik spits out the name of the next suspect. "Smoke?", *Your name* questions, "All she gets mixed up in is shady business deals, what'd she have against Alex?". "Vera, her daughter". Nik answers

"Smoke's Missing kid!?"

"The one and only"

*your name* puts the pieces together quickly, trying to pick out any other clues that could point the paper trail that is Alex's murder back to Smoke. "She didn't want Vera siding with Alex over the family business".

"you really were made for this job", Nik replies.

Two hours later, Nik and *your name* arrive at Lady Smoke's casino, Nik notices the abundance of ferefolk and supernatural creatures that gather here to drink and play poker.

A goblin approaches them as the bartender slides over their drinks, "Right this way". He says, as he guides them into the back, away from the commotion and chaos of the club, and into a business oriented looking room. Sitting across from *your name* is Lady Smoke and once again, the detective witnesses a stern staredown of greetings and introductions with aggrivated faces.

"Smoke"

"Ryder"

Lady Smoke nods her head, signalling for the goblin to leave the room, allowing the three of them to talk privately. "You didn't arrange this so that we could have a tea party, Rider, and I haven't much time so I suggest you tell me what the purpose of this little deposition is".

"Yeah, I'll cut to the chase. You heard about Alex?", Nik speaks with almost no emotion, as if the words have no effect on him, but the detective was good at reading people. It's obvious this was a mask, Those words were killing the real Nik, each and every time he said it.

"Of course I have", She answers, "News spreads like wildfire amongst the Underworld". *Your name* slips a briefcase across the table, the hunter opens it before speaking, pulling out an affidavit. "Then either I'm leaving here with your alibi on this document or your head on a platter". Lady Smoke seems unfazed and only chuckles "You want my Alibi?, Fine, I was having dinner with My daughter".

"No offence, Smoke, but your word, means shit". Nik replies, still struggling to keep the tense look on his face.

"Fine then, ask her yourself". Smoke lifts her hand towards the door just as her daughter, Vera walks in and runs to Nik, tears in her eyes. "NIK! ... I heard ab-b-b-- I heard about Alex... Are you ok?". Nik embraces her and strokes her hair softly, trying his best to calm her down. "I'll be ok when we find this son of a bitch". Eventually, Vera lets go, allowing Nik to dust himself off. "So, is it true?".

Vera, sniffling, wipes off her face. "Yes, it's true, mother and I were out the whole night". *Your name* throws Nik a sorrowful look. Sliding the pen and page over to Smoke, Nik tosses the detective the briefcase and gestures for the door. "Let's go".He says, looking back at Lady Smoke. As the pair leave the room, Nik stops before Vera, placing a hand on her shoulder. "Thanks V, I appreciate it".

As the two of them step outside, Nik stares into the distance, clearly troubled. "Got a text from Bobby, they still don't know if those star signs we're Anything more than a play to throw us off but they're working on the note. Also, I told them about the drawing on the wall and the street name, they've started referring to this guy as 'Smile'", *your name* says. The detective notices Nik staring into the distance, not registering much of the information from Bobby's text. "Fresh out of ideas?". Finally Nik's attention is caught. "Hm?, Oh...no actually, this clears things up"

The detective, knowing there's something Nik isn't saying, looks on in question. Finally finding the words, "I know who 'Smile' is". A shocked and confused look washes over *your name*'s face as the words leave Nik's mouth. "...Wh-- Who?"

Nik's chin sits low, his face facing the floor below, "Alex was half Fae... And heir to Lamrian's throne".

The detective struggles to process the information, realising just how important Alex was. "Do... do they have any other heirs?"

"That's the thing", Nik says. "Alex was second in line, she didn't even know the supernatural existed before she met me. Let's just say Tialo got jealous". He adds on.

"He tried to kill her?", To which Nik nods his head as the detective pieces everything together.

"Here's the problem, Lord Elric banished him. No one's seen him in a year... But I know where we need to go to find out...

...The Fate"

"The Fate!?, What makes you think she'll talk to us?", *Your name* asks. "'Cuz the last time I talked to her, she said 'our paths would meet again'". The detective seems taken back, slightly surprised at the lengths Nik is going to for vengeance. "She really meant alot to you didn't she".

"...Nothing meant more", Nik responds. *Your name* steps forward slowly, wrapping Nik in a sympathetic hug, and to even Nik's own suprise, he returns it.

Nik takes *your name* on to a dock where they board a charter. Nik explains that to pass from the realm of men to the realm of the fate, one must go through the realm of the dead, and that everyone else on the boat has passed on, ghosts that wander the afterlife longing for closure. "I've done this before, you'll be safe", he explains to the detective.

Soon, they arrive in the land of the fate, the whistling wind below the golden skyline illuminates the spring time grass as they step out of the charter. "She's In that manor", Nik explains.

The detective lays eyes on every item as the two walk over the concrete steps of the entrance, always sweeping new areas for any form of suspicious activity. Nik turns around with a shy look on his face as he rubs the back of his Nik. "Look *your name*... I shoulda told you this before but; to see the Fate, you've gotta be naked".

The detective sweats as Nik explains the ritual, "Sure!", Nik turns around, slightly confused, "Um- I mean, we've come this far", *your name* adds on nervously. Nik nods. They turn their backs to one another and make short work of their clothes, stripping them off and letting them fall to the floor. Nik sits with his knees folded, and *your name* follows his actions.

"Did I just catch you peeking?"

"Erm, Nope".

The detective laughs shyly as Nik grins

"What now?"

"Now... Is something else I shoulda told you --sorry about that-- to summon the fate you must reveal a shameful secret", Nik explains

"Strip and reveal a shameful secret, sounds alot like a highschool prank before the jock comes out with the hidden camera".

Nik laughs, "I assure you if anyone records us I will personally kick their ass, and to prove it, I'll go first. I blame myself for Alex's murder. I keep hearing that it 'wasn't my fault', and no it wasn't my fault, it was my job. I'm not known for promising anyone anything, but I promised Alex I'd always protect her and the one day she needed it... I didn't."

The detective's eyes have fallen to the floor, moved by Nik's story. "Hey Nik", he looks up, "You shouldn't blame yourself... It was out of your hands". Nik wipes the tears from his cheeks and throws *your name* a weak smile. "Thanks" he says.

*your name* inhales deeply before finding the courage to rip the bandage off, and find a shameful confession. "I guess it's my turn... When I was a kid, I watched my parents get Murdered infront of me by an out of control werewolf, I had no siblings, no relatives, nowhere to go, they just sprung me from foster home to foster home. When I was eighteen I got thrown out of the system, And that's when I decided I was gonna become not only a cop but a nighthunter, but none of that was the 'shameful' part, what makes it shameful is that, ever since that day, I haven't been myself, I tell myself that I am but it's a lie... It broke me..."

Nik opens his mouth, seemingly wanting to comfort his friend, but as the words leave *your name*'s lips, an illuminating, golden light seeps through the room, and builds up around a semi-visible figiure in the centre of the manor. Nik lifts his hands to his eyes, preventing them from being blinded by the scorching light, and when he sets them down, standing infront of him, is The Fate.

"You have opened yourself to vulnerability and offered me your secrets and in return you shall see the capability of my power, what is it you wait to see?" She asks, looking at Nik.

"Lady Fate, I wish to know where lies the banished, former heir of Lamrian, Tialo?".

The Fate closes here eyes, invisioning Tialo and his presence. "The Jealous boy lies in Alderra, Child"

"And Lady Fate, Have you any idea--"

"SILENCE, QUADRICE CURSED SON, I HAVE ANSWERED YOUR ONE QUESTION".

Nik's face falls to the ground as the Fate rejects his question, the Fate looks to *your name* expectantly. The detective steals a glance at Nik before asking the question. "Lady Fate, who is the one they call 'Smile'?

The Fate's face is unreadable as she answers, "The one they call 'Smile' is the one who will do anything for what they desire most ..." And upon answering their questions, the fate fades from existence, as if she never existed...

"I...thank you, *your name*, you could have asked her anything, ya' know!" ,Nik says greatfully

"I know", the detective replies.

"That confirms it" Nik says. "The one who will do anything for what they desire is Tialo, he wanted nothing more than the throne of Lamrian and he's tried to get rid of Alex before". He adds on

"And what is this 'Alderra'?

"Fae lockup, it's basically Lamrian's Alkatraz, I don't know how he ended up there since he got banished but we'll soon find out".

As they leave the manor, *your name* steals one last glance at the manor before slowly turning around and following Nik back to the realm of man. Once again the duo find themselves following a lead to find Alex's killer.

The next day, Nik walks into the police station, searching for his detective ally. After wandering through the station for five minutes, he bumps into Bobby. "Nik? What're you doing here?". "Looking for *your name*", Nik replies.

"Oh, you'll have to wait a few minutes, *your name*'s in questioning".

"WHAT!?", Nik exclaims

"Relax Nik, its standard procedure, everyone involved in a case has to go through the same questioning the suspects go through so that the investigators don't miss anything"

"Yeah, and that's bullshit". Nik pushes past Bobby, headed with a red hot face to the interrogation room.

"Wait!, God Dammit, Nik, its JUST PROCEDURE!"

Nik kicks down the door to the interrogation room

"What the hell is this!?" Nik exclaims

"Nik, it's fine, it's procedure", *your name* explains

"is it procedure for these idiots to interrogate the one devoted officer on this investigation while 'Smile' is still out there and ALEX IS 6 FEET IN THE GROUND!?"

"Look fellas, we'll continue this later", *your name* sends off the other two police officers and puts a comforting hand on Nik's shoulder. "You didn't have to do this", Nik

"I know it's just, when I heard you were being interrogated...god, I- I just got so mad... anyway; I came over here to get you so we can go to Alderra, grab your coat".

Alderra's walls are built high enough to seem as though they reach the sky. Huge and grey, the prison seems like a fortress. Nik and *your name* are directed into a waiting area, and a matter of minutes later, are joined by a smug looking young man.

"Nik Ryder... Never in a million years would I have wished to see you again".

"... It's terrible seeing you too; Tialo."

"What's this about, or did you just come to antagonist me?", The former prince asks.

"First things first, how did you get in here?"

Tialo places his 'hand' on the table to reveal that most of it had been mauled off by something, and replaced with artificial limbs

"I was greeted by the wrong end of some sort of giant crocodile monster, the only place I could go before I bled out was back to Lamrian... And returning somewhere you've been banished from is considered high treason amongst the Fae".

A sly, smug look cover's Nik's face as Tialo explains what happened to his arm

"And by the way I heard about Alex, and I've been in prison for months so, no, it wasn't me..."

Satisfied with Tialo's alibi yet disappointed that he hasn't found the killer yet, Nik stands up with the same look on his face and heads for the door

"... I wish it was, though"

As the words leave Tialo's mouth, the detective tenses, for the first time not sure how to react. Nik on the other hand, begins to shake, his fists and legs vibrating violently, all the emotions of the last few days building up inside him, and finally;

He snaps.

Nik spins on his heel and hits Tialo with a right hook on his cheek. Tialo stumbles back onto the floor, as Nik jumps over the table to land punch after punch on him before finally, Two Fae guards rush into the room to seperate them and drag Tialo out of the cell.

Nik wipes off the blood on his nose and turns to *your name* slightly disgruntled. "I can't handle this right now, You go with the guards for the prison inspection, I'll meet you outside". And without another word, Nik sweeps out of the room, leaving the detective alone.

*your name* meets Nik outside, "Nik, inspection went fine, everything seems in order, but I got word from Bobby, he wants us at the station; Oh and, what was that look on your face when Tialo was talking about his arm?"

As the detective begs the question, Nik's face spreads into the same shape again, "Ya' mean this one?" He asks

*your name* finally puts it together, "... THAT WAS YOU"

"Alex just released the crocodile Monster, where it went after that was beyond her control", Nik replies, putting his hands up in defence, "...Took Ya' long enough, 'detective'".

"Hey!"

Nik and *your name* race to the station, Where Bobby is waiting for them in the conference room. "'Sup, Bob?", *Your name* says. "Look at this", Bobby says, "So far, the star signs are looking like a game, thrown in there to confuse us into thinking of the zodiac killer, then there's the drawing on the wall and the name of the road, both 'Smile'"

"Yeah, what about it", Nik asks

"It doesn't exist". Bobby replies

The detective and Nik look at each other, then at Bobby, clearly confused.

"It's not on any maps or city state records. We sent a guy down there, and guess what? The actual sign that says "Smile Rd."?, Peel-On sticker ... It means who ever did this ..."

"Planned it out in advance", *your name* continues

"...which makes it premeditated murder", Bobby replies.

"So it has to be someone with a specific motive against Alex. That's why the Zodiac Signs are a throw-off trap.".

Nik looks in astonishment at both detectives, "Now I see why you're partners" he says.

"More like family", Bobby says in response, "That's not all though, we decoded the note that was left and it's an address: 37 Boulevard Avenue, were sending a team down there now".

"That's great let's go", Nik replies.

"One last thing, They were sent an anonymous second note, here's a copy of it, they haven't cracked it yet". Bobby hands it to *your name* as the three of them rush to the address.

Upon reaching the address they find a tall, brick built apartment building, already evacuated. "*Your name*, I just got word that I'm part of the attack team, they want you to stay out here in command", Bobby says. They lock fists, wishing each other good luck as they part ways. "Be safe, Bobby".

*your name* stands outside working on the second note. "No...No...Nope", trying combination after combination to decode the letter and find the next clue. "It's only working half, some of the letters make sense but not together...unless..."

*your name* blocks off half of the letters, cross referencing and decoding the halves in various different ways, until an effort spells out "ACK". Then, using the same code on the second half, spells out "BAR"

"A. C. K. B. A. R.?" The detective Questions. "Ackbar? ... "Admiral Ackbar?"

"Why is 'Smile' referencing Star Wars Charac--

Then, the realisation dawns upon *your name*

Horror floods over the detective, remembering Admiral Ackbar's famous line from Star Wars...

"Its A Trap".

As the words leave the detective's mouth, a bomb goes off from inside the building, exploding in a blazing Inferno and sending fire and smoke high into the sky, the entire building set ablaze.

"BOBBY!!!"

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Tags: @kinda-iconic @bloodboundismylife @regulusblacksbabygirl @statticscribbles @all-alone-he-turns-to-stone @ladylamrian

#play choices #choices stories you play #choices #choices game #Nightbound choices #nbappreciationweek

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arofili · 3 years

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Innumerable Stars 2021 Letter

Hello lovely creator, thanks for writing for me in Innumerable Stars 2020! I’m very excited and grateful for whatever you create for me <3

This letter will restate my DNWs, list my likes, give you a brief rundown of my canon preferences, and then dive into specific prompts for each of my requests. I’ll warn you upfront that I tend to ramble, so feel free to skip prompts that don’t interest you and/or use ctrl+F to search for whatever it is you want to write for. I’ve named each of my requests based on the basic idea within it, so hopefully that will be helpful for you!

Housekeeping

DNWs:

non-con/dub-con

ABO (heat fic is fine)

food involved in sex

abusive/neglectful parenting (especially not with Fëanor; Eöl is the only exception, but even then don’t dwell on it)

sibling incest and parent-child incest (cousin incest is fine)

unhappy/unhopeful endings (unless requested)

jealousy

possessiveness EXCEPT with Russingon, for some reason I love it with those two

cheating

character or ship bashing

hanahaki or any scenario where unrequited love is physically damaging

soulmates, especially soulmate AUs BUT soul bonds are excellent as long as there is an element of choice involved

unrequested modern AU

non-trans mpreg

if you are writing a slash ship where the characters are/were married to/involved with someone outside of the ship in canon, please don’t have the character(s) hate their spouse or not have been actually in love with them. The only exception to this is Finrod; I’m fine with him and Amárië not having been actually in love, but don’t do this for anyone else, especially not Fëanor.

Hobbit/LOTR-specific DNWs:

the concept of a dwarven “One”

any Fíli pairing, even in reference

Alfrid

Legolas or Gimli paired with anyone other than each other

mortals dying super quickly in Valinor

unrequested smut

Silm-specific DNWs:

evil/irredeemable/incel Maeglin

Elwing bashing

Fëanorian bashing

over-the-top Fëanorian apologism (they did bad stuff; it was at least partially their fault. you don’t have to address that, necessarily, but don’t rewrite the story to claim they were blameless)

Fingon with a wife

Fingon or Maedhros ships that don’t take Russingon into account (polyamory, an open relationship, Mae with someone after Finno dies or vice versa for an AU, them with other people while they’re separated on the Ice/in Angband - all of these scenarios are fine, but in the end I need them to be with each other first and foremost)

dark!Maedhros

elvish re-embodiment after death being an actual, literal rebirth that requires the characters to have a second childhood; I much prefer them being granted a new hröa in their prime (feel free to explore what “in their prime” means, though, especially wrt scarred and disabled elves)

Likes:

queer headcanons, especially aromantic-spectrum headcanons & trans/nonbinary headcanons

trans/nonbinary pregnancy and parenthood

found family

queerplatonic relationships

kidfic

angst with a happy ending

gray morality

explorations of magic

most tropes

fanon and fandom tropes

deconstruction/inversion of fanon and fandom tropes

secret relationships

secret kids (especially secret peredhil)

giving ships OC kids

confessions of love

first times

hurt/comfort

redemption, forgiveness, mercy

ironic foreshadowing

canon divergence AUs and X Lives AUs

fairy tale AUs

politics and scheming

resolving conflicting canonical details

names fitting the time period (Quenya names in Valinor, please; if this is difficult for you, that’s okay, no pressure, but I do strongly prefer it)

choice of character names having a lot of thought put behind them (does the character go back to their original Quenya name upon rebirth? or do they keep their Sindarin name? or come up with something else entirely? do they hate their new Sindarin name and resent having to use it, or do they embrace it? As long as you put some thought into it, I’m sure I’ll like whatever you decide!)

author’s notes where you explain your thought process, if you want; I love hearing how the story took shape!

Preferences re: canon:

LaCE compliance is always completely optional. If you do want to include it, that’s great, but if you just want the characters to fuck without having that be an issue, go for it. I love explorations of LaCE that take into account the exceptions, boundaries, definitions, etc; I also love takes that emphasize that they are Laws and Customs, not biological imperatives.

I’m not picky about my Amrod deaths. He can die at either Losgar or Sirion (or, hell, some other time/place if you make it interesting enough!), whatever works best for the story. I do like Lightly Toasted Amrod, aka he almost burns to death at Losgar but survives/gets rescued at the last minute.

Gil-galad theories are all very fun. Please don’t make him the son of Fingon and a wife; if he’s Fingon’s son, I want Maedhros to be involved at least a little bit (adoption or trans mpreg are both fine in this scenario). Otherwise, I don’t have a particular preference, though if it’s not really relevant I usually default to the son of Orodreth (who is in turn the son of Angrod).

Honestly, when it comes to theories and headcanons, my rule of thumb is “convince me”! I’m down for whatever, for the most part, as long as you can justify it :)

~~~

LOTR Books Request

Gigolas tags: Gimli, Legolas, Group: Gimli & Legolas, Group: Gimli/Legolas, Group: Gimli/Legolas & Glóin, Group: Gimli/Legolas & Thranduil, Group: Legolas & Aragorn & Gimli, Group: Glóin & Thranduil, Original Dwarf of Aglarond, Original Elf of Ithilien Suggested worldbuilding tags: Battle of Dale, Differences in Elvish & Dwarvish Histories, Fall of Dol Guldur, Interspecies Relationships, Queerplatonic Relationships, Rebuilding of Ithilien

All Gigolas is good Gigolas, and you can quote me on that - but I do have a soft spot for queerplatonic Gigolas, and I might die of happiness if you wrote me some :) I love elf/dwarf relationships, and cultural differences leading to miscommunication is one of my favorite tropes for this ship.

For the “& Thranduil” and “& Glóin” I’d love to see some “telling the family” scenarios, with Thranduil and Glóin coming to terms with their sons’ relationship. For “& Aragorn” I was imagining a Three (or Four, if you want to keep Boromir alive!) Hunters situation with Aragorn third wheeling them (and/or commiserating with Boromir about how terrible their friends are at expressing their feelings).

I’m very interested in Legolas and Gimli’s new homes post-War, how much time they spent visiting each other and how much time they spent apart, etc. I would love to see an outside POV of Gigolas, what their friends and subordinates think of this odd couple; perhaps an elf of Ithilien and a dwarf of Aglarond strike up a friendship and gossip about their lords! I’d also be interested in Gimli and Legolas visiting their original homes, meeting one another’s parents, and helping rebuild after the Battle of Dale / Fall of Dol Guldur.

I would also love to see an exploration of dwarf/elf relationships and the difficulties that would arise from that. Legolas’ father is a Sinda of Doriath who remembers the Battle of the Thousand Caves, and I headcanon that Gimli’s mother is descended from the dwarves of Nogrod who were involved in that debacle, so them coming to terms with that difficult history (and how that history differs) between their peoples would be really interesting.

Gildor Inglorion

...okay, so this is technically a Silm request dressed up as a LOTR request, but I would really love to see an exploration of Gildor’s origins! I have a few concepts for how he can be “of the House of Finarfin,” mostly relating to this Inglor figure who is his father. I think Inglor was either the son of Finrod and trans!Bëor (and thus the first peredhel) or the son of Aegnor and Andreth; either way, he was raised mostly by Finrod. But who is Inglor’s spouse/Gildor’s other parent? (Edrahil, maybe?) How did Gildor survive the Fall of Nargothrond, or was he born afterwards? Where did he live in the Third Age? Who was awaiting him when he arrived in Aman?

Took Fairy Wife

I think this concept is fascinating, and I’d love to hear the story of a hobbit/elf romance! Perhaps Pippin or Frodo tell this story to the Fellowship? I also have the headcanon that since Durin I “woke alone,” his spouse was also an elf, so maybe Gimli could throw in that legend as well.

Group: Last Prince of Cardolan/Lady of the Blue Brooch Suggested worldbuilding tags: Barrow-downs and Barrow-wights, Necromancy and Hauntings, Sentient Weapons & Jewelry

I’ve recently become a little bit obsessed with the concept of the Last Prince and the Lady of the Blue Brooch being star-crossed lovers. We have conflicting accounts of the Last Prince’s demise, and I’d love to see those reconciled into one story; we also know that the Prince was buried in the barrow-downs, where the Lady’s blue brooch was found. How did that end up there - was it a token she gave to him before his death? Did she visit his grave after it was too late? How did Tom and Goldberry know her? Maybe they are the ones to tell this story to some hobbitish traveler through the Old Forest... I do have my own version of this story, if you’d like to borrow some ideas from there, but feel free to make up your own thing too!

Group: Eldarion/Elboron

I just think they’re cute :) I like the idea that Eldarion’s heir is not his own child, but the child of one of his sisters, and that Elboron had a sister who was the parent of Barahir of Ithilien, so these two can be gay together. Of course, you could also make one of them trans and have Eldarion’s heir and Barahir be siblings! Or you can explore the beginnings of their relationship - just a cute get-together story would be wonderful.

Worldbuilding: Arwen reforged Narsil

This is such a neat concept - I would love to see Fëanorian Arwen (bc Kidnap Dads) going full smith mode and personally reforging Narsil into Andúril for her boyfriend. Arwen embracing her dual kinship as both the descendant of Lúthien and the descendant of Maedhros and Maglor would be amazing (especially if Maglor is hanging around in Rivendell). Bonus points if Narsil used to be Maedhros’ sword, and that’s how it got passed down to Elros!

~~~

Hobbit Movies Request

Kiliel tags: Fíli, Kíli, Tauriel, Group: Fíli & Kíli, Group: Kíli/Tauriel, Group: Kíli/Tauriel & Fíli Suggested worldbuilding tags: Almost Everyone Lives AU, Kíli's Runestone, Worldbuilding: Tauriel goes to Erebor AU

I’m a basic bitch when it comes to Kiliel stuff: give me fluff, give me angst with a mostly-happy ending, give me Fíli being exasperated by his brother’s romantic drama! I would be interested in an AU where Thorin dies but Fíli and Kíli survive, and King Fíli has to deal with Kíli’s love life causing political problems; I’d also love to see an AU where Tauriel goes to Erebor with Kíli, Fíli, Bofur, and Óin after the lakeshore scene. And anything surrounding the magic of Kíli’s runestone would be very welcome - perhaps it really was cursed/enchanted, and by giving it to Tauriel, Kíli lost the protection Dís had placed upon him and passed it to her. What if Tauriel had returned it before the end - would Kíli have lived, and she died? Or, in a canon scenario (in this case, full angst is welcome) what if Tauriel and Dís met and talked about the stone and its properties?

Hilda Bianca

I just think she’s neat. I’d love to see her getting involved in the politics of a rebuilt Dale, either collaborating with or causing problems for Bard. Her being a mentor figure for Sigrid and Tilda would also be great.

~~~

Book of Lost Tales Request

Group: Ómar & Salmar

Ómar Amillo and Salmar Lirillo were brothers in early stages of the Legendarium - I would love to see that explored in a more Slim-compliant verse, where they are both Maiar. Ómar could be a Maia of Ulmo, like Salmar is, or a Maia of some other Vala. Music and water are intrinsically connected in Arda’s makeup, so Ómar as a being of song and Salmar as a being of water would be really cool to see explored somehow!

Meril-i-Turinqi

Another really neat character!! I headcanon that she is the child of a grandson of Olwë and a granddaughter of Ingwë. How did she rise to power on Tol Eressëa? What are her relationships with her great-grandfathers? Is she friends with other influential elf-women - perhaps Elenwë or Amárië or Galadriel?

~~~

Silm Requests Russingon Request

Russingon tags: Maedhros, Fingon, Group: Fingon/Maedhros, Original Character from Himring, Group: Fingon/Finrod/Maedhros Suggested worldbuilding tags: Elven Gender Constructs, Hair and customs/kinks around it, LaCE as a social construct, Melotorni & Meletheldi, Onnalúmë

Russingon is my OTP, I just love them a lot!! I adore both plot-heavy explorations of their characters and relationship and more slice-of-life fluff/angst/porn stuff without any particular story behind it. If I need comfort fic this pairing is my go-to, and I’d love to have more of that to come back to. PWP would be welcome; plot is also excellent and I’m sure to enjoy that too. I’m always a sucker for falling in love / confessions of love / first times, but ESPECIALLY for Russingon; the beginning of their love story is something I’ll never get tired of. Established relationship, reunions (after the Ice/Angband or after time spent apart in Hithlum/Himring or after leaving the Halls or another scenario) are also amazing. The secret relationship aspect of this ship is very fun, both keeping things secret and having their secret come to light. If you wanted to invert that trope, though, I would definitely enjoy that; something like a fake dating AU or an arranged marriage AU or a situation where they get pregnant and have to tell people. It would also be great to see them trying (and failing) to keep their relationship a secret while they are in Beleriand - outsider POV from a resident of Himring would be great here! I like scenarios where they’re married, and I like scenarios where they’re not married, whichever floats your boat will be excellent. Honestly, I’m likely to enjoy almost any Russingon content you write; I just… *clenches fist* love them… If you wanted to explore a queerplatonic interpretation of them that would be really cool, but I do love love love romantic/sexual Russingon and would be overjoyed to have any content about them! In my DNW I mentioned that I don’t like the concept of soulmates (for Aro Reasons) so please steer clear of that, but having Mae and Finno choose each other over and over again and that affecting their soul bond/mental connection might just bring me to tears ;-;

I adore Fingon on his own - he’s brave and valiant and good-hearted and deserved better ;-; If you wanted to write a Fingon-focused story that touches on his time as a prince or a king or adjusting to re-embodied life in Valinor or his relationships with people other than Maedhros, I am sure to love that.

Maedhros is probably my favorite character in the Silm. I love his character arc, the fire symbolism, his trauma and recovery, his relationship with his brothers and his cousins, his time helping Maglor care for Elrond and Elros - really all of his story. For this exchange I’d rather not receive a fic focused on his time in Angband or his death; I can enjoy fics about that, but I’m looking for something a bit happier here. Art of Maedhros in those situations would be okay.

When it comes to throwing Finrod into the mix with Russingon, what I’m really looking for is some smut, tbh. Maedhros and Fingon are ridiculously in love, and Finrod is a bit of a hoe, and I can’t believe there wasn’t at least one time they had a threesome. Finrod getting fucked by both of them at once would be excellent. Finrod is canonically friendly with the Fëanorians in Beleriand and goes hunting with Maglor and Maedhros, maybe this is a time where it’s Fingon instead of Maglor and they fuck in the woods, or Maedhros and Fingon visit Nargothrond, or Maedhros and Finrod visit Barad Eithel, or Fingon and Finrod visit Himring. Is this a planned encounter? Something spontaneous? Is Finrod seducing them both, or are they inviting him in? Did Maedhros and Finrod have a fling in Valinor, or did Finrod and Fingon find comfort together on the Ice, or both? I’d love to see where you take this!

When it comes to the worldbuilding tags, I’d love to see an exploration of gender and sexuality in relation to Russingon. I adore trans depictions of both Maedhros and Fingon, so that would be extremely welcome - you can also explore how elvish gender concepts differ from our understanding of gender and transness (I mused about that a bit in this post, along with thoughts on elvish naming traditions, if you’re looking for inspiration). LaCE is such a tricky topic, and I would definitely be interested in Mae and Finno experimenting sexually and discovering what is and isn’t biological about those concepts, and what is actually a cultural construct the elves have adhered to over time. Hair customs (what braids mean, hair coverings, etc) are really interesting - and a GREAT opportunity to include some hair kink! I mean, Finno has those gold braids and Mae’s name “Russandol” refers to his hair, I bet they are into each other’s hair.

Regarding the concept of melotorni, I can easily see that as either gay-coding or queerplatonic love; I’d love to see either or both those options explored with Russingon. (As for meletheldi, I mean, if you wanted to make them girls I would be super down for that too. I’m okay with genderbending, though I do prefer trans/nb headcanons, and I definitely don’t want them genderbent to be “straight.”) And as for Onnalúmë - well, that’s just heat fic, isn’t it? ;)

The bottom line for Russingon is that I Love Them and they love each other, and for this request I’d love PWP, fluff, hurt/comfort, falling in love, getting together, reunion, established relationship - really almost anything with them would absolutely make my day!

Russingon & kids tags: Gil-galad, Erien, Group: Erien & Gil-galad, Group: Fingon/Maedhros & Erien, Group: Fingon/Maedhros & Erien & Gil-galad, Group: Fingon/Maedhros & Gil-galad, Group: Erien & Faniel Suggested worldbuilding tags: Elven Naming Traditions, improbable parentages for Gil-Galad

The only thing I love more than Russingon is Russingon with KIDS!! I’m a sucker for Russingon as the fathers of Gil-galad, and recently I’ve decided to adopt Erien, a discarded daughter of Fingon, into my personal canon as a Russingon daughter. Exploring either Gil or Erien’s relationship with their dads would be wonderful - and, if they exist in the same universe, their relationship with each other!! (I recently wrote a novel-length fic about Erien being Tauriel, if you’d like to borrow some concepts from there, but that’s certainly not my “usual” interpretation of either of them so feel free to make up your own Erien origin story too!) I was very excited to see that someone else nominated an Erien relationship - Erien and Faniel is a great concept! I usually headcanon Faniel as the daughter of Findis and Elemmírë and the younger sister of Glorfindel, but if you have a different origin story for her that would be really neat as well. Discarded Finwëan daughters ftw! Russingon having kids would be a great place to explore elven naming traditions, how gay elves would name their kids (two father-names??), and maybe the Fëanorian tradition of -finwë names :p I definitely selected the “improbable parentages for Gil-galad” with trans!Russingon in mind, but if you’ve got another situation (that one fic where Finrod, Fingon, and Maedhros do Weird Science with a Maia comes to mind...), be my guest.

Kidnap Dads tags: Elrond, Group: Elrond & Elros, Group: Elrond & Gil-galad, Group: Maglor & Maedhros & Elrond & Elros Suggested worldbuilding tags: Choice of the Peredhil

I threw in Kidnap Dads into this request as well :) I firmly believe this relationship was, in the end, mostly a positive one despite the rocky beginning - I don’t want to see E&E hating M&M, and I also don’t want to see them resenting their birth parents either (however, their bio parents interacting with their foster parents in awkward/humorous situations would be great). Fluff would be wonderful, but some post-WoW angst would be welcome as well. Elrond and Gil-galad Russingonion considering each other brothers because of their shared father Maedhros is a favorite headcanon of mine! I really would love to see a focus on Maedhros and the E twins; Maglor can of course be involved, but I’m more interested in Maedhros as a character.

Some possible scenarios: an official adoption ceremony, cultural differences, M&M giving E&E some more names / teaching them Quenya, sharing traditions, Maedhros teaching the twins some skill (cooking? swordfighting? embroidery?), the twins being Weird (either because they’re part human or part Maia) and M&M learning to deal with that, Elrond reuniting with Maedhros in Valinor, Elrond getting adopted by M&M’s spouses (Maglor’s spouse and/or Fingon), AU where Maedhros lives and is around for E&E’s later lives

Exploring the Choice of the Peredhil would also be great. How did being raised with M&M affect E&E’s decisions when it came to their Choices of kindred? Were there any Men in the remnants of the Fëanorian host, and did that affect their Choices?

And since this is technically under the umbrella of the Russingon request, of course Maedhros telling E&E about his husband would be amazing. (And quite probably heartbreaking, too...)

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Maeglin Request

Reminder that I am not at all interested in irredeemable/evil Maeglin; I am a known Maeglin sympathizer and I will not apologize for that.

Maeglin & Fëanorians tags: Maeglin, Group: Dwarves & Maeglin, Group: Caranthir & Dwarves & Maeglin, Group: Maeglin & Fëanorians Suggested worldbuilding tags: Cross-Species Mentorships, Differences between Dwarf craft and Elf craft, Elven magic and art and technology, Maeglin Adopted by Fëanorians AU

I would adore an AU where Maeglin is adopted by the Fëanorians!! Maybe Maeglin escapes to Himring instead of Gondolin after his capture, and Maedhros helps him deal with Angband trauma? (I know that doesn’t really make sense timeline wise, you figure out the details, lmao. Maybe it’s actually taking place in Ossiriand, idk, or the timelines get moved around.) Otherwise, I’d love to see a younger Maeglin interacting with the Three Cs and dwarves!! A focus on craft and smithing would be wonderful, in that scenario.

Maeglin in Gondolin tags: Turgon, Group: Anairë & Maeglin, Group: Fingolfin & Maeglin, Group: Eärendil & Maeglin, Group: Idril & Maeglin, Group: Idril/Maeglin/Tuor, Group: Maeglin & Rôg Suggested worldbuilding tags: Metal Dragons

I think Maeglin’s relationship with emotionally repressed Turgon was difficult because of miscommunication, but they did love and care for one another. A version of events where Idril and Maeglin were friends before she found out about his feelings for her, or where they can work through that, would be really interesting to read. I love the idea of Maeglin begrudgingly coming to love Eärendil even though he’s Tuor’s child; I think that Eärendil’s mithril coat was made by Maeglin as a precaution against himself and the curse Morgoth placed upon him (I also think this is the origin of Bilbo’s mithril coat). Rôg is usually depicted as an Angband escapee; him noticing something wrong with Maeglin and figuring out about his capture would be a great story. Idril/Maeglin/Tuor is a great concept, especially Maeglin being upset about Idril and Tuor’s marriage because he’s in love with both of them - a threesome where finally gets what he wants (and some consensual rough treatment??) would be excellent. Also, some post-reembodiment fic where Maeglin gets to meet his grandparents would be amazing!! As for the metal dragons, some focus on Maeglin’s craft combined with the magics of Sauron and Morgoth would be really interesting. I would prefer if it Maeglin’s time in Angband was Pretty Bad (though I’d rather not have torture depicted on the page), and show him struggling with the excitement of being able to bring these incredible creations to life versus the knowledge that Sauron and Morogth can and will abuse him to get what they want. I’m not particularly interested in a sympathetic portrayal of Sauron and Morgoth.

Maeglin, Túrin, and Tyelpë tags: Túrin, Group: Celebrimbor/Maeglin, Group: Turin & Anglachel, Group: Maeglin & Anguirel, Group: Maeglin/Túrin Suggested worldbuilding tags: Bedazzling as a love language, Celebrimbor forging Gurthang, Sentient Weapons & Jewelry

OKAY so Maeglin/Turin is my rarepair OTP and I would absolutely die of happiness if you wrote this ship! For this request I’m envisioning a scenario where Maeglin goes to Nargothrond and that’s where he encounters Túrin. I’m also interested in Maeglin/Tyelpe, so throwing him into the mix would be fabulous. One of my favorite aspects of this ship is Maeglin and Túrin’s connections to Anguirel and Anglachel, so having them bond over that (maybe a literal bond...like a soul bond or something???? enforced by the semi-sentient swords??) would be excellent. I definitely believe Celebrimbor was the one to reforge Anglachel into Gurthang, so that could be a way of getting him involved. (Him ~bedazzling~ the sword as a way of flirting with Túrin would be hilarious; or just smiths bedazzling their creations to impress each other in general, lmao.) It’s also quite likely that in this scenario that Maeglin arrived in Nargothrond with Celegorm, Curufin, and Celebrimbor (and possibly Aredhel, though I was kind of envisioning her as dead in this scenario, RIP - or otherwise not present, much like how C&C have been banished by the time Túrin shows up), so he would have a preexisting relationship with Tyelpë. Maybe they broke up? Maybe they’re awkwardly pining and Túrin is what brings them together? Or some other situation. This ship is doomed no matter how you twist it, and so digging into the dramatic irony of it all would be delicious; happy endings are optional for this request.

Maeglin & Aredhel in Himlad & Nargothrond tags: Aredhel, Group: Aredhel & Oromë, Group: Celegorm/Aredhel & Maeglin & Curufin & Celebrimbor, Group: Curufin/Finrod & Celebrimbor Suggested worldbuilding tags: Aredhel and Maeglin Remain in Himlad, Aromantic Aredhel

This is kind of similar to the previous request, but with a focus on Aredhel, Celegorm, and Curufin as well as Maeglin and Celebrimbor. I would love an AU where Maeglin and Aredhel go to Himlad instead of Gondolin, and eventually end up in Nargothrond - I really can’t get enough of this concept! What happens with Eöl; does Curufin actually kinslay him this time? How do Maeglin and Tyelpë get along? My Aredhel is always aromantic, but I do ship her and Celegorm as FWB (though maybe Celegorm’s caught feelings somewhere along the line...) - how does Maeglin feel about her rekindling that relationship? I’d definitely be interested in a story about Celebrimbor being a Curufinrod baby (trans!Curvo ftw), so that would make returning to Nargothrond extra tense and emotional. As for Aredhel and Oromë, I have this headcanon that Anairë gave all her children Valar-related mother-names, and that Aredhel was named Írissë Aldarindë after Oromë Aldaron. How does she feel about that name and her connection to Oromë? I don’t think she ever actually joined his Hunt like Celegorm did; why is that? Did Celegorm discourage because he’d adopted his father’s anti-Valar sentiment and left the Hunt? Did she just get involved too late, and then the Darkening happened? How do her and Celegorm’s relationships with their patron Vala differ in Beleriand? I think they were both Kinslayers at Alqualondë, but Celegorm is bound by the Oath and Aredhel isn’t - how does that affect things? Can Aredhel and Maeglin’s presence change how Finrod’s demise goes down? All sorts of fascinating things you could explore!

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Misc. Silm Request

Cuiviénen tags: Original Awakened Elf of Cuiviénen (Silm) Suggested worldbuilding tags: In-universe Origins of LaCE, LaCE as a Horror Concept, LaCE as a social construct, LaCE-compliant soulbonding, Non-romantic/sexual Soul Bonds

I’d love to see an exploration of how LaCE came to be, which parts of the rules around marriage and children and re-embodiment are social constructs and which are innate to the fëa and hröa, and/or relationships that defy the norms. If your take on the laws is hetero/cisnormative, how does that affect queer elves? If your take is free of bigotry, what are the flexibilities around queerness, including asexuality and aromanticism? Laws and customs and rules always have loopholes and exceptions, so what do elves who don’t fit into the expected relationship mold do about these norms?

How do soul bonds work on a metaphysical level? Can they be broken? Do they have to be nurtured and maintained? What’s long-distance communication like? Heck, what’s short-distance communication like, is it like talking in your mind or sharing your feelings or more abstract than that? Can elves form soul bonds with mortals? And most importantly—how did elves figure out they could soul bond with one another?? I can imagine that would be quite a shock when they’re discovering sex and then suddenly they’re inside each other’s minds! This could easily be tied into the “LaCE as Horror” tag; especially if the characters were not expecting it or the bond was being abused. (If you do decide to explore abuse, I would prefer you use OCs rather than canon characters, unless you want to write Eöl abusing Aredhel or Sauron abusing Celebrimbor. In any case, please be careful with that kind of relationship, I am quite sensitive to abuse in fiction even if I am interested in this subject.)

For non-romantic and/or non-sexual soul bonds: Explore sibling bonds, twin bonds, parent-child bonds, queerplatonic bonds, found family bonds, adoption bonds, the bond between a Vala and their Maia…any kind of soul bond that is familial or platonic or chosen without regard to romance! (Feel free to take a canon romantic relationship and turn it queerplatonic, I live for that shit!) How are these bonds formed outside of sex? What are the rituals and ceremonies around forming them? Is it a public or private thing? Are non-romantic soul bonds taken seriously, or are they seen as less important than marriage bonds? Since elven parents literally give part of their soul in the creation of the child, is that parent-child bond innate? What are traditions around elven adoption? Are there soul bonds created between the adoptive parents and children? Was adoption even a thing in Aman, or is it only practiced in Middle-earth? Did elves adopt mortals and vice versa? Is adoption extended to found family other than a parent-child situation? How is adoption viewed by elvish society, especially if inheritance/succession is a concern?

Turgoldo tags: Group: Finrod/Turgon, Group: Mariners send by Turgon to Aman Suggested worldbuilding tags: Songs of Power

This is my rarepair to end all rarepairs tbh. I honestly don’t know why these two are not shipped more! I am desperate for any and all content with them, I am not picky at all, I just love them.

Fun times in Aman before things get dark and serious would be lovely, I think in that context their relationship would be more casual (or at least they’re trying to make it casual and that leads to hurt feelings). I’d rather not focus on their relationships with their canon love interests, mostly because I’m not a fan of stories about jealousy (also because I see both Finrod and Amarië as gay and together mostly for convenience’s sake AND/OR they’re in a queerplatonic relationship, not a romantic/sexual one), but I do ship Elenwë/Amarië so those two having some sort of polyamorous arrangement with Finrod and Turgon could be fun. But feel free to just ignore any of that and depict Finrod and Turgon together without their respective ladies!

If you go into Beleriand times, I like: Turgon grieving Elenwë and finding solace with Finrod; whatever went down that night by the river they never wanted to talk about again; helping each other build their hidden kingdoms; Finrod sneaking into Gondolin maybe??; repressed Turgon being angsty about discovering his bisexuality and Finrod either helping him or making things more complicated; Finrod missing Turgon and trying to distract himself in Nargothrond (maybe in combination with another Finrod ship? honestly I ship Finrod with any dude that moves, feel free to put your own spin on his relationships, though I would prefer a focus on Turgon/Finrod for this request). Post-reembodiment scenarios would also be great.

Or maybe you want to do an AU with them! Supernatural creatures? Some other fantasy setting? A space opera? Honestly the only AU I wouldn’t be interested in is a modern AU, I’m very picky with my Silm Modern AUs. Honestly like I said earlier, I would love ANY content with Finrod and Turgon, you’d make me very happy if you depicted them together!! Feel free to ignore any of the stuff I said if you’ve got a better idea!!

Regarding the mariners sent to Aman: maybe Turgon is trying to pass a message along to a re-embodied Finrod along with the general cry for help to the Valar? And for “Songs of Power” I was thinking about Finrod’s rap battle with Sauron, and if there was any precedent for him being musically/magically powerful before then that Turgon could have witnessed.

Misc. worldbuilding tags: HoME/UT backstories and events that contradict the Silm, Dragons hunted for their leather, Ossiriand and the Laiquendi

I love incorporating other drafts of stories into the “main” version of the Silm! Please feel free to tweak early concepts to fit the later Legendarium, and definitely explain yourself in the author’s notes, I love that shit.

I can totally see dragons or adventurous Avari hunting dragons for their hides. You could also maybe explore this with the corpse of Smaug in the Long Lake; dwarves harvesting scales as a precious resource, or something?

In writing my recent Tauriel longfic I came to love the Laiquendi of Ossiriand. I’d love to see a nuanced exploration of their cultures - who were their leaders after Denethor? Were they really all nonviolent, or did some fight in self-defense or choose to join the Union of Maedhros? What was their relationship with the Fëanorians, both before and after the Nírnaeth? Do they consider themselves Avari? Do other elves consider them Avari?

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Númenor Request

Early Númenor tags: Group: Elros/Elros's Wife (Silm)

Idk, I just think they’re cute. I have an OC for Elros’ wife that I love, and it would be awesome if you wrote something with her! Or you can use your own OC, whatever you’d like :)

Late Númenor tags: Group: Amandil & Ar-Pharazon & Tar-Míriel, Group: Inzilbêth & Tar-Míriel, Group: Míriel & Tar-Míriel, Group: Elwing & Tar-Míriel Suggested worldbuilding tags: Númenórean Settlements in Middle-earth, Peredhil Heritage in Numenor’s art & culture (Silm)

Amandil, Pharazôn, and Míriel’s childhood friendship is really interesting to me (especially if you throw in Elentír as well!). Would love to see how that dynamic changes over time, Pharazôn’s time conquering in Middle-earth, and their varying opinions about their heritage as the descendants of peredhil. I’m not really interested in portrayals of Pharazôn and Míriel’s relationship as healthy or even consensual; I’d rather you didn’t dwell too much on the abusive aspect, but even when I incorporate the story of Elentír I like to preserve the narrative present in the Silm where Pharazôn takes Míriel to wife against her will.

I never really thought much about Inzilbêth and Míriel, but now I definitely am! How does Míriel feel about her faithful grandmother? I see Míriel as not particularly faithful in the Valar, not like her father, but more politically against the King’s Men; does Inzilbêth try to instill faith into her granddaughter like she did her son?

I’m not sure how Míriel Þerindë or Elwing would interact with Tar-Míriel (perhaps Míriel Þerindë weaves her story? or they meet in Mandos before Tar-Míriel leaves to receive the Gift of Men? - maybe Elwing watches over her descendants from Eärendil’s ship, or flies to visit Númenor before its fall?) but I’m now interested in how that might happen, and what kinds of advice they would pass on to her. Also, if you go with Tar-Míriel and Míriel Þerindë, I’d love to see a silver-haired Tar-Míriel to mirror Þerindë! (also, “fairer than silver or ivory or pearls” makes a great image for a silver-haired Tar-Míriel)

Tar-Silmariën AU tags: Worldbuilding: Silmariën Becomes Queen of Númenor AU

GOSH everything would have been SO different if she had been able to rule! Would her descendants have been corrupted like her brother’s? Would Aldarion and Erendis’ marriage end so badly if he didn’t have the pressure of kingship? If the roles in the Amandil-Pharazôn-Míriel dynamic were reversed, how would that change things? Would Sauron get involved? There are SO many directions you could take this, I’d love to see any of them!

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Alright, that’s the end of my prompts/requests! Thanks for reading this far, and whatever you end up writing for me I am super excited to read it!! And if you have questions or ideas or something, my askbox is open and I have anon messages on, I’d love to talk! Thank you again for creating for me, you are the best! <3

#is21 #exchange letter

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mothmanwearstiaras-blog · 7 years

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At Virtue’s End: Chapter Two

At Virtue's End By mothmanwearstiaras ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Every villain is a hero in their own mind. If we had followed Negan from the beginning, I'd bet we'd all be rooting for him. -------------------------------------------------------------------------

A Negan origin fanfic. AU with some canon thrown in for good measure. Begins shortly before the outbreak and will follow through to where we are in the series. Negan x OC. Read Chapter One Read on fanfiction.net

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Chapter Two: Here's to the Nights

The foyer was dark as she opened the front door but Samantha could immediately see the dim light coming from the living room at the back of the house the moment she stepped inside. Her grandmother’s house was a quaint little thing with a long main hallway flanked on either side by doors and archways that opened in to the various rooms on the first floor of the house. The master staircase sat towards the back and to the right and lead to the multiple bedrooms that made up the second floor. The old and antique furniture set within each room had been there for as long as Samantha could remember and were all it took to take the old Victorian from just a beautiful house and make it feel like home.

"Gran!" Samantha called as she shut the door behind her. "Gran, it's me!"

"Sammy?" She could hear the creaking of the old recliner as her grandmother got up. With a flick of a switch, the hallway lights brightened and bathed the walkway in their soft, golden hue. "Oh, Samantha! What a wonderful surprise!"

Samantha smiled as her grandmother shuffled towards her down the hall. She was a good foot or so shorter than Samantha, she had the bright white hair of any respectable woman her age, but nothing could take away from the striking brilliance of the bright blue eyes God had seen fit to bestow upon all the women of the Quinn household. She had put on a little extra around the middle in her later years, that much was true, but there was no one anywhere too blind to see the obvious familial resemblance the two women shared.

The old woman pulled Samantha in to a tight hug, an embrace that Samantha returned wholeheartedly. She was warm, she always had been, and for the first time that night Samantha felt a sense of calm come over her. After a few moments, the two pulled apart and Samantha saw her grandmother's eyes dart towards the overnight bag still slung over her shoulder. "Plan on staying long?"

"Do you mind?" Samantha asked though she already knew the answer.

"Oh no, dear, not at all!" Her grandmother said as she began to make her way towards the kitchen. "I'll just make us up some tea and you can tell me all about whatever it is that brings you here."

"I don't want to trouble you with all that." Samantha said as her hand rubbed against the sore and tightened muscles at the back of her neck. "I just think I could use a night or two in my old room."

"Trouble in paradise?" Her grandmother threw over her shoulder as she continued her trek.

"Something like that."

"Hmm." The old woman hummed her understanding with a subtle nod of her head. "Wine then, we’ll forget the tea."

Samantha couldn't help the quiet laugh that escaped her lips, she certainly wasn’t going to say no to that.

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The front door to the townhouse swung open and hit the wall behind it with a bang. Negan was pissed and he didn't quite care who knew it. He removed his keys from the lock and tossed them on to the end table by the couch without even looking in its general direction before slamming the front door shut once more.

The entire night had just been one beautiful fucking disaster after another and he needed it to end. It wasn't his fault that his boss had hired Elena back at the dealership, he was just as pissed off about it as Samantha was, but she was over reacting and he was not in the mood to deal with her accusations. He had been taking care of the situation just fine on his own and if James McCallister had just kept his damn mouth shut...

It didn't matter, he thought to himself with a shake of his head, Sam knew all about it now and if this was how she was going to let it play out then fine. He'd be more than happy to oblige her in her dramatics.

He stalked straight for the kitchen, flicking the lights on as he went, and grabbed a much needed beer from the fridge. He cracked the bottle open without a second thought and made quick work of chugging down half the bottle in one go before walking back in to the living room and all but collapsing on to the couch. He took another swig of his beer before resting his head against the soft gray cushions and bringing his hand to settle across his eyes. He knew he was a mess, he could feel the swelling around his left eye and he knew there was blood in his hair but right now he didn't really give a shit. All he wanted to do was finish up his beer, maybe one more after that, pass out and deal with all the bullshit in the morning.

He could remember the day he had met her, truly met her, as if it were yesterday. It had been a quiet day at The Red Oak Tavern and she had been working the lunch shift. He had arrived earlier than usual after a particularly disheartening meeting with his divorce attorney and any son of a bitch with half a brain would have been able to pick up on his foul mood from a mile away. Most of the people in town had kept their distance from him on a good day, not even Russell had dared to approach him on that one, so when the cold mug of beer had been set in front of him from seemingly out of nowhere he hadn’t even looked up.

"I didn't order that." He said gruffly as he pushed the mug away from him.

“I know that you didn’t.” He had seen her hands then, small and slender things with long delicate fingers, as they wrapped around the side of the mug and pushed it back towards him. "It's on the house."

Then, and only then, had he looked up towards the face that belonged to those hands.

His first thought had been that she was gorgeous, a true beauty that he didn't mind setting eyes on. She was a slim girl and her 'uniform', if you could call the black tank top and low rise jeans that, clung to her curves in all the right places. Her skin was on the fair side and she had a slight dusting of freckles crossing the bridge of her nose that Negan may not have noticed had he not been looking hard enough. Her long brown hair framed her face in the most perfect way as she tucked a lock of it behind her ear but those bright blue eyes... those babies were what had truly done him in.

He had been tempted to pull on the charm, maybe make an effort to turn that hell of a day around and get his rocks off with the pretty girl from the local watering hole, but when he saw her eyes dart to somewhere just behind him he couldn't help but turn to look.

There they had been, the group of gaggling hens that called themselves housewives, and they had been staring at him without the slightest bit of secrecy. They were ogling him without a single shred of subtlety and he felt the hair at the back of his neck stand on end as if he were some sort of animal gearing up for a fight. They had no doubt already heard all about the meeting from his bitch of a soon-to-be-ex-wife that called herself Diana and were waiting for a reaction to take back to her. Hell, they might as well have been taking notes.

He laughed, a quick gust of air rushing from between his lips as he realized what he thought was going on. He turned back around and righted himself with a smirk on his lips as he locked eyes with the girl behind the bar. He crossed his arms, one over the other on top of the counter, and moved to lean forward against them. "I don't know what the little birdies have told you sweetheart, but I don't want your fucking pity."

She mirrored his pose from her side of the counter, her face coming closer to his as she bent at the waist and met him at his level. "It's a good thing it's not pity then."

His eyes narrowed but they never left hers. "Your boss know you're over here giving away free drinks? I would think that something like that could get a girl in trouble."

"I was always taught that if there was a way for you to brighten someone's day then you should do it," she responded, "and from the looks of things your day's been pretty bad."

Negan took a moment to mull things over. On one hand, what she described was a little too close to pity for his tastes... on the other she was a gorgeous girl offering him a free drink and, god damn, could he ever use that today.

"What's your name, darlin'?" He asked, the smirk on his face growing slightly wider.

"Samantha. Samantha Quinn." She'd leaned in then, just a little bit more, and continued in a whisper. "And for the record, I've never put much stock in what little birds tell me."

From that moment on he was hooked.

It had started innocently enough. He would greet her each and every time he stepped in to the bar with a subtle nod of his head or a quick wave of his hand when he was able to catch her eye, but as the months went on he found himself actively seeking her out upon his arrival. They spoke easily and grew comfortable with one another quickly. Before he had really had the time to process it she had grown to become his friend, his confidante... and slowly something more.

The final crack in the friendship ice had happened eight months later on the day he had coached the high school football team to victory over their rivals from Addison County. By that time most of the town had grown tired of the stale news of his infidelity and had moved on to other new and fresh local scandals. When Samantha had seen him enter the bar that day with his team she had been so happy for him. He would never admit it, his ego was too big to allow that, but being the town's social pariah had taken its toll and she could see how happy he was to be back in the fold even from where she stood across the room.

He had glanced her way as he walked in and flashed her that dashing smile. She had returned the gesture and thought that that would be the end of it, he had all but recovered what he could of his old life and he had earned back the respect of his peers with the win, he wouldn't need the ear of some chick bartender to talk to anymore. She was more surprised than she should have been when she saw him leave the company of his team and come to join her over at the bar.

"Congratulations, Coach." Samantha said as he approached her.

"What, for that?" He gestured over his shoulder at the scene behind him. "That was nothing."

"Nothing, huh?" Samantha asked as she went about filling him up a mug of his usual. She could see Candice eying the situation up from the opposite side of the bar. "Then why do you seem so pleased with yourself?"

Negan didn't respond, his grin merely widened and his tongue found the edges of his teeth. He pulled a folded piece of paper out of the inside pocket of his leather jacket and let one arm rest against the bar as he leaned forward and offered it to her between his first two fingers.

"What's that?" Samantha asked, her eyebrows raising in question. She took the proffered paper from him and he watched as she unfolded the paper, laughing as her eyes widened when she realized what it was. "Certificate of Divorce..." "It's finalized." Negan said. "Signed and fucking all."

"Negan!" Samantha exclaimed. "I can't believe it finally happened, I'm so happy for you!"

He chuckled as he took the paper back from her and returned it to the pocket of his jacket. "It was a long time coming but, fuck! It feels great!"

"Drinks on me today," Samantha said quickly as she turned to grab a shot glass, "anything you want! What'll it be?"

He chuckled softly, his eyes lowering to the tabletop for a moment before looking back up at her. "And what if I want to buy you that drink instead?"

The moment his words reached her ears she froze. Her eyes moved towards Candice and by the huge smile on her face she knew that she had heard him too. Her heartbeat quickened as she turned her eyes back to face him and she could feel the blood rushing to her face.

"I... I get off at nine tonight."

Negan's smile grew. "Then I'll see you at nine?"

She nodded. "I'll see you at nine."

The rest, as they say, was history. Negan had made his way right back on to Widow's Ridge's rumor mill and he had taken Samantha right along with him.

She had never treated him the way that the rest of the town had once news of his affair broke. Most people had been content to listen to the word on the street without any interest in hearing what he'd had to say, after a while he had stopped trying and just accepted the villain persona that had been assigned to him. He'd cheated on his wife, yeah, that much was true. He was an ass for doing it and he had deserved what happened to him in the end, but Diana wasn't quite the victim that she liked to make herself out to be either.

He groaned a gave a slight shake of his head as she pulled himself out of his little walk down memory lane. He stood from his spot on the couch, the pounding in his head immediately protesting the change to his equilibrium, and soldiered on up the stairs. His soiled shirt was off before he even hit the second floor landing and he tossed it in to the clothes hamper as he made his way through their bedroom and in to the bathroom.

"Je-sus." He mumbled as he caught sight of his reflection in the bathroom mirror. His eye had a nice, dark blue bruise surrounding it and he could see the large patch of dried blood hidden deep within his dark hair.

With a groan of defeat, he turned the shower on. Once it was warm enough he stepped under the hot, steady stream and let the water run down his body. He ran his hands through his hair and felt the sharp sting from the cut on his scalp. He probably should have gone and gotten the thing looked at, it may have warranted a stitch or two, but by the time the sheriff had let him go the last thing on his mind was seeking medical attention. As it was, he'd likely be sleeping with a towel on his pillow tonight in an attempt to not ruin the bedclothes and Samantha off even more.

By the time he got out of the shower he felt calmer, the adrenaline that had been pumping through his system all night had slowed and a wave of exhaustion had steadily taken over. He dried himself off, threw on a pair of boxers and collapsed on to the bed. He did his best to ignore the empty spot next to him as he turned on to his side to face the wall. The bed felt empty without her there and he tried like hell to ignore the awful feeling in his chest that that realization brought about.

Morning, he told himself, everything will work itself out in the morning.

____________________________________________________________

"911 Dispatch to Car One. Come in Car One."

"Go for Car One."

"We have a possible assault at Widow's Ridge Hospital. What is your location?"

"I'm on Main Street right now. ETA four minutes. Over."

"Car One, be advised that the suspect is a patient and highly contagious. Please follow proper protocol."

"10-4." ... "Arriving on scene. Dispatch, please advise."

"Car One, suspect is in Emergency 1103. That is Emergency one-one-zero-three."

"Arriving on scene." ..."Dispatch, repeat message."

"Emergency one-one-zero-three."

..."Dispatch, room is empty. Confirm location?"

"Caller disconnected before arrival."

"Dispatch, stand by." ... "Dispatch, room is all clear. I repeat, room is all-"

"rrr-AAAAAWHHHHH!" "Car One, come in Car One!"

"Room not clear! Not clear!"

"Car One, do you need backup?"

"Car One requesting backup! Oh, shit! Ahhhh!-"

"grrrr-RAAAAAAAA!"

"Car One, what is your condition?! Please advise!" ... "Car One? Car One!" ... "All Units, we have an officer down! I repeat, we have an officer down!"

#negan #negan x oc #negan fanfiction #negans thirst squad #negans-network #negan fanfic #negan slow burn

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