#Aura the Darkling

[phantom-fleetways]

Thoughts or tidbits about spite perhaps?

Only what you can share though! Don't feel too pressured to spoil styff

I just think he's pretty neat so I'd like to learn what I can about him ^w^

Sure!!

Nothing said here is gonna be canon, and that's mostly cuz this is all scrapped stuff.

Working on Invidia is... Hard. Genuinely speaking. So I have a lot of scrapped content for it that was used to build up bits about his character!

Some reference notes about THIS design!

During this time while I was working on Spite, I had basically polished out a concept for Invidia. Mostly that Invidia was the name of what is basically Moebius during this period of development. I was reusing what little I understood or Moebius from Archie to craft this early version of the AU. At this point, only 6 main characters had been established.

Originally, in these early concepts Spite was more outwardly jealous and scheming.

Another important thing is that in these early concepts, Spite made Scourge. And Scourge made Spite. I frankly feel like I will revisit these concepts, but not in the way I originally planned.

Spite, as it stands now, hasn't changed all that much from my first crack at characterization. But he's not nearly as outwardly prone to acts of Jealousy as he used to be. He's a bit more secure in his relationship with Scourge. Mostly cuz he is the ONLY person Scourge truly gives a fuck about on a genuine level.

Hopefully, when more of Invidia is finished and I actually get their part of the story properly hammered out I can share even more and even start working on more shitposts for them. For now though, I'll stick to sharing small things.

[sonic-fankid-showdown]

Poll 3, Round 1.

About Geode: (by @oddogoblino) In an attempt to impress The Eggman, a mad yet inexperienced scientist stole Gerald Robotnik's blueprints of Project SHADOW and tried to improve on it to make the definitive true ultimate lifeform to defeat Sonic once and for all. To add insult to injury, the eggsupporter had chosen to use some of Sonic's DNA along with Shadow's, that'd been found from battle aftermaths, to make his creation. Before their prototype was even finished though, GUN had found out about Project REMASTERED. Rouge told Shadow about it before GUN could do a raid though so he could handle this personal matter how he found fit. Well, Shadow went and destroyed the lab of course, though he wasn't prepared to see just how early in development the project was. He was expecting something full grown but all he found was the prototype barely in the infant phase in its development. Being unable to just kill a baby or adopt this all powerful baby off to an unsuspecting family (and also being unknowingly motivated by Black Arms instincts to keep the species alive), Shadow decided to take the little hoglet in as his own. At first, Shadow was too caught up in caring for Geode off instinct to think about telling anyone about him, but just a few months in and Geode already began showing his defects in creation and Shadow turned to Sonic and Tails for help. Now, Geode has inhibitor rings to keep his chaos energy at a stable level and has been growing up comfortably from home to home, adventure to adventure. Geode himself though, by the time he's 16, is a very quiet, introverted, affectionate, emotional, compassionate, and sort of awkward character. He's not good at social but he cares about others and is very forgiving when hes wronged and has decent emotional intelligence. He's a "be mindful of how you use the water if the cup's half empty" kinda thinker. He's very curious on just about anything new he discovers. Others can think of him as being a bit simple minded sometimes though. People tend to overwhelm him easily so he finds most comfort in spending time with Chao. If he's not on a mission, he's a bit of a clumsy puppy of a guy. But, if Shadow puts 2 thoughts into something and Sonic puts none, then Geode only puts 1 thought into everything he does. He's a pacifist who can't bring himself to hurt living beings, he can fight nonsentient robots just fine but otherwise he prefers to trap any living enemies in whatever he can get his hands on. He's a stealth type and has a habit of stealing artifacts and other magical things he deems too powerful to let be taken even by his dads. He can see chaos auras 24/7 to a heightened sense, being able to see the chaos energy even in plants along with being able to see the chaos energy left behind from those deceased (aka, ghosts). He's faster than Sonic but he's weaker than Shadow. He loves the world around him very dearly, having Sonic's passion for life/the world and Shadow's determination to fight for himself. Geode also has picked up mechanics as a small hobby though he's not very passionate about it.

About Brutus: (by @susahnasomething) A genetically enhanced clone of Shadow (mixed with Sonic's DNA) Brutus was made and raised by Eclipse the Darkling, who hoped to bring back the black arms by making a bunch of super powerful clones. This was not good for her. Eventually the heroes defeated Eclipse, and Shadow rescued her (not her clone siblings sadly, cause SOMEONE DECIDED THAT THERE SHALL ONLY BE ONE) and was then raised by sonadow. Brutus is a dark and conceited girl, reminding everyone of past shadow. Who firmly believes she cannot be killed nor destroyed, so she tends to throw herself into danger. (shes the ultimate lifeform nothing can hurt her!!) . . . totally!

[marvelmusing]

Aleksander Morozova NSFW Alphabet

(Featuring Fem!Reader)

A/N: there are so many different versions of Aleksander in my head, so for this alphabet I’ve decided to base it on having an established relationship with S1!Aleksander (who has some extra Book!Darkling features).

[18+ content under the cut]

My Masterlist

A = Aftercare (what they’re like after sex)

He enjoys soaking up the moment, letting the pleasure linger as you both come down from your highs. Whether he’s draped over the foot of the bed, or lying with you tucked against his chest, no matter what, his eyes are always on you, drinking in the sight of your pleasure flushed skin and the rise and fall of your chest as you attempt to settle your breathing. Slowly, he will trace his fingers over each and every inch of you, assessing for any damage and admiring your body.

B = Body part (their favourite body part of theirs and also their partner’s)

He loves your hands. When you cradle his face between them he all but melts into a puddle at your feet, ready to worship you. He likes to watch your hands whenever you undress him, whether that be a delicate teasing as you slowly unclasp his belt or a frantic tug at his shirt, he loves it all.

He knows you love his neck and nothing makes him shiver like feeling your mouth against the hollow of his throat before you nose your way upwards, pressing kisses along his thundering pulse until you reach his jawline, taking the edge of it between your teeth.

C = Cum (anything to do with cum basically)

He likes making a mess of you. If you don’t enjoy it as much, then he will save this indulgence for only special occasions. If you also enjoy it, then he will thoroughly delight in smearing his release over your chest, down your stomach, and particularly over your thighs. After that, he will watch you lick his hands and fingers clean.

D = Dirty Secret (pretty self explanatory, a dirty secret of theirs)

He is a bit of an exhibitionist. But just for subtle things. It’s not about people seeing you during intimate moments, it’s more that he enjoys other people seeing a glimpse of how disheveled and blissful he can make you, which acts as a casual reminder to everyone that you’re his.

He likes it when messengers call on him during the morning, and they see you wearing one of his shirts with kiss swollen lips and a certain glow about you. He likes it when the servants find his clothes in your room, or yours in his. He likes it when people do their best to ignore the marks down your throat and over your collarbones.

E = Experience (how experienced are they? do they know what they’re doing?)

Aleksander knows what he’s doing, but his experience has only been gained because he’s lived so long. He loses his virginity in his mid-twenties because he’s never settled in one place long enough to feel comfortable being intimate.

At that point in his life, he avoids sleeping with Grisha because the skin to skin contact would reveal that he is an amplifier (putting himself in danger) and he doesn’t trust otkazatsya enough to be comfortable around them.

As the centuries go on, and he gains a more elevated status, he finds himself able to enjoy a few partners, mostly to take his mind off everything else. There are a few that he genuinely cares for, despite his best efforts since he knows he will outlive them.

He’s very perceptive, so he quickly learns what you like and commits it to memory. His commanding aura also gives you an impression of his experience.

F = Favourite Position (this goes without saying)

Anything that keeps you close and allows him to run his hands all over your body. He likes sitting with his back against the headboard, you in his lap while he grasps at your hips, guiding you with each move of your hips.

When you’re on your back, he usually ends up pinning your legs into whatever position he desires with his shadows so that his hands are free to roam over your breasts, rolling your nipples between his fingers as well as cupping your face or gripping your throat as he kisses you.

G = Goofy (are they more serious in the moment, or are they humorous, etc)

Mostly serious during the act but he can definitely be soft and playful at times. He’s more teasing during these moments. Sometimes there’s a flirtatious back and forth between the two of you during the lead up, before you decide to abandon the teasing and take what you want from each other.

H = Hair (how well groomed are they, does the carpet match the drapes, etc)

He keeps himself pretty well maintained. There’s a small trace of hair over his lower stomach that begins just above his waistband and trails downwards into a small bundle of dark curls.

I = Intimacy (how are they during the moment, romantic aspect)

Aleksander is putting all of his focus on you, ensuring that you’re comfortable and enjoying yourself. In day to day life, he’s well attuned to your needs and that’s no different during sex.

To Aleksander, real intimacy is the combination of physical touch and trust. He trusts that your touch will not hurt him, and vice versa. You know what his hands are capable of, but you trust him to touch you. As a result, every touch been the two of you is intimate, but especially during something sexual.

J = Jack Off (masturbation headcanon)

Before the two of you were together, he would find himself fantasising about you, though it took him a long time give in and actually think about you whilst touching himself.

The first time he did it, he locked his doors and settled under the covers of his bed with flushed cheeks at the thought of what he was doing. It took a matter of minutes, thinking of your hand on his cock or your face between his thighs, before he neared his climax.

As his mind drifted, distracted by the pleasure, he thought of thrusting into your cunt, of how tight and wet you would be, so perfect. In seconds, he spilled over his hand and his sheets, blinking in surprise at the speed of his climax before the bliss settled into his bones.

From that moment onwards, he knew he had to have you, at least once in his life.

K = Kink (one or more of their kinks)

Loves overstimulating you, partially because it ties into making a mess of you, but also because of the trust you place in him to know your limits. He loves giving you total pleasure, wringing countless orgasms from your body, until you’re writhing beneath him and he needs to use his shadows to pin you down so that he can continue.

He likes putting his hand around your throat, not necessarily to choke you but just to remind you that he’s the one in control, also he likes directing your attention - telling you to look at his face or watch your reflection if you’re facing the mirror opposite his bed.

Mirror sex with Aleksander is quite an intense experience, with him edging you while ensuring that you watch yourself become more and more desperate. Throughout this, he murmurs in your ear about how beautiful you are, and everything else he adores about you. The whole thing usually brings tears to your eyes and Aleksander makes sure to look after you attentively for the rest of the night.

He also enjoys cockwarming. Having you as close as physically possible, constantly feeling the point where the two of you are connected as he runs his hands over your body. If you’re facing him then he can kiss you leisurely until you’re breathless and then he can move downwards over your throat and along your shoulders.

L = Location (favourite places to do the do)

The comfort of your private suite is Aleksander’s favourite place, usually the bed, although you've tried plenty of other spots - the bath, the sofa, his desk, even the rug by the fireplace.

Of course, that isn’t to say he won’t drag you into a small nook somewhere in the palace, shielding you both from sight with his shadows. But that means you have to be quiet, and Aleksander loves hearing you, so the two of you prefer somewhere private.

M = Motivation (what turns them on, gets them going)

Kissing you always unlocks something inside him, making his hands wander as he seeks more of you. If your hands are in his hair, or if your fingers curl around his neck, Aleksander is fully prepared to fuck.

Seeing you wearing black - his colour - makes him want to steal you away for himself and show you off to everyone simultaneously. When the two of you look like a matching pair, he preens the whole time, and can’t help but think of how beautiful you look naked, grasping at black bed sheets.

Saying his name is a guaranteed way of getting his attention and depending on the tone you use can have him inside you almost instantly. He doesn’t allow many people to know his name and hearing you say it always sends a thrill through him.

N = No (something they wouldn’t do, turn offs)

Fearplay and bloodplay. He’s seen too much fear and blood from people he cares about to find it enjoyable. He won’t mind chasing you or trying to capture you, as long as you’re enthusiastic about it, as well as it being playful and lighthearted.

He doesn’t mind being a little mean to you (in a teasing manner) but Aleksander has to be stern and demanding every day, so it’s nice to put that persona away when he’s with you. He knows he’s capable of being cruel and would never want to say something that has the potential to hurt you, even when you both know deep down that he would never mean it.

Aleksander doesn’t like being on the receiving side of bondage. Having his hands tied up or being restrained in any way brings back bad memories for him and makes him feel out of control.

O = Oral (preference in giving or receiving, skill, etc)

As much as he loves the sight of you kneeling in front of him with your face between his thighs and your mouth on his cock, he could spend hours with his tongue lapping against your cunt.

He has actually spent hours, suckling your clit, mouth moving leisurely over your entrance to swallow down your wetness, moaning lowly.

He loves when you grasp at his hair, nails scraping lightly over his scalp as you thread your fingers through his dark locks, tender with him despite the pleasure that has you crying out for him.

P = Pace (are they fast and rough? Slow and sensual? etc)

Aleksander enjoys going slow, taking his time to remove every coherent thought from your mind.

But there’s also times when you can feel the tension in his body and you urge him to go harder, assuring him that you can handle the worst of him - the parts that want to leave marks on you, claiming you as his. Then he’s rough, holding onto you like you might slip away if he doesn’t grip tight enough.

Q = Quickie (their opinions on quickies rather than proper sex, how often, etc)

Not very often. Sometimes when he’s particularly stressed you visit him between meetings, and either kneel under his desk to take his cock into your mouth or staddle his lap to encourage him inside you.

He prefers to take his time with you, and his infamous patience and restraint means that he rarely indulges in something quick when he can just wait until he has you for as long as he wants.

R = Risk (are they game to experiment, do they take risks, etc)

Aleksander is always willing to talk things through with you about something you want to try. He has his own ideas and fantasies, which he enjoys explaining to you casually while you sit in his lap and try not to show him how needy his words are making you.

S = Stamina (how many rounds can they go for, how long do they last?)

It depends. Some nights, when you’ve both had a tiring day, one round is enough to have you both collapsing into one another’s arms and sleeping once you’ve cleaned yourselves up.

Other nights, when you can’t get enough of one another, there’s countless rounds with the occasional small break between where you simply touch each other lovingly. By the end of the night, your entire body is light with pleasure and you sink into a blissful sleep with Aleksander’s arms around you.

T = Toy (do they own toys? do they use them? on a partner or themselves?)

He might have a few plugs with a black gem at the base to make you needy and remind you of who you belong to. But he prefers to touch you himself, liking the contact and feeling firsthand how your body responds to him.

If he wants to feign detachment from your pleasure, he’ll make you grind against his pillow or a cushion, so he can sit nearby, ignoring you whining his name and pretending to read just to rile you up.

U = Unfair (how much they like to tease)

Aleksander is ridiculously patient, it’s a skill he has mastered over the years, so if he wants to make you beg he is more than capable of such a thing.

He knows your body better than his own. He knows exactly what to do to make you succumb to pleasure. He knows how to drive every thought from your mind until the only word you’re capable of saying is his name.

If he wants to tease, you can guarantee that you will be a dripping mess before he even touches you.

V = Volume (How loud they are, what sounds they make)

Sometimes he quietens himself, an old habit that is hard for him to shake, although you know all the spots that give him the most pleasure, deploying your lips and touch which allows him to relax enough to hardly realise what sounds he’s making. Each moan and curse and cry of your name is a victory that thrums through your body.

Aleksander is a smooth talker and could most definitely make you cum just by sitting you in his lap and murmuring sweet nothings and filthy promises to you. But when he’s inside you, his perfectly crafted compliments and remarks are dialed up to a hundred.

Aleksander doesn’t swear that often, the only exception is when you’re fucking or when he’s trying to rile you up. His Old Ravkan accent thickens whenever he curses, reverting back to the time before he was a nobleman.

W = Wild Card (get a random headcanon for the character of your choice)

He is definitely down to blindfold you and drip candle wax over your naked body, teasing you every time you squirm or jump at the sensations he’s providing. Kissing and biting over your thighs, before he leaves a trail of hot wax there, relishing in the sound of your whimpers.

With the blindfold on, he’s free to watch you as intently as he likes without you getting self conscious, allowing you to focus on nothing but what he’s willing to give you. It also means he can be fully aware of your comfort level, only giving what you are capable of handling.

Bonus Wildcard

Imagine going skinny dipping in the lake with Aleksander one summer night when no one else is around.

X = X-Ray (let’s see what’s going on in those pants, picture or words)

Average length with a thick girth. He usually likes to ease you open with his fingers first, typically giving you an orgasm before he actually fucks you, so that you don’t struggle with his size.

Y = Yearning (how high is their sex drive?)

Quite high, he always wants you, but he can ignore it very successfully when he wants to. This is a source of frustration for you when you try to coax him away from his work with teasing, as it usually ends up with you feeling more desperate than he does.

Z = ZZZ (how quickly they fall asleep afterwards)

Not until you fall asleep. He likes to hold you and make sure you’re safe and comfortable before he can allow himself to rest fully. It’s during these moments that he feels most at peace, so he likes soak it up until he sinks into slumber.

-

marvelmusing Tag List: @dreamlandcreations @blanchedelioncourt @idaofinfinity @slytherheign @ellooo0ooo @vixenofcourse @dumb-fawkin-bitch @jane-arthur @ilikefictionmen @budugu @watersquirtpewpewboomm @mysweetlittledesire @dhampiravidi

S&B Tag List: @motheroffae

Aleksander M Tag List: @nyctophiliiiiaaa @jazmin2211 @wooya1224 @seronsalk @housekeeperjjswife

BB Characters Tag List: @rachlovesactors @noortsshift @aikeia @weallhaveadestiny @two-unbeatable-beaters

[sorryimananti-romantic]

Lore Concept: 'An Empire of Dreams and Illusions'

[faerie prince au!ateez]

Faeries

first faeries were created from the purest kernels of magic

physical appearance ranges from almost human-like features to having animalistic features like horns, tails, wings, scales, etc.

every faerie possesses at least a small affinity for healing magic, if nothing else

their power elements are usually nature-inclined but some tend to deviate towards the 'unnatural' elements

every faerie can sense at least someone with similar magic as themselves

some faeries possess an animal form, which differentiates from faeries who are shapeshifters and can wear any skin

all faeries possess better senses than humans- which includes heightened vision, hearing, and smell

a few faeries that share darkling blood may possess darkling characteristics as well- physical or magical

Darklings

first darklings were created from the darkest (but not evil) kernels of magic

physical appearance is just like faeries- what sets them apart is the darkness of their aura and magic

but dark does not mean evil- just like all darklings are not inherently evil, all faeries are not inherently 'good' as well

also possess healing magic

their power elements are usually the 'darker' aspects of nature, hence more dangerous than faeries but that's debatable as well

just like faeries have elemental magic, darklings also possess elemental magic but their difference is in their wielding techniques

most of them can shapeshift into animals

also possess heightened senses but they can sense danger better, and can sense the unnatural better than faeries

their wings usually resemble bat wings

High Healers

the elite class of healers who work for the royal courts and reside in the castles to serve their ruler

they are usually born with major healing magic which is why they choose to excel in this field

however, someone with another elemental magic but a good affinity for healing may also choose to direct their energy and power to become a healer

usually rely on their magic but also depend on natural remedies

make sure the course of nature is not changed as they heal

create the medical records for the library

some work solely for research and advancement in the field

when healing is their major focus, they can sense ailments and disorders

can 'unheal' as well but that's the dark side of their magic

The Panthers of Soca

ancient creatures, forgotten with time

helped in the creation of faeries and darklings, raised the first of them as well

strive for balance and harmony in nature to maintain the natural time flow

can travel between dimensions through portals

speak a language that is no longer understood by anyone but themselves (except the 'bridge')

shifted to Mirinae but in an alternate dimension, way before faeries ever shifted to that same planet

appearance is feline with yellow or green eyes that often glow, wings huge and either batlike or with feathers, pointy claws and tail. often possess scaly skin

their dimension is mostly smoke and ruins and they feed on the energy of the nature itself- they're immortal

if someone messes up with the flow of nature, it is their job to make things right and choose the best possible path for the future

Mirinae [Geography]

[parts of worldbuilding were inspired by Dreamcatcher's Deja Vu!]

As of the first book in this series, Mirinae dates to be only two decades old since fairies started inhabitating in it.

The planet Mirinae was made to look as much like planet Earth as possible, with its geography and land and seas and oceans, lakes and rivers, the plants and animals, the weather, etc.

The technology is mostly magic-fueled hence lack of pollution.

There are 4 continents- Aries, Scorpio, Leo-Gemini and CaLiSa. Fomalhault is considered more of an island than a continent.

There are 7 kingdoms named after the stars of the princes and the princess. The Kingdom of Aries is shared by Seonghwa and Yunho. The Kingdom of Gemini is split into two states- Castor and Alhena- for Yeosang and his twin.

There are 7 seas named after the birthstones of the princes and the princess (ex. diamond for seonghwa and yunho). The stones can be found reflecting in the sea.

There 2 rivers in Mirinae- one in the Kingdom of Scorpio called River Noor (meaning 'light') and the other flowing through the three kingdoms in CaLiSa called River Al Ard (meaning 'of earth').

There is only one desert which is in the Kingdom of Fire, stretching from Denebola to Algieba.

There are 3 mountain ranges- one in Bharani in Kingdom of Aries, one in the Kingdom of Scorpio stretching from Jabbah to Antares, and one situated where the three kingdoms in CaLiSa meet. Bharani hosts the highest mountain range.

There is one volcano range in a small island near Regulus in the Kingdom of Leo.

There are 2 suns in Mirinae- the purple sun often called the moon by the Princes and the orange sun. The orange sun resembles the sun from planet Earth and it shines during the day but dims during the night, letting the purple 'moon' take over and cast a purple but dark glow in the sky

The weather is controlled by a group of faeries in every kingdom specifically working to maintain a suitable climate for their kingdom.

Currently, the animals and birds inhabiting the planet were 'exported' or manufactured from the planet Earth.

Mirinae [Magic and Facts]

Apart from the major 9 elements of Dark, Light, Water, Space, Spirit, Earth, Fire, Air and Nature, there are a number of 'minor' elements and powers unique to their users.

Among them are shapeshifters who can shift into any skin, healers whose sole purpose is to heal through a variety of means, etc.

Reproduction/fertility rate is low for faeries compared to humans.

A daughter is rare. Identical twins even rarer. Fraternal even more. Fraternal with one son and daughter? Rarest.

The royals who hold power over one element hold a wide range of magical variety, some of which is left unexplored too.

Darklings are dark in nature but not necessarily evil, though they have no one but themselves to blame over their bad reputation.

Each of the castle built for the royals is unique to them in its decor and layout, reflecting the vibe of the owner and containing secret passages and rooms known only to the owner and their trusted few.

The system of monarchy currently runs the planet but rebel groups exist as well.

Much of the court system and laws are influenced from humans though some laws are unique to the faerie-kind. For example, necromancy is forbidden and punishable according to the gravity of the crime as judged by the courts created to deal with this nature of crime.

The currency is gold, silver and bronze coins and is universal.

All faeries are considered to be equal despite their age, gender or position. However, discrimination may occur at certain ocassions (turns out faeries aren't all that different than humans).

The favoured means of travels is through carriages or animals mixed with a little magic to increase efficiency.

Communication occurs the same- fire letters, water messages, telepathic signals.

Educational institutes are found in every city with studies focused on magic related subjects, history, running-the-kingdom politics, etc.

Again, most educational, religious and cultural aspects the faeries brought to this planet are the ones they once shared with humans since two decades ago, faeries, darklings and humans coexisted on planet Earth. But in the end, the faeries unite because for their existence, they have to depend on each other and function as one, putting aside any differences.

Naturally, the languages are human as well, depending on the faeries birthplace, but the faeries are able to understand a multitude of languages through magic.

Glossary

[the scenes that directly inspired the beginning of this lore- from Dreamcatcher's Deja Vu!]

Original Dimension - the time-space the story takes place, the 'real' time-flow

Alternate Dimension - a layer over the original dimension with different time-space properties

The 'Other' Dimension - The one Yeosang and the royals casually refer to when they address the dimension of Yeosang's domain, the one where souls come to before moving on or deciding to stay

Portal - a gateway to a different time-space, where one or both could vary

Anti-nature - the term ateez use to refer to Gaeul's magic that literally seems like anti-nature since it turns into ash and does worse than kill now, even burning souls and sucking life out of the living things

Anti-magic - another term ateez used bc they're confused lol

Black hole - a mass of energy created due to an event that does not flow in its original time-space flow occurs

'Glitch in the matrix' - an irregular occurence

'Water has memories' - a 'vague' concept of certain memories linking to the water bodies they occur in so they can be accessed by other water users

Yin-yang bloodline - the prestiged bloodline of Nature users, kept secret. They are able to access an element other than their original nature element, usually earth since it's the closest in its properties. Some can access even 2 more. The yin-yang users can connect with their soulmates to access their element as well.

Cold fire - perhaps an element of its own, resembling fire in its original plasmic state and ice in its colder temperatures. Can burn like fire but with its extreme cold temperatures. Can also manifest as ashes resembling snowflakes

[foxtamer113]

Some Darkstache HC's 'cause I'm in a mood.

○ Wilford is taller and physically stronger than Dark.

○ Wilford uses this to his advantage to constantly carry Dark around, or pin him against walls.

● Dark is always flustered whenever Wilford does that whenever he isn't prepared. Especially if there's other egos looking, he'll demand Wilford to let him go, all embarrassed and trying to hide it.

○ Wilford has dozens of pet names for Dark: Darky, Darkling, Sweetheart, Love, Dove, Dearest Darky, Licorice, Sugarplum, Pancake, etc.

● (Pancake because Dark didn't like to be called Shortstack)

● Dark calls Wilford as Wil, most of the time, but sometimes calls him Love, Dearheart, and Honey.

○ Wilford was the one who gifted Dark his gun in ADWM.

● Dark was upset when Y/N took his gun and never gave it back.

○ Wilford likes to buy gifts for Dark, ranging from Practical (pens, books, a gun) to Silly (a giant Teddy bear, a pretty rock he found, a big pile of hundreds of different chocolates, flooding his office with flowers), to downright Psychotic (Dark's current annoyance either in chains or bleeding/dying in front of him)

● Dark loves and cherishes every gift. (Even if the giant Teddy bear is forever hidden in Dark's pocket dimension.)

○ Wilford rarely listens to anyone else, but for Dark he'll even ask for his opinions and try to implement them.

● Dark rarely cares about anyone, but for Wilford, he'll ask about his day, and how's he feeling, and what he could do to help.

○ Wilford is the one who often asks Dark out on dates, just so Dark isn't always cooped up in his office. Most of the time, it's just walks in the park or eating at fun restaurants Wilford has heard and wanted to try.

● Whenever Dark's the one who asks Wilford out on a date, it's a fully planned event. All booked in advance. A 3 day outing at a Beach Resort. A guided tour of the Amazon Rainforest. A week at Disney world.

○ Wilford loves hugging and kissing Dark, especially if it forces Dark to stand on his tiptoes to reciprocate. Wilford thinks it's adorable.

● Dark will never admit to it, but he loves cuddling with Wilford the most. He's just so warm and soft, and smells so sweet and familiar. Plus, it keeps Wilford out of trouble and makes both of them relax from their high-strung lives.

○ Wilford's the one who initiates most of their sexual activities. Usually whenever the mood strikes him, regardless of time and place. He is shameless.

● Dark usually consents to it, unless he's extremely busy or there are too many eyes on them. He's not an exhibitionist, Wil.

○ (Wilford suggests to glamour themselves invisible to have sex in public until Dark pointed out that they'll drop the glamour once they're distracted)

○They have resistance over each other's aura effects. Dark theorised that it's due to them having the same source of power (The Manor). While Wilford thinks it's just because they cuddle so much and got used to it.

● Dark smiles and agrees at Wilford's cuddle theory, and wants to be cuddled some more. Infinitely glad that his aura never scared, hurt, or freezed Wilford like it would with others.

[stromuprisahat]

Siege and Storm- Chapter 11 (Leigh Bardugo)

Are there truly no malcontents in all of Ravka?

Impoverished or disgraced nobles, merchants, free-thinkers... Sure, they hate Grisha, but where are those, who hate the Tsar more?

I understand First Army believes the Tsar sucks only because of the Darkling's bad aura affecting him, but what about those fighting on the same fronts as Grisha?

What about serfs?

What about the poor, fed by Grisha skiffs, when nobles take and take?!

Two generations might not be much, but how can this world have tanks, but no Enlightment?!

[thegeminisage]

star trek update time. monday we watched ds9's "in purgatory's shadow" (ohio edition), "by inferno's light" (ohio edition), and "doctor bashir, i presume" (ohio edition), which did blow my tits clean off, and then last night we watched voy's "unity" and "darkling" (south carolina editions, sadly).

in purgatory's shadow (ds9) (ohio edition):

kira and odo's little moment at the beginning of this episode 🥺 he was soooo embarrassed to be caught attempting to try and learn how to snag a spouse but she didn't judge even a little. girl, break up with your stupid ass boyfriend. odo is right here

i really loved bashir pointing the phaser at garak when he figured garak was lying. i was like oh damn he knows him so well and i love when this twink has had enough and becomes a little evil BUT THEN IT LITERALLY WASN'T HIM! what an incredible plot twist. we literally had to pause the episode and work out the timelines to see how long we had been living with changeling bashir. it was sooo good and i wasn't expecting it at all. mwah

jadzia and worf are so good. her personality being settled into like, comic relief makes for such a good match to his whole straight man aura. obviously she taunts him with his klingon operas. please.

also lol "at the first sign of betrayal i will kill him" <3

i do NOT like whatever they are doing with garak and ziyal. first of all, he's gay. secondly, she is like at LEAST 20 years younger than him. i want to trust them but after jake dating all those older women i am so suspicious

the backpedaling they're doing on fun and friendly former facist dukat is insane. not to say i'm not enjoying it. also, i like when he threatened kira and she was like "pffft whatever" like what a blow to his fucking ego. get his ass

VERY cool to see martok again - totally unexpected

our last wonderful surprise of this ep was tain being garak's DAD- it makes so much sense and puts so much into perspective, and, hi, JULIAN WAS IN THE ROOM DURING THIS. garak could have asked him to leave and he would have. garak could have told tain he was there. but he didn't, because he wanted the moral support, and because he wanted julian to know something true about him. AUUUGHGHGH

like, we haven't had NEARLY enough garashir since s2, but this was SUCH a good moment, even though it feels like they're trying to backpedal on that too. what a series of plot twists for this ep 10/10

by inferno's light (ds9) (ohio edition):

dukat's betrayal here i like vaguely saw coming, but jesus christ lol. he is back to FULL villain status...such a change from his little fireworks show for sisko and jake

garak's claustrophobia <3 absolutely loooved this especially since julian had to go in and get him. bangs tankard on table MORE GARASHIR! there literally has NOT been enough. i would love to know more about tzenketh but i know they will never ever tell us but wow <3

i am SO tired of seeing worf lose fights this episode was fucking great. not only did he not lose any fights except under an extremely unfair circumstances he totally kicked ass even while injured. FINALLY. even that jem'hadar guy was like i can kill him but i can't defeat him so i give up. SOOOO true finally let's respect my boy worf. why don't you bitches call him a pussy NOW

anyway, the little moment worf and garak had at the end of this episode...mwah. put them on the fuck chart

extremely excited to see gowran in this episode. he and his freaky eyes are so special to me

"this station was built by cardassia" "that's funny i thought it was built by bajoran slave labor" I LOVE WHEN SISKO IS FUN AND FERAL.

also i know the circumstances were extenuating but i cannot BELIEVE julian just fucking murdered that jem'hadar <3

watching little fake julian run around was so distressing...i kept yelling when he came on screen because nobody KNEWWWW he even fooled US! what a cool twist, again

overall these two episodes were incredibly good even though the strong action-y episodes are usually not ds9's forte. absolutely baller content for everyone except ziyal. i will at least take comfort in the fact that garak looked very uncomfortable to be hugged

doctor bashir, i presume (ds9) (ohio edition):

AGAIN. THIS ONE BLEW MY TITS CLEAN OFF

i'm mad garak wasn't in it. AUGHGHGH

okay, my main beef with this one was pacing...i thought they resolved the problem extremely quickly after the cat was out of the bag, and it's because they spent so much time on the doctor and leeta and rom. which would have been a GREAT b-plot for any other episode, i LOVE leeta and rom and i was cheering for him the whole time, but even though the EMH (sorta) cameo was very welcome, i do not welcome it at the expense of time taken from one of the most pivotal episodes for julian bashir probably in this whole series, especially when i have the sneaking suspicion that it won't be brought up again

and i did LIKE the resolution of this episode, his parents paying for what they'd done, but it didn't feel like he got to sit with it for long enough, and it certainly felt like we skipped over a few pivotal moments - the scene where he found out his best friend knows could have been EXTREMELY meaty. is he afraid of judgement? is he angry? is he worried miles will be angry? etc. but we just kind of breezed right on by it. like, i loved the way miles sat and let him get it out of his system in a fun inverse of julian talking him down from suicide but we could have had SOOO much more

anyway side from that i love. I LOVE. holy shit

like, i can't even talk about the episode itself, just this entire concept. like, they did essentially kill their kid. they made him the way he is, a new kid, and then hated him for the way he is. SPOCK CORE. and then to find that out as a teenager...

like, you know he had to google "does being genetically enhanced make me a bad person" and then of course what google spits out is "did you know about khan noonien singh and would you like to?" and he was like Oh No

like, he went into MEDICINE. and i know he had other reasons and all but he went into MEDICINE because that's the most harmless you can possibly be. he's using all his ill-gotten brainpower to HEAL PEOPLE because his first reaction was to not want to be khan...2! you can enhance genetics but just like o'brien said that can't grow compassion, which is what makes julian who he is

I WISH GARAK HAD BEEN THERE.

anyway, i will continue to think about dr bashir for a very long time and he definitely just rose a couple of notches in my character ranking

unity (voy):

i actually liked this one a lot. i love borg eps and i'm fascinated by a post-borg life lived by these people

that said, this lady gave off SUCH evil vibes that even after the truth was revealed and she and chakotay fucked i kept waiting for her to stab him in the back. which only kind of happened i guess

also, :( that chakotay is out here running around on janeway. SAD

i did love the borg meld scene though. it was incredibly scary. and i was TWIRLING MY HAIR when he got possessed or whatever the fuck

it was also so fun that he spent half of this episode dazed and stumbling around because of his little head injury. excellent material overall

oh yeah and i KNEW that corpse was gonna wake back up. i think it's so terrifying that when you're borg, even if you die, you aren't done. you can be revived because nothing kills you, not even the vacuum of space. that is easily the most horrifying part of it all

i also really liked chakotay and janeway's moment at the end. like, she was distrustful the entire time and he was too trusting, as he tends to sometimes be, and then at the end she was like aw but they weren't so bad and he was like [thousand yard stare of guy who has fucked 2! women who later betrayed him and has now been radicalized against the borg]

like i'm not saying it wasn't 99% consensual with riley or seska but i AM saying that he was hopped up on the borg meld when he fucked riley and later riley was willing to use chakotay's body for her own means when push came to shove and i'm saying that seska knew full well the whole time it was happening that it was under completely false pretenses and she stole his dna without his consent to make a baby he also didn't consent to, even if it turned out she fucked up and got that kaxon baby instead. like, chakotay better be careful or he's gonna start fitting into captain kirk's niche

darkling (voy):

this one fucking sucked so bad

like, sure, yes, emh evil now. does he have to keep creepy-touching all the women

also, WHAT? we get ONE LINE about kes and neelix breaking up and he's not even IN this episode? why did they even break them up??? just because they wrre planning on having her leave soon????? absolutely baffling

i don't think evil emh was very compelling...i am glad he got to act or whatever, but i didn't even get the usual "battle of the selves" that we often wind up with when we do these kind of tropes. it was just...a malfunction, and eventually it was corrected

also, what a BAFFLING b-plot. if you measure each of kes's years (except the first, i suppose) as a decade in human beings, we can assume she's in her thirties now, so she just...breaks up with her boyfriend to smooch the hot alien guy she met a few days ago and then maybe wants to run off with him? in her THIRTIES?

i DID like the EMH quoting the oath at the end, but without any sort of battle of the selves or real emotional investment in what he did when he was evil, it feels kind of wasted on this episode. it's a fine concept, but the execution falls soooo flat

NEXT TIME: voy's "rise" and "favorite son."

[mae-falling-in-may]

Save Your Tears | The Darkling x Reader

Hum, hi :') It's been a while... I'm sorry !! I've been so demotivated on writing and just couldn't get my mind on Tumblr. So, before you can read what I finished after years, just know that I won't be publishing first on Tumblr if I write anything, I'll prioritize Ao3 for further OS and eventual series (I'm working on one rn). So now you know !! Now enjoy :))

Pairing : The Darkling x Reader

Warnings : Angst, mention of breaking up, Aleksander is a coward

Summary : He sees you at the ball after breaking your heart, but he can’t handle seeing your tears dropping down your face.

This is a song fic based on Save Your Tears by The Weeknd.

Words : 2k

This was another ball at the Little Palace. Even though he did not want to waste his precious time on a foolish event like this one, he had to attend, to show to his people that everything was okay. Sighing, Aleksander put on the black kefta he usually used for events like these. It framed him perfectly, knowing that black was only his to wear. The embroidery on it was sophisticated, as always. He observed his reflection in the mirror, firstly satisfied with the aura he gave off. But when he looked at his face, it hit him, he was exhausted. The man had barely slept for the past few weeks. All the previous events had broken him little by little, and it was his fault. 

Sighing once again, he called Genya with a very strict tone. She arrived quickly after that, he asked her to fix his face, not wanting to look dreadful. Knowing that she would ask him to sit on a chair, he did already so he would not be hearing her soft voice, as he felt like it would overwhelm him too much. He let Genya arrange his features, making him look less tired, cheeks less deep, and his skin a bit more colored. When she finished, she let out a small "It's done General." He thanked her quietly before standing up and told her to enjoy the evening, then left the room.

The corridors were much brighter than Aleksander's liking, he usually liked more settled lighting. Walking through the Little Palace, directing himself to the reception room, he started to feel anxious. Yes, the great General, a Shadow Summoner, anxious. Because his mind drifted off, and he started thinking of you. He knew you were going to be there, you had no choice after all, this reception was so important for everyone. He anticipated this night so much, after all he did to you, after breaking your heart. He was such a fool, how dare he, making you feel worthless when you were his everything.

He got closer to the room, stopping himself right before the entrance. A few people greeted him, wishing him a good night. He sent back the same wishes too, politely. He took a big breath, quite discreetly, before entering the room. A few looks turned to him, but he did not take note of them. He looked through the whole room, then his gaze stopped. You were here.

I saw you dancing in a crowded room

You were here. And you were dancing with one of the guests. His hands and jaw clenched. Seeing you with someone else, felt like a dagger through his heart. You were so graceful, your hair was embellishing your features. Your eyes were so full of life while you were dancing, your lips looked so soft, the outfit you chose fitted you perfectly. But oh, how he wished you wore black. Just to show everyone that you were his.

You look so happy when I'm not with you

He could not lift his gaze off of you for one second. Luckily for him, anyone barely spoke to him, they were just enjoying the soirée. He took a glass of the nearest alcohol he could find and drank half of it. He needed to feel more relaxed to be able to go through this night, really. You were still dancing so beautifully in the center of the room, before the music stopped. You bowed before your dance partner, while they kissed politely the back of your hand. This was when you spotted him. 

But then you saw me, caught you by surprise

Both of your eyes met each other. It felt completely ethereal, it was as if you were meant to be in each other's arms. This moment felt like time completely stopped, like everyone in the room disappeared. Looking into your eyes, Aleksander felt his heart drop, he had not seen you for so long. He missed you, he missed drawing his hand on your cheek, he missed being close to you. Losing himself to the thoughts of you and him, he got startled when he noticed that you were crying.

A single teardrop falling from your eye

One teardrop, he didn’t know why it startled him so much, seeing you cry was the worst thing he ever saw. Seeing you cry because of him, made the man feel so guilty. Something had gotten stuck into his throat, maybe guilt, regret, love, he didn’t know. He cleared his throat while watching you cry more freely. Your dance partner was obviously worried about you, and they asked how you were feeling. They offered you their handkerchief to dry your tears, and you did use it, muttering a small thanks.

I don't know why I run away

I'll make you cry when I run away

The fact is, he was a coward. Despite the both of you being so in love with each other, he wanted to run away. It’s been so long since he last loved someone, dared to let down his mask and shield with someone. But he hated it, he felt so vulnerable, so the more you saw each other, the more he was conscious, thinking of leaving you to protect you, and him.

You could've asked me why I broke your heart

You were walking towards the General, after giving back the tissue your dance partner handed you. You tried to be as emotionless as possible after some of the guests and especially The Darkling had spotted you like that. You hated the fact that your heart was still calling him. After everything happened. You hated the fact that you still find him so handsome, that you still could fall asleep in his arms.

You could've told me that you fell apart

Despite being not able to read minds, Aleksander knew that you were fighting with dangerous thoughts in your head. But you were silent. You broke the eye contact that lasted for so long as if it was hours, while walking towards him. You took a glass of alcohol from one of the servants, smiled politely to thank them, and drank a lot of it. You were dangerously approaching him, and it made him tense up a bit.

But you walked past me like I wasn't there

And just pretended like you didn't care

You left the room, without a word. Without another look towards him. When he felt your presence leaving, he felt like falling apart. How could he get hurt so much just by having you leave like that ? He didn't know, but the overwhelming feeling of guilt has started to make him sick. He fought the urge to follow you, and try to talk to you, to apologize. But he knew, deep down in his heart, even though you loved him so much, you could not forgive him, ever.

I don't know why I run away

I'll make you cry when I run away

He was getting more and more distant everyday, thinking that you would not notice. But of course you were too smart for that, you let him know that he was worrying you. He told lies after lies to make you feel better, and to be honest, to make him feel better too. Alas, being far from you was killing him. Not being able to have you in his arms, to kiss the top of your head, your cheeks and his favorite spot, your lips, was strangling him day after day. He knew you cried a lot these times, and he regretted making you feel that way, he didn’t deserve you.

Take me back 'cause I wanna stay

He wished he could be back into your life. He wished to change everything he said to you that night. He wanted to be with you, to tell you how much he loved you. Oh, he wanted to stay with you so much. He wanted you to get him back. Instead of leaving, he wanted you to take his hand, look at him with your beautiful eyes and pull him back into your arms. But the only thing he could have from you were the tears you liberated when you saw him.

Save your tears for another

Save your tears for another day

Save your tears for another day

He hated seeing you cry. He hated the feeling that it gave him, the way you looked up at him, with your wet and sparkly eyes, he wished he could dry them up. He didn’t want you to let them roll down your cheeks because of him. He wished he could tell you to keep your tears.

So, I made you think that I would always stay

He was so scared of losing you, after many years of loneliness, finding you was a relief. The way you could make his heart and head spin just by smiling at him, the way you could make him stutter just by locking your eyes to his dark and weary gaze. He wanted to stay with you forever, and he told you so many times he would. But he lied, as much as he wanted to have you, he was terrified.

I said some things that I should never say

You looked at him in pure shock. The words that left his mouth ringing in your head made you shiver and shake.

“I hate you !” He said, looking down at his feet. He pressed his lips together before looking at you with tears in his eyes. You didn’t know that it was possible to see The Darkling crying, but today was the first and the last time you could see that. He took a step forward, approaching you with his powerful presence and body, while you got scared and got your back touching the wall.

Yeah, I broke your heart like someone did to mine

“I hate how you make me feel, I hate that you have so much power over me. I love you but I can not do this anymore. Everytime I look at you, I feel weak, when everyone thinks I'm the most powerful Grisha in this world. I feel that way because I’m constantly scared that someone is going to kill you, or take you away from me. So today I decided that I’ll be the one taking you away from me, I want you safe, but I can’t love you anymore if I want this.” 

Tears were rolling down in both of your eyes. You felt your heart shatter, how could he tell you that after all this time ? You clenched your fists, letting a heavy silence in the room, before slapping him with all of your strength. He expected you to scream at him, run away from him, but definitely not the slap. Even though he knew you were strong, the ache on his cheek was not as severe as the pain in his heart when he shared these cruel words. Not being able to say anything, he saw you leave the room hastily, without a word, he knew he couldn’t have you back, it was his biggest mistake.

And now you won't love me for a second time

He left the room, wanting to go back to his quarters, but he decided to go outside for a bit, before locking himself in his room. After leaving the tall walls of the Little Palace, he saw your shadow walking towards the near forest of the building. He imagined rushing towards you, yelling your name, trying to find the best excuses of the world to have you back, but he just couldn’t. He already broke your heart, he was sure that he would do it again if you accepted his apology. So he just looked at you going far away from him. His mask broke, tears were rolling down his pale cheeks, he closed his eyes and tried to dry them, in vain. He wished you could love him again.

I don't know why I run away, oh, girl

Said I'll make you cry when I run away

Girl, take me back 'cause I wanna stay

Save your tears for another

I realize that I'm much too late

And you deserve someone better

[gale-gentlepenguin]

Gale's Monologue: Humanity lost

"No! Not this! Anything but this!?" The Villain screams as he ran to his beloved partner in crime.

She was about to finish her incantation, opening the portal to bring the world of darkness into the their world.

The hero and his party remained alert, having dealt the final blow to the evil Sorceress. All that was left was the evil Sorcerer.

"Its over Vernoc. Your Ritual was stopped. There is no point in continuing." The hero spoke.

Vernoc picked Velma into his arms.

She was alive... but fading fast.

"Beloved..."

"Save your strength. We can heal you and then..."

"Finish the Ritual... bring the Utopia we dreamed into reality."

"But without you..."

"Dont throw away your ambitions because of me."

"My ambitions were because of you. The world of darkness, the world we would live forever. What about our lives together... our future family."

Velma shed tears as she touched Vernoc's face.

"Fate be so cruel as to separate me from my beloved..."

Velma kissed Vernoc and he felt her power envelop him. Her last gift.

She turned to black dust. For the magic they used kept them alive but left no soul, it was impossible to revive. Velma was gone.

Vernoc stood up. A Dark Aura bursting from Vernoc. He roared as black tears streamed down his face.

The force of power was pushing the heroes back.

"You called us evil!" He began as he stopped his shouting. His body clearly emanating power.

"You called us dark magic users, sorcerers of evil. You called us monsters, you called us every vile insult you could muster. Yet you never tried to reach out to us, you never tried to ask us why we did what we did. You never once believed that maybe we could be right!"

"But that never mattered to me. As long as I had my beloved Velma, Every rock, every plant, every mountain and every living creature could curse us, yet we would not falter. We would be happy in spite of the cruel actions of the world. We were in defiance just by existing!"

The Villain took another step forward.

"But now you crossed the line! You took the ONE thing I cared for! The one person that kept me from being alone in this god forsaken planet! You who claim to be justice, who claim to be righteous, you are hypocrites and fools!"

"Her love was the only thing I felt grateful for being born."

"Vernoc..."

"Say farewell to your loved ones beside you. That is my final act as a man."

They watched eyes wide as Vernoc began to change. Horns protruded out of his head, his skull altered and became more angular, his teeth sharpened to a needle like appearance. His eyes went from white to red. His body grew multiple arms and a pair of batlike wings.

Vernoc the Sorcerer was now Vernoc the Darkling.

"Now heroes, fight the monster you created! Let your Justice clash with my Despair!"

[badgrishaverseaus]

not really a funny au but more like a funny headcanon i had in my head for a while: the darkling is not homophobic, but people think he is. he just doesn't give a fuck about what people's orientation/gender identity is, as long as they're on his side or whatever. but!. he's an out of touch old man. anytime he tries to say anything ally-like it comes off as performative. there's a running joke in the second army that he's homophobic and he's mad everytime he hears it.

“anyone else thinks that the darkling seems kind of…homophobic?? i know it’s weird to say this but it’s just the way he says things and acts. saints, it reminds me of that one captain who used to stare daggers at us every time i mentioned my partner to his face.”

“are you only catching on now? it’s been stipulated for so long, and now you’re realising that he has the aura of an old homophobic, ‘they shouldn’t shove it in my face’ man? yeah no wonder the sun summoner left his crusty ass behind.”

“you can’t assume if someone’s homophobic, even if that person’s the darkling, just like how you can’t assume if someone’s queer or not, grow up”

“those things are different to m- shut up, he’s talking. i bet he’s going to proceed to say something incredibly performative and backhanded”

“…any man, woman, or…however you identify i suppose… that respects me and this cause, i respect you in return, no matter what different…desires, and…orientations, that we may possess”

“…my point stands.”

[bohemian-nights]

I'm a not a huge fan of Daemon, for me the only cool things about him are his sword and dragon. A few days ago I tried to read some Daemon x reader fanfics just to see how it is and you know, maybe there is something about him that isn't...messed up. But It was exactly what I thought for the most part. It was mostly just D**myra x reader oneshots or Daemon x niece! reader fics. But I wasn't at all prepared for romantic Daemon x daughter!reader stuff and....that was just beyond weird. I can't describe it. I can't fathom how anyone can write such a thing even if it's fictional. There was also a romantic Daemyra x daughter! reader fic....this fandom is getting worse every day. The fact that it was smut just made me completely lose any interest in his character.

The state of Daemon’s fics is not that great. I had to start creating my own because they by in large just weren’t inclusive🙃(even the ones that aren’t incest, and there is still a way to make incest inclusive, have a white reader in mind, but that’s the case with most fandoms).

That being said, I may rag on this man, and I do love to read other people raging on him, but I do genuinely love Daemon Targaryen(he’s the whole reason I started writing fanfiction), I have written Daemon x niece!reader fanfic, and I’m about to start writing Daemon with one(or both) of his daughters…

As a self-proclaimed Daemon stan, he’s the type of character who you either love or you hate.

He is admittedly a psycho(well his show! counterpart has been shown in not the best light and that’s what most of these fics are based on), but he’s got charisma. He’s charming. He has this dark aura about him and there is something so alluring about that darkness.

I mean think of all the other fictional bad boys that have a large fanbase or massive appeal because of their dark and brooding ways. In recent years you’ve got Draco Malfoy, Prince Zuko, Edward Cullen, The Darkling, Namor, Massimo from 365 Days, and Kylo Ren(and now Daemon and Aemond). Go even further back and you have characters like Mr. Rochester from Jane Eyre and the Beast from Beauty and the Beast.

These guys are not “good guys” by any stretch of the imagination. Most of them are terrible people(or at least unpleasant) who in real life you should probably avoid. However, their darkness is appealing, and at the center of most of these stories is a woman who has captured this beastly man’s attention and love(and has changed him in a way).

Now as far as his “fanbase”(they are by and large Dumbnyra stans which is why I stay on my island 🏝️ now) leaning into the whole incest /blood supremacy theme, yeah a lot of it is low-key creepy. I may be hypocritical saying it, but the way they do it doesn’t seem normal especially when you take into account how they treat certain characters like Nettles(who is the one who changes him in canon, but they dislike her and want to acknowledge her importance to him due to her not looking like them😙).

I’ll leave it off by saying if you dislike Daemon most of his fics aren’t going to make you like him because of the nature of the content. No one is trying to show him in a good light. His appeal is in the fact that he’s this powerful temperamental brute of a man that their chosen self-insert (s) “tames”🤷🏽‍♀️

[inkribbon796]

Egotober 2023 Day 4, Date Night with the Dooms

Summary: Silver and the city might not be having a good time, but Dark is as happy as can be.

A/N: This is a carry over from Day 3

Prompt: Happy

Chapters: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31

Mark got the alarm from the cops while he was on his drive to get late night groceries. Wilford and Dark had the downtown area. Dark was clearly under the influence of Wilford’s aura more than usual, making him more dangerous than normal.

So Mark found a place to randomly park, got changed inside of it, and as Silver flew off to find them.

“SAM, get me good news,” Silver said. “Where are those bastards?”

“They seem to be over by the Westen Bridge,” SAM said. “Bing also sent a message saying that they’ve been having issues with an eco-terrorist in Gainesville. He will need you on call when you’re done.”

“Damn, when it rains, it pours. That will be a while, tell Abe I’m coming his way.” Silver flew around buildings. “How many casualties?”

“Five confirmed, two cops, three civilians,” SAM said.

“Dammit,” Silver picked up speed, flying as fast as he could as the bridge slowly came into view.

It turned out that Silver didn’t need to make it all the way to the bridge because he spotted Dark emerging from one of his portals. A mad smile on his face and violence in his eyes.

His dark grey coat and black hair billowing in the night air. His blue and red chromatic copies stuttered out around him. His aura coiling around him.

And Silver shot over to him like a bullet.

He wasn’t sure if it was an illusion or if his haste made him easier to spot, but Silver seemed to go through him and Silver skidded to a stop.

“Shepherd, did you bring your child again, or have you come to fight me?” Dark said, already moving.

“He’s not mine, he’s not involved.” Silver didn't know where Wilford was but he couldn’t just let Dark get away from him. And if Ethan was here, Mark was going to lose it.

Or Dark was trying to throw him off his game.

“Well, I’d like to stay and chat, Shepherd, but I have business to attend to.” Dark then opened up a portal and Silver tried to grab part of him. Managing to snag him by the arm and throw him away from it.

“You’re not going anywhere but jail,” Silver said, relishing in the visible impact Dark made. A nice reminder that the creature who terrorized his city since before he was born was not invincible.

Before Silver could go to grab him, he paid for his hubris and was attacked when aura snagged him at the cape and throat.

Wilford drove his face into the concrete roof. “How dare you fuck up date night!”

Using as much strength as he could muster, Silver got out of Wilford’s hold.

Wilford grabbed Silver in a headlock and smiled at Dark. “Darkling, if you want to run ahead, I’ll get rid of the riff raff.”

“How you’re able to brainwash him into doing this is beyond me.” Silver was barely able to keep Wilford from choking him out.

“Pay him, no head Darkling, run along, I’ll catch up.” Wilford grinned and Silver could feel it in his aura when he did it.

Instead of insisting to do his own dirty work or making a passive aggressive comment about Wilford, Dark laughed.

An actual real laugh from the literal demon mob boss crime lord. Dark let out a mad cackle, sounding every bit like the supervillain he was.

And then he was gone, throwing himself off the rooftop, like he needed to walk anywhere.

Wilford smiled at Silver. “See? He loves date night. Look at how happy he is.”

Silver began fighting, taking way too long to try and follow Dark. He was way too buzzed on Wilford’s aura to be safe for anyone’s wellbeing.

When Silver broke away, he looked towards the direction Dark had gone. He expected Wilford to jump him. When he didn’t, a pit felt like it was dropping in his gut and Wilford was gone.

Starting a full hour long goose chase that ended outside the home of the current mayor. A man who has been under Dark’s thumb, taking bribes and threats to do whatever he wanted.

In the end after Silver had found where Dark had gone, only one other person died that night. This death seemed to be the most gruesome of the night.

The cops and three civilians had been quick deaths. Wrong place wrong time, all by Wilford’s hand, or rather his gun.

This one was Dark’s doing, and the carnage and slow death proved it.

Gatling, Bob, was outside the house with Abe. The city in its uneasy normal. The rampage seemed over.

Silver was furious and upset at how unable they’d been to do anything. And this hadn’t been the first time. They needed someone who could follow auras and they needed it desperately.

Bob looked just as uncomfortable. “Look, I know he was corrupt as fuck, and so is the entire council board, but at least he was alive.”

Just boiling in rage, Silver thought things over for a bit. “We need to call Marvin.”

“Right now? It’s like three or four in the morning for him?” Abe said.

“I don’t care, we don’t have a tracker and all of the Septics can see or feel auras. Even Schneep can. They can afford to lose one of them, I don’t care which at this point. There’s no way we’re getting J.J, so we go for either Chase or Marvin. And Chase has an actual civilian life, so Marvin is our only chance.”

Bob looked even more uncomfortable but he sighed. “Okay, we’ll try.”

Silver made the call, knowing what a long fight he was about to get himself into.

Back at the Manor, Dark and Wilford came tumbling out of a portal. Wilford a laughing mess and Dark more of a smiling one. Their hands intertwined. 

Dark’s office was still the disaster they had left it in.

“You have fun, Darkling?” Wilford kissed the back of Dark’s hand as their fingers stayed intertwined.

“You know what?” Dark said, only starting to come down off of his intoxicating high. “I did. It was a lovely evening. I got to put the city back in its place and now I don’t have to keep paying that skidmark of a creature to do what I want.”

“Simply lovely,” Wilford said. “You were amazing as always.”

The madman made a noise as Dark pulled away to look around the office.

“I was, wasn’t I?” Dark smiled to himself. “And I’ve been thinking.”

“Love it,” Wilford sat back on Dark’s desk.

“My city has gotten a bit too high and mighty, time to show the heroes and the police just really rules this town,” Dark said, his mad smile still on his face.

Then his aura turned a bit more blue.

Dark changed his form to look more human, warmer. A crisp black suit and doe-like brown eyes. An old form, an old face. “I think this city needs to be taken in a new direction.”

Wilford froze, as if his twisted mind was trying to grasp onto something, but he just smiled and cupped his hands around Dark’s face. “Simply divine, as always, my darling. I think this calls for a celebration, I’ll get Yan and the boys,”

The madman hopped off the desk and rushed out of the office to round up their adopted wards. At least all the ones that were still awake.

Dark watched him go for a bit. His blue soul echoed out from Dark, looking after Wilford with dangerous longing. Dark easily pulled the long-dead mayor back in before he could spoil his evening. Dark was in a good mood, and he refused to let that change the night.

[angelasscribbles]

Dark Elf Chapter 3: Dhambion

Series: Dark Elf

Fandom: The Royal Romance

Pairings: none yet

Rating: R

Warnings for this chapter: Dark themes, mature themes

Word Count: 1,697

A/N: I posted a snippet of an upcoming chapter of this in a Sunday six, but that snippet got pushed to a future chapter because this is what happened when I started writing this one.

My other stuff: Master List.

“Get dressed. There’s a formal dinner tonight and you’re going as my guest.”

Liam had an annoying habit of just showing up in her room and making demands. It was tedious to do the bidding of others. She wasn’t a fan. If it weren’t for the bargain she had struck with the wizard she might have ripped his throat out by now.

But then she couldn’t toy with him, and he was oh-so-fun to toy with.

Dark, brooding, delicious.

She didn’t want his death; she wanted his surrender.

She had wanted it since the moment she’d seen him standing outside her summoning circle.

Deep in the bowels of the palace, under the basements, in a concealed chamber Maxwell Beaumont stood just outside the summoning circle he had cast as smoke swirled making it hard to see what was coalescing in the center.

“The summoning is complete, My Liege.”

Liam watched in fascination as the smoke slowly cleared revealing what Maxwell’s net had caught.

He sucked in a breath of shock as the most strikingly beautiful woman he had ever seen stared back at him from the center of the circle.

His interest in her, already great, was sharpened. He needed her for his immortality spell. Only a demon could kindle that particular type of magic. He had not considered what the demon he’d ordered summoned would look like because it hadn’t mattered. All that mattered was the spell.

But now that he’d seen her, thoughts of other activities fell through his head as he felt his cock twitch.

Her smile was somehow seductive and malicious at the same time as her eyes bore into him as if she could read his thoughts.

He shouldn’t be having sexual thoughts about a demon. She could easily kill him if not for the summoning circle that had her trapped.

That thought only heightened his arousal.

“Sorry to disturb you,” He greeted her, “But I have a proposition for you. My name is Liam, by the way. And yours is…?”

She gazed up at him in curiosity as she stepped closer to the barrier. She tilted her head as she studied his aura then she leaned forward and sniffed the air.

Her eyes glittered with amusement and malice, “I know who you are Liam Rys, you’re the halfling prince. Does being a half-blood bother you?”

“No.” He replied with equanimity.

“Hmm. And yet you had your wizard summon me rather than doing it yourself,” she said with a glance at the human magic user, “Why is that, halfling? Not capable of it? Can’t get it up? The magic, that is.” She threw her head back and laughed at her own joke.

“I can.” He remained unruffled, “But it is forbidden.”

Her head snapped forward to study him curiously, “But you’re not a member of the elven court. They shun you, why do you follow their rules?”

He bristled; she had finally gotten a reaction out of him.

She smiled at him, and it was a terrifying smile, “Oh, my darkling prince, you’re never going to get anywhere living by their rules!”

“Do all your guests have armed guards outside their rooms?” She inquired as she took the dress that he held out to her.

“Not all my guests have incinerated a man.”

“That fool Tariq tried to touch me against my will.” She said it without rancor. She wasn’t mad. She had been quite pleased to find that some small portion of her demonic powers were still functioning despite the manacle she had been persuaded to wear.

“Well, I guess he won’t make that mistake again.”

“Indeed.” A vicious smile spread across her face, “He was the definition of fuck around and find out.”

“Those guards are there to protect other fool men from themselves.”

“Maybe you should have summoned a demon with different abilities.”

“I don’t think Max was aware of your abilities.”

It was true. To summon a specific demon, you needed to know its name. Max had done a general summoning, he had cast a wide net and hoped for the best.

He’d had no idea that what he had summoned wasn’t a true demon.

A cambion was a human-demon hybrid. But Riley wasn’t a cambion.

Riley’s mother was a demon. Her father was a dhampir.

A dhampir was a human-vampire hybrid. But Riley wasn’t that either.

There was no word for a demon-vampire hybrid because there had never been one before.

Riley was something different. Something new.

A demon and a vampire shouldn’t have been able to produce a child together. But her mother had desired a child and she was a powerful demon with strong magic.

It didn’t matter that she was only half demon. She possessed the power to kindle the spell.

The manacle that adorned her right arm was forged by human magic and it was designed specifically to repress demon magic.

It did nothing to dampen her vampiric senses and abilities.

The ability to entrance humans was a power she had inherited from her father.

“Let me show you why it’s pointless to have a human guard me.” Riley walked to the door and fixed the guard with a piercing stare, “What’s your name?”

“Marco.” He answered.

She stepped close to him and touched his face, “Look at me, Marco.”

The young guard’s eyes traveled slowly up to meet hers. She smiled as her fingers caressed his face. Her voice was low and sultry and full of magic as she crooned his name.

Liam could feel the pull of the enchantment from where he was standing.

“Lay your weapon down and come here.” She told him as she turned and walked back into the room.

He quickly dropped his firearm and followed her into the room.

Marco was about an inch shorter than Liam, a little broader in the shoulders, with hair almost as dark. He wasn’t unappealing.

She stepped closer to him and ran a finger down his face as she whispered, “Would you die for me, Marco?”

“Yes!” Came the immediate answer, his eyes full of longing and desire.

“Okay!” Liam cut in, “You’ve proven your point. Stop!”

Her eyes were nearly as black as his own and they glittered with delight as she turned her head to him, “What’s wrong my halfling prince? Are you jealous?”

“Release the enchantment and I’ll send him away.”

“Maybe I don’t want to send him away. He looks like he could be fun and I’m thirsty.”

“You’re only a quarter vampire, you don’t need blood.”

“I don’t need it my prince, but I like it.” She told him as her fangs extended. She licked her lips as she brought her mouth to the guard’s neck.

Marco was rock hard and whimpering, “Bite me. Please!”

“That’s enough!” Liam thundered, “Release the mortal and I’ll give you my blood!”

“Really?” That was intriguing.

She released the human and stepped away.

Marco shook his head as if to clear it and looked around the room in confusion, “Your Majesty? Lady Riley? How did I get in here?”

“You were feeling dizzy, Marco,” Liam lied, “Overworked most likely. Take the rest of the day off, go see the palace doctor.”

“O…k…” he backed slowly out of the room and retrieved his gun from the hallway floor.

Liam was across the room in a flash, grabbing her by the forearm and jerking her forward, “If you want blood, take mine!”

She turned her eyes to him as she listened with her enhanced hearing to his heartbeat as it quickened. “You’d like that, wouldn’t you?”

He dropped her arm and took a step back, “Don’t flatter yourself! I just know that you won’t drain me. I’m merely protecting my men from you.”

The terms of the bargain they’d struck forbade her from harming either the wizard or the elf for the duration of their contract.

After that, all bets were off.

Maxwell was counting on sending her back to hell before she could exact any type of vengeance, but she had no plans of leaving any time soon.

The halfling would give her everything she needed. He just didn’t know it yet.

She sidled slowly closer to him, step by incremental step until she was mere inches away. Until she could hear the blood as it whooshed through his veins. Until she could see the pulse in his carotid artery. Until she could smell the elf pheromones he was pumping out in copious supply.

“Is that what you’re doing?” She whispered as she lowered her mouth to his neck. She scraped her fangs down the side of his neck, but not hard enough to actually draw blood.

He shuddered.

She tried to step away, but his hand shot out and encircled her wrist, “Why do you resist me?”

“It is you that resists me, my prince.”

“How do you figure that? I’m standing here offering you…whatever you want.”

“I want your blood, but I want it freely given.”

“I’m freely giving it now!” He protested.

“You’re not. You’re offering it to me in exchange for something.”

“I’ve asked you for nothing in return!”

“You asked me to spare the human. And I did.”

Not that she would have drained him. She had self-control and her demon blood canceled out the vampire’s blood lust. She didn’t need it for survival.

Oh, she liked it. But she could control it.

“I think you’re just toying with me,” He pushed her away, “This is some sort of demon trick.”

Demons were notoriously unreliable, deceitful by nature, and extremely untrustworthy.

“When I toy with you my prince, you’ll know it.” She grinned at him promisingly.

His pupils dilated.

The implied threat both concerned and excited him.

“Just get dressed and meet me downstairs in an hour,” he told her as he headed for the door, “I’ll remove the human guards and send someone better suited for the assignment.”

“Whatever you say, my prince.” She suppressed her gloating so he wouldn’t hear it in her voice.

She knew exactly who he would send.

It had been the entire reason for her little performance with the human guard.

Her plans were all coming together quite nicely.

[chaosprinceundivided]

The Right to Rule

The Forge of Souls rattled with the epic battle to shake upon its primodial foundations. As the gathered legions of Chaos committed to war that the mortal realm could only imagine. As the Greater Daemons led their regiments by the blessings of the Chaos Gods and their unifer, coming to duel unbridled with the Shadow's renegades and stolen warmachines.

Rulek himself, clad in his hellish armour and empowered by the Four in the apex of his great vengeance, impaled the hideous daemon forge of a Khornate daemon from roaring maw to spine. His taloned feet piercing into gut as the half-machine gurgled and flailed to dislodge him, only for the Daemon Prince to send it back into the Void with a rapturous roar of warpfire.

At his back, Kraedaan and his Khornate forces led the hammering carve with the Blood God's commandment burning their very psyche. Kill. Maim. Burn. Till it was done! Even Ghorgen was feeling it as he rode his juggernaut through a rank of chaos warriors and swung his churning sword across necks and rending chestplates.

However, the Godslayer's Chosen and Exalted were fueled with their master's desire of conquest. Refined in formations and many battles, they served as his spear. Rain of hellcannons stretching across the air to smash into fortifications criss-crossing with Be'lakor's own defenses. The Forge-fiends knew only artillery. Ventris sent his flight of Plague Drones with choking vectors of nurglite furies shrieking and using their own bodies to protect the buzzing rotflies and their riders.

Jasmine and Tretchur'la-yak looked out with a moment of fiendish clarity. Joining together in a orchestra of movements; from the chromatic cloud of flightful Tzeentchian power to the stretching pincer of wind-running calvery, from the skies to sides. Even as the Shadow Master released his own manageries to hold them back, the joined legions of the Ruinous Powers' darkling princes added to the assault.

Rulek gave no restraint in this battle. He have gathered powers that should be beyond him, but he did this more than himself - he realizes.

As he carved through daemon and slave, unleashing the giggling powers of Tzeentch in a screaming yawn of the Warp swallowing, he can still almost hear him in the maelstorm of lost souls damned. In his darkest recesses, the man he was screamed for that daemon to push through. To kill the manipulator. To break his spine upon his knee. To end him completely. Rulek snarled and, as a Bloodthirster dared to challenge him, the Daemon Prince charged with his tower shield catching the heavy bearded axe with a explosion of his dark aura's ward.

How he danced around each decapitation-wanting swing, only to slice at openings and come around. The thirster howled as he swung for Rulek's midsection. The Daemon Prince lunged himself in and crashed with his grown size heaving the Khornate beast off his hooves, the cruel blades impaling through black armour and scarlet hide.

From a perch, the Old Man watched it all with horrified awe.

How Rulek's roar casting a black bolt of lightning across the shimmering sky of infinities as more of his daemons fought on ships of iron and thunderous weapons, crashing against Be'lakor's thralls whilst the Four watched with ravenous glee to their playthings fighting once more for their infinite desires.

All according to them.

[starlsssankt]

@siderealxmelody /

Anastasiya supposed she should think of silver linings. That she should be nice and be happy Aleksander wasn't alone. That someone had caught his eye after she had died.

She should be grateful, and be above all the jealous rage flowing through her.

But she was only human.

And Aleksander was hers.

Anastasiya turned from Alina, her sobs finally tapering off in whimpers. She clutched her head, blood trickling from her ears. Anastasiya met Aleksander's eyes it took all her energy to not just spit at his feet and walk away.

"How long? How long did it take for you to move on from me? How long before you invited her to our bed? How long before you replaced our pictures with ones with her in it? Does Genya even know me? Does she call her Mama?"

She cut her eyes to Ivan who had rushed in. Her eyes narrowing. Why had he rushed in? He hadn't been home - no one was. And he didn't have some special bond with Aleksander last she knew.

"Alina?"

His voice wavered on the last vowel of her name. He hadn't glanced at either them, barely seemed to notice they were there.

She tilted her head calling on the Asteri blood in her. Trying to see through the magic like Rigelus had taught them so very long ago.

The gold aura was tangled between Ivan and Alina. She snorted and grinned to him - it wasn't a warm smile. Just shy of a sneer and snarl.

"You like power plays right? I mean you did when I was alive. Did you enjoy knowing you had Ivan's mate? Did you make him watch when you courted and took her? Did you ask advice on how to woo her away from him?"

She stepped toward him, her voice hiss. But she couldn't hide the break in it.

"Did you give her a child Aleksander?"

Did he hear the question she couldn't bring herself to ask?

Had she been replaced?

𝐇𝐄 𝐋𝐄𝐓 𝐇𝐄𝐑 𝐑𝐀𝐆𝐄, even if just for a moment. The words hissed at him, but he snapped right back at her once she started. ❝ Centuries, Ana! ❞ Aleksander cursed her, his clothes almost billowing around him as he paced, as he turned. One look in Alina's direction told him she was shaken, but would be fine.

The Darkling looked at Ivan. ❝ Go. Help her, ❞ he said, nodding towards Alina. Yes, he knew what they were to each other. Or what Alina was to Ivan; the young Sun Summoner hadn't ever seemed to return the favor too much, as far as Aleksander knew.

And Ivan was loyal to him.

❝ You want to know how long? ❞ he hissed, stepping back towards her. His eyes were dark, fathomless pits of anger and rage that mixed and boiled over as he approached the female.

❝ I waited centuries, and you never came back. There was nothing more they could do, I was told. I ripped the world apart, and there was nothing, Ana. So yes, I moved on. I found an equal in Alina-- ❞

He stopped, cut his words off. Just for a moment, before Aleksander said something in anger at her. In rage and would come to regret it if it left his lips. Fingers curled against themselves, a fist forming at his side.

❝ For Saints' sake, Ana, you were the one who left! Who died. I had to-- There was nothing for me, but dammit all, I had to take it. Take what the world had ripped away from me, so yes, I found someone else. Can you truly blame me for that?! ❞

Some questions, however, Aleksander refused to answer. Let them hang there, unresolved. Let her think whatever she will, he thought.

[moon-girls-stories]

~ Shadow And Bones ~ Aleksander Morozova X F!Reader

Point de vue omniscient :

Lace se tient droite comme un piqué en face du Général Kirigan, la jeune mère a les mains jointe sur son ventre plat, regardant le Général droit dans les yeux.

-Que puis-je faire pour vous, Madame Fell ? Lui demande-t-il avec un fin sourire.

-Je suis venue vous parler de Asteria. 

Kirigan se redresse et bombe le torse sans même y faire attention. Il incline la tête sur le côté et fronce les sourcils. Il s’approche de la bourgeoise résidant à la cour du château.

-Moi et mon mari voudrions l’adopter. Elle serait une Fell. Avec un bel avenir.

-Hors de question. Avec moi, elle est en sécurité.

-Tous les enfants la craignent pour ses dons et se moquent d’elle. Tout le monde à la cour sait qu’elle est une orpheline du bas peuple. Général, si vous voulez vraiment son bien, vous acceptez mon offre.

-Quelle offre ? Je n’y gagne rien. Repartez.

Il lui tourne le dos et se poste à une fenêtre, regardant justement Asteria jouer dehors avec quelques gardes qu’il a envoyés pour la divertir. Lace le rejoint, observant la petite fille de huit ans rire aux éclats. Un fin sourire s’installe sur les lèvres pulpeuse de la jeune femme contrastant avec l’air préoccupé du Général.

-Elle se mariera à l’un des fils du roi et de la reine. Elle pourra devenir reine de Ravka.

Il détourne son regard sur elle, la regardant perplexe à ce qu’elle dit. Elle lui offre un sourire d’autant plus grand.

-Je ne vous l’arrache pas, Général. Tout le monde sait que vous voyez bien plus en elle qu’une simple élève. Mais avec mon mari et moi, elle aura un climat familial et stable. Elle grandira dans l’amour et la protection d’une famille soudée et bienveillante.

-Vous faites cela juste pour que votre famille accède au trône.

-Ne voulez-vous pas qu’elle obtienne du pouvoir ? 

-Là n’est pas mon but principal. 

-Vraiment ? Alors les cours intensif et entraînements répétitifs ne sont pas installés pour la faire gagner en pouvoir ? 

-J’agis pour son bien à elle et pour tous les grisha. 

Sa voix se fait menaçante et ses yeux s’assombrissent de colère. Il la fusille du regard quelques secondes avant de lui tourner le dos, rangeant quelques papiers et cartes traînant sur sa grande table centrale.

-Je pense aussi à elle. Elle sera choyée comme ma descendante directe et les autres enfants et adultes de la cour se verront être forcés de la respecter. Je lui sauve la vie en lui donnant la possibilité d’être la future reine de Ravka. Pensez-y.

Un silence se fait dans les appartements du Darkling. 

-Quittez mes appartements.

-Je vous laisse réfléchir, j’attendrai votre réponse.

Elle quitte les appartements du Darkling la tête haute et l'air assurée, sachant qu’elle a insinué le doute en lui. 

Plus tard dans la journée, Aleksander vient chercher la petite Asteria dans sa chambre alors que les dames de chambre venaient tout juste de finir de la préparer pour aller au lit. En le voyant entrer tel une furie, elles se courbent en avant puis sortent en souhaitant bonne nuit à Asteria. Aleksander se met assis sur le matelas de qualité de la petite, l’invitant la seconde d’après à s’installer auprès de lui.

-Que penses-tu de la famille Fell ?

-Les garçons sont gentils. Mais un peu bête quand même.

-Et Madame Fell ?

-Lace est très gentille. Elle m’aide à cueillir des fleurs des fois.

-Et son mari, que penses-tu de lui ? Il a l’air de confiance ?

-Il m’aide avec mes devoirs que l’apparat me donne. Mais ne le dit pas, c’est un secret !

Aleksander lui offre un sourire qu’elle lui rend. Elle prend soudainement sa main et le tire avec elle au lit. Il se laisse faire et s’allonge sur les draps alors qu’elle passe sous la couette, se rapprochant de lui. Il l’entoure d’un bras, profitant de sa proximité avec la petite fille.

-Tu aimerais vivre comme Madame Fell ?

-Je veux devenir comme elle. Belle, gentille et influente. Tu la trouves belle, toi ?

-Elle est jolie, oui. Mais tu deviendras plus jolie qu’elle.

-Avec des belles robes et des bijoux qui brillent ?

Elle relève ses yeux noirs pétillants de joie vers le visage du Darkling plus fermé. Il remarque alors cette étincelle de bonheur et d’espoir dans les yeux de sa protégée. Il lui sourit avant de soupirer en haussant les épaules.

-Rien n'est impossible pour nous.

-Parce qu’on est trop fort !

-Parce qu’on est trop fort, c’est ça.

-Et quand je serai la plus forte, tous ceux qui auront été méchants avec nous seront punis.

Elle baille longuement avant de s’enfoncer un peu plus dans les bras du Général. Ce dernier a les yeux baissés sur elle avant de soupirer et de se retirer lentement, faisant grogner la petite.

-Je vais te laisser dormir petit ange. Fait de beaux rêves.

Il lui embrasse le front mais avant qu’il puisse se relever elle retient sa kefta noir.

-Reste avec moi cette nuit. S’il te plaît.

Il la jauge du regard un instant avant d’acquiescer à sa demande. Il retire ses bottes et quelques uns de ses vêtements, gardant un simple haut noir ample et son pantalon de la même couleur. Il se met sous les draps, Asteria venant directement se coller à lui. Il enroule ses bras autour d’elle et pose son menton sur le sommet du crâne de la gamine.

Le lendemain matin à sept heure lorsque les dames de chambre entrent dans la chambre d’Asteria elles sont toutes aussi surprises les uns que les autres de voir le Darkling dormir à point fermé avec la petite dans ses bras, se serrant l’un contre l’autre comme s’ils avaient peur d’être arraché de leur étreinte. Celle qui dirige le petit groupe de jeune femme leur fait signe de rester silencieuse et de quitter la pièce.