#{{i have excepted a different fate}}; scout

[stra-tek]

Random spoilerific reasons to read Star Trek novels, with little to no context:

Ro/Quark is a thing

A Jem'Hadar joins DS9, tries to fit in but eventually snaps and tries to kill everybody

You learn the origins and final fate of the Borg

A thinly-veiled Dr. House clone joins the Voyager crew

Geordi briefly has 2 girlfriends at once (due to different writers not co-ordinating enough, but still)

There's a TOS book that's a musical

There are YA stories about Jake and Nog making mischief on DS9

YA stories about Worf, Geordi, Picard, Beverly, Kirk, Spock and McCoy at SFA

YA series about the Kelvinverse gang (including Gaila!) as cadets, taking on a drug problem at SFA and a very unique Borg scout in San Francisco

We very briefly meet the people who are to Q what the Q are to humanity

Janeway/Chakotay is a thing

Kirk's first mission in command of the Enterprise! Erm, at least twice.

Kirk was married between TOS and TMP

Her name was Lori

In the future, you have yearly marriage contracts that you either update or you don't and I think that's amazing

Trip didn't die! He faked his death to join Section 31 and go undercover as a Romulan

It's not great, tbh

The ENT books get better after the Romulan wars though, it's proper founding of the Federation stuff

We meet Jack Crusher (erm, the OG) when 4 timelines start overlapping and he's a bit unhinged

Teenage Kirk stole a car and his choice was go to jail or join Starfleet

What happened when Voyager got home? Seven broke up with Chakotay like 30 pages in

Kirk gets cloned, and his clone becomes the sub of an evil invincible super genius and its all very gay

George Kirk was Robert April's first officer on the first ever mission of the unnamed starship with the Naval Construction Contract 1701

Robert is a hard-core pacifist and has to turn command over to George whenever it's time to fire weapons

Data becomes fully human for a couple of days and it's really sweet

They never say "wristwatch" or "phone", it's always "wrist chrono" or "personal comm"

There are gays but they don't say that word because it's the 1990's and Rick Berman runs the franchise

Spock has a son in the past with Zarabeth

Everyone in the post-Nemesis era does spy missions all the time non stop, as if Starfleet has abandoned exploring the cosmos for doing Space Mission: Impossible

Bashir does it better than anyone else, he takes on Section 31 from the inside

Remember Control? It's from the novels, except the novels do it SO MUCH BETTER.

Remember how we never found out who Future Guy was? We do.

It's very underwhelming, nobody we know

We find out how the Romulans and Vulcans split

Surak was a Vulcan internet blogger

A Borg Cube eats Pluto

Janeway dies

Janeway gets better

At least one TOS book features a wizard

There's a Star Trek TOS/Here Come the Brides crossover novel

It had cameos from The Doctor (as in, Who), Han Solo, Starbuck and others

Whole book series about Section 31

Whole book series about the Department of Temporal Investigations

One time they do the Bill and Ted thing to escape confinement and it works

Wanna know how Riker and Troi met?

Wanna know what Picard got up to on the Stargazer?

Andorians have 4 sexes and it's very complicated

Data comes back from the dead as Data 2.0, and it was fresh and exciting because it happened long before ST: Picard did it twice.

Lal comes back too and we get father/daughter android stuff! They have a home and everything but keep having to save the universe

One time Mirror Seven is led around on a leash naked on Terok Nor

Geordi becomes captain of the USS Challenger, decides it's not for him because plot, and goes back to engineering on the Enterprise

Kirk is shot on the bridge and dies

Kirk gets better

They watch 3D holos of old Doctor Who episodes in the Enterprise rec room

The Enterprise also has an AI named Moira, which was Zora long before Zora

The TOS crew get together for one last mission. About three times.

There's a Perry Mason book except it's about Kirk's lawyer from that TOS episode

Data 2.0 owns and runs a massive gambling empire on Orion

Spock keeps randomly showing up everywhere in the TNG era

Scotty keeps randomly showing up everywhere in the TNG era

Bones keeps randomly showing up everywhere in the TNG era

You're on Tumblr so you already know about Killing Time

There's a guy named McKenzie Calhoun and he's a total badass and captains a ship of weirdos and misfits

Kirk comes back from the dead, saves the galaxy repeatedly, has an intersex child (who identifies as male) with a Romulan/Klingon hybrid

Kirk beats up Worf

Kirk's child has superpowers

Kirk's child saves the galaxy at age 6

The Kirk stuff is 100% ignored in the other novels

About 50% of the novels are ignored in the other 50%, and the ones that are meant to be in direct continuity with each other aren't always quite

Just like the TV shows and movies, then

Lwaxana Troi meets Q, and it goes as well as you'd expect

Someone tells Data, yes you idiot you had emotions all along and he's like, oh shit you're right

McCoy is left in command of the Enterprise as a joke by Kirk, who is then immediately kidnapped

Ro Laren is captain of Deep Space Nine

Picard/Beverly is a thing, they get married and have a child named Rene. No running away and raising your kid in secret here

Riker and Troi are married, serve on the Titan together with a bunch of adorable weirdos and have a daughter named Tasha

You get to watch all the 24th century characters die horribly in the end along with their entire universe. Holy fuck it's a bleak horror show. Personally, I love it. But if that's not your cup of tea I'd skip the Coda trilogy

[oncewhenalongtimeago]

HtTYD Masterlist

Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III x Reader

Always an Angel, Never the God- One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Full

Hiccup x Reader, Complete

Your plans to run away with Hiccup fall through. Three years later, you finally make it off Berk and away from the Edge. Here are the years that follow.

Floret -One, Two, Full

Hiccup x Reader, Complete

Your heart’s gone sour, and like all dead things, seeds sprout in its wake. Eventually they grow too large for you to handle on your own. You’ve come to terms with it. For now, you just spend your time flying under the radar, taking long walks and giving good advice. It’s a lonely life, but it’s yours.

Sorry, but I Think I Lost Your Plot- One, Two, Three, Four, 4.5, Five, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine, Ten, Eleven, 11.5, Twelve, Thirteen, Fourteen, Fifteen, Sixteen, Seventeen, Eighteen, Nineteen, Twenty, Twenty one, Twenty two, Twenty three, Twenty four, Twenty five, Twenty six, Twenty seven, Twenty eight

Hiccup x Reader, Complete

You’re stuck on Berk. Somehow, you manage to get by.

All The Ways I Could Have Known You (And Some Of The Ways I Didn’t)- Full

Hiccup x Reader, Complete

Three verses, six parents and their many varied opinions. (SbITILYP+Floret+AaANtG)

Castoff - One, Two, Three, Four, Full

Hiccup x Reader, Complete

The gentle brush of fingertips as they slip apart, the pounding of blood as his heart falls out of your grasp. Those are feelings you are familiar with. Your relationship is one made up of meanings searched for where they are not, a deep care uprooted by a raging current and a single, meaningful mistake.

Better Left Unsaid - Full

Hiccup x Reader, Complete

You wondered if you would ever be able to touch the sky again. You don’t talk about it.

The Jealous One - One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine, Ten, Eleven,

Hiccup x Reader, Ongoing

An old friend starts to act odd. Snotlout is slightly less so.

Counting Coins - Full

Hiccup x Reader, Complete

On one cold morning, a small Chief’s son and merchant child are arranged to be wed. Now, Hiccup Haddock is your fiancé and you his. Despite your different walks of life, you find you come together quite nicely.

Changeling (Her Best Friend) - Full

Hiccup x Reader, Complete

You wished you’d been born someone else. Something else- a fairy, maybe. Something changing- anything different, anything besides.

Just Like Magic - One, Two, Three,

Hiccup x Reader, Ongoing

Hiccup’s got both hands full with dragon training, never mind everything else he’s got going on in private, because, really, it’s not just the dragon. 

Hiccup’s got no one at his back- no friends, no Dad and a dead mother. He has got Gobber on most occasions, though if you asked Hiccup, he’d say that he doesn’t really count, mostly because he’s not much of a help even on the best of days. There is that one girl, though, with her odd appreciation for the world, colorful hems, twine and tassels- To him, she’s something new. Whenever he’s with her, it feels like things just might be turning up. Honestly, she might be exactly the kind of person he’s been looking for.  

(By some stroke of fate and probably coincidence, Hiccup makes friends with a weird girl in the woods and learns that life doesn’t have to be about fighting or proving oneself- sometimes it’s nothing more than a few stolen, happy moments shared between a lucky girl and a very unlucky guy.)

Wildflower - One, Two, Three, Four, Five,

Hiccup x Reader, Ongoing

You never asked to be here.

A Marble in a Mixed Bag - Full

Hiccup x Reader, Complete

Some affections reach past the bounds of universes.

Versipellis - One, Two,

Hiccup x Reader, ?

After convincing Berk to move, Hiccup finds a strange dragon rider flailing around in the sand. Except… You have no dragon. Fortunately, you’re no stranger to him or Berk. You do, however, bring to question quite a few odd things about himself.

Thistle, Scout and Scottish Bluebells - One, Two, Three

Hiccup x Reader , Ongoing

Things don’t happen the way they’re supposed to. The universe sends you to compensate.

One of These Days - Full

Hiccup x Reader, Ongoing

You didn’t know when it started; maybe it had been when he’d smiled at you for the first time, or he’d held your hand, or leaned his head over yours. 

Wool Plush and Hay Stuffing - Full

Hiccup x Reader, Complete

Moss Clause and Tawny Hause - Full

He is sick. He runs away and never comes back.

[togglesbloggle]

Just Between Us

If we're being honest, I'm really fascinated by secret societies.

This is in part an artifact of my Southern-ish upbringing, maybe? Like, the cultural tradition of (mostly male) secret societies isn't discussed much except as a joke or in the past tense, but they held on much longer in some places than one might naively think, the American South included. I was kinda-sorta invited to join the Masons once (there’s no such thing as an actual invitation; you have to ask.  But if somebody tells you this fact in confidence, they’re kinda asking you), and there are some groups associated with the Boy Scouts that they ran us through as a sort of 'trainer' secret organization. If you hang out in the right places, you'll eventually notice recruitment efforts for less benign versions- typically, right-wing militia groups work this way. And there's the Klan, of course, at the most evil end of the spectrum.

People tend to mark the heyday of the American social conspiracy as being in the first half of the 20th century, but as far as I know the pattern of highly gendered secret societies goes back basically all the way as far as we can track such things.  Much older than any of the societies themselves, anyway. The pattern is surprisingly robust across different cultures, and it’s also a clear precursor to ‘modern’ stuff like the Delta Force in the US military.  Even the famous white hoods adopted by the KKK (the second KKK that is, the resurgence from after Birth of a Nation was filmed) predate that organization by several centuries, and were a common motif in European secret orders going back at least to the late medieval period.

This is probably an under-examined part of why the Red Tribe’s got the weird narrative vulnerabilities that it does; why the odd beliefs so often take the form of conspiracies and ‘inner circles’ where the true evils are unmasked and the true righteous fight takes place.  A lot of them- particularly the older set, who came of age before the web- have direct experience with the world working this way!

I’ve been ruminating on this, lately.  Less because of the societies themselves, and more because of their second-order effects, the kind of unacknowledged changes that the presence and absence of really prominent secret organizations can make in the social fabric.  Think about it- if you know, if you really actually know with confidence, that there are networks of people (in practice, men) out there scouting for potential members, and that these groups have real and undeniable power over your world, then that immediately changes your landscape.  

For one, it passively encourages you to demonstrate the virtues of prominent societies in the hopes of being invited to join them, and you’ll be very self-policing in order to achieve this, because you never know who’s watching.  If those secret societies have a reputation for honesty, fortitude, and generosity, you’ll try to be honest, and enduring, and generous.  If they’re terrorists waging a campaign of racialized violence across America, you’ll be not just emboldened but incentivized to act in more racist ways at all times, for the promise of power and belonging as much as for any deeply felt racism you may feel.

And for another, it has a way of surrounding you with an intensely magical world.  You see your fellow-members in public, and wink, and know; you see others winking, and sharing an understanding, and wonder.  By their very nature, it’s ambiguous what, exactly, a secret society is capable of, how large it is, and so on.  The episode of The Simpsons making fun of the Masons plays on this to great effect, bouncing back and forth between (on the one hand) this huge ancient and wealthy organization controlling the fate of the world, and (on the other hand) the more grounded reality that a secret society in practice is an excuse to have fun hanging out with your friends and drinking a few beers.  But when the ‘secret society density’ hits a certain threshold, the banal realities of any given organization give way to the possibility that you just haven’t found the right secret society yet, the one where all the decisions are really made and all the power is really held.  You start asking a lot more who?-type questions, instead of how?-type questions.

Third, and I think this is probably a lot more important than people give it credit for, secret societies were one of the unacknowledged pillars of male homosocial intimacy, and their gradual disappearance from the landscape over the last seventy or so years has created a much more emotionally barren and hostile world for gender-conforming men.  It’s not unusual for someone to note that men seem really starved for intimacy; articles about men relying entirely on girlfriends and wives for their emotional support and comfort are a dime a dozen.  But consider that participating in a standing conspiracy of fellow-travelers is also an opportunity to practice emotional intimacy with other men, and that these are the perfect conditions in which to share feelings and offer mutual emotional support without contravening masculine norms.  And when participating in one or more such groups is the norm, they can become a load-bearing part of the culture of gender itself; traditional masculinity in the absence of secret societies may simply be less viable, but because nobody can talk about secret societies, it’s equally challenging to diagnose the problem.

I’ve been dancing lightly around one of the more important manifestations of the secret society in the modern era, which is of course being a sex pervert; it’s not the first conspiracy you think of, but it’s one of the forms that survived the internet boom, so it’s a good example.  The Friends of Dorothy were a secret society in every way that mattered, back in the day, and many of their modern successors still are.  As with the Masons, one pretty much has to invite oneself, but they’re usually quite welcoming to new members that show an interest.  Consider the ways that these groups reward and cultivate certain virtues, even outside their perimeter; consider how they re-enchant the world; consider how they open the door to close friendships and emotional intimacy with others.

It’s the social power that fascinates me as much as anything, I think.  As with everything this powerful, it’s often quite evil; actually it’s far from obvious that secret societies in toto have been a force for good in the world.  But is there some way to cultivate that social potency in a way that’s ordered to the good?  Some lurking alternative to the brute power of statecraft and economics and social norms?  So very enticing…

[adrift-in-thyme]

Ooh, you’re taking drabble requests? :D Could I get something with Legend and Warriors maybe? Angst or fluff or whatever (though you know I love hurt/comfort XD) Love your writing!

-Sky Floor

Thanks so much for the request!! 💖 I went with hurt/comfort ;)

Sorry it took me so long to write this! Hopefully it proves to be worth the wait

Warning: an animal is trapped and injured in this fic. It’s not graphic but keep yourselves safe!

Fic beneath the cut

————————

Legend has been gone for two days.

Hard as he tries, Warriors can’t stop the worry from seeping in, spreading past his careful defenses. The vet can handle himself, that much is for certain. But to disappear the way he did, so soon after they had been separated from the others and during an intense monster fight, it’s more than a little concerning.

When a day of searching ends with no sign of the veteran, it becomes even harder to keep his spirits up. The guilt certainly doesn’t help either. It drags at his heels, eating at him as he trudges onward.

How could he possibly have lost track of him? He’s usually so attentive to his surroundings. But Legend had been there one moment and gone the next, and he has no one to blame except himself.

The veteran has to still be alive, though. Warriors won’t entertain the alternative.

And then, on the morning of the third day, while searching a new part of the woods, he hears it.

The sound emanates from behind a nearby bush, an incessant banging and thrashing that echoes throughout the clearing. Warriors comes to an abrupt stop, frowning in its direction.

He’s no stranger to the many noises of the creatures that scamper throughout the forest. They frequently keep him company when it’s his turn to scout out the area, sometimes even playing about his feet as he walks. The rustling of their romps through the underbrush, the excited squeaking and chittering as they burst forth from it—these are familiar to his ears.

But this is different.

There is no playfulness here, no light-hearted mischief. These movements are panicked and violent, a terrible, unmistakable rhythm of flesh colliding with metal.

Something—or perhaps even someone—must be trapped.

Drawing his sword, Warriors steps forward. It’s a precaution that will likely be unnecessary. Still, one can never be too careful, especially considering the current situation. For all he knows a monster could be lying in wait, ready to pounce.

But when he pushes aside the delicate leaves, it isn’t a monster he sees. Though, Warriors is inclined to think a monster might make a bit more sense.

Caged in a small trap before him is a very angry, very pink rabbit.

The creature is in the middle of driving its shoulder into its enclosure, pure murder spelled out in its gaze. But then it catches sight of Warriors and stops short. Its body goes rigid.

It stares at Warriors and Warriors stares back. He blinks, trying to make sense of what he’s seeing.

Out of all the things he expected to find this is definitely not one of them. A caged animal is normal enough. No doubt a nearby villager set this trap in hopes of garnering a meal or protecting their crops. The appearance of said animal, however, that’s decidedly not normal.

He may be a city boy, but he has enough experience to know rabbits aren’t usually pink-furred and blue-eyed. Nor is their gaze usually this sharp, this…human.

Warriors tilts his head, chewing the inside of his cheek. If he’s being honest, this is all a bit disconcerting. Still, he can see the damage from here, the unnatural bend of its left leg, the blood trickling down from its forehead. And it makes his heart clench.

He can’t very well just leave it here…can he?

With a sigh, he sheaths his sword. At this point, it would likely be better to just let the inevitable happen. With these wounds, the rabbit is unlikely to survive in the wild. But the very thought of leaving it to its fate sends a fresh streak of guilt shooting through him.

Besides, some small part of him has begun to wonder if maybe, just maybe this strange event has something to do with Legend’s disappearance. So, he bends down and reaches for the cage door.

“Hey, little guy,” he murmurs, with a small smile. “Don’t worry, I’ll get you out of here.”

He hasn’t even managed to unlock it, however, when the rabbit levels him with a blistering scowl, opens its tiny mouth, and speaks.

“Congratulations, you found me. Now, drop the act.”

Warriors freezes, eyes going wide. He must have finally lost it because he’s almost certain that animal just talked.

…and sounded an awful lot like Legend too. And while finding their missing veteran in this manner wouldn’t be the strangest thing that's ever happened to him, it definitely makes the top ten.

He leans forward as though a better look will clear up things.

“Vet?! Is it really you?”

The rabbit’s—no Legend’s—expression doesn’t change. He can see it though, the utter terror peeking out from behind the anger. And is it just him or are there slight tremors running through his tiny body?

“Don’t you dare feign stupidity.” The vet jabs a paw in his direction. “I know who you are and you’ve got no right taking his form.”

Taking his…Oh.

The pieces are beginning to come together in his mind. The picture they paint isn’t a pretty one.

“If you’re gonna kill me, just get it over with,” Legend continues, voice brittle and bitter. “But don’t you do it looking like Warriors.”

Warriors reaches for the door again. It’s not a complex trap—though it’s certainly an effective one—and he manages to get it open quickly.

“I’m not here to kill you,” he assures, motioning for his friend to exit. “And I’m not the Shadow.”

Legend gives him a look of pure hatred and doesn’t budge. Warriors waits there, holding up the door for a few moments more, then sighs. He offers the vet his hand.

“Here. I must at least smell different than he does.”

Tentatively, Legend drags himself forward, tiny nose twitching. When the blow he is undoubtedly expecting doesn’t come, he gives Warriors a couple of good sniffs. And finally, his body relaxes.

“See?” Warriors grins. Relief washes over him in dizzying waves. “I told you it was me.”

Legend shudders, looking ready to either collapse or begin crying. Warriors can’t be certain which.

“Yeah, yeah, I know,” he snaps, but there is no venom in his shaky tone. He bats away Warriors’ hand and drags himself from the cage. “And that’s just my luck. Now, I’m never gonna live this down.”

Warriors looks back down at the trap, inwardly cringing. If the vet thinks he’s going to tease him about this, he’s sorely mistaken.

“I’ve been looking for you for days. Is this where you’ve been the whole time?”

Legend slumps, not meeting his eyes.

“Not the whole time.”

There’s a story behind that statement. One that is likely long, and unpleasant, and, unfortunately, necessary for him to hear. But before Warriors can press, a familiar screech shatters the relative silence.

He has never known animals to pale, yet in that moment Warriors is certain Legend does.

“Monsters,” he breathes. “The Shadow must’ve sent them after me.” He turns to Warriors, eyes wide, and terrified, and almost pleading. “I can’t fight in this form! I’m helpless!”

There’s an edge of barely concealed hysteria to his tone now. Warriors steps forward and scoops the rabbit off the ground. Legend lets out an indignant squeak, which he ignores.

“You won’t have to fight,” he says, quickly scanning the area. There’s a small cave nearby, and he heads toward it. “We’ll conceal ourselves here, let them pass by. If they still spot us, I’ll take them on.”

Legend has gone rigid in his grasp, but at that he slumps, looking defeated. And when Warriors tucks himself away in the darkness of the cave, his friend still held to his chest, the veteran doesn’t protest.

They sit in silence, as the monsters thunder past. Warriors half expects one of them to catch sight of the cave and take interest. But not one of them dares to break from the stampede, save to peek behind bushes and trees. And it isn’t long before their squeals and shrieks fade into the distance.

Warriors blows out the breath he had been holding.

“Looks like we got lucky, vet,” he says, a relieved grin pulling at his lips.

They’re safe, at least, for the moment. There are other things to worry about now…such as the tiny rabbit currently shivering in his lap.

He looks down at him, just barely resisting the urge to run a hand through his fur. “You okay?”

Legend shudders, ears drooping, eyes averted.

“I’m fine.”

He’s most definitely not, but Warriors lets it slide for now.

“Can you drink potion in that form?” He asks, already rifling about in his pouch for one. The veteran’s wounds look rather painful.

But Legend shakes his head. “It won’t work the same. I’ve gotta change back so it can actually heal me.”

“And how do we change you back?”

“With a moon pearl…or the Master Sword. Neither of which we have access to at the moment.”

Warriors sighs. “I’m sorry, vet.”

“It’s not your fault this form is useless.”

Legend’s body gives another little shiver. Though he glances at the entrance to the cave, he doesn’t move.

“It is my fault for losing track of you, though.”

Now, Legend looks at him, eyebrow raised in an unimpressed expression.

“What’re you, my babysitter? I can take care of myself, you know. I’m the veteran of hero business.”

Warriors lets out a dry chuckle. “Touché.”

He brings the veteran a bit closer, finally giving in to the urge to pet his silky fur. Though Legend hardly looks thrilled with it, he doesn’t pull away. He even begins to relax a bit after a few moments have passed, leaning into Warriors’ touch unconsciously. And when Warriors smooths a hand over one of his ears, he lets out a tiny sigh.

“This form isn’t all bad, you know,” the captain says, and Legend gives him a knowing grin.

“Why, because I’m soft and fluffy?”

A grin of his own lifts Warriors’ lips. “Maybe.”

The veteran hums. He shifts, settling in a bit more cozily on Warriors’ lap. Already, he is beginning to drift, exhaustion dragging at him. Warriors isn’t surprised. Though he doesn’t know the specifics of his unfortunate ordeal, he is certain it was anything but pleasant.

And if Legend feels safe with him, even while in this vulnerable (and frankly, adorable) form, he is glad of it.

“We’ll find the others,” he assures him, quietly. “Sky will be more than happy to help you out. You’ll be back in your Hylian form before you know it.”

And then we can get these injuries healed, he thinks as his fingers bump against a cut.

Legend gives another hum of acknowledgment.

“Hey, pretty boy?” He murmurs after a pause. “Thanks.”

Warriors smiles.

The sooner they reunite with the others, the better. For now, though, it won’t hurt to spend a few more moments here, watching the moon rise behind the hills and feeling his friend’s soft fur beneath his fingertips.

[fever-project]

Legend for the Pokémon AU! I got his done so fast, I literally just started working on this after I finished Twilight, and two days later Leggy’s here. Having a model kit of Arceus for reference definitely helped with that. I based parts of Leg’s design off of a few different player trainers, Brendan(the hat), Dawn(shape of the vest thing) and Serena(the dress/skirt). Arceus is doing a Hyper Beam, but it’s blue instead of orange because I’d much rather shade with blue. Anyhow, Lore that I’m very excited to talk about, and includes actual LU stuff, is under the cut.

The Hero of Legends, known across the lands and seas for the deeds he has done around the whole world. However, his numerous heroic deeds are mainly overshadowed by his other deeds-the capturing and firm grasp he has over any Legendary and Mythical Pokémon he finds.

The hero would travel to regions and solve their woes, wounding the evils and healing the innocent. At the end of each journey, however, he’d always take with him the most powerful Pokémon in the land, and onto the next. For the the sake of good or for his own sake, no one knew why he did so, or how. Master Balls are a rarity, hard to make and hard to buy, and yet he’d always managed to get one before his adventures were over, guaranteeing the fate of Legendary’s once this hero set foot in their lands.

And yet, he rarely battled with them. He took care of them as if they were any other normal Pokémon, but preferred to use a shiny only team of the most competitive Pokémon in whatever region he was in, refusing to use any Pokémon from other regions. Except for his so-called “Immortal Gliscor” who was said to be almost unfaintalbe in battle.

If he did use a Legendary Pokémon, however, he used it with the upmost confidence, so assure of himself, of the Pokémon, and of their bond. If you ever challenged him, you would surely lose the fight.

When Legend suddenly found himself in the company of eight other “““trainers””” thanks to an odd, powerful portal, he was definitely the calmest of the bunch at first, mainly scouting about the group to see if anyone was powerful enough to beat him. Just another Tuesday for him. Then when introductions started, he gradually became less and less collected as the group learned that 1) they were all named Link, and 2) that they all were more or less champions in their own times, and finally 3)they were all from different times. Legend didn’t want to go through anything time traveling related ever again.

There were two people that recognized him, a so called “Hylian Champion,” the one with unbelievable Sheikah tech and a…not competitively viable team with him to say the least, mentioned something about hearing of a Hero of Legends, that had access to all Pokémon that ever existed. Naturally, and without an inch of smugness, Legend introduced himself as such hero, while correcting some information and leaving some out. He wasn’t someone that really liked praise.

Then, the ragged Link who had a bunch of Pokémon-object type Pokémon specificly, without a pokeball in sight-walked up to him, stars in his eyes, asking if he really was the Hero of Legends. Everyone else-almost all of them having no idea who he was due to most likely coming before him-also looked at him expectingly. There was only one thing he could say after that;

“I’m just your average nobody, nothing more, nothing less.”

[deciduousprincess]

I have a stupid mdzs au bouncing around in my head. Summer camp.

Wei Wuxian, Jiang Cheng, Nie Huaisang, and Lan Wangji are all campers together as kids. Their parents send them every year and they look forward to seeing their camp friends.

Of course, there's drama when the camp is bought out by new management: the Wen afterschool program, which is a national chain and has their branding slapped on a few hundred summer camps. The events of that fateful summer are immortalized via kid oral storytelling tradition. This will come to be remembered as the year Wei Wuxian marooned a bunch of kids in the woods and also broke Lan Wangji's leg.

So then the next year there's different new management, since the children all got stranded in the woods on the Wen's watch and the place was deemed a liability. The camp season seems to be going okay -- but the Wen kids attending again this year are being bullied even though the hostile merger wasn't their fault and they didn't choose their afterschool program. Wei Wuxian inserts himself in the center of the faction war--and once again things get out of hand. A fight leads to Wen Ning and Wen Qing being sent home after being blamed as the instigators. This in turn leads to the climactic "midnight kayak battle" which ends with Wei Wuxian drowning and dying for 3 minutes. Campers recite this ballad for generations.

Lan Wangji has been staying out of the drama except for the occasional reminder to Wei Wuxian that if he's not careful he'll be kicked out of camp. He's been paying attention to all the wilderness survival workshops and lifeguard training and is generally understood to be a huge boy scout, while most other campers slack off. His intense interest in camp activities pays off as he gives Wei Wuxian CPR and resuscitates him.

(Wei Wuxian of course tells him to get lost. Being dead can be disorienting).

The Jiangs pull both of their sons out of camp--but while Jiang Cheng comes back next year as a junior counselor, Wei Wuxian doesn't. Camp legend speculates that he died for real.

A few years pass, their cohort has graduated from camper to junior counselor to counselor. The counselors run the camp under overbearing leadership, but everyone agrees that it's ultimately for the best if the campers don't have midnight kayak battles and drown.

Shocking everyone, Wei Wuxian returns suddenly as a counselor after years of absence. He doesn't go by his childhood nickname anymore and has since gone through puberty, but Lan Wangji knows him right away by the campfire song that they made up together the year that Wei Wuxian led the campers into the woods as an act of civil disobedience. (The campers assure him they have never heard this song in their life, while Wei Wuxian protests that of course they have, he used to be a camper here and it's the only song he still remembers).

From there the only place to take this au is for Jason to show up. In the role of Jason is Nie Mingjue.

[thedawningofthehour]

so do the mercs just hang around kidnapping people? how would that even work? is there really enough demand for that to happen?

They're mercenaries, so they do pretty much anything people are willing to pay them for. The dog guys in the pilot were mercenaries hired by Draxum to get his empyrean back. Those guys were basically freelancers-there are larger companies that work more like an actual business. They all vary in morality codes as well, a lot of them don't get into kidnapping or trafficking. Of course, we don't see those guys, we're only seeing the ones willing to kidnap a fifteen-year-old. (or saw the bids and decided their morals had a price)

Kidnapping, assassination, arson, beating someone up, standing around looking tough, those are all things you'd contact a mercenary company for if you didn't want to get your hands dirty. Mercenary work is technically legal in the Hidden City-it's just all the stuff that they're normally contracted to do isn't. What they probably do most often is take part in gang shenanigans, but the gangs themselves have a lot of contempt for them. Especially the ones that are trying to kidnap Gale. They have standards.

As far there actually being a market for people like Gale, it all kind of plays into a lot of the greater world-building and 'capitalism is fucking with everything' theme. A lot of the very wealthy, upper crust people in the Hidden City are from wealthy, powerful families, and they have been wealthy and powerful for generations. Times are changing though, and they need to change with them if they're going to hold onto that wealth and power. They're going to need to do stuff. Be extraordinary, if they're going to make money.

Thing is, people aren't extraordinary just by virtue of being born into a rich family. Yeah, people who don't have to work a real job, have servants to do all the cooking and cleaning and caring for their every need, those people have ample time and energy to focus on their educations and learning valuable skills. But most of them just aren't going to distinguish themselves, because they're not distinguished individuals. And that won't do.

And besides, why would they bother with all that work when they could just kidnap a turtle and pass his inventions off as their own?

A lot of the powerful families in the Hidden City have highly skilled individuals 'working' for them, whether they be Yokai, humans, or mutants. (humans are often mutated to extend their lifespans and potentially increase productivity as well) This extends to both creative and intellectual pursuits, (and, realistically, sex reasons, but we're not getting into that) there are definitely books written by Lady McDickface or whatever that was typed out by some poor human chained up in her basement. They trade them, force them to have children that would theoretically inherit their parents' talents, and scout for new workers that wouldn't necessarily make a huge wave if they were to disappear. (so the same people targeted for human trafficking, except demand is much lower and they have a set of standards they look for) Draxum's mutant outbreak was actually great for them because suddenly there were a ton of people who weren't protected by the Hidden City but were already missing/assumed dead by the human authorities-this is one of the things that got cut with Todd's Mutant Town stuff, but Rockwell narrowly escaped this fate himself. He's living up there because safety in numbers.

I didn't make any of this up, by the way, this is how slavery functioned for much of world history. In many cultures, highly educated and skilled slaves were prized and very lucrative for their owners. (I've mentioned the most expensive slave ever sold before, and he was incredibly valuable because he was highly intelligent and educated from a young age) The only difference here is the need for secrecy. Because, you know, this is all illegal.

It's not worth the risk or the operating cost to do this for low-level workers because their labor is already cheap and easy to come by-which is also historical, most societies didn't 'end' slavery so much as outsource their own upkeep onto the peasants while keeping them trapped in a cycle of labor. And they could theoretically just pay Galois to invent stuff and sell it for him, they'd make money off of that...but they could make more the other way. Plus if they were contracting Gale to build stuff, then he could stop working if he wasn't happy with something, go to someone else to fund him if he had a problem, and also he'd have all these pesky rights saying they couldn't just beat him and force him to build whatever they want. Then he'd be the one with the real power, and that scares people like this.

Why doesn't this happen irl? Bro, if you told me today that Elon Musk had someone in his basement making all of his decisions for him, the only thing I'd be surprised about is that the real Elon Musk would be even dumber than that guy. But for real, I probably shouldn't give the rich ideas, they've already talked about putting bomb collars on us to serve them through the apocalypse.

...Fuck, I did it again.

[softeninglooks]

Gible's story | hq!pokemon au

an excerpt from the lastest chapter of my hq!pokemon au. i just love the pokemon world so much, coming up with backstories for iwaizumi's pokemon was one of my favourite parts in the writing process (*´ v `)ﾉﾟ

Before embarking upon this journey with a Pokemon trainer, Iwaizumi imagined that the little Gible he had met in a meadow at the foot of a mountain must’ve lived among fellow wild Pokemon. Solidarity and thorough knowledge of their mountainous environment helped them through biting winters and frosty nights, and in the spring and summer the local Pokemon population descended from the steep tracks to harvest berries and bask in the sun-kissed grass. The fresh fruits and nuts were taken back to the caves in which Gabites, Garchomps, Boldores, Murkrows, and Rhydons preserved their food with care for dire winter months.

As little as he was, Gible’s appetite wasn’t to be underestimated. Though he did his best to assist his older friends in collecting provisions when springtime came, he could not help but eat more than the rest of his peers, always munching on berries or even wood shavings. Anything he could lay his teeth on, he chewed. To the point that he was kindly, but firmly, driven away from the stacks food which were to be brought back to the mountains; his friends asked him to collect construction materials instead. Other Gibles—all bigger than Iwaizumi’s future friend—also needed to polish and develop their teeth, and were as gleeful as everyone when the time to partake in a feast came, but for Gible, it was a little different. He was small, hungry, and so eager to grow; grow as big and reliable as the other Garchomps, as helpful and trustworthy. He could not wait for the day when he would finally be tall and strong enough to collect enough food for everyone, and make them proud.

Many trainers roamed the vast fields running alongside the mountains; some in search of new Pokemon to catch, others looking for sparring partners in the tall grass; sometimes, adventurous spirits even braved vertiginous ascents and narrow footpaths to cross the mountains. And all of them, with no exception, were accompanied by Pokemon. Be it a fully evolved Staraptor scouting the terrain from the skies, a tiny Torchic trustingly sitting on his trainer’s shoulder, or a strong Rhyhorn tearing boulders apart, Pokemon of all forms and colours could be found alongside the trainers whom Gible had seen come close to the mountain. They would share food around a campfire and plant their tents, sleepy smiles flashing around and uplifting words ringing out as they dined together. Those humans always seemed to have something to give to their friends in their pockets or bags, especially some kind of pastry that the creatures ate up with delight. Its colour varied, but the size and shape remained identical, from which Gible derived that it must’ve been a common treat. Just the thought of it made his mouth water—there wasn’t anything else Gible was as curious about as this mysterious pastry, the sight of which alone appeared to make Pokemon so cheerful. One day, he dreamt, he would try it too.

The fated day came when Gible was once again sent to fetch branches and rocks in anticipation for the winter. The warmth of the morning sun, much softer now that the last days of a bright September were steering toward autumn, followed the little Pokemon through his search for wood and flat stones littered across the field. With the neighbouring forest and variety of Pokemon wandering in and out of the grasslands, stumbling upon different sticks and rocks wasn’t a rarity; Gible only had to pick out as many solid and smooth-looking objects as possible, then bring them back home. He set out on his usual route, departing from the group of Gibles, Gabites, and Garchomps fussing over provisions.

It was after sneaking into the meadow that a peculiar sight caught Gible’s eye. The remnants of a campfire, probably from the previous evening, alongside a grey half-open tent which only revealed empty sheets. And, next to the ashes and put-out embers, right in the middle of the grass, were scattered none other than… Those pastries! Gible’s jaws swung wide open from the sudden realization. It was them, he could even catch a whiff of their subtle yet appetizing perfume! Gible almost dropped his load. What was he to do? Whoever had spent the night in this place seemed long gone, what with the cold ashes piled up on the ground. Could these pastries have been left behind, too? Weren’t they good? The muffled growl of his own stomach answered Gible’s question; he was hungry again. He took a step toward the treats and carefully closed his teeth around one of them. There was no harm in getting a taste of one of these abandoned pastries, was there?

One bite was sufficient for the surprising flavour of the pastry to unfurl upon his tongue. Something akin to the freshness of fruit mixed with the sweetness of honey, it was different from anything Gible had ever eaten. He could recognize the faint traces of Oran berries, but the overall balance of the combined flavours didn’t remind him of any fruit he had tried before. He ate up the pastry in no time, leaving no crumbs behind as the pleasure of eating such unusual and delicious food took over his self-control.

A few centimetres away lay another treat, its soft pink colour standing out against the green grass. Gible came closer, further inspecting his findings. Not only were there blue and pink pastries, but also yellow, green, and red ones—there was plenty enough to feed his friends, too! This time, Gible reasoned, he would be the one to bring them food, and he wouldn’t eat all of it beforehand. Setting down the wood he had been carrying, the little Pokemon gathered as many pastries as he could hold and strode toward the rally point, his chest puffed out proudly. He would finally show his friends that gluttony couldn’t get the better of him!

The first trip was a success. Gible left the pastries he had brought by the heaps of fruits and berries that his friends had started collecting, then decided to return to the abandoned campfire for more. He hurried back toward the spot he had discovered, but just as the grey tent came into view, the dragon type’s attention was caught by echos of voices coming from the nearby trees. It was only a matter of seconds before the figures of three Pokemon—a Riolu, a Houndour, and a Rhyhorn—appeared at the edge of the forest, a trainer on their heels, and began to walk right toward Gible’s destination.

So the place wasn’t abandoned after all! Overcome by panic, the little Pokemon scurried away before the newcomers could have spotted him—but not fast enough to deceive Riolu’s senses. The aura-sensing Pokemon saw Gible make haste out of the corner of his eye, feeling the fear—and shame?—still hanging in the Pokemon’s wake.

Houndour could smell it, too. The dark-type groaned warily, spinning on his heels to take a look at the intruder, but he was stopped by Riolu’s hand brushing against his shoulder. He shook his head, assuring Houndour that the intruder meant no harm.

“Look at that, what happened here?” Iwaizumi noticed the pastries scattered all around the grass. “It looks like we were too eager to start training and knocked over the poffins. Well, that may have made some Weedle or Ledyba happy,” he commented in a chuckle, picking up the pastries. The Pokemon came to his aid, and soon all the poffins had regained their place in the box where the trainer usually kept them. “There’s still enough of them for lunch, so all’s well. Let’s get to it, you more than deserved it!”

While Iwaizumi and his team were unpacking their food, Gabile slowed down. A quick glance backward told him that the Pokemon and trainer who had come out of the forest weren’t chasing after him, so he was out of harm’s way. Yet he wouldn’t go on. A pang of guilt stopped him in his tracks—these pastries belonged to that trainer and his Pokemon. Gible loved food, he truly did, but not at the expense of someone else’s satiation. The idea that he had barged in and eaten some of their food made the little Gible all the more ashamed. Wasn’t there any way to apologize to them? He ran back toward the rally spot where he had dropped off the pastries as fast as he could. He would bring them back, he decided, nervously advancing forward with arms full of poffins. He just had to refrain from devouring the pastries along the way.

Thankfully, Gible managed to bring the poffins back in one piece. Bashfully edging toward Iwaizumi and his Pokemon, he skirted the campsite and deposited the poffins close enough for the group to spot. Riolu was the first one to notice—he instantly felt the other Pokemon’s presence, Gible’s aura speaking his intentions even from far away.

“What is it, Riolu?” Iwaizumi watched his friend stand up.

The Pokemon pointed at the poffins Gible had just returned, though the dragon type ran away as soon as the pastries touched the ground. With the fighting spirits that radiated off Iwaizumi’s team, he suspected that lingering around for long would only attract Houndour’s wrath; the dark-type Pokemon was already smelling the air, no doubt recognizing the scent of the intruder.

“That’s… Is that our poffins?” Iwaizumi crouched to pick them up and inspected the slightly battered pastries.

Riolu nodded, gesturing toward the outskirts of the forest, where Gible hid among the interwoven leaves of a bush. The little Pokemon’s curiosity had overcome even his fear of the unknown trainer and his strong-looking Pokemon.

“A wild Pokemon brought them, is that it, Riolu?” Iwaizumi ran his thumb over the dented marks Gible had inadvertently made in the poffins. “Now that you mention it, it looks like someone bit into them. Well, whoever it was, it was very considerate of them to bring them back,” the trainer smiled and cautiously put the pastries back into their box, save for one, which he left in the grass. “This one’s for them. If they ever come around here again.”

The mild afternoon sun sat high upon the cloudless sky when Iwaizumi and his team returned to the forest in the afternoon. When the Pokemon’s figures were entirely concealed by robust trunks and reddening leaves, Gible ventured out of his hiding spot and cautiously crawled toward the poffin that Iwaizumi had left for him. It was one of the pink ones he had seen earlier, and an even fruitier and flavourful taste filled his mouth when he bit into it, teeth itching for another treat. Iwaizumi’s unexpected kindness made each bite taste even sweeter to Gible; he had never come into such contact with humans before, and no one had offered him food. Of course, his peers always shared their meals and spared treats for the younger Gibles, but among them, he felt like his appetite took up unnecessary space. As much as he believed in his friends’ benevolence, he couldn’t shake off the dreadful feeling that his voraciousness only wasted his fellow Gabites and Garchomps’ hard labour to find enough food for everybody.

The poffin gave Gible courage. With newfound bravery and curiosity, he plunged back into the bushes and broke off a branch to chew on all while following Iwaizumi and his team’s steps. He found them not too far away from the campsite, in a clearing where Riolu and Houndour were blocking and dodging each other’s attacks under their trainer’s analytical gaze. Rhyhorn added occasional obstacles with his rock and ground powers, which the two Pokemon tried to bypass or used to their advantage.

Gible could not take his eyes off them. Mesmerized by their hypnotizing and agile sequence of moves, he couldn’t think of a time when he had seen other Pokemon fight like that, with such dexterity and creativeness. Even Houndour, who relied on his four legs to keep his balance, managed high jumps and quick dodges against Riolu’s already impressive mastery over his combat techniques.

“Well done, Houndour!” Iwaizumi was encouraging them from the sidelines, twirling a pen he took notes with between his fingers. His face was bright with fervour and optimism. “Riolu, try to get as far away from Houndour as possible after attacking, do everything to avoid getting hit by fire!”

The little Gible stayed with them the entire afternoon, indifferent to the hours that passed and even to the growling of his stomach. From his hiding place between the bushes, he watched Iwaizumi give thoughtful instructions to his team and reward them with appetizing treats in complete awe, as fascinated by Riolu, Houndour, and Rhyhorn as he was by the poffins that their trainer gave them. How much more fascinating food did that human have stored away? What were those Pokemon training for? By the end of the day, Gible’s questions were answered. As Iwaizumi prepared dinner around the rekindled campfire, Gible discovered the vegetables, fruits, rice, and meat that Iwaizumi pulled out of his travelling backpack. He let the rice cook over the fire and poured portions of Pokemon food into three bowls, which he put down in front of his friends.

“There you go. Enjoy your food,” he warmly patted the trio on their backs. “Let’s build up our strength before crossing the mountains!” His enthusiasm was met by the equally motivated cries of his Pokemon.

As Houndour, Riolu, and Ryhorn savoured their dinner, Iwaizumi dug his chopsticks into a bowl brimming with rice, over which pieces of meat were soaked into sauce. Another plate, filled with vegetables and seaweed, rested between his crossed legs as he ate heartily—the smell of it alone made Gible stomach rumble loudly.

“Nothing beats dinner after a long day, right?” Iwaizumi cheerfully commented through a mouthful. “We’ll fill up on our food supplies at the next stop. And then, we’ll get the Iron badge from Takanobu Aone!” His Pokemon cheered on in return, all visibly fired up after a good meal.

Next came desert, and with it the poffins that Gible hadn’t forgotten. Iwaizumi split the colourful pastries evenly among the Pokemon, who gathered around the merry dance of the campfire. The evening breeze stoked the fluttering flames, but the trainer carefully tended to them so that nothing would accidentally catch fire. He warmed his hands over the flames and cut up some fruit, which he ate contentedly while the team were enjoying some sweet treats. In that moment, there was nothing Gible wanted more than to join them and take part in the peaceful revelry. He helplessly looked around for inspiration, searching for a way to introduce himself to that trainer and his team, and then it dawned on him—berries! His knowledge of the surrounding harvesting spots might well come in handy if he wished to try one of these delicious poffins again.

When Gible returned by the campsite, it was with arms full of berries. He had gone to the nearest shrubs and picked as much as he could carry in one travel, walking cautiously so as not to lose any piece of fruit along the way. All that was left for the little Pokemon to do now was summon his courage and confront Iwaizumi.

“Gible!” He stepped into the light, lifting his arms up to present the trainer with his offering. “Gible, Gible!”

Iwaizumi abruptly turned toward the dragon type, surprised by this sudden apparition right beside him. “What are you doing here?” He asked the Pokemon kindly, relieved that it was only a small Pokemon.

“Gible,” the dragon type tried to explain while poking Iwaizumi’s leg with the berries. He glanced at the box of poffins, hoping that the trainer would understand.

“Are you hungry? But you brought plenty of berries…” Iwaizumi followed Gible’s insistent gaze. “Oh, is that… I see. Is that what you want?” The trainer chuckled and got up from his seat. “Do you want to trade berries for poffins?”

The Pokemon nodded actively and Iwaizumi opened the poffin box before him, crouching to get closer to the Pokemon’s height. “Here.”

The dragon type timidly took one of the poffins after setting the berries beside Iwaizumi. One bite was sufficient for him to swallow it whole, but the joyful cry that he gave out indicated that he appreciated the treat to the full.

“Have some more,” Iwaizumi offered considerately and pushed the box toward him. “Don’t worry, I can always get some more later. Eat to your heart’s content.”

That night, Gible finished the contents of the box of poffins, but no shameful feeling held back his joy. Iwaizumi’s warmth burnt even brighter than that of the campfire as the trainer and his Pokemon shared treats and fruits with Gible, delighting in the berries the dragon type had brought and passing pastries around. It was with that simple gesture that Gible and Iwaizumi’s story began—that one piece of kindness, a poffin left in the grass, some berries traded for a pastry.

[verratensduo]

{{Connie&Sasha}} @104thsquadfam

“ Pft, come on Marco how do you know i didn’t come for you ? You don’t know what goes on in my head, besides we all know who the real outcast is.” Connie said “ Come on Connie you’re-.” Sasha began before Connie cut her off as he continued “ Sasha’s the outcast.”

“ Aah what?! How could you say that Connie i’m not an outcast!!” she whined looking to Marco for help now “ Tell him i’m not an outcast!” she said, Connie only chuckled at her.

‘‘I guess my looks and personality, plus what you experienced that one night enamored you.’‘ He teases as Connie as he laughs at the joke Connie made. Of course she wasn’t, but he was funny.

‘‘Of course you aren’t and I am sure he was joking. He tends to do that after all.’‘  He smiles at them. ‘‘Hope you guys enjoyed the fifteen days of leave, because we have none stop work in this branch.’‘

[reikaryu]

they thought wrong ✰ svt bsk

pairing — boo seungkwan x gn!reader

genre — one-shot, angst (fluff at the end ?), idol!au

summary — you think too much, honestly.

warning(s) — a certain explanation might seem like a pathetic excuse but that was intended, seungkwan being a dummy, an implication that reader is fem and boy-girl friendships are abnormal

word count — 1.9k words

author’s note — birthday angst for a certain someone ;) very grateful to @hyeunfae and @piakae for dealing with my nonsense for the past year and five months 😜 love y’all <3

You thought he was avoiding you.

Ever since he joined Pledis as a trainee, your connection to him was cut off. He wouldn’t text you ‘good morning’ anymore, and he wouldn’t call you to catch up on things. You two lived in different continents, so you could easily brush it off by saying that it was difficult to find time when both of you were free for a chat. But when you had sent him a text congratulating him on his debut, he hadn’t replied for days. It was only a week and a day later that he replied:

Oh gosh I’m so sorry I didn’t see your text. I’ve been so busy with my schedule that I didn’t have time. I’m so sorry for not calling you nowadays. But thank you so much for congratulating me. I promise I’ll make it up to you when I can 😭

Even after the message, he didn’t call. He didn’t text you a ‘how are you?’ once in a while to check up on you. The little promise he made through text — he was starting to break it — except, was it that little at all?

You joined Pledis as a trainee after getting scouted at a train station. You had just got off your flight from England, where your parents were currently living. You hadn’t bothered to notify him of your arrival, thinking he wouldn’t even see it, and were stuck choosing between accepting the Pledis agent’s offer or declining it for the sake of your and his ego. In the end, you decided to accept it, darning him if you ever crossed paths in the company building.

Luckily (or unluckily, depending on how you view it), you met him only once: when you were introduced to Lee Jihoon, otherwise known by his stage name Woozi. A staff of Pledis found out that you had produced lots of wonderful music during your time in Europe, and decided that it should be put to good use. You briefly met him when he came to give Jihoon something. You two barely had any interaction, save for some eye contact that lasted a second too long to mean nothing. Jihoon definitely noticed something between you guys, but was smart enough to say nothing.

For the next three months, there was no sign of him at all. He seemed to avoid everywhere he thought you would go to frequently. He wasn’t the one giving things to Jihoon anymore. But during those three months, you started to worry about when you debut — when you had to interact with your label mates. You tried pushing those worries aside, dealing with them when they’re important enough.

The tenth of June, 2018, had arrived. You debuted as a soloist and garnered millions of views in five hours. You couldn’t understand your fame, however. All of your social media accounts were set on private and little to no one knew Pledis had even casted you at all (not even your friends from England). You didn’t think much of it, though, when you met your dearly missed friend at Mnet the next day.

You had no idea that he would be one of the MCs. You didn’t know any of the SEVENTEEN members were MCs in the first place, specifically for Mnet. You thought he would be too busy to be posing as an MC, but alas, perhaps MCing was the one making him busy. You performed perfectly fine even with the thought of you talking to him being your confirmed fate in a few minutes’ time. By the end of your debut stage, the audience was cheering loudly for you, but now that the stage was over, your anxiety was slowly building up inside of you.

The interview didn’t look as bad as you felt it to be. It went smoothly. There were no awkward questions or responses, and he had a smile plastered on his perfect little face the entire time. It ended rather quickly, and you found yourself regretting not revelling in the moment more. You hadn’t had a proper conversation with him in years.

You thought he would refrain from interacting with you now that the interview was over. He didn’t have any reason to talk to you, and you weren’t really willing to hear him out for the years he didn’t text you. But he approached you when you were chatting with your stylist in the waiting room. He asked for some privacy, which was gladly given.

You didn’t break eye contact for more than a minute. He seemed to have something to say but couldn’t get it out. At last, after what felt like an eternity, his lips parted.

“I’m sorry.”

Such useless words they were. You always thought they didn’t have any meaning, that they didn’t matter unless something was actually done to prove the genuineness. You shook your head and attempted to leave the room, but he quickly grabbed your wrist. You felt the desperation in him before you heard his words.

His voice broke as he said, “Let me explain. It’ll take some time, but I will explain everything to you.” But there wasn’t anything to explain. It was crystal clear that you weren’t important to him anymore — or so you thought. You were always thinking too much.

You pulled your hand from his loose grasp, a silent plea to leave you alone; but he was desperate. He didn’t want anyone witnessing your not-too-happy interaction, so he gripped your shoulders firmly — loose enough for you to walk away, but forceful enough to let you know his intention. You gave in.

He seemed to be lost in his thoughts for a second, because he was staring at you as if wondering if he should actually proceed or not. “I can’t do this here,” he whispered, sounding frustrated. At you or himself, you did not know. But what you did know before he voiced the words was that he wanted to meet with you to talk. You were ready to decline his offer when he interrupted your thoughts.

“Please,” he pleaded with you, irises filled with an emotion you couldn’t quite place in your head. “Give me this one chance. I’ll make it up to you.”

You remembered those last few words: they were from three years ago, eight days after he debuted. You remembered it clearly. How he had ‘promised to make it up to you’ in that one message that would be the only you’d receive in the years to come. You wanted to walk away if it weren’t for the look he was giving you.

He was tearing up, then you realised he was shaking. He was shaking. He rarely shook in your presence. You looked him in the eye and felt like tearing up, too. But you held back the tears and said firmly, “One chance to redeem yourself.” Then you walked away and did not look back.

──────

There was no need to decide on a place to meet up since it was already obvious to the two of you. It was always at a playground when you two made up for the arguments you had when you were younger and both living in South Korea. And there was that one playground in Seoul you always wanted to go to when you were living in Jeju. You thought he’d know you would be there. For once, you thought right.

You both approached each other at the same time, hands in jacket or pants pockets, wearing a cap but no mask. It was in the dead of the night that you both happened to arrive at the playground. You wondered what was in store for you.

He didn’t beat around the bush when you were in close enough proximity to hear each other’s whispers.

“I’m not one to manage my time properly, you know that.” Of course you knew. You’d been friends for years — ever since you came out of the womb. “I didn’t know when I could call you. Maybe you were busy with assignments or already sleeping, I didn’t know. I thought you didn’t use KakaoTalk anymore since you moved. I wasn’t sure of many things, so I waited for you to contact me instead. When you messaged me congratulating me on my debut, my members were around me a lot, so I couldn’t answer you without them teasing me. I replied when I was alone and could read your entire message.”

There was much more to come. There were three years’ worth of explanation to be done. You waited.

“Truthfully speaking, I was spending so much time with my members that I forgot about you for a while.” That you could understand. With twelve other members in the group, your chat could easily reach the bottom of the page. “I thought about you once in a while, but because my members were almost always with me, you were quickly drowned out in my mind. It wasn’t until you started working with Jihoon that I kept thinking about you.” Was he trying to flatter you now? “I met you that once, but it was too awkward. I thought you wouldn’t want to meet me again. The gods seemed to help me for once because I never saw you until just now.”

For four years’ worth of explanation, whatever he just said was considerably short — but it all made sense to you. He didn’t want his members teasing your relationship with him whenever he texted you. Having twelve members was surely chaotic and made his days eventful. And of course he would fear the awkward tension between you two — both of you had always feared awkwardness in your relationship. You never knew you would experience it.

You were too caught up in your head to notice that he was crying. It was only when he sniffed that you came back to reality and saw the droplets of water on his cheeks. The cheeks you’d kiss with platonic intentions as a form of goodbye. Before you knew it, your hands were on them, thumbs wiping away the tears you hated seeing. “Don’t cry,” you whispered, voice almost betraying you. “I hate seeing you cry.”

When he didn’t stop, you tugged him closer for a hug. A warm, welcoming hug that screamed “I forgive you” in all directions. You rubbed his back in smooth circles as he silently let it all out. It was funny how he was the one crying and you were the one comforting him. You thought it was the other way round.

He cried for five minutes. Even though you knew he stopped, you didn’t halt your actions you knew were bringing him comfort. “I’m sorry. I’m so sorry. I’ll do whatever for you to forgive me.” He knew that you had already forgiven him, but he wanted to gain your trust again. He wanted back that trust he had when he was younger and more immature. And, yes, he knew it would take another decade to regain that trust. He betrayed it.

He didn’t deserve your warm and comforting hugs. You gave him the undeserved right to claim those hugs whenever he wanted with two words which told him not to cry. The fact that you just gave back everything he’d left behind after his simple and what he thought was a not-good-enough explanation.

You pulled away and wiped away the tear stains on his cheeks that you could see from the moonlight shining on the both of you. Then you leaned in, lips brushing his cheekbones, leaving a soft kiss there. He realised at that very moment how broken he left you.

How much love he could have gotten if he hadn’t left you.

reblogs are appreciated ! ♡

[ gen. masterlist | svt masterlist ]

[unit-zero-two]

I read the first two Chapters of MtG’s new Brother’s War story. They’re well written and I like how it shows the slow but inevitable fall of the world of “The Brother’s War” into “The Gathering Dark��. I always love more Kayla, and the expansion and exploration of her own discovery of how to cast magic was cool. The story seemed to forget that she was in fact Queen of Kroog for a bit, always using Princess to refer to that period, but whatever. It made her Queen of Penregon and I liked how she faced off against the beginnings of the Church of Tal. The story and characters are very bitter and tired, and they have every reason to be. Their world has ended. I liked Tawnos’ ultimate fate, he’s a good egg. There’s a good understanding of the events of “The Brother’s War” and how that later becomes The Ice Age novels.

That said, I’m a little more skeptical of some of the characterization, mostly in reference to one particular thing. I recently reread the “Brother’s War” and these two chapters so far are very critical of Urza. And don’t get me wrong, Urza deserves to be put through a critical lens, dissected and brought to judgement. But these chapters feel like they don’t realize that’s been every other story in Magic’s history, including “The Brother’s War”. rereading the novel the thing that struck me is how no one is portrayed as perfect or infallible. In some way, every person in the novel is flawed and their likability is in spite of this. Urza is no exception.

But what might be easy to forget in this modern era far removed from Urza’s relevance in the story of Magic is that Urza the Man and Urza the Planeswalker are very different people. If you’ve only heard people talk about Urza Planeswalker excitedly but never read the novels he’s in, let me assure you that’ they’re never not critical of him or slagging off on him. No one in universe really likes Urza. At best they need him since he’s the only one for a long time who even considers the Phyrexians a threat. And his being right is never portrayed as vindication of his character. His character is metaphorically torn to shreds every step of the way, right until the end.

Urza the Man is very similar in how critical the narrative is of him, but he’s not quite the monster of Urza Planeswalker. There’s a particular line in the new chapters where Tawnos thinks, “Urza only designed machines for War“, and that’s ahistorical to Urza. He resisted turning his machines to war. The first time they were it was without his knowledge. He created flying machines for scouting, necklaces for healing and protection, machines to lift and carry heavy loads. If he’d had his way, he would never have built a machine for war. And he was actively disgusted by the thought of war and the lost of people and the plundering of the land that came from it. He only really started to make machines of war because of the fall of Kroog to Mishra’s forces. He vowed to never let something like that happen again.

Of course Urza fails and becomes one of two sides of a war machine that grinds the world to bits. That’s a failing he constantly bemoans being too weak to prevent. Urza was his own biggest critic right up until the end. His last words to Tawnos basically boiled down to “I was wrong”, although said in many more words. These first two chapters seem to remember Urza Planeswalker and resent the implication of Urza the man. That it absolves Kayla of encouraging Urza to build machines to avenge her father. To defend her nation. Urza is not a perfect person, and in universe the bitterness is well deserved. But as readers it’s not so clear cut. And reading these two chapters I was frustrated by how staunchly they refused to recognize Urza the Man by the people who actually knew him. I get it, I just don’t agree. If the narrative relents a bit and takes a more sympathetic or nuanced take on him later then I’ll feel much better about these chapters, but right now I’m just a little frustrated.

Maybe that too will come to pass. We’ll see.

[tuxedodragon]

MMITW Animorphs AU!! It lives in my head rent free and mine alone because hello, who makes AUs of their own (unpublished) story featuring their OCs?? X’3

Dunno if I’ll ever polish off this sketch, but it was fun to do! All the characters here are younger than they appear in MMITW, which was interesting for me to do, as some of them have very different personalities!

If y’all wanna hear a bit more about the AU and also the characters, there’s some of my notes under the cut!

From left to right: EV, Rocket, Nyx, Bea, Amelia, Scout, Merlo. Behind them are their battle morphs! Wolverine, wolfdog, tarantula hawk wasp, tiger, puma, northern harrier, Harris hawk, respectively.

The AU takes place in the early 2000′s, and the main cast are all between the ages of 13 - 17 years old.

Amphimorpho replace the Andalites from the original series, and were created by another alien civilization which wishes to destroy human society and take Earth for themselves. The Amphimorpho feel an obligation to protect humanity from this fate.

Rocket and EV are best friends, and the former tends to hide behind the latter. Nyx is mostly friends with EV, but practically acts like the older sibling to the aforementioned duo.

Also EV is absolutely the most feral member of the squad. Who let this 13 year old get a wolverine morph??

Rocket is super awkward and quiet until they’re in morph, at which point they become a great deal more confident. No one can misgender you when you’re a big scary wolf or a silly crow, after all. 

Nyx almost exclusively uses bug or reptile morphs. Their favorites are sphinx moths and wasps.

Merlo is a young amphimorpho that got separated and lost from the others, and was found by Scout. The two of them hang out at the library or the bird rescue Scout’s mom is in charge of.

Scout prefers being a bird over being a human (Tobias is that you??)

Bea and Amelia are the two punks occasionally causing trouble at school. They’ve got a crush on each other but they’re both completely oblivious to the others’ feelings.

Amelia has a hard time controlling her morphs and it actually terrifies her, except she also doesn’t want Bea to think she’s a wuss and tries to do things out of her comfort zone or too fast anyways.

All of them, with the exception of Merlo, ditched the school dance to go investigate the thing that crashed in the woods. Things kinda proceed similarly to the original series from there.

Story is definitely a lot more light-hearted than Animorphs, because I like soft fluffy things >w>”

[babytaes]

the originals (you belong)

summary: The Mikaelsons family stumbles across a plot to assassinate the Prince. Despite Klaus’ judgement, you are determined to take on that challenge with the help of some magic. You demonstrate to them and to yourself that you BELONG!

paring: jake x female reader

genre: angst, slight fluff, slight smut/suggestive

word count: 7k

warnings: suggestive scene

𝖈𝖍𝖆𝖗𝖆𝖈𝖙𝖊𝖗 𝖙𝖗𝖆𝖎𝖙𝖘: click me before reading!

➳ part of the drunk & dazed series

a/n: i’m not a big fan of this work, i don’t know what it is but i feel like it could be better. I didn’t do my routine thorough read so forgive me for any mistakes. thank you for waiting for this member. enjoy and much love from babytaes. :)

☆ ҉ ◢▅◣

"This is not allowed, Your Majesty. This is not something I believe we should be doing, "You began to walk out of Jake's regal room, shaking your head.

Hearing footsteps behind you, a hand touches your shoulder as he turns you around, shutting the door behind you as he gently pushes you up against the wall.

"Don't pretend you haven't been keeping an eye on me for the past few weeks. I'm sure you want it as much as I do, y/n.”

Licking your lips, you slap his hands off of you and make your way to his massive bed as you fall back.

"It's not like I don't want to do it. It's just your royalty, and I'm not the Mikaelson type."

Jake snickers as he approaches you and raises you up by your hands, bringing you face to face with him. He touches your cheek in his palm and caresses it as he moves closer to your face.

"Well, we're notorious for occasionally breaching the rules. Why don't you give it a shot?" As you yanked his hand away from you and dashed to the door, you snapped back to reality.

Your heart ached as you turned back to see a befuddled Jake, and you cried out to him before closing the door.

“Jake, please stop. You and I both know I'll never be good enough for your family"

It wasn't the finest decision to leave him standing there, but it was necessary for your protection. You wouldn't want to jeopardize the next person in line.

Even if something might have worked with him, the risk was too high.

Everyone should be cautious when they're among the Milkasons, including the youngest.

It wasn't all bad being with the Mikaelsons. They were like a second family to you, despite the fact that you had only met them millennium before. It was strange to find them on that fateful day.

You never know when the all-powerful Originals will appear on your doorstep and request to look after their brother.

It seemed strange. Right?

"Calm down, brother; we'll find a place." We wouldn't be in this situation if you quit yelling and spreading mayhem all over the place."

Klaus ignores his brother and knocks on a cottage door, rolling his eyes at him.

"Oh, Elijah, just shut up; you're just trying to prove me wrong."

Elijah straightens himself as he hears light footsteps approaching the door and approaches the madam who opens it.

"Hello-, your mother bowed down to them and swiftly looked down."

Elijah takes a step in front of his sibling, who is rambling to your mother. Nothing is audible to you. Even so, you see a boy from behind the corner. He appears to be your age and is hidden behind the towering man.

As he moves from behind the man and toward the back, you snicker and watch him through the windows as he approaches the back door.

As you walk through it, you come face to face with the curious boy.

"Hello, my name is Jake; how about you?" He extends his hand, and you eagerly examine it.

"My name is y/n."  Do you want to join me in my game? "I don't have anyone to play with." As you drag him to your makeshift playhouse, you grasp his hand in yours and shake it hard.

You and he hit it off right away when you were outside. You didn't have many friends, so having someone to play house with was very entertaining at your young age

"Hey, come back," He said as he snatched your toy vehicle, making you and him giggle. "Give it back," you insist  

The two men and your mother were standing by the rear door, staring at you two. 

"I believe he will be a perfect fit. Don't worry, I'll do my best." Before summoning Jake over, Klaus and Elijah thanked your mother one again.

They said their goodbyes and walked away, and your memories were about to start.

---

You and Jake have been inseparable since then; it's always been you two against the world. Despite the fact that you and he come from two different worlds, you manage to make it work on occasion.

You stood far away from the commotion, watching the royal family squabble over royal matters. Jake had just been summoned, and you took a step back, not wanting to cause any disruption.

Despite the fact that they could clearly hear and see you, you continued to stand there.

"Brother, we wouldn't be in this stupid situation if it weren't for your inconvenient behavior once more."

Life is always tumultuous when you basically grow up with a group of originals. I don't think there has ever been a moment when someone wasn't screamed at, killed, or cursed.

It's always something with them.

Jake looks at you, rolling his eyes and making a variety of facial expressions. He loved his life except for this part.

His family 

Your mother took him in and practically raised him when you were younger. You never understood why his family always left him behind. It seems like just because his family was on the run at the time they couldn't or didn't have time to look after him.

As a result, when he reached adulthood, he was able to take his rightful place in the kingdom, and because your family took on that responsibility, you were granted permission to remain in the kingdom.

I mean, the enormous rooms and countless bathrooms never get old, noo. Even though everything appeared to be all in good humor, you felt a sinking feeling in your stomach.

Feeling as if you've never belonged there 

You were a vampire with most of their powers, but you lacked the "royal," and no matter how hard you tried, you could never fit into their mold.

You take one last look at the family, shake your head, and then walk away. You still have a lot of work ahead of you.

You arrive at your mother's room slowly and open it to see her folding laundry. As you approached her and sat down on her, her demeanor brightened.

"You do know you're pretty heavy, sweetie?"

"Mmh," you mutter under your breath as you roll away from her and to the ground. To pass the time, you take a shirt and begin folding it.

"Mom?"

As she continued to fold, she hummed a quiet yes.

"What made you decide to take on such a difficult duty as raising Prince Jake?" She let go of the blouse in her hand as she came to a halt and stared at you. She sighs as she takes a seat next to you and tells you about that fateful day.

Your mother was inside talking to the royal family as you played in the backyard with your new friend.

She dropped her head and gazed up at Elijah and Klaus, saying, "It is such an honor to have you both in my company."

Making their way over to the table, they all sat down and discussed ways of how you could best protect him.

"We don't know when or for how long we'll be on the run, but we're prepared to pay any charge if that time comes."

As Klaus' voice boomed over the table, she shook her head at them, her hand trembling.

"We have to get out of here; I sense them." Elijah gave his troubled brother a stern look and motioned him to leave. He was in a hurry and dashed out of the house.

Elijah reached into his back pocket and placed a bag of coins on the table. He swiftly thanked you after scouting the front entrance.

"I apologize for the inconvenience, but forgive our ill-timed intrusion. I'll make arrangements for payments to come from the castle every week. I'd like to thank you in advance for everything you've done for us."

Elijah nodded before sprinting into the woods in pursuit of his brother. She smiles as you take it all in and grab the bag of coins from the table.

"This is for you, love, Rest in peace, my dear."

As she make her way to the back, she calls over the two rowdy children and embrace them in a hug. As she looked at them both, they both smiled. You watched as she squatted down and spoke, holding them in her hands.

"So those two lovely gentlemen who just came by were members of the royal family, as you may know y/n, and they have entrusted us to watch and maintain track of this handsome little boy," Jake squirmed around as his face reddened as you pinched his cheek.

"For the time being, we'll do our best to make this the best time for him." Before embracing Jake in an embrace, your daughter cast a glance at him. As you gazed at the scene in front of you, a warm flush spread across your chest as you imagined the days you three would spend together..

"So it was difficult at the time, and due to your father's death and financial difficulties, it was only a matter of time before we were thrown out on the street. So, aside from the age-old law of not disobeying the royal family, it was now or never."

Your smile crept across your face as you shook your head up and down. Your mother was your role model, the woman who always wore a grin on her face and never let the world bring her down. She was daring, loving, and brave, and she did it all despite the fact that she had recently become a single mother. Moms have a lot of strength.

"Ahh, I see. Dad would be incredibly proud of you and all of your efforts."

She grinned as she threw her shirt in your direction.

"Ahh- stop"

*Knock Knock*

As you and your mother stood up to tell them to come in, a guard approached you both and communicated a message.

"You are required in the Prince chambers, Ms. Y/n." You bowed down and pecked your mum on the cheek before taking your place behind the guard.

---

You thanked the guard as you entered inside the familiar area after arriving at the enormous set of bronzed yet golden doors. When you peek inside, you notice him lying on the floor; as you carefully approached his side, you smiled and hovered over him.

"You asked for me, right? I'm going to leave if this isn't something significant." Jake gently rises, his head resting on his gigantic bed.

"It's nothing major, but I do have a request," he says. As you faced him, your eyes widened. As he turned to face you, he exuded a princely radiance. He leaned forward and lingered near your lips, his gaze fixed on you.

You leapt to your feet, terrified and intrigued, and shoved him back as you took a step back.

"Excuse my language, Jake, but what the hell was that?"  As he got up and approached you, he cocked his head to the side.

"My request?" He snatched your hands and held them in his. You'd never been caressed with such gentleness before. It was an unfamiliar sensation that made you feel warm but strange.

"This is not permitted, Your Majesty. This is not something I believe we should be doing, "You began to walk out of Jake's regal room, shaking your head.

A hand touches your shoulder as he turns you around, shuts the door behind you and gently pushes you up against the wall, hearing footsteps behind you.

"Don't act like you weren't eyeing me these past weeks. I know you want this just as much as I do y/n."

You smack his hands off of you and make your way to his large bed as you fall back, licking your lips.

"It's not like I don't want to do it. It's simply your royalty, and I'm not the Mikaelson type."

Jake snickers as he approaches you and raises you up by your hands, bringing you face to face with him. He touches your cheek in his palm and caresses it as he moves closer to your face.

"Well, we're notorious for occasionally breaking the rules. Why don't you give it a shot?" As you shoved his hand away from you and opened the door, you snapped back to reality.

Your heart ached as you turned back to see a befuddled Jake, and you cried out to him before closing the door.

"Jake, please stop. You and I both know I'll never be good enough for your family."

As you turned the corner and ran down the corridor, you left him stunned and in disarray. You didn't stop running until you were outdoors, far away from the castle, in the fabled garden.

As you fall on top of the fountain, the tears won't stop flowing. The day was slipping away as your sobs drew the attention of a curious woman. It wasn't until she sat next to you and spoke to you that you realized it.

"One of those days, huh?"

As she stretched her hand to you, you shrieked and fell back on your hands, frightened and terrified.

"Sorry for scaring you, hun; I didn't intend to. Haven't we all had awful days? My name is Davina, by the way." As she helped you up to the edge of the fountain, you took her hand in yours.

"Thanks for asking, today is one of these days." "So, may I ask what the problem is?" she asked, smiling as she moved closer to you.

"I miss my father and all that made up his eccentric character. He would know what to do." you sniffled as you glanced up at the girl with a welcome atmosphere.

She leapt to her feet and squealed, extending her hand "I enjoy helping others. In this area, I do have the upper hand. Allow me to demonstrate." You took her hand in yours after a brief moment of hesitation.

You had never expected a witch to be able to assist you, but you were willing to try. She waved to her neighbor across the street as she unlocked her door. As she arranged her stuff, she turned on the lamp and signaled for you to come sit at her table.

"Please take a seat; I won't bite. Maybe" You chuckled as you sat in the wooden chair, having forgotten that the witches lived in this neighborhood. It's not like they were exiled, but you hardly had time to check in on them and the rest of the group.

Everyone looked to be so comfortable in their own little world. Why couldn't you seem to fit in anywhere?

"All right, all right, we're ready; don't worry, it won't hurt."

"What might hur-'' As the knife quickly passed across your palm, you felt a searing feeling.

'What the hell, Davina,' you exclaimed." She chuckled as she put yout palm over a stone bowl and watched the blood drip into it.

"Sorry"

As the blood began to bubble up in the stone bowl, you pouted. As her hands swiveled around the bowl, Davine began to speak phrases you couldn't comprehend. As your eyes blinked quicker, your head began to spin.

"What's going on?" you exclaim. When she opened her eyes, you could see white orbs replacing her natural ones.

"We're ready."

---

You passed out as you receded back into your chair. Awoken Davina took your hand in hers and escorted you outside. This time, though, things were different; the day had turned to darkness, and everything appeared to be dissimilar. The town has turned completely around.

"Where are we?" As she turned to face you, she laughed.

"A better question is when are we. The spell I casted transported us to a time when I hoped you would learn something new and put things into perspective." For the 23rd time today, she began to tug you. Your heart began to drop as you arrived at your house, well, the one in the past, as you beamed at that. As you let her hand fall from yours, your nerves were heightened. As you took a step back, you began to feel panicked.

"Noo-nooo wait, how did you do this?" you say as you fall to your knees and cover your eyes. You could feel her hands on your back as she gently caressed it.

"I know, it's crazy, y/n. I just pulled some old memories back to life. I won't leave your side if you're afraid." As you saw the familiar image in front of you, you slowly pushed forward.

"Just don't leave." As you walked through the front door, you held her hand in yours. Everything seems so blurry at this point; you were just a small child, and your life was about to alter dramatically.

"Hey sweetie, go tell your father to go get some firewood. Okay?" As you crawled down off the stool and out the door, you smiled. As he turned to face you, your little feet found their way to your father's side.

"There's my little princess. What exactly do you need?" He massaged your backside as he hauled you onto his lap.

"Mommy said to get wood, and I wanna come too, daddy. May I, pretty please." He sighed as he looked at his watch, it was fairly dark, but the wood wasn't far away.

"Yes, you are welcome to join me. You're a big girl now. So you gotta help daddy out, okay?"

As you and Davina stood on the sidelines watching everyone make their way to the woodpile, you wished you had done more for him.

"All right, sweetie, you can carry one and I'll take care of the rest." You squealed as you clutched a small, almost insignificant log in your arms. As he placed a twig in your batch, he gazed down at his girl.

"Daddy, I think that's all I can carry." As he and you both began heading back to the home, you both laughed.

As the horror grew, you turned around and began crying on Davina's shoulder. You knew what was going to happen, but you couldn't bear the thought of having to go through it again. As Davina turned to face you, you felt her hands on your shoulders.

"You must see for yourself. It is the only option."

As tears flood down your cheeks, you slowly open your eyes and look at the scene.

"Thanks for helping daddy, sweetheart." "Mommy would be so proud of you." He kissed you on the head as he knelt down to you.

"You're welcome, Daddy. "Now that I'm a big girl, I can do huge things." He smiled as he took another glance around. " As your mouth enlarged, you dropped your logs. Your father's life vanished before your eyes in an instant.

As his body went slack, he fell to the ground, and you began to scream. As words slurred from your mouth, he began to shiver.

"What's the matter, Daddy?" HELP, MOMMY." As he held you in his hug, your small body slumped forward into your father's chest.

Your mother's footsteps were quick to arrive as she knelt down and took up your father, holding him in her arms.

"Honey, I'm right here," she says. A tear streamed down his cheek as he glanced up at his beautiful girls.

"Never forget that I love you all." And then, as he fell limp on your mother's lap, life left his eyes. As you gazed up at your mother, the screams resonated across the forest. Her eyes were welling up with tears.

You had no idea what was going on, but you knew something had changed.

"What's wrong with daddy, Mommy?" She slowly turns to you, pulling you closer to her breast and kissing you on the head with moist lips.

"He's gone, daddy's gone."

----

"NOo, noo stop this. I don't want to remember this." As Davina chases you down, shouting out to you, you begin to flee the scene. You come to a halt and turn to face her, yelling at her.

"Is this a joke or something? Your spells, you witches." As you fall to the ground grasping your arms and gently rock back and forth, tears begin to flow from your eyes.

Davina finally reaches you and attempts to calm you down by wrapping her arms over your shaking body. Your heart felt like it was racing at 100 miles per hour and you couldn't stop it. Everything seemed a little too real. You didn't want to think about it.

It's not that you didn't believe it; it's just that you didn't want that memory to resurface in your life.

"Just wait and listen to me, y/n. I know it's horrible, but something good came out of it." You push her away from you as you leap to your feet, tears streaming down your cheeks.

"How did something wonderful emerge from my father's death, who died in my arms? DAVINA, HOW DAVINA." Davina frowns as she walks around, taking your hand in hers and leading you somewhere.

"You weren't the only one whose loved one was taken from them." You look up at her and stare blankly at her as she comes to a halt at a familiar location.

"How did we end up in front of the castle?" As inaudible sounds flow from her mouth, she begins to swirl her hands around. You stand there in astonishment as you are whisked away to someone's private quarters.

You and Davina both walk into a room where a young boy is crying into the chest of someone. As you recovered consciousness, you noticed that you were surrounded by the Original family, or at least some of them.

"We couldn't get the remedy to her in time." You stood there watching Klaus thrash around as he collided with a vase that shattered on the ground.

You shifted closer to the young kid as you observed him as his brother shouted out to him, "Niklaus." As the rest of the family walked out in tears and small sniffles, you shifted closer to the young child.

Jake was there; you had no idea his mother had died. It had never been mentioned before, so you were taken aback.

The little boy crawled onto his mother's chest as he sobbed into her chest.

"Mommy, come back to me, please."

"I'm ready to leave right now." You took her hand in yours and gripped it strongly. You were prepared for anything the world could throw at you now that you had this new knowledge. Although it was painful to revisit that memory, you chose to use it to your advantage.

Your father raised a fighter, not a wimp. You wanted to honor his memory rather than mourn it, and I feel Jake should as well.

"This is for you, Dad,"

With that, you were transported back to reality, and you found yourself back where you started. You instantly stood up and exited her room.

"Hey, where are you going?" 

You came to a halt, raised your head, and shook your head, saying, "Acceptance."

She waved you off with a smile on her face. You brushed yourself off as you walked out of her house, mentally preparing yourself for the road ahead.

----

You felt more alive when you woke up in this house. Although the work was endless, you earned something greater than it all, A friend. Your mother groaned as you rolled over and landed flat against her backside.

"Mmmh, mom, I think it's time for you to get up." "Mmmh, five more minutes," she mumbles as she yawns on your shoulder. As your body moved up off the bed and towards the blinds, you giggled. You chuckled as you let the blinding light move into the room as you heard your mother's nasty shrieks.

"Sweetie, it's Saturday; it's a free day today. Go hang out with your friends." As you fall to the floor, she kicks your body off the bed. You giggle as you walk towards the shower, scoffing at her acts and mumbling words to her.

"Have you noticed, Mom, that I only have one friend?" You chuckle as you take a step into the shower and let the suds run down your body. As you wash slowly, your thoughts begin to wander.

You were reminded of your previous outburst with Jake as the water flowed over your body.

"Shit"

You felt the chilly air hiss against your body as you stepped out of the shower and hastily wrapped a towel over your body from the shelf. You noticed that the girl in the mirror had a different smile. She felt happier and more grateful.

You cried out to your mother as you opened the door and entered the frame.

"Yes, darling?"

"Get ready. I'd like to take you out for a picnic." She grinned and drew you in for a hug while cocking her head to the side.

"That would be fantastic. I'll take care of everything. You don't worry, okay?" You grinned as you shut the door behind her and returned to your self-pampering.

"It's going to be a terrific day today."

As you rested your head on your mother's shoulder, you held the picnic basket tightly in one hand and your mother's hand in the other. It was moments like these that made you long for your small family. You spread the blanket on the ground and placed the goods on it as you chuckled.

"My two lovely ladies are here."  When you raced towards your father, he stretched his arms open wide for you. Your mother took out her little camera and snapped a candid shot of you two.

"Don't forget about me," as she made her way over, your father pressed a kiss on her lips as you all sat down on the grass.

As you stumbled towards the basket, your little fingers pointed to it, saying, "Mommy, open". Before you saw the glorious fruit in front of you, a small pebble made its way in your path as you trip on it.

As a result, your father gracefully caught your small body in his grip while you giggled.

"My princess, you need to be more cautious. I can't have my pretty girl all beaten up."

You chuckled as you kissed his forehead and said, "OK, daddy, me be careful." You dashed over to your mother's side as he let you go, and she handed you a strawberry.

Your smile widened as you jumped up and did a small dance as you bit into it. Your parents stood there in astonishment as they watched you eat some more fruit.

"Is it good y/n?" You giggled as you ran around them, shaking your head up and down, as they simply watched their exuberant kid spout forth incoherent words. They smiled.

'I love you, honey,' she said. Light kisses on her temples were exchanged by your father while your mother rested her head on his lap.

"I will always love you."

Finally, with everything in place, you sniffle and wipe a stray tear from your eyes. Your mother immediately turned to you and rubbed your arm as she drew you closer to her.

"Hey, sweetheart, what's the matter?"

"I miss him," you said as you drew closer to her.

She smiled as she rocked you back and forth, kissing you on the head.

"I miss him as well. This brings back memories of our picnics with him." As you reached for the basket, you shook your head. Before removing the famed strawberries, you smiled. You chuckled as tears streamed down her cheeks after delivering them to your mother.

"Thanks for this, y/n." You were both crying as you rested your head in your mother's lap before entwining your hands.

"Anytime mom, but I do have to get going. I need to speak with someone, and I'd prefer to do so now before the situation escalates."

Before biting on a plump strawberry, she laughs and smirks.

"Tell Jake I said hi." "Wait, how did you know?" you start to stand up as you freeze in place.

As she pushes you toward the gate exit, she shakes her head at you. You blow a kiss to her, embarrassed and honestly surprised, as she yells at you.

"Use protection."

You cringe as you race towards the gate, not even looking back. You came upon a guard at the entrance who winked at you as you stared at him.

"Oh, Mark, shut up." After saluting you, he chuckles and returns to his former stance. Making your way to his chamber, you slowly knock as you hear his voice on the other side of the door.

As you slowly come in, you notice him at his desk, working, and you move your glance in his direction.

"Oh, look who it is?" As your lips fell, his eyes rolled at you.

"Hey," you say as you approach him and take a seat in one of his sofas. They felt like marshmallows, and you spent your days and some nights in them.

"Let me explain before you go all pouty and stirred up." He doesn't even move as he goes about his business. You kick his chair while rolling your eyes at him, eliciting a yelp from him.

"Fine, I'm listening, what?" he says, smiling as he scoots over to you and places his hand on his lap.

Not only did the close proximity make your heart race, but his position didn't help matters either.

"So, for starters, I'd like to apologize for my outburst. We both know if they're a problem we can freely discuss it. That's something that's been on my mind for a while and has now exploded, but it's not your fault. I just don't think I belong."

He approached you with a puzzled expression on his face as he moved forward. You look around, worried, as you cough.

"What?"

"What you just said made me pause because you and this family know how important you and your mother are to all of us, especially to me. I'm sorry you feel that way. My family can be difficult at times."

As you push past him and land on his colossal king-sized bed, you scoff "Yeah, tough how about, protective, vengeful, murderous, and hot-headed? That's a lot better." He laughs as he pushes you over and lays down next to you, a little closer this time.

"I can't argue with that, but you still love us. Right?"

"Yeah, I do love yo-" As you rolled over and smacked your hands in your face, your eyes widened.

"Yeah, go ahead and spill your secret y/n."

You kicked him as you rolled back on your side, facing him, rolling your eyes. As his hand landed on your leg, the newfound electricity between you two shifted.

Before his hand lightly moved up your leg, he grinned at you. He came to a halt and stared at you, waiting for a response. You softly shook your head as he continued as his hand came to rest on your chin.

"You must have been waiting a long time for this one, dude, ain't I so attractive," you chuckled before scooting closer to him. Before extending his delicate hands towards your lips, he reddened.

"Shh, also what happened yesterday? You said this wasn't right, didn't you?" As your desire overtook you, you became irritable.

"Oh, shut up and kiss me, people change Jake." you said as you drew him closer to you and your lips smashed together furiously. As he pushed you over, you both synced up quickly, and he was on top of you in no time.

"Oh how the tables have turned," says Jake. You had definitely changed as your body craved for his touch even more. As you threw your arms around his neck, pressing him closer to you, his lips never left yours.

His shirt was ripped off and dropped to the ground in a flash as he touched yours, hoping for a response.

"Yes, you may remove it." He stopped and peered at you, chuckling, as he slowly pulled it above your head. You subconsciously flew your hands to your chest, concealing your body.

This was the first time a boy, much less a Mikaelson, had seen you half-naked. Jake's mouth falls open as he rushes to unlatch your hands.

"Hey, don't hide your beauty, because I love each and every part." That made you grin as you approached him and kissed him on the lips.

"You haven't even asked me to be your girlfriend yet, and already you're behaving cringy. Maybe this was a mistake." As you begin to rise, you smirk. Jake grabs you and pins you down before you can even get a foot off the bed.

"Wait- stop, wait, don't go" You chuckle as he kisses your frigid body while you squirm under his touch.

"Ahhh, please stop tickling me...ahh." He comes to a halt in his actions to look at you for a little moment.

"I can't believe we've reached the point where we've gone from friends to lovers. It feels like some teenage drama."

(Am I right readers, don't we all love a trope like this... I know I do.)

This isn't a book; it's real life, and can we please get back to making love? Jake, the readers are waiting." He continues to laugh as he gently removes your bra as he completes the last clip.

He didn't have time to marvel at the beauty in front of him as you placed your hand on his hardening spot. This elicited a tiny moan as he swirled his lips around your soft nips.

"Mmmh, wow, don't stop, that feels great." You quickly remove your jeans and underwear while his tongue works its magic, placing his hand within your folds.

"This is my first time; wow, I'm not sure whether I'm doing it correctly." Wow!" As a moan explodes from your throat, you laugh.

"Stop playing me; you're making me laugh. I'll show you the way." He finds a groove in your folds as he pushes faster and deeper, striking a familiar area, while your eyelids roll back.

"AHHHH, Jake, right there."  As your back arches off the bed, thrusting deeper into his finger, your body reacts perfectly.

A knock on the door is heard just as your high reaches you, and you both pause and look behind you.

"Prince Jake, you have been summoned to the royal room to receive a message." Before Jake speaks to him, you both remain silent for a few moments.

"Thank you very much; I'll be out for a minute."

Before he turns to face you, you cover your lips with your hand. Before pulling away, he bends forward and kisses you on the forehead.

"You're not going to finish me off, are you? You can't stick and dip; it doesn't work like that." You start arguing with him before he bends in and kisses your folds.

"I have to get going, and if I'm late, I'm toast. You did mention that my family is what now-" You shake your head as you push him off your body and start putting your clothing on.

Another knock is heard as the door slowly begins to open and a familiar face appears. Jake rushes to conceal your half-naked body as Elijah walks in.

As you lowered your head and snickered, it felt like a million pairs of eyes were on you. Jake covers your body with a blanket before pulling up his pants and walking towards the door.

He flashes a big grin at Elijah before crossing his arms and stepping closer to him. "My dear brother, keep your indiscretions to yourself," he yanked his handkerchief from his pocket before handing it to Jake. Another familiar figure arrived in front of the entrance as he saw the chaos unfold before his eyes.

Kol appeared behind Elijah before chuckling as he crossed his arms, "well, well, well looks like someone having fun." He gave you a wave as he walked out of the room, smiling to himself. You turned away and mentally slapped yourself as soon as he said it.

"We'll be out in a second. Please visit us again." Before turning around, Jake slammed the door shut. While yelling under his breath, his reddened face brought you your garments.

"Please forgive them; they enjoy barging in here unannounced. I'm sorry if they saw anything." You're hauled up by him before you can secure the button on your jeans. He kissed your lips as he assisted you in putting on your shirt.

"Okay, I'm definitely not going to get tired of those." You kiss his lips once more as you pull his shirt closer to you.

"Mmh, your lips are soft. As you approach the door, you take Jake's hands in yours before gently pushing it open.

“We will definitely finish this later.” As he plants a kiss on your hand, he smirks. Before enlarging your gaze, you licked your lips.

You moan under your breath, "Oh, I can't wait," as Jake discreetly lays his palm over your mouth.

“You’re already a mess for me, aren't you?” He comes to a halt in front of the door and cups your face in his hands, kissing your hungry lips.

“As much as I would love to kiss you,” you say as you rest your palm on his chest and giggle. "Let's hurry up because I don't want them to come back and dagger you." He took your hand in his and led you to the throne room.

---

Jake strides over to his family's gathering and excuses himself, letting go of your hand. You took a step back and stood next to Mark, who was looking at you with a curious expression.

"So...how did it go?" Then, after a brief scan of the area, you struck him across the shoulder with your fist.

"Aren't you guards supposed to be quiet? You do know we all have vamp hearing." After chuckling at your remark, he returned to his job.

Besides Jake and I, Mark was the only person around our age with whom we both became close as we basically all grew up in the castle. Although being the only female in the group, they made up for it.

We all had our own ways of having fun in those late evenings, so there were many nights of loud laughter and sticky fingers. Those were the days, but now Jake had his royal duties, they were a thing of the past. Everyone seems to be set in their ways.

When your name was called, you were swiftly brought out of your thoughts. They didn't seem to know you were there, but you knew it was true when Mark bumped your arm.

"Uh.. yes. I'm here, your majesty."

Walking over to the gathering, you stood next to Jake as you heard his booming voice; still to this day, you could never get over that.

"So, y/n, you and your family have been so kind to not only the Mikaelson family, but the entire kingdom. And we thank you for your service, but we've heard rumors that my father is planning to travel to our country to assassinate our future heir."

You exhale, your body trembling as you clasp your hands behind your back. You weren't old enough to recall certain details of the attacks.

This was how horrible it was 

As he gazed down at you and winked at you, he entwined his fingers behind your back and whispered, "It's going to be okay."

As he stepped up from his throne, Klaus began again, "So, once again, I'd like you to protect and guard him while we're out; you've had plenty of training for this, so I'm confident you'll do fine. Finally, you are responsible for whatever happens to him."

He was now directly in front of your eyes as he kept a wary eye on your flimsy frame.

Thanks for the extra pressure. 

Jake gave him a gentle push back as he walked in front of you and coughed "Okay, don't scare her. We've got a lot of security in place, and I'm an original here who can take care of myself. I don't want to put anyone at risk, especially y/n."

As he acknowledged you specifically, it warmed your heart. He squeezed your hand not only to show that he was paying attention, but also to make you feel comfortable and secure.

Klaus grinned as he walked away from you, both of you speaking in a condescending manner.

"Our father has not and will not stop if we are alive in the past centuries, and now that you are of legal age, he is coming to take advantage of that opportunity. Our father's reign is far from done. After all, it's more for y/n than for you. Take a look at her. Do you believe she'll be able to defend YOU?" 

Your heart stung as you gasped in pain as you yanked your hands from his grasp. As you took a step forward, tears welled up in your eyes. You coughed as you drew Klaus' attention, enraged and honestly taken aback.

"No one has the right to treat me like an outsider just because I'm not a member of this family. Instead of making trouble and fleeing, why not stay and fight like a brother once in a while?I've done more for Jake than YOU could possibly do.

You turned and walked away from the family, tears streaming down your cheeks. A hand grabbed your wrist as you flung it off of you. Before exiting the room, Elijah caught Klaus just as he was ready to explode with wrath.

"This meeting is over. After 30 minutes, we'll be on our way." As you raced away from Jake, he called your name.

You heard shouts of anger from Jake as he yelled at Klaus.

However, he has never been able to see what you and your family went through to safeguard his prized heir. They were going to get a guard if they wanted one, and a good one at that.

You vowed to prove to them, and particularly to Klaus, that you belonged here.

You got to a familiar area and pounded on the door, enraged, as she approached the door.

You hurried by her and sat down, your hand outstretched as you glared angrily at her. "Oh hey—," she said. As she sat down gently across from you, she rubbed her chin and arched her brows.

"Okay, no hello or nothing. That's awesome, what's up?"

"I'd like to see him; please, show him to me right now." She chuckled, as if she'd read your mind. You wanted to prove yourself to someone. And he was the only one who had a clear idea of what needed to be done.

She sliced your hand and poured the liquid into the stone bowl as she spoke. You sat up straight and became ready. As soon as you closed your eyes, you were transported somewhere else.

---

Davine touched you on the shoulder as you sat up straight and followed her instructions by moving forward.

"You just have a few minutes, so work quickly. This is a difficult spell that becomes weaker by the second."

You stood up, shook your head, and walked over to the man perched precariously on the ledge, his feet dangling dangerously in the air. After a few minutes of sitting next to him, you began to become worked up.

"I was curious as to when you planned to pay me a visit. Princess, how are you?" As tears welled up in your eyes, you turned around in astonishment. He looked exactly the same as he did that night. His black slacks matched his stained white collared shirt.

He was perfect, still 

"I miss you, dad." Upon entering his embrace and taking in his smell, he extended his arms and welcomed you in. The lingering woody smell filled your nostril as you held onto him tighter.

"Hey, love. Whatever you're going through right now, I have complete faith in your ability to get through it. I didn't raise a wimp; instead, I raised a powerful warrior. Don't allow them get to the point where they're controlling your thoughts. What is it that I usually say?"

"Life struggles are necessary for growth."

You continued his sentence with the words "life struggles are necessary for growth." He pecked your head and held on for a little bit more.

"Y/n we have to go; the spell is slipping."

When your father saw you, he got to his feet and stood up. His hand went to your face as he noticed all your new features. He seemed intent on studying you, as if he wanted to make up for the time he had lost by not seeing you.

"I'm very proud of the women you've grown to be. I'm so proud of you, y/n. Remember that and know that I am always here for you." As a tear rolled down his cheek, he pointed to your chest.

You gave him one more hug as you raised your eyes to see his face.

"I love you, dad."

"Princess, you have my undying love. Now go out there and confront the world. Fighting for you always."

Davine held your hand as she guided you back to the present moment in time. You observed his disappearance as you bid him farewell by waving.

As soon as you regained consciousness, you hugged Davine and thanked her for her time. Afterwards, you left.

"Don't worry, y/n you got it. I've had my fair share of the Mikaelson family, so don't fret. I'm here for you."

You took a deep breath and then made your way back to the castle, smiling as you did so.

You already knew who you were on the inside; you didn't need an all-powerful family to confirm it for you. You only needed a little nudge to remember who you truly were on the inside.

The princess in your father's eyes.

"Thanks, Dad, this one for you."

[colorfulbard]

Hopelessly devoted

Summary: Things between you and Levi got weird ever since you saved him.

Pairing: Levi x Reader

Warnings: Fluff and some angst(?)

Words: 4.6K

A/N: I got this idea from a tiktok a while ago, can’t remember the user. Yes, I know the title is very cliche, I thought it was cute.

~~~

The uncomfortable mix of sweat and blood was a common feeling most scouts got used to, but not you. To you, it was probably always going to feel bothersome like an itch you couldn't scratch. Not like anyone really blames you, even if the blood evaporated the feeling of it somehow always remained. With an annoyed groan, you grabbed the handkerchief from your pocket and attempted to wipe excess blood that remained along with sweet off your brow.

You sighed at the sight of your now dirty handkerchief and leaned back against the tree. It wasn't a good idea, but you decided to close your eyes even if just for a moment. Ever since the destruction of wall Maria, there had been no expeditions outside the actual walls. At the moment, all there was to do was figure out ways to plug up the holes and exterminate titans skulking around.

Those extermination missions have proven to be tiring considering the way almost felt yourself falling asleep. You shook off the sleep and opened your eyes to look down at the handkerchief again. There was quite a bit of blood on it now thanks to you. You stowed it away back into your pocket with a chuckle. He wasn't going to be too pleased to see the way you dirtied it.

"Y/N!"

You automatically stood at the sound of your name. Nearing your line of sight, you recognized someone from Levi's squad. You squinted to try and make out their appearance. Your eyes returned to their normal state when you recognized it to be Petra, making her way towards you at an alarming speed.

Your brows furrowed as she landed in front of you with a worried expression. "Is everything alright?" You asked, not giving her a chance to speak. It shouldn't be too much of a cause for concern considering Petra was always one to be a tad nervous, but something felt different this time.

After taking a quick once over of her, you noticed the edge of her cape was wrinkled. Most likely because she had been wringing it between her fingers. That was something you recognized to be one of her nervous habits. However, you'd never seen her do that during a mission. It was clear that whatever was happening was probably serious.

You placed a hand on her shoulder and gave her a comforting look as if to will her into talking. She seemed to appreciate it and took in a deep breath before speaking, "we got separated from the captain and can't find him anywhere," she said, choking up on her words.

You rose a brow at her. Levi was a smart man, he was most likely fine. Besides squads get separated on missions all the time, you were even separated from your own at the moment. Miche was usually never concerned when you did either way.

Petra should have enough faith in her captain to know that by now. "I don't understand..." You took a moment to think, "why is this a cause for concern?" You inquired.

"Before the expedition, we distracted him and I don't think he ever got the chance to do maintenance on his gear..." She trailed off as her words got caught in her throat. The edge of her cape was getting more wrinkled as the seconds passed.

"So, you think there's a chance it could've malfunctioned?" You asked. Your eyes couldn't help but widen in surprise. Even after being apart of the scouts for years, it seemed like there was a first for everything. Even if it had to do with someone as meticulous as Levi.

"I'm not sure," she responded, "I can't remember the last time he did maintenance on it." Her gaze shifted down to the ground as if to try and remember.

You nodded, "alright go inform the commander and Mike of the situation. I'll go and begin searching-" you grabbed your handgrip- "after that, join your squad and continue the search," you instructed.

Petra nodded, "we already sent Eld to inform the commander," she assured. She was about to pull her trigger until she turned back to you, "thank you, Y/N."

You gave her a reassuring smile and squeezed her shoulder. "No problem and try not to worry," you said, "I'm sure he's fine, we just have to be quick." With that said, you pulled your trigger and jumped down once the anchor sunk itself into a tree.

Once your horse was in your sight, you reeled back your anchor and landed next to it. The landing wasn't your best, you stumbled a bit, but there wasn't time to think about that now. You quickly mounted your horse and kicked your feet back to coerce them into running.

It felt like you had stopped breathing the moment you were able to pull your thoughts together. In hopes of saving time, you hadn't even bothered to let yourself properly breathe. You'd have to thank Petra later for telling you, you knew she didn't have to, but it was still nice that she thought of you at that moment.

After taking a deep breath to expel the nerves slowly forming in your gut, you willed your horse to go faster. Clearly, the words you had said to Petra weren't currently working on you. It wasn't as if you had no faith in Levi. It was more so that you had no hope that fate would be kind to you at this moment.

Taking deep breaths wasn't helping all the intrusive thoughts coming up. You couldn't even blink properly without horrific images flashing behind your eyelids. You tried to shake them off and pushed forward. This was Levi you were thinking about, he had to be okay, right?

~

How troublesome could this expedition get? Not only did his gear malfunction, leading him to slam his body into a tree, but he also had a rough landing causing his leg to break. At least, he assumed it was broken, even if he could walk a little. Not that it mattered at the moment considering there was nothing around.

Even with all these odds stacked against him, Levi was never one to give up so easily. Which willed him into attempting to use his gear about five more times to no avail. He groaned under his breath in frustration, "damn it..." He grumbled.

As much he would like to put the blame on an inanimate object, there was no point. There was no one to blame, but himself. Levi had been apart of the scouts for so long, you'd think maintenance would be second nature to him. He should've been more attentive, even if his squad was hammering with dumb questions. So much for that being one of his more exceptional qualities.

Levi supposed he should count his blessings. So far, everything was quiet. That calming thought lasted for about five seconds before he heard a loud groan in the distance. His eyes widened to see a titan slowly making its way towards him. "Just my luck," he cursed at himself.

No point in sitting around like a wounded, helpless animal. Levi knew he still had a chance to survive, even if it was slim. He took his blades to prepare to hopefully kill it. The titan's eyes narrowed in on him at the sound of his blades being unsheathed.

"Shit, so much for thinking it was already looking at me." He knew it was a curse to think this, but could it get any worse?

As if the titan could comprehend what he was thinking, it began crawling towards him at an alarming speed. Levi grit his teeth as it grew closer and closer. "It just had to be abnormal, didn't it?" He asked himself.

Levi looked down at his legs and his posture slacked, no point in running. He wouldn't get very far and would have to deal with wondering when the ugly fucker would get it over with every second. That meant the only thing left to do was try and fight back. He gripped his blades and thoughts of why he was fighting came to mind.

The first thing was him being known as humanity's strongest, meaning he had a duty. No telling how everyone would react knowing their strongest soldier died. The next, everyone he had grown close to in the scouts. Just imagining their devasted faces brought a sour taste to his mouth. Lastly, you.

Levi was usually never one to get sentimental in moments like this, but he couldn't help it. If there was a chance these were his last moments, it'd be nice to be thinking of you. All of those private moments together just simply enjoying one another's presence. You truly were good to him, always assuring him that those moments were enough and that there was never a need for an actual date.

You knew how awkward he can be when it came to public displays of affection and never gave him shit for it. You truly were a blessing in his eyes. Too bad the last time he would ever see that blessing was in his memories.

Once the ugly thing came close enough, he reared his arm back to prepare to take out its eyes. However, it seemed like there was no point in even trying. The titan didn't even get a chance to come within six feet f him before it went limp.

"Levi!"

There it was, the familiar voice of his savior. You stood from your knelt position at the titan's neck with a wide smile at the sight of him. "You're okay!" You exclaimed in relief as you slid off the titan's body. Without even giving him a single second to process your being there, you wrapped your arms around him.

You sighed as you felt him squished against you. "I'm so glad," you whispered in his ear, "I thought I was going to be too late."

Levi brought his arms around you, not even fathoming how you were here. Call him a sap, but you almost looked like a guardian angel in his eyes when you peeked over that titan's head. His grip on you became tighter, happy to feel your familiar shape in his arms. He could gladly stay forever like this, had it not been for this fucked up leg. A groan came from him when he readjusted his footing.

You immediately pulled away at the sound and inspected him. "What happened?" You asked, worried.

He gestured to his leg which was limp. "Gear malfunctioned and I had a bad landing because of it," he explained, "but I'll be fine."

You furrowed your brows, something you always did when you thought he was lying about something. Levi poked a finger between your brows to fix them. "Don't look at me like that-" he began to unconsciously lean into you- "I'm fine. Just need to get back to headquarters."

You nodded and knelt down in front of him. The silence between you two was thick as he stared two holes into your back. "You're kidding, right?" He asked rhetorically. Even he had to admit to himself being carried on someone's back was slightly embarrassing, it made him feel like a toddler.

"It's either this or I can carry you in my arms like a blushing bride," you responded cheekily.

Levi swore he could feel you smirking even if he couldn't see your face. Nonetheless, he relented, it was better than dying at least. Getting comfortable on your back was easier said than done, his shitty leg definitely wasn't helping. Eventually, he got the hang of it and tapped your shoulder.

You gave a nod and stood up, albeit a little shaky, but you managed. Even after getting used to the weight of your own gear, pairing another along with Levi proved to be a challenge. You tried not to let it show, but a pained grunt managed to slip past your lips anyway.

Levi tensed on your back at the sound you made. "Alright let's try something else." He made an attempt to get off, but you tightened your grip.

"No way, I'm fine," you said, your voice rasping. You managed to grasp your handgrip and placed your finger on the trigger, "hold on, it's gonna be an unstable ride."

Levi relented at the sight of your determination and wrapped his arms around your neck. He braced himself as you immediately took off at the feeling of his arms. A few hiccups occurred during your flight, but you managed to land close to your horse without a permanent scratch.

You took a breather once Levi let himself off your back. You bent yourself back to get rid of the ache that was forming. Your little break didn't last long when you spotted Levi limping to your horse. You quickly grabbed an arm and put it over your shoulder to aid him.

"You know, I'm starting to think all that tea is giving you a little extra weight," you teased in an attempt to make light of the situation. You knew he had to be feeling useless at the moment. It always happened whenever he got hurt.

The only response you received was a pinch to your side causing you to squeak. "Ouch..." You whined while trying to soothe it by rubbing it.

"That's what you get for teasing your superior."

You gawked at him. "Wow, you're pulling out the superior card now?" You questioned, "Would you rather I tease you in other ways?" You wiggled your brows at him. He looked away from you and pinched you again.

"Shut up."

~

Things had been a little odd ever since that day and you were positive you were the only one who noticed. Levi was still out of commission, but that didn't stop him from fulfilling other duties. The only reason why it bothered you is that he was currently using crutches to move around. You were, however, put at ease when you were told his injury was only a hairline fracture.

All of that wasn't the biggest issue though. The issue at hand was Levi was practically hovering over you as if you were the one injured. He never made it obvious in fear of being called out by comrades. You, of course, didn't miss the way he followed you everywhere until he was called away to do something important.

His hovering only got worse whenever you were asked to assist in Hange's titan experiments. There was also the issue of him getting weird headaches at random times of the day. You usually caught him suffering from them when you returned from different errands. You tried asking what caused it, but not even Levi could figure it out.

After long deliberation, you decided it might be a good idea to get out for a little while. Some time away from everything scout related might be good for him. So, you dragged him along with you to Trost. Fortunately, it was one of your days off so there was no need to convince Erwin to give you one anyway.

Before Levi could bother resisting you had already forced him to mount your horse. You had to come up with a creative solution for his crutch considering it'd be uncomfortable for him to hold onto, plus you were going to make him hold your basket anyway. You managed to tie the crutch onto the saddle and sat behind him to hold onto him. You knew he wasn't entirely opposed to the idea considering he could've shoved you off him, even if he was injured. You smiled when he leaned back against you to relax if only for a moment.

The ride didn't take too long and you quickly dismounted your horse when you reached some stables. You hesitantly held out your arms to assist Levi but judging by the look on his face, he'd much rather fall. You held your arms up in mock surrender and let him dismount on his own, a little clumsily.

The marketplace was a little more crowded than normal. You glanced at Levi to see if he was okay, it seemed like he didn't mind. You linked your arm with his free one and smiled. It wasn't notable on his face, but you could tell by the way he gripped your arm that he was content.

Even if it was crowded, it was nice to see it more lively. After wall Maria was breached in Shinganshina, everyone in Trost had been put on edge. But now, everything seems to have returned to some form of normalcy. Not to mention, more people meant more merchants.

"Should we go see if we can find some new tea leaves?" You asked absentmindedly. Your eyes went from stall to stall, not even paying attention to where you were walking.

Levi hummed. "With all these merchants around there's a good chance we might find something new," he surmised, pulling you closer so you didn't bump into anyone.

You nodded, "well then, we better start looking."

There was so much to see you couldn't help yourself. You barely ever had a chance to walk through markets thanks to the survey corps. It was fun walking from stall to stall with Levi on your arm. It almost made you feel like an old married couple with no worries whatsoever. The thought brought a big smile to your lips.

You glanced at Levi who was busy observing various tea leaves. You knew your life with him wouldn't change with a ring on your finger, but you couldn't help thinking about what it would be like. You giggled as you thought being referred to as Mrs. Ackerman.

"Oi, what are you laughing at?"

You tensed, "uh, nothing important," you said in between nervous giggles.

He rose a brow at you but shrugged it off. Fortunately, his seriousness with tea leaves made him forget of your silliness. You knew he'd be here for a little while and proposed that you would go ahead while he took a moment here. He seemed hesitant at first but nodded nonetheless.

As you walked ahead, the stalls got more scarce. "Oh well," you mumbled to yourself. They were a lot more exciting near the front, which made sense. Too bad there wasn't anything more exciting or rare back here.

You took a final look around and decided to walk back to where Levi was. The sun was beginning to set, so it was best that you went back to headquarters now anyway. Before you could even take another step, something grabbed your basket and tugged you back.

You grunted and landed back against something hard. You glanced behind you and saw a man standing there, his hand grasping your basket. You rose a brow, "I'm sorry, did you need something?" You asked, slapping his hand away.

He yelped in response and frowned at you, "is that any way to treat a gentleman?" He asked.

"Well, when a so-called gentleman grabs a lady without her permission, yes," you responded, crossing your arms.

He chuckled at your words, "how cute-" he grabbed your wrist- "don't you know that ladies should use kinder words when addressing a man." You could feel his grip was tightening.

"I could've used cruder words than that, sir," you sneered, tugging your wrist free.

Your choice of words only did more damage and excited him. "Oh, how crude?" He asked while laying a hand at your waist, "wanna tell me?"

~

To Levi, it felt like no time had passed as he stood at the same stand looking over various teas. Looked like coming to Trost wasn't such a waste after all. He managed to find tea leaves he'd never tried and his favorite. Now all that was left to do was locate you and go home.

The longer he walked the more he began to wonder how far you could've gotten. He knew you had a tendency to wander, but he never thought you would've gotten this far. Levi practically made it to the end of the market when he overheard your voice.

"I'll tell you when titans fly!"

Levi blinked as he processed the words you spoke, that's definitely you. He rose a brow before he caught sight of you. You were currently fighting off a man who had a tight grip on you. He immediately frowned and got ready to toss his crutch into the man's direction. He stopped his actions when you kneed him in the crotch and elbowed his back when he knelt down from the pain.

You huffed and straightened your clothes. You continued to frown until you spotted Levi standing a couple of feet away. The frown melted away into a smile and you waved at him. "Levi, are you all done?" You asked, walking up to him and taking his arm again.

Levi couldn't help but blink at you again. You rose a brow at his silence, clearly wondering what was wrong. "You just kicked him in the balls without a second thought..." His words trailed off, unsure of what else to say.

You chuckled, your brow still raised. "Of course, what else was I supposed to do?" You asked rhetorically, "now, come on. Let's go home." Your grip on his arm became tighter as you began to walk.

Before Levi could even take a single step, he flinched and gripped his head. That same familiar ache came back and once again, he had no idea what the cause of it was. These headaches were becoming a nuisance and he didn't know how much more he could take.

He could feel you staring at him, even with his eyes shut tight. He just knew your brows were furrowed, concern shown on your features.

"Levi, are you alright?" You asked, laying a hand on his head.

All he could do was nod in response. The pain was still making his head feel like it was throbbing, but he didn't want to continue making you worried. So, he pretended everything was fine and peeled his eyes open. He noticed you let out a sigh of relief when he did.

Everything would be fine as soon the both of you returned to headquarters. Fortunately, everything felt like a quick blur while walking back towards the horse and riding back to headquarters.

The moment the horse stopped he didn't bother waiting for you to help him and jumped down on his own. Levi ignored the small twinge of pain he felt and walked to his room as if nothing happened. He hadn't even seen the concerned look on your face as he did.

Later on, at night, you thought you would be able to speak with him. As soon as you had gotten to your shared room earlier, he had holed himself up in the bedroom. You figured he wanted to be left alone for a little bit based on the headache he had earlier. But, now, you assumed he had enough time to himself and walked in with tea in hand. You thought you might get him to relax a bit with some.

"Levi?" You asked softly, shutting the door behind you. "Are you alright?"

The only response was a small grumble. You sighed and walked over to his side of the bed where he laid. You watched as he perked up a bit at the new smell, it was the new tea leaves he had bought. With a small smile, you placed the cup on the nightstand and sat next to him.

"Levi, talk to me." You placed a hand on his leg, "I'm worried. You've been in here since we got back in silence."

Speaking of, the silence was suffocating. He wasn't looking at you, you couldn't tell if he refused to or if the only way to soothe the headache was to cover his eyes. You sighed again and moved your hand from his leg to get up from the bed.

Before you could fully get up his hand caught yours, stopping your actions. You looked at him, waiting for him to speak.

"I'm sorry..." He sighed while squeezing your hand. You rose a brow at his apology and sat back down. You remained quiet and waited for him to explain.

Levi's grip on your hand tightened as you watched him grit his teeth. You knew he was trying to find the right words to say. You moved your hand around to rub your thumb over his knuckles to soothe him. He seemed to slowly relax with the motions as he stopped gritting his teeth and became less tense.

The silence continued dragging on, so you decided to give him a gentle nudge to persuade him into talking. "For?" You asked.

Levi took in a deep breath and let it out slowly. He was nervous about what he had to say and you had no idea why. His grip on your hand tightened again. "For not being able to protect you," he admitted, "I'm so useless like this." He gestured to his leg.

Your eyes widened at his words. It took a moment for you to get over the initial shock, but once you did you grabbed the arm that covered his eyes to move it away. You don't know if it was moonlight streaming in through the crack in the curtains or your eyes playing tricks on you, but it looked like there were tears in Levi's eyes.

You ignored it for now and placed your hands on his cheeks. You called his name forcing him to look into your eyes. "You're not useless, please don't say that-" you began stroking his cheek with your thumb- "you never say that to me when I get injured, so, don't say that about yourself."

You lowered your forehead to rest against his. "You don't have to worry about me, I can take care of myself," you whispered. "Don't you have faith that I'm strong enough to take care of myself?" You asked.

Levi let in a shark intake of breath as he heard your words. He began to sit up causing you to move away from him. "Of course I do," he replied, "I just... Can't help it." His voice was strained as if it was painful to even say.

"I want to protect you no matter what." He was staring down at his lap. "But when I can't-" he gestured to his injury- "it hurts..." He laid a hand on his forehead.

Your brows furrowed. He was being so cryptic, it was hard to tell what he meant. You couldn't help but ask, "what hurts? Why?" You laid a hand on his cheek to make him look into your eyes.

Levi didn't answer as he stared into your concerned eyes. Based on the inner turmoil you saw in his own eyes, it was safe to say that he couldn't even begin to explain the feeling. You shook your head as a way to tell him that he didn't have to explain. A shadow cast over his eyes when you did.

You let your hand fall to your side and dropped your gaze to your lap. You didn't want to leave him alone with his thoughts tonight, but you weren't sure of what to do next. Fortunately, an answer came unexpectedly.

Levi leaned forward and rested his head against your chest, his hands were on your waist. You welcomed the unexpected affection but froze for a brief moment. Most of the time, Levi was never one to initiate intimate moments like this, but it always made you happy when he did.

You brought a hand to the top of his head when he spoke.

"I'm just hopelessly devoted to you."

You said nothing and continued cradling him close to you with no intention of letting him go. There was no way of knowing if either of you would ever find out what was wrong, but you knew you would find out together.

[underatedcharactersunite]

The Iron Queen

Summary - The Iron Queen is a legend, a myth even. However, Ivar the Boneless wants to prove her existance. When he does, it's almost as if Fate brings them together, so the two of them can become legendary together....

Pairing - Ivar the Boneless x Female Reader 

WordCount - 2, 919 

Warnings - Angst, mentions of upcoming battles.  

For @youbloodymadgenius 1K Writing Challenge. Congratulations!                                                          »»————-　♔　————-««

Before the Iron Queen became to be, she was a legendary warrior Princess. She was a ruthless and tactful warrior in every sense of the word. There was no weapon she couldn't master, sword, shield, bow and arrow, axe or spear. She could use it all and use them well. In many minds, she was the perfect warrior, a combination of talent and intelligence. Y/N was loved among the warriors alike.

However, that all changed when Y/N became the Iron Queen of Mountmead. Unlike the other Kings, Y/N's Father final wish was to abolish their eldest law. From this day forth, until the end of time, whether the firstborn child is a son or daughter, they would be heir to the throne. Y/N's Father adapted the law to give his only daughter and child the throne.

This angered the surrounding Kings and Lords. Their ideologies were simple. a woman was not fit to rule. A woman was far too emotional to make rational decisions. They were unfit to lead armies and clueless in battle strategy, so the death of the King of Mountmead brought the potential to expand their lands despite the crowing of a new Queen. They had no respect or loyalty to her. They saw Y/N as a weak and passive woman, but they didn't realise how wrong they were.

Within the first several months of her coronation, Y/N and her army encountered six different battles. In every battle, Y/N was there leading her army to defeat the enemies that threatened her people. She refused to be seen as weak.

These battles created and enforced the Queen. She was to be cool and calculating, skilled and intellectual. Y/N made certain she surrounded herself with her closest and loyal advisors. Ser Favian was the head of her Queensguard. He'd also been the head of her Father's Kingsguard. A man who had been there from the day her Father was coronated. Secondly, there was Ser Conadus, head of her army and key battle Strategist. Ser Conadus was also her loyal confidant. After all, he'd been there for every major milestone in her life. There was no circumstance or situation Y/N couldn't speak to Ser Conadus about.

As Ferocious as Y/N was on the battlefield, she still maintained kindness in her heart. She often walked the streets, discussing the issues that were arising and how they could be solved. Y/N was able to provide reassurance to her people. Y/N made time in her day as frequently as possible to see people, to converse with traders. She kept a brave face for them all.

Hidden behind that brave face laid the devasting truth. Life as her people knew it was threatened. The surrounding Lords and Kings made a collective decision to bring their armies together to create an army of the thousands. While the Great Army of Mountmead was no easy defeat. Their numbers were no-where near as large. Y/N didn't know how to solve their issues. Repeatedly, she reached out to offer a truce to the other Lords and Kings, but it was no luck. They all desired Mountmead for themselves and they believed they were going to take it from the Iron Queen. They shared no resources and implemented laws in their Kingdoms. If any person was caught trading with the Iron Queen or any member of Mountmead, they were executed without question. This restricted the Iron Queen to land. No boats, to sail in search of allies. They were stuck. All of them in mortal danger.

Unbeknownst, to Y/N someone, had been looking for her. As fate would have it, the idea of a legendary warrior Princess turned Queen had become a legendary story. It had spread through many Kingdoms and lands with several different variations. Most believed these tales of the Iron Queen to be nothing more than that, tales.

Except one, Ivar the Boneless believed different. Ivar believed the Iron Queen, Y/N of Mountmead, existed and, he was determined to find her. In the beginning, Ivar had no idea where to begin his search, so he sent scouts to the North, South, East and West. When they returned, they came up empty. However, Ivar refused to give in. Ivar proceeded to continue to send his Scouts out each time, further and in different directions. Each time they came up without sight of the Iron Queen.

This continued until one trip the scouts returned to Kattegat with news of the discovery. His latest scouting mission had been a success. With this new information, Ivar knew hr needed to act quickly. Instructing the scouts to gather his brothers into the Great Hall, he sat down and waited for them to arrive. Ivar waited and waited for his brothers when they finally walked in.

"How do I always arrive before you?" Ivar questioned as all of his brothers took their seats.

"Because you decided to meet us here Ivar." Ubbe retorted as he paid attention to his youngest brother.

"Ivar, why have you gathered us here?" Bjorn questioned.

"Because I have found the Iron Queen."

"Your lying!" Sigurd yelled as Ivar smirked. Ivar didn't mind being underestimated. Sigurd was only jealous, he hadn't been able to do it.

"Why would I lie, Sigurd? My scouts have drawn a map to her Kingdom, and I wish to go visit her because she is in terrible danger?"

"Is she as beautiful as they say she is?" Hvitserk questioned. All of his brothers turned to look at him.

"Ivar informs us the Iron Queen is in danger, and that is the first question you have, Hvitserk." Sigurd responds as Hvitserk shrugs."

"A man has to know these things, Sigurd."

"Yes, the Iron Queen is more beautiful than she's described as. However, if someone doesn't help her, then no-one is going to see her beauty in person."

"Why is she in danger? Ubbe questioned as he poured a horn of mead, taking a large sip.

"The surrounding Lords and Kings do not respect her as Queen. When they're from, they believe women are unable to lead and participate in the battle. Although Y/N has been in more battles than most of the surrounding Kings and Lords."

"You say she's been in many battles, so why is she in danger?"

"Because Ubbe, the surrounding Lords and Kings have grouped to create one large army. According to the scouts, the Iron Queen has a decent sized army, but not one large enough to defeat them."

"What's in it for us?" Why should we help a stranger?"

"Isn't it obvious, Bjorn? We go to the Iron Queen, offer ourselves as an ally in exchange for the first selection of any the lands we conquer."

"That seems to be a fair trade. Whatever lands we take can be used as a new settlement and a base for further exploration. I say we go."

"Thank you Hvitserk. Anyone else?"

"I am coming with you," Sigurd responds to Ivar's surprise.

"I will come just to keep an eye on all three of you. Perhaps we should extend the offer to Harald and Halfdan. They could be useful to us."

"That is a good idea, Ubbe. What says you, Bjorn?"

"I shall stay here, make sure Kattegat remains running smoothly. If the God's desire us to meet, it shall be."

That night the sons of Ragnar began to create plans to set sail to Mountmead and the Iron Queen. They set sail with a small part of their army, with the plan that more men would follow days later. Help was coming to the Iron Queen and she didn't even know it.

                                           »»————-　♔　————-««

Y/n had been in meetings all morning, they'd already attempted to plan out their defence attacks, but there was always a weak spot in their armour. There was no use, they simply needed more men. Men they didn't have.

"My Queen, we will figure it out. They haven't beaten us yet." One of the small council commented as Y/N examined the map once more.

"What we need is a miracle. Unfortunately, they don't happen often and early enough" It was as if someone was listening to her desires as Ser Favian came bursting through the door.

"My Queen, men have arrived on the shore. They hold no banner or sail. They don't appear to be apart of any of the surrounding threats."

"Lord Pollack, will you continue to lead this meeting in my absence. Ser Conadus will you accompany me to the Thron, Ser Favian will you gather some of the Queensguard to watch the remaining men. Bring the leaders to the throne room."

"Yes, of course, My Queen." They nodded and bowed respectfully as Y/N already stepped away from the meeting with Ser Conadus flanked her as she feared the worst.

"Nicholas, I don't think I can deal with any further setbacks. We're already at war on land, we can't compete with threats from the ocean as well."

"Relax my dear. ;Perhaps this is a beneficial meeting. You need to keep calm, just because we're at war doesn't mean everyone's a threat. Remember, your lessons." As the large, solid oak doors opened, someone announced the Iron Queen as she raised her head high, removing any emotion in her mind and gaze.

Although Y/N's attention was already directed towards one of the men in front of her. All of the men had knelt except one."

"I told you to kneel." Ser Favian attempted to force the man onto his knees, but Y/N noticed the glimmer of the buckle her pace quickened.

"Ser Favian, can you not see the restraints on his legs . Since when did we treat our guests so poorly." Ser Favian backed away immediately kneeling.

"I'm sorry, forgive Ser Favian it was a simple misunderstanding." Noticing a chair in the corner, Y/N walked over and picked up the chair and brought it up towards the man, placing it behind him.

That's when Y/N caught the first proper glimpse of the man. The piercing blue eyes, the muscular arms, his smirk etched onto his face as he observed your expression scan all over him. You hadn't glanced at his brothers, Harald or Halfdan or Floki. Just him.

Ivar was just as mesmerised by her as she was him. Y/N was just as beautiful as his scouts had told him she was. She was both assertive and confident. Ivar wanted to know her and no-one was going to stop him from getting what he know desired the most.

"It is a pleasure to meet you, My Queen. My name is Ivar the Boneless, these are my brothers, as well as Harald Finehair, Halfdan the Black and Floki. We are here to offer our services." Ivar confidently took ahold of Y/N's hand without, hesitating brought her knuckles up and brushed his lips against them. Ivar did not miss the way her eyes widened in shock, momentarily before her composure regained.

"Y/N lowered her head as she stepped back towards the steps to her throne once she was seated, she called for everyone to raise as she once more looked towards Ivar the Boneless.

"You wish to offer your services to me, and the Kingdom of Mountmead, why?"

"I believe together we could be an unstoppable force. We have all heard of your battles and the current threat that you have surrounding you. My Queen, we have the numbers you need." Tuning to Ser Conadus, Y/N examined his gaze as she attempted to read his expression.

"What would you receive in return for your men?"

"First choice of any land that is gained in the result of war." Truth be told, Y/N was beginning to run out of strategic options and perhaps Ivar and the rest of them was her only hope.

"I accept your terms Ivar the Boneless. Ser Favian will see that the rest of the men are given a warm place to sleep. Ser Conadus, would you see that Ivar the Boneless and the rest of his party settle in well."

"Wait my Queen, I have a gift for you." One of Ivar's brothers, called someone forward as they laid a box onto the ground, standing Y/N walked down the stairs as two of Y/N's guard lifted the lid. In the box, it appeared to be a shield with bright colours painted on it.

"Thank you-"

"Hvitserk, my Queen." Smiling, Y/N could already tell that Hvitserk that was the most mischievous out of all of the brothers.

"Thank you Hvitserk." Once more, another brother stepped forward, this time he insisted on carrying the box towards the Iron Queen. Once the lid was lifted it, it revealed a strange looking instrument.

“I an teach you to play it, if you’d like my Queen.” 

“Thank you, that would be lovely-” 

“Sigurd, my Queen.” 

“Thank you, Sigurd.” 

“My Queen, I have one last gift for you. Unfortunately, it does not fit through the castle walls.” Ivar’s voice broke Y/N’s concentration and soon the two of them were accompanied by Ser Conadus and Floki. As Y/N continued to walk silently, Y/N kept pace with Ivar as the two appeared to be heading to the docks. 

“Your Grace, why are people so threatened by a woman?” Floki questioned as Y/N turned towards Floki. 

“In these parts, a woman is believed to be unable to rule. Women are unable to rule because they believe they are unable to think clearly or learn the ways of War. According to them, they shouldn’t have to fight to take my Kingdom, I should bow and give it to them,” 

“We can’t let that happened now can we. Don’t worry Iron Wueen, we will bring them to their knees.” The four of them stepped onto the docks, Y/N glanced around them, wondering what it could be. 

“Turn around my Queen.” Turning around, there was a boat. It was unlike any boat Y/N had seen before stepping closer, was her gift on the boat? 

“What do you think my Queen?” Ivar questioned as Y/N was still unsure what Ivar had given her. Then it dawned on her. 

“The boat, it’s mine. I couldn’t possibly except it.” 

“Why not? The other boat builders refuse to build you a boat so Floki build you a boat. It could be one of many perhaps, if you so desired.” 

“I wouldn’t know the first thing about sailing or running  a boat.” 

“Don’t worry. we can show you, your Grace/” Floki replied as the wind blew while the flag gushed in the wind. 

“Thank you, both of you. You have no idea how important and appreciated this is for me and my Kingdom.” 

“You are more than welcome. I believe this is a start to a beautiful relationship.” 

                                »»————-　♔　————-««

The next few days, were manic, as new voices gave new insight and strategies. Their culture was vastly different from Y/N’s, they’re war and battle strategies gave Y/N a unique way of seeing the up and coming battle. 

One thing that Y/N noticed immediately was the high intensity of the sons of Ragnar sibling rivalry, specifically between Ivar and Sigurd.  

Each time she began a discussion with either one of them, she could practically feel the glares at the back of her head. It only proved her point, they were always trying to compete with one another. 

One morning in particular, Y/N had broken her fast early so she could take a peaceful morning walk, before chaos ensured. 

What should have been a peaceful walk turned into Sigurd following her around discussing how terrible his younger brother was/ Y/N kept quiet while she listened to Sigurd go on about how vicious his brother was. According to Sigurd, Ivar was a monster who had no right to be in her company. Sigurd told her to listen to his words carefully.

Y/N had listened to his words closely, except she’d drawn a completely different conclusion. It was clear to Y/N that Ivar did have his fair share of problems, he was often angry and nearly always had a sombre attitude. Except Y/N was able to dig through the initial layer and realise how much more there was to him. 

While Y/N had appreciated Sigurd’s advice, she’d informed him that she could make her own judgement on Ivar and the rest of them. When her and Sigurd parted ways, he warned her once more. 

                                »»————-　♔　————-««

Later that night as Y.N headed to her chambers, tired from yet another day of back to back small council meetings and war strategy meetings. Y/N had grown tired and in desperate need of sleep. 

Y/N should have known that nothing was ever that simple as she was walking past Ivar’s room, she heard a commotion. Barging through the door, she became quickly aware that Ivar was one the floor in some form of distress.” 

“Are you okay?” 

“I don’t need your help!” Ivar snapped, however, the Iron Queen knelt onto the ground beside him.” 

“Okay, then I shall sit with you then.” 

“Wouldn’t you rather spend time with my brother, Sigurd” Y/N rolled her eyes sitting down on the floor, she stretched her legs so they were diagonally with each other. 

“I gather you never heard the end of the conversation. If you had you would have heard myself inform Sigurd that I am capable of making my own decisions. For sometime now Ivar you had my curiosity but now you have my attention” Ivar smirked, this conversation was about to get interesting. 

[oh-for-fic-sake]

Your Perfect

Masterlist

Summary: Alphas were strong and fierce, the ultimate protective dominant companion. Omegas were sweet loyal and fertile submissive. Alphas were huge. Omegas were tiny. Or so they say, but there were always exceptions to the rule.

Warnings: A/B/O, slight Angst, Fluff, mentions Of Breeding, Mentions Of Heat Cycles, RPF

A/M: so wanted to do a different take on the typical A/B/O a little role reversal~ I hope you all enjoy!

Taglist: in reblogs

You froze on the spot scenting the air. They were here. Your omega. It probably wasn't the best first impression onset, freezing in the middle of the gangway head up alert scenting, searching with both your nose and eyes the many small males walking past.

With a deep inhale you began the hunt. Instincts pulling at you frantically as the spiced delectable scent moved. Your omega had caught a whiff of you on the air and was trying to avoid you. They where panicked weaving about the crowd trying to escape the alpha that was on their trail. With a little luck your size would throw them if they did look around for you as they tried escaping.

To look at you wouldn't have been thought to be alpha, a thick supple woman all of five foot four. Normally female alphas were tall Amazonian muscular goddesses! But you, broke the mould. Like a hammer to a landmine.

You chased the scent ducking and diving around the many busy bodies, abandoning where you were meant to be in favour of locating your mate. It didn't take long to track them as in a frantic rush they lead you out of the throngs of people to the more quiet area of set, the trailers.

They were trying to run to their nest, it was their safety. A beta security guard tried to stop you, but with a snap of your jaws and viscous snarl they stumbled back. Noting the bright red ring outlining your pupil separating the black from your colourful iris. The sure sign of an alpha chaseing their mate.

Once you growled enough making the beta submit you looked forward again and continued, stalking towards your omega. The scent was muffled so they'd reached their nest, not that it would do any good, he was yours and you'd find him.

You slowly stepped down the row of trailers nose in the air sniffing around each one mentally crossing off each one. Then froze. There. The dark grey on your left, with the twitching blind. You walked passed slowly scouting for any danger, needing to inspect your new territory but kept an eye on your omegas nest.

Then once finished your walk round you came to a stop. You could feel it, anxiety and panic radiating from the nest. It made you falter and whine low in your throat. He was scared? Terrified you could smell shame on the air! In that moment all you wanted to do was scoop him up and hold him, make him see there was nothing to be ashamed or afraid of, you'd never hurt him. Only love and protect him.

You stepped up to the door and knocked slowly, your stomach twisting as you heard the footsteps inside and deep fearful pants, laboured breaths loud enough to be heard through the door.

"Omega. Its okay, I wont- I'm in control I wont hurt you" you started speaking low and calmly despite being torn up inside, you wanted to comfort him, stop him from becoming overwhelmed. You heard a small whimper from the other side and another wave of acidic fear hit you making you scrunch your nose in distaste.

"I promise I wouldn't have followed if I wasn't sure, please. Open the door? I just want to see you, I wont do anything if you don't want me too...Please" you pleaded pressing a hand to the cool metal of the bus. You wanted to see him but you wont break in, even if it was probably for the best. Many omegas panic until they meet their alphas properly, face to face. And with the both of you working onset there was only soo much you could take before hunting him down properly like all the horror stories that make the headlines.

"I can sense this is hard for you- your embarrassed you shouldn't be, I wont judge you... I wont many males are omega and its perfectly fine" There was a small shuffle and a deep shaky breath before the door handle was clicked and the door was inched open.

"Y-you promise?" Was the weak reply that tugged on your heart strings. Your need to comfort him when he sounded so upset and defeated. Lonely and scared.  You tipped your head to the side peering through the crack in the door. You understood, much like a female alpha was an anomaly male omegas were too, mostly bullied growing up because of being omega. There were less accepted the female alpha. A female alpha could be sexualized as 'dominatix' and 'domme'. Omega males were victims of slurrs such as 'sissy boy' 'nancy boy'.

"I swear, wont you let me in? We can just talk, or snuggle if you like-whatever you want to do nothing more" you added trying to hide the desperation in your voice. You held your breath as your omega sniffled quietly and whined once more. You could scent the desperation on him too, he wanted to seek you out but was frightened, unsure of himself.

After a few moments a large hand appeared  pressing the door open and holding a hand out to you palm up finally giving into his need for reassurance. You let out a sigh of relief and quickly help his hand shuddering as the contact sent goosbumps up your arm. You took a moment to admire the way his hand locked with yours so perfectly, despite dwarfing yours. With a gentle tug you were being pulled into his nest slowly.

You entered the bus eyes eagerly seeking out your omega. You paused seeing him. At first you didn't even click who he was you just revelled in his presence. The feeling of finally being here with your mate, having him before you after a lifetime of guessing just who fate had instore for you. You were surprised people had joked your mate would be tiny if you were the alpha! But they were wrong. He was huge both wide and tall, muscular and.

"Perfect... Your perfect" you uttered as he blushed ducking his head down trying to hide it. His other hand twiddling with his shirt nervously. You climbed the steps letting the door close behind you finally standing on the same level as your stunning mate.

"You... you mean it? I-I know I'm not...a typical omega my size and strength it of an alpha and its weird, you can refuse me if you want-" he began his anxiety rising with each word the pungent scent making the air thick and unpleasant. You hushed him quickly speaking over him.

"Didn't I just say your perfect Henry... your perfect just the way you are" you said still marvelling at your omega. You didn't really care who he was. You were far to enamoured with the realisation that he was your omega. He was like you, unique and wonderful. Exactly how he was meant to be... apart from those hormones mixed in with the scent of suppressant's. You leant forward sniffing and frowned momentarily.

"Hormones? You've been trying to hide?" You were right. He hung his head feeling deflated before nodding to you ashamed.

"I... Sorry its... People that find out are... They ridicule me I hate it" he said slowly it made your heart clench. It angered you. Just like everything else in life if you didn't fit the social norms you were pressured to change it. He had been taking hormonal supplements to try and force himself to be alpha. Tried to cover up his true presentation to fit in. You understood he was large and muscular and a perfect embodiment of the 'perfect male' handsome strong features, the deep voice and charming confident personality. Yet he was an omega. Its probably why he felt the need to push himself so much. He was over compensating.

"Don't worry about them I'm here now" you uttered moving pressing a hand to his cheek making him look at you. He gapsed when he locked eyes feeling the bond begin to form already just with the simplest of gestures.

"Do you trust me?" You asked slowly still trying to be mindful of how skittish he seemed. He nodded unable to deny the feeling of trust and warmth. You felt like home and calm in a way he never felt before.

"Good boy... i promise to look after you my sweet omega" you cooed letting a low rumble of your purr into your words easing his fears. You could taste him on your tongue the air around you becoming more relaxed and welcoming the anxiety lifting making you breath a sigh of relief. He whined before dipping his head to you pressing his forehead to your shoulder prompting you to encircle him with a bear hug. He shuddered before sniffling returning the hug whimpering as sobs wracked his body uttering 'alpha' over and over holding you tighter with each call.

You blinked away your own tears you swayed while him. It was overwhelming for him. You dread to think what hell he has been through just because he is omega, especially in the business she was in. But you ere proud, so very proud of him to navigate his career and become so successful despite being an omega? He hadn't let it hold him back like many others who hid in fear of being found out. You rubbed his back and tipped your head pressing kisses to his neck that bared to you.

"Your alright.... your alright I've got you now, I've got you omega come one lets go lay down hmm? We can go and snuggle for a while if you'd like?" you hummed  to him pressing kiss after kiss along the side of his throat. As much as you wanted to mark him you resisted, the last thing you need to do while he is in this fragile state is breed him. Mate him and tie him to you for god knows how long. Plus the suppressants would make it doubly hard, your body would tighten and lock around him despite him not being able to truly breed you. It could cause problems for the both of you. It would be best to wait until next months cycle hit and he let him fall into heat.

"Y-yeah, with Kal too?" He uttered still sniffing you, drawing deep breaths in trying to drown in your scent. You grinned against his neck nuzzling him rubbing your own scent onto his skin.

"Of course with Kal too love" you replied with a grin pulling back a little to eye the akita who was tilting his fluffy head at you trying to understand what was happening.

"Come on off to bed" you said prodding his tummy playfully giggling as he squirmed chuckling and grinning whislt pawing at his eyes trying to wipe away his lingering tears.

"O-okay... we wont?" You shook your head as he trailed off cheeks glowing from the mere mention of mating.

"As much as I would love to claim and mate you, we will wait until your heat, et those suppressants and hormone supplements out of your system~" you reassured him whist ushering him deeper into the bus towards the bedroom area. He chuckled nervously before turning calling Kal to the bedroom as he eagerly scrabbled onto it, wanting nothing more then to curl up and cuddle with you.

You released a deep breath watching as he and the bear got comfy. Your omegas huge blue eyes watching you as you settled down yourself and pulled him to rest his head on your chest. One hand twisted in His hair, the other letting Kal sniff you before stroking him. You grinned closing your eyes finally feeling at peace. After a long lonely life wondering you'd found your boys. And your home.