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yinnina · 1 year

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𝚆𝚎𝚕𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚎 𝚃𝚘 𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝚅𝚒𝚕𝚕𝚊𝚒𝚗𝚜' 𝚆𝚘𝚛𝚕𝚍

My head started throbbing in pain, screaming for light while my lungs shouted for some air to be let inside. I tried opening my eyes, but I couldn't see anything, and darkness had taken over my vision.

I began to feel as my head stirred, making me hokd it in place as I closed my eyes. My vision didn't turn any darker than it was, but rather lighter, and once I opened them again, I saw the face of a man with beautiful features that were contained within him, but everything went dark once again.

Once I managed to move inside the stuffy cage-like, I started to see the top of the box opening, meeting the eyes of a small animal that looked to be a cat.

'Just where am I? This is clearly not the academy.'

I didn't pay much attention to the cat, but rather myself, and once I turned to look at clothes, I saw that I was wearing something different than the usual outfit I wore. A black hood with a purple layer on the inside along with some white patterns that spread through some part of the hood.

I noticed that I had black clothes underneath too, which shocked me and put me in a train of thoughts as to who changed my clothes.

I decided to pay attention to my surroundings as I had witnessed that the cat-like animal was now staring at me. "What?! You ain't supposed to be awake!" Screamed the creature in shock.

"Floating coffins?..." I murmured, not paying attention to the talking cat.

"Oh-ho! You got a lot of nerve ignoring me, human! The name's grim. Believe me, you won't forget it!" I saw as Grim crossed his little arms, furious at the thought of being ignored, "Now give me your uniform, and be quick about it!

"'Cause if you don't," blue fire started spreading all around me like a wildfire, "you're gonna regret it!"

"I would've never dreamed of getting roasted by some weasel-like creature..." I whispered, angering the creature.

"Well, keep dreaming, 'cause I ain't no weasel!"

"What is it you want?" I asked, and Grim seemed satisfied with my question, smirking as he crossed his arms once again, "Your uniform, of course! I need it more than you would ever need it!"

While he was speaking, I noticed that there was an exit through the fire, and I decided to take it to my advantage. I ran all over the place, opening and closing doors as I passed through them, finally making it to what seemed to be a library.

'If this is a dream, I believe I'm ready to wake up now.'

Just then, Grim appeared in front of me once again. His face held the same grin I had seen previously, and his flames surrounded me for a second time, "Foolish human! Did you really think you could slip away from me?! Now, unless you wanna get burned to a crisp, take that off that-"

Grim was cut off by a whip-like sound that came from behind him, "YEOW! That Hurt! What gives?..."

"Consider it though love," I saw as a man came into our vision, wearing a formal attire with a top hat and a mask that probably represented a bird.

"Ah," he turned to look at me, "I've found you at last, splendid. I trust you're one of this year's new students?"

"My," I saw as he looked me up and done, almost as if judgemental, "were you ever eager to make your debut. And bringing a poorly trained familiar with you? That is a clear violation of the school's rules."

"I don't even-" "As if I'd serve some lowly human! Now let me go!" Screamed the furry creature, interrupting me mid-sentence.

The man got closer to the floating animal, shushing it as it talked, "Yes, yes. Rebellious familiars always say that. Do be quiet for a bit, won't you?"

Grim tried to talk, but he couldn't, which confused me a little. This made me go back to before all of this. Why exactly was I here when I already had a chosen school?

I remembered the academy. It was a huge, all-girls school called Rose Killer Academy, named after the founder, who was a young, smart woman who everyone knew due to her wisdom.

I was already a third year, so it made me wonder why exactly I was stuck in this situation. And thinking about it brought me back to the person who stood in front of me.

By the looks of the uniforms, it was one of the colleges that Rose Killer Academy held a grudge against. And knowing that it wasn't Royal Sword Academy thanks to the dark colored theme uniforms, I came to the conclusion that it was their major rival.

Both schools were all-boys schools, so I had a hard time believing that they must've mistaken me for another student. But needless to say, I decided to ignore it at the moment, only speaking when necessary.

"Dear me. Of all the students I've dealt with, you two are the first ones with temerity enough to open their own gate and step out of it," I hadn't noticed before, but was this other student, a boy, standing next to the crow-man, wearing the same uniform as me, "does the very notion of patience elide you two?

"No matter. Your orientation has already begun. Let us return to the Mirror Chamber."

Me and the boy stood quietly for a brief second, only for the silence to be broken by his voice, "Student?..."

The man with the mask nodded in response, "You awakened in a room full of gates, did you not? All the students here at the campus arrived by passing through such gates," he crossed his arms in an irritated manner, "although typically the students have restraint enough to wait until I pen them before waking up."

"So these coffins are like, gateways?" I asked, and the boy agreed with me, "I think something blew the lid off mine."

He looked at the younger boy, who was now standing next to me, "The culprit appears to be that familiar of yours. You're the one who insisted on bringing it, so curtailing its behavior is your responsibility!" He placed his hand under his chin, thinking of a solution, "But now is not the time for such prattle. You two have a student orientation to attend. Go on, now. Make haste."

"First, just tell me one thing: Where am I?" The boy asked, and I agreed, "I think you've mistaken me for someone."

"Hmm? Have you two not fully regained consciousness? The timespace teleportation must have added your memories. Well, these things happen, I suppose. I shall explain it to you while we walk. Truly, my magnanimity is boundless."

We exited the building, onto the courtyard, and as he explained where we currently were, I decided to stay quiet on the topic that I was actually a girl, since they hadn't noticed yet.

"Only those who the Dark Mirror perceived as having a talent for magic are admitted to the college. Those who are selected are summoned to the campus through those gates, which can appear anywhere."

The man, who I now knew as Crowley, informed us about the carriage, which both me and the student remembered.

We both heard the muffled sounds of Grim, but Crowley decided to speak up, "Now, let us attend to your orientation."

"Wait!"

Both males turned to look at me. "Is there something wrong?" Asked the masked guy.

"There is, in fact, something wrong," I took off my hood from my head, revealing my face to them, "this is an all-boys school, isn't it? The problem is, I'm a female, not a male."

Crowley was deep in thought, placing his hand under his chin, "There must've been a mistake made, but if you were really brought by the Dark Mirror, then you must've been chosen, or something along those lines. Say, where are you from?"

I stayed silent, not knowing how to answer, "Well?"

"I'm from the Walking Sands Desert, but I attend Rose Killer Academy as a third year. I'm not sure what you will do with that information, but I shall assume that it will come in handy," I crossed my arms, making eye contact with Crowley as the nameless boy just stood there confused.

"Walking Sand Desert? Rose Killer Academy? I think I'm missing something."

I nodded, then explained about the academy to the youngster, "Rose Killer Academy is a strict college that many of the smartest, wisest and talented people go to. The school has its ups and downs, for while you are seen as one of the most prestigious people, the stress keeps mounting on as the years go.

"Not many people qualify, and the headmistress held various, strict rules that no one dared break out of fear. Students couldn't fail a year, or else you would gain a harsh punishment. No one was suggested nor invited to take part in the school, the students were expected to pass a test that contained the use of agility, ability, magic and wisdom in order to pass and get into said school. There were also many minor rules, but if I were to name them all, we would be stuck here for years."

The headmaster cleared his throat, placing his hand under his chin, "Walking Sand Desert is, in other words, a matriarch Kingdom, and while there are kings, it is the female that carries most of the responsibilities and holds more power. The place is extremely guarded, and the only people who are allowed inside are the people that have permission of the royal family. The kingdom is not always reachable, due to its strict rules, but it can be found in its own land, between Sunset Savannah and Queendom of Roses.

"The [L/N]'s currently consist of a king and queen, along with their daughter. Nothing much is known from both the family of rulers nor the land, all that can be said, is that they are a powerful kingdom who, even with their strong army, prefer keeping peace.

"And with the key information that no one other than royalty and special families are allowed out of the city, I'll take the wild guess that you are [Y/N] [L/N], am I right?"

I crossed my arms, not rather shocked by how quick he was to find out, "That is correct, although, people are allowed out of the city with permission of the royal. But needless to say, I presume that, since now you know who I am, you will keep me here longer to bring an eye to your school, correct?"

The headmaster chuckled, dismissing me. While Crowley led us, I turned to look at the student next to me, "Say, you never told me your name."

"Huh, me? Sorry! Call me Yuu, it's a pleasure meeting you."

We exchanged a few words, until we turned our attention back to the bird masked man. He brought me and Yuu to a room full of people, who wore an identical outfit to ours. The room was not only heavily crowded, but it also carried a mysterious aura to it. Coffins levitated through the air, and a mirror laid in front of our eyes.

"We're done with orientation and dorm assignments?" Asked a boy with red hair, "All right, new students-let me be clear. At Heartslabyul House, I am the law. Break the rules, and it's off with your head!"

Then, a boy who had long haired, some parts braided, yawned, "Well, that ceremony was as boring as ever. I'm going back to the dorm. If you're in Savanaclaw House, follow me."

A boy who wore glasses then spoke, "New students! Allow me to be the first to congratulate you on your achievement. As dorm leader of Octavinelle House, I am honored to have the opportunity to support you in what I hope will be a fulfilling campus experience."

I then saw a boy with blond hair that faded into a shade of purple speak, looking around for someone, "Hey, does anyone know where the headmage went? He disappeared midway through the ceremony..."

He was replied to by some other boys, but that was when the headmaster decided to speak up, responding to the boy who thought he disappeared due to a stomach ache, "I most certainly did not!"

"Speak of the devil," One murmured.

"If you must know, I was searching for two new students who'd failed to show for orientation. You two are the only ones who have yet to be assigned a dorm. Let [Y/N] be the first to step up to the Dark Mirror, and be quick about it. I'll watch your weasel."

Grim tried to speak once again, but failed in the process. I walked up to the mirror that held a face, or rather a mask, and it asked me for my name.

"[Y/N]. My name is [Y/N] [L/N]."

The mask repeated my name in a low tone, and whispers started spreading as I pulled my hood down from my face, revealing my female features.

"The nature of your soul is..." It stayed silent for a few moments, and everyone got quiet, waiting for the results. The mirror furrowed his eyebrows in frustration, "In a balance."

"What?"

"Your soul... It is balanced between two houses, Heartslabyul and Savanaclaw. It will be placed upon you to determine which house you will go to."

I looked back to the headmage, and saw that he was in just as much shock as I was. I sighed, "I'll give Heartslabyul a try."

#leona twst #leona x reader #leona kingsholar x reader #leona kingscholar #twst leona #twst #twst wonderland #twisted wonderland #twst mc #leona x you #leona x yuu #leona x y/n #leona kingscholar x mc #leona kingscholar x reader #leona kingscholar x yuu #female #fanfic #twst fanfic

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studentinpursuitofclouds · 10 months

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"I wish I was that rose..."

Eyyy 👀 More stories! With Farmer Myra (@seharuuchan) and Hestia (@g0atmama). Isaac here too! This was dedicated to the old Vine. Hehe...

The Stardew Valley Floral exhibitionl was perhaps one of Lewis's best ideas for the new holiday, as not only local farmers, but all Valley residents who know how to care for flowers and plants can show off the fruits of their labors in floristry. Not to mention the large flow of tourists, which will definitely raise the image of Pelican Town and the major itself in the eyes of the whole Republic. So the idea appealed to everyone without exception (even Sam, with his allergy to pollen).

The time for the event was chosen immediately - early autumn days, when the flowers of the cold season were just beginning to bloom, but everything was still decorated with summer colors.

And so - the day came. People from big cities and distant lands hurried to get off the bus to be the first to see the exhibition stands, the sweetest aromas of exotic plants (and delicious food, special thanks to Gus) wafted in the air, and the variety and splendor of flowers in pots and vases amazed even the most experienced florists. The valley was rich in the gifts of nature, and many would not miss the opportunity to see it all.

Even though for Isaac attending the flower festival was something akin to a vacation or a day off, the adventurer still couldn't understand why Camilla had sent him here as support and a gesture of goodwill from the Castle Village. He could understand the meaning of his presence at Spirit's Eve, after all Isaac was one of the main monster catchers for the event, but why flowers?

Alas, the thoughts of one of the most talented witches in the entire republic were unfathomable to anyone, so Isaac had no choice but to accept his fate and think about what he might do at the festival today. Not that he didn't like the flowers, but the crowd, the incessant noise, and the intoxicating scent of pollen were weighing heavily on his mind. So Isaac thought of nothing better than to walk slowly toward the smoke from the grills where Gus was preparing his famous barbecue, eager to savor the local roast meats and ales.

There were a lot of stands with floral displays and other various goods for sale, each of the exhibitors had done their best, but the most beautiful and unusual, in Isaac's opinion, were the three stands lined up in a row, with three of the most famous and chaotic farmers in Stardew Valley behind them. Farmers who were also his colleagues in his work as an adventurer, two of whom he was more or less on friendly terms with, but the third farmer.... It was a little more complicated than that.

Julian, if the scarred adventurer's memory served him correctly, was more interested in mountain flowers, so it was not surprising that his booth was overflowing with various displays of lavender, chamomile, heather, geraniums, and others flowers. There were also many vials of essential oils and handmade soaps, which the young man with heterochromia made himself. Isaac remembered this at least because he had delivered those same oils to their local healer in Castle Village when Julian had generously given oils to them out of the goodness of his heart.

Hestia's exhibition stand was probably the most unusual among the others. Her whole exposition could be described in one word - lilacs. Many, many lilacs. There were branches of this fragrant plant sticking out almost everywhere. But all over the violet-haired girl's table were small crystals of various shapes and cuts, and inside them were elegant little flowers of the same lilacs. There were also crystals with camellia, forget-me-nots, violets and gypsophila. Near the stand - a real full house: children are tugging at the sleeve of their parents, asking to buy them beautiful crystal key chains with flowers, and young couples choose a romantic gift for each other, with a rather tender and a little clichéd phrase: "my love for you will end only when this flower fades". Hestia was just glad that with her crystal magic she was able to make a lot of people happy while earning herself money to buy expensive seeds.

Some might call Myra's stand old-fashioned, but the classic floral displays that the girl had created with love and care would make even the most picky person gasp with delight. After all, it was a flower festival, and she had plenty of flowers. As if taken directly from a Renaissance painting, beautiful bouquets of chrysanthemums and gladiolus adorned glass vases, and potted orchids stood nearby. But Myra's favorite was the rose, the queen of all flowers. The girl herself was almost invisible behind the huge bouquets and pots, which contained many kinds of roses, shades of soft pink, yellow, scarlet to burgundy, purple....

Isaac himself didn't notice as he slowed his step as he passed Myra's booth. The girl had her back turned to the man, completely engrossed in picking another bouquet of ruby-red roses. A second - and the adventurer's footsteps stopped altogether...

"Didn't think I'd see you here," Julian's welcoming voice brought Isaac back from his reverie to reality, and made Myra and Hestia turn their attention away from their business and toward their guest. "How are you?"

In his usual fashion, Isaac only snorted quietly and bowed his head slightly in greeting. Julian nodded to the taciturn adventurer in return.

"Hey, Isaac," Hestia finally finished with the last buyer of her crystals and waved a hand to Isaac.

Myra, noticing the familiar adventurer, smiled widely, causing the cloaked man to look away slightly. The long-haired girl stepped out of her booth as lush bouquets of roses blocked her view.

"We're glad you were able to come to our festival. Everyone did such a great job with the floral arrangements," still holding the bouquet of red roses, Myra couldn't help but inhale the fragrant scent of the flowerbud.

"I wish I was that rose..." The realization that Isaac had said those words out loud made him abruptly sober up from all those spicy floral scents and panic beyond belief.

"What?..." Myra asked.

"I said you're all gross!" If there's an 'idiot of the year' nomination in the world, Isaac would definitely be the winner. The astonished looks of three farmers were fixed on Isaac, which made the man blush even more furiously. With a flick of his hand, he pulled the hood of his brown cloak over his head and quickly walked away toward the grill. He didn't care about the meat anymore, Isaac was going to drink ale first, and the stronger the better.

#I was actually inspired by three things #Firstly the situation where Isaac and Myra found themselves in a situation from the same vine. It was funny to me.#Secondly I re-read the lore with Hestia and thought: damn. It would be cool to make flowers in crystals using the magic of crystals. Yeah #And the third... Idk. I just wanted to show that Julian knows how to make essential oils from flowers.#anyway #farmer myra #farmer hestia #farmer julian #sdv farmer #sve isaac #sorry for grammar mistake if you find any #im too eepy to check again #hehehehe

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deceptive-daydreams · 1 year

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California Dreamin’

Chapter Three: Roxanne (18+ ONLY)

Modern!Eddie AU - In which Eddie travels to California searching for something more out of life. And then he meets you. Ch. 1 | Ch. 2 | Ch. 4

Warnings: smoking weed, drinking alcohol, eventual smut, mentions of a deceased parent, mentions of abuse, brief moment of abuse, please let me know if I missed any

6.8K words

Eddie x reader, Friends to lovers, Slow burn

<;- Prev | Next ->

Note: I’m kinda experimenting with my writing style so forgive me if this seems a little different than the first two chapters. I’m just trying to have fun with it til I figure out what I like :) and then hopefully I can create more series later on.

Masterlist

—

Red, white, and blue smother the interior of the local grocery store, sparklers stacked neatly in their boxes on a shelf near the checkout and supplies for s’mores settled nearby. Those tiny American flags are staged in a matching flag design cup by the register, ready for patriotic citizens to purchase for the local Fourth of July Parade. Barbecues along with bags of charcoal are lined up at the front of the store awaiting homes where the dads cook up burgers and hot dogs in the backyard for their eager families. And last but not least, the bags of chips and the tub of potato salad that occupied your arms are tossed onto the conveyor belt to ring up.

Every year for the past five—was it five? Maybe it was six years, who knew anymore—a potluck was held at Marlene’s. Everyone would bring one or two things either homemade or store bought, it didn’t matter as long as you contributed something. The tradition required using the fire pit in the backyard, loud music, and of course once the fireworks started, a quick drive to the top of the hill that overlooks the city where you could see at least ten different sets of fireworks in the distance along with roasting marshmallows after that to make s’mores, the goo sticking to everyone’s lips and caking onto their clothes with one wrong move.

There was a list in the group chat where everyone designated what they were bringing this year. Marlene usually cooked up a few things, this year her menu including a vinegary pasta salad, a DIY taco station with various meats along with the fixings, cilantro, onions, her homemade salsa, some Mexican rice, and finally, some jalapeño poppers that are so delectable your mouth salivated at the thought of them. Of course she would also have Jos grilling up some hot dogs and burgers just to cover all bases and El would most likely bring her signature brownies. They were always nice and fudgy, just enough chew to them but not enough to stick to your teeth. As always you opted to bring some store bought items, you were never much of a cook, not that you weren’t capable, you just never feigned interest and would stick to the basics — spaghetti and meatballs, sandwiches, and every now and then a nice salmon dinner for yourself. Marlene would often send you home with leftovers when you had dinner at hers which was quite often so you had her to thank for the less frequent trips to the grocery store.

The store was booming with people hurrying around the aisles for their last minute barbecue essentials. Many of them were in a rush to get back before the parade took place, you on another hand had taken your time, never sticking around for the parade as you weren’t interested in all of the in-your-face USA imagery. Jos and everyone else felt the same which is why you all celebrated at her house. Paying for the items, you make your way back home and although you didn’t plan to cook, you still planned to put together a quick treat for the dessert table. It was something you accidentally threw together one time that had become a favorite among the group. It was as simple as some crushed up Oreos and a block of cream cheese molded into little round spheres which were then chilled. Also known as ‘Oreo Ballz’ among the group. Jonathan tacked on the ‘z’.

Weeks had gone by since the beach where you’d witnessed Eddie staring into the ocean like it had parted just for him. You couldn’t get the vision out of your head as you drove home.

The afternoon was now dissipating into evening, a sliver of gold left as it cascaded along the shore and took with it the sun’s rays. A light breeze danced through the air to a melody no one could hear. The night was within an hour of kissing the sky, leaving a trail of stars behind until morning.

You and Eddie had walked back from the pier and returned to your friends among the waves. The remainder of the day was spent splashing, swimming, and repeating. You didn’t dare go out too far into the water, the height of the waves intimidating you and leaving you closer to the shore where you could better predict their movements. Jonathan, Eddie, Will, and El on the other hand had no fear, they faced the waves head on, swimming into them and riding them all the way back to land. Jos and Argyle opted to do the same as you, playing it safe closer to the beach. The three of you tossed around a foam football, the kind that soaks up the water enough for you to then squeeze it out. You can’t help but giggle as you spot Eddie in the distance being tackled by a wave, his sopping wet hair thrown over his face at the impact. He’s then bantering with Will, shoving him by the shoulder as he shakes his hair out of his face like a wet dog. Will gives him another push back, sending Eddie off balance and into another oncoming wave. “You’re gonna get what's coming to you, Byers.” He jokes, pointing a stern finger at the boy, bangs draped across his eyes. “Oh, really?” Will looks at him quizzically. “Cause what I’m seeing is you on your ass most of the time.” He finishes, leaving Eddie with a dropped jaw, astounded at Will’s true nature coming out. It was heartening seeing Will warm up so quickly to Eddie, a contrast to what the boy was used to in his social life. Besides his friendship with El and the group.

Exhausted, everyone disperses from the water—Jos and El to the pier for some fries, Will, Argyle, and Jonathan laying on beach towels, more than likely falling asleep, you sitting atop the wet sand staring off into the ocean, and Eddie standing a few feet away doing the same. He looked angelic, his head of hair outlined by the remaining daylight, broad shoulders all burned and freckled, and his eyes twinkling as if he were a child on Christmas morning. You almost don’t notice him backing up to claim a spot next to you in the wet sand, his knees to his chest and arms draped over them. “Shit’s unreal.” He mutters quietly. “Never thought I’d get to see the ocean to be honest.” He admits, never once looking away. His bangs are just tickling his eyelashes in the most endearing way.

“How’d you like your first official beach day?” You ask, squishing the sand in between your fingers, repeating the motion over and over. “It was better than I imagined. I thought the beach was just sittin’ around all day on your ass, sand getting everywhere and in everything—which, that part is true but I don’t mind it now.” He explains, eyes squinting in the remaining sunlight. “Oh and sunburns. I’ve been sunburned before but this has that beat by like a thousand percent.” He pushes his palm into his bicep, the flesh turning white and then back to red again when he pulls away.

“You’re gonna need a lot of aloe. And you’re gonna peel like a lizard.” You joke, taking a leap and pressing a finger into his arm just as he did with his palm a moment before. “Ouch! Don’t do that!” He flinches away, softly rubbing his arm although his face almost says that the touch was welcome, a small grin displayed on his lips, eyes meeting yours for a brief second. You could drink up the Coca-Cola fountain in those irises. You murmur a humorous ‘sorry’ as he turns his focus back to the water. And there he is again, enamored with the horizon and the tide’s movements. The water meets at your legs every once in a while before retreating back into the ocean. There is comfort in the silence of conversation between the two of you. An understanding of some kind that just being in each other's presence is all that is needed right now. You haven’t known Eddie for long but there is something—a kind of empathy detected in the air that neither of you could quite put your finger on.

—

Firewood was stacked into the fire pit in preparation for later and the backyard was coming together for its annual Fourth of July potluck. Marlene assigned Eddie to hosing off the back patio where the fire pit and chairs sat while Jocelyn set up the fold out tables alongside the house near the back door so food could easily be set out. Sunflower patterned tablecloths were then laid across both tables, creating one long table. Marlene plugged the lights in, the bulbs hanging above, draped diagonally across the patio creating a perfect summer setting.

It was nearing six o’clock which was just around when everyone agreed to show up. Eddie winded up the hose as he finished, his hair in a messy-barely there-low bun and one of Jocelyn’s old snapbacks with the ‘Monster’ logo jokingly on his head. They’d been rummaging through her room earlier as Marlene asked her, even at the grown age of 23 to clean it and he took it as a souvenir or as he called it “an homage to Jocelyn’s emo phase”. He’d been wearing it all day, refusing to take it off and now here he was on the patio in only his ripped jeans and a snapback. If only you could have avoided the sight by arriving a few minutes later.

You arrived at Jocelyn’s at six on the dot, always punctual. Stepping out of your car with the items you’d bought at the store earlier in a grocery bag as well as the tray of ‘Oreo Ballz’, you made your way to the front door and let yourself in, heading straight for the kitchen. Many smells flooded your senses, Marlene had been preparing food throughout the day for tonight. The bag was placed carefully on the counter and just as you began to turn around to place the dessert into the fridge before setting them out for everyone to devour, you just had to catch a glance outside the kitchen window into the backyard only to find Eddie Munson in probably the best outfit he’s worn so far. If you could even call it an outfit seeing as he wasn’t even wearing a shirt…again. Usually a guy in a ‘Monster’ snapback would be deemed as a douche by your standards and you wouldn’t give them a second thought however Eddie made it work in a way that seemed almost ironic and he looked good—really good.

Before any drool leaks from your mouth, you avert your eyes and spin around to place the treats in the fridge as originally planned. A dampness made itself known in between your legs, a throbbing accompanying it as you stood pathetically in Marlene’s kitchen alone, thirsting over the sight in the kitchen window you’d just witnessed. It’s then you realize you possibly have to face him in order to place the bags of chips and potato salad out on the tables. Hiding out in the kitchen is an option, maybe even the bathroom but then you risk Marlene asking why you’re late since you’re always on time and you knew she’d see through any little white lie, she always did.

Hands clammy, you grab the bag of food and bravely slide open the screen door just off the kitchen that leads to the back patio. All three faces turn at the sound as they wrap up what they’re doing, Jos throwing the cushions on the chairs around the fire pit, Mar straightening out the tablecloths, and Eddie fighting with the water spicket the hose is connected to. “Hey, there’s Peach.” Eddie announces, almost as if they’d mentioned you right before you got there. “Yeah, weren’t you gonna help us set up?” Jos raises a brow playfully. “I said I’d try and be here before six but I got caught up on some stuff, I had to run back to the store for more cream cheese cause there wasn’t enough for the Oreo Ballz.” You explain as you pull the noisy bags of chips out and set them on the table followed by the potato salad. “Hang on—‘Oreo Balls?’” Eddie questions as he finally gets the water turned off. “Ballz. With a ‘z’.” Jos corrects him as she picks up a bag of charcoal near the door, setting it next to the grill. “Yeah that helps.” Eddie replies with a roll of his eyes. “Peach was experimenting one day and came up with Oreo Ballz, it’s cream cheese and Oreos rolled into…y’know balls—or ballz, I guess.” Jos enunciates the z with finger quotes as she explains.

The fact that she’s now calling you Peach unironically has you giddy. You’d never had a nickname before and now you felt somewhat special as stupid as it sounded. “Pretty straightforward name, I like it.” Eddie decides while nodding his head. “Those are Jonathan’s favorite, you better hide a few for yourselves.” Marlene teases while doing one more sweep through of the patio with the broom. You nod to her before answering. “Don’t worry I made extra. But if he does eat them all this time he’s going to have some serious digestive problems, that’d be like eating two blocks of cream cheese.” Your face scrunches in disgust as you finish the sentence. “You know that’ll be no problem for him when he gets back from his ‘walk’.” Marlene points out with a smirk. She wasn’t necessarily against it but she did find it funny how everyone tried to hide it from her. “Boy could eat like it’s the last supper if we let him.” Jos adds, you and Eddie laugh.

“Help me get the food from the house?” Marlene asks the three of you as she leans the broom back in its spot and opens the sliding door, stepping inside. Without a word you each follow and grab what Marlene instructs you to grab. Holding a tray of searing chicken, pork, and asada, you walk it out to the table outside, setting it down while pulling the foil over it to keep bugs away as well as to keep it hot. Soon enough one of the tables is full of the meat, taco fixings, pasta salad, rice, some bowls of chips that Marlene had transferred them into, the famous jalapeño poppers, and the tub of potato salad now accompanied by a large serving spoon. Eddie emerges from the kitchen carrying his contributions to the potluck, some pinwheel sandwiches in a plastic container bought from the store and a seven-layer dip, also from the store. From this, you gather he isn’t much of a cook either.

Jos adds her offering to the table, her famous deviled eggs sprinkled with paprika that she only makes because she enjoys them the most. Around six fifteen everyone else shows up in Jonathan’s car, the vehicle coming to a noisy halt in the driveway letting you know they’ve arrived.

El carries a fruit salad medley along with a Tupperware container filled with her delicious brownies while Will holds a tray of sweet and sour meatballs. Jonathan brings his cheesy potatoes and Argyle his chocolate drizzled potato chips and a liter of Sprite. Everything is laid out to soon be feasted on as everyone greets each other. Eddie and Jos rush upstairs to change since they’d been cleaning up the patio earlier, their clothes having absorbed a thin layer of sweat. Well Eddie wasn’t even wearing a shirt so you assume he’s gone to throw one on.

—

The sky was still coated with some daylight, a cool tone as the day winded down. Everyone stuffed their faces as their paper plates were piled high with food and every once in a while a firecracker would go off in the distance and the speaker played a 70’s rock radio station as you ate without a word, the group too hungry and occupied to engage in a conversation at the moment. Jos had grilled a few burgers and hot dogs for those who wanted them, she called herself ‘the neighborhood’s best dad’ as she did so. The dogs, Winnie and Diesel waited patiently for a bite to miss someone’s mouth so they could act as the cleaning crew should any food hit the floor. It was like Thanksgiving in Summer.

As plates were discarded in the trash can , bellies full, Argyle lit the firewood placed in the above ground fire pit. Each one of you found your seats around it, the smoke now filling the air smelling like a campfire. The dogs now laid at Marlene’s feet lazily while she listened to El enlighten her about something she learned in her agriculture class.

“Peach, we’re gonna go for a walk in like fifteen before hitting up the table for seconds, you gonna come?” Jonathan asks, leaned back in his chair with his feet kicked up on the edge of the fire pit. Peach seemed to be your nickname according to everyone now, not just Eddie and Jocelyn. You liked it, it made you feel special which wasn’t really a major occurrence in your life. “I think I’ll sit this one out, I don’t know if I could eat another bite—even after a ‘walk’.” You reply, he nods in understanding. Your eye catches Eddie from across the fire pit, the flames dancing along your view of him, his hair down and his torso now adorned with a plain white t-shirt—he was scowling towards Jonathan though Jonathan didn't notice. Why was he looking so intensely at him?

Before you could register it, the look displayed on Eddie’s face was gone just like that as he glanced down and fidgeted with a rip at the knee in his jeans. You’d have to tuck away your curiosity for now. Glancing back over at Jonathan, you spark up a new conversation, quietly. “Have you invited Eddie on a ‘walk’? I told him your stuff is unreal.” You almost whisper, leaning toward his ear, not wanting Marlene to hear. “No, but thanks for reminding me.” He whispers back, snapping his fingers. He stands up and before walking away, looks back to you. “You sure you don’t wanna come and just walk? Like actually walk?” He whispers the last part, sneaking a glance at Mar to make sure she isn’t looking. It’s as if you’re teenagers sneaking around when in reality you’re all adults now. You suppose everyone is just scared to disappoint Marlene since she’s like the group mom. “I’m okay, have fun.” You giggle, waving him off. He smiles and proceeds to move toward Eddie on the other side of the fire pit who has a distant expression on his face.

“Peach.” Will flops down next to you with a mouthful of pasta salad. “Hm?” You hum tearing your gaze from Eddie and Jonathan. “You got the booze for later?” He asks, swallowing his food. You give him a look of bewilderment before answering. “What are you, 85?!” You laugh as he scoffs. “Okay, first of all, rude. Never say that to me again.” He crosses his arms, his eyes wide. “Then don’t say things like that!” You justify, giving his shoulder a nudge with your palm. “Do you have it or not?” His face is now pleading, his lips pouting. Taking a moment to think for longer than nexessary you finally give him a response. “I don’t but Jos does.” Will grins and sighs out a ‘yes’. It was also tradition to get drunk at the end of the night every Fourth of July and have a sleepover in the garage. Was it really considered a sleepover if everyone actually just passed out before being given the chance to Uber home?

“We’re going to take a walk.” Jonathan announces as Eddie, Argyle, and Jos follow. Will hops out of his chair a little too enthusiastically to join them. El remains seated next to Marlene, she was never really one to participate and you only dabbled occasionally when you felt like it. Marlene shoots Jonathan a knowing look, not mean, just teasing. He awkwardly shoves his hands in his pockets and avoids her eyes as he gives the three of you a small wave.

“So…” Marlene begins as she directs her attention to you. “How is everyone treating Ed?” She asks like the concerned mother she is. “What do you mean?” You inquire, tilting your head to the side, looking at El who is wearing the same puzzled expression you are. Marlene sighs before answering. “Is everyone getting along?” She vaguely clarifies. Searching your brain for anything she may be referring to, all you can recall is that everyone got along, especially with Eddie. “Yes, why? Did something happen?” You ask with furrowed brows. Mar shakes her head, running a hand through her long dark hair. “He’s just been through a lot for someone so young. Just wanted to make sure things were okay.” She says, worry evident in her light brown eyes. You’re unsure of what exactly may be stirring up this uncertainty and you’re not sure if you should impose by asking either. El doesn’t give you the chance to decide when she blurts out “What happened?” concern filling her features. Marlene ponders for a moment, her eyes shifting back and forth in thought. “It’s not really my place to say, if he feels comfortable he’ll talk about it.” Mar replies, glancing down with almost a look of guilt. As if she brought up something she wasn’t supposed to. “Just keep an eye out for him?” She asks gently. You and El nod. “Of course.” You assure her with a small smile. This only made you want to gravitate toward Eddie even more.

—

Jonathan, Eddie, Jos, Argyle, and Will smoked in the field or the ‘reservoir’, near a tunnel that led to the sewers at the edge opposite of the dam. They stood on the concrete at the opening of the tunnel. It was covered in graffiti, tagged by people who had stopped by long enough to give it the time of day. The skunky smell wafted through the air between them as Jos puffed on the joint. “This is our little stoner spot.” She explains to Eddie, gesturing around as if to say welcome. Eddie nods, his curls bouncing with the motion. “Don’t have the balls to do it in front of Mar?” He mocks. Jos hands the joint off to Will as she answers. “I’ll have you know Jonathan is the one who’s fucking terrified of her. I just do it on the down low in the yard. I don’t even think she cares.” She shrugs and Jonathan’s eyes widen in disbelief. “You are SO scared of getting caught, don’t pin it on me!” He says in his defense. Will passes the joint to Eddie, he takes a long puff as the two continue to argue. “At least I don’t get all anxious and weird when she gives you the ‘look’ every time we take a ‘walk’!” Jos states factually. “I do not!” Jonathan shoots back. “Oh dude, you so do.” Argyle butts in as Eddie passes him the joint. “Argyle!” Jonathan pleads. “Sorry, dude—it's true TV.” He puffs on the joint, blowing it toward Jonathan’s face. “Jonathan, just drop it.” Will pipes up shaking his head. “Dude, not cool, I’m your brother, you’re supposed to be on my side.” Jonathan whines. Will shrugs in response, leaving his brother defeated. “I love this kid.” Eddie giggles, eyes glassy and heavy, a dopey smile on his face while he slings his arm around Will’s shoulder.

The rest of the conversation that took place was not remembered by any of the participants, too stoned to even know what was being said moments after saying it. High and happy, they retreated back to the fire pit to resume the night’s activities which would hopefully involve devouring any leftovers.

—

As the evening darkened and more fireworks appeared throughout the sky, the cracks and pops heard through every neighborhood, the fire got brighter and created a glow across everyone’s faces. Not even five minutes after coming back, Argyle and Eddie had finished off the chocolate drizzled potato chips, another serving of everything, and a couple dozen Oreo Ballz. Jonathan only put up a slight fight, giving up after Eddie set aside a plate with a few of them, Jonathan too dazed to keep up with the two boys and returning to a seat in front of the fire.

Conversations were flowing and you had been chatting to Argyle about his disgust for cats. Eddie and Jonathan were both holding acoustic guitars, strumming random melodies as discussions continued and they gave their two cents every now and then. Argyle removed on about how terrifying cat claws were and you suddenly weren’t listening when you overheard Marlene telling everyone else about her younger years. The side conversations ceased as everyone tuned in on her, even Argyle forgetting he was even talking while turning his attention to her.

“She did not!” Jos yells in disbelief at her mother. “She did! Stacy Harrington worked with us at The Hideout. Before she was all rich and housewifey—“ “—and snobby!” Jos interrupts with a nasally voice laughing to herself. “And snobby…” Marlene confirms. “She was just like us regular folk.” She speaks with a sudden southern accent, causing El and Will to bark out a laugh. All attention was on Mar as she relived her younger years, a glow in her aura as she spoke.

“Yeah, me and Roxanne had to teach her pretty much every single little thing, even wiping down a table! She didn’t have a clue how to clean things!” She describes through a wide smile. “So even before she was known as ‘Stacy Harrington’, I guess she still didn’t know how to work?” Mar guesses with a shrug. “Oh my god, but me and Roxy would always have to go behind her after she cleaned and do it again. There was no point in even hiring her since it was double the work.” Jos’s expression is amused as she learns this information. “What about the time you had to ride on Roxy’s motorcycle and you peed yourself! Tell them about that one!” Jos remembers, excitement seeping out of her. “No!! I only told you that one out of confidence!” Mar jokingly scolds her daughter, taking a sip of a beer she had been nursing. Everyone roars with laughter around the fire, warmth felt inside and out. “We got into some situations back then, she was my best friend.” Mar smiles, replaying the memories in her mind. “Where is she now?” Jonathan asks, a grin on display. It gets quiet, crickets chirping in the distance, mirroring the atmosphere just created. What was just a cozy and inviting environment was now uncomfortable and tense. Marlene glances at Eddie so quickly you would miss it if you weren’t looking directly at her but you were.

Eddie’s eyes are void of life, glassy but not from smoking, you don’t think. His face is pale from what you can tell in the glow of the fire in front of him. He makes no movements and is seemingly frozen, breaths quick and staggered as his chest heaves ever so slightly. Suddenly in one quick motion, he stands and is gone before your eyes, leaving his guitar on the seat and making his way out to the front yard away from everyone. All eyes are on the chair he was previously occupying, no one knowing what to say. Marlene clears her throat quietly. “Roxy—Roxy was Eddie’s mom.” She manages to get out, a shake in her voice. “But…” she continues as she straightens her posture. “I think that’s enough for tonight. Once Ed gets back we’ll go up the hill for fireworks?” She questions. A simple nod is all she’s offered from the group. Jos speaks up and shifts to a new topic, hoping to aid her mom.

As they move on to a new subject, you’re confronting the fact that all those stories about Roxy Marlene had told you and Jos about, were about Eddie’s mom. Everything they’d been through together, all the good times, all the bad. The time they took their kids to the local water park when they were little, their first day of kindergarten when they dropped them off together, the nights Roxy would drag Mar along to a local concert on their night off and they had extra tip money before they had kids. But not once did she mention Eddie was her son in the time he’s been here. Eddie was the renowned Roxy’s son, the woman in Marlene’s stories. And Jos didn’t mention anything either. You’d concluded that since it appeared to be a sensitive topic, they didn’t mention anything to protect Eddie—that is until they got caught up tonight and forgot he was right there.

Wild mocha colored curls, wide doe eyes, and deep dimples etched into her face, the woman in the photo you recall Marlene showing you is the spitting image of Eddie. She wears a denim jacket with several pins and patches placed throughout the front pockets. Some display logos for bands such as Black Sabbath, Dio, Metallica, and several others. A few of them are for different causes such as one that reads ‘Women’s rights are human rights’. She’s beautiful and from what you can see and what you’ve heard, she was the definition of a badass woman who was also the most kindhearted soul in the small town of Hawkins.

Pulling yourself from your recollection of Roxanne from the stories and pictures, you come back into your body and find that everyone was once again conversing among each other as normal. A tinge of worry swirls in your mind, Eddie coming to the forefront of your thoughts—where was he? Was he okay? Probably not, you decide based on his reaction however it seems Marlene wasn’t worried and she probably had a better idea of what was going on in his head seeing as she didn’t run after him to console him. You could leave it at that—you probably should leave it at that and just wait for him to come back on his own but there’s a surge within you that’s forcing you to gravitate to him. “I’m gonna use the bathroom.” You mutter to no one in particular before making your way through the kitchen door and then through the front door.

There’s not a soul out front, not a trace of the curly haired man, only the bugs making their presence known as the crickets play their tune and mosquitoes buzz through the air. It’s dark out now, the stars are sprinkled across the night sky almost intentionally placed. Fireworks are booming and echoing as they explode, the prominent smell of several barbecues still happening throughout the community. Approaching Eddie’s van, you peek through the windshield looking for any signs of life but to your disappointment he’s not there. The end of the driveway calls your name and you're walking toward the street, searching to the left and to the right for any signs of where he could have gone. It occurs to you that maybe you’re thinking too hard and Eddie just ended up going upstairs and called it a night. That is until you catch a glimpse of a figure seated on top of the dam across the reservoir, too far to actually decipher who it is though no one else really hangs out there and he seemed drawn to it like a moth to a flame that day you went up there with him. Much like how you were becoming toward him.

—

Things were quiet atop the dam as usual save for the occasional pop of a firework. Eddie had found himself sitting up there quite often throughout his stay, usually when he wanted to be alone and think, sometimes he’d smoke and let off some steam. The city lights twinkled at him and the moon beamed, creating a bath of celestial light around him. Eyes blurry with unshed tears and his mouth wobbling as he tried to keep his cool, Eddie sniffled and inhaled a deep breath as he stared up at the moon. His lashes were wet, collecting as much liquid as they could without spilling toward his cheeks. A nervous hand ran through his hair, trembling while he exhaled shakily before he spoke softly into the night.

“Hey mama.” His voice wavers as a tear escapes the confines of his eyes, rolling down his cheek and onto his lip. He licks it away and brings his hand up to wipe any remnants away. Shaking his head and sniffling harder than before, the dam cracks and hot tears spill over his cheeks while his lip quivers. As much as he tries to keep them at bay, the salty tears continue streaming down his face while he smudges his hands over them again and again as if each time he does it will be the time they vanish. “I miss you.” He chokes out, finally relaxing his shoulders and releasing a sob, burying his face in his palms. “I fucking miss you.”

A memory plays out in his mind, a memory of mama, his mama…

“C’mon baby, there’s no use crying over spilled milk—or—spaghettios.” Her eyes are kind as little Eddie wails from his spot at the table, the watery tomato sauce coating the wooden surface and spilling into his lap, little ‘o’ shaped pastas scattered throughout the mess. “M—mama.” Snot drips from his red nose, his small hands rubbing it all over his face and mixing it with his tears. “D—daddy’s gonna find o-out I—I spilled—m’ sorry mama.” Roxanne grabs the mini white plastic trash can from the kitchen, not too far away from where she’d been sitting across from Eddie. The house was cramped and could barely fit the three people living in it. She takes an old rag and starts swiping the mess into the trash, kneeling next to her son still sitting in his chair. The tomatoey spill is cleaned from the table and wiped from Eddie’s lap, leaving some stains behind on his ripped denim shorts and a few on his shirt. Mama tosses the soiled rag into the sink still kneeling. She looks to the little boy in front of her and rakes her fingers through his curls that were just barely falling into his face. “You let me worry about that, okay Peach?” She assures him, a touch of her southern drawl slipping out. The six year old looks into his mom’s deep brown eyes, nothing but love filling them.

“No—no, don’t want him to hurt you again.” He whimpers as he clutches his mama’s shirt into his little fists, tucking his face into her shoulder, the scent of coconut shampoo overtaking him. “He’s not gonna find out, Eddie. Okay? We’ll wash your clothes before he gets home, don’t you worry.” She promises. Eddie nods, sniffling into mama’s shirt, she’s unbothered and welcomes it as she cradles his head with her hand. Letting out a gentle sigh she vows to him “I’m gonna get us outta here, you hear me? Gonna go some place where he can’t scare us or touch us.”

Eyes now bloodshot from crying and his face puffy, Eddie lets out a few hiccups before calming down and engulfing himself in silence once again. Little does he know that as you approached the dam, hoping to check up on him and see if he needed anything, you’d see him sobbing and froze. It felt wrong to watch but you physically couldn’t move as you rapidly tried to figure out what to do in your head. As he seemed to settle down, you figured this would be the moment to make yourself known.

“Eddie?” You speak softly, slowly stepping toward him. Shooting up, he does one more wipe of his face, hiding away as much emotion as possible. “I was just leaving.” His voice is deep and raspy, nose stuffy. “Eddie, you don’t have to—I’ll go back right now, I didn’t mean to…” you trail off trying not to startle him more than you have as if he were a horse just seconds away from being spooked. “I was going to anyway.” His expression is stoic as he clenches his fists to his sides. You don’t know what overcomes you but a second later you’re wrapping your arms around his waist in a tight hug, head to his chest, offering your support through your actions. He becomes paralyzed, arms in the air as if defending himself and a gasp falling from his lips while you hang onto him. Every emotion hits him at once, overstimulating his mind and before he knows it he chokes out a sob he didn’t know he was holding onto, hands grabbing at the back of your shirt tightly while he cries into your shoulder.

He’s lost his cool in this brief moment, memories flashing in his brain, “Men don’t cry.”, “Boy, I’ll give you something to cry about if you don’t quit!”, “Stop being such a sissy and man up.” All of it rushes through his thoughts, the vision of his dad rolling his sleeves up with fire in his eyes while mama was working the night shift at The Hideout and he was supposed to be asleep.

He got curious when he heard another woman’s voice from where he was laying in bed, the one he shared with mama. Dad usually took the couch, always passing out after coming home late and crashing onto the nearest cushion. It was rare when mama would leave Eddie alone with him and this was one night she couldn’t find anyone else, she had to work to keep the bills paid and food on the table for her only son. Before leaving she instructed him to stay in bed and that she would be back before he knew it. He could never forget the fear that coursed through him when his dad caught him peeking around the corner, a bright red hand print delivered to his cheek and a bloody lip to match. He swore the devil lived in his fathers veins. Told Eddie “Suck it up, you stop pouting that lip at me or I’ll put it back for you.” And when mama came back home that night to find Eddie asleep with a bruise under his lip crusted with blood and a handprint on his face, she knew she couldn’t wait any longer to pack up and leave. They couldn’t go far with such little money but she had to do something.

Eddie’s hands are still clenching your shirt, tears soaking the fabric at the collar. Stroking his back gently over his leather jacket, you stayed there for as long as he needed, whispering to him “It’s okay, I’m right here. It’s alright.” He was shaking uncontrollably, cries consuming his body. Until you feel him tense up and his entire demeanor shifts. Letting go, he stumbles backwards, a flash of fear in his eyes. “Are you okay?” You ask with concern, taking a step toward him. He quickly steps back again before his features display something you can only make out as anger as his brows come together and his stare becomes cold. “Just—“ he croaks out, his face still wet, eyelashes separating delicately. He appears to be having an internal battle with himself. You frown at him, unsure if words would help the situation so you opt to remain quiet. “Leave me alone.” He says sternly, brushing past you and back toward the house.

Within seconds Eddie disappears into the night and back toward the house. Confusion clouds your brain, unsure of what just occurred. He was suddenly so upset, his energy completely devoid of the sadness he previously displayed. Anger seeped through his pores with a hint of embarrassment. You didn’t know how to take it. Was he angry at you for coming out and finding him when he wanted to be alone? Was he just taking it out on you because his mother was mentioned? You couldn’t be sure and you’d have to carefully address the subject the next time you had a chance. Eddie was a closed book that you were determined to read.

~end~

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Masterlist

#Eddie munson #eddie munson fic #eddie munson x reader #eddie munson x fem reader #eddie munson x feminine reader #eddie x reader #Eddie munson fluff #eddie munson smut #cal dreamin’

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raxistaicho · 2 years

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Are we not Engaged? Part 8.

Ike paralogue opened up, but I’m gonna do the story for a little bit more.

Spoilers under the cut.

Hortensia’s taken Queen Seforia hostage. I don’t care.

Seforia didn’t realize Hortensia was still on Elusia’s side. While this is fair since Ivy defected, what happened to all those Solmian spies?

Oh nvm, the guards just let her in no questions asked, this fucking game.

Hortensia didn’t recognize Ivy for a while lol.

What. “Since Father sacrificed himself,” did Hortensia get amnesia of how Sombron ate him???

God I hate Hortensia.

“Hand them over or I kill the queen,” fine, do it, see what if I care. The rings are more important than her, sad as it.

Ah nice, Alear is calling her out.

Okay Timerra’s pretty cool.

Oh, Hortensia’s been led to believe getting the rings might bring Hyacinth back.

Dammit game, stop trying to make me feel bad for Hortensia.

Guess we’re not fighting Hortensia after all. Give us Byleth!

Seems Hortensia left on her own. Explains why she didn’t have an army. Uh oh, Zephia did something to Goldmary and Rosado :(

Marni and Mauvier then. Give us back Celica and Sigurd! >:(

Uhh, Marni and Mauvier just kinda vaguely captured Queen Seforia.

Zephia’s controlling Hortensia or something. Guess we’ll have to kill her for the greater good. It’ll be tragic. We’ll have a day of mourning. Guess it’s round three with Hortensia after all. We’ll just have to take Byleth from her body.

I can’t NOT use Merrin, Christina Vee voice acts her :D

Marni’s an idiot

Hortensia was actually easier this time since she didn’t bring a tome to this fight so she was no danger to Louis.

Hortensia is back to normal but wants to return to Elusia to take care of the country. But Ivy says Sombron rules the kingdom now. This is actually a really touching and nice scene. Also Hortensia gives Byleth up :D

Heheh, Byleth’s summoning theme is naturally taken from Edge of Dawn. The only ones unaccounted for are Eirika, Corrin, and the stolen six.

Seforia’s fine, Timerra and Fogado saved her.

Hortensia tries to apologize but Seforia gives her a hard time for a bit lol. Seforia’s mostly okay, I’d say.

Timerra’s gonna show us to Corrin.

I finally have money again :’D

Christ, Byleth is fucking BROKEN. His Emblem weapon is just Relics. Which one? Yes.

Veyle’s wandering around the desert. She has to “sleep” which - yeah, it means she switches off with Good!Veyle. Gonna be real awkward if Alear and crew run into her now.

Oh no, I made a terrible mistake putting Byleth on Celine, they’re gonna talk endlessly about all the tea parties.

Everyone got a round of beating up the Ashen Demon for more experience :)

It’s a good thing I didn’t do Ike Paralogue right away, those enemies is big

Did Ike just destroy the fucking castle...

Alear Hortensia C: Hortensia wants Alear to think she’s cute, it’s serious business for her. I guess that’s her character gimmick?

Celine Fogado C: He tries to flirt with her (Celine’s appearance aside, they’re both 17) but she roasts him big time. Nice support, lol.

Celine Hortensia C: Hortensia declares Celine her cuteness rival, but Celine just thinks Hortensia is cute and rambunctious.

Diamant Timerra C: Timerra invites Diamant to go to town with her, but he refuses, saying he needs to train and that Timerra should also. She insists going into town and getting to know her people on a more personal level IS training. This one made me like Timerra quite a bit more, it shows she’s conscientious of the blinders put on her by her high birth, unlike a certain other lance-wielding member of royalty in this series. While Timerra sneaking off to town incognito is dangerous for the same reason Celine doing it is, I’m willing to give Timerra more of a pass because she has more of an active soldiering background through her duties with the Sentinels. Really good support, eager to see the rest of the chain!

Timerra Alfred C: He’s off to train and she offers to eat together afterward, promising it’ll be casual and no political brain-picking. Not a bad support.

I’ve noticed the supports between the royals and between them and Alear are usually of waaaay higher quality than those including the more side-characters. It kinda demonstrates where the focus was in the writing.

Dancer dude is a main character, he gets an intro cutscene, lol.

Corrin’s voice is weird.

Spoopy castle with miasma all over.

Stupid Sexy Seadall.

Pairing Corrin to a dancer is super appropriate.

This is a pretty blatant “teaching” map to show the player how to use Corrin’s Dragon Vein skill properly. Understandable, it’s way different than most skills like it. I think I’ll just keep her on Seadall, though the Covert Dragon Vein ability is also VERY nice and would be pretty hilarious comboed with Yunaka or Celine.

Good Veyle’s back!

Oh no they’re bullying her, they don’t know she has an alternate personality :( Leave Good Veyle alone T_T

Alear is great in this scene!

I would question why they just order her to leave rather than attack her, but given how roided out Veyle was in ch11, sternly telling her to leave and hoping she complies is probably the smartest course of action, lol.

Good Veyle knows the hounds and her relation to Sombron, and the hounds know of her split personality thing, though Good Veyle herself doesn’t know about Evil Veyle. Seems Sombron would order her to do evil and she’d refuse. I’m guessing Evil Veyle is an artificial personality Sombron made to control Veyle more easily. That’s probably what Red Alear is, too.

We’re going back to Firene? I mean sure, why not. There’s no more rings out in the open so at this point there’s not much to do but wait and see what the forces of evil do, They need the 12 rings to fully restore Sombron’s power and they’ll need to attack with rings of their own to have a chance at taking ours. Unless Veyle uses her 100 pickpocketting skill on Alear again.

#fire emblem engage #spoilers

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ateezreactionsandscenarios · 2 years

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When in Rome

Pairing: Frienemy! Jeong Yunho x Reader

Genre: Smut

CW: Fingering (f receiving), degrading, edging, marking, hair pulling, overstimulation, creampie.

Word Count: 4466

Prompts: 21) "Make me."

25) "If you keep looking at me like that we won’t make it to the bed."

82) "You’re on your worst behaviour."

Summary: You’re on a roadtrip with Ateez and due to not enough seats in the car you end up having to sit on Yunho’s lap, because of this you decide to have a little fun during the car ride, it’s all fun and games until you get to your hotel room.

Prompt List MasterList Buy me a Coffee

It was an intense game of pulling straws, there were 9 of you going on a trip and 5 hotel rooms were booked so obviously everyone was fighting over who got a room to themselves, the only way to stop everyone fighting was to pull straws. With 2 green, 2 red, 2 blue, 2 yellow and 1 plain everyone was praying for the plain whether it be out loud or in their heads. “Okay guest goes first.” Hongjoong calls holding all the straws in one hand, you were not exactly happy about this, the odds not being in your favour. You took a small breath and pulled your straw. “Green! Unlucky y/n.” the rest of the group having a small grin on their faces knowing the single room was still up for grabs. The game continued and 2 straws were left, so far the room arrangements were San and Yeosang, Hongjoong and Wooyoung and you and Jongho needing roommates since Seonghwa secured the single room. A new game of rock paper scissors had broken out between Mingi and Yunho to determined who got to go first, after a few rounds Mingi came out the victor pulling a yellow straw causing Yunho’s face to slightly drop as he knew the only colour left was green, meaning you two were roommates. “Can we have a do over?” Yunho asked quietly, not really wanting to be the one to room with you, it’s not that he didn’t exactly like you but there was kind of a love hate situation between you, most of the time you got on well but there were days where you couldn’t stand the sight of each other and for the sake of the trip he didn’t want to take his chances. “We’re not going through all that again, it’s taken us long enough.” Wooyoung whined from the back, too eager to get the trip started. Yunho let out a defeated sigh as the rest of you went off to get your bags.

With the biggest majority of the bags squeezed into the boot of the car the ones left over had to take up a seat in the back, leaving 1 less seat. “Y/n, you’re going to have to sit on Yunho’s lap, I’m sorry.” Seonghwa sighs after throwing the last bag into the car. “What? Why me?” You ask a little offended. “Well, you’re the smallest one out of all of us and since you’re rooming with Yunho why not?” You look over to Yunho, who was too busy talking to Mingi to hear you both, you let out a small groan in displeasure but decided not to argue any further. Seonghwa went over to break the news to Yunho before everyone got into the car, earning the same groan in displeasure from him. You and Yunho got stuck with the back seats with all the bags while everyone else was able to stretch out a bit more. This was going to be the longest drive either of you have been a part of. Yunho got comfortable in the seat first before you climbed onto his lap wriggling around slightly to get yourself comfy. “Please stop moving already.” Yunho hisses under his breath. “I’m trying to get comfy.” You complain back to him seeing how he was starting to lose his patience.

You didn’t really talk to each other during the start of the drive, you mostly joined the others in conversation, the usual jokes and small roasts back and forth, laughter filling the car and the complaints of the one being made fun of following suit. The conversation soon shifts to Jongho who was describing this really funny video he’d seen earlier and just had to show you, you all try to lean in closer to him to see the video play on his phone, but you struggle to get a good look, you shuffle forward slightly and hear Yunho give out a low quiet groan from beneath you and his hand lightly grip the side of your leg as you did so, at first you thought you hurt him so you quickly turned around to apologise only to see his brows furrowed and his eyes shut. His reaction confused you slightly but you decided to shrug it off still apologising to him before turning your attention back to the video.

The group conversation slowly died down as everyone trailed off into separate conversations. You started getting a little restless now, you’d only been in the car for an hour but your ass was going dead from lack of movement, you couldn’t help but shuffle around a little in an attempt to get some feeling back. “Y/n...You’re doing it again.” Yunho says between gritted teeth, eyes not leaving his phone screen. “My ass is dead I can’t help it.” You bite back as you continue to shuffle around. Your movements are halted when his hands grip your hips sturdying them in place. “I said stop.” You could see his cheeks start to go a light shade of pink, he was starting to get flustered. It was safe to say you were slowly growing bored, everyone in their own conversations while you’re sat there in silence, so seeing how flustered Yunho was getting you decide this was your chance to have some fun trying to see how far you could push him. “Make me.” You whisper to him while you slowly wiggled your ass on his lap again, a mischievous grin plastered on your face.

Meanwhile, unknown to you, you and Yunho were the topic of Wooyoung and San’s conversation. “So how do you think the trip will end for Yunho and y/n?” San quietly asked nudging Wooyoung. “Oh, I think it’s going to be great, it will go one of two ways I’m telling you, either they’ll kill one another, or, they’ll end up doing another form of fighting if you get what I mean.” Wooyoung raised his eyebrows as he said the last bit trying to make it a little more clear to San what he meant but ultimately failing as San looked back in confusion. “What do you mean?” His head tilted slightly as he tried to quickly dart his eyes from Wooyoung to you. “Oh come on San can’t you see it?” Wooyoung tried his best to keep his voice down as San still sits there clueless, “See what?” Poor San really had no idea, it seemed only Wooyound was able to see what he saw between you and Yunho. “Bro, can’t you see there is clearly sexual tension between them?” San’s eyes widened at the statement, he’d never noticed this and he found it absurd. “Tsk, come on Woo, you can’t be serious, they hardly talk when they’re actually on good terms and when they’re not one of them is ready to set a building on fire while the other is locked in it, how does that scream sexual tension to you?” He could see the wheels turning in Wooyoung’s head as he thinks back through all the encounters you and Yunho shared. “Have you not seen the way they look at each other even when they argue, wait no, ESPECIALLY when they argue, they have that look in their eyes like they’re about to rip each other’s clothes off there and then. They get on each other’s nerves to get the other’s attention, they’re clearly into each other but they just don’t know it yet.” Wooyoung smirks to himself, proud over what he just said, San on the other hand, still doesn’t agree. “Woo, I think you’re looking into this a bit too much.” A small scoff comes from Wooyoung at this. “Do you wanna bet? I bet you by the end of this trip they’d have slept together.” Wooyoung crosses his arms as San looks at him with intrigue in his eyes. “You’re on, you think they’ll sleep together, I think they’ll get close to killing each other. Loser buys the other food for a month.” San holds his hand out to shake Wooyoung’s closing the deal between them.

All while the conversation between San and Wooyoung was happening you carried on riling Yunho up. You kept yourself pretty casual, staying on your phone scrolling endlessly through your social medias, every now and again you would slowly roll your hips, slow enough for you to go unnoticed by anyone but quick enough to elicit a reaction from Yunho. “Y/n, I will, I’ll kill you if you carry on.” You can’t help but smirk at his reactions, you loved getting on his last nerve and right now you seemed to be doing an amazing job, every time you rolled your hips his fingers would dig into your hips and his hands would press against you in an attempt to stop your movements. You carried on like this for a short while until you heard a low groan come from Yunho after yet another hip roll. Your eyes dart to him to see him with his eyes closed again but this time it was clear you didn’t hurt him as you felt him slowly harden beneath you. “Is someone getting a little flustered?” You whisper as you lean a little closer to him so no one could hear, you light breath on his ear sent a wave of goose bumps through his body and a small shiver escaped him. “No, now shut up.” His voice was slightly rougher and breathy as he tried to concentrate on anything other than the friction you were creating. You picked up your pace ever so slightly still trying to go unnoticed by the others. More low groans and growls left his mouth, he couldn’t hold them back, he loved the sensation the friction was giving him. You let out small giggles every time he reacted to your movements, you were enjoying yourself and as much as you would hate to admit it you found his noises rather attractive, you got slightly turned on yourself knowing you were the cause of his groans and frustration. “You enjoying yourself there.” You couldn’t help but make the comment, the sounds were music to your ears, so sweet. “You’re on your worst behaviour you know that.” His words now coming out in small sighs. You were going to make another comment before you were cut short by Hongjoong. “We’re here!” He announced as he pulled up to a rather nice hotel.

Everyone clambered out of the car eager to stretch their legs. Before you got out yourself you gave Yunho’s flushed cheeks a few small pats and leaned in slightly to whisper, “So cute.” into his ear before hopping off his lap and out the car, that comment was the last straw for him, something in his mind snapped, part of him felt he was crazy but the other was so high with how much he enjoyed all of this. He took a moment to compose himself before joining everyone else in collecting the bags. With suitcases in hand you all made your way into the lobby to check in, Yunho keeping pretty far behind everyone. With room keys in hand you all make your way to your designated rooms. Luckily, your rooms were in a row, one by one telling everyone to have fun unpacking, pulling out the keys from your pocket, fighting to get into the room before Yunho to get the better bed, and get set up, to deal with the little space he'll have to have. Seconds later, you hear a sigh from behind you, as you fold your clothes and putting them in the side of the wardrobe that you dibbed in your head, trying your best to ignore Yunho who rolls his eyes, not saying much as he throws his suitcase on the bed, before sitting next to it. After putting all of your belongings away and getting settled into the room a message pops up in the group chat from Seonghwa inviting everyone down to the hotel bar for a drink to kick off the first night of vacation right. You simply glance over to Yunho to see what his response to the text is to which he simply got up from the bed and walked out, you took that as he was down for drinks and quite frankly so were you.

You’re reunited with the rest of the group at the bar and you feel a little weight get lifted off your shoulders, rooming with Yunho is going to be a lot more difficult than what you had originally expected, there was so much tension, what type of tension you don’t know but it was there and it was heavy. You were greeted first by Mingi who passed you your first drink of the night, you thanked him with a big smile and started talking, mostly about how nice the hotel is and discussing what the possible plans for the next day would be. Drinks with the Ateez boys went just how you’d expect it to go, Wooyoung, Jongho and Hongjoong are progressively getting louder while Seonghwa and Yeosang are loosening up a bit and coming out of their shells, it was all great fun. You all stay at the bar for a few hours you’re careful not to have too much to drink since you don't want to spend the first day of your vacation hungover, you decide to switch from the alcohol and go for a simple coke as you get up to go to the bar, not realising you’re being followed. You lean against the bar as you wait for your drink when you feel a presence behind you. “Don’t think I don’t know what you’re playing at.” A familiar low voice said from behind you, you turn around eyes met with Yunho, his cheeks a little pink from the one drink he’s had. “What are you talking about?” You ask genuinely confused. “Don’t play dumb with me, that little stunt you pulled in the car and now giving me the eyes from across the table I know what you’re playing at and you might want to be careful.” His voice low so the others wouldn’t be able to hear him, his eyes looking you up and down as if he was contemplating something. You did admit to yourself, you knew what he was talking about and you were not sorry about any of it, you really wanted to see how much he could take before he snaps, if you had to room with someone who half the time you couldn’t stand you might as well have some fun with it. “And why would I do that?” You tone becoming cocky in an attempt to push even more of his buttons. “Because if you keep looking at me like that we won’t make it to the bed, and that’s a promise.” His response had you taken aback slightly but you’d be lying of you said you didn’t like it. “Hey, when in Rome.” You say with a wink taking your drink from the bar and heading back. “We’re not in Rome.” You turn on your heels and flip him your middle finger before getting back to the group and continuing your antics.

The drinks session didn’t last too much longer since Jongho went a little wild and ended up passing out in his chair, as soon as this happened you all decided to call it a night. Mingi is the first to leave as he throws his passed out roommate over his shoulder and says his goodbyes, the rest of you are close to follow suit once you all finish your last drink and all head up as a group. You and Yunho say goodnight to everyone as they all go off into their rooms as you walk to yours at the end. The last goodnight was to Seonghwa was was next door to you and Yunho, you both give a small wave as he enters his room. As soon as Seonghwa’s door clicked shut you felt Yunho roughly grip you by the wrist throwing you to the wall and caging you in with his arms either side of your head. “You just couldn’t help yourself could you?” His eyes were dark and voice quiet still well aware you’re only a few feet away from Seonghwa’s room. “I don’t know what you mean.” You reply in an overly innocent voice clearly showing you knew. “I thought I warned you what would happen if you tried me, are you sure you can handle this?” His face inching closer and closer as he spoke until he was so close his breath was fanning your face. “Such bold words, I’d like to see you put them into action.” There was no hesitation from Yunho his hands gripping the sides of your face pulling you into a rough kiss. Neither of you broke the kiss as you backed your way to the door of your room, fumbling in your pockets for the key and only breaking away to unlock the door.

Once in the room Yunho moved his hands to your hair grabbing fistfuls as he guided you to one of the beds. The back of your knees hit the bed causing you to fall back taking Yunho with you, his hands were everywhere on you, endlessly roaming until he got brave sliding one hand under your shirt, one hand cupping your breast while the other held you down by your hip. You let out a small gasp against his lips as you started to feel his slowly start to grind against you sending electricity up your spine. You could already feel yourself melting into every touch you received, lust clouding your mind, you couldn’t help but let out small whimpers every time you felt the friction between you needing more. “Y...Yunho.” You lightly pant to him hardly breaking the kiss, he bit your lip lightly in response. “Yunho...get on with it...I need more.” This earned you a smirk in return as he broke away from your face and stopping all movement. “You decided to be a fucking tease earlier, consider this a lesson.” You furrow your brows at him bucking your hips to get some sort of friction back. Seeing you like this under him set of a lightbulb in his head, he was going to give you exactly what you wanted, just not in the way you imagined it.

His hands found his way to your shorts, pulling them from you along with your underwear at a painfully slow speed, you couldn’t help but let out small cries, begging for him to speed up. Once your lower half was bare and he’d taken in the sight of you already soaked, he brought his face back to yours as his fingers glided through your folds so lightly he was barely touching you. You gave out another small gasp finally thinking you’re getting somewhere. “Please Yunho.” You’re voice now whiny and desperate. His finger found your clit and started running excruciatingly slow circles, he was being such a tease, he knew how badly you wanted him right now but he was still pissed at you from the car, this was his revenge, he was going to rile you up to the point you’re endlessly begging for him. Your eyes pleading for more, tears pricking at the corners threatening to escape. Giving into you a little more he dips two fingers into you curling them ever so slightly hitting your sweet spot making you see stars. “R...Right there.” Your speech broken and almost inaudible. Not yet done with his torture he still continues the slow pace he’s had since the start. At this point you’re crying out for him practically screaming at him. “Go on beg for it, you look so pathetic like this, beg for it like the teasing little bitch you are.” He growls into your ear before giving it a harsh bite. “P...please Yunho...I...I’m sorry...I’ll be good...I promise...Just please.” Your pleads drove him crazy, turning him on more than anything in his life, your pleads were enough on their own to make him cum if you carried on, so he gave in, no warning, mercilessly pumping into you, curling his fingers at just the right time and using his thumb to run circles around your clit adding the perfect amount of pressure. You could feel yourself starting to come undone, your eyes rolling back as you felt the knot in your stomach quickly building, you were almost there, then...nothing.

“What the fuck Yunho.” You snap out of breath. “You really thought I was going to let you cum that easily?” A smirk covering his face feeling rather pleased with himself seeing the state you were in because of him, a begging, crying mess, finally even with you. He backed away from you slightly removing his clothes letting himself spring free from all of his confines. After following suit, removing what was left of your own clothes your eyes widened at the sight as you sat up to touch him only to be met with a hard shove as you fell back to the bed to watch him slowly crawl his way up to you. You couldn’t hold anything back anymore, you grabbed handfuls of his hair pulling him into you your lips lightly brushing past his and dotting kisses from his jaw down to his neck. The small groans that came from him were bitter sweet, you couldn’t get enough, you bit down lightly on his neck earning a small hiss from him as his fingers dug into your waist. Your bites got harsher as you combined them with small sucks and kisses, you weren’t going to stop until you left your mark on him in the form of a dark purple bruise. “Shit.” He groans into your ear clearly enjoying the slight pain, the whole situation got to his head and before you both know it he’s completely inside you, his hips connecting with the top of your thighs. Your actions completely stop as you let out a moan that seemed to bounce off all four walls and before you could go back to your mark your head is pulled back hard by your hair making you look into his eyes. “Do you see what you do to me? You piss me off so much looking the way you do, every time I see you I just want to turn you into my fuck toy.” Your nails dig into his arms at his words, the way he talked down to you drove you insane, he was so hot when he was like this and you’re sorry you didn’t think of teasing him sooner.

The next half an hour you were both moaning and grunting messes, taking in every inch of each other, no part left untouched as his harsh thrusts hit you in all the right places, the pull he had on your hair sending all new waves of pleasure through you and your nails clawing into his back as he ruined you he’d him mumbling curses into your ear followed by deep growls and breathy cries. The stars returning to your vision as you feel the knot once again build up in your stomach, his movements not faltering in the slightest bringing you closer and closer to the edge with every thrust. “Fuck...I’m..” You couldn’t even finish your sentence, your mind hazy as you were about to become undone. Yunho’s lips met yours once again. “Cum for me, I’m close too.” His low pants against your lips were enough to send you over the edge, your nails digging even harder into his back you were sure you left marks. Your orgasm hit you like a ton of bricks and the overstimulation quickly creeping up on you as he kept up his pace. “Y...Yunho...Too much.” You cried out now overly sensitive. “Just a while longer.” His hips finally losing their rhythm as his high washes over him. His head falls into the crook of your neck as he let out low growls riding out his own orgasm as you hold him close.

Once you had both slightly recovered he fell to the side of you, both of you panting and sweaty sticky messes, but neither of you cared, you were so fucked out all you could think about right now was sleep. Unexpected to you Yunho pulls you into him as he rests his forehead on your shoulder. “Yunho?” You started but was cut off by him shushing you. “Just shush, let me stay here.” You couldn’t help the smile that found it’s way to your face. Maybe Yunho wasn’t as bad as you thought.

The next morning you woke up still tangled in Yunho’s arms, for some reason it felt natural, like you’ve been waking up like this for years. You quickly check the time before rolling over to see him still asleep. You lightly tap his nose until he wakes up with a dazed look on his face. “Hmm? What?” His voice rough with sleep. “It’s time to get up.” You lightly sing to him still tapping his nose. “What time is it?” His eyes wander the room in search of the clock. “10am, we need to meet the guys downstairs in 45 minutes so come on.” You slowly get up and pat him on the side to follow.

Everyone was already in the lounge waiting for the two of you to appear, Jongho didn’t look too great, he was slumped in a chair, sunglasses on experiencing possibly the worst hangover he’ll ever have in his life. You and Yunho finally walk through the door and everyone quickly greets you while Hongjoong gets started on the plans for the day. While you’re listening to Hongjoong, Wooyoung is frantically slapping San’s arm. “What!?” San hisses quietly to Wooyoung. “Look!” Wooyoung’s eyes were wide as he pointed in Yunho’s direction, pointing out to San the dark purple hickey you’d left on Yunho’s neck the night before. San’s eyes widened in disbelief as he slowly turns back to Wooyoung. “See I fucking told you, sexual tension, I mean I didn’t think they’d fuck on the first night but who cares I won the bet.” He couldn’t hold in his excitement over free food for a month, he was jumping and giggling like a child while San stood there groaning at the younger. Wooyoung’s sudden jumping caught your attention as you look over in his direction making eye contact with him. He shot you knowing eyes wiggling his eyebrows at you as he darts his eyes between you and Yunho. You’d completely forgotten about the mark but you shot Wooyoung a wink in response as he lost his shit entirely.

#ateez #ateez scenarios #ateez smut #ateez hard hours #yunho #jeong yunho #ateez yunho #yunho scenarios #jeong yunho scenarios #yunho smut #jeong yunho smut #yunho hard hours #jeong yunho hard hours #hard hours #kpop #kpop scenarios #kpop smut #kpop hard hours

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slmnbagel · 7 years

Text

god i hate youtube

#why is everyone so eager to roast everyone all the time but at the same time refuse to acknowledge any criticisms and also #everyone is sucking pewdiepies dick constantly #talking #the only videos worth watching are vetranch saving stray animals :/

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kaaytea · 3 years

Note

How about being the manager of Inarizaki, Nekoma, Seijoh and Shiratorizawa and how the boys would feel when they finally finally get a manager? :0

New Manager

⤷Includes: Nekoma, Inarizaki, Seijoh, Shiratorizawa

A/n: I haven't written for the HQ boys in a hot minute so I was sUper hyped for this! Thank you for the request, dear 💕

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Nekoma

Nekoma has been manager-less for so long that literally the entire team was dumbfounded when they spotted you chilling next to Nekomata

Like hello??? Who are you and what are you doing in their gym???

There's a good few seconds of silence when Nekomata introduces you

Despite being cats, they greatly resembled their Fukurodani rivals as they blinked back at you with big curious eyes

That is until Yamamoto slumps to his knees and starts tearing up, blabbering on about how they've been blessed with a manager while a quiet Fukunaga pats his back in an almost humouring manner

Yamamoto's out burst is what loosens up the team and they start making their way to introduce themselves to you

The first is Kuroo, who approaches you with a welcoming smirk which was quickly followed by a gentle smile from Kai and a reassuring pat on the back from Yaku

The first years are VERY eager to meet you! Lev and Inouka are bouncing around you spewing out questions to the point where Yaku has to kick them both and send them off to warm up

Sweet Shibayama very nervously bows at you and thanks you for taking care of the team (what a baby 🤧💕)

The entire team absolutely loves you by the end of your first day (yes even the aloof creature that is Kenma, though he'll never admit it)

Nekoma's inner team dynamic is very familial and you're immediately sucked into the little family vibes they got going on

The first years love to be around you! (Specifically Lev bc you're not as mean to him as everyone else)

The first years are always volunteering to help you carry equipment or water bottles

You once caught one of the jokes Fukunaga muttered during practice so now the two of you bounce little puns and jokes off of eachother to see who can get the other to laugh first (he is currently winning. although, you got him to tear up from laughing so hard once which you've been counting as 10 wins)

The third years tend to mother hen you a bit, specifically Yaku and Kuroo

Kuroo made it very clear to you that you're apart of the team even if you don't play on the court, so as captain it's his job to make sure all his players are ok (mentally, physically, socially, you name it! He's always looking out for you and is basically your big brother)

You and Yaku bond over the fact that you're both the unofficial team moms. The two of you are very organized and have a whole ass check list that you BOTH go over at least twice before the team leaves for a game or training camp

Kai is like your calm in the storm that is Nekoma. The two of you have had numerous conversations about anything from books to cafés and he's always willing to lend an ear if you need to rant

Kenma is a fairly distant person but he warms up to you when he notices how caring you are. He even let's you play his DS on the train rides to and from Nekoma

Inarizaki

You're a brave soul if you are willingly becoming the manager of Inarizaki

Kita is actually the one who asked if you wanted to be the teams manager

He saw you cleaning the board in a classroom during lunch break and was impressed by how well of a job you did

It doesn't matter if you said yes out of fear from Kita's blank stare or because you were genuinely interested bc now you're standing in the volleyball gym, clad in Inarizaki's signature maroon tracksuit

The team notices you instantly, particularly a certain blonde Miya

Before Kita even got a chance to introduce you to everyone, Atsumu had wandered over to you with a lazy smile tugging at his lips

Atsumu introduced himself and then started asking what you were doing here

"Are ya lost?" "Ya here to admire me?" "Ya dating one of the players?"

You didn't get a chance to answer his questions as Osamu lovingly threw a Volleyball at Atsumu, cutting off any moment you had to respond

The only problem was that Atsumu noticed the volleyball rOcketing towards him and scrambled out of the way like a startled cat, leaving the ball to hit you instead of its intended target

The silence that hung over the gym was deafening as the younger team members watched Kita and Aran rush over to assist your now bloody nose

Just as quick as it had started, the silence was broken by Atsumu yelling at his brother for hitting a helpless person in the face and the gym quickly descended into madness

Aran held a towel to your nose and gave you a few encouraging pats on the back as the both of you watched Kita chew out the twins (safe to say Kita was hard on them during practice)

Osamu approached you during a water break to apologize and, to the surprise of the entire team, gave you the extra pudding he had as a peace offering

Since that incident Osamu and Atsumu stopped throwing volleyballs at each other's heads (at least when you were around that is)

The team is also surprisingly protective of you

The glares people get at tournaments if they try to flirt with you are terrifying

You become pretty close with Suna as the both of you tend to sit back and watch Atsumu and Osamu fight (you tried to step in once but they literally only respond to Kita so it didn't do much)

Suna also pats you on the head whenever he passes you

(it's something he does to his little sister to show some form of affection/appreciation and now he does it to you for the very same reasons)

This goes with out saying, but the twins love you

Osamu still feels bad about the whole hitting you in the face thing so he always shares any snacks he's got on him with you

Atsumu truly just likes being babied by you

Any ounce of praise or happy smiles directed at him has him acting like a puppy

(does 'Tsumu have a tiny crush on you? Yep he totally does!)

Kita and Aran are absolute sweethearts!! They are both very grateful for all the work you put in and treat you to boba every other week as a thank you :))

Seijoh

It was a new school year and you decided to push yourself out of your comfort zone a bit

What better way to do that then be a manager for a sports team!

Apparently one of your classmates let it slip that you were looking to be a manager for a sports team because you were approached by a very buff and very attractive guy a few days after asking if you'd be interested in helping the volleyball team

You happily agreed to do a trial day that afternoon, to which the player, who you now know as Iwaizumi-san, breathed a sigh of relief and said he'd pick you up after school to take you to the gym

So the school day is over, Iwaizumi meets you outside your classroom and you're off!

As you walk to the gym he fills you in on some of the tasks the manager would have to do

The job didn't sound that terrible so you were a bit confused as to why Iwaizumi was having such a hard time finding a manager

"Let's just say that the applicants were more interested in staring at our captain than the actual job." He had told you

Ok so first unofficial rule....don't stare at the Seijoh volleyball team's captain? A bit odd but who were you to judge, maybe the guy was shy and didn't like attention

Your thoughts were cut off by the crisp slap! Of a ball hitting the floor followed by a few short yells from the players littered across the court

Your attention was then caught by the sensation of someone draping their arm over your shoulders and a tangy apple smell invading your senses

"Oh? I didn't know you were dating someone, Iwa-chan~"

Iwaizumi shoved the brunette off of you and quickly explained that you were just here to test out being the manager for the day

The player's eyes lit up and he turned to you with a bubbly smile, introducing himself as Seijoh's captain, Oikawa Tooru

Ah, Captain.... Now you knew why they were having trouble finding someone who didn't stare

Your first day went fairly smooth, just a few blunders that were quickly forgotten by the team after Oikawa cheerfully told you: "Everyone has to start somewhere, (y/n)-chan!"

After the first week you had to admit that the Aoba Johsai volleyball team were quickly becoming some of your best friends, you all fit together like a dysfunctional family

Makki, Mattsun, and Iwa would always agree/praise you when you joined in one the daily Oikawa roast session

Oikawa (when he wasn't pouting about how "mean" you are to him) was fairly sweet to you

He spent the first month helping you learn the rules about volleyball and explaining the lingo the team often used during plays

Although, he does jokingly flirt with you about 40 thousand times a week so...

Kindaichi is a nervous wreak around you the first few weeks. Eventually his nervous demeanor melts away. Now he goes to you whenever he needs someone to toss the ball up for him so he can practice his spikes

Kunimi likes you simply because you let him get away with napping during water breaks

Kyotani acts like you annoy him but if anyone made you cry or hurt you in some way he would burn the entire gym down in a heartbeat

Did I mention that Seijoh are also very protective of you?

When at tournaments they travel in a small pack with you in the middle to reduce the chances of you getting hit on

Shiratorizawa

Shiratorizawa is a very nice and prestigious school so you thought why not participate in an extracurricular that would be beneficial for, not only your resume, but you yourself as well!

Out of all the clubs you chose volleyball which you're starting to regret a bit since one of your friends informed you that the team is a powerhouse school

Which means you can't make a bad impression or silly mistakes.....at all

That entire philosophy is thrown oUt the window on your second day as the official manager

You somehow managed to trip over your own feet and slam into a cart full of spare balls AND spill the water bottles you were carrying all over yourself

You were hoping that the team, by some miraculous reason, didn't notice but the stifled giggles from a certain red head said otherwise

You would give anything for the ground to just swallow you up and disappear forever

But then you saw a pair of gym shoes standing in front of you and when you looked up you were met with THE Ushijima Wakatoshi, captain and ace of shiratorizawa, offering you help to stand up

You hadn't seen Ushijima be more than a stoic and intimidating guy so you were even more surprised when he gave one of his spare shirts to change into now that you had spilt water on yourself

I guess you could say your little clumsy episode was what broke the ice for you and the team

Tendou loves talking with you

You're an interesting person to him and he finds great pleasure in teasing you (in his own words it's "out of love")

Ushijima ended up not being as intimidating as you originally pegged him to be. Instead, he was just a quiet guy who surprisingly could say some pretty funny things (whether or not he intended it to be funny)

Goshiki just loves you. Period.

You praise him and give him head pats so he couldn't be happier!

Tendou and Shirabu tease him all the time about how he has a case of puppy love for you (which Goshiki aggRessively denies no matter how red his face is)

Semi is someone who is grateful for your assistance with the team and does his very best to get Tendou out of your hair when you're trying to do your manager work. He also shares his headphones with you on long bus rides so you can listen to music together!

265 notes · View notes

sugar-petals · 3 years

Note

Have you seen the interview with indian hostess? The boys are all over her except for yoongi lmaoo I kinda wanna know your observation/ outlook analysis about it for each of the boys

saw it days ago and it's a flirting masterpiece (and very well-done interviewing technique), i knew someone would point it out here. and it’s true that body language hardly lies no matter how you wanna hide it ✍️

youtube

yoongi being yoongi, you could see he knew what was coming right away. smiled suspiciously, too, don’t worry. got some real tunnel vision at his turn. but, also wasn’t afraid to strike a serious tone and wanted to convey something deeper. also, did y’all notice he was at the edge of his seat? not as laid-back as usual 😉 sat even more still than ever at the end, suppressed reactions. we’ve seen yoongles thirst hard over fansign ladies but all in all, he focused on what she said, not her looks, polite man. also, damn he was he a tired zzzZ kitty that day. and didn’t realize what happened behind him lmao (new meme format).

hehe huhu, our confident jin threw the finger guns for especially long AND TWICE! he's tried very hard to conceal his smile but alas 2:20 exists. otherwise professional, drifted off a little at the end because i think his eyes hurt or he was tired as well, though unusually talkative for an interview, hmm. definitely fired out some flirt bombs. also, this right here happened:

so this sexy lady... passed every vibe check. smug and staring taehyung was finding sakshma very fascinating and delicious (lip licks everybody) and lost all his words at his turn 😂he even, slyly, did a kissy face twice right at her. dude, he was suddenly a HUGE mess of hormones. so eager and overactive, he pointed out which questions belong to whom before they could be translated. like "hey, everyone pay attention, like i do!" also, did the same gestures of every member whose turn it was and teased them like he did when hobi’s donation was a topic.

it’s another mochi meltdown for the books. typical libra man he is, jimin was literally gossiping to RM mid-interview (like, ‘did you just hear that?!’) and cried tears about all the compliments she was whipping out. they were all smiling hopelessly and roasted each other over their reactions though. bet a huge discussion fest broke out when the camera was off and jimin was the leader of it 😆the last row also zoned out like there he goes again! hilarious.

cheesy announcer joonie put lots of effort into his tangents. holy hell, the facts were raining down on her. wanted to make sense at all costs. that's why the compliment about him being articulate hit absolute home. clapped to himself to boost his confidence at his turn. definitely wanted to stay on top of the situation and go the extra mile. figured out exactly what she wanted to hear and how it should be said with the squinty eyes. 😋 typical moni move, very IQ.

hobi was alert and instantly responsive but didn't try to hype it up further cuz he knows when situations need energy and when not. i see his crossed arms and little head shakes as if he couldn’t believe what he heard. i think he wanted more distance in some way. but also, nervous fidgeting during yoongi’s turn big time. draped his coat like a million times. looked a lot an namjoon for support to do well. was more interested by the members acting up than sakshma herself imo.

jungkook massively lowered his voice (!!!), got shook, and wanted to articulate himself especially well lmao! hit the members who got the hindi phrase wrong 😄 took a few damn deep breaths while talking, too. did the cutest hand gestures — snap and clap and finger hearts— he always does that when flirting i swear, it’s always genuine and so unexpected, this guy is something else. giggled so nervously oh my god. verdict, he’s precious and i love him.

BONUS:

when i look at sakshma (and you thought i wouldn’t figure her out as well): she likes jin, and she like kookie. but oh boy, namjoon had the most effect on her. jungkook noticed. she was soooo impressed and focused on RM. touched her hair all the time. this lady literally looked at joonbug like this.

joonie stans, you have a new member.

#bts #bangtan #body language #bts analysis #ot7 #bts memes #bts reactions

149 notes · View notes

interlagosed · 3 years

Note

💦

[turned into something else, oops - somewhat nsfw below the cut]

This wasn’t the plan.

The plan had been to suss out the competition. “Carlos of Sainz” was the name on everyone’s lips, occasionally displacing Lando’s own, and it made his mouth curl. Lando had been training for this, every single fucking day, since he was too young to even heft a sword in his hands. He knew he had had eyes on him; some of the best knights in the realm had been eyeing him for a squireship. Sir Seidl had made no secret of his interest in Lando.

Then, suddenly, the Queen announced that Anglosaxon knights could take on squires from Hiberia under a new treaty, and vice versa. Fair enough; more knights with eyes on him, even if they weren’t the ones he’d grown up with. Still all heroes. And Lando craved the adventure.

What he hadn’t anticipated, hubristic as it was, was the competition that Hiberian squires would bring. More people to prove his worth against. Fine. Lando would be better than all of them. But for some reason, Carlos of fucking Sainz had monopolized all conversations. Some Hiberian with a pedigree to sustain him who didn’t need to be looking for an Anglosaxon knight. And yet.

So Lando had scowled and resolved to find this man for himself at the Yuletide Festival. He was appraising the courtyard, looking for someone who smacked of smugness and entitlement, when he heard from behind him:

“Squire Lando of Norris?”

Lando nearly jumped out of his skin. He was grateful for his training; it allowed him to calmly turn and face the stranger. His breath caught immediately.

He was beautiful. A few inches taller than Lando, his olive skin a wonder in the light of the bonfires, his hair - raven and thick - held back by a single thong. And his smile: broad, honest, maybe even a little shy.

“Yes, sirrah?” Lando forced out. The stranger chuckled.

“No, not even close. Just a squire myself,” he said, his accent making Lando’s spine tingle. “I apologize for interrupting-”

“You interrupt nothing.”

“I pray that be true. My masters have singled you out as the most promising of the Anglosaxon squires. I would be most grateful for your company, this eve, if you would be so kind as to spare the time.”

Lando should have said no. He should have insisted that he was, in fact, busy. But the squire (how could he be just a squire? Squires never looked like that in Anglosax) looked so eager, so earnest.

“No kindness on my part. I am happy to spare the time,” Lando said, smiling a lopsided smile.

The Hiberian squire grinned. “Are you partial to roasted chestnuts?”

“More than I ought to be.”

He laughed, and Lando cherished the sound more than he expected. “In that, Squire Lando, we are the same.”

“Just Lando.”

The smile grew bigger. Lando’s heart thrummed painfully. “Well, Just Lando, I am Just Carlos.”

Lando stared at him. His Etiquette and Chivalry master would have trounced him for the impropriety. “You’re Squire Carlos of Sainz?”

Carlos frowned, taken aback. He seemed self-conscious. “I- yes. Though I would dearly prefer just Carlos.”

“Why?” Lando asked, careless of the edge of demand in his tone. Carlos winced a little, then sighed.

“My father is the greatest knight in Hiberia. Perhaps in all the realms - begging your pardon.”

Lando waved a hand dismissively. A man ought to believe his parents to be the best. Carlos continued, “But I am not satisfied by that. I have no wish to succeed by any legacy that is not my own.”

“Why are you here?” Lando asked. Carlos eyed him. Then he smiled a little.

“To prove that I am the best because I am the best, and not because my father is. I would not live that distinction how I would wish to at home.”

Fuck.

“Well,” Lando said, taking a deep breath. “I have bad news.”

Carlos raised an eyebrow. It was an unreasonably attractive gesture. Lando continued:

“I am the best, here.”

Carlos grinned immediately. He leaned in towards Lando; Lando smelled patchouli, grass, earth. It was dizzying. It made him want. “Then I was correct in seeking you out. I would know well the man I must beat.”

“Then I look forward to a fruitful contest,” Lando said, and surprised himself by how much he meant it. Carlos smiled.

“As do I. But first, roasted chestnuts.”

Lando laughed and took Carlos’ proffered hand in a friendly, firm handshake. Carlos didn’t let go immediately; nor did he avert his gaze. So Lando didn’t either.

And when they tumbled into Lando’s bed together, ripping each other’s coats and tunic off, lips hot and desperate together, not nearly drunk enough on mulled wine and Yule, Lando savored getting to know this man he already knew would be a joy to compete against. That had not been the plan.

Lando told Carlos as much after, as they panted together. Carlos’ hand was still in Lando’s curls, a smile on his beautiful face.

“What was the plan?”

“Some sort of public humiliation, probably,” Lando said, thumb gently grazing Carlos’ nipple. Carlos made a soft noise. “I had hoped to be struck by inspiration in the moment. Mayhap challenge you to a friendly duel.”

Carlos grinned. “What if I had said no?”

“Then the dishonor would be yours, surely.”

“We can’t have that, eh?”

“We can’t. But,” Lando said, want mounting inside him again. He pulled Carlos back on top of himself. Carlos gazed down at him, his eyes alive with heat. “I would say I won our first duel.”

Carlos laughed richly, and Lando brought him down into a deep kiss. The idea of Carlos as competition didn’t seem nearly as abhorrent as it had before. Perhaps, Lando wondered as Carlos pushed into him, both squires moaning in unison, it would even be pleasurable to lose to Carlos.

But that was Yuletide silliness. And he hoped beyond hope that Carlos would stay past Yuletide.

Carlos did.

#carlando #carlando fic #hibi writes #carlando au #carlando fanfiction #hibi answers

41 notes · View notes

bwbatta · 4 years

Text

three - all bets on

Abstract: Draco and you are just friends so doing him a favour and pretending to be his girlfriend wouldn’t effect your friendship, right?

Pairing: Draco Malfoy x reader

Warnings: lil bit of swearing, lil bit of angst, lil bit of jealous Draco

Word count: 3825

A/N: GET READY (this ones a big boi) taglist for this series is still open and so is a permanent taglist for my other work (HP or not!), so let me know if you’re interested in any of them!

Series Masterlist | Main Masterlist

Part 2 | Part 4

“(Y/N)”

A voice whispered loudly from behind you, trying to get your attention as you tried to ignore it.

“Psst, (Y/N)... (Y/N)!”

You were doing a spectacular job of ignoring the whisperer who desperately was trying to get your attention, but your patience ran thin when a sharp pain ran through your back.

“Ow!” you hissed, turning around with your eyes blazing “Did you just stab me with your quill?!”

“...It was really more of a poke to be completely honest”

You shot an angry glare towards the red headed boy who now looked quite sheepish.

“What do you want, Ron?” You asked annoyed

He shared a look with Harry who sat next to him and both looked hesitant to say anything, which of course only made you more impatient.

“Well? Are you going to ask me a question because I’d rather like to get this finished so I can leave to get dinner”

“Have you shagged, Malfoy?”

“Ron!”

Both Harry and you looked at Ron with varying expressions, yours was complete shock and Harry’s was a mix of slight embarrassment and curiosity.

“No, I haven’t shagged him” you narrowed your eyes towards the pair. “And even if I had, it would be none of your business”

“Are you sure you’re not being forced into dating him?” Harry questioned with a concerned look “We can help you if you are!”

“While I appreciate the help you’d offer, the answer is no. I’m not being forced into dating him” you sent the pair a glare “I’m dating Draco because I really like him”

“Well that’s a lie,” Ron scoffed “no one likes Malfoy”

“Well, okay, I agree that’s true” you shrugged “I actually love him”

“What?!”

Turning back round to finish your work, you tried to conceal the smile on your face as the two boys started pestering you again, trying to get your attention when suddenly a note landed on your desk.

The note was folded like a bird, and had been obviously charmed to act as such, as it jumped around your desk like a small robin would do.

Curious, you opened it up and immediately a smile spread across your face as you read the message.

“(Y/N),

Can I copy down your notes later? If yes, I adore you. If no, what do I have to bargain with this time?

Also fancy dinner in the kitchens tonight? I’ve got an idea.

Draco

P.S pretend this is a cute love letter or something to piss Potter and Weasley off”

Your eyes shot over to the blonde who was already staring at you with a grin on his face.

You sent a smile of your own back, nodding to him, signalling he could copy your notes later. Thinking quickly, you also went one step further and blew him a kiss.

Draco’s cheeks blushed a little but the look he sent you could’ve melted you right where you sat.

If you hadn’t known any better, you would’ve described it as true heart eyes.

But you did know better.

He was just acting.

It also seemed to do the trick as Ron stabbed you in the back again with his quill, breaking your concentration from each other. You whirled around again with a glare in place.

“Stop stabbing me with your quill” you hissed

“Is that note from Malfoy?” Harry asked trying to get a look at it

“It might be”

“What does it say?” Ron questioned

“Why are you so curious? Jealous I’m getting love letters and you’re not?” you sent him a smirk

“So it’s a love letter?” Harry asked slight disgusted at the thought of you getting one from Malfoy.

“Yes, it is. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to get dinner with my boyfriend, who I love very much”

Picking up your books, you stuffed your papers inside your bag and stood up, making your way to the door where Draco was conveniently waiting.

The fact he was going to copy your notes later, meant as soon as he saw you pack up to leave, he jumped up, his own bag already packed, ready to join you down in the kitchens for dinner.

Harry and Ron sat watching you wander over to Draco with a grin on your face as he wrapped an arm around your shoulders, pressing a kiss to your temple to rile up the two Gryffindor boys.

“Ready to go?” your fake boyfriend asked you with a smile to which you nodded, eager for food away from prying eyes and curious questions.

The two of you made your way down to the kitchens, talking about what you were hungry for and before you knew it, a huge plate of a roast dinner was placed in front of you.

“Oh my,” you practically drooled “look how pretty this is”

“I hope you have the same reaction when you see me?” Draco joked

“Unless you suddenly turn into a plate of food, it’s a no, sorry honey”

“Maybe not a plate of food, but I am a snack”

You did not address the comment, only sent him an amused look which he smirked proudly at getting some sort of reaction from you.

The two of you dug into your meals, chatting about absolute nonsense gossip you’d heard throughout the day. Apparently you’d missed Seamus Finnegan blowing up not only his own water goblet, but the rest of Gryffindor table’s, trying to turn it into Firewhiskey when you were in the Library.

Through a mouthful of roast potato, you suddenly made an exclamation like you’d suddenly remembered something, catching the blonde boy’s attention.

“Yes?” he asked amused at you trying to swallow your food quick enough to say something before you forgot your thought process.

“What was your idea you mentioned earlier?” you finally managed to ask. “The one you mentioned in your note?”

“Ahh” he began as he set down his knife and fork “I have an idea about something we can do to make people believe we’re a couple more?”

“Go on?” You asked curious, taking another bite of your food

“We could make out?”

Well, you didn’t expect that.

And the fact you were now choking on your mouthful, showed that perfectly well.

Draco patted your back as you trying to regain your breath. Finally able to swallow your food, you took a gulp of water to clear your mouth.

“Sorry” you muttered

“No worries, if I knew you were going to react like that I would’ve prepared you” he grinned at your embarrassment.

“Piss off”

You rolled your eyes at him before locking his gaze with your own unamused look.

“So?” He pressed

“Um... yeah, I guess that could work”

You fiddled with your sleeve as you tried to pull off an unbothered expression, when all you could now think about in your head was the fact you’d be kissing your best friend.

“Right?! That’s what I was thinking! No one would be able to deny we weren’t dating after we’d kiss in the Great Hall or something where everyone could see.”

“Yeah” you collected yourself and yanked yourself back into your confident persona “I mean, go big or go home right?! All bets on.”

“Exactly” he nodded in agreement “We do this and everyone will believe it”

You mirrored his nod and shot him a smile, hiding your nervousness immaculately. If there was one thing you could do, it was hide your true emotions.

“Yeah... everyone”

“Hey, when’s the potions essay due again?”

“Tomorrow”

“...Shit”

Hermione gave you an unamused stare as you sat across from her in the Gryffindor common room.

The witch had made you promise to study with her for the test Flitwick had set for charms, especially since neither Harry nor Ron felt it urgent to do so.

“Don’t tell me you forgot about it?!”

“Nope, it was totally intentional for me to leave an entire essay due to do the night before” you shrugged sarcastically causing Hermione to send you another of her stares.

To be completely honest, you probably would’ve done it last night if Draco hadn’t taken you to the kitchens for dinner. You two ended up staying there for the rest of the evening, partly for the instant snacks from the house elves, partly because you two just enjoyed each others company more than anyone else. You had to admit though, the pumpkin pasties were worth it.

“Well don’t come running to me for help when you need it” Hermione miffs “I told you to get it done as soon as it was set otherwise you’ll forget it, and look what’s happened? You’ve-”

“Forgotten it, yes okay, thank you. You getting a good view up there from your high horse?!”

“Don’t be silly”

Hermione went to say something else but was interrupted.

“Hey, (Y/N)”

Lee Jordan smiled at you effortlessly as you sent him a smile back, slightly confused as to why he was there in the first place. He looked slightly nervous when you looked closer, his fingers playing with the edge of his sleeve.

“Hi, Lee. You alright?”

“Yeah, I actually wanted to ask you something, if you’re not busy?”

“Go ahead, I’m not doing anything interesting”

An annoyed scoff from the witch sitting opposite you said different.

Lee’s eyes flicked between the two of you before they settled back on you.

“I actually wanted to ask you if you wanted to go to the next Hogsmeade weekend with me?”

You were confused. Surely everyone, especially Lee because of the twins, knew you were going out with Draco. It had been all anyone had asked you about for the past week.

“Um... I actually was going to go with Draco” you told him slowly “You know, my boyfriend?”

“Yeah but that’s not actually true is it?!” Lee laughed a little like the idea was preposterous. “I mean come on, you don’t actually like the guy, right?”

You bristled slightly at the way Lee spoke about Draco. Sure, the boy was an wanker to most of the Gryffindors, if not all of them, but he wasn’t a truly bad person.

Most of the way he acts is down to how he was raised by his parents, and after meeting Lucius one summer, you could understand why.

“Nope, I actually love the guy, which is part of the reason why I’m his girlfriend”

“You love him?!” Hermione jumped in, just as surprised as Lee

The tone Hermione used also didn’t sit right with you

“Yep, we’re super in love” you grinned at her unfazed, not showing any hesitation about the subject. “So as nice as your offer is, Lee, I’ll have to turn it down, sorry”

The boy looked taken aback as if he thought you wouldn’t turn him down.

“Right, well, okay. Sorry to bother you” Lee smiled at you which you returned before he walked away.

You were still slightly shocked that Lee had just asked you out, when it was pretty much common knowledge for everyone in the castle, that you were in a relationship.

It solidified the point that Draco and you needed to make it more convincing though.

Nonetheless you turned back to your study notes, hoping to put this from your mind, but before any more studying could be done, the notes were snatched away.

“Nope, you’re not doing anything else until you tell me what’s really going on”

Laughing slightly you rolled your eyes at the dramatics of your friend.

“Really?!”

“Really! And despite the fact you somehow think I’m stupid-”

“You’re far from stupid, Mione-”

“Shhh” she actually shushed you as you interrupted her causing you to snort under your breath. “You really didn’t think I wouldn’t pick up on how Malfoy just so happens to not make any more insulting comments towards me?”

“Like I’ve told you before, he’s not a bad person and it’s not a huge change-”

“Yes it is!”

You stilled slightly at the conviction in her voice, words dying on your tongue before you could even utter them.

“He used to call me a mudblood every time we were in the same room, (Y/N). Now he nods to me and actually acts like I’m not some piece of dirt on his shoe? Somethings up.”

You never thought the dynamic between the two was really that bad, so you found yourself not really knowing what to say. Hermione continued regardless of your silence.

“I know you don’t know how much he used to insult me, or torment me because regardless of anything, the boy absolutely adores you so much so he would bite his tongue whenever you were in the room. Though now he’s actively going out of his way to be civil with me, even when you’re not around? I don’t trust it.”

Again, you were at a loss for words. But overwhelmingly you felt like a terrible friend.

“Hermione... I didn’t know it was that bad between you”

“Well it is, or was” she shook her head as if to centre her thoughts. “Look, fine, don’t tell me what’s going on, just promise me you’ll be careful.”

“Careful of what?” you asked confused as to what she was talking about now.

Sighing heavily, Hermione grabbed her books and started to pile them up. Standing up she paused, letting her eyes rest on you as you could tell she was debating what to say to you.

“Just be careful you don’t get caught up in whatever game you’re playing too much”

With that being said, the witch turned and headed towards the Gryffindor girl’s dormitories, no more words said between the two of you. The ones last said being enough to linger in your head.

“Hey, Sweetheart”

You were surprised for a second which showed on your face before you quickly gathered yourself and sent a dazzling smile back to the blonde who had sat down next to you.

Hermione’s words had been on your mind since the previous night, enough to distract you as you were up, attempting to write your essay in the small hours of the night. You were exhausted, but somehow seeing Draco had made you feel just that little bit better.

“Morning” you replied, blushing slightly as Draco pressed a kiss to your temple (which was now becoming a normal thing for him to do), and wrapped an arm around your shoulder.

“You two are awfully cosy this morning” Blaise remarked as he took the seat opposite.

“What, am I not allowed to sit with my girlfriend for breakfast and show her some affection?!” Draco asked whilst grabbing a few slices of bacon from the buffet in front of him.

“Never said you weren’t” Blaise rolled his eyes at his best mate “just that you guys are disgustingly close”

“Aww thanks Blaise” you smiled at him innocently, clutching your coffee mug close to your chest, as he shot you a look which made you chuckle.

Pulling you closer to him, Draco leaned down to your ear to stage whisper loud enough so the boy opposite could hear.

“Don’t worry about him, he’s just jealous he’s single and doesn’t have someone to kiss in the morning”

“Alright, piss off you two. If (Y/N) wanted to go out with anyone I had hoped it would’ve been me, but I’ll live” Blaise joked as you chuckled along with him.

Draco sent his friend an amused look.

“Stop hitting on my girl, Zabini”

“Yeah yeah, I’m just joking” the wizard rolled his eyes at the Malfoy boy as the two of you shared a chuckle. This was until a prominent thought popped into your head.

“Oh, guess what happened last night?” you asked the blonde wizard who sent you an inquisitive glance as he took a bite out of a slice of toast. “Lee Jordan asked me out.”

At once, Draco’s face dropped it’s curious expression to form one of annoyance and agitation.

“What?!” he practically hissed. “Does he not know you have a boyfriend?”

“Apparently, he thought it was a joke” you told him, eyes quickly assessing his reaction.

Leaning into you and pressing his forehead to your temple, it would’ve looked couple-y to anyone else but it just meant he could whisper to you so no one else would hear.

“What did you say?” he whispered

“I said that I was your girlfriend” you whispered back, playing with his fingers of the hand wrapped around your shoulder. “I let him know I was taken, don’t worry.”

“But I am worrying (Y/N), he doesn’t know it’s a joke!”

“...Are you jealous? Offended someone else asked me out?”

“No! I just don’t like people asking out my girlfriend”

You turned your head so both your foreheads rested together. Resting your hand on his cheek, your thumb brushed over his cheekbone as his gaze met yours.

“I’m yours okay... for however long you want me to be your fake girlfriend” you caught yourself with an awkward chuckle. “I’m all in.”

Draco felt a smile creep up on his lips and he could help but take you in. You had this calming aura around you, which he felt like was almost soothing his soul just being next to you.

He found it addicting.

A cough from opposite the table caught your attention and both your eyes snapped over to Blaise how pointedly looked towards the entrance of the Great Hall.

Catching sight of Pansy entering the hall, eyes darting round, no doubt looking for the blonde boy next to you, you couldn’t help the noise of irritation which left your lips.

Draco smiled at the sound, enjoying the fact you were as annoyed as him when it came to the girl. He pulled you closer to him, slotting you under his arm as you wrapped your own arm around his waist in turn tucking yourself into his side.

“Bitch incoming” you muttered under your breath

Draco snorted under his breath before rolling his eyes at the smile Pansy sent him as she wandered over to the three of you.

“Oh Merlin” Blaise groaned as she took the seat next to him, opposite from you.

“Hi guys”

“Is there some reason you’re sitting with us?” you found yourself asking as the girl shot you a snide glare.

“I just wanted to sit with my friends, is that such a crime?”

“What friends?” Blaise muttered loud enough for everyone present to hear.

“Pansy, we’d rather eat without your face putting us off our food” Draco shrugged.

Pansy eyed the arm holding you securely to him with a look of envy and disgust, like it was disturbing her immensely.

“Oh Drakey, don’t be mean, where else am I meant to go?!”

“If you ask nicely, the pound might take you back” you joked which earned you amused snorts from both boys.

Any expression on her face, which was put on for politeness, dropped instantly and Pansy glared at you like looks could kill.

“So first you steal my boyfriend and then you insult me?”

“I wasn’t your boyfriend, I will never be your boyfriend” Draco sighed like the topic was getting old.

“And then,” Pansy continued, completely disregarding the Malfoy boy’s comment, “you think you can just play around with a rumour that you two are together, and everyone’s just going to believe it? Come on, I haven’t even seen you two kiss. This little act you’re putting on might just ruin that friendship of yours.”

There was no doubt about it, Pansy Parkinson was jealous, vengeful and relentless.

You knew convincing her would be the biggest problem of this whole plan but that’s exactly what you needed to do; convince her.

With this in mind, you sat up straight and looked her dead in the eyes.

“You don’t believe us because we haven’t kissed in front of you?”

“I think the fact that you two haven’t kissed in front of anyone proves you’re just faking it” she shrugged.

“So you want proof?” Draco asked with a scoff “That I would choose (Y/N), a decent, good human being, over you, to be in a relationship with?”

Pansy pulled an expression like her question was obvious.

“Alright, how’s this for proof?”

The arm wrapped around your shoulder changed and Draco cupped your face in the palm of his hand.

Brushing back a lock of your hair with the other hand, he took a brief moment to study your face, thumb rubbing softly on your cheekbone. Your eyes met his and the same determination was reflected within your own eyes at how much you wanted to show this bitch, that the boy now looking at you like you hung the stars in the sky, was yours.

Leaning down, Draco’s eyes never left yours, looking for any uncertainty, but found none. This gave him the confidence he needed and before you knew it, his lips were on yours.

You were certain your brain short circuited.

His lips were soft but determined, as the kiss you shared started slow, almost finding comfort in each other, before his other hand rose to cup the other side of your face.

That was when your heart really skipped a beat.

It was like a fire was burning in your chest, almost painfully as you put everything you had into this kiss with Draco, and everything around you drowned out except for the boy in front of you.

He was addicting.

Draco however, could hardly express how right this kiss felt.

He really hadn’t expected how your lips would’ve felt until he met them, yet this was better than he could’ve ever predicted. You were all consuming, you were perfect, you were everything.

Holding your face between his hands like you were the most delicate thing, he just sunk into the feeling of kissing you. It was almost like finding something he had been missing.

Like he had been missing kissing you.

Pulling back after what felt like forever, when it could’ve only been seconds? Minutes? Draco wasn’t sure. Time had completely escaped him.

His eyes met yours and it was like the two of you were lost in each other.

The fact that the two of you were so wrapped up in each other, you didn’t see how whispers spread through the Great Hall and soon everyone was watching the pair of you.

You didn’t see how the golden trio shared a look between the three of them, each concerned about you, and how wrapped up you were in Draco.

You didn’t see how Fred handed George five galleons, an obvious bet having been made between the two of them.

You didn’t notice how Pansy, filled with envy and rage, left the Hall in a strop, Blaise’s amused gaze following her.

You did however, notice how easy it was to get lost in the blonde wizard.

Especially his lips, and the way he whispered three words against them, not breaking eye contact with you.

“I’m all in.”

Series Taglist: (If you’re in bold I’m unable to tag you for some reason, sorry!)

@weasleytwinswheezes @azkabanlexi @streetfighterrichie @queen-of-the-coven @gdee703 @thatguppienamedbae @crumpets-are-better-with-jam @savcks @remmyswritings @thescarletknight2014 @w0nderr @heyiheardyouwereawildone36 @moonlightorbit @ceeellewrites @nicole-prz @depressedchilipepper @swiftlymoniquesblog @soshitan @pastel-skyline @sokkasdarling @thatdumbbitchxx @emmamarie7708 @idkatee @malfovs @fadesbrina @slytherinxraven @purplewcrld @lauren-100 @lulbabes @s4dthrills @dracoswhore007 @parkeroffline @lord-byron @its-chickenwing-450 @hales-a-bells @loonyslytherin

Draco Taglist:

@torchwoodoctor @crouchless @coldheartedslytherin @a-coffee-bean @ochrythum

#draco malfoy imagine #draco malfoy x reader #draco malfoy #draco malfoy x you #draco malfoy headcanon #draco x reader #draco imagine #Harry Potter x reader #harry potter imagines #harry potter headcanon #Harry Potter #harry potter series #dating draco malfoy #fake dating draco #hogwarts #harry potter imagine #malfoy x reader

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just-absolutely-super · 3 years

Note

i keep laughing imagining Al showing up to the Xingese Court and being like "hi Ling!" and all the courtiers are like "GASP" bc that is NOT how you greet His Imperial Majesty the Emperor, Son of Heaven and Lord of Ten Thousand Years. Ling finds it hysterical tho. And if /Ed/ ever shows up to the court... oh boy fgfghfjfh

Welp, I just couldn’t help myself so have little ficlets of Al and Ed individually meeting up with Ling and his court

----

Al shows up to the court, sunshine personality showing into his large smile as we waves enthusiastically at the emperor, “Hi Ling!”

The crowd gasps. How dare this stranger, this foreigner be so casual to their lord! He should be punished for his insolence—

“Al!” Ling cheers as he flings himself off of the throne and rushes to the blonde boy’s side, “How’s it going buddy?”

The court stares in shock and awe. Emperor Ling hugs this foreign boy like he’s a close brother. They chat animatedly. Even his bodyguard Lan Fan goes to the boy to speak casually and politely.

Their shock is amplified as Princess May Chang comes into the room, latching herself onto this “Al,” much to the boy’s embarrassment. Are they an item? Is he Princess Chang’s “prince consort”?

No one says anything, too afraid an outburst would offend their majesty and princess. They just sit back quietly and watch the exchange between foreigner and royalty.

Al is none the wiser that he was almost beheaded where he stood.

——

“Yo, Emperor Freeloader, where’s my feast at?!”

The court gasps dramatically as the doors are kicked inward to reveal a golden haired man. He scowls as he stomps rudely to the throne to exchange words with their Emperor. Everyone is offended on their majesty’s behalf. The guards prepare their weapons--

Only to be thoroughly confused by the jovial laughter coming from Emperor Ling’s mouth.

“Edward! Good to see you, brother! How’s the family?”

The two converse, bickering and bantering like old friends would. The court is baffled. Why would their most prestige lord know someone so...so...uncouth?!

The guards turn to the emperor’s bodyguard, in need of guidance. Should they apprehend the foreigner or not? Lan Fan’s response is to roll her eyes and motion for them to stand down........for now.

As if remembering where he’s at, Emperor Ling wheels around, an arm around the golden haired man’s shoulder as he excitedly proclaims, “This is Edward Elric, the man who saved your emperor’s life during the perilous journey to obtain the Philosopher’s Stone!"

“Eh it was nothin’.“ Edward chimes in a rather bored manner. The court sneers at him in return.

“He deserves to be put into our history books as the man who fed me when I was hungry!”

This gathers the court’s attention as they were now on the edge of their seat. This brash young man saved their lord and majesty?! Pray tell what could he have done?!

Lan Fan holds her palm over her face. Ed does the same.

“Ling, please, not that story! I thought you were kidding--”

“Oh don’t be so modest!” Ling said, though anyone who knew him well could see his face had taken on a mischievous look to it. Oh yeah, Ed was definitely gonna kick his ass later...

“What did he do to feed you, my Lord?” an eager member of Ling’s court inquires. “A roasted duck? Plump fruit from the mightiest of trees? A large loaf of bread baked fresh from the oven?”

Ed blinks at the court in disbelief. Where the hell did they come up with that crap? Did everyone in Xing think of nothing but food?

“Nope!” Ling denies, his voice deepening fro dramatic flair, “Due to the lack of resources of our location which I will not disclose at this time, we were out of luck on more...healthier choices.”

“Here it comes...” Ed mutters.

“Just like a charitable man would give a homeless person the clothes off his back, Edward Elric of Amestris fed the next Emporer of Xing something off his own person...his own leather boot!”

When Winry finally enters the throne room minutes later in search of her husband, she would be shocked to see the court had lifted a very annoyed Edward into the air, cheering their praises while the Emporer himself rolled onto the floor in laughter.

The Fullmetal Alchemist would, indeed, be known a legend and a hero in Xingese history books.

#anon #responses #my writing #i'm sorry did you say you wanted a fanfic of the two brothers coming to visit ling? no? okay have it anyway #ed's is longer because i couldn't help it #i NEEDED to reference the stupid boot and him being in history books XD #originally the xingese people were going to be behead ed for being...well ed but nah it didn't turn out that way #fma #edward elric #alphonse elric #ling yao

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philliamwrites · 4 years

Text

The Dawn Will Come [Chpt.3]

Fandom: Fire Emblem Three Houses

Pairing: Dimitri x Reader, Claude x Reader, Edelgard x Reader, Yuri x Reader, Edelgard x Byleth, lots of minor pairings

Tags: #gn reader, # platonic love byleth & reader, #reader is a tactical unit, #angst, #slow burn, #subplots, #unreliable narrator, #pining, #remporary amnesia, #reluctant herp, #canon divergence, #lost twin au, #many chapters, #original content

Words: 7.7k

Summary: Waking up in a forest without any knowledge of your past and who you are, you join the house leaders of the Officers Academy to search for a way to return your memories. Unfortunately, the church has different plans for you, and Fate places you in the centre of a cruel game with deadly stakes. It certainly doesn’t help to fall in love with a house leader who is doomed to be your demise.

Notes: Chapter 2 | Chapter 4

Chapter 03: Ties That Bind

Where war, and joy, and terror Have all at times held away; Where both delight and horror Have had their fitful day.

The happiest under heaven A king of powerful mind; A company so proven Would now be hard to find

Gawain put on a good cheer. ‘Why should I hesitate?’ He said. ‘Kind or severe, We must engage our Fate.’

[Sir Gawain and the Green Knight]

„Breathe,“ Hanneman says for the third time. At every tap of his pen against the table, you flinch as if someone is knocking right against the inside of your skull. “You have to feel the Crest, become one with it. Don’t think of it as an addition; see it as an extension of your very self.”

You exhale but it’s hard to focus after you’ve been sitting in the same position for nearly two hours and your legs keep falling asleep.

“Focus on it,” Hanneman continues. He starts to gesture with his free hand, an indicator that he’s just as frustrated with your lack of progress as you are. “Focus on the feeling that took hold of you when you fought the bandits. Imagine what you want. Ask yourself what it is you really want, and take hold of that picture.”

Well, first of all, you really want a sandwich.

For the past few weeks, you’ve been waking up before sunrise to attend private lessons with Hanneman to get a hold of your Crest’s power. Now the end of the month approaches, and still your body refuses to get accustomed to work at such an early hour, and more importantly without eating first. An hour ago, your stomach started growling, but Professor Hanneman has proved again and again to be very successful in ignoring factors that disturb his lessons. You continue breathing through what you consider hunger pains instead of the raise of new powers, but with the sound of screaming students outside and the occasional flapping of wings as Pegasus Knights fly by on their patrol, it’s anything but successful.

“Focus!” Hanneman chides again as if he can read your mind and knows exactly you’re thinking of the pheasant roast with berry sauce on the menu today.

“I’m trying,” you groan and slump into the chair, defeated. “But I don’t feel anything.”

“Hmm hmmm,” Hanneman hums and looks at you like you were supposed to understand what he’s conveying with that sound. “Maybe we’re looking at it the wrong way,” he says once you don’t follow up on his inexplicable sound. “Maybe we should stop thinking of it as a common Crest, but approach it like it is something entirely different.” He quickly notes something on his paper, then proceeds to flip through the open books he’s splayed out on his desk. “There is so little we know about the Crest of the Herald. I am much frustrated no one thought of studying it a thousand years ago!”

“I don’t understand. How can it be different?” Your first lesson solely focused on Crests. How they are thought to be power incarnate, bestowed upon humans by the Goddess countless ages ago. Today those who are descendants of Fódlan’s Ten Elites and Four Saints, who fought during the War of Heroes beside Saint Seiros, wear Crests, a sign of wealth and nobility.

“Well, one possible explanation could be that for whatever reason, the first Herald was different from his fellow warriors, the Ten Elites,” Hanneman offers, leaning back into his chair and looking a lot more interested in the conversation now. “The Goddess must have found him worthy of her power just as she found Saint Seiros worthy.”

“Then why wasn’t he a Saint?” you wonder. From your understanding, the Four Saints were special comrades of Saint Seiros, just as guided by the Goddess as their leader. What had made the Herald from back then different? “According to everything you told me, he sounds a lot like this Macuil person. Focusing on strategy and all that.”

“Saint Macuil,” Hanneman corrects you, but there’s no bite in his voice. “And yes, perhaps he was akin to the Saints, but that clearly wasn’t what determined the final decision to name him Herald.”

“Well, that’s just my kind of luck,” you mumble, but when Hanneman makes a puzzled sound, you ask instead, “And you’re sure I’m a descendant of him?”

“Most likely! You bear a Major Crest, which means the Herald’s blood runs strong in your body. After he disappeared, he might have settled down and started a family. Unfortunately, nothing is recorded about him after the War of Heroes concluded.”

“Then how come there was no one else in a thousand years who bore the same Crest?” You aren’t sure you fully understand how they work. Apparently, Crests grant special powers to those who hold them such as high aptitude for magic or enhanced strength. But you know better than anyone that the Crest of the Herald is special. It doesn’t simply give you a boon, it allows you to command the flow of battle. But is it really a blessing bestowed by the Goddess? You don’t remember a divine revelation or talking to a Goddess. Or did that maybe occur even before you were found by the Officers Academy’s students? Before your memory loss? You certainly don’t feel chosen by a deity.

“Trying to explain the Goddess’ whims would wield about the same result as asking this question,” Hanneman says. “Sometimes a Crest may skip generations. No one can say with certainty who will be chosen. If it will be the first or third born. That is why we must further study Crests! For example, why, unlike other Crests, has your appeared physically visible?” Hanneman mutters more questions under his breath and notes them quickly on his paper. It’s remarkable how enthusiastic he approaches the topic if it only didn’t make you feel like an experiment lying on a dissection table.

“I want to know so much more about the first Herald,” you mumble. “What was his name? Where was he from?” Why did he disappear and what were the costs he had paid for such a title. Only one month in and Lady Rhea already granted you an impressive room to reside. People treat you with respect and admiration even though you aren’t doing much besides wave at them on the streets or hold some conversations. If being the Herald only encompasses these tasks, you’ll gladly take on the role and speak to people. But that would be a dream too good to be true.

“We can only speculate,” Hanneman says. “Some believe the Herald came when Seiros needed him most. Our Goddess’ answer to her cry of help. Others believe he was simply a general who originated form a farmer’s family. Other, smaller sources talk about a prince from a far off land who passed through Fódlan and decided to stay. But in all cases, the Herald was a great asset to win the War of Heroes and save Fódlan from the tyranny of the Fell King.”

“Yeah, no pressure there,” you mumble, sinking further into your seat. Hopefully no one expects you to save Fódlan from evil monarchs. If yes, it certainly won’t happen on an empty stomach. When Hanneman releases you, there’s only one place for you to be. The Dining Hall is crowded at this time of hour. Students and faculty bustle everywhere, eager to get their favourite meal on a plate. Just like them, you are drawn in by the amazing smell of roasted meet and freshly baked pastries.

The only thing you can live without is how once you enter the room several heads turn in your direction, and a ripple of “Look, it’s the Herald” goes through the crowd, spreading like a wave. Or a disease, you think with a sour taste in your mouth as you move through the parting sea. They want you to acknowledge them but Goddess forbid you actually engage in conversation with them and they flee like you’re the Herald of Pest.

“Herald!” Well, not everyone escapes. Some seem to like living dangerous.

Edelgard looks straight at you from between the other students from the Eagle class sitting at a table, removing any doubt she means anyone else but you. Running from her would be a sign of defeat, so you drag yourself over to the Eagle table and give the round an uncertain smile. “Hello.”

“Herald, if you have time, please sit with us,” Edelgard offers but the look she pins on you doesn't give you any choice. The silence of her classmates speaks louder than words, and a quick glance to Hubert tells you that he very much would like for you to notsit with them.

“Sure,” you say lamely and sit opposite from her where Bernadetta quickly shuffles to the side to make room, and then further down the bench until she jumps to her feet and flees from the hall. It’s a miracle she’s out of her chambers in the first place, undoubtedly Byleth’s work.

“Did you manage any progress with Professor Hanneman?” Edelgard asks, carefully cutting her pheasant roast into small bite-sized pieces. She looks the complete opposite from someone capable of hacking away their enemies but you wouldn’t dare to underestimate her.

“It’s slow,” you admit, solely focusing on shoving potatoes from one side of your plate to the other so you don’t have to look at anyone. “I’ve only grasped the basics of how Crests work and the Herald’s is so different.”

“Research might prove more fruitful if you’d be called into action,” she says, and it’s difficult to determine if that statement is a simple observation or underlying critique towards Rhea’s decision to leave you out of the major education system. At least that’s something you’re sure of. Edelgard is difficult.

“Maybe. But chances are higher I get myself killed somehow on the battlefield.” You’re already dreading the approaching noon hours. Byleth has worked out a special training programme for you and the house leaders. So far there hasn’t been a day without aching muscles and bruises for you. Thinking of Byleth, you can’t help but ask, “So how’s Byleth as a Professor?”

Edelgard considers her plate with mild interest, but her index fingers start tapping against her cutlery. She has small, delicate hands. Cute hands. You gawk at them for two seconds before noticing Hubert starring daggers at you, and quickly avert your eyes to your cup of ginger tea like it’s the most fascinating thing in the world.

“Our professor shows knowledge in the most curious things,” he says, surprising you by joining the conversation. “I think the Adrestian Empire will benefit greatly from that.”

You aren’t sure how leading the class correlates directly to joining the Empire, but you don’t want to point that out. Hubert is still too much of a puzzle you’re adamant on not piecing together because whatever picture waits for you after the assembly might be one of horror.

“She really is one to look up to,” Edelgard agrees, but she isn’t looking at anyone, so it seems she’s saying it more to herself. You want to try and read more out of her expression, but distraction comes quickly in form of more students from the Eagle class. Caspar is the first bouncing excitedly towards the table, and still he somehow miraculously manages to keep his food from flying everywhere. “Herald!” he calls and slides right on the seat right next to you. “How’s the head situation going?”

“Caspar,” Linhardt chides and gives his friend the disappointed look of a parent that can’t bring his child to use a fork to eat. “Would you stop pestering the Herald with the same question every day?”

Linhardt hits the mark. It was nice in the beginning to have someone show so much interest in your wellbeing, but now you don’t know if the daily reminder how you fail to regain pieces of your past is rude or just Caspar’s naive politeness.

“Yeah well.” You try to stuff as much potatoes in your mouth as possible just to avoid talking about it. “Nothin’ yeff.”

“Herald, please try to keep your manners in check, will you?” Ferdinand comments because of course he catches you with your mouth full and sauce dripping from the corners. Unlucky for him, you don’t really care.

“Well, sorry.” Caspar frowns and scratches the remains from his plate. The two minutes you needed to finish your potatoes, he’s cleared his whole plate. “I just thought it might help.”

“Help to be reminded what’s missing?” Linhardt doesn’t look convinced. “I think the Herald knows so better than anyone.”

“Guys, drop the subject,” Edelgard intervenes. “Let us finish our meals now. Classes resume presently and I don’t want to hear any stomachs growling, understood?” The last part goes with a pointed look towards Linhardt, who answers with a lazy shrug while continuing to poke at his food, looking bored out of his mind. It lasts about three seconds before he brightens up and turns towards you while rummaging through his school bag. From that, he pulls out notes and a pen, and unceremoniously shoves them into your hands. “I have a question, Herald. Would you be so kind and look over these strategic proposals I’ve developed from the last lesson? I understand what you taught us were basics as we find them in the library. I simply took the time and applied those to the strengths and abilities of my classmates.”

You raise your eyebrows. “You did?” Up until now, you didn’t know Linhardt was paying attention whenever you gave the students your sorry excuses of lessons. You feel like you’ve seen him asleep far more than actually looking at the board or writing, so him presenting his notes to you now is more than a surprise. He has a clean handwriting, small letters that curl into themselves and forget to take a break between words. You squint at the sentences, trying to make them out. It sure doesn’t help that half of it is crossed out by what looks like a strategy sketch with little circles and everyone’s names filling out the space.

“This looks … elaborate,” you comment, unsure if you’ll ever be able to solve this enigma.

“No worries.” Linhardt gives a little smile. “Please give me your answer report until tomorrow. And feel free to correct me on anything I’ve done wrong.”

He’s probably done a much better job than you on your lesson notes, but you nod with a lopsided smile. “I will.”

“Oh, and while we’re at strategy talk,” Caspar jumps right in, “any good ideas how to take on a taller opponent?”

“A good kick to their shins?” you suggest.

“A dagger to their liver?” Edelgard says.

“Poison in their cup?” Hubert offers.

“You’re all animals,” Ferdinand says.

Linhardt groans. “I toldyou how to win in a fight like that, Caspar. Why won’t you listen to me?”

You don’t want to be part of the argument breaking out between them, so you turn away and try to see what the other students are doing in the dining hall. At the opposite end, Claude catches your eyes and waves like he’s been waiting way too long to finally get your attention. He points at Edelgard and flaps his arms like a chicken. He points at you and spreads his hands behind his head, forming antlers with his fingers. When Edelgard follows your eyes, his head whips around and he pretends to agree with whatever Lysithea just said.

“I hope you forgive Caspar’s enquiries,” she says, steering your focus back to her. She’s gently tapping the corners of her mouth with an embroidered napkin, and oh there they are again, her delicate fingers. You look away before Hubert catches you staring again and decides to put poison in your cup7. “I speak on behalf of everyone in the Black Eagle House when I say we wish for your full recovery to be soon.”

“If wishing would only get the job done, I might have something to work with by now.”

Edelgard doesn’t blink, her expression frozen. “Meaning?”

“I thought I'd come here and one of the Church's healers would just wave their hands to return my memories,” you mumble, scribbling a tiny Claude with little, evil horns on his head in the corner of Linhardt’s notes.

Edelgard looks at you like you've just insulted her whole noble lineage. “That isn't how magic works.”

You throw your arms up in frustration to emphasise that yes, that's the point. You don't know how anything works in this place, and you doubt Byleth's four pages of lesson plans are going to help.

“If no one comes to your aid, maybe it is time you take matters into your own hands.” You flinch at the scornful sound in Edelgard’s voice. Judging the expression on her face, she seems just as surprised about her outburst. She gets up abruptly and bids farewell with a curt nod, followed closely by Hubert as always. Her classmates look after her, each more puzzled than the next.

“Didn’t she seem … angry to you?” Linhardt thinks aloud, blinking into the empty space.

Ferdinand harrumphes. “She’s always like this. Please excuse her, Herald.”

You don’t think she’s done anything wrong, and yet she certainly doesn’t appear as always. Something about her last words strikes you as especially sharp; reproachful. Those weren’t meaningless words, but you don’t have any ways to decipher the message. A little voice tells you she isn’t wrong either. So far nothing has helped returning your memories—Manuela’s medicine, herbs from the Greenhouse, Hanneman’s spells. It seems like your brain has built defencive walls to repel any probing, which begs the answer to the question what is hiding in secret even more. But can you really do it on your own, like Edelgard suggests? It seems impossible.

With newfound doubt you finish your meal, saying your goodbyes to the now scattering Eagle students as they scurry off to their next lesson. Two hours are left before you’re meeting with Byleth and the house leaders, and since you agreed to look over Linhardt’s notes, the library seems a good next stop. You still want to go over the seven classical manoeuvres of war, especially since the students didn’t really grasp the remaining two last time, and it gives you a good excuse to look over them again as well. At the beginning, you thought there was nothing you could teach those children, not with experienced colleagues at your side who have participated in countless battles themselves. Who could have thought that talking about tactics and strategies came as natural to you as breathing. Well, Rhea did for certain, and even the students drink up your every word like it is a message from the Goddess herself and you her chosen herald. The irony of it.

But it isn’t only the students accepting your guidance. Something inside you changed in the last couple of weeks as well. When you started going through the books in the library, it was more stumbling and slipping on foreign terrain, but just in a couple of days, you moved through the matter like a fish following smoothly the currents of its native waters. It felt like home. Like building the foundation of a house from thousand variables, the result different each time but still the same: art. You build the art of battle, the last decision that will bring victory or death. You love every second of it. Which opens the possibility that it really isn’t your first time, but also more questions: Who taught you? What battles have you fought? How many of them did you win? Since those aren’t as simple to answer, you focus on fulfilling the first purpose, and hope that it will some day be enough for the students to survive battles.

If only it would end there. Your second duty isn’t as easy or pleasant, and it lies in wait for you everywhere, stalking you like a dark shadow with monstrous fangs.

“Herald.” A soldier gives a courteous bow, intercepting you in the Great Hall on your way to the library. “Pilgrims ask for you near the Entrance Hall. Please allow me to escort you.”

Immediately, your nerves tingle with nervous anticipation. This is the scary part. Meeting the people, seeing the hope in their eyes. You’d gladly send them back where they’ve come from, but some have travelled for multiple days, and denying them audience would be cruel.

“Don’t let me stop you from your duties,” you say, unconsciously tugging your clothes in order to appear presentable. “I will welcome them on my own.”

The soldier nods and bows again, his expression barely readable under the helmet before he disappears as quickly as he came.

Planning lessons is easy. You can find whatever you need in the library and work out the flow with the students. But nothing can prepare or teach you how to act like the Herald people wish for. Nowhere is anything written on the old Herald, how he talked to them and what promises he’d whispered when day broke. That is where you are on your own. Not even Rhea could answer that question. She only instructed that you see them, and remind them about their devotion to the Goddess—for she was the one who made it possible in the first place.

The Entrance Hall is emptier than usual. Most of the students are in class, and a handful of knights and soldiers might be at the advanced training camp Jeralt and Alois hold in honour of the Blade Breaker’s return. So spotting the pilgrims isn’t difficult. Especially with the Gatekeeper waving his arms in wide arcs as if fearing you might overlook him.

“Greetings, Herald!” His grin is blinding. “The pilgrims are waiting for you just at the at the foot of the stairs.”

“Yeah,” you say. “I can see them.”

“Oh, yes, of course! If anyone causes problems, count on me to help!”

“Thanks.” You answer his thumbs up with one of your own before moving downstairs. What a refreshing young man. Certainly good looking under his helmet. Byleth seems to like talking to him a lot as well.

Today’s pilgrims aren’t much different from other days. Old people are supported by their family members, who have brought baskets with sweets and flowers, presenting them at your feet.

“Herald,” they breathe in awe, bowing. No matter how often you’ve seen it by now, it still feels incredibly wrong.

“Raise your heads,” you tell them, helping an elderly woman up to hrer feet. She gasps at your touch, then clings to your hands. You try to swallow past the lump in your throat. “The Archbishop and I bid you welcome. The Goddess will smile upon your devotion.” Your cringe slightly when echoing Rhea’s words and wonder if any second the goddess might punish you by throwing lightning your way.

“We are blessed to finally meet you,” a younger woman says, taking the old woman from your hands—mother and daughter maybe? “Please accept our gifts, and may the Goddess guide you on your path to light.”

“She will answer your prayers and guide me so I can bring you peace,” you reply just so you can say something they might want to hear. Judging their delighted expressions this wasn’t the worst you could have said. Dorothea would probably be proud looking at your acting skills. Or point out your bad posture and how you’re avoiding their eyes. Dorothea would probably tell you how much you have to polish your acting skills.

“Bring us peace?” someone from the last row spits, pushing to the front. “You know nothing, the Herald will bring chaos and ruin!” A man in his forties looms above you, an ugly, padded scar crossing his face from one temple to his chin. A war veteran? They way he holds himself looks like he’s been beaten up once too much to get up again.

“You heathen, don’t you dare speak to our Herald like that,” the old woman barks, immediately doubling over in a coughing fit. Her daughter supports her, glaring at the man. “Go in peace, but go if you only came to talk ill about our Herald,” she says, clearly upset. "Doubting them is doubting our Goddess. How dare you."

“First I want to see the Herald do something! What if … if this one is an impostor.” The man turns towards the others, throwing his arms in the air. “Bring forward proof that you are not here to ruin our lands, but to actually serve in the Goddess’ name!”

This time his demand meets less resistance. Until now people were fine with seeing you and the Crest, but to want actual prove? You could easily threaten them and ask if they doubt the Goddess’ decision, but you’d rather leave that method to Rhea. You don’t want to sound like her. You don’t want to scare people. Yet admitting that you don’t really have a clue how to really use the Crest would surely support the man’s accusation. Diminishing the people’s trust in the Herald is the last thing you want, especially if it means facing Rhea’s scorn.

“I—”

“Herald!” A voice calls from the top of the stairs. When you turn around, Sylvain waves and jogs downstairs, looking like he’s been running for some time. “There you are. The Archbishop wants to see you.”

Oh no, has she heard of your failure already? Giving the choice of facing a group of doubting people or Rhea, you’d immediately go to the people. You give him a curt nod, unable to speak because you don’t trust your voice.

“I apologise,” you say to the pilgrims, clearing your throat when it comes out as a croak. “I will have something prepared for another time.”

“No, you do not need to prove anything to us,” the elderly woman says. “We will always believe in you. Please tell Her Grace we are constantly praying to our Goddess and thank her for sending you to us.”

“I will.” You squeeze her hand a last time. “Save travels.”

The man still glares at you, but without a chance to keep you present any longer, he turns away and follows the rest. You can’t wait to leave all that behind, and as you steel your nerves for what’s waiting for you in the Audience Chambers, you look up to Sylvain and ask, “Did Lady Rhea say what it is about?”

He looks over at you and blinks a couple of times, then seems to remember. “Ah ... yeah, about that. I lied.”

You stop dead in your tracks. “You lied?”

“Yup. I don’t know what Lady Rhea’s doing. But you looked like you were about to puke at those poor pilgrim’s shoes. As hilarious as that would have been, I wanted to spare you the embarrassment.” He stops now as well and smiles a boyish crooked grin. Sylvain knows exactly what to do with his face so girls fall over themselves to do him a favour, and boys grow jealous of all the attention he gets. Two weeks in, and you’ve figured out his game, keeping a respectable distance that wouldn’t birth the thought you’re avoiding him. In fact, this could be the very first time you’re actually holding a real conversation.

“Well, I … thank you? But I had everything under control.”

He looks like he doesn’t believe you. The gatekeeper you’re just passing looks like he doesn’t believe you. You press your lips into a thin line and dare any of them to disagree.

“Okay.” Sylvain shrugs. “But now we’re here.”

“Sylvain, what do you want?”

“Cutting to the chase, huh?” He crosses his arms behind his head. “Why do you think I want something?” Your raised eyebrows seem to be answer enough. Sylvain laughs a little helplessly and returns his hands back to his front, raised as an offer of peace. “I promise, I want nothing. Just a little talking. A little talking hasn’t hurt anyone.”

Something inside you wants to argue against it, but without a solid argument in hand, you follow him silently, wondering where his destination and intention lies. He belongs to the many students you can’t really read, nothing about his ambitions or goals. Sometimes he gives you this strange look through half lidded eyes, his gaze focused on your right eye—his interest in your Crest undeniable, and yet he’s been one of the few not to talk about it with you. It’s strange because whenever you come together, he looks like there’s something he’s dying to say. This time is no different.

He leads you to the wooden pavilion in the gardens, but instead of offering you a seat, Sylvain leans his slim hips against the table, half sitting on it. Seteth would be furious seeing this.

“How’s the Herald business doing for you?” he asks the one question you wouldn't expect from him. “Other than you having ‘everything under control.’” He has the audacity to air-quote. This isn’t a conversation you want to hold right now, leastwise with him. Sylvain must discern that you’re ready to bold from whatever your body is showing. With a quick step, he’s standing between you and the escape route, lazily leaning one arm against a column to uphold the illusion that you’re only having a pleasant talk when in reality his body stands between you and your freedom.

“Do you talk to the other faculty members like that as well?” you say through gritted teeth, crossing your arms. Sylvain blinks like he doesn’t understand, but you’ve seen this act before, followed by an eerily precise repetition of a subject to one of his classmates when he thinks none of the teachers pay attention. Sylvain is playing dumb and deliberately hiding a sharp mind.

“Oh, I didn’t mean to offend,” he quickly says, nothing about this crooked smile appearing apologetic whatsoever. ��I’m generously curious. You’re holding up really good.”

“In comparison to what?” you demand, your heartbeat picking up. Is he trying to call you out on something? That you aren’t heraldy enough? But to your surprise, Sylvain looks genuinely surprised by your reaction.

“To nothing. In general?” He shrugs. “Back on the ceremony day, you didn’t look so good standing up there, and His Highness told us everything happened really uh … ‘suddenly.’’ More air-quotes, whatever they mean this time.

“If you mean I wasn’t really asked to become the Herald, then yes.” Your arms drop back to your side. “It was suddenly.”

Sylvain watches you for a moment, and again, there’s this look in his eyes; the need to say something he can’t. He kneads the back of his nape, avoiding your eyes. “All I’m trying to say is … having that Crest out of nothing is cool. Probably. And maybe terrifying? And just—”

You grow impatient. “Come on, get the words out, Sylvain.”

“A Crest isn’t just this nice letter of invitation to a privileged life. Just take care, is all I’m saying.”

And there’s another page to the book of surprises with Sylvain’s name on it. The immediate lack of response catches him off guard; it’s like he only notices now that the vital part to understand this conversation is missing: The source of his doubt towards Crests.

Sylvain’s body turns in a split second, his feet facing the direction he’s ready to bold towards, but this time you stand in his way and block him off. “Sylvain, are you okay?”

He blinks in confusion, then furrows his eyebrows in deep thought like you demanded he recites the Ten Heroes from memory or else fails classes. His face contorts with the effort of looking fine. “Why, yes! Just peachy. Why would you think something is off?”

“Because I have eyes in my skull.”

“Very pretty eyes, if I dare say.” His answer comes out like a fire spell, hard and fast, seemingly more instinct than anything else. He clears his throat and scratches his chin, loosing momentum. “Goddess, I am bad at this.”

“You are.” No need to sugar coat it. “If something happened, just say it.”

“Nothing really happened, I just—” He exhales audibly and stares into space for a long minute, before side stepping you without difficulty. “Actually, I remembered Professor wanted to see me after class. Something about extra lessons about eh. Horse riding. Yeah. I’ll catch you later, Herald.” He winks and bolds away, darting under your outstretched arm before you can catch him. For someone this tall, he’s surprisingly agile and fast, already disappearing behind a tall hedge towards the main building.

If that wasn’t the strangest conversation you’ve held with anyone, you don’t know what might excel that. Maybe it’s time you stop avoiding Sylvain.

The Training Grounds smells of sweat and oil. Many students and knights train, which is surprising at this kind of hour, the short break between afternoon and evening classes. You’d like to know what they’re working on, but Byleth doesn’t tolerate inattention in a classroom or on the battle field, and demands you do push-ups each time your eyes wander somewhere off. You hate her a little for that. For whatever reason, Claude has taken on the role of your partner in crime, and does whatever necessary to make Byleth punish him as well.

“What can I say, I like a good workout,” he said when you asked. He didn’t even try to hide his lie, looking as miserable as you felt. Probably hating Byleth a little as well.

It’s the fourth week of private training with her and the house leaders, and so far you can definitely say that you were not meant to fight on the field. You see how your opponent moves, you can somehow predict what they’re going to do next—but your body simply protests to act accordingly. You stumble, you fall, you need a second too long to get up and before you can do anything, a training sword is at your throat. Byleth always looks like she wants to facepalm her fist through her forehead. Or yours.

“Herald, this is not how you disarm someone,” she says, as always, and demonstrates it in one smooth, swift movement, as always. You blow hair out of your eyes, knowing you’re about to fail again. At least that gave Claude a reason to give you a new nickname, though if it’s better than the last is debatable.

“You gotta twist your wrist, duckling!” he calls from the other side of the hall, immediately drawing Byleth’s attention to him. He and Dimitri are facing off, both wielding a spear which should give Dimitri the upper hand. So far, he hasn’t landed a single hit on Claude.

“Keep your elbows in!” Byleth berates Claude. “Stop flapping them like some kind of chicken.”

Claude lets out a disturbingly convincing cluck.

You raise an eyebrow. “At least someone’s having fun.”

Byleth sighs. “He’s going to get himself killed sooner than later.”

“I don’t know. He’s managed so far, hasn’t he?”

“I’m not sure if it’s a talent or a fault.” She turns back to you and nods her chin towards the side. “Take a break. I’m going to see how the boys are doing.”

You nod, tensing all over because that’s where Edelgard is currently standing and picking out a training axe. You haven’t talked to her since lunch, and you can do without it for a couple more hours. She barely glances at you when you walk over, and instead checks out the edge of the wooden blade, turning it left and right.

“Is she as strict in the classroom as in here?” you ask, unable to go on in awkward silence. Edelgard hums, throwing a quick glance towards Byleth from under her long, white lashes. “She’s systematic and consistent. Capable in both fields. I have no reason to raise any kind of complaint.”

“That’s impressive.” You sure as heck still wouldn’t want her as a teacher. “Even though she’s been pushed into all this, she handles it like she’s never done anything else.”

“I think as a mercenary, she is used to changing approaches depending on the employer.” Edelgard is still looking at Byleth. Reading her expression is impossible, and you don’t want to point out that sticking a sword into thieves and bandits is not the same as teaching kids how to fight in a battle. Her head whips to you suddenly, and she considers the training sword in your hand. “Speaking of different approaches,” she continues, “have you considered that your field of combat might be magic?”

You have, so the answer comes immediately. “Chances are higher I set myself on fire.” You stare at her. “I didn’t mean it to rhyme.”

Edelgard ignores your last comment. “But you haven’t really tried it out, have you?” Your lack of response is answer enough for her, and she nods like that proves a point.

It’s complicated. You haven’t really tried it out because … the simple answer is, you’re afraid. It gets tricky once you try to search for the answer to that. There’s just a strange sensation when you try to use magic, like there’s a vast sea of possibilities and one step inside is enough to get you lost. It isn’t as bad with wind spells or white magic. You haven’t touched Fire spells because a crippling fear chills you to the bones every time you manage to nourish a small flame inside your palm—the complete opposite to Dark magic. When you tried a MiasmaΔ for the first time it felt strangely … secure. The rope tying you to a shore, it had felt like—

There’s a loud crash when the spears collide and Claude knocks Dimitri off his feet. The whole room is silent as everyone watches how Claude taps the blunt end of his practice spear against Dimitri’s chin. “Steady on there, darling,” he says with a smug grin. Dimitri flushes bright red, and pushes with more force than necessary the spear away, quickly climbing to his feet.

“That wasn’t bad.” Byleth quickly steps in before Dimitri can throttle Claude. “Dimitri, you rely too much on your brute strength. That’s a big disadvantage against someone like Claude. And you, young man,” she turns to Claude who’s been smiling victoriously, “are scheming too much and lose time to take action. In a serious battle, you won’t be as lucky as today.”

“Noted.” Claude whirls his spear from left to right, almost dropping it when Dimitri drills his elbow into his side. “But in a serious battle, I won’t be upfront. I’ll be hanging back nicely, and skewing my enemies with a myriad of arrows.”

“You can barely shoot three at the same time,” Dimitri grumbles, his cheeks still splotched with red specks.

“You wanna bet—”

“That’s enough, guys, save it for then next round.” Byleth ignores their sulky expressions and turns to you, raising a single eyebrow. The message is clear. What are you waiting for?

Your feet feel like they’re glued to the ground. Edelgard doesn’t hesitate at all. “Let’s go.”

She strides in the middle, training axe raised. It’s made out of wood, but you don’t doubt that she’s able to severe a limb from your body if she only tries hard enough—and what you know of Edelgard is that she alwaysexceeds even her own expectations. You grip your sword tighter. It’s a clear disadvantage, but better than anything else you can handle. Maybe it won’t be as bad.

The fight lasts for about seven seconds. The moment you raise the blade, Edelgard is on you and unleashes fierce strike after strike, the power behind each hit forcing you back. She doesn’t bat an eyelash when she easily disarms you, the wooden sword flying over your heads and the edge of her axe on your throat. Somewhere behind her, you hear Byleth sigh. “Again.”

The next hour is torture. Edelgard throws you to the ground, again and again. Byleth keeps telling you to get up, again and again. One might think they would cut you some slack, being the Herald and all, but it feels like Edelgard is so much more aggressive today because you’re the Herald. Or maybe it’s personal. Maybe she’s appointed you to be her sworn enemy, and won’t miss out any chance to make it as hard as possible for you.

This isn’t fun. Being watched by Dimitri and Claude, who whisper conspiratorially to each other isn’t fun. Luckily, Byleth notices them gawking and bellows them to focus on working on their stances. Right now, you’re thankful nothing escapes her eyes and she calls her students out on their bullshit. It doesn’t make your current situation easier though. Every muscle burns, just raising the sword is exhausting and your feet feel like they’re about to give out any second. This must be hell.

When Byleth finally ends lessons, you ignore everything and crumble to the ground, splaying your limbs out in all directions. Surely they can clean up without you, two hands less will barely make any difference.

A shadow settles over you. You know who it is, and don’t bother to open your eyes. “Go away, Byleth. I don’t want to hear how bad I am.”

“Personally, I think you have improved, Herald.” Your eyes snap open. Dimitri looks down at you, his forehead still glistening from perspiration. “But facing Edelgard as an opponent usually wields those results. Don’t let it bother you.”

You want to point out that he and Claude don’t seem to have as much problems as you, even though yes, none of them have defeated her yet in practice. He goes down to your level and sits beside you, and you hate how this all barely made him breath hard, like it’s just a stroll around the monastery whereas you’re trying to climb the mountains surrounding it.

“I think she hates me,” you blurt out. Luckily, most students have already left the hall, Edelgard included. Dimitri considers this a moment, and you don’t know what to make of his lack of immediate response.

“I doubt she hates you,” he finally says.

“But?”

“But she has a hard time warming up to people. Give her time. Once the ice is broken, you will see that her personality is one you’d like to have around.”

“Oh?” You watch him for a moment, but Dimitri doesn’t blush or look away. It was a heartfelt, sincere statement, which flusters you for some reason. No one should be that honest.

“Talking about breaking ice. Do you know if something happened to Sylvain?”

“Sylvain?” Dimitri raises both eyebrows. “Please don’t tell me he harassed you in some kind of way.”

“No, no, he just—” You finally get up from lying on your back, and try to explain it by frantically moving your hands. Dimitri still looks puzzled. “He said some weird things about Crests in general?”

“Hm.” Dimitri stares at your hands for a moment, then quickly raises his eyes back to your face. “It’s complicated.” Well, that answer is as good as none. “And I won’t go into details without his consent. I can only say that if he talked about Crests, in whichever way, his brother must have upset him again.”

“He has a brother?” Now you’re wide awake. Many students have siblings. You know of Hilda’s brother and Raphael’s sister. It shouldn’t surprise you Sylvain has one as well even though he’s never mentioned it before.

“Do you have siblings?” you ask, generously curious. As heir to a kingdom, it’s hard to imagine his parents would have settled with one child. But he hasn’t mentioned any sisters or brothers as well.

“Hmm, I have a step-sister,” he says, although very hesitant and you can see if someone doesn’t want to talk about a specific topic. He doesn’t return the question, which is kind of him and makes you wonder … maybe you have a sibling as well. Somewhere. Maybe somewhere in Adrestia or Leicester a younger brother or an older sister is currently looking for you, unrelenting in their journey to be reunited at last. The thought alone brings a flicker of hope alive. Maybe they'll come once word of the Herald’s return travels far enough.

“I guess as long as Sylvain doesn’t disturb classes or acts out of order, I would leave him to his brooding. I can tell out of experience, only Felix is capable of cheering him up.”

“Felix?” Your eyebrows rise to your hairline. “Are we talking about the same Felix?”

A smile forms on Dimitri’s mouth. “I understand why imagining that might prove difficult, but I assure you, Felix is one of the view exceeding in handling the mess Sylvain is from time to time.”

“Felix and Ingrid?” you guess, earning a nod from Dimitri. “Ingrid is a very nice girl,” you continue, picking at a loose thread from your uniform. “But Felix seems detests me. Every time he sees me, he looks like he wants to throw his sword at me.”

“That is—” Dimitri stops mid-sentence. “That might be not so far off from his true intentions.”

You groan.

“But I assure you it is for a different reason than you think. Felix is simply … difficult with people holding a commanding position.”

“He doesn’t seem to have the same problem with Byleth,” you point out. No, whenever he trains with her, he manages something close to a smile and accepts her guidance. Then again, she isn’t his teacher.

“I’m sure you’ll be able to make him consider his opinion on you during the Mock Battle. I as well am looking forward to how you will guide us.” Dimitri beams. You stare at him like he’s just lost his head.

“What?”

“The Mock Battle three nights from today?” Dimitri’s smile falters a little. “Have the Professor and Lady Rhea not told you yet? You are to participate in the Mock Battle as the commanding unit of the Blue Lions.” Now he’s pulling his eyebrows together in worry. “Herald?”

“I—” You jump to your feet. “I have to go.” Go far far away. Just yesterday you introduced the students to the tactic called Feigned Withdrawal, which involves staging a retreat in order to induce the enemy to abandon its position and plunge ahead in an attack. Dimitri abandons his position, getting up to go after you, but instead of turning back to surprise him with an ambush, you flee the battle and hope the enemy doesn’t pursue.

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