unholly-reader

[unholly-reader]

Four Questions // Ethan Hunt x fem!OC

Hello lovely people!

Am I back from the dead? Probably not. Am I once again obsessing over the wonderful and spectacular Ethan Hunt? Absolutely!

So, in honour of Tom and McQ giving us the incredible masterpiece that is the Final Reckoning, here is a little snippet of my imagination with our favourite impossible agent in the lead. A lot of fluff, lots of emotions, so please - enjoy!

P.S. English is not my first language so please have mercy kind people.

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It was one of those nights when the street goes quiet and the neighbours' dogs keep to their owners while the sky spits out clouds of rain on the unsuspecting citizens of the city. Water was trickling down the window glass like a tranquil waterfall in the wild. Sienna was standing in the kitchen by the counter, stirring vigorously all the ingredents necessary for her famous cinamonn buns. It was a saturday night like any other. The calm and the silence were something Sienna had gotten used to over the years of being out of the field. She liked it that way. Even though the first few months felt strange, like she was living somebody else's life but eventually she got used to it. Especially since she wasn't alone.

The quiet of her house was suddenly disturbed by a series of steady knocks against her front door. Like second nature her instincts kicked in. Swiftly she grabbed a knife from the stand near the cooking stove and slowly started walking towards the exit. She approached the front door with caution, extremely aware of her surroundings and all the sounds she could make out in the silence. A few wild strands of her choclate hair fell in her face but she ignored it completely as she neared the entrance. She could hear the person behind the door breathing heavily, as if they had just finished a marathon. For a minute she just stood still and waited.

- Sienna, open the door. It's me.

All the caution and the mindfullness dissapeared when she had heard his voice. Quickly she lowered her hand in which she was holding the knife and unlocked the door, swinging it open. And there he stood. He was soaked to his skin, dripping with water from head to toe, but he didn't really mind the wet clothes and hair when his eyes fell onto her face. Chocolate strands sticking out of her messy bun, bright blue eyes staring at him like he hung the moon and slightly chapped lips barely agape in shock. Dressed in nothing but an old pair of sweatpants for him she was the most spectacular creature in the world.

- Ethan?

- Sorry for the unannounced visit but this really can't wait.

Sienna was at a loss for words. It's been a few weeks since the mission in Mumbai but she thought that was the last time she would see Ethan for a long time. Clearly she had been mistaken. Without a word of objection she stepped away, allowing him to walk inside her house. Cleverly she hid the knife behind her back when she closed the door. In silence they walked through the house together as Sienna led Ethan towards the kitchen where she had left her baking work in progress.

- How did you find my house adress?

Ethan smirked lightly standing by the counter so that he was facing Sienna.

- You know Benji can't exactly keep his mouth shut.

Both of them laughed quietly as they silently agreed on their friend's wide mouth.

- True, he can't keep too many things to himself outside of assignments - Sienna stated reaching for the kettle - Would you like anything to drink? Or maybe a towel first because you're kind of dripping on my very expensive wooden floor.

Subconsiously the agent looked down to his feet where in fact a small pool of rain water had begun to gather.

- Yeah, maybe in a minute but I need to do something first. It actually has a lot to do with Benji's blabbering mouth - Ethan replied on a more serious note while looking into Sienna's eyes with a hint of longing.

- Is something wrong?

- I just need you to answer three questions. Four, if the answer to the last one is "yes".

Sienna felt her heart hammering against her ribcage, but she remained seemingly calm putting on her best 'everything is fine" face.

- Anything.

Ethan rested his hands on the counter looking gently at her like he was almost afraid she would run away.

- Were you the mysterious helper we had back in Dubai?

Even though she had expected these questions, her throat still went dry. Without breaking eye contact Sienna shifted slightly, putting her weight in her left leg while nodding subtly.

- Yes.

- Were you involved in our mission in any other way, like when Jane couldn't handle seducing that indian tycoon in Mumbai on her own?

Another bombshell to which she had to admit the truth.

- Yes.

Ethan's face fell a little, softening his features as if he was preapring for a potential catastrophy.

- Do we have a daughter that you decided not to tell me about because you wanted me to move on and be happy in my life?

That was the one thing Sienna knew he would ask about and yet still she felt her body stiffen almost completely. Her eyes slowly filled with tears as she watched the way Ethan's face changed. Staring into his green orbs she could see that the suspense was killing him just like her feelings for him had been killing her for the better part of the past seven years. She opened her mouth to answer but no words left her lips. All she could do was nod slowly while clutching the edge of the kitchen countertop so hard her knuckles went white.

Yes.

Ethan let out a deep breath like he had been holding it ever since he walked into her home. He was almost certain that what Benji had told him about the little girl next to Sienna in the picture was true but still hearing it from the woman he had missed so desperately made it all the more groundbreaking.

- We have a daughter - he whispered almost like he was still asking a question.

The air escaped his lungs as if he had been punched in the gut but somehow he remained steady. Never once did he break eye contact with Sienna whose features expressed so many emotions he could barely keep track of it. No matter how many years passed she had always looked the same to him. Same fire crackling in her eyes. Same gentle gaze. Same comforting smile. Same lips he couldn't get out of his head. For a few minutes they just stood in silence. Taking each other's presence in. Like they were somehow trying to make up for the lost time.

- Do you...

- I'm sorry about what happend with Julia.

Before Ethan could ask his final question Sienna interrupted him mid sentence, almost too afraid of what he would ask about. She panicked. Acted completely out of instinct. Ethan was confused as to why she was bringing his ex-wife but he decided not to ask.

- Thank you, but that's the way it had to be. At some point she realised we couldn't make our marriage work the way we needed to. The way we wanted.

Sienna's heart was racing. Her breath was ragged and uneven. Her chest raising in frantic movements.

- Why? - her question was no louder than a whisper.

Ethan stood up straight, walking around the counter and stopping in front of her with his eyes still glued on to her.

- She knew I could never belong to her. Not entirely. She knew that there would always be a part of me that belonged to somebody else.

There was a heavy silence hanging between their bodies. Sienna could feel the warmth radiating off Ethan's body despite being soaked to the bone. She looked down, staring intensely at the tops of his boots covered in droplets of water. If she raised her head she would be met with a pair of warm green eyes staring at her lovingly, but she was too scared of her own reflexes so she chose the floor.

- I thought you were in love.

That one sentence broke Ethan's sense of reason and control. Without thinking twice he put his fingers under her chin and lifted it so she would finally look at him. She had tears in her eyes. He had love and utter adoration in his. Two pieces of the same puzzle finally back as one.

- I could never love anyone as deeply, as devastatingly, as dangerously as I love you, Sienna - Ethan confessed steadily, focusing all of his strength so that he wouldn't just smash his lips on hers and call it a day - Now let me ask you the fourth question before I lose my mind completely. Do you still love me?

Five words. Those five words were all it took to make Sienna weak in her knees, nearly crumbling to the ground. As if predicting the reaction she would have to his question Ethan quickly wrapped both his arms around her waist, subconsciously pulling her flush against his body. Muscle memory acted on Sienna's behalf as she rested her palms on his chest. This way she could feel the way his heart was hammering beneath her hands, just like hers was racing against her skin. There was no common sense. There was no rational thinking. There was no logic. It was pure longing and the feelings neither of them could ever truly push away.

- I have loved you for the past twenty one years, Ethan and despite my best efforts I can't stop, so I will probably love you for the next twenty one if not more.

[unholly-reader]

Shadowcloaked // Chapter 4

Welcome Darling Readers!

This one took a little longer than usual to wrote but we're heading towards some action! I'm so so so happy to see how many of you are enjoying my little project and I hope I won't disappoint you! As always, please let me know in the comments what you think! Theories, ideas, special wishes? Gimme! 

Xoxo

(Un)Holly

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- What?

Drina's mouth moved faster than her mind could follow its course. Her lips acted before her mind could even begin to think it over. She was looking at the Duke with her eyes wide open and a question almost written on her forehead. 

- Fenrys told me countless times you're quite the bookworm and there is hardly any book in the Aretian library you haven't put your hands on - the Duke replied calmly despite her obvious shock staring at her with a stoic expression on his face - And right now I need to know if there is some  method of killing dragons other than good old-fashioned ripping its throat so that we may have a fighting chance in the battles to come. So, let me ask you again. How much do you know about killing dragons?

It wasn't uncommon for Drina to be asked questions most people would find difficult to answer but it wasn't the fact that the Duke was seeking her knowledge. It was the question in itself that concerned her the most. 

Dragons were almost mythical for the Tyrrish people. It wasn't that Tyrrendor didn't have dragon riders before but they were one of the elements of their culture that died down with the years passing by. Fen's father was a rider himself bonded with a powerful blue daggertail which was considered one of the rarest of all existing dragon kinds. Unfortunately it was with Atlas Riorson's death just before graduating from Basgiath that the Riorson name died on the pages of the riders' quadrant archives. Currently there were only a few dragon riders in all of Tyrrendor and only three in active duty ready to defend its borders and independence. 

Drina knew this was a do or die situation just from the look on her father's face. Unaware of his daughter's observations Fenrys watched her with a worried grimace splayed on his face which made it quite clear the circumstances were less than advantageous. 

- I'm not sure how I can be of help, Your Grace - Drina replied politely looking up to meet Fen's deep green eyes - From our point of view as a species dragons are apex predators and any human attacking or defending from the ground is too easy a target to even think about taking a shot at one. It would require immense precision and most importantly a sharp enough tool to even scratch dragons scales, let alone wound it. 

- But by the way you're describing it there is a way to achieve it, yes?

- Only in theory, Your Grace. It's more of an old crone's tale than actual facts. 

The expectation in Fen's eyes almost terrified Drina. It wasn't the first time that the Duke has asked something of her and expected as much as he did now but it scared her either way. She swallowed her uncertainty quietly, looking between her father's worried face and the Duke's hopeful gaze. It was clear they were both expecting an answer but it would seem for very different reasons. 

- You don't need to answer now if you're not sure, little shadow - her father interjected, gently laying his palm on her shoulder.

- We can't wait if what you're saying is true, Fenrys. We're running out of time here - the Duke replied almost aggressively, fear clouding his eyes like a thick fog over a lake at night - We must act now!

- She's not a source you can exploit to no end. She's my daughter and you can't put this kind of pressure on her - Drina's father countered his friend's attack instinctively wrapping his hand around her elbow and pulling her behind him - It's not even certain they will...

- When Navarrians attack with Melgren out front and centre all there will be left of Aretia will be bones and ruins! Who will protect you precious daughter when you're nothing more than an pile of ash?

- I will protect her while I can and you will not tell me what to do.

- I am your Duke and I certainly will!

Alexandrina felt her heart slow down as she processed the Duke's outburst. She finally realised why it took her father so long to come home. 

He was spying. 

He was in Navarre. He was behind enemy lines, risking his life with every step he took on foreign ground. That's how he knew they were planning an attack. They were going to strike atAretia and let the world burn beneath their dragons' wings and claws. 

- How much time do we have?

Both men turned their gaze towards the younger girl. She was standing tall and proud, sunlight draped shadows over her features like a washed out painting and her face void of all emotions. She understood that it was only a matter of days before they were in open war with Navarre which also happened to be allied with the deadliest force on the Continent. Dragons. She could see as clear as day that the Duke was standing with his back pressed against the wall of despair, hanging on to just about anything that could provide a glimmer of hoe they would survive the battles to come. She was smart enough to know what it meant in the long run. If Navarre attacked and Aretia fell it would not only mean their demise, but it would be the end of the Tyrrish nation as they knew it. There would be no more House Riorson. No more House Vartell. No more Xaden and Drina. 

- Drina, you don't...

- I know my limits and my skills, father - Drina interrupted her father in the middle of the sentence, turning her bright sapphire eyes towards him - As skilled as I am with a sword or a bow and arrows we both know my greatest strength is my mind. I have consumed all the knowledge there is to discover within the walls of Aretian libraries. That's how I know about the Saphyrian Caves and the palladium shards in the first place. 

- Saphyrian Caves? - Fen inquired quietly looking up from his seat - It's a made up place from the fairytales we tell the children to warn them against ever wandering over the northern mountains. It's a myth. 

- It's a real place, Your Grace although maybe not exactly the way you might imagine. It's not any  specific location but a type of mountain cave. It all has to do with the depth at which it's hidden and the grounds above it and usually they're located in the vicinity of cold mountainous streams and rivers. That's where the palladium gets its characteristic silver blueish colour. It's also why the palladium is rumoured to be able to actually wound and possibly even kill a dragon. 

The Duke stared at Drina with a frantic look on his face. His fingers were hitting the desk in an irregular manner filling the silence that fell on the three of them. He was contemplating Alexandrina's words and whether a child's storybook could really be the answer to the issue at hand. He saw the certainty in her gaze as she held her head high standing almost perfectly still with only her shoulders giving away she way human and not a porcelain statue.  

- And how can you be sure what you're saying is true?

- I never said I know for a fact that the palladium truly exists and has the qualities which could make it possible to kill a dragon. It's only what I read and what I came to know while rummaging around the libraries. A few old scrolls and chronicles mentioned it once or twice but nothing is for certain. I'd need to dig a little deeper, maybe try looking at it from a geographical point of view and find an exact location of such a cave. This would be a start but still I can't guarantee anything, Your Grace. 

- But it can be done? 

- I can try, Your Grace. That’s all that I can promise. 

The Duke stilled in his seat once again. Deep green eyes were almost spiriting into Drina souls as he stared at the young girl before him. He was desperate to find a way to protect his people and his land and being this helpless made him even more anxious. He wasn’t used to asking for help especially when the person he was seeking aid from was his friends teenage daughter. Despite Drina’s wisdom which surpassed her young age Fen realised how much of a long shit this whole operation was. He could surrender his independence and lean into the tyranny of the Navarrian king but his pride was too fragile to bow down to his enemy. 

- Fen, this is madness. It’s a legend. Drina can find more of those fairytales but none of them can probe this palladium actually exists. We need the Poromish alliance now more than ever. Ask Tecarus for Catriona’s hand in marriage - Fenrys tried reasoning with the Duke leaning against his desk - With the strength of Poromiel’s forces Navarre won’t stand a chance and therefore won’t take this risk to attack. 

- And yet your daughter gives me hope to believe she may be onto something - the Duke replied somewhat calmly raising his gaze towards his closest advisor - I’m sorry Fenrys, but I can’t give up when there’s is even the slightest chance we might be able to defeat them in battle. To have a fighting chance protecting what’s rightfully ours. I need this to work. Otherwise everything we have been working for the last years will be for nothing. 

Drina’s father didn’t say anything else, sighing deeply as he turned to face his daughter. She was already looking at him with a silent question in her sapphire eyes and he already knew she would follow the Duke’s orders anyways. She was too much like her mother in that kind of situations, too stubborn for her own good and loyal to a fault. He had a feeling one day her loyalty would be her doom but those days were too far away to give them any more thoughts. 

- If that’s what you think best, Your Grace. I will not oppose - Fenrys spoke up turning back to face his friend, bowing politely. 

Fen reciprocated the gesture, tilting his head gently as he turned his attention do Drina. 

- How much time do you think you need to find these caves? 

- A few days should be enough for me to gather the necessary sources and maybe figure out some locations to search.

- So be it. The moment you find anything you come straight to me, Alexandrina. Is that understood?

- Yes, Your Grace.

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It was only a few minutes past midnight when Drina woke up with the scrappy old pages stuck to her face as she laid her upper body on top of the desk. It covered with books, scrolls and chronicles she had grabbed from the Duke’s private collection. She was back in her room with cream colored walls and wooden furniture neatly situated inside sitting by the desk, her body wrapped in her favorite jacket which also happened to belong to Xaden. The candle sitting on the table was almost entirely out which told her she was out for quite a while. The storm outside moved the dark brown curtains of her bedroom in a frantic manner almost like the clouds in wild zephyrs of the north. As much as she enjoyed the smell of rain and the claps of thunder rumbling outside she had to focus on the task at hand and the sounds erupting from the outside were no help at all. 

- Since when being a bookworm put the fate of the entire province on my shoulders?

- You tell me, Sunshine. You're the know-it-all after all. 

Xaden's voice rang in Drina's ears like an old lullaby she was so accustomed to listening it almost blended in with the peaceful silence of the night. She turned in her chair, looking at the entrance where he stood with a crooked smile on his face and a bunch of scrolls in his hand with a string wrapped around keeping them together. Alexandrina smiled right back, standing up from her seat and slowly walking towards him. He was watching her like a hawk. Every move she made, every step she took, every breath with which her chest rose were under his careful observation. As she neared him he lifted the scrolls in his hand, offering them to her in an almost reverent manner.

- I believe you dropped this by the door, my lady. 

- Since when do you call me "my lady"? 

- You're asking way too many questions, Sunshine. 

Scrolls were quickly forgotten and Xaden’s jacket swiftly discarded as he wrapped his arms around Drina's middle, bringing her closer to his muscular torso. Her heart was beating almost perfectly in sync against his when their bodies collided with a delightful moan spilling from each of their mouths. Drina could feel the heat growing within her with every second that passed by in his arms. She felt at home between the mountains of muscles that were his biceps and forearms, snuggling into his delicious scent. It was almost too difficult to focus on anything else than the warmth he radiated and just how much she needed him in so many ways she couldn’t even count. 

- Aren't you getting ahead of yourself, Your Grace? You just assume you can take me for yourself but what if my heart belongs to another? - she asked teasingly, drawing her fingers over his sculpted chest with a devilish grin decorating her plump lips. 

Xaden only smirked in return, leaning in towards her only stopping just inches from her face. 

- We both know that your heart has always belonged to me, Sunshine. Just like mine has always and will always belong to you. 

It was just these few words that broke the barrier they had been creating for so long. They knew what they felt for years now and there was no denying the chemistry between them. In a matter of seconds Drina stepped on her tiptoes and pressed her lips against Xaden's in a searing kiss that sent shivers down their spines. It was like molten fire dripping down their souls. Everywhere they touched each other, every inch of exposed skin where they met in those delicate flicks felt like pure lightning. Sudden and so strong they could melt them away in seconds. Drina was barely holding on to the ground as she let herself lose control in Xaden's lips. It was as if they were sculpted just to fit her kisses. To feel her lips. She knew she was falling and there was nothing to break her fall but he was worth it. He was worth more than everything. More than the greatest pain. More than the deadliest wounds she might ever receive. His breath was he breath. His life was her life. His light was her light. 

Kissing Drina was for Xaden like tasting the sweetest nectar and never being sick of its addicting aftertaste. Her lips tasted heavenly and her body fit in perfectly between his arms. His hands were following the curves of her waist and hips straight to her ass, patting it gently so that she would jump and wrap her legs around his waist. Feeling her middle pressed so tightly against his body he felt himself lose control before anything really happened. At that moment he didn't care about the war. He didn't care about the Navarrians, he didn't even care about his father. All he could see, feel and taste was Alexandrina. 

Breaking the kiss he could barely contain the little moans erupting from his lips as he stared into her lust-filled sapphire eyes with blind adoration. 

- You'll be the death of me, Drina. I swear to Gods I have never needed anyone the way I need you. 

- I can't be the death of you if I'm already dead - Drina replied quietly, her voice and eyes suddenly rid of any emotion or color. 

What?

Xaden felt his body tense up. The scenery around them changed. They were no longer in Drina's bedroom surrounded by the gentle cream colored walls of her chambers and she was no longer safe in his arms. He was standing on what looked like burnt ground still scorching beneath his feet dressed in a leather jacket and matching pants with two swords hanging on his back. All there was to see around him was ash and ruins and dark clouds whispering with the winds of a passing storm. And dragons flying over his head all around the meadow. 

Yes, it was an empty meadow. At least before whatever happened happened, but Xaden remembered the little white tree now barely standing without a single leaf hanging onto its branches. The line of wild bushes surrounding the little pond in the middle although now it looked like rather large empty tomb. And there, in the middle of the hole in the ground laid the one person he needed more than air to breath. 

- Drina!

His scream filled the meadow with echoing sounds of despair as he ran towards her without a sliver of hesitation. His legs carried him faster than his thoughts could follow as he dropped to his knees next to Drina's lifeless body. She was wearing black leathers, similar to the ones on his body but hers were covered in blood. Her blood. The crimson pooled around her form while dripping from the corner of her mouth and the nasty cut hollowed just beneath her ribs. Her already pale skin took on a shade of white one can only witness atop mountain peaks in the highest mountain chains of Tyrrendor. Her lips turned to ash-like color as if all the life had been sucked out of her. Her blue eyes were wide open but there was no light in them. No sign of the sparkle that used to guide him through the nights. They were blank and empty and Alexandrina was dead. 

- No! Not you, Drina - Xaden screamed like a wounded beast, grabbing her lifeless form and bringing it closer to his chest, wailing in agony - I told you, everything but you! Wake up, my love. Wake up!

Wake up!

Xaden shot up in his bed kicking the covers off the bed while panting like a madman. Sweat was dripping down his forehead and his chest as he breathed heavily, slowly recovering from the horrible nightmare he had just awoken from. The sheer idea of Drina's death was too much to bare for the Xaden but seeing it even in his dreams did more damage than he could possibly imagine. It was a feeling that could be compared to a thousand daggers piercing his heart over and over again. A vision so cruel and so agonizing had never crossed his mind before and he was praying to all the Gods it would never plague him again. 

Without giving it much thought, Xaden jumped out of his bed still barefoot and shirtless and jumped out of his window straight on to the ledge surrounding his balcony. Smoothly, as if he had done it a thousand times before, which he did, he made his way across the wall and towards the neighboring tower where a gentle light crept through the curtains of the highest window. He didn't make a single sound as he moved closer to Drina's bedroom like a panther hunting in between the trees. The closer he got, the louder became the quiet song she was humming under her nose. When he finally reached his destination he peeked through the window just far enough so that he could see her. 

There she was. Dark chocolate hair cascaded down her back as she sat at her desk covered in papers and maps, biting her lip and scrunching her nose the same way she would always when she found a puzzle she needed to solve. Her shoulders were covered by the plum colored robe he liked so much and her eyes were still the vibrant sapphire blue that he remembered and adored. 

A deep sigh of relief came out of Xaden's lips as he felt a weight lift off his shoulders. Seeing Drina safe and sound made the palpitations in his heart subside slightly but still the fear remained. It was one of those moments when he would realize just how much she meant to him. And just how far he would go to save her. 

[unholly-reader]

Shadowcloaked // Chapter 3

Welcome Darling Readers!

Chapter III has arrived and we have some action going. At the moment it's clear that Xaddy and Drina have something going on but stubborn mules won't do anything about it. Don't you worry - this might change sooner than later.

I've been having a hard time but this has been a great escape from daily troubles. Another chapter might be coming by the end of the week, but for now I hope you enjoyed this one.

Let me know in the comments what you think about it, maybe you have some theories of your own or any wishes for what you'd like to see happen in the future.

Xoxo

(Un)Holly

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The midnight moon peeked through the windows of Xaden's chamber as he tossed and turned unable to give into the much needed sleep. Dressed only in his sweatpants he could feel the gentle breeze sweeping over his exposed skin, but it wasn't the reason why his chest was covered with goosebumps. He was still thinking about what general Tavis had said about making a marriage proposal to Queen Maraya. The mere thought of having to say goodbye to Drina on account of the sorry excuse of a prince that Artasan was boiled his blood in seconds. It wasn't just the fact that she would have to leave their home for good, but the thought of another man's hands on her. The thought of her lips touching Artasan's. Xaden wasn't sure why it enraged him so. He couldn't put his finger on the feeling, but he was certain that Drina meant to him more than any friend ever had. She was like a melody he was taught to listen and the only rhythm his body would ever follow. He could almost feel it, a desperate need for her touch crawling beneath his skin. Like a primal instinct making him go feral at the thought of her belonging to anybody else.

Suddenly, he heard a quiet knock to his door. He had a inkling who it might be in the middle of the night, but still he wasn't certain. Quickly, Xaden stood up and walked towards the ebony door and pressed the silver handle, revealing Drina's figure tightly wrapped in one of her favourite fluffy plum coloured robes.

- I couldn't sleep.

- Neither could I.

Without another word, Xaden stepped away, letting Drina walk into his bedroom. The second she entered the room she felt the familiar scent enveloping her in its sweet embrace. Xaden's smell was always something that could calm her down in the matter of seconds. She was barefoot but the cold tiles beneath her feet didn't seem to bother her. Without so much as asking, Drina walked straight towards the bed covered in black sheets, sitting at its very top with one of Xaden's pillows behind her back. Looking around the room, she felt like she came home. It was a rather simple bedroom considering Xaden's station but he was never one for extravagant interiors. A set of furniture consisting of an ebony desk, a rather wide dresser and matching wardrobe, inside of which resided most of his swords and daggers. The walls were painted in graphite, blending in smoothly with the rather dark interior, but it certainly matched the owner's aesthetic.

Xaden plopped on to his bed, automatically leaning against the cushioned headboard and reaching his left arm around Drina's shoulders so that she could put her head on his chest. It was a habit of theirs. Usually when one or the other was struggling with nightmares, they would stay in their rooms together, cuddling with Alexandrina's cheeks pressed against Xaden's chest and his arms securely wrapped either around her upper frame of her waist. Even if it was mainly to make sure Drina felt safe and secure, her proximity gave Xaden a sense of peace. The smell of her hair was an aphrodisiac in itself with the unmistakable sweet scent of her jasmine shampoo. As per usual, Xaden nuzzled his face into her dark, luscious locks, enjoying the gentle wisps of chocolate hair tickling his nose. It was one of those rare moments her head wasn't covered in intricate braids and cascaded freely down her back. It was basically muscle memory. Xaden's hand slowly going up and down Drina's back, tangling his fingers in her hair.

- You know I won't let it happen, right?

- As much as I believe in your ability, I don't think you have the authority to overrule your father's command, Xay - Drina's voice was barely over a whisper as she flung her arm around his torso - What he says, goes.

- Not you - Xaden replied, subconsciously pulling her body closer to his - He can take anything else, but not you. I will not allow it.

Drina slowly tilted her head, looking up at Xaden, whose onyx eyes were already on her. She felt the unspoken words neither of them were brave enough to say tingling her tongue like an old scar and she knew he felt it too. It was a veil they have thrown upon their friendship the second they started discovering these more-than-friends feelings, but somehow they made themselves believe they could never be.

- If it means our victory and besting the Navarrians, I will be ready to pay this price, Xaden. I have always known that aristocracy had its flaws, being involved in politics being one of them - Drina whispered with a breathy voice, drawing mindless figures on his side with her fingers as they stared at one another like enchanted creatures.

- Let me rephrase it, Sunshine - Xaden growled, putting his free hand on her cheek as gently as he could - I'm not going to sacrifice you. Your place is right here by my side and no kings or queens can ever change that.

There it was again. That silent scream of their hearts, begging to be heard and followed. Everyone around them knew they shared feelings for one another. Feelings so strong they would step into the deepest pits of hellfire for each other, but despite that they kept denying what was basically imprinted into their souls. So this was just another time Xaden was gazing longingly into Drina's shiny eyes. Just another touch of his hand on her rosy cheek. Just another unsaid confession bit back for the sake of Gods only knew what hidden purpose they seemed to have found. In spite of the circumstances and their constant stubbornness, they enjoyed those little moments. Drina would nuzzle her face into Xaden's hand and he would relish in her intoxicating scent and her ever soothing presence.

A pleasant silence fell between them like a delicate veil, enveloping the both of them in a warm embrace. The wind whistled gently outside, moving the curtains hanging by the windows in waves, and filling the room with fresh night air.

- You always say the right thing, Xaden. Any lady would be lucky to have you choose her as your future duchess, Your Grace - Drina tried working a small joke into the conversation, but the seriousness in his eyes told her she didn't succeed in lightening the mood.

He didn't answer right away. He just kept looking at her, caressing her cheek with feather like wisps of his fingers like she was the most precious thing he had ever held.

- And yet there is only one I could ever see standing by my side.

Drina felt her heart speed up like a frantic bird whipping its wings in the smallest cage. His presence, his words, his touch, everything was driving her mad. She felt herself lose control over her body as she stretched her neck, seemingly leaning up to meet him halfway. Xaden, feeling her move, slowly started tilting his head downwards, his gaze jumping from her sapphire eyes to the rose petals of her plump lips. It was so close. A few seconds more and finally they would meet in the kiss they had wanted for so long. If only she didn't pull back.

- You need to sleep.

Her breath tickled the skin on his chin as she spoke quietly, mere inches from his lips. The little bubble burst open and somehow they both returned to the reality where they were too afraid to give into their feelings.

- You do too - Xaden replied, kicking himself for not taking the chance to claim her lips as his own.

Silently Drina nodded, sliding down onto his chest and once again putting her cheek to the warm skin of his torso, closing her eyes. Acting on old instincts she threw her leg over his, letting a part of her robe fall off, revealing the scar on her right knee. Xaden's gaze instantly fell to the exposed skin of her leg, feeling his hand subconsciously reach out to touch her, but he resisted the sudden urge, biting his lips.

Drina quickly gave into the sleep's embrace, snuggling against Xaden's body, while his thoughts kept racing back and forth. The second he noticed she had already fallen asleep, he placed a gentle kiss atop of her head, throwing the covers over her body. She was perfection in his eyes. Not only because of the way moonlight fell on her angel-like face or the way her dark eyelashes threw shadows on her cheeks, but because of the goodness of her heart and her bright mind. He felt honoured to be able to call her his friend, but that didn't change the fact that he desired much more than that.

- I have already chosen you as my future duchess, Drina. It's always you. Today, tomorrow and for the rest of my days - he whispered gently, putting his head on top of hers, but she couldn't hear him anymore.

Or could she?

* * *

Two days later tensions were still rising among the members of Fen's council as they awaited news of the rumoured audience between King Tauri and Queen Maraya. The little information they had acquired was just enough to tell them that the monarchs were in fact treating in regard to a military treaty between their nations, but no motions were yet put in action. Drina was almost as concerned with the affairs of the state as she was with the whereabouts of her dear father. Still there has been no news of his arrival, despite what the Duke had told her only two days prior. She was trying her best to focus on the tasks at hand, but she couldn't help but worry about her dad's fate.

- He'll be just fine, Dri. You gotta have a little more faith in your father. Otherwise you're going to start spiralling into madness just like you did when you spent the entire night worrying where Xaden and I had gone on his sixteenth birthday.

- And I was right to be worried as you two idiots decided it would be a great idea to chase an entire wolf pack out of its den. Both the Duke and your father had to rescue you and in case you forgot, I was the one who had to patch you up.

- A slight error in judgement, nothing more. Cheer up, Dove.

- Easier said than done, Gar.

Garrick Tavis had always been there for Drina ever since they were little. One sunny afternoon a very reckless little boy ran into Alexandrina's room with a squirrel in his hands and that's when it had begun. As strange as their first meeting was, Drina could not imagine her life without Garrick in it. Since she was an only child, she never had any idea what it would feel like to have someone her age to play around with. And then Garrick magically appeared in her life and almost automatically became her somewhat older, yet much less responsible brother. They had this indescribable bond and there was no denying they cared about each other very much. In spite of the clear differences between them they had managed to find some common ground and create a harmony over the similarities they had shared. Garrick would always protect his little sister and Drina never stopped looking out for her reckless brother. Blood or not, they became family by choice.

Now, over ten years after they had met, not a day passed by when Drina wouldn't spend her time in Garrick's company or more often than not on training, polishing her already impressive combat skills. It was with Lord Fenrys's blessing that Garrick took over a part of her training sessions while at the same time strengthening their friendship even further. So on days like this one when Drina's mind would race against time wondering and worrying about almost everything and everyone, Garrick took her out on the grounds of Riorson House and made sure she was too tired to even begin to worry.

- I know, Dove. That's why you're going to have to flip me on my butt at least twice today - Garrick laughed joyfully, swiftly dodging her less than precise strikes to his left side - You're going to have to work a little harder than this, Dove.

- Stop moving around so much so that I can actually hit you - Drina replied with a shaky breath, quickly following her friend with yet another punch directed at his shoulder - I can't take a good swing if you jump around like a distressed frog in the pond.

They were surrounded by whimsy trees and bushes in the grand backyard of the residence. It was a quiet enough spot and secluded from the rest of the residents. The grass was growing almost wild, reaching as high as Drina's knees and the wind was seemingly softer than what they could expect outside the castle walls. The little meadow was usually empty and there was not a soul in sight, making it the perfect spot for a private butt-kicking between the two friends.

- Says the girl who's feet barely seem to be touching the ground - Garrick responded, circling his dark haired friend - Maybe you're just too slow for me, Vartell.

It was like a lightning struck in her mind when Drina decided she had had enough of her dear "brother's" teasing. She took a moment to compose herself, gathering her thoughts and expelling the distractions clouding her head. Without hesitation she placed her next steps mindfully and with mouch more care than she had done so far. Her body was one with her mind as she turned halfway kicking her leg right into Garrick's right side, finally delivering a much deserved strike. He was almost as surprised as she was, grunting loudly when her foot made contact with his body while grinning like a fool.

- Now that's more like it!

She was nowhere near being done. Without further delay she threw a single punch into his sternum, knocking the air out of his chest. Using the advantage of his current indisposition, Drina swung her leg at his knees making him buckle down. She was being smart using all the weak spots that presented themselves. With Garrick on his knees, she delivered yet another hit this time aiming for his ribs. Only this time he caught her hand just in time pulling her over his shoulders and slamming her body down on the grassy lawn. Acting on instinct Drina pulled right back, twisting his arm in a compromising position almost like she was aiming to break it out of its joint.

- Is that what you had in mind, Gar?

- More or less - her replied with a heavy sigh, barely holding a grunt of pain - Perhaps a break is in order?

- Not when I'm finally winning, big brother. Besides, that's only the first time I managed to put your ass on the ground. I need to do it at least once more.

Garrick had a hard time coming back with a witty remark with his arm compromised but fortunately for him two guards approached the field where they were practising and saved both his arm and whatever was left of his reputation.

- Lady Vartell, the Duke has asked that you meet him in his office. It is quite urgent ma'am.

Drina didn't think twice as she released her friend's arm and jumped to her feet swiftly.

- Does it have something to do with my father?

- The Duke wouldn't say, my lady. All he said was that he required your presence at the earliest convenience.

Garrick quickly got back on his feet, standing behind his friends and keeping one of his hands on her shoulders. Just feeling his presence made Drina feel a little more at ease, but it didn't calm the shattering beat in her chest. She simply nodded and followed the two guards but first she turned her head towards Garrick sending him a smile.

- We're going to have to postpone that ass whooping of yours, Gar - she tried sounding cocky and confident but she couldn't pretend that she wasn't scared of whatever news the Duke would convey.

Garrick simply reciprocated her gesture with a wide grin decorating his handsome face winking at his shorter friend with the same devilish glare he always had in his chocolate eyes.

- Don't you worry, Dove. I will not let you off that easily next time.

The light tone of his voice helped ease a part of Drina's emotions but still she walked with a heavily beating heart in her chest only wondering what the Duke's request might have been about. Following the guards right back to the castle and getting inside she could feel all the scenarios swooping before her eyes, imagining the absolute worst. She knew the path to the Duke's office almost too well so it felt like seconds rather than minutes before they reached the ebony door fitted with a golden handle. Drina raised her hand to gently knock reading herself for whatever awaited. Upon hearing the Duke's voice beckoning her to enter she pushed the handle and walked right in.

- Ah, there you are Drina. Please, come inside.

Despite having visited Fen Riorson's office more than once before its interior never ceased to amaze her. Three of the six walls consisted of almost crystal glass letting in as much sunlight as it was humanly possible. The furniture consisted of an old-fashioned mahogany desk currently covered with piles of papers and maps and letters with broken seals, a leather covered armchair in the colour of a ripe cherry and two rather large cupboards filled with dusty books and scrolls with ripped edges. All in all it was a rather light room considering the amount of sun that was purling inside despite the dark burgundy walls and yet another old tapestry hanging on the east side of the room. At his desk sat the owner of the room, carelessly glancing over the papers splayed before him raising his eyes once he noticed Drina's entrance.

It was no surprise that the Duke was a handsome man. Much like Xaden he possessed pitch black hair, his skin most certainly kissed by sunlight more than once and a strong jawline with a stubble enhancing his striking features. The main difference between him and his only son were the eyes. While Xaden's were the gold speckled onyx irises which Drina learned to adore so much, Fen were as green and the deepest ends of the forests of Aretia in the middle of spring. One glance of those emerald orbs could melt anyone right where they stood, but somehow she became immune to this effect.

- You summoned me, Your Grace.

- Always the prefect diplomat, aren't you Drina? - Fen replied with a question smirking at the young lady before him - You have no idea how much you resemble your mother. Miriam also had a way with her words that left everyone in the room rendered speechless.

Drina smiled gently at the notice of her mother's memory.

- I can only hope to become half the woman everyone says she was - she replied politely, walking a little further only to stop a foot or so before the Duke's desk - But I don't think you summoned me here just to exchange fond memories of my mother. Is something the matter?

- There is but it is not as serious as you might think it. At least not yet.

Alexandrina felt her heart slowly speed up watching the Duke's face change as his smile faltered into a less than relaxed grimace.

- Does it have something to do with my father?

Fen opened his mouth to answer her question but his words were drowned by the sound of his office' door opening.

- I swear to Zihnal if I ever have to climb those damned mountains there and back again in less than two days time, you're coming with me, Your Grace. Your ideas, you might as well contribute in their execution.

Drina spun around quicker than the newcomer managed to finish his sentence hearing the voice of that one person she'd been waiting to come back for days. Once she fully turned she was met with the ever familiar pair of dark blue eyes of her beloved father.

- Dad!

Forgetting all about the etiquette and the proper way to act around a duke Drina jumped straight into her father's already open arms, wrapping her own around his neck. Fenrys didn't hesitate to reciprocate his daughter's embrace, tightly pulling her body against his. Even if he was no longer coming back to the comfort of his own residence back in Sefrisgen, coming back to Alexandrina was its best equivalent.

- It is so good to see you, little shadow.

- As it is to finally see you, Dad. I was so worried something had happened to you.

- I'm quite alright, my darling. Although I can't say the same for the conflict at hand.

Drina felt her breakfast rising to her throat as she looked back and forth between her father and the Duke. Suddenly she began to understand why Fen Riorson needed to see her.

- Have you heard something about the treating between Queen Maraya and King Tauri? Am I really going to have to marry prince Artasan?

She tried her best not to let them know she was terrified of the mere idea of a political marriage and having to leave her home behind, most importantly having to leave Xaden behind, but there was a hint of fear detectable in her tone. Fen shook his head, standing up from his seat.

- Thankfully there is no need for such extreme measures, but I called you here for another equally serious reason.

Alexandrina felt at ease hearing the Duke's words but stayed alert still unaware of the full extent of the problem at hand.

- Whatever you need, Your Grace.

- How much do you know about killing dragons?

So we're definitely screwed.

[unholly-reader]

Shadowcloaked // Chapter 2

Hello people!

Yes - the next chapter has arrived! Still no action really but it's coming. I just hope you enjoy this one and until next time.

XoXo

(Un)Holly

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Seven Years Later

March of the year 628 AU

- I swear to Zinhal, Drina, if you don't come down this instant, I am personally dragging you here myself. 

- I would like to see your try, Your Grace. 

- You're asking for it, Sunshine. 

It wasn't an unusual sight to witness Fen Riorson's son running around with Fenrys Vartell's daughter like two overly energetic monkeys along the walls of the residence. Throughout the years they spent together, both Xaden and Drina learned one another head to toe. Neither of them would admit it, but they had a feeling they knew more about the other person than they knew about themselves. They've come a long way since the day they first met. Xaden grew up, both mentally and physically. Gone was the little charming boy dressed in pretty blues sneaking into his father's meetings. Now in his place stood a tall, incredibly well built young man with sharp features and defined muscles outlined on his body almost like a map. His eyes retained that boyish charm, which he usually used to tease Drina, but nevertheless he was a child no more. Drina was no exception. The little girl with pretty braids circling around her head stepped down and in her stead a witty young lady emerged. Her dark hair only grew longer, and so did she. The passing time changed a girl's body into a young woman's figure. Her eyes remained the same, bright blue, almost sapphire like and they kept the spark she had always had. What didn't change was the way they cared about each other. Quickly after their first encounter they became close friends, just as the Duke foresaw. 

Those same two friends were currently standing at the opposite sides of one of the castle borders of Riorson House with Alexandrina sitting atop the white brick wall and Xaden standing in front of said wall, arms crossed over his toned chest and a witty smirk. 

- You know what your father has to say about your climbing adventures. The last time you fell down, you were bedridden for seven weeks, Drina and guess who got the blame for it - Xaden replied cheekily, staring up at his friend dangling her feet over the edge of the wall - So please, come down. 

Drina laughed out, smirking at the boy beneath her with a twinkle in her eyes. 

- Aw, is the future Duke worried I might hurt myself?

- Stop messing around and get down here. 

The girl huffed quietly, standing up and walking back and forth on the wall’s very edge. Her arms spread out like a bird readying to fly and her dark blue jacket swinging in the air. She didn't seem to mind the fifty something feet separating her from the ground, jumping on the wall like it was the easiest and most natural thing in the world. She also knew that her behavior was driving Xaden mad, or so it seemed based on the grimace on his face, and she was loving it. 

- But I like looking at you from up here. It’s so refreshing. Usually you're the one looking down at me and this is a nice change. 

- I'm going to count to three and you will get down here, Alexandrina.

- Oh, so now we're using full names. He's getting serious - Drina laughed out amused with her friend’s reaction - I should be scared I think. 

- Drina...

Before Xaden could finish his sentence, the very thing he was worried would happen, happened. One second Drina was calmly balancing on the edge, and the second she tripped over her own feet and she fell over with a deafening shriek. She was falling and falling fast. She closed her eyes, mentally preparing herself for the impact, but it never came. The next thing she knew she felt strong arms wrapped underneath her knees and back and the familiar smell of musk and leather hit her nose like an old melody. When she fluttered her eyes open, she was met with Xaden's muscular chest rising up and down in swift movements. Looking up, she caught his gaze and just from that one look she knew she was screwed. There was fury laced in between the golden speckles of his eyes. Drina could feel it in the way he looked at her, but also in the way he was holding her tightly against his body. Slowly, she averted his eyes, clasping her arms around his neck. 

- You might have had a point here. But since nothing really happened, I think we can forget about this little…

- Don't ever do this again. Ever. 

Xaden's voice dropped at least an octave as he spoke calmly, but there was anger hidden between the lines. He refused to let go of Drina’s body, clinging onto her as if his very life depended on it. On her presence. For this one moment time seemed to have stopped and everything around them blurred out, leaving just the two of them alone. Her breath whispering against his skin. His heart beating wildly in his chest. There has always been an unspoken bond between the two friends yet neither of them ever acted on it. Like their hearts were designed to play the same melody and follow the same tune. Xaden was worried sick every time Drina went out on her little adventures, wandering outside the walls of Riorson House the same way she was losing her sleep over his nightly escapades with Garrick. And right now Xaden was losing his shit over Drina’s fall and he could swear he was ready to murder her and give her the biggest hug ever at the same time. 

- I’m fine, Xaden. Maybe a little shaken up and my breakfast has probably travelled up and down my stomach like three times already, but otherwise…

- You scared the living shit out of me, Drina - once again Xaden interrupted her mid sentence, slowly setting her down on her own two feet - So please, for the love of Gods, don’t do that to me again. Please. 

- Since when is it polite to interrupt someone in the middle of a sentence? - Drina asked teasingly, tilting her chin up a little so that she could look directly into her friend’s eyes. 

- Since someone decided to give me a heart attack in the middle of the fucking day!

It was a rare occasion when the Duke’s son lost his temper, especially in Drina’s presence. Usually he kept his cool, collecting his frustrations and anger so that he could let loose later on while training or by taking a run around the hills surrounding the residence. This particular lashing out came not only as a surprise to Drina, but to Xaden himself. He shook his head, silently calming himself before he lost it completely. 

- I’m sorry - he apologized, grabbing her hand in his much bigger one - I shouldn’t have yelled. 

- Well, I’m sorry for scaring the shit out of you. 

The two friends laughed quietly, still gazing into each other’s eyes longingly. Without thinking Xaden bowed his head a little, putting his forehead against Drina’s, exhaling deeply. A quiet moment of peace after a storm. 

- Just please, don’t do it again. I may not always be there to break your fall, Sunshine. 

- Duly noted, Your Grace, but I have to warn you. You’re not getting rid of me that easily.

Xaden didn’t say anything back, simply smiling at Drina. She looked up at him, admiring the gentle curves of his lips bending in the most heartwarming grin she had ever seen. That’s how she was with him. Most days a confident young lady perfectly capable of protecting herself, strict and steady, but when it came to the Duke’s sone, she was putty in his hands. A fierce beast demoted to the size of a kitten with just one pleasant smile, and she wasn't mad about how his presence affected her behavior. Xaden became one of the most important people in her life and she didn’t mind the way his friendship softened her exterior from time to time, since he was well aware how capable she really was. He saw her for who she was and who she had the potential to become. That’s how they built their friendship - they made a strong foundation with trust and truth. 

- So now, will you please come with me? My father has gathered his council and he expects us both there.

Drina’s smile dropped almost instantly. 

- Have the Navarrians made any moves near the border? - she asked, forgetting quickly about her childish nonsense wall walking. 

- Not that I’m aware of - Xaden replied, grabbing her hand out of habit and dragging her back inside - But I know something must have happened. With the first light my father sent three more squads to patrol the borders and he received some letters from Lewellen and Sefrisgen. 

- Any news from my father? 

- We’re about to find out, Sunshine. 

Drina squeezed his hand just a little tighter, following his footsteps on the stairs and then entering the residence. They walked into the main hall, past the guards and the black stone columns standing on both sides of the room. It was awfully quiet and the interior of Riorson House seemed more like a haunted house than an actual nobleman’s home. The windows decorating both sides of the hall were barely letting in any light with dark gray curtains covering most of the glass surface. The place both Xaden and Drina once associated with joy and children’s play, now resembled a broken fortress. Walking up the grand stairs in the hallway brought back the memories of the days they would play hide and seek and drive Garrick absolutely mad when he couldn't find them while they hid behind on the walls in the secret tunnels scattered all around the residence. Now, all grown up and steady they passed the corridors leading to their rooms and walked further down the dark brown wooden floors straight towards the grand door separating them from the Meeting Hall. 

- I don't want to say I have a bad feeling, but I have a bad feeling - Drina said with a hint of fear in her voice, clinging onto Xaden's arm like a child would its mother - They rarely ever let us listen in on those meetings, let alone invite us to attend. 

- Let's see what they have to say first, then we will evaluate the damage.  

Drina nodded absentmindedly, her thoughts swimming elsewhere. She was almost exclusively focused on her father and his current whereabouts. The last time she heard from him he was en route between Sefrisgen and Samara as an envoy to the Duke to lead negotiations on his behalf, so she wasn't quite sure when and if she would see him any time soon. 

At the same time, both Drina and Xaden pushed the massive door, entering the Meeting Hall. It looked exactly the same as every other time they would listen in on their father's conversations. A wide, pentagonal room with a tall ceiling littered with a starry map of old constellations and a rectangular table right under it surrounded by intricately carved wooden chairs, each with a signet decorating its back seat. The walls were covered in majestic tapestries, each representing a monumental moment in the history of Aretia. The moment it was build, the day the first duke was crowned, the day Tyrrendor united with Navarre and the rest of the provinces. Drina always admired them, even if only for the craftsmanship. 

At the very top of the table stood the most majestic of all the chairs. The Tyrrish throne. The chair itself measured a good six feet or so, putting above all the other seats and above those attending the meetings. It was carved out from from an oaken tree, delicate veins of whimsical branches following the lines of the armrests. The back seat had soft dark leather sewn into the seat, smoothly transitioning into a cushion. It was the one seat Xaden was afraid of, because one day he knew he would sit in his father's place and the responsibility that comes with would eventually fall to him. 

- How kind of you to finally join us, Xaden. Drina, please come in. Take a seat. 

Fen Riorson's voice was the same as always. Calm, collected and poised with just a hint of spite. With a wave of his arm he gestured Drina and Xaden to take the chairs on his right, two of the four currently unoccupied seats at the table. Both of them followed the Duke’s command and quietly sat by the table. Seven chairs were occupied by the Duke’s most trusted advisors, starting with Yvan Farsky, his second general and the most ruthless man in all of Tyrrendor, finishing with Daryan Quentys, whose main concern remained the Tyrrish fortune or lack thereof. Unfortunately for Drina, the chair closest to Fen’s left - the one reserved for her father - was still empty. She sighed quietly, looking down at her hands, fiddling with the golden ring on her middle finger. Her actions did not go unnoticed by both the father and the son of the Riorson family. While Xaden almost automatically reached for her palm, encircling it in his bigger one, his father shot Drina a sympathetic look with a ghost of a smile on his lips.

- Lord Fenrys will join us later on as he should be arriving today from his travels, but he sent a raven ahead to inform me of his delay. 

Fen’s words were more than enough too cheer Drina up, but nevertheless she didn’t let go of Xaden’s hand. Bowing her head slightly, she silently thanked the Duke and then focused all her attention on the map splayed out on the table. She took a closer look and felt her heart speed up once again. This particular map she was familiar with as she had seen it countless times before. These were the Tyrrish borders from the side it was neighboring with Navarre, but this time it looked a little different. Most of the blue spots representing Tyrrish forces along the borders were replaced by red dots scattered all over the thick, dark line representing the official divide between the provinces. This could only mean one thing. 

- The Navarrians are moving faster than we anticipated - general Tavis spoke up, standing up from his spot two chairs away from the Duke, pointing out the obvious - Only this morning we have received news that their forces have been relocated and redistributed between more outposts. This is both good and bad news on our side. On the bright side, more terrain coverage means less men standing guard and therefore makes them an easier target for us to fight back, but that doesn’t make them any less dangerous. Each of these places are protected by at least four to six dragons each. 

Four to six dragons. For a small squad of highly trained soldiers with swords and bows with arrows for weapons, even one dragon was a death sentence.

- That much we know, Gaylen - the Duke stated, leaning against the table with a frown - Tell me something I don’t know and it better be something we could use to our advantage. 

Garrick’s father shot the Duke a disregarding glance, rolling his eyes as if it was obvious he was also carrying good news. 

- There is word that King Tauiri is gathering his generals and highest ranking officers in the capital. We’re almost certain that they are planning on reevaluating the crisis, considering the fact that Queen Maraya has been invited to treat with him in three days time. 

- They must be desperate if they have decided to look for help beyond the Poromish borders - Fen replied with a hum, scratching his chin - What does it mean for us?

- Well we have something that Tauiri can’t give Queen Maraya even if he found a way to turn into a dragon - Gaylen smiled and turned his gaze to Drina - We have a future queen amongst us. 

For a moment the whole room went silent. Suddenly Drina felt all nine pairs of eyes on her as she looked around unsure of what had happened. Unaware of the. Context of general Tavis’s statement, she kept quiet, trying to remain calm. Her efforts were for naught when Xaden raised his voice in a manner most unseemly for the future Duke. 

- You want to marry Drina off to Maraya’s son? Are you completely mad? Artasan is a monster!

That was the moment Drina started to lose her shit. 

- He’s the future king of Poromiel, Xaden - the Duke boomed at his son, silencing his outrage - Alexandrina is a descendant of a noble house with long history in Tyrrish culture and therefore is a perfect candidate. Unlike you, she knows when duty must supersede one’s personal needs. 

Drina wasn’t sure she was following the conversation happening next to her, but she registered a few words. Marry. Maraya’s son. Monster. 

Neither of them sounded like anything she’d be willing to do but the Duke was right. She knew the meaning of duty and the sacrifices it required. That didn’t mena she was overjoyed with the fact that she could be shipped off as a future bride wrapped like a gist with a pretty bow on top. 

- You can’t possibly be serious, general - Xaden exclaimed, now focused on Garrick’s father - She’s neither a bargaining chip, nor a brood mare to be sold if need be. She belongs here. 

- Xaden, I think you’re forgetting yourself - Fen reprimanded his son quietly, glaring at the boy sitting to his right with a disappointed expression painted on his face - You should get some fresh air and calm down. 

As it would happen, Xaden did not agree with his father on neither of the matters. He was on the verge of creating yet another scene, when he felt a cold hand sneaking into his clenched palms. He turned his head only to see Drina looking at him with begging eyes, as if she was silently asking him to leave it be. He could clearly see she was just as disoriented as he was, but she kept her calm and asked him to do the same. It wasn’t easy, but one deep breath later Xaden looked at his father, nodding silently and sliding his chair away from the table. 

- You’re right, father. I believe both Drina and I need the fresh air, so if you’ll excuse us, we’ll take our leave now. 

And so he stood up, dragging Alexandrina behind him. Without thinking twice she followed his steps, shooting the Duke and apologetic glance, before blindly walking behind Xaden. She could hear the raised voices of all the councilors gathered in the room, but it was only for a few seconds before they closed the door behind them. Xaden never stopped walking, Drina’s hand in his as he navigated through the corridors and towards the staircase leading to his chambers. It wasn’t unusual for them to spend their time together in either of their rooms, but the tight grip he had on her hand told Drina this wouldn’t be one of their typical hangouts. When they climbed the stairs and reached the door to his room, Xaden stopped in his tracks, causing Drina to bump into his back. Quickly, he turned around and cupped her face in his hands, putting his forehead to her own as if he was trying to further calm himself down. Both of them took a deep, gentle breath, steadying themselves in each other’s presence. Drina enjoyed the warmth that emanated from Xaden’s hands, feeling herself snuggle into his palms. It was a moment of peace and quiet as they stood in silence before he spoke up. 

- I will not let you marry that sadistic pig, if it’s the last thing I ever get to do. 

[unholly-reader]

Shadowcloacked // Chapter 1

Hello lovely people!

May i introduce my newest baby - chapter 1 of "Shadowcloaked"! As I have mentioned previosuly, thi story will revolve around Xaden's new love story with our new OC - Drina.

Fair warning - the updates might be slow, but the whole concept of it is written up until the end of the first book (yes, I'm considering making it a series), but this is the very beginning.

I do hope you enjoy it and as always - be merciful, english is not my first language and this is my first ever book written in english. Other than that I have no other comments.

For now enjoy the beginning of Drina and Xaden's story! More will come running to you soon!

Xoxo

(Un)Holly

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The entire ride to Riorson House was a frenzy of uncertainty and mixed feelings about meeting almost the royalty of all Tyrrendor. Truth be told Drina wasn’t exactly a stranger to manners and etiquette since her father was a highborn lord in his own right, but it didn’t change the fact that she was equally excited and terrified to get to know the highest ranking members of the Tyrroshi society. Barely over ten years old Drina was incredibly intuitive and smart for a girl of her age and the pride an joy of her parents. Losing her mother to a terrible sickness at the age of six and learning to live with her father as her only family was tough on the little lady of Sefrisgen, but she braved through it quite well. She was not alone in her struggles, that’s for certain. Her father, Lord Fenrys Vartell of Sefrisgen, was considered a cold and ruthless man but for his only daughter the was ready to burn the whole world around him just to make sure she’s happy and safe. After his wife, the late Lady Miriam Vartell, died so suddenly, he took it upon himself to raise their child to the best of his ability. He had no clue about raising little girls but he taught her everything he knew. He taught her how to read and understand the knowledge laced between the lines. He taught her how to handle daggers and swords. He taught her ancient languages so that she could understand more than the common tongue. He also taught her the importance of family, the strength of the bonds made with love, and not with pretenses.

- You need to remember, my little shadow. Family is everything. Whatever may happen along they way, you will always have your father’s arms to run back to. You’re the blood of my blood, Alexandrina Vartell. You’re the best of me and the best of your mother. You always have been.

Little Drina didn’t really understand her father’s words then, but she knew she would eventually. She was sometimes too smart and too curious for her own good, always pushing through to distinguish truth from deceit. Now that she was on her way to meet the most important person in all of Tyrrendor she had her questions already lined up in her little head, ready to attack the Duke with all her ten years old might. Watching the mountains and rocky landscapes outside the window of their carriage she looked amazed at the view. For an outside spectator the lands surrounding Aretia were nothing special. Just some mountain chains and little to no grass, nothing really eye catching or particular enough to take a moment to admire. But for a little girl learning everything there was to learn about Tyrrish history, culture and the legends surrounding the Aretian mountains riding through these terrains was more magical than any wyvern legend ever heard.

- How big is Riorson House, father? I read in the chronicles that the castle is monumental, but they never wrote how big exactly. I wonder…

- Gods be good, Drina - lord Fenrys laughed with a wide grin on his lips, turning to face his only daughter sitting next to him - Be patient. We will be arriving shortly and you can see for yourself, little shadow.

- But I need to know, father. It’s really important.

- And why is that?

- Because Duke Riorson needs to know I’m really smart. I want to impress him with how much I know about his home and about Tyrrendor history. And Aretia is Tyrrendor’s history so I really need to know.

Fenrys smiled once again, gently cupping Drina’s little face in his plam. Her pale skin looked like moonstone against his tan hand, almost as if she was sparkling from within. If it wasn’t for the colors the undeniable similarity of their faces some people might wonder if they were even related. Lord Fenrys’s features were rough, almost like they were cut in stone. Sharp jawline, a straight nose and bushy chocolate eyebrows surround his deep blue eyes were truly complimenting his tawny skin and dark brown hair cut short enough to fall behind his ear only a little. Looking into Drina’s big sapphire-like eyes he was alway reminded of his beloved Miriam. Not only did his daughter share her mother’s wit and kindness, but also her looks. Silky dark hair falling in soft waves on her back and the cupid-like lips curling into a gentle smile with every occasion were her father’s favorite features she had inherited from the beautiful Lady Miriam Vartell. A true gift from the heavens.

- I’m certain that the Duke will be as impressed as he can be when he meets you, my little shadow - Fenrys replied, hugging Drina to his side - There is no other way.

- How can you know that, father? - the girl asked with curious eyes nearly drilling holes in her father’s chin.

- Because I have already told him how special you are. Little Drina’s face lit up momentarily as she jumped her father’s side, clutching into his dark leather jacket crested on the arm with traditional Tyrroshi runes. She was overjoyed.

- Oh, thank you, father! Thank you so much! I will not let you down, I promise. I swear I will live up to everything you told the Duke about me. I will be polite and kind and respectful and…

- You will be everything he could ever imagine and more, my sweet - Fenrys replied, cutting Drina mid sentence.

She didn’t mind at all. Her father was her greatest protector and she knew he would never do wrong by her. So she just smiled playfully and turned around to admire the landscapes leading to Aretia’s most magnanimous building. Riorson House.

*****

It was known far and wide that the Riorson family was the wealthiest and most noble in all of Tyrrendor. Even the riches that the Earl of Lewellen prided himself on could not reach the bottom of Riorsons fortune. What most people didn't know was that the Duke of Tyrrendor was never a greedy man and first and foremost his duty, and consequently his fortune, was to serve his people. Being of noble birth combined with such riches in some people’s mind should have made him a prideful and imperious man, but instead he chose the fate of his subject before everything else.

There were rare occasions on which the Duke prioritized anything over his people and those were the moments he spent raising his only son. Little Xaden Riorson was a spitting image of his father and quickly he was becoming his shadow, following His Grace wherever he went. The only thing the young duke inherited from his mother were his eyes. Almost black, onyx one would say, speckled with dozens of tine golden flecks. He was a curious child from a very young age but didn’t act on his instincts right up. Growing up he had begun his strategy training even before his father was made aware of that fact. Using his size to his advantage, little Xaden used to sneak in on his father’s meeting with his advisors and listened in, remembering every detail he thought important at the time, such as where the Poromish soldiers placed their weapons or how to charm a lady in five steps or less. Really the most important issues regarding a young noble’s upbringing.

When he heard about Lord Vartell’s arrival, he wondered why was he bringing his daughter with him. It wasn’t by any means the first time that he had visited his father as they were close companions, but more importantly, Lord Fenrys was chief advisor to the Duke in his own right. It was known far and wide that his father, Lord of Sefrisgen and general Alister Tavis were the most deadly trio in the province. The sheer combination of Fen’s power, Alister’s wit and Fenrys’s shrewdness was so powerful that even general Melgren would come to tremble before them. What was interesting about this particular visit was the fact that Lord Fenrys was rumored to be staying for a few months, or maybe even permanently. That part was entirely possible for Xaden to unravel during on elf their meetings he would most definitely be listening on, but the daughter still intrigued him. It wasn’t like he had never seen a girl before, but he had never really met a girl of noble birth. Seeing as Lord Fenrys was the second most powerful man in all of Tyrrendor, Alexandrina was his heir in every meaning of this word. The Duke’s son was curious who would be sharing his home for the next few months, since beside Garrick, his company was limited to tutors, teachers and guards surrounding Riorson House inside and out.

The sun was almost setting behind the highest mountain peaks when the heralds announced the arrival of their guests. Fen chose to welcome his friend in person, seeing as his advice and companionship over the years placed Fenrys little higher in his ranks than any second tier advisor. Both he and Xaden stood tall at the gates to the residence, standing equally tall and proud in dark blue tunics and matching pants. The Duke glanced at his son, smirking slightly as he saw little Xaden’s combed hair and stern face.

Sometimes he forgot just how much his son reminded him of himself from his youngest years. He had his jet black hair and straight nose with tawny skin so nicely contrasting the gold in the boy’s eyes. In terms of looks nobody could ever deny that he was the Duke’s son, so there was only a question of the boy personality and wits.

When the carriage rode into the square, it was almost dusk. The light of the setting sun seemingly lit up the windows of Riorson House, making it look almost magical. The old castle looks almost idyllic in this light. Although on the outside it didn’t look as majestic as King Tauiri’s palace, it had its beauty hidden between the brick walls, dark gray rooftops and small yet vibrant gardens in the back. Once you walked through the gate separating the castle from the town and smallfolk, it was almost like entering a different dimension of the Aretian aristocracy. Four majestic towers standing at 60 feet connected by solid walls formed a kind of border of the residence, enclosing the perfectly preserved architecture of old Tyrrendor in the shape of a pentagon. As they rode in, Drina marvelled at the buidling with the excitement of a five years old child admiring a new shiny toy. Her attention was captured by the people standing in front of the stairs leading up to the main door of the residence, specifically the child standing next to who she believed was the Duke.

- Father, who is that boy?

- That's Xaden. He's the Duke's only son and heir to his throne.

- Is he fun to play with, father? - Drina asked curiously as they slowly reached their destination.

- You're gonna have to find out on your own, my little shadow - Fenrys replied with a smile, caressing his daugher's back - Now come, Alexandrina. It's time for you to meet the Duke.

When the carriage stopped in its tracks, Lord Fenrys opened the door and carefully stepped outside, immediately helping his daughter follow his steps. Drina gracefully jumped from the little steps of the carriage, standing tall next to her father. Fen smiled warmly as he made eye contact with his old friend. The guests stepped further, stopping barely five feet before their gracious hosts. Fenrys smirked, bowing before his Duke and Drina curtsied as a properly raised young lady should, gazing discreetly at the boy standing in front of her.

- Greetings, Your Grace. Your invitation is an honour for our family. We thank you for welcoming us to your home - Fenrys said graciously, glancing at Fen's face with a barely hidden smile dancing on his lips.

A moment of silence fell on the four of them as both men looked at each other with a sense of seriousness. But that didn't last long. Momentarily, both the Duke and the Lord of Sefrisgen laughed out loudly, embraicng each other in a bear like hug.

- For the love of Gods, Fenrys. How many times must I tell you to abandon this official greeting bullshit? - Fen asked, amused by his friend's performance.

- At least one more time, Your Grace - Fenrys replied mockingly, clapping his hand on the Duke's back - But since we're over the formalities, there's someone very special I want you to meet.

Both men stepped back and the Duke's attention focused on the little girl standing beside his friend. He smiled gently, glancing at her pretty face and curious eyes.

- Fen, this is my daughter, Drina.

- Father! You're supposed to use full names when introducing anybody to the Duke - the girl chided her father, curtsying once again, while keeping eye contact with Fen - My name is Alexandrina Verona Vartell, Your Grace. It's an honour to make your acquiantance.

Fen smirked under his nose but nevertheless did his best to keep a straight face looking at the very serious ten year old girl greeting him in accordance with all the etiquette rules he was too busy to abide by.

- The pleasure is all mine, Lady Vartell - Fen replied politely, bowing his head a little - Although I hope you won't mind if I call you Drina, like your father.

- Of course not, Your Grace.

- Wonderful. This is my son, Xaden. I'm sure the two of you will become great friends - Fen presented his boy with his left arm, gently pushing the little boy to step forward.

As Xaden took three steps towards Drina and their eyes first met, something clicked in their little heads. Bright blue, almost sapphire eyes of Fenrys's daughter met the gold-speckled onyx orbs of the future Duke of Tyrrendor. Neither of them knew the reason why or what for, but subconsciously they both realised they knew one another. Drina knew that there was a place in time where she held Xaden's hand and Xaden knew there was a time he learned every navy-coloured spot in her bright blue eyes.

You're all that I needed and more then I deserved.

A single sentence struck in the children's mind like an old melody. Both unaware the other heard the same thing they chose to ignore it and live in the moment present. Little Xaden put his hand forward, bowing his head slightly and Drina graciously put her palm in his, smiling kindly at the dark haired boy.

- I'm Drina. Pleasure to meet you.

- I'm Xaden and the pleasure is all mine.

And so the Gods placed their bets. Would the Onyx boy break the Sapphire girl? Or would they save each other in a war against darkness and deceit?

[unholly-reader]

New story alert!!!

Since some of you have expressed their love for our Xaddy above other candidates, by elimination - Xaden Riorson will be the next leading man in my new story.

I need to sketch the idea furthermore, because I still have some details to work out and well - I need to write the story itself lol - but, here to tempt you a little bit I present a tiny piece.

A memory from Xaden's past, but also an introduction to the female OC of this story - Drina.

More will be revealed later on, but for now - enjoy!

Xoxo

(Un) Holly

p.s. I have a little imagine written for the idea I had with Brennan and Liam, so fear not - those will come out some time as well <3

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- You should have told me, Xaden. I deserved to know.

- You would have tried to change my mind, or worse, come with me.

- That's kind of the point, isn't? We protect each other, Xaden. Just because you are your father's son doesn't make a difference.

- Could you maybe not press so hard on my shoulderblade? I'm beginning to feel it even more than when Sorrengail's dagger was scraping my back.

Drina quickly withdrew her hands,gasping quietly as she felt Xaden's muscles tense under her touch. His back was mostly covered with semi-dried out blood, here and there dripping from the still open tiny cuts scattered on his skin. Every second she had to stare at the disastrous state of Xaden's back was like a knife to her own heart. To think that he willingly endured it for the greater good of all the rebellion kids was excruciatingly painful even if she was not the one who had to go through this terror.

- I'm sorry - whispered Drina, getting back to gently dabbing the wet cloth in her hand around the cuts to clean it up - But I stand by what I said. You are not alone in this. We promised. By daylight or the shadows of the night…

- One with the other, side by side - finished Xaden, quietly repeating the words of a children's vow he and Drina made when they both turned thirteen - I know, but you have to understand. I had to do it on my own. It is my burden to carry.

- Not for the price of your life, Xay - opposed Drina, still patiently collecting dried up blood from his skin - What on earth could be worth promising your life? You don't know when some kid you never met decides to break rules. It's like throwing your life away on a whim. I can't imagine anything worthy of a sacrifice like this.

- You are worth more than everything to me. More than my life. More than anything before you and anything that will come after.

His voice was barely above whisper, but Drina heard him well enough. Xaden never talked about his feelings. He got grumpy and moody whenever somebody brought the subject up, yet there he was. Sitting on her bed, his back facing her front, his heart wrapped in a pretty bow, ready to be received by his childhood love. Drina felt her own heart stop as she withdrew her hands, clutching the cloth in her palm so tightly her knuckles went almost white. Her dark blue eyes slowly filled up with unwanted tears, but she wasn't sure whether they were tears of joy or sheer terror.

- What did you just say?

Slowly, careful not to rip any of the healed cuts covering his back, Xaden stood up and turned around so that he was standing face to face with her. Her body was trembling so badly as if she had just survided a deadly blizzard, but she was far from cold. Her cheeks were warm and smooth when Xaden's rough hands cupped her face so gently, like he was certain she would crumble under his touch if he held her too hard. The defined muscles of his chest were glistening with a glimmer of sweat, every single pectoral clearly visible as his breath quickened the way it would after running a marathon or trying to outrun a dragon. She didn't even blink when he closed the space between them, setting his forehead against her own, breathing in her sweet scent like a starved man.

- You know I have never said it to anyone - said Xaden calmly, but there was a hint of uncertainty laced in his voice - And I'm not sure I ever could, but let me put it that way. You complete me, Drina. You're the smile to my grimace. You're the sun to my clouds. You're the air that I'm breathing. You're the meaning in everything I question and the answer to every charade. Fuck, I don't even know what I'm saying right now. You numb me. You make me feel things I don't want to feel and yet here I am. Mindless fool standing before you with my heart in my hands, begging you to take it. It already belongs to you anyway.

[unholly-reader]

Hello there fellow Fourth Wing obsessed people!

Usually I just write my fics, post them here but i never really interact with any of you, but today will change that.

I have a few ideas to start a new fanfiction based on (obviously) the everaddicting and fantastically intriguing world of „Fourth Wing” by the one and only Rebecca Yarros. As many of you I also have fallen victim to the wide range of yummy snacks she presented in the books, also known as Xadddy Daddy, Liam sweetheart, Garrick the macho man and also Brennan the living dead. I have prepared some basic storylines for each of those gentlemen but I know for a fact i will not be able to carry on four b oops for all of them so here’s my question:

Which one of those handsome gentlemen would you like to see put as main characters in a love story aside from anxiously waiting to finish „Onyx Storm” and find out what the hell happens next?

For reference, here are some quotes I have prepared for each of our insanely hot riders just to give you some perspective on the narrative <3

„I have only ever known loss and ruin. I lost my father. I lost my home. I lost my people. I lost whatever power I had just so I could protect what was left of my legacy. Now I know none of it ever mattered to me the way you do. You’re my curse and my blessing, Drina. I give myself to you today and every day for the rest of my days, I give you my hands. I give you my swords. I give you my fight. I give you my fucking heart or whatever is left of it. You are my life. You’re my beginning, my middle and if the Gods are merciful, you will be my end, for without you there is nothing left of me.”

Xaden Riorson

"All I have ever known was fighting for what's right and true. Fighting for the rebellion has proven to be one of my proudets moments as a man and as a Tyrroshi citizen, but all that didn't matter when I thought I had lost you. I don't care if they punish me or not. I don't care if they send assassins to end me. You're all that matters to me, Rosaline. I will choose you today, tomorrow and all the days I have yet to live. All that I ask is that you choose me too."

Garrick Tavis

"I have always thought that death was what terrified me most in this world, but as I had learned, it isn't. I'd rather die a thousand times over than lose you again, Verona. You breath me back to life with every waking moment I spend in your presence. I love you. You're the love of my life and I beg you, for the love of Gods, don't ever become the loss of my life."

Brennan Sorrengail

"Knowing you was a priveledge. Befriending you was a delight. But loving you became the greatest honour of my life. I will fight until the last breath in my chest, until the last drop of my blood, to defend those I hold most dear. And you, Dalya, have become the sole purpose of my life. I love you today. I loved you yesterday. I will love you even after I'm gone. In death or in life, I belong wholly and completely to you."

Liam Mairi

Soo let me know what you think

Xoxo

(Un)Holly

[unholly-reader]

You love me? // Liam Mairi x f!OC

So I read the „Fourth Wing”. Yup. I’m officially lost, but I can’t decide who to fall for - Xaden or Liam. Until I figure this out, here is a little piece for all you Liam lovers (I still can’t forgive how anyone could kill such a wonderful character, straight up cruel!)

A little reminder - English is not my first language so please, have mercy.

Enjoy <3

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There was a reason why Dalya Aetos was one of the most anticipated cadets in the Rider’s Quadrant of Basgiath War College. Despite her brother already being a squad leader in the Flame Section, it was Dalya who everybody considered the jewel of the Aetos family. Even colonel Aetos himself prised himself on his second born. He was proud of his son, but Dain never truly understood the meaning of the lessons his father tried to teach. Instead, Dalya listened carefully, minding every word he has ever said to her. Maybe that’s how she got into general Sorrengail’s favour so quickly. Violet’s mother always appreciated Aetos’s help and advice, but upon meeting Dalya at the age of eleven, she saw true potential in the colonel’s daughter.

No wonder that when it came to Conscription Day, Dalya went straight for the deadly path through the bridge onto the Parapet and into the Rider’s Quadrant. Before making her choice her father tried to convince her to choose healers, as she would be safer there than risking her life on dragonback if she was lucky enough to live through training, the Gauntlet and finally the Threshing. To his disappointment, Dalya chose riders and against her father wishes became a formidable cadet under Xaden Riorson’s command. That’s where she met general Sorrengail’s daughter, Violet and a charming young man by the name Liam Mairi. Befriending Violet was the first good choice she made while studying in the rider’s quadrant. Getting close and creating a bond with Liam was even better.

Eventually, Dalya was chosen by a navy-blue daggertail dragon by the name Yvraeth. If it wasn’t for the fact that Violet got chosen by not one, but two dragons, Dalya would have been the main fenomenon as it was known far and wide that blue dragons do not attach to humans, Xaden and Sgaeyl being the only known exception. And so the training has begun. Flying was the first thing the newly chosen riders need to master, seeing as they would spend the majority of their time in the College on dragonback. When everybody chose to follow the guidelines of the bare minimum of training, Dalya wanted more. She put aside all the drama her brother provided, seeing as he could not decide what he wanted to do with his feelings for Violet and his hate for Xaden, and instead chose to spend as much time in the air as her body allowed her. And she wasn’t alone.

- It would be nice if you could keep up, Liam. Yvraeth won’t wait forever - shouted Dalya, turning back to look at her friend atop the red dragon’s back.

- Not my fault you were chosen by the fastest dragon in the Continent - screamed Liam, a little annoyed but still happy he got to spend time with his favourite person. Dalya laughed joyfully, holding onto Yvraeth’s back.

Why don’t we show them what real speed means?

I knew I chose you for a reason, Starling.

Yvraeth sped up, leaving Liam and Deigh even further behind. Both her and her dragon laughed as they saw how the red daggertail struggled to follow them. Even though she really liked Liam, Dalya enjoyed showing off Yvraeth’s speed and annoying her friends striking through the sky.

Yes, Dalya really liked Liam. Although a more appropriate way to express how she felt about him would be to say that she was falling for him. How could she not? He was not only kind and a true gentleman, not to mention his broad shoulders and gorgeous face, he was also the most genuine and caring person she has ever met. Dalya never really fell for anyone ever since that one time she chose to give somebody her heart only to have it broken into pieces. Typical teenage drama. A girl falls for a boy but he chooses to betray her and choose another. That’s what happened with Dalya and a boy from her hometown, Weston. From that moment she promised herself she would guard her heart and keep it shut until she met someone who could take care of it and take care of her. Day after day Liam was proving he could be that someone but still, it was a risk Dalya wasn’t sure she was willing to take.

But one day, something changed.

It was a training day like any other. All the riders were getting paired up and sparring on the mats. Nothing unusual. Until professor Emetterio shouted her name with someone she would rather not fight on her own.

- Dalya and Garrick, let’s go!

Following professor’s command Dalya stepped onto the mat as Garrick followed her steps. He was a third year and a section leader. That was a warning in itself. Even though they were on rather good terms, she knew he was a formidable opponent and friends or not, he would give his best.

- Promise it won’t hurt, Aetos. At least not too bad - laughed Garrick, ridding himself of his shirt.

- Just don’t pull your punches - Dalya replied playfully, getting into her stance.

- Ready? Fight!

The second professor Emetterio shouted out, Garrick went full offense. He threw himself forward, aiming his fist towards Dalya’s right side. Being much quicker than the well built third year rider she used her speed and agility to her advantage. Swiftly she avoided his attacks but she couldn’t dance around him forever. Her feet were quick, her arms even moreso as she made her move tripping Garrick over his own legs. The second he fell on the mat, he grabbed her leg, brining her down with him and under his body. Being at the clear disatvantage, Dalya rolled herself from his grasp, kicking his left side and getting back on her feet.

- Nice touch. Somebody’s been practicing - said Garrick, wiping his hands on his pants and smiling devilishly at Dalya. She simply smiled back, ready for yet another attack.

They began circling each other when she chose to launch herself at his shoulders, jumping over his head so that he would collapse. That was the exact moment when Liam chose to approach their mat and got to witness her attack. Only it was not as effective as Dalya had planned. Garrick quickly caught her hips and swung her body slamming her on the mat. Soon after he went for a punch into her ribs, but she rolled away just in time. Getting on her feet crouching she swung her left leg, tripping him once again and jumping on top of him once again, this time keeping on foot on his bicep, while the other was bent next to his face. If they weren’t fighting, the position they found themselves in would be rather suggestive and Liam was not happy about it. While he wondered whether there was anything going on between Dalya and the handsome section leader, the fight continued. Dalya thrived in her small victory, but her success was short-lived. Garrick threw her over his shoulder, slamming her side into the mat with a quiet whimper from her. She felt on of her ribs crack but shoes to ignore the pain. Liam winced seeing her pain but remained still, waiting for the fight to be over. Garrick used the moment of weakness and got on top of Dalya’s body, pushing his forearm into her neck while straddling her hips.

- Surrender?

Dalya tried to find her voice but the probably broken rib and Garrick’s elbow on her throat made it difficult to speak. She almost croaked out a word when someone spoke out.

- That’s enough!

Turning her head slightly she saw Liam walking onto the mat and almost throwing Garrick off of her in a somewhat violent manner. The section leader jumped away, looking surprised at the blonde rider, but Liam paid no attention to him. Gently he kneeled next to Dalya, looked her in the eyes and hooked his arms beneath her knees and her back.

- This is gonna hurt, love.

Before she could answer, Liam stood up carrying her in his arms like she weighed nothing and walked out of the training hall without a word. Everyone went silent with their eyes wide open except for Garrick and the wing leader who stood in the shadows, watching from distance. His lips formed into a sort of smile as he watched his friend walk out the door.

Finally, little brother. Took you long enough.

Look who’s talking, hummed Sgaeyl in his head, turning his head to Violet, who was about to enter the mat with Rhiannon as her sparring partner. Xaden just shook his head and focused on the rest of the sparring riders.

Shut up, Sgaeyl.

Meanwhile Liam carried Dalya out of the training hall and followed the path that led to the infirmary. Dalya, seeing the direction they were heading in, shuffled in his arms in protest.

- Not the infirmary, Liam. Please, I’m fine. It’s nothing, really.

The blonde looked at her suspiciously but seeing the pleading in her golden eyes he huffed in defeat and changed his course, walking up to his room instead.

- Fine, but you’re gonna let me take a look at you. I can bet a lot of money that you have a nasty bruise on your ribs and I think I heard one crack.

Dalya remained silent, knowing he was almost one hundred percent right but she chose not to admit it out loud. Instead, she enjoyed the closeness of his body and the smell that she had awakes found intoxicating whenever he was near. She nuzzled her face into his chest and remained quiet until they reached his bedroom. With the doors closed behind them, Liam laid Dalya on his bed so that she could sit propped on the headboard. Kneeling next to his bed he looked up at the girl and waited.

- Shirt up - he demanded, looking at her intensely.

Her eyes widened as she stared at him in shock, raising her eyebrow.

- And how about a „please”, nurse Mairi? - asked Dalya teasingly, smirking at the boy before her.

She half expected him to laugh if only a little but his face remained serious as he stared at her with and unreadable emotion painted in his eyes.

- I’m not kidding, Lya. Shirt up or do I have to do it myself?

- Geez, don’t be so serious, Liam. I’ll do it, calm down.

- I can’t exactly be calm when I just saw you get slammed on the floor like a puppet. Sorry Dalya but I don’t take pleasure in seeing you get hurt. What if you had gotten it worse? Did you even think about it?

Dalya was at a loss for words. She was looking at Liam as if she saw him for the first time. He was down right flushed and his eyes gleamed with what looked almost like fear. Fear for her life. With a small wince Dalya sat up, bringing her hand under his chin and forcing him to look at her.

- Liam, this is not the first time I’ve been sparring on the mat. This has never been a problem before. Why does matter to you now?

- It doesn’t matter - Liam shrugged her hand off his chin, turning his head away, but she wasn’t gonna give up without an answer. With a little more strength she grabbed his face in her palms and turned his head back, looking into his blue eyes with determination.

- What has gotten into you? I’m not a porcelain doll. I know you may confuse me with Violet but I don’t understand why make a scene now. You don’t patronize her like that but with me it’s suddenly a big deal I got a little bruised. What is that about?

- Well, I’m not in love with Violet so maybe that!

Yes! You finally said it, good job Liam! shouted Deigh in his rider’s head, his voice laced with so much joy he could light up the night.

Deigh, I’m kinda having a critical moment here. A little privacy, please.

You got it.

That was just about enough to shut Dalya up for a few good moments. The girl stared at Liam with her eyes wide open almost as if she saw a ghost. Her hands were still on his cheeks, hold his face gently as they stared at one another in silence. Liam’s eyes were filled with emotions and fury and frustration all at once for Dalya to see. He knew he was risking their friendship but that was the problem. Friendship wasn’t enough for him. As gently as he could he brought his hands to grab Dalya’s wrists and he kissed each of them lightly, almost like a feather touch, still looking into her golden orbs. She couldn’t utter a word staying completely still, almost as if she was afraid this was a too good to be true dream.

- I have always felt like you’re somebody I could never part with. It was almost like you were drawing me in with your dazzling smile and your sparkly eyes. Gods, you’re eyes, Lya. I see them every night I fall asleep. I dream of you even when I don’t remember it. I have accepted your friendship because having you in my life as my friend was better than not having you at all but I can’t pretend anymore. If you don’t feel the same, I will understand but I…

Whatever heartfelt declaration Liam meant to express was muffled by Dalya’s lips smashing into his own. Her smell on him was like poison and antidote at the same time. Without thinking twice, Liam got up from his knees, grabbing Dalya by her waist and sitting her in his lap as he plopped on the bed so that she was straddling him. The kiss was almost like electricity. Lust was thriving in their veins as they explored each other’s body. Liam’s hands on Dalya’ back and on her neck. Dalya’s fingers raking his blonde hair and scratching his shoulders. If two stars fell into each other and combined, they would be Liam and Dalya. Almost too close but never close enough. If their lungs didn’t protest in need of air they would never part but eventually their bodies won that battle. They broke the kiss, breathing heavily into each other’s mouths. They still had their hands on each other, afraid to let the other go as if they would run away. Dalya was the first one to pull away so that she could look at the blonde beneath her properly. Her eyes shone with their own light like they borrowed some from the sun itself. For Liam, she was the most exquisite creature he had ever laid his eyes upon. Gently she caressed his cheek, combing her fingers through his hair.

- Next time, just kiss me. And don’t make a fuss when I get hurt fighting. We’re riders, Liam. We are built to fight.

- Can’t promise you that, sweetheart. You’re my everything - said Liam with such sincerity in his voice Dalya swore she could melt right there and then. Playfully she rolled her eyes and quickly pecked his lips.

- You’re lucky I love you, otherwise you’d be in trouble.

Liam’s blue eyes lit up like dragon fire.

- You love me?

Dalya smiled at him warmly, putting her forehead on his inhaling his intoxicating smell.

- I love you.

[unholly-reader]

It should have been me - Daemon Targaryen x f!OC!

Hello lovely people!

Today we're going for a somber vibe, I had this idea walking around for my ff, but I just wanted to share this with you all. To all you sensitive creatures - I highly recommend a tissue nearby.

Enjoy!

[again - English is NOT my first language!]

Warnings: soooo much crying, little angst, little fluff, just Daemon being an emotional beast with anger issues.

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For weeks upon end Alanna awaited word from her lord husband, yet none ever came. The day he left for Harrenhal was the last time they spoke before she was left with their children to keep her company. This predicament wouldn’t have been as cruel had it not been for the tragedy that befell Alanna when she suspected it the least. Alyssa’s death hit her mother in more ways than anybody could anticipate. As hard as she tried to keep a brave face for her children, especially for Viserys as he had lost his other half when Alyssa was murdered, when night fell on Dragonstone and her darling boys fell asleep, all she did was cry. Fighting with the silent sobs crushing her chest like a mallet, Alanna Targaryen cried her heart out for her only sweet daughter until there were no more tears to cry. Only then she would stop weeping and stare at the wall as if she was someplace far away from the island. Her efforts to keep her children away from her own sorrows failed miserably the day Viserys walked in on her screaming on the floor as she held desperately onto the bloodied cloth that used to be Alyssa's favourite dress. Although he was a boy barely two and ten, he understood much more than his parents gave him credit for. He knew his twin’s death was the Usurper’s vengeance. He also knew that dragons do not forgive spilling the blood of their own kin. Despite his young age, Viserys bore his father pride and spirit like a shield for everyone to see. Many people would say he was a young prince Daemon reincarnated. When he overcame his own grief, which is too much to say for a boy of his years, he swore to avenge Alyssa’s death when the time came. That was the only difference between him and his father. Daemon never understood the importance of the right time. Viserys took after his mother, weighing when it was right to act and when inaction was the best course. 

Upon seeing his mother weeping her heart out, kneeling on the floor he ran towards her standing next to her and bending just enough so he could hug her shaking body. He felt his own tears falling down his pale cheeks but he couldn't care less. She needed the comfort just as much as he and his brother’s did. When Alanna realised it was her youngest son holding her, she tried to compose herself, clumsily wiping her tears away but when she looked up and saw Viserys’s face, she let it all go. She brought him closer into her embrace, clawing at his body like an anchor keeping her afloat. Viserys hugged her in return, snuggling his face into her golden hair just like he used to when he was younger. 

– I promise you, Mama. We will avenge Alyssa, I swear this to you. 

– Shh, my sweet prince. Just hold me, my sweet boy. Just stay here. 

Viserys listened to his mother’s pleas and stayed for as long as she held onto him. By the time the night came and the moon lit up the skies, Alanna was fast asleep in her bed with her youngest by her side. It was only when Rhaenys came by that Viserys woke up and slid out of his mother’s bed, careful not to disturb her sleep. He walked through the chambers, reaching the Princess by the entrance. He looked up at his aunt, eyes still red and puffy from the tears he shared with his mother that day. 

– The crying exhausted her. She needs the rest. 

Rhaenys felt her heart shatter for the young prince so bravely caring for his Mama. 

– As do you, my darling boy – she replied, wrapping her arm around his shoulder and gently bringing him into her embrace – Let us get you in your bed, dear. 

As much as he wanted to stay and guard his mother in her sleep, Visersy felt the exhaustion overtake his body. He was tired and grieving and had no strength left. The moment he hugged Rhaenys side, he felt himself fall into slumber. Having raised children of her own, the Princess quickly picked him up and he instinctively wrapped his ambler arms around her form. Quickly she left her half-sister’s quarters and moved towards the prince’s bedchambers. 

***

When Alanna stirred awake and felt the empty space beside her, she panicked. Fearing the worst she shot out of bed, her hair flowing down her back in messy waves and she sprinted out of her chambers. It was still dark outside, although a mist of sunlight was creeping from the horizon, bringing morning with its reddish haze colouring the eastern skies. Barely thinking about putting her shoes on she ran barefoot, frantically calling out her son’s name. Following her instincts she ran towards Baelon’s chamber where all her boys now resided and prayed she would see all of her four princes abed. It was nerve wracking and heart shattering, fearing for her children’s life every step of the way for now she knew the unbearable pain of losing one so cruelly. Her steps were light, yet heavy at the same time. Each one brought her closer either to her hope or her demise. She burst through the door like the lighting piercing the night and only then did she feel her heart slow down. All four of her sons were comfortably settled in Baelon’s bed, tightly pressed against one another and all four in deep slumber. Feeling her legs giving in Alanna leaned on the door frame, watching from afar as her boys slept soundly and more importantly, safely. Regaining her breath she retired from her eldest son’s quarters, closing the door behind her only to lean back on the wooden door and slide down to the floor. Tears once again stained her porcelain like face as she weeped silently, eyes wide open staring into nothing. Every time she thought she had cried all the tears her eyes held, the violet-like irises found another source of salty streams. It was a never ending nightmare where whenever she would open her eyes, she would be reminded of the life that could not be retrieved. 

Time seemed to escape her as she sat unmoving, almost resembling a marble statue. In what seemed like minutes the sun began to rise by the horizon, slowly creeping inside the castle walls. Alanna was almost cathartic when suddenly she heard a loud screech sounding from afar. At first she thought a mere ringing in her ear, irrelevant to what was happening in reality but when the sound roared the second time, she could not dismiss it. She knew that screeching all too well and if she was correct, her prayers had finally been answered. With little caution she stood up and let her feet guide her towards the tunnels leading to dragon caves hidden beneath the surface of Dragonstone. She hoped it was not her cruel imagination painting her a fool once again. Her ruby skirts flow behind her, sweeping the stone floors of the castle as she descended onto lower levels of the fortress. Hair in complete disarray and eyes puffy and red but all that mattered was running to meet him. 

All the guards she passed by bowed before her but she paid them no mind as she finally reached her destination the same moment a ruby red beast crawled inside the cave with her beloved black knight in its saddle. Caraxes gracefully flew towards the pier where Alanna stood, looking up in desperation and then landed smoothly. His rider took no time to slide down his mount’s back and onto its wing, running straight into Alanna’s open arms with a heart wrenching sob. The Rogue Prince held his Princess close to his chest, clawing at her velvet clad back with all his might. Having only heard about the tragedy that befell his family the previous day he flew relentlessly to meet his beloved wife. Now that she was in his arms all he could think about was how she had to watch his daughter’s blood pool at her feet and he was not there to protect his little girl. 

– Tell me it was a horrible nightmare. 

Daemon’s voice sounded so unlike him. So fragile and cautious, almost as if he was a glass figurine ready to crumble in the matter of seconds. Alanna could not mutter a single word so she just shook her head against Daemon’s shoulder, feeling her tears well up once again in the corners of her eyes. At her response he only weeped louder, burying his face into her golden hair. Almost simultaneously their knees buckled under the weight of their shared grief and they collapsed to the stone floors, holding one another as if their very lives depended on it. It was too painful for the both of them to lean back and see the rattling pain on their faces but eventually Daemon broke. He looked at his wife and his heart shattered a thousand times over seeing her perfect violet-blue eyes red and puffy, filled with tears that never seems to stop. All at once he noticed all the little details on her face. The little wrinkles slowly appeared in the corners of her eyes. The pink shade of her pretty lips. He also noticed the small cut on her forehead, now almost completely healed, but still visible to the naked eye. Suddenly his grief became irrelevant when his mind was overtaken by fuming rage. As gently as he could, Daemon reached his palm towards Alanna’s forehead, delicately brushing his fingers over the healed cut. 

– Did he do it?

Alanna just nodded, taking hold of his wrist in her smaller hand. Hre face was still pain ridden as she stared into his lilac eyes with fear shaking like a lonely willow. 

– He slit her throat, Daemon – she spoke quietly, her voice crumbling seemingly with each word – He took my baby and he took her life. I have her blood on my hands. I have Alyssa’s blood on my hands. I don't…

She began rumbling and talking frantically like a wheel that just keeps spinning, spiralling into her own madness. Daemon watched with horror as his beautiful wife tormented herself, relieving the horrifying events of the day they lost their daughter. Unable to stop the words spilling from her mouth, he did the only thing that came to his mind. Abruptly he grabbed both her cheeks and pressed a quick yet genuine kiss to her chapped lips. She still tasted like heaven but her tears covering her mouth made it bitter sweet. Gently Daemon leaned his forehead on hers, slowly calming her rattled presence. 

– Shhh, my light. You do not blame yourself. Do you understand me? You did everything you could. You fought as best you could. He could have killed you too. I could have lost you too. Gods, I cannot begin to imagine what I would do if he took you from me. I swear to the Gods, if he wasn’t dead already I would have taken his hands, his cock, his head for ever laying his hands on you and Alyssa. 

Alanna felt her heart flutter, trying to calm down, listening to Daemon’s voice but the demons hunting her never stopped. When she closed her eyes, she saw her little girl’s body drowning in blood. The vision haunted her every living second she breathed the air her daughter no longer could. 

– It should have been me, Daemon. He should have killed me, not my little girl. I should have…

– Don’t you dare! I forbid you – growled Daemon, grabbing her face sternly, looking into her tears stained eyes – Don’t even think about it. 

The Princess stared into her husband’s lilac orbs in silence. She could see all the feelings throwing him around like a puppet, the hurricane of emotions passing through his mind. She stilled in place, keeping her hands clasped on his wrists like a lifeline. He was mad and frustrated and above all furious, but hearing her say those things brought him over the edge. His voice barely above whisper when he spoke to her, his gaze piercing through her grief. 

– I will have Aegon’s head. I will cut off his worthless corpse right after I rip his heart out of his chest and I will make Alicent watch her son die in agony. Our daughter will be avenged but I cannot bear to listen to you saying such foul things. Don’t ever say you should have…

His words faltered much like his body still kneeling on the stone floors of the cavern. His strength shook in its very core as he caressed his wife’s cheeks almost too gently like she was a porcelain doll. His silence was so loud. No words were said and yet it was as if he was shouting at the top of his lungs. Like he was trying to find the words but faltered every time. Swallowing hard, he kissed Alanna’s lips swiftly, quickly looking back into her sparkly eyes. The eyes that became his everlasting beacon of hope. 

– I will forever mourn our daughter until the world crumbles in its foundation and all light is swallowed by the darkest depths of this realm. I could never forget the emptiness left in my heart that was once filled with her joy, her laughter, her life, but you cannot say you wish you took her place. I live for you, Alanna. I live because of you. My life has begun the day you gave me your love. If you die, I die too. There is no life for me where you’re not by my side. I don’t care about anything else. If need be, I will let this world burn for you so long you stay with me. My wife. My life. My light. My love.

[unholly-reader]

I will choose you for the rest of our life - Daemon Targaryen x f!OC!

Hello lovely people!

Daemon's charm has once again struck and so here is some well deserved Daemond fluff. I apologize in advance for any accidents caused by swooning over our favourite Rogue Prince.

Once again - English is NOT my first language!

Enjoy, my dragon lovers!

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It was still a warm summer evening when Alanna returned from her journeys beyond the City limits where she accompanied Rhaenyra waiting in the prince on the ground while she took Syrax for a ride. It was a pleasant enough afternoon considering the Princess had a terrible fight with the King about her marriage prospects and the reality of spending a life with somebody which happened to be his favorite subject as of late. Unfortunately, Rhaenyra did not share her father's sentiments and was adamant on remaining unwed. The topic brought many a disagreement between the King and his named Heir, however the love they both shared remained unquestionable. It was clear for Alanna as well as everyone in Court that the day Rhaenyra decides to marry would be the day the nonsense arguments will end but until then the eldest Lady Hightower took vigilant care of the Princess keeping her company and advising if necessary.

- I must say Princess, it will never cease to amaze me how truly united you and Syrax are. It's as if you're two bodies and one soul - said Alanna, dismounting her horse after reaching the royal stables. Rhaenyra chuckled lightly, jumping off her golden mare with ease and smiling to her companion.

- I wish you could know how it feels, Aunt Alanna. The bond between a dragon and its rider is second to none, truly.

- I am quite content seeing you with Syrax, sweet girl. It brings me so much joy to see you smile, especially after rough mornings such as today.

Rhaenyra nodded gratefully at Alanna, walking towards her with a gentle, but saddened smile.

- I am so very thankful to have you here, Aunt Alanna. I don't what I would have done if your father had sent to Old Town.

- Luckily, we don't have to find that out. Now come, you must eat something and above all you need a long bath. You stink of dragon - laughed Alanna, putting her arm over the Princess's shoulders.

Rhaenyra joined her in laughter as they made their way towards the Keep when the gates opened themselves to reveal Ser Harrold Westerling approaching both ladies. Quickly he descended the stairs and walked to them, bowing dutifully.

- My Princess. My Lady. The King requires your presence in the throne room.

Rhaenyra sighed heavily, taking her gloves off.

- By Gods, we have only argued this morning. Can't whatever my father needs from me wait until tomorrow?

The commander bowed his head once again, looking at the Heir apologetically.

- Pardon me, Princess, but the King has asked for the Lady Alanna.

It was now Alanna's turn to snap her head to Ser Harrold in surprise. She glanced at Rhaenyra, shock painted on her face.

- Me? Whatever for?

- I couldn't say, My Lady. He only requested that you come down to the throne room and that the matter is urgent.

Lady Hightower nodded politely, turning to face Rhaenyra and put her hands on the girls shoulders.

- We shall meet for dinner, sweet girl. You go wash off that stench of yourself and I will come see you later.

Rhaenyra hesitated but eventually she kissed Alanna's cheek and walked on towards her chambers.

- Ser Harrold.

- Princess.

Alanna watched as the girl disappeared behind the doors and then turned her gaze to the knight. Ser Harrold held his arm out as if to invite the woman to walk with him, bowing his head slightly.

- If you please, My Lady.

The woman followed his direction in silence, entering the Red Keep and moving to the corridors leading straight to the throne room. The inside od the castle were brightly lit by many torches and candles surrounding the place, but here and there the setting sun crept inside the Keep's walls. Alanna held her skirt in one palm as the train of her dark blue gown swept the floors behind her, while she quietly walked by Ser Harrold's side. It was a short walk as they reached the throne room soon enough. Ser Harrold had the guards open the doors and he led Alanna inside, where the King sat upon his throne all by himself.

- Lady Alanna Hightower, Your Grace - announced Ser Harrold as Alanna stepped into the light, standing atop the stairs.

- Thank you, Ser Harrold. You may take your leave now - replied Viserys, waving his hand at the knight. The Lord Commander bowed and swiftly left the room, leaving the King and his sister by law alone.

- Please, do come in, Lady Alanna.

Suspecting nothing of the foul means Alanna descended down the stairs and walked up to the King, curtsying before the monarch with a polite bow of her head.

- Your Grace - she said respectfully, straightening her posture and looking at Viserys with a gentle smile - I do not mean any disrespect, Your Grace, but is there a particular reason why you asked to see me?

- Are you happy here, My Lady?

- Pardon me, Your Grace? - asked Alanna, baffled by the King's question.

And so Viserys repeated his query.

- I asked if you are happy here, in the Capital?

Alanna smiled bashfully, not quite sure what to say to that unusual question.

- I am quite happy, Your Grace. Spending my time with the Princess and my sister, the Queen is all I could ever ask for. I am truly grateful to you for allowing me to stay at Court.

- And what of your marriage prospects, my dear? Has there been any word from your father in that matter?

This question baffled Alanna even more so than the first one. She smiled politely at the King, trying to uphold the unsuspecting demeanor while in reality she kept wondering about where this conversation was leading.

- I could not say, Your Grace. My father has not been the most attentive towards me ever since my sister became the Queen. I believe it is the matters of the realm and those of your bedchambers that concern him more than myself, Your Grace.

Alanna did not register what words left her mouth until the moment they left it. It took her only a few second to realize what she ghat just said to her King and how disrespectful it was towards him and her father. Not to mention how unladylike this behavior was. Quickly she bowed her head, staring at the tips of her shoes peeking from underneath her dark blue dress, praying that the King would not feel insulted by her choice of words.

- Your Grace, I apologize. I meant no insult either to you or my father. I seem to have forgotten to hold my tongue.

Instead of hearing the angry King reprimand her, she heard a mere laugh. When she looked up, she saw the King smiling, almost grinning like a fool and laughing as if she had just told him something incredibly funny. It was a rare sight to see Viserys this joyful, especially since it has been a tough couple of days for him and his eldest daughter.

- You Grace?

The King’s laughter slowly died down as he walked up to Alanna, gently raising his hand to hold her chin up. Staring into the King’s lilac eyes she was reminded of her lover’s eyes, so bright and pure in the light of the setting sun.

- I could not see it before, but I do now - said Viserys with a thoughtful smile - You share the same spirit, but you also possess the fierceness to tame him.

Somehow Alanna knew he was speaking of Daemon, but she would not let it be known to the King. Without shifting her demeanor she continued acting clueless and unaware.

- I do not know what it is you are speaking of, Your Grace.

- I have been told that there were numerous occasions you were seen with my brother and you seemed to have been thoroughly enjoying his company. Is this true?

Alanna froze in place. She didn't know how to answer this, whether to tell the truth or keep on lying. It has been like a thorn at her side, not being able to stand by Daemon, speak with him, touch is hand. It would be risky to reveal her true feelings, especially to the King, but something was telling her it was the right thing to do. So she did it.

- It is true, Your Grace - answered Alanna, holding the King's gaze proudly.

It wasn't defiance or arrogance, but there was something that Viserys saw in her eyes in that moment. Like she had made a choice to stop hiding. There was this indescribable spark in her blue orbs, something the King could not quite put his finger on but he knew that may very well have been the reason his brother fell for this young lady. Gently he let his hand fall down, still holding her gaze with a kind smile.

- If you were given the choice to marry whom you desire, who would be your chosen husband?

This time Alanna did not falter nor did she hesitate. She wasn't sure what the game Viserys played with her was, but she somehow didn't care about the consequences. He was her King and she owed him her loyalty, and above all else - her truth.

- Daemon.

Her answer was loud and clear, no doubt in her voice or in her eyes and only a fool wouldn't see it. The King was no fool.

- Do you love my brother, Lady Alanna?

- With everything I am today and everything I ever hope to become.

Viserys did not expect such honesty. He knew only what Daemon had told him of his feelings for his sister by law, but it came as a surprise to the King to learn of her devotion towards his brother. She stood there with her head held high, eyes staring into the King's lilac orbs with no fear. Viserys hummed to himself, taking a few steps back and turning away to face the throne. He contemplated the circumstances while Alanna awaited her verdict. As it turned out patience seemed to have run thin within her mind as she spoke up, grabbing Viserys's attention.

- I do not know why it would matter to you, Your Grace, but whatever you may think of your brother, he is who my soul longs for - said Alanna, smiling dreamily like a little girl - I could never forget him or abandon him and no matter how many times he is exiled from Court, I will always await his return if only to gaze upon his face. He is my reason and my sanity and I am certain nothing could ever change that.

The King turned around swiftly, looking at his sister by law as if he saw her for the first time. Her eyes were glimmering like the night sky lit by showers of shooting stars. Her face was almost glowing as if the love she had for his brother illuminated her features. Viserys only ever witnessed this kind of devotion twice. The first was the love he was born from, the one that united his father, Prince Baelon with his mother, Princess Alyssa. Although blurry and somewhat worn-away, memories of the love his parents shared was imprinted on his mind, daily reminding him of what is supposed to matter to him most. His family.

The second time he witnessed this type of love was when he met Aemma. Even though they didn't fall for one another at first sight, she had made him the man he became, the King he grew up to be. Choosing his heir over her life would always be his worst nightmare, haunting him each and every night. Despite the tragic ending he knew he was truly loved and loved truly in return. Much like Alanna seemed to love his brother and from what the King could tell, Daemon loved her just as much.

- And is Lady Alanna the wife you would choose, brother? - asked Viserys, still looking at his good-sister.

Alanna felt her heart stop in her chest as Daemon emerged out of the shadows behind the Iron Throne. He was wearing his dark grey breeches and white linen shirt, his short hair ruffled as if he had just woken up but in her eyes he never looked more handsome. And she could swear he never looked at her with so much emotion in his eyes ever before.

- I would choose her now and every day for the rest of my life.

As Daemon approached the King and his beloved, Alanna could not mutter a single word. She was too stunned to speak. The Rogue Prince walked towards her but stopped beside his brother, never taking his eyes off his beloved. Viserys glanced at Daemon and then faced Alanna with a kind smile on his face, feeling his heart fill up with joy. Looking at the two of them he knew there was only one right thing to do.

- The day I married Alicent, you became my good sister and since then not a day has passed that you wouldn't serve me with your good word or the actions of your kind heart. In all this time I never thought to thank you for all that you have done for my family, for my daughter in the absence of her late mother, but maybe now I will repay my debt - said the King, taking her hand in his, at the same time grabbing Daemon's hand as well and joining them together.

Alanna felt tears gathering in her eyes as she looked at Daemon and their joined hands. When Viserys stepped back, his younger brother took a hold of Alanna's palm in both his hands, going down on one knee before her.

- I will choose you every day for the rest of our lives, my light. If you'll have me - spoke Daemon, gently caressing her hand.

The Lady Hightower was at a loss for words. She felt all her emotions go on a rampage as she looked down at the love of her life asking her to be his for eternity. She could not believe it was real, but somehow she knew it was. She had him right there at the grasp of her hands and all she had to do was say "yes". Instaed of saying anything, Alanna kneeled before him, putting her hand over his grasping her other palm and brought them to her lips. She looked up in his lilac eyes, so true and loving she could fall apart right there and then, and simply said the words.

- And I will choose you for the rest of our life, my love. Just like I choose you today.

[unholly-reader]

So long, my Dragon

Daemon Targaryen x f! OC

Hello lovely people!

Yes, once again Daemon has struck my heart. It probably has something to do with the first two episodes of HOTD, so here it is. Another outside of the plot line scenario with our favorite Rogue Prince.

Enjoy! (and keep in mind English is NOT my first language so please - HAVE MERCY!)

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Alanna was as frightened as anyone would be in her situation. Trapped in the Capital with her sister and father demanding she declare for the new King, while her loyalties and heart lied with Rhaenyra and her own husband. More so upon hearing about a tragic event that took place in Storm's End where apparently the war has truly begun. Aemond killed the royal envoy sent by Rhaenyra, that was the information that Alanna could gather but she felt more grim news would follow. By the end of the day she finally heard someone knocking on her chamber's door and upon opening them, she saw Aemond with tears in the brink of spilling from his eye and the most sorrowful look on his face she has ever witnessed her young nephew display. Without hesitation she walked towards him, gently taking the young prince in her arms like a mother should. She caressed his back, holding him close to her as he let his fear out, crying into his aunt's shoulder like when he used to do as a very young boy. 

- I killed him, Aunt Alanna. I killed him. Vhagar killed him but didn't mean to. I really didn't mean to. I lost control. He was just a boy.

Alanna felt her heart stop at her nephew's words but did not stop her actions. Gently she led Aemond to a nearby armchair and sat him upon it, sitting on the armrest while still holding the crying prince. 

- Shh, hush now. You need to calm down, my sweet prince. Just breathe with me, Aemond. Just breathe. 

The boy didn't speak but he kept holding onto his aunt’s arms like a baby in distress. Meanwhile, Alanna's thoughts started racing as if she was running with the wind. "He was just a boy". It could have been anyone, especially on dragon back. It could have been Jaecerys, Rhaenyra's eldest boy. It could have been Lucerys, the middle son of the Queen. Or worst of all it could have been one of her boys gallivanting through the skies on their dragons. She was terrified she could have lost a child, but she tried not to frighten the trembling prince currently residing in her embrace. She knew that in his current condition she would not get much information out of him, but she had to know. Above all she was a mother who desperate to know whether she has just lost a child or not. 

- Aemond, look at me. Look at me, my sweet prince.

Gently Alanna lifted Aemond's chin to meet his one lilac eye overflowing with fresh tears. She wiped the trace of salty streams off his cheek, holding his face with both her hand as if he was a glass figure ready to fall apart at any given moment. He was not shaking as much but she could still see the terror in his gaze, as if one of his worst nightmares came to life. 

- I need to know, Aemond. Who was it? 

There was a sombre silence that befell the prince and his aunt as the woman anticipated the worst. Aemond loved her as if he was his true mother and he could not bear to look her in the eyes if he ever hurt one of her kin. He took a shaky breath and finally spoke up, still grasping her arms tightly. 

- Rhaenyra's son. He was Rhaenyra's son, aunt Alanna. I...

He could not finish as he broke into tears again. Without a second thought Alanna cradled him once again, smoothing his withered silver hair. Silently she thanked the Gods for her children’s safety, but at the same time her heart cried for Rhaenyra and her boy. No matter which one, she knew losing a child is every mother's greatest fear.  But for now, she had to deal with the child in her embrace. For all she knew Alicent simply scolded her younger son for what happened, not considering that Vhagar was a creature of habit and over a hundred-year-old dragon with years of battle and fighting behind her. Aemond, despite being a seasoned dragon rider of a few years was still just a boy in comparison to his dragon. Vhagar was ancient and even though she allowed Aemond to become her rider, she would never surrender to him in full. It was true that Aemond never harboured any love for his nephews as his mother and grandsire made sure of that, but he wasn't a killer. At least not the boy Alanna raised in the shadows of the Red Keep. 

Suddenly Aemond shook awake from his cries, and he looked at his aunt as if he saw her for the first time. There was something different in his gaze, a newfound force Alanna could not decipher.

- You must go. 

At first, she thought she misheard him. 

- We're in my chambers, Aemond. I don't think there is elsewhere for me to go to.

- I mean you need to leave King's Landing. You need to leave tonight. Mother is furious. Aegon is laughing but he does not grasp the severity of the situation. Grandfather is not as angry as my mother, but I know his silence is a foul sign. Gods know what might happen now. You and I both know you're not safe in here. You're Daemon's wife and mother to his children. You renounced the Hightower name and now there is no love between you and Otto. I may not agree with Rhaenyra's claim and her actions, but you were nothing but kind to me my entire life. You raised me while my mother was too busy planning to sit my brother upon the Iron Throne. If there is one thing I do right in my whole life, I want to do right by you, Aunt Alanna. 

Alanna was at a loss for words. She never knew her nephew held her in such a high regard. She smiled kindly kissing his forehead at the same time. 

- Aemond, my darling boy. You mean well but there is no way your mother will let me leave the Red Keep, let alone King's Landing. Besides, any ship I could sail to Dragonstone would sink faster than I could leave the Blackwater Bay. 

- You don't understand. You are leaving King's Landing tonight. I will make sure of that. 

***

Night fell quickly casting a deep shadow over the Capital while most of its citizens succumbed to peaceful slumber. It was barely midnight as Alanna awaited Aemond's signal in the closed space of her chamber, still wondering how her young nephew intended to help her leave this hellhole. she had no reason to doubt his intentions, but nevertheless she knew how risky and dangerous it was to escape the most guarded place in all of King's Landing. Clad in her travelling clothes and a black cloak with a hood over her shoulders she awaited her rescue. She was not quite sure as to how she was to outrun the royal guards and every single one of the soldiers guarding her sister and the royal family, but Aemond was right. She was not safe within the walls of the Red Keep and so long as she stayed there, her life remained in danger. The truth was plain and simple. The day she married Daemon and renounced her family name, her life amongst her own kin was doomed. 

Suddenly a quiet knock was heard but it did not come from the door of her chambers. Silently Alanna turned her head and looked to the eastern wall as it opened like a hidden passage carved in stone. At first nobody came in but a second later a familiar set of white hair peeked out of the dark grey hood. 

- We don't have much time. Hurry. 

Without hesitation Alanna grabbed her small travelling bag and flung it over her arm as she followed her nephew into the darkness of the hidden corridors. Aemond held a small torch in his hand, lighting the way while his other hand tightly gripped his aunt's palm. They moved swiftly and silently as if they were mere shadows in the darkness of the secret pathways. Alanna could feel her heart beating out of her chest as she feared every next step she took, but she was determined to get back to her family. The moment her feet stepped out of her chamber she knew there was no turning back. Aemond guided her through the intricate designs of the hidden halls, up and down crooked stone stairs until they reached a point, where Alanna could make out a faint light before her eyes. The lights of King's Landing at night. 

- How do you know these pathways? 

- As much as I don't want to admit it, Aegon's curiosity sometimes pays off - said Aemond almost scoffing his brother's names - These corridors helped us out of trouble on more than one occasion. 

Alanna did not question her nephew any further as they neared the exit leading straight into the city. The lights of the torches were dim from up above but she could easily make out the entire outline of the Capital. Keeping her head down she followed Aemond's footsteps as they descended into the dark alleys of King's Landing. 

- Where to now?

- I have two horses waiting just around the corner. I will take you past the city limits and from there you will have to make your own way through the country. The Velaryon fleet will soon have the Bay surrounded, so it's better if you travel on horseback. 

Alanna only nodded as they made their way towards a back street cloaked in the darkness of the night. As the prince made sure they were not being followed, his aunt realised she would have to make her escape on her own. Taking her hand in his own the King's brother pulled the woman behind him, hiding both of them in the shadows of the Keep. Just as he said, there were two grey horses waiting around the corner, neighing quietly as they stood with their reigns attached to a nearby stool. Alanna quickly made her way to the animal closest to her, swiftly getting on its back with a grace of a seasoned rider. When her nephew reached for the other horse's reigns, she urged her stallion to move in his way.

- I should go alone, Aemond. 

Aemond turned around, looking at his aunt baffled.

- What are you saying?

- You already helped me plenty getting me out of the Keep. If you remain absent from your chambers for too long when they realise I'm gone, they will know you aided my escape. From here I must travel on my own, my sweet prince. 

- But aunt, I...

- I know you didn't mean to kill him - said Alanna, watching as his expression turned sour - but you cannot change the fact, that it happened. Anything that follows this tragic event will prove even more destructive however it is out of your hands. I will forever be grateful for your help tonight Aemond, I swear to you I will never forget your kindness, but now our paths must part. 

The longer the prince looked at his aunt, the more he understood her words and the meaning behind them. They were still on the opposing sides of this war. Alanna would support Rhaenyra and he would support his brother. Family against family. Finally he stepped away from the horse as his lips quirked into a crooked smile. 

- Why must you always be right, Aunt?

- 'Tis because I am older, my darling boy. When you reach my age, you will be just as wise if not wiser. 

The young prince smirked sadly, holding out his hand to grasp his aunt's palm. Lightly he kissed her hand, squeezing it gently as though he was already saying goodbye. 

- Tell Viserra I...

He found himself at a loss for words. During this whole escape planning he almost forgot that Alanna was going back to her family, but at the same time she would be reunited with his love. He knew that upon hearing about his deed Viserra would despise him, but he could not bear that thought alone. Alanna could see on his face how he ached to say all the thing he wished he could tell his lover but couldn't open his mouth to say it. Instead of asking, she just said:

- I will tell her. I promise. 

Aemond smiled sadly, remembering his darling flower. He bowed his head slightly as a sign of gratitude.

- Thank you for loving me when nobody else would. 

- Thank you for letting me love you, my darling boy. 

With those final words Alanna made sure her hood was covering her auburn hair neatly braided to one side as she urged her horse to move out of the shadows of the alley. Aemond silently watched as she rode away into the dimly lit streets of the Capital. 

- I hope I will see you again. 

With his final words the young prince turned around to follow the path they came here back to his rooms. He hoped his aunt would leave the City and find her way back to her family, but he also knew the dangers lurking in the streets. The uncertainty of her escape was killing him from the inside, knowing she was the closest person he could call his mother as his own birth mother decided he was a reckless boy unable to hold his own anger. Maybe Alicent was right, but nevertheless he knew that is Alanna could show him compassion, her sister should be able to do the same for her own child. All there was left to do for the prince is go back to his rooms and hope his plan works out. 

Meanwhile Alanna rode through the empty streets of King's Landing, trying not to capture any attention from the patrolling guards of City Watch or any civilian bystanders. She moved as swiftly as she could guiding the horse through the cobblestoned alleys, keeping a watchful eye out for any member of the royal guard. The first few turns she found herself passing unnoticed by anyone, smoothly riding her hooved companion towards the City's limits. Silence of the night almost undisturbed seemed to be the only witness to her escape or so she thought. 

- Stop in the name of the King!

Out of the blue a group of City Watch men emerged from one of the brothels, their gold cloaks shining in the light of the torches lit over the entrance. Alanna panicked. when she looked back, she saw a familiar face of the knight who tried to force himself upon her one fateful day. Without thinking she spurred the horse, urging him into a gallop just to get away from the guards. Unfortunately for her they were not drunk enough so that they forgot how to ride horseback and a few moments later she heard their screaming behind her as they followed her trace. In the frenzy of her escape attempt she lost her way towards the City gates as she reached a crossroad. behind her she could hear the angry men of the City Watch ready to bring her before their King. In front of her there were two paths. One she did not know where it would lead the, the other had its end at the Dragon Pit. She knew that choosing the second path meant getting further away from the city's limits but choosing the first one meant getting lost and most likely getting caught. In the heat of the moment the princess chose the road she and her husband would follow on many occasions to take Caraxes for a ride, only this time she was riding for her life. She knew there was little chance she would find refuge within the walls of the Dragon Pit, especially with Sunfyre in there, but she had to at least try. She could almost feel her hunter's breath on her neck as she strode through the familiar streets. In the horizon she could almost make out the shape of the Pit, lit brightly all over its majestic walls and sculptures. Time was not her friend as she found herself panting desperately trying to get as far away from her hunters as it was possible. It was the most difficult ride of hr life but when she pictured her family, her darling children, her beloved husband, she knew she had to fight to get back to them. 

Somehow the distance between her and the Dragon Pit started to decrease in size and finally she reached the gates of the dragons' keep. So close and yet so far. She got so distracted with her little victory she did not notice the men of City Watch gaining on her. When she came in sight, on of them pulled out a bow and arrow and aimed at the rider in front of him. Alanna realised she was being shot at the moment the first arrow flew just by her head. She hurried her horse, bowing closer to its neck to avoid the arrows so desperately clinging onto the reigns in her palms. She could almost feel the dragon stench in her nostrils when she crossed the first gate separating the City and the space before the Pit, where dragons landed upon returning to the Capital. Before she could ride any further, she heard her horse whine in agony and then she felt its legs give up, throwing her off its back in the process. One of the arrows reached the poor animal's back leg and it crumbled under the pain, while Alanna was cast aside like a doll. She could feel the scratches on her cheeks and palms begin to ache as she heard the men approaching her from afar. With great effort she stood on her own feet and ran towards the entrance of the Dragon Pit even though she knew she could not outrun the highly trained men of the City Watch. Though her legs wanted to give in, her spirit was too strong to let her give up when she was this close to going back to her family. 

She saw the dragon caretakers emerge from the depth of the Pit shouting random words in High Valyrian, but she could not hear them from afar. Her hair was flowing out of her braid in every direction as she ran desperate to reach the gates, but it seemed too far for her to reach. Alanna was terrified but she did not fear death. That foe she would face with honour and courage the moment she comes for her, but her biggest fear was to never see her family again. To live out her days knowing that out there somewhere her children are growing up motherless and her husband falls back into his rogue ways. Tears brimmed in her blue eyes as she slowly gave up, feeling all her strength leave her exhausted body. She felt the end coming. Next thing she knew she tripped on the rocky road, falling to her knees and screaming in pain. She looked up in the sky, staring into its darkness as the half-moon dimly lit the night. She felt her tears fall down her cheeks as her soon to be captors approached with vile words coming out of their mouths. Alanna closed her eyes and awaited her doom.

- So long, my Dragon. 

She thought those would be her last words ever, for she was ready to welcome death like an old friend, but it never came. Instead, a deafening sound rung in her ears and a loud thud that shook the ground beneath her feet. When she opened her eyes, there was no starry sky above her, only silver scales and giant wings spread wide like a shield from those who wished to harm her. It was a dragon. A great, big silver dragon with snow-like scales and claws sharp as spears who was lashing out at her attackers, swatting them away from the princess the way human would do flies. At first Alanna was too stunned to speak, let alone move in any capacity, but quickly she regained her composure getting back up on her feet. Looking at the majestic beast above her suddenly she recognized the creature protecting her so fiercely. 

- Silverwing. 

Upon hearing its name, the beast turned her majestic head towards Alanna, turning its snout so that she could look at her with her bright blue dragon eye. Alanna wasn't frightened anymore. She felt almost at ease as she reached her hand to touch the pearly white scales of the creature before her. Silverwing did not move an inch waiting for the woman's next move. Alanna wasn't sure as to why she was so calm facing the fearsome dragon of the late Queen Alysanne, but she felt a strange tug tempting her to get closer. She saw Silverwing only once before as a little girl when the Good Queen brought her and her sister to the Dragon Pit, but it was enough for little Alanna to remember the silver gaze of Her Grace's dragon. For just a brief moment she forgot she was being chased, only focusing on the moment shared with the creature. Unfortunately, her attackers got back on their feet, at least those whose life wasn't taken by the dragon standing in the middle of the square and Alanna had to think of a way to get out of the situation she found herself in. It was only a moment when she decided to take the greatest risk of her entire life. Without hesitation she ran towards the dragon's back, putting her hands on its body. Silverwing snapped her head at the woman, eyeing her suspiciously but eventually her gaze seemed to have softened and with a gentle nod she gave her permission. Alanna took a deep breath and just like she did every time she mounted Caraxes with Daemon's help she pushed herself up atop the beast's back, settling in the space where Silverwing's neck and body met. The second she grabbed two spikes growing out of the dragon's neck so that she had something to hold onto Silverwing roared angrily and took off, throwing the men of the City Watch off their feet. The sheer force of winds surrounding the beast almost blew Alanna off dragon back but she held on tightly as if her life depended on it, which it did. So long Silverwing was climbing the air Alanna kept her grip firm and steady but the moment the dragon levelled her flight, the princess let out her breath she did not realise she was holding back. She looked back at the Capital and the lights of the Red Keep slowly becoming smaller in the distance as she felt Silverwing purr almost like a cat beneath her palms. Slowly Alanna bent down as if to hug the dragon, putting her cheek to the creature's warm scaly skin. 

- Kirimvose.

Silverwing hummed again like she was trying to reply, and her unlikely rider just stayed close to her body, hoping the dragon would take her where she wished to be more than anything in the world. 

Home.

***

Daemon Targaryen was fuming with rage. First the Greens imprisoned his wife in the Capital where he could not reach her and now Aemond murdered little Lucerys Velaryon in cold blood and here too there would be no retribution. With Rhaenyra off with Syrax searching for proof of her son's death there was nobody to keep those remaining loyal to the Queen in check as they all felt for her loss and seemed to have forgotten there is a war to win. Without his wife his children were in complete disarray, especially his youngest sons who treated the Queen's children like their own kin. Baelon seemed to have taken the news a little bit better than his sibling but nevertheless Daemon knew this tragedy would take its toll on his eldest son the moment Jaecerys came back from the North. Over the years the two princes became quite close friends, and they felt each other's pain as if it was their own. The second Jaecerys came back to Dragonstone Baelon would stand by his side and be the shoulder he would cry into mourning his younger brother. Meanwhile Daemon could not stand the inaction, the silence slowly killing the morale of Rhaenyra's supporters and her family. He needed to take action, avenge Lucerys and if only just try to rescue his lady wife. 

Walking towards the caves where dragons took their respite within the deep caverns of Dragonstone, he was met with Rhaenys dismounting the Red Queen straight from patrol. 

- Get back. We're going to King's Landing. 

His cousin raised her gaze upon the Rogue Prince as he strutted towards her not stopping for a second. she sighed heavily, shaking her head as she chose to ignore his demands.

- Need I remind you, cousin, I am the only one patrolling the gullet and both Meleys and I need our respite. We're not going anywhere. 

Daemon disregarded Rhaenys's answer, holding out a hand to stop her from going back into the castle. 

- We must act and I need your help. I can't take on that old bitch dragon by myself. 

- Is this the Queen's order?

- The Queen is gone! Flying off Gods know where!

- She needs to see with her own eyes, Daemon. 

- And what if Aemond is still waiting around?

- Then I would pity Aemond.

Daemon slowed down, still breathing heavily with his frustration. He felt helpless against enemy strikes one by one weaking their position. For him it wasn't so much about the fight to retrieve the Iron Throne for Rhaenyra as the rightful heir, as it was about taking revenge on those who would dare harm his family. Without Alanna by his side he was like a child, lost and clueless as to how life could go on. It wasn't hard for Rhaenys to figure out that her cousin missed his wife more than words could tell, but she also knew that if Alanna were there, she would have told him the same thing. 

- I know you miss her. And I know you fear for her life, but you must have faith, cousin. Alanna is strong. She married you after all, if that does not speak to her strength, I would not know what does. She's a Targaryen now. 

- And she's also alone in a keep filled with vicious green vipers circling around her - spat out Daemon feeling his heavy heart take control over his words. 

The prince felt his emotions take over him. He knew he had to remain strong and stern but there wasn't much he could do when the light of life was locked away behind enemy lines. Rhaenys saw it clearly as day that her cousin was terrified for his wife's life, and she could not blame him as Alanna meant for him just as much as Corlys meant to her. 

- She will persevere, Daemon - said Rhaenys gently, putting a hand on the man’s shoulder - But your grief cannot blind your judgement. Rhaenyra is Queen. We are her councillors. It is our duty to wait for her return and further orders for what is to come. 

Before Daemon could reply, one the guards came running from behind panting as if he just ran from the other side of the island. 

- My Prince, we need you outside the castle. There is a dragon sat outside the keep. 

Daemon turned around swiftly, walking to the guard. 

- What do you mean "there is a dragon"? Is it one of our own? Is it the Queen? Sunfyre?

The soldier shook his head adamantly, regaining his breath slowly. 

- No, my Prince. It's white and silver with icy wings. And its rider is neither the Usurper nor prince Aemond. It's a woman. 

Both Rhaenys and Daemon glanced at one another, thinking about only one other possible rider, but the sheer idea of it seemed impossible. 

- What would Helaena be doing here? And since when Dreamfyre had silver scales?

- Only one way to find out, cousin. 

Rhaenys walked past the prince and the guard, heading for the gates of the castle to take a look at the new arrival. Daemon followed suit and right behind him ran the guard who brought the news. all three of them strode quickly through the corridors of Dragonstone, eager to find out what the fuss was all about. Upon reaching the gates and walking outside Rhaenys felt a smile creep on her face as she saw the creature standing vigilant on the rocks near the grand entrance. When Daemon caught up with her, he felt his heart stop. 

- It's Silverwing - said Rhaenys with a childlike tone, reminiscing on the fond memories of her lady grandmother. 

No matter how much of a delight it was for Daemon to see the Good Queen's dragon grace them with their presence, he was much more interested with its rider who was just about to try and dismount the majestic beast. 

- Impossible. 

***

The second Silverwing's claws grazed the rocky shores of Dragonstone, Alanna knew she was home. She was exhausted from the journey and she could feel all her muscles fighting not to give up but she made it and that was all that mattered. Gently she rubbed the dragon's neck, whispering all those little words she heard Daemon speak to Caraxes when he wished to calm his mount. 

- Lykiri, Silverwing. Ilon issi lenton.

Calm down, Silverwing. We are home. 

She saw the guards gathering around them, swords at the ready, but that wasn't the greatest of her concerns. Completely disregarding the Queen's soldiers standing before them Alanna decided to try and figure out how on earth would she get down from Silverwing's back. Somehow the gravity of her situation in King's Landing made the mounting of the dragon much easier than dismounting it seemed to be at that moment. Clumsily Alanna swung her leg back to one side of Silverwing's body, holding on to the spikes sticking out of the creature's shoulder. Fortunately, the dragon noticed her rider's troubles and crouching her massive legs she leaned to one side, making it fairly easy for Alanna to slip down her wing. Having done just that the princess smoothly glided down the silver skin stretched between the creature's bones and landed on the ground, stumbling a little at the end. Quickly Alanna turned around and walked towards Silverwing's snout, holding out both her hands as a sign of gratitude. The dragon gently lowered her head so that Alanna's palms rested flat atop her white and silver scales and her forehead touched her skin. 

- Kirimvose, ñuha raqiros.

Silverwing hummed quietly lightly nuzzling her snout into the princess's hands like a satisfied cat. Meanwhile, three people approached the scene, one looking particularly relieved seeing who came atop that dragon. 

- My love?

No matter where she found herself, Alanna knew she would always recognise that voice.

His voice. 

Quickly, she turned around and there he stood. Proud and gallant in his armour but even from the distance she could see the tears brimming in his eyes. She could barely hold her own as she took a step forward, closing the space between them.

- Daemon.

Her sweet voice was all he needed to hear to know that she was not just another daydream tormenting him once again. In two long strides the Rogue Prince defeated the remaining distance between him and his lady wife and wrapped his arms around her body, burying his face in her shoulder. The second his hands touched her body, Alana cried out in joy, sneaking her arms around his neck and softly weeping into his hair. It has been weeks since she last saw her husband and standing there in his arms she finally felt like home. Missing him turned out to be her worst nightmare but the reunion was cure enough to ease the ache troubling her heart. 

For Daemon being apart from Alanna meant utter torture. Not knowing whether she was safe, dead or alive hunted his dreams since the day they left King's Landing and she stayed behind for her sister. He clawed at her cloaked body, tightly holding her as close as humanly possible as if to make sure that she would not disappear. 

- My love. My light. My life. 

His words were like honey for her ears, sweetly coating the rattled nerves of the princess. She was barely standing on her own feet, not used to such long distances on dragon back and alone, but it was all worth it. Their embrace Rhaenys stood by kindly smiling at the happy couple. she turned her head towards the guard who brought them the news and whispered in his ear. 

- Bring the Prince and Princess's children. They will be glad to see their mother. 

Both Daemon and Alanna barely noticed their surroundings. All they could really see was each other and their arms around one another. Their hearts beat in the same rhythm, breath united in the same pace, once again they became one. Daemon could not hold back as he back away only far enough so he could look at his wife's face, cupping her scratched cheek in hi palm. Taking a better look at her face he felt his blood boiling at the thought of his precious princess going through any sort of pain. Before he could even ask who was responsible for the bloody marks on her cheeks, Alanna grabbed his face in her own hands and smashed her lips against his own, moaning quietly in turn. In that moment Daemon lost all control once he felt the sweetness of her lips, one hand desperately grabbing at her waist, the other holding her neck uncharacteristically gently for him. The kiss they shared after months of separation was like taking the first breath after emerging from wild waters of the raging sea. Feeling Alanna's body tremble under his touch drove Daemon crazy as he relished in the taste of he sweet lips and she was not staying behind. Kissing him just as fervently as her husband, the princess weaved her fingers through his hair, trying to bring him even closer than he already was. It was no secret that Daemon and Alanna shared a passionate love, one that grew stronger over the years they longed for each other and every time their lips met it was like that first kiss, they shared upon his return from the Stepstones. Much like that reunion this one was even more emotional seeing as this time it was Daemon fearing for his beloved wife's life. They would have stayed tangled in each other’s arms forever if it wasn't for the familiar voices screaming at them from afar.

- Mother!

- Mama! Mama is back!

- Come Viserys, it's Mother!

Alanna instinctively pulled away from the kiss looking over Daemon's shoulder and behind her husband she saw all five of her children running towards her from the grand gate of Dragonstone.  Seeing her darling sons and daughter she felt like a stone was removed from her shoulders. While she flew atop Silverwing's back she kept praying and hoping the boy Aemond mentioned was not one of her sons. She prayed that the Gods save her children and keep them safe from any foul acts. For a moment she looked at her beloved husband, running her hand over his cheek which he gently took in his palms and kissed it gazing at her with such devotion she could crumble right there in his arms. Despite the longing she felt for her husband, Alanna turned her head towards her children crouching down with open arms witing to greet them properly.

- Mother!

The first ones to get to her were the younger twins, Viserys and Alyssa, both equally tearful and grateful to see their mother safe and sound and most importantly back home. Both children wrapped their small arms around her form, hugging her as tightly as they could with their twelve years old strength. 

- Oh, my darlings, how I've missed you! I've missed so, so much. My sweet Alyssa! My precious Viserys! Oh, my loves!

Alanna's voice was breaking with each word, but she could not care less. She felt more alive than she ever remembered holding her youngest children in her embrace. Daemon kneeled next to his wife and their youngest twins, gently prying Viserys and Alyssa from their mother, so that their siblings could get the chance to greet her properly. The moment he took them in his arms, Aerys and Aenar got to Alanna, falling to their knees before her and throwing their arms around her neck. 

- Mama, we thought you were gone for good - said Aerys inhaling the familiar scent of Alanna's hair as both him and his brother hugged her tightly.

- We were so worried, Mother. We thought they hurt you or...

- I am right here, my darling boys. I am right here and I'm not going anywhere - replied Alanna interrupting Aenar's sentiment and just saying a silent grace in her mind, thanking the Gods for keeping her boys safe and alive. 

The elder twins kept tugging at their mother's arms, grasping at her as if she would disappear again but then Daemon intervened again, knowing that there was one more person dying to see his beloved wife. With one arm over his youngest shoulders and his daughter sitting in his lap he reached his ither hand to bring the older boys to his side while he watched his wife stand to her feet looking at the young dashing man in before her. 

- Mother. 

Prince Baelon tried holding back the tears threatening to spill from his blue eyes, the same ones he inherited from his beloved mother as he stood in front of her unable to move a muscle. He was trying to remain strong and steady for his siblings but even Prince Daemon's heir had his limits. And clearly, so had Alanna. Slowly she opened her arms, looking at her firstborn son with tears streaming down her cheeks freely. 

- My brave Prince. 

Baelon broke down crying like a little boy when he ran to his mother, wrapping his strong arms around her body and burying his face in her neck. Alanna wept with her eldest son, clawing at him as to make sure that she was not imagining. He was right there with her safe and sound, unharmed, no wounds and no scratches in his perfect face. Baelon could not hold his own, shaking in his mother's arms like a lost infant but he could not care less. All that mattered was that his mother was safe and back where she belonged. Both his and Alanna's legs gave up beneath them and they kneeled remaining in the tight embrace, crying into each other's shoulders. Soon enough they both felt five pairs of arms wrapping around them as the rest of their family joined them. The youngest, Viserys and Alyssa found their way between Baelon and their mother, squeezing in just so they could get closer to Alanna's body. The middle twins, Aerys and Aenar threw their arms over their older brother and mother almost like a circle of protection and Daemon followed suit, taking his entire family in his embrace. Somehow between his firstborn clutching Alanna's body the prince managed to touch his forehead with his wife's, that small gesture meaning more to them than any other touch. 

Finally, they were back together, safe and away from harm. 

Little Alyssa was safe. 

Curious Viserys was safe. 

Daring Aerys was safe. 

Dashing Aenar was safe. 

Brave Baelon was safe. 

And her darling Daemon was safe too. 

Now, Alanna Targaryen could finally rest.

[unholly-reader]

I am yours, as you are mine

Daemon x f! OC

Hello, lovely people!

My everlasting infatuation with our favorite Rogue Prince has struck again. I have begun writing a whole fanfiction with this plot, but this particular piece I have special fondness ans so I decided to share this with all of you Daemon lovers here <3

Again, DISCLAIMER - English is NOT my first language, so please. Be merciful.

I hope you enjoy!

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Just to set the tone, the OC is the older sister to Alicent and she was set to become a septa, but accidentally she falls for Daemon and vice versa.

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There hasn’t been a moment in Leora’s life when she ran quite this fast. Her feet were swift on the cold floors of the Red Keep’s corridor as she raced to reach the throne room. When her sister told her of Daemon’s return, Leora tried keeping her calm, at least around Alicent, but the second she left, the eldest lady Hightower ran as if the devil himself was hunting her down. Everyone was gathering in the throne room awaiting the return of the Rogue Prince but none as urgently as the Prince’s secret lover. Though after almost sharing just one kiss she hardly thought herself his lover but nevertheless her heart nearly leapt out of her chest when she heard the glorious news. Anxiously awaiting hiss arrival she stood by her sister, the queen, just left to where the king sat his throne, impatiently staring at the door. To her relief Alicent did not notice a single thing as she was to preoccupied trying to look as regal as possible next to her husband, the king just as she has been doing for the past years. Amidst the crowds gathered in the room Leora noticed the familiar silver haired girl she has been caring for since her mother’s untimely death. It seems Rhaenyra’s return form her quest to find a suitable husband amongst the young and not so young lords of Westeros was cut short and allied itself with her uncle’s sudden arrival. When she caught her violet eyes, she sent her a gentle smile which the princess gladly reciprocated as Leora became family to the young Princess. Suddenly the door burst open and through them came the one person Leora could not wait to see any longer. His hair was cut short, much shorter than what the lady Hightower remembered but he was still as handsome as ever. His suit of armor fit him like a glove when he slowly moved towards his brother sat upon the Iron Throne. He looked different, more mature and yet still the same devilish haze wandered in his violet eyes. A wooden crown was placed upon his head and in his right arm he carried a crooked weapon made out of what seemed to be parts of a wicked ship. His gaze never faltered as he looked straight ahead staring into his brother’s eyes and so he missed Leora’s figure quietly standing next to her sister. Standing just a few steps before his brother Daemon offered him the wooden weapon he held in his hand, smirking just a little bit under his nose.

— Add it to the throne. 

Leora nearly fainted hearing voice again after so many long years. She tried to keep her composure but her heart had other plans, beating in her chest like an imprisoned bird. Viserys looked at Daemon as if welcomed a stranger into his household, searching for any signs of his brother’s deception. He nodded to one of the King’s Guards to take the sword and as they did, he took a proper look at Daemon’s figure. 

— You wear a crown now, brother — he said with a hint of mistrust.

— They call me the King of the Narrow Sea, Your Grace — replied Daemon, his voice strong as always, as he spread his arms wide as if he was introducing himself. 

— And you accept this title? — asked Viserys.

— There is only one King I accept, Your Grace — spoke Daemon, kneeling down on one knee as he took the crown off his head and offered it his brother — The Narrow Sea and the Stepstones are yours, Your Grace. 

Viserys raised his eyebrows, still not sure of Daemon’s intentions. 

— And where, pray tell, is lord Corlys? Should he not accompany you and offer this victory to your King?

— Lord Corlys sailed back to his lady wife and his children, Your Grace 

— Who the guards the Stepstones, then?

Daemon raised his eyes, meeting Viserys’s untrusting violet gaze staring into his younger brother’s face. 

— The waves, crabs and two thousand dead Triarchy corsairs as a warning to anyone who dares follow them — Daemon replied pridefully, still kneeling before his brother. 

As Viserys was contemplating what to do with his brother’s return, Leora could barely contain her happiness. He came back and more over, came back a war hero. Her bright blue eyes barely left the Prince’s face as she awaited the final verdict. The King finally stood up, walking towards the kneeling knight. He looked down on Daemon and saw nothing but sincerity in his little brother’s eyes. So many times he was tricked by Daemon’s doing but nothing ever changed the fact that they were one blood. The bond between them, even though it has been stretched thin over the years, never truly faded. The one final straw broke and Viserys let his love win once again. 

— Stand up. 

Daemon did as he was told, which was a rather rare occurrence. He patiently awaited his verdict as he stared down at the King. The moment he met his eyes he knew. Viserys smiled as widely as he possibly could, putting his hand on Daemon’s shoulder like a proud father would. 

— Welcome home, brother. 

Cries of joy were heard around the throne room as the crowd gathered rejoiced in the brotherly reunion before them. As Viserys tightly hugged his younger brother, Daemon felt the weight lifted off his shoulder, returning the King’s embrace. Many praises were heard in the name of the Rogue Prince that day, but not as loud as the ones screamed within Leora’s heart. She could not contain the untamed joy she felt upon seeing her beloved reunited with his brother after years of quarrel. She did not need any other prize because the look upon their faces was just enough. Viserys turned with his brother to face the chanting crowd of court members as he sent his hand into the air. 

— We shall feast in the name of the Prince! 

If it was even possible, the crowds went even louder, celebrating the return of the Rogue Prince and his reunion with the King. Rhaenyra got lost in the crowds as they all made their way to the royal gardens. Viserys kept his hand on Daemon’s back as they both talked they time away. Amidst the commotion caused by the joyous occasion, the young Princess reached Leora and they both looked at the two brothers exiting the throne room. 

— I am so glad uncle is back. Finally, you will smile again — said Rhaenyra, hugging the lady’s waist tightly. 

Leora was at a loss for words as she heard the Princess’s declaration. Quickly she gathers her thoughts, hugging the young girl back with just as much tenacity as the heiress. 

— Not as glad as I am to see you again, my sweet dragon. How was your journey? Have you met any charming young men that captured your heart? 

Leora tried swiveling off the subject of Daemon many times before, however her protégée was unbent in her efforts to play matchmaker for her darling uncle and the woman who became the closest to a mother she could ask for. 

— It does not matter, auntie. They were neither charming, nor young and none of them actually cared for me as a person, rather the title that comes with marrying me. A complete and utter waste of time, that is why I cut my travels short. 

— I am quite certain your father will not be pleased with such course of action, Nyra — replied Leora, gazing down at the young girl at her side. 

— He is busy celebrating uncle’s return as should you. Today is not a day to reprimand me but to enjoy the Prince’s arrival and our victory at the Stepstones. We should follow forth and join the party. 

— You go, sweet girl. I promised Alicent to check on your brother and sister. I will join you shortly. 

Surprisingly so, not even the mention of her half sibling dampened the elevated mood of the Princess. Without questioning a single thing Rhaenyra hugged her „aunt” and marched away, counting minutes until she can reach her uncle and find out all about his brave endeavors. Meanwhile, Leora was left alone in the throne as the doors closed behind the Princess. She sighed heavily, letting one lonely tear of joy fall down her pale cheek, whispering to herself. 

— Thank the Gods, you came back. 

Then she did as she said she would. Even though she wanted nothing more than to throw herself into Daemon’s arms and never let him go, she knew she could not hold back when she would see him and that would start a never ending spiral of gossip around the court. So she went upstairs to the Queen’s chambers where she was met with two nannies tending to her niece and nephew. Both maids curtsied upon Leora’s entrance, bowing their heads. 

— Lady Hightower. 

Even though she was not royalty, every maid and servant in the Keep treated Leora as she in fact was a ,member of the royal family. She was just as gentle and pure as her mother used to be and that is how she earned their kindness. 

— Hanessa, Rea, how are my darling niece and nephew?

The older one, Rea, spoke up raising her eyes to the lady’s face with a gentle smile. 

— Both the Prince and Princess are fairing well, my Lady. Aegon was a bit fussy not long ago but we managed to calm him a bit. 

Leora tutted as she walked over to the little bed where the three years old boy resided tossing and turning from one side to another. Swiftly she took the infant in her arms and started lulling him to sleep. 

— And why is my favorite nephew being so fussy? What is it, my darling Prince? — said Leora, cooing the boy in her arms.

Little Aegon always seemed to enjoy his aunt’s presence, especially when she held him so closely. He would grab random strands of her chocolate hair or any piece of jewelry placed around her neck. With every chance she got, Alicent accepted her sister’s help in managing her two children, mostly the moments early motherhood killed her slowly with all the new responsibilities set upon the new Queen. Leora, being used to handling small children as she was the one to raise her siblings, took great care of her niece and nephew, taking immense pleasure in the children’s company. 

— All will be well, my sweet boy. All will be well — whispered Leora as she looked out the window, listening to the commotion in the royal gardens where all the high lords an ladies of the court praised her lover’s bravery. Smiling gently she walked away, slowly lulling the little Prince to sleep. 

As Aegon’s complaints died down and the boy finally fell asleep in his aunt’s embrace, time escaped the young lady Hightower. She did not realize it was nearly dusk when she left her sister’s chambers. She had no idea where her beloved could have been to she forced herself to let the grand reunion wait as she walked through the castle to the tower, where her chambers were located. On her way back to her rooms she passed by the throne room and something pulled her towards the grand hall. Quietly she moved past the guards, greeting them with a single nod and she pushed the doors with some effort in order to slip inside.

The throne room was dimly lit by the setting sun’s last rays of light, giving the great hall a sense of secrecy. Leora slowly walked down the stairs but soon realized she was not alone. There, standing before Conqueror’s throne stood the Rogue Prince admiring the newest addition to the masterpiece his forefathers  built upon their own victories. She could feel her heart beating faster as her own two feet stopped responding to her commands and she just stood still. She could not move but at least her speech has not yet been impaired by the Prince’s presence. 

— And so you came back victorious, my Prince. Returning to the City surely filled you with joy. 

In the blink of an eye Dameon turned around, hearing her sweet voice reining in his ears. For months she was only a nightly vision haunting him in his sleep but this time it wasn’t not his wild imagination. It was her. 

The moment their eyes met, violet and blue, they forgot about the world around them. 

— Still, something was missing — replied Daemon, feeling his voice go dry at the mere sight of her — Until now. 

If lightning could take a human form, it would surely become Daemon and Leora as they ran towards each other. Without giving it a second thought the Rogue Prince wrapped his arms around her form, lifting her off the ground and burying his face in her luscious chocolate locks. Leora could not help the small moan escaping her throat as she grabbed onto his shoulders, inhaling his intoxicating scent as she did so years ago. The touch was new and unfamiliar, but at the same time felt like finally coming home. Leora’s body fit perfectly in his arms as he felt her shaking while clawing onto his back. Now, the Prince truly came home. 

— My Gods, how I’ve missed you, my love — whispered Daemon in her ears, reveling in her calming presence. 

— Every day without you was pure madness — said Leora, pulling away slightly so she could look at the Prince’s face — And by Gods, I prayed every day for the madness to end. I could not wait until the day you would return. 

Daemon gently set her on the floor, cupping her tear stained cheek with one hand, while he kept the other tightly wrapped around her middle helping her body close to his. He could feel her heart beating just as wildly as his, chest to chest. Looking into her clear blue eyes he could almost burst seeing the way she was just looking at him. 

Like he was her salvation. 

— So beautiful… Just like they day I left — muttered Daemon under his breath, slowly caressing her trembling lips with his thumb.

Leora was awestruck. She couldn’t help tangling her fingers in his silky silver hair as they put their foreheads together. The feeling of his arms around her body felt like the only right thing in the whole world. The words escaped her so she just enjoyed his presence. Suddenly, Daemon lifted her chin up, making her look at him properly. He saw stars in her bright eyes as the setting sun shone on her porcelain like skin. 

— I know it is not appropriate. I know you are not mine to claim, but by Gods Leora, I am yours. As long as you’ll have me, I belong to you. I do not wish to force anything upon you, but I must kiss you. I must kiss your lips. The lips I have been dreaming of since that day I could almost taste you. I will not do anything against your will, but I cannot…

The never-ending river of words falling from Daemon’s mouth was stopped with Leora’s fingers on his lips. He couldn’t help himself and so he kissed the tips of her fingers, gazing into her dreamy eyes. 

— Kiss me, Daemon. Please. 

The way she said his name drove him over the wall of decency. Not wasting any more time Daemon cupped her cheeks in both his hands and finally connected their lips in a sweet kiss. Both he and Leora moaned into each other, grabbing one another as if they were their saving grace. Leora clard at his neck and shoulder, fervently kissing back, trying to match the fire growing within him. As for Daemon, her lips were everything he ever dreamed of and more. So sweet and plump, like cherries in the middle of June in the summer gardens. She tasted like innocence and freedom, but at the same time he felt her own flames burning inside her. She was just as greedy as he was. They started to fight for dominance, slipping tongues into each others mouths. In the end, the Rogue Prince won, but to the Lady Hightower it did not feel like a defeat. 

She was his victory and he was her victor. 

The need to breath fresh air cut the kiss short much to the lovers’ discontent. They breathed heavily as they touched their foreheads, taking in the glorious moment. Daemon now had both his arms wrapped around her waist, keeping her as close as humanly possible. Their breaths were in harmony as they tried calming down after the storm that was their emotions finally set free. The Prince caressed Leora’s sides as he lovingly stared into her eyes like a lovesick fool. Before he could say anything, the young Lady Hightower spoke up, rendering him almost speechless. 

— I am yours, as you are mine. We belong together, Daemon. In fire and in blood. 

[unholly-reader]

Missus Duke - Hamish Duke x fem!reader

A/N:

Welcome lovely people, here comes another piece about our favorite werewolf acolyte! Hope you enjoy <3

As always, bear in mind English is not my first language.

This one is a bit longer so be warned! Lots of emotional crap and fluffy bits with a teeny, tiny hint at some freaky action.

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Walking inside the den Beatrice wasn’t sure what to expect. The sole fact that her fiancé was a werewolf baffled her as to how he could have kept this a secret from her but then again she has been doing the same thing in regard to her being a member of the Order. Still, the trust they have established over the years they’ve been together began to falter as she entered the old house, where the Knights established their lair. She’s been there before, but briefly and still unaware of the werewolf company she has kept for the past few years. Entering the building now was more of a venture into the unknown rather than visiting an old friend. Righty of the bat she heard Randall and Lilith frantically discussing something but at first she wasn’t able to make out the exact words. Only when she entered the living room still unnoticed, she registered three words that made her freeze in place. 

- Hamish got hurt. 

Suddenly nothing else mattered as she quickly approached the two Knights, immediately grabbing their attention. 

- What do you mean “Hamish got hurt”? What happened? Was he attacked? 

Both Lilith and Randall turned around in a blink of an eye, the girl still holding her phone on speaker with Jack’s name clearly visible on the screen. The pair standing before seemingly lost their ability to speak and unsurprisingly the person to reply to her question was none other than mister Morton. 

-  Is that Beatrice? What are you doing there?

- Apparently saving the day. You take care of your things, I got this covered. 

Before he could even answer, Beatrice hung up on him, focusing on the two standing in front of her, still unsure how to react. 

- Bea, what do you mean? And what are you doing here? Hamish is not here so… - started Randall but didn’t get the chance to finish the sentence as Beatrice interrupted him midsentence. 

- Cut the bullshit, Randall. I know you’re werewolves and I know Hamish is one too. I need to know what happened to him and where he is now?

Although Randall was utterly shocked hearing Bea’s words, Lilith was quicker to shoot back as she stood tall, raising her head a bit to look properly at the taller woman. 

- And how do you know about werewolves anyway, Beatrice? I don’t think they teach about lycanthropy in law school. 

As she realised there was no hiding the truth now, she rubbed her temple and gripped her hips staring the black-haired girl down. 

- You really are smarter than you look, miss Bathory. As you’re clearly implying, yes – I am a member of the Hermetic Order of the Blue Rose, but right now that doesn’t matter. I need to know where Hamish is and how badly he got hurt. 

Lilith’s eyes glowed silver as her fangs revealed themselves. That was Timber acting up only fuelled by his champion’s hatred for the entire Order. 

- You don’t belong here. Your place is back with the Order, all of you psychotic lunatics. You want to know how he got hurt? One of your idiot disciples stabbed him in broad daylight. In human form. 

Before Beatrice could truly understand Lilith’s words, the doors opened wide and through then entered the universities mascot stumbling badly on its legs. The Timber Wolf took off its head and revealed a hurting Hamish beneath. 

-  A little help here? 

Immediately Lilith calmed down and all three of them rushed to Hamish. Bea was the first one to get to him, quickly grabbing his arm and swinging it over her shoulders. Randall came to his other side, mimicking Beatrice’ actions.

- Did you ditch them? – asked Lilith, leading her friend inside.

- For now. 

Hamish stared at the both of them and then took a second look as he realised the person holding his right arm was his fiancée who had no reason to be in the den. Most definitely she should not have seen him like that. 

- Bea? 

The brunette didn’t acknowledge his question as she and Randall led the hurt man to the couch where they gently laid him down. 

- Where did they get you? – asked Randall as he and Lilith both helped their leader out of the upper part of the wolf costume, while Beatrice stood back staring at the blood covering her fiancé’s shirt. 

They could have killed him.

- Right here – said Hamish, gasping out while lifting his shirt over his right side and revealing a nasty stab wound infested with greenish foam oozing out of the cut. Once the odour hit Lilith and Randall, they immediately felt heir breakfast coming back up their throats. 

- Jesus, this smells even worse than it looks – exclaimed Lilith, hiding her nose in her arm similarly to Randall who already presented with a gag reflex. 

- It’s like if vomit and sulphur had a baby – added Randall, covering his mouth with his hand. 

Beatrice quickly regained her focus as she concentrated on the still bleeding wound gaping in Hamish’s side. Carelessly she pushed Lilith away, taking her place next to the blonde and quietly examining the cut. The girl growled at the older woman, but she didn’t pay any attention to the protesting werewolf as she rolled up the sleeves of her dark green jacket and looked up to meet her lover’s stare. 

- It’s okay. I’ve got you now – whispered Beatrice gently with a hint of apology in her voice.

Bea reached inside her university bag and grabbed her engraved knife with confidence subsequently slicing her hand open. Hamish was baffled observing his fiancée’s every movement, too stunned and in too much pain to utter a single word. Bea carefully placed her uninjured palm over his wound and brought the bleeding one to her mouth as she muttered the correct incantation. 

- Restituattur. 

Suddenly, Hamish felt the pain disappear and all that was left of it was a nasty memory and blood covering his skin. He looked down at his side and there was no signs of his injury. Beatrice quietly retreated, standing up while throwing her knife back in her bag. All three Knights marvelled over her work as Randall poked at Hamish’s skin in the exact place where the stab wound gaped just seconds before. 

- Okay, but seriously, this is some cool shit, Trixie – said Randall amused and astounded at the same time, turning his head to Beatrice, who was wrapping the cut on her palm with some tissue she found in the pockets of her jacket. 

- Not all magic is bad, Randall. Sometimes it’s really helpful. 

Hamish looked up at her as he stood on his own two feet, still clad in the pants and boot sof the Timber Wolves mascot. There were so many thoughts running through his mind, but the one reoccurring over and over again was the lie. 

She lied to me.

He was painfully aware that those skills did not come to the members of the Order with ease so it was only logical to assume she’s been a practitioner for a longer period of time, which meant she has been lying to him for years. There were now words that came to him at that moment except what he actually wanted to say despite her deception. 

- You saved my life – he stated simply, staring at her without as much as a blink.

Beatrice felt the guilt running through her veins, still trying to remember he lied to her just as much, but the guilt trip was about something other than keeping their societies a secret for all those years. Her disciples attacked the love of her life. If she wasn’t there, Hamish might not have made it out alive. The sheer thought of losing him was the most terrifying thing she’s felt in a very long time. She gulped quietly, squeezing her still bleeding hand never taking her eyes off of Hamish’s blue orbs staring at her shamefully. 

- I couldn’t let you die – said Beatrice like it was the purest truth in the world. 

Silence fell over the room as the two Knights witnessing this unusual lover’s quarrel stood quietly waiting for the grand finale. That is until Lilith decided that her rage was more demanding than she could manage and so Timber took over the reins, growling at the intruder. 

- Yet it was your idiot wizard who almost killed him. 

- You have no idea what you’re talking about Lilith, so I suggest you stay out of this. 

- Why don’t I give you a taste of your own medicine, you bitch.

What happened next was an insane chain of events, one following the other and all in the matter of thirty seconds. Lilith launched herself at Beatrice who was completely defenceless without her knife as she watched the werewolf girl jump at her. Those few seconds when Hamish watched Lilith attack his fiancé felt like hours when he battled between his integrity and his love for Beatrice. There wasn’t much time to waste on logical thinking or reasons why he should do this or that, but in the end the heart won. Swiftly as the lightning hits the ground Hamish ran ahead, jumping in front of Beatrice and throwing Lilith into the couch he occupied just seconds before. His eyes glowed like silver strikes as he growled viciously at his wolf sister standing before Bea like a human shield. She barely noticed his actions as she awaited the impact but when she saw his back in front of her and his arms spread out in a protective manner a part of her felt some sort of relief. He was still her Hamish. 

- That’s enough, Lilith. Stand down. 

His voice was powerful and strong. He sounded like a leader should. Calm and collected but still firm. Beatrice peeked over his shoulders and saw Lilith slowly rising from the couch, eyes still shining with silver. The girl was clearly fuming with anger but the hide inside her heard his command and obeyed.

- She’s one of them Hamish. How can you defend her?

- She’s my fiancée. She has just saved my life. We have bigger concerns on our hands. We must deal with Kyle and his little death squad first. 

Bea furrowed her eyebrows shocked to hear Kyle’s name mentioned as the one leading the attack. 

- That moron? 

***

After Midnight returned to his locker following Kyle’s unfortunate death at the hands of Gabrielle Dupres, the Knights returned to the Den for the traditional après-kill drink. Hamish sipped on the red liquor swimming in his glass as his thoughts kept running back to his fiancée. Now that he knew the whole truth about Beatrice Stone a war has started between his heart and mind, both equally convincing and both screaming in his head. Even as they toasted their victory, he was clearly someplace else and his loss in thought did not go unnoticed by his comrades. 

- You okay, Hambone? – asked Randall. 

Hamish raised his eyes to the brown-haired boy nodding his head silently. Lilith glanced at Randall knowingly as they simultaneously grabbed one of his arms and slowly dragged him upstairs. Once they reached the couch the sat the man down, took the drink out of his hand despite his loud protest. 

- Excuse you, I need that glass. 

- You need to spill, Hamish. You’ve been staring into nothing like Grinch on Christmas Day – explained Randall, crossing his arms over his torso – Now talk, mister. 

- There is nothing to talk about, Randall. Now give me that drink – denied Hamish, reaching out for the crystal glass in his friend’s hand.

- Don’t bullshit us – intervened Lilith, taking the glass in her own hands and putting it back on the bar before turning to face him again – You were stabbed, almost died, found out your fiancée is a member of the Order and all of that in the span of what, two hours? 

- Wow, thank you for summing up this fiasco in one sentence. That really helps – said Hamish, huffing. 

- We just want to help you – replied strongly Randall, sitting next to his leader – We both know how much you love her. You literally talk about her every single day. What was it you said the other day after those negronis? “Bea is the butter to my bread, the breath to my life”. This is still the same woman, Hamish. 

- Yes, but this one has been lying to me for the better part of our relationship. Hell, she may have been lying to me from the very beginning. I’m not sure if I really know her or is it just the pretty picture she sold me over the years. Is her name really Beatrice? Does she really like cats better than dogs? Does she really like my drinks?

- Hold your horses there, my friend – said Randall calmly, patting his arm gently – We met her too. She was real. She is real. I think she may have even liked me. What I know for sure is that she loves you.  

Hamish turned his head to face Randall, suddenly so grateful for his goofy demeanour and never-ending positive attitude. 

- I really hope you’re right, dude. Because I know I am in love with her. I can’t even try to hate her, which is kind of frustrating. 

- You should go talk to her. 

This time it was Lilith still looking down at the heartbroken man. Hamish furrowed his eyebrows as he shot her a glance of surprise. 

- Weren’t you the one who tried to rip her throat out just today?

The black-haired girl shook her, rolling her eyes back. 

- I am still not a fan of the witch and her magic buddies, but she came through for you. She saved you and you didn’t hesitate to jump to her rescue. It’s clear as day you mean to each enough to look past your mistakes. 

Apparently, Lilith’s speech was all that Hamish needed to get up and run out without a second thought. He grabbed his phone and car keys on the way and quickly left the Den, leaving his two comrades grinning like idiots. 

- We should start a couple’s therapy clinic, cause we’re damn good at this shit – exclaimed Randall, downing the rest of his drink in one gulp.

***

The ride to their apartment in Norwich felt agonizingly slow as he drove past the red lights and other cars, impatient to get to the building. Upon arrival he didn’t even bother with parking his black BMW properly, instead just carelessly left the car in the middle of the private parking place and ran out to the door. As usual he was greeted with a polite “good evening, Mr Duke” but he was too busy running to the elevator to acknowledge the kind security guard. The elevator seemed to be taking forever to get down so instead he chose to sprint seven storeys up to get to their shared apartment, praying Beatrice was there. Without thinking twice, he pushed the door open and entered the dimly lit flat. 

- Beatrice? Are you here? 

The living room connected with the kitchen and the mini bar they had installed for his alcoholic beverage’s construction was quite dark except for two dim lamps on the underside of the kitchen cupboards, but the main source of light was their bedroom. It was also the room from which Hamish clearly heard hangers ruffling in the closet. Quickly he made his way to the bedroom and found Beatrice fishing out her clothes from the closet and chucking them inside the giant suitcase which laid open on the neatly made bed. Hamish felt a pin in his heart, seeing his fiancée moving out of their apartment and out of his life. 

- Bea, stop it – said Hamish firmly, grabbing the woman’s attention. 

Beatrice turned around with two hangers in her hands, tear stains covering her cheeks. She froze in place as she gripped the hangers in her palms. On one of them hung the satin red dress she wore to the dinner, when he proposed to her just a few months prior. Just seeing the dress brought a wave of memories to the both of them. Hamish looked into her glassy blue eyes, unsure of his own words and actions, but certain of his feelings. 

- I still remember how you took my breath away when I first saw you in that dress. I swore I could marry you right there and then.

His voice was just above whisper, but she heard him clearly. She swallowed her tears, feeling a corner of her mouth rise involuntarily. 

- I had to pinch your arm because you stood still like a deer in headlights – chuckled Beatrice, remembering the day as if they just lived it. 

Hamish smiled fondly at the memory, never taking his eyes of her blue orbs glossy with new coming tears. 

- I was certain you were the woman I would call mine for the rest of my life. 

- I knew you were the love of my life. 

Silence fell on the two lovers as they stared at each other unsure what comes next. They both lied to the person they love most. They both did it to protect the other. Was it reason enough to accept living a lie for four years?

- You can’t leave, Bea. I won’t let you – stated Hamish, slowly approaching his fiancée. 

- Hamish, I lied to you – said Beatrice with a shaky voice – I have been lying to you from the beginning. I have been doing the Order’s bidding, my sister’s bidding and now Coventry’s. I could basically become the new Temple Magus in Washington if I didn’t refuse it because I couldn’t leave you. I am so deep inside the Order sometimes the only thing keeping me sane in my life is you. I am a pathological liar, Hamish. 

- I lied too. I have been a Knight for the past eight years. I’ve led the Knights for the past six years. I’ve attacked and defended and did some thing I’m not proud either, even if I believe in the cause we serve. 

- Your pack literally hates my guts.

- The Order is hunting werewolves down. 

- I can’t stand the thought of you getting hurt because the Order, Hamish. 

- I can’t imagine my life without you, Beatrice. 

The honesty in his tone was almost murderous. She felt his words crawling down her skin as she tried with all her will not to fall apart and into his arms the second he touched her. When he finally did place his hands on the hangers and took them out of her palms, she seemed to have lost her balance for a second. Carefully he placed her dresses back in the closet, brushing against her arm only to return to his previous spot standing before her and looking into her eyes. Beatrice tilted her head up as he was a bit taller, barely standing his intense gaze. 

- The Order is your enemy. Werewolves and practitioners are enemies.  

- Are you my enemy?

Beatrice sucked in her next breath as she felt his hand reach for her own gently intertwining their fingers. She couldn’t look away as if his gaze was a magnetic force and she couldn’t overpower it. With his free hand he slowly reached to her cheek wiping away the fresh tear that fell down her eyelashes. Her whole body was trembling beneath his touch just like she always did when he was this close. His scent was driving her crazy, muting her senses and blinding the reason she always followed. It was only after a few moments of undisturbed silence that she spoke up, giving up all her will power to the love she knew was stronger than anything she has ever witnessed in her life. 

- You own my heart and my soul, Hamish. I could never knowingly stand against you. 

Beatrice barely got to finish her sentence before Hamish crashed their lips together, habitually wrapping his arms tightly around her form and pushing her flush against him. An uncontrollable moan escaped her mouth as she melted right into his embrace, entangling her fingers in his silky hair. They were used to messy kisses, those filled with lust and passion and always ending in their bed or other less comfortable places in their apartment, but this was different. The urgency in their movement, hungry lips learning each other like it was the first time, greedy hands trailing invisible paths down their bodies. The act itself felt less like a physical form of dealing with the recent events, but like the final stage of accepting who they are as individuals and who they become as one body, one mind and one soul. When breath came to call they broke apart, but never left each other’s embrace, resting their foreheads against one another. Both were breathing heavily, chest heaving up and down at an astounding pace but all that didn’t matter when they knew they had each other despite everything that happened and will happen in the future. 

Hamish could hear Bea’s heart beating like a hummingbird locked in a golden cage. He felt the way she shifted in his arms, trying to get even closer than she already was. Suddenly everything was back to normal. She was his, he was hers. The Order didn’t matter. The Knights didn’t matter. In the silence they exchanged wordless vows promising to protect the love they found in the chaos of their lives. Truth was simple and in plain sight. There was no life for Hamish without Beatrice and there was no life for Beatrice without Hamish. Not even their allegiance to enemy societies could tear them apart. 

- We’re going to figure it out. I don’t know how or how long it will take but there’s one thing I am certain about. You are my life, Bea. I don’t care what anybody else says, you’re the one thing I can’t live my life without. 

Beatrice looked up, catching his longing gaze with her teary eyes. She could see all that he didn’t say but felt within. All the love, the adoration, the promise of life by her side. 

- And I can’t live without you. I can’t breathe without you. To hell with the Order, to hell with Coventry. If I have you, nothing else matters. I love you, Hamish. More than anything. More than life. 

The blonde man gently squeezed her sides, bringing her impossibly close as he pecked her lips quickly, but fiercely. He had this bewildered look on his face as if suddenly he swallowed all the energy in the world and was just ready to release it all back like a supernova. 

- You have no idea how happy I am that you said that. But all things aside, your magic? That was incredible! I can’t even wrap my head around it. You must teach me sometimes. 

Beatrice laughed out gleefully, wrapping her arms tightly around Hamish’s neck, gently nudging his nose with her own. 

- A Knight of Saint Christopher’s willingly asking to be taught magic? Dear God, a true miracle. 

Hamish smiled wildly, staring lovingly at the woman in his arms. All the emotions he felt flying through his mind, he could barely register them all. The happiness, the hope, the overwhelming joy, the relief all flooded him at once, buy unlike before he felt more at peace than ever. Instead of a hurricane he was standing in the soft rain in the middle of summer. Gently he released Beatrice from his grip, turning towards the bed, where the half-filled suitcase laid wide open. Without a word he reached for the clothes already inside and started unpacking it. 

- Since you’re not going anywhere, I believe these belong back in the closet. 

- But only if I am the one to put them away – agreed Beatrice, taking the clothes from her fiancé’s hands – If you start putting my clothes back in, I will never be able to find anything again, so move aside, Mister Duke. 

- If you say so, Missus Duke – replied Hamish cheekily, relinquishing his grip on the hangers. 

Beatrice turned rapidly to face him, almost dropping the dress she was hanging back in the closet. She raised her eyebrows at him bewildered by the name. 

- What did you say?

- If you say so, Missus Duke. 

The sheer tone of his voice, so sultry and alluring made her weak at the knees. Trying to shake off the effect he clearly had on her, Bea turned back to hang the dress she was holding, when she heard the suitcase gently hit the floor beside the bed. The next thing she knew Hamish had his arms around her middle, standing right behind her with his chest lightly touching her back. Every place his fingers touched her body felt like electricity running over her skin as he gently slid his palms beneath the white flowy shirt she was wearing, running invisible traces over her stomach and ribs. He felt her shaking under his hands and smiled wickedly, proud of how she reacted to his even smallest actions. 

- I don’t see a wedding ring in my left hand yet, Mister Duke – whispered Beatrice, leaning into Hamish as his hands roamed freely over her skin. 

- A small technical issue I will see to first thing tomorrow – purred Hamish, tracing her neckline with his nose – But right now we have more pressing matters to attend to. 

***

Beatrice heaved heavily as she laid her head over Hamish’s bare chest regaining her breath after the last few hours they spent in their bedroom. 

- Now I understand why you never got tired. Werewolf durability.

Hamish laughed heartily, wrapping hir arms around her body and kissing her temple gently. 

- Darling, believe me. The werewolf part is just a small particle of my endurance. Mostly it’s the fact that my future wife is the sexiest woman on planet Earth, and I can’t control myself around her. 

Bea raised her eyes, looking up at a very smug looking Hamish grinning like an idiot. She propped herself on her elbow, resting her free hand flat on his chest. 

- Say it again. 

- What?

Beatrice shook her head quickly pecking his lips. 

- You know what. 

Suddenly his gaze softened as he expertly tucked a rouge whisp of her chocolate hair behind her ear. For a moment he remained silenced as he admired her flushed cheeks and sparkling blue irises looking back at him with so much love and adoration he could burst. Gently, he cupped her face, stroking her cheekbone with his thumb never breaking eye contact. 

-  My future wife.

[unholly-reader]

Darling - Hamish Duke x fem!reader

Just a little something for us all Hamish lovers <3

Please, keep in mind - English is NOT my first language, so I apologize in advance for any errors.

Enjoy

Warnings: a little emotional, fluff

_______________________________

- Vera, are you really that blind? They will remember sooner or later. The hides are incredibly powerful and sensible to magic, might I add. They will not succumb to your wishes. You have to find a different way to convince them to the ideals of the Order. 

The Grand Magus turned away from her sister, huffing out clearly annoyed with the reprimand. 

- I assure you, Aria, your little wolf friends will not pose a threat to us once we induct them into the Order. But first we need to control them. 

- Good God, Vera. These are werewolves, not puppies. You will make an enemy out of them much quicker than you may befriend them. Maybe Jack Morton will be more amicable considering his feelings for miss Drake, however I can’t say the same thing for the rest of them. Lilith won’t forget it. Randall won’t forget it. Hamish won’t…

- Oh please, this again? He doesn’t remember you. He won’t remember you. He will never be back the way you want him to. Deal with it, you big baby. 

- Enough! 

Aria shouted out like an enraged animal sending waves of wind around her settling between the books and furniture fit inside the reliquary. Although Vera never feared her sister’s magic, as the time went by, she started seeing her true power. As much as it didn’t bother her she began worrying if she had overlooked her too much. 

- You don’t get to take him away from me and then rub it in my face, Vera. I don’t care you’re Grand Magus. I don’t care you have the power to destroy me or dispose of me or even kill me. I have loved him for years and there’s no way in Hell I’ll ever stop. Even if he doesn’t remember me. Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to prepare for tonight. In case you forgot, we are celebrating your new Acolytes. 

Before Vera could mutter a single word, Aria left the reliquary, heading to the one place she knew she could calm down before the upcoming event of the night. It was as if her feet dragged her to the Den by themselves as she felt no control over her body. One lonely tear slid down her cheek as the house showed up in the distance and all the memories, she made there came running down like an avalanche. Pushing all her emotions aside she stepped confidently inside the Den, heading straight for the stairs and eventually to his room. It still looked as neat as it always has. Bed perfectly made but still wrinkled from the last time she slept there. All his clothes hanging in the closet, his vest and shirts and sweaters. His smell lingering in the room as if he never left. But then again, she knew he would never come back there. 

And just as she did it countless times before, she slowly reached for the one cashmere sweater he always loved and she slid it over her head, feeling his scent fill her nostrils. She couldn’t cry anymore as she has already cried many nights hugging his clothes and sleeping in his bed, where they used to sleep together before. Her dark brown hair splayed on his gray pillows as she laid on her back, hugging her arms gently feeling the fabric of his sweater. 

She didn’t feel the time passing by until one moment she heard some noises coming from downstairs. Normally she would have been alarmed by those sounds but she knew perfectly well nobody came down to the Den and so she had no reason to fear uninvited guests, so she didn’t even move, snuggling even more into his pillow. She chose to ignore the silent steps coming up the stairs same way she ignored the slight crack in the door when it swung open. Only then did she sit up on the king-sized bed and looking at the entrance her heart stopped. 

- Hamish? What are you.. I mean, who are you and how did you find this place? You shouldn’t be here…

- Aria, I remember. 

His voice. Soft as ever, calming as a rainy day in the middle of summer. He stood in the doorway dressed in his somewhat usual attire – the pale blue shirt and a vest fitting him so damn well she almost forgot how to breathe. As soon as she heard his words, she slid off the bed, keeping her arms crossed over her chest as she absentmindedly hugged her form still clad in his sweater. 

- You remember…? 

She could barely speak as her she couldn’t believe her eyes. She stood still frozen in place as Hamish quickly approached her, stretching his arms towards her. 

- Come here, you. 

As her last doubt finally fell, immediately she threw herself onto him, wrapping her arms around his neck. Hamish instinctively hugged her back, hiding his face in her shoulder. Holding her close like he used to so many times before finally felt he was himself again. He breathed in her intoxicating scent as memories flooded his mind. Their first date. The first time he kissed her sweet lips. The first night they spent together wrapped in each other’s arms. Aria was barely registering what was happening around because all her focus was on Hamish and his arms holding her so tightly. She let all her anger and rage and overwhelming sadness out, crying inro his chest like a little baby. She clawed at his arms desperately trying to reassure herself, that it was not a dream. 

- I missed you so, so much, Hamish. Every day was like a reoccurring nightmare watching you live your life without me in it. I could barely stand it. 

- Shh, I’m here now, darling. I’m here, everything is alright now – he kept whispering sweet nothings into her ear, holding her trembling body close to him. Slowly he cupped her cheek with his right hand, forcing her to look at him. She was crying her eyes out, mascara slowly dripping down the corner of her lashes, but to him she was still the most beautiful woman he’s ever laid his eyes upon. 

- Don’t you ever forget me again, Hamish Duke. Don’t you even dare. 

- Believe it or not, even when I was supposed to forget you, I remembered. I kept hearing your voice in my dreams, your laughter, seeing you face every night I went to sleep. Missing my darling Aria.