#you have a choice to break free of the chains you bind yourself in.

[alchemyofmaya]

It’s freeing when you no longer live your life waiting to be chosen.

[waiting4inspiration]

дорогая 3 (The Winter Soldier/Bucky x Reader)

Summary: An opportunity to escape arises, but it doesn't go as well as you would have hoped. And yet, it might have caused a break in Bucky's Winter Soldier mode...

Warnings: strong language, mentions of kidnapping, dark!bucky, dark!winter soldier, mentions of firearms, gaslighting (just a little bit)

Word Count: +2.6k

дорогая Masterlist II Marvel Masterlist

You promised yourself that you wouldn’t let The Winter Soldier break you, that you would fight until someone finds you or until Bucky somehow snaps out of it, whichever comes first. But as you sit in the dark room you’ve been confined to, handcuffed to the bedpost, the days blur together without a clock in the room. All you have to go by is the small slit in the curtains where you can see whether or not it’s night or day. 

It’s like hell. With nothing to do to keep yourself busy, all you can do is sit on the bed, staring at the blank wall in front of you. The pain in your arm is dull now because you’ve gotten used to it being chained to the post. All you can really do is try and think of ways you can get out of this by yourself because it seems that the team is not going to be coming to your rescue. 

The door opens for the first time in what’s probably been a few days. Something inside you hopes that it’s your captor with a plate of food. Even the thought of food makes your stomach grumble. 

Seeing that he’s holding a plate in his hand, you sit up quickly and a hopeful breath catches in your throat. He chuckles at you, walking over to the small, wonky table a bit away from the bed and placing the plate on it. “I’ll make a deal with you. I’ll take those cuffs off and leave them off if you eat everything on that plate,” he says, leaning against the table with his arms folded over his chest. “Not that I was against you not eating. That was your choice. A stupid choice, considering not eating makes you weaker and more susceptible to breaking easier-”

“I’ll eat,” you cut him off, your voice breaking slightly, but your words cause him to smile at you. It’s not a warm smile like how Bucky used to smile at you in the compound. This smile is sinister, like he’s happy he’s gotten his way. 

He picks the plate up again before talking toward you, gently placing it on the bed in front of you, all while keeping eye contact with you. You eye him carefully, making sure he doesn’t have anything to take you by surprise so that he doesn’t have to play this game anymore and he can just take what he wants. You make sure he doesn’t have a weapon on him, but he’s clean. You wonder if he even knows about the secret stash of weapons you have here in your own safe house.

“You see how easy this can be if you just cooperate?” he asks in a whisper, holding his hands up in defeat as he takes a step back while reaching for his pocket. 

You know he expects you to say something about that in return, but you bite your tongue and reach for a piece of the bread on the plate. Truth be told, you don’t have the energy to fight him now, whether that is verbally or physically. Out of the corner of your eye, you see him reach for the cuffs binding you to the post. “What, you giving me the silent treatment now?”

The moment your wrist is free, you pull it straight to your chest, protecting it from being grabbed by The Winter Soldier. “What do you want me to say?” you ask, keeping your eyes on your food when you feel him slowly sit down on the space beside you on the bed. 

“You could start by saying thank you.”

“And what exactly do I have to be thankful for?” you snap back at him, mumbling through a mouthful of food as you take another bite of the bread in your hands. 

“Well then, I’ll just put these back on-” When his hand reaches for your wrist again, you quickly move away, staring wide-eyed at him as you hold your arms close to your body. He sees a slight hint of fear in your eyes like you know now that your life lies in his hands, that he will provide you with food, water, and other things to keep you alive but you also know that he can take those things away from you just as easily. 

He smiles to himself as he gently places his hand on your shoulder before running his fingers down the bare skin of your arm. “You don’t have to be scared of me. Would you be scared of Bucky?”

You take in a deep breath through your nose, your skin crawling at his touch that you try to pull away from. “He wouldn’t do this to me,” you whisper, more to yourself than to him. 

“How sure are you about that?” he whispers back, his lips close to your ear, his breath against your lobe making a shiver run down your spine. “You really think that he doesn’t want this? That he doesn’t want what I want? You forget that we are still one and the same person. The only difference is that I’m not afraid to take what I want.”

When you try to swallow your food, you find it hard to do that, your throat almost closing up as you think of his words. It makes you overthink every encounter you’ve had with Bucky, thinking about every touch and every word and what they could have meant. 

Shaking your head, you push the plate of food away from you and force yourself to look him in the eye. “I don’t believe you.”

“You should, Дорогая.” He expects you to react to the nickname the way you do all the time, but you don’t even roll your eyes at him. You’ve gotten so used to hearing it now, you don’t even react to it anymore. It makes him smile, and he reaches up to push a piece of hair behind your ear even though you try to move away from his hand. “What kind of relationship do you expect us to have if you don’t believe me? Or trust me? Have I ever given you a reason to be afraid of me?”

You narrow your eyes at him. “You fucking strangled me and kidnapped me-”

“And you could have gotten out of all that if you wanted to,” he cuts you off, making you frown at him. “I’ve seen you fight. You can be quite vicious when you want to be. You’ve gotten out of worse scraps before, I shouldn’t be much of a challenge to you. And yet, you didn’t fight back at all. You want to be here just as much,” he says, leaning closer to your face. 

You shake your head, telling yourself not to believe him, and his hand takes hold of your chin gently, but you can still feel his power in the hold. “You and I both know that you can escape if you want to. You know this house and these woods better than I do. But you’re not going to because you know, deep down, that you’re enjoying this. You’re enjoying being away from the team, being here with only me. You know that you want this too. That’s why you’re still here and why you’re not fighting me now, Дорогая.”

You don’t want to believe him, telling yourself that you could not fight back every time he overpowered you. And yet, when you think back to that time in your room at the compound, you didn’t even put up that much of a fight. Or, you don’t think you did. Did you?

You don’t want him to be right, but you think he is. 

He chuckles when he sees you second-guessing yourself and pushes himself off the bed. “Eat some more,” he says, breaking the silence between you two as he points back to the plate. “Don’t leave this room until I come to get you. Maybe I’ll let you walk around outside if you promise to behave.” The first part was an order which he tried to lighten with the second half of his words. He caresses your cheek quickly before pushing himself off the bed and striding across the room, not waiting for you to respond to him as he leaves you alone again. 

Staring at the door, you wait for the sound of it locking, but it doesn’t come. Something tells you that he’s doing this to test you. He’s probably sitting right outside the door, waiting for you to break his order and leave because you think that he won’t be there. 

You hear thunder rumbling outside the distance, making you break your gaze from the door to the window. An idea comes to mind when you see the glass between the curtains, pushing you off the bed. Your feet hit the ground quietly like you’re afraid The Winter Soldier will hear you moving in the room. Without your hands cuffed to the bed anymore, you breathe a sigh of relief when you can stand up and walk without restriction. 

Slowly, you move towards the window, opening the curtains to see rain falling from the sky. It starts off light, but as you stare out at the trees, watching them sway in the wind, the rain starts to pour, thunder and lightning dancing in the clouds. 

Your hands reach for the base of the window, praying that it’s easy to open and that he hasn’t found a way to keep it shut. Holding your breath, you lift the window pane and it opens without a fuss. 

Feeling the fresh air against your face, you let out a deep sigh and feel your shoulders relax. You stay still for a moment, your eyes closed as you take the smell of rain in. Then, you come too.

You examine the window, seeing how much space you have to work with to escape. He’s right. You do know these woods well. You have to know which direction to go to get to safety in case your location was compromised and you had to get out of there. It’s never had to happen, but you think you will have an advantage if you decide to escape. 

What are you thinking? Of course, you’re going to escape. You’re going to fight back. You’re going to show him that you don’t want what he wants, that you will fight back, and that you won’t give in. 

Even though you wish you had more to eat and you feel like resting because you know you’ll need all the strength you can muster up, you know that if you don’t go now, you might never have this opportunity again. 

Something inside you, a small voice, tells you that this is a test. If you do this, you’ll fail that test and he’ll be upset with you. You don’t want to upset him…

“Screw it,” you whisper to yourself, stepping back to stick a leg out the window. 

Slowly and carefully, you squeeze yourself out the window, trying to not make any noise to alert him from outside the room as to what you’re doing. Finally out in the open, you take a few steps back, keeping your eyes on the door inside to make sure he doesn’t walk through while you’re still outside.

And without a second thought, you turn and bolt away from the cabin, not even caring about the rain quickly soaking through your clothes. 

It takes you a while to find your bearings, especially while the sun is going down so quickly. As you weave through the trees, shivering in the cold rain, your heart skips a beat and drops in your stomach when you hear a gunshot in the distance, followed by your name being shouted in the distance. It didn’t take The Winter Soldier long to notice your absences and you haven’t even gotten far. 

You are so screwed. 

You’ve heard that The Winter Soldier is like a predator hunting a target. It’s terrifying to think that you’re now the prey. The comfort that you know these woods like the back of your hand dwindles now that it’s darker. You feel lost, your heart thumping loudly in your ears, scared that one wrong turn will send you straight into your captor’s arms again. 

Hearing him in the distance, your mind tells you to run away even if it’s not in the right direction. You can hear him taunting you, calling out to you in Russian and with that damned nickname he always uses. Even though you’re exhausted, you push yourself as much as you can run faster. 

As you shake your head, doubting that you can go any further, your foot catches on an exposed root, making you trip and fall forward, face-planting into the leafy ground. You groan as the pain spreads through your ankle, and your body refuses to go on as you stand up, making tears well up in your eyes.

“You have quite an impressive armory, Дорогая,” he calls, his voice a lot closer now than it was, your fall probably alerting him of your position. “Didn’t think I’d find it, did you? But I did. I had to clear it out before you ended up finding the strength to fight back.” 

All you can hear is the thundering of your heart in your throat as the rain pours down. It’s suddenly quiet, terrifying you more when you can’t hear him anymore. You try to listen for his footsteps, but you can’t hear anything. 

In the darkness, he sneaks up on you, pushing you against the tree behind you, his metal hand wrapped around your throat, taking you back to when he caught you off guard in your room. 

“Didn’t think you’d do something like this. Especially after I warned you what would happen if you tried to run,” he sneers, his grip around your throat tightening, pushing any air out of your windpipe. 

“Please, don’t,” you beg, tears falling from your eyes and rolling down your cheeks. You shake your head, a sob leaving your lips as you desperately cling to his arm holding you against the tree. He looks like he could murder you right now if he wanted to with the cold look in his eyes. 

You tried. You tried to fight back and escape and it failed. Again. You can’t win. No matter how much you try, he will always find you and you know that from stories of The Winter Soldier and now from personal experience. The Winter Soldier never gives up on his targets. Bucky told you that. 

“Bucky,” you whisper, deciding to give it one last chance to try and reach out to the man trapped in his own mind. “I can’t fight back anymore. I don’t have any more strength. Please,” you cry.

His face softens, his grip around your throat falters, and his shoulders fall as he takes a small step back. “(Y/n),” he whispers, his hand falling away from your neck, resting on your collarbone as you take a deep breath. 

With a flash of lightning, you can see the change in his face. It’s not as harsh as the Winter Soldier. It bears the softness of Bucky when you’ve talked to him. Still heaving, trying to restore your lungs from running and from when he was strangling you, the tears continue to fall down your cheeks at the thought that you could be safe now that Bucky’s come around. 

He takes a deep breath, closing his eyes as a twinge in his neck makes him look away from you. When his hand on your collarbone tightens again, his jaw tensing, and his arm pushing you back against the tree, your heart drops again as he looks back at you. 

“I’m sorry.” And without another word, he forces his head forward against yours, knocking you out in one headbutt, and catching you as you fall in his arms.

Add yourself to the Taglist HERE

Support me on Ko-fi HERE

[lipstickchainsaw]

What do you think about the Fury and the respective routes that you can take to her (Tower, Adversary)? In my playthrough I got her through the tower and was subsequently a little disappointed at Adversary's take (probably since I was expecting a little bit of variation due to the absence of godhood)

And, if you have time, what do you think of the Apotheosis?

Well, this one's been waiting in my inbox for a while, so let's get to it.

The thing about the Fury is that she is defined primarily by a great identity crisis, having a certain identity/role established at the end of Chapter 1 and then having it totally denied over the course of Chapter 2. Yes, the Tower and Adversary are very different, and the way you deny them are different, but the result of that is remarkably similar, so let's have a look!

(I'll talk about the Apotheosis in a reblog.)

I, too, got to the Fury via the Tower the first time, so let's start there. The Tower is a Princess defined by your attempt and subsequent absolute failure to slay her. Your perception of her is that of someone impossible to lay a finger on, so why even bother, and the role she grows to fill to meet that perception is of a god.

And your inability to resist her extends even to your choices in the Tower, because she can outright overrule or preempt your choices in a way no other Princess can, even taking control of the Narrator. It's how she defines herself, and being joined by the Broken only further enhances this.

And then you defy her anyway. You go right against what she demands of you, defy her even as you stab yourself at her command to cut her heel, to draw blood. This sullies her image to such an extent that it causes a mental break, because this shouldn't be possible. You should be a broken simp worshipping her at her feet, freeing her from her bonds in the culmination of her being as a god, and instead, here you are, plunging your blade into a god's heart.

So the Fury ends up looking the way she does, her flesh torn, her perfect image clearly sullied and corrupted, her heart open for all to see. At the same time, this incongruence between the two roles your perception might've made her fill (and the tension between the Broken and the Stubborn), the thing that's making her have this mental break, also leaves her tapping into some genuinely incredible power, basically insta-killing you no matter what you try, pissed off as she is.

Taking the Adversary route to get here, the connotations are obviously different. It is, as you mentioned, missing the divine element, but crucially, the Adversary is also defined by one very simple thing: you both fighting to the death and clearly enjoying it.

She outright says, as she dies in Chapter 1, that doing this was 'fun'.

So when you meet her again, her sole purpose in life, the one thing she wants and cares about, is fighting to the death. If you give her this, everything is fine, and she reaches the culmination of her reason for being, and it is glorious.

However, you can turn this desire to ash, either by talking to her and force her to think about her circumstances, or by turning this glorious desire into a horror show as you keep getting up despite your, uh, face being gone (which is fun, I definitely recommend doing this once).

And here, too, the Fury is an identity crisis. All her muscles, all the power you imbued her with in Chapter 2 were useless, so you see her tear her skin off, tearing the chain binding her (to her role, her position with this entire set-up) off along with it. She still wants to fight and kill you, but instead of being glorious, it's now turned bitter and hateful, and she can't even use physical violence to satisfy this urge, so, in her frustration, she just rips you apart with her grander power as she comes unshackled.

In short, by forcing either Adversary or Tower to go against her initial nature, you break a bit of the greater system operating behind the scenes, and let her tap into some of the Shifting Mound's power to break you, right before the Shifting Mound claims her.

(Also, I compared the Adversary's lust for violence to sex, and I think you can apply some of this to the Tower, too (literally worshipping the domme 'goddess'), which makes the Fury the result of orgasm denial. You're welcome.)

[mitsuyaya]

[ parting gift ] hayakawa aki

contains: 700+ words. angsttt!, noblewoman reader x knight aki, reader is referred to as my lady, unedited (as usual)

summary: a price to pay for the heinous crime you commit is your happiness and the life of the man you love the most.

csm masterlist

“What if we run away?”

You wait for Aki to break the silence, to utter a single word, to refuse your offer and change the subject of your conversation. To tell you off and go home. Because the longer you stay, the longer you stare at his miserable state—behind bars, bruised and dirtied—the more difficult it is for you to repress the emotions that want to break free from the inside.

But the other half of you wanted him to say yes, agree and then pretend like your lives aren't at stake. Run away at this moment and forget about everything, forget about what would happen the next day and the day after.

“Would that make you happy, my lady?” it will, definitely, absolutely. But you don't think you can ever be safe if you did run away. The future would be terrifying, would always be filled with constant running and worry, the fear of getting caught and being brutally murdered on the spot will be an everyday thought. It wasn't the best course of action, you know it too well.

“Tell me, if we ever do run away, would we ever have a bright future?” you won't, the answer is too obvious.

“Will we have sons and daughters as we dreamt of? Have an estate even larger than your family owns?” you kept your mouth shut, heart cracking with every truth that comes out of his lips.

“Would someone like me have a perfectly normal life with someone like you?”

“But we'll always be together” he shakes his head, “A murderer doesn't deserve to be happy” the tears you've been trying to hold back since you got here broke free, cascading through your cheeks in steady streams.

“You aren't a murderer Aki!” you shouted, pointing to yourself “It was me! I was the one who kill—” Aki hurriedly covers your mouth, struggling with the chains binding his wrists.

“Don’t say that! What if someone hears you?” The fear on his face reminds you that he's on death's door all because of you, that because of what you did, you'd lose the person you love so much. That by taking your place, he was detained in the highest tower, awaiting his execution the next morning.

And yet, even at this moment, it's still you he's thinking about—it's you he's worrying—not him, not his life, only you.

“It wasn't your fault, don't say that, you could get hurt if anybody hears.” Another wave of tears slipped from your eyes, it hurts so much.

You were the one who murdered the crown prince, fed him poison all because you weren't thinking straight. All because he threatened that he'll kill Aki and your family if you didn't marry him.

But Aki still took the blame, receiving the death, hatred and pain that should've been directed to you, that should've been your future.

“I’m so sorry Aki, you weren't supposed to be here” your chest hurts from guilt, throat flaring from the truth that you'll never get to see him again because of you, because of your foolish actions.

“My lady” he reaches for you, cups your cheeks and wipes your tears with his thumb. “Don’t feel sorry, it is my choice because I wanted to protect you, I'm your knight aren't I? This is my duty” Aki smiled, although there's bitterness and fear beneath his words. None of what he said comforted you, it only made you even guiltier.

“But still—” he shushes you, taking your hands into his, pulling it closer to his lips. “I want you to live longer, find happiness like you've always wanted. I don't regret anything so please don't feel guilty.”

Aki kisses the back of your hand, your knuckles, looking straight at you as a tear falls from his eyes, his figure trembling slightly. He's a liar, pretending to be strong and nonchalant when he's just as terrified as you are. You felt his hand pull away, grabbing something from his pocket.

“Before you go, please accept this gift” you couldn't stop your tears from falling, the noise that you've been trying to repress flows through your mouth and you're sure that the prisoners downstairs could hear your sobs and whimpers now.

When his hands found yours again, he brought out a ring, slipping it on your finger, it was the ring he would always show you, one that belongs to his mother and the generations before that. “I love you forever my lady, please live for me.”

[comfysofti]

Remember how i mentioned that i have more princess incarnations in the works?

Yea, I already have some notes to share about them :33

Chapter 2: The Blinded

The name speaks for itself i suppose

How would you get that princess?

Take the blade -> drop it, and talk with the princess -> free her -> resist Narrator the first time he tries to force you to kill her -> don't resist the second time around and get into a fight with the princess -> instead of attacking her right away learn her attacking patterns and wait for an opening -> attack her eyes, then slay her -> despite her injuries she will take you with her

Congratulations, you got yourself the Blinded!

A bit about her cabin: it looks like it's a mix of everything that was in it. Its like everything in it melted together. The windows, the walls, the door... It's all one big mess. And in front of the entrance to the basement, princesses cut eyes lay on the floor, staring at the player. On some parts of the cabin there's also messages in brail! One behind the mirror reading: "do you feel proud of what you did?". Another one where the windows used to be: "how does it feel to take everything from me?". And the last in the basement, on the floor in front of the princess: "hiding is useless. Eye for an eye"

The princess appears in the basement, with her eyes covered by thin chains, similar to ones that bind her to a wall. She isn't really talkative, but will insist that player should get closer to her, since, quote: "it's dark here. I can sense you, but I can't see you. How about you come closer?". Will be acting nice, to get player to help her, but can and will lash out if her plan won't work. If player will try to slay her, she will break out of her binding and will attack the player, focusing on his eyes. If player won't react fast enough or will make a wrong choice, she will take their eyes, and will use them instead of her own. If player will instead free her, or at least try to, she will ask for one of your eyes before letting you break the thin chain on her wrist. If you don't give it to her, she will take it by force from you. Either way, she will leave with you, insisting you go first on the stairs. Depending on how player talked to her, she will either leave the cabin with you and will be taken by shifting mound, or will break players spine, taking his other eye, and leaving him behind in the cabin, and yet again will be taken by shifting mound

Shifting mounds comment about her: this one is sacrifice and blind allure. She's forced to live in the dark, desperate to get out from this prison no matter what it takes. She will make for stubborn heart. Do not mourn her, for she won't be able to mourn you the same way you would mourn her(if player will try to slay her)

Shifting mounds comment: this one is blind trust and sacrifice. Forced to live in the dark, she learned to adapt, to find loopholes and escapes. She will make for a stubborn heart. Do not mourn her, for she is finally free from the endless void(if player frees her and gives his eye to her)

A bit about the voice accompanying her chapters:

Meet Voice of the Guided! He's an observer and able to vaguely tell you what most of your actions will lead to if asked. Again, his answers are always vague, since as he says: "future is always changing, so i can only tell you so much. With each breath, with each second we spend talking, future has changed millions of times. I can only tell you what's likely to happen, it's your choice to trust my words or not". He holds neutral opinion towards princes, other voices and Narrator. Most times however, will try to lead the player to desired results through less harmful options if possible. He usually only talks when you ask him about consequences of option you consider doing/question you consider asking the princess ect. Otherwise, it's hard to tell he's even there, because of which he can accidentally spook other voices!

That's all about those two

And next we have...

Chapter two: The Shadow/Overshadowed(whatever you prefer)

How would you get her?

Take the blade -> drop it and talk to the princess -> free her or at least make her believe you do that -> as soon as you start freeing her attack her -> she will free herself and will attempt to hide and attack you -> figure out where she's hiding and kill her while she's still in the shadow -> she will take your heart when you attack her, so, ouch

Congratulations, you got the Shadow/Overshadowed!

A bit about her cabin: it's dark, with no windows, only a small candle on the table, near the blade illuminates the dusty cabin. And yes, if you don't take that candle, you're doomed since the basement is absolutely dark, with nothing to illuminate the stairs, or the basement itself

About the princess: as you could've figured from the name, she is a shadow being. She's however afraid of light. She isn't binded, leaving the empty shackle, laying on the floor, near the chain. If player will come in the basement without the candle or the blade she will kill him in seconds, by filling his lungs with unseen smoke, that feels like it's part of basements darkness itself. If the player take at least the candle, she won't attack, but will be constantly behind players back, to hide from the light. You will be able to talk to her only if you convince her to sit hear far wall, with you leaving the candle near the opposite wall, with you sitting in a way that shields her from the light, otherwise no talking. The princess herself will make fun of the player only being to kill her when she was running and hiding, claiming he won't be able to win now, since he's in her element, aka darkness and shadows. If you anger the princess, she will force the shadows around you both, to well, choke you, and the same shadows although with some struggle will break the candle, leaving you to die, and basically with this she proved her point. You aren't able to kill her in her element. And yes, she will remind you, that you gave her this element, making them one. Small quote from the princess: "you made me hide, and run. Like a mouse, hiding in the darkest corners from a cat... But when i died, this darkness hugged me, comforted me in my death, and landed me strength to take you with me. You made me realise, how great it is. Everyone is afraid of the dark, but they don't realise how gentle it is once you embrace it". This princess wants to force the whole world in the dark, so they understand what it's like to feel this gentle shadow embrace from the dark, making them whole. Making them feel loved. If you try to slay her, she will try to attack you, but if you have the blade and the candle, she won't be able to do a thing. You will be able to cut through the shadows attacking you and then cut through her, throwing the candle inside her, killing her by burning her heart. If you free her, and break the candle yourself, she will hide in players wings, so she can safely leave without dying from stars light outside

Comment from shifting mound: this one is dark and mysterious, hiding and playing in the element everyone runs from. She will make from playful heart. Do not mourn her, for she didn't cared for you

And now, about the voice accompanying her chapter:

Meet Voice of the Curios!

As name suggests, he's really curious and loud. He isn't really scared of everything and may try to push player to do really harmful and stupid things, just because he's curious about the outcome, without any bad intend behind this, outside his curiosity. And a lot of time, he also forgets that well, the player can die or even experience pain. He isn't bad, and doesn't want to make the player or anyone else suffer. He just wants to fullfil this never ending curiosity that he has deep within his being! Some may find him annoying over this and compare him to a child, but he isn't really getting mad over this, but will get sad if other voices yell at him. Small quote: "...im too childish and reckless? But im not! I just wanted to find out what happens! I didn't ment to actually hurt us, im sorry. I'll be quiet from now on. I'm really sorry"

That's all for now! Im not sure if those princesses will get separate 3 chapter variants, or not, but we'll see! After all, those are just concept notes ;33

Thanks for reading! More content with them, along with references coming soon ☆٩(｡•ω<｡)و

[acapelladitty]

In Time (Corintheus fic)

Pairing: Dream of the Endless/Corinthian

Summary - Let's not beat around the bush, it's a short nsfw fic in which Dream spits on the Corinthian and steps on his dick.

Hands bound behind his back, the restraints crafted from a darkness which could never be broken outside of the will of their creator, the Corinthian gazed up at Dream with a burning expression.

Their dance was a familiar one. The Corinthian breaks Dream's rules. Dream punishes The Corinthian. The only variation coming from the style of punishment which his creator delved into, the Dream Lord's creativity at times shocking in its pleasurable cruelty.

Admirable, in a way, but the Corinthian was every inch the nightmare he was constructed to be and that included his inability to withhold the defiance which corrupted his every decision.

"Even now, bound and naked as a babe before me, you still dare to offer me noncompliance at every turn."

It was not a criticism, the contemplative tone which shrouded Dream's words making that much clear, but the Corinthian bit back a smirk of defiant pride regardless. To be honest, the cadence of Dream's words only served to distract him from the assault which he was being subjected to and he welcomed it like an old friend.

Glancing down at his bare frame, the Corinthian found his attention captured by the pale foot which bore down on his groin as an open threat; the ball of Dream's foot on his jutting shaft as the ends of his toes threatened the sensitive head of his cock.

Ordered to strip and present his hands for binding, he had complied without hesitation.

Defiant, yes.

But he was no fool and disobeying a direct order in such a way would only serve to make whatever game Dream had cooked up for him that much more difficult to win.

Still, this punishment was rather unique.

Dream's foot was cool as marble - the skin velvety and unblemished in its utter perfection - and, as the Corinthian observed it, he was struck by just how pale the skin appeared when compared to his own.

The skin which Dream had crafted him centuries before was unchanging in its hue. Years, months, even decades could be spend with him chained and exposed below the merciless sun and his skin would not darken a shade from its intended colour.

Every inch the Dream Lord's to command at a whim.

And command it he did.

"You do not deserve my touch." Dream interrupted his thoughts. "And yet, I give it. Do you know why?"

"No."

"Yes, you do."

Confused, the Corinthian held his tongue as uncertainty pricked at his bared skin.

"Deep within yourself, you understand." Dream continued. "You were created to reflect the darkness of humanity and that darkness within you was carved, piecemeal, from my own. Ask it."

His words as unflinching as his stark form, Dream brooked no disobedience in his demand of his nightmare.

"Ask it why I do this."

The Corinthian dipped his eyes low once again as a languid moan slipped free of his lips, a natural result of Dream shifting his foot against his painfully-hard length to grind it more roughly against his unprotected skin.

Vulnerability nipped him, the all-consuming presence of Dream strangling his thoughts and flooding his senses to derangement as he fought himself to consider the riddle posed.

Why does his lord treat him like this?

A fucking ridiculous question in his opinion.

Dream had ripped him from the void and molded him into existence. The Dream Lord held power over him just as he held power over the humans who served as his sustenance; their fear and flesh fulfilling him as he saw fit.

Ah.

"Because you can."

A simple answer and one which he understood, at his core, to be true as the darkness within him coiled at the recognition.

"Open your mouth, Corinthian."

Having little choice due to the harsh pull of his hair, the Corinthian complied and was immediately rewarded with the feeling of fresh moisture against his tongue as Dream tilted his head and spat directly into his mouth.

Surprise richochet through his skull like a slap. The shame of the act blending with painful arousal.

Anyone else would lose their tongue for such a thing and he would ensure that his blade moved slowly enough across the offending flesh to ensure that every agony was truly experienced.

"Swallow it."

A demand, bolstered by an additional warning of pressure on his cock, and he again complied; swallowing down his masters offering with a wide smirk.

Like the perfect creation he was.

No degradation too great for him to bear.

No shame too perverse to refuse his maker.

At the smirk, the slightest tug made itself apparent on Dream's lips and his foot resumed its earlier ministrations. The stimulation was terrible in its intensity as the pleasure of the friction only grew more heightened by the pain of the unyielding pressure.

It proved too much and, with a whining keen which was unbecoming of a nightmare, the Corinthian curled his bound fingers together as he came.

It was euphoric yet awful; the residual and degrading taste of his maker's spit against his tongue as the ball of his foot ground into his defenceless cock to trap it against his heated thighs.

A shudder wracked his kneeling frame, the burn of his scalp matching the hot shame which flushed through his chest. His release was sticky, uncomfortable, and the foot of his lord only served to spread the mess as it continued its deliberate weight against him.

"Apologies, my lo-"

"Hush now," Dream countered sternly, "and do not speak again. Already your lack of restraint has only served to make this harder on yourself and that serpentine tongue will only encourage my ire."

The Corinthian nodded but the gesture was stuttered by a low whine which broke free of his lips as the pressure on his sensitive cock notched up to an almost unbearable point. The heel which had come to replace the ball of the foot which tormented him was much firmer and, glancing up, the Corinthian could see the faintest shadow of sadistic amusement glinting back at him from within the inky gaze.

Also on AO3

[mahashankh]

500+ Happy Independence Day Qutoes, Images & Greeting

500+ Happy Independence Day Qutoes, Images & Greeting 500+ Happy Independence Day Qutoes, Images & Greeting Happy Independence Day Quotes In Hindi - "Long years ago, we made a tryst with destiny, and now the time comes when we shall redeem our pledge, not wholly or in full measure, but very substantially." - Jawaharlal Nehru - "Freedom is never dear at any price. It is the breath of life. What would a man not pay for living?" - Mahatma Gandhi - "In the truest sense, freedom cannot be bestowed; it must be achieved." - Bhagat Singh - "The best road to progress is freedom's road." - Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose - "Let us remember the golden heritage of our country and feel proud to be a part of India." - Unknown - "May the sun in his course visit no land more free, more happy, more lovely, than this our country!" - Sardar Bhagat Singh - "Freedom is not worth having if it does not include the freedom to make mistakes." - Mahatma Gandhi - "Ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country." - Jawaharlal Nehru - "The future depends on what you do today." - Mahatma Gandhi - "Freedom is the oxygen of the soul." - Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose - "Freedom is not just about breaking free from the chains of colonialism; it's about embracing the spirit of liberty in every aspect of life." - Unknown - "Our nation is like a tree of which the original trunk is swarajya and the branches are swadeshi and boycott." - Bal Gangadhar Tilak - "Let us salute the nation-builder and the maker of our destiny – the Indian soldier." - Chandra Shekhar Azad - "The shots that hit me are the last nails to the coffin of the British rule in India." - Lala Lajpat Rai - "The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." - Mahatma Gandhi - "Freedom is the most precious commodity, and history has shown us that the people who sacrifice for it are the ones who enjoy it to the fullest." - Atal Bihari Vajpayee - "Even if I died in the service of the nation, I would be proud of it. Every drop of my blood… will contribute to the growth of this nation and make it strong and dynamic." - Indira Gandhi - "This country will not be a good place for any of us to live in unless we make it a good place for all of us to live in." - B.R. Ambedkar - "Independence is a gift you give yourself. It's not something someone else can give you." - Unknown - "We owe a lot to the Indians, who taught us how to count, without which no worthwhile scientific discovery could have been made." - Albert Einstein - "The power to question is the basis of all human progress." - Indira Gandhi - "Let's celebrate the glory of a free India and uphold the values that make our country unique." - Unknown - "A nation's culture resides in the hearts and in the soul of its people." - Mahatma Gandhi - "Freedom does not come without a price. It requires sacrifice, determination, and vigilance." - Jawaharlal Nehru - "We are Indians, firstly and lastly." - B.R. Ambedkar - "True independence and freedom can only exist in doing what's right." - Brigham Young - "Our nation is like a colorful rainbow, with each culture and tradition adding its unique hue." - Unknown - "Independence is a state of mind. It's a sense of belief that binds us together as a nation." - Atal Bihari Vajpayee - "The sweat of the laborers is the sweetest salt of their labor." - Mahatma Gandhi - "Freedom means the supremacy of human rights everywhere." - Franklin D. Roosevelt - "The history of free men is never really written by chance but by choice; their choice!" - Dwight D. Eisenhower - "Independence is not a destination; it's a continuous journey of progress and growth." - Unknown - "The essence of freedom is understanding the responsibilities that come with it." - Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru - "Freedom is the open window through which pours the sunlight of the human spirit and human dignity." - Herbert Hoover - "The tricolor flies high, a symbol of sacrifice, courage, and the undying spirit of our nation." - Unknown - "Independence is the right to be who we are, to express ourselves freely, and to pursue our dreams relentlessly." - Unknown - "Let's honor the sacrifices of our freedom fighters by safeguarding the principles of our constitution." - Unknown - "Freedom is not the right to do as you please, but the liberty to do as you ought." - Unknown - "Freedom is the breath of life to nations." - George Bernard Shaw - "The greatest gifts you can give your children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence." - Denis Waitley - "Independence is a constant effort to elevate the human spirit." - Unknown - "Freedom is the song of the soul, soaring high and breaking all barriers." - Unknown - "Our nation's progress is a testament to the power of unity and determination." - Unknown - "Let's celebrate the freedom to dream, to strive, and to achieve." - Unknown - "The legacy of our freedom fighters is a reminder that courage knows no bounds." - Unknown - "Freedom is not given, it is taken." - Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose - "True patriotism doesn't consist in waving the flag, but in striving that our country shall be righteous as well as strong." - Swami Vivekananda - "The future of our nation depends on the minds of our children. Let's nurture them with love and knowledge." - Unknown - "Freedom is the foundation upon which progress and prosperity are built." - Unknown - "May our hearts be as free as our nation, forever soaring toward new horizons." - Unknown - "Freedom is not an achievement, but an ongoing commitment to uphold the values that define us." - Unknown - "Our nation's strength lies in its diversity, and our unity is the key to progress." - Unknown - "Independence is not just a day; it's a reminder of the sacrifices that have shaped our destiny." - Unknown - "Let's celebrate the privilege of being a part of a nation that continues to evolve and flourish." - Unknown - "The flag does not fly because of the wind that blows it. It flies with the last breath of each soldier who died protecting it." - Unknown - "Freedom is the canvas on which we paint the colors of our aspirations and achievements." - Unknown - "The roots of freedom run deep, nurtured by the blood, sweat, and tears of our forefathers." - Unknown - "On this Independence Day, let's remember that freedom carries the responsibility to uplift those who are still struggling." - Unknown - "Freedom means the power to live as you wish." - A.P.J. Abdul Kalam - "Independence is not just the absence of chains; it's the ability to follow your heart and live your dreams." - Unknown

500+ Happy Independence Day Qutoes, Images & Greeting

500+ Happy Independence Day Qutoes, Images & Greeting

- "On this 15th of August, let's honor the past, celebrate the present, and shape a future worthy of our freedom." - "As the tricolor unfurls on this historic day, may it remind us of the sacrifices that secured our liberty. Happy Independence Day!" - "Freedom is the heartbeat of our nation, and on this day, it beats with pride and gratitude. Happy 15th August!" - "15th August is not just a date; it's a testament to the power of unity, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit." - "May the spirit of freedom inspire us to strive for progress, equality, and justice for all. Happy Independence Day!" - "On this day, we remember the heroes who wrote our destiny with their courage and determination. Happy 15th August!" - "The echoes of freedom resonate across the nation, reminding us that we are the architects of our own future." - "As we raise our flag high, let's also raise our aspirations for a brighter and inclusive India. Happy Independence Day!" Read the full article

[lazy-kitsune]

Tarot 12.11.2022



Devil Reversed - feeling more in control of love life, ending co-dependency, you may be breaking free from some negative emotional patterns or addictions that have stood in the way of you developing strong relationships. This card in some circumstances can also signal breaking away from a relationship with a domineering partner, or a co-dependent relationship that was not allowing you to express your true self. You may have recognized that the bonds that tied you to your partner were ones that were not healthy or supportive. The Devil reversed can signify that you are becoming aware of the things that have been trapping you and the role you play in allowing them to. It is a great card for anyone battling an addiction or mental illness or engaging in harmful behaviour as it indicates that you are starting to see the light and take back control of yourself and your life. You want to be free from these problems and you are starting to get the motivation to change your circumstances. It can also indicate that you are getting a new perspective on issues that you felt powerless to change previously. The changes you want to make may not be easy but they are necessary for you if you want to have a happy life in the future and you are beginning to realise what you have to do. The Devil Tarot card reversed can also indicate a near miss with a negative, harmful or dangerous situation or person. The important message this Major Arcana card brings is to be grateful that you avoided it, learn from it and move forward. Do not fall back into the old bad or risky behaviours that led you so close to danger. Don’t get cocky and think you are invincible if you managed to dodge the bullet. Appreciate your good fortune, but don’t push it! You start to realise that you have choices and there is help out there for you. Feeling stuck. However, you are starting to become more aware of yourself and how this behaviour has been hindering your search for love. Releasing limiting beliefs, exploring dark thoughts, detachment. can often appear when you are on the verge of a break-through or an up-levelling. You are being called to your highest potential, but first, you must let go of any unhealthy attachments or limiting beliefs that may hold you back. Often, when you are called to something ‘more’, you must deal with your shadows before you can step into this new version of yourself. It may be an addiction, unhealthy relationships, or a disengaging career. Let go of fear and release any self-imposed limiting beliefs standing in the way of your growth. It is easier than you realize. calls on you to confront your inner fears and anxieties to free yourself from the chains that bind you to your limiting beliefs and unhealthy attachments. Eliminate those things you know are harmful to you and your inner psyche. It may be about creating a healthier diet, watching less television, quitting smoking, spending more time with your loved ones, or focusing more on your goals. Take this opportunity to bring about positive change in your life by staying focused on the ultimate goal of freedom.

The Devil card can also appear in a reversal when you are going into your deepest, darkest places – whether or not you are ready. When you take this path consciously, you do so with strength, confidence and courage. You seek to understand your innermost shadows so you can either release them or integrate them into your life in a more constructive way. When you do it unconsciously, or with resistance, it can be very confronting as you may begin to realize you are very different from who you thought you were. You may enter a period of anxiety or depression, or experiencing dark thoughts you struggle to understand. If this resonates, then please seek out a trained therapist to help you work through this time.

The Devil Reversed may also be a sign you are hiding your deepest, darkest self from others, keeping it a secret. You may have thoughts, fantasies, addictions, or habits that you don’t want others to know because you feel embarrassed or ashamed. But sometimes, holding onto the secrets can contribute to a growing level of guilt, and you may feel a sense of relief if you can share your darker self with at least one trusted individual. There is also a need to accept who you are and forgive yourself for the thoughts you have. Of course, if you are at risk of harming yourself or others, please seek professional help immediately.

Finally, The Devil Reversed invites you to practice the Buddhist principle of detachment, a state in which you overcome your attachment to the desire for things, people or concepts of the world, and free yourself from any restrictions. It doesn’t mean you don’t care for people or things; you release your dependence on them. You may also find that a cord-cutting visualization helps to release any unhealthy attachments to others, especially when The Devil Reversed appears in a Tarot reading. Keywords: Overcoming addiction, independence, reclaiming power, detachment, freedom

The Empress Reversed - The reversed Empress love tarot meaning can represent a partner is too smothering, controlling or alternatively, unable to express their feelings. The card can also signal that one's self-worth may need a boost. Without feeling worthy of being loved, it doesn't matter who you are with, you may have difficulties maintaining that relationship. lack of self worth, jealous, clingy lover, lack of progress in love. In your relationships, you may take the ‘mothering’ role too far, becoming overprotective, co-dependent and controlling. The Empress encourages you to make self-love and self-care a priority. Now is the time to bring your loving energy and focus to yourself, especially if you have been giving away your personal power by placing too much emphasis on another person’s emotional or material needs, thus neglecting your own.  It is essential that you fill your cup and care for yourself so you can then take care of others without resentment. Dependence, smothering, emptiness

Ace of Pentacles Reversed - . You may catch yourself second-guessing the timing or doubting whether you have what it takes to see it through. Don't move forward until you're ready. Assess the feasibility of your idea and its potential outcomes. Perform your due diligence and figure out if this opportunity is meant for you or not. missed chances, scarcity, deficiency, instability, stinginess, bad investments, loss of emotional stability, money issues in relationship. loss of emotional stability, money issues in relationship. There may be concerns about finances that are creeping into the relationship, which can make the two of you feel unstable. Sometimes, this can be alleviated with an honest discussion and a game plan moving forward. you're in a time to leave the familiar behind. Be willing to make a change if something's not meeting your standards." this card can also indicate a phase of newness that could feel unstable or ungrounded. can recommend that a connection that once gave you a feeling of stability may instead be making you feel eager and helpless.

[codesstarot]

XV. The Devil

Shadow self, attachment, addiction, restriction, sexuality. the balance between good and evil, male and female, and human and animal. Like the lovers' duality and choice.

The Devil card represents your shadow (or darker) side and the negative forces that constrain you and hold you back from being the best version of yourself. You may be at the effect of negative habits, dependencies, behaviors, thought patterns, relationships, and addictions. You have found yourself trapped between the short-term pleasure you receive and the longer-term pain you experience. you are choosing the path of instant gratification, even if it is at the expense of your long-term well-being

you have been tricked into thinking you have no control over your shadow self or these negative forces. You believe you need it and you must have it, even if it means going against what you know to be right to obtain it. To break free of these negative patterns, you need to acknowledge the hold they have over you and the impact they are having on your life. For example, the first step of Alcoholics Anonymous is an admission: “We admitted we were powerless over alcohol–that our lives had become unmanageable.”

When The Devil shows up in a Tarot reading, see it as an opportunity to bring these negative influences into your conscious awareness, so you can then take action to free yourself from their hold. Shine your light on the negative patterns that have been standing in your way for so long, and over time, you will loosen the grip they have on you. Given that The Devil is a Major Arcana card, it is unlikely that you will be free from your addictions and dependencies overnight. It may be a recurring pattern for you, and it will take a tremendous amount of willpower and strength to free yourself from their influence. But know this: it IS possible, and it is up to you to make it happen.

On the positive side, The Devil can also show a powerful attachment between two people, but it can turn into an unhealthy, co-dependent relationship if you lose connection with your inner guidance or don’t protect your personal boundaries.

The Devil can also represent sexuality and your wild side. You may be exploring bondage, fetishes and your deepest, darkest fantasies. If you can do this within a safe, sacred space, it can be a very enriching experience. However, it has the potential to turn into something that may be unsafe or detrimental to your well-being in the long-term, so again, set clear boundaries, choose your partners wisely, and have your ‘safe words’ ready to go.

Do not expect change to happen quickly when you get this card. The chains that bind the man and woman are made of steel and cannot be broken easily. If this is an obsessive relationship then you can see the problem. Each person in the relationship fuels the flames for the other, yet they both feel stuck as if they don't see any other way out or indeed if they have a choice.

[the kinky stuff, power games, obsession, the sex card, temptation]

[crimsonsongbird]

The First Step: A Message from Demeter

"You don't have to fit The mold they made for you. You don't have to be Who they want you to be. There are so many choices For you to make now. Free yourself from the chains That bind you to them. Break the mold they made And cast it aside. Write your own story. Follow your own path. Plant your own seeds And watch them grow. Be whoever you want to be. Let no one stop you, Not even yourself. You are so very capable, child. Take the first step Towards becoming who you are. We will be with you Every step of the way."

[katzkinder]

The Significance of Freedom

I’ve been stewing on this for a while, and think I finally have the words to explain this... Concept? Development? Critique? ... Truth.

Specifically the significance and importance of Tsurugi’s newfound freedom.

Tsurugi is an abuse victim. You know it, I know it, Strike knows it, my cat knows it. Not only this, but his abuser, the person he felt he couldn’t leave, and who eventually woke up and realized that the best thing he could do for Tsurugi was to leave, was a man who not only intended to bind Tsurugi to him with a magical chain, but also fought with one, puppetting Tsurugi’s body like a doll and using that same chain to break his own child’s arm.

For much of his life, Tsurugi has been bound, both literally and metaphorically, by Gleipnir. His magical limiter and his relationship with Touma are both representative of this mythological chain used to bind the giant wolf Fenrir.

Which brings me to: Why it’s important that Tsurugi does not have a Contract.

I know I talk about this a lot, I know, I really do, but there is... A lot of nuance to the way Tsurugi’s development went, especially here.

To put it simply (ha), it’s... more thematically fitting that he isn’t subject a Contract? He’s no longer leashed and collared, by anyone

To want to immediately throw this man who has never been able to make his own choices from one relationship he cannot leave to another is... I’m sorry, but as someone whose field of work is going to put me in frequent and close proximity with child abuse victims, it’s kinda... Gross? Which isn’t to say that anyone who wanted that development was doing so with any ill will in mind, but it would be a very clumsy resolution that leaves a bad taste in my mouth to think of.

(I would be EXTREMELY interested in a canon divergence where someone addresses these issues in the context of a Tsurugi/Freya Contract, because yesss, gimme those shades of grey, gimme that processing of trauma, the grief inherent and festering when you have never been free, not truly, always having your autonomy stripped away in some form or other by the relationships around you, having your physical autonomy taken from you. Give me Freya who relates to that plight from her position as a woman living in a society that is inherently violent towards her.)

As Tsurugi is now, he is finally, finally able to make choices the way he’s never really been able to do before, specifically about how he interacts with Freya. To me, it is so much more impactful that they aren't bound together by chains and Tsurugi is free to continue to spend time with Freya as his leisure, because he loves her and cares about her, rather than because he's stuck with her.

He protects and loves her because he chooses to. Not because he has to.

And that’s such a beautiful development for him, and an important message for anyone.

You do not owe someone your loyalty just because they saved you. You do not owe someone your time just because they are “good.”

You are your own person, and you deserve to be able to choose for yourself who gets your love.

[sunnyrosewritesstuff]

Day 3 Birthday Plot Bunnies 2

If you want this to become my next WIP, be sure to shower it with lots of love!!  🥰 💖 All the story starters will be linked back to this masterpost.

Title: Soul Traitors

Summary: Betrayal among soulmates is unheard of in all the free races of Arda, yet that’s exactly what Durin, King of Khazad-dûm, endures. Heartsick and angry, he damns the Valar for their choice and earns their wrath in return. He and his former lover will be reincarnated until the wrong between them is righted. Thorin, Durin’s lastest reincarnation, believes nothing can break that curse and instead mounts a quest for the Arkenstone to free his people of theirs. Gandalf, the meddlesome wizard, offers a Burglar for their quest. A hobbit burglar who will help Thorin uncover more than just a gem.

Warnings: Character Death, Gore (I mean, it’s not heavily descripted gore, but it does mention the manner of the character’s death so just to be safe.)

Each of the races have their own views on soulmates and how you go about finding them. However, all seem to agree that to find a soulmate is a very special thing. To find the one person who you can trust with your whole heart and soul. That’s why to the dwarves, they called these people, Ones. None would ever consider betraying their Ones as that seemed a cruelness beyond even that of the orcs. Which is why King Durin stood in the high chamber of the court of Khazad-dûm staring down at the small figure below with such shock and fear, many feared a light breeze could topple their usually infallible king.

The curly haired creature in chains returned the king’s stare with heartbreaking indifference. Many of the court began to chant prayers to Mahal that this was not to be so. That the One of their dear king wouldn’t dare do that which he was accused. Durin’s flat and breathless voice finally spoke, silencing all in the hall.

“Madoc son of Maloch of the Holbyta Tribe Fallohide, you stand before the King of Khazad-dûm as the sole conspirator and thief of the Arkenstone. One of the great treasures of our kingdom. What plea do you make in your defense?”

With no hesitation, no change in emotion, the small being stated the same line Durin’s heard since his capture.

“I love you.”

The king leaned forward to bow his head as he gripped the stone podium tighter. 

“Madoc, this is serious!” Durin’s most trusted advisor, Gelbim, spoke up. “You have taken a sacred relic from our halls, and not just any, but the one that has the power to bring ruin upon our city and our people! Your crime is punishable by death. For the love of Mahal and the great Valar, please, tell us where you’ve hidden the Arkenstone.”

Durin slowly brought his eyes up as the silence persisted to see a small break in Madoc’s mask. His jaw trembled and a single tear leaked from his soft hazel eyes that Durin had loved from the moment he met him. 

“I...love...you.” He sobbed.

That was the moment Durin’s heart broke. Not shattered completely though. No, unfortunately that particular pain would come later that week when Madoc’s sentence was being carried out. But this...this was the first of a pain that would never desist.

“How can you when you hurt me so?” Durin asked softly, yet his words carried through the chamber as Madoc bowed his head in defeat. “You are given a traitor’s sentence. Death with no chance to appeal. Your name will not be spoken aloud again, your hair will be shorn and removed of any braids and beads, and your body will be burned rather than returned to the land and stone. In the Eyes of Mahal, so mote it be.”

Gelbim, his dear friend, told him he didn’t need to attend. None would think less of their king. Durin wished he had listened. He couldn’t bear to watch, but the sound of the axe going straight through his One’s neck would haunt him for the rest of his life. As it was, he stumbled to his chambers to fall and not rise from their marital bed for weeks after. When he resumed his reign, the toll of losing heart and soul was apparent to all. 

Durin became hardened in the final years of his reign. He demanded every ounce of mithril in the mountain to be pulled up and sold it to his allies for too high a price. What he didn’t sell, he forged. Weapons, jewelry, a particular handsome mailshirt, and if it were all the same size as his beloved holbyta? Well, none had it in them to point it out to their fading king. As demanded of a traitor’s death, the name Madoc was stricken from all records and replaced with the Amrâb Hufrel or “the soul’s betrayal of all betrayals”. The rest of the Fallohide tribe which was camped near the Misty Mountains was forced to pack up and resume their nomadic lifestyle west or face war with the dwarves. The sorrows of Durin were not to stop there. 

“The goblins of the Deep grow bolder.” Gelbim remarked as they watched the latest battalion return battered and worse for wear.

“Without the Arkenstone, they will not stop.” Durin growled.

“Durin, my friend, we’ve sent quest after quest after the gem. Wherever M-the Amrâb Hufrel has hidden it, we may not ever find it. It may be time to consider...alternatives.”

“What alternative is there aside from leaving my mountain and my mithril!” Durin spat.

Gelbim raised an eyebrow at his answer. “And is that worth more than the lives of your kin?”

Durin froze before spinning around quick as a flash. “Leave if that is your wish! This has been the home of MY line since the reign of Durin I and I WILL NOT GO!”

Go, Gelbim did taking a third of his kingdom with him including the young Prince Thrain and his mother. Crown Prince Nain, Durin’s only stone son, could not be moved to leave his father to his fate even as he saw the heartless path he wrought. For in their quest for more mithril, an ancient evil slumbering deep below the rock was awoken. The king led a frantic charge against the beast and was slain almost instantly. The war against Durin’s Bane lasted a year longer, but when the newly instated King Nain, was slain, the mountain and its riches were abandoned. In the lore of Durin’s folk, this was the first great curse of the Amrâb Hufrel’s theft.

Durin, who welcomed his death with open arms, awoke expecting to find the Halls of His Father. Instead, the nervous face of his treacherous One amongst a starry plane was the first sight he was graced with. 

“Oh Durin, my heart…” The holbyta began taking a step forward.

“You!” The king snarled, moving away as quickly as he could.

The Amrâb Hufrel looked miserable as his face twisted in anguish. “Please let me explain…”

“NOW YOU WISH TO EXPLAIN!” Durin boomed. “You had your chance! You had every opportunity to tell of your nefarious schemes, and instead you mocked me. You mocked my kingdom, a kingdom you once called yours. Well look at it now! All because of you!”

The creature before him was truly wretched and small as he hunkered against every blow Durin dealt. And the dwarf was yet to be finished.

“Peace, my son.” Came a great voice from above that Durin instantly recognized as His Father even having never heard it before. “You have made your point. Now let your Sanâzyung (Perfect/True Love) say his piece.”

“NO!” Durin roared against the very heavens themselves. “I don’t want to have anything to do with this...this...Amrâb Hufrel!”

Thunder rumbled, shaking the entire platform they stood upon. And while the holbyta trembled in the face of such power, Durin’s anger was too great to be cowed.

“You would reject this gift we offer, son of Aulë?” A female voice demanded, icy and iron.

“What gift?” Durin sneered. “Unless you offer me the chance to sever his head myself this time, I see no gift here.”

The other creature of blood released a gasp that was more like a sob, but Durin had no more patience for the likes of him. In fact, he had nothing left to give to him. Something that became apparent to the Valar watching.

“You have become cruel.” Another, softer female voice soothed. “You know only the truths you have seen with your own eyes.”

“And it is enough for me to condemn that thing and the Great Valar that thought to join my soul with it! Damn him and DAMN ALL OF YOU!”

If Durin expected the same booming show of power he received previously, he was sorely disappointed. Instead, it just all seemed to fade away. The stars, the platform, and the holbyta. His sorrowful face full of tears was the last thing Durin saw before he was swallowed by the darkness. The darkness allowed no sound, not even from Durin’s own voice, and no escape. He was unsure how long he wavered in that place: hours, weeks, years? He was utterly and completely alone until finally the voice of His Father broke through.

“You have shamed me, my uzfakuh (great joy). You have shamed me, you have shamed yourself, and you have shamed your Sanâzyung.”

Durin knew he could not speak back, but he still fumed at the Great Smith’s words. 

“We have thought long and hard on how you can atone for the atrocities you’ve committed today.”

And what of the Amrâb Hufrel’s atrocities?

“Your path will not be an easy one, especially if you hold tight to the stubborn slights of your mortal heart. For a soul is worth so much more. You and your Sanâzyung shall be reborn over and over as many times as needed until you can right the wrongs between you and hear the truth of his soul.”

Durin felt a burning on his breast and looked down to behold a glowing oak tree being inked in chains.

“You shall carry this mark in every life of yours henceforth, and it shall know the mark of Madoc in return. Only free of the chains that bind your soul, will you be welcome in my Halls.”

The legend of Durin’s curse and the theft of the Amrâb Hufrel passed down through the centuries until it had inscribed all dwarven mothers with fear. For any child to bear the mark of Durin was to lead a loveless and empty life. Likewise, any “hobbits” as they preferred that met with the dwarves were met with open hostility. Especially if they bore their own mark, though none knew for certain if it was Madoc’s or not. Still, the hobbits learned fast and stories of their own circulated that any child bearing an acorn on their palm would be hunted and killed by the dwarves. So as the stories grew wilder and edged with desperation, Durin and Madoc were reborn again and again just as Aulë promised, but were no closer to breaking the curse that bound them so.

It was many centuries later when a young prince from Durin’s own line was born to the immediate wailing and disappointment of every dwarf in attendance. Not even a few seconds old, Thorin, son of Thrain, Prince of Erebor bore the heavy burdens of his ancestor. It steeled his heart as he grew into adolescence and forced him to throw his all into his duties as prince. He would love Erebor for none would ever love him. And when Erebor was attacked by the dragon, it was Thorin’s foresight and friendship with the men of Dale that was able to send Smaug away. Thorin grew from prince into a king his people could be proud of, and he never wavered from his vow to his kingdom. Never knowing that almost a century and a half later, a hobbit was born with the death sentence of his people on his palm and a destiny he would not be able to escape.

[pomegranates-and-blood]

νοσταλγία (Chapter 6)

νοσταλγία Masterlist

Pairing: Ivar/Reader (eventual)

Summary: This is a retelling/romantization of the Greek myth of Persephone’s abduction with Ivar as Hades and you as Persephone. The Reader character is a Byzantine woman, follower of the Greek Pantheon/Religion, and a devoted follower of Persephone. This takes place after 5A, but the universe of this is a little changed in relation with the series, of course. Thank you for giving it a chance, hope you enjoy!

Word Count: 2.6k

Warnings: The usual :)

A/N: Hii! Hope you enjoy this chapter, and I would love, as always, to know what you think of this story so far, or this chapter, or anything really lol. Anyhow, hope you give this a chance and you enjoy. Thank you :)

Taglist: @youbloodymadgenius @heavenly1927​

The ships arrive and dock on the city you now know is Dublin, and as you are led in the dead of night to wherever your captor deems you spend the night, you turn back to the sea one last time, looking over the horizon and wondering where the last of the free Attics are now.

You know they would have followed your commands regardless of you being there to lead them. Maybe they assumed you left with Sieghild, you realize, and it is almost preferable that they believe that rather than know how humiliatingly and painfully you’ve been defeated.

The upcoming winter will crush their bodies and spirits, you know this. You knew this the moment you decided to depart from Aneridge with them, but like you said before, you and all the Greeks, as it is mandated by the Gods, would rather die than be slaves to a Christian.

A cluster of small and clearly partly-abandoned cabins appears before you as the torches light the path ahead, and you are silently led by the King into one of them. You watch as the thralls scramble to light fires and chase the cold and stillness from the home.

After they leave, the King surprises you by handing you a couple of furs for you to extend on the ground like he does and sleep. The hope of mercy is almost worse than pain and death, you think.

“You trust me not to kill you in your sleep? Leaving me chained to your bedside will only make me think of revenge, my King.” You taunt, eyes narrowed.

But he is not bothered, or if it is, he manages not to show it. The King motions for the world outside the house’s entrance, eyebrows lifted and mouth curved downwards. A dare, a mock, a challenge.

“Go outside if you want, Priestess,” He taunts, and as you narrow your eyes at him, you see a sardonic and yet small smile playing at his lips. “But you know the only thing keeping my men from tearing you to shreds…is me.”

“I do not fear death,” You reply as you straighten your back, “No Hiereia of the Dread Gods fears death.”

“They won’t kill you.” He promises, delighted in his own cruelty; and it is with a huff you sit back down on the fur and cross your arms. The thought of looking like a spoiled child crosses your mind.

Seemingly pleased with your response, he sits down on the furs, discarding the crutch at his side. Your eyes, with what you tell yourself is the mere curiosity of a healer, follow the certain movements of his fingers as he sets to apparently take off the braces around his legs.

But, seemingly feeling your eyes upon him, the King raises eyes that burn like Greek fire to yours, and with a snarl orders you to look away.

You do so, hearing only the quietened or muffled grunts and the shuffling of iron. When the silence becomes too much, stretching even after he is done taking off the braces, and with your gaze still, in begrudging obedience, set on the ground before you; you ask,

“Why bring me here, why…why do this?”

“You and I are not done talking, Priestess.” He replies easily, as if curiosity alone, as if desire for companionship alone; would warrant all this chaos.

Aware kicking and screaming will only get you so far, you force the hostility out of your tone and shrug your shoulders.

“Then talk, Viking.”

“You would ask many questions, before.” He points out after a breath of silence, making your brow furrow in affront and confusion alike. You turn your eyes to his.

“You expected things to remain as if we…as if we were still in Aneridge?”

The answer that yes, he did, is clear in the way his eyes narrow, his posture shifts before he retorts. It amazes you and insults you at the same time.

“Names change nothing.” He reminds you, and to rub salt on the wound his fascinatingly foreign lips trace the syllables of your name, his pale eyes defying your own gaze.

You pry your eyes from his, and look ahead again.

“Where I am from, names bind us and free us.”

“Why?”

You shrug, “They just…do. We are even taught some Gods’ names cannot be uttered. Like the Mistress, Goddess of the Dead. Only Hiereiai like me get to learn that secret.”

“And what’s her name?”

The laugh leaves your lips, because of course he would ask that.

“She is the Mistress of Chaos, King Ivar. Uttering her name is not wise, for you call forth her presence.”

“Why is she so feared by you Greeks?”

“Her tales speak of…resilience. Of beauty and death, and both are feared by my people. We learn to fear beauty, for it is terror, for it makes the mightiest of Gods and Kings lose control. We are not like you Varangians, we do not seek death even if we honor it, for it means chaos, it means loss. She is marked by death and life alike, she is a child of two worlds by her birthright and her husband’s will,” A small smile curves your lips upwards the refreshing taste of defiance on your tongue as you add, “What her choice was, no one knows or seems to care.”

“Is that why you are the way you are?” He asks bluntly, and you turn to him, startled. “Your tales of your Goddess say she didn’t have a choice, and you are afraid of not having a choice yourself.”

“Everyone yearns for freedom, my King.”

His eyes narrow, giving you an uneasy feeling that he can strip you of every lie you have ever told yourself and see your bare bones beneath, “Not over survival. You do, you’d rather die than be a slave.”

“And knowing that you still placed chains on me.”

“They were necessary. And temporary, as you can see,” He motions to your hands with a vague gesture, looking into your eyes as if he is awaiting the defiance. You don’t give him the pleasure of being right, and instead stay silent. After a while and with a notable movement of his jaw as he cocks his head to the side, the King adds, “Once we arrive in Kattegat, you will be a free woman.”

The hope threatens to choke you, and because you know it is infinitely more dangerous than dread, you push it down and instead accept the apprehension that comes with his words, his declaration.

“Free.” You repeat, slowly, meticulously, and a little brokenly.

He nods, “You have my word.”

“What use have I for your word, Viking?”

Ivar smiles, though, and you have an inkling it is the closest you have been since arriving to earning a genuine one. You would be lying if you said it didn’t entice you.

“I never break a promise.”

You hold his gaze for a few more moments, and finally acquiesce with a nod.

“So will I be able to leave?”

“You will be free,” He repeats, but it feels like a correction to your assumption rather than an acquiescence. “Once my…curiosity is satisfied you may do as you please.”

“Curiosity?” You repeat, “Your people whisper as they may, but I am no witch, Viking. And even if I were, my Gods would never embrace you.”

And the change is minuscule, but somehow striking at the same time. The King straightens, his eyes harden even as his lips curve into a mocking and cruel smile.

“Ah, but I knew that already, Priestess. Aren’t you Greeks known for discarding cripples like me the moment they are born?”

It burns to be reminded of Sparta, of its halls of victory and its alleys of shame. So your lips move before you can even think, “My father’s homeland is m-…” You stop yourself, and cock your head to the side, “How would you know of those practices?”

“Stithulf talks.”

“Uselessly, most of the time,” You correct bitterly, and after a breath of hesitation you add, “And one of our Gods walks like you do,” You mention, motioning with your hand to the crutch at his side, “nothing but your actions is the reason behind my Gods scorning you.”

You are fully aware you are speaking falsely, as you cannot claim to know the wills of the Gods nor where their favor lays, and it is as dangerous as defying the very fates, but you cannot stop the words from leaving your lips.

“My actions?” The Viking repeats, clearly a taunt that your stupid tongue is too quick to fall for.

“You took a Hiereia of the Gods and made her a prisoner!”

He only leans back on his place, eyeing you in a way that makes you uncomfortable and exposed.

“I wanted you here, Priestess. I will not be denied.”

The burn of anger creeps up your face, and your lip curls in a snarl,

“So for your arrogance and your…your pride I am to be chained!?” You question breathlessly, your chest rising and falling quicker and quicker as you notice how he grows more and more content by your fury. He eyes you the same way he did when he found you across a battlefield with blood dripping down your chin and smiled like he could devour you whole, and when your heart beat at the sight of his bloodthirsty eyes like you would let him. But you shake those thoughts off, and point an accusatory finger at him, even if your hand trembles, “You didn’t ask.”

“Would you have come with me?”

Sieghild’s eyes, a choice shining in them as the distant fires of her countrymen’s camp play on her inked face, a promise of survival and maybe something else if you come with her. The certainty of what your choice between hope and nostalgia is.

You shake your head, “No.”

“Then there was no point in asking, Priestess.”

Instead of continuing to argue, you take a deep breath, and after a few moments of calculated silence, you offer,

“If I am truly free, I want to return to where I belong.”

“Oh, where will you return to? Your burnt homeland, or your dead countrymen?” The taunt doesn’t faul to make a pang of pain strike through your heart, but you keep your face impassive, even as the King continues in a snarl, “I would have you know, Greek, that the reason the survivors you commanded to escape Aneridge are al-...”

“How…how did you, um, know about that?”

“I’m a cripple, not an idiot,” He points out, and you hide a wince at the way he uses that word. He uses it with the same intent to mock or disrespect than the people he probably hears it from use it. “You Greeks stood out, and not because of your…” He motions to your whole body with a free hand, and you frown, following his hand with affronted eyes, but say nothing. “But because you were all itching to get out. Of course I had people keeping an eye on what you were planning on doing.”

“You didn’t stop them,” You state, a question even if you phrase it otherwise. Panic grips at your throat, the desperation to keep more death from being your responsibility, to keep more blood from staining your hands, keeps you frozen in your spot. He doesn’t answer fast enough, “Ivar, did you-…what did you do to them?”

His eyes narrow for a small moment, a barely-there reaction to your question or something else. But you are hanging onto his words, debating between believing he will tell the truth or lie again.

Finally, he acquiesces, “They are alive and well, Priestess.”

Relief threatens to weaken your very person, your shoulders lowering and your lungs caving under the weight of this strange peace. Pressing your lips together to keep them from trembling, you take a deep breath.

“Surely you didn’t do that out of the kindness of your heart.”

“I can be merciful.”

Your eyes narrow, “I doubt that.”

He shrugs in acceptance of your words, and says nothing for a few moments. Drinking from his cup, he looks up at you over the rim of it, considering you in silence before speaking again,

“Maybe you inspire mercy in me.”

You shake your head.

“I have no interest in mercy, Ivar.”

“You don’t, Priestess?”

And with a smile that makes hungry eyes travel to your lips you know you’ve won, “We heathens share the same enemies, Varangian.”

“So you do want Stithulf dead.”

“And yet you offer him peace.” You taunt, a thrill of excitement running through your veins at being for once the one in control, even if it makes Ivar turn furious eyes to you and slam his closed fist on the ground at his side.

“Because of you,” He accuses, but you don’t know what he means by that. Surely he wouldn’t stop the bloodshed just for one prisoner of war? Before you can ask anything regarding the uncertainties in your mind, he continues, “And I didn’t offer any peace, my useless brother did, so he could expand and farm.”

The disgust with which he regards the task of tending to Demeter’s soil makes a part of you feel insulted and irritated, but you’re more curious about his reasoning behind the meanings of war and peace to bring it up.

Instead, you state, “He promised you something.”

“Somewhere north of here, he says he can grant us land, so Dublin can expand its borders.” He offer slowly, but before he is even done, you’re shaking your head.

“Stithulf doesn’t own any land, Viking. He gave up his titles and fortune to chase for an army in the Mediterranean.”

“You lie,” He tests, but you shake your head again, “I know you want him dead, Priestess, you have every reason to lie.”

“And yet I’m not lying,” You offer easily, “I have no interest in having you wage war in my name, Varangian, I’m just telling you what I know: you exchanged victory for a prisoner of war and nothing more, for that Christian has no gold and no land to offer.”

He says nothing, but observes you quietly for a few moments. You meet his gaze with no hesitation, completely sure of what you’re telling him, so after a few breaths the King huffs and turns his back to you, signaling his intent to sleep now.

You do the same, laying on your side and closing your eyes.

____

“Earlier, when you talked of your Gods.” He starts, and blinking a few times to adjust your eyes to the darkness, you manage to see him laying on his back, his hands over his stomach.

“Yes?”

“You said one of your Gods walks like me.”

“Lord Hephaestus, God of fire and inventions,” You offer returning your own gaze to the wooden ceiling. “One of the only to return to Olympus after being casted off the halls of the Gods.”

“Why was he casted off?”

“Some say he was born with-…he was born weak, and his mother casted him off for his…deformity,” You offer carefully, because you know why he is asking, the Gods may have made you arrogant but they didn’t make you stupid. “Others say when he was young, he tried to rescue his mother from Father Zeus’ rage and thus he threw Hephaestus to the sea, breaking both his legs on the fall.”

He doesn’t ask anything else, and so you don’t share any more of the story. There’s the faint sound of voices and boots on gravel from somewhere far away from the house, but other than that silence reigns between you, and you could fool yourself into believing he is asleep.

“And what do you believe, Priestess?”

“I believe Hera loved him then and loves him still. No mother turns her back on her child, does she?”

A grunt of acquiescence is his only answer.

_____

Okay, hi! Hope you enjoyed this!! Tiny tidbit of info: In ancient Greece, according to the sources I handled, Persephone’s name was not to be uttered, considered a mystery and naming her would be calling for her which was frowned upon. Instead, she was given other titles, among them Despoina, which was also a title in Byzantine Greece and means Mistress, Lady/Mistress of the Home. The followers of her faith supposedly are the ones to know her secret (her name), and the only ones allowed to say it, in secrecy.

I know not much interesting happens this chapter, it’s a lot of dialogue and interactions, and I’m sorry, I just never know when to not write something, y’know?

So, I’m probably gonna upload chapter 7 on Saturday as schedule, as a form of apology for a very lousy chapter and also bc as you can see everything is fucking slow here and the story is panning out to be very long, so I might as well rush it a bit with two chapters on saturdays maybe, idk.

Anyhow, please let me know what you think, and I hope you have a nice day/night/whatever! :D

[lavendermilkandhoney]

22/22 The Devil – Arasaka ?

It is not said if it’s Arasaka in the guide book, it could be or it could be something or someone else... or both

In Game

The Devil is addiction, craving and passion. He brings fame and fortune, but at the price of losing oneself to a world of material distractions. The Devil lures unsuspecting souls into traps, but always grant them a choice. One can try their luck and take him up on his offer, but one should always know when to call quits.

Zodiac Sign : Capricorn

Capricorn is connected to the Devil card because both the card and the sign strive ever onward for those things that will satisfy their drives, whether that be acquiring goods or business conquests, this connection represents those things that may slowly take over one's life and not necessarily to the overall benefit.

Misty’s Reading (After the Heist 2/2) - Reversed

“You will find yourself under the influence of powerful people with unclear motives. Be very careful.”

Misty’s Reading (Arasaka Ending, V’s Future) - Reversed

“Symbolizes subjugation, losing control… Agression. Evil. A power struggle. Whatever you’re planning, treat this as a warning.”

In Tarot

UPRIGHT: Shadow self, attachment, addiction, restriction, sexuality

REVERSED: Releasing limiting beliefs, exploring dark thoughts, detachment

The Devil card shows Baphomet, or the Horned Goat of Mendes, a creature that is half man, half goat. Baphomet originally represented the balance between good and evil, male and female, and human and animal; however, more recently, this figure has been linked to the occult and has become a scapegoat for all things considered ‘evil’.

The Devil has the wings of a vampire bat, an animal that sucks the lifeblood out of its prey, symbolic of what happens when you give in to your raw desires. He has a hypnotic stare which ‘magnetises’ and entrances those who come near him, bringing them under his power. Above him is an inverted pentagram – a sign of the darker side of magic and occultism. He raises his right hand in the Vulcan Salute – a Jewish blessing, later made famous by the film series, Star Trek. In his left hand, he holds a lit torch.

At the foot of the Devil stand a man and a woman, both naked and chained to the podium on which the Devil sits. They appear to be held here against their will – but look closer, and you will notice that the chains around their necks are loose and could be easily removed. Each has small horns on their head, like the devil’s, a sign that they are becoming increasingly like him the longer they stay here. Both have tails, a further symbol of their animalistic tendencies and raw instincts, and the grapes and the fire on their respective tails signify pleasure and lust.

Upright

The Devil card represents your shadow (or darker) side and the negative forces that constrain you and hold you back from being the best version of yourself. You may be at the effect of negative habits, dependencies, behaviours, thought patterns, relationships, and addictions. You have found yourself trapped between the short-term pleasure you receive and the longer-term pain you experience. Just as the Lovers card speaks to duality and choice, so too does the Devil; however, with the Devil, you are choosing the path of instant gratification, even if it is at the expense of your long-term well-being. In effect, you have sold your soul to the devil!

The Devil card often appears when you have been tricked into thinking you have no control over your shadow self or these negative forces, and that you can never break free from their hold. You believe you need it and you must have it, even if it means going against what you know to be right to obtain it. Deep down, though, you know it’s to your detriment, and you are only doing yourself (and often others) a disservice when you cave in to these lower needs and desires. To break free of these negative patterns, you need to acknowledge the hold they have over you and the impact they are having on your life. For example, the first step of Alcoholics Anonymous is an admission: “We admitted we were powerless over alcohol–that our lives had become unmanageable.”

When the Devil shows up in a Tarot reading, see it as an opportunity to bring these negative influences into your conscious awareness, so you can then take action to free yourself from their hold. Shine your light on the negative patterns that have been standing in your way for so long, and over time, you will loosen the grip they have on you. Given that the Devil is a Major Arcana card, it is unlikely that you will be free from your addictions and dependencies overnight. It may be a recurring pattern for you, and it will take a tremendous amount of willpower and strength to free yourself from their influence. But know this: it IS possible, and it is up to you to make it happen.

On the positive side, the Devil can also show a powerful attachment between two people, such as a mum and her newborn, or a new romance still in its ‘honeymoon phase’. Be careful, though, because, with the Devil card, this healthy attachment can turn into an unhealthy, co-dependent relationship if you lose connection with your inner guidance or don’t protect your personal boundaries.

The Devil can also represent sexuality and your wild side. You may be exploring bondage, fetishes and your deepest, darkest fantasies. If you can do this within a safe, sacred space, it can be a very enriching experience. However, it has the potential to turn into something that may be unsafe or detrimental to your well-being in the long-term, so again, set clear boundaries, choose your partners wisely and have your ‘safe words’ ready to go.

Reversed

The reversed Devil card can often appear when you are on the verge of a break-through or an up-levelling. You are being called to your highest potential, but first, you must let go of any unhealthy attachments or limiting beliefs that may hold you back. Often, when you are called to something ‘more’, you must deal with your shadows before you can step into this new version of yourself. It may be an addiction, unhealthy relationships, or a disengaging career. Let go of fear and release any self-imposed limiting beliefs standing in the way of your growth. It is easier than you realise.

The reversed Devil calls on you to confront your inner fears and anxieties to free yourself from the chains that bind you to your limiting beliefs and unhealthy attachments. Eliminate those things you know are harmful to you and your inner psyche. It may be about creating a healthier diet, watching less television, quitting smoking, spending more time with your loved ones, or focusing more on your goals. Take this opportunity to bring about positive change in your life by staying focused on the ultimate goal of freedom.

The Devil reversed can also appear when you are going into your deepest, darkest places – whether or not you are ready. When you take this path consciously, you do so with strength, confidence and courage. You seek to understand your innermost shadows so you can either release them or integrate them into your life in a more constructive way. When you do it unconsciously, or with resistance, it can be very confronting as you may begin to realise you are very different from who you thought you were. You may enter a period of anxiety or depression, or experiencing dark thoughts you struggle to understand. If this resonates, then please seek out a trained therapist to help you work through this time.

The reversed Devil may also be a sign you are hiding your deepest, darkest self from others, keeping it a secret. You may have thoughts, fantasies, addictions, or habits that you don’t want others to know because you feel embarrassed or ashamed. But sometimes, holding onto the secrets can contribute to a growing level of guilt, and you may feel a sense of relief if you can share your darker self with at least one trusted individual. There is also a need to accept who you are and forgive yourself for the thoughts you have. Of course, if you are at risk of harming yourself or others, please seek professional help immediately.

Finally, the Devil reversed invites you to practice the Buddhist principle of detachment, a state in which you overcome your attachment to the desire for things, people or concepts of the world, and free yourself from any restrictions. It doesn’t mean you don’t care for people or things; you release your dependence on them. You may also find that a cord-cutting visualisation helps to release any unhealthy attachments to others, especially when the Devil reversed appears in a Tarot reading.

---

Thank you so much @cybervesna​ for the polish traduction from the official guide book and its associations with the characters!

[blankdblank]

Ash Pt 16

Borders of Lothlorien were soon met after letters had been dropped from the ship to Rohan to inform King Thengel of the circumstances surrounding the ship and trips over their lands and what they would learn of the destruction of Mordor. Down between the trees and two rings of the forest into the lake fed by the Anduin River, which was vast and mainly unused and large enough to house the ship the crew lowered and readied to wait until you were able to travel again. With sails folded again small swan ships were moved from the river to the lake to help in the transfer of those off the ship.

Focus of the incredible ship still glowing in its continued power they had no clue or wish to power it down again however shifted to King Thranduil who held your slumbering self on the long walk from the smaller transfer ship up to his usual apartment. His path was certain and his only task while Legolas raced off to share with the guards who were on patrol what had happened with Tauriel right after him, both excited to share the tale with their friends while the other guards spread the word through the others inside the city. All save for Celebrimbor of course, who accepted hold of your chest key that on Mt Doom had fallen off of you in being lifted and raced for the forges to mend or replace altogether the chain that Morgoth’s hands had split the joints next to the clasp.

Safe and sound in Thranduil’s own bed he nestled you ensuring that safely his One could rest and recover through work of the Healer who walked with him had applied more of the healing creams and the Kingfoil water soaked cloths to your wounds. The only stolen action he did take was to slip the rings you had removed back onto their rightful fingers. Not the necklace however he left in its box he slipped back into the outer pocket of the bag he settled on the bedside table. Within earshot however he did remove his armor that was set down quietly on the floor along the wall of the closet beside his boots that enabled him to sit down on the foot of the bed to lean against the post there.

He just wanted to be near you and to be here whenever you did wake up. Even to the extent of taking his supper right there with ample glances up at you to ensure he wouldn’t be seen to be eating and give the hint of carelessly attending to his own hunger and not having thought of you as more than an entertainment while he ate. Legolas and Estel were the only ones to take attention from your sleeping self in their own trip into the apartment after their own meal to sit with him and help him wind down from his obvious fear of your still being in pain. Estel especially made sure to find the yellow dog doll he propped up beside you with a promise to yourself that he would take perfect care of the other until you woke up. Tight as he could the boy hugged you on his path to be led to bed again while miles below the choirs began a song of long awaited joy of peace mirrored by those in Rivendell and the Greater Greenwood who were informed of the news by means of messenger birds.

All through the song and the night Thranduil simply watched your peaceful glow grow while you recovered. Every session each few hours gave Elrond’s smile reason to grow for sign that the bruises and swelling had gone down drastically alongside the cuts that were all but nonexistent. The leg especially with means of removal of your pants under a stray sheet laid over your hips had him relying on memory for its prior location as gentle presses of his finger proved the wound had healed entirely.

Upon being redressed again you were covered and Elrond in a glance out the window stated to his friend, “Morning shall be upon us soon. Perhaps it would be best you bathed before the young Queen should wake.” That had Thranduil’s eyes flinch to him, “Might find herself reluctant for an embrace by the state of you.” Away from the bed Elrond moved mid chuckle to Thranduil’s eye roll and relenting sigh to find his feet accepting of that truth that he was not entirely visually or scented to be appealing.

 *

Hard and fast hands fixed around your neck. Familiar eyes, on the giant’s scarred face that didn’t quite match. Wordlessly his lips moved and in confusion your eyes narrowed in your strain to listen however a flash of red soon found you back on your first night in Ruun where your eyes fixed on the wine glass in the fire lit room you couldn’t see beyond the table at which you sat. It was expected, you to accept the glass and drink. No, the word caught in your throat that again you felt hands fixed around it. Up to your throat your hand moved without a trace of anything there to cause the tightness. A hand on your shoulder from a snap of your head to the figure on your right found you open eyed awake in a backwards slide upright against the headboard on top of the pillows.

Another unknown room had your head timidly turning to scan over the room for details that had your hand lower from the headboard it had pressed against in the tuck of your legs to ease out from underneath the covers. Steadily through the open window covered by thin curtains that floated on the breeze wafting of trees and flowers came in the sound of voices of choirs singing in a language that at least hinted where you might have been brought. Haltingly from the bed you crept to your feet and made your way towards the door to search for where you were. Around the handle when you reached it your hand folded and shifted to ease the wooden barrier back that to the sight of the bare back of Thranduil you slammed it shut perhaps a great deal louder than you had intended.

Smack in the middle of the apartment in the treetops, against the trunk on the slotted floor where drains from the suspended water system for the shower there soaped up with hold of the pull chord handle to the sound of the slammed door Thranduil smirked hopefully to the source of the noise. Only to smile to himself hearing, “Of course you’re naked. Am I ever going to be able to open a door without stumbling upon you naked.”

“I apologize, I had assumed you would sleep longer. I shall endeavor to not have this become a common occurrence whilst we remain in shared dwellings.”

“No, it’s fine. I should have known better than to open a closed door without appointment.” He heard you on your way back to the bed to hide under the covers.

“I am nearly finished and be with you momentarily.”

“Take your time. I am not leaving this bed again. No telling who else I might find naked here.”

That had him chuckle to himself and tug the chord again to finish rinsing off, within five minutes he was toweling off and covered himself with the set of clothes servants from this kingdom had gathered for him and left near to the shower room for when he did choose to bathe. Carelessly he plopped his used towel over the drying bar for used towels and barefoot in his belted robe over a tunic and trousers in all white accented with silver he walked to the bedroom door and opened it. Right away smiling again to the pile of furs that showed where you had hidden. “My Darling Starlight I do apologize. This was not intentional, again.”

From the bed his hand drew back the covers and his knee pressed to the bed and down he sat sideways beside you. Right as you shifted to roll onto your back his body shifted to lean onto the hand he rested on your other side with eyes fixed upon yours after a confirming glance that you were now bruise free in a gentle glow. “Did I scare Estel?”

“No,” he replied to calm the worry in your timid whisper. “You however did terrify me when you leapt off of that ship.”

“Arguments wouldn’t have gotten us anywhere.”

“You are terrified of heights to avoid tours of our treetops and you leapt, off of a ship.”

“I knew my glider would catch me.”

“That puzzles me beyond befuddlement.”

“That was how my father taught me to use them, tossed me over the side.” That had him deeply inhale with clear fury in his eyes he fought to restrain.

“Was there no limit to his cruelty?”

“How you learn to not be afraid to fly, you have to fall. Every father teaches their kids that way.”

“We do not toss our children anywhere beyond a couple feet above our heads to fetch fruit from trees to keep them from climbing above their skills. And never anywhere else out of our reach. I would never dare to have tossed my Little Leaf from a tree to teach him of falling.”

“I do know all of that might give you doubts,”

Hastily he cut you off, “There are no doubts upon my part. You have the chance to create a better future footing for a family, with whomever you choose to marry.”

“Whomever I choose,” you scoffed back making him smirk as you added, “As if you weren’t the one to stab two blades into the back of the giant who had me pinned. And you ruined your cape wouldn’t be honorable to let you do that and then turn you down for courtship,” to the shift of your legs against his side in your move to sit up that had his eyes scan over your face to the serious subject you were touching on.

“Nothing I did obligates you to attach yourself to me,” he replied reluctantly.

“I could say the same to you. But, here we are, feathers in my hair and you all cape-less.” Your eyes sank and his lips parted to the mournful look in your eyes, “Though can’t say I’m very good of a choice, lost my key.” To the tap of your fingers at your neck where the chain used to rest.

Gently he cradled your hand from there luring your eyes to him again, “No, no, Celebrimbor noticed the break in the chain and it is being repaired.” Both of his hands cradled yours now, “And you are not obligated to bind yourself to me in courtship. I swore to you, none shall harm you and be spared my wrath.”

“Well no take backs now, tree heard me say it. No doubt already spreading the word through all its squirrels and winged friends.” That had him chuckle in both amusement and relief. “I am sorry I scared you. I’ll try to keep from facing off with any more giants.”

“You fought brilliantly and were able to bring down figures from our past who none have been known to have been bested with your powers. Now, had we given you lessons on the arts of archery or blades I carry no doubts he would have been afraid to cross your path.”

“He got shot in the neck,”

“Yes, Morgoth is much more than merely a physical being. Any harm to his physical form would be inconsequential. However those chains of yours were a spectacular move to bind him.”

“Well, Pollux is always eager to soar,” his brow arched up, “Pollux is the name of a star, those chains are laced with star ore.”

“Then not only will Tulkas be amused as will Varda when she finds his fea amongst her stars.” He said with a chuckle then he shifted hold of your head to stand up and say, “Come, the sun will be rising soon the public kitchens shall be readying the breakfast that will be prepared in hopes of your awakening. Lord Elrond has been very diligent in checks upon your injuries.” Another glance down to your forearms covered by the sleeves had him say, “Which are all healed and as for your new layers they were changed in a means of cleansing your wounds and to place you in clean layers for your comfort. We ensured you were covered with sheets for your privacy where unnecessary.”

“I wouldn’t suspect any less. I had a habit of waking up after getting hurt in new clothes. I was more shocked alone when I would wake up where I collapsed.” When you straightened up on your feet again you said in a look over his robe that you reached out to touch, “You don’t have any buttons.” Pats down the front where his usual seam of hidden buttons had him chuckle until you found a hidden set of laces near his neck that had you say, “We’re not in Rivendell.”

“No, keen eyes.” he hummed in his turn to guide you towards the door and out of the apartment, “The others will be so pleased that you are in good humor. I know there will be a good many craftsman of the Teleri who would wish to gain insight into skills that went into the crafting of your ship.”

“Well I have a hoard of spare supplies my cousin helped me to pack away for my trip. Spent a good deal of scraps from the junkyard after hearing the King wanted to clear it anyways, so I might be able to dust off some of my journals with the diagrams in them for some smaller ships than mine to shorten the build time.”

“Well that would be incredible news, I am certain-,”

Your hand on his middle and wide eyed stare out of the open front entrance to the apartment came in the instant step against his side that had his smile ease out in amusement to the reaction compared to that daring leap off the ship. Over your head his arm eased and down a bit he crouched guiding your hands he took hold of to loop your arms around his shoulders. “I will carry you, cling tight as you wish.” Impressions ignored you let him lift you to ease your legs around his middle while he kept hold of your legs. A hold that he was proud to keep to grant his possibly still somewhat tired One on the stroll across the walkway where the first of mental warnings from passers by. Each who rippled word to others that the injured Queen was not only awake but being brought down by the King who was mid hushed tour of things that came within view in the pathway and what seemed to be miles of stairs that not once but five times you had checked if you were too heavy for him.

Once on the ground again he lowered and helped you to your feet when he claimed hold of your hand with a smile. “There are some lovely gardens along the way.”

Three gardens were passed through and by the time the fourth was reached the Princes excitedly had come up to see you. Estel especially on Legolas’ shoulders held out the dog doll in his hands he propped on top of Legolas’ head, “I’ve kept your dog safe.”

“Thank you for that,” you said after a quick grin to Legolas.

Estel blurted out after a sharp exhale, “One day I’ll grow big and powerful so one day I can keep you safe if anyone tries to hurt you to get me.”

Thranduil readied to talk only to turn his head to hear you say, “You know, one thing my Gran used to tell me, when you are strong don’t forget to be kind. When you are kind never forget you are strong.”

Plainly he replied, “That’s a circle.”

With a giggle you replied, “Yes, well sometimes I don’t understand it either. But one day if you have to be King I’d rather have you be known for your heart over your blades. Because you have to remember an ounce of kindness is more than a pound of fear.”

Estel asked Thranduil, “But a King needs blades, doesn’t he?”

Proudly in time to join in on this admirable lesson you were expressing he answered the question, “On occasion. However I know you have witnessed myself and Lord Elrond we are not armed constantly. There is a great deal of mercy, kindness and understanding that is a part of a King’s rule. We are the head that guide our people, as well as the shoulders and backbone of support for their troubles and plights of those we welcome into our lands as well. Should you speak from heart to heart and lock eyes with even the lowest ranked people under your charge as your equal with respect your people will thrive amongst your company.”

Estel, “But, then why do you wear swords?”

Thranduil, “Because in this world there are times to protect what you love when it is under threat. There are times when those who are unable to fight must be defended by the strength of our arms.”

Celeborn from behind a tree came into view on a path that joined yours and said, “If you are up to it we may yet find a helpful breeze this afternoon for the flight back.”

His eyes were fixed upon you in the group and you simply nodded, “Sounds good, whenever you’re ready.” After a moment you asked, “How big were your ships? The ones you lost.”

“Roughly 60 feet long. Not much in size compared to yours.”

“Well the size is to help it remain up for over a year,” parting his lips, “14 month race. I was signed up before I got taken. Plus you have to have some girth to take on the creatures around the mountain ranges in an evasion route or the winds would slam you right into a mountain.”

Celeborn, “Well it should be smooth sailing for us today, and we have received word the flowers should be readied for the festival to begin upon the morning after our return hours after the celebratory feast for our victorious endeavor.”

.

The meal was lovely, as was the scenery on the flight back to Rivendell where you landed and powered down your ship you left in the open for admiration by those who didn’t get a good look. However sleep didn’t come easy and with a hand fixed upon the new chain Celebrimbor had to forge for your antler key when he realized the clasp was beyond cooperation in the repair you sat up drafting in a spare journal new designs of smaller sleeker ships. Everyone had done so much for you and you supposed this adventure had led you sideways into a place amongst these people to be useful beyond just a messenger or delivery person.

Soon you would be spread out across the covers in a drowsy droop onto your side when your eyes couldn’t stay open. There was so much to do. Languages to learn, new lands to explore and their people to meet. Ships to build. And now that you had accepted Dew Drop’s offer of courtship whatever that would entail. But for now you would sleep. At least until a choir of birds with alarming greetings to the sunrise seemed to have gathered around your window in a sea of impossible sounds their tiny feathery bodies let free.

All –

@sherala007​, @mariannetora​​, @jesgisborne​, @knitastically​, @catthefearless​​, @theincaprincess​, ggbbhehe4455, @lilith15000​,

Not nsfw(smut) - @otakumultimuse-hiddlewhore​

Ash - @devilishminx328, @fandomsstolemylife00​, @lilith15000

[rhys-kefechek]

Letters of Regrets and Love

You know, I’ve been watching you for so long. Your smile is blinding, even if it’s when your lips just curl up. I love watching your hair in the wind, it tells a story of its own, completely independent from you. It just shows how you long to be free. To fly with long-tailed birds. I love summers, no matter how much less chances I have to see you. 

After all, we’re just school mates, nothing more, at least, in your eyes. But you’ve given me much to look forward to, you've given me too much. When I pass by you, I just let my head hang low, not wanting to be noticed by you. Love, it is not something to be proud of. Love, it is not something to long for. I think that freedom is so much more precious. No one wants to be chained up, do they? 

I've been writing these for two years now, people would think that even one person knows that I love you. But they don’t. Nor do you. And I’m glad. Love, it can chain up other people. Love, it can chain your own mind, stay in you for so long, make you forget how it was before that. Is it cruel that I’m saying only on paper, but not in person? No, I don’t think so. 

You see, people who think with their heads are lunatics when it comes to any matter regarding life. People who live by listening to their hearts are the ones who know of wisdom and suffering, and they, most of all, they know how it is when words bind you. A simple ‘I’ll see you tomorrow’ can be the breaking point. I’ve cried nights worth of tears, wanting to tell you a few simple words filled with so much importance, binding you to myself, even if it’s for a moment of surprise when a stranger confesses to such heresy that is love. 

Yes, it is heresy, yes, it is cruelty, yes, it is selfishness. And my heart says, stay quiet. I did. I stayed quiet for so long that I’ve forgotten how to convey the feelings that strum the strings of others. 

Words of love have become reserved just for you, only to be whispered in toilets while I imagine you hugging me, behind your back, quietly, silently, soundlessly, with just my lips moving to form the words. I’ve said them in empty halls, hoping that my words would echo and you would, for some reason beyond us all, hear them and have a revelation. 

That I, this useless I, loves you more than you could ever imagine. 

I’ve said them on a nearby hill, hoping that tall grass would take them away from me, from you, from all that could have known. Yet no one knows, so, maybe it was successful. I’ve been writing for a long time, just this one entry, this one ‘love letter’. It does not deserve that name anymore. You write that for someone to bind, you pour in everything you have and give it, giving up your heart to a merciless decision of the receiver. These, that I write, are the ‘letters of regrets and love’. 

How long will I write them? I don’t know, but I know that it will be long before I put down the pen for you. With just one action, you made yourself something unattainable, something invisible, yet so unforgettable. And you’ve done it in the worst way possible, and probably the fastest. I’ve been writing for two years, I’m writing today, and I’ll be writing who knows how long into the future, just to one day, hopefully say goodbye to your eternally framed face on this one grave. 

You committed suicide. Would it have been different if I had just given you one token out of my whole collection, if I listened to my head, rather than heart? I’ll leave it to you to think about, and tell me when we meet again, because I’ll not die by my own choice, I’ll live and see what you’ve missed to tell you if you’ve missed much. Maybe you haven’t. Maybe you have. 

But, you know? What is it that they, grown-ups, say? We don’t know anything, we’re just children, just out of a cradle. But we know how fragile we are. Say, how did you feel flying those couple seconds? Save the answer for the distant future. Will I remember you by then? If I don’t, come first and tell me that flying felt beautiful, I’ll be able to smile, even though I know you’ll be lying.