#EDIT THEY SAID IT WAS A SAFE JOURNEY

[monstacheol]

𝓓𝓪𝓭𝓭𝔂'𝓼 𝓗𝓸𝓶𝓮

❀Pairing: C.SC x afab! reader

❀Summary: When your husband goes on a two-week business trip, you are left alone in the comfort of your shared home until your heat hit unexpectedly. With Cheol away, you have to break this heat soon before he comes back. Turns out….he came back sooner than you thought.

❀WC: 4.3K (Originally supposed to be 2K words but I wrote too much.)

❀Warning: Dom! Alpha Seungcheol, Sub! Omega Reader, oral (f receiving), unprotected sex (stay safe everyone), mild dirty talk, breeding, mention of a baby, pet name: (y/n): baby, princess, sweet girl; Cheol: cheol, daddy( a few time) (I'm missing out a lot. Let me know and I'll add more.)

❀Taglist: @kyeomiis @onlywonwoorideul @scoupsieee @jimintopiaaaa @gyuguys @rissepuffs04 @yawnozone

❀Notes: It has been a while since I wrote smut, especially an omegaverse one, so I don't know if this is good. I worked hard on it the best I could. Please bear with me. I am rusty and my writing style has changed. It is also proofread and edited. I edited it the best I could. So if there is any minor grammar error, I'm so sorry. If this is any good, I'll write the next prompt I had in mind. One of two or three that I have before school starts for me. So I hope you enjoy it and if it's awful (I think it is but that's my opinion because I was stressing about it for weeks), I'm so sorry and I hope to improve soon. Please comment, like, reblog for support.

You were curled up on the bed, panting, hot, and wearing nothing but your husband's t-shirt and your fingers stuffed inside as you were surrounded by your husband's clothes in your lovely nest. Your mind was lost in a daze as you could smell his scent flowing around you, leading you to fuck yourself in bliss. You could feel the coil in your stomach tighten as you imagined his hands on your body, his voice in your ear, and his breath on your skin. You moan softly, feeling the intensity building up inside you. The fantasy of him being there with you pushed you over the edge, bringing you to a shuddering climax that left you breathless. But you didn't stop. You couldn't stop. You kept pumping yourself, imagining how he would do it.

How did we come to get to this point? How did this even happen? Well…

"Two weeks," you question.

Your husband nods his head as he adds, "Yes, two weeks."

A two-week business trip alone here in your home. You knew that your husband would be taking an upcoming business trip, but you didn't know it would be this long. You anticipated a few days at most, not the entire two weeks. The thought of being alone in the house for that long makes you feel a bit anxious and lonely as you pout.

"I know that look. You're pouting," Seungcheol said with a teasing smile.

In denial, you softly argue, "I'm not pouting; I'm just... not used to you being away for so long," you reply, trying to mask your disappointment. Seungcheol chuckles, knowing how much you will miss him. He then wrapped his arm around your waist, pulling you close. As I breathed in his scent of cherry and sandalwood, "It will be alright. I promise to call you every day and make it up to you when I get back," he reassured you, kissing your forehead.

You knew he was right, but what to do in a house by yourself? You and your husband have always been together. You were first college sweethearts, meeting each other through a mutual friend. Then, the moment you both graduated, he gave the sweetest proposal, and you've been inseparable ever since. But after three years of marriage, this will be the longest he has ever been away. You can't help but feel anxious about being apart for so long, but you have to make the most of it. Maybe you can hang out with your friends more often, or take Kkuma to that park she likes to go to. Perhaps you can finally finish that project you've been putting off. The possibilities are endless. He finished packing his luggage for this journey, and after he was done, you both walked to the door. You could hear tiny steps coming behind you as Kkuma followed closely. You both stopped at the entrance doorway as Kkuma sat there below your feet, looking up with those big eyes. Your husband kneeled down to pet her and show her lots of affection.

"Kkuma. Be a good girl, princess, while Daddy is away. Make sure to look out and take care of Mommy," Seungcheol cooed as he ruffled her hair, trying not to ruin the cute pink bow he placed on her head. He stood up from his kneeling position, and he turned to you, still pouting.

"You promise to call," you assert, looking up at him. Seungcheol smiled down at you, his eyes filled with love and reassurance. "Of course, I promise," he replied before kissing you.

"Don't worry, I will be back before you know it," Seungcheol assured you with a smile, grabbing your face and pecking your lips.

That was nine days ago. And now, here you are, sitting on your shared bed, surrounded by his clothes. In heat. Trying to relieve yourself before your husband returns. The first day without him was fine. You got your daily message from him, telling you how he misses you and sending you pictures, and you always responded. You even get to spend time with your friends. The second day went without a hitch as well. Then the third, then the fourth. But on the fifth day, you felt off. You sensed that something wasn't right. You felt tired. You didn't feel like yourself. You care less about eating or drinking and more about just lying down and resting. You tried to shake off the feeling, but it persisted. It was then that you realized that, you were about to go in heat. You didn't think it would happen so soon and on the day that your husband was gone. You gasp as your fingers pump inside you vigorously, the pleasure building as you give in to your body's desires. You came so many times, leaving the bed and your panties soaked with your release, but it wasn't enough. You need more. You crave for him. You need his touch. You need him.

"Cheolie," you whimper.

"Y/N," you heard.

You froze as you heard the voice you didn't expect to hear. You look up to see your husband staring there, wearing only casual clothes with a surprise on his face.

"C-Cheol. "W-What are you?"

"You're in heat, aren't you?" Seuncheol asked.

You didn't say anything, but your silence said it all for him. "My poor baby," he said as he stepped closer to you. He climbed into the bed toward you, his hand reaching out to gently touch your face.

"Left alone, all hot and bothered. Missing your Alpha so much that you made a nest out of all of his clothes. So much that you have to finger yourself just to feel a little relief. It must hurt, doesn't it?" Seungcheol said as his hand brushed through your hair.

Tears trickled down your cheeks as you nodded. "It hurts so much, Daddy," you said as you reached out, clutching his shirt. "P-Please," you begged.

Seungcheol shushed you gently, wrapping his arms around you in a comforting embrace. "It's okay, baby girl. I'm here now, baby. Daddy's home. Daddy will take care of you," he whispered soothingly, kissing your head.

You buried your face in his chest, inhaling his scent, making your head spin. He pulled away to drape kisses across your face until they finally landed on your soft lips. You melted into the kiss as it became passionate and intense, completely losing yourself in the moment. You wrap your arm around him as he deepens the kiss, laying you down on the bed. The kiss became electrifying. His hands traced the curves of your body, causing you to gasp in pleasure, allowing his tongue to explore every inch of your mouth. His lips then traveled from your jaw to your neck. You couldn't help but lose yourself in the passion of his touch.

"My sweet girl," Seungcheol murmurs into your neck as he inhales your scent. Your sweet scent of (whatever scent you want it to be). He groans softly, his touch sending shivers down your spine. You were going crazy. Him. His touch. His scent was intoxicating. It was enough to make you go wild. You never wanted it to end.

"I've missed you so much," he murmurs, his voice filled with longing. His lips attacked your neck, kissing, biting, and sucking, which you were certain would leave a mark. You uttered a soft gasp, feeling a rush of desire and anticipation coursing through your body. His hands gripped your waist tightly, pulling you even more.

"Miss you so much that I came back early to surprise my darling wife, and what do I see? You in heat, wearing my shirt, fingers inside that pretty pussy of yours, smelling so irresistible." He presses his lips against your neck, leaving a trail of kisses down your collarbone. He grabs h̶i̶s̶ your shirt, pulling it over your head, revealing your naked body underneath, just for him. "It's enough to send me into a rut," he whispers huskily.

His words made your pussy clench. God, do you need him? You reach out for him, grabbing his shirt. "Cheollie. Your shirt," you whine.

Seungcheol faintly chuckles. "What? What do you want?" he teasingly asks. You grab his shirt and pull on it. "I want it off," you whisper, your voice filled with desire.

Seungcheol obliged, removing his shirt and throwing the piece of clothing on the floor, not caring where it landed, revealing his well-toned chest and toned abs. Was this man gorgeous or what? You couldn't resist running your hands over his chest, feeling the warmth of his skin.

"Like what you see, baby?" Seungcheol asked with a smirk, his eyes full of mischief.

You nodded eagerly, unable to tear your gaze away from him as he leaned in closer, his lips brushing against yours, and you couldn't resist kissing him back. The kiss deepened.

His large hands cup your breasts, massaging them with care, and then he leans down to attach his lips to one of your nipples as he toys with the other. You arch your back in response, a soft moan escaping your lips as his touch sends shivers down your spine. He continues to suck and bite your sensitive flesh, making you squirm with pleasure as he repeats it to others.

You wrap your legs around his waist, pulling him close and feeling his cock pressing against the front of his pants, hard and ready for you. You gasped as you felt the fiction of him grinding against you. "Cheol," you whimper.

He looked up at you with a smirk. "Patient baby," he whispered before teasefully biting your nipple. You pouted. You want more. You need his lips. You need more. You need to feel him inside you. He releases your swollen nipple with a 'pop' before trailing kisses down your stomach to the waistband of your panties. You knew you were going to get exactly what you wanted. He hooked his finger on the waistband of your panties, pulling down slowly until they were completely off, revealing your wet core. You could hear a sudden, small curse fall from his lips as he saw how wet you were.

"Baby, you're dripping so much," Seungcheol murmured. You gasped as his fingers traced the outer edges of your folds. "How many times did you cum?" he whispered, his voice husky with desire. You felt a surge of arousal at his words, your body responding eagerly to his touch. "So many," you admitted breathlessly.

Seungcheol softly chuckled at your cuteness. He lightly blew on your wet heat, causing you to shiver and whine. He then grabbed your thighs to place them on his shoulder, placing kisses along your inner thighs and making you shiver with anticipation. "Then allow me to make you cum some more," he whispered seductively as he trailed his lips up towards your core.

His tongue dips between your slick folds, eliciting a moan from your lips. "You taste so sweet," he growled before diving back in with fervor. The intensity of his actions sent waves of pleasure coursing through your body, making you arch your back in ecstasy. His tongue traced from your dripping hole to your clit, as he sucked on the sensitive bud, sending a jolt of pleasure through you. Your hands grip his hair as he continues to expertly work his magic. "Please don't stop," you beg, desperate to reach the peak of ecstasy.

"Feels good," he murmurs. "So good," you whisper, feeling the tension building within you. He groaned against your core, the vibrations adding to the overwhelming sensation. If there's one thing that Seungcheol loves the most, it's pleasing you until you're a quivering mess of pleasure and desire. He could eat you all day if you let him. The way he makes you feel is unlike anything you've ever felt before, and you never want it to end. Seungcheol's skilled tongue continued to work its magic; you could hear the knot in your stomach tighten. You were close.

"I'm close," you gasp, your body trembling with anticipation as he brings you to the brink of release. He muttered, not even letting up, "Let go, baby."

His voice was low and husky, and his words sent a shiver down your spine as you finally let go, the intensity of your release washing over you in waves of pleasure. Seungcheol continued to please you, drinking everything you had to offer, his skilled tongue never faltering in its movements. As you came down from your high, he leaned up to your lips to kiss you, tasting yourself on his tongue. He pulled away for a moment to pull on the waistband of his sweatpants and boxers, revealing his hard, throbbing length. Your mouth watered as he wrapped his hand around his cock and slowly stroked it. "You want it?" he asked, his voice husky.

You nod eagerly. "Beg for it," Seungcheol growls.

"P-please. Cheol," you begged, your voice filled with need and desperation.

"Please, what?" he titillated, his warm breath sending shivers down your spine. "Please put it in, Daddy. I want to feel you. I want you inside me so bad. I want you to knot me up. I want you to fill me up completely with your cum," you whimpered. Your body ached for his touch, aching to be filled with pleasure.

"You want Alpha to cum inside? Want me to fill you up? Give you my knot. Fill you up so deep with cum until you are swollen with my babies? You want that, don't you?" He whispered seductively, his voice low and husky. You nodded eagerly. Just the thought of him breeding you and filling you with his cum just sent shivers down your spine. You want it so badly right now.

"Please, Alpha," you begged, your voice barely above a whisper. The anticipation of feeling him inside you was almost unbearable. "What a good girl, asking so politely," he compliments.

His hands roamed over your body, teasing and tantalizing you as he positioned himself between your legs. With a smirk, he leaned in close and whispered, "I'll give you everything you want, my sweet Omega."

With a low growl, he slowly pushed inside you, making you gasp and arch your back in pleasure. He groans as the feel of your tightness envelopes him. "Fuck, you're so tight, princess," he murmurs.

As he began to move in a slow and steady rhythm, you felt every inch of him pulsating within you, sending waves of pleasure throughout your body. The sight below Seungcheol was so mesmerizing. Just seeing you writhing beneath him, your eyes fluttering and your lips parting in silent ecstasy, was enough to drive him wild with desire.

With each thrust, he could feel your body responding eagerly to his touch, igniting a fire within him that only grew stronger with each passing moment. His thrust began to pick up speed as your moans grew louder, the sound of skin slapping against skin filling the room with an intoxicating rhythm. "Alpha," you moan. Your voice is filled with desire and need. You are in ecstasy right now.

Seungcheol's name on your lips only fueled his passion further, pushing him to give you everything you craved. As he continued to move inside you, the intensity of your connection soared to unforseen levels, rendering both of you breathless and lost in the moment. The two of you were intoxicated by each other.

He lifts your legs to place them on his shoulder, deepening the penetration and intensifying the pleasure. The change in angle allowed him to hit all the right spots. "T-There," you utter. "There?" he reiterates, his voice husky with desire. "Yes, right there," you moan as he hits that sweet spot inside you, making your body tremble with pleasure. He chuckles slightly as he repeatedly hits that spot, causing you to lose control of your senses. Your hands grip the sheets tightly as your hips move in perfect sync with his thrusts, the sensation becoming more intense with each movement. The way your moan was mixed with the squelching sound of your wet cunt was music to his ears.

He paused his movement to pull out, leaving you to whimper in protest. He lifts you up and changes positions. His back presses against the headboard, and you now sitting on his lap. Holding your body in place, he lines his cock up with your entrance and slowly enters you again, filling you. Your body takes over, and you ride him with wild abandon, the sound of skin slapping against skin filling the room. "That's it. Good girl," he mutters as his eyes roll back, biting his lips.

Your moan mingles with his groans, creating a symphony of pleasure that echoes through the air, heightening the intensity of the moment. His hips thrust upward, meeting yours in the middle, his fingers digging into your hips as he thrusts deeper and harder. "Alpha," you whine.

With his half-lid eyes, he saw the pure ecstasy on your face. Drinking in your fuck-out expression and my god, you look beautiful. Stunning. Gorgeous. There were so many words he could use to call you right now. But right now, at this moment, you were the most exquisite sight he had ever seen. You were everything that he had dreamed of, and so much more. And he could fall in love with you again and again and again.

Your bounces become more urgent, and your breath comes in short gasps. "So good. So deep," you whisper breathlessly. "You like that. You like your Alpha cock deep inside you, don't you?" His words send a shiver down your spine as you nod eagerly, unable to form a coherent response. His eyes lock with yours. He leans in to capture your lips in a passionate kiss, swallowing your moans and whimpers as he continues to move inside you with a relentless rhythm. The kiss deepens as his hands grip your hips, pulling you closer to him.

Seungcheol's hand reaches between your bodies as his thumb finds its way to your clit, rubbing small circles that push you closer to the edge. You moan at his touch. Pulling away from the kiss, your gaze is locked on his half-lidded gaze, a gaze full of desire and intensity. You felt the coils in your stomach tighten as the pleasure built, and your body was on the brink of ecstasy. You were close, and he knew it. His lips twitch into an amusing smirk, the corners crinkling with amusement. "That's my girl. Such a good girl for me, riding me so beautifully. Are you close, baby," he whispers huskily.

"I'm close. So close, Cheol," you gasp out as your climax approaches. Seungcheol's movements become more urgent as he whispers in your ear, "Let go for me, princess. Let me feel you come apart around me."

As you cry out his name and finally reach your peak, "That's it, baby. Let's go. You're so beautiful when you cum," he murmurs, his voice husky with desire, as you ride out the waves of pleasure crashing over you. Your body trembles in his arms. Your cunt clenches around him as he continues to move inside you, prolonging your ecstasy. "Fuck!"

Seungcheol groans at the feel of your walls pulsating around him. Seungcheol holds your body close, flipping you back into your previous position, laying you on your back. His hand grips your hips tightly as he pounds into you relentlessly, his own desire evident in his intense gaze. You arch your back in response, reacting to his movements with equal fervor, surrendering completely to the pleasure he bestows on you. The room is filled with the sound of skin slapping against skin, mixed with your moans and his grunts. Seungcheol's pace became more erratic as he chased his own release, his movements becoming more desperate and erratic.

"Fuck. Are you ready for Alpha knot?" he growls, his voice low and husky with need. You nod eagerly, your body trembling with anticipation as he finally locks you in place with a deep, primal thrust. His knot thickens and swells, filling you as you cry out in ecstasy. In that moment, you are overwhelmed by the feeling of being claimed by your Alpha, and you can't help but surrender to the primal pleasure coursing through you. His primal growl, his fast, aggressive pace, and the feel of his knot locking inside you send you over the edge, bringing you closer to another orgasm. His breath ragged against your ear as you clung to him desperately.

"C-Cheol," you begged, your voice filled with desperation and desire. You feel his body tense up as he releases it inside you, filling you with his warmth. The sensation of his release triggers your own, sending you both into a state of blissful ecstasy. You cling to him desperately, lost in the overwhelming pleasure of being claimed by your Alpha. Your bodies were entwined in a tangled mess of limbs and heavy breathing, totally exhausted by the raw intensity. The room is filled with the scent of sweat and sex.

Seungcheol waited for his knot to swell down before he could pull out and collapse next to you, completely depleted. He wrapped his arms around you, pulling you close in a tender embrace. Pushing your hair to the side. "Are you okay?" he asked, his voice filled with concern. His hand caresses your waist gently. You nodded. "I'm fine."

Seungcheol smiled, relieved to hear your response. He placed a kiss on your forehead. You were so happy to see him. If this was ever a dream, you never wanted to wake up. Your husband is home. Early... Wait. Why is he back here so early?

"Wait. You came back so early. I thought-."

"Ah," Seungcheol interrupted. "We ended up finishing up early, and instead of me staying for the next few days, I decided to go home. I wanted to call you to let you know, but I wanted to surprise you. Turns out you surprised me," he chuckled.

Oh, so that's why. You didn't expect him to come back early, nor were you expecting your heat to come either. But you were glad. "Welcome back home. I'm glad you're back," you replied, grateful for his presence. Seungcheol thanked you, pressing a sweet kiss on your lips.

"I'm glad too. I felt awful leaving you here on your own without anyone. So I was thinking, " Seungcheol started. Your eyes turn to him, curious about what he is going to say next. His hand grabs your hand, twirling around your wedding band on your finger before he places a kiss on the back of your hand. He looked into your eyes and finally said what he wanted to say.

"I was thinking, and I know we have talked about this so much, but why don't we start trying for a baby? I think we are ready to take that big step," he said, looking at you with a hopeful expression.

His sudden suggestion stunned you. A baby. A baby with Seungcheol. This. This was a huge decision. And you know you both talked about it during your marriage and said that you both would give it some thought. But now, faced with the reality, you couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by the weight of such a life-changing decision. You took a deep breath, gathering your thoughts, before responding to Seungcheol's proposal.

"Now before you answer, if you don't want to, I won't force you, and I will wait as long as you want. Whatever you decide, I will respect it. But just know that I love you so much, and I want to take that next step with you in our marriage. I want to be the father of our children. Plus, I think Kkuma will love having siblings to play with," he added.

You giggled at his last response. Deep down, you knew that you had always dreamed of starting a family with him. From the moment you said, 'I do', you knew he was the one you wanted to share your life with and raise a family with. And this. This new chapter of having a baby together would be the perfect step. "I love you too, and I can't imagine a future without you by my side," you finally said, feeling the weight of his words sink in. "Let's start planning for our family together," you joyfully say.

Seungcheol smiled back at you, his eyes shining with joy as he held your cheek, placed a gentle kiss on your lips, and then placed a few more. He smiled softly at you, looking into your eyes, before flipping you over on your stomach on all fours, causing you to squeal. "C-Cheol," you say.

"What? You didn't think this was over?" Seungcheol responded with a mischievous smile. You could feel his lips tracing kisses across your back. His lips trace up your back, making you shiver, and you cry out in protest.

"B-But. Shouldn't we take a break? You just returned from your trip," you mentioned between breaths.

Seungcheol just chuckled and disregardingly ignored what you had just said. His hands roam your body as he leans over, his chest pressing against your back.

"We both know your heat doesn't end there. If we want that baby, we need to keep going. I did promise I would make it up to you, and I intend to keep my word," he whispered, his warm breath sending shivers down your spine.

His hand grabs your face, turning you to look at him with a mischievous glint in his eyes.

"We got all night, baby, and I want… No, I NEED to make sure you're nice, full, and swollen with my baby. And Daddy will make sure that happens," Seungcheol whispered with a devilish grin.

You softly moan in response, feeling a rush of desire and anticipation. Seungcheol's lips curled into a knowing smile before he pressed them against yours, sealing the unspoken agreement between you. It was then that you realized that the night was far from over.

[unknown-cold]

Video edited by: @luvviolyn on TikTok

Oh my god I miss them so much and I'm so excited to see them in the future, after all the news that was published about them, I want to see them whether in a comic book or a novel or a spin-off show, I want to see them again as enforcers or sheriffs and have their own adventures and even how their story will be as they try to protect and keep both Piltover and Zaun safe.

I want to see the vi again in enforcer outfit, it looks so cool on her!

And people who can’t accept Vi being an Enforcer shouldn’t have been her fans from the start.

Like these people are crazy, someone said to me that "cops are corrupt and their whole system is unjust" or "the enforcers they can't be good" and I was like dude this is a fictional story where it's completely possible Cait and Vi can be a good enforcer and truly push for change and fix enforcers system.

These people bring politics into everything, they don't even try to enjoy the show, they forget that the show is designed for entertainment and not to solve political issues. Not everything has to be some political statement. Sometimes a show’s just a show — relax and enjoy it instead of trying to force an agenda on it

So again Real Vi stans embrace her journey to becoming an enforcer and in Arcane, bettering the system so no people from Zaun have to suffer like she and her people did. Vi and Caitlyn will fix the Enforcers system and make them serve the greater good of both cities

[nonightingalesinberkelysquare]

WARNING FOR GOOD OMENS SPOILERS!!!!

FURTHER SLIGHT SPOILER WARNING FOR THE FOLLOWING BOOKS: The Bone Clock by David Mitchell, You Only Call When You're In Trouble by Stephen Mcauley, and Bibliomaniac by Robin Ince.

Edit: Photos by @polychromicron-persei-8 !!!!!

So I'm sure a lot of the fandom have seen the pictures posted by a very lucky fan who saw the production of good omens happening out in Scotland today!!

However what I'm not seeing people talk about is a hidden gem in the reblogs.

SOMEONE HAD MANAGED TO GET A PICTURE OF THE BOOKS IN THE WINDOW!!!

Naturally, I had to go and do my research to see if these books give us any clues or serve any other purposes other than decorative purposes

AND LET ME TELL YOU

These are the the books visible in the window:

I'll go through them one by one

(Please bear in mind, I haven't read any of these books personally!! The only information I have on them are the little bits I found online in a very rushed attempt at research!!!)

Okay firstly

"The Bone Clocks" by David Mitchell

Now, this is the one that I struggled to make sense of the most out of the three.

The story appears to follow a runaway teenage girl who is a "lightning rod for psychic phenomena." These visions are said to reorder reality and send her into a real life nightmare.

However,

It also states that there is a boy who eventually crosses paths with her and who's story "comes together in moments of grace and extraordinary wonder"

As I said, I've never read these books and the only link I could begin to make with this is the idea of a "supernatural being meets another supernatural being and what they can do when they're together defies anyone's wildest dreams" story, similar to what we have seen and could see in GO3.

The next book is where it gets FARRRR more interesting (in my opinion)

NOW

THE TITLE? INTERESTING ASF.

IS AZIRAPHALE IN TROUBLE? OR EVEN CROWLEY?

The quotes are literally taken from the amazon listing itself, but I'll just point out the bits that stuck out to me personally.

☆ "is it ever okay to stop caring for others and start living for yourself?"

And I'm skipping a HUUUUGE chunk of the story here so apologies

☆ "Tom does what he's always done - answers the call."

☆ "Thus begins a journey that will change everyone's life and demonstrate the beauty or dysfunction (or both?) of the ties that bind families together and sometimes strangle them."

THAT LAST QUOTE REALLY STICKS OUT TO ME. Personally, I'd say that could possibly relate to the heaven and hell divides?

But furthermore, we were told prior to the whole NG situation that Aziraphale and Crowley aren't talking.. so could that mean that as soon as they begin speaking once again, they have the power to leave heaven and hell behind? Perhaps stop the divides?

And last, but certainly not least

Now, keep in mind that this particular book is nonfiction and appears to be written from the authors own point of view as he aims to visit 100 bookshops in 100 days.

This has a relatively short description from what I can see right now so I'll put it in here

"Bibliomaniac takes the reader on a journey across Britain as Robin explores his lifelong love of bookshops and books - and also tries to find out just why he can never have enough of them.

It is the story of an addiction and a romance, and also of an occasional points failure."

This one interested me SO much because it SCREAMS Aziraphale character development sort of thing? You know?

I really struggled to find any spoilers for this one whatsoever but one website did mention the author's love for vintage books, which he only ever reads as and when, as opposed to focusing on just one book.

I just thought this was SO SO SOOOOO interesting, and if anybody has any differing thoughts/interpretations or has even read the books, the comment section is a safe space to do so!!! All theories/suggestions are welcomed (any hate WILL be blocked, don't test me).

OR MAYBE THIS ALL MEANS NOTHING AND IM JUST CLOWNING FAR TOO HARD?!??!??!

[emmyspov]

A Lifetime (Gil-Galad x reader)

Summary: It seemed like it was forgotten in the lore that there were not only Elrond and Elros, but also a third sibling: you. Before Elrond became the High King’s Herald, you had already chosen your fate. Like your younger brother, you would live as an elf, serving the High King and getting a bit closer with him than imagined. Set in the time of the second season of Rings of Power.

author’s note: it’s been a looong time since i actually wrote something, so excuse this crusty-rusty excuse of work, but i just had to write something before i start my job tomorrow, especially after seeing the interview in which benjamin walker stated that he wants Gil-Galad to be kissed! i used “meldanya” for my beloved in the story - and tried my best to keep it gender-neutral :)

warnings: mentions of war and terrible times and kissing? that should be it, if not, let me know <3

word count: 743

edit is mine, all pics are from pinterest :)

You bowed as you entered Gil-Galad’s chambers: “How may I assist you today, High King?”

Ever since Elrond had been appointed Commander to lead an army to Eregion, you had found yourself almost constantly in the king’s presence, helping him not only with his speeches and council planning, but also your regular tasks. You, personally, were responsible for his well-being, ensuring he ate and drank regularly, selecting his garments for each day, and – over time – also keeping him informed on Lindon’s gossip. It led to you two being… closer with each other than expected. Which in return made the king ask for your presence in the evenings as well.

He never told you, but with the growing shadow over Middle Earth, you were the only one who could put his mind at ease. Especially when you brushed his hair – you were far gentler than any of his maids – and made him smile like no one else could.

He shook his head at your bow. How many times had he told you that you had long surpassed such formalities? With a sigh, he finally spoke, “I’ve made the decision to ride to Eregion.”

Your head shot up. “High King-“

He interrupted you, dark eyes staring into your own. “A king’s place is wherever the need is greatest.”

“You are needed here. What am I supposed to do if something happens to you?”

Yes, one could say you were worried about High King Gil-Galad, but not for the reason others might assume. Sure, he was the King of all Elves in Middle Earth, but now seemed to be the moment to admit to yourself that he had also become the king of your heart.

He smiled sadly. “Let us not part with such dark thoughts in our minds. Please, help me gather my armor and whatever else I might need for this journey.”

What was needed on a journey like the one he was about to embark on? A journey he might never return from. No. No, you couldn’t think like this. So, you did what he asked. You helped him gather his clothes and armor which made him look even more majestic and beautiful, made your way to the stables to check on his horse and even sneaked into the kitchens to provide him with his favorite treat.

The whole time, your mind was racing. Could you tell him how you felt? What exactly were you feeling? All you knew was that you were happiest when you were with him. He challenged you mentally and, at the same time, brought you a sense of peace. You longed for him whenever he was away. Yes, you were infatuated with the High King Gil-Galad.  

Which made your parting even harder. You knew that you couldn’t burden him with your feelings – not now, when everything seemed to be on the brink of darkness once more. You watched him as he spoke with his soldiers before he made his way over to you.

“It is time”, he said, taking your hand. “I truly wish you could accompany me on this ride, but I’d rather know you are safe here. Will you wait for my return?”

You couldn’t help your smile. “I’d wait a lifetime.”

“That’s quite a long time, meldanya.”

You nodded and took a step closer, placing your hand on his cheek. “For you, it’s worth it.”

You were so close. You could smell him, feel his warmth even through the suit of armor. “I think, I would really like to kiss you, High-King. May I?”

He stared at you with an open mouth, nodding slowly. He would have never though that you from all beings would feel the same for him. His thoughts scattered when your lips came in contact with his. Oh Eru, they were warm. And so soft.

Before he could process it further, you took a step back. You didn’t want to overwhelm him. But apparently, the High-King had other plans and pulled you close again, capturing your lips in another kiss. He could taste the sweetness of berries as his tongue swept over your bottom lip and and you cupped his face with both hands.

The whole world seemed to stop as you were standing at the gates of Lindon, engulfed in each other’s presence. The king was breathing hard when you finally pulled apart: “Wait for me. Please.”

You only nodded, tears forming in your eyes. You’d wait a lifetime.

[tinyshyteacup]

Taglist: @kellynickelsgirl00 @dixonsbridexx @yikes-myguy @blackwidownat2814 @euqsia @lliteratii @imadisneyprincessiswear @satata @smashleywow @misspendragonsworld @captain-shannon-becker @i-doutt-it @bookies16 @brianna-merlim @staley83 @oceanticspace @insaneintheemembranev2 @dummylovewp @xmiaacxio @meyukoo @grilka @itsgivingdepression @timebomb1101 @inejghafasdagger @koshkahhh

----------------------------------------------------------

Gif from @daryl-dixon-daydreams

TW: walkers (zombies), being hit on by arseholes, the monroe kids might be ooc, small angst, blood, talk of past abuse, hunting animals.

Part 33

Dead Weight - Part 34

The house on Birch Street feels like stepping into a time capsule—polished hardwood floors, cream-colored walls adorned with actual artwork, furniture that matches and isn't held together with duct tape or wire.

The welcome party is in full swing, Alexandrians mingling with your group in carefully orchestrated small talk. You watch Rick attempt conversation with a woman in a floral dress who keeps eyeing him with poorly concealed distaste. Carol, transformed into the perfect suburban housewife persona, chats animatedly about casserole recipes while you catch the calculating gleam in her eyes.

Your fingers twist nervously in the fabric of your shirt as you scan the room for Daryl. He'd entered with the group but disappeared within minutes, probably to find a corner where he could observe without participating. You don't blame him—the forced cheerfulness, the abundance of everything when you'd been scraping by for so long, it all feels overwhelming.

The clean clothes felt foreign against your skin as you stood in Deanna's living room, nursing a glass of wine that tasted too sweet after months of nothing but water and whatever alcohol you could scavenge.

The flowy dress Carol had found for you was pretty enough, but it made you feel exposed in a way that had nothing to do with necklines.

"Well look at you, all cleaned up," Carol appeared at your side with a knowing smile, her own transformation from road-worn survivor to suburban housewife complete "Barely recognize any of us."

You tugged at the hem of the dress. "Feels weird."

Before you could answer, Abraham's booming laugh carried across the room where he was regaling a small group of Alexandrians with what was probably a heavily edited version of your journey here. His red hair was slicked back, beard trimmed, but his presence still dominated the space.

"That man could charm his way out of anything," Carol observed. "Or into trouble, depending on the day."

You stifled a laugh with your hand.

You spotted Glen and Maggie near the appetizer table, Glen looking almost uncomfortable in the crowd too, while Maggie seemed more at ease, chatting with some of the Alexandria women about something that had her gesturing animatedly.

Despite Glen's unease they looked good together, solid, like they belonged anywhere as long as they had each other.

Your eyes inevitably drifted to the far wall where you finally spot Daryl he's stood, rigid and clearly uncomfortable in his borrowed shirt. He was nursing a glass of something and doing his best impression of wallpaper, but you could feel the tension radiating from him even across the room.

When your gazes met, he quickly looked away, jaw tight.

"He's having a harder time adjusting than the rest of us," Carol said quietly, following your gaze.

"Can you blame him?" you murmured. "This place... it's like stepping into someone else's life."

"Well, well," a smooth voice interrupted. "Fresh faces at last."

You turned to find two young men approaching – both clean-cut with the kind of confident bearing that spoke of a life lived safely behind walls. The taller one had dark hair and an easy smile, while the shorter one carried himself with slightly more swagger.

"I'm Spencer Monroe," the dark-haired one said, extending his hand. "And this is my brother Aiden. Mom's told us all about your group, but she didn't mention..." he gestured vaguely in your direction.

"That some of you clean up so well," Aiden finished with a grin that was probably meant to be charming.

Carol excused herself to talk with Rick, leaving you to handle the Monroe boys alone.

"So," Spencer continued, moving closer, "where are you from originally? That accent – I can't place it exactly."

You found yourself relaxing slightly. Small talk you could handle. "Oversea's, I was traveling before." You gesture vaguely "all this."

"Oversea's, huh?" Aiden leaned against the bookshelf beside you. "Where excatly? We travelled before the world went to hell. Maybe we visited."

"Small country," you replied, taking a sip of wine, trying to keep the sadness out of your voice. "Not really a tourist destination. Just... quiet."

"Quiet sounds nice," Spencer said, and there was something almost wistful in his voice. "Sometimes I miss quiet. Alexandria's safe, but it's not exactly peaceful, you know? Always something that needs doing, someone who needs managing."

For a moment, you glimpsed something real beneath their polished exterior – the weight of responsibility, maybe, or just the particular loneliness that came with being in charge of other people's safety.

"So how'd you end up with Rick's group?" Aiden asked. "Mom mentioned you've been with them since the beginning."

"Not quite the beginning," you corrected. "They found me in a department store. Was on my own for a while after..." you trailed off, the familiar tightness in your chest returning.

"Sorry," Spencer said quickly. "We all lost people. Didn't mean to bring up bad memories."

You shook your head. "It's okay."

"The prison sounds like it was something special," Spencer was saying when you refocused on the conversation.

"It was," you said softly. "For a while, anyway. We had gardens, a council, kids learning in makeshift classrooms. Felt like we were building a real community."

"Like here," Aiden suggested.

You considered that, glancing around the room at the soft lighting and untouched furniture, the way everyone moved carefully like they were afraid of disturbing something precious.

"Different," you concluded. "This is... preserved. The prison was something new."

"New can be dangerous," Spencer pointed out.

"This has worked for years. We've kept people safe, kept families together."

"Safety's important," you agreed, but something in your tone must have shifted because both brothers leaned in slightly.

"But?" Aiden prompted.

You took another sip of wine, buying time to organize your thoughts. "Sometimes safe and alive aren't the same thing."

Before either Monroe could respond, Glen appeared at your elbow, Maggie close behind.

"Hey," Glen said with a smile that didn't quite reach his eyes. "How's everyone doing over here?"

"Just getting acquainted," Spencer replied smoothly. "Your friend here was telling us about the prison."

"It was quite a place," Maggie added, but there was something protective in the way she positioned herself slightly between you and Aiden.

"It was home," you said simply, and the weight of that truth settled over the little group.

The conversation continued, but you could feel the dynamic shifting. Abraham's voice boomed from across the room as he told some story that had his audience in stitches, while Carol moved through the party like a ghost, charming everyone she spoke to while revealing nothing real about herself.

"So," Aiden said, his voice dropping to a more intimate register as Glen and Maggie got pulled into conversation with some other Alexandrians, "what's your story with the group? You all seem... close."

There was something in his tone that put you on edge, a subtle shift from friendly interest to something more calculating.

"We look out for each other," you said carefully.

"Right, but I mean..." Spencer glanced meaningfully toward where Daryl still stood against the wall, "some bonds seem stronger than others."

Heat crept up your neck as you realized where this was heading. "I'm not sure I follow?"

"Come on," Aiden laughed, but it wasn't entirely friendly anymore. "Pretty girl like you, stuck out there with some rough characters. Had to be complicated."

Your spine stiffened. "They're good people. They kept me alive."

"I'm sure they did," Spencer said, his tone suggesting something else entirely. "Especially that redneck you came in with. What's his name... Daryl?"

The way he said Daryl's name, like it left a bad taste in his mouth, made your hands start to clench tighter around your wine glass.

"Yeah, about that," Aiden continued, moving closer so he was essentially boxing you in against the bookshelf. "You don't have to settle anymore. You're in civilization now."

"Settle?" The word came out sharper than you intended.

"What my brother's trying to say," Spencer jumped in, clearly sensing the shift in your mood, "is that you have options here. Real options. You could have a normal life, with someone who can actually provide for you."

"Someone who knows which fork to use at dinner," Aiden added with a laugh that made your blood boil.

That did it.

"You don't know what the hell you're talking about," you said, the words coming out with a familiar cadence that surprised even you, listening to Daryl's particular brand of righteous anger had clearly rubbed off on you.

"You want to know about Daryl? He's the reason I'm alive to be standing here listening to you two idiots and your bullshit."

Both men blinked, clearly not expecting the sudden shift from polite to barely controlled fury.

"While you two were safe behind these walls playing house, he was out there fighting walkers to keep us breathing. He shared his food when we didn't know where the next meal was coming from. He stayed awake on watch so I could sleep."

"Look, we didn't mean—" Spencer started.

"He's worth ten of whatever the hell you think you're offering," you continued, stepping forward so they had to back up. "And if you think I'd trade loyalty for your idea of civilization, then you don't know shit about me."

The silence that followed was deafening. You could feel eyes turning toward your little corner of the party, drawn by the sudden tension.

Glen appeared again, this time with Maggie right behind him, both of them taking in the scene with sharp eyes.

"Everything okay here?" Glen asked, his voice deceptively casual but his posture ready for trouble.

"Just a misunderstanding," Spencer said quickly, his charm back in place but strained around the edges.

"Doesn't look like a misunderstanding," Maggie observed, her gaze flicking between your flushed face and the Monroe brothers' defensive stances.

Without another word, you pushed past them, Glen and Maggie falling into step beside you as you crossed the room toward where Daryl still stood against the wall.

His eyes widened slightly when he saw you approaching, clearly not expecting you to seek him out. He straightened up, that guarded expression slipping over his features like armor.

"Hey, wanna get out of here ?" you said, slightly breathless from your confrontation.

"Thought you were busy making new friends." His eyes flicked over your shoulder toward where the Monroe brothers were still standing.

There was something fragile in his tone that made your heart ache. You reached out without thinking, your fingers brushing against his.

"I'd rather be fighting walkers then talking to dumb and dumber." You whisper, just loud enough for Daryl to hear.

He stared down at your hand touching his skin, and for a moment, something vulnerable flickered across his face before he could hide it. Slowly he interlaced his fingers with yours and you stepped out into the night air.

The cool night air feels like a relief against your flushed cheeks as you walk beside Daryl down the quiet Alexandria street. Your hands are still shaking slightly from the confrontation at Deanna's party—the way those idiots had looked you up and down, the snide comments about "Settling" that had made your blood boil hot in your veins.

You'd surprised yourself with how quickly you'd jumped to Daryl’s defense, how the words had tumbled out of your mouth before you could stop them.

The shocked look on the Monroe boys faces when you'd told them exactly what you thought of their attitudes had been worth the every bit of the awkwardness that followed.

"Didn't need you fightin' m'battles." Daryl mutters beside you, his voice gruff but not angry.

"I wasn't fighting your battles," you say quietly, glancing at his profile in the dim streetlight. "I was fighting mine. They were being assholes."

Daryl's jaw works silently, the way it does when he's chewing on words he doesn't know how to say. You've learned to read these silences over the months you've spent pressed against his side in abandoned houses and makeshift shelters.

"Hey there!"

Both of you turn toward the familiar voice. Aaron is waving from his front porch, Eric beside him with his injured ankle propped up on a small stool.

"You two heading home already?" Aaron asks, making his way down to the sidewalk. "Party not your scene either?"

Daryl shrugs, not quite meeting Aaron's eyes. You can feel the tension in him—that wariness that never fully goes away, even here behind these walls.

"Just getting some air," you offer diplomatically.

"Well, we were about to have some dinner," Aaron says, gesturing toward the house with genuine warmth. "Nothing fancy, just spaghetti. You're welcome to join us if you'd like."

You look at Daryl, he's quiet for a long moment, jaw working as he considers the invitation. Finally, he gives a short nod.

"Yeah. Alright."

The inside of Aaron and Eric's house feels impossibly normal—pictures on the walls, books on shelves, the kind of domestic touches that still feel foreign after so long on the road.

Eric greets you both with easy smiles, and soon you're seated around their small dining table with steaming plates of spaghetti.

Daryl eats the way he always does—focused and efficient, wiping his mouth on his sleeve instead of the cloth napkin Aaron had provided.

It's such a fundamentally Daryl thing that it makes your chest tight with affection. Some of the Alexandria people would probably find it crude, but to you it's just... him.

Real and unpretentious in a way that feels more honest then half the people behind these walls.

"This is really good," you tell Aaron, who beams at the compliment.

"Eric's recipe, actually. He's the real cook in this relationship."

"Had to learn somewhere," Eric says with a grin. "Aaron would burn water if I let him." He pauses, twirling pasta around his fork.

"Speaking of which, Daryl, you like spending time out there? Beyond the walls?"

The question seems casual enough, but you notice the way Aaron shoots Eric a look—sharp and warning.

Daryl's fork pauses halfway to his mouth. "What d'you mean?"

"Eric," Aaron says carefully, "maybe we should—"

"What? He's going to find out anyway." Eric turns back to Daryl with an apologetic smile.

"Aaron's been meaning to ask if you'd be interested in helping with recruitment. Being the other recruiter, actually, he's gotten overprotective since I got laid up with this ankle."

The silence that follows is thick with tension. Daryl sets down his fork completely, his blue eyes narrowing as he looks between Aaron and Eric.

"Ya been plannin' this?" he asks Aaron, his voice flat.

"I told Deanna not to give you a job because I think I have one for you," Aaron says, his voice more serious now.

"I'd like you to be Alexandria's other recruiter. I don't want Eric risking his life anymore."

Daryl's eyes narrow, that familiar defensiveness creeping into his voice. "Y'want me riskin' mine, right?"

"Yeah, because you know what you're doing. You're good out there, but you don't belong out there."

Aaron leans forward, his expression earnest. "You need to be out there sometimes. So do I. But the main reason why I want you to help me recruit is because you do know the difference between a good person and a bad person."

The words hang in the air between them. You watch Daryl's face, seeing him process what Aaron's really saying—that it's not just about his skills or his knowledge of the area. It's about trust.

About Aaron seeing something in him that Daryl's never been sure was there, the thought that others see him how you do makes your chest swell with pride.

Daryl pauses, looking up at Aaron with those sharp blue eyes that seem to be weighing every word. Finally, he speaks. "Got nothing else to do. Thanks."

"Yeah," Aaron says, relief evident in his voice.

Daryl's mouth quirks up just slightly—not quite a smile, but close. "I'll get you some rabbits."

Aaron laughs, genuine and warm. "Great."

"I could help Eric around the house during the day," you offer, wanting to fill the lull in conversation. "Maybe watch Lil Assk— I mean Judith, give Rick a break. While we wait for our men to return from—"

The words are out of your mouth before you realize what you've said, and the moment they hit the air, your face goes burning hot. *Our men.* Like you and Eric are wives waiting at home for your husbands. Like you and Daryl are...

"I mean—" you stammer, panic rising in your throat. "I didn't mean—shit—I was just—"

You're on your feet before you can stop yourself, hands reaching for the empty plates even though it's not your house, not your place to clean up. "I should help with these, I—"

She called me her man, Daryl thinks, and the words hit him like a punch to the chest. Her man. No one had called him that, not anyone that mattered, nit anyone that stayed.

Could I be that? The thought comes unbidden, dangerous. Her man? Could she really want that with someone like me?

The panic in your voice makes his stomach drop for a second—like maybe you're horrified by the slip, by the idea of being tied to someone like him. But then he really looks at your face and sees it's not horror at all. It's just shy embarrassment like how you get when he catches you watching him like you've done something scandalous.

"Hey," Eric says gently, amusement clear in his voice. "It's okay. Really."

But you're already stacking dishes with shaking hands, mortified beyond belief. You and Daryl have been sharing that attic room, falling asleep curled against each other like you have since the prison fell, stealing those careful kisses in the dark when you think the others are asleep.

But you've never put it into words, you certainly didn't mean to bring attention to it so publicly you know how guarded Daryl can be.

"Sit down," Aaron says kindly. "Don't worry about the dishes."

Eric's grin is knowing and not unkind. "Besides, I think it's sweet. 'Our men.' Very domestic."

You make a strangled sound and Daryl shifts uncomfortably in his chair. He should say something, god he wants to, but the words stick in his throat like they always do when it matters most.

The conversation moves on, but Daryl's thoughts keep circling back to those two words, our men. The way you'd said it so naturally before catching yourself, like the idea of belonging to each other was the most normal thing in the world, just fact just a normal part of life.

Maybe it could be.

Maybe, for once in his life, he could have something good without it being taken away. Maybe those voices in his head—his father's, Merle's, all the people who ever told him he wasn't worth a damn—maybe they're wrong.

You finally sit back down, still flushed but managing a small smile when his eyes meet yours across the table. And for the first time since walking through

Alexandria's gates, Daryl lets himself think about staying.

[rosehipsister]

(low voice) secret samol....

decided to go for a little found materials thing with my sangfielle prompts this year, so it's barely readable haha actual transcripts under the cut because that's a lot to put into alt text

For @aphrddt hope you enjoy it! Thank you @secret-samol

Page 1, marked "5.2" and "Jna -> RvneP -> Ctbk -> Prse" 5:30 train to Perseverance

Mighty excited and grateful (blessing sign) to make my third observation so soon sense the year began. Here's to a great journey and if those gods (blessing sign) willing a striking UMR (Unschola Monthly Review) entry!

(under a sketch of the train emblem) not half bad!! can clean it up back at Mona's

5:29 Left Jahna with a minute to spare. Tough to take the mood in so early, wonder if the Tern has the flighty nature its name suggests. Promised travel time declared 21 hours only, which puts me in Perseverance by nightfall.

Page 2 (next to a scheme of a train car) "Bright Tern Postal, coach car 3" a1, a2 - doors b - windows c - luggage racks Full cherry wood interior with simple glass inlays, light and airy. Four seats per isle, hard seating with roll-up Bright Tern livery cushions affixed every bench.

No sign of a dining car - justified by our size and destination, but still a shame. Yet man can't be picky (blessing sign)

Card included: Train sighting log Day seen: 5th of 2nd month 8xx Place seen: departing from Jahna, Fifth Canton Mandate, Sangfielle Name: Bright Tern Postal Livery: faded cobalt and white Number of carriages: 6 (six) total, with 4 passenger and 2 mail and baggage Boarded: y/n Ticket number if applicable: C3/I2/S3

Page 3 5:55 - drafting for now? After filling out my observation card and taking in the detail, i took a window seat in isle 2 to absorb both the gorgeous scenery of Ojan plains and the bright c (crossed out) airy confines (?) of my train. Bright Tern pamphlet, kindly provided to me at the station, tells the traveler that their person shall be delivered swiftly and safely to Unschola held inns by nightfall. Seasoned ferroequinology fan such as myself in turn knows this ain't always true and schedules are more suggestions than rule.

6:50 Fell asleep promptly despite excitement. Car filled with low relaxed conversation and i can only hope i wasn't snoring like a complete fool.

(next to a sketch of a tea glass holder) akin to burl wood? lightweight and porous to touch

Page 4 Interior unchanged save for three glass holders, such as added to every isle table. I truly am in luck (blessing sign) since I've never seen these in situ before! Why three? Would i have neighbors? Reread my early notes - in need of editing, desperately. SHAPES ON THE TRAIN! 1 masked 1 avian (with arrow pointing from 7:04 timestamp)

7:20, i gather since i had a moment of awe and frankly dared not bring attention to myself at the moment. Yet clearly they do not mind me.

Page 5 Immediately past 7 car visited by a slight ojant. woman of quiet but nasty demeanor wearing Tern colors, heavy tea cart in front, steaming. Was tempted to strike a conversation, but reconsidered. Neither of the Shapes said a word yet. They don't touch the tea either, which is plain silly to me - never have i heard about train foods being nefarious to one's person.

(underlined) No snacks offered yet!

8:40 Insufferable people. Still silent, not even (page break)

Page 6 (page break) a glance in the window. Spent all my patience on detailing one sketch. M. seems to be asleep or sitting terrifyingly still.

8:43 IMPOSSIBLE PEOPLE! Wish they let me be. A. caught me sketching and very rudely grabbed my book. Nearly made me tear a page. If every Shape starts attacking inno- (crossed out) Both are still silent. A. ignored and possibly disrespected my Society badge. Book returned to me moderately crumpled. 9:17 Tern entered a tunnel as we were coming up to the mountain foothills. Terribly intrigued but can't see the devil's arse in there. A. got tired of harassing me and is now fast asleep. M. in turn finally aware of life.

(with arrow pointing at the tea maid sketch) back to our car. for what, just to glower at the shapes?

Page 7 9:20 - still in the dark All curtains rolled down as one! How i wish i knew the mechanism behind this. This further startled an impressionable young man in isle 5, and i admit i was secretly taken with the feeling too, but all were reassured by a returning passenger.

Managed to strike a conversation! Emidio seemed happy to discuss the Tern with me, and i've put a great amount of his observation down in shorthand. Told we're due to arrive at Ravine just some 10 minutes after leaving the tunnel, yet when - varies greatly. Despite being as persistent as i dared, didn't get too much about the dark route we're taking. Hiw can it be that we spend a different time under the peaks QAD and yet make stops with enviable punctuality? My greatest desire is to find any personnel besides the gloomy tea woman, yet not so likely with the Shapes around.

If i am to trust Emidio's words, some of the paper trash rolling under the seats he swears is a rudimentary emdemic life form akin to rootless plants of the west. Still unsure if that's a joke of his.

Page 8 (next to the sketch of a scene) Ravine-Postal 9:50 10:10 Finally back to open sky. Shapes out for a smoke and look almost careless. Sent a postcard back to Society in Jahna. Bought steamed buns of decent taste. Really need to find Emidio and get a good expo for Ravine, but he's nowhere to be found. Way too many insects ouside.

Page 9 10:40 - RvneP -> Cantbank Well, they do talk! Shapes have congratulated me on being through "the worst of it", whatever they meant. Both of them are now quite loud and inconsiderate. A. only laughed when i mentioned his rudeness. I miss the morning quiet.

11:00 Passed a mountain lake which amused us all greatly. At first i thought we're being blinded by the suns, yet the bright shimmer came from dozens of fish, moving through with their sides to the light. A. is particularly taken with the picture.

(next to the sketch) Emidio and the tea maid

Page 10 Spotted Emidio who i started to worry about, since none has seen him since our stop in Ravine. Almost glad to see the tea maid and her cart back in time for the afternoon round.

11:10 - switching tracks? Apparently taking a detour, which everyone is understandable annoyed about. Can't hear even half of the announcement over Shapes as usual. How can M. make so much noise by just walking! Curtains closed back again, so gather i should also walk over and finally as- (text interrupted)

[platinumshawnn]

Bound by Blood and Fire | Benjicot Blackwood x OC!Tully — pt iv

masterlist | playlist | backwards | forward

A/N: wow, another update four days later and ahead of schedule for once!! this chapter has been half-written and in drafts, waiting to be finished a whole month. sorry if it has some errors, i did my best to proofread and edit. i wrote most of this to someone to stay -- vancouver sleep clinic if that doesn't explain the soft moments this chapter gives, i needed the soft moments for my own selfish reasons pls enjoy <33

Synopsis: Amidst growing turmoil, Elmo Tully works to forge alliances with old rivals. As wedding planning forges ahead, storm clouds gather over Raventree Hall. Guests arrive for the betrothal feast, while Serra and Benjicot struggle to find common ground to ensure their marriage's success. Benjicot's olive branch to Serra offers some hope, despite her doubts. The families celebrate amid rising tensions and news from King’s Landing. Lord Samwell hears of the Brackens coming close to their borders and finally cracks underneath the pressure of his council.

Content Warning(s): MDNI — 18+, adult language, mentions of blood, violence, and war; era related sexism and gender based harassment/discrimination, sexual content, mild depictions of family based violence, implied suicide ideation.

Word count: 7.1k

“How did it go?” 

Kermit had met Oscar at the doors upon his return from travel the past five and a half days — he couldn’t even hide his disgust at the sight and smell of his younger brother whose return was whispered to him as he had been sifting through the contents of the library that morning. He had made sure to be notified as soon as he’d stepped foot within the gates of Raventree once word had reached him that Oscar was expected to arrive that afternoon. 

It had been a long several days since the feast, and in the aftermath of the meeting between some of the Lords of the Riverlands, Oscar had been sent on horseback with a fleet of men from House Tully to the Arryn’s — a long journey that he did not outwardly protest against, but Kermit had seen the twitch of his eye as he gave his father a nod that was curt and far too formal for their usual dynamic; the war had shifted something in the air between the father and his sons in recent days. But the journey was one of necessity, sent as a messenger to House Arryn in the Eyrie -- one that would have been quicker if not for several storms that forced them to shelter for the night, issued with the task of reminding the Lady Jeyne of her vow to Rhaenyra and of their houses’ long-standing alliance and support of one another. A task that seemed easy enough, now days later and two less horses after having hit a snag and walking into a trap that had been rigged on the forest paths. Kermit had been there when the raven flew in with updates from their journey, notifying Elmo of the accident, which had involved his brother. Oscar was safe and otherwise unharmed aside from his pride and sore. 

Oscar, with his dirt stained face, smelling of fields and horse shit, yanked off his riding gloves as he shoved past his brother; his left cheek scuffed with a scab from a fall off his horse amidst their return after a last minute detour towards House Baratheon -- a decision his brother had made in his emboldened enthusiasm.

“What did they say?” Kermit asked again, earning a huff from his brother who continued his brisk walk towards the great hall where their father waited among the councilmen. 

“That’s a promising answer,” Kermit sarcastically said, striding alongside his brother and trying to keep up with his pace as he mimicked his huff, “I take it you replied with a sort of…” he continued, giving his brother an animalistic like grunt from behind him. 

Oscar abruptly stopped outside the doors and whipped around, scowling as his brother collided with his shoulder and awkwardly stumbled to keep from falling into him, “Do you know when to shut up? Have some patience, brother.” He muttered, shoving his brother back a couple of steps and re-establishing the small bit of space between them as he turned, his brother letting out a snort.  

He shoved the doors open, Elmo sat at the head of the table and deep in conversation with Lord Rivers who had yet to return home as the feast celebrating the union of his sister and Benjicot neared, the final details being cemented for that night, much to their reluctance -- Kermit and Oscar both heeded warning at the thought of last feast’s events, but their father insisted at least on something smaller and more intimate than dozens of random elderly Lords and their snobbish sons. The invite had only been extended to select few entrusted vassals of House Tully, Elmo reassured.  

He stopped at the opposite end of the table as he entered with Kermit in tow, his father’s gaze watching him with a look of expectancy, awaiting his words as his head bowed out of respect. Lord Rivers withdrew to his seat as Oscar glanced towards him, waiting until there was silence among the table of men, his gloves clutched in his right hand at his sides, “I have news from my journeys to House Arryn and House Baratheon.” He announced. 

The last of the mutters ceased, pausing as he moved to shift his stance, suddenly panged by a wave of anxiety towards the eyes that watched him from around the room. Oscar was never an insecure, timid boy -- he was confident, well-spoken and self-assured, and had never shied away from attention. But with his age, in comparison to the much more experienced men around him, oozing wisdom that countered his own youthful inexperience, he was painfully aware that he was just a boy in their eyes; stood there in armor, like a child playing ‘knight’. He knew that they did not view him as equal to his father -- not like he expected them to. 

“Proceed, son.” Elmo stated, his voice warm and encouraging. 

Oscar again nodded slowly and took a breath before he spoke, “House Arryn has once again pledged their support in favor of Rhaenyra Targaryen as the rightful heir to the Iron Throne and has pledged to support our military efforts as much as they can afford.” He spoke, his tone more confident than it had been when he arrived. 

“And that of House Baratheon?” His father asked. 

“They have declared for the usurper, Aegon.” He replied, his eyes scanning the men around the table who broke into a series of mutters. “They plan to support him and his army should the time come.” Oscar explained. “Craven cunts.” Kermit muttered from behind him, reminding Oscar that he stood only a foot away from him as they spoke. 

Elmo’s eyes darted to his brother, in response to his words, his frustration evident in his face as his brows furrowed. 

“It does not come as a surprise to me.” Samwell said, speaking up finally. “I recall their Lordship expressing his…reservations about a woman sitting on the throne when she was first declared apparent heir. I was just hoping he would come to see reason.” He said, letting out a small sigh and looking to Elmo, who gave a small nod. 

“We can only do so much to guide others to see better judgment. I’ve received ravens from House Manderly and House Celtigar who have declared for Rhaenyra at least.” Lord Tully stated, his fingers drumming against the table as he seemed to linger on the update. While not the outcome they had hoped for, Oscar had done his duty successfully in all other words. “You’ve done a good job, Oscar.” 

Oscar nodded again, his head lifting to where his father stared at him, the two men in silence. A moment passed before Elmo leaned forward in his seat, placing his elbows atop the table and glancing towards an empty chair on his right as a sort of hint to his son. “Well?” He asked. “Do you plan to sit and join us?” 

Oscar turned his head and glanced at Kermit who looked back at him, the brothers sharing a look, his mouth opening to stutter out a sentence, “I…I was hoping to change first, make myself presentable.” He softly explained to his father. 

His hand waved dismissively to the idea, “Nonsense. There’s no more pride than that of a knight in the raw.” 

He visibly hesitated, letting out a small grunt under his breath that only Kermit could hear, a choked sound that came from his throat as though he wanted to refuse and insist on at least changing out of his riding gear; the little armor he wore streaked with mud and his own blood from the gash on his cheek. There was a sound of leather squeaking as he clenched his gloves with a white knuckle grip, before he let out a breath from his nose and walked forward, his head down as he moved to take his place at his father’s side. 

“And what of me, father?” Kermit asked, his brother’s chair dragging across the ground as he sat down.  

There was a glimmer of pride in his father’s eye as he watched Oscar scoot his chair forward, making himself as comfortable as he could, though Kermit could compare him to a wooden plank; stiff as he adjusted his cloak underneath him. His father turned to look at him after flashing a smile to his brother, chin lifting as he spoke, “Oh, check on your sister, will you? I haven’t seen her yet today.” 

Kermit gave a small nod, visibly disappointed at the request. 

 · · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

She found the castle had been quiet in the days that followed the feast -- much quieter than she was used to. In the aftermath, her father and Kermit were much gentler than normal with her, careful as though they feared she would jump and run if they spoke too loudly. She felt like a child they were coddling and the whole situation was humiliating, feeling as though she was six years old again, clinging to her mother and crying because some boy was mean to her. 

In some ways, she was grateful for it however. 

They gave her more space than they had before and didn’t interrupt her as often; instead, they hung back from a distance and occasionally walked by her rooms, to glance in and make sure she was okay but would leave without saying anything. On the odd occasion she caught them staring, they would offer small smiles and nod, before carrying on. It gave her an opportunity to breathe, ground herself and reel from the events of the feast -- she could almost pretend that it hadn’t even happened and convince herself, this was not her life and was just some nightmare. 

Once she had moved past the feast and its chaos, she was faced with a new challenge. 

She watched from the treeline as Benjicot trained, too engrossed in his spar with his cousin to pay her any mind as she kept her distance; Alistair posted a few paces behind her. Her hands remained preoccupied by the small purple flowers in her hands -- violets that she had managed to find at the edges of the property, plucking them with a childish excitement. She had turned from her knelt position on the ground, summoning Alistair forward and insisting he hold them as she picked whatever his hands could hold. There had been a hint of apprehension, hesitating as he eyed her, before nodding and accepting the flowers, holding them in his left hand as she resumed her task of collecting them and rambled on about the knowledge she’d obtained over the years; familiar with herbs and plants and their medicinal use -- she had rambled on about a tea she could make with them when they returned. In the aftermath of the feast that had turned out disastrously, she found she actually enjoyed Alistair’s company and found comfort in his presence. He listened and was polite when he responded, and in the few words he offered, he provided her with wisdom. 

“Should we return to the library, my lady?” Alistair asked. She hummed inquisitively in response, eyes still transfixed on the boy Lord she was still working to figure out. “I can summon one of the kitchen workers to fix that tea for you.” He offered. 

She turned to look at him, offering a soft smile, “No, no. It’s quite alright, I can do it later. I’d like to stay out here a little while longer.” Serra replied, her gaze turning to look again towards the two young Blackwood men. “I…have something I have to do, actually.” 

“Might I be able to help somehow?” He offered. 

She shook her head, but paused, “Could you actually take these inside? I’d like to invite Lord Blackwood for a walk and then I will be in.” She explained, turning to him and once again scooping half of the flowers into his hands, her gaze down and avoiding his eyes. There was a moment of silence that passed between them before he spoke again. 

“Would you like me to summon him for you?” Alistair pressed again, her eyes finally coming up to make out the skepticism in his features, a look of concern in his eyes. 

She smiled again, “No, I…feel this is something I should do.” She replied, voice soft as she withdrew, keeping a few of the flowers for herself. 

Even through her reassurance, she could still see his concern, reluctant to nod and leave her to the task. Though he gave her a nod and passed her, walking towards the house and leaving her in the spot near the trees some feet away from where Benjicot’s cousin let out a yelp as he fell back into the dirt with a thud. Emrys was quicker to shoot up, rolling onto his side and reaching for his sword that had slipped from his hand in the tumble, just as Benjicot kicked it further from his grasp. She slowly approached, the small flowers in her hands as she stroked the petals between her thumb and forefinger, Emrys’ gaze finding her first as she neared the edge of the circle. 

Emrys looked relieved as he panted out a soft greeting and began to scramble to his feet, “My lady.” 

Benjicot turned towards where his cousin’s attention was placed, finding his betrothed standing before him and offering the smallest of smiles. The two men issued a bow, breathing heavily and flushed in the face as the heir wiped sweat from his bow, “Lady Tully.” He greeted, mouth ajar. 

“My apologies for interrupting.” She softly said, glancing between the two men. She paused, her gaze dropping briefly to the flowers in her hands, looking then to Emrys, “Hopefully he’s not been too hard on you today.” She remarked, her tone hinting a stiff attempt at teasing the Blackwood cousin. 

Emrys barked a laugh, brushing dirt from his doublet, “Hardly. I’m starting to think he’s deliberately trying to maim me.” He commented, shooting a look to his cousin who let out a quiet snort, the closest thing to a laugh that Serra had witnessed yet since her arrival. “In the event I die, he would no longer have any more competition in vying for your eye then, isn’t that right?” He flirted, smug as he leaned to shove Ben with his shoulder. 

The action hardly caused Benjicot’s feet to move beyond his right foot dragging against the dirt in a half-stumble, the two boys jokingly shoving each other and wrestling for a moment. Serra watched as Benjicot quickly slung an arm around his cousin’s neck in the scuffle, laughter ensuing as he muttered something incoherent at him that resembled a warning of ‘watch it’. “Okay, okay-- easy!” Emrys cried out, laughing and shoving him away. 

They settled down, straightening themselves out before they both looked at Serra once again, the smile she wore both shy and hinting her amusement at their antics, finding the interaction rather endearing. “I also mean to bring gifts for you both.” She said, finally stepping into the circle and approaching them. She witnessed the look the two men shared, Emrys’ interest piqued and smiling at her as she walked first to him and offered the small purple flower to him, bowing to her as he gently accepted the flower; bringing it towards his chest. 

“Thank you, Lady Tully.”

She sweetly smiled at him, before her gaze reluctantly found Benjicot’s as he watched the interaction before him, though his expression was one that she found unreadable, his lips parted and eyebrows raised. She hesitated, slow in stepping towards him and offering the last flower to him, placed in her palm and waiting for him. 

Benjicot glanced up at her face from the flower. He had never really understood women’s fixation with flowers, even as a boy, as pretty as they were -- he never viewed them as anything more than decorative things that adorned banners, armor and were a nuisance in the yards of Raventree. They were hardly a gift, but he moved to place his sword underneath his arm, pinned against his side and holding it as he reached out to carefully pluck the flower from her palm with his fingers, forcing a tight smile while holding it up briefly, “Thank you.” 

He watched as she offered a sweet, giddy smile and stepped back, her face lit up with joy as he accepted the flower, “You’re welcome.” Her hands clasped together in front of her, her eyes darting to Emrys who hardly made an attempt at concealing the wolfish grin he gave his older cousin at the sight. She looked back up at Benjicot, his own gaze lingering on his cousin and shooting him a glare of warning, “I understand you are probably busy, but I was wondering if you would care to take a walk around the grounds? Whenever you’re done here, of course.” She hurriedly spoke, her own look shooting to his cousin as if to ask if it was okay, not wanting to intrude more than she already did. 

“I think that would be lovely.” Emrys quickly replied. “We were actually just wrapping up.” 

Benjicot wanted to turn and slap him by the back of his head in that moment, eyes fixing on him again as if to question what the fuck he was doing-- 

“Are you sure?” She asked. 

However, he suppressed the urge to argue and deny her hopeful stare, sighing softly, “Of course. Let me just bring my sword back inside and we can go.” Benjicot grumbled, his annoyance boiling under the surface of his words. 

Her mouth opened to respond, but she was cut short before she could even utter a word as he turned on his heel and stalked away from her. She blinked, shrinking back once again as Emrys watched her deflate, watching after his cousin, “So moody-- I promise he isn’t always like this.” Emrys whispered, trying to make light of the situation, reaching out to touch her shoulder, “I’m sorry.” He quickly said, running after him. 

Her eyes met Kemit’s from the doorway as she watched Emrys run inside, his expression stoic and plain as she forced a polite smile before he turned and walked in the opposite direction as the two men before him. 

     · · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

She could still sense his anger when he returned to the yard. 

The pair were silent as they walked, her watchful gaze fixed on observing the outer parts of Raventree — tall, sturdy, and appearing just as powerful as its men. Although her feelings towards the man to her right were that of indifference, she struggled to comprehend or make sense of his own attitude towards her, as she had hardly ever done anything to him aside from existing in his presence and that, even as children, had enraged him to such a point that at times she could not deny Benjicot was nothing less than what his houses’ reputation stood for. He embodied that very idea. Loyal but brutes. He did not seem to outgrow that as adults as even now, he didn’t seem to care for her and just seemed to search for any opportunity to humiliate her. Unlike when they were children, it came in forms of snide remarks and innuendos dismissing her as nothing more than some…object to one day warm his bed, or a nuisance — if not, even worse, it felt as though he treated like some sworn enemy to the likeness of a Bracken at times. 

Even though his father could sometimes scare him back into line, it only came in brief moments before he seemed to fall back into his habits. And his father couldn’t follow them and play mediator at all hours of the day. How did they plan to enter a marriage and live under those conditions? In which he despised her and she was nothing more than some doll to take his anger out on? To one day show her some warmth, only to come back with rage and lashing out at her. 

She almost preferred his childhood antics and would have rather he’d shove her into mud and call it a day. The thought of a lifetime spent living this way felt unbearable, the realization weighing heavy on her chest, almost as though she was being both physically and figuratively crushed by the very idea as her gaze anxiously darted to the side of his face from the corner of her eye; taking in the sight of him, so nonchalant and blissfully unaware. Unfazed. Her eyes darted back straight ahead as her clasped hands released themselves, smoothing over the fabric of her dress to wipe the sweat from her fingers, hands shaking slightly as she then clenched them, her breathing deep and heavy with each sharp inhale and exhale of air; even her breath shuddered as she attempted to ground herself, trying to force air into her lungs which felt as though they, too, were being crushed— 

“You’re breathing quite loudly.” Benjicot suddenly said, having been unaware that she had managed to walk ahead of him by a few paces while in thought, her hands once again going to smooth over her bodice as she abruptly stopped. 

She was quiet in response to his statement, too frightened to turn and face him immediately, like a scared child who was fearful of getting in trouble for something they had done — scared that if she showed even the slightest hint of weakness, he would pounce like a predator does their prey. But there was no hiding the fear in her eyes as she slowly turned towards him, one hand at her stomach and gripping the fabric there as if it would somehow steady her shaking hand and hide it in plain sight from him, her eyes meeting his. Though she could only bear to hold his stare for a moment before it dropped to the chest of his doublet, sucking in a deep breath, Benjicot’s eyes narrowing with a furrow of his brows. 

“What…” he began to say, pausing and taking a step toward her, “pray tell, is the matter with you now?” He sighed as he spoke, shoulders slumping with the words and a roll of eyes. 

If she had had even the smallest bit of boldness that existed within her and coursed through her veins, his words could have enraged her — his tone, speaking to her like she was an unfortunate bastard child that burdened him by simply existing, maybe then she would have had just enough courage in her so that she might have been brave enough to shout, yell, even swing a punch at him— but she couldn’t. If she had been born a man, she may have been lucky to possess such bravery. Instead, she was frozen in place, swallowing and instead looking up towards a window of the castle that overlooked them to avoid his eyes as she felt him continue to stare at her. She realized in that very moment, realizing how trapped she truly was, that she would have rather jump from the very window she was standing underneath than be married and stuck with Benjicot the rest of her life. She heard him sigh again, though the sound felt muffled and distant — not like he was standing only half a foot away from her, the sound of her heartbeat pounding so loudly she could barely hear over it.   

“My Lady?” 

She subconsciously had stepped towards the house, her breathing still rapid as she closed her eyes, a cool breeze flowing through the court that blew a few loose strands of hair into her face and across her cheeks. She was snapped, however, from her daze by the feeling of his hand closing around her elbow, eyes shooting open and immediately moving to withdraw from his hold as she leaned away; shrinking back with her mouth open to protest, his eyes on her face — for the first time since her arrival, though, she couldn’t find any trace of disgust in his features as he scanned her appearance. His grip tightened as she tried to withdraw again, tugging against his hand but to no avail. 

“Easy— just… just wait.” He commanded, his eyes darting over his shoulder as though he was looking for someone or something and scanning their surroundings before he quickly looked back at her. His other hand mirrored his right, grabbing her other arm just above her elbow and holding her in place as the sinking feeling of panic set in, her eyes widening and gasping for air as she used her entire weight to try and force herself backwards and out of his hold. Even with all her strength, she was unsuccessful beyond more than a stumbled step forward, only bringing him closer, bringing them chest to chest, “Serra, please— stop.” 

“What are you doing?” She suddenly cried out, voice small as her arms attempted to flail free from his restraint. She looked up at him, a look she couldn’t quite place flashing across his features — hurt, disgust? She gasped inwards, leaning back. 

He suddenly released an arm, stepping back from her and scanning her face, the furrow in his brow remaining, “Do you really think I’d deliberately seek to hurt a woman?” He asked, voice quiet but not hiding his offense, though he knew it was hypocritical. He wasn’t always kind, he was aware of that. 

He hardly allowed her a moment to process his words before his hand around her second elbow loosened and he blinked rapidly a couple of times with a glance towards his feet. He looked up a moment later, his hand dropping and cautiously taking hers, the move slow as his hand covered hers and watching her face as though he was searching for any sign to stop; any further protest — her own eyes still watched in complete and utter fear, confusion on her face, “Just…trust me for a moment. Watch.” He pleaded, voice quiet and desperate as his gaze dropped briefly to her chest, still heaving with the breathless pants that left her mouth before returning to her face. 

His hand was gentle over hers as it lead hers from her side; unfolding her fist and spreading her fingers as it was outstretched towards him, only feeling a small bit of resistance as her hand was guided inwards towards his body — he caught her eyes, that looked between her hand and his face, “Easy...” He repeated, his voice softer than before. Her body was still rigid and her skepticism still evident, but even Benjicot could not blame her for being so unwilling to trust him. What reason had he given her to do so thus far? He’d been nothing short of cruel to her in their childhood and had been so selfishly engrossed in his own fury that he hadn’t even pieced it together that she was as equally innocent in this scenario as he was. It seemed to dawn on him, looking at her face, the pieces falling into place. 

He pressed her hand to his chest, the heat of her fingers felt through his clothing as he pressed it flat, her palm pressed against his sternum over his heart; the steady thrum of his heartbeat felt underneath the layers with his chest rising and falling with steady, regular breaths, “do you feel that?” He quietly asked, her gaze still flipping between her hand and his own eyes before settling there, watching him. “Feel my heart? My breath?” He asked. 

He didn’t expect much of an answer, but her gaze dropped to her hand which seemed to relax under his, which was enough of a reply, “Just feel…breathe.” He quietly instructed. “Follow my breathing, in…out...in…” he guided, giving her a few moments and watching as the tension seemed to slide from her shoulders like a piece of clothing. 

The image of her fear-stricken face was still burned into his mind as he watched her relax — the memory invoking a flurry of guilt and shame to wash over him. He knew he could be cruel at times, but he’d never intended to be the source for her terror; hells, he’d never even realized just how much his actions had affected her. Looking at her in that moment, he’d come to remember she was just as much a pawn to the games of politics as he’d been — if not, more innocent than anyone. She hadn’t wanted this anymore than he had but she didn’t have any choice in the matter, just as he hadn’t. But he was prideful and had to swallow down the urge to say anything more about it, standing there silently as his gaze scanned her face. 

He pitied her, truly pitied her. 

“Your heart is beating faster.” She quietly pointed out, her eyes looking upwards from where her hand was placed, Benjicot having not even realized he was still staring at her as he’d pondered his anger these past days. A sudden rush of heat flooded his cheeks. His mouth opened as if he wanted to say something -- the urge to spit out some sarcastic quip readily on his lips, but his words were halted by the sound of Ser Eryn’s voice as he approached them. 

“My lord.” 

Benjicot stepped back immediately, almost jumping and dropping his hand from her wrist as she simultaneously withdrew her hand from his chest; both their heads whipping towards the guard, “I apologize for my intrusion…but your father has summoned you.” Ser Eryn explained, his gaze fixed explicitly on the young man. 

Benjicot found his voice finally, nodding as he swallowed, looking down at the ground beneath his feet and then glancing towards Serra, her hands at her sides as she briefly returned his glance -- they both then looked back at Ser Eryn, “Very well. Thank you.” He simply replied. 

The guard nodded, turning with a clank of his armor before striding away, but not before he shot a last look in the direction of the young woman who was still standing timidly a few inches shy of the heir, wordlessly. Benjicot waited until he was out of earshot before he looked back at her, his hands going to clasp behind his back, “We should make our way back now, my lady. Shall we?” He spoke, his voice regaining its prior confidence, head tilting to gesture her along -- she nodded, a meek gesture in reply as she tentatively took a few steps to come back up to his side as he then began to lead them back down the path that circled the estate. 

The walk back was just as quiet as the one there, both keeping their eyes straight ahead. Serra wasn’t sure she had accomplished what she had set out to do when they first left — not sure she felt she understood him better or felt they had bridged their feud; she wasn’t even sure she could say she knew him better. But she was at least reminded that he was still human, under the brutish behavior, that he did possess the ability to be gentle and kind, if that’s even what she could call it. Occasionally, her gaze would wander towards him and even though he seemed set on avoiding catching her eye again, she still took the brief opportunity to observe him as she tried to figure him out again for the hundredth time that week. She noted the lines at the corners of his eyes that crinkled when he scowled and she could assume they were prominent when he smiled, too. From this angle, as the sinking sun caught his eye, she could make out that his eyes were almost green — maybe even hazel? Regardless, in this lighting he did not appear as intimidating or even menacing as she had previously thought him to be. Nothing more than a boy, she realized. 

The main doors were opened by guards as they approached, creaking open so loudly the sound echoed throughout the halls; Benjicot walking ahead of her and letting out a puff of air as he began to approach the familiar doors where the council and his father were awaiting him, though he paused. He visibly hesitated in turning to her, the same pensive look on her face as they stared at one another a moment before he took a step toward her, “I apologize for having to cut our meeting short. I will see you at supper, yes?” He questioned, reaching out to grab her hand and bringing it to his mouth to press a kiss to her knuckles. Her eyes briefly dropped to his mouth, noting the scar above his lip before returning to his eyes and nodding. 

“Yes, of course.” 

Benjicot straightened up and nodded, letting her hand go in order to turn and make his way into the hall where Serra briefly caught a glimpse of her father sitting at the table, along with Samwell and other council members as the doors opened. Though a silence settled over them as Benjicot entered and sat down, her father and Samwell both casting looks in her direction as their quiet discussion ceased at the doors being held open. It was then that her attention was drawn to the sound of her elder brother coming down the stairs quite quickly, one hand at his sword just as she and Benjicot parted; his gaze following his friend before looking at her. Kermit appeared to slow as he approached the bottom two stairs, pausing and sharing a silent exchange with his sister, his shoulders visibly relaxing. 

“Sister.” He suddenly said, breaking the silence and nodding at her before rushing into the room behind the young Blackwood who had entered moments earlier. The doors were closed behind him, leaving her standing in the hall, more at ease than she had been the past several days. 

    · · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

A soft knock echoed through the room as Benjicot stood in front of the window, straightening the neck of his cloak, shoulders rolling as he assumed it was a reminder to hurry from one of the guards, “Come.” He called out, growing frustrated as the fabric would not sit right against his throat no matter how much fidgeting with it that he did. He felt as though he was being choked and deprived of air as he sucked in a sharp breath. 

He heard as the door opened and footsteps shuffled against the ground, entering the room and closing the door, “I will be down shortly.” He replied, giving the clothing one last tug and beginning to fix his sleeves, however his companion was silent. He turned, sensing that it wasn’t a guard afterall, and finding Kermit stood behind him with a look of contemplation, his eyes moving to scan his appearance. His eyebrows furrowed. They quietly stared at each other for a moment that left Benjicot almost uncomfortable. 

“I look ridiculous, don’t I?” Benjicot asked suddenly. 

Kermit forced a smile, “You always do, don’t worry.” He said, the attempt at a playful tone painfully forced and not unnoticed by Ben. His gaze dropped again, fixed on the Blackwood sigil across his chest, mouth opening to speak again, “I don’t want to be the overbearing brother who nags you with the same warnings your father already has, I know there is only so much I can say that has not already been said a hundred times...” He said, his voice soft and looking up to his eyes again. 

Benjicot did not attempt to interrupt him with a reply, settling on listening intently. 

“She’s a kind girl.” Kermit stated, matter of factly and more confident as he stood upright. “Kinder than most. She feels so much, so deeply, and she cares too much for her own good sometimes. But she is good…more so than anyone I have ever met. She possesses both intellect and wit, and despite the chaos of the men around her-- she remains such a gentle, good-hearted spirit who keeps us grounded. She is terrible with a needle and thread, but she knows how to soothe and mend the worst of wounds-- I used to go right to her whenever you kicked my ass when we would train as boys. And I know one day she will be equally as kind a mother as she will be a wife, just as our mother was.” He continued to speak, stepping closer to his friend who held his gaze. 

“I’d like to think we’ve always been good friends,” He said. “I even consider us to have become like brothers.” Benjicot’s expression softened, his shoulders relaxing, “I do too.” 

“Then please treat her with kindness.” He pleaded suddenly, stepping forward one last step until he was mere inches from him. “Treat her with decency and be good to her. I have never trusted anybody else with her as I do you. I know you are a good and generous man, Benjicot, and I know somewhere inside you, you still possess the kindness and warmth my sister needs. I ask…” He spoke, pausing to catch his breath. 

He reached out to place a hand on Benjicot’s shoulder, “I ask that you be a better man than your father was to you. Because otherwise she will not survive this marriage if you cannot, and I cannot bear to imagine a life without her, knowing I was the cause for my own sister’s demise. She does not deserve that.” He explained, his voice thick with emotion as Ben watched his friend nod as if to silently ask that he understood after a moment. 

He reluctantly nodded after a few seconds that felt like hours. 

They did not part immediately, staring at each other in the silent space of Ben’s chambers, the weight of his pleas lingering over them. Kermit gave a final nod whilst clapping his friend’s shoulder and sniffling once before he stepped back and folded his hands behind him, “I’ll leave you to finish getting ready, then.” He quietly said. 

Kermit was slow in retreating from the room, leaving him to his thoughts, his words heavy on his chest like the boot of his opponent in battle; the ache there deep and raw as his hand instinctively rose to massage his chest over his heart with his knuckles, as if to rub away the anxiety their conversation left him. He turned on his heel and faced the desk that was shoved against the wall, stacked with books — and there, among all the strewn papers and ink stains, sat a small purple flower against the brown leather of a history textbook he had skimmed through days prior. 

He reached out for it with the hand that had touched his chest, careful in picking up the delicate violet that had been plucked from the yards of Raventree and eyeing it under the little light that the sun cast in through his window. 

“Because otherwise she will not survive this marriage if you cannot.” 

His mouth twitched, sighing as he lifted the flower across his chest and gently tucked it into the pin of his House that rested over his left shoulder as he turned to leave towards the door. His guard stood to attention, stiff and proper as he bowed his head while he was still preoccupied by the task of adjusting the flower against the fabric as he stepped into the hall, Ser Eryn’s eyes drawn to the plant that was neatly placed among the uniform. Benjicot exhaled, cheeks ballooning with air as his eyebrows rose briefly at the guard, his head tilting in the direction of the stairs, “Shall we?” 

The young Lord Blackwood led them throughout the halls of the keep, the sun beginning to set with the end of the day as evening enveloped the riverlands in darkness; the walls lined by lit torches that provided an orange glow despite the hour. He was given the odd bow of head as he passed workers House Blackwood employed, mutters of ‘my lord’ following him as he descended the stairs to the entrance. The doors to the great hall were already opened and readily greeted him as Ser Eryn followed close behind, relieved to find that the only commotion from the room was the sound of joyous laughter and the light hum of conversation filling the hall as he entered. 

His father had spared no expense with the extravagant display, the room lined with yellow and red decorations, the finest of silverware adorning the table as guests lined both sides of the table. 

He anxiously fidgeted with the cuffs of his doublet as he approached the head of the table, where his father and Serra’s family sat, waiting for his arrival. His father’s gaze eyed him from over his chalice, taking a sip as Benjicot found his place at a seat next to Serra, snug between her and Samwell. 

“--your men should reach the borders within the hour.” Elmo said in a hushed voice, leaning towards Samwell, attempting not to bring attention to the conversation. “They should meet the camp as soon as they get there.” 

Benjicot frowned as he pulled his chair forward, “What?” 

“Nothing.” Samwell quickly replied, setting his drink down and scanning his son’s appearance. “You look well-rested.” He said. Ben sensed his struggle to utter the words, not used to extending compliments. 

“Thank you.” He quietly replied. 

He could feel his eyes linger, following his father’s eyes to the flower on his left shoulder, “You’ve added some personal touches to your uniform.”

“It’s from the yards.” He answered, reaching for the wine pitcher from the table and bringing it towards his cup, pouring himself a drink. 

In the corner of his eye, he could make out the sight of movement as Serra had turned, mid-conversation with who he soon figured out was Oscar when he turned to look over at her whilst setting down the jug. Her gaze was fixed on the flower that was tucked in as part of his pin, delicate and perfect there, her lips parting but not saying anything. 

“It’s a nice touch,” Samwell said. “I like it.”

Serra looked up at him, a blush creeping across her face as she flashed a small smile, shy and genuine as she then looked down to her lap. He tore his gaze from her and looked once again at his father who rose an eyebrow at him.

“Yeah, it’s nice.” Benjicot mumbled, lifting his cup to his mouth.

masterlist | backward

TAGLIST: @username199945, @cxcilla, @thethiccestdaddy, @deltamoon666, @drwho-ess, @callsigncrushx @clarityisnofun @jhepolie @juhdoche @majoso12 @roseheart5 @nixtape-foryou @poppyflower-22 @accidentpronedork @tannyfairy @maximizedrhythms

[mxauthor]

Beginning of More

Summary: Two best friends in a dungeon. They might kiss.

Word Count: 2,236

Warnings: fluff, secret mutual pining, brief mention of dead husband, mention of kids, Chilchuck and Reader being besties, sneak peak into matchmaker Marcille

A/N: I was thinking of making this into a little mini series or adding the other parts to this draft when I have them. Let me know what you think and enjoy! Edited and Proofread

Y/n and Chilchuck have been best friends since forever.  

Having grown up in the same village, the two of them spent most of their time together while they were young. Moreover as they grew older, so did their friendship; they had been the best man/maid of honor at each other's wedding, first ones there after the birth of their children and became the god parents to said children. They moved away from home and started the half-foot union together and began adventuring. It was very unusual for adventuring parties to get one without the other.

The two were thick as thieves. Always there for each other. 

So when Chilchuck had been introduced to Laios’ forming party, it was no surprise when Y/n also signed a contract with them as well. Starting together and ending together, that is the way both half-foots worked. Always going where the other leads. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Marcille’s favorite genre of books are romance. Where a princess gets swept off her feet by a prince and they fall madly in love. Or when two people are forced to go on an adventure together only to realize that they began to fall in love during the journey. She couldn’t get enough of them, which had caused her to strongly lightly project onto others, specifically the two half-foot party members that seem to be insanely close with one another. 

It wasn’t hard to see the natural pull the two of them had with each other, or the instinct of making sure that one is safe after a battle with a monster within the dungeon. Marcille would catch glimpses of the two of them leaving when it came to getting water or heading off to the bathroom. Just always making sure the other is safe. 

She knew they were friends beforehand, it wasn't hard to keep track of the infamous half-foot duo despite her not being the most well kept with rumors. She knew that they have history before forming the party. So as she watches them now, after deciding to go and rescue Falin, she knew it was much deeper than just friendship. 

Marcille’s main focus is rescuing Falin; but if she said getting the two together wasn’t a separate focus on its own, then she’d be lying to herself. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chilchuck sat irritably on his bed roll, gaze locked onto the door for night watch. After spotting the mimic in the room over he knew something was going to happen. Mimics have never brought them luck before and it sure as hell wasn’t going to bring them luck now. 

With an irritated huff, Chilchuck felt his stomach growl with hunger. “My stomach’s gone soft on me. I used to go two days without eating.” He reached for his water skin only to find it empty. Chilchuck huffed to himself, before instinctively reaching for Y/n’s water skin, knowing she wouldn’t mind. He lifted it up to drink but only a few drops came out, “We need more water.”

He rose to his feet with the water skins in hand. He turned towards Y/n, calling out her name. She groaned lightly, only shifting in the direction of his voice, Chilchuck huffed before reaching over and shaking her. Y/n groaned at the forced movement of her body. She turned her head, inhaling and exhaling deeply before speaking, “What is it hun’?” 

Her words came out muffled and they were laced with sleep but it still rang loud and clear in Chilchuck’s ears. The softness of her voice and the endearing name was enough to make his face blush red. He’s heard her call her late husband that or her kids or even his kids, but never has it been directed towards him and not once did he feel like it needed to be, but his heart still fluttered; his face still flushed. Chilchuck stumbled over his words, “I-I’m going to get some more water.” It was only a simple sentence and yet it was still hard to get out, her half lid eyes seemed to be drawing him in. Almost like she wanted him to stay. 

“Want me to come?” Y/n asked, lifting herself onto her elbows. Sleep clinging to her eyes. Chilchuck watched as she tried to fight it, but it looked like she was going to lose. 

“Nah, I’ll be alright. It’s only in the next room.” He reassured her, he stood to complete his task. As he lifted himself, Chilchuck gently nudged her head with his hand, giving the indication for her to lay back down, “I’ll be back. Go to sleep.” 

“Yell if you need, I’ll hear.” She replied, before allowing his nudge to force her to lay back down. Chilchuck watched as her breathing went even. He stepped out of the room, a single thought on his mind. 

“She looked really pretty.” 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Golly!” 

Y/n shot up from her bed roll; the sound of a voice waking her from her sleep. She scanned the room only to find Chilchuck still gone. Panic swelled, causing Y/n to quickly make her way towards the door. In her haste, she disturbed Marcille causing her to wake. Marcille only had a moment to watch Y/n swing open the door to their makeshift room and take down the hall. The elven woman then looked around the room and noticed the missing Chilchuck. She quickly sprung up from her bed roll and woke up Laios to come and help. Y/n heard the loud thump of a box hitting the ground behind her. She spun on her feet and saw the previously opened room was locked with bars. She rushed to the door trying to find a way to unlock it from the outside, standing in front of the bars Y/n saw as Chilchuck pressed the last brick before the gate opened itself. 

In his panic, Chilchuck didn’t register that Y/n was standing right in front of him nor did he slow his pace when he ran straight for her. Before Chilchuck could fully collide with Y/n, she quickly pulled the man into her once he was within reach, providing him a wider gap between the mimic and himself. Y/n watched as the metal bars slammed down onto the mimic's body, killing it. Y/n held tightly to the panting Chilchuck, just relieved that he was okay. She pulled back to assess him of any major damage, only to see the slight gash on his cheek. 

“I told you to yell if you needed help.” she rushed out in false anger, seeing his new scar.

“I had it under control.” Chilchuck laughed, knowing if he was patient enough, Y/n would’ve come running. Y/n smiled warmly even her false anger dispelled, she knew that he would figure out a trap like that in no time. 

The door to the room opened to reveal a sleepy Laios being dragged out by Marcille, her panicked expression matching the one Y/n had on seconds before, “I saw her run out like something was wrong! And Chilchuck isn’t in the room! He must be in trouble!” The small group looked over and saw the two half-foots conversing, Y/n taking off the pouch on her leg to reveal a couple of needles and thread, Chilchuck following suit.

Laios and Senshi stared at the dead mimic on the ground. “Whoa! You bagged a mimic! Nice going!” 

Chilchuck groaned, sitting back as Marcille gave him a once over with her healing magic. “Thank you.” 

Y/n shook her head in disbelief before assessing his green neck warmer. Seeing how much she can sew right now, before having to add more fabric to it. “I can sew most of it, but I’ll have to add some of the spare fabric I have.” 

“Thanks, you’re a lifesaver.” Chilchuck commented, happy he could keep it for one more day. Seeing his happy smile caused Y/n to share a smile of her own, his relaxed nature making her heart flutter. Knowing he was only this level of relaxed with the two of them, their small bubble yet to pop even with the rest of the party around them. Even with the small trickle of blood on his face, Y/n couldn’t stop the thought that passed through her head. 

“He looks so pretty.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Marcille silently observed the interaction between the two half-feet. She always had a leading suspicion that they held some sort of feelings for each other, but seeing the way they’re acting almost like it was only the two of them within the dungeon, Marcille knew it wasn't her imagination. 

She could see that the two of them held the other close to their hearts, but seeing how close would be the fun part. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Y/n watched as everyone settled around, ready to eat the dinner provided for them. She was a couple stitches away before Chilchuck’s neck warmer was finished. Which was about the time everyone's portions began to be served. Chilchuck sat next to her, holding the other end of the neck warmer so she could sew it more easily. 

Marcille continued to munch on her piece of the mimic before turning towards the duo, questioning them. “If you knew the mimic was in there, why didn’t you tell us?” 

“Because I’ve had nothing but bad experiences with them. The last thing I wanted to do is deal with another one.” Chilchuck grumbled. He flicked his gaze towards Y/n only to see she had finished mending the fabric and was folding it up to place it next to his pillow. “Anyways, I made a lot of bad decisions.” 

Y/n hummed in agreement, eating a piece of mimic as Chilchuck continued to talk. “The first was panicking thinking the mimic would eat the treasure insect.” 

“But mimics don’t eat treasure insects. Treasure insects eat mimics.” Laios announced. His small explanation going over the irritated Chilchuck’s and the amused Y/n’s head. Chilchuck grumbled as Marcille tried to pat his head, only for Y/n to slap her hand away. 

“You know he doesn’t like to be coddled.” She said simply. “It makes him feel like a kid.” She finished her plate of food and placed it down for it to be washed later. Marcille ignored her  words and turned her attention towards Chilchuck. 

“Tell me how old you are and I’ll never do it again.” Marcille compromised, “what happened to you today only happened because you wanted to be so secretive. Now come on and tell me how old you are.” 

“Fine.” He grumbled. Hoping she’ll keep her word. Marcille’s eyes sparkled, before turning towards Y/n. Her face held an expecting look, almost like she was waiting for her to share the same details.

“What? You never asked my age. I would’ve told you if you just asked.” Y/n answers simply. It was true. She never hid anything about herself, like Chilchuck did. Just no one was interested enough to ask, or they didn’t think to ask since Chilchuck always refused to share anything and everyone always assumed that she was the same way. 

“I’m turning 29 this year.” Chilchuck grumbled out, seeing Marcille’s eyes land on him expectantly. 

She groaned at the information, expecting to hear an age older than the one she got. “Man you’re just a kid after all.” 

“I thought you were way older than that.” Senshi said. Y/n laughed at their reactions, knowing that other races don’t fully understand half-feet life expectancy. Especially races with longer lives. 

Marcille watched Y/n chuckle at the scene in front of her, before lighting up, “What about you Y/n? How old are you?” Marcille asked. Excited that she’ll get the answers to some of her questions. 

“Me? I’m 30.” Y/n answered casually. Watching Marcille’s excitement withered slightly. 

“Really? You guys are so young.” Marcille huffed, leaning back onto her hands looking at the ceiling. 

“Okay then! How old are you guys! All other races look like kids to you ‘races with long lives’!!” Chilchuck shouted. Y/n laughed at Chilchuck’s faux anger. Knowing he was more irritated than actually upset. 

“There, there, Chil, those lifers will never understand our day to day struggle.” Y/n joked, watching as Chilchuck fumed silently sitting down and crossing his arms. She thought that steam was going to pour out of his ears. “Come on guys, we should rest a little more before we start moving again. Especially since not everyone got a chance to sleep.” 

Marcille watched closely as Chilchuck’s body seemed to instantly relax once Y/n began patting his shoulder and how Y/n’s touch lingered for a second more before she moved and began reassembling her bed roll closer to the new circle the group had formed. 

The party grumbled in agreement before dimming down the fire and getting back into their bed rolls. Most fell back to sleep almost instantly. Y/n turned over, now face to face with Chilchuck. She reached out slightly and tapped his arm with her fist. Not enough to hurt, but enough to convey her displeasure with him, “Don’t go anywhere without me next time, got it?” 

“Yeah I got it.” Chilchuck replied, tapping her arm in return. They two adults shared a smile before dozing off. Resting until they woke up naturally to continue moving down.

[a-d-nox]

Hii, can you tell what idea does our Vertex Persona chart in general ??

what's a vertex persona? what can a vertex persona chart show you?

your vertex chart can show you what in your life is destined/fated to occur - all of us are here for a reason and it is our soul that has determined why it wished to be here in the first place and thus what these fated occurrences/reasons are / will be. it's a bit final destination -esque but there is no avoiding these things in this lifetime as they are the lessons your soul wanted to learn/experience most.

paid reading options: astrology menu & cartomancy menu

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sun

ego shift you are meant to have / how you are put in you place or get out of the box you were placed in in previous lives, how your identity is meant to change, the amount of attention you are meant to receive attention, the authority/power you are meant to have, how generous you are/should be or how selfish you should be, how aware are supposed to be, and/or what is meant to make you happy / bring you joy.

moon

the emotions you are meant to experience / focus on this life cycle, how emotionally responsive you will be, how you are meant to care for others / show you care, where you will feel most comfortable, how close you are supposed to be with your maternal figure, the connection you are meant to have with family, how your childhood was meant to be, your experience of making children, how you are meant to adapt / your capabilities in adapting to what happens to you in this lifetime, what habits you are meant to have, and/or how safe you feel in the world in this life cycle.

mercury

type of conversation you are meant to have, how you are meant to think, how your health is meant to be, what you are going to notice most often, type of local trips you are going round take, how you will travel, what you are meant to forget, mistakes you are going to make, gossip you are going to share and that will be said about you, and/or what you are meant to read.

venus

who you are fated to love / be attracted to, type of romances you are bound to have, how you will experience/view beauty, how sympathetic you are meant to be, what will bring you pleasure, your journey with self love this lifetime, what you are meant to share, what entertains you most, what you are meant to value most, and/or what you are fated to possess.

mars

what you will be passionate about, what you will desire most desire (in general), how confident you will feel, how ambitious you will be, your experience with sexual encounters, impulsive decisions you make that were meant to happen, tasks you will preform, what will motivate your soul to fulfill its tasks this lifetime, and/or violence you are fated to experience.

jupiter

where / what kind of luck you will have, where you are fated to live an abundant life, what type of wealth you will have this lifetime, fated success/opportunity you will have, where you will be most knowledgable and what type of knowledge you will have, wisdom you are meant to gain, where you are meant to travel (click save > add to "my astro" > edit the gender to male or female instead of event > then check your astroclick travel map for more definitive details/info as to where you are meant to travel and why), what comes to you with ease this lifetime, how blessed you are this lifetime, where you are destined to be optimistic, what you are meant to explore, what you will be most devoted to, how you are meant to grow, and/or where makes you feel fulfilled.

saturn

where you will work hardest, what you will have achieved by the end of your life, where you are meant to be challenged, where/what you are likely to struggle, how close you are supposed to be with your paternal figure, the work you are destined to do, what you are meant to fear in life, what is meant to delay you, limitations in your life, how disciplined you are going to be, what you are responsible for, where/what you will feel that you lack this life cycle, where you are fated to be practical/detached, what makes you feel trapped, effort you exert, where you will be most mature, and/or where you will be consistent.

uranus

friendships are fated to have, films that are meant to change your life, how you are meant to be unique, changes you are meant to experience, where you are independent from others, unexpected/surprise events that were plotted by universe and your soul, where life is meant to be chaotic, and/or the fans/followers you are meant to have.

neptune

kindness/compassion you will experience, creative ideas/pursuits you will have, how sensitive you will be and where you are going to be most sensitive, intuitiveness/intuition, the hidden, dreams, deception/lies you are meant to experience, confusions that lead to where you are meant to be, your spiritual journey this lifetime, inspired thoughts you are meant to have, how you will transcend after this lifecycle, and/or what is meant to be your fascination.

pluto

how you are meant to change, power you have, your sexual experiences this lifetime, endings that are meant to experience, how close you are meant to be with other, what is most intense in your life, what obsesses you, and/or manipulation you experience/preform.

1h

self exploration you are meant to do, how you will approach life this cycle in comparison to other cycles, how you will appear, how confident you will feel, new beginnings you explore this lifetime, and/or how your presence will effect others.

2h

how you treat your money this life cycle, short term jobs you are meant to have, how your work ethic differs this cycle, what material possessions you are meant to have, how much you value your self, what value this cycle, how stabile you feel to others, and/or what you are meant to give and/or receive from others.

3h

how you are meant to communicate with others, how you are meant to think, your perception of others, how strong your opinions are this lifetime, how aware of the world around you you are meant to be, what interests you are meant to have, gossip you are fated to hear and/or take part in, ideas/information you are meant to have, what you are meant to read, how you are meant to interact with social media, who you are meant to interact with socially, and/or short trips you are meant to take.

4h

where you are fated to feel at home/find home (click save > add to "my astro" > edit the gender to male or female instead of event > then check your astroclick travel map for more definitive details/info as to where you are meant to feel at home - make sure you check your 4h ruler's planetary line(s) and the moon), how your relationship with you family is meant to be, how you are fated to treat and manage your inner child, emotions you are meant to experience, how your childhood was meant to be, what you inherited from family genetically, how you maintain traditions, and/or how you are meant to treat yourself.

5h

child(ren) you meant have / be around, talents/hobbies you have, drama you were fated to experience, risks you were meant to take, moments you are meant to be the center of attention, short term romances you are fated to experience, what is meant to bring you pleasure/joy, and/or vacations you are meant to go on.

6h

routine you are meant to have, how your mental is meant to be, how what you do is effected by fate, how you are meant to be consistent, how you are meant to be innocent, and/or what you are meant to do for others.

7h

long term romances you are fated to experience, conflicts you are meant to experience, who you are meant to partner with, open enemies you are supposed to face, negotiations you meant to make, and/or who is your equal in this lifetime.

8h

major transformation / changes you are meant to undergo in this lifetime, deaths you experience, what you invest in, what you inherit in the material realm this life cycle, what seduces you in this lifetime, intimacy you experience, secrets you meant to know, mystery you are meant to uncover, and/or trauma your soul wanted to experience.

9h

wisdom your soul wanted to gain, beliefs/religion(s)/philosophies/ethics you were meet to adhere to, languages you were meant to speak, long trips you are meant to take, and/or what you were meant to learn.

10h

legacy you are meant to have / leave behind, career you are meant to be in, your fated reputation in this world / how you are meant to be known by others, what your long-term goals are, what responsibilities you are meant to have, how respected by others you are meant to be, and/or fated achievements in this life cycle.

11h

friends you are meant to have, what you are meant to gain, what desires you have coming into this lifetime, how you are unique when compared to old versions of your soul / how you soul wished to stand out in comparison to others around you, what you are meant to witness socially / via the media, influence you are meant to have, fated moments in society/the public, and/or who is meant to be your ally.

12h

healing you are meant to do, what you are meant to intentionally hide, fated karmic balancing moments, how old you are meant to get, what your mental health is meant to be like, fated dreams / precognitive dreams, who is meant to be your secret enemy, illusions/fears about life you are meant to have, endings you are meant to experience in this life cycle, life limiting beliefs your soul wished to experience, what your soul let's you subconsciously know, fated self-undoing, and/or how you are meant to deal with your past.

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[the-other-art-blog]

🌊Benophie Symbolism: Water (Fluidity, Freedom, Prismatism, and Queer characters)🌊

Ever since I read an AOFAG, I thought water was important for Benophie. I posted it a few months ago here (x).

Benedict's fav color is blue because it reminds him of a lake in Aubrey Hall

Sophie arrived at Penwood House during a rainy July day

Benophie gets caught in the rain on their way to My Cottage

Obvs, the lake scene

The bath scene

Just like Polin's thing is carriages and mirrors, Benophie's is water. Even Luke T mentioned it during the Valentine's Day event. Before entering the s4 era, I thought it was just a fun element in their love/romantic scenes. But it can have a deeper meaning and on the show, it can be a powerful visual.

Benedict's pansexuality

Though the regency character would not be familiar with our modern concepts, Luke T and Jess have said Benedict's identity is closer to a pansexual person, making him one of the two confirmed LGTBQ+ Bridgerton siblings.

For anyone wondering how they will explore Benedict's sexuality if he marries Sophie, here's an idea!

(Just to be clear, Benedict is pansexual no matter what, he doesn't have to prove himself to anyone, or sleep, or marry anyone in particular.)

Water has been a symbol for the artistic LGTBQ+ community for decades. Artists, from painters to filmmakers, have used it to illustrate queer journeys because it symbolizes fluidity, transformation, and freedom. Trans woman Lili Elbe painted water bodies before transitioning, while Moonlight and Portrait of A Lady on Fire have water scenes.

(Btw, I hope to see at least one bridge, too, to symbolize the connection between separate worlds. Yerin described Sophie as a bridge between the servants and the ton.)

I don't think Benedict's arc can be complete without him coming out to Sophie and his family. Sophie will accept him the same way he will choose her despite being a maid. I don't know if there's going to be a subplot about the LGTBQ+ community next season, but at least Ben should feel safe to be honest with his family.

EDIT: I forgot to mention, do you remember the rain/cottage scene in WHWW??? Franchaela is gonna have a water scene too!!!!

Peace v. turmoil

Water can also be a peaceful environment or a turbulent one. I'm thinking of the contrast between John Constable's landscapes and Turner's. The former represents a very quiet nature in the countryside; the latter portrays nature's imposing and terrifying force through storms.

Benedict and Sophie are caught in a storm when they remeet in Wiltshire. But their time at My Cottage is so peaceful and relaxing they let their guards down.

I'm focusing mainly on Benedict here because he's the one who's been confirmed to be pansexual, but I'm all for headcanons about Sophie and Jess may surprise us once again in s4.

More fluidity

Fluidity is not only related to Benedict's sexuality. Luke T mentioned how Benedict's struggle is that he's good at many things, he can wear many hats. He could be an artist and a poet, but he could also take charge of the family's estate. Benedict can transform and be whoever he needs to be without committing to any role. It's a blessing and a curse. Sophie has been forced to transform into new roles: from granddaughter to ward, to servant, to the Lady in Silver, to housemaid, to lady's maid.

And of course, Sophie's famous line:

Water is PRISMATIC

Remember when Yerin described Benedict and Sophie's character arcs as "prismatic". She explained how light touches a prism and a rainbow comes out. Impressionists like Monet liked to paint water because they could play with the reflection of light and how it changed in an instant to reveal more colors.

Benedict and Sophie have been hiding their real selves for a long time.

Sophie has been trapped in a miserable existence because she's the earl's bastard. That's all that people care about, but she's so much more than that. She's a wonderful person that almost no one notices because prejudices and classism weigh more in society.

Meanwhile, Benedict has been hiding behind his humor and carefree nature because he's afraid to be who he really is, an artist. He has impostor syndrome, he's terrified of failing, so he pretends he's fine. When Anthony intervened to get him into the Academy, he gave him the perfect excuse to quit and blame someone else. Like Sophie said,

Surface v underwater

All of this is deeply connected and what excites me is that we may see this reflected in the script.

In the audition tape that leaked, there is this piece of dialogue:

You see?! Water metaphor!!!!

Oh! This is exciting, very exciting.

Of course, the script can change and we may never hear these lines on the show. After all, this was just for an audition tape, but I find it curious how the writers added them anyway.

Oh, and just to keep hoping on more water scenes with Benophie. I would like to suggest a scene like this one in s5:

I got many more posts about Benophie and Bridgerton season 4 under the tag: #benophie wish list

🪁Kites (and a possible scene idea that ties to Sophie's Korean heritage?) 🪁

🐝🪨Benedict's rock collection, and bees (grief)🐝🪨

🪜Sophie's journey in the staircase (quotes from AOFAG)🪜

💎💜Benophie Iconography: Amethyst (Korea, stone properties, and Sophie's mother(s))💎💜

🎭Masks (quotes from AOFAG)🎭

[heartofbusan]

Finally.

As we hit the halfway point of AYS, I've been wondering about the overall story arc. What part of the story is the one that floats over the entire narrative? To me, it is also the story that is the most sensory one, the one thing about AYS that touches me and sets my mind off of these tangents.

I'll give you a clue:

It's them. Their interactions.

The way jikook as a pair kicked off this journey was a contentious one. We all remember the first episode and the talk they had. There are many reasons, from the editing to the self censoring jikook do in front of the camera that have led to #TheCarScene making the audience feel either uncomfortable or made them sit at the edge of their seat. Hanging off of every word (and translation). There is both a lot happening and not enough. But not many can say that scene left them unmoved. I like that! That means that the audience is engaged! It pulls us in. Especially those of us who love to observe human communication. Yet, now we long to move on from the discomfort that interaction sparked. We long for catharsis. To feel that the conversation they had isn't just hanging there balancing them on a precipice, but that it will be OK for them in the end.

Jungkook’s "Finally" went a long way to guide us to such a resolution, but to me, his relieved exclaim is just the beginning. This, to me, is what the entire show portends to be about.

How does that 'Finally' look like throughout the 8 episodes? How will we look back on that 'Finally' once we've seen them all?

Like I said, we're at the halfway point (already 😭), episode 4, and where is that on-screen relationship building towards? What kind of 'beats' does the story NEED to hit in order to come to a satisfying conclusion within the shows narrative? How does the show earn that 'Finally'?

Sure, Are You Sure is a 'travel-vlog-mukbang-buddy-cop-show', but it's also the story of two seemingly estranged best friends/lovers who've been incredibly busy and who've taken it upon themselves to carve out time to be at ease together. If we look at their busy schedules as being in the way of them being THEM, then the most important goal of AYS is to get them back to that state.

Are You Sure is jikook's safe heaven.

If we were to look at all episodes as a way to work towards that hypothetical goal (Jikook back on the same wavelength) then the story beats per episode look a little like this.

Ep. 1: Two friends embark on road-trip, they've missed eo and want to do fun things together. Lot's of eating.

Ep. 2: Even short term illness can't keep them from sightseeing and eating, more warming up together: spanking in bed edition

Ep. 3: Surprise guest! Cut the camera's: the duo take a pause on domesticity and play games as a trio.

Ep. 4: The duo is the core of the story, pick up where they left off: re-kindling. They make beautiful moments together.

Ep. 5: I expect another conversation about their desire to spend meaningful time together 'Deep talk phase 01'. New location?

Ep. 6: New location but treasured memories pop-up from their first Tokyo trip. What does the future for this duo look like (the military service talk?) aka 'Deep talk phase 02'.

Ep. 7: Level-up: fun snow time activities?!

Ep. 8: More deep talk, 'Phase 03' that cements this duo as utterly and completely besotted with eo. They either talk about their joint enlistment or about traveling after MS...maybe both.

How do you think the next episodes will play out if we think of each episode as building towards a satisfying conclusion?

[zepskies]

hi lovely!💗 first, I wanted to say that I hope this next year is filled with lots of love and light for you!!🫂 may all of 2025 be kind. 🫶🏽🙂‍↕️

you are for sure one of my favorite comfort blogs, besides how amazing your writing is you are so kind to everyone, your blog is filled with lovely interactions and it just feels like a big safe space <33 you have without a doubt helped me get through this trainwreck of a year lol :’)💕

for the asks, there are so many good onesss lol but i’ll only ask a few 😅 👉🏽👈🏽

1. describe your journey this year (in three words)

7. comfort character to create for

8. most challenging character to write

12. a concept you’d like to develop next year

13. a fic or artwork by another creator that made you happy

sidenote: I can’t wait to get home & read the final part of ATW :p have a wonderful day!!🤍🤍

Hello my lovely!! Same to you, friend! A lot of us have had a crappy 2024, me included, but you know what, we're here and we're getting through -- hopefully with a little kindness and support from our friends here. 💗

Wow, I'm honored to be one of your comfort blogs. 🥹🥹 I really appreciate you saying that mine feels like a "safe space" because that's exactly what I've tried to do. I'm truly grateful people who read my writing and interact with me on here. Like you, a lot of them have become mutuals and lovely friends. 💕

I talk to some people on here on a weekly basis now, and tbh those connections have not only fueled my creativity to keep writing, but have also just made me happier as a person. Or like you, they've gotten me through the hard times I've gone through this year. (I do reread comments and reblogs btw -- yours have never failed to make me smile. 🥰)

But yep, on to your EOY Asks before I just keep rambling on and throwing hearts at you. 💓💓💓

**Lots of fic recs/author recs below the cut!!

#1. describe your journey this year (in three words)

Oh God lol. Like I said, I've had a rough year personally. But in 3 words?

Exhausting. Painful. Creative.

I've been mentally, physically, emotionally exhausted for the better part of 9 months. I've been in physical pain and discomfort for much of that time and have had 2 surgical procedures, countless doctor visits, and too many life changes to list.

But through all of that, I feel like I've also done some of my most creative writing in 2023-2024 than ever before, including starting a Patreon, and dipping back into writing the fantasy romance novel I've been working on since grad school. Use the pain, I guess. 😅

#7. comfort character to create for

It's changed over the years depending on my fixations, but right now (and for the past 2 years), it's definitely Dean freakin' Winchester.

#8. most challenging character to write

Lmfao. Definitely this guy:

#12. a concept you’d like to develop next year

Oof, how much time you got? 🤣

I have a few WIPs that are already drafted and in the editing phases for next year -- including all of my remaining fics for @jacklesversebingo. (Jacklesverse Bingo24 Masterlist here!)

More specifically, I have plans to write sequel fics for the following series:

Break Me Down (Soldier Boy x Reader): Their son's first birthday, with a flashback to their wedding day.

Unravel Me (Soldier Boy x POC!Reader): The prequel series to Lost in Translation, in which Ben meets the reader (afro Latina).

Every Second Counts (Russell Shaw x Reader): Can Russell make good on his promise to "get out" and start his brewery? (AKA: his past comes knocking, and might just put the reader in danger. Diving deeper into the Shaw family history too.)

Take Me Home (Beau Arlen x Reader): @luci-in-trenchcoats put the idea of Beau and the reader from this series getting married into my head, and I feel like it would be a fun and somewhat angsty road to get there lol.

#13. a fic or artwork by another creator that made you happy

Again, how much time you got? 😂😂

I can rec so many of my mutuals and favorites here, so here's a few:

Dean Winchester

The Dangers of Hope (Endverse!Dean x reader) - @dean-winchester-is-a-warrior

Things Learned and Unlearned (Dean x reader)

Some Sunny Day series (Dean x OFC) - @talltalesandbedtimestories 💞

That’s How It Should Be (Sheriff!Dean x reader) - @rizlowwritessortof - and all of her Jackesverse bingo fics. 🤌🏽❤️‍🔥

NSFT Alphabet [Dean Winchester] - @chevroletdean

Feral (Alpha!Dean x reader) - @luci-in-trenchcoats

Wild Flower (Dean x reader) - @deanbrainrotwritings (so many rereads 🥵)

Remind Me (Alpha!Dean x Omega!reader) - @justagirlinafandomworld

Worthy (Dean x reader) - @thatonewriter15

Girls, Girls, Girls (Dean x OFC) - @spnbabe67 - plus so many of her other Dean x Tori fics.

Run Baby Run

I Just Died in Your Arms Tonight

Five Star (Dean x Indian POC!reader) - @artyandink

Taste (Alpha!Dean x Omega!reader) - @kittenofdoomage

A Simple Kinda Man (Dean x reader) - @impala-dreamer

I'll Be Home for Christmas (Dean x reader) - @wayward-dreamer

Sam Winchester

Samnesia - @princessmisery666

English Cottage-verse - @sam-is-my-safe-word

Soldier Boy

Power Play (Soldier Boy x reader) - @venus-haze

She’s Out To Please, She Pouts Her Best (Soldier Boy x reader) (So many rereads 🥵)

Take a Chance on Me (Soldier Boy x supe!reader) - @lamentationsofalonelypotato

If The Stars Wish It So (Soldier Boy x soulmate!reader)

Beau Arlen

The Change (Alpha!Beau Arlen x Omega!Reader)

The Change: Beau - Sequel from Beau’s POV.

Polaris (Beau Arlen x reader) - @waynes-multiverse

Taken for Granted (Beau Arlen x reader) - @pink-sparkly-witch

The Fix (Beau Arlen x reader) - @waywardxwords

Russel Shaw

Tuesday's Gone (Russell Shaw x reader) - @pamwritessometimes

He's My Man (Russell Shaw x reader) - @luci-in-trenchcoats

Waiting for the Real Thing (Russell Shaw x OC) - @rizlowwritessortof

Thank you again @wvffles for being such a lovely support and friend to me this year! (Aw I hope you enjoy Part 4 of ATW! 💕💕)

[oakdaddypreserveme]

halsin x briar

warnings: smut, vaginal fingering, p in v sex, daddy kink

i did not edit this

summary: briar gets hurt and halsin helps her

minors dni

another day of going through the wretched shadow cursed lands. though they had been fighting the undead that haunted the area for days, briar reckoned that she would never get used to them.

the latest scrap had left her with a scratch and more than a few bruises. it hurt more than she let on when shadowheart first enquired about her condition. this place was dangerous and briar couldn’t afford to let her weakness slip in front of her party. as their leader, they needed to see her as a pillar of strength and briar knew that shadowheart was out of spells for the day, just as she herself was.

so when the glow of their camp’s fire could be seen in the distance, briar was more than overjoyed. there she knew gale was waiting with a meal, and astarion was waiting to give her comfort.

and halsin was waiting to tend to her wounds.

ever since she’d freed him from the goblin camp, she had to admit that there was an undeniable chemistry between them. on their journey he’d mentored her about being a druid, especially as she was fairly new to being one before the tadpole got stuck in her brain. oftentimes they would walk through the forest as he showed her the bounty of the oakfather’s gifts. they meditated together in the stillness of the evenings.

when he guided her hand to feel nature around her it seemed that it lingered. when he encouraged her to close her eyes and take in the forest, she felt his breath on her neck. it was enough to make her ache.

but he’d made it clear that the shadowcurse was his priority when they’d celebrated with the tieflings. they’d had plenty of moments since then but briar was certain he wouldn’t act.

so when she walked into halsin’s tent, bruised and battered and in pain, it melted away immediately when their gazes met. for a moment it was as though they weren’t in the shadow cursed lands anymore. for a moment, it was just the two of them.

“you’re hurt,” he said after a pause. he stood up and approached her with a worried eyes and eyebrows knitted in concern.

“a scratch is all,” briar said noncommittally. “shadowheart and i don’t have spells left. could you spare any?”

“of course,” he said. “but this looks like more than a mere scratch, briar. what happened out there?”

she chewed her lip. “we were ambushed on the way out of the gauntlet of shar. shadows and undead. i transformed into a bear to get them all once we got over our surprise. it won’t happen again.”

briar didn’t tell him that she barely had the energy to shift in the first place. that she was exhausted. but he took one look at her and it was like he knew.

“these lands are treacherous, little one. you don’t have to take on the burden of navigating them alone.”

“i don’t—”

he shook his head. “i understand that you need to be strong in front of the others. they rely on you; you are their light in a near hopeless darkness. but i am not them. you don’t have to be strong around me.”

briar laughed humourlessly. “you would say that.”

halsin looked at her steadily. “at the grove the other druids looked to me for strength in the same way a pride of lions looks to their own leader. but i had no one who could be strong for me when i needed it most. at least, not until you saved me from the goblins. so i ask this of you: let me repay the favour.”

it took a moment to realise just how close he was. his soft breaths fanned across her face. his l skin radiated warmth upon her own. briar sucked in a shaky breath as he grabbed her hand. he still had such an effect on her.

“i’m exhausted,” she admitted in a small voice. “i could barely transform into a bear when it counted, and we only just managed to stave off the undead. gods, halsin, what would have happened to everyone here if i’d made a mistake? to thaniel and oliver?”

he pulled her into a hug and she felt safe in his strong arms. “let it out.”

briar didn’t realise she was trembling until he steadied her. she processed her emotions as best she could as halsin comforted her. she truly didn’t realise that she had been hanging on by a thread this whole time and all it took for her to come crumbling was his kind reassurance.

after a moment halsin released briar and she found that she immediately missed the way his arms felt around her. when he gestured her to sit on his bedroll, she complied.

briar sat and he rummaged around his belongings before finding some bandages and ointment. then he looked at her.

“now, where does it hurt?”

briar gestured to her mid section and there the archdruid rested his hand atop her armour before he looked at her. she nodded her consent and he lifted the top to reveal her midsection.

“silvanus’s tears, briar. this…”

her dark, freckled skin was littered with bruises, while scratches made a tapestry of her. she hissed he placed his hand on one of her many lesions.

“this will hurt but a moment, little one,” he said.

she nodded and gasped as he cast lay on hands. it stung, but eventually the feeling melted away and was replaced with a cool warmth. she found herself relaxing under his touch as she closed her eyes allowing the spell to tingle through her body.

“good girl,” he said softly. “that’s it.”

briar moaned softly at the praise, forgetting herself, but the moment she heard it coming out of her mouth it clamped shut and her eyes whipped open.

halsin’s movements stilled at the sound and he looked at her.

“gods, halsin, i’m sorry. i didn’t mean to—”

“i thought you were with astarion.”

the two of them spoke at the same time and briar felt herself getting warm.

“i am…” she started. “but we’ve discussed…my nature as a wood elf. he’s accepting of me, and gave me his blessing to be with you if it ever came to that.”

“how generous of him,” he said softly. “so accepting of our culture.”

“he’s full of surprises,” briar said fondly. “but you need to focus on the shadow curse—”

“i’ve done all i can on my end with thaniel and oliver reunited, thanks to you of course.”

briar felt herself warm at his words. “it was nothing.”

he leaned in. “finding art’s lute? keeping the shadows at bay while i entered the shadowfell? finding oliver and convincing him to stay? you sell yourself short, little one. i could not have done any of it without you.”

the praises shot through her.

“in truth, i’ve admired you the moment you saved me from the goblins,” halsin said, his voice barely above a whisper. “i had my duty to liberate these lands from the curse, and i thought your bond with astarion would prevent anything from happening between us regardless. but i would be lying if i said i enjoyed our lessons together for more selfish reasons. any excuse i could have to touch you, to be near you…

“i’ve lived a long time, briar. i’ve taken many lovers. my heart does not stir lightly. but it does now.”

he placed his hand on her cheek and she leaned into the touch.

“i cannot express how much i’ve wanted you. if you would have me.”

his words were pure poetry, something the wood elf had no experience in. they flowed like water, sang like the melody of the forest. it was a wonder how she’d made it this far at all without getting charmed by the way he composed his words.

“i’m right here.” her voice was breathless as she responded and before she knew it, halsin’s lips were on hers.

briar moaned into the kiss as his hands trailed up her sides. the remnants of the spell tingled through her as he brought her closer to him, creating a delicious sensation wherever he touched.

his tongue prodded her lips and she welcomed him in, relishing the how he explored her crevice. she shivered at the sensation of him brushing her gums, which earned a smile from the archdruid.

the way he felt under her hands, so firm and warm and safe, awoke something in her. where with astarion she felt protective, with halsin she wanted nothing more than to let him have his way with her. to be whatever it was he wanted her to be. to let nature at its most primal take over.

briar bit halsin’s lip and he growled as he grabbed her hips and pulled them to his. his excitement became very apparent against her.

“poking the bear, are we?” he asked between kisses. his tone was almost feral and she relished the way he sounded. being the reason that the usually calm archdruid lost control filled her with some kind of pride. “you’re playing a dangerous game, little one.”

“from where i’m standing, it seems the bear is poking me,” she snarked and she felt him smile against her lips before he moved down to her neck. she moaned softly as he gently sucked an area that made her go wild.

afraid others would hear, briar muffled the sounds she was making with her hand. she heard halsin chuckle against her. “good girl. we wouldn’t want anyone else hearing us.”

she whimpered at his words and halsin pulled back. “it seems you enjoy when i call you that…or when i give you any sort of praise in general.”

she felt herself get warm under his gaze and couldn’t help but look away to avoid it. “i…i like it.”

a delectable smile graced halsin’s lips and he leaned into her neck to kiss it again. “you like being told how good you are for me?” he murmured against her skin. “to be told you’ve done well? to be told that you’re my good girl?”

“hells, halsin,” briar whispered. “i need you.”

he kissed her with more fervor, guiding her down so that she lying comfortably on her bedroll with his form enveloping her. halsin was large and everywhere, with his hands on her breasts, gently tugging at her nipples.

“the noises you make,” halsin whispered, his eyes glowing gold as his hands travelled lower. “gods, briar. i can’t wait to taste you on my tongue. to feel your thighs on my face like a vice. to have your walls clench around me as you cum. you have no idea how long i’ve wanted you under me, the amount of times i’ve rubbed my cock at the thought of you taking every inch of me. of marking you with my bites and having everyone at camp see them the next morning, of staking my claim—”

halsin stopped abruptly as his hands glided against her underwear . a shudder rocked through him as his eyes slid closed and he nuzzled her freckled neck.

“oak father, preserve me,” he moaned against her dark skin, his voice absolutely shattered. “you’re so wet, little one. i’ve barely touched you.”

“i can’t help it,” she responded. “you have such a way with words.”

he chuckled. “talking isn’t the only thing this mouth can do, you know.”

he moved lower, kissing every scratch and bruise on her torso like an act of worship. taking a breast into his mouth, he suckled it while the finger that was circling her drenched underwear teased her folds. briar gasped, her back arching as a soft moan escaped her lips before she watched him tear off her underwear with a growl.

“white panties on a body like yours should be considered sinful,” he muttered before tasting her on his fingers. he groaned when her taste coated his tongue and he took a deep breath as if to compose himself. “not even the sweetest honey can compare to your nectar, briar. i want to drown myself in your scent. to lose myself in you completely. i’m going to absolutely devour you.”

“is that a promise?” she asked and she gasped when he grazed her clit in response.

"you'll be the death of me," he groaned. he placed his forehead on hers and looked deep into her olive green eyes. “if that’s how you want it, we’ll need a safeword,” he murmured, tracing her jawline affectionately with his knuckles. “something you’d never say during sex.”

briar thought for a moment, noting that though his tone was soft, his intention was incredibly serious. this wasn't something that she should take lightly. “drider?”

halsin paused his movements and looked at her as he considered her suggestion before accepting it with a nod. “that’s good enough. say it out loud for me.”

“drider,” she repeated with more conviction and the older elf smiled and kissed her.

“good girl. if things get too much for you, just use that word, alright?”

“you underestimate my abilities, master halsin.”

he raised a cheeky eyebrow before plunging two of his fingers into her. “you’re going to be the death of me.”

briar opened her mouth to retort but just then halsin sent a delicious thrust of his fingers along her walls which caused her to gasp. “fuck.”

“that’s the idea,” he responded before setting a slow, teasing pace. “i'm going to taste you, but first i need to see you cum on my fingers. i need to know how you look like when i do this to you.”

though his fingers felt delicious, the pace was agonisingly slow. briar bit her lip and gasped as she closed her eyes, but her chin was grabbed suddenly which made her whip them open again.

"don't close your eyes," he said firmly. "i need to see you."

briar mewled but nodded her head, focusing on the sensation of his fingers dragging along her walls as she made eye contact with him. it felt divine, almost sinful to feel this good from such a simple movement.

though slow, the pressure began to build inside of her, trickling through her. she tried to form words between gasps around her swollen lips but was too drunk on the feeling to be able to be coherent.

"what is it, lover? use your words," he said before giving her a particularly hard thrust that made her see stars.

he knew what he was doing if the way he was smirking at her was of any indication.

"mmm...~ how m'i s'pose t'say anything if you tease me like this?" she asked between breaths, breasts heaving at another particularly hard thrust.

"hm?" he hummed. "i don't know what you mean."

"fucker," briar said without bite.

"i will be, in a moment," he promised before kissing her full lips again. "now, what was it you actually wanted to say, hm?"

she gasped again as he suckled on her neck once more and felt his teeth graze against her skin. "more."

he let out a soft, teasing breath and she knew he was chuckling. "you'll have to do better than that, briar."

"how do you mean?"

he looked her square in the eye, not for a moment pausing his ministrations. "i'm not in the business of giving in to those without manners. ask nicely."

his words cut through her. briar was never one to demean herself so easily, to give in so readily. but the way he had her in the palm of his hand, the way he got her teetering on the edge so easily...gods it did things to her. she found it easy to submit to him in that moment, to want to submit to him. to want to trust him with her whole being.

though, she didn't want him to know he won so quickly. like a child she let out a petulant hmph and said, "make me."

he paused his movements and regarded her steadily. there was a look in his gaze that was foreign to her. yes, it was still somewhat soft but there was a whisper of something darker lying underneath his eyes.

she shivered as he completely disengaged from her, leaving her cunt aching with emptiness as it tried desperately to squeeze the fingers that had left it. halsin grabbed her hands and pinned them above her, and she squirmed under his intense stare. a new pool of wetness leaked out of her as she saw his eyes flash gold.

"i'll let that slide for now because this is our first time together and you're injured," he said gently. "but if that's the kind of game you want to play i promise i can be a lot less accommodating."

his tone shot through her. she had no idea that she would enjoy being reprimanded like this. being the subject of his present ire only made her want to misbehave more.

"silvanus's breath," she muttered.

he shook his head with a smirk. "that's not the name you should be calling out when i'm having my way with you."

"oh?" she asked with her own smile. "what would you prefer? 'master halsin'?"

he cringed. "i'd prefer not."

briar smiled wickedly. "daddy?."

he froze and let out a deep breath. "you're playing with fire, little one."

"even forests get burned as nature takes it course."

halsin's grip on her hands tightened. "i was going to treat your body like an altar. i was going to taste you until you saw stars. i was going to worship you so thoroughly sune herself would be envious. but now..." he brought her leg to wrap around his hip as he slotted himself between her legs. briar felt his bulge nudge against her engorged clit and she moaned. "...i see you don't want that. at least, not tonight."

"and what do i want? enlighten me."

he growled lowly. "you want to be fucked. to be used as my plaything. to be so utterly wrecked that you forget your own name. did i get that right?" his voice had dropped an octave and she bit her lip at the promise.

"gods, yes."

"yes what?"

"yes, daddy."

"good girl."

he smiled and kissed her gently before look her in the eyes once more. they were soft, and inherently she knew he was asking if she wanted him to continue. "i'll be rough. what's your safeword?"

"drider."

he nodded before unbuckling his trousers and finally, finally, setting his glorious cock free. immediately briar's mouth watered, and halsin must have noticed her lick her lips because he laughed.

“i’ll use your mouth another time. perhaps even later tonight. but right now…” he teased her entrance with this tip. “i’m going to have my way with you, little one.”

briar struggled with her pinned arms.

“since you asked for more earlier, that’s what i’ll give you. however, because you’d forgotten your manners, you don’t get to cum until i say so. is that clear?”

“what? wait that’s not fair—”

“i didn’t ask if it was fair, i asked if i was clear,” he interrupted.

she genuinely didn’t know if she could do it, but she trusted halsin enough to know her limits so she nodded.

“the safeword is always an option,” he reminded gently. then more firmly he asked, “am i clear?”

“yes daddy.”

“good.”

slowly he began to sheathe his cock into her and the stretch burned but in the best way. she realised that he had been preparing her earlier, opening her up as much as he could and she was grateful.

“i’m halfway in,” he said gently and her eyes shot up. only halfway? gods she could die on his cock. it was better than dying by tadpole, that was for sure. what a way to go.

when he finally slotted himself into her fully, her legs trembled uncontrollably. she had to take a few long breaths as it grazed a sensitive part inside her that made her see stars. “ahhhh, halsin wait. if you move i think i’ll cum.”

“already?” he asked and when she nodded he swore under his breath. “oak father, preserve me.”

it took a moment for the intense feeling to subside and for her to nod the okay.

he began thrusting at a steady pace, slowly at first to get her used to his length. he reached down and flicked her clit which made her arch her back from how good it felt. his hips snapped into her which sent her soaring and she felt herself trembling again.

his forehead was laced with concentration as his eyebrows stitched together. sweat beaded all over his body as his muscles rippled.

briar struggled against his arm as all she wanted to do was touch him. she needed to feel his skin under her own but gods he was strong.

“halsin,” she said, closing her eyes. “please. need to touch you,”

once again he grabbed her chin and made her look at him. “what did i say, briar? as soon as you learn one rule you forget another one.”

“m sorry halsin it just feels so nice,” she said.

he tutted and increased his pace. “you learned your manners at least. as for touching me,” he rubbed her clit again, “if you can promise you can be a good girl for me, i’ll let you go.”

“yes, i promise to be good. please let me touch you.”

he loosened his grip and gave one of her hands a light kiss. “the way you beg could turn the most hardened of hearts.”

“thank you,” she said, at both the compliment and him allowing her to touch him.

their fingers interlocked as her other hand explored his torso. it was damp with sweat and rippled as he fucked into her.

the string in her was tightening once more as he carried on. the way he looked at her as she panted and gasped was almost with reverence as she fought to stave off the orgasm.

“i’m so close,” she warned.

he slowed immediately, taking his hand off her clit and leaned in to kiss her. “good girl. i didn’t even ask you to tell me.”

she whimpered into the kiss and wrapped her arms around his neck, not wanting him move away from her. briar pulled his hair when he thrust deeply and he moaned, swearing under his breath when her nails dug into his back and scratched him as she arched into him.

emboldened, halsin lifted her hips so his thrusts could reach deeper inside and briar screamed at the sudden change in angle.

“how does it feel, briar?” he asked softly.

“you’re reaching all the deepest parts of me,” she managed. “it’s like i can’t get enough.”

“if you can still speak so coherently, maybe i’m not doing as thorough a job,” he said before picking up the pace again.

he was rough, and briar knew she would ache for days to come but she didn’t care. she craved him like sun craves the west.

he left bites and marks all over her body to pair with her earlier bruises. she sobbed from how good it all felt and from holding onto the impending orgasm with all her might.

“halsin please,” she begged, tears in her eyes.

“just a little longer. you’re taking me so well,” he said gently.

the juxtaposition between his tone of voice and the way he was fucking her could send anyone into a dizzy spell. briar cried and begged and pleaded but not once did she even consider using the safeword. it all felt too good and a part of her wanted to see how far halsin would take her.

finally, finally, “cum for me, briar . let go for me.”

she came the hardest she ever had in her life, sobbing and thanking him as she trembled. the feeling washed through her like a river of pleasure.

with a roar, halsin came inside her, pumping her with his seed and fucking it into her. it felt good, and she whimpered as he slowed until he stopped.

halsin kissed her forehead as his orgasm waned. briar shivered when he pulled out, once again feeling empty.

halsin was on her immediately, kissing her gently before grabbing some water and a towel for her. briar drank her fill while he wiped her and got ready to cast healing touch before she grabbed his hand.

“no, i like the pain,” she said softly.

halsin looked troubled. “i went harder in the end than i intended. please, let me—”

she shook her head. “safeword, remember? i trusted you not to hurt me.”

“even then—”

a stern look from briar quickly shut him up and he shook his head. “at least let me lie with you until morning.”

“i can manage that,” she teased.

[rebelwrites]

First Christmas with Mr Leclerc???? Like maybe you start a tradition with him and he's just so in love and can't believe you want to spend the holidays with him 😍

Can We Go See Santa?

Charles Leclerc x Reader

As this is a flash fic it hasn’t been edited

As always reblogs and feedback is highly appreciated ❤️ if you want tagging in future parts let me know ❤️

The arrivals area of the airport was practically bursting at the seams, everywhere you looked there were multiple bodies darting around the large room. Everyone was in their own world, hunting for their bags and family, ready to start the festivities that would follow over the next couple of days.

Reaching up you tugged the hood of your boyfriend's hoodie further over your cap before making sure your three year old’s hood was still covering her face, she was fast asleep in your arms, soft snores escaping her lips every so often, the flight completely wiped her out and honestly you were happy about that. For the past couple of days she had been a little terror, but in all fairness it was all due to excitement of getting to see her ‘Char Char’ again. Over the last couple of months fans had started to raise their suspicions about you and the monegasque driver. He had started soft launching you on his social media and you knew that one day the world would have to know you two were dating. But your main concern was your daughter, she was too young to understand what was going on, all she knew was the love she held for Mummy’s boyfriend.

Somehow you managed to spot Arthur amongst the crowd, you couldn’t help but roll your eyes at the youngest Leclerc, his disguise was shocking and he was lucky to now get trampled in the busy airport. Shaking the thoughts out of your mind you slowly pushed your way through the crowded room. Dropping your gaze you realized that Arthur had grabbed your suitcases meaning that your escape was going to be quick and hopefully uneventful.

“Comment s'est déroulé le vol ? How was the flight?” The youngest Lecerc beamed, reaching out to take Alice from you. The movement caused her to stir, pulling her tiny fists to her eyes, the moment she realized it was Arthur holding her it was like someone had flipped a switch and she was wide awake.

“Arta,” she giggled, placing her hand on his cheek. She had always struggled to pronounce his name but he really didn’t care.

“Hi, my sweet girl,” he hummed, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. “Let’s get the two of you back home, Maman is so excited to see you.”

The journey back to his car was relatively quick, he had managed to secure a really good parking space right near the main doors. The moment he opened the back door of the car my heart melted when I saw the brand new car seat secured onto the back seat of Pascales’ car. “Maman wanted her little bear to be safe, and she said she had a feeling you would be spending a lot more time in Monaco.” Arthur chuckled, looking over his shoulder flashing me a warm smile.

“Let’s not rush,” you hummed, slowly pushing the hood of Charles’ hoodie down before climbing into the front seat of the car, “We haven’t been together for a year yet.”

“Yet I have never seen my brother so happy,” he grinned, double checking the seatbelt was secured before he quickly made his way to the driver's seat. “God, he is gonna be so happy to see you.”

Nothing could wipe the smile off your face as Arthur backed out of the parking space, making his way towards the exit of the car park. “I’m honestly surprised how we have all managed to keep this a secret,” you hummed, resting your head against the window of the car. The sounds of giggles from the back seat filling the small space, “especially Alice, she's been so excited to see you all.”

The journey from the airport didn’t take long and the moment you stepped foot into the Leclerc household you were pounced on by Pascale. “Oh my dear, it is so good to see you,” she beamed, practically crushing your ribs with how tight she was hugging you. “Char will be home within the next ten minutes.”

Your heart started racing at the thought of him walking through the door with no knowledge you were here. You couldn’t wait to see him, this would be your first Christmas together and hopefully the first of many.

Charles abruptly came into your life one rainy day in the UK, to this day you still felt some embarrassment from the day you met. Alice was two and she decided it was a good idea to run away from you in a busy park. She went sprinting across the field, she had spotted Charles before you had, screaming his name before barging into him causing him to spill his iced coffee down himself. But instead of being angry he smiled softly at my daughter before chasing after her causing her giggles to echo around the park.

Pushing the memory to the back of your mind, you followed Pascale into the kitchen, taking a seat at the kitchen table whilst Arthur chased Alice around the house. You found myself fumbling with the sleeves of Charles’ hoodie. You had never done anything like this before so my hands were starting to get clammy, what if he didn’t want you here? What if you had made a mistake? Was it too soon to be spending Christmas with him and his family?

Because your mind was spinning you didn’t notice the man you were worrying about was currently standing in the doorway. Taking a deep breath you finally looked up when you heard someone cough from across the room. The corners of your lips tugged into a wide smile as you let your gaze scan over your man leaning against the door frame. His green eyes glistened with happiness as he saw you sitting at the kitchen table.

“Hi,” you breathed, slowly pushing yourself to your feet.

Charles couldn’t believe what he was seeing, he had no idea you were coming to Monaco but he was happy to see you standing in the kitchen of his childhood home.

“When did you get here?” he whispered, scared if he spoke too loudly then you would disappear and this was just a figment of his imagination.

“I actually only got here about fifteen minutes ago,” you giggled, closing the gap between the two of you. The moment you got within arms reach of him, he wasted no time in pulling you into his chest, squeezing you tight, never wanting to let you go.

“Êtes-vous ici pour Noël ? Are you here for Christmas?” he whispered, pressing a kiss to the top of your head.

“Thought we could start some new traditions, you, me and Alice,” you responded, looking up, resting your hand against his cheek. “Make some better Christmas memories for the two of us.”

Before Charles could respond we were attacked by the little terror that was my three year old daughter. “Char Char,” she screamed, trying to climb him like a tree.

He quickly pulled away from the hug to scoop her up in his arms, the moment she was high enough he pressed a small kiss to the end of her nose, causing her giggles to echo around the room. Nothing could wipe the smile off Charles’ face, he had both his girls with him on his favorite season of the year. The distance was starting to kill him, all he wanted was both of you by his side as he traveled the world, that was his Christmas wish this year.

“I missed you, Princess,” he whispered, brushing some of her loose curls away from her eyes.

“Missed you more, Char Char,” she whispered back, resting her small hand on his cheek. You felt tears threatening to spill over your lash line. Charles had completely changed your life for the better, he treated your daughter as if she was his own and there never went a day where he didn’t shower either of you in love. “Can we go and see Santa?” Alice asked, widening her eyes and fluttering her eyelashes at Charles.

“I can’t think of anything better, Princess,” he whispered, pressing a kiss to the top of her head before placing her on the ground and watching her sprint towards the front door.

“You willing to stand in line for hours, waiting to see someone dressed as the big man?” you hummed in amusement, tucking your hands into the back pocket of our jeans. “You know there is a chance we will get spotted.”

The smirk on his face melted your heart and if it wasn’t for the fact you were leaning against the counter top, you swore your knees would have given out on you. “You and Alice are my entire world, babygirl and I don’t want to hide that away anymore.” he whispered, closing the gap between the two of you, planting his hands on your hips. “I want to start new traditions with you, Y/N. And if the first one is making sure that every year Alice gets to go see Santa, followed by a walk around a Christmas market with hot chocolate.”

“That sounds perfect, Mr Leclerc,” you giggled, brushing your noses against his.

@chibsytelford @dragon-of-winterfell @ohthemisssery @a-distantdreamer @sgkophie @stillbreathin @angywritesstuff @enchantedbytomandhenry @scribbuluswrites @dangerouspursepeachbear @livo676 @buendiabebeta @ferrarifwendvale @hungryhungariann @theplobnrgone @charlesleclercje @queenslife @panicforspec @justme2042 @liv67 @derpinathebrave @clcspeonies @pleasantducktimetravel @raaaaabzzz @mehrmonga @sbgal @fangirl-lb @pitconfirmbutton @oslokij @tall-tanned-tattoo

[opulentshits]

DA:TV - Pokémon edition

Inspired by @velvet-apricots , here’s my take on the Veilguard companions (+ my MW!Rook) Pokémon lineup.

Plus a little background info.

Taash

Garchomp

Gyarados: “Had Bubba since she was a magikarp, mom got her because she wanted me to learn about patience and responsibility. People like to say she’s no dragon, but I think she’s one for sure.”

Magcargo: “Mags is a little shy, don’t mess with him.”

Slaking

Camerupt

Davrin

Scrafty

Hariyama

Metacross

Shiny Growlithe: “This is Assan, the grey wardens have been breeding shiny Growlithes for generations. He is one of the 12 left in the world. We don’t know if there are more shiny growlithes like Assan and his siblings out there.”

Quilava: “Maika will burn any darkspawn in sight. She’s vicious and keeps Assan on his toes.”

Bellara

Luxray: “Lux was Cyrian’s but he started following me after he passed away. It’s great that Lux keeps me company. I can always feel Cyrain’s presence around Lux.”

Ampharos

Pikachu

Togedemaru: “I found Toad near some ruins in the forest! Cute isn’t she? Oh don’t touch her belly, she will zap you really hard.”

Tinkaton

Lucanis

Scizor

Greninja: “Matteo has been with me since I was a child, he’s been training with me all my life. Spite upsets him quite a bit but I think we are making some progress.”

Gallade

Gallarian Farfetch’d: “His name is Poro, why does an assassin have a bird holding a leek for a Pokémon? Why not? He has a good eye for produce and our targets.”

Medicham

Neve

Hatterene

Eiscue

Weavile: “Hal called about a Weavile causing some trouble, turns out all Ted wanted was some fish. He makes a pretty good partner.”

Froslass

Alolan Ninetails: “I rescued Princess from poachers who were trying to sell her off to the Venatori. Alolan Vulpixes are prized for their white coat. Safe to say I could not bear to part with her ever since. Aren’t you my little princess, yes you are!”

Emmrich

Sylveon: “Ribbons belonged to my mother, he evolved after we were reunited on my parents’ first death anniversary. I had to beg Vorgoth to let me take him.”

Shiny Sableeye: “This is Manfred. I found him scourging through my bag at camp during an expedition in the deeper parts of the necropolis. Turns out he was interested in the gemstone attached to the artifact we were retrieving. Curious little fella this one!”

Dusclops

Mismagius

Chandelure

Harding

Probopass

Cradily

Serperior

Butterfree: “I used to be afraid of bugs, but Puffs really helped me work out my fears.”

Paldean Clodsire: “I found Butters in a swamp near Ma’s home! There were these woopers I used to secretly feed leftovers to and one day Butter’s decided to come home with me! He’s a lot bigger now, but he’s still lil old Butters to me.”

Rook (Lenore Ingellvar)

Gengar: “Hans has been with me since he was ghastly. The other watchers said they found him hovering around me as a baby. He’s harmless. For most part.”

Cubone which evolved into Alolan marowak in Rivain: “Ghost was found next to a couple of dead Charizards out in Cumberland when I was there on a haunting investigation. It took him 4 months to begin trusting me, but we have been close ever since. Ghost really likes the beach and has been begging to go ever since we went to Rivain and I never expected him to evolve! Our journey really has brought us even closer.”

Dragapault

Mawile

Lucario

Fun fact:

Ghost did not like Emmrich at the beginning. He would cockblock Emmrich at any given moment, slapping down his bone near Emmrich’s foot whenever he stepped too close to Lenore. Ghost warmed up when Emmrich fixed his favourite bone stick after a particularly bad run in with the Venatori.

Hans knew Emmrich before Lenore did as Hans loved to fly around the Necropolis playing tricks on other Watchers. Emmrich used to bribe Hans with sugar cubes.

[backtothefanfiction]

TOWER

PART TWO OF THE GREEN LEAVES TRILOGY

Summary: Follows the story of the Two Towers. You catch up with your friends in time for the battle of Helms Deep.

Word Count 9.5k+

Warnings: battle, violence, injuries, angst, fluff, bad elvish translation

A/N: finally managed to get this one finished. I have not gone back over this with a fine tooth comb (I’ve done enough of that already with my actual book I’m currently editing to have the capacity to do this here) but it should read mostly okay. This has been sat in my head for a while so is nice to get it out. Also I seem to be creating some extra drama with Èomer to set me up for part three but I have no idea how that’s going to pan out yet. Anyway, enjoy!

When you were finally informed of the latest impasse of the Fellowship's journey- the death of Boromir, the separation of Frodo and Samwise- the urgency that had been with you before seemed to increase tenfold.

You continued to travel along the route you had been advised by the wise Elven queen to take, but it seemed harder and harder to track the company of Aragorn, Legolas and their smaller companions. That was until you ran into a group of riders from Rohan.

You had moved off the path, taken shelter behind a series of nearby trees as the thundering sound of hooves made their way towards you. However when you realised who headed up the company, you took your horse by the reins and walked out to meet them. Spotting you, they quickly came to a stop.

“Èomer!” you called out.

“Lady Raea,” he said tentatively from his place atop his horse, “what are you doing out here alone? These lands are not safe, there are Uruk-hai running around all over these hills.”

“I am looking for some friends of mine. I was wondering if they had crossed your path.”

“Perhaps…” he said, but still seemed reluctant to give you a straight answer. You knew Èomer, had travelled with him and his men for a time after you had separated from Aragorn and Legolas the first time around.

“Èomer, please.” you appealed softly to him.

He looked to the horizon to his right as he fought with the thoughts in his mind. “You look for the man, elf and dwarf.” His words still you- that was only three of the company. Where were the hobbits?

“Yes.” you say a little too eagerly. “You have seen them.”

“They rode in search of two of their kin, alas I gave them little hope. The two halflings he described had been taken by a pack of Orc… We slayed that pack the night before we saw them, we had no recollection of the halflings with the pack.” Your heart sank as you understood what he was trying to tell you.

“When was this?” You asked.

“I would say four sunrises back.”

“Do you know where they were headed?”

“Alas my dear lady, no.” You bristled at the term as it fell from his mouth. You both knew you were no lady, not really. “Maybe you can take refuge with my Uncle at Edoras as you wait for news. You can take shelter, rest.”

“Thank you.” You replied with a small nod.

He gave you a small nod in return as he began to turn his horse and lead his men away from you. As you reached for the saddle ready to re-mount your horse, you heard him call back to you. “Raea!” When you turned your head he had halted as his men continued on. “Be safe out there.” He cautioned.

You motioned to the blades attached to your back. “When am I not,” you called back as you lifted yourself back up into the saddle and began to make haste in the direction of King Theodin’s kingdom.

However when you got there, the city was empty, save for a few reluctant stragglers. “Where is everybody? Where is the King?” you asked an elderly gentleman mucking out a seemingly empty stable.

“They all rode for Helm’s Deep my Lady.” he informed you.

“When?” you commanded from atop your horse.

“Day before last.” he informed you. “A wizard, Gandalf,” he said the name eagerly as if it was a name that held great importance- which it did, “come with a ranger, an elf and a dwarf. Seemed to wake the King from his stooper he’d been in as of late.” The mention of the company you sought out invigorated you. You were getting closer.

“Me and Florith over there were having none of it though. Said, we were born in Edoras, if we were to die, it would be in Edoras.”

Fools, the pair of them. You thought, however you were grateful for the information their reluctance to leave had granted you.

Helm’s Deep was a few hard day's ride through the white mountains and with the whole city in tow, they wouldn’t have gotten far fast. You rode hard through the mountain pass, but when you reached yet another battlefield, dead Rohanese men and orc scattered the clearing that overlooked the river. However, the lack of any notable deaths to you, told you the company you sought had won, but it was clear their numbers dwindled. As you stood on the cliffs edge surveying the scene, you noticed something strange moving along the bank of the river, further up the pass. A lone horse. Not just any horse though- it was Brego. You stomach turned to stone. Aragorn.

You climbed back atop your own stied, pushing it at top speed to catch up with the darker coloured horse in the distance. You had no idea what you would find when you reached Brego, but you just knew you had to get to him- follow him. As the wind whipped past your ears, you could have sworn it was whispering to you in Elvish. It imbued in you a spirit of urgency that spurred you on.

The horse finally came to a stop at the Riverbank and moved towards a dark figure laying atop the slate that marked the edge of the water. You climbed down from your horse and quickly made your way over to the fallen man and his horse.

‘Aragorn.” you said breathlessly as you fell to your knees beside him. He was wet through and the top of his arm was badly injured. Your fingers reached to feel for a pulse, grateful when you felt the faint thrum of his heartbeat. His eyes fluttered as he became aware of your presence.

You stood, moving around him to hook your hands beneath his arms and drag him from the water. “Come on, Aragorn.” you muttered to him as you pulled him across the dirt towards your two awaiting horses. “Come on, wake up.” you said as you let go of his body again and moved back down onto your knees beside him.

When you reached to touch his face, his eyes suddenly shot open in defence, but upon seeing your face he quickly relaxed. “Raea.” He sighed, his hand struggling as he reached for your hand that now rested on his chest. “Am I dead?” he asked.

“No, I don’t think so.” you reassured him softly, yet still slightly playful. “What happened?” you asked, your brow furrowing.

“We were attacked up in the pass.” he said.

“Legolas.” you breathed his name, your concern for his well being flooding your voice.

“He lives.” Aragorn confided and you knew his response was more than just literal. Legolas had always loved the thrill of the chase. Longed for battle and stimulation.

“We have to move you before night falls.” You said to him. “Do you think you can ride?” you asked.

He shifted his body, somewhat strained and it was clear the pain he felt in his limbs right now, but he fought against it, “Always.” he tried to reassure.

“Come on, let’s get you up.” you said, reaching an arm out and around him, helping him to stand and hobble towards Brego. You let go of him to help hold the horse steady so he may haul himself back up into the saddle. He hesitated, his upper body slumping to the side slightly as his thighs held him tight atop the horse. You carefully climbed up atop your own horse, pulling him alongside Brego in order for you to reach for the reins.

“Hold on, rest.” you told Aragorn, “I’ll lead us until you are strong enough to do it yourself.”

He had long known not to fight your will or advice, after all, it was your counsel and wisdom that had helped shape him into the compassionate man he was. As a man who loved an Elven woman himself and had thought often of future offspring with her, being friends with you and your own heritage had given him nothing but hope the whole time he had known you.

It was a gruelling three day slog along the river and back over the last ridge of the mountain range. You were grateful that on that third day, your companion began to feel like his old self again.

“You know you won’t have a warm welcome when you arrive.” he advised as you slowly made your way over the uneven terrain on your horses.

“I know.” you sighed, resigning yourself to your fate and the inevitable argument that would come when Legolas saw you.

“You know it has only ever been you for him. After you left us his mood became like a dark cloud. It took a long time for him to find the sun again.”

Before you had a chance to reply, you both heard something that rocked you both to your core. You hid under the cover of a ridge as you watched an army of Uruk-hai marching forward through the valley below. “Aragorn.” you said, worried.

“They’ll be headed for the fortress. We must go.”

You both picked up your pace then, pushing your horses harder, faster, until you reached the clearing that led to Helm’s Deep, an old fortress built into the very side of the mountain. “Hi-yah” you both commanded your horses as you raced the final stretch to safety.

As you cantered up the ramp, there were shouts and the gates were pulled open for you both. You couldn’t help but look up at the sheer size of the fortress as you passed through the large doors, but the vastness of the keep was quickly diminished as you rode through over occupied pathways until you came to a stop at the heart of the fortress, the growing crowd too dense as they grew excited by the presence of your companion.

“Where is he? Where is he!? I’m gonna kill him.” the dwarf Gimli commanded as he pushed through the crowd, but when he saw his friend's face he smiled. “You are the luckiest, the canniest and the most reckless man I ever knew.” He bellowed as Aragorn got down from his horse. As the two men embraced you used your vantage point atop your horse to look through the crowd for the flash of blonde hair you knew would be your undoing.

“Where is the King?” Aragorn asked and his small friend pointed in the direction of the hall. That’s when you saw him, stood just outside the large double doors. He froze as he saw his friend, then his eyes moved back to you and you watched as his face fell.

You mustered your strength as you slipped from your horse, handing off the reins to a waiting aid, quietly thanking him.

Although you had prepared yourself for this conversation, you still found yourself hiding behind Aragorn as he and Legolas greeted each other. “Le ab-dollen.” The elf said, You’re late. It was an attempt at a joke, the Elven Prince had long used humour as a coping mechanism, but his expressive eyes spoke of his true feeling as he smiled at the man before him. Legolas really took Aragorn in then; the state of his clothing, the wound at his shoulder. You then watched as he stepped forward and handed over the Evenstar pendant Arwen had given to Aragorn. The relief on Aragorn’s face after thinking he had lost it was palpable. The rugged dark haired man gave the elf a smile and nod before he stepped past him in search of the King to inform him of what you had seen on your journey. You made to breeze past the tall blonde elf, but his hand caught your arm as he pulled you to the side.

“I thought I told you not to come.” he said, his brow hardened.

You hesitated for a moment under his stare, but found the courage to stand tall in your conviction. “I heard news of Gandalf, I could not just sit aside any longer.”

“There is great danger here.” Legolas warned, but you were having none of it.

“There is danger everywhere.” you pressed. “And I know where my talents are needed.”

“All the same, you shouldn’t be here.”

“Yes, she should.” came the gruff voice of the dwarf from behind you. The two of you turned then to look at him. “From what I hear, she’s a good fighter- and we’re gonna need all the help we can get.”

As the dwarf continued past the two of you, making to follow Aragorn and join the discussion with the king, you shot the elven Prince a look that stressed that none of this was up for debate right now- there were far more pressing matters at hand. At the change in your expression, Legolas was able to read the looming situation without you having to say a single word and he quickly moved too towards the discussion in the great hall.

“A great host you say.” Theoden’s voice echoed around the room as the two of you joined the convened assembly.

“All Isengard has been emptied.” Aragorn informed.

“How many?” The King asked.

Before Aragorn had a chance to respond, you found your voice calling across the room, “10,000.”

“At least.” Aragorn quickly added as his gaze appraised you.

“10,000!” Theoden replied in shock.

“It is an army bred for a single purpose.” You found yourself stating.

Once again the dark haired ranger looked to you appreciatively, nodding his head in agreement before continuing your sentence, saying your implied meaning out loud for the king, “To destroy the world of men.”

“And who is this?” Theoden asked Aragorn, confused by your sudden presence.

“This is the Lady Raea, she is a well skilled warrior who has travelled from Rivendell to aid us in this fight.” Aragorn explained, however his choice of words and their implied implication that you were born of Lord Elrond’s people made you bristle. You found yourself looking nervously to the floor, now unable to meet the kings eyes for fear he would see through your dear friend’s cleverly worded statement. Being presented to the king as a true full elf would give you more standing and credibility with the man, though you worried that if he looked too long at you, he would see the real truth. You had lived amongst the men of your Father’s world long enough to know their stance on women and their perceived place in the world- and it was not fighting side by side with men.

“She is a skilled fighter, I trained her myself. She will be invaluable in this battle if the numbers of the looming threat ring true.” You looked to the elf at your side in earnest, surprised by his statement and the way he stepped to your side with pride.

“Very well.” Theoden replied, dismissing your presence once again. “How long until they get here?” He said, turning back to Aragorn.

“They will be here by nightfall.” The ranger replied.

You all watched the king closesly as a small glimmer of fear crept into his eyes, but respect for the man rang true when he pushed it aside, bolstering his courage, as he commanded, “Let them come!” before he strode from the room, ready to rally his men for battle. The rest of you following close behind.

You walked proudly at Legolas’s side as you all followed the king, listening to him give commands and plan battle strategy. “I want every man and strong lad, able to bear arms by night fall.” He said to one of his wards, before turning back towards us. “We will cover the causeway and the gate from above. No army has ever breached the Deeping Wall or set foot inside the Hornberg.” He said confidently.

“This is no rabble of mindless Orcs.” You tried to say, suddenly concerned the King may be underestimating his adversaries with his over confidence. After all, you had seen the droves of Uruk-hai for yourself and they were bred for one thing and one thing alone - death.

“The Uruk-hai’s armour is thick,” the dwarf beside you’s gruff voice spoke up in agreement, “and their shields broad,” he warned.

“I have fought many wars Master Dwarf and Lady Elf, I know how to defend my own keep,” Theoden bristled.

At his words and gaze towards you, you felt Legolas stiffen and grow taller beside you defensively. You had no doubt of the piercing look of warning he now fixed the king, but you kept your eyes forward on King Theoden as he continued to speak. “They will break upon this fortress like water on rock.” He continued as he marched back into the hall. “Saruman’s hordes will pillage and burn, we’ve seen it before. Crops can be resown, homes rebuilt, he said confidently, “Within these walls, we will outlast them.”

“They do not come to destroy crops or villages.” Aragorn said strongly, willing the King to see reason, “They come to destroy its people. Down to its last child.” He stressed.

At Aragorn’s words, the King’s facade cracked slightly, as he drew closer to the dark haired man. “What would you have me do?” He asked of the younger looking man before him. “Look at my men, their courage hangs by a thread.” Theoden stressed in hushed tones, before saying a little more confidently, “If this is to be our end, then I would have them make such an end as to be worthy of remembrance.”

“Send out riders my Lord, you must call for aid.” Aragorn stressed.

“And who will come?” Theoden retorted. “Elves? Dwarves?” He said, motioning slightly to present company in the room. “We are not so lucky in our friends as you. The old alliances are dead.” He said defeatedly.

“Gondor will answer.” Aragorn stressed again.

“Gondor?” The king scoffed. “Where was Gondor when our enemies closed in around us? Where was Gondor-“ the king began again, but quickly quelled his growing anger in favour of deplomacy. “No, my Lord Aragorn,” he said placatingly, “we are alone.”

As the king made to stride from the hall once more, shouting about getting the women and children to safety- Aragorn and Gimli following in tow- you felt Legolas’s hand reach for your own, holding you back. You met his awaiting gaze and held it, as he waited for the hall to clear. “You will stay with the women and children.” He began to command, “Be their last line of defence if things come to it.”

You frowned up at him with disbelief. “No.” You said defiantly. “You speak on my behalf and call me a great warrior then do me the disservice of commanding me to stay behind.” You accuse him in shock, “No!” You said again, moving to pull away from him, but his hand reached for you once more and holds you firm.

“There is no one better to keep them safe.” He stressed.

“I will fight at your side like I always have.” You replied through gritted teeth.

“Im wil ú- tir- cin bel-“ I will not watch you die.

“Ben im cin.” Or I you. “Your immortality cannot save you from meeting the end of a blade.” You reminded him.

“All the more reason you should not be there.” He said to you softly, willing you to see reason. But there is no reason in this for you. Your place has and always will be at his side.

“Dab- nin ceri- hi.” You said back softly. Let me do this.

You watched closely to the battle within him. Kept your eyes on him, even when his faltered. But eventually they found yours again.

“Cin shall ceri- sui im treneri- cin.” He conceded. You will do as I tell you. “Im treneri- cin na nor- cin nor,” he reasoned. If I tell you to run, you run. You silently nodded your head in agreement. You stilled as you felt his hand raise to cup your cheek softly. “Im shall ú- guin- in a ambar cin ceri- ú- guin- in.” I will not live in a world you do not live in.

His earnest words brought tears to your eyes. You had both been in many skirmishes together over the years, but never in a battle like this. You had seen the forces you were up against first hand and you both knew that without aid, the likelihood of you both coming out of this alive was slim, but you knew there was no other way you’d rather leave this world than fighting by his side.

As night began to fall, you sat in the great hall readying your weapons, surveying the room, it’s strengths and it’s weaknesses, the entrances to the tunnels, establishing strategies in the likelihood you were commanded to fall back here, as the last of the women and children were ushered underground to safety. You had already restrung your bow ready for the start of the battle- the one opportunity you knew you’d get on the front lines- before starting to sharpen your blades, in preparation for any close up attack.

Your stomach turned as two more young boys were brought back out of the caves to fight. They couldn’t have been older than nine or ten. Far too young for a battle like this. Too inexperienced in so many more ways than just war. There was no doubt Theoden and his men were sending them to instant death. You continued to watch them as they fell from view of the great doors, even when a familiar presence came to a stop beside you,

“Hain glenn- na bel-“ you said to the air with sorrow. They go to their deaths. At the thought, your eyes dropped to the weapon in your hands, the very same short sword the elf beside you had gifted you during your training with him many years ago. He reached out to take it from you.

You watched as he brought it closer to his eyes, examining it. “You have maintained the blades well.”

“Of course, just as you taught me to.” You replied, taking the blade back carefully from his grasp and sliding it back inside it’s sheith. You hesitated a moment as you placed it back on the table, unable to meet his eye as you thought on the question that suddenly plagued your mind. As you slowly turned towards him, the look of concern in his eyes was palpable, but you knew this might be the only opportunity you would ever get to ask him, so you mustered your courage. “Will you tie my battle braids?”

He stiffened for a moment, but suddenly flustered with pride from your request. A small smile tickled his lips as he nodded. He silently ushered you to stand so that he could move to sit atop the table, beckoning you to sit back down on the bench between his legs once he was seated.

You both sat in soft silence as his fingers began to dance and weave through your hair, pulling strands and pieces into one braid after another as the rest of the keep continued to arm themselves and ready for action. At one point you were sure you heard the bellowing tones of Gimli beginning to echo through the hall as he and Aragorn made their way through the doors, however Aragorn had taken one look at you and the Elven Prince sat behind you and quickly ushered his smaller friend back outside, knowing how significant a moment this was for the two of you; allowing you to have the tender moment before the battle to come.

You felt his hands move away when he was done, but neither one of you moved or said anything. When the silence permeated the air for too long, you finally turned your head back to him. When you finally met his eyes, they held both pain and somehow peace. You wanted to ask him, but the sudden sound of a horn outside and a commotion amongst the men stopped you. You both frowned at the familiar sound.

“That sounds like-“ you paused, questioning if you were indeed hearing things right.

Legolas quickly rushed to his feet and you quickly followed on his heels as cries of “Open the gate,” began to ring out.

You both came to a stop beside Aragorn and the king as an army of Elven soldiers made their way up through the winding path from the gate to where you all stood. Your heart warmed as you spotted a familiar face amongst them, Haldir.

“How is this possible?” You heard Theoden ask as he took in the sight before him.

You looked to the elf beside you then back to Haldir as he stepped towards the king. “I bring word from Elrond of Rivendell. An alliance once existed between elves and men,” he said. “Long ago we fought and died together.” He then looked to you, then Legolas beside you, then to Aragorn and Gimli. “We come to honor that allegiance.” He smiled warmly.

You watched as Aragorn stepped forward and smiled at him gratefully. “Mae govannen, Haldir,” he greeted him formally, before wrapping his arms around him in a firm embrace of gratitude and hope that seemed to shock the elf and make you smile, but Haldir quickly embraced his old friend back- if not slightly more modestly.

“You are most welcome!” Aragorn continued to beam hopefully as he and the elf parted so that Legolas and yourself could welcome your old friend.

You let Legolas step forth and embrace him first, but their embrace was short and sweet. When Haldir turned to you, he had a look of both surprise but also fondness at seeing you amongst familiar company again. “Haldir.” You smiled fondly as you wrapped your arms around him and he you.

“Raea.” He smiled back. “It is good to see you back where you belong.” He said as he stepped back from you, before turning back to the King, “We are proud to fight alongside men once more.”

You didn’t have much time after Haldir’s arrival to get in position. Before long, the glow of the Uruk-hai’s torches was on the horizon. True to his word, Legolas allowed you to stand at the front with him and the other archers.

“You could have picked a better spot.” Gimli grumbled from the other side of Legolas.

Neither yourself or the prince beside you could contain your smiles as the dwarf continued to crane his neck in an attempt to see over the wall and work out what was going on. As you turned your head to survey the impeding doom for yourself, you couldn’t help but let your stomach turn slightly. Although you had seen them not hours ago with Aragorn as you made your way here to the keep, it was another to see their looming numbers in the dark and hear their snarls carry on the wind.

The feeling of a pair of fingers reaching for your own helped to ground you and bring you back to the present. To help remind you why you were here and what you were fighting for. As if he was having the same thought, you weren’t at all surprised when Legolas chose to reiterate his conditions, all the more desperate now to protect your life after your bonding ritual. “Enyal, ir im treneri- cin a nor- cin nor-.” He stressed. Remember, when I tell you to run, you run.

You nodded in agreement as Aragorn passed behind you, moving to a gap the other side of Gimli.

“Well lad, whatever luck you live by,” you heard Gimli begin to shout, “let’s hope it lasts the night.”

“Your friends are with you Aragorn.” Legolas continued from beside you and you couldn’t help but look to your fellow companions with pride. It took root in your belly as you looked at them and you nodded in agreement. Come rain or shine, life or death- this was always where you were meant to be.

“Let’s hope they last the night.” Gimli said hopefully and you smiled to the dwarf gratefully. You too hoped you would all live through the night, just so you could get to know your old friends new loyal company a little better.

There was a sudden bright flash across the sky, followed by a loud crash of thunder and it was as if fate willed it and the heavens opened up. As Aragorn began to give the Elven company around you commands, you looked back to Legolas beside you, taking in every feature, mapping every line, one last time, just in case; your eyes blinking rapidly to dispel the raindrops as you did.

Although the sound of the rain roared loudly, the roar of the approaching enemy was still louder and it forced your attention away from your love and back to it and the task at hand. You watched as the leader of the Uruk-hai stopped, raising his sword in the air with a loud horrific cry, bringing his army to a halt,

“What happening out there?” Gimli asked, straining to look over the wall again.

To your surprise, Legolas smiled and responded to the dwarf in jest. “Would you like me to describe it to you? Or would you like me to find you a box.”

The dwarf laughed and it made your heart melt. Now you all really did need to live through the night, just so you could see more of their dynamic and how it had shaped your lover over the course of the journey they had already been on.

It’s still for a moment before the Uruk-hai leader cried out again and his army begin to rally behind him, grunting, roaring and thumping their spears violently against the floor in a sound that was unnerving yet made you muster your courage. You heard a call to your right and quickly readied your bow, focusing up and setting your sight lines on your first kill. You were suddenly surprised though as that same Uruk-hai was suddenly struck by an arrow, an older man along the line losing his nerve and letting loose too early.

“DARTHO!” You heard Aragorn’s familiar voice command. Hold.

The Uruk-hai slowly stopped their catterwalling as their member who was hit slowly fell to the ground. It took mere seconds for them to realise what had happened and grow angry. Their leader gave his newly riled up army his signal and they began to charge towards the wall.

“TANGADO HALAD!” You heard Aragorn cry and there was the mass sound of arrows being pulled from quivers and notched onto bows, the strings being pulled taught as the elves that surrounded you prepared their bows. You reaffirmed your stance and placed your bow string to your lips as an anchor as you set your sight lines again, breathing deeply and calmly, counting each breath in your head as you relaxed into the familiar stance.

You heard Legolas’s voice call out from beside you, but you didn’t dare look at him. “Faeg i-varv dén na lane a nu rane.” You heard him say. Their armour is weak at the neck and beneath the arms.

You made note of the instruction and adjusted accordingly then waited for Aragorn’s command.

“LEITHIO I PHILINN!” He cried and there was a collective release of held breaths and arrows as they began to soar through the air, before raining down on the Uruk-hai, hitting their intended marks, a flurry of bodies rapidly hitting the ground. You let out another proud breathe and allowed the corner of your lip to raise in triumph as your own mark collapsed sideways into the orc next to him, the pair of them crashing to the ground.

“Did they hit anything?” Gimli’s booming voice asked his compatriots; but before anyone had a chance to respond, a cry came from atop the gate and another flurry of arrows were let loose from the troops stood atop it.

You watched as your own fingers raced to ready your next arrow as orc after orc hit the ground, but it wasn’t enough. There were too many of them and for every Uruk-hai that fell, another swiftly took its place.

There were more cries of fire and one more wave of arrows after another was let loose in an attempt to do as much damage before they hit the wall.

You readied yet another arrow to set loose when you began to notice the ladders being brought forward. You began to aim for the Uruk-hai carrying them, focusing your efforts on killing as many as you could. For ever single arrow you sent, your lover next to you sent two, sometimes even three more.

But once again it was no use as the Uruk-hai began to lift the ladders up towards the wall.

“PENDRAID!” Ladders You heard Aragorn call as they began to clatter against the stone. You bravely stepped forward and aimed your arrows straight down as the orc began to climb but a hand reached for yours to stop you.

You turned to see Legolas look at you with desperation in his eyes. You heard Aragorn call for everyone to ready their swords. You looked to him as you hesitated, but Legolas’ firm hold drew you back to him and the promise you made. To run. Not necessarily to the great hall to protect the women and children just yet, but away from here.

His blue eyes quickly rose to where Theoden stood and you followed them before nodding in acknowledgment.

You placed your bow across your back before pulling out both your swords ready to fight your way along the wall to get up there and out the way of the carnage about to unfold where you currently stood.

There was a clatter of metal to either side of you as the Elves began to clash with the first of the Uruk-hai to reach the top of the wall. You knew you had to leave, but as you looked to the beautiful tall blonde before you, you found it hard to move your feet and part from him, just in case this would be the last time you saw him. When he quickly turned to let loose another arrow you attempted to seize the moment, but his hand was quickly at your wrist again pulling you back to him, his lips crashing into yours in one last bruising kiss before he literally pushed you away again and you ran.

You quickly pulled out your swords from your back and began to cut a path through the many Elven soldiers as they stepped forward and began to battle the first of the Uruk-hai now climbing over the top of the walls. You aided as many of your brethren as you could, slashing at any orc that came your way and running them through with your sword, turning from one to the next, not looking back until you reached the stairs up to where Theoden and his men stood.

You were halfway up the stone steps when you heard Aragorn’s cries call out over the din of clashing metal and grunting. “TOGO HON DAD, LEGOLAS!” At the sound of your lovers name on your friends lips you froze, turning your head to look back out to where they stood. Then you followed your dark haired friends gaze down and saw the two bombs being brought forward.

You quickly cursed yourself for abandoning your bow once you had run out of arrows, the need to do all you could to help them taking over. Your legs burned as you pushed your way up the last of the stairs as quickly as you could, racing over to the edge of the parapet, snatching a bow from an older man’s grasp, before sliding an arrow into place and pulling the string taut. Your eyes scanned the line of elves doing battle for your Prince just as he let loose an arrow over the side of the wall as one of the Uruk-hai now ran forward with a torch, ready to light the two bombs.

It lodged itself in the creatures shoulder but he kept going. You took aim and loosed your own and Aragorn continued to cry out, “DAGO HON! DAGO HON!” Kill him.

It was like time slowed down as you watched your arrow lodge into the Orc’s neck, but still he kept going, even as Legolas’s second arrow also hit true, the Orc using the last of his strength to leap forward into the gap at the bottom of the wall.

Your eyes went wide and your mouth opened as if to scream as the blast rang out, obliterating the wall, but no sound came out. Your chest ached as you attempted to keep your eyes on them through the crowd but it was no use. It was complete carnage.

The blow to your forces only bolstered the army of Orcs and they charged forward with a renewed zealousness and soon it was all you could do to keep fighting what was in front of you, than keeping a tab on your friends and where they were in the mess along the causeway.

“Brace the gate! Hold them! Stand firm!” You heard Theoden roar and you mustered as much energy as you could into firing more arrows down at the mass of Uruk-hai now charging forward. However your good aim quickly made you a target. As you let loose another arrow, a spear was thrown up in your direction from below. You felt a body collide with your side and you were quickly slammed to the ground, the old man who had pushed you out the way crying out in pain as the spear hit him instead.

It was the same old man you had taken the bow from and as his body collapsed down beside you and you watched as the life left his eyes, you couldn’t help but feel guilty for his sacrifice.

You suddenly felt like you were drowning, the noise of the battle falling out of focus as panic gripped you, but you knew you have to keep going. You thanked the man, although you knew he could no longer hear you as you pushed yourself back up to your feet, Gamling calling out to the men fighting below from somewhere further along the line and at your friends name on his lips, a confirmation of his life, you were able to find that renewed push to keep going.

“ARAGORN, FALL BACK TO THE KEEP! GET YOUR MEN OUT OF THERE!”

You made your way back to the edge of the wall as you heard Aragorn call out to those around him, telling them to retreat. You sought out another quiver of arrows, sending one after another into your enemies in an attempt to buy them as much time as possible to get back to the keep. But when you heard Aragorn call out Haldir’s name, it made your veins run cold.

Your eyes sought them out in the crowd and you shot one arrow after the next, clearing the path forward for the ranger in order for him to get to your friend, but it was too late. You watched as the Elf’s body crumpled and your hand hesitated on your next arrow. It was a distraction that cost you as another arrow was shot up at you from below. It hit your shoulder with a thud and you let out a shriek of pain as you stumbled back from the edge of the wall defensively.

As your hand reached up to clutch at the wound, the arrow lodged just under your collarbone, you heard Theoden call out to his men to rally and protect the gate. You knew this was your sign, your signal to move to the hall to protect those hidden down below on the off chance the gate fell and the Uruk-hai got through. As you began to move another stray arrow came over the top of the wall, slicing through your thigh and you sneered again in pain. Luckily it was merely a scratch, unlike the arrow that still stuck out of your shoulder and you were able to hobble down to the hall.

Your fingers clutched around the length of the arrow, ready to take it out so you could get your swords back out to fight with, but it wouldn’t budge. That was when you realised how far through it was. As you raced through the doors to the hall you were grateful to find a few men and a small medical set up for quick fixes in order to get men back out fighting again, but they were all young and useless.

As the thudding of the Uruk-hair’s battering ram continued to hammer at the gate, sending a wave of panic through you, you forced yourself to will the sound away and focus on what you needed to do to get back on your feet. You couldn’t fix your shoulder just yet, but you could strap up your leg. “You, bandages!” You commanded one of the young men and they raced forward. It was then you really cursed your lack of healing knowledge and really wished one of your companions were with you to do this for you. They’d know exactly what to do; which mixture of herbs to put on it to stave off infection and promote healing, not to mention wrapping this thing up properly.

You hastily began strapping up your leg as you head the men outside at the the gate calling out to one another. “HOLD FAST THE GATE!” One of the soldiers cried out and there was a clatter of heavy wood as the gate was barricaded shut.

Your heart lurched as you heard Theoden’s booming voice cry out, “GIMLI, ARAGORN! GET OUT OF THERE!”

As the young lad you’d called forward tied off the bandage around your leg, you quickly waved him off, just as a clatter of metal collided with the stone above, echoing throughout the fortress.

“PULL EVERYBODY BACK!” You heard Theoden cry out and you fought to get back on your feet, pulling one of your swords out ready with your one working arm, as men began to filter through the doors to the hall.

You scanned their bedraggled faces covered in dirt and blood. Some of it their own, some of it not.

Then you heard the words that struck fear into your soul. “THEY’VE BROKEN THROUGH! THE CASTLE IS BREACHED! RETREAT!”

There was a thundering roar as the Uruk-hai pushed through the gate and began to charge past the stone walls. Your heart leapt as you heard a familiar voice call out for people to get inside but you didn’t have time to acknowledge it as a rogue orc pushed through the doorway. You didn’t hesitate as you plucked an axe from the hands of a man collapsed beside you and through it. It lodged itself right into the beasts forehead and he growled in pain before he collapsed to the ground, just as you saw King Theoden come into view of the doors.

“Quick, move aside!” You shouted to the men lingering by the doors, willing them to move and make space for the King and his men. As he passed into the hall, the King took one look at you, arrow still protruding from your shoulder, your arm numb with shock and adrenaline and gave you an appraising look, but your eyes were quickly moving away from him as Aragorn came into view behind him. He was still giving out orders to those around him but when his eyes landed on you he stopped, instantly rushing over.

“Get everybody in! Get those doors closed!” He commanded to Gamling as he strode across the hall towards you, ushering you back down on a bench at one of the tables. But as you sat down, you caught a flash of green and blonde hair coming through the door and your face became ashen as you locked eyes with your lover.

“RAEA!” He cried out, rushing over to you and the ranger now observing more closely the arrow in your shoulder.

“Legolas!” You breathed out his name in a sigh of relief as he fell to the floor at your feet. “Ahhhgg.” You sneered, your eyes flashing dagger at Aragorn as he pulled slightly at the arrow. “That hurts!”

“But it needs to come out.” He stressed calmly in that chastising way you hated. He moved to pull it again and you cried out louder, Legolas’s hand flying out to hold yours. “It’s stuck.” Aragorn turned and said to him.

“Just cut off the end and pull it through then!” You both grimaced and commanded. It was something you’d seen done before, but never experienced it for yourself.

“Are you sure?” Aragorn asked as Theoden’s men continued to move around the three of you barricading the doors.

“Yes, I’m sure! Just pull it out!” You said to him desperately,

Your eyes fell to the elf in front of you as the two of them shared looks between each other before silently agreeing. “Këp cin hen bo nin meleth nin.” Keep your eyes on me, my love. He breathed out and you nodded keeping your eyes on your Prince as Aragorn quickly snapped off the end of the arrow in preparation. You hissed slightly as the length of the arrow pulled with the force and your fingers gripped tighter around Legolas’s as you braved yourself for what came next.

You steeled yourself as you took a deep breath, seeking out your lovers ocean blue eyes, fixing your sights on them as you nodded your head and psyched yourself up. He reached his other hand up to brace your side, ready to hold you still as Aragorn braced one hand on your shoulder and his other around the arrow tip sticking through your back. You kept your eyes on Legolas as he glanced up at Aragorn and gave him a nod and pain ripped through your shoulder as he pulled the arrow all the way through leaving a clear hole through your chest, just beneath your collar bone. You felt Legolas’s fingers grip you tighter as you cried out from the initial pain.

“Thûl, meleth nin.” Breathe my love.

“Nîdh!” You hissed as your body rocked back and forth trying to ride out the pain as Aragorn rushed away to get something, no doubt herbs to place on it before he wrapped it. “Nîdh.” You said again. It hurts.

“Im ista, meleth nin.” I know, my love, he cooed to you softly as his hand moved to rub soothingly at your other arm.

“Get this on it.” Aragorn grunted in instruction as he handed over a couple of leaves to the elven Prince, the younger lad from before following close behind with more bandages, before he strode away to talk with Theoden about what you were all going to do next.

“The fortress is taken! It’s over!” You heard the King cry out in defeat as Legolas began to chew on the leaves he had been handed, mixing them with his saliva until they made a paste before he pressed them to the wound on either side of your chest and you let out a small hiss and he gave you a small sympathetic look as he diligently worked.

“Is there no other way to get the women and children out through the caves! IS THERE NO OTHER WAY!” Aragorn bellowed, trying to get a straight answer from the now panicking king.

“There is one other passage. It leads through the mountains! But they will not get far. The Uruk-hai are too many,” Gamling offered up as Legolas began to wrap up the wound where the arrow had been, sliding the bandage over your shoulder, across your chest, under your arm and back round again.

“Send word for the women and children to make for the mountain pass. And barricade the entrance.” Aragorn continued to instruct, taking charge as Theoden descended into madness.

“So much death. What can men do against such reckless hate?”

You watched as Aragorn took stock of the room and tried to formulate a plan. “Ride out with me.” He said in a hopeful tone, turning his head back towards the King as Legolas tied off your bandage and helped you back to your feet, holding you firmly in his arms, close to his chest.

“Ride out and meet them.” Aragorn said again.

“For death and glory.” Theoden said hopefully.

“For Rohan. For your people.” Aragorn stressed.

“The sun is rising.” Gimli noted and you all looked to the windows where the first rays of light were coming into view providing hope of a new day.

“Yes! Yes! The horn of Helm Hammerhand shall sound in the deep one last time.” Theoden said, continuing to be emboldened by the idea now taking hold.

“Yes!” Gimli cried out and you watched as he raced to the horn in question.

“Let this be the hour when we draw swords together!” Theoden cried, moving to a horse in the room and you looked to the elf at your side as the King continued to make his speech. “Fell deeds awake! Now for wrath! Now for ruin! And a red dawn!” He cried out and the men began to rally.

You kept hold of Legolas’s hand as he stepped aside and reached out for the reigns of one of the horses as it was ushered towards you both. “I will ride and fight with you until the end.” You told him.

“And I with you.” He replied before climbing up into the saddle and holding out his hand to haul you up behind him, your hands snaking tightly around his waist as the horse bristled beneath you and you all lined up ready to ride out.

Legolas turned his head back to you and you ensnared his lips into a kiss just as the horn rang out, bellowing deep throughout the keep and Theoden led the charge out through the door, Aragorn close on his heels, followed by yourself and Legolas.

You worked as a team, cutting down orcs with your blades as they neared your horse. The higher advantage point gave you the upper hand, but their sheer force of numbers continued to close in around you all as you made your way out of the keep. You couldn’t think of anything else except hold tight, slice and kill, repeating the actions again and again as your company slowly carved a path through the Uruk-hai. That was until the rays of sun coming up over the hill caught your eye, a lone figure on a white horse being back lit by the rising sun.

Your hand clutched tighter at Legolas’ waist to get his attention and he too looked, just as a mass of riders cantered up behind the figure. Reinforcements had finally arrived. As the power of horse riders made their way down into the valley, it gave your company one last plight of hope in which to keep fighting until every last Orc was slain.

As Legolas charged forward, carving a path into the masses for you to fight a body collided with the back of the horse and you lost your grip as Legolas ploughed down yet another Uruk-hai body. You were thrown from the back of the horse and you sneered as your shoulder took the brunt of the fall.

“Raea!!!” Legolas called back to you, but the horse wouldn’t stop.

You fought to get back to your feet, just in time to raise your sword and block an oncoming orc. You kicked it away, turning sharply and using the momentum to cut it down, just as another filled its place. You kept going, kicking and slashing, turning your body this way and that, cutting through one orc after another as you waited for Legolas to make his way back to you.

You could barely hear anything over the clash of metal so when a nearby war cry rang out and a horse came charging into view, a large spear impaling one your your assailants, you welcomed the sound and looming relief of aid. You quickly turned around, slashing through one more orc as you sought out the hand outstretched to you and were overcome with joy as you caught a glimpse of the familiar face of your rescuer.

“Èomer.” You breathed out his name as you were hauled up onto the horse.

“Hold on.” He commanded, using his sword to slash at another charging orc and clear your path forward.

You clung to Èomer tightly as his horse made haste and you both seized every opportunity to cut down the remaining orc forces around you until there was nothing left of them.

As your eyes scanned around you to be sure the fight was over, you finally rested your head on the back of his shoulder with relief and you swore you heard him let out a breathy chuckle as his own relief washed over him.

“Thank you.” You said to him as you lifted your head and looked over his shoulder, searching for his face.

“I guess we can just call ourselves even now.” He mused and you couldn’t help but smile at the memory that flashed into your mind at his words.

“Raea.” A breathy voice called to you as another horse approached your flank and Èomer turned your horse to face them. Your eyes swam with relief as they fell on the elven Prince as he came to a stop beside you.

“Legolas.” You cried as you raced to get down from atop Èomer’s horse, the man quickly climbing down after you as Legolas too got down from his horse and wrapped you in his arms.

“*Hanta- i elena cin moina.” Thank the stars you are safe. Legolas practically breathed into you as he held you close.

You parted from him only enough to look in his eyes and be sure he too was safe and well. But when you turned your head back to Èomer watching the two of you, you moved too quickly to not see the flicker of hurt within him before he pushed it down and concealed it once more.You knew exactly why it was there too.

When you had left Aragorn and Legolas before, it was Èomer who had picked up the pieces. Èomer who filled the gap left behind by the friends you knew you had had to leave. He who you fought with. He who you drank with, talked late into the night to and even lay in bed with. You knew how he had grown attached to you. Knew you had grown attached to him too in certain ways. But you also knew there was only one your heart truly belonged to. However it didn’t hurt you any less seeing the pain flash across his face at being faced with seeing the one he loved in the arms of another.

But for all you saw, alas your love did not see. Your stomach turned as he strode forward with an air of great gratitude to the man before him. “You protected her life. I owe you a life of gratitude.” The elf said, holding his hand out to the man before him.

“Don’t mention it.” Èomer grunted, his eyes moving from the elf before him to you, before he turned away from you both, climbing back up onto his horse as he went in search for his fellow riders.

Legolas turned back to you perplexed, attempting to work out what was unsaid. “Cin gar- govannen fai?” You have met before? He asked.

“Ho na- a mellon.” You replied. He is a friend. But Legolas knew from the way you said it and the look in your eyes that it was more than just that and he bristled with jealousy before he pushed it away. He had known as well as you did that there was still so much you had yet to speak of about your time apart but he also knew that to hold any of your actions against you from that time was beneath him.

So instead he simply nodded in understanding. “Tul-, le ammen rad- min mellon.” Come, let us find our friends.

You nodded in agreement as you let him help you up into the saddle before he climbed up behind you, taking the reigns and encompassing you within his arms and you sagged back exhausted into his embrace as you set off slowly towards where you could see Aragorn, Gandalf and Gimli congregating across the battlefield now that the battle had been won